Dea Vitale
By Dae Vitale
Greetings from River City. There’s always interesting places to visit, whether it’s our wonderful Library or Safe Harbors Green, artists’ studios and art exhibits, or the first designated historic site in the nation—Washington’s Headquarters, our restaurants and shops, and our waterfront,(that costs nothing to stroll along or just sit and enjoy the view.) That’s just a tiny sample, Don’t lament not being able to go away on vacation, take advantage of all Newburgh has to offer, which may be much more than you realize. Enjoy!
From Washington’s Headquarters: The Words of Frederick Douglass: What Do They Mean to You!? In August of 1870 abolitionist icon Frederick Douglass visited Newburgh. He came here to give a speech on the newly ratified 15th Amendment, which granted African-American men, like him, the right to vote. In honor of that speech, visitors to Washington’s Headquarters are invited to take a few minutes in our museum on August 3rd & 4th to share their thoughts on some of Frederick Douglass’ writings.
After escaping from slavery in 1838, Douglass became the most important leader of the movement for African-American civil rights in the 19th century. He was an American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman. His words meant a great deal to his contemporaries, and still mean a lot today. What do they mean to you?
The site, including the museum and tour, is open on Saturday, August 3 from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sunday, August 4 from 1 - 5 p.m. Tours of Hasbrouck House are given throughout the day. Reservations are not required but space is limited. Standard admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and students, and 12 years old or younger is free. (Cash or checks only.) For additional information, call (845) 562-1195.
Happy birthday greetings to Donna Cornell who celebrates a July birthday. May this birthday usher in a wonderful year ahead. Happy Birthday!
Prayer requests for Elise and Monica E. both of whom are dealing with serious health situations. God bless you both; may each of you enjoy improved health as the year progresses.
Suzanne Dawes announced, “It’s Back Door Books time again! We have been inundated with donations the last couple of weeks and are bursting at the seams.” Back Door Books at the Newburgh Free Library will be open Saturday, July 20 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
“They have thousands of well sorted books in all categories. Looking for a summer read? We are bursting at the seams with new inventory. We must clear our shelves and so we are offering two books for one donation. Keep children reading over the summer and visit our children’s section which is overflowing with wonderful books for pre-school through teens, many in new or like-new condition.”
Operated by the Friends of the Newburgh Library, this sale by donation book shop is located behind the Newburgh Free Library on Montgomery Street. All proceeds from Back Door Books support the programs of the Newburgh Free Library. There is parking behind the library on Montgomery Street. Cash only, Please!
“Sgt. Maj. MaryKay Messenger’s life and 29-year career as a vocalist in the West Point Band has been about human connection…” When the name MaryKay Messenger was connected to a program or event, you knew it was going to be special. Congratulations on your retirement from your distinguished career with the West Point Band, a wonderful career, a life that made you and so many others happy. Indeed, your Dad is no doubt very proud of you, his beloved daughter. May the rest of your life be as filled with purpose and happiness as the life you’ve already led, dear MaryKay Messenger...
Now Streaming on Amazon Prime Video, “The Lost City Diaries.” The True story of Newburgh New York’s “Urban Renewal” 1950’s! Go to Amazon Prime Video, search “The Lost City Diaries.” Over 20,000 views so far! A sad episode in Newburgh’s and other cities across the country that devastated not just the architecture of many of them, but their neighborhoods, as well.
Bring the whole family and enjoy a movie outside on Safe Harbors Green! Screenings begin at dusk every Thursday through August 1, with pre-movie events and a cookout hosted by the City of Newburgh Police Department starting at 7:30 p.m. The remaining line-up: July 18: Wish; July 25: Trolls Band Together; Aug. 1: Migration. Presented in partnership with the City of Newburgh.
Save the Date: Thursday, September 12 at 6 p.m. for a beautiful evening on Safe Harbors Green with delicious food and drinks, music and performances, and exceptional company to benefit our mission of transforming lives and building community through housing and the arts. Tickets on sale soon!
Sacred Heart-Saint Francis Italian Feast will be held 301 Ann Street, honoring Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Saint Anthony on Thursday, July 18; Friday, July 19; Saturday, July 20; and Sunday, July 21. (Yes, 4 days this year!) They will have great food, entertainment, fellowship, and games for kids! Join in for the 12 Noon Mass on Sunday, July 21, followed by their traditional street procession!
Please join us in praying the 9-month novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe for America and the world. You can find it online: Cardinal Ramond Leo Burke, 9-Month Novena. Prayer is our shield and our weapon for good. As always, I close with my prayer for God’s blessings on your heads, my dears.