Thanks to all who came to Louisville this weekend for our annual conference. We had about 300 people join us for the day, making this the largest FPR conference yet. For those of a localist persuasion, our political, economic, and cultural situation can seem grim. But as Wendell Berry reminded us, “You want to do something subversive these days? Be happy! There are plenty of reasons if you look around.” One good reason to be happy is the joviality and conviviality present at our gatherings. It’s always a treat to renew old friendships and make new ones at these events. If you weren’t able to join us, video recordings of the talks should be available soon—unfortunately the conversations and libations we enjoyed can’t be shared digitally.
Also, I trust you’ll enjoy reading the tangible pages of the initial issue of Local Culture: A Journal of the Front Porch Republic. Please do subscribe and consider supporting that project. And tell your neighbors to subscribe as well.
Plans are afoot for next year’s gathering, and we’ll announce a location and theme in the coming months. In the meantime, chat with your neighbors, relish the last riches from your garden, and cultivate those goods that only thrive in the freedom of particular, limited places.
