In 1993, C-SPAN, which was created by cable and offered as a public service, launched its Bus program as a way to bring the world of public affairs into schools and communities nationwide. From New York to California, the Buses have visited thousands of students, teachers and educators in all 50 states to talk about the cable industry's commitment to education. With the 2008 election season in full swing, C-SPAN's two Campaign 2008 Buses are currently traveling across the country following candidates on the campaign trail. The 45-foot Buses are equipped with mobile multi-media demonstration centers and TV production units that can be used as studios during live programs, such as C-SPAN's Washington Journal. This allows C-SPAN the opportunity to interview students, authors, journalists and politicians aboard the Buses from anywhere in the country. Since the launch of the Campaign 2008 Bus program in January 2007, the Buses been to 285 cities in 43 states for a total: · 633 Events · 93,200+ Bus visitors (40,600 students and 5,760 teachers) · 174 high schools and 39 middle school presentations · 136 colleges/universities open Bus tours and 23 teacher conferences · 30 stops at libraries, including 9 Presidential Libraries and Museums · 408 visits from local, state and national elected officials · Campaign coverage and voter outreach at 84 political events (IA Caucus, NH Primary, PA Primary), Iowa Straw Poll, NAACP, GOP Midwestern Leadership Conference, Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-SC) Annual Fish Fry, Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA) Annual Steak Fry) · 42 visits to state capital buildings BUS QUICK FACTS · C-SPAN School Bus was launched November 1, 1993. · In January 2007, the School Bus was re-launched as the Campaign 2008 Bus. · In January 2008, the Book TV Bus was re-launched to become the second Campaign 2008 Bus. · The Buses are 45 feet long, 9 feet wide, 13 feet tall & weigh 22 tons. · The C-SPAN Bus crew usually consists of 3 employees: 2 marketing representatives, and one motor coach operator.