March 7th began early for the students of Youth Leadership Jefferson County as they arrived at the Belmar library for Government Day. Government Day focused on collaboration in leadership and learning how the American government system functions.

During breakfast (provided by Food for Thought Catering and sponsored by the cities of Lakewood and Wheat Ridge), students were given the opportunity to meet and talk to the representatives of their districts. State Senator Betty Boyd presented an overview of the legislative process in our government. State Representative Debbie Benefield spoke to the class regarding the protocol used in the legislative process.

After these presentations and other fascinating discussions, the class moved to the floor of the Colorado House of Representatives and listened as several bills were discussed and approved. At the Colorado Senate Chamber, senators were debating whether to make a law for those under the age of 18 to be required to wear a helmet while driving a motorcycle.

Later, the class held a mock committee meeting discussing if the CSAP tests should be removed from the school system. The mock committee decided, in a professional manner, to postpone the vote and give this responsibility to another committee.

Lunch was provided by the Atlanta Bread Company. At this point in the day, students were able to talk to the mayors of their cities. Later Pam Anderson, Jefferson County Clerk, spoke about the civic responsibility of voting. The last activity of the day was to design a building complex in the same amount of area and follow the requirements as architects must do. This activity showed how teamwork and listening to others is vital in leadership.

As the day came to close and the students were leaving, I could see the enjoyment on everyone's faces. The class visited with many politicians and saw rooms which the majority of people will only see on TV. I realized how many Americans, myself included, take our freedoms for granted.

We should cherish our freedom for many people across the world do not have it, and this freedom was "brought at a high cost."

There is a famous quote which says "Freedom is not Free", and I believe all Americans should remember this quote when they read about our republic style of government.