Arlington Heights seniors discussion group still growing after 20 years

After more than 20 years, the seniors who make up the Arlington Heights Memorial Library's current events discussion group still have plenty to say.

Politics. The economy. Health care. Pop culture. International affairs. Civil rights. No subject is too sensitive for this spry group of retired teachers, engineers, doctors, insurance executives and businessmen and women.

"If it's in the newspaper, we'll talk about it," said moderator George Galvan, 73. "There's not much that's off the table."

That table (composed of several smaller tables actually), is long and narrow and seats about 14, not nearly enough most weeks. Early arrivals snag a seat there, while latecomers fill the surrounding chairs.

Early on, when they numbered only eight or nine, the group resembled PBS' "McLaughlin Group" with everyone talking at once, said Julie Martin, one of the original participants. Now, with between 45 and 50 participants attending each week, people raise their hands to speak, she said.

The weekly sessions begin with an open discussion and then move to topics Galvan has selected for the week. He typically comes up with a list of five; they rarely make it past three.

The format works. This month the current events group marked its 1,000th session.

Members envision it continuing for another thousand.

"People come back because they're stimulated intellectually," Galvan said

Participating in the weekly discussions makes them better informed, say the regulars.

"There's always someone who knows a little bit more and has a different take on a topic," Galvan said.

Some issues generate a more heated discussion than others. But the mood always remains polite and the participants' attitude toward one another respectful.

Most important to Galvan is that after 90 minutes, everyone leaves the room as friends.

Chris Kinkel, a member for 15 years, agrees.

"It's a very congenial group even though we have different philosophies," said the Arlington Heights man.

The group welcomes seniors of all persuasions, but Martin and Galvan describe the members' political leanings as moderate to liberal.

One thing they all share, however, is an inquiring mind and a willingness to speak up.

"If you care to express your opinion, it's a good place to express it," Martin said.

Formed in 1989, the group grew out of the library's great books discussion forum when members decided they wanted another intellectual outlet. A librarian suggested current events. Tom Bernett, a library volunteer, agreed to serve as moderator. He held the position until his death several years ago, after which Galvan took over.

"We wanted to create programs for seniors that take advantage of the wealth of life experiences they want to share. This program is a really good example of that," said Mary Jo Lepo, Senior Services Specialist for the library.

Losing members to death and relocation has proved difficult for some, Lepo said.

"One of the most important things to them has been the camaraderie," she said. "They come to care about each other. Some have found new friends."

Some have been introduced to an alternative viewpoint. But that doesn't necessarily mean they've changed their own. In fact, in a DVD produced by the library to commend the group's 20th anniversary, members said that while folks consider politely alternative viewpoints, few if any change their opinion.

But they do listen, and learn.

"It's a very knowledgeable group," said Martin. "You may not agree with their opinions, but they are knowledgeable."

• The Arlington Heights Memorial Library's current events discussion group for seniors meets from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Thursdays at the Arlington Heights Senior Center, 1801 W. Central Road, Arlington Heights. Admission is free and newcomers are always welcome.