“Security was nestled all snugged in with the feds; While visions of guns-mixed-with-alcohol danced in their heads...””
Joy to the Word is an event that comes once a year that features five incredible storytellers, four great stories, two musical artists, and a partridge in a pear tree. This in-person show starts at 7 pm on Thursday, Dec. 16th, and is hosted by B.J. Hollars and Jonathan Rylander with musical performers Derick Black and The UKE Klub.
I had the pleasure to interview each of the five storytellers in a series of mini-interviews. One of the storytellers I was able to interview was Dr. Jeff DeGrave, the Intercultural Immersions Coordinator for the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. In this position, Dr. DeGrave oversees intercultural immersion programs and helps the students and faculty prepare for their time abroad.
Aidan Sanfelippo: Why did you pick this story to tell?
Jeff DeGrave: “[Twas the Night Before The Olympics]” was probably the most unique, bizarre, and absurd winter experience I have ever had. I still sometimes ask myself if it truly happened. I'm just glad I have some photographs to continue to confirm that it was all real.
AS: What is a quote from your story that stands out to you?
JD: “Security was nestled all snugged in with the feds;
While visions of guns-mixed-with-alcohol danced in their heads;”
AS: What is your most joyful winter memory?
JD: Walking around central Tallinn (Estonia) on Christmas day in the town square where there were live reindeer, a medieval castle, cobblestone streets, glogg, kids on a skating rink, church bells, and big soft warm flakes of snow. This is what life must truly be like for those living inside an Estonian snow globe.
Joy to the Word will be held at the Pablo Center at the Confluence at 7 pm on Thursday, Dec. 16th. More mini-interviews of the other storytellers and tickets for Joy to the Word are available on the Chippewa Valley Writers Guild Website.