Join former NASA astronaut Mike Mullane as he shares captivating stories from his three Space Shuttle missions during the 1980s. With humor, insight, and inspiration, Mullane takes audiences behind the scenes of America’s early space program—highlighting the challenges, teamwork, and courage that defined the era. This keynote promises an unforgettable journey through space exploration history at the 2026 Florida Chautauqua Assembly. Breakfast served from 8:30am–9:00am, followed by the keynote presentation. 

Join us at the 2026 Assembly for a keynote presentation featuring acclaimed actor Joe Pantoliano, whose career spans decades across film, television, and theater. From iconic roles in The Matrix, The Sopranos, and Memento to his candid advocacy for mental health awareness, Pantoliano brings insight, honesty, and wit to a conversation about creativity, resilience, and life in the public eye. The keynote will be followed by a Q&A session, offering attendees the opportunity to engage directly with the speaker. Breakfast served from 8:30am–9:00am, followed by the keynote presentation.

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea while exploring the art and history of Native American finger weaving—an intricate textile tradition that experienced a cultural revival in the 1980s. This special presentation features a live demonstration and an engaging talk that highlights the techniques, patterns, and stories behind this ancient craft. Guests will learn how finger weaving has been preserved, revitalized, and celebrated across generations, all while enjoying an elegant afternoon English tea with hors d'oeuvres served on hand-painted China by local porcelain artists. 

Description coming soon

This talk explores the catastrophic Chernobyl nuclear disaster of April 26, 1986—one of the most significant technological failures in modern history. We will examine the sequence of events that led to the explosion at Reactor 4 of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Soviet Ukraine, the human and environmental cost of the disaster, and the long-term effects that continue to shape global nuclear policy. The session will also shed light on the heroism of the first responders, the secrecy of the Soviet response, and the lessons learned in the decades since. Through historical analysis and scientific context, the talk aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how a single event reshaped our perception of nuclear energy forever.

Greg was an eyewitness to the collapse of communism. Living and working in Poland from 1986 to 1990, he saw the rot finally give way and knew many of the people who became household names. But what he saw went mostly unreported and has since fallen by the wayside before new narratives had been woven about why communism fell. Greg will share some of those stories about himself and real persons in Poland: what they faced, how they coped, and how they overcame enormous obstacles to refute and defeat Marx and Lenin.

Enjoy a guided visit to Eden Gardens State Park, home to the beautifully restored Wesley House, stunning live oak trees, and peaceful garden paths along Tucker Bayou. Learn about the park’s rich history and natural beauty while exploring one of Northwest Florida’s most picturesque landmarks. Transportation is provided, and guests are encouraged to bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera. Includes 40 minutes of travel each way and a 1-hour on-site experience. Buses depart promptly from the Community Center at 10:15am. 

Join us for an exciting two-hour excursion to the E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center in Freeport, FL. This immersive experience invites guests to explore the Center’s Exhibit Hall, enjoy up-close presentations featuring foxes, bobcats, and birds, and even handle a variety of reptiles. Don’t miss the captivating bird flight demonstration and the inspiring "World of Wonder" presentation, all designed to deepen your connection with the natural world. Includes 40 minutes of travel each way and a 1-hour on-site experience. Buses depart promptly from the Community Center at 10:15am. 

Explore historic DeFuniak Springs with local historian Robert Daniel. Learn about the original Florida Chautauqua that took place from 1885-1928 by hearing local stories and seeing beautiful Victorian structures, including the recently restored Chautauqua Hall of Brotherhood.