This Hot Topics program will address current challenges related to free speech and local news, including reduced funding for media organizations, public skepticism toward news, and policies affecting information access. The discussion will outline how these issues are affecting Central Florida and explore potential local responses. The moderator is Charley Williams, former president of the League of Women Voters of Orange County, and the panel will feature GT Orlando Shareholder Greg Herbert.
Topics will include the impact of the loss of federal funding for public television and radio, approaches to strengthening public trust in news, legislative efforts related to public records access and book restrictions in public schools, and trends in how organizations respond to employees’ social media activity. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. at the Winter Park Events Center for a buffet lunch, with the program running from 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 1050 W. Morse Blvd. in Winter Park. Tickets are $30 for League members and $37 for non-members.