Former Phoenix Mayor to Speak on Open Elections-Open Government
The League of Women Voters of Sedona-Verde Valley is pleased to announce that former Phoenix Mayor Paul Johnson, co-founder and chairman of the current "Open Elections-Open Government Committee", will be the honored guest speaker at its anniversary luncheon on Saturday, February 11, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, at Agave of Sedona, 1146 West S.R. 89A, in West Sedona. (Turn north at the light at Airport Road; take immediate left to the Agave Event Center.)
Johnson will talk about a citizen-led effort seeking to place an initiative on the 2012 Arizona ballot that will reform and fundamentally change the election process, opening it up to more voters and candidates. The focus of the initiative is to open the process to all individuals, regardless of their party registration. For information about the initiative, go to http://www.azopengov.org.
During this year's election cycle, the local League is devoting full attention to voter education and civic engagement activities. "This meeting is an opportunity for citizens to learn more about the Arizona primary system and consider possibilities for changes," said Ellie Bauer, League president. "We are always concerned about voter participation and strive to do everything possible to expand citizen involvement in government. This is a timely and important topic and we are pleased to bring Mayor Johnson to the Verde Valley," she added.
Johnson served as Phoenix Mayor from 1990-1994, after serving on the Phoenix City Council from 1985 to 1990. While best known for his time in politics, he has also founded companies, has large real estate holdings, serves on several boards, and is a leader in economic development.
The luncheon is an annual fundraiser event for the League, attended by local government officials, civic leaders, League members and involved citizens. The public is welcome. Cost of the lunch is $30, including tax and gratuity. A gift raffle will also be held. Reservations and menu choices are requested no later than February 7, 2012. Call Donna Pratt at 282-6428 or dlpratt@esedona.net.
February 14 marks the 92nd Anniversary of the League, first established in 1920 just as American women attained the right to vote. Now, the League is a non-partisan political organization, open to all, dedicated to study and action on important issues, voter education, and community service. For more information, go to http://www.lwvsedona-verdevalley.org.
The 2012 election year is kicking off in Arizona with spring municipal elections. The League of Women Voters of Sedona-Verde Valley will be holding candidate forums in Sedona, Clarkdale and Jerome as follows:
Sedona: Thursday, February 16th, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the Sedona Public Library.
Clarkdale: Wednesday, February 22nd, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the Clarkdale-Jerome School Gymnasium, 16th and Main, Clarkdale
Jerome: A forum is being planned but details are not yet final.
For additional details about elections and candidate forums, please see the elections page
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League of Women Voters of Sedona-Verde Valley, Arizona. All rights reserved.
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