For many people, the only way they will ever have the opportunity to watch American government in action is by turning on C-SPAN.

Saturday, February 17, 2001

For many people, the only way they will ever have the opportunity to watch American government in action is by turning on C-SPAN.

A group of county high school students, however, will have the chance to witness proceedings on Capitol Hill first hand when they travel to Washington, D.C. for the annual Close Up Program.

Each year, the Close Up Foundation plays host to more than 25,000 high school students and teachers, giving them a week-long educational tour of the nation’s capitol. For the past 14 years, the Greater Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce has taken a leadership role in giving Lawrence County students the opportunity to make this trip.

"We feel the program is very important so they know how our government works," said Richard Slack, president of the chamber.

"It’s an invaluable tool for our young people. It would be great if all of our young people could go."

On Friday, the chamber held its annual luncheon honoring the Close Up students as well as the businesses that have made donations enabling them to take part in the program. This year, 29 students will attend Close Up sessions, which are held from October until June each year.

At Friday’s luncheon, the students heard from one of the legislators they will see at work as Congressman Ted Strickland delivered the keynote address. In addition to discussing some of the issues Congress is currently facing, Strickland had words of encouragement for the students.

"I think you are going to have a wonderful experience," Strickland told the students. "You will learn a lot."

Strickland said Close Up students have the opportunity to attend committee meetings, where he says "the real legislation work takes place." He added the students will get to visit the Library of Congress, national monuments and the "greatest museums" in the nation.

"I hope your experience in Washington makes you a better citizen and inspires some of you to seek an elected office," Strickland said. "It is truly the chance of a lifetime for you and I hope you absolutely enjoy every moment you are there."

Fairland Principal Eddie Capper, who has been attending Close Up trips for the past 20 years, echoed Strickland’s sentiments.

"It is truly a fast-paced week," Capper said. "(The students) will get a behind-the-scenes look at how our federal government works – the legislative, executive and judicial branches. They will also get to mix activities with cultural things, like theater and site-seeing. It’s the most dynamic city in the world."