Bill Conrad was the emcee for the 46th annual Historical Society Banquet held on Sunday, December 7 at the St. Marys Country Club.

By Becky Polaski
Daily Press Staff

The Historical Society of St. Marys and Benzinger Township held their 46th annual banquet on Sunday, December 7 at the St. Marys Country Club in commemoration of the founding of Sancta Marienstadt on December 8, 1842.

Following an invocation by Fr. Meinrad Lawson, O.S.B., Pastor of St. Marys Church, Emcee Bill Conrad and President Denny McGeehan both welcomed those in attendance, noting that the wintry weather was similar to what the first settlers likely endured 166 years ago.

"It's a perfect night to be indoors and not walking over from Kersey to pitch a tent, sleep in the snow, and build a town that will become a city," said McGeehan.

Later on in the program, McGeehan also gave a presentation on changes that have occurred in the downtown area throughout the years.

The 2008 Distinguished Citizen was Merle Lecker, who was unable to attend the dinner but instead watched the event via a live webcast set up by Devin Brock.

McGeehan concluded the event by recognizing the Directors and detailing the state of the Society.

Jesse Ledbetter, Pastor of Agape Assembly of God, gave the benediction.