Moser experiences government procedures at Girls Nation

From the governor's mansion to the White House, Clearwater native Alyssa Moser had a whirlwind summer.

Moser, who represented the Clearwater American Legion Auxiliary at Cornhusker Girls State, in June, spent July 20 to 27 attending girls nation in Washington, D.C.

In June, Moser was elected Girls State governor and selected to represent Nebraska at the nation-wide event.

girls nation attendees are known as senators.

Moser, along with Nebraska delegate Aanya Agarwal, of Lincoln, introduced a bill known as the Inmate Reform and Rehabilitation Act.

"We advocated for mandatory reading and meditation time while in prison," Moser said.

The idea for the bill was modeled after a program at the Antelope County Law Enforcement Center, where Sheriff Bob Moore uses music and gardening as a means of rehabilitation.

Moser and Agarwal gave a two-minute opening speech about the merits of the bill, which was followed with a three-minute clarification period.

Three rounds of debate followed. Anyone on the Senate floor could introduce an amendment, with the exception of Moser and Agarwal.

After two more rounds of debate and closing comments, the bill advanced for a vote.

It passed with flying colors.

The mock legislative process was just one part of the week in Washington.

Attendees were divided into the Federalist and Nationalist parties. Each party came up with a list of candidates for offices.

Moser ran for keynote speaker, but did not win.

"It was fun to enjoy it (the process)," she said. "Just sit back and watch."

Unlike Nebraska's Girls State, where candidates campaign on each floor, come up with a catchy slogan and sling candy, girls nation candidates are limited to a one-minute speech.

During each party's convention, candidates for top positions reply to extemporaneous questions and present a speech about "a big issue," according to Moser.

She was appointed to fill a cabinet position: secretary of agriculture.

"It was the first time I realized how little people know about agriculture."

Moser said other girls nation attendees told her they could see her passion about the ag industry.

"That was cool to hear," she said.

While in the nation's capitol, Girls State senators visited Arlington National Cemetery, World War II Memorial, the Capitol, Pentagon 911 Memorial and Lincoln Memorial.

A highlight was meeting Vice President Mike Pence in his executive office.

Moser said the meeting showed her that "government officials are human beings."

"He was down to earth," she said.

The overall experience taught Moser that while getting something accomplished can be a cumbersome process, it's worthwhile.

"It's important to keep fighting for what you believe," she said.