Join LWVVC for an informative workshop, which will provide you with the tools to accomplish the following:

• Understanding the drastic change from traditional news to today's algorithm model
• Identifying best practices to vet information online before sharing
• Learning to make the best use of the League's brand resources to post with purpose

Our media team will present the information in three parts:

• The historical shift broadcast news as we knew it to punditry and opinions that blur the line of accurate information.
• Fact-checking and media bias resources
• Social media LWVVC social media, tools, and methods to post with purpose.

The Light Pirate is a compelling contemporary novel that delves into the complexities of environmental change, resilience, and the power of human adaptation. Set in a future Florida ravaged by climate disasters, the story blends elements of literary fiction with speculative themes, offering readers a thought-provoking narrative about survival and transformation. The Light Pirate has been praised for its timely exploration of climate anxiety and its empathetic portrayal of human resilience.

Choose your venue and RSVP by Jan 17, 2026

Tuesday, January 27th | 4:30-6:30 pm

Home of Bonnie Friedman; refreshments provided

Victoria Gardens, 1245 Eggleston Drive in DeLand

Thursday, January 29th | 4:30-6:30 pm

Home of Deb Ulmer; refreshments provided

2205 Hidden Trail in New Smyrna Beach

Thursday, February 5th | 5-6:30 pm

Novel Tea Book Shop

150 Tomoka Avenue in Ormond Beach

Delicious flatbreads, pastries, soups, sandwiches, teas, and coffees available for purchase.

Please read the book prior to attending. After the discussion, our Natural Resources team will be on hand to talk about how their efforts are designed to advocate for a better environmental future.

Seating is limited, so register early. Due to space limitations, these programs are limited to League members only.

Mark Cooper’s presentation focuses on the unknown heroines of the Civil Rights Movement. He will highlight the stories of three or four women, most of whom were African American, with one who was white. While the audience may be familiar with one of these women, much of the information presented is likely to be new.

The presentation is designed to be a learning experience. Some of the material may be difficult to hear, but it is a powerful and appropriate topic for a meeting of the League of Women Voters. By sharing these often-overlooked stories, the program underscores the vital role women played in advancing civil rights and shaping the democratic principles the League continues to uphold.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER

Mark Cooper spent his formative years in Atlanta, where he became aware at a young age of the systemic injustices faced by African Americans during the Civil Rights era. He has spoken openly about the lasting sense of responsibility he carries for having witnessed that reality without taking action at the time. As an adult, he has sought to address that youthful silence by becoming deeply informed about the truth of the Civil Rights Movement and by working toward equality and justice for all people.

Mark earned a bachelor’s degree in government from Indiana University and a law degree from the University of Georgia. He practiced law in Central Florida for more than 40 years before retiring in 2012.

While Mark does not claim to be an expert on the Civil Rights Movement, he brings a well-informed, reflective perspective shaped by lifelong study, professional experience, and a personal commitment to understanding and advancing civil rights.