Speaker series brings culture to town

Oakland Town Hall celebrates its 50th Anniversary with a slate of national and local speakers.
“It’s an opportunity to meet people from different walks of life with different talents ? people you wouldn’t ordinarily meet,” said Louise Bisogni of Independence Township, club member for 15 years. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I waited for 26 years and finally got the opportunity to join.”
“It’s a wonderful group of people,” said Joy Powers of Independence Township. “We really look forward to seeing our wonderful speakers.”
This year’s series includes Tom Santopietro, Hollywood biographer, Oct. 14; David Michael Lampton, Chinese Domestic Politics and Leadership, Nov. 11; Roland Mesnier, former White House pastry chef, April 14; and Chuck White, A Journey of Life Through Music, May 12. All start at 10:30 a.m., St. George Cultural Center, 43816 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills.
“I’m excited about it,” said White, Independence Township singer and songwriter. “It’s a way to give back to the community. It pulls people together.”
Previous speakers include the pilot in charge of Air Force One, FBI agent, symphony conductors, and Steve Ford, son of President Gerald Ford.
“This is one of the few cultural outlets we have left in the area,” Bisogi said. “We hear a different story every time we go.”
“It’s a nice gathering with a nice lunch and an interesting speaker,” said Virginia Mueller of Independence Township, luncheon chair. “It’s a fun thing to do.”
Oakland Town Hall was formed in February 1959 to support Pontiac Oakland Symphony. Public invited to the whole series or individually.
Lecture and luncheon series is $123. Lecture series only is $65; luncheons only, $58 or $14.50 individually. For more information, call 248-625-3117.