As soon as he heard the position would be opening, John G. Paré Jr. expressed interest in becoming RNA’s new president. The Board agreed that he would be a great addition to the leadership of the Association, and would represent our neighborhood well. John will serve out the remainder of former president Shane Laporte’s term, through September 2016.
A letter from John:
I am thrilled to be the new president of our Riverside Neighborhood Association, and I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself.
I live and work right here in Riverside. My home is on Webster Street, and I work at the National Federation of the Blind headquarters (on the southwest corner of Riverside Park). I may have met many of you on one of my many trips through the park on my way to and from work.
I love living in Baltimore and having easy access to public transportation, a variety of restaurants and shops, and cultural and sporting venues. By living in this neighborhood, I also enjoy many features of living in a small town, like knowing all of my neighbors by name and having each other’s phone numbers in case of emergency, the charm of a beautiful park, safe and clean streets, and small business owners who know me by name.
I have worked at the National Federation of the Blind for eleven years. As the Executive Director for Advocacy and Policy, I am responsible for the world’s largest audio newspaper service for the blind, public relations, and governmental affairs. I have served as the NFB’s liaison to the RNA and have worked to support the Association’s initiatives, including improving Leone-Riverside Park. Our park is one of our greatest treasures, and I appreciate the emphasis we place on maintaining and enhancing the area.
The Riverside Neighborhood Association is a prime example of how neighbors can work together to influence development, reduce crime, and promote a clean and friendly environment. I know that there are still challenges to overcome, such as the shortage of parking spaces, and I look forward to working with all of you to improve that situation and to make our neighborhood the best in Baltimore City!
I look forward to seeing you at our next meeting.