#wayag2016

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Out of Context Press Quote #17

My life is on the wrong layer

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Got a question?

Send the Capitol Consultants and email at [email protected], or reply to this post, and we will tell you everything you need to know!

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Votes by Committee

Allison Kurzhal and Ariyanna Pyles

This chart shows the percentage of votes for bills, by comittee, based off a random sample population. The columns represent, from left to right: Federal Policy, Criminal Justice, Firearms and Controlled Substances, Environment, Agriculture, and Animal Welfare, Democracy, Social Policy, Education and Curriculum, and Education Policies

[yagpress]

Out of Context Press Quote #15

“I love it when memes die”

[yagpress]

Youth and Technology

Rylee Castagno-Lieseke

Technology is everywhere. In our pockets, bags, and hands we hold the power to potentially lose contact with the outside world.  Every year, technology's complexity has escalated. James Rosenzweig, the advisor of the House stated that, when in session and on the floor, “if people are using electronics for YAG business, like researching a bill… or looking up information to see if a bill is constitutional, it’s okay”. To clarify, Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter are frowned upon when you're not on break, and especially when you’re on the floor.  Sneaking a snap on your phone or inappropriately using electronics is against the rules. Despite this, it doesn't look like anyone is going to “tattle” on each other.

[yagpress]

So... Politics

Editorial by Karl Nielsen, Editor in Chief

You may have heard about this thing, it’s really on the down low these days, but there’s a Presidential election going on.

I know, it’s a lot to take in, but it’s true. The country is in the middle of the seemingly two-year process of electing a new President. And it’s kind of a big deal.

I’ve been following this process since the very beginning, over a year ago, livetweeting debates, constantly discussing it with friends, and reading and watching more and more coverage. I will likely be talking about this for a good portion of our week here.

But there’s something I’m keeping in mind while doing that.

YAG is a nonpartisan organization, we don’t let national politics really influence us, and what we do here. And there’s a reason for that. Youth Legislature is a place where the true process of democracy can be learned, how what matters are your ideas and not the little letter in parentheses next to a politician’s name.

Real politics is exciting, I love following it and participating in it. I also know that many or even most of you share the same sentiment. Which means that you too have been intently following the election cycle and constantly talk about it.

This all is a great thing… Most of the time.

However, what I’m taking note of this week, and what I recommend you do as well, is when real world politics might be getting in the way of YAG. This election cycle is roughly 500 days long… only 4 of those do we spend in Olympia. So, let’s put the real world on hold, and fully involve ourselves in the wonderful world of YAG. I know I will.

[yagpress]

Hello Again!

Hello, YAG! It’s the first full day of the 69th session (yeah, we know,) and it’s already going so well. For those of you who are new, we’re so glad you are here, and for those who are returning, welcome back! And, for the first time, we have a way to keep in contact with our alumni-- if you’re reading this, then know that YAG hasn’t forgotten you. You’re still in our hearts, cheesy as it sounds. 

For everyone reading, though, you are the past, present, and future of the program, and your participation, be it through debate or writing or lobbying, was, is, and will be one of the most defining moments in our lives.

It’s going to be a great year.

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Just 18 days until Youth Leg, and things are already heating up at the leadership training! This year, to broaden our perspectives, the Capitol Chronicles are looking to publish guest articles, written by anyone who has an opinion they need to make known. Just send your article to our email address, at [email protected]!