As part of an ongoing series of events to inform the community about political issues, UCLA Government and Community Relations is hosting a candidate forum for the 47th Assembly District from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12, on the UCLA campus at the James West Alumni Center, 325 Westwood Plaza.

The forum will feature all seven candidates vying for the district seat. They are: Karen Bass, David A. Cooper, Peter “Pedro� De Baets, Dale V. Everett, Richard P. Groper, Nate Holden and Rickey Ivie. Patt Morrison, Los Angeles Times columnist and four-time Emmy Award winner, will moderate.

Since 1999, UCLA Government and Community Relations has hosted eight informational events as part of its commitment to build political awareness in the community. The forums have dealt with such topics as the San Fernando Valley secession and last year’s gubernatorial recall election. Other forums have focused on local elections including the 1999 Los Angeles Unified School District board race, the 2000 mayoral election, and the 10th and 12th District City Council races in 2003.

“Our forums inform UCLA and the greater Los Angeles community about political issues and elections,� said Keith Parker, assistant vice chancellor for government and community relations. “We are pleased to contribute to a greater understanding of these issues among the different communities we serve and we will continue to provide a forum for political discussions.�

UCLA Government and Community Relations works with state legislators and elected and state agency officials to advance the academic and legislative agendas of the University of California and UCLA.

The 47th Assembly District forum will take place about two weeks before the March 2 election. The district includes Culver City, the Crenshaw District, Century City, Leimert Park, Hyde Park, Cheviot Hills, Mid-City, Palms, Westwood, West Los Angeles, Ladera Heights, Baldwin Hills and a portion of Koreatown.

Those interested in attending must reserve a place by e-mailing advocacy@support.ucla.edu or by calling (310) 794-6810.