The Citizens Academy seeks interested Onondaga County residents who would like to become more involved in the community and its governance, learn how local government is arranged and how services are funded and delivered, and participate in dialogues with community leaders. The free, interactive, eight-week educational program encourages citizen involvement in the community to help improve quality of life for present and future generations. The civic program is jointly sponsored by University College of Syracuse University, F.O.C.U.S. Greater Syracuse, Onondaga County and the city of Syracuse. The 2010 class begins Sept. 15; application deadline is Aug. 6. All Onondaga County residents age 18 or older are eligible and the class is free, but class size is limited to 30 members. Participants will attend eight Wednesday evening sessions held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. from Sept. 15 through Nov. 3. Session topics include history and organization of local government, budget and funding, health and safety core services, family programs and partnerships, schools and education, law enforcement and judicial systems, transportation and land use, and regional economic development. Each session is held at a different public or community facility. A light dinner will be provided. Interested? Fill out an application, available on the Citizens Academy page at citizensacademycny.org or by calling 448-8732 or e-mailing [email protected].