Over 200 citizens braved the snow Friday to wet their feet in the democratic process taking place in the State Capitol building.
Mark and Becky Woodbury drove from St. George last night to join a host of Dixie College students to support a proposal that would allow the junior college to offer four-year degrees.Corine Saunders was one of 25 young mothers from the Young Parent East School in Granite School District to voice support of a minimum marriage age and more sex education in the schools.
And Lynn Barfuss came from Brigham City to support FBI checks on child-care providers, while Lori Riddle, a child-care center owner in Salt Lake City, came to oppose the same measure unless the state covers the cost.
Still, others used the 21st annual Citizens Day sponsored by Utah Issues as an educational opportunity.
"I came here to get involved, but I don't know how. I'm learning as I'm here, because you don't know what to do until you get here," said Jason Koop, a Brigham Young University student.
Rep. Sheryl Allen, R-Bountiful, offered this advice to Koop and others with the same question: "Write letters, make phone calls, attend town meetings."
"You have more power in influencing legislators than those investing thousands of dollars in multimedia ads," she said referring to the massive campaigns by banks and credit unions to sway opinion by using the media advertising.
"Don't go home and do nothing. In a democracy we need an educated citizenry; we need an involved citizenry," Allen said.
Following Allen's keynote address, the citizens heard of others following the main issues such as lobby reform, sales tax on food, child care, welfare reform and affordable housing.
They also received a tour of the Capitol and a brief explanation of how a bill becomes a law before meeting with their senators and representatives for lunch.
Sponsors of the event were pleased with the turnout, considering how busy people can be and the attitude many have about government and politics.
"When people who are elected bash the government, it does a great disservice," said Bill Crim, director of Utah Issues. "It makes people think that they can't make a difference."