While working to organize and digitize the historians’ box I received an email from former OJCL historian Joe Hedges asking if I would be interested in receiving his scrapbook from his time as historian. A few days later he dropped it off on my porch and I now had a very large very beautiful state scrapbook from 1996-1997. For my winter torch article, I wanted to share a few of my favorite photos out of the scrapbook while also giving an update on my “History of the OJCL” project.
Although I personally do not know any of these individuals, looking at these old photos and scrapbooks reminds me of my early JCL events. Particularly those in person. I think that nostalgia has a different power and opportunity following online conventions and zoomtamens. I am optimistic that our upcoming in-person convention will revive our JCL spirit that has lost its luster over the last few years.