The race for 2019 Girls State Governor was neck-to-neck. Both candidates offered traits and promises that many citizens supported. But, only one could walk away with the title.
The two candidates, Alyssa Moser and Layla Omari, campaigned to all the citizens of both Neel and Dungan counties to secure their spots.
Moser is a self proclaimed people person and loves to meet new people. Being from a small town she is very involved in her school activities. She plays softball and track, is the president of her school’s student council and participates in FFA as well as the school musical and band.
After high school Moser wants to go into agricultural education. She has thought about running for a public office because she wants to give small towns a larger voice on important issues. What really attracted Moser to go out for Girls State Governor was the fact that she got to meet new people.
“I was very hesitant to go, but [I know] I have the leadership skills for being governor and I thought I could bring something new [to Girls State],” Moser said.
Moser, a citizen of Trump, stated that she was very intimidated during her campaign for governor.
“I’ve never really campaigned for a big office like this before. I tried to meet a lot of people personally,” Moser said. “Like the lady [Senator Carol Blood] said, you start knocking on doors and meeting new people.”
Omari was born and raised in Lincoln. She goes to North Star High School where she is the debate president and is on her school’s tennis team.
Omari was attracted by the governor position because she wants to see more diversity at Girls State. Omari feels being from an urban area and having a different cultural background than others is a benefit to her; she can bring her differences to the table but still have the common ground of being a woman and the want to solve issues.
“I knew I wanted to run for Governor the minute I heard about Girls State. When I heard about this position, I wanted to take it and lead the group,” Omari said.
“I had a lot of family and friends that encouraged me to run for Governor. Suzie Cho was one of my great friends who attended Girls State last year. Kamryn Sannicks went in 2016 and she was also one of my great friends,” Omari said.
The advice Omari would give to girls who are campaigning at Girls State is to make friends. They help you out when you need it.
“I had a lot of family and friends that encouraged me to run for Governor. Suzie Cho was one of my great friends who attended Girls State last year. Kamryn Sannicks went in 2016 and she was also one of my great friends,” Omari said.
Both candidates had different ideas of what they wanted to pursue and tackle during their campaigns. Ultimately, Omari lost the race to Moser, but she didn’t regret taking the chance.
“I think it’s important to run for Girls State Governor. It helps create connections for people at such a young age who love to learn about politics and that gives me a better idea of what I should do in the future,” Omari said.
Moser’s advice for someone trying to run for governor is just to be yourself. No matter what, do not try to be someone else and stick to your moral values, because in the end it is going to pay off when you stay true to yourself.
Monday, June 17, 2019
Beverly Neel: President of American Legion Auxiliary by Emily Hodges
The American Legion Auxiliary is tasked with the role of supporting the nation’s veterans through many programs. President of the Nebraska Chapter, Beverly Neel, has been a member of the organization for 39 years.
Neel’s pathway to president was long but rewarding. She began as a member, from there she was chosen to be Chaplain by the Department Elect Committee. Next, she moved up to historian, then to vice president before becoming president. When asked why she was so passionate about becoming president of the auxiliary Neel answered, “I just felt I could make a difference.”
Neel described the main duties of president; how she was responsible for overlooking the programs and ensuring they were delivering the correct message, which is that veterans are our soul and heart’s inspiration. The term for these positions last one year until a new woman is elected; the only position that is not limited to one year is chaplain.
Neel has always been a strong advocate for veterans as her husband, son, multiple uncles, brother and her father have served for the U.S. Military. She mentioned she has become very invested in the support of veterans. During Neel’s journey through the American Legion Auxiliary, she found herself as a senior counselor at Girls State. At the time, she had three kids at home but still decided to take a week off in pursuit the government camp. Neel believes that women learning the backends of local government is extremely important. “I love to see the girls excel!” Neel Said.
While Neel only was involved in girls state as a counselor for one year, she helped out with an abundance of programs through the American Legion Auxiliary during her journey. Neel mentioned the importance of the Children in youth programs which get one-third of the Auxiliary’s funds while the other two-thirds go to veterans. With more veterans entering society, Neel believes there is more opportunity for youth to get involved in the Auxiliary. Some opportunities she touched on included the scholarships and conventions provided by the Auxiliary.
Neel has been extremely grateful to serve as the president of the American Legion Auxiliary and has never taken her status for granted. Through this past year, she has seen herself as a member before a president and is excited to listen, learn and observe as the new president takes over.
Neel’s pathway to president was long but rewarding. She began as a member, from there she was chosen to be Chaplain by the Department Elect Committee. Next, she moved up to historian, then to vice president before becoming president. When asked why she was so passionate about becoming president of the auxiliary Neel answered, “I just felt I could make a difference.”
Neel described the main duties of president; how she was responsible for overlooking the programs and ensuring they were delivering the correct message, which is that veterans are our soul and heart’s inspiration. The term for these positions last one year until a new woman is elected; the only position that is not limited to one year is chaplain.
Neel has always been a strong advocate for veterans as her husband, son, multiple uncles, brother and her father have served for the U.S. Military. She mentioned she has become very invested in the support of veterans. During Neel’s journey through the American Legion Auxiliary, she found herself as a senior counselor at Girls State. At the time, she had three kids at home but still decided to take a week off in pursuit the government camp. Neel believes that women learning the backends of local government is extremely important. “I love to see the girls excel!” Neel Said.
While Neel only was involved in girls state as a counselor for one year, she helped out with an abundance of programs through the American Legion Auxiliary during her journey. Neel mentioned the importance of the Children in youth programs which get one-third of the Auxiliary’s funds while the other two-thirds go to veterans. With more veterans entering society, Neel believes there is more opportunity for youth to get involved in the Auxiliary. Some opportunities she touched on included the scholarships and conventions provided by the Auxiliary.
Neel has been extremely grateful to serve as the president of the American Legion Auxiliary and has never taken her status for granted. Through this past year, she has seen herself as a member before a president and is excited to listen, learn and observe as the new president takes over.
Senator Julie Slama: a profile by Peyton Bredemeier
Julie Slama is Nebraska's youngest female state senator. Senator Slama is a Southeast Nebraska native from Peru. She graduated from Auburn High School, was accepted into Yale, and has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. Senator Slama is now balancing studying law at UNL Law School and being a Nebraska Senator. Slama has also been on the popular show “Wheel of Fortune,” where she won a trip to Hawaii.
Senator Slama is no stranger to Girls State. She attended Girls State and Girls Nation and last year was a counselor for Girls State. During her time attending Girls State, she ran for Governor. Unfortunately, she did not get the position. Slama then put her name in the run for Girl’s Nation. She was one of the two delegates selected to represent Nebraska in Washington D.C. Girls Nation opened Senator Slama's eyes; she was making friends with high energy and very driven girls from across the country who had no limits.When she was there, she shook President Obama’s hand. About this experience, Slama said, “It is one of the most incredible feelings ever”.
Senator Slama is a first generation four-year college attendee, as both of her parents went to and graduated from SCC. She always planned to go to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, but there was a feeling telling her that she could reach for more. She knew that she could give other kids hope that they too could apply to go to an elite school. Not knowing what her outcome would be, she applied to Yale University and to her surprise she was accepted.
Senator Slama faced setbacks while at school. The majority of students there had been to competitive schools and were prepared for the coursework, but she said she had never studied in her life. Getting some of the worst grades she had ever gotten by the end of the first semester, she felt like she had let everybody down. Then deciding to work as hard as she could in school no matter what, she ended up graduating Yale with honors in three and a half years.
After thinking about it for sometime, Senator Slama put in the application that led to her Senator position. A day before Christmas, the Governor gave Slama a call that she can never forget, asking if she wanted to be a State Senator for her home district.
She has introduced five bills and four of them have passed. She has earned respect from her colleagues including a senator from western Nebraska who has given her a nickname “Tiger.” She thinks that is the coolest thing in the world. She did not earn the respect by acting like a 22 year-old; she earned it by acting like a Senator.
Senator Julie Slama has had a unique story to her successes. Slama came from rural part of Nebraska and wanted to make her community proud. She did not let her minor setbacks hold her back; instead she used it to better herself and her successful career.
Senator Slama is no stranger to Girls State. She attended Girls State and Girls Nation and last year was a counselor for Girls State. During her time attending Girls State, she ran for Governor. Unfortunately, she did not get the position. Slama then put her name in the run for Girl’s Nation. She was one of the two delegates selected to represent Nebraska in Washington D.C. Girls Nation opened Senator Slama's eyes; she was making friends with high energy and very driven girls from across the country who had no limits.When she was there, she shook President Obama’s hand. About this experience, Slama said, “It is one of the most incredible feelings ever”.
Senator Slama is a first generation four-year college attendee, as both of her parents went to and graduated from SCC. She always planned to go to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, but there was a feeling telling her that she could reach for more. She knew that she could give other kids hope that they too could apply to go to an elite school. Not knowing what her outcome would be, she applied to Yale University and to her surprise she was accepted.
Senator Slama faced setbacks while at school. The majority of students there had been to competitive schools and were prepared for the coursework, but she said she had never studied in her life. Getting some of the worst grades she had ever gotten by the end of the first semester, she felt like she had let everybody down. Then deciding to work as hard as she could in school no matter what, she ended up graduating Yale with honors in three and a half years.
After thinking about it for sometime, Senator Slama put in the application that led to her Senator position. A day before Christmas, the Governor gave Slama a call that she can never forget, asking if she wanted to be a State Senator for her home district.
She has introduced five bills and four of them have passed. She has earned respect from her colleagues including a senator from western Nebraska who has given her a nickname “Tiger.” She thinks that is the coolest thing in the world. She did not earn the respect by acting like a 22 year-old; she earned it by acting like a Senator.
Senator Julie Slama has had a unique story to her successes. Slama came from rural part of Nebraska and wanted to make her community proud. She did not let her minor setbacks hold her back; instead she used it to better herself and her successful career.
The 2019 CGS Federalist Party by Abbie Russman
The Girls State Federalist Party convened on June 3 to debate and select their platforms. The party first voted citizen of Carter Aanya Agarwal as State Party Chairman and citizen of Obama Maggie Weatherwax as Vice Chairman. Citizen of Bush Layla Omari was chosen as the Secretary/Treasurer. Four citizens volunteered to be on the Artist Committee.
Agarwal led the debate for platforms using parliamentary procedures. The first motion was a motion for 16-year-olds to pre-register to vote when they receive their driver's license. The amendment to change the pre-register age for Nebraskan policies only was not passed; neither was the motion.
A second motion was made to prevent tobacco companies from advertising to minors. It was argued that advertising tobacco on commercials is illegal, and that companies do not directly market to teenagers. It was also deemed by another candidate as a good bill but not an influential one. This motion was tabled.
There was a motion to pass stricter regulations on waste dumped by slaughterhouses and poultry farms in Nebraska. The question, “What would this do for companies?” was asked and debated among citizens. Delegates argued that Nebraska’s economy is based on agriculture and these industries, and these regulations could potentially harm local jobs and the economy. This topic was argued scientifically, stating that the nitrates being dumped in the water affect the pH and harm the crops. The motion was carried and became the party’s first platform.
The next motion proposed was to fix the roads all around Nebraska, especially after the recent severe weather and flooding. An amendment was made to fix all infrastructures, not just roads. One citizen who opposed the amendment argued that taxes would be raised. A counterpoint was that the undertaking of fixing these infrastructures would create jobs. The amendment and motion were carried.
It was motioned to build another branch of the Veterans’ Association Clinic. Citizens shared personal testimonies about family members who have to drive hours to get to the nearest clinic for its services. An amendment was made to build more than one clinic. The amendment and motion were passed.
The next motion was made to thank the American Legion Auxiliary for hosting Girls State. An amendment was suggested for every citizen to write individual thank-you notes. This amendment and motion were carried.
The last motion was made to increase funding for the flood relief program. An amendment was proposed to add funding for supplies for items lost in the floods. Both were passed, establishing the last platform of the Federalist Party.
Agarwal led the debate for platforms using parliamentary procedures. The first motion was a motion for 16-year-olds to pre-register to vote when they receive their driver's license. The amendment to change the pre-register age for Nebraskan policies only was not passed; neither was the motion.
A second motion was made to prevent tobacco companies from advertising to minors. It was argued that advertising tobacco on commercials is illegal, and that companies do not directly market to teenagers. It was also deemed by another candidate as a good bill but not an influential one. This motion was tabled.
There was a motion to pass stricter regulations on waste dumped by slaughterhouses and poultry farms in Nebraska. The question, “What would this do for companies?” was asked and debated among citizens. Delegates argued that Nebraska’s economy is based on agriculture and these industries, and these regulations could potentially harm local jobs and the economy. This topic was argued scientifically, stating that the nitrates being dumped in the water affect the pH and harm the crops. The motion was carried and became the party’s first platform.
The next motion proposed was to fix the roads all around Nebraska, especially after the recent severe weather and flooding. An amendment was made to fix all infrastructures, not just roads. One citizen who opposed the amendment argued that taxes would be raised. A counterpoint was that the undertaking of fixing these infrastructures would create jobs. The amendment and motion were carried.
It was motioned to build another branch of the Veterans’ Association Clinic. Citizens shared personal testimonies about family members who have to drive hours to get to the nearest clinic for its services. An amendment was made to build more than one clinic. The amendment and motion were passed.
The next motion was made to thank the American Legion Auxiliary for hosting Girls State. An amendment was suggested for every citizen to write individual thank-you notes. This amendment and motion were carried.
The last motion was made to increase funding for the flood relief program. An amendment was proposed to add funding for supplies for items lost in the floods. Both were passed, establishing the last platform of the Federalist Party.
Floor 7 Trump profile by Elaina Riley
With a gargantuan amount of luggage, she enters the building. There is a gleam in her eye as she is met by staff and helpers. Unknowing of what is to come, she closes her eyes and lets out a deep exhale. She has been anticipating this day for months, and she is finally here to get out of her comfort zone and begin a life-changing experience. She is unknowing of the strangers that would soon become her best friends. She smiles as she hears, “Floor Seven: City of Trump.”
Floor Seven of Neel County was named after the current president Donald Trump. The theme of the floor was cacti, where citizens banded behind the saying, “We stick together.” Upon arrival, city members were greeted with personalized water bottles on their bunks specially made by Senior Counselor Tina Woodside.
“This was the first floor I’ve had where everyone clicked quickly. It usually takes a couple of days for the girls to get acquainted,” Woodside said. They later met the Middle Counselor Taylor Schendt and Junior Counselor Cora Voskamp who brought enough popcorn for the entire city to enjoy.
They made their way to their first assembly chanting “T-R-U-M-P, we’re the floor you want to be.” Citizens took part in afternoon activities of chorus, band, media or service learning. The city of Trump enjoyed their bonding game of “Two Truths and One Lie” that included talk about ACT scores, fake teeth and farm animals. Sara Lightheart, an Omaha native, said that she had no idea there were more than two types of cows in Nebraska.
Monday afternoon, the Federalist and Nationalist parties held their separate meetings. Lightheart was appointed to the Nationalist Vice Chairperson position.
“Girls are ecstatic to be here. High schoolers aren’t nearly as passionate about other summer programs,” Lightheart said. “Everyone is here to participate and put their best foot forward.” Claire Harrison from Naponee was also elected to be the Nationalist Secretary/Treasurer. The parties debated items such as the environment, livestock management and veteran assistance.
Alyssa Moser of Clearwater ran for state Governor, where she won the Nationalist vote and represented them in the general election.
“Originally, I wasn’t going to even run for Governor, but the girls gave me the last push,” Moser said. “I decided that I’d regret it if I didn’t try.”
Farm-raised Moser participated in the Gubernatorial Debate where she was able to convey her passion and knowledge for agriculture.
“I wanted to make sure rural citizens had their voices heard. People forget that small towns exist, too, and that we have real issues going on.”
Moser was elected into the Governor position with Harrison as the Lieutenant Governor. They were sworn in Thursday during the inauguration with floor seven cheering them on.
Floor Seven of Neel County was named after the current president Donald Trump. The theme of the floor was cacti, where citizens banded behind the saying, “We stick together.” Upon arrival, city members were greeted with personalized water bottles on their bunks specially made by Senior Counselor Tina Woodside.
“This was the first floor I’ve had where everyone clicked quickly. It usually takes a couple of days for the girls to get acquainted,” Woodside said. They later met the Middle Counselor Taylor Schendt and Junior Counselor Cora Voskamp who brought enough popcorn for the entire city to enjoy.
They made their way to their first assembly chanting “T-R-U-M-P, we’re the floor you want to be.” Citizens took part in afternoon activities of chorus, band, media or service learning. The city of Trump enjoyed their bonding game of “Two Truths and One Lie” that included talk about ACT scores, fake teeth and farm animals. Sara Lightheart, an Omaha native, said that she had no idea there were more than two types of cows in Nebraska.
Monday afternoon, the Federalist and Nationalist parties held their separate meetings. Lightheart was appointed to the Nationalist Vice Chairperson position.
“Girls are ecstatic to be here. High schoolers aren’t nearly as passionate about other summer programs,” Lightheart said. “Everyone is here to participate and put their best foot forward.” Claire Harrison from Naponee was also elected to be the Nationalist Secretary/Treasurer. The parties debated items such as the environment, livestock management and veteran assistance.
Alyssa Moser of Clearwater ran for state Governor, where she won the Nationalist vote and represented them in the general election.
“Originally, I wasn’t going to even run for Governor, but the girls gave me the last push,” Moser said. “I decided that I’d regret it if I didn’t try.”
Farm-raised Moser participated in the Gubernatorial Debate where she was able to convey her passion and knowledge for agriculture.
“I wanted to make sure rural citizens had their voices heard. People forget that small towns exist, too, and that we have real issues going on.”
Moser was elected into the Governor position with Harrison as the Lieutenant Governor. They were sworn in Thursday during the inauguration with floor seven cheering them on.
Floor 6 Obama profile by Emily Stevenson
In fitting accordance with its outer space theme, the sixth floor, City of Obama, was truly out of this world. Located in the County of Neel, citizens competed against each other for votes during a whirlwind of fast-paced whistle stop campaigns, and also enjoyed their time together as they organized nightly get-togethers, complete with streamers, music and, of course, lots of candy. During the week, citizens had the great opportunity to reside on the same floor and create lasting bonds with each other as they learned more about Nebraska Government. The city’s cheer clearly showed their pride for the floor as they chanted, “Don’t you wish you were floor six? Floor 6, the coolest chicks.” With its overall fun-loving spirit and creative energy, the City of Obama was brimming with citizens ready to dance their way past any challenge headed their way.
During the fast paced week, citizens were guided along their way by their friendly counselors, who helped make floor six a comfortable space for everyone arriving on Sunday. Each floor received three counselors of different degrees. On floor six, senior counselor Elizabeth Paes was designated by the citizens as their Floor Mom, who participated in learning new dance moves to help pump up the floor before sessions. Along with Paes, Middle Counselor Kirsten Wagner answered all questions about ballots and campaigning. Her bubbly attitude and dedication to helping floor six fully understand how voting works did not go unnoticed by the members of Obama. Finally, Junior Counselor Gracie Williams experienced her first year as a counselor of Girls State. Williams attended Girls State as a citizen in 2017, and recounted her time there as one that would stay with her forever.
“The biggest reward is knowing I’m here volunteering, and some girls will walk away with Girls State being the best week of their life,” said Williams, who brought energy and new cheers to the table.
With the help of their counselors, delegates began to debate what office to file for. During city campaigning, citizens of Obama experienced their first whistle stop campaign. Different tactics sprung from creative ideas that soon bombarded Obama as flyers and sticky notes were stuck to doors and bulletin boards for delegates to view. Many candidates went door to door, greeting their fellow Girls State citizens with a catchy slogan and sometimes candy.
“It was so cool to see the all the creativeness and a great time to meet new people on your floor,” Madison Gerken said of her time campaigning. Yet none of the whistle stop campaigning was complete without floor six’s signature dance party that took place in the lounge area. All who walked through during their campaign were welcome to join in on the singing and busting of moves that was guaranteed to be going on.
Other elected citizens of Obama included School Board members Megan Ernest, Madeline Boothe, Helen Willard and Madison Woodring. The Senators were Trinity Bohaty, Macy Howe, Mackenna Peterson, Dannielle Schutz, Claire VanLaningham and Reilly Young. City Council members were Sophie Clark, Lydia Dose, Madison Gerken, Emily Lewin and Skyler Swanson. The new mayor of Obama was Aspyn Harrison.
With the newly elected in place, the city of Obama set to work. During their town meeting, Mayor Harrison posed a problem debating renewing the sales tax on the city. Citizens debated their options as they voiced their opinions in an orderly and respectful fashion. Towards the end of the meeting, the votes were split for the last two options. In the end, Harrison had the final say as she went with the majority vote, who overruled the opposing side by a mere two votes.
“It was tough to decide what was more important: money or giving back to the community,” said Harrison of her decision.
On Monday, Girls State received the opportunity to visit and tour the capitol, an experience many who had visited before had taken for granted.
“The floor is made of 25,000 tiles, which is pretty cool,” said Katie Kopetzky of Stromsburg, who traveled to the capital for the first time on Monday. These types of experiences were continuously discovered as citizens began to better grasp their understanding of politics. As the week progressed, citizens were exposed to speakers when they attended sessions and created platforms for their parties to further their knowledge of politics. This type of knowledge fueled a go-get it attitude, which inspired some citizens to run for county and state positions.
“I thought I could do more than a city position, but a state position would have been a lot of commitment and responsibility, so a county position is the perfect middle,” said Maggie Kramer of Omaha, who ran for County Public Defender.
Overall, floor six had a busy week, which was filled with competitive, enthusiastic and talented citizens who worked hard to campaign for themselves and support their fellow peers. This type of behavior is sure to continue as the citizens of the City of Obama leave Girls State and carry their enthusiasm and dance moves into the rest of their lives.
Floor 5 Clinton profile by Madison Hurst
Opening the door to floor five, one could find a variety of scenes. There may be music playing, conversations among citizens about numerous topics, or even brainstorms of cheers for session events. Many of the citizens may not have known each other before the week, but that changed within the first day.
With the theme of the floor being “busy bees,” the citizens began the activities of their week in Lincoln. During the first day, Senior Counselor Haley King had the girls of floor five participate in an icebreaker activity. This activity included saying names, where they were from, and one item they could not leave home without. It was a way to get to know a little bit about one another at the beginning of the week.
The citizens of Clinton came from many parts of the state, but as connections were being made, the City grew closer. Although the floor as a whole had a united feel about it, there were several citizens who were enthusiastic about making a name for themselves.
Citizens running for a City office had the chance to participate in the week’s first whistle stop campaigns. Running from door to door, citizens had materials including anything from posters with rhyming slogans to bags of candy. Nerves may have been running high, but girls were able to put themselves out of comfort zones to get people to remember their name.
Kealy Fischer arrived at Girls State hopeful to run for Governor. Her main area of concern for her campaign would be to focus on the issues that the state has pushed aside for too long. For campaigning, she brought a tablecloth with American flags around the border to hang on her door. When it came time to campaign for primaries, Fischer decided to wear the tablecloth as a cape, drawing attention as she walked hallways. Although Fischer did not make the general election, she took the experience to be a learning opportunity.
Mildred Young went to the first Nationalist party meeting with the hope of being nominated for Chairman. Young was the first nomination for the position at the start of the meeting and won out of three total candidates. When Kristi Nohavec turned the meeting over, Young led discussions that outlined the party platforms.
Many citizens on floor five were able to make new connections in one way or another. Whether it was talking to a roommate about life in their hometown or what they expected from Girls State, they were able to make new contacts. The citizens of Clinton made their own paths during the week with the support of all counselors and volunteers.
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