The midterm elections are a little more than two weeks away, and while not as high-profile as the presidential election, our participation is critical. A woman’s right to choose, the right to marry who you love, social policies that support low-income individuals and families, environmental protections, and democracy itself are all on the line.
In Pennsylvania, Democrat John Fetterman and Republican Dr. Mehmet Oz are battling for the U.S. State Senate seat being vacated by republican Pat Toomey, who is retiring. Meanwhile, PA Attorney General Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, is squaring off against State Senator Doug Mastriano, a Republican, for Governor. Both of these races have far-reaching implications for our state, the country, and democracy.
Right now, the Senate is evenly split. The midterm election represents an opportunity for democrats to flip the State Senate seat and take control of the majority. This would allow them to block legislation that chips away at equal rights for all and usher in important climate and social policies.
When it comes to the gubernatorial race, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Senator Mastriano is in favor of a state-wide abortion ban with no exceptions and supports former President Trump’s false claims that the election was stolen.
The women that came before us fought hard to ensure our right to vote. Now, it’s our time to fight. Join us in taking a stand for democracy and making our voices heard on November 8.
See you at the polls,
—Meredith
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Mark Your Calendar
The Book Circle is back! After a brief hiatus, we’re reviving our monthly Book Circle. This month, we’re burying our noses in Rodham by Curtis Sittenfeld. “What if Hilary had never married Bill? How would she, and our country, be different? The book is a fun, sexy reimagining of one of the most important politicians today. Perfect for history buffs and romance fans alike.”
Join us for our meeting on November 7 to talk about critical themes and plot points, listen to others’ thoughts, and share our own impressions and opinions. No worries if you don’t finish the book or haven’t been part of the Book Circle until now — you can jump in at any time.
The countdown to the midterms is on. However, there are a few key dates and deadlines you need to know. Here’s how to make sure you’re able to vote on November 8 — plus a few ways to support democratic candidates and grassroots organizations.
Register to Vote + Important Voting Deadlines
10/24: MONDAY is the last day to register to vote or update your registration before the midterms. Submit a voter registration application or update your information with this link.
Once you’re registered, check in with your friends, family, and neighbors to make sure they’re registered to vote, too!
11/01: November 1 is the last day you are able to apply for a mail-in or absentee ballot. Don’t miss out on voting because you’re out of town or unable to make it to a polling place. Apply online here!
11/08: Election Day! Polls are open from 7am to 8pm. Not sure where your polling place is? Find it here.
11/09: Last day for mail-in and absentee ballots. These ballots must be received by your polling place by 8pm.
Donate! Here are the candidates and organizations we recommend
U.S. State Senate Democratic candidate John Fetterman and his campaign.
Democratic candidate for Governor, Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro and his campaign.
(Check out this Voter Guide to learn more about all of the candidates running and the issues they’re running on.)
League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan, grassroots organization working to protect and expand voting rights and ensure everyone is represented in our democracy.
The Brennan Center for Justice, a nonpartisan organization focused on democracy, criminal justice, securing the balance of power, and protecting fundamental freedoms while keeping Americans safe.
BallotReady, a nonpartisan organization with the goal of helping voters in all 50 states make a plan to vote safely, through early voting and vote-by-mail, based on the process in every jurisdiction.
FairVote, a nonpartisan organization working for better elections for all. FairVote advances voting reforms that make democracy more functional and representative for every American, with a focus on two key reforms: ranked choice voting and the Fair Representation Act.
Salon Events & Happenings
Explore Salon-specific programming centered on topics, activities, and conversations that most appeal to and resonate with women and those that identify as women.
Pull up a seat around the cornucopia for the autumn installment of our Salon Potluck, plus the opportunity to discover your inner witch. Bring your favorite fall-inspired appetizer, main dish, dessert, or snack to share. We’ll toast to a new season of change, enjoy the autumn bounty, and tap into our spiritual sides with a tarot card reading courtesy of Rebecca Bloom, a spiritual mentor, professional tarot card reader, medium, and Reiki master. Register here!
Start your day with a pick-me-up and conversation. Drop in to The Salon on (most) Tuesday mornings to hang out with (and meet!) fellow Salon members, warm up with complimentary coffee or tea, and generally have a good time. It’s a great way to get a feel for The Salon and connect with local women. Oh, and don’t hesitate to bring a friend along. Open and free to all. Register here!
Bundle up and join us on the rooftop for a classic October activity. Joey from Field Day will brew us delicious, homemade hot cider as you make the ultimate jack-o-lantern decision — will you go spooky or silly? Pumpkins, carving supplies, templates, and bags to take seeds home for roasting provided. Register here!
Become A Salon Member
The Salon is a place to dabble in the unknown. We provide an admittedly eclectic (but community-led!) range of programming. One week, it might be an academic discussing the gender pay gap. Next, it might be wine tasting and hipster puzzles. Indulge in new things with us! And if it makes you a bit nervous, that might be a good thing. Find out for yourself what we’re all about.
Woman-owned Sweet Alchemy Bakeshop 🧁has teamed up with Voodoo Brewing 🔮in New Kensington for Sweet Horror, a vegan food and art pop-up featuring a pairing of three baked goods and a beer flight. Check it out at the brewery on Sunday! 👻
Speaking of pop-ups, head to Liberty Ave this Monday evening sandwich cart 🥪Thyme Machine and Brothmonger 🍜will be debuting their delicious soup and sandwich collab “Broth Machine”. Snag a porchetta sandwich courtesy of @yamma____C and gnocolini soup. 👏
It’s soup season and Frontporch Grille will deliver their homemade soups right to your door every Monday. 😋Order by the month or by the season! We’ve got our eyes on the Potato Leek and Broccoli Cheddar! 🥦🧀
