The Philosophers’ Café was a popular event hosted by Michael McIvor at the Campbell River Museum for several years.
When Michael decided not to continue with the series, Peter Schwarzhoff decided to revive it. At the first Café in Nov. 12 people discussed “What to do about the senate?” “It was a lively, but respectful discussion. I learned a lot and had a great time,” said Schwarzhoff.
It seems the others did too. At the second Café, on the theme “Tough on Crime versus Smart on Crime” 35 people packed into Sybil Andrews Cottage.
“Again the conversation and range of views was fascinating, but it was difficult to hear at times because we were spread the length of the room.”
Fortunately, Chrystal Arnet was one of those in that conversation. She could see there was a problem and offered to open her On-Line Gourmet, normally closed in the evenings, just to host the next event.
With a new venue in hand, the next topic had to be chosen. Many proposals were put forward by the attendees including “How has the Campbell River environment/natural resource issue been handled over the years?”,
How about Homelessness, Immigration/Temporary Foreign Workers, Canada/First Nations relations, Marijuana and more. On Wednesday, Feb. 12 the public is invited to join in an hour-long conversation on the theme Support to our Veterans. News items have been suggesting that we are not treating our veterans properly.
Post-traumatic stress disorer is not being treated. Medical discharges are lump-sum payments rather than pensions. Poverty and suicide is the fate of too many of our returning soldiers. And yet services offices for vets are being closed. What should we do?
The presenter will be Barney Bernard, Services Officer with the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 137. As with each Café, Bernard will have just 10 minutes to introduce the topic, and then the floor is open for 50 minutes of discussion.
Drop in to the Philosophers’ Café in Campbell River, a friendly forum for reflection where you can join the conversation, or just sit back and listen.
Members of the public are welcome to propose topics and introduce them at future Cafés. Themes should be of broad interest and national significance, and have an element of controversy to them.
Moderator for each evening is Greg Hill, executive director of the Campbell River Community Living Association.
