Thursday evening, the Perry community gathered in the Town/Craft Building downtown to take part in the celebration of Jim Haas, the newest member of the Wall of Witnesses.

The event was moved inside due to the weather, though the unveiling of the ceramic relief of Haas on the western wall of Soumas Court was still held outside. Bill Clark, President of Perry Hometown Heritage, led the proceedings, and other speakers included Historic Preservation Commission Chair Connie McGuire, Newton Sculptor Rick Stewart, and Jim’s son Marty. After the presentation, some of the attendees also shared some memories of the honoree. Haas was born in Perry in 1922, was a World War II veteran, was the Vice President and Trust Officer at Perry State Bank for 40 years, and served on countless boards, committees, and clubs. He passed away in 2017, and is now the 25th member of the Wall of Witnesses.

Clark was pleased with the turnout for this year’s celebration, attributing that to the lasting impact of Haas. “Given the weather, I think it was outstanding! We had a nice crowd. And obviously the individual, Jim Haas, was somebody that everybody revered in this community. What’s on the plaque that says, ‘Jim loved Perry, and Perry loved him back,’ that’s very true and it was evident tonight.”

Clark added, the significance of the Wall of Witnesses is to remind people of what’s important: giving back to the community that has given so much to residents.