by Berl Colley
In April's "Braille Forum," you read about several tours which have been under consideration for convention week in Pittsburgh. As we draw closer to July 4, it's time for an update. As you might expect, there have been some changes, some clarifications, and a couple of exciting new additions. Get ready for a list of tours that will match every taste and every budget, as we head toward convention week in Pittsburgh.
First the bad news: we had to cancel our mid-week three-rivers cruise. The good news is that our Wednesday evening event, still in the planning phase, will be one that just about every ACB member will want to attend. Don't miss the "ConventionScope" for a description of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
As reality sets in, we realize that there just won't be enough time on Sunday afternoon for you to experience every one of the 27 nationality rooms at the University of Pittsburgh. We will try to visit as many as we can and still allow time to see and touch exhibits.
Be sure to read your registration form carefully. We will note there those tours that require a good deal of walking, extended time sitting on the bus, or other factors you may want to weigh as you make your selections. If you have special transportation or food needs, please indicate them, and be aware that, in most cases, we will be unable to accommodate last-minute requests for menu variations or other extraordinary requirements. If you believe you will need one-on-one attention during a tour, please make arrangements to travel with an assistant or dedicated partner of your choosing. Finally, be aware that, if during convention week, we find that tours have not been sufficiently filled, we reserve the right to cancel them. Of course, if you have pre-registered, we will refund the price of tickets.
Weekday Tours
Monday, July 7: If you enjoy the harmonies of vocal groups, ranging from the Oak Ridge Boys to the Back Street Boys, The Ink Spots to The Kingston Trio, The Lettermen to The Supremes, you won't want to miss the sounds and memorabilia of the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in Sharon, Pa. In its short five-year history, more than 60 groups have already been inducted. Test your memory and your vocal group acumen as you listen to sound clips and identify which group, from the 1930s to the present, you are hearing.
If you choose, instead, to visit the Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh Regional History Center, you will learn about the history of Pittsburgh, from 1754 to the present. A 13-minute highlight film, narrated by Pittsburgh Pirates Willie Stargell, will set the scene. Our tour will include an especially interesting exhibit that details Pittsburgh's involvement in the Underground Railroad.
Tuesday, July 8: You'll be feeling "just ducky" as you board a vehicle (operated by a company of the same name) that will carry you on land and water as you tour the Pittsburgh area. After an hour-long tour, you'll be ready to taste the fare at a local microbrewery, where you'll learn about the brewing process, and sample an intriguing dessert.
Or, you may choose, instead, to learn about an array of services, including outdoor recreation, radio reading, and education, from the dedicated professionals at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Blind and another facility we're still lining up.
Wednesday, July 9: An important part of Pittsburgh's past is the production of steel. Although nearly all the mills are gone now, you can still take a well-narrated bus tour to learn about many of the important steel-producing sites in the area.
Or, if you like science, join our tour of the Carnegie Science Center, where we will experience an Omni-max presentation, as well as a number of exhibits where hands-on exploration is a world- famous feature.
Thursday, July 10: Historical battle sites are always popular with tourists, and if you're a history buff, you won't want to miss 250-plus-year old Fort Ligonier, a battle site from the French and Indian wars. After touring the fort, there will be time to visit some of the fascinating shops in the small village there. If you like souvenirs, you'll find them in abundance here. Galore!
Or, if history is not your thing, you may decide to visit the Phipps Conservatory, where there are 13 rooms of plant displays, exuding various fragrances, to give even the most olfactory- challenged person an aroma high.
Saturday, July 12: If you're still in Pittsburgh, you may want to join us for delicious Chinese food (sans MSG), and then walk or ride a couple of blocks to see a production of the musical "My Fair Lady." We have main floor seating. However, tickets are hard to come by, and we only have 30 at this time.
There's something for every interest among our list of tours, so watch for your convention registration packets. I predict the only problems you'll encounter will be in narrowing down your choices.