July 6, 2009

Cause for celebration: George McGovern birthday,
anniversary approach

George McGovern

MITCHELL — It has been more than three decades since George McGovern ran his campaign as the Democratic presidential nominee, and his influence still grows.

This month, the former senator and combat pilot celebrates his 87th birthday and the 37th anniversary of his presidential nomination with a celebration set July 10 at the McGovern Library at Dakota Wesleyan University. The McGovern Legacy Museum will be open throughout the day and there will be readings by regional authors at the library that evening.

The McGovern Center for Leadership and Public Service will host the celebration, which kicks off at 5 p.m. with readings by regional authors in the McGovern Library. Donald Simmons will discuss, “George McGovern: A Political Life, A Political Legacy,” at 5 p.m., followed by Murdo poet M.J. McMillan, who will give a reading from his book, “Poetry for the Common Man.” At 6 p.m., Jim McLaird, professor emeriti of history, will discuss Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane and how they became legendary figures of the West.

Books will also be available for purchase at the DWU Bookstore in the library. From 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Sen. McGovern and authors will sign books in the library, with cake and refreshments, as well as music provided by Mike Catalano.

The evening concludes with a special presentation by McGovern, “An Evening of Conversation with George McGovern,” beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the library.

The event is free and open to the public.

The McGovern Legacy Museum is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and limited hours during weekends and holidays. There is no admission fee.