The History of Father's Day...

Before I share the History of Fathers Day, I just want
to share a few personal notes about my father.

First, To all the fathers out there, Happy Fathers Day...

I love and adore my father Joseph V. LeBlanc and too this day
I call him almost every day. Sometimes it's just to say hello
and other times to share a political debate. In his 81 years he has taught
me many things. He is and continues to be an incrediable example of
character, honesty, and love. I am lucky and proud to say he is my father.

Now for The History of Fathers Day... 
Contrary to popular misconception, "Fathers Day" was not
established as a holiday in order to help greeting card
manufacturers sell more cards.

The fact is when a "father's day" was first proposed there
were no Father's Day cards at all!

Mrs. John B. Dodd, of Washington, first proposed the
idea of a "father's day" in 1909. Mrs. Dodd wanted a
special day to honor her father, William Smart.

William Smart, a Civil War veteran, was widowed when
his wife (Mrs. Dodd's mother) died in childbirth with
their sixth child. Mr. Smart was left to raise the
newborn and his other five children by himself on a
rural farm in eastern Washington state.

It was after Mrs. Dodd became an adult that she realized
the strength and selflessness her father had shown in
raising his children as a single parent.

The first Father's Day was observed on June 19, 1910
in Spokane Washington.

At about the same time in various towns and cities across
American other people were beginning to celebrate a
"father's day.".

In 1924 President Calvin Coolidge supported the idea of a
national Father's Day.

Then in 1966 President Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential
proclamation declaring the 3rd Sunday of June as Father's Day.

Finally in 1972 President Richard Nixon signed the law which
made "Fathers Day" permanent.

I look forward to your comments...