The good weather in Townsend continued, and Saturday arrived full of sunshine and friendly temperatures. The days events were being held at the Barn Event Center, and around 9.30 a.m., attendees began filtering in through the doors, ready for the next day of ChristyFest™.

The Hunt: Hunting Dogs of Appalachia

Presented by Lane Batot

As the attendees took their seats, some with coffee or tea in hand, the strange sound of barking dogs began to permeate the room. A quick survey of the premises soon confirmed that there were no actual dogs; it was instead a recording of very active animals. Within moments, the unmistakable sound of a horn filled the building. On the stage stood Lane Batot, armed with his hunting horn and eager to share his knowledge that morning.

Lane is an advocate, supporter, and downright fan of most animals, but has a special place for dogs. Currently the owner of 11 such creatures, they are more than just pets. He has spent time studying the history and evolution of different breeds, some of which he owns, and others of which he has had or hopes to have one day. In this presentation, he focused on the different types of hound dogs. In an animated and informative style, he easily explained the differences in the breeds, both in their temperament and in their uses. He also explained his connections with some of the animals in Christy [CBS Series].

Lane worked on both sides of the camera - primarily a crew member involved with set construction - he also made two appearances in the series. In his most prominent role, he portrayed the ghost of Bonnie Prince Charlie. To lend authenticity to the role, he borrowed a Scottish deerhound, the authentic type of creature Bonnie Prince Charlie may have owned. With this attention to detail, Lane elaborated on the kinds of dogs used for certain types of hunting - how a fiercer, more active dog such as a Plott hound would be used to hunt bear. Curs [mongrel-type dogs with hound stock] would be used for closer range hunting, while hounds would be used in far range hunting. A hunting horn, such as what Lane used earlier to draw the crowd's attention, would be used to call back the dogs from any distance.

Lane also corrected common misinterpretations regarding hounds and hunting. In many films animals are often misrepresented - for example, bloodhounds. Bloodhounds, contrary to popular belief, are not used by hunters. They are, instead, used as man trailers. They do not have the speed or build to keep up with exceptionally fast game, but with their keen sense of smell they are excellent at tracking humans. Long ago they were used to track slaves; now they are used more often in the legal field. Additionally, while bear are considered the big game, and deer next to that, dogs would not often be used in the hunting of deer in the Appalachian Mountains. This is primarily due to the layout of the hills - it is simply too wooded for most creatures to keep up with native creatures.

Throughout the course of his presentation, Lane touched upon many such interesting facts about hounds and hunting. Commencing with the sound of dogs - his dogs - once again, attendees could come up and view the fascinating pieces of dog and hunting related paraphernalia Lane brought to ChristyFest™. This included photographs, objects such as his horn, as well as images of famous hunters.

Time to Shine

Presented by Bill Leistner

With the arrival of Bill Leistner the conversation turned from hunters to bootleggers. Bill's a local expert on moonshine and its predecessor commonly known as ethanol. He spoke to the attendees about how it's made - as with many things, time equals quality. Using a real still as an example, he explained the heating process, what the copper tubing was for, and the dangers of making moonshine. Aside from legal troubles, a careless moonshiner or still maker could come to serious harm if the still wasn't built well. He also explained how stills could be found - they make a sound as the alcohol ferments and cooks, that can be heard a ways off. Moonshining is a factor in Christy and for many this presentation helped illustrate what sort of machinery the bootleggers were working with in the novel.

Bill told tales of the local moonshiners, some of whom have had a bit of trouble with the law, others who have gone on to make moonshine in a legal setting. He also moved around the room with a jar so people could smell what moonshine was like but cautioned about its uses. In his trademark overalls and wide brimmed hat Bill shared a few more stories of the area, as well as some life lessons he's picked up on, giving us a historical perspective on moonshine and, perhaps unexpected in such a presentation, a greater appreciation for the world at large.

Picnic with Cast and Crew

After Bill drew to a close and had time to chat with attendees and pose for photos, Lunch was ready. Attendees chatted with each other and some of the Cast and Crew members who had filtered in to the venue. They also took photos and enjoyed hefty sandwiches and cookies as part of their catered lunch, or joined in with their own picnic foods. The sound of laughter and conversation dominated the room.

Inside the Cutter Gap Studio

Presented by Tom Blomquist and the Cast & Crew of Christy

Lunch finished, the attendees reclaimed their seats and turned to the stage where the Cast and Crew members had assembled. In a style reminiscent of "Inside the Actor's Studio", Tom Blomquist asked them about their work prior to, and after Christy. Christy is an excellent body of work each actor and crew member is proud to have been participated in this project. All have had other worthy life experiences, and this proved a very interesting glimpse into their lives and bodies of work.

Alternatively asked questions by Tom Blomquist, each spoke of many endeavors near to their hearts. Bruce McKinnon [Jeb Spencer] spoke of his most recent filming experience working on a film exploring the trials of cancer, in which he plays Bernadette Peters' husband. Jeffrey Buckner Ford [Bob Allen] explained his journey in writing and getting published his first book [River of No Return], a no-holds barred look at his parent's life and his own growth. Jo Doster [Casting director] spoke of her award winning work on films such as The People vs. Larry Flynt, as well as The Color Purple, and A Time to Kill. Each spoke of their new projects, or favorite work, or even their fondest memory of Christy. It was a fascinating discussion.

Cast and Crew Autograph Session

The time passed quickly, hearing each Cast and Crew member speak about their careers, but attendees had the opportunity to gather autographs, as well as photos, with each person. Spread throughout the expansive, airy venue, each Cast and Crew member took the time to talk to attendees, scribbling their names into books and on photos, some legible, some not so - but each one leaving their own impression on every attendee. Alyssa Hmielewski, our very own Mountie O'Teale, popped in for a few minutes to greet attendees and sign autographs. Her smile, even years later, is still quite reminiscent of Mountie. Tom Blomquist, ever the character, made faces and brought grins to everyone's face. Mike Hickman kindly greeted each attendee with a smile, so opposite the scowl featured in the headshot he signed for so many individuals. Andy Stahl spoke to quite a few folk, pausing for charming photos with a few of the younger attendees. The movement, laughter, and chatter were great fun to take part in, and as it slowly drew to a close, so too, did a delightful afternoon.

Pickin' on the Porch

For the first time, ChristyFest™ was able to incorporate the famous 'Pickin' on the Porch' done every Saturday night at Mike Clemmer's shop, the Wood-N-Strings dulcimer shop. Out back amidst the tall trees and the sounds of the moving river just beyond them, Mike invites everyone to come by and hear talented musicians play their tunes. This Saturday night started off with Mike and his wife Connie playing their dulcimers. They interspersed their playing with old-style repartee, such as what one used to see in shows like Laugh-In.

The crowd, largely composed of ChristyFest™ attendees, tapped their toes and laughed along as the Clemmers played. Later, a local musician came on the stage and pleased the crowd with his own tunes. Some indulged in the goodies sold by a local church next door, while others closed their eyes and just listened to the pure sounds of mountain melodies. The temperature, warm but not stifling, was accompanied by a gentle breeze that carried the music with it into the heart of the audience.

The Wrap Party

Shows and movies have what is called a 'wrap party' - the party at the end of the production where everyone can kick back and just have some fun. ChristyFest™, while still on for another day, has a similar sort of gathering. The Cast and Crew members were there, as was the full complement of attendees. The night began with some prize drawings, and it was also the last chance for attendees to get their raffle tickets. It was finally the time for the raffles - three very special items: the Hay and Oats Gas Card, the stunning Dave Neamand pendant celebrating this year's them [A Journey of Faith], and the much coveted Christy series scrapbook made by Debbie R. After several door prizes were given away, the first raffle took place and the Ha and Oats [Gas Card] was won by Charlie E. The auction was due to start next, and first up was Miss Alice's Apron.

Jeffrey Buckner Ford had graciously agreed to be the auctioneer and he truly recreated this role in a way never seen by any crowd before - or since. It is impossible to accurately portray the hilarity that ensued from this man and two others. In front of the crowd Jeffrey opened the bidding, and then, inspired, Andy Stahl took what had been "just" Miss Alice's Apron off the old fashioned wooden hanger and turned in into Stahl-wear. He strode and strutted, turned and pirouetted in the best runway fashion. Andy's flair, and catwalk styling caused uproar, paired with Jeffrey's commentary and constant auctioneering, the room was full of laughter. Bidders waved their hands as Andy's promenading continued, the final bid finally going to Angela M, the new lucky owner of the apron!

Attendees [as well as Jeffrey and Andy] has some time to recover before the next auction. This time, Neil's Suede Vest was on the proverbial block. Bruce McKinnon summoned his inner runway diva and stalked the stage. At Jeffrey's insistence he then portrayed several different emotional aspects of acting, culminating in a faux death on the stairs of the stage. Bruce's animated acting, emoting, and tomfoolery had everyone in stitches yet again. The vest was won by Hannah [and Anne] S, much to their delight.

While hard to top that level of hilarity, everyone in the room held their breath as other prizes - and raffles - were conducted. Andy Stahl won at guessing how many spice drops were in the Mason jar and was soon besieged by eager children wanting to sample the candy. CDs, shirts, and books were given away as well. Annie F won the pendant handcrafted by Dave Neamand as was able to thank him personally, for he was in attendance that evening, much to the delight of all the attendees. The room grew quiet as the name was drawn for the series scrapbook - won by Mary Ann B. Everyone, even those perhaps a bit sad at not winning, was in high spirits. There was even a drawing for a basket made by Bill Alexander, who could not be there that evening due to a loss in the family. This was won by an eager young ChristyFest™ attendee and sent to him directly by Bill. All were sad Bill could not be there, but enjoyed RC Colas and Moon Pies and hoped to see him next year.

The evening lengthened and all too soon it was time to head home for the night. For some, it was the last day of ChristyFest™ but for many others who were returning on Sunday, another day awaited, full of promise, and with luck, sunshine.