2011 Goshen Reunion (September 11, 2011)
A prayer by Matt Davis, of Tuscarawas, included thoughts of the 10th Anniversary of 9-11 as residents and former residents gathered for fellowship and food Sunday at the annual Goshen Reuion. The picnic was held in the social hall of the Goshen Community Church of the Nazarene. Floyd “Zeke” Davis then added to the prayer with his memories of Brian Schaar, a popular resident who recently passed away due to a kayaking accident.
The speaker for the day was former mail lady Vi Schmitzer, of Dover. Schmitzer told how she began working for the post office as well as stories from delivering the mail in Goshen. Schmitzer added that the residents of Goshen became like extended family during this time. Schmitzer has been retired for 15 years and has been attending the reunions for many years.
After receiving enthusiastic applause for her presentation, Schmitzer received the Honorary Goshen Neighbor of the Year Award. The award is sponsored each year by Bruce and Robin Brokaw. Receiving a special neighbor award was Grace Swaldo.
It was announced that beginning next year, the award will be renamed The Brian Schaar Neighbor of the Year in memory of Schaar, who loved helping his neighbors and had received the Goshen Neighbor Award in 2004.
Several families were first time attendees and were given the opportunity to introduce themselves and tell of their connection to Goshen. A new website promoting the community is in progress and an announcement will be made upon its completion.