It’s the first FULL day of ALA Empire Girls State…and we are busy today!

Rankin County kicked off the day by leading the ALA Empire Girls State general session in the flag raising ceremony. An important aspect of the program is learning about Americanism and respect for the American flag.

ALA Department of New York Americanism Chairman, Gina, organized today’s Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) Ceremony.

This morning, we were honored to hear from Yversha Román, President of the Monroe County Legislature. She shared her journey from community advocate to elected official, encouraging our citizens to lead with purpose, listen with compassion, and remain rooted in service. Her words reminded us that leadership begins by showing up—for others and for ourselves.

Our ALA EGS political instructors, Cathleen and Xamayla, conducted a Policy Workshop. They expained the policy process in government and how our committees work. Citizens are divided into two parties: Nationalists and Federalists. Within those parties, citizens work in their committees to create bills.

All citizens serve on one of the following committees: Agriculture, Criminal Justice, Education/Technology, Environmental Conservation, Health, Housing & Community Development, Platform, or Campaign. Today, committees elected a chair and vice chair. In addition, they brainstormed ideas of bills to support the counties in ALA Empire Girls State.

Tonight, citizens gathered outside for a favorite Empire Girls State tradition—Ride the Pony! This fast-moving game had everyone clapping, cheering, and dancing as the circle grew with each round. It’s a fun way to relax, get moving, and share a lot of laughs.

The night ended with our first PARTY CAUCUS! The Nationalists (Nats) and Federalists (Feds) elected their party leaders! Congrats to all who were nominated and our winners! 

See our elected Nats and Feds Party Leadership below:

Stay tuned to hear more about our week at ALA EGS!
Instagram: @alaempiregirlsstate | Facebook: American Legion Auxiliary Empire Girls State

The American Legion Auxiliary’s Empire Girls State (ALA EGS) 84th year (WOW) is off and running!

On Monday, June 30, 2024, we proudly welcomed nearly 300 ALA EGS citizens and more than 30 staff members who came together from every corner of the great state of New York to embark on truly one of the best, most meaningful learning experiences.

Citizens and staff united at SUNY Brockport by car, bus, plane, and train. They hugged and kissed their loved ones goodbye and prepared for an exciting, immersive week of fun, knowledge, and stepping outside of their comfort zones.

How does ALA EGS work?

Qualified high school juniors take part in a week-long government workshop, becoming citizens of a mythical 51st state in which they study local, county, and state political and governmental processes. 

• Elect their own officials (county representatives, judges, members of the legislature, state leadership)
• Organize two parties (Nationalists and Federalists)
• Write, present, and debate bills
• Carry out the duties of the office to which they are elected/appointed

This educational program is designed to provide a practical perspective on government structure and operation where the individual is an integral part of, and responsible for, the character and success of her government.

Citizens are separated into 10 counties—all named after famous women in American history: Angelou, Anthony, Chisholm, Ginsburg, Mink, Parks, Picotte, Rankin, Ride, and Tubman.

After checking in, citizens met their counselors and fellow citizens in their counties. They settled into their rooms and started to read about their county’s profiles in the Blue Book—an important part of the ALA EGS puzzle. This is the foundation in which citizens craft bills and represent their county’s interests in the committees.

Working together as a team is crucial! Teamwork makes the dream work! Before getting to work, we prioritized time to get to know each other better through icebreakers and get-to-know-you activities.

Then, citizens learned how to conduct meetings using parliamentary procedures (Parli Pro)!

Parli Pro is so much fun when ice cream is involved!

At our ALA EGS Opening Ceremony, citizens were introduced to all staff members, got ready to begin this great program, and took our ALA Empire Girls State Pledge!

WE ARE READY! Stay tuned for all of the updates here on our blog and on our social media!
Instagram: @alaempiregirlsstate | Facebook: American Legion Auxiliary Empire Girls State

What an absolutely AMAZING week it’s been…and we can’t believe it’s already over!! This was the experience of a lifetime – an experience that truly immersed our future leaders into the mythical 51st state, all while creating new friendships and connections to last a lifetime.

We are very, VERY grateful to everyone who made this week possible (and incredible!) – SUNY Brockport, our volunteers, our staff (who are also volunteers!), our sponsors, ALA, guest speakers…

We started off the day with Appellate Court – the ALA EGS Attorney General heard a case and participants showed off their mock trial skills. Then, the Governor appointed several positions. Citizens wrote self-nominating letters to the Governor who read through them carefully to make her decisions.

State of the State Ceremony…
A week of learning and stepping outside of our comfort zones culminated with the State of the State Ceremony. We celebrated accomplishments, reflected on lessons learned, listened to the Governor’s Address, and let families/friends in on the magic of the week. Please see our Facebook Page to view the livestream and photos!!

Now, it’s time to say goodbye – for now!! A long night of talking, pizza, dance breaks and more talking are in store. Although we have to go our separate ways on Saturday morning, this community and sisterhood will last a lifetime. It’s truly been a special, rewarding, challenging, indescribable week at ALA Empire Girls State 2024!! WE ARE SO PROUD OF OUR FUTURE LEADERS!

Happy 4th of July from the 2024 ALA EGS!! Our citizens showed off their patriotism with red, white and blue apparel today!

We are honored to have FIVE veterans – who are all absolutely incredible women – on staff with us this year! Thank you for your service!

Blue Star Banner Ceremony

We spent many…many productive hours in Legislative Session today – 16 bills were brought forward (possibly the most ever!) and 8 were passed! We are very very proud of our citizens and their respect for each other to listen to a variety of perspectives, concerns and ideas. WOW!!

Service, Sweets & Social Networking

ALA Department of New York President, Karen, selected Hope for The Warriors as her project. At ALA EGS, citizens participated in this service project by creating fleece blankets and writing letters to veterans. We made a difference together, while crafting, snacking and enjoying our new friendships. Nationally, Hope For The Warriors provides comprehensive support programs for service members, veterans, and military families that are focused on transition, health and wellness, peer engagement, and connections to community resources. Learn more at hopeforthewarriors.org.

The ALA EGS Speaker Series Continues…

This morning, we were honored to have Dr. Heidi Macpherson join us as our next speaker – she is the 7th President of SUNY Brockport and the first female president. While the number of female college presidents continues to increase each year, her professional career exemplifies what it means to not only have a seat at the table, but to use that seat to evoke change as a leader in a primarily male lead industry. She also exemplifies the “service not self” mantra of the American Legion Auxiliary as she currently serves on a number of local volunteer boards, and has done so for many years. She said, “By taking part in Empire Girls State, you have given yourself a head start in the world.”

Special thanks to Americanism Chairman, Judy, for teaching our citizens to make poppies. The red poppy is a symbol of remembrance and sacrifice worn by Americans to honor those who have served and died in all wars, especially since World War I.

Time for the Parade & Rally!!

After selecting the Nats and Feds State candidates last night, ALA EGS Citizens rallied to show their support! We rallied through SUNY Brockport campus into our town hall debate where the campaign committee presented their 20-minute presentation of their candidates, including introductions given by the Minority and Majority leaders! Click here to view the album of our rally!

2024 State Officers

After the Town Hall debate, citizens went to the polling booths! We’re excited to announce the 2024 ALA EGS State Office Winners:

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ALA Girls Nation: Leadership Lessons for Life What is ALA Girls Nation? For seven days in Washington, D.C., ALA Girls Nation senators hold mock Senate sessions which require them to write, caucus, and debate bills; campaign for elected office; elect an ALA Girls Nation president and vice president; and work together to pass legislation. But, the program is so much more than hours spent in Senate.

Each county elected four citizens (two per party) to campaign to attend ALA Girls Nation in July 2024. At the party caucuses tonight, nominees gave 2-minute speeches to persuade their fellow citizens to vote for them. Then, citizens selected five Nats candidates and five Federalist candidates – these 10 move onto the next round. They craft a video for staff to review – two citizens are selected to represent New York State at ALA Girls Nation. Results are announced at the State of the State Ceremony on Friday!

It’s the first FULL day of ALA Empire Girls State…and we are busy today!

The best way to start the day is obviously with Ride That Pony – this silly warm-up sure did make us smile and laugh!!

Rankin County kicked off the day by leading the ALA Empire Girls State general session in the flag raising ceremony. An important aspect of the program is learning about Americanism and respect for the American flag.

ALA Department of New York Americanism Chairman, Judy, organized today’s Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) Ceremony. Then, our citizens had the great opportunity to hear from Gold Star Mom, Stephanie Gleason. Stephanie shared the inspiring story of her daughter, SSGT Alexandria Gleason-Morrow. Her service is eternally honored. Stephanie’s presentation was deeply moving and we are grateful to have her here as a counselor as well.

Our ALA EGS political instructors, Carrie and Jamie, conducted a Policy Workshop. They expained the policy process in government and how our committees work. Citizens are divided into two parties: Nationalists and Federalists. Within those parties, citizens work in their committees to create bills. All citizens serve on one of the following committees: Agriculture, Criminal Justice, Education/Technology, Environmental Conservation, Health, Homeland Security, Platform, or Campaign. Today, committees elected a chair and vice chair. In addition, they brainstormed ideas of bills to support the counties in ALA Girls State.

The night ended with our first PARTY CAUCUS! The Nationalists (Nats) and Federalists (Feds) elected their party leaders! Congrats to all who were nominated and our winners! 

See our elected Nats and Feds Party Leadership below:

The American Legion Auxiliary’s Empire Girls State (ALA EGS) 83rd year (WOW) is off and running!

On Sunday, June 30, 2024, we proudly welcomed nearly 300 ALA EGS citizens and 33 staff members who came together from every corner of the great state of New York to embark on truly one of the best, most meaningful learning experiences.

Citizens and staff united at SUNY Brockport by car, bus, plane, and train. They hugged and kissed their loved ones goodbye and prepared for an exciting, immersive week of fun, knowledge, and stepping outside our comfort zones.

How does ALA EGS work?

Qualified high school juniors take part in a week-long government workshop, becoming citizens of a mythical 51st state in which they study local, county, and state political and governmental processes. 

• Elect their own officials (county representatives, judges, members of the legislature, state leadership)
• Organize two parties (Nationalists and Federalists)
• Write, present, and debate bills
• Carry out the duties of the office to which they are elected/appointed

This educational program is designed to provide a practical perspective on government structure and operation where the individual is an integral part of, and responsible for, the character and success of her government.

Citizens are separated into 10 counties – all named after famous women in American history: Albright, Angelou, Anthony, Earhart, Ginsburg, O’Connor, Parks, Rankin, Ride, and Tubman.

After checking in, citizens met their counselors and fellow citizens in their counties. They settled into their rooms and started to read about their county’s profiles in the Gold Book – an important part of the ALA EGS puzzle. This is the foundation in which citizens craft bills and represent their county’s interests in the committees.

Working together as a team is crucial! Teamwork makes the dream work! Before getting to work, we prioritized time to get to know each other better through ice breakers and get-to-know-you activities.

Then, citizens learned how to conduct meetings using parliamentary procedures (Parli Pro)!

Parli Pro is so much fun when ice cream is involved!

At our ALA EGS Opening Ceremony, citizens were introduced to all staff members, got ready to begin this great program, and took our ALA Empire Girls State Pledge!

WE ARE READY! Stay tuned for all of the updates here on our blog and on our social media!
Instagram: @alaempiregirlsstate | Facebook: American Legion Auxiliary Empire Girls State

It seems like just yesterday that the 2023 ALA Empire Girls State session was in full swing. Take e a look back at the week via this video slideshow.

What an amazing week it has been! Today (like everyday) was a busy one! It kicked off with an inside flag ceremony due to some rain showers, but on Friday at ALA EGS we will take the rain in the morning as long as its nice for our ceremony in the evening!

Appellate Court

The ALA EGS Attorney General heard the case from Earhart County! Attorney General Ava Hartung conducted Appellate court. Participants from a county trial in Earhart County retried a case in which a defendant was sentenced 200 years in prison for an alleged fake ID. The participants showed off their mock trial skills in this court session. Their ability to put together convincing arguments and it was determined that the defendant was not guilty. The entire state celebrated this victory by chalking the sidewalks celebrating that justice prevailed.

Thank you Veterans

Americanism

Today participants had the opportunity to fold flags, learn about their meaning and hear about the pocket flag program. They also learned about the history of the poppy, received information on the Flanders Field poem, and learned how to make a poppy. They also learned about how veterans can earn money making poppies and how tough it is to do when fully able, but that doing it as a disabled veteran is a much different experience.

Governor Appointments

Each year the Governor has the ability to appoint several positions. Citizens write self nominating letters to the governor and read through them and make her decisions. These positions include the following:

Title or Commissioner of	Citizen Name	From
Commissioner Of Criminal Justice	Citizen Carina	Manhasset, NY
Commissioner Of Agriculture	Citizen Sophia	Middleport, NY
Commissioner Of Education	Citizen Elizabeth	Eastchester, NY
Commissioner Of Environmental Conserv.	Citizen Alaina	Erieville, NY
Commissioner Of Technology	Citizen Amy	Southold, NY
Commissioner Of Homeland Security	Citizen Grace	Catskill, NY
Chief of Staff	Citizen Ava	Holmes, NY
Surgeon General	Citizen Kristy	Monroe, NY
Press Secretary	Citizen Jaylene	Rome, NY
State Budget Director	Mary Redmore	Binghamton, NY

How a Bill Becomes a Law…

Usually this part of the week has us humming along to a little school house rocks ditty (that’s not about Jack and Diane) which we know makes us feel old, but it is such a good classic. Here are the bill that the Governor signed at the end of our legislative session and a picture of her Excellency making it happen!

• Juvenile Restoration (Federalist Criminal Justice Committee)
• Industrial Air Filtration Act (Nationalist Environmental Conservation Committee)
• Expansive Education Act (Nationalist Educational Technology Committee)
• GRR -Gun Reform & Regulation (Nationalist Criminal Justice Committee)
• Health Education Certification (H.E.C) Bill (Nationalist Health Committee)

State of the State Ceremony

Our week of learning and fun culminated with the state of the state ceremony. This ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of the week, provided the Governor the opportunity to give her address, provided opportunity for reflection, and allowed friends, families, and attendees a little glimpse of the magic that was the 2023 ALA Empire Girls State Session.

The Long Goodbye…

At ALA Empire Girls State we refer to the last night as one big long goodbye. Citizens stay up talking, signing shirts, eating sooo much pizza, having dance breaks, riding the pony, and so much more. It is a night of transformation as we think about where they started as communities of girls to the sisterhood that they have become. This goodbye continues to check out where we have the checkout area, exhausted citizen sleeping “lounge” and the beloved “hug and cry” area. It has truly been a great week at ALA Empire Girls State.

A Point of Personal Privilege

We ARRRRRRRRREE PR! We are so excited to have shared the week with you our families, auxiliary members and alumnae! It takes a village and we could not have pulled together the content without the support of everyone behind the scenes. We do want to however take a point of personal privilege to give a shout out to our Assistant PR Cam from Ginsburg County. ALA EGS Chairman Kris talked about each citizen having their voice and that each and every citizen was here for a reason. Cam visited the PR team one day early in the week as she looked to find her niche at ALA Empire Girls State and she was hoping to be part of our team in some way. Well some way turned into a big way and we are so proud of the work Cam did to help us, but to go outside of her comfort zone throughout the week to get the best shot, interact with people not in her county to make sure we had an array of pictures. Cam is the epitome of what Kris talked about- Not everyone will be Governor or Party Leader, but every single person here has an equally important role to ensure that the program is successful. We consider ourselves lucky to have Cam’s role be of that in PR. We hope that Cam’s story inspires you to go out and create opportunities for yourselves like she did, because sometimes you have to take a risk along the way. We love you Cam and couldn’t be more proud!

And with that…ALA Empire Girls State 2023 is a wrap! PR OUT!

Thank you for following along, and forgiving our late night early morning typos!
-With full hearts, sleepy eyes, and way less memory on our devices than we came
❤ WE LOVE GIRLS STATE ❤
Carrie & Jen
#WeArePR