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A Patriotic Day to Remember in Syracuse

A Patriotic Day to Remember in Syracuse

Sunday, June 29th, was truly unforgettable as Chautauqua-Wawasee hosted a powerful Patriotic Speakers program and proudly co-sponsored the spectacular Patriotic Pops Concert at Oakwood Resort.

Teddy and Edith Roosevelt reenactors at 2025 Patriotic Speakers event, on stage and greeting attendees.

Teddy and Edith Come to Life

A Historical Performance with Heart

The day began at Wawasee High School, where 172 guests stepped back in time with Teddy and Edith Roosevelt: In Their Own Words. Larry and Julia Marple portrayed the Roosevelts, truly bringing the historical couple to life with humor, insight, and heart.

A Moment to Remember

A crowd-favorite moment came when Teddy and Edith Roosevelt stepped down from the stage to meet Theodore Yoder, the youngest attendee. After sharing the origin story of the famous teddy bear, Teddy personally presented Theodore with one of his own. The boy’s grin lit up the auditorium, perfectly capturing the heart of Roosevelt’s legacy and the spirit of the event.

📸Thanks to the support of volunteers like Sheila Miller, we captured several wonderful moments from the performance.

Scenes from Patriotic Pops 2025 concert, including orchestra under a tent, face painting, and board member, Mary Moretto, celebrating with flags.

A Record-Breaking Concert on the Lake

Music, Flags, and a Whole Lot of Spirit

Later that evening, the celebration continued lakeside at the Patriotic Pops Concert. Despite the summer heat, a record-breaking crowd of more than 1,800 guests filled the lawn at Oakwood Resort, with over 50 boats cheering and honking from the water.

The Fort Wayne Philharmonic, led by the energetic Caleb Young, delivered a vibrant performance filled with emotion and joy. Teddy Roosevelt, portrayed again by Larry Marple, returned to the stage to open the concert with a booming “Bully!” and a call for everyone to wave their flags.

A Night of Family Fun and Community Pride

Families enjoyed glow necklaces, free flags, face painting, and balloon art throughout the evening. The Syracuse American Legion Post 223 presented a moving tribute during the playing of the National Anthem.

From movie themes like Superman and Jaws (complete with audience participation) to patriotic classics like Armed Forces Salute and Sing Out America, the music filled the air with celebration and community spirit.

A Personal Touch to Close the Night

As the evening came to a close, conductor Caleb Young stepped into the audience, shaking hands and personally thanking more than 25 guests — offering a heartfelt conclusion to a truly remarkable day.

📸 Photo credit: Larry Baumgardt, who beautifully captured the spirit of the Pops Concert.

Large crowd seated on lawn chairs waving flags during Patriotic Pops 2025 event in front of Oakwood Resort.

Want to see more pictures of the event? Take a look at all of the festive photos on our Facebook Page!

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Join us at the 2nd annual Pawasee Dog Parade
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Pawasee Dog Parade Returns to Oakwood Resort – June 7!

Second Annual Pawasee Dog Parade at Oakwood Resort

Pawasee Dog Parade Returns to Oakwood Resort – June 7!

Back by popular demand, the 2nd Annual Pawasee Dog Parade is happening Saturday, June 7, from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the beautiful Oakwood Resort in Syracuse, Indiana — and trust us, you won’t want to miss it!

Pawasee Dog Parade 2024

Last year’s parade was paws-itively delightful! From wagging tails to dazzling costumes, the laughter and community spirit were unforgettable. Dogs of all shapes and sizes strutted their stuff along the scenic parade route, and we’re bringing that same joy and energy back this year,  with even more fun in store.

What to Expect

Join us for a short and scenic quarter-mile parade route through Oakwood’s charming lakeside grounds. Whether your pup is a seasoned performer or just loves the spotlight, all are welcome.
 Feel free to decorate wagons, strollers, and leashes — and don’t forget to dress up with your dog!

Prizes Will Be Awarded For:

  • Best Dressed Dog
  • Best Dog Trick
  • Best Tail Wag
  • Plus surprise categories to keep things playful!

Hosted By

Chautauqua-Wawasee, New Hope Pet Rescue, Special O.P.S. K-9 Academy, Syracuse-Wawasee Trails, and Oakwood Resort — all joining forces to create a day filled with community, creativity, and canine cheer.

Suggested Donation

This is a free event, but we encourage a $15 donation to support New Hope Pet Rescue, a local nonprofit doing incredible work saving and caring for animals in our community.

Event Details

When: Saturday, June 7 | 10:00 a.m.–Noon
 Where: Oakwood Resort, 702 E. Lake View Road, Syracuse, Indiana
 Cost: Free | Register onsite

Learn More

 Follow us on Facebook: Chautauqua-Wawasee and be sure to check out our full list of upcoming events for more family-friendly fun!

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2025 Taps Across the Water – A Moving Memorial Day Tribute

Taps Across the Water

2025 Taps Across the Water – A Moving Memorial Day Tribute

Sunday, May 25, 2025, marks the 5th annual Taps Across the Water tribute across Lake Webster, Lake Wawasee, Syracuse Lake, and Lake Papakeechie.

This moving event honors U.S. military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Trumpeters and buglers stationed around the lakes perform a stunning Echo Cascading Rendition of Taps—a four-minute, multi-directional experience that resonates powerfully across the water. Taps Across the Water creates a reverent, deeply memorable moment for attendees and participants alike.

About Taps Across the Water

Led by Dr. Matt Murdock, an educator with ties to Indianapolis and North Webster, Taps Across the Water brings together nearly 40 musicians, including:

  • Local veterans
  • Community band members
  • High school students and music directors
  • Professional trumpet players

Inspired by Jari Villanueva’s Taps Across America, Taps Across the Water also raises awareness about the shortage of live trumpet players at military funerals.

“This gives students a meaningful way to connect with their community—both now and beyond graduation.”
– Dr. Matt Murdock

Faith Bradley-2024 Bugler at Taps Across the Water

North Webster Lake Schedule

6:15 PM – Military Service at the Town Park
A brief service with live trumpet music and remarks, followed by a ceremonial salute from the North Webster American Legion Post 253 Honor Guard.

6:30 PM – Listen for Taps Across the Water
Hear the Echoing Taps from the Town Park, your pier, boat, or aboard the Dixie Sternwheeler as it launches in sync with the tribute.

7:05 PM – Trumpet Concert
Enjoy a 20-minute trumpet performance at the Town Park following Taps Across the Water.

Wawasee, Syracuse, & Papakeechie Schedule

8:10 PM – Trumpet Ensemble Concert at Oakwood Gazebo
A patriotic concert sets the tone for the evening before musicians head to their designated pier locations around the lakes.
Presented by Chautauqua-Wawasee & American Legion Post #223.

9:00 PM – Moment of Silence
Mark Knecht, Chautauqua-Wawasee Board President, says, “In addition to notifying the community, we alert the lakefront restaurants about the timing of the event and propose that guests observe one minute of silence before the starting of the Taps.”

9:09 PM – Listen for Taps Across the Water
Taps will echo across all three lakes.

“Every year people plan for this moment. Wind can affect the sound, but the impact is always powerful.”
– Karen Kroemer, Event Organizer

 

Tips for Attending Taps Across the Water in Syracuse, Indiana

  • Listen from your pier, boat, or designated public viewing locations:
    • The bridge by the Channel Marker
    • The Public Boat Launch
    • Oakwood Resort

For updates, please follow Chautauqua-Wawasee on Facebook

Join us in honoring the fallen with reverence, gratitude, and the sound of Taps.

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Old Fashioned Hymn Sing Draws Crowd at Oakwood Chapel

🕊️ First Chautauqua Old Fashioned Hymn Sing Draws a Crowd

Palm Sunday evening was the perfect setting for a heartfelt gathering, as more than 50 people attended Chautauqua-Wawasee’s first Old Fashioned Hymn Sing held at the historic chapel at Oakwood Resort.

Mary Moretto, who organized the event, reflected on its success:

“We had no idea how many people might attend, and didn’t know whether the chapel was the right size—maybe it’s too big or too small. For this year, it was the perfect size. Next year, we’ll need a larger venue.”

First ever Chautauqua-Wawasee Old Fashioned Hymn sing was a huge hit!

Led by Elaine Pearson, participants were invited to call out their favorite hymns by name or page number. Pianist Jamie Culbertson beautifully responded to the spontaneous requests, while Dane Penrod of Oakwood led the male voices in song.

Dane shared his experience:

“There was something truly beautiful — and deeply moving — about lifting our voices together in song to praise our Heavenly Father. In a world that often feels so busy and loud, tonight felt like a gentle pause… a return to simple joy and shared faith.”

Attendees echoed the sentiment with enthusiasm and warmth. Some said, “We should get together weekly or monthly,” while another commented, “One hour wasn’t enough!” One joyful attendee even joked, “I think we’re ready to go on tour.”

As the event came to a close, it was clear that something special had taken place.

Audience at the Old Fashioned Hymn Sing

Mary Moretto added:

“We received so many favorable comments and encouragement. It really meets a community need.”

Plans are already underway to bring this meaningful evening of music and worship back next year… Possibly sooner!

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2025: The Best Year Yet with Chautauqua-Wawasee Programs!

Chautauqua Wawasee Programs

2025: The Best Year Yet with Chautauqua-Wawasee Programs

Get ready for an unforgettable year with Chautauqua-Wawasee! Our 2025 schedule is packed with enriching programs inspired by the Four Chautauqua Pillars: Arts, Education, Faith, and Recreation. There’s something for everyone, starting in February with the lively performance of the Ball State Singers, setting a vibrant tone for the year ahead.

A Year Full of Events

Throughout 2025, you’ll find a wide variety of events to enjoy, including:

Hands-On Art Workshops

For art enthusiasts, hands-on workshops will ignite your creativity:

  • Pottery Workshops

  • Plein Air Painting Workshop

  • New Stained Glass Workshop Series

Community Favorites

Families and community members can look forward to fun-filled favorites:

Special History Programs

History buffs won’t want to miss:

Wrapping Up the Year

We’ll wrap up this exciting year with Old Fashioned Christmas in November — a heartwarming tradition that brings the community together in festive spirit.

Mark your calendars and join us in making 2025 the best year yet with Chautauqua-Wawasee!
Join us for these unforgettable events and create memories that last a lifetime!

Chautauqua-Wawasee 2025 Events

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