By: Dylan Bowman, HAHS Board Member
July 3, 2023
Halifaxians and HAHS Members enjoy one another's company and the meal at the Annual Banquet. Photo by Dylan Bowman
The Banquet
With Independence Day nearly upon us, it is hard to believe that we are already halfway through the summer. Sometimes, one just has to slow down...and cut another wedge of shoefly pie for themselves.
The Halifax Area Historical Society Annual Banquet occurred last Tuesday, bringing out a vast majority of the Society's members. The banquet meal was provided by Lori Miller and desserts were provided by Board Members and their families. After the program, entertainment was provided by the local band, Joyful Praise, featuring Southern Gospel and Country tunes from musicians Larry Baylor, Janet Noblit, Glenn Noblit, Marilyn Noblit, and Bruce Wolfe.
It should be further noted that HAHS Officers and Board members were officially inducted by former board member Keith Miller and several awards were bestowed to members of the Board who will be stepping down after years of service.
Connie Corsnitz and George Deppen both received The Albert "Abe" Lyter Recognition Award for their many years of service and outstanding contribution to the Halifax Area Historical Society, the community, and for their continued support of preserving history.
Carol Stoneroad received a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of her many years of service to the Halifax Area Historical Society, its mission, and the community.
(Top) The HAHS Board being inducted. (Left to right): Ryan Bowman, Jane Mello, Dane Snyder, Judy Vallier, Lisa Shomper, Robert Warfel, Betty Reigle, Scott Deppen, Danean Walker, Dylan Bowman and Emma Long. Photo by Emma Bowman.
(Bottom) Board Members (from left to right) Connie Corsnitz, George Deppen and Carol Stoneroad recieve their awards from HAHS President Ryan Bowman. Photos by Dylan Bowman
New Energy
One of the clearest highlights of the evening, however, did not come in the form of a song or steaming platter, but rather a new sense of energy that stemmed from the entire congregation.
The Board had introduced the Society's members to the new Digital Records Committee, the digital preservation and sharing of artifacts and records in the society's archives, the treasurer's positive report, the introduction of new events and upcoming projects and other changes that aim at bettering community outreach and preservation of Halifax history to all.
The response to these concepts and announcements was one of excitement. Members approached Board members (myself included) asking about upcoming events, times and dates that they could be there and how they could help the Society move forward. The new energy could be felt all around the room and was undoubtedly sparked, at least in part, by a moving speech from Society President Ryan Bowman.
The HAHS Banquet centerpieces. Photo by Dylan Bowman
"I believe we save our American history at the local level." Bowman stated during a part of his speech to the Society. "Not by complaining about D.C. or hoping the right guy or gal ends up in the oval office to fix everything. We retain our history by getting involved in our own towns."
With reception high and the excitement of the Society higher still, it is clear that this year and those that follow will be filled with people of Central PA who are ready to make history.
To get involved, help with an event or become a member, see our Events page or reach out to the Society through our email on this site. We would love to hear from you!
Halifaxians and HAHS Members enjoy one another's company at the Annual Banquet. Photos by Dylan Bowman
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