Reid My Mind

Last year I attended my first conference of the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind. It was a new experience not only for me, but the entire chapter of MCCB. We all had a good time, but more importantly the majority of those who attended were motivated to return home and continue to work on growing the chapter and making changes to our community.

I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to become a member of the 2007 conference planning committee. MCCB decided to host the entertainment portion of the banquet. We wanted to do something different from what we experienced in 06. We brainstormed and found, Theater by the Blind in NYC. They performed excerpts from a variety of their stage presentations as well as conducted a Q&A session. The performance group was well received by all in attendance. We concluded the entertainment with a dance session that went well past the closing of the bar.

While I enjoy planning and executing these types of events, motivating others and making positive change in the community is what really makes me happy. After some discussions with some PCB members I respect, I decided to take a run for the PCB Board of Directors. I was made aware that getting elected to the board after less than two years of affiliation was not very likely.

I am very happy and proud to report that I am one of the new members of the PCB Board of Directors. I plan to bring my enthusiasm and creativity to this organization and play my role in improving conditions for people with varying visual impairments. In addition, I hope to make shattering negative images of the blind community a major part of everything I do as a board member. As with my local chapter I would like to assist in motivating people to become active and offer their skills as well as taking opportunities to develop personally.