Dinniman Hosts Lincoln Bicentennial Celebration
Thursday February 12, 2009 Marks the 200th Anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s Birth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 12, 2009

CONTACT: ADAM CIRUCCI
PHONE: 610-692-2112
acirucci@pasenate.com

WEST CHESTER (February 12) – State Senator Andy Dinniman hosted a celebration of Abraham Lincoln’s 200th Birthday at the Lincoln Building in West Chester today.

The celebration included first and second grade students from three local schools, and presentations from a local author and a local musician whose works have been inspired by the life of Abraham Lincoln.

“Today marks the 200th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth and I couldn’t think of a better way to recognize the lasting contribution and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, than to bring together our young people to learn about President Lincoln and what he meant and still means to America,” said Dinniman, who serves on Pennsylvania’s Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission.

The event included:

• A reading by award-winning author Jen Bryant of her new book, “Abe’s Fish,” which is based on a true story from Lincoln’s youth;
• A recitation of the “Gettysburg Address” by student reenactors;
• A performance by acclaimed musician Geri Smith and students from the Chester County Family Academy of “Lincoln Was His Name,” a song they co-wrote about Lincoln; and
• Information and insights about our nation’s 16th president and his connection to Chester County.

The event took place at the Lincoln Building at 28 West Market Street in West Chester, where one of the first biographical sketches of Lincoln was printed in 1860. The brief and humble account of Lincoln’s life was republished in a number of leading newspapers on the East Coast and was later credited as being instrumental in securing his nomination to the presidency.

For more details, contact Adam Cirucci in Senator Dinniman’s office at 610-692-2112 or e-mail acirucci@pasenate.com.

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