For next Tuesday, July 16 the Cafe Society discussion will focus on why the U.S. continues to ignore our important economic, social and political interests in Latin America. The informal sessions are a part of Shepherd University’s Lifelong Learning Program. They are conducted in the Rumsey Room of the Shepherd University student center from 8:30 until 10 a.m. each Tuesday morning. Registration is not required and there are no fees.

Mike Austin, co-facilitator along with Art Wineburg, commended, “It is baffling to me that we continue to pursue international objectives in other regions of the world where we are forced to operate at a distinctive disadvantage, while we consistently ignore significant opportunities in our own backyard. There are important time and distance considerations along with cultural and historical aspects that we simply do not factor into our foreign policy. Other nations, particularly China are making significant inroads exploiting the ground that we prepared. Maybe the recent opening to Cuba is the beginning of a new approach, but it needs to be broadened both in scope and tangible objectives.”

Those with questions or who desire more information should contact Austin at 304-876-0598 or Wineburg at 304-876-2586.