The SOHO Lady 2008 Recipient

Allen Hazard accepts the coveted SOHO Lady award at the annual membership meeting, held at the Stein Family Farm. Photo by Sandé Lollis

The SOHO Lady is a special honorary award for efforts above and beyond the call of duty in the field of historic preservation. This award itself was originated by Courtney and Denise Gonzales who first presented it in 1969, the year SOHO was founded. That year's recipient was Peggy and Tom Shepley who added the stipulation to the award that it must always be on public display for the full year in the recipient's home and with the admonishment that SOHO members are apt to check at any time!

Erik Hanson was the 2007 recipient, and explained that he was torn between two people who happened to be married. Choosing not to award a couple, he flipped a coin before all of us at the membership party and Allen Hazard was named the 2008 honoree, who in turn said that he would share the honor with his wife Janet O'Dea.

While each year's honoree is a surprise presentation made totally and arbitrarily by the previous SOHO recipient, everyone agreed that Allen was the perfect choice for his staunch efforts and passion for everything historic!