As part of the Museum of disABILITY History’s Dialogues on disABILITY Speaker Series, People Inc. Associate Vice President David Mack-Hardiman will present and launch a new book, entitled, The Magic Fire: The Story of Camp Cornplanter, on Friday, September 9, from 4 to 5:30 p.m., at 3826 Main Street, Buffalo. A question and answer sessions will be held.

Located in the Allegheny Forest of northwest Pennsylvania, Camp Cornplanter provided opportunities for individuals with disabilities to attend a summer camp. As the first residential camp in North America, it was like an oasis in the era of institutional care.

Nearly 40 years ago, Mack-Hardiman began his vocation in human services at Camp Cornplanter as their assistant director for eight summers. He is currently associate vice president for People Inc. and the Museum of disABILITY History. He has trained thousands of employees throughout Western New York during his lengthy career. In addition to The Magic Fire: The Story of Camp Cornplanter, he is also author of Grave Importance: The Restoration of Institutional Cemeteries.

The event costs are: $6 for adults, $3.50 for students, seniors and human service employees and free for Museum members. To register or for more information, call 716-629-3626. The book is available at the Museum of disABILITY History, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, and online, store.museumofdisability.org.

Established in 1998, the Museum of disABILITY History is the only one of its kind in the United States and is dedicated to advancing the understanding, acceptance and independence of people with disabilities. The Museum’s exhibits, collections, archives and educational programs create awareness and a platform for dialogue and discovery.