Phyllis McEwen Chautaqua Program January 25

LABELLE, FL. -- Phyllis McEwen will become noted Florida African American author Zora Neale Hurston at her Chautauqua inspired program featuring the late author's "Their Eyes Were Watching God" at a LaBelle Heritage Museum Special Speaker Program at the LaBelle High School Auditorium on Wednesday, January 25, at 7:00 p.m. 

The museum's Special Speaker Programs over the past several years are made possible by grants from the Florida Humanities Council and have brought a number of speakers including Rick Smith's programs on his father Patrick Smith, author of "A Land Remembered" to LaBelle. 

Ms. McEwen says Zora Neale Hurston has been an inspiration to her. Hurston, born to former slaves in Alabama, moved to Florida at an early age and was influential in the Harlem Renaissance during a time when African Americans shed light on their culture through the arts. 

Hurston's influence waned and she was almost forgotten at the time of her death. She was rediscovered and is now recognized as one of America's foremost women writers of the first half of the 20th Century and her works are studied by students in both high schools and colleges.

The program is open to the public at no charge. Advance reservations are suggested since seating is limited. Contact the museum at (863)674-0034