June 26, 2008

Greetings,

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank those who helped make the inaugural NHAR "Hill" Visit, held June 6 at the State House in Concord, a terrific success.

Nearly 30 New Hampshire REALTORS® turned out for the event, which was designed to introduce our members to the State House while encouraging their future support of, and perhaps even participation in, the political process.

Much was packed into the half-day event, beginning with an informal roundtable discussion with a bipartisan group of legislators, Rep. Dan Eaton (D-Stoddard) and Sens. Jacalyn Cilley (D-Barrington), Lou D'Allesandro (D-Manchester) and Ted Gatsas (R-Manchester). The four lawmakers provided insight regarding the poltical process itself, and went on to point out that REALTORS®, with our positions in our respective communities and our broad-based knowledge of business and the housing market, are uniquely qualified in terms of serving in governmental roles, whether at the local or state level.

A tour of the State House followed, including a stop in both the Senate and House chambers, after which we spent a half-hour with Governor John Lynch for another informal discussion. It was a valuable session, as the Governor shared with us his optimism for the housing market and agreed that in New Hampshire particularly, the fundamentals are in place for a turnaround. We found the Governor to be in full agreement with the REALTOR® message regarding current buyer opportunities, and what was especially ecouraging was his commitment to add a positive housing message to his agenda during his future press appearances.

In general, it was a wonderful experience and a fascinating, behind-the-scenes look at how the important work is done at what is the third largest legislative body in the English-speaking world, our own State House.

The success of the event has led NHAR to begin making plans for next year's "Hill" Visit, which we fully expect will become an annual event. In particular, thanks to

state Association staff, including EVP Paul Griffin, Government Affairs Director Chris Nicolopoulos and Executive Assistant Nicole Greco, along with the Public Policy Committee and Vice Chair John Doran.

We will keep you posted as the plans for next year's visit progress, so please plan to attend in the future. Those in attendance found it to be an invaluable experience, and we hope it will lead to even more political involvement by our members in the future.

Again, many thanks to those of you who were there, and I look forward to seeing you at the State House in years to come.

Best wishes to all,

Jim Lyons, REALTOR®
2008 President, NHAR