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jack and phyllis spies

The Spies slowly increased their summer stays on the grounds "from one to two to four weeks" after their initial introduction to Chautauqua. It didn’t take long for the couple to recognize that the Institution was a unique and educational environment. The Chautauqua vision of creating a community of dialogue was much appreciated by the Spies from the start. "The first event that I recall being at," remembered Mr. Spies, "was at the Hall of Philosophy. The lecturer gave a historical rundown of past presidents, and it was off hand but so comprehensive. And the fact that audience members were able to ask questions, and his responses were so authentic … it was so refreshing. I’d never seen anything like it."

Besides the lectures, the symphonies and plays were another draw for the Spies. "I thought it was amazing to see a community like this dedicated to helping people in the arts," Mrs. Spies said. "Plus, we’ve met so many interesting people here. Truly, the opportunities are endless. And the geography of the area is beautiful." Such factors prompted the Spies to join the Bestor Society this summer, knowing that their contributions will work toward the continued success of Chautauqua in the future.

"We’re really coming into Chautauqua during a period of reinvigoration," Mrs. Spies said. "The Idea Campaign has been a real success between the capital investments and the fact that it’s introduced more people to the grounds. People are to be congratulated." Mr. Spies worked as a software engineer at Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbus, Ohio, a global science company that develops and commercializes technology and manages laboratories for customers. Mrs. Spies recently retired from the Online Computer Library Center (OCLC), a non profit, membership computer library service and research organization dedicated to furthering access to information worldwide. They have two sons, one of whom is living in Tokyo and the other in Cleveland.

Now that the Spies have some free time, Mrs. Spies hopes to get involved with different organizations, such as the Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy. Mr. Spies recently joined the Chautauqua Choir and, so far, loves it. "I always wanted to participate in a group that sang liturgical songs and hymns. … I just like the way they sound," he said. They also keep themselves busy by partaking in the summer classes offered. Last week they took a course with Mark Russell and James Reeder on how to tell a joke. "We thought, ‘This is going to be a hoot,’" laughed Mrs. Spies. "And it was."

In addition, they thoroughly enjoy Kaye Lindauer’s classes on storytelling. "Kay brings out the meanings of folklore in a way that’s enlightening and spiritual. She’s an amazing storyteller herself," Mr. Spies said. Moreover, as amateur watercolorists, they’re hoping to pick up some helpful techniques during Rita Auerbach’s one day workshop. They also plan on taking a sailing course to familiarize themselves with navigating around the lake.

"It’s in our future somewhere," Mrs. Spies said. But for now, the Spies are settling into their first full summer (and full year) at the Institution. They claim that the hardest part of it is deciding what to do in a day. "There’s everything here," Mr. Spies said. "There really is everything here."

Written by Brigid Gallagher