2012 Sine Die Montana Youth Legislature

Live broadcast of final day at the 2012 Montana Youth Legislature


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2012 Youth Legislature Governor's Ball

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2012-04-18

2013 Montana Youth Legislature Elected Offices

• Governor and Lieutenant Governor - Charlie Mogan and Jack Gallaher
• President of the Senate - Forrest Reinhart
• Speaker of the House - Natalia Boise Chief Justice - Josh Harris
• Secretary of State - Rose Cote Lobbyist of the Year - Anna Claypool
• Representative of the Year - Riley McNabb
• Senator of the Year - Austin Finch Attorney
• Team of the Year - Blake/Casagrande Your new Chief Justice, Josh Harris

Congratulations and good luck in 2013!

The Justice System

By Mikal Overturf

Students over at the justice building have been hard at work appealing some interesting cases. One case, titled Beartooth County School District vs. Phil Theerich, Mitch Theerich, and Kitch Theerich involves twins breaking into their father’s home, stealing firearms, and using them to shoot the shape of a swastika onto the wall of the school’s gym. The School is appealing for Phil Theerich to have to pay damages, even though his wife already did. He was not in custody of the children at the time, although they were living with him. The appellant argument involves the terms of the custody agreement as well as investigation into punitive laws.

          The second case is the state of Montana vs. Gail Gorgeous. Gorgeous and her boyfriend were pulled over for a broken license plate light. The officer found marijuana on her person after she made a suspicious hand gesture and she was placed under arrest. The officer then searched her purse and discovered methamphetamines. Gorgeous is appealing the decision on the basis of the officer’s rights during the initial traffic stop as well as the inevitability of the meth discovery.

          The first day, the students argued on behalf of the case they had prepared beforehand. The second, they had to switch and argue the opposing side. The Court advisor, Lindsey Bambich said that the program was, “very realistic, the students spent a lot of time on their arguments and it helps them gain a good sense of the law.” She said that the cases were based on actual appeals in the Montana Supreme Court. The students were given actual cases to back up their arguments, and must use real Montana law. “The students put in a lot of effort for these cases and it is a good way to better your public speaking.

          The Showcase rounds occur today. Three actual Supreme Court Justices read the briefs made by the record 18 teams and voted on two teams (appellants and respondents) for each case. They will hear the cases today and make the final decision on the oral arguments.  

Next Live Broadcast

Next live broadcast will be 12:45 pm, Wed, April 18, 2012

Candidates

Natalia Boise

By Makaylin Randall

Natalia Boise is a funny, charismatic candidate for the speaker of the house. She has been doing this program since she was a freshman starting as a page and working her way up to the Secretary of the Senate. Natalia is a member of the Rhinoceros Party of Canada.  Her hobbies include acting, singing, soccer, knitting beards, drawing, cooking, and looking nice. Natalia comes to Youth Legislator she wants to make friends and have a good time. When asked what makes her a good candidate for Speaker of the House she responded, “Everyone’s a good candidate, it depends on how much they want to put into it. I will put a lot in because I have fun and I want everyone to”.  She has a unique humor and is slightly out of her mind. But then again, who isn’t?

Gabe Chilson

by Taran Zuelke and Taylor Jones

Gabe Chilson is making a bid for Governor alongside his running mate Boyd Jenne. They are known by many here at the program as rambunctious and entertaining, in fact the two are even considering a possible acting career (after the elections of course). Gabe hopes to, if elected, make Youth in Government more fun than it already is. He says he wants to “get everyone involved and make it enjoyable, but also have a serious atmosphere.” If you’re looking for excitement tonight at the banquet then prepare yourself for Gabe and Boyd’s speech. When asked about the scandal today in the senate (see page 3) Gabe said that the Senate trying to impeach Governor Monty Cole would be a bad idea. It’s funny, but he says we don’t know how to impeach someone and would have to learn more about the process to execute it correctly. The only let down Gabe has had this year at Youth in Government is the small number of individuals running in the election. Both Gabe and Boyd hope for your vote tonight at the banquet.

Forrest Reinhart

By Anna Reid

Forrest Reinhart is the Democratic candidate in the race for President of the Senate. After attending Youth in Government for three years, Forrest feels that he has gained experience in all areas of the government, from the House and Senate to the Justice Program.  If he were to be elected, Forrest says that he would make sure that everyone gets a chance to speak.  He knows how to do a wide range of accents, anywhere from Sean Connery to Gollum, which he could easily use to make the Senate more fun.  He is familiar with Parlimentary Procedure after doing Speech for three years, and he has also been a committee chair for the House.

Logan Schulke

By Makaylin Randall and William Westfall

Logan Schuelke is a hopeful for the President of the Senate. He is a member of the Super Dance Party Party. A junior at Butte High Logan has been involved in Youth in Government for three years now always working in the Senate. He says that he has loved the Senate since he started in this program his freshman year. Logan has practiced Parliamentary Procedure for three years along with speech and debate and lead charity clubs. In his spare time Logan likes to fence and practice the trumpet, piano, saxophone, and baritone.

Rose Cote

By Anna Reid

Although Rose Cote is the only candidate for Secretary of State, she stresses that she will do the best job that she can with her job when she is elected. In her candidate speech, she discussed her organization skills and her level of enthusiasm of being Secretary of State.  She wants to inform voters that even though she is the only candidate she is still qualified and “highly organized”.

Senate Floor Debacle

by Nile Gannon

Today a crisis landed on the governor’s desk.  IOCP’s (Indoor and Outdoor Custodial Professionals) launched a statewide rebellion that included urinating in water supplies, toxic waste being dumped in the streets, corruption of judges, taking school children hostage, and disrupting interstate highway travel.  The strangest detail of the rebellion is the ad hoc weapons that the IOCP army has devised, mops fashioned with wolverine claws and bayonets. Even the President of the United States supported temporal bills to address this matter. Governor Monte Cole took immediate and necessary actions by recruiting Senate.  The Senate had less than twenty bills to work on, and there was a lot of hullabaloo about several house bills that somehow made it on the docket.  Monte Cole requested a hearing by the Senate to suggest they deal with the matter in committee by devising laws to handle the IOCP rebellion.

            To enter the Senate, the Governor must be invited by a majority vote.  The Senate denied entrance to the governor on grounds that the emergency was scantly supported.  Unknown to the Governor, they had procured an extra bill to work on. Uprising headed off by Senator Gabe Chilson, who is also running for Governor with Boyd Jenne, persuaded the Senate to deny admittance and suggested impeachment. Chilson continued to interrupt the President of the Senate, Noelani Boise, after her repeated attempts to bring order to the assembly.  After nearly twenty minutes of indecision and debate, the Senate adjourned and Chilson was available for comment.  Calls to impeachment were heard after the governor was finally admitted.  The governor sustained shouting from the right for his ‘behavior.’  Cole stated that impeachment was a long and difficult process that should not be undertaken by the Senate.

            “Slowly the cabinet has become corrupt.  I received a threat from Cabinet member Seamons about a bill that I failed in committee.” The bill in question was bill 210, better known as the Bathroom Bill, or Desegregated bathrooms. In a following interview Seamons denied the note.  The press would also like to point out the unreliability of the page system. Chilson pointed out that evidence in the case had disappeared. The note from Obama was not shown to the Senate and the Governor claimed it was lost.  Chilson also mentioned the ongoing consipriacy of Pam, the Pamelo, as evidence of corruption. 

            President of the Senate, Noelani Boise’s only commented that Chilson’s behavior was unnecessary. 

            In after an interview about his primary win, Chilson stated that impeachment actions against the governor were being retracted by him and his supporters. 

            Once the Senate reconvened, the majority allowed Governor Monte Cole to speak.  Chilson issued an apology to Governor Cole.  On advice by the governor, the senate broke into committee to deal with the crisis situation.

            Chilson and Jenne remain in the gubernatorial race. 

Editorials

Bill 419

By Jordyn Raffety, Lobbyist

I want to tell you about Hathaway House bill 419, addressing the current issue with horse slaughter. This is not a joke bill! The organization PETA helped outlaw horse slaughter several years ago, claiming that using horses, as a meat source is cruel and unethical. It was banned in the U.S. This bill has been detrimental to the horse industry and horse market. People now have no way to get rid of old, injured, and crippled horses they cannot afford to keep alive. Cases have been recorded of people cutting brands off their horses so they cannot be traced back, and turning them loose on the Bureau of Land Management to starve because they have no other way to get rid of them.

            Instead of being slaughtered in clean, humane, and heavily regulated USA plants, these unwanted horses are now crammed onto trucks and shipped hundreds of miles to Mexico or Canada, where horse slaughter plants are less humane, and more traumatizing for the horses. Keep in mind that associations centered around horses-such as the American Quarter Horse Association and the American Veterinarian Medical Association–are in favor of the horse slaughter bill. Even PETA (one of the main advocates to eliminate horse slaughter) is now working to bring it back.

            I sincerely hope that this has helped you consider a different outlook in horse slaughter. I encourage you to support HH Bill 419.

Bill 130

By  Kacie McKeon

Bill #130, entitled “REQUIRE THAT SEAT BELTS BE INSTALLED IN ALL MOTORCYCLES IN MONTANA”, says that seatbelts on motorcycles are a good idea. Other than being a form of transportation, cars and motorcycles are very different as far as structure and safety goes. Cars are built based on the “cage” structure for safety purposes. When in a wreck the safest place is fastened in a seatbelt to prevent being flung onto the road but this is not the same with a motorcycle. If a person were fastened on to a bike that is about to wreck their natural instincts would be to get off that bike before it crashes. The end result if that person remained on the bike would be much worse than if they jumped off before the collision. Most people in bike accidents are injured from being pinned under the bike. If there were seatbelts this would be the result of every wreck. When a motorcycle is about to wreck the safest place would be OFF the motorcycle.

Bill 210

By Anna  Claypool, Lobbyist

I am writing to you as a lobbyist who is concerned about bill number 210 entitled “certain things should NOT be sold in certain sizes.”  After reviewing this bill I found many problems and issues that could arise upon passage of this bill. The first big problem with this bill is that I personally cannot see how this bill could possibly be enforced. It violates the right all Americans have to freely express themselves. So, therefore, there is no way this bill, as a law, will be successful.

Controversial Bill # 125   By Carlee Norbeck

Senate bill number 125 is entitled “MONTANA HANGOVER DAY” which entitles that after every Super Bowl the following Monday is considered a state holiday. It also states that every nonemergency employees have the day off, but emergency employees need to remain on call in case someone is need of help. This bill may cause serious debate because those employees that need to remain on call may see it as unfair and feel if they have to go to work everyone should have to. Many minors see this as a great day because it is one more day off from going to that place we all dread known as school. It may have troubles passing because Sunday is the last day of the weekend and therefore there is two more days prior to this event to get all the fun in for the weekend.

Capital Conspiracy

By Detectives Nile Gannon and John Bennett

As we walked into the capital this morning, we were approached by the Secretary of State.  He was panting and had a look of distress… his sack of goodies had been stolen!  Immediately we began questioning the flustered official.  Last night, the honorable John Barlow left a grocery bag containing a loaf of whole wheat sugar free bread, a new tub of humus and a single banana, from his supposedly secure office.  We couldn’t help but wonder, if his office wasn’t secure against food thieves, then how were the valuable bills safe?  John Barlow adamantly defended that under his watch the bills were safe.  He values the groceries at $11.25.

            As investigative reporters, we turned to one of Secretary Barlow’s closest confidants, Governor Monte Cole.  But the Governor had troubles of his own.  “Pam” the Governor’s pamelo had also been snatched in the night.  In an official press release, the cabinet as a whole stated “Pam was very dear to us.  Her abduction from the windowsill was a complete surprise, and we are very concerned about her safety.  She was a very good smelling fruit, and was the symbol of our executive office.”  Monte Cole also expressed possible connection to Barlow’s missing sack.  The case was turning into a conspiracy.

            Next we arrived at back at Barlow’s office to fill him in on how the case was unraveling.  He was shocked to learn about Pam, the pamelo, he too had been very fond of her.  Back at the Governors office, new light had been shed.  A note, written in pink pen, containing a ransom for Pam was received by the Cabinet, “If you ever want to see Pam again, you must walk around sockless all day, or she will be eaten by 3:00.”  Governor Cole refused to go sockless and was pressured by the Cabinet to do so and regain the errant Pam.

            After hours of research, interrogation, and complications from the Senate, we were lead off the Senate Floor and to committee rooms.  Down in room 137A we spotted the fruit!  The members of Senate Committee on Business and Taxation, had walked in on a pamelo at a spot previously occupied by Sean Downey.  Wisely, committee members called the press and waited outside the room until the suspect, Sean Downey, was found and brought to the committee room.  Sean denied involvement and picked up the pamelo.  A look of indecision crossed his face.  He was annoyed and approached the window and attempted to open it.  He stated his intent was to throw the pamelo out the window.  He could not budge the window and decided to give the pamelo to the press to escort to governor Monte Cole.  “She still smells wonderful” Monte sobbed as he held his pamelo in his arms.  The case for Pam had been solved, but what of Barlow’s groceries?

            When the Senate reconvened, an anonymous tip came to the press concerning Downey.  Downey was in possession of an unclaimed grocery bag, containing staples not unlike John Barlow’s.  We took John Barlow to the Senate floor to find his grocery bag next to Sean Downey’s seat.  Sean said that it was formerly in his seat.  He denied knowledge or possession of such items.

            We thought the case was closed and we went to celebrate with the Governor and Secretary of State.  But, new facts kept pouring in.  Governor’s Cabinet member Emily Seamons received a note about the pamelo scandal.  “You’re not holding the real Pam.  Bring your grapefruit to lunch & we’ll give you Pam.  Otherwise, She rots.”  the not was signed “-- not Sean”, but this time, the not was written in blue pen.  Seamons also recognized the handwriting as Sean’s.  The Cabinet disregarded the note’s bluff.  They knew Pam well enough to know that they had the real one.

            Later we were alerted that Pam was again reported missing in the Cabinet office.  This was found to be a sick joke by Paris Hilton lobbyists Hope and Jenna who hid her in one of their purses.  The Capital Conspiracy had been solved.  Pam was eaten by the Governor and his Cabinet at 2:05 PM this afternoon...

Montana Youth Legislature Social Media and link to MPR interview

Blog

http://montanaymcayouthandgovernment.blogspot.com/

Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/MontanaYmcaYouthAndGovernment

Twitter

https://twitter.com/#!/mtyouthandgov

UStream

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/montana-youth-and-government

Google Docs

http://goo.gl/2U4cv

Podcast of 2012 Montana Public Radio Interview of 2012 Youth Legislature. Will be live broadcast at 5:30 pm, Wed, April 18, 2012

http://www.mtpr.net/podcast_list.php http://www.kufm.org/

Live broadcast at 1 PM MDST

Live broadcast at 1 pm MDST.
Watch at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/montana-youth-and-government
Broadcasts of previous recordings can be viewed there as well.

Single Ads

Will K

Will is a single man looking for some love! He claims to be a former child star from the TV show Barney and Friends (Capital Times cannot confirm the validity of that statement).  When asked what his best trait was, Will said that it was the fact that he has adopted 13 orphans and also the fact that he has a rather large house. The ideal woman for Will would be one who is a good cook, and especially good at making sandwiches, as well as a good housekeeper, and “childbearing”. When pressed by reporters to reveal his sexiest talent, Will bashfully revealed that he can fit 16 marshmallows into his mouth. What a catch!

Boyd J

Boyd is a Supreme Court Justice who is “single and ready to tingle”. The traits which make Boyd the best bachelor around are his athletic ability, his stunning good looks, and his great charm. Hopefully that charm will help him is his bid this year as Lieutenant Governor.  Boyd’s ideal woman would be a great housekeeper. She would also be an excellent mother to his 27 children, and “decent looking at best”. As we can all see, he is quite a catch. Boyd says his ideal first date would be underwater basket weaving. Look out Ladies!

Josh H

When asked what his best traits were, the usually eloquent Josh had to pause for a moment. “There are just so many…..” he said thoughtfully. However he eventually decided that his ability to hunt and kill Sasquatches was definitely what made him a keeper. His seven senses also make him unique and desirable. Not only does Josh have the standard five senses, he also has a spider sense and can “see dead people”. The single sexiest thing about Josh though is not his supernatural senses, nor his ability to hunt mythical beasts, but his skills in making a mean bratwurst.  Josh is looking for a lady who is a good listener, neat, and not annoying.  If you were lucky enough to score a date with Josh, he says that he would most likely take the lucky lady to hunt Sasquatch in the Swiss Alps. After interviewing Josh, this reporter can only marvel at the fact that he is still single.

Gabe C

Gabe prefers to think of himself as smart, handsome, and knows how to have a good time. His ideal lady would be attractive, smart, funny. Gabe is currently campaigning, alongside Boyd Jenne, to be Governor and he says that his ideal lady would vote for him.  Gabe’s idea of a perfect first date would be watching a sunset on the roof of a Jeep.  Gabe would also like to let the ladies know that he is “very confident and opinionated, yet open minded.”

Horoscopes

By Brynne Kambich and Kacie McKeon

Aries (March 21-April 20)- You are bound to have good luck sometime soon. It is encouraged that you eat your lucky charms in the morning and wear your lucky underwear everyday…. Yes you will have good things happen to you.

Taurus (April 21- May 21)- Your love life will be kickin’! Your phone will be blowing up with text messages from potential love interests and your will receive an impressive number of friend requests on Facebook…. This is what love in our generation has come to. Words of advice, don’t be a heartbreaker.

Gemini (May 22-June 21)- You are lost in a social networking world. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are consuming your life. They act as a veil over the reality of your life. Try talking to people face to face and appreciate the people around you.

Cancer (June 22-July 22)- Your lucky color is purple. This is the color of power, royalty, and, of course, JUSTIN BIEBER! If it’s worked for him it’s got to work for you! Try singing somewhere else other than in the shower. Unless your terrible… stick with the shower tunes. Please.

Leo (July 23-August 23)- The stars are leaving your destiny up to chance. There is no guarantee of good luck or bad luck. I suggest carrying around a double-sided coin incase you need to make some of your own luck. If not, well, “may the odds be EVER in your favor”.

Virgo (August 24-September 22)- You are feeling rather annoyed this month. You noticed you are starting to dislike people and the tiniest thing a person does sets you off. You’re a teenager; this is expected to happen. High school is not for the emotionally stable. Try standing on your head and saying “goosfraba” 3 times to chillax. If you can’t balance on your head, sorry you’re out of luck.

Libra (September 23- October 23)- You enjoy attention but never stoop to the level of seeking attention on Facebook. Do NOT post any “LMS” (Like My Status), Truth is, mirror pics, “TBH” (To Be Honest), or “Remember when” statuses. I know it is difficult but don’t do it! You will have very bad luck!

Scorpio (October 24- November 22)- For all of those people who the stars are down on, you are to be their pick-me-up! Try to be optimistic and have a good attitude at all times. If that is too difficult at least suggest some good music to brighten those peoples moods.

Sagittarius (November 23- December 21)- Your humor is on your side this month along with the stars. Your ability to make people laugh brings joy to others but don’t go out of your way to be funny. In other words you’re not funny when you try to be. Keep it simple. Keep it fresh.

Capricorn (December 22- January 19)- You have always done average but you are meant to be great!! This is the month where the stars are truly in favor of you. They are going to help you get motivated and give you that extra “mmmph” to get the ball of success rolling! You can reach your dream! It is not too far out of reach now.

Aquarius (January 20- February 18)- You are very conserved and shy. This is your chance to be daring and stroll down the risky path of life. Well it might not be much a stroll but probably a sprint. Take some risks. Do things you normally wouldn’t but don’t be stupid be responsible. Just go out of your comfort zone a little bit! YOLO

Pisces (February 19- March 20)- You have mixed feelings not only about Youth Leg but also other things going on in your life. Try to have an open mind and accept the changes going on in your life.

'Ello Guvnor!

 by: Taylor Jones, Taran Zuelke, Marissa Streib, and Mikal Overturf

To get a feel of what it is like to be the Youth Governor, we sat down with Monte Cole to ask him a few questions.

Q: What inspired you to run for Youth Governor?

A: The challenge to see if I could do it. I feel a lot of what happens during the program is based on the Governor’s efforts and how everyone works together.

Q: What do you enjoy about being Youth Governor?

A: The office is very nice, and you are fairly free. You can choose where you want to apply efforts to improve the program.

Q: Are there any hard parts about being Youth Governor and what are they?

A: You have to make all of the meetings and you have to judge between the House, Senate, and Supreme Court.

Q: How is this year’s program different from last years?

A: Our school delegation from Livingston is much more determined this year to make a good impression and a change.

Q: What are you most excited about this year?

A: Being another year older and being more confident. I am more experienced this year in knowing names of people and not just faces. I also want there to be good music at the dance. Disco Pogo must be played!!!

Q: Do you have any advice for future candidates hoping to run for office?

A: Know that to be elected, you need a sense of humor, but you also have to be determined to make the program run smoothly and efficiently.

Q. There were a few more controversial bills this year including gay marriage bills, what is your stance on that?

 A. I believe that gay couples are equal and they should be allowed to marry.

Q: Do you have any advice for future candidates hoping to run for office?

A: Know that to be elected, you need a sense of humor, but you also have to be determined to make the program run smoothly and efficiently.

Issue 2 or the 2012 Youth Legislature is Online

You can read it by following this link.

Y Night

Last night the Helena YMCA was rocked by the members of our youth legislature. It was a fun fi led night featuring lots of treadmills, a very uncoordinated basketball game and a game of outdoors soccer. While many people participated in the activities of the night some teens decided to just hang out and enjoy the time they had away from the barracks during their stay in Helena.
If you weren’t hanging out however, you were at risk of a major collision with a fellow youth. Some of the major biffs of the night included a basketball takedown where one player jumped into the air and somehow managed to land upside down on top of another, crashing them both to the ground. Another bruise came when during the outside soccer game, Eric Vonn’s penalty kick struck Edward Johnson from only four feet away (that had to hurt). So the Y-Night was a good time to be had by all, which is good cause now we are all back to work here in the capitol for the next two days and with the release of Y-night in mind hopefully it will be more fun then work.

2011 Sine Die

Another year is in the books. For the final Joint Session, Governor Brian Schweitzer addressed the Montana Youth Legislature with a message to get out and see the world and fix our addiction to oil.


Video streaming by Ustream
Photos from the final day.

Montana Youth and Government 2011-05-11 Noon

2012 Primary Candidates

Speaker of the House

Natalia Boise    by Anna Reid

Natalia, who is from Livingston’s Park High, is running for Speaker of the House; she is also a proud member of the Rhinoceros Party of Canada. Natalia says that she would make a good Speaker of the House because she is organized, extremely dedicated to the Youth Legislature Program, and can speak well in public. She is a junior who has attended Youth in Government for all three years of her high school career. When asked to describe her personality Natalia said that she is “unique, funny, and confident”. A reason to vote for Natalia as your next Speaker of the House is because she is “a legitimate candidate who is extremely dedicated to Youth in Government”. If elected, Natalia says that she will not only make Youth in Government fun, but also make sure that everyone in the House gets a chance to express their views on legislation, instead of only a few people being able to speak.

 Greer Wagner

By Laura Brown

Greer Wagner is running for Speaker of the House and feels confident about her current stance in her campaign. I asked a few questions to try to get a better understanding of her reasons for running and this is what she said.

Q. What is your political affiliation?

GW. The Paris Hilton Party with Sean Downey.

Q. What is the founding principle of your party?

GW. The founding principle is to make sure to use everyone’s ideas and merge them together. We don’t want two distinct parties; we want to have equality in the Government. Everyone says what they want to say then we merge the ideas together so it’s good for everyone.

Q. What makes you a good candidate for Secretary of State?

GW. I have done speech and debate for two years. I am organized, yet not overbearing or bossy. The purpose of Youth in Government is to give people a better understanding of the Government and how is works and I believe that I can help with that. I believe that I do a great job putting everyone’s ideas together so that there is equality in the party.

Q. Describe your personality in three words.

GW. Confident, cool, and collected.

Q. Is there anything else you would like to say?

GW. I encourage everyone to vote for me because there is a lot of pressure being Secretary of State and I can handle stress in a cool collected fashion. I wish the best of luck to my opponent (Natalia Boise).

President of the Senate

 Forrest Reinhart      by Anna Reid

Forrest Reinhart, a “spunky” junior from Gardiner, is seeking your vote for President of the Senate.  He is running as an Independent in hopes to appeal to a wide range of voters. Forrest has been in the Youth in Government program for three years. The fact that Forrest is experienced, as well as his abilities to communicate effectively makes him the perfect candidate for President of the Senate. He wants to make sure that the Senate is not only productive, but also fun for everyone. Forrest describes himself as occasionally spontaneous and says that he loves dogs. As a bonus, Forrest has also been officially endorsed by the Chief Justice, Rose Cote, as well as the Editor of the Newspaper, Anna Reid.  If he were elected, Forrest said that his main goal would be to make sure that everyone’s bill gets a chance to be heard and voted on in the Senate, because “more often than not many bills do not even make it to the House or Senate floor”. When asked to give a message to potential voters Forrest said “Vote for me. Pretty Please.”

Logan Schuelke  by Haley McClure

Logan Schuelke, a junior from Butte High, is running for President of the Senate. He wants to encourage people to vote without party guidelines. Also, he wants to have the Youth Legislature program be fun while serious. Logan’s wise and uplifting quote came from the words of Dwight S. “Whenever I’m about to do something, I ask myself if an idiot would do this, if the answer is yes than I don’t do it.” Logan represents the Super Dance Party Party. The parties’ views are pro-awesome/pro-Canadian.

Chief Justice

Austin Dreyer    by Haley McClure

Austin Dryer from Gardiner High School is running for the position of Chief Justice, he is from the rhinoceros party. He has high hopes for the program and is very enthusiastic about the positive changes he could make. As an elected official he hopes to turn around the Justice program by spreading more awareness, and eliminating a large amount of confusion.  His goal is to outline the jobs of the attorneys and justices, before the conference. Also, he wants the attorneys to be able to know what their arguments and opponents before hand so there is less confusion. He is excited about what the Justice program could be. His uplifting quote of the day is “ giving money and power to the government is like giving whiskey and car keys to teenage boys.”

Josh Harris   by Anna Reid

Josh, a Republican from Dillon, is running for the position of Chief Justice. He has had two years of experience in the Court Program, and says that has helped him learn how to “get things done” in the Justice Building. Josh likes the Court Program for its organization and balance. He described his own personality as “quiet”, although there are those who would strongly disagree with that statement.  If you are looking to vote for a nice guy, with experience in the Justice Building, and an open mind for their next Chief Justice, then Josh is the one for you. Upon his election, Josh says that he will recruit more Justices and Attorneys in the court program next year, and make the program much “friendlier”.

Secretary of State

Rose Cote    by Laura Brown

Chief Justice Rose Cote has high hopes for this year’s Youth in Government. She states, “I am pumped to be Chief Justice. I really think everyone is going to have an excellent time here!” When asked about her running for Secretary of state she said, “I am organized and really excited to do a really good job!” I asked her about her political affiliation and she stated “Democrat” without any hesitation. Three words she used to describe herself were: enjoyable, organized, and sexy. When asked if she had anything else to say to the YIG of 2012, she exclaimed, “I would like someone else to run (for Secretary of State) because it’s boring and because I’m qualified enough to win anyway.” All the best to you Rose Cote!

Governor & Lt. Governor

Gabe Chilson and Boyd Jenne    by Haley McClure

Together this dynamic duo is running for Governor and Lieutenant Governor. Gabe, from the Republican Party, who is running for Governor said, “It’s hard to find words to describe the passion I have for this program.” Together the two hope to bring a fun but serious and educational atmosphere to the program. Boyd, who is running for Lieutenant Governor, said “ I’m a veteran, but the program is still fun!” They hope to get more people involved with Youth Legislature by making it a fun, exciting, and welcoming atmosphere for every person.

Abigail Wheeler and Jace Kuntz     by Nile Gannon

Jace Kuntz and Abigail Wheeler- Governor and Lt. Governor

What delegation are you with?

Kuntz: Dillon.

Wheeler: Butte High.

How many years have you been in the program?

Wheeler: Second year.

Kuntz: Second year also.

Which year in school are you?

Wheeler: Junior.

Kuntz: Sophomore.

What political affiliation will you be running under?

Kuntz: We hope our campaign will not focus on a political party and more about our beliefs

Where would you place your political beliefs?

Kuntz: Conservative.

Do you have comments on the deficit?

Kuntz: I believe the creation of jobs to be important to the economy, but we need to stop giving handouts to those that don’t have the need.

Wheeler: I agree.

Any other strong political beliefs?

Kuntz:  I feel the need for stronger support for agriculture.  One farmer feeds 150 people which is his responsibility.  I believe we need greater respect for our agricultural community.

Kuntz, how do you plan to get votes from your delegation when there is another Gov./Lt. Gov. team from Dillon?

Kuntz:  I hope our delegation realizes our leadership abilities and I hope to individually go talk to the delegation.  They know us but don’t know our campaign or what we are running for. 

What are some more general campaign strategies?

Kuntz: We would like to make everybody welcome.  I remember first year being frightening hanging out with the old pros that have done this a bunch.  Just provide a good overall experience.

As two attorneys, do you have the know how to run the entire program which consists primarily of the legislative branch?

Wheeler: We both have a lot of experience leading and leading under pressure.  I am in the State Swim board so have learned Parli Pro.  We also plan to be well organized.

Kuntz: I have connections with people in the actual senate.  I have lead a lot under pressure and leadership skills from FFA and 4-H where I have held top leadership positions. 

Jack Gallacher and Charlie Mogan     by John Bennett

Charlie, a junior from Livingston, is running for Governor.  His running mate Jack is a junior from Butte.  For both of them this is their second year in Youth Legislature, and they are ready to valiantly take on the campaigning challenge of Governor and Lt. Governor.      

When asked for three words that best described him, Charlie answered, “intelligent, hardworking, and goodlistener (one word).”  Charlie also stated, “I can fix the US’s problems and make youth Leg better.”  When asked if he felt being part of the Park High delegation would hurt his campaign, Charlie answered, “I hope not, this is a different year and we are a whole new delegation.”

Jack wants to strive to make Youth Leg productive, and to have a good time.  When asked about the three words to best describe him, Jack answered, “awesome, amazing, and humble.”  He believes that America is a land of equal opportunity, and hopes to keep it that way.

Both Charlie Mogen and Jack Gallagher are competitive about running, and expect their competition will be as well.  They believe they can run a respectful campaign, and keep mudslinging out of the picture.  Charlie and Jack make a great team for Governor and Lt. Governor, and would like your vote in the upcoming elections.

2012 Political Parties

The Democrats   by Taran Zuelke and Taylor Jones

During the Democratic Caucus, the nominees for Senate Majority leader and the Senate Whip were discussed. Hailey Duffin was the only nominee for the Majority leader, and Joshua Bigner was also the only nominee for the Senate Whip.

The House Majority leader nominees were Rhiana Peck and Katie Stephens. After the girls each gave a speech, Peck was voted as Majority Leader, while Stephens was given the position of the House Whip.

            The same process took place for the first year House and Senate members of the Democratic Party. The voting results were as follows: Bill Glick for the Senate Floor leader, Amy Heartman for the Senate Whip, Sophie Hewey for the House Floor leader, and Wyatt Raich for the House Whip.

            Another topic that was discussed was the escort committee. For the Senate, Dallas Riley and Charlie Mogan were nominated. For the House, Daniel Smithgall and Mary McCarvel were nominated.

            The last topic that was discussed was the candidates for next year. Rose Cody, also the Chief Justice, ran for the Secretary of State. Charlie Logan ran for the Governor, and Jack Gallagher ran for Lt. Governor. Two candidates are running for the Speaker of the House, which are Greer Wagner and Natalia Boise.

The Super Dance Party  by Carlee Norbeck and Angela Piazzola

The SDP is run by Logan Shouelke, its house leader is Noah Loomis and the Senate’s is Andie Palagi. The main goals deal with liberal issues, and will be more willing to work with the Democratic Party. Their main controversies deal with gay marriage and euthanasia which they are still for. Another major concern that they deal with is healthcare, which at first were undecided about but ended up being against the idea. As a party they want to limit government spending and isolate foreign policy. They came to a conclusion that they wish to legalize marijuana. They are a fun party that is looking out for its people and want the country to be a better place. Take a look and get to know this party a little better so you can help better the country.

The Republicans   by Makaylin Randall

The Republican Caucus was filled with twists and turns. The beginning was spent voting on positions but soon shifted into a walk off to find the Governor’s escort. LMFAO’s, Sexy and I Know It fueled the walk off. The victors were picked to the sound of thunderous applause and laughter.  After that Bills were put up to the test including one about hunting sasquatch and another about MASA. It was said that sasquatch has been spotted more than ever lately. The MASA bill numbers 146 and 147 are trying to create a Montana Aeronautics and Space Administration, to mine asteroids. Neither was voted on at the time but they were discussed in depth.

The Rhinocerous Party of Canada  by John Bennett

                The Rhinoceros Party of Canada was created in 1963 in order to establish a party.  This year’s Floor Leader for the Rhinos is Kyle Lavender from PHS.  Their Whip for the year is Callum Gannon also from PHS.  The party believes in indecision, disagreement, and ultimately: complete political seriousness.

            The Rhino party is extremely for anything that promotes saving rhinos.  Floor Leader Kyle Lavender stated, “Human affairs are not a big issue… we care about rhinos.”  The party has unique views on some of the main political issues.  For example, they promote building taller schools to attain higher education, they are Pro Environment (especially the Serengeti), and when it comes to government spending they advised changing the US currency to bubble gun so that it could be inflated or deflated at will. 

            The Rhino Party is made up of lots rhinoceros loving people.  Sure, they have some unique ideas, like riding saddled rhinos to lower emissions from automobiles.  But in the end, they have the ability to accomplish whatever their hearts desire.