|
|
"One doesn’t get to be president of the Blinded Veterans
Association, or of any organization, nor does he get to remain
as president, without the support and help of many," said
newly elected BVA National President Neil Appleby.
Addressing the Awards Banquet crowd August 30 in the waning moments
of the BVA 58th National Convention in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina,
Neil thanked his family, his regional group, and his colleagues
on the Board of Directors for making possible his past and present
service.
Neil’s remarks followed the presentation of two different
plaques of appreciation to outgoing President Joe Burns and capped
off a week of productive business, southern hospitality, Atlantic
Ocean breezes, reunions with old friends, and nomination/election
of national officers. Nearly 400 attendees, including 149 blinded
veterans, many family members, 50 individual exhibitors, and many
presenters and guest speakers were on hand for the five days of
activity at the Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort.
"I think I can speak for just about everyone that was present
when I say that it was just a wonderful convention," said
Victor Jenacaro, president of the Silver State Regional Group.
"We had a fantastic experience."
Although Victor may have been a little biased because the convention
was the first he had ever attended, his sentiments were echoed
by others whose national convention attendance has been both a
duty and a tradition.
"I believe the 58th convention was one of my busiest, but
certainly as fulfilling and successful as any we’ve ever
had," said Executive Director Tom Miller, who has seen his
share of conventions (27, to be exact). Tom began attending them
in 1977 and has not missed a single one since.
Highlights of the week included informative presentations, the
keynote address by Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi,
a town meeting conducted by Principi and Representative Henry
Brown (R-SC-1), a tribute to Father Thomas Carroll, discussions
and decisions about BVA’s future, an evening at one of Myrtle
Beach’s favorite entertainment spots, and the presentation
of awards to dedicated blinded veterans and those who serve them.
|
|
