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SOHO President's Bi-Monthly Message
January 2017
By Jaye MacAskill
 It's the beginning of a brand new year! Looking back, I am delighted to report that SOHO had a successful 2016 and accomplished important and diverse achievements in historic preservation, including a unique, exciting exhibition on architect Irving Gill at the Marston House (which runs through Sunday, March 26) and companion catalog like no other; and the long awaited Whaley House book, the restoration of a backcountry icon, the enormous Santa Ysabel barn; and essential work on the Whaley House and grounds (which is ongoing).
SOHO also became a stronger and more "modern" non-profit through the tedious but necessary process of updating our bylaws and other internal documents. Plus, once again, throughout the year, SOHO spent countless hours advocating for preservation in our region as well as advising and supporting private individuals and other groups with similar goals.
All of SOHO's successes aside, however, for many of us personally, 2016 was not a great year. Without pointing to specifics, in addition to life's usual challenges, many things happened both locally and on the national stage that dampened our moods. SOHO, after all, is made up of people-our staff, board, membership, and volunteers-and I believe I speak for most of us when I say yuck to 2016.
In good times and bad, one of my unwritten duties as president of SOHO's board of directors is to stay positive. This is a good thing because it forces me to try to look on the bright side of things, which, thanks to brain chemistry, is scientifically proven to help raise one's spirits! Being a part of SOHO and actively supporting historic preservation is definitely a very positive and unshakeable force in my life. Perhaps it is in yours too.
After enduring such a tough year and in the face of an uncertain future, I encourage anyone seeking a little emotional pick me up to get more involved with SOHO in 2017. Fortunately, there are many different ways to aid SOHO that can also help soothe a troubled soul and offer a genuine sense of community. Whether it's volunteering among friends old and new at one of SOHO's historic sites, attending more of our enlightening and fun events, becoming an outspoken community activist in preservation battles, making monetary donations, bringing more friends and family into the fold through gift memberships, or any other meaningful way of showing your support, I can almost guarantee it will make you feel better inside!
Your commitment to San Diego's rich and deep cultural and architectural heritage is not only invaluable, it is crucial, and SOHO wants you to know how much we appreciate YOU and all that you do! So, please, my fellow members and historic preservationists, remember that we are all in this together, working for the greater good that is preservation. On behalf of SOHO, I wish you the best for a happy, healthy, and inspired 2017!
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