With television, increased speaking fees, and changing roles of women in society, traditional townhalls have become rare.
But a group of Clarkston-area women are working hard to keep Oakland Townhall going strong.
‘We have close to 300 members,? said Barb Richards of Independence Township, ticket chairman. ‘The talent is out of sight. We’ve done very well.?
The townhall has hosted local and national speakers including Art Buchwald, Rex Reed, Maureen Reagan, Marlo Thomas, Charles Osgood, F. Lee Bailey, Robert Vaughn, and Robert Kennedy II over the past 50 years.
This year’s lineup includes a former FBI agent, son of a president, symphony conductor, and a writer.
Ticket holders sit at eight-person tables.
‘It’s like a huge wedding reception,? said Linda Powe of Independence Township, hostess chairman. ‘Participants sit at different tables each time and we rotate tables so you don’t sit in the same spot each time.?
Powe uses a computer program to keep track of 250-275 ticket holders, about 40 from the Clarkston area.
‘It all goes so smoothly,? said Ruth Schluchter, president. ‘The board does so much. They do a superb job.?
The lecture series was founded in Pontiac to spread culture, Schluchter said.
‘I read about it in the paper when I was younger ? I’ve always wanted to join,? she said. ‘I was thrilled to be asked to join the board. A wonderful array of women keep it going.?
Richards, a member for about 25 years, invited Powe to join about five years ago.
‘I really like the organization,? said Powe, whose husband, Dick Powe, is also involved with the group as troubleshooter. ‘It does wonderful things. I respect its longevity. My mother belonged in the ?70s. It sounded like something I would be interested in.?
Candace Delong of the FBI spoke Oct. 8. Steve Ford, son of President Gerald Ford, is set for Nov. 12. Conductor Gregory Cunningham, Pontiac Oakland Symphony, will appear April 8. Donna Woolfolk Cross, author of ‘Pope Joan,? completes the season, May 13.
Lectures are 10:30 a.m., followed by luncheon and informal question-and-answer session, St. George Cultural Center, 43816 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills.
Lecture tickets are $20. Luncheon only is $14.50. For reservations and more information, call 248-625-3117.