The annual George Washington Birthday Celebration will be held on Feb. 22, 2022, at Hot Springs Country Club with Judge Morris Sheppard "Buzz" Arnold of the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, a noted Arkansas historian, as guest speaker.
The Master of Ceremony will be Sheila Beatty-Krout, United States Daughters of 1812, Veterans Services national chairman. The event will begin at 11 a.m.
Seating is limited. Reservations are $25 and should be made payable to Peggy Vandenberg. Registrations must be mailed to Peggy Cara at 10 Alarcon Way, Hot Springs Village, AR 71909-2865 and must be received by Feb. 14.
Email Vandenberg at [email protected] for more information.
More than 18 years ago, retired Col. Duane Vandenberg voiced to his wife, Peggy, his concern about the lack of history being taught in public schools.
"Specifically, he was concerned about today's populace and its knowledge of our first president, George Washington and the obscuring of his birthday by combining it into Presidents Day," a news release said.
The Vandenbergs, active in many service and lineage organizations, reached out to their friends in the Sons of the American Revolution, Daughters of the American Revolution, Colonial Dames 17th Century and other lineage groups with the intent of forming a George Washington Birthday Celebration Luncheon committee. The first meeting was held in the fall of 2003 and the first George Washington Birthday Celebration was held Feb. 21, 2004, at Hot Springs Country Club, the release said. Arnold was the guest speaker.
"Known for its excellent speakers, the annual luncheon is attended by people from across the state and has an average attendance of over 100 attendees," it said.
The committee held its first planning meeting for the 2022 luncheon this month.