Heads up!! On September 28, 2013 over 200 women will gather to learn how to “break the glass ballot” and get more women elected to local positions and commissions. If you or someone you know would like to attend, please save the date and watch for registration coming in July. Some fantastic speakers and panelists are already lined up, including Mary Hughes of Close the Gap California and many veteran and up-and-coming women in local politics.

Mark your calendars and plan to attend! Please share this with women in your network who you think might want to be there.

The US ranks 87th in the world in representation of elected women at the national level, with the number declining for the first time in 30 years – here in Santa Cruz, there are no women serving at the County Supervisor level. It’s time to increase women’s participation in local politics. Come learn from those who’ve run before and those currently serving as elected officials. Get smart about how we support, encourage and elect more women to County positions. Breaking the Glass Ballot will offer inspiration, the nuts and bolts of running, skills building, positioning and platform advice, and an overview of what seats and appointments are open. Come whether you’re thinking of running or want to actively support women in local politics. Panel discussions and breakouts will feature local and regional politicians, appointees, campaign managers, fundraising experts and political action groups.

Organized by a group of committed volunteers from a variety of political parties and persuasions

Keynote: Mary Hughes, political strategist, former campaign manager for Joe Simitian and Anna Eschoo, founder of Close the Gap California

Panelists:

Ana Ventura Phares, former Watsonville Mayor,

Hilary Bryant, Santa Cruz Mayor

Gail Pellerin, Elections Clerk

Cynthia Mathews, Santa Cruz City Councilwoman

Donna Lind, Scotts Valley City Council

Carol Fuller, active political organizer and campaigner

Ariadne Symons, Judge

Jane Weed Pomerantz, former Santa Cruz Mayor

More panelists TBA as they confirm.

DETAILS :

September 28, 2013, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm (Registration opens at 9:30)

Location: Cabrillo College – Horticultural Center

Cost: $25 (Scholarships available. No one will be turned away for lack of funds)

Register online at www.breakingtheglassballot.org

For more information, contact

Rachel Goodman

cell (831) 419-9047

home (831) 457-8098

rachel@well.com