Happy Fathers Day
Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 07:29PM | Shelley Keeney 
NEWS RELEASE --- From the Office of Representative Shelley Keeney - 156th District
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: |
CONTACT: Rep. Shelley Keeney |
| June 16, 2011 |
(573) 751-5912 |
Happy Fathers Day
Every year on the 3rd Sunday in June, the United States commemorates dads everywhere for their commitment to parenthood. June 19, 2011 will mark the 40th “official” Father’s Day celebration all across America.
It is a common misconception that Father’s Day was simply used as a supplement to Mother’s Day. But according to the website, firstfathersday.us, the roots of Father’s Day began in 1908 in Fairfield, West Virginia. Mrs. Grace Golden Clayton wanted to honor the 210 fathers who were killed in a mine explosion and their grieving families. She created a special service, called the Father’s Day Service, in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the mine.
Sonora Dodd is also credited with the creation of the holiday after hearing a sermon in church on Mother’s Day, when she decided that she should honor the fathers of Spokane, Washington with a festival. President Lyndon B. Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation in 1966 honoring fathers, designating the third Sunday in June as Father's Day. The holiday actually became official when Richard Nixon signed a resolution that permanently established Father’s Day.
I especially want to wish my pop a Happy Father’s Day. I am so thankful to have such wonderful parents in my life who have always supported me in every way they knew how. Pop, thanks so much for all you do for our family. I hope you have a wonderful Father’s Day!
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As always, I appreciate hearing your comments, opinions and concerns about state government. Please feel free to contact me in Jefferson City at (573) 751-5912. You may write me at: Shelley Keeney; Missouri House of Representatives; State Capitol -- Room 313; Jefferson City, MO 65101-6806 or email me.