Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Results! 2014 Elected Office Winners

2014 Elected Office Winners

President of the Senate– Jay Bueter, Gardiner
Chief Justice– Blake Casagranda, Butte
Speaker of the House– Mitch Black, Butte
Secretary of State– Ethan Tatarka, Dillon
Governor/ Lt. Governer– Gabe Chilson, Dillon/ Miranda Bishop, Butte

Awards

FY Representative of the year– Wylie Demin
FY Senator of the Year– Jamie Anderson
Representative of the Year– Jonathan Sutton
Senator of the Year-Tie: Logan Shuelke and Chance Standish
Lobbyist of the Year– Sage Shoonen
Attorney Team of the Year-Tie: Helfrich/Bierle and Robison/Wheeler

Congratulations to all of the winners, and thank you to all of the candidates this year!

Issue 4 of The Legi Cricket Chronicle Is Out!

The final edition can be viewed in PDF format at https://docs.google.com/file/d/0Bxry5Y72ixB2NVk4VWpOUlV4dnc/edit?usp=sharing

2013 Youth and Government Photos

2013 Youth and Government Photos

Click here to see more photos.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

An Act To Legalize Dueling

By: Nichole Tyson
“It’s a time honored tradition to settle disputes” confidently states Senator Dan Peters, sponsor for the bill. This bill aims to usher in a new “golden age of chivalry”. Not only is it a way to effectively settle disputes it is a civil and humane way, in the sense that both duelists have to agree to the duel and to the terms of the duel. It is un-derstood that all forms of duel are accepted, including but not limited to Old Western, single shot trebuchet, hand to hand combat, and jousting. Events may be publicized and will be heavily regulated. All duels will have to be formally for review and ap-proved by a committee. Bill 129 was passed by the Senate on Monday.
Taylor Lane Miles City Lobbyist Against SB 405
Shawnee Swanson
Driving is a complex task that uses cognitive and physical responses, but as you get used to driving it becomes second nature, which is why some people are becoming more comfortable driving while doing other tasks. One of the most distracting devices is a cell phone. The decision to use your cell phone while driving, even hands free, is estimated to increase your chance of a crash by 400 to 500%. Using your cell phone while driving increas-es the chances of crashes in many ways.
There were 5175 crashes on Montana city streets in 2009, A 17 percent increase from the previous year. A cell phone or handheld device was contributing in 99 crash deaths while DUI was a contributing in only 63 deaths. Cell phone usage is one of the top causes of dis-tracted driving in the U.S. As shown, cellphone usage while driving is becoming more com-mon and needs to be controlled. By placing a ban on cell phone usage while driving will make driving on Montana roads safer.

American Freedom– A Tom Story

As this reporter sits in a frame of a basement window, the newly elected leader of the Libertarian Party frantically fiddles with a rack of coat hangers while wearing a tinfoil hat. His name is Tom Story, a man of mystery and secrecy. I have been searching for him for 2 hours just to arrange an interview. His life has been filled with turmoil and triumph: all the things that make a successful screenplay.
His childhood was spent primarily in military bases. However, his father, an independent film director, would help Story climb over the walls of barbed wire to run free in the hills for the afternoon. In the woodlands of southwestern Montana, he found himself.
While in the forest one day, he met former Senator Joe McCarthy, who gifted him a paperback copy of Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead. Since that day, he swore to up-hold the ideals of an American society free of all dependent parasites. Upon arriving at the Capitol, Story attended the Republican Caucus. The Republicans asked any non-GOP members to identify themselves. Story raised his hand, and was shunned from their midst. With no party and no hope, he wandered the halls of the Capital. In the basement, he stumbled upon a closet full of Libertarians. “They were pretty dope”, Story tells me. He spoke with them for hours, telling his tales and philosophies. By the time he left the closet, they had named him their party leader.
Libertarian Nick Johnson said of their new leader, “He’s amazing. He should rule the world someday.” Story promises to lead his new party to glory, and the re-illumination of the American Dream. George Washington would have tea with Story, and Thomas Payne actually fore-told his coming in an extended edition of Common Sense. He is the American Patriot.

Editorials

Layne Johnson
The bill legalizing prostitution sparked the most controversy in the committees. Many people found it to be ridiculous that such a vile business would be legalized. Many others, myself included, realized that the prostitution business is not going away and is best suited to be taxed and regulated. The regulation would help curb the spread of STD’s as well as protect those selling their bodies. Keeping prostitution illegal would not allow for tax income for the state or the safety of the prostitute. Although the de-bate got a little fiery, the outcome pleased many people. It was an excellent example of the processes our statesmen go through.

Jordan Smith
I have a major issue with bill number 128. This bill deals with the banning of assault trebuchets and trebuchets with extended magazines. This is the United States of Amer-ica; we should be allowed trebuchets of all varieties for recreational and potential mili-tary use. Most trebuchets can throw 80 pound objects over 1,000 feet. To me, that means I could probably kill a whole herd of deer at a long distance. The government should not be allowed to take that away from me. I also say potential military use, be-cause the United States has the potential to experience an EMP nuke. If this happens, all radio communication and electronically inclined weapons will be obsolete. In this scenario, the assault trebuchet would be perfect for protection. Do not ban assault trebuchets.

2013 Final Candidates for Elected Offices

Ethan Tatarka for Secretary of State
By: Shawnee Swanson

Ethan Tararka from Dillon is running for Secretary of State for next years delegation thinks he would represent the position well. He is very organized and that position requires tons of organization. His inspiration is Woodrow Wilson and his celebrity crush was no doubt Natalie Portman. He plans to show that he is the best for that position.
Better late than never.

Speaker of the House

Braden Fitzgerald, who recently won the primaries for Speaker of the House, is now running against the recently Communist-accused Mitch Black. The Livingston representative says that if he wins the position, he will strive to gear debate towards everyone, as opposed to extreme ends of the political parties. He also plans to engage people using incentive such as the candy that present Speaker of the House Natalia Boise is using for those who speak up during debate. “A little bribery never hurts”, he said during the 9:30 press conference.
When asked if he thought he is in for an easy win because of the few running candidates replied no, and that it is not the “quantity but the quality of the people who are running” that matters. He hopes that the House will pass legislation that will benefit the small businesses and agricultural workers of Montana next year. He thanks all those that voted for him in the primaries, and hopes to win the majority tonight!
-Noelani Boise

Mitch Black encourages you to vote for him tonight because he is a serious as ever. Even if he almost did get his first amendment rights taken away and almost couldn’t run, he is back and better than ever. He is feeling confident about to-night and is ready to go up and give his speech at the banquet. Even though he has no slogan as of now, he is trying to come up with a catchy slogan by the time of the banquet. He is not feeling intimidated by his opponent, because he doesn’t know that much about him, and they haven’t really talked. He thinks that this program runs well and there is not much that needs to be changed, but he still wants to make a difference. He thinks he will be well qualified for Speaker of the House because he thinks he can handle it all and is very excited for “being the ringmaster of the circus”. He would not be running if he was not serious, and even if he is funny, he takes this program very serious, and hope he is able to take over the position of Speaker of the House.

Governor and Lt. Governor

Gabe and Miranda
Looking spiffy, the victorious pair was interviewed and congratulated on making it through the primaries. They were both excited and pleased with their win, but were only content; be-cause they are bent on winning the final elections and intend on taking the title of Governor and Lieutenant Governor in tonight’s election. “We are in it to win it,” says Gabe, and Miranda agreed that the biggest competition has been eliminated. The vibe of being the underdogs in the election had reached the press and when asked about this they disagreed. “We are the fun team,” says Miranda. They both feel that they have a good chance of winning, and if not they are going to have fun with the competition. “If you believe in yourself, others will believe in you,” says Gabe with the confidence and poise of a leader.In other matters, Miranda’s favorite animal is tied between a cat and a panda bear, and Gabe’s favorite animal is the bald eagle.
-William Westfall

Jordan Smith and Layne Johnson
When asked why they are the best for the job they answered, “That are just like you and they can do the job and they have free suckers while supplies last. They believe that their best attributes are that they are men of the people, ap-proachable, and they understand the needs of everyone. They believe that they can keep everything classy and find the perfect balance between fun and seriousness. Both candidates are in their second year of Youth Legislature and are from Froid/ Med Lake delegation. They are glad the Communists got shut down and represent all parties equally except the Communists and would like to give a shout out to the Rhino Party of Canada. They are running as independents, so that they are not tied to any political parties so they can talk to whoever they want to, they would also like to throw in the term ELE (Everybody Love Everybody). They think that the page abuse should be kept to a minimum and they do support everything that a page does. Everybody should vote for them because they are from a small delegation and when you vote you should vote for the best in the business. Just remember that they are funny but encouraging.
-William Westfall

President of The Senate

Jay Bueter
Jay was all smiles when I interviewed him about his position as the future President of Senate. This young man hails from Gardiner, and is excit-ed for the final election. Even though he is running unopposed, he would much rather have an opponent who wants this position as much as he does. He has been a member of the Youth and Government senate for three years now and is very deserving, capable, and excited for being next years Presi-dent of Senate. Good luck next year and congratulations Jay!
William Westfall

Chief Justice Candidates

Erin Olivieri -Cute and blonde, Erin Olivieri looks sweet as can be, but she has a fire in her belly that can only be extinguished by the sweet sap of justice. Erin is running for chief justice and wants nothing more than to unite the attorneys and the house/senate members. “There is such a big gap between Legislature and judicial. I want nothing more than to unite them—plus, I’ll turn the air-conditioning on in the justice building.” Erin has spent one year as an attorney and one year as a house member, and she believes that if she is elected she can simultaneously be awesome and lovable. Erin is proud of herself for getting this far, but she is determined to do the best she can to win this election. Erin is happy being herself and doesn’t want to pretend to be something other than herself to win this election. She is content with who she is and is a genuine person.
-Jackie Ralph

Levin Mullaney is the perfect candidate for Chief Justice in the 2014 Montana Youth Legislature. In the 2012 session, Mullaney and his team won an award for the best brief in state. One key attribute of his is that he has a passion for and experi-ence in speech and debate. In his spare time, Levin enjoys swim-ming and building model rockets. Aside from his skills and inter-ests, Mullaney deserves the title Chief Justice because his “name rhymes with seven and eleven”.

Blake Casagrand

By: Nika Weinmeister
Does your opponent intimidate you?
Yes, greatly.
Do you plan in running again next year?
Yes, most likely.
Why did you decide to run for Chief Justice?
Erin Olivieri, Levin Mullaney and I all go to the same school so at first it was just a rivalry between the three of us but now its more about learning about the courts systems and understanding how they work. I thought about running for a spot in the senate, then I realized that being a second year attorney all my experience is in the Justice building, then the answer was obvious.
Comments on your case yesterday?
We won both! Definitely was nervous but I stayed on topic and straight to the point. My colleague got a 4/1 and I got a 3/2 it was a good experience for the both of us.

Issue 3 of The Legi Cricket Chronicle Is Out!

Read the pdf version at https://docs.google.com/file/d/0Bxry5Y72ixB2eHFDMmlmMmhYX2s/edit?usp=sharing

Communists on Trial

As most of you know, the Super Dance Party Party has recently changed its name to the Hammer and Sickle Party, and apparently some kids are unhappy about it. Calling themselves the “Joint Select Committee on Treason, Espionage, and Assassination,” many people summoned H&S key party members to appear before them in a mock trial. Then, after being sworn in on the Bible App on their smartphones (regardless of their religious affiliation), Daniel Peters, Mitch Black, Logan Schuelke, Noah Johnston, Jake Heard, and Erin Olivieri were accused of being communists and attempted kidnapping of the gov-ernor. The committee then went on to expel all of those who were not subpoenaed, except the press (thank goodness). The accused were then robbed of their right to council and their right to free speech in front of the committee, who claimed that they were al-lowed to do that because the H&S party is an “imminent threat to the government’s security.” Thankfully, Governor Mogen stood up chivalrously and blatantly stated that the H&S party had nothing to do with his attempted kidnapping. When asked for comment on the H&S party, Governor Mogen said, “It’s their right to exercise freedom of speech…As long as they don’t do anything offensive I’m cool with it.”
Mitch Black had no problem with being called a communist though, and when he was asked whether or not he was involved in such slanderous activities he simply replied, “Absolutely!” Noah Johnston and Dan Peters on the other hand felt that it was more like caring for the working class (proletariats). One Sienna Mark testified that the H&S party was using proletarian fists and communism symbolism to vote on things. Certain committee members were even sent anonymous death threats; others were sent equally threatening things. In fact, Austin Finch’s interrogation was interrupted when a page delivered him a message asking whether or not he had a girlfriend (While I’m not allowed to disclose the answer, I may tell you that it rhymes with go). When asked for his opinion on the H&S party, Austin Finch said, “I think they have the right idea, but they are going about it the wrong way.” Gabe Chilson could not have been more agitated and said, “It was strange and kind of a waste of time.” Sadly, the interrogation of the prisoners was cut short when all house members were summoned to the chambers. When the excitement died down, I was able to ask the Butte kids Logan Schuelke, Dan Peters, Erin Olivieri, Noah Johnston and Mitch Black for a comment. Logan stated that “You have no proof,” Mitch could not have been more contradicting and said, “You absolutely have proof!” with a saucy wink, Erin claimed “I’m still clean!” Dan simply stated, “From Russia with love.” And Noah went on a long-winded explanation that boiled down to “It [the trial] was a pretty manipulative attempt to distort reality and marginalize a powerful third party and its candidates.”

Monday, May 13, 2013

Horoscopes May 13, 2013

By: Hannah Ludlow

Aries (March 21- April 20)

Please get off Facebook… your addiction is unhealthy. Get into the legiti-
mate world and start talking to people in person: face to face. Go friend someone in your
math class, or better yet a member of Youth Legislature, with someone you don’t have wait
to reply in a conversation displayed on the internet.

Taurus (April 21-May 21)

You are one lucky duck. The most worthy investment of college tuition has been paid in
full, by scholarship or loto money, which ever comes first. Well done, make your parents
proud and live for success, because you deserve it. Study hard and do not waste this prime
opportunity for success and a well off life.

Gemini (May 22- June 21)

The stars are in alignment for a romance like no other. That crush you’ve had for the better
part of a school year is finally gonna take a leap for it. Keep up the flirting and don’t loose
hope, you are about to become half a couple. I do warn you though that this will be your
only push for a relationship, after this it is up to you to keep it up, or to let him/ her go. P.S.
the love of your life is wearing blue.

Cancer (June 22- July 22)

Prove your intelligence and individuality by showing off your true colors. Don’t be afraid
to be different. Why fit in when you can stand out, you are the breath of fresh air everyone
needs in this day and age. Leverage this tribute, and learn how much you are needed in
society with media uping the standards for future generations as well as ours.

Leo ( July 23- August 23)

If you are feeling like you need and emotional road map, you are not alone. This is merely
the storm before the rainbow, and just like wishing dandy-lions, sometimes you just got to
let things go. Nothing can ruin your life, talk to others and don’t let yourself go it alone
that’s what friends are for.

Virgo (August 24- September 22)

Everyone knows that you are busy, and you only make time for school,
food, and sleep as a teenager. Now is the time to give back to those who
make things happen for you, and as a fortune cookie once said: generosity
 repays itself sooner than you imagine. You need to spend time socially
with other people both family and friends. Take advantage of this time
and do not stray far from others.

Libra (September 23- October 23)

Your usual hunky-dorey personality is about to take a turn for the rebellious. You will take
a great interest in the unknown as well as taking multiple steps outside of your comfort
zone. With minimal consequences you are broadening your horizons for the near future.
You will be gaining experiences that will help you more than you could have imagined;
your rewards for living outside the box.

Scorpio (October 24- November 22)

Perhaps today will be the worst day of your life. Prepare to fall down the stairs, go
through a breakup and through it all, still have homework. The logic of balance is still in
effect, and after this week life will again be enjoyable. Blissful homework- free evenings
and task-less weekends can only follow the next few days. Allowing time to wind down,
and get ready for summer vacation.

Sagittarius (November 23- December 21)

You were born in a time of joy. Bring back these times today, everyone is stressed and
troubled, and you have been assigned the burden of making the people feel better under
extreme pressure and depression. Quite a task it may be, but one that has great returns,
you are valued more than you think with this capability, use it well.

Capricorn (December 22- January 19)

You have a tropical attitude and bubbly character today that has begun to rub off on the
people around you. Making for exciting conversations and new friendships abroad. Your
sweet disposition is more desirable than one can imagine, do not resist those who ap-
proach you, your attractive personality brought them to you.

Aquarius (January 20- February 18)

The energy within you is a good quality but can cause you to be impulsive. Keep tabs on
your decisions and think them through before taking them to action. The results may be
dramatic in both good and depressive extremes. Take your time and do not rush into AN-
YTHING that might get you into trouble later. Patience is key in the life an adolescent.

Pisces (February 19- March 20)

Even though you feel confused and a bit abused or used, you are loved, in the
most unusual yet true way possible. You may be confronted with multiple
opinions on your personal problems, but the only opinion to listen to and trust
is your own. Do not be swayed by what others think is right but by what you
know is true. Do not loose faith, and avoid situations that may involve peer
pressure.

BREAKING NEWS: ATTEMPTED KIDNAPPING OF THE YOUTH GOVERNOR

An attempt was made this afternoon on the Governor’s safety, and possibly his life.
Just after today’s lunch recess, Governor Mogen was reclining in his office, relaxing from the stresse of power. Suddenly, two un-disclosed males burst through the door,and informed Governor Mogenthat he wasneeded in another room. They accompa-nied him, continuously suggesting that he ought to use the elevator. Being a sensibleman, the Governor wanted to use the stairs.The kidnappers accompanied the Governor to the top floor, where they attempted to force him into an elevator. Using his political strength and physical height, Governor Mogen fought off the kidnappers, who fled down the Capitol’s winding hallways. Directly after the attack, the Governor returned to his office. He stated, while looking heroically at the rotunda, that “this is a crime, and it will be justly dealt with in due time.” He wished to make no other comment.

-Tyson Gerhardt Hirsch

Prostitution Bill

By: Noelani Boise

House bill #234 was debated in the Health
and Human Resources House Committee at
10:25, Monday. The bill proposed that any
person over the age of 18 in the State of Mon-
tana “will be able to sell sexual services if
they choose so by their own free will”. The
committee room was bustling with legisla-
tures, pages, reporters, and supervisors as
Committee Chair Breaden Fitzgerald directed
debate on the bill. 2 amendments were made
to the bill during the short, allotted docket
time. Heated debate occurred as the bill was
processed by proponents and opponents.
One man, Louis Kronenberger, said “Let the
light of the law fall upon prostitution”. Another
asked if it would be considered shoplifting or
rape if the client does not pay?

An interview with House member Mederious
Babb, who stormed from the room in outrage,
highlights the opponents’ arguments against
the bill. She felt that the bill as not “morally
right” and she was worried that it would wors-
en the issue of STD’s. She also said that the bill
did noting to stimulate the economy, and that
the money collected as tax revenue was not
helping anything, though she did not specify
what she would like the money to fund. Her
concluding statement was that “it is not right
to pay people to have sexual intercourse".
The bill passed 11-7. A supervisor watching
from the corner was overheard saying, “it is
becoming more and more clear why there are
age requirements for our legislatures”.

Welcoming Words of Wisdom from Governor Bullock

By: Lexi Gruba

The Youth and Government program kicked off Mon-
day morning with the Opening Joint Session. We were first
addressed by Governor Bullock who was a participant in
the program when he was young sophomore in High
School, Governor Bullock was elected into office as the
Speaker of the House. He continued his time in the Youth
and Government program his junior year. As a junior, Gov-
ernor Bullock ran for the position of Governor and won.

It is his belief that some of Montana’s future leaders
could be involved in our program this year. With that be-
ing said, Governor Bullock encouraged all participants to
be active in Youth and Government, and take back as much
firsthand knowledge as possible.

Governor Bullock then went on the talk about the
Citizens United Decision. This decision gave corporations
the same rights as people. This allows corporations to
spend as much money as they wish on campaigns. It cre-
ates negative campaign tactics. Governor Bullock reiterat-
ed the efforts Montana has taken to keep campaigns tasteful
and respectful.

2013 Issue 2 Paper

View digital version of it from https://docs.google.com/file/d/0Bxry5Y72ixB2SWktTTZiOGJIdDA/edit?usp=sharing

2013 Primary Candidates

President of the Senate Candidate

Jay Bueter

By: Sarah Manry and Nichole Tyson
Jay Bueter, from Gardiner, will make a great, obvious choice for president of the Senate. He is running to make the Senate a better place, and get important tasks accomplished. He is inspired by many, but Steven Colbert is high on the list. His game plan is to get votes, like a boss. He also promotes recycling.

Governor Candidates

Jace Kuntz and John Bodnar

By: Aidan Goodman
Jace Kuntz and John Bodnar, both from Dillon High, are running for Governor and Lieutenant Governor. The duo seem perfect for the positions as they both have a terrific understanding of parliamentary procedures. When asked why they are running, both Kuntz and Bodnar responded that they “have the tools and experience to lead”. They are both very interested in politics and have experience from National FFA competitions. Both candidates prefer a more serious approach to Youth Legislature and are inspired by politics of America. They see a potential for change. Kuntz believes that he deserves the Governor position in the 2014 Youth Legislature session because he knows what he is talking about and has read Robert’s Rules of Order, a 700 page book on parliamentary procedures. Not to mention his suit is very classy. The game plan for their campaign is “No Jokes. Youth Legislature needs more serious, effective, and efficient leadership”. All good interviews need a good ending so: Jace Kuntz’s celebrity crush is Emma Stone, and John Bodnar’s is Jessica Alba.

Dan Peters and Noah Johnston

By: William Westfall
Noah said the reason that he is running is that you can do more with Youth Leg if you are in a high position, Dan said that it will put you in a position of power. Noah's inspiration is Nikola Tesla and Dan's inspiration is Nicholas Cage. The plan for their campaign is to win with whatever means necessary. Noah and Dan might look like they don't take Youth Leg seriously they are 100% ready to take on the position that they have chosen for themselves, Their celebrity crushes are for Dan is Robert Downey Jr. and Noah's is Shakira. And a side-note: they are both from Butte

Gabe Chilson and Miranda Bishop

By: Jackie RalphGabe is from Dillon parties. However, Miranda and Gabe believe that this could be that by being on different sides means that they can bring both beliefs of their parties into the office.

Layne Johnson and Jordan Smith

By: Shawnee Swanson

Jordan Smith and Layne Johnson, from Froid/Med Lake are running for Governor and Lit Governor this year. Their campaign slogan is “Vote for Smith he’s big Johnson” They think that they can improve the quality of Youth Legislature experience. Their inspiration is John F. Kennedy and Abraham Lincoln. They want to make Youth Legislature classier, but mostly fun. They both have a huge celebrity crush on Selena Gomez. They want to inspire the people and at least “try to get a couple votes”

Speaker of the House Candidates

Mitch Black

By: William Westfall
Mitch is running because he wanted to. His inspiration is Lil B, The reason Mitch is the best for the position is because he has been speaking for a while. Mitch's celebrity crush is Jake Gyllenhaal. His plan for running his campaign is to show up for Youth Leg.Mitch is a fun loving person, heloves to speak and that is whyhe is running for Speaker of the House.

Chief Justice Candidates

Erin Olivieri

By: Jackie Ralph
Originally from Bohemia, New York, but here representing Butte YMCA, Erin Olivieri is hoping to be elected Chief Justice to create unity between Legislature and the Supreme court. She feels that she can help bridge the gap and help everyone to have fun while doing so. Erin believes that she is the best for this position because of her year of experience on both sides (One year as an attorney and one year as a House member), her “Craptons—yes thaat is a unit of measurement” of leadership abilities, and her overall awesomeness. When asked who her inspiration was, Olivieri jokingly replied that Morgan Freeman was her idol because of his “angelic voice.” Erin's celebrity crush is Michael Weatherly, “Dinozo from NCIS! If you don't know him, well—shun!” And her game-plan for her campaign is to “...connect with people, and just be awesome in general. I really want people to vote for me—not because theyare my friends or because they are from Butte, butbecause they feel I would be best for the position.”

Levin Mullaney

By: Derek Ralph

Levin Mullaney, a man amongst boys, is running for chief of Justice and trying to get his second year in the justice system. His absolute love for the justice system has driven him to hit the campaign trail. After a heart breaker in the selection for the best brief in the state second place is just not the way that Levin wants to role. His only inspiration is himself because there is truly nobody better. He is hoping that with winning the election Levin can pull in his dream girl, Kate Upton. When asked to rank himself on a scale of one to ten all he said was “Levin”. The upper hand he has on the election is that he fools the opponents with his shy personality but slams it home with his witty intelligence. Levin believes the true key to winning is being remembered by the candidates and a catchy slogan.


Blake Casagranda

By: Sath Powers

Blake Casagranda hails from Butte and is excited about this year of Youth Legislature. This year is a little different for Blake; he has aspirations of becoming the chief justice. Throughout his years of high school at Butte High, he has demonstrated strong attributes such as leadership, courage, and his favorite trait: wisdom. He hopes that these fine qualities will help propel him to a victory in his election.Casagranda brings valid experience to the table as well. Blake has been an attorney for two years, which is more than what most others can boast about themselves. Blake strives to be the best he can be in everything he participates in. He has very strong habits that he prides himself on, some of those being organization, time-management, and most of all a great fro. Between his fro and long-love for Caroline Wosniacks, Blake has it all. What more could you ask for in a chief justice? He has got it all, he has done it all, and now he wants to serve all of Youth Legislature as their acting chief justice. A vote for Blake is a vote for style, a vote for confidence, and certainly a vote for the fro!

Secretary of State Candidates

Austin Dreyer

By: Nichole Tyson
When asked why he was running, he answered “to combine small ‘hick town’ schools with that of college city schools”. When asked what that meant he gave a smile and added “ I also want to convince more people to run”. He is inspired by Ghandi’s leadership, Abraham Lincoln’s approachability, and Einstein’s intelligence. He is as equally inspired by current Secretary of State, Rose Cote. His belief in equality among ranks and his experience in both Youth in Government and his current position as Secretary of State are what he feels make him the best for this position. He also believes that his open personality will set him apart from the other candidates. “Good girl” Carrie Underwood is his celebrity crush because she is "all that and a bag of chips”. When questioned about his game plan he answered without hesitation, “Save the Rhinos and Keep the Glitter”.

Braden Fitzgerald

By:Tyson Gerhardt Hirsch

A tall, blonde, aspiring Speaker of the House stands in the dim entryway, anxious to wheedle his way out of an interview. He flashes a winning smile and explains that he’s running late for a Committee Chair Meeting, but agrees to a brief interrogation. His name is Braden Fitzgerald, an avid FFA member from Livingston. Fitzgerald is running forSpeaker because he really enjoys parliamentary procedures. (I mean, who doesn’t?) He’s had trouble sleeping for the last week, with visions of grandeur charging through his restless mind. Of course, he didn’t just wake up one morning and decide that Speaker of the House was the spot for him. He’s spent years practicing parliament with FFA. “You might call it my inspiration,” he chuckles. Fitzgerald’s shining personality and well-tuned skills will undoubtedly make him a formidable candidate. Also, his celebrity crush is Emma Watson, so he just might be a wizard.

Cameron Wertz

By:

Candidate for Speaker of the House Cameron Wentz, here from the Dillon delegation, is on fire! His blonde hair goes well with his bright-eyed, bushy-tailed demeanor. As I spoke with the boy, he told me about his previous experience at the Montana Youth Legislature, as well as current endeavors. His past years have been chalk full of positions such as Committee Chair last session, Vice Chair this session, and a Pro-Temp for the 1st years. He says, “I am well equipped for the position of Speaker of the House”.Wentz plans to pursue a future and career in Politics, though he didn’t specify what position he would like to be. As for his game plan for his campaign; honesty and sincerity are his key factors. If elected, he promises to run the House Chambers with some fun as well as maintain a serious purpose and keep in mind the intentions of this program. Now for the juicy info! When asked who his celebrity crush is, he stuttered slightly and blushed! Apparently he did not have a particular celeb in mind, and spurted Emma Watson (as did many other candidates). After more creative thought and pondering, Wentz decided, with incredible taste, that Natalie Portman is his true celebrity crush. What a choice - His interest in the intelligent and well-rounded actress reflects his own characteristics. Let’s hope this up and coming candidate represents us eventually in the real deal!

Life in the Barracks

By: Lexi Gruba and Shawnee Swanson Are we going off to war, or are we going to Youth and Government? Who knows when you are housed in the Army Barracks! Our Miles City, Lewistown, Butte, and Laurel guests are gaining the full military experience. Nothing brings a group together quite like one room, bunk beds, community showers, excreta. Who knows what the funny smell is or why the lockers are covering all but two inches of a full length mirror. Two mirrors in the whole room full of fourteen people, and two outlets for eight girls to get ready, that just isn’t going to work.

2013 Youth Legislature Paper - Issue 1

2013 Issue 1 of the The Legit Cricket Chronicle can be viewed in its entirety at https://docs.google.com/file/d/0Bxry5Y72ixB2dWhHLVMxZndibk0/edit?usp=sharing

BREAKING NEWS: ATTEMPTED KIDNAPPING OF THE YOUTH GOVERNOR

An attempt was made this afternoon on the Governor’s safety, and possibly his life.
Just after today’s lunch recess, Governor Mogen was reclining in his office, relaxing from
the stresses of power. Suddenly, two un-
disclosed males burst through the door,
and informed Governor Mogen that he was
needed in another room. They accompa-
nied him, continuously suggesting that he
ought to use the elevator. Being a sensible
man, the Governor wanted to use the stairs.
The kidnappers accompanied the Gover-
nor to the top floor, where they attempted
to
force him into an elevator. Using his politi-
cal strength and physical height, Governor
Mogen fought off the kidnappers, who fled
down the Capitol’s winding hallways. Di-
rectly after the attack, the Governor re-
turned to his office. He stated, while look-
ing heroically at the rotunda, that “this is a
crime, and it will be justly dealt
with in due time.” He wished to
make no other comment.

-Tyson Gerhardt Hirsch

Sunday, May 12, 2013

2013 Montana Youth and Government is Go!

Delegations have arrived, training has been done and we're rolling! Live UStream Broadcast of the Opening Joint Session at 8 am MDT Monday. Governor Bullock to speak! Watch live on the link in the right.

The Press Room fires up!