FSU PC to host author Kathryn Hardy for luncheon talk

Florida State University Panama City will host a luncheon with Kathyn J. Hardy, the author of “Johnny and Jazzbo,” at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 15, in the Holley Academic Center’s St. Joe Community Foundation Lecture Hall at 4750 Collegiate Drive.

“Johnny and Jazzbo” is the true story of two extraordinary Southern men as they rise above tumultuous times in American history. Through their struggles, they learn the true meaning of compassion, love, friendship and respect for people of all colors and walks of life.

Local readers may be aware that the “Johnny” of the story is Dr. John Savage, a dentist whose office overlooks the Choctawhatchee River at Ebro. Otis Ikner is “Jazzbo,” who became America's first Black male dental hygienist. Beginning in 1962, the story takes place largely in Atlanta during the turbulent height of the Civil Rights movement and the political shifts of the 1960s and 1970s.

After serving in the U.S. Navy and exploring Antarctica aboard the USS Glacier, Johnny moves to Atlanta to build a successful dental and political career. Discovering that Otis shares the same ambitions but faces societal roadblocks, Johnny helps Otis break racial barriers in the dental profession. The book explores themes of racial injustice, profound friendship, ambition, and the shared determination to escape poverty.

Dr. Savage is expected to attend the event.

Cost of the luncheon is $60, which includes lunch, mimosas, and a signed copy of the book. Checks may be made out to the FSU Foundation and delivered by mail to 4750 Collegiate Drive, Panama City, FL 32405; or payment may be made by cash or check on the day of the event.

For more information, call 850-779-2150, or email events@pc.fsu.edu. Seating is limited, so please pre-register for the event on EventBrite at bit.ly/4fNx3Dq. The luncheon is sponsored by Victoria Hughes of Century 21 AllPoints Realty and the Fyfe Family Foundation.