Performances
Farmer's Opry
Sawmill
has been the house band at the Farmers' Opry in Chumuckla, Florida since
the Opry opened in early 2002. They have opened for many country music
stars including Doug Stone, Gene Watson, Bill Anderson, Ronnie McDowell,
Stella Parton, Holley Dunn, David Frizzell, Craig Morgan, Travis Tritt,
Jeff Cook, Jack Greene, Daron Norwood, Charlie McCoy, Jeannie Seeley and
many more. They were selected to play for President Bush when he appeared
at the Pensacola Civic Center in 2004. The band also performed before
10,800 fans at the 2004 Seville Quarter Festival in Pensacola. Sawmill's
first album was released in December 2005.
Farmer’s Opry Presents the Sawmill Band
Thursday ~ 7:00 pm - 8:15 pm
Civic Center ~ $7 for adults, $5 under 18
Farmers' Opry presents Sawmill Band - Country music at its best - performed by the super-talented members of The Sawmill Band ranging in age from 10 years old to 85 years young. With strong vocals and tight harmonies the band plays all styles of country music. Selections include current hits, country classics, and southern gospel.
Bill Oberst, Jr.
Bill
Oberst, Jr. a true Southern boy and a talented storyteller, lives in South
Carolina. he does one man shows portraying many famous characters such
as Abe Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, Mark Twain, and even Pontious Pilate.
To prepare for this role, Oberst poured through all 17 of Lewis Grizzard's
books. “I think he was brilliant” Oberst says. “I want
him to be seen as a Southern writer, like Twain or Faulkner. I think casual
fans might be surprised by his humanity. That's what I want to bring out.”
For Lewis Grizzard products, visit www.lewisgrizzard.com
A Tribute to Lewis Grizzard, Jr.
Friday ~ 7:00 pm - 8:15 pm
Chautauqua Theatre ~ $15 adults
$5 under 18
Born in Moreland, Georgia, Lewis Grizzard was hailed as “a Mark Twain for our times” by the New York Times. He wrote a daily column for the Atlanta Journal/Constitution from 1978 until his death in 1994, was syndicated in 450 newspapers, and had books on the New York Times Best Sellers list. He suffered from heart problems, but he always maintained his sense of humor, sharing his views on doctors and surgery in several books including “I Took a Lickin' and Kept on Tickin'.” Now actor Bill Oberst, Jr. brings Lewis back to life in this one man show assembled from Lewis' own words.
Scottish Performers
The
2007 Chautauqua Assembly Ceilidh is a 2 hour entertainment variety program
consisting of traditional Scottish music, dancing, story-telling and audience
sing-alongs. Performers will include Flora McDonald Gammon, Director of
Music For the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games and her husband John;
The Panama City Pipe and Drums Band; Jim Moore, story-teller and raconteur;
The Pensacola Scottish Country Dancers, Jill Ray, Scottish singer; Matt Miller on the Scottish fiddle;
recitations form the writings of Robert Burns; and others.
Scottish Ceilidh
Saturday ~ 7:00 pm - 8:15 pm
Chautauqua Theatre ~ $12 adults
$5 under 18
A Ceilidh (pronounced KAY-lee) is a traditional Scottish evening filled with vocalists, dancers, instrumentalists, story tellers, sing-alongs, and of course, bagpipers. This is an encore performance that sold out 5 years ago, so buy your tickets early!
Keynotes
Ben Brown
Ben
Brown, a founding staff member of USA TODAY and founding executive editor
of Time Inc.'s Coastal Living magazine, has been writing and speaking
about the influence of Baby Boomers on politics and pop culture since
the 1960s. He has authored or co-authored three books on sports and principled
leadership. And he consults regularly with designers and communities on
strategies for engaging aging Baby Boomers to create more compact, diverse,
walkable communities. Ben lives with his wife, Christine, in Franklin,
NC.
How Aging Baby Boomers Are Going to Save Florida, America, and the World
Thursday ~ 10:15 am - 11:30 am
Methodist Sanctuary ~ Admission: FREE
With 76 million members of the most educated and affluent generation in world history entering their 60s, why expect them to be any less influential in old age than they've been in every other phase of their lives? What's different now is they're really going to get serious. The Boomers will finally grow up before they die. Here's what that means for the biggest challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
Getting to the Future First: What the Gulf's Ordeal in the Wake of Hurricane Katrina Teaches the Rest of Us
Saturday ~ 10:15 - 11:30
Methodist Sanctuary ~ Admission: FREE
The most destructive hurricane season in history left the Mississippi Gulf Coast and South Louisiana reeling. By the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina in 2006, federal taxpayers had contributed an amount equal in current dollars to the money appropriated for the reconstruction of Europe after WWII. And all that money represented only a fraction of what it will take for New Orleans and Mississippi to recover. Here's what the experience of the recovery and rebuilding effort should teach the rest of us about challenges, long deferred, that face communities across America.
Dr. Sanford R. Silverburg
Dr.
Silverburg is a Professor of Political Science and Chair of the Department
of Political Science at Catawba College, Salisbury, North Carolina. He
is a specialist in international relations and international law as well
as the government and politics of the Middle East. He has published and
lectured internationally and has broad experience with governmental and
military affairs.
Migration, Immigration, and Globalization
Friday ~ 10:15 am - 11:30 am
Methodist Sanctuary ~ Admission: FREE
We live in an interesting time. From the dawn of time, man has migrated across the globe for survival, and today the globe is becoming increasingly more compact. What does all of this mean for us in the near and distant future?
Special Events
Eli Chandler
Major
Eli Chandler (Living History coordinator and re-enactor liaison) is a
24 year veteran of the War Between the States reenacting. He is the founding
member of Co. “E” 1st Fla. Infantry and started the reenacting
unit in the spring of 1990 after rising to the rank of 1st sergeant in
another group. He has coordinated and participated in many National Park
Service living history programs in the Southeast and all over the United
States. He was a founding member of the Stephen R. Mallory Camp #1315
of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. He is an original member of the Pensacola
Civil War Round Table.
War Between The States: Living History Encampment & Skirmishes
Friday ~ 8:30 am - 3:00 pm
Saturday ~ 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday ~ 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Lake Yard ~ FREE
The War Between the States living history encampment & skirmishes will be set on the lake yard. This event features a Federal camp, a Confederate camp and a civilian camp, firing demonstrations (showing the main firing sequence infantry used in battle and basic drills for new recruits.) Visitors may walk through the camps and ask questions of the re-enactors. At 2:00 on Saturday and Sunday, re-enactors will engage in "skirmishes." Witness their "fight" at the grounds around historic and picturesque Lake DeFuniak where actual Confederate cavalry camped and watered their horses. The authentic skirmishes will be based on late war area raids by General Asboth.
Chautauqua Porcelain Artists
The
Chautauqua Porcelain Artists, began in 1980 with Hazel Daughette as first
President. Last year was our 25th anniversary. “Sharing is Joy”
is our motto and the Dogwood our flower. The Chautauqua Porcelain Artists
meet the 2nd Thursday of each month, except for summer months. The meeting
begins at 9 am on Thursdays at the Art League Building. After the meeting
is over we usually visit and paint.
Anita B. Harris, aharris3@excite.com
Porcelain Art Show and Sale
Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood Downstairs ~ FREE
At the Porcelain Art Show and Sale, we have a variety of pieces for sale by many different artists. Pieces include tea pots, vases, spoon rests, plates, and cups. Mary Vinson, international award winner, was our teacher for many years. We have had guest artists from all over the United States who came and taught us new things. From our teacher to guest artists and even each other we have learned the secrets of china painting, or at least some of them. New teachers with new ideas, or old ideas with new techniques, are always being searched for.
Walton County Art League
The
Walton County Art League was founded in 1964 by a group of 12 local artists;
meeting in the homes of its members. Today we have a membership of nearly
50 artists and now have our own meeting room. Our members work in a variety
of mediums both two dimensional and three dimensional. We provide free
art classes to the children of Walton County during the summer months
and offer various art workshops to the public on a monthly basis.
Jerri Whitehead - President, WCAL, jlwhitehead@aol.com
Art Show
Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood Upstairs ~ FREE
We will be presenting the works of approximately 50 artists. The majority of artists are local with some coming from surrounding areas. Last year, we displayed over l50 paintings in various mediums, as well as hand built pottery, relief sculptures, and tiles. This is one of the finest art shows in this area.
Mathew Newsome
Matthew
A. C. Newsome, Curator of the Scottish Tartans Museum in Franklin, NC,
is a FSA Scot and member of the Guild of Tartan Scholars. He writes a
monthly column for the “Scottish Banner” newspaper on Highland
dress and is available most week days at the museum to answer questions
and give tartan advice. He also travels to various Highland Games and
Scottish Festivals throughout the southeastern US where he gives talks
on the historic dress of the Scottish people.
Scottish Tartan Museum Exhibit
Friday & Saturday ~ 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood Downstairs ~ FREE
"What's My Tartan?" That's the question that gets asked most often at the Scottish Tartans Museum. For many, the answer will be a clan tartan based on the history of that particular surname. For others, it will be a district tartan that represents the region where the name originated. For many names, more than one tartan may be appropriate to wear. The Scottish Tartans Museum has hundreds of sample tartan swatches available, including all of the major Scottish clans. If you think you are Scottish and would like to know what your tartan looks like, visit the Scottish Tartans Museum Exhibit.
Chautauqua Quilters
The
Chautauqua Quilters are a group of like-minded ladies who have an interest
in quilts as well as the community. Although they individually make quilts
for their families and competition, they come together on the second and
fourth Wednesday mornings at 9:00 at the Methodist church to sew fabrics
into quilts for various charities.
Quilt Show
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Rooms & More Furniture ~ FREE
Featuring the exquisite work of The Chautauqua Quilters. Traditional and contemporary work.
Jeffrey
Moses
Jeffrey Moses studied as an undergraduate at U.C.L.A. and has an M.A. in the philosophy of education from the University of Colorado, in Boulder. He has spent more than 20 years researching the world’s great scriptures, and has traveled across the country speaking on Transcendental Meditation, stress reduction, and spiritual advancement. Jeffrey lives with his wife, the artist Ruth Moses, on the Emerald Coast of northwest Florida.
Morning Meditation: Defining Home, A Spiritual Journey
Saturday ~ 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Methodist Sanctuary ~ FREE
The goal of Chautauqua and of all educational processes is to lead one to find one's Self. This multi-dimensional journey is ultimately spiritual and intimate in essence and yet all aspects of living serve to nurture and enhance this journey. Through literary references, personal experiences and a conversation with the audience, “home” will begin to be felt as one's True Self, which is at home everywhere.
The Ecumenical Choir of South Walton
The
Ecumenical Choir of South Walton is a church- and community-centered choral
group based at Christ the King Episcopal Church under the direction of
Adele Armitage. In 1996, the choir was formed to help provide music for
an ecumenical Thanksgiving service and has been continuing ever since.
Faces and voices change yearly, but there is a group of long-time members
who make up the core of this group. As time and talent restraints dictate,
the choir has provided musical programs for the Christmas and holiday
season, Thanksgiving services, Holy Week offering as a prelude to Easter,
and biannual concerts commemorating the events of 9-11 and honoring our
patriotic spirit.
Evensong Closing Service
Sunday ~ 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Methodist Sanctuary ~ FREE
Help bring the Assembly to its conclusion by attending our Closing Event:.
Final Thought: We hope that you have found home at Chautauqua. We hope
that you will carry the Chautauqua idea with you, wherever you go. And
we hope that you will bring the home that is in your heart back next year.
Mary Vinson
Mrs.
Vinson has a lifetime of experience as a porcelain painter and instructor,
and is a winner of many state and international awards. Her work has been
featured in a number of magazines and newspapers and on television. She
also works with oils and acrylics and is widely know for her landscapes
and floral paintings. Her work was featured in the December 2002 issue
of "Victorian Homes" magazine.
Porcelain Painting Workshop
Saturday ~ 9:00 am - 12:00 noon
Vinson Studio, 301 South 11th Street ~ $25 includes supplies
This three-hour workshop introduces the student to the basics of porcelain painting. Each participant will finish an 8-inch tile or plate in a floral motif. Advance registration recommended because workshop is limited to 12 students.
Ellen Mayfield and Her Tea Ladies
The
veteran tea ladies (Ellen Mayfield, Cindy Woodham, Sara Comander and Oletta
Ray) will serve homemade delicacies form fine china on formal laid tables
overlaid in Battenberg.
Victorian Tea
Friday, Saturday & Sunday
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
1272 Circle Drive ~ $20
Spend the afternoon sipping tea and dining on homemade delicacies with friends at a grand afternoon Tea Serenade. The event will take place at the historic Spires home located at 1272 Circle Drive in DeFuniak. Mrs. Joyce Potter, now owner of the Victorian style cottage, is once again inviting guests to attend this memorable occasion. Playing dress up in mother’s vintage clothing would be fun, but dress is casual. Tickets are $20 and available at the door, Walton County Chamber of Commerce, Heavenly Designs or by calling Ellen Mayfield at 850-428-4527 - Reserved seating is available. Proceeds to benefit St. Agatha’s restoration fund.
University of Florida Cooperative Extension Service
This program is sponsored by the University of Florida Cooperative Extension
Service of Walton County in cooperation with Walton County Board of County
Commissioners. Contact 850/892-8172 for more information about this event.
Tour of Old Home Places
Thursday & Saturday ~ 10:30 am - 4:00 pm
Meet in Front of the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood ~ $15 includes lunch
Join us for an educational driving/walking tour of old home place sites and historical points of interest in Walton County. We will be informed and entertained by a local historian along the way! Transportation will leave from the Chautauqua building at 10:30 am and return by 4:00 p.m. Registration fee is $15 which includes transportation and lunch hosted by the Harrison family on their farm. Space is limited to 9 participants for each tour so register early!
John J. Parson, AIA, NCARB
Mr.
Parson, as a 25 year practicing Architect and member of the AIA and NCARB,
operates a local and national architectural practice. Holding a B. Arch
from Temple University and a Master’s of Architecture from the University
of Pennsylvania. Skilled in both residential & commercial design,
Mr. Parson designed and directed the renovation of the Hotel DeFuniak
and is currently assisting St. Agatha’s in the design and execution
of state grants for stabilization and restoration of their historic building.
Mr. Parson lives and works in Walton County and DeFuniak Springs. As a
local resident, he understands and appreciates the unique fabric of the
historic DeFuniak Springs community.
Architecturally Up Close & Personal
Friday ~ 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm
Meet in Front of 265 S. 12th Street
$15 includes lunch
Go inside a cottage renovation, spend time with the architect/homeowner, ask those questions you never have enough time to ask while on tour, get the real story and explore the details of the renovation process. Get your hands on a project and learn “What good bones are” and when they say “It has potential” what does that really mean? The course will start with a box lunch discussion and continue to an in-depth tour of the renovation, and end with a hands-on project specially designed showing many ways to a successful renovation. This session is limited to 10 participants and will take place at the home of John Parson.
Cozy Cottage Tour
Saturday ~ 10:00 am - 12:00 noon
Meet in Front of the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood ~ $10
The Cozy Cottage tour will present 5 Cottages in the Historic District with 5 different approaches and solutions to the same issue – “Living with the past in the present – the blending of today’s lifestyles with yesterday’s history.” The tour will allow you to see inside those wonderful homes you have always wondered about. It will take you back in time and bring you up-to-date with the creative solutions homeowners have generated to enhance the experience of living in these charming historic cottages.
Pendleton & Bowman, Inc.
Carolyn C. Pendleton, ASID is the owner and founder of the company. She has an Interior Design degree from Florida State. Ms. Pendleton received an Historic Preservation Award for the City of Tallahassee for the renovation of the historic Monroe House, circa 1912, and served for two years on the Tallahassee Historic Preservation Board.
Victor S. Bowman, AIA NCARB is a member of AIA, NCARB and is Director
of Architectural Design, Pendleton + Bowman, Inc. in Seaside. Mr. Bowman
is a past guest lecturer and professor at Florida A&M University’s
School of Architecture.
Pendleton & Bowman have had offices for the past 25 years in Seaside
Architectural Tour of Downtown DeFuniak Springs
Sunday ~ 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meet in Front of the Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood ~ $10
Restoration and use of downtown commercial buildings built in the early 1900’s. The tour shows how these wonderful old buildings can be saved, used and enjoyed.
Dr. Robert Leslie, Jr.
Dr.
Leslie teaches in the Department of Humanities in Medicine in the Texas
A & M Health Science Center College of Medicine. He has done research
in the Glasgow and Edinburgh Universities in palliative care and musicology.
He graduated from Florida State University in piano and organ performance,
from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and holds a Ph. D. from
McGill University in historical theology and musicology. He has studied
the bagpipe at the Gaelic College in Nova Scotia. He is a Presbyterian
Minister.
Organ Crawl
Friday ~ 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Episcopal Sanctuary ~ $7
An “organ crawl” means visiting three, diverse examples of “The King of Instruments” to learn about how organ-tones are produced by both pipe and electronic organs, which seek to imitate the sounds of the pipe organ. Each organ builder uses different methods to produce majestic tones. Information from each organ company will be provided to class members, who are welcome to play each instrument. We will begin with the pipe organ in St. Agatha's Episcopal Church.
Patty Summers
Author
of “Talking With the Animals,” Patty Summers, is an internationally
known animal communicator and currently provides communication workshops
as well as consultations for animals and their human companions to resolve
conflicts or to aid in communication. A video, “Reawakening to Animal
Communication,” as well as an audio CD, “Communicating With
the Animals,” has been produced on her work.
Private Pet Consultations
Saturday ~ 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
702 Circle Drive ~ $120 for 50 minutes
Have you ever wondered what your dog or cat was thinking or why they were behaving in a certain way? Patty gives private consultations for animals and their human companions. Consults $120 for 50 minutes, and Patty can communicate with up to three animals during that time. The animals do not have to be physically present; you can bring a photo and Patty can consult just by talking to the animal’s person. Take notes during your appointment or bring a cassette tape for recording your session. Appointments must be made in advance through the Assembly Ticket Office. Please note there is a $60 cancellation fee if you cancel without 24 hours notice.
St.
Agatha’s Episcopal Church
St. Agatha’s, built in 1896, is the oldest church building on the Circle.
Breakfast
Thursday, Friday & Saturday
7:00 am - 11:00 am
St. Agatha's Episcopal Parrish Hall
Priced according to order
Come start your day by eating a delicious breakfast with your fellow Assembly attendees. A variety of breakfast items will be served. All proceeds to benefit St. Agatha’s restoration fund.
DeFuniak Springs Woman's Club
Established in 1914, the DeFuniak Springs Woman's club is the oldest
civic organization in DeFuniak Springs. Initially formed for the beautification
of DeFuniak Springs the club continued from it's inception to grow and
encompass many more objectives. The club continues to do various civic
projects including the annual Christmas parade, trick or treating around
the lake yard, relief to the victims of Katrina, supporting our troops
in Iraq as well as furnishing Christmas & Easter gifts to local organizations
and charities. Fund-raisers abound to support not only these projects,
but also the renovations of the historic 6th Street Club.
Spaghetti Supper
Friday ~ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Methodist Fellowship Hall ~ $6
This supper includes salad, pasta with homemade sauce (meat and vegetarian sauces available) bread and butter, homemade desserts, coffee and tea. Dine in or take out. Cost is $6 and proceeds to benefit Women’s Club projects.
Sessions
Dr. Valliere Richard Auzenne
Dr.
Valliere Richard Auzenne is a senior faculty member at the Florida State
University College of Motion Picture, Television and Recording Arts. She
earned her doctorate in Communication (NO “S”) from FSU and
her Master of Arts Degree in Art Design from California State University.
She has been a faculty member with FSU Film School since its establishment
in 1989. She has currently completed two documentary films; “The
Trees Have a Mother: Stories of the Amazon” in collaboration with
fellow FSU professor Dr. Juan Carlos Galeano; and “Breaking the
Silence,” a film on torture survivors in collaboration with Terry
Coonan, Director of the FSU Center for the Advancement of Human Rights.
The Making of “Breaking the Silence”
Saturday ~ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm
Presbyterian Library ~ $7
This session will focus on the collaborative efforts in making the documentary film “Breaking the Silence.” FSU Professors Valliere Richard Auzenne and Terry Coonan worked with the Washington D.C. organization TASSC (Torture Abolition Survivors Support Coalition) founded by Sister Diana Ortiz to produce this moving film on torture survivors from all over the world. Clips from the film will be shown during this session discussing the production of the film.
Michelle Braverman
Michelle Braverman has enjoyed a great career in her favorite subject: fashion. After nearly 40 years as an art director for Glamour and Woman's Day magazines in New York City, she relocated to Houston, Texas, and became a Personal Shopper for Nordstrom. Michelle is presently a senior sales associate and stylist for the fashion and lifestyle boutique Anthropologie in Houston. Her previous seminar, "Help! I Have a Closet Full of Clothes and Nothing to Wear" has been presented at several Winter Chautauquas.
“Why Can’t I Wear Pajamas To The Supermarket?” And Other Pressing Questions About Fashion
Saturday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Methodist Fellowship Hall ~ $7
“Why Can't I Wear Pajamas to the Supermarket?” is a fashionably entertaining seminar on the what, where, when and why of what to wear. You will learn how to establish your own style, how to shop smart and where to put it all once you get home. You will discover you can beat the retail game (and when not to try), how to be best dressed for any occasion with The Five Things You Absolutely Must Have in Your Closet at All Times and how to set up your wardrobe to work for YOU. Bring your most pressing fashion questions for a lively discussion.
Make Your House a Home: Trips and Tricks to Create a Heavenly Haven
Friday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Presbyterian Library ~ $7
“Woman’s Day” Home Editor Janet Sobesky and “Anthropologie” Lifestylist Michelle Braverman will give you up-to-the minute ideas on making your dreams of home come true. They’ll talk about downsizing, space-saving storage ideas, updating your look and what decorating rules to keep and which to break. They’ll give you all the inside information on how to “style” your home like the pros do.
Rep. Don Brown, State House Dist. 5
Rep.
Brown represents Okaloosa, Walton, Holmes, Washington and Jackson Counties.
He lives in Walton County in the Portland Community. Educated at Okaloosa-Walton
Junior College (now OWC); and the University of West Florida, he was owner
of 1st National Insurance Agency in DeFuniak Springs. Rep. Brown entered
Public Service in 1988 when Gov. Bob Martinez appointed him to the Walton
County Board of Commissioners. He was elected to the Florida House in
2000, re-elected 2002, 2004 & 2006. He is currently serving in the
Florida House where he sits on five committees. Chair of: Council on State
Administration. Member of: Rules and Calendar Council, Fiscal Council,
Insurance, Finance and Tax Committees.
Insurance Crisis? Or Hurricane Crisis?
Saturday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Methodist Fellowship Hall ~ FREE
Review of Florida hurricane risk. Florida exposure analysis. How bad is it? Could it get any worse? Are Florida's development patterns rational? Examination of stakeholder incentives. How insurers signal what should be built and where. Private vs. government-run insurers. Role of risk perception. What works, what doesn't. Overview of national catastrophe plan proposal and recommendations.
Bruce Collier
Bruce Collier has been presenting Theodore Roosevelt since 2002. He has
a bachelor's degree in Theatre from Wright State University in Ohio, and
a law degree from Tulane in New Orleans. Bruce has acted at the Alabama
Shakespeare Festival, the Courtyard Playhouse in New York, New Horizon
Theatre in Michigan, and most recently, at the Seaside Repertory Theatre
in Seaside. Bruce also writes for two area newspapers, the DeFuniak
Herald and the Beachcomber.
Theodore Roosevelt
(Historical Monologue)
Thursday ~ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm
Episcopal Sanctuary ~ $7
An hour or so is nowhere near adequate to convey in full the life and accomplishments of one of America's most colorful presidents, so this presentation will focus on those people and events that TR himself felt were most important in his personal and public life.
Dean DeBolt
Dean
DeBolt is University Librarian for Special Collections at the University
of West Florida in Pensacola where he has been on the faculty since 1981.
He has lectured widely on the American Chautauqua Movement and the history
of the Florida Chautauqua including presentations at the New York Chautauqua
and the Monteagle Sunday School Assembly. He is a frequent speaker on
topics of West Florida history and genealogical research.
American Chautauqua Movement: Its History
Thursday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Presbyterian Assembly Room ~ $7
Tracing its roots from the lyceums of the 1820s, the Chautauqua Movement began with the simple Sunday School Normal Assembly on the shores of Lake Chautauqua, NY. This talk traces the history of the Chautauqua, its national emergence, the traveling tent shows, and the present-day Chautauquas throughout the United States.
West Florida Films
Friday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Presbyterian Library ~ $7
This session explores films that have used West Florida as their settings or topics. We’ll briefly explore the silent film era, the World War II themes, tracking through sharks from Jaws, and the Truman Story, and others. A fun romp of how Hollywood has used West Florida.
History of the Florida Chautauqua
Saturday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Episcopal Parrish Hall ~ $7
Come learn how the Florida Chautauqua in DeFuniak Springs was founded and why. Along the way, we’ll explore how DeFuniak Springs was created, the individuals that led the Florida Chautauqua, and why it was called the Great Southern Chautauqua and one of the longest running in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Highly recommended for 1st time attendees.
Judy DeBolt
Judy
DeBolt was born in Springfield, Illinois and lived there until 1981 when
she moved to Pensacola, Florida with her husband Dean and 9-month old
daughter Jennifer. She has always had an interest in the Titanic and began
doing extensive research after the Titanic was discovered in the mid-l980s.
She began giving presentations on the Titanic (and also on Gone With The
Wind--her other passion) in 1999. She is retired from the University of
West Florida and likes to spend time with Aaron O'Brien, her 3-year old
grandson.
Titanic: Ship of Dreams
Thursday ~ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm
Presbyterian Library ~ $7
They were returning home to America. Others were immigrating to America, the land of opportunity. A captain on his final voyage was looking forward to retirement. All were sailing on the RMS Titanic. Some chose to sail on her maiden voyage while others were there because of a quirk of fate. Mrs. DeBolt shares the interesting stories of the passengers and crew and the fate that awaited them on the Ship of Dreams.
Flora McDonald Gammon
Flora
Gammon has deep roots in the Carolinas, and counts herself lucky to have
been reared in a family still in touch with its heritage. In addition
to being the Director of Music for the Grandfather Mountain Highland Geames,
she makes concert performances, lectures in Scottish history, and is active
in promoting Scottish heritage in the public schools. Flora is on the
Board of Directors of Folkmoot USA, the North Carolina International Folk
Dance Festival.
Druids, Celts, and Presbyterians: The History of Religion In Scotland
Saturday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Presbyterian Library ~ $7
The land of the kilt and bagpipes is also the only British isle that experienced a Reformation. Why did the people of Scotland bolt from the Roman Catholic Church while the people of Ireland did not? This lecture will explore this question in depth while providing interesting insight into the religious and cultural nature of the Scottish people.
Ann "Annie" Hartzog Hall, LCSW
Annie
has a BA from UNC, Chapel Hill in English Literature and French, a Masters
from Union/PSCE in Christian Education, Bible, Theology, Church History,
and Presbyterian Doctrine, and a Masters from the University of Tennessee
in Knoxville in Social Work. She has been a director of Christian Education,
a teacher, head of a preschool, a social worker, a psychotherapist, as
well as an instructor for Elderhostel programs. Annie loves reading, mountain
hiking, tennis, swimming, her four children and her 6 grandchildren!
Dreaming: Access to the Unconscious - Three Part Series
Thursday, Friday & Saturday ~ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm
Methodist Chapel ~ $7 each session
Did you ever see a dream walking? Well, I did. Did you ever see a dream talking? Well, I did. Walking, talking and teaching us about our lives at a deeper level. Teaching us more about: Who we are; Our past lives; Our present issues and where we might be headed. Come together to explore with me and with each other the immense impact of dreams in our lives.
Interfaith Panel
This
panel will be several members of the Interfaith Celebration of Okaloosa
County--a group of ministers and lay people from various religions who
strive to understand and promote a religious pluralism that goes beyond
tolerance to a true celebration of the contribution that all religions
bring to our culture.
"We'll Keep Killing Them Until They Stop Hating Us"
Saturday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Presbyterian Assembly Room ~ $7
The panel will discuss minimizing religious fear and fanaticism in a shrinking world. They will present the relationship between Christianity and the other world religions, the effect of nationalism on religions, and the effect of religions on nationalism. The panel will explore such attitudes as “We'll Keep Killing Them Until They Stop Hating Us” - an all-too-familiar attitude in the Middle East.
Judge James Joanos
An
attorney since 1962, Judge Joanos was a trial judge from 1971-1980, and
an appellate judge for twenty years on the Florida First District Court
of Appeal. He began studying Native American law ten years ago and taught
in Florida State University's Criminal Justice College and at the FSU
School of Law. He is currently practicing law in an "Of Counsel"
capacity in the Tallahassee office of Akerman-Senterfitt.
Does Our Legal System Work?
Friday ~ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm
Presbyterian Assembly Room ~ $7
This session will involve a study of our legal system. We will examine the process and its ability to meet the needs of the people that it serves.
Dr. Robert Leslie, Jr.
Dr.
Leslie teaches in the Department of Humanities in Medicine in the Texas
A & M Health Science Center College of Medicine. He has done research
in the Glasgow and Edinburgh Universities in palliative care and musicology.
He graduated from Florida State University in piano and organ performance,
from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and holds a Ph. D. from
McGill University in historical theology and musicology. He has studied
the bagpipe at the Gaelic College in Nova Scotia. He is a Presbyterian
Minister.
Taking the Bible Seriously but Not Literally
Thursday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Episcopal Parrish Hall ~ $7
The Bible - much read and much misunderstood as men and women have been reading and studying its words and concepts over the centuries. The art and science of interpreting the Bible has been enhanced by the work of Dr. Marcus Borg and Dr. John Dominic Crossan. This course will seek to offer some fresh perspectives to people who want to make sense of the Bible and who want the Bible to make sense in this time of political and scientific upheaval. The title of this course comes from Borg's book, “Reading the Bible Again for the First Time.”
Scotland in Pictures
Thursday ~ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm
Episcopal Parrish Hall ~ $7
Take a visual trip with Robert and Candace Leslie, travel writer/photojournalist from Glasgow to the top of Shetland's islands.
Candace Leslie
Mrs.
Leslie is a widely published travel author. She has contributed several
guidebooks on Florida and her articles have appeared in Texas Highways,
Coast to Coast, and Scottish Life and various other magazines and newspapers.
She authored an article about DeFuniak Springs and the Chautauqua for
Victorian Homes in 2002. She has also written curriculum materials for
the Presbyterian Church (USA).
Writing Your Life Story
Thursday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Presbyterian Library ~ $7
Friday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Episcopal Parrish Hall ~ $7
Through examination of the works of several authors, this workshop teaches the use of techniques such as “memory triggers” to unlock the rich resources of memory and record your own story on paper.
William Linne
William
V. Linne is a Board Certified Tax Attorney practicing in Florida and Alabama
with an office in Downtown Pensacola, Florida. Bill received his B.S.
degree in Accounting from Michigan State University where he belonged
to the Accounting Honorary, Beta Alpha Psi. Bill graduated from The University
of Virginia School of Law in 1972 and later received his Masters in Taxation
or L.L.M. from The University of Florida School of Law. The principal
areas of Bill's practice include Trusts and Estates, Trust and Estate
Administration, Corporations and Real Property. Bill serves on The First
Judicial Circuit Committee on Professionalism.
Revocable Trusts and Other Estate Planning Tools
Saturday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Presbyterian Library ~ $7
Mr. Linne will explain the advantages of Revocable Trust as they relate to Estate Planning. He will give examples of how individuals or families can save the cost of probate as well as Estate Tax when applicable.
Jim Moore
Jim
is a local retired attorney and has co-authored books on humor and has
written two books on the history of Walton County. He is a graduate of
Walton High School with a degree from Florida State University and University
of Florida. He is a storyteller, yarn spinner, actor and has appeared
in Grit and Grace. He latest novel “Hotel DeFuniak” has just
been published.
Governor Catts (Historical Monologue)
Thursday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Methodist Fellowship Hall ~ $7
DeFuniak Springs minister Sidney J. Catts' 1916 campaign for Governor of Florida comes to life in an impersonation by Mr. Moore. Catts won the Democratic nomination only to have it snatched away by the state Supreme Court. But a “Catt” has more than one life and before Catts was through, Florida politics were never the same. Rev. Catts was a professional speaker on the Chautauqua circuit in the late 1920s and 1930s.
Jeffrey Moses
Jeffrey
Moses studied as an undergraduate at U.C.L.A. and has an M.A. in the philosophy
of education from the University of Colorado, in Boulder. He has spent
more than 20 years researching the world’s great scriptures, and
has traveled across the country speaking on Transcendental Meditation,
stress reduction, and spiritual advancement. Jeffrey lives with his wife,
the artist Ruth Moses, on the Emerald Coast of northwest Florida.
Author Presentation: Oneness - Great Principles Shared by All Religions
Saturday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Presbyterian Assembly Room ~ $7
Jeffrey Moses, author of the bestselling book “Oneness: Great
Principles Shared by All Religions,” reads from his book and discusses
the underlying unity of all religions. The Golden Rule, Love Thy Neighbor,
Honor Thy Father and Mother, Speak Truth—these precepts and many
others are common to all religions and are very similarly expressed in
each. The essential beliefs shared by all religions confirm that our differences
are superficial, and that our similarities are deep. They have the overwhelming
effect of creating unity, where differences dissolve and the soul can
wonder—why do we have such conflicts?
Mathew Newsome
Matthew
A. C. Newsome, Curator of the Scottish Tartans Museum in Franklin, NC,
is a FSA Scot and member of the Guild of Tartan Scholars. He writes a
monthly column for the “Scottish Banner” newspaper on Highland
dress and is available most week days at the museum to answer questions
and give tartan advice. He also travels to various Highland Games and
Scottish Festivals throughout the southeastern US where he gives talks
on the historic dress of the Scottish people.
History of the Kilt
Friday ~ Saturday ~ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm
Presbyterian Fellowship Hall ~ $7
Ask an Irishman, and he will tell you that the kilt was an ancient garment from Ireland that was brought into Scotland by migrating Gaels. Ask an Englishman and he will tell you that the kilt was invented in England in the 18th century! These claims, are based mostly on myth, legend, and Hollywood. However, the real story of this ancient and noble garment is just as interesting as the misconceptions surrounding it, and Mr. Newsome's lecture on the origin and history of the kilt includes examples of the various types of kilts, along with entertaining demonstrations of how they were (and are) worn today.
Diane Pickett, Florida Chautauqua Center Founder
Ms.
Pickett is Founder and Chairman of the Florida Chautauqua Center, Inc.,
and as such took it as a personal challenge in 1996 to revive DeFuniak
Springs' once nationally famous Chautauqua Assembly. Returning to DeFuniak
Springs in the mid 1980's, she developed a keen interest in historic preservation
and the myriad problems affecting small town America. She has been very
active in community efforts regarding the revitalization of one of the
South's most historic cultural areas and hopes to eventually return the
Chautauqua Assembly to its original multi-week season of “A Winter
Assembly in the Land of Summer.”
Tour of Circle Drive
Thursday & Saturday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Friday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Meet in Front of the Chautauqua Building
$7
Enjoy a narrated tour of the historic district, stories about its Victorian houses and the people who lived in them. This is a leisurely tour (1.3 miles) of historic Circle Drive and its 39 structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Carol Puckett
Carol Puckett is a writer currently compiling a biography of William Bradford Huie. She lives in Decatur, Alabama and is involved with theater and theatrical groups throughout the Southeast. She most recently directed "Proof" for Theatre Huntsville and in the Spring will direct "Man of La Mancha" for Renaissance Theater. She is married to author Chuck Puckett and the mother of three lovely daughters. She and Chuck have presented "Wallace Bruce and the Chautauqua Dream" at past assemblies from the porch of their DFS home, Bruce's Dream Cottage.
William Bradford Huie - The Truth Business
Friday ~ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm
Episcopal Parrish Hall ~ $7
William Bradford Huie (1910-1976) came to prominence early in the “movement for racial change” (his words) as an independent investigative reporter. His coverage of the murder of Emmett Till in Money, Mississippi was published in “Look” magazine and lifted the veil on racial violence. He was the first to use the controversial practice of “checkbook journalism”, paying sources for stories. He published 23 books and had eight of his best sellers made into movies including “The Americanization of Emily” and “Mississippi Burning” (from “Three Lives for Mississippi”).
Brenda Rees
Brenda
Anderson Rees has written, produced and presented Shaping Florida, a multi-media
Florida history program to schools, business, and civic groups, including
the 2006 Florida Chautauqua Assembly. She has a B.A. in Teaching from
Sam Houston State University, a M.Ed. from Texas A&M University, and
additional history work at the University of West Florida. Her national
political experience spans from Alaska to Florida, including Reapportionment
Board Member, appointed by Alaska Governor Walter Hickle. Brenda's great-uncle,
T.T. Wentworth Jr. has a state museum named for his collection in Pensacola.
Brenda is a native of Walton County and family members have been active
in Florida for nearly 200 years.
John Wesley: Warmed and at Home in Florida
Friday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Presbyterian Assembly Room ~ $7
By analyzing John Wesley’s personal journals and diaries, geography, maps, treaties, conflicts, an Act of Congress, an 1887 U.S. Supreme Court case, and other documents, a case can be made that John Wesley preached and made his temporary home not only in Georgia, but also in Florida. That John Wesley was in Florida is significant and should be reflected in the literature. Brenda's presentation includes maps of Wesley's travels in the debatable borderland between Georgia and Florida, as well as current pictures of Fort Frederica, and Wesley-related artifacts on St. Simons Island.
Dr. Johnny Savage
Dental
and law degrees Emory University, 10 years in the Georgia legislature
- served in two different districts. Two expeditions to the South Pole
on operation Deep Freeze. Has a Glacier named after him. Forty seven years
in the active practice of dentistry. Featured on the front cover of the
most popular dental publication in the world. Practices in the most isolated
office in America (swamp on the Choctawhatchee River). Has been described
as a “Renaissance Man”. Grandfather moved to DeFuniak on the
circle in 1900 attended grammar school in DeFuniak Springs and lived there
from 1937 to 1945.
"Happiness" - How Do You Find It? In DeFuniak or Anywhere Else?
Friday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Presbyterian Assembly Room ~ $7
Happiness! It is the goal of all of us in the world. What do we need and how should we think and act to find it. What works and what could we think or do to make ourselves happier. Your mind will be challenged with suggestions, poems, and handouts to work with when you leave. For Example: Ten Insights. 15 days to happiness. Many poems on happiness. The ten characteristics of an enlightened, philosophical and sophisticated person. Come, let’s explore happiness together and be happier for the rest of our lives!!!
Dr. Sanford R. Silverburg
Dr.
Silverburg is a Professor of Political Science and Chair of the Department
of Political Science at Catawba College, Salisbury, North Carolina. He
is a specialist in international relations and international law as well
as the government and politics of the Middle East. He has published and
lectured internationally and has broad experience with governmental and
military affairs.
America in the World: Alone or Integrated?
Friday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Episcopal Santuary ~ $7
How powerful can any country be to stand up in opposition to the remainder of the globe? Why is the United States held in disrepute by so many in the world? An examination is offered.
Security in Today's Insecure World
Saturday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Episcopal Sanctuary ~ $7
What threats do we Americans face today? How do we define security?
What kind of protection do we have and what can we reasonably expect?
Janet Sobesky
Janet Sobesky is the Home Design and Lifestyle Editor at “Woman's Day” magazine and the author of “Household Hints for Dummies.” She photographs and interviews designers about their homes and works closely with them to develop projects that appeal to a wide audience of enthusiastic home decorators.
Brent Pallas
Brent
Pallas has designed and created crafts for 25 years. His clients have
included magazines such as “Family Circle”, “Woman's
Day,” “Parents,” and “Woman's World.”
Decoupage Plate Magic
Friday ~ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm
Presbyterian Library ~ $7
If you can glue a piece of paper or dip a brush into paint, you can perform this simple crafty magic required to transform a plain glass plate into a work of decorative art. You’ve seen these plates in catalogs for $100. Even if you can’t draw, you can decoupage. Designer Brent Pallas will show you what types of patterns are best, and help you make your own plate. If you have certain images you want to preserve on a plate, bring several photocopies (not the originals) in black and white or color to the class. You’ll go home with a new family heirloom to decorate your home.
Five Years Since 9/11: Living Near the World Trade Center
Saturday ~ 4:00 pm - 5:15 pm
Presbyterian Assembly Room ~ $7
Janet Sobesky and Brent Pallas live in one of the closest buildings near the World Trade Center. They were out of their building for five months but have moved back in and have lived there ever since. Rebuilding the area has been stalled by special interest groups, politicians, and money problems. They’ll talk about what the area is like now, what has changed since then, what progress has been made and what still needs to be done.
Patty Summers
Author
of “Talking With the Animals,” Patty Summers, is an internationally
known animal communicator and currently provides communication workshops
as well as consultations for animals and their human companions to resolve
conflicts or to aid in communication. A video, “Reawakening to Animal
Communication,” as well as audio CD, “Communicating With the
Animals,” has been produced on her work.
Home Is With the Animals
Friday ~ 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm
Methodist Fellowship Hall ~ $7
From Talking With the Animals, “I value my role as a bridge between
humans and our animal brothers and sisters. The bridge leads to a table
that exists for all of Mother Earth’s children to sit at…While
at the table all walk in balance and harmony.”
Through lively discussion and guided meditation, learn more about this
wonderful way to connect to your animals and rekindle forgotten memories
and abilities.
Ann Tucker
Chairwoman Ann Tucker is the current leader of the Muscogee Nation of Florida, the local Indian Tribe in active pursuit of federal recognition with the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Chairwoman Tucker was born in Bruce Florida. She has a B.A from Florida State University and an M.A. in Public Administration from Troy State University.
Welcome to Indian Country: The Struggle For Sovereignty
Thursday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Presbyterian Library ~ $7
A look at modern Indian policies and politics, the meaning of sovereignty and its implications, and an overview of the historical efforts of a local Walton County Tribe in its quest for federal recognition.
Jan Turnquist
Ms.
Turnquist is the Executive Director of Orchard House, home of Louisa May
Alcott in Concord, Massachusetts, where "Little Women" was written
in 1868. Before becoming Executive Director, however, she was known as
the resident Louisa May Alcott, having portrayed Miss Alcott in public
service announcements running on the FOX TV network, the British Broadcasting
Corporation (BBC), and on Public Broadcasting Television (PBS). She has
also appeared in hundreds of live performances nationwide for schools,
libraries, historical societies, universities, in corporate settings,
and for First Lady, Laura Bush.
The Surprising World of Louisa May Alcott and Her Literary Friends (Historical Monologue)
Thursday ~ 2:30 - 3:45 pm
Saturday ~ 1:00 - 2:15 pm
Methodist Chapel ~ $7
Discover the second revolution in our country--the literary revolution taking place in New England during the Victorian Era, known as the Literary Flowering. Jan Turnquist, in character, will discuss New Englanders Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Louisa May Alcott.
Roger M. Van Sickle
Roger
M. Van Sickle, a retired Vice President Banker from Delaware County, Ohio,
has been a collector of Political Memorabilia for 35 years. His collection
consists of Carter, Ford, LBJ, Clinton, Coolidge and Mc Govern memorabilia.
Mr. Van Sickle has been a Member of the APIC, American Political Items
Collectors, for 23 years and has received three APIC Service Awards. He
is serving his 2nd term as an APIC Board Member. Mr. Van Sickle is also
serving his sixth term as Delaware County Township Trustee. Mr. Van Sickle
has been married to his wife, Shirley for 40 years and has two sons.
What to Collect and How to Protect
Friday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Presbyterian Fellowship Hall ~ $7
What to collect in political memorabilia and how to preserve collectables for years to come. Collecting political memorabilia can be an investment for the future and also preserve the history of campaigns of the past.
Walton County Board of County Commissioners
The
2007 Board of County
Commissioners are:
- Scott Brannon, District 1
- Kenneth Pridgen, District
2/Chair - Larry Jones, District 3
- Sara Comander, District 4
- Cindy Meadows,
District 5/Vice Chair
Walton County Current Topics
Thursday ~ 2:30 pm - 3:45 pm
Presbyterian Assembly Room ~ FREE
The Walton County Board of Commissioners, County Administrator Ronnie Bell, and Public Information Officer Ken Little will present a synopsis of local government organization and services. The Commissioners will hold a panel discussion of current topics affecting Walton County.
Sunday Porch Parties
Dewey & Jill Ray
Dewey
Ray was born and raised in DeFuniak Springs, and now resides with his
wife, Jill, in Alpharetta, GA. He’s a management consultant (and
also a Board Member of the Florida Chautauqua Center) and she’s
a software designer. But in their spare time, they’re likely to
be making music together and with friends. Their philosophy is "Use
what talents you possess: The woods would be very silent if no birds sang
there except those that sang best."
Porch Party #1: Sing Along to Favorite Songs
Dewey and Jill Ray lead you through a sing-along of favorite folk, country, popular, and patriotic songs.
Flora McDonald Gammon
Flora
Gammon has deep roots in the Carolinas, and counts herself lucky to have
been reared in a family still in touch with its heritage. In addition
to being the Director of Music for the Grandfather Mountain Highland Geames,
she makes concert performances, lectures in Scottish history, and is active
in promoting Scottish heritage in the public schools. Flora is on the
Board of Directors of Folkmoot USA, the North Carolina International Folk
Dance Festival.
Porch Party #1: Scottish Folk Songs
A natural love of history, a delight in the songs and ballads of Scotland, and the desire to share these with others, makes Flora’s performances an enjoyable way to learn about history.
Cast of "Grit & Grace"
Walton
County's official folk life production is more than a play...it's an experience
where diverse cultures come together to share their common history. Without
regard to race, socio-economic background, age, or gender, local volunteers
work together and form a cohesive bond of cast and crew. We continue our
tradition of celebrating the lives of Walton County's citizens by storytelling
& song.
Porch #2: Highlights from "Grit & Grace"
The play of Grit & Grace springs from the oral histories of Walton County pioneers to whom we pay tribute for their perseverance, courage, faith, grit and tenacity in the face of hardships and, oftentimes, despair. We respect their understanding and amazing grace that led them through all the hard times and planted their feet firmly in Walton county. This is our legacy.
Jim Moore
Jim
is a local retired attorney and has co-authored books on humor and has
written two books on the history of Walton County. He is a graduate of
Walton High School with a degree from Florida State University and University
of Florida. He is a storyteller, yarn spinner, actor and has appeared
in Grit and Grace. He latest novel "Hotel DeFuniak" has just
been published.
Porch #3: Early American Toys
Before plastic and video games, children used toys built from materials readily available at home. Jim Moore has brought to life many of these cherished toys from by-gone-eras. He will be demonstrating replicas of these early American toys as he embellishes the legends attached with each. Join Jim and learn the challenge of the famous gee-haw whimmy diddle, puzzles and other toys.
Linda Hunt
Porch #4: Dog Portraits on Porcelain
Mr. Hunt
Porch #4: Country and Western Favorites
Lou Holt
Lou Holt really enjoys trying different designs and patterns for her baskets and uses both flat and round reed. She hand dyes all reeds that she uses for weaving, and loves to experiment with creating new colors and patterns. She says that the little weaving flaws you sometimes make give the basket character and you end up creating a new design by experimenting.
Porch #5: Basket Weaving
Baskets are one of the earliest tools used by humans. Every culture on every continent developed these useful implements for carrying and storing goods. Today, baskets are both utilitarian and decorative. The baskets Lou will be weaving at the Porch Party are appropriate for either household decoration or to fulfill their original utilitarian purpose.
Strictly Weavers
In July 2004, residents from along the gulf coast who were interested in hand weaving met in Ft. Walton Beach, FL. A year later, 31 weavers from as far west as Elberta, AL to as far east as Panama City, FL and whose skills range from beginner-to-experienced have associated themselves with "Strictly Weavers." The meeting programs vary from fiber/project selection and preparation to finishing techniques. Several of the Strictly Weavers are also spinners, a natural extension of weaving.
Porch #6: Hand Weaving
Observe hand-weaving and interact directly with the weavers.
The Bee Bops
A
singing and dancing audition group of 4th and 5th graders from West DeFuniak
Elementary School.
Porch #7: Favorite Songs
The Bee Bops perform a variety of songs from their patriotic and country programs. They may also perform pieces from the musical, "The Sound of Music, by Rodgers and Hammerstein.
Renee Riggs
Renee
is a Florida certified K-12 Music Teacher and currently teaches at West
DeFuniak Elementary School. She holds a degree in Vocal Performance and
Church Music from The Baptist College of Florida. Renee has performed
as a soprano soloist in various operas, musicals, and recitals, and currently
sings with the Northwest Florida Symphony Choir in Niceville, Florida.
Porch #7: Vocal Performance
Renee will be performing contemporary, patriotic, and a song or two from the 1800's.