As hundreds of suitcase wheels and ballet flats scraped the pavement last
Saturday morning, the humid air gave a warm welcoming to ninety-nine teenage
female senators arriving to begin their life changing week in Chevy Chase,
Maryland. Earlier that morning, the Baltimore airport was flourishing with
bright-spirited young ladies from all over this nation; from the tall Pines of
Washington state, to the palm trees of Florida.
An amazing opportunity has been presented to the ninety-nine
young women this summer. Here at ALA Girls Nation these women gather to create
a mock senate. Elections, campaigns, legislations, and memories have already
been created this week. Two senators from each state, plus a guest
representative from the District of Columbia, have been selected as the
nations’ top women leaders. ALA Girls Nation brings forth the strengths of
these leaders while also recognizing their weaknesses through multiple learning
experiences. This program’s overall objective is to shape our future women
leaders of America and improve their political skills and maturity level.
Amazing field trips have been included in this summer
program so far such as visiting the Arlington Cemetery and our nation’s
capital. This is not your average high school field trip; we are learning
through hands-on experience rather than skimming the pages of a textbook.
Arlington gave us an image of the tolls of freedom, and provided them
inspiration to support and respect the dedicated servicemembers of our country.
Not only are we thoroughly supported, but also empowered by our
fellow women senators. As senators campaign, encouragement fills the hallways
of the 4-H Center, encouraging women to be bold and courageous. How will this
diverse group of females apply their newly polished life skills to the rest of
the week and the rest of their lives? We shall see.
~Chevy Chase
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