November 12, 2018 - The Great War - The Oneonta Club - South Pasadena

 A Condensation Lecture of WW1 Given by California WW1 Centennial Co-Director Courtland Jindra

California WW1 Centennial Task Force Co-Director Courtland Jindra speaking at Onenota Club.In 1923, a collection of twelve men in South Pasadena gathered to discuss the need for a group which would provide supportive fellowship in the area. The Oneonta Club was the result. It is reminiscent of a Moose Lodge or similar communal organization. Their November 2018, program was about The Great War. After a banquet meal, and a preview of Peter Jackson's They Shall Not Grow Old, California WW1 Centennial Task Force Co-Director Courtland Jindra was asked to "discuss the war," for thirty minutes.

While his fiancée Melissa ran the power point Co-Director Jindra tried to hit the high points, not just of the Western Front, but overall. Despite it being nearly impossible to encapsulate four years of conflict into a small bite, the audience appreciated his effort. Thankfully, a fifteen minute “Question &Answer Period” afterward allowed further explanation of several topics that were mentioned in passing.Vocalist Diana Diaz addresses the Onenota Club.

 After Jindra's talk a real treat took center stage. Diana Diaz, a singer specializing in WWI era music, performed numerous songs from the era. She also provided commentary and explanations for how the songs reflected the period and the crowd responded enthusiastically. The entire night, meal included, ran for about two-and-a-half hours. It was a very pleasant evening of information, food, and song.