Fredon resident Joseph Garrera named to Lincoln Bicentennial Commission

Washington, D.C. - Nationally known Lincoln scholar Joseph Garrera of Fredon has been named to a federal advisory committee that will make recommendations to a 15-member federal commission on the most effective methods to celebrate the bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln’s birth that will occur in 2009. Formed in 2000, the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission is planning celebrations that will occur throughout the country honoring the life and accomplishments of America’s 16th president. Garrera, who is in his eighth year as president of the Abraham Lincoln Group of N.Y., also serves on the board of directors of the Lincoln Society of Virginia, and the Lincoln Forum that convenes annually in Gettysburg, Pa. A noted lecturer, Garrera will concentrate his advisement efforts on educational initiatives for high school and middle school lesson plans for students. He will also focus on Lincoln, race and slavery, and how the Lincoln bicentennial presents an opportunity for conversation about these important issues today. “I see the years leading up to the Lincoln bicentennial as a unique opportunity for all Americans to reacquaint themselves with the Lincoln legacy,” said Garrera. “ I think it’s important to see Abraham Lincoln as a total human being, imperfect like we all are, yet, still able to transcend his challenges to achieve greatness.” Garrera attended his first meeting in Washington that convened on Feb. 13 at the Library of Congress. The day concluded with a banquet meal, and a performance by actors Liam Neeson and Holly Hunter portraying Abraham and Mary Lincoln for a special audience.