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Youth Conference on National Affairs

Archive for category State Submissions

State Submission: Wisconsin, America’s Dairyland

Jul 5

Posted by sj in State Submissions

Where does dairy come from? Cows.

However they are not only a big part of our agriculture; one of our prides as the Wisconsin delegation is the Spirit Cow. The inflatable, much-envied cow has not always made this trip to North Carolina.  Tradition began in Madison, Wisconsin, where our delegations all join together for a weekend in which we take over the Capitol. Filling the Senate, Assembly, and Supreme Court chambers, we learn the ins and outs of politics, while forging friendships and lasting memories.

To most, the spirit cow is an honor. Awarded to only one delegation each year, the spirit cow can only be earned. Delegates must uphold our YMCA’s four core values – caring, respect, honesty, and responsibility – and, of course, participate in all matters with enthusiasm and spirit. Over the years, we’ve seen a lot of creativity; in addition to helping others, keeping clean, and being role models to our communities, delegates have dressed up in the infamous “cow suit,” rang cow bells, and come up with cheers of support.  This is, of course, one of the best aspects of Youth in Government – working together, and knowing that those around you really care for and are involved in the program.

As we come to CONA 2010, I hope that the Spirit Cow may be a reminder to us of those that we represent.  May it also be a symbol, not just to Wisconsin, but to each of us, that we were all chosen to be here for a special reason and should participate to our fullest capacity, enjoying each moment! It is only with our unity that we can work to build a brighter future.

May the force be with you all.

~ Catherine Knier

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State Submission: Minnesota

Jul 5

Posted by sj in State Submissions

Over here in Minnesota, we call our state program Youth in Government. But, we also have another name for YIG: we call it family. Even before the Minnesota delegation got accepted to CONA, we all knew each other and spent time with each other outside of our state conferences. Also, as the Minnesota delegation prepared for CONA, we had numerous get-togethers and meetings. We also had a two-day retreat at another YMCA camp, and that’s when we officially realized that we truly were a family.

Our family rejoined the Friday before CONA, and we then had a 26 hour bus ride to North Carolina, filled with fun, games, Sherlock Holmes, and Glee. Sleeping on the bus was an experience of it’s own, but we had fun.

After CONA is over, Minnesota will board the bus once again and take an after-trip to New York City, where we will have some more fun and grow even closer. Minnesota is happy to be here, and we can’t wait to continue with the conference!

~ Mark Rugnetto

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Welcome to DC By: Malissa

Jul 1

Posted by admin in State Submissions

“Wha Wha What’s your name? and Whe…whe…where you from? and tell me Who’s your crew… Aaaaw DC…Aaaaw DC.” The DC delegation came to CONA this year with excitement and high expectations. Currently, as a delegation, the DC team is proud of their accomplishments and the ability to stay enthused despite a somewhat biased community surrounding them. They have been welcomed and befriended by several state delegations: Maryland, Virginia, Georgia, Kentucky, California, etc. Even as they may not feel fully emerged into the CONA community, within their own circle there is a sure feeling of kinship, love, and hope.
The ten delegates have supported one another throughout the legislative process, and two of them made it to plenary and general assembly: Shayla Thomas and Marco Gomez respectively. As the whole delegation sat in their delegation meeting, each expressed a “rose” and a “thorn” that the experience so far has prompted. They expressed how each would make them stronger in the days to come.
Mayor Alicia Wade plainly stated words of encouragement to her peers: “It has to get worse before it can get better. DC has faced a number of things, but what doesn’t kill us only makes us stronger, and each year we knock down another invisible wall, keeping us from our full potential.” The Blue Ridge Spirit surely lives in all of the DC delegates, only in a different manner. The spirit for them keeps them going, reaching to higher levels; seeking new friendships of value and meaning. Truly the four core values of the YMCA dwell with them.
Each delegate in the circle spoke in turn, giving respect where respect was due, and I knew that the love expressed was no show, but was sincere. They uttered words of encouragement and strength to one another: “The hardest thing about growth is letting go of parts of our present in order to transition into our future,” said Nate Cole, one of the Advisors. Mr. Mapp, the other advisor expressed encouraging words once given him, “Adversity doesn’t build character, it reveals it.”
Ivan Ango’s great experience was when he was able to combine with other delegates of almost every race to present his proposal. “It showed the unity and the diversity of young people,” he said. Sarah Ocran quoted scripture, “The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is so little value” Proverbs 10:20. Shayla Thomas followed saying, “When stuff doesn’t go your way, you must take proper steps to adapt to, or change, the situation.” “Roadblocks only force you to find a better path,” added Michellay Cole, and Sara G. ended saying, “This is my first year at CONA, and I am absolutely loved it! I am proud of our accomplishments.” I finish with, “Chains can bind you, but so can you lacking to find you!”

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Massachusetts State Submission By:Shannon and Sydney

Jul 1

Posted by bd in State Submissions

Out of the twenty delegates representing the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, only two are returning members. With eighteen “first years,” our delegation was nervous about a variety of things ranging from presenting our proposals to making friends in other states. Female delegates, especially, were having trouble deciding what to pack, as both of our returning delegates, Matt Dowgiallo and Sean Costello, are young men who have no knowledge of female fashion. Despite clothing, Dowgiallo and Costello are two great sources for first year Massachusetts CONA delegates to look to for advice of any kind. Dowgiallo is very passionate about Massachusetts and CONA traditions and has made a point to inform and teach these traditions to us “first years.” Says Dowgiallo, “Our long-lasting relationship with Texas, as the Commonwealth/Republic of Texachusetts, has been successfully preserved.”

The Massachusetts delegation has had a fantastic amount of success despite our lack of returning delegates. Both Moses Adubi and Eddie Tedesco, two first year delegates, have had their proposals passed into third committee. Adubi comments: “Regarding my proposal, I must say that I am happy with its success thus far. I knew it was debatable, but I wondered if others would feel the same.” Tedesco adds: “I am very happy with my decision to apply to CONA because it s one of the greatest things I have experienced.”

While the success within our delegation is great, we feel that bonding with one another is just as important. One aspect that brings the Massachusetts delegation together at CONA is our mascot. Rather than contributing to the stuffed animal trend, Massachusetts has named one our very own delegates as our mascot. We refer to Nick Culbert, who stands five feet and four inches tall, as our “Koala Bear.” The uniqueness of our mascot has helped us bond together as a state. Fellow delegations, please do not attempt to steal Culbert from the Commonwealth, as he cannot be replaced!

We have also come together and bonded within our Round Table discussions. Monday night, Kelsey Lewis, our Round Table chair, had the Massachusetts delegates randomly switch nametags with one another. We then said nice things about the person whose name tag we were given. Compliments ranged from observations on a delegate’s actions to comments on a delegate’s character. All in all, the Massachusetts delegates have grown closer together during the past few days and are looking forward to the upcoming time we will spend with one another.

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New York State Submission: The Big Apple At CONA By: Catherine

Jul 1

Posted by bd in State Submissions

The delegates of New York plan to go far this year at CONA. So much is going on for the delegation and many great accomplishments are being achieved. Like many of the other delegations, New York was a premier delegation last year and is striving for the same distinction this year. The representatives of New York are also excited about having Presiding Officer, Jane Henderson, from their state. When it comes to being involved, the delegates from New York have been giving 100%; like many other delegates, they have made many friendships that will last for years to come. They are learning new things and their knowledge of national issues is growing with the help and dedication of other debaters. While some are concentrating on getting their proposal through committees, GA, and to plenary, others focus on debating and having their voices heard.

Building up mental strength and courage is a necessity here at CONA. Day after day, delegates raise their placards whether it is to give a con or pro statement or to simply ask a technical question. Some members of the New York delegation, here for their first time, have certainly gained experience for future National Affairs participation even though they did not make it past first committee. They have learned to take the time to listen to other proposals and learn things beneficial to their own proposals. New York is striving for success this year at CONA and is clearly going to achieve this based on the conference thus far.

“New York is the melting pot of culture and lifestyle. With the spice of surprise and intelligence, you’re going to be in for a really good outcome,” says a member of the New York delegation.

Overall, the New York delegation is a mixture of people with different personalities, views, and goals that will certainly make for a memorable CONA.

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Model United Nations Submission By: Amanda

Jul 1

Posted by bd in State Submissions

The Northeast Regional Model United Nations conference convened at the Hershey Lodge in Hershey, Pennsylvania January 9-11, 2009. The conference drew approximately 1200 delegates hailing from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and New York.

New Jersey resident Dan Morse led the conference in the role of Secretary General. He was supported by a team of forty-five chairs and vice chairs who ran a variety of committees.

The student and adult leadership teams of Model UN collaborated to enact three major changes to the conference. A conference-wide theme of climate change was established. Consequently, each committee devoted time to tackling this far-reaching issue from a different angle. Additionally, the conference included an Ambassadors’ Dinner, during which delegates were seated according to the countries they were representing. Thirdly, delegates and officers were surprised by the introduction of an international crisis scenario, which was designed primarily by MUN college advisors.

Though the delegates enjoyed and learned from debate time in committee, the impact of Model UN was more profound than the knowledge they gained. Said Morse: “I think what the conference became for me, and for a lot of people is, that they didn’t know how it would affect them. The emotions, messages, and tone it brought is something people don’t expect.”

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Delaware State Submission: Know Joe In Delaware By: Matt

Jul 1

Posted by bd in State Submissions

At first glance, Delaware has produced three notable things: Joe Biden, Joe Flacco, and tax-free shopping. But the second-smallest state in the union has long produced big ideals. To ensure unanimous support of our independence from England, Caesar Rodney willed himself to Independence Hall despite being crippled by severe illness. Our forefathers rallied together to become the first delegates to submit to the world’s first successful republic. It is through the honesty of Joe Biden, respect of Joe Flacco, responsibility of Caesar Rodney, and caring of our founding fathers that Delaware’s future can be properly viewed.

Last April, around seventy of the Diamond State’s most promising and proactive high school students descended on our Legislative Hall for the 41st Youth in Government Conference. Delegates were instantly absorbed by the magnitude of history and responsibility to the future when roaming halls filled with scores of names of the honorable men and women privileged enough to serve our great state. Governor Jack Markell, himself, came to acknowledge the values the YMCA and the delegates exemplified just by being there. This would set the tone for the outstanding behavior shown throughout the next three days.

The first thing a visitor might see while watching our delegates in action is the blunt honesty we have become famous for. Every delegate truly speaks a genuine opinion, regardless of whether he or she is the only one holding that belief. But what that visitor may not realize is why this value has blossomed. It is through a deep respect for a variety of ideas that representatives and senators need not fear the alienation of their peers. Many values and sentiments are excitedly received by the Delaware congregation.

What is most remarkable about our YIG sessions is that all bills are truly written to better the lives of others. Delegates vowed that caring for their constituents is the most noble and important aspect—no, the reason for public service. Under the watchful eye of Youth Governor Sudi Green, the future voters of Delaware showed they were more than ready to accept the challenges our state and nation face. Diverse topics ranging from gay marriage, education reform, legal justice, and public health were eagerly tackled head-on.

Participants in the Delaware Youth in Government program demonstrate that the core values of the YMCA apply far beyond the confines of a classroom, a club, or a home. I can assure you that every delegate would fit right in at CONA and not a single one was named Joe.

edited by cassie

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Washington State Submission By: Douglas

Jun 30

Posted by bd in State Submissions

“Where are you from?” “Washington,” I reply, and then cringe, as I realize I forgot one small thing to mention: Washington state, not D.C. I brace myself for the response that I have come to expect; something along the line of, “Oh, D.C.!? That must be cool.”

After this common assumption is cleared up the conversation can quickly turn to what exactly defines the state. Traditionally, in Washington’s case, this has been Seattle, excessive rain, and Starbucks. These are all true: everybody does live near Seattle, it can rain for weeks without stopping, and in nearly every town there are at least two Starbucks.

However, this year there is a new addition to that prestigious list…Twilight! The book by Stephanie Meyer has swept the nation, and it’s young lady‘s way into the land of make-believe. It has brought Washington state out of the dark and into the eerie level of light just before night.

So, if you see a Washington delegate, pull them aside and ask them to give you the real story of Forks, you may be surprised.

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A Spirited Wisconsin Delegation By: Debbie

Jun 30

Posted by bd in State Submissions

Armed with enthusiasm, energy and the staple “Spirit Cow” mascot, the Wisconsin delegation arrived to the Conference on National Affairs on Saturday with an optimistic attitude about the week to come.  After a long but lively bus ride to Black Mountain, North Carolina, the 28 delegates were noticeably excited about the experiences and memories that undoubtedly occur within the week span of the conference.

The YMCA Youth in Government program has been in Wisconsin since 1952, growing a reputation as a quality leadership development program for teens.  When asked about the strengths of the program, State Director Julie Cotter cited the “commitment from the program participants, volunteers and YMCA staff” as a strong point.  Although an overall decrease in membership has been a concern, those involved in the program are hopeful about recruitment, making it one of the main focuses for next year.

The 2009 Model Government session was held at the Wisconsin State Capitol, where an overwhelming number of bills passed through the Assembly and the Senate.  The Supreme Court was involved in an impeachment trial of Youth Governor Troy Tauber, as well as reviewing several important cases.  The Press Corps was productive in publishing newspapers twice a day and creating nightly newscasts.  2010 Youth Governor and CONA delegate Maria Peeples said of the Wisconsin program, “Every delegate involved carries so much compassion and commitment for the program and that is what makes it so exemplary.”

This year’s Wisconsin delegation for CONA is the largest group to have made the trip to the Mountain thus far, and it is our hope that this is a sign of greater commitment and retention for the future.

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Virginia State Submission by Daron Vaught

Jul 5

Posted by bd in State Submissions

For well over one hundred years, the Virginia YMCA has proudly been the Commonwealth’s innovator of youth leadership and government programs, and though I have obviously not been able to witness every year of it, I have had the pleasure of being a prime example of one of the thousands of beneficiaries of the organization and its opportunities. Through all that the YMCA offers, including the Model General Assembly, Model Judiciary Program, and Teen Leadership Conferences, students are encouraged to facilitate their knowledge of the body that governs the Commonwealth of Virginia, all while gaining a new understanding for the importance of both civic responsibility and public service at such young ages.
The Virginia chapter’s most prominent program is the Model General Assembly, organized to simulate Virginia’s legislative process, the General Assembly, every spring. The event is held at the Capitol building in Richmond, Virginia, where approximately 600 students from over 60 high schools across the state participate as senators, delegates, lobbyists, pages, and reporters. Aside from the legislative branch, students also have the option to participate as executive branch representatives, who work closely with each other and the Youth Governor on one topic and give a presentation on that issue at the end of the weekend.
The Model Judiciary Program gives over 2,000 high school students a look at the other aspect of Virginia’s government: its court system. Schools are given controversial scenarios and specific facts for each, chosen by the Young Lawyers Division of the Virginia Bar Association. Students then participate as attorneys, witnesses, and jurors in mock trials. This program culminates in the spring, as select schools argue oral appeals in front of the Supreme Court of Virginia.
The Virginia YMCA even coordinates programs for middle school students who just cannot wait until high school to get involved with Youth and Government. The Teen Leadership Conferences are one-day seminars designed to introduce even younger minds to Virginia’s government and, much like the Model General Assembly, place an emphasis on the state’s legislature.
Aside from these programs, of course, each individual high school club is encouraged to do as much as possible in the field of community service. As an officer of Rural Retreat High School’s Hi-Y Club, I had the pleasure to both help orchestrate and participate in all of the activities necessary for the club to become one of two recipients of the state’s Ace Award, rewarded for excellence in service to the community.
I will never forget the knowledge, experiences, and friendships I gained throughout my participation in the Virginia YMCA’s Youth & Government programs. This Conference on National Affairs will be my last high school YMCA activity, so on that note I would like to thank the Virginia YMCA for greatly influencing the person I am today. I will surely miss these great times and wonderful experiences I have encountered as I seek more knowledge in my continued studies and exploration of life after high school.

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