JEFFERSON CITY -- Sen. John Loudon, R-West St. Louis County, along with Rep. Neal St. Onge, R-Ballwin, have welcomed 150 new members to the 2003-2004 Seventh District Leadership Academy. The educational leadership academy provides young people with a unique opportunity to study the operation of state government.

"My hope is that this program will encourage greater civic involvement in my body politic. It is the absence of civic engagement that allows politicians to operate with impunity. I want to reduce this by showing kids that government is not an enigma, and that by reaching out and touching it, they can begin to see themselves as part of it" said Loudon. "This educational group offers a first-hand view of how our government works."

Group members held their first organizational meeting in September at the Parkway NE Middle School.

Loudon continued the leadership academy concept (which was originated by his predecessor, Rockwood School Board member, Steve Banton) in 1995, when he was a member of the House of Representatives. School district personnel select the students.

"They say that good habits formed early, last a lifetime," Loudon said. "I want to instill in these young people an understanding and an interest in the government that will last a lifetime. It is great to see the enthusiasm in many of their parents too."

On Nov. 8, leadership academy members are scheduled to visit the St. Louis County Election Board.

"This is one of my favorite tours," said Loudon. "It is an excellent chance to demonstrate to the group the election process as well as a unique opportunity to see how elections are run behind the scenes. By seeing the high level of security surrounding the ballot counting machines, the kids can see just how fragile a democracy is."

Leadership academy events are held one Saturday a month during the school year, and some the visits include the St. Louis County Court for a mock trial, a tour of the World Bird Sanctuary, and a field trip to the State Capitol in Jefferson City to view the State Legislature in session.

"For me it's very important to see young people involved in the governmental process," said Loudon. "That's how I got started in politics."

For more information on the Seventh District Leadership Academy, contact Loudon's Jefferson City office at (573) 751-9763.