Meet:
Richard Paradise, Executive Director, Martha's Vineyard Film Society and co-director, with Nevette Previd, of the  annual Martha's Vineyard International Film Festival, showcasing the best feature and short films from around the globe.
For the 2008 Festival,  Paradise and  Previd  selected over thirty feature, short, and documentary films for the 2008 Festival which was held September 11-14. Of the Festival  itself Paradise observes: "Our mission is to shine a light on different cultures and places. Having an appreciation of others' hopes, dreams, lives makes us better global citizens."

What's the best thing about your job?
Having established the Film Society five years ago, I have screened on the Island close to 200 films - that's what I enjoy the most - sharing the movie experience with others, being able to introduce others to some of my favorites films or to contemporary films that inspire, enlighten and/or entertain audiences.

What makes MV a special place?
MV is special because of its natural beauty, the warmth of our community and the enormous openness to new ideas.

What word or phrase would you use to describe your outlook on life?
Rosy - upbeat, proactive

What's your favorite possession?
My espresso machine - it keeps me buzzing.

If you weren't doing what you're doing, what would you be doing?
If I wasn't showing films and running the film society, I would probably be doing other volunteer work that involves the public, creating some other type of business - I love the creative process of launching a business.

What's your idea of the perfect day off?
Perfect day off is shutting off my computer, cell phone, etc - and heading to the beach.