Charles and Theresia Eyman
The Eymans wish to thank the members and delegates of the Dayton International Festival, Inc. for the honor bestowed upon them as this year’s Honorary Chairpersons for the 2006 “A World A’Fair.” This festival has been enriching their lives since 1974 when as members of the Holland American Club their association with DIFI began.
In 1976 Terry started a dance group of young people representing different cultures known as the International Dancers. This group continued for many years dancing on the festival stages and doing outreach into the community at nursing homes, churches, and even other festivals in Ohio. She also organized the Wooden Shoe Dancers to represent the Netherlands at the festival. Her official jobs throughout the years have been 1st vice-president 1991-1992, Sergeant at Arms 1988-1989, Ethics Chairperson 1990-1993, Informal Stage Chairperson 1995-2001, Advance Ticket Chairperson 2002-2006, Youth Committee Advisor 1999-2003, Program Book Editor 1986-1989, and Cultural Committee member. Terry has been well known in the Dayton area in dress design having taught this subject in Adult Education for many years as well as having her own shop. Many of the costumes that have graced the stages and booths of this festival over the years have been the result of her work.
Charlie is a retired engineer from Frigidaire. He became the DIFI delegate for the Netherlands in 1978 and has been active in DIFI ever since both officially and behind the scenes helping others learn their jobs. He has served as Floor Plan Chairperson from 1979-1985, Youth Committee Advisor 1985-1993, and DIFI treasurer 1992-2000.
The Eymans believe in the value of cultural awareness that this festival continues to bring to the Miami Valley. DIFI says THANK YOU, CHARLIE AND TERRY!