Thursday, May 28th 2015

Today was our last full day at Girls State. It began bright and early, as our newly elected state officials left for the capitol at 7:30 where they met with their counterparts and were given a tour. While they were gone, the rest of the delegates resumed a normal day in the forum.

After the city of Akin led the opening ceremony, members of the House and Senate left to work with special guests Ben Odom and Leslie Blair. Simultaneously, Representative Lisa Billy taught a class on rights and responsibilities.

Following Representative Billy, Ms. Autumn McMahan led a class about nonprofits and the various ways in which the ladies can make a difference where they are at. After the presentation, delegates had the opportunity to choose from an extensive list of organizations to learn more about.

After lunch, the legislature met back up and continued to work through the bills that were presented to them. At the same time, other delegates met with Justice Noma Gurich and other attorneys to work on various case studies.

Next the ladies gathered in the forum once more to  hear from Carol Blousch of the American Legion Auxiliary, who told the girls more about the ALA and how to join if they are eligible. Finally we heard from Governor Mary Fallin, who reminded the delegates that they can be whatever they want to be as long as they work hard and receive a good education.

After our guests left, the girls divided into their respective counties, where whistle stops were conducted. This is where they heard from the six delegates who are being considered for positions as senators for Girls Nation. After this session, Girls State voted on who they would like to see represent them in DC.

For dinner the ladies gathered for a cookout complete with hot dogs and hamburgers. We ended the night with Girls State Olympics, where each city went head to head in a series of exciting games.

Tomorrow we look forward to moot court, a trip to the Sam Noble Museum, and graduation.