They asked Cromwell to organize a community invitation for the television star to visit the Shelburne area.

Within hours, Cromwell, Richard Gallion and others connected to the Black Loyalist Heritage Society in Birchtown, located a short distance from Shelburne, gathered up a collection of residents to “star� in the video invitation, shot Thursday in the small community by Rick Davis.

The call from the Oprah Show sprang from a letter sent by the society two years ago inviting the enormously popular talk show host and philanthropist to visit Birchtown and its surrounds. The producers told Cromwell on Thursday (Oct. 19) they needed the video by FedEx the next day.

“It’s amazing how things come together when the time is right,� said Cromwell.

More than 20 eager souls converged at noon on the Black Loyalist Museum and Monument, including members of Shelburne town and municipal councils, the tourism association, Shelburne and Area Chamber of Commerce, Loyalist Landing 2008 Committee, Black Pioneers Acting Troupe and other local groups.

Personal messages from Elizabeth Cromwell, Daniel Race, Richard Gallion, Lawrence Bruce, Louise Delisle, Marjorie Turner-Bailey, Al Delaney and Ardith Van Buskirk were taped, as was a group “hello� from all participants.

Oprah was invited to visit the area, meet the people and participate in further “healing� the damages that resulted from a springtime fire that destroyed the society’s offices.

Marjorie Turner-Bailey also pleaded with Oprah to bring Patti LaBelle with her.

“Oprah is so well respected and admired throughout the world,� added Cromwell. “To have her visit us soon would be a real treat and blessing.�