Friday, November 6, 2009

Bernstein and Chabot Speak at Commonwealth Commentary Breakfast



This morning, MWPC sponsored another of its "Commonwealth Commentary" breakfast series events at the Harvard Club of Boston.

The Commonwealth Commentary breakfasts are presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts and provide participants with an opportunity to network and to hear first hand from some of the most influential and notable faces in Massachusetts politics.


The theme of this morning's discussion was "City Elections 2009 - An Insider's Analysis." The featured keynote speakers were David Bernstein of The Boston Phoenix and Hillary Chabot of The Boston Herald.

Prompted by questions from MWPC Board President Lora Pellegrini, both speakers discussed the outcome of recent elections across Massachusetts, including the race for Mayor of the City of Boston and several other municipal races. Bernstein and Chabot also spoke about the current political landscape on Beacon Hill and their expectations for upcoming races for United States Senate and Governor of the Commonwealth.


The question and answer session that followed allowed MWPC supporters the chance to speak directly with the featured speakers and to get their thoughts on subjects such as media coverage of women candidates in statewide races.

Additional speakers included Sheila Capone-Wulsin, MWPC Executive Director, and Jay Curley, Senior Vice President of Public, Government and Regulatory Affairs for Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA.

Prior to the event a moment of silence was held in honor of Robert Coard, who passed away earlier this week. Mr. Coard was the head of ABCD and he also was recognized by MWPC at its annual Good Guy awards last year.

Those in attendance also paused to recognize Sandy Pressley, mother of Boston City Councilor-elect Ayanna Pressley. Ayanna Pressley's candidacy was proudly endorsed by the MWPC PAC and on Tuesday, Pressley became only the third woman -- and the first woman of color -- ever to serve on the city council. Congratulations, Ayanna!