Concerts, exhibit and program celebrate American and Cape Verdean Independence at Whaling Museum, July 4 and 5

The New Bedford Whaling Museum will host two free public concerts, a photo exhibit and program on July 4-5, celebrating American and Cape Verdean Independence Days.

The July 4th concert features the best in Rhythm & Blues with the Mac Odom Band. Presented by Fiber Optic Center, Whaling City Sound and Hampton Inn Fairhaven/New Bedford, the concert begins at 6:00 p.m. on the museum plaza and concludes at 8:00 p.m. with plenty of time to see the city’s fireworks display, scheduled to start at 9:00 p.m. over the harbor.

The July 5th concert celebrates Cape Verdean Independence Day with performances by the John Miranda Band and the KabuJazz Ensemble featuring Candida Rose from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on the museum plaza.

A photography exhibit and program titled “Cape Verdean Courage: Heroes of WWII” will take place on July 5 at 5:45 p.m. in the Jacobs Family Gallery and Cook Memorial Theater. Artist and photographer, Ron Barboza will exhibit more than 100 photographs of World War II veterans of Cape Verdean American heritage.

Presented in association with the Cape Verdean Advisory Committee, the Barboza collection includes many service portraits from the war years. Mr. Barboza will conduct a one-hour program to honor living Cape Verdean Vets of WWII; it will include remarks from officials and community leaders, and music from the era.

Judge George N. Leighton, age 100, will address the assembly. The centenarian will recall his WWII experience in the Pacific theater.

The program will include Mr. Barboza’s presentation of certificates of appreciation to 43 surviving Cape Verdean Veterans of the Second World War. Any surviving Cape Verdean Veterans of WWII that have not been contacted may call Ron Barboza at (508) 415-4381.

The July 5th concert, exhibit and recognition program is sponsored by the William M. Wood Foundation.

Bring a chair or blanket to the plaza. In the event of rain, concerts will move indoors. Family fun activities will also be offered July 4-5, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the plaza. Free parking is available at the Elm Street Garage, one block north of the museum.

The New Bedford Whaling Museum is the world’s most comprehensive museum devoted to the global story of whales, whaling, and the cultural history of the region. The cornerstone of New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, the Museum is located at 18 Johnny Cake Hill in the heart of the city’s historic downtown and is open daily. Wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit the Whaling Museum online at www.whalingmuseum.org.