At the risk of repeating myself, our organization is not currently living up to the pledge that its “founding fathers” made long ago: Making Civil War preservation a top priority. The reason is simple:
The cost of both goods and services have significantly increased over the last two years. For Campaign 48 (2025-26), we were able to negotiate with the hotel to eliminate one cost increase, but a second increase remains in force. Ultimately, the Board needs to proactively look for a longer-term way(s) to cover the rising costs we expect will continue in 2027 and beyond. And it’s doing just that.
During the June BOD meeting, Ed Root, who stepped in for me while I was continuing to mend, shared several actions the Board will take in Campaign 49. These actions are outlined, on page 3 of the Summer 2026 Newsletter. At the same meeting, Ed announced the Board would agree on a Campaign 48 preservation activity at its August meeting, assuming it could figure out a way to financially support it.
As an ongoing, subtle reminder of the oath we took as an organization (to make a difference in the fight for Civil War preservation), we will place a donation box on the “check-in” table outside of our meeting room. There, it will serve as a discrete, regular reminder of one of the two key reasons our organization was founded ... and make it easier for motivated members to make a preservation donation. Any amount will be appreciated.
Our first Campaign 49 meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at our usual location (the Delta Hotel Lehigh Valley - near Fogelsville), and I look forward to seeing you there.
Look inside the Summer 2026 Newsletter for a preview of the topics and speakers for the entire Campaign.
Barry