What happened on March 16, 1996?

Headlines from March 16, 1996

• 🌌 Bright Comet Discovered – Astronomers announced a newly discovered comet that may become the brightest seen in decades, captivating skywatchers worldwide.
• 🇿🇼 Mugabe's Rival Withdraws – Zimbabwe's presidential election became uncontested as the last rival of President Robert Mugabe withdrew just before voting.
• 🏦 World Bank Debt Relief – The World Bank proposed to reinvest part of its surplus to create a trust fund aimed at reducing debts of the poorest nations.
• 🚄 Amtrak Train Upgrade – Amtrak selected contractors to build a $611 million fleet of trains, aiming to significantly reduce travel time in the Northeast.
• 🏨 Promus Hotel Acquisition – Promus Hotel Corporation made a cash offer of $147.4 million to acquire 28 Hampton Inn hotels in the Southeast and Midwest.
• 📈 Deutsche Post Profit Rise – Deutsche Post A.G. reported a 40% increase in operating profit for 1995, ahead of its planned share sale in 1998.
• 🏛️ Russian Parliament Votes – The Russian Parliament voted overwhelmingly to denounce the 1991 accord that dissolved the Soviet Union, challenging Yeltsin's authority.
• 🏫 School Security Chief Arrested – Curly M. Ferguson, chief of security for Atlantic City schools, was arrested for allegedly stealing over $100,000 from the Board of Education.
• 📚 Library Renovation Planned – Montclair Library staff prepare to move 160,000 books for a 14-month renovation costing $6.3 million, with temporary facilities set up.
• 🏆 U.S.C. Names Coach – Henry Bibby was named the permanent basketball coach at Southern California after serving as interim coach.