VERO BEACH — On Thursday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m., the Florida Humanities Council, partnering with the Emerson Center, will present a Chautauqua-style troupe in a program entitled “The Balancing Act: Entrepreneurialism, Tourism, and Preservation.”
With its pristine beaches, fertile farm land, and vast Everglades, the lure of tourism and industry has always been at odds with preserving Florida’s natural beauty and unique ecosystems.
Three professional actors will portray railroad tycoon and real estate developer Henry Morrison Flagler, sheriff/congressman/governor Napoleon Bonaparte Broward, and staunch Everglades environmentalist Marjory Stoneman Douglas, depicting who they were and how they impacted the state.
The Humanities Council is conducting a series of statewide programs called “Dreamers & Schemers” in connection with this year’s celebration of the 500th anniversary of the landing in Florida of Ponce de Leon.
These programs are designed to engage the audience in thoughtful reflection and dialogue about our state’s rich history.
The Emerson Center has just completed the sixth season of its Florida Humanities Series, with most of the events in partnership with the Florida Humanities Council. The programs, sponsored by Marine Bank & Trust, are free and open to the community.
Tickets for “Dreamers & Schemers” will be $10 for adults, but free for students 18 and younger. They may be purchased online at www.TheEmersonCenter.org or by calling the Emerson Center box office at (772) 778-5249.
The capacity of the Emerson Center is more than 800.
Free admission will be offered on a first come first served basis for all speakers except for the special presentation in November.
The Emerson Center is handicap accessible and conveniently located at 1590 27th Ave., on the SE corner of 16th St. and 27th Ave., in Vero Beach.