November 7, 2019 – I had the honor of hosting my 5th Annual Veterans Appreciation Social, partnering with the American Legion Post 516, at the American Legion Social Hall in Blair County. The Honorable Sam Hayes Jr. , former State Representative and also former Secretary of Agriculture, was the keynote speaker. We also enjoyed remarks by Lori McMath-Varner, of Huntingdon County, who is a 2019 Ms. Veteran America Finalist. Each year at this event, the American Legion Post 516 presents three General Soyster Awards, named after Lieutenant General Harry “Ed” Soyster, a native of Hollidaysburg who served in Vietnam and the Gulf War. I always enjoy being a part of that presentation. This year’s winners are Cindy Dunkle, Denny Haire, and Bill Nelson.
