A National Forum on Disability Issues will be aired via Webcast 12:30-3:30 p.m. July 26 in the community room at the Chuck Costello Independent Living Complex, 1998 Route 18 north, Old Bridge.

The nonpartisan forum on national disability policy, which will be transmitted via the Internet from Columbus, Ohio, and will feature the invited 2008 presidential candidates or their representatives, has been organized by the American Association of Persons With Disabilities (AAPD) and is sponsored by several national disability advocacy groups and organizations. The event also will commemorate the 18th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by former President George H.W. Bush on July 26, 1990.

Republican presidential candidate John McCain will participate in the forum via satellite link. Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, who is now overseas, will have Sen. Tom Harkin of Iowa speak on his behalf. Third-party presidential candidates also have been invited to present their platforms on issues of interest to people with disabilities.

The forum will feature time slots for the candidates to individually present their platforms for the future of disability policy in America. Questions from national news anchor and journalist Judy Woodruff, who will act as moderator, will follow.

Computer and electrical access to the Webcast will be installed so citizens will have an opportunity to see and participate in the event and to ask questions on issues such as health care, employment, the economy, affordable housing, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), accessibility and more.

The event is open to the general public. Lunch and refreshments will be served. A voter-registration drive also will be held.

To reserve and/or for more information, call Anita Clavering at 732-679- 0393, or e-mail aclavering@netzero.com.