SPEAKER: LINDA AMSTER | ENTERTAINER: FRANS BLOEM

SPEAKER: LINDA AMSTER 

The Story Behind the Story of The New York Times and the Pentagon Papers

A trove of more than 40 New York Times reporters and editors--and one researcher--were closeted in Manhattan's Hilton Hotel for more than two months back in 1971. In conversation with Jerry Eskenazi on Dec. 6, that researcher, Linda Amster, will talk about what went on in the paper's best-kept secret: the story of the Pentagon Papers. These were the "Top Secret" documents given by Daniel Ellsberg to a Times reporter, detailing the often-dismaying errors and lies that led to our involvement in Vietnam. Ms. Amster will talk about the intricate ways she fact-checked. The final story had to be perfect, because the paper feared any errors would lead the Nixon administration to declare the whole story a falsehood. Her talk will also include information about the formation of the "Plumbers," who invaded Ellsberg's psychiatrist's office, and other bizarre aspects of this momentous story.

ENTERTAINER: FRANS BLOEM

Frans Bloem, from Holland, is a NY award winning cabaret performer and has traveled all over the world appearing in locales including Paris, Shanghai, Bangkok and Rio de Janeiro, with a few lesser stops along the way. His carefully selected songs range from the songs of Charles Aznavour, Brel, Piaff, to Piazolla. Bloem sings with passion and European charm. He has been called a consummate entertainer. “Riveting show, with a passion that binds the audience to him.” -Cabaret Scenes. “Bloem comes across as part bohemian and part boulevardier, with the sparkle of a showman.” -Backstage.