DAYTON – The Touchet Valley region is the lucky host of the New Old Time Chautauqua on July 18 and 19. The group, also known as NOTC, will be at the Lewis & Clark Trail State Park in between Dayton and Waitsburg.

The Chautauqua group follows the social and cultural movements that spawned in New York during the 1870s and experienced great growth until the 1920s. They present many forms of so-called "cultural enrichment," including arts (such as dance and drama), lectures and music.

Back in their heyday, Chautauqua groups would use giant tents as their venues for the performances. The NOTC is th...