The Democratic Women's Council of the Conejo Valley will host a brunch from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sat., March 18 at the Westlake Yacht Club, 32123 Lindero Canyon Road at The Landing in Westlake Village. The cost is $25, with an RSVP required to (805) 497-1003.

Dr. Rochelle Sechooler, a professor of psychology and chair of the psychology department at Los Angeles City College, will present a talk on the art of political communication, "The Psychology of Political Persuasion." She'll explain how politicians use "tricks" in debating and speaking, revealing the "nitty-gritty of effective political persuasion."

Also on the program will be Conejo Valley resident Jane Bright, a founding member of Gold Star Families for Peace, whose son was killed in Iraq.