5TH ANNUAL COMMUNITY DISCUSSION TO BE HELD ON JULY 16
When Will Johnson has an idea, it’s usually a good one. After seeing and hearing so much political rhetoric on the television and in the newspapers, Johnson, Chelsea Community Hospital’s President Emeritus, felt that the people who live in the Chelsea area are intelligent and concerned enough to discuss the real issues facing our society in a civil and thoughtful manner. Thus was born An Evening of Civil Discourse.
Now in its fifth year, the evening brings together U.S. Representative Tim Walberg, State Representative Gretchen Driskell, County Commission Kent Martinez-Kratz, and Chelsea Mayor Jason Lindauer. Each will share, listen, and share their perspectives on local, regional, national issues. Johnson will serve as moderator.
Although there may be disagreements on plans to move the city, county, state and nation forward, each of the representatives agree that it’s important to meet with constituents at events like these as it’s great way to get to know the people they represent.
Open discourse and transparency is a common theme and An Evening of Civil Discourse provides that opportunity.
Unfortunately, the idea of politics, in general, usually has negative connotations, but knowing the person who represents you can make a difference.
“The person you read about online or hear about on tv can be quite different than the person you know,” said Shawn Personke, director of activities and public relations for Silver Maples of Chelsea.
“An opportunity like An Evening of Civil Discourse can really help you understand a person better by meeting and talking to your representative. You have the chance to go past the superficial.”
On the agenda for discussion will be internet inequality, roads, and recent Supreme Court rulings. Audience members may also submit questions for the panel to address.
An Evening of Civil Discourse will be held on Thursday, July 16, beginning with pre-panel Meet and Greet at 6:15 followed by the panel discussion at 6:30pm. It is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.
