forum08

Sabato Gives Election Low-Down

Attendees got a healthy dose of the Capitol Hill lay of the land this afternoon by Dr. Larry Sabato, the director for the University of Virginia’s Center for Politics. He analyzed the upcoming presidential election in terms of candidates, primaries, and specific situations that could affect the outcome. Sabato confirmed that it will likely be a tight race, but some key factors will likely make a big difference closer to Election Day.

“There are four fundamentals and they have determined every presidential race since Washington,” he explained. Those include war and peace, the economy, scandal, and hot-button social issues.

2008 Forum Highlights

You won't want to miss the following events as part of the 2008 National Legislative Forum on Parks and Recreation:

Bob Artz Forum
Wednesday, March 12
In memory of Bob Artz, a highly respected citizen advocate of NRPA, two consecutive and empowering sessions will focus on citizen advocacy development. Citizens are especially encouraged to attend the 8:30–9:45 a.m. session, “From Your Community to Capitol Hill.” The forum then opens up to all attendees for the 10:30–11:45 a.m. session, "Lobbying for Parks and Recreation.”

National Policy Luncheon
Invited keynote: U.S. Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.), House Majority Whip
Wednesday, March 12
11:45 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Hear Rep. James Clyburn provide his unique perspective as House Majority Whip on the current Congress and how the park, recreation and public lands agenda could be affected by the 2008 elections.

Policy and Politics for 2008 and Beyond
Larry Sabato, Director of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia
Wednesday, March 12
2:30-3:30 p.m.
The race for the presidency is the most wide-open contest in half a century. The major parties will wage determined campaigns for control of Congress leading up to the November elections. Larry Sabato will provide insight on the political landscape and help NRPA think strategically about the future.

Day on the Hill
Thursday, March 13
9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Meet one-on-one with members of Congress and staff, share local and state views about critical park and recreation issues and help to advance NRPA’s national agenda.

Note: Delegates should contact their state association now to schedule meetings with legislators. Visit www.npa.org/forum for state-by-state contact information.

Congressional Recognition Ceremony and Reception
Thursday, March 13
Afternoon
As part of our Day on the Hill, NRPA will honor five members of the U.S. Congress for their outstanding service and commitment to parks and recreation: Reps. Mark Udall (D-Colo.), Ray LaHood (R-Ill.), Mary Bono (R-Calif.), and James Clyburn (D-S.C.) and Sen. Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.).