9/11 First Responder Benefit Being Planned By Center

For New Media And The Arts

BETHEL — On September 11, 2001, thousands of brave first responders began working tirelessly through the wreckage of an event that changed the US world forever.

Now, thousands of those men and women are sick or dying from the effects of inhaling toxic debris from Ground Zero. Incredibly, many of these people who gave so much of themselves are now being turned away for medical care.

The Center for New Media and the Arts will host a 9/11 First Responders Event on Sunday, September 13, that will benefit two groups.

The 9/11 First Responders Benefit will include conversation with Vinny Forras, the founder of Gear Up (GearUpFoundation.org), an organization that has raised more than $3 million to help firefighters globally. Other 9/11 responders will also be on hand to engage with the audience. A short informational film will be shown, as well as an audio-visual presentation to honor all victims of 9/11.

Ninety-minute programs will be presented at noon, 2 and 4 pm, and each will conclude with the music of Artie Tobia, two-time winner of The Gold Coast Music Awards. 

Suggested donation is $25, and donations will go to pay medical bills for those suffering the effects of working at Ground Zero. A percentage will also go to the center to help pay for a new fire escape that will allow its owners to continue to offer a venue for the arts and events to the community.

Seating and standing room limited, so reservations are suggested.

The Center for New Media and the Arts, at 186 Greenwood Avenue (second floor), can be reached at 797-1786 or dv-arts.com/thecenter.