In the summer of 1975, I was an 18 year old girl with great passion for theatre and had the great opportunity to work as part of the Bing Bop Street Theatre sponsored through VSB. Having a strong connection to my Irish inheritance, I told my worried parents that I was going to Belfast for the summer to do street theatre at a time when the "Troubles" were very apparent in the City Centre and many of the areas we performed, including Divis Flats. My experience there was undoubtedly one of the most formative of my young adult years and I have since gone on to become a school psychologist, who continues to be involved with efforts to use theatre to help young people with autism improve their social-emotional skills. I credit Dr. Ron Olauson of Mankato State University and Pat Ryan for my wonderful time in Belfast along with Ms. Aleen Herman, Executive Director Stanley and my fellow Bing Bop players for an unforgettable experience. I learned some great wisdom through those times and I try to apply it regularly in the work I do now in helping others, including how to deal with violence, difficult emotions and reconciliation. I was gratified to see that VSB remains alive and well and involved in such wonderful community efforts that undoubtedly continue to enrich and enliven the lives of the Northern Irish people. I attached a picture of my family and would love to hear from any of the fellow Bing Boppers and what they're up to. Happy New Year and may 2008 be truly memorable celebration for the organisation! My best, Mary

Mary Spence