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A candlelight vigil will take place today (January 9) in Rotterdam to honor the life of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away late last month at the age of 100. The event, hosted by Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, will begin at 4:30 p.m. at the Carter Monument, a site of historical significance in the community.
Carter, the 39th President of the United States, had a special connection to Rotterdam. He and his wife, Rosalynn, lived in the community from October 1952 to October 1953 while he served in the United States Navy and pursued studies in nuclear physics at Union College. The monument, located at Maple Pine Manor on 325 Duanesburg Road, commemorates their time in Rotterdam. Assemblyman Santabarbara played a key role in the recent restoration of the monument, ensuring that Carter's legacy remains a visible part of local history.
The vigil is part of a National Day of Mourning declared in honor of Carter's contributions to public service and humanitarian efforts, including his extensive work with Habitat for Humanity. Assemblyman Santabarbara expressed his sadness over Carter's passing, highlighting his dedication to improving the lives of others.