Thinking about an election bid in Modesto area?

MODESTO -- Dozens of school board and special district seats will be filled in the Nov. 5 election.

The Modesto Chamber of Commerce, The Bee and others are sponsoring free workshops to help people learn about what's involved in running for and serving in office.

The first of two sessions will be from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday at the chamber office, 114 J St.

Although the session is in Modesto, it is open to prospective candidates throughout the region. In the first part, three sitting officeholders will talk about what's involved. The second part will feature a local political consultant offering advice on how to get started.

Registration is requested; contact (209) 577-5757 or mlopez@modchamber.org.