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Photo: Bob Cholette

Bob Cholette to Chair Blind Association's Board of Directors

CONCORD - November 20, 2006 - Robert "Bob" Cholette of Laconia was elected Chairman of the Board for the New Hampshire Association for the Blind at the Association's Annual Meeting on November 9th . Cholette has been a member of the Association's Board of Director's since 1999.

"The New Hampshire Association for the Blind is thrilled to have Bob at the helm", said George Theriault, President and CEO. "Throughout our 95 year history we have been fortunate to have splendid and effective volunteer leadership. Having an experienced leader like Bob Cholette will help us to meet the rapidly increasing needs of people who are blind and visually impaired living in New Hampshire."

Bob began his career at the New Hampshire Association for the Blind in the early 60's after earning his masters degree from Boston College. He was recognized for developing the first sensory training and mobility program in the state. In 1965 Cholette was hired as Executive Director for Easter Seal Rehabilitation Center in Manchester. At the time, he was the youngest executive director in the country. He remained at Easter Seal until 1988 and was instrumental in transforming Easter Seal into a multi-organizational entity.

Bob served as Chief Executive Officer for Catholic Medical Center during the late 80's and was a leader in the design and development of the Hillcrest Terrace retirement community in Manchester in 1990.

In addition to serving on the New Hampshire Association for the Blind Board of Directors, Cholette serves on the Birchwood Village Board of Directors as well as Vice President for South Down Shores in Laconia. Bob has been involved with the Jaycees, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Rotary, Kiwanis and Lion's clubs as well as the Chamber of Commerce.

Bob lives in Laconia with his wife Sharon.