--The slide show presentation-- is available free to the public upon request and availablity. Local first responders, when able, particpate and perform. Audience participation is also utilized.
The purpose of the program is to:
1. Heighten awareness of the positive behavior and events surrounding Katrina that never made it into mainstream media.
2. Foster a sense of community both locally and universally.
3. Affirm our basic need for one another and how even doing the small things -- we can make a difference.
4. Acknowledge gifts within us and around us.
5. Promote an overall sense of morale and gratitude.
It is appropriate for all age levels and easily adaptable to specific audiences. To check availability contact Joe at: silentheroes@silentheroesandhiddengifts.com
This anniversary of Katrina help honor first responders, their families, the people of New Orleans and all who have embraced courageously and generously the challenges brought upon them by Katrina and its aftermath.
When: Saturday, August 22, 2009
11am - 4pm
Opening Ceremonies at 11am. *Limited seating.*
Where: The Cabildo Museum
(In Jackson Square in French Quarter next to St. Louis Cathedral)
Cost: Free Admission
Free Food
Free Entertainment
Be sure not to miss the opening ceremonies beginning at 11am. First responders from New Orleans Police Dept. (NOPD), New Orleans Fire Dept. (NOFD), New Orleans Emergency Medical Services (NOEMS), Louisiana Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (LA/SPCA) , Louisiana Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) and Medical Personnel will all be present. However, seating is limited, so get there early.
Emcee for the opening ceremonies will be WGNO (ABC26) Reporter/Host Glynn Boyd.
We are pleased to announce that the first native-son Catholic archbishop in New Orleans history , Gregory M. Aymond, will be performing the opening prayer.

Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond
There will be a special performance by internationally known Grandpa Elliott. Recently appearing on the Tonight Show, he has become known and loved around the world due to his participation in the documentary "Playing for Change." Click on link below picture to hear and see him sing "Stand By Me" with musicians from around the world.

Grandpa Elliott sings at Tipitina's 7/18/09
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Us-TVg40ExM&feature=PlayList&p=7A5F0CB010ECE8E4&index=0
Grandpa will be joining a host of others which include not only first responders but the legendary Mr. Jo "Cool" Davis, well known by many Jazz Fest lovers.

Jo "Cool" Davis
Additional performers include :
Walter and Arthine Powers, Troy Lyles, Frances Hawkins, Josephine Maria, Anika Glover and Daughters (Leah, Morgan and Kathryn), Tracy and Family, 9 year old Hannah Weiss, Joe Tafaro, Greater New St. Luke Baptist Church Choir and many more to come. Be sure to check out the performers page.
http://www.silentheroesandhiddengifts.com/page009.aspx
Grandpa's performance will be preceded by a special reunion between rescuers and Waldrica Nathan who gave birth to her son James Brundy Jr. in an attic in the 9th ward surrounded by flood waters.
Local artist/designer, for babies and children, Wendy Romero has generously donated her time and energy to create a special piece of artwork for young James Jr., who of course will be celebrating his fourth birthday.
To help commemorate this year’s Katrina Anniversary, attendees will receive free “Share the Moon” embossed bracelets. These bracelets are not only a sign of our solidarity with those who have not been able to return to New Orleans, but also with loved ones, no matter where they may be in the world.
Audubon Nature Institute will also be on hand with the Zoomobile and Wetland Express to help us honor and acknowledge all of our friends in the animal kingdom and the people who care for them. Zoo personnel will also have complimentary animal crackers to share.

After you enjoy your home cooked Jambalaya, don't forget about dessert courtesy...

Ben & Jerry's
If you need a place to stay. The Sheraton Hotel is the place. Not only is it a quality hotel, but it is also walking distance to the Cabildo. But to top it off, it will be offering a special rate of $79 a night, Thursday 8/20/09 - Sunday 8/23/09 . However it may only be made by telephone at 504-595-5500 and caller must let the agent know the rate code is “Katrina”.

Sheraton New Orleans Hotel
500 Canal Street · New Orleans, Louisiana 70130 · United States · Phone: (504) 525-2500
http://www.sheratonneworleans.com/
If you love people, music and animals,
but most importantly, if you love New Orleans,
You do not want to miss this event!
Bring the family, bring a friend, bring a stranger!!
Cabildo Museum & St. Louis Cathedral.

*** Check back for continued updates***

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