CHESAPEAKE CLIPPER
Nationally syndicated columnist, television commentator and author Cal Thomas will speak Saturday in Hickory at the annual winter banquet of the Norfolk District United Methodist Men. The event is open to the public.
The political conservative most recently co-authored "Common Ground" with Bob Beckel, whose liberal viewpoints on politics contrast sharply with Thomas. They subtitled their book, "How to Stop the Partisan War That Is Destroying America."
Thomas will talk at the banquet about the need for more civility in politics and about his personal faith in Christ, said Jim Butts, outgoing president of the organization representing 50 Methodist churches in Chesapeake, Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Butts said he has worked for two years to line up Thomas because he is in such demand as a speaker.
The delays in scheduling may have worked in Butts' favor as Thomas' visit falls as presidential primaries are being held across the nation and much public discussion is taking place in the media about the role of politics and faith.
"I've stumbled into an important time," Butts said about the banquet's timing.
The banquet will be held at Hickory United Methodist Church and can accommodate 300 guests. The $20 ticket includes a catered dinner by Carrabba's Italian Grill.
Proceeds from the event will benefit Heart Havens, a Methodist-sponsored charity that provides housing for mentally challenged adults. The 11-year-old organization operates nine houses across Virginia, including one each in Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Each house provides shelter for five adults with 24-hour supervised care.
Butts, a member of Great Bridge United Methodist Church, said men in the district regularly maintain the two local Heart Havens properties.
As for the banquet, Butts said that event is not just for men.
"You don't have to be a Methodist - or a man - to enjoy this," he added.
Tickets to hear Thomas speak at Hickory United Methodist Church, on South Battlefield Boulevard at Benefit Road, can be reserved by calling 421-0161 or 546-1818.
Kevin Armstrong, 222-5202, kevin.armstrong@pilotonline.com
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