Jan 30, 2009

Be Heard at SAF’s Congressional Action DaysSource: SAF

Don’t miss the unique opportunity to mobilize and educate Congress on floral industry issues during one of the most active legislative sessions in decades.

The Society of American Florists’ (SAF) Congressional Action Days will take place March 2 and 3 at the J.W. Mariott Hotel in Washington, D.C.

The Congressional Action Days offers the opportunity to play a part in ensuring that key lawmakers, who are responsible for shaping policies that will impact the floral industry for years to come, hear the concerns of participants.

“The unified voice of our constituency resonates deeply on Capitol Hill,” said SAF Government Relations Committee Chairman Kelvin Priest, AAF, of Cleveland Plant & Flowers Company.

Priest encourages all members to sign up: “Participation in Congressional Action Days will put our industry at the forefront early next year,” he said.

This “unprecedented legislative climate demands an unrivaled roster of speakers,” according to an SAF press release. Washington Post syndicated columnist and MSNBC contributor Eugene Robinson will headline the kick-off breakfast on March 2. With more than 25 years of reporting and immersion in the unique Washington culture, Robinson can decipher Beltway politics, untangle media maneuvers and speak to the historical nature of this year’s election.

Stephanie Vance, founder of AdVocacy Guru, a political consulting firm specializing in grassroots advocacy, will provide insider tips and techniques on how to talk to government officials about industry issues so they will listen. Participants will learn how to develop their personal story, conduct background research, deliver their message and successfully follow up after Congressional Action Days.

“Flags of Our Fathers” author James Bradley will be the keynote speaker at the SAFPAC dinner. His bestselling book chronicles the experience of his father and five other soldiers raising the flag at Iwo Jima in 1945. After his speech, Bradley will lead attendees on a nighttime tour of the Iwo Jima Memorial.

To register, visit www.safnow.org or contact Laura Weaver at lweaver@safnow.org or (800) 336-4743.