Ryan Levis is not your everyday male health advocate.
The local author and satirist brings his bold take on men’s health to Saanich as one of two speakers at the Tuesday, Sept. 1 RON Talk.
It’s the first RON Talk (Royal Oak Neighbourhood) as the free monthly series, which takes place on the first Tuesday of every month at Crumsby’s Cafe, returns after a summer hiatus.
Also speaking is Andrea Paquette, the executive director of the Bipolar Disorder Society of B.C.
Known as the Bipolar Babe, Paquette will focus on mental health advocacy including “stigma stomping.” Levis will talk about his fresh approach on being a good man in the modern era and using blue language to reach men in the conversation about domestic violence.
RON Talks was started by Saanich Coun. Colin Plant in January 2014, before he knew he would run for council.
“It’s not part of my political agenda,” Plant said. “RON Talks has no political affiliation. It’s to create an environment of getting a bunch of people out to talk. It’s a positive place, and we get a lot out of it.”
The average attendance is about 30 people, though it varies widely, Plant said.
“The very first event was 55 people, and it was going to be too small a venue but it’s been anywhere from two people (on a really bad night) to an average of about 30.”
The idea is as simple as allowing people to speak about their passion, with a question and answer period. They don’t have to be from Saanich or the Royal Oak area, although some are, and it is not affiliated with the Royal Oak Neighbourhood Association.
RON Talks starts at 7 p.m., Sept. 1, at Crumsby’s Cafe, 4525 West Saanich Rd. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., the first presenter starts at 7, and the event ends by 9 p.m.
For more information visit Facebook.com/rontalk, Twitter @ron_talks or email rontalks@shaw.ca.
reporter@saanichnews.com