UNVEILING OF THE SOJOURNER TRUTH BUST,

Washington, DC, April 28th, 2009

(click on image for slideshow)

Deborah Silvestro (right) speaking with Dr. E. Faye Williams (left), Chair of the National Congress of Black Women, and unidentified woman.

Emancipation Hall, The Capital, unveiling of the Sojourner Truth Bust, April 28th, 2009

SOJOURNER TRUTH CONCERT, Port Ewen, NY, Feb. 28, 2009

Hello Everyone,
I am overwhelmed...the concert "Listening for Truth" was just so wonderful it exceeded my every expectation.  It was an excellent beginning to our fundraising campaign for the Sojourner Truth Park statue. 

This concert was a labor of love from so many people who once again answered my call, and contributed their time and their talents.  The reward was the sight of so many smiling faces.  The standing ovation at the end was truly deserved.

I would first like to acknowledge the generosity of the Port Ewen Reformed Church for allowing us to use their beautiful church and hall.  The refreshments were donated by The Maple Ridge Bruderhof, Stewart's Shops, and Sal Silvestro.  Thank you all.
 
Once again, Linda Bresnahan McCarthy was our terrific Director, Pianist, and Organist.    She devoted countless hours to planning and rehearsing, and her abilities are astounding.  Linda, please thank the members of the choir for their beautiful voices...Valerie Bruhn, Regina Burchins, Vincent Coq, Anne Gordon, Virginia Herbert, Jennifer Lalor (singer & Flautist), Kelsey Lalor, Lisa Milhaven, Lori Nichols, Peg Nichols, Chuck Snyder, Emma Spinnenweber, Anna Rubeo (singer & Percussionist), and Paula Van Aken.  
 
A special thanks to the talented soloists:  Chuck Snyder, Vincent Coq, Paula Van Aken, and Lisa Milhaven.
 
Thanks also to Dennis Washington for bringing the Ulster County Community Outreach Choir.    Their presence was electric. 
 
A very special thanks to Evelyn Clarke who sang so beautifully and told the story of Sojourner Truth's Walk to Freedom with such emotion...unforgettable!
 
Gary Swinger was awesome...on guitar, banjo, and trumpet...he also added his voice on many songs.  Thank you Gary.
 
Thanks also to Terri Gittens who was a big hit as Bessie Mae.
 
Chris Mabee was our excellent and very important "gate keeper".  Thanks Chris.  And thanks also to Ron Markisenis for being there to record the sound, so that this wonderful concert will be more than just a memory.
 
Thanks to County Executive Michael Hein for coming in support of our cause.  He was kind enough to say a few words, and was visibly moved.  Thanks also to Legislator Alan Lomita for coming.
 
A special thanks to Esopus Councilpersons Gloria Van Vliet and Carl Belfiglio for also showing support by being there.
 
Thanks also to Harry McCarthy for supporting Linda, and being the strong back during the all important set up and break down.
 
I hope that I have not forgotten anyone...I am so grateful to you all.  It was great fun!
 
Carl Belfiglio and Sal Silvestro took pictures that day...see them:  SOJOURNER TRUTH CONCERT
 
Thank you, and let's all "Build a Monument to Truth".
 
Deborah Silvestro

 *Other concerts are planned for the future for more information contact Deborah Silvetro