In commemoration of her 80th birthday, family and friends of Cordelia (Cora) Silvestri gathered at the Ossining Senior Center with Assemblywoman, Dana Levenberg, and Ossining Town Supervisor, Elizabeth Feldman, who each presented her with a Proclamation honoring her steadfast community service.
Cora joined the community in 2007. At the Senior Center, she has welcomed newcomers, organized activities, and spread positivity. She collaborates with fellow senior center member, Judith Shangold, on the Old Traditions, New Beginningsproject featured in River Journal. It encourages anyone over 60 years old to share their wisdom and stories through essays, poetry, and words of inspiration. “Seniors are often dismissed,”said Ossining Town Supervisor, Feldman, “so it is important to encourage all seniors to share their stories with younger generations.”
Senator Pete Harckham acknowledged Cora with a Certificate of Recognition for bringing the community together through dedicated volunteerism and tireless advocacy for the senior population. Westchester County Board of Legislatorsproclaimed April 6, 2026, Cora Silvestri Day, honoring her commitment to the community where she enriched the lives of many.
“I am very honored by the recognition from all levels of government, but it is a bit overwhelming in a good way,” said Silvestri. “When I arrived at the Westchester County Center,and I saw my name on the big screen, I couldn’t believe it. I’ve seen other names on the screen in the past. I never dreamed that one day I’d see my own.”
Four community members whose lives Cora enriched shared the following with River Journal:
Carol Smith: “Her love of music, dance, card games, and people became highly contagious. Cora has a never-ending source of energy. I know because of her, one can, if lucky, make a wonderful new friend at any age.”
Carmela Cupo: “Cora is my most trusted and thoughtful confidante. Whenever I’m engaging with her, I always come away feeling good after each encounter. Cora lights up a room upon entering one’s life. I realize that because of her, it is never too late to make a new and treasured friend.”
Barbara Williams: “I was quiet when I first got to the senior center. But, as soon as I entered the room, a lady approached me with a smile and invited me to sit at the same table where she and a few other ladies were sitting. She introduced herself as Cora. With her encouragement, I participate in most of the activities the center offers.”
Judith Shangold: “Cora is a beacon of light, laughter, love, and pure inspiration. She leads by example with her indomitable, never-ending, can-do spirit. Cora has shown us that no matter the hand life deals us, attitude, conviction, and resolute determination to overcome anything, against all odds, is possible.”
Carol, Carmela, Barbara, and Judith collectively said, “the title of the beautiful and powerful song from the Broadway show, Wicked, ‘Because I Knew You, I’ve Been Changed for Good,’ says everything there is to say about Cora Silvestri,” and her impact on their lives and the community.
