Datebook: June 15 - Benjamin Franklin Flies a Kite 260 Years Ago

It's the famous experiment we all learned about in grade school. Benjamin Franklin was just crazy enough to step outside and fly a kite in a thunderstorm, and in doing so, proved that lightning was electricity. It is believed to be (commonly accepted to be) this date in 1752. 

He and his son attached a key to the kite and let it fly. He noticed the loose fibers on the string stretch out and brought his hand out to the presumably conductive key, which produced a spark. Shockingly, he wasn't the first to do the experiment, a researcher in France and another in Russia had beaten him to the punch. Having been repeatedly electrocuted, it may be no coincidence that Franklin also developed the flexible urinary catheter.

It’s Friday, June 15

Tomorrow is the final day of the Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen exhibit at the Yeiser Art Center in Paducah.  The show includes two- and three-dimensional works by juried members of the guild.  The Yeiser’s at the north end of Markethouse Square, open today and tomorrow from 10 to 4.

Graves County Middle School softball tryouts will be held this Monday and Tuesday from 5 to 7 at Lady Eagle Field.  Any interested incoming seventh or eighth grade girl may attend and should bring a glove, bat, cleats, and any other equipment.

Next weekend is the opening of a original show titled “The Living News 2.0 Supersized for Maximum Strength.”  It’s a comedic look at happenings in the news today, produced by Twilight Theater Productions. Dinner begins at 6:30 and the show starts at 8 Friday and Saturday at Kenlake State Resort Park in Aurora.  Make reservations by Wednesday by calling 270-436-2399.

Submit your community events at wkms.org.  Thanks for listening.