Fred Leznek took to the podium for the first time as new president of Sun City’s Current Events Charter Club on July 3.
Fred Leznek speaks to the Current Events Charter Club for the first time as president on July 3. (Photo by Mason Souza/Sun Day)
Leznek, along with Vice President Peter Anton and Secretary and Treasurer Eileen Kelly, make up the new board for the club. They were elected by residents three months ago, and their positions last through next June.
Before opening up the club to discuss topics, Leznek, a member for all of his eight years in Sun City, discussed his appreciation of Current Events.
“Over the years, many of you have contributed to the primary objective of this club – that being to bring to the floor topics that caught your interest either on TV, radio, [in] the press, or a website – and were good enough to express your thoughts and philosophy on that particular subject,” he said.
Not all of those expressions were agreed on by everyone, but Leznek noted, “There is nothing wrong with that.”
He said, “This is our democratic way of open dialogue and freedom of speech that should always be our common denominator in Current Events.”
While debate and questioning was encouraged, Leznek made clear that Current Events would not tolerate arguments that hurt members or make anyone uncomfortable.
“No one should have to walk out of this room being disgruntled or discouraged of what was said by others with views that you do not share,” he said.
Some policies Leznek will use to maintain a respectful environment are keeping the ban on arguments questioning religious beliefs and reinstituting a time limit on topics to keep discussions fresh. These policies are also intended to bring new members into the group.
Leznek used the time to address several concerns that had been raised regarding the club. He responded to some claims that the same individuals tend to lead discussion.
“I can only answer those concerns by saying, first of all, in essence we have to be grateful that we do have some individuals who take the effort and initiative in providing us with newsworthy topics and go on to express their thoughts and knowledge on the issues of the day,” he said. “In many instances we have learned from them and enriched our understanding and knowledge from them.”
On whether or not arguments presented are factual or accurate, Leznek said it is the nature of Current Events for the audience to evaluate and weigh claims for themselves.
Leznek’s first session as president had the recent Supreme Court ruling on the Affordable Care Act as its centerpiece. The debate featured near-equal representation of both sides of the issue, as well as a humorous essay on the matter recited by a resident.
The session also included talk on international cyber warfare, construction on Route 47 near Jim Dhamer Road, a reading of a piece written by former private first class Jessica Lynch, wealth distribution in America, and regulations set on Wrigley Field.
