Tag Archive for: Governor

75th ALMBS Governor

75th ALMBS Governor

75th ALMBS Governor

State of the State Speech

Within 24 hours I went from a citizen of the 75th Mountaineer Boy’s State, to Governor and representative of not only the approximate 400 citizens of Boy’s State, but also of each and every high school student in the great state of West Virginia. As citizens of Boy’s State, we have come up with ideas that best represent the important issues that affect not only the young citizens of West Virginia, but the entire population of the state as a whole.

As the officials of Mountaineer boy’s state, it is our duty to work together to set goals and pass bills to improve the way of life for the hard working people of our state. Now, take the time to think about all of the speeches that our councilors…individuals running for office…and each one of our guest speakers have given us this week. Each one has stated that simply by coming together and forming bonds in such a short time, has already made an impact in the lives of over 350 people. There is a quote from a musical that I would like to share…. “Because I knew you, I have been changed For Good,” and I believe that we can all say that those words are true for us all.

In the first day of the newly elected duties, the Board of Public works has worked hard to prioritize the issues that both parties discussed this week. The Board determined the budget of the State and where the people’s money will be going.

The first thing is Welfare. The Board decided that the best way to ensure that cash money is not being spent on illegal activities is to put any government assistance money on governmental credit card with a maximum amount being that of what would be equivalent to a check in the mail.

Next is a healthcare provided bill that will promote the rise of adequate healthcare in rural areas by building health clinics in areas with no hospital or doctor’s office nearby. This would allow people to receive proper medical treatment close to their homes.

In relation to infrastructure, the board decided to promote maritime (water) transportation of not only goods, but people as well. W would also like to improving the railroad systems to effectively and more efficiently move people and goods throughout the state. As discussed in the campaign, roads in rural areas will be improved…

Finally, education vouchers will be created and used as a way to provide the incentive to individual school systems to increase educational standards and competition between school systems and in turn raise overall test scores of students in the state.

The decisions made on how to approach these important issues has been made based on beliefs of the majority of the population of mountaineer Boy’s State. And if by chance any of these ideals are turned down or discouraged, I ask that all of the governmental departments come together to restructure them and work to pass them. WITH ONE VOICE…. AS ONE VOICE….WE WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!!

Thank You!

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74th Governor Farewell Address

Governor Nima Ronagi

2011 ALMBS Governor

Gentlemen, one year ago to this day, I sat where the newly elected governor is sitting. I sat as I listened to former Boys State governor, George Capel, speak.. about something or other, I don’t really listen when George talks.

As George talked, my skin started to fill with goose bumps and I was beginning to realize that our journey in Boys State was about to finally begin, and soon we would be running own own state. Gentlemen your journey is about to begin.

Throughout this year, I matured, in ways that I didn’t think I needed to mature in at first….But the more and more I thought about it over this past year, being governor, as amazing as it was, was not the main reason I matured. Something else touched my heart and I learned about what it means to be an American… and what our armed servicemen and women do for this country

When I was growing up… I watched cartoon episodes of superman. I was in awe of how amazing super heroes like superman, could make such a difference. As I grew, I was told that there are no super heroes in our world. I was gravely misinformed.

Gentlemen, take a look around you and you’ll see the 3 colors a staff member’s name tag could be: white, gold, or a light blue….some of those wearing gold name tags and all of those wearing light blue name tags have served in the armed forces. Could those of you who have served for this country please stand to be recognized?

…these men have truly sacrificed more than we can ever know. They have defended our country, with pride. They are the true protectors of the American flag and all that it stands for. They are the reason that Americans will ALWAYS be free.

So super heroes are not real, huh? I don’t believe that for one moment. I look out and see gentlemen who defend my family, my friends, and myself from those who want to cause harm to my country and its citizens. They might not have super powers per say, but they have more courage, heart, and pride than I could ever hope to have.

To the gentlemen who have served in the armed forces: this past year if you have not learned anything about me at all, I at least hope you learned how much respect I have for each and every one of you.

I’d like to thank the American Legion and specifically Mr. Davis and Mr. Sluss for this amazing opportunity.
Also I would like to thank Mr. Luke Kopp, my counselor last year, who inspired me to believe that I really could be ,whoever I want to be. Luke gave me the inspiration I needed to believe in myself enough to run for governor.

Good luck boys state, the ball is in your court now.

Thank you, God bless you all.

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Governor Ronaghi State of the State Address

Just yesterday, I was inaugurated as the American Legion Mountaineer Boys’ State Governor. Now that the fanfare and celebration is over, it’s now time to get down to business.

My first request, as Governor, is that you work diligently to best represent your constituents. As public officials we have the great responsibility of being the voice of the people. We must never let our own selfish interests and desires interfere with our duties to the citizens we represent.

My second request is this: stop and look around you. Breathe in this moment (Pause) and realize what a miracle we are living right now. Congressional Medal of Honor recipient Herschel “Woody” Williams told us how life has many miracles, but sometimes we don’t fully take advantage of the heavenly gifts we are truly presented with. With that in mind, I urge you to make the most of this moment in time… don’t let this become the car keys in the back of the bible.

Today we take a small step into the future, that step will lead to a better West Virginia. One that ensures an improved economy, an improved business sector, improved job security, and most importantly improved educational opportunity. Together we take that step.

Two key issues that must be addressed are texting while driving and mandatory drug tests for welfare recipients. These two key issues are very important to the citizens of Mountaineer Boys’ State. Many citizen’s expressed their concern for these issues in their proposed legislation. They have seen how texting while driving as impacted the lives of their loved ones. They have also seen the abuse of the welfare system in their communities and only wish to help those who truly need aid. It is the best interest of the citizens that these issues be resolved.

Education is the key to the future and should be the utmost importance to each and everyone of us. Your State Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Tanner Sigman, is working to the best of his abilities to make West Virginia’s School system a model for the rest of the nation. We seek a new promise with the students of the state. A promise that provides scholarships for students to attend vocational school, a state board to oversee Charter Schools, a new educational model that allows students to pursue their dreams more directly. A plan allows vocational students to complete their education earlier. A plan that allows college bound students to raise the bar and reach for higher and higher goals. We can only succeed if each and everyone of you commits to making education a priority. Special recognition must be given to the Sectary of State, Mr. Cam Viney, for his influence in passion in not only helping to initiate, but also develop this plan.

West Virginia has at a unique opportunity to capitalize on it’s natural resources. We must carefully consider all options. For the right choices, will create jobs, revenue for the state, and help West Virginia reach new heights. Google recently discovered an unprecedented amount of geothermal hot spots in our state. We must encourage the growth of the geothermal energy. To do so we must consider a 1% tax on all non-renewable natural resources and use the revenue to reinvest in subsidization of geothermal energy research. The Treasurer of State, Mr. Vijay Sampath, must be given credit for starting and supporting this plan.

In these uncertain times, our state can emerge as a beacon of light that will be an example to the country. The citizens have chose the best from amongst themselves to represent their interests. I believe in the abilities of each and everyone of you. I believe that together, God willing, we can succeed. This is our moment. This is our time. Don’t let it slip away.

Thank you, God bless you all.

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Governor George Capel

2010 Governor
73rd ALMBS Governor

George Capel won the office of Governor in General elections this week, and has been in charge of, in principle, all of MBS.  George came to MBS from Wood County, and was a citizen in Kanawha Cottage.  He had a part in much of the MBS business politically, and also had a quote for this 73rd Boys State.  “Money can’t buy happiness; however, it can make you very comfortable in your unhappiness.”  He also had a specific piece of advice for the next Governor of Boys State, “Don’t wait until 20 minutes before the ceremony to write your inauguration speech.”

Governor Cody Steffick

2009 ALMBS Governor
72nd ALMBS Governor

Today excitement hit a new level as Cody Steffick, native of Marion cabin and Hurricane, West Virginia, was inaugurated as the 72nd governor of Mountaineer Boys State along with the rest of the state officials. Judge Fred Fox took the honor of inaugurating our new Supreme Justices, Commissioner of Agriculture, Treasurer, Auditor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Speaker of the House, and Governor. As each official took his oath of office the crowd was silent in utter reverence and their words echoed around the room, filling the gaps of the room and the minds of the citizens. Following the oaths was a powerful address from Cody Steffick. Governor Steffick made the following statement during his speech, ”Today we are no longer Nationalist or Federalists, we are one Boys State!.”  His ideas of bipartisan leadership and cooperation were vital in his campaign, which solicited over 86% of the votes. Now as the week continues, we can see firsthand the work of our new governor and continue in the positive direction that his fantastic leadership and political prowess has pointed us in.

Governor Dane Hamilton

2008 ALMBS Governor
71st ALMBS Governor

Last nightes debate was very, very interesting. The position for Boys State Governor may very well have rested on the candidatees responses. The Nationalist candidate, Dane “The Train” Ham-ilton, responded to the questions very well, especially with his clever answer for the “What are the benefits to lowering the alcohol consumption age” question.

Dane “The Train” Hamilton wasn’t the only candidate for Boys State Governor, however. Mr. Alexander Ross “Honest Abe” Taylor proposed some unique opposition. He and Dane “The Train” have a few views that they share, but are strongly opposed on their views regarding West Virginia’s environment. “Honest Abe” diligently opposes the coal mining industry and encourages a Going Green plan. “The Train”, however, proposes that coal mining remains as it is but does not wish to destroy the environment.

Dane “The Train” Hamilton emerged victorious over Alexander Ross “Honest Abe” Taylor as Boys State Governor. “Honest Abe” gave it his all and ran a good campaign, but Dane “The Train” still managed to excel to great heights

Governor Tanner Moore

2007 ALMBS Governor
70th ALMBS Governor

There is a new sheriff in town and his name is Tanner Moore. Moore, a Federalist, won the recent election to be the new gover-nor of Mountaineer Boys State. Moore de-feated Nationalist candidate Todd Zackwieja by collecting over 61% of the popular vote.

“I feel great about being elected gov-ernor. It is real exciting. It will open a door-way to many opportunities I personally have never had,” said Moore.

Governor Moore does have big shoes to fill in order to successfully succeed former Governor Uzi Ibrahim.

“I have received valuable advice from Uzi. He set a high standard for all governors to come, and he has definitely set a good ex-ample,” Moore said.

The winning of Moore for governor was just the beginning of a major snowball effect in wins for the federalist at the state elections. Nine out of eleven spots in state office went to boys from the Federalist Party.

“I feel that we had a well-handled party. I give all the credit in the world to AJ Warne, chair person for the Fed. Party, he really helped put this party over the top. I feel that the Feder-alists won by being mild and not trying to necessarily put on a good show, but being concise and persistent,” stated Governor Moore.

It is safe to say that this is just the beginning to a new and exciting year for Governor Tanner Moore. He will be presented with many challenges and opportunities that he has not seen before. It is safe to say that we are in great hands with the election of Tanner Moore as the 70th Governor of Mountaineer Boys State.

Governor Uzi Ibrahim

2006 ALMBS Governor
69th ALMBS Governor

After just a day in office, Governor Uzi Ibrahim has developed plans which he feel will boost the state in many different areas. Ibrahim met with the Senate, House of Delegates, Supreme Court Justices, and the Board of Public Works to tell them and receive their support concerning the initiatives in his State of the State Address. Among his initiatives, Ibrahim established four major goals which he wished he can accomplish during his session. These include economical development, create adequate infrastructure, helping shape the state s students into global colleagues, and keeping small businesses in state.

To help pass his initiatives, Ibrahim provided a plethora of support and explanation. Being a beautiful and promising state, Ibrahim believes that West Virginia could become more well-rounded if we were more economically developed. To industrialize our state and bring more businesses into the state, Ibrahim proposed to create an adequate infrastructure to support these businesses. To do so, Ibrahim wants to improve transportation, provide high-speed internet, and aid in transforming the West Virginia student into a global pupil.

On the other side of the topic, Uzi yearns to keep the small businesses in state. He says that small business is the key to state development. These industries represent the common person and West Virginia economy has always focused on the common person.

All in all Ibrahim focused on the plans rather than the funding, but it can be inferred that the funding for these programs will be discussed and settled in the legislature. It is evident that the government cares about the state very much and has thought hard concerning how to improve it.

Governor Afeef Ahmed

2005 ALMBS Governor
68th ALMBS Governor

Afeef and the gang have not taken their positions at boys state lightly. Today was a busy day for those at the Public Board office. They tackled a few bills, are in the middle of a heated dispute between the house and the senate and did the road to road show.

Their first item of business today was their road to road show. Going all through out Boys State, making stops at the Police Academy, various cities and counties, and other sorts of places, Afeef and the gang spread the message of additional funding. If any project or business needs additional funding all they need to do is write a piece of legislation stating: What they need the money for, how much, and why they feel they deserve the money over top of the other projects.

Also in the gang s schedule today was the passing of a bill. Their first bill was one that reduced the amount of frivolous lawsuits and delt with the rights of teenagers currently serving in the military.

Governor Bobby Herron

2004 ALMBS Governor
67th ALMBS Governor

My fellow Boys Staters, I would like to begin by saying what an honor it was to serve you as governor and what an honor it was to serve the tremendous and prestigious program that is American Legion Mountaineer Boys Sate. As a citizen of Mountaineer Boys State last year, I cannot even begin to count the many valuable lessons I learned while participating, not only in the dealings of state government, but lessons in how to deal with both lifes triumphs and challenges. I cannot express enough thanks and gratitude to those who make such a special program such as this work. I assure each and every one of you that I will utilize the traits, traits such as self-respect, hard work, loving this great nation, honesty, and respecting both my peers and those more experienced to the best of my ability. After experiencing the benefits of Mountaineer Boys State first hand, benefits which include improving my leadership skills and the benefit of making friends to whom I remain close even to this day, I have truly come to appreciate what this program is all about, and for that I am extremely thankful.

As I look around this room here today, I see many different types of young men. After observing this year s Boys State as both your counselor and governor, I have noticed that some of you are great athletes, great musicians, and some posses great public speaking qualities. The point is that each and every one of you brings a different character and personality trait to the table. However, the one characteristic that all of you posses is that of leadership. All of you are outstanding leaders, otherwise you would not be present here today. I strongly encourage each of you to apply this great gift to benefit your community, your state, your nation, and your world. I also advise you to absorb all the information and important lessons you will receive during your week at Mountaineer Boys State, and put these teachings into action within your community. In all
honesty, I would like to let you know that because of young men like you, I am very excited about the future
of our state. I am looking forward to taking on the challenge that will face our generation. I am proud of you and I am proud of this program.

In conclusion, I would first like to express my deepest gratitude and thanks to our veterans, our legionnaires, who, without their sacrifice, my opportunity to spend my short time on earth as a free man would not exist. Gentlemen, I thank you. To the staff of the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State: I applaud and appreciate all the hard work that you do in making this program the enormous success that it truly is. Finally, I would like to thank you, the 2005 citizens of the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State. I loved and appreciated your enthusiasm and acceptance of me as your governor. I want you to know that if you ever need me at all, I will be ready and willing to help any of you if necessary. Once again, I must re-iterate on how much pride I have in this state and you are all a big part of why I am proud to call myself a West Virginian. Thank you and, and I wish the best of luck to our new Governor Afeef Ahmed.