Good morning. Today is the 104th day of the year. It is the birth anniversary (1743) of Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States, author of the Declaration of Independence and founder of the University of Virginia. Before becoming president, Jefferson served as governor of Virginia and U.S. secretary of state. As president, Jefferson championed the interest of small farmers and was suspicious of bankers. His most memorable achievement in office was the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.

 

Well-known people who were born today include singer Peabo Bryson, musician Jack Casady of the Jefferson Airplane, Brooklyn-born actor Paul Sorvino (“Law  & Order”) and musician/bandleader Max Weinberg (“Late Night with Conan O’Brien”).

Pratt Institute will hold its 24th annual Draw-a-Thon today in its main building at 200 Willoughby Ave. Throughout the day and into the evening, 18 models will circulate through the drawing studios. … Tomorrow, almost 2,000 Little League players will start the 2012 baseball season with their annual parade through park Slope and Prospect Park. The parade gets underway at 10 a.m., starting at Seventh Avenue and Second Street. … Also tomorrow, several lanes will be closed to traffic on the Staten Island Expressway through the former Brooklyn-bound toll plaza.