George Washington was born on February 22, 1732 (and died December 14, 1799). We all know him as the 1st U.S. President (1789-1797), and as a great military leader. He was elected unanimously and oversaw the creation of a strong, well-financed government that maintained neutrality in the wars raging in Europe. He was born into a wealthy Colonial Virginia family, who owned tobacco plantations and slaves. He was mentored by William Fairfax, who promoted his career into the military. He quickly became a senior officer in the colonial forces during the French and Indian War. As Commander-In-Chief of the Continental Army, he forced the British out of Boston in 1776, but lost New York City. After crossing the Delaware River, he defeated the British in two battles, and retook New Jersey. Washintgonstrategized the capture of Saratoga in 1777 and Yorktown in 1781. As President, he supported Alexander Hamilton's programs to pay off the debt, to implement a tax system, and to create a national bank. He was outspoken against partisanship, sectoinalism, and involvement in foreign wars. He retired from presidency in 1797 and returned to his home, Mount Vernon. He freed his slaves in his will. At his death, Washington was hailed as "first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen".
It’s Wednesday, February 22
The American Red Cross holds a blood drive at First Presbyterian Church in Murray tomorrow from 12:30 to 5:30. Donors must be healthy, at least seventeen years old, and at least 110 pounds. Schedule an appointment by calling 800-RED-CROSS.
The Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park hosts an Oil Painting Weekend this Saturday and Sunday. Learn the wet-on-wet method of oil painting by creating your own 16x20 landscape painting. The fees are $65 for one class or $120 for both classes and the Friday night program. For more information, call Rebecca Clark at 797-3421.
The Murray State University Department of Theater presents Suddenly Last Summer, by Tennessee Williams, tomorrow night at 7:30 in the Actor’s Studio Theater. The play tells the story of a young woman who seems to go insane after her cousin dies under mysterious circumstances. Admission is $8, or free for MSU students.
Tomorrow at noon, hear Swinging into the 21st Century with Wynton Marsalis. Find details at wkms.org.
