Upper Shores presents Sojourner Truth program

It was a step back in time and truly seemed as though Sojourner Truth returned to life to once again share her undying commitment to freedom fighting. 35 students & educators from South Toms River’s Discovery Place program were mesmerized as the life of Isabella Baumfree unfolded before us. Following the performance young audience members lined up to shake the hand of actress Daisy Century and to get her autograph. Empathy and a deeper understanding of an amazing life, one that truly made a difference, made this Black History Month one to remember. The evening performance brought out an additional 20 adult community members. The paintings of Preachers Wife Arts/Lavett Ballard added an extra dimension to the event.

Connecting People – Building Community, on a Global Ride!

by June Schneider

Libraries are known to many as a safe haven and friendly place.  Lalo Porto, Mobility Ambassador, walked through the doors of Upper Shores seeking a patch of grass on which to pitch his tent.  That sounds like an easy task, but after a number of calls to local parks and such, the fact was that a warm welcome was hard to find.  Not knowing what else to do and with the sun dipping lower on the horizon, I offered my home as respite.  I couldn’t imagine not offering shelter to someone on a round-trip bicycle journey from Toronto to Brazil! 

Just as the pebble in the pond, the ripple effect raised community awareness of the library and its staff as a trustworthy community resource. Customers overhearing the conversation have since commended the warm welcome provided to sole adventurer, Lalo, and have seen our library as a place that provides help to all who walk through our doors—Connections indeed!

 

This photo was taken of Lalo  @ morning departure.  Read more about his incredible journey on his blog!

www.infinitycycle.blogspot.com

 

He is also associated with the organization, Bikes Without Borders.   www.bikeswithoutborders.org