Presidents Day 2009

Today is Presidents' Day, a holiday that began as a tribute to the first U.S. president, George Washington. In fact, in some places it is still called Washington's Birthday, and that is the official name still recognized by the federal government. The day became a government holiday in 1885. It was celebrated on Feb. 22, which is Washington's actual birthday.

U.S. government offices, financial markets and most banks are closed today to observe Presidents' Day. There won't be any mail delivery either. State offices, including Secretary of State branches, are closed. In Oakland and Macomb counties, the clerks' offices and courts are closed. In Wayne County, the clerk's office is open. Wayne County Circuit and 36th District courts are closed. City of Detroit offices are open.