September 9, 2008

Dear Families and Friends,

We are really looking forward to tomorrow's Day of Remembrance Information Forum. Just as a reminder, registration starts at 10am and we have a full schedule of events! Opening remarks begin at 10:30, followed by a presentation at 11am by the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.

At noon we will have a ceremony to honor our dear friend, Mario Canzoneri, beloved owner and handler of the Smile Retrievers. As many of you know Mario, who passed away this year has participated in our annual events along with his wife Karen and their wonderful therapy dogs. Karen Canzoneri & the Smile Retrievers, (therapy dogs), Mattie and Macie, will be joining us to accept the award.

Tomorrow’s event will continue with 9/11 workshops, panel discussions and a 9/11 exhibit. VOICES staff will be available by appointment to digitize mementos to include in the 9/11 Living Memorial digital archive. You may also drop off items for digitizing that can be picked up later in the day or returned by mail after the event. The day will conclude with a visit by President Bill Clinton who will comment on progress since 9/11 and the work that remains.

The September 11th Commemorative Luncheon, which follows the service at Zuccotti Park, is sold out. We are looking forward to gathering together with the 9/11 community to reflect and pay tribute to those who have supported us. This years Building Bridges Award will be presented to George Martin, the former NY Giants co-captain that led a Journey for 9/11, to raise money for firefighters and rescue workers. We are very excited that former New York Governor George Pataki and other dignitaries will join us also.  Please visit our website for a full agenda of the two day event.

Again we want to thank the National September 11 Memorial & Museum for their partnership in this two day event. We also want to recognize our sponsors who made the events possible John & Margo Catsimatidis and Gov. George E. Pataki and John Cahill with Chadbourne & Parke LLP.

For those of you who aren't able to join us, you and your families will be in our thoughts and prayers as we commemorate the 7th anniversary and honor our loved ones.

Warm Regards,

Mary and the Voices Staff