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Datebook: March 23 - Wernher von Braun turns 100

Wernher von Braun was born on March 23, 1912 (and died June 16, 1977). He was a German-born rocket scientist, aerospace engineer, space architect, and one of the leading figures in the development of rocket technology in Nazi Germany during WWII, and subsequently, the United States. Despite being a decorated Nazi war hero, he would later be regarded as the preeminent rocket engineer of the 20th century for his work with NASA. In his 20s and early 30s, he developed the V-2 rocket for use in WWII. Later, he worked on the IRBM for the US Army, and with NASA became the chief architect of the Saturn V launch vehicle, the superbooster that propelled the Apollo spacecraft to the Moon. He's been called by a NASA source, "without doubt, the greatest rocket scientist in history." In 1975, he received the National Medal of Science.

It’s Friday, March 23

The Roland White Band will give a concert at the Gibson County High School Theatre Sunday afternoon at 2.  Mandolinist Roland White has performed with the Kentucky Colonels, Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys, the Nashville Bluegrass Band, and many other notable groups. Local band The Stone County Connection will also be featured.  Admission is $10.  For more information, call 731-222-0046. 

A bipartisan voter registration rally will be held tomorrow afternoon from 1 to 3 at the Paducah Riverfront, in front of the murals.  There will be free food, live music, and a slogan contest with a cash prize.  Alllocal candidates seeking office are invited to speak at the event.

Land Between the Lakes offers an Eagles and Pelicans Van Tour tomorrow from 10 to 2.  Meet at the North Welcome Station to join LBL staff in a search for Kentucky’s two largest birds.  The cost is $7 for adults or $5 for children.  Make reservations by calling 924-2020.

Find more community events at wkms.org.  Thanks for listening.

Kala Dunn is a native of Princeton, Ky. She’s a 2006 graduate of the Interlochen Arts Academy with a concentration in flute performance and a 2010 graduate of Murray State University with a B.M. in piano performance. She lives in Hamlin, Ky.
Matt Markgraf joined the WKMS team as a student in January 2007. He's served in a variety of roles over the years: as News Director March 2016-September 2019 and previously as the New Media & Promotions Coordinator beginning in 2011. Prior to that, he was a graduate and undergraduate assistant. He is currently the host of the international music show Imported on Sunday nights at 10 p.m.
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