Jim Ferlo Hosts Kick-Off for “Give a Lincoln for Lincoln” Campaign

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In recognition of the 16th President’s Bicentennial Birthday and to promote the preservation of Abraham Lincoln’s life and legacy, State Sen. Jim Ferlo (D-Pittsburgh) will host a kick-off event for the “Give a Lincoln for Lincoln” campaign.

The event will be held on Thursday, February 12, 11:00 a.m. at the City-County Building Main Lobby, 414 Grant Street

Along with Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, the History Channel, Outback Steak House, Comcast, Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, PNC Bank, and other local sponsors, the campaign encourages Americans to donate Lincoln-head pennies and five dollar bills to raise funds for education and preservation programs at six historic Lincoln landmarks.

“The lessons of history have much to teach us.  President Lincoln led us through the nation’s darkest hours, ended slavery, and saved our Union.  I cannot stress highly enough the importance of saving his legacy for future generations.” Ferlo said.  “This campaign will help ensure that we continue to honor his contributions and I am proud to join with our sponsors to raise awareness.”
All donations collected through this year-long campaign will be distributed to the National Parks Foundation and the National Trust for Historic Preservation for the six sites.  The sites are:

·         Lincoln’s birthplace in Kentucky

·         Lincoln’s boyhood home in Indiana

·         The Lincoln Home in Springfield, Illinois

·         Lincoln’s cottage in Washington, DC

·         The Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC

·         Ford’s Theatre in Washington, DC

Along with remarks by Senator Ferlo and Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, representatives from the Heinz History Center, AETV-History Channel, and students with the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation will be highlighting the details of the Lincoln bicentennial celebration nationwide as well as local tributes to history and preservation.  Honest Abe himself is expected to make an appearance to talk about his one visit to Pittsburgh back in 1861.  Local students will also be recognized for their winning submissions to Senator Ferlo’s Public Art In Public Places Contest.

Additional information can be obtained by visiting www.History.com/Lincoln or by contacting Sen. Ferlo’s district office (412) 621-3006, or by visiting his website at www.senatorferlo.com.