MINNEAPOLIS, January 15, 2008—The American Heart Association invites physicians to appear at meetings with key legislators to promote higher physical education standards for schoolkids in the 2008 session.

In addition to physicians, the AHA is inviting parents, students, teachers, elected officials, and public health professionals — anyone who can see the strong connection between exercise and children's health.

These meetings are cosponsored by MAHPERD, the Minnesota Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.

The group has scheduled three meetings:

• Sen. Tarryl Clark, Assistant Majority Leader, Tuesday, January 22, 6:30–7:30 p.m., Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Central MN, 15—6th Avenue North, St. Cloud
• Sen. LeRoy Stumpf, Chair of the Finance—E-12 Education Budget Committee. Monday, January 28, 6:30–7:30 p.m., Thief River Falls Public Library 
• Sen. Patricia Torres Ray, Finance—E-12 Education Budget Committee member. Wednesday, January 30, 6:30–7:30 p.m,, Midtown Minneapolis YWCA
  Lobby conference room.  

If you plan to attend, let Nancy Tarbox know in advance. Contact her at (952) 278-7918 or at nancy.tarbox@heart.org.

The AHA hopes lots of people show up to promote the idea of stronger PE standards, and encourages physicians to invite others to attend.