Фил Смит назначен главой шествия в честь основателей города Ли на 2026 год

The Lee Chamber of Commerce board of directors has named Phil Smith as the 2026 Lee Founders Weekend parade marshal, honoring nearly two decades of service to the community and its businesses, history and civic life. Smith and his wife, Kathy, began spending time in Lee in 1992 and made the town their permanent home in 2005. A year later, Smith began a four-year term as a Lee Chamber director, helping expand membership and strengthen connections with Berkshire County attractions. He continued volunteering with the Chamber after leaving the position, including staffing the Visitors Booth and creating materials highlighting area attractions. Smith was named an Honorary Lifetime Member of the Chamber and Board Member Emeritus in 2011 and received the Chamber’s President’s Award in 2013. His community involvement also includes serving on the Housatonic Heritage board, including terms as vice chair and chair; helping restore the Kilbon Fountain; and serving on the Berkshire Gateway Foundation board. He currently serves on the Lee Historical Society board as curator of exhibits and has helped develop seven major exhibits since 2019. Smith also researched the history of the Lee Chamber, helping uncover the organization’s centennial in 2024. The 2026 Founders Weekend Hometown Parade will be held on Main Street on Saturday, Sept. 19, during Lee Founders Weekend, Sept. 18-20. Events include the Taste of Lee, fireworks, live music, food, family activities, a Dog Parade, cornhole tournament, Lee Lions Rubber Duck Race, and more. More than 100 participants are confirmed for this year’s celebration. Information: leechamber.org.