Music, book passages to highlight wrongful convictions at ESTHER event Oct. 15
A compelling blend of true crime storytelling and soulful music provide the backdrop for a performance sponsored by nonprofit ESTHER focused on insights into murder convictions in a landmark 1992 Wisconsin case. The event will take place on Oct. 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Fox Valley Technical College.
Passages from author Joan Treppa’s Reclaiming Lives: Pursuing Justice for Six innocent Men and the harmonious music of the duo of Karli and Jason Reisdorf, known as Natural Satellite, will blend to tell the story of “The Monfils Six.”
The book revisits the tragic 1992 death of Tom Monfils, a paper mill worker in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The high-profile trial that followed ended with six men – the “Monfils Six” – being convicted of murder. But the case was fraught with inconsistencies and unanswered questions. Years later, a determined Minnesota woman with no legal background took notice – and refused to look away.
Reclaiming Lives is more than a true crime narrative; it’s a call to action. Through detailed storytelling and personal insight, Treppa illustrates the staggering challenges of overturning wrongful convictions, even in the face of compelling new evidence. Her writing exposes systemic flaws and offers readers a deeply human story of perseverance, hope, and transformation as she highlights the many people affected in the Monfils Six case.
Joan wants everyone to understand what she now understands. “Wrongful convictions happen in every state in this country. These injustices destroy many innocent lives. The overall message to our audiences is to become involved in something, to act on behalf of others when given the chance.”
More recently, Joan began collaborating with Natural Satellite. “I’ve watched them perform onstage many times and felt that their music was a perfect fit for an event I hope will leave our audiences feeling encouraged. Our first performance also in Appleton in May of this year gained the attention of ESTHER. We thank them for their support in creating this second event.”
According to the Natural Satellite website, “The Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) award winning duo combines finger-style cello, warm saxophone improvisation, and rich vocal harmonies. Jason’s saxophone weaves in and out of verses harmonizing beautifully with Karli’s angelic voice. Their lyrics center on themes of self-love, reflection, and personal growth—offering listeners both comfort and inspiration.”
