Letters to the Editor
Editor:
On the cusp of another election year, I believe it is time for us to prevail upon the Leisure World Weekly to maintain a policy of not publishing political ads. During 2020, some negative political ads caused hard feelings and possible damage to the reputation of our community.
While these ads resulted in the addition of a few hundred dollars to the profits of our newspaper, it is impossible to know the extent of the damage they may have caused.
To avoid a repetition of this unfortunate and divisive chapter in the history of Leisure World, we need to ask our newspaper to make this commitment now, in the tradition of this current season of goodwill.
Rachael Lehmberg Mutual 2 Editor’s Note: Between 2020-2023, the paper collected approximately $20,709 in political advertising revenues. A free society is dependent on the freedom of expression of all ideas, even those that some people find repugnant. In keeping with its desire to foster a diversity of viewpoints, the LW Weekly will continue to print paid political advertising and the letters to the editor such advertising inevitably triggers. All political advertising must meet state election rules and GRF policy, and be clearly marked as such.
Political speech is one of the most protected forms of speech in our society, and there is a reason for that. It is at the core of the First Amendment and includes speech concerning “politics, nationalism, religion or other matters of opinion,” according to the Supreme Court, which has stated that the ability to criticize the government and government officials is central to the meaning of the First Amendment. Editor: I’ve been a LW resident for about a year. I believe sidewalks are intended for pedestrian traffic. Of course, bicycles, motorized wheelchairs and golf carts need to utilize them as well; however, the vast majority of bike riders and golf cart owners (seem to) feel that a pedestrian in front of them is an imposition.
I’m able-bodied but even when I’m carrying heavy packages, bicyclists and golf carters will insist or demand that I move out of their way whether it’s onto the grass or over a small rise.
Many residents here are not that mobile. Common courtesy would seem that a walkway is for walkers and that those with other means of transport need to wait their turn. Are there any rules stipulating usage? Sharla Sanders Mutual 5 Editor’s Note: According to GRF policy, drivers of motor vehicles, including scooters, and cyclists, must yield the right of way to pedestrians. For more information on GRF traffic rules, visit lwsb.com and see GRF Policy 80-1930-1, under Security in the GRF directory. Editor: I read good news about reprising the Mini Farms (Dec. 7). Seemingly, conflicting opinions exist on how shareholders can use a farm effectively.
GRF President Marsha Gerber agreed: “I am 100% for the Mini Farm. It is a positive thing, a good thing....”
I agree absolutely. Opponents cited “the expenses and its exclusivity in that only 220 of nearly 10,000 residents will get a plot.” That is also a valid opinion.
Common ownership should be equally distributed and mutually beneficial. May God bless us for running an organic vegetable farm and a mini market so residents can buy healthy food at a lower price.
By the way, who is running it? GRF. How about each clubhouse be used as a weekend market place because of a shortage of parking space?
Robert Chung Mutual 4 Editor:
Many thanks to all friends and family who attended and brought delicious food for the Celebration of Life for Janice Laine. Representatives of the Golden Age Foundation, Humanist Club, Peace Club, Democratic Club, Theater Arts, Laughing for the Health of It, and her book and poker clubs all spoke fondly of Janice’s conby tributions to their groups as well as LW as a whole. Her broad list of activities illustrate well the richness of her life and her zest in participating in LW life.
Friends shared their memories of mostly fun times but also more serious involvement in causes dear to her and her excellent heart and mind.
Even after a serious stroke a few years ago, she remained active and edited the Peace Club newsletter for two years without the use of her right hand!
We were all enriched by the great food people brought and also by the memories shared by friends and family, many of which were new and fun to hear about our friend, Janice. We also contributed generously to her selected charity, Planned Parenthood.
Janice, you are missed! Pat Kruger, Peace Club Beverley Bender, Laughing for the Health of It
