The LWVOC's popular Hot Topics resumed "live & in person" May 11 at the new Winter Park Events Center (adjacent to the new Winter Park Library) with a program about new election laws and redistricting.
We were all there for multiple reasons -- to see the center/library, designed by Sir David Adjaye, who was also architect for the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.; to enjoy the spread from Cuisiniers, our caterer; to connect with old friends; and to hear about voting in this election year.
Despite a cranky sound system & the continued absence of Cuisiniers' famed mac & cheese, we persisted. The theme of the program was "voter confusion," discussed by Cecile Scoon, state president of the League of Women Voters; Bill Cowles, long-time Orange County Elections Supervisor; and Mike Lafferty, retired editor of the Orlando Sentinel's editorial pages. The consensus was that it will be a challenging year for both voters & election supervisors, what with a plethora of new Florida laws pertaining to voting (and, many would say, voter suppression). That means voters, the League & Mr. Cowles will be on their toes in 2022.
LWVOC co-presidents Barbara Lanning & Nicolette Springer opened & closed the meeting, with 191 registered Leaguers & guests.
The June 8 Hot Topics at the same venue will be "Hot Mess: The State of Journalism in Florida" with Sentinel columnist Scott Maxwell.