Opening Ceremony

“Great Power Yields Great Responsibility”
-Mary Besecker, Chincoteague High School


Students from around the great state of Virginia swarmed Richmond on April 14th for the 2010 Model General Assembly. Bruce F. Jamerson, the clerk for the House of Delegates, then proceeded to swear in the senators and delegates. Robert Brink, the chairman of the MGA Committee, addressed us with an interesting exercise using Virginia’s six area codes. He then gave us a quick introduction and bio of Governor McDonnell.
The 71st Governor of Virginia, Governor Robert F. McDonnell then took the stage and warmly welcomed us to our state’s capital. He then proceeded to apologize for his dress, he had just been to the Flying Squirrels baseball game to throw the first pitch, and then he was off to his son’s soccer game. He continued to encourage us to do our best and walk away from MGA with a better understanding about our state government. After the Governor was finished, our 2010 Youth Governor presented his inaugural address. Youth Governor Zain Mohiuddin encouraged us that all are roles here at MGA are important. He quoted FDR as saying, “With great power yields great responsibility.” Youth Governor Mohiuddin then went on to offer his time and ear to us all about our bills. He then went on to tell us to make friends and voice our opinions. Finally, at that moment The 2010 Model General Assembly began.Opening Ceremony
“Great Power Yields Great Responsibility”
(Picture Anisha Choubey)
-Mary Besecker, Chincoteague High School