Being a community member implies that we share many common interests. Many people in the Brighton area have donated their personal resources to assist in a common good at one time or another. Church fund raising, school PTO, civic responsibilities, meals on wheels, scouting, and many other important organizations have been the benefactors of this community spirit.
I remember being asked by my young son, why people donate money or spend so much time helping others. I told him that it is the generosity of people in the community that makes this place very special. It is this quality that makes Brighton an ideal community to live and to raise a family.
Several months ago, Archer-Huntley Financial, a local business, was in need of some old photos of the Brighton area. Their office had relocated to a new office center and they wanted to provide some old historical photos in their new setting. Jason Huntley visited the Societys archive room at Lyon School to review photos. After making copies of the desired photos, Archer-Huntley Financial demonstrated the Brighton community spirit.
Jason recognized the need to digitize these visual records of the past. Archer-Huntley Financial donated a new computer, high-resolution scanner and flat screen monitor.
Jason was unaware that one of the Societys goals for 2008 was to start a process to digitize the archival records. Presently, these records are stored in folders and binders in file cabinets. This goal required new computer equipment and new museum software.
It is indeed a gratifying event, when a community member steps forward, and makes a donation to benefit the common good. The Brighton Area Historical Society endeavors to preserve, advance and disseminate knowledge of the history of the Brighton area. This donation which embodies community spirit, will start the process of preserving this history digitally, so that future generations will be able to access this information through the web. Many thanks to Tom Archer and Jason Huntley of Archer-Huntley Financial.
Jim Vichich