Nor Cal JSA Spring State Agenda

7/30/2019 Nor Cal JSA Spring State Agenda

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Dear Spring State Delegate,

On behalf of the Northern California Junior State of America, we would like towelcome you to Spring State 2013. This convention has always been notorious for

its energy and fast-paced excitement. In the coming days, you will have theopportunity to debate and have open discussions on a number of important issuesto help shape your own stances.

While deciding the theme for this convention, the focus turned to the unbelievableamount of tumult in the United States and around the world. Though it has always

been apparent that history is made each day, we wanted to turn our eyes to thefuture. Spring State, The Future of Freedom: Rights, Revolution, and Renewal,

presents an opportunity to decide how the choices that are made today will shape

the future of the world. With tensions between the US and North Korea ablaze,fighting in Syria continuing, and acts of terror again in the forefront of Americans

minds, we stand with the unique chance to decide how we will respond to thesetrying times.

As Theodore Roosevelt said, In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do isthe right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can

do is nothing. This weekend presents you with the time to decide what the right

thing to do is and we hope that you will venture outside of the walls of thisconvention and act upon your decision; be the people.

In addition to the debates and stimulating activities, this convention also presents

you with the opportunity to elect the officials who will run your state next year.

Listen to the candidates, understand their platforms, and participate in theexcitement that is campaigning.

We are so glad that you are joining us at this convention. We would also like tothank you for making this convention the extraordinary experience that it is and we

truly hope you have a fantastic weekend.

Sincerely,

Arnela Colic

Governor

Karthik Prasad

LieutenantGovernor

William Du

SpeakeroftheAssembly


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The Northern California Junior State of AmericaProudly PresentsSpring State 2013

The Future of Freedom:Rights, Revolution & RenewalSkeleton Agenda

Friday, April 26

Chapter Registration 4:00-5:00Registration desk

Luggage Storage 4:00-5:00

Sedona

Block 1 4:00-4:45Newport Beach NationalThought Talk: Have First Amendment protections gone too far?Salon A NationalThought Talk: Is the two party system detrimental to the

democratic process?Salon B/C NationalThought Talk: What is the 21st century American identity?Salon D/E Speed Friending

Opening Session 5:00-5:45California Ballroom

Dinner 5:45-

6:55

State Nominations 7:00-8:00California Ballroom

Teach-Advisor Information Meeting 7:00-8:00Salon A

Regional Caucus 8:05-8:30Salon 1- 3 GGRSalon 4 GCRSalon 5 CVR

Salon 7-

9 EBR

Evening ActivitiesGrand Ballroom Glow-in-the-Dark Dance 9:00-12:00Seattle/Portland Ninja 9:00-12:00Santa Barbara Game Room 9:00-12:00Newport Beach Bluegrass Jammin 9:00-12:00Sedona Teacher-Advisor Reception 9:45-11:45


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Curfew 12:15No one is allowed out of his or her room past 12:15am.

Saturday, April 27

Block 2 9:00-

9:55Salon 3 Debate en Espaol, Resuelto: El Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos debe

quitar servicios de correo en los Sbados.Salon 4 Debate 101Salon 5 National Resolved: The Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is

unconstitutional. Salon 6 Speed Chess: Resolved: Money can buy happiness.Salon 7 Genius Bar / JSA Summer School Information SessionSierra Resolved: U-turn signals should be implemented on all new automobiles.Salon D/E Resolved: The city of Oakland should designate a legal area for sideshows.

Block 3 10:00-10:55

Salon 3 Resolved: Religion does more harm than good.Salon 4 Novice: Resolved: Violent video games do more harm than good.Salon 5 Resolved: Domestic terrorists should not be subject to all legal rights.Salon 6 Live Auction: Junior Date of AmericaSalon 7 Genius BarSalon B/C National Resolved:The Federal Assault Weapons Ban should be reinstated.Salon A Thought Talk: What is the effect filibusters have in the political process?Salon D/E Boston Massacre: Resolved: California should implement a sin tax on junkfood.Seattle/Portland Mock Trial

Block 4 11:00-11:55

Salon 3 Mysteriobate: Resolved: It is rational to ________ ________.Salon 4 Resolved:The Pledge of Allegiance should be mandatory for all students.Salon 5 Speed Chess: Resolved:The vigilante acts of the hacker group Anonymous are

justified.Salon 6 Resolved: Same-sex marriage should be legal BUT abortion should

simultaneously be banned.Salon 7 Genius BarSalon A Assembly MeetingSalon B/C Resolved: Individuals have the right to terminate their own lives.Newport Beach Formal Debate: Resolved:The United States patent system should beabolished.Salon D/E Thought Talk: Walter White: Good or evil?

Lunch 12:00-

1:25

Block 5 1:30-2:25Salon 3 Resolved: Major league baseball should utilize instant replay to review on-field calls.Salon 4 Resolved: California should eliminate the provisional drivers license BUT

minors should receive double the points and fines for moving violations.Salon 5 Gubernatorial Debate


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Salon 6 Resolved: California should split into two seperate states.Salon 7 Genius BarSalon A Assembly MeetingSierra Thought Talk: What should crime-ridden cities do to reform corrupt and/0r

ineffective police departments?Salon D/E Resolved: California should abolish the ballot initiative.

Santa Barbara/Newport Beach Political Fair

Block 6 2:30-3:25Salon 3 National Resolved:The USA PATRIOT act should be repealed.Salon 4 Resolved: The Federal government should bailout print media.Salon 5 Resolved:All primary and secondary school teachers should be required to

keep guns in their classrooms.Salon 6 Resolved:The United States is the greatest country on earth.Salon 7 Genius BarSalon A Senate MeetingSalon B/C Thought Talk: What public services, if any, should be privatized?

Sierra National Resolved: The United States should become energy independentby 2025.Salon D/E Activism

Newport Beach/ Political FairSanta Barbara

Block 7 3:30-4:25Salon 3 Resolved: In times of peace, Congressional salaries should be withheld until

the Federal budget is balanced.Salon 4 Speed Chess: Resolved: End the Fed.Salon 5 Thought Talk: What do women really want?Salon 6 Resolved: Regina George deserved to get hit by the bus.

Salon 7 Genius Bar/Chapter-of

-the

-Year Presentation

Salon A Senate MeetingSalon B/C Crisis ScenarioSalon D/E Resolved:Targeted killing is a morally permissible tool for National

Security.Sierra National Resolved:A national right-to-work law should be passed. Santa Barbara/ Political FairNewport BeachState Elections 4:30-6:30California Ballroom

Dinner 6:30-7:55

Regional Caucus 8:00-8:30Salon 1-3 GGRSalon 4 GCRSalon 5 CVRSalon 7-9 EBR

Evening Activities


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Grand Ballroom The Governors Ball 007: A Bond Affair9:00-12:00Seattle/Portland Ninja9:00-12:00Santa Barbara Game Room9:00-12:00

Newport Beach Bluegrass Jammin9:00-12:00Sedona Teacher-Advisor Reception9:45-11:45


Sunday, April 28

Regional Elections 8:40-9:55Salon 1 CVRSalon 2 GCRSalon 3 EBRSalon 7 GGR

Block 8 10:00-10:55Salon 3 National Resolved:The United States should provide military assistance to

pro-democracy movements in the Middle East.Salon 4-6 Microbate: Resolved: Debates are a waste of time.

Resolved: Women belong in the House.Resolved: Ted Mosebys children are really adopted.

Salon 7 Genius BarSedona NationalResolved:The democratization of American society is the result oftechnological advances in media and communications.

Sierra National Resolved: United States should liberalize immigration quotas.

Keynote Speaker 11:00-11:30California Ballroom

Closing Session 11:30-12:30California Ballroom

Contact the Debate Department System

Do you want to give a subsequent speech? Are you confused about what to say, or how toeffectively present your speech? Do you have a great argument, but need a piece of evidenceto back it up? Did your moderator make a significant error that is changing the course of thedebate? Text the debate department mid-debate from your cell phone at (925) 261-6700.Adebate staff member will respond to your text with advice or that needed piece of evidence.


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The Northern California Junior State of America

Proudly PresentsSpring State 2013

The Future of Freedom:Rights, Revolution, & Renewal

Full Agenda

Friday, April 26

Chapter Registration 4:00-5:00Registration desk

Luggage Storage 4:00-5:00Sedona

Block 1 4:00-4:45Newport Beach National Thought Talk: Have First Amendment

protections gone too far?Mod: Evan Coleman, York

The first amendment to the Constitution establishes the right citizens have to free

speech. This right manifests itself in many ways in society. People exercise this right

daily through the media, protests, and expressing ones opinion. As a nation, we aretaught to share our voices with others to affect positive change. There is, however, a point

when free speech becomes dangerous. People can speak out against the government,

share undisclosed information, and expose harmful truths about society. Some argue that

this free speech is crucial to our democracy, while othera believe that too much free

speech may become a problem. Can absolute free speech pose a threat to the stability of

the government or is it one of our unalienable rights?

Salon A National Thought Talk: Is the two party systemdetrimental to the democratic process?Mod: Samuela Zhang,Dougherty Valley

The United States government currently faces challenging gridlock in

Washington, D.C. The two party system has taken over the political landscape, allowing

little room for third parties and new platforms. Some believe that this leaves little room

for candidates with newer platforms, limiting democratic process. With the two dominant

parties unable to compromise, the government has become inefficient and thus

ineffective. On the other side of the issue, some argue that the two party system is a


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natural part of democracy and that factions are necessary to uphold our government. Is

the two party system beneficial or detrimental to the democratic process?

Salon B/C What is the 21stcentury American identity?Mod: Isabella Blaney,Northgate

Over the past two centuries, American identity has been defined by the history of

the nation. Waves of immigrants, free speech, and toleration have all led to a melting pot

of races and nationalities. Economic freedom and the idea of the American dream have

also influenced the national identity. In the 21st century, Americans confront many

questions in the midst of a drastically changing nation. As the world becomes more

globalized, Americans are forced to take a step back and question what their national

identity is. How are we impacted by democracy? What is our place in the world? What

makes you feel American?

Salon D/E Speed Friending

New to JSA? Want to make friend? Come check out Speed Friending! Here you

can meet other delegates, new and experienced, to help make you convention more

interesting, smooth, and fun!

Opening Session 5:00-5:45California Ballroom

Dinner 5:45-6:55

State Nominations 7:00-

8:00California Ballroom

Teach-Advisor Information Meeting 7:00-8:00Salon A

Regional Caucus 8:05-8:30Salon 1-3 GGRSalon 4 GCRSalon 5 CVRSalon 7-9 EBR

Evening ActivitiesGrand Ballroom Glow-in-the-Dark Dance 9:00-12:00Seattle/Portland Ninja 9:00-12:00Santa Barbara Game Room 9:00-12:00Newport Beach Bluegrass Jammin 9:00-12:00Sedona Teacher-Advisor Reception 9:45-11:45

Curfew 12:15


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Saturday, April 27

Block 2 9:00-9:55Salon 3 Debate en Espaol: Resuelto: El Servicio Postal de los

Estados Unidos debe quitar servicios de correo en losSbados.Pro: Jennifer Rodriguez,RichmondCon: Deisy Villalobos,RichmondMod: Nora Rodriguez, Pinole Valley

Pro Con

Costs less Tax Money. More business directed towards private delivery servicessince they ship 24/7.Gives postal workers two days off.

The postal service isnt as needed anyways, with e-mailand other forms of communication.

Harder to send mail since only 5 business days are in

effect.

Less pay for postal workers.

El Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos trabaja debajo una lema que dice,

Nieve, lluvia, ni noche puede parar el cartero de su servicio postal. Pero, una de las

cosas que si puede pararlo en el futuro es mandando correo en los Sabados. Aunque es

comun no recibir correo en los Domingos, el USPS decidio que servicio postal en los

Sabados probablemente no es necesario, porque muchos ya utilizan e-mailing y uso

compartido de archivos digitales. Aunque esto bajaria los taxes que el USPS gana, esto

tambien haria mas dificil el mandar correo por el USPS, hasta mandando negocio a otro

servicios postal como DHL, UPS, y FedEx. Debemos quitar el servicio postal de Sabadopara cortar los precios de servicios postal?

Salon 4 Debate 101 Learn the fundamentals of JSA debating

Salon 5 National Resolved: The Defense of Marriage Act(DOMA) is unconstitutional.Pro: Mia Shackleford,LowellCon: Stetler Brown, UniversityMod: Leonard Eisen,Pinole Valley

The Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is a law defining marriage as the legalunion of one man and one woman. Signed into law in September of 1996 under President

Bill Clinton, this act allows states to choose not to recognize same-sex marriages that

occurred in another state. Nine states have legalized gay marriage, which has pushed this

act into the spotlight in recent years. Many have demanded the repeal of this act,

believing that it is unconstitutional. They argue that it does not comply with the Full Faith

and Credit Clause, the denial of equal rights, and how federal government having a


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definition of marriage violates the 10th amendment. However, some believe that DOMA

is constitutional. They cite that this definition of marriage has been upheld throughout the

existence of the United States of America and thus, there is no reason to change the status

quo. They also cite religious texts and the typical family structure. Should DOMA be

repealed or should it be upheld, leaving it to states to decide whether or not same-sex

marriage should be legalized?

Salon 6 Speed Chess: Resolved: Money can buy happiness.Pro: Alexandra Costello,PiedmontCon: Arthur Shemitz, Alternative Family EducationMod: Madeleine Elliott,Piedmont

Pro Con

People that drive Ferraris and Lamborghinis seem to bevery happy.

Happiness existed before money.

People without homes or good clothes don't seem very

happy.

Scientifically, happiness is just chemical releases in the

brain, which are triggered by experiences.

People who win the lottery tend to end up with very

unhappy lives, and the more they win, the worse their

lives get.Money is just a human invention to represent value, but

happiness transcends the physical and the tangible.

Means of exchange have always been prominent in society, whether it be

seashells or dollar bills. People have always tried to buy happiness with all forms of

money. Today, money can buy big houses, fast cars, good company, and the ability to do

whatever you want. But do these things bring their purchasers happiness?

Salon 7 Genius Bar / JSA Summer School Information Session

Still interested in attending a JSA Summer Program? We can help get you there!

Sierra Resolved: U-turn signals should be implemented on allnew automobiles.Pro: Zack Rheinstein,Alternative Family EducationCon: Tyler Harris, BeniciaMod: Gabrielle Pierotti, Alternative Family Education

Pro Con

Alerts approaching drivers to yield. Left turn signals already serve this purpose.Creates a safer roadway.

Prevents possible dangers that come with making a turn.

Requires alterations to driving instruction.

Costs money to implement.

While car manufacturers and drivers alike have long maintained the use of the

normal left and right turn signals, they have often forgotten about the other type of turn,

arguably the most difficult: the U-turn. A common yet confusing turn, to say the least, the


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U-turn has remained unrepresented in the world of car signals. Conducting a U-turn is a

feat of sorts for new drivers, one that can easily become disastrous if done improperly.

Would it be beneficial to implement a turn signal for the U-turn in order to warn of the

possible difficulty and harm soon present in front of another driver, or is the current left

turn signal sufficient? As many teenagers face the newfound difficulty of driving and

seasoned professionals encounter difficulty with patience, the matter of safety and

awareness must be brought into play. Will the U-turn signal effectively warn a following

automobile that a true danger is approaching, or would this added appendage be a

pointless expense for our future vehicles?

Salon D/E Resolved: The city of Oakland should designate a legalarea for sideshows.Pro: Adrian Napolitano, Oakland TechCon: DagmawiFasil, Oakland TechMod: Arbel Efraty,Lowell

Pro Con

Designated areas would be managed by the city, therefore

performs would have to abide by the rules set by the city.

Who would pay for the designated spots for the

sideshows?

Prevent citizens not performing in the sideshow from

being involved into an accident.

Bridges a gap between the common public of Oakland

and the so-called man.

Often sideshows are surrounded with a crowd of underage

teens drinking.

Supporting the sideshow performers with a designated

spot can create a weak push-over image the law

enforcement of Oakland.

Popularized in movies and music about the Bay Area, stunts in and around cars

like driftin, doughnuttin, and ghost ridin are all part of the automobile exhibitionknown as sideshows. The city of Oakland, California has a long tradition with this art

form; however, these sideshows tend to be done informally and illegally. The casual

organization of street stunts has become a serious hazard to the public. In the midst of

one sideshow, a driver ran into a performing car and pinned it up against a pole. This led

to the death of three and critical injuries to two others. For the safety of the public should

the city of Oakland designate places for slideshows, or should it remain illegal due to the

wild actions included?

Block 3 10:00-10:55

Salon 3 Resolved: Religion does more harm than good.Pro: Casey Monahan,HarborCon: Akshaya Natarajan, San MateoMod: Nora Rodriguez, Pinole Valley

Pro Con

Cause of many wars. Creates sense of community.

Violence in the name of religion.

Creates an us vs. them atmosphere.

Promotes education and generosity.

Promotes beneficial charity work.


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Religion has brought us Mother Teresa and many other religious men and women

who have dedicated their lives to service. Religion has also brought us the Spanish

Inquisition and the Crusades, church-sanctioned slaughters. Even within a single subject,

such as in the conquest of the Americas, conflict ensues; some members of the CatholicChurch justify the abuse of the native inhabitants while others tried to protect their rights.

Some feel that the very concept of religion makes us intolerant, while others feel that

religion expresses the best impulses of humankind. Still others argue that religion is

beautiful, though humans mess up its ideas in practice. In the end, does religion do more

good than harm?

Salon 4 Novice:Resolved: Violent video games do more harmthan good.Pro: Tyler Ho,Pinole ValleyCon: Christopher Calciano, YorkMod: Malakai Wade, Alternative Family Education

Pro Con

Many children who play violent video games exhibitviolent tendencies.

Artistic freedom (game designers are entitled to theirwork).

Waste of time; distracting from homework.Rude online communities, in-game bullying.

Millions of people play titles like CoD and Halo, therearent millions of murderers.

As long as the ESRB laws are followed, gamers should be

ideally mature enough for their games.

From Armored Core to Zelda, violent video games have swept across the gaming

world, easily taking up the majority of popular games on the market. Although non-

violent games such as the Portal games have become increasingly popular, society still

finds itself immersed in gory, violent shooters such as Halo and Call of Duty.

However, do we need to exhibit this sort of flagrant violence to younger audiences?

According to the New York Times, both the shooters in Newtown, Connecticut; and

Aurora, Colorado were both avid video gamers, and a possible link could be associated

between the shootings and the violent gaming. If this is the case, violent video games are

slowly corrupting American citizens, and like any threat to the American people, should

be marked as a threat and be controlled. On the converse, however, it may just be a

coincidence, and video games may be just like any other media source, like violentmovies serving only to entertain the jingoistic eyes of their audience. Are video games an

entertaining outlet, or an aggravator of violence and death?

Salon 5 Resolved:Domestic Terrorists should not be subject to alllegal rights.

Pro: Jonathan Chang,ArmijoCon: Sumit Kumar, Foothill


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Mod: Ema T. Barnes, Lowell

Pro Con

Can help ensure public safety. All citizens have rights.

They are not felons.

They dont deserve rights.

Allows potential for abuse.

Suspects may not be culprits.

After the capture of Dzhokar Tsarnaev, one of the men suspected of planting

bombs at the 2013 Boston Marathon, the Federal Bureau of Investigations and

Department of Justice stated that the young man would not be given his Miranda rights

under the Public Safety clause. This legal precedent holds that when a detained subject

may have information that could create, or prevent, harm to the public, the subject may

be initially interrogated without having his legal rights explained. Furthermore, is the

American justice system the best place for prosecution of domestic terrorists? Many feel

that their acts are not those of crime, but those of war: enemy combatants not felons.

Should domestic terrorists have access to complete legal rights? Will limiting the rights

of this violent minority translate to a restriction of rights for the law-abiding majority?Salon 6 Live Auction: Junior Date of America

Have you ever dreamed about going on a date with JSAers like Arnela Colic,

Karthik Prasad, or Will Du? Come out to Junior Date of America, where you can have

the once in a life time chance to bid on these JSAers and many more, including Aaron

Pressman, Brad Davis, Reema Kakaday, Lilly Tahmasebi, Mari Galicer, and Ariel

Barbieri-Aghib!

Ariel Barbieri-Aghib:

Ariel enjoys heated discussions about the Israeli/Palestinian conflict with

republican zionists, as well as candle lit dinners spent discussing the current economic

crisis. She also enjoys pictures of man eating cats (better known as tigers) and can be

found dancing to Indian music long into the night.

Arnela Colic:

Arnela, also known as Boss Lady, is a senior at Leigh and NorCal Governor. She

enjoys large cups of coffee, taking pictures of cats, and watching sloths sleep. When she's

not running the world, she spends her time napping and watching Mad Men.

Brad Davis:

Brad Davis is a Junior at Armijo High School. He is 17, with a birthday on

Valentine's Day. A patron of tennis and music, Brad likes to enjoy the finer things in life;

which could also include you. If asked, Brad will not hesitate to sing or rap, especially if

it is an NWA or Taylor Swift song. His ideal date would be comprised of two parts:


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a) stimulating conversation, perhaps in a Santa Clara Coffee Shop or In-N-Out

b) intelligent and meaningful dancing, perhaps at a JSA dance

In the words of a man that thinks like me, and looks like me:

"I am a helpless romantic and I love to spoil my girlfriends." - Orlando Bloom

Will Du:

Whos William Du? To be honest, nobody knows. Some say that he does car

commercials for lexus in Japan. Others claim that he assassinated President Lincoln. In

reality he moonlights as President of the United States and daylights as Justice

Sotomayor.

Want to strike up conversation? William is an expert in identifying humans fromdogs and solving complex math problems including 1+1 which of course adds up to

61239. In addition, he sings like an angel and if you ask nice enough, he will sing the

entire Phantom of the Opera and Les Miserables from heart. In addition, he is extremely

gifted with music. He can play the piano, guitar, oboe, cello, flute, and mandolin.

However, he is limited to instruments that are produced by a deemed invisible, whatever

that means. Furthermore, he like turtles. His favorite books include 50 Shades of Gray,

Twilight, and The Sisterhood of Traveling Pants.

Finally, William is a pathological liar.

Mari Galicer:Mari is an an empowered woman who likes all types of men-- even libertarians.

When she's not busy breaking glass ceilings or hanging out with Sheryl Sandberg, you

can find her at home reading one of Hillary Clinton's autobiographies next to her many

cats. She also enjoys red wine and long walks to the fridge.

Reema Kakaday:

Reema Kakaday is a high school junior and the NorCal JSA Activism Director

who not only absolutely loves JSA and activism, but has a huge passion for dance, music,

and baking! Outside of school, Reema can be found perfecting choreography in a dance

studio, always listening to the 20/20 Experience, baking lemon bars, working on her

photography, or studying for her upcoming tests. Shes a fun-loving, bubbly, smiley

person who can always make your day better and brighter!

Karthik Prasad:


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We've all seen our dark-chocolatey Lieutenant Governor busy at work during

conventions or sweeping up gavels in debates, but the question remains: what does

Karthik Prasad do in his spare time?

Well, when he isn't working his Senate to death or ceaselessly tormenting his

wonderful President Pro-Tempore, Karthik relaxes by dressing like Iron Man and dancing

like Obama after a long game of whack-a-republican. Karthik is also notorious for

gossiping like he's on the set of Mean Girls. Rumor has it that his purple shirt is insured

for $10,000.

Aaron Pressman:

So you may have seen this guy debating before or helping his staff answer text

messages at the debate department desk, but who is the real Aaron Pressman? Well,Aaron has been a hardcore master debater for quite some time. With his outstanding oral

skills and language abilities, some would even call him a cunning linguist. But his

qualities and skills dont stop there.

Aaron is a down-to-earth guy who enjoys dates and having a good time . Outside

of the Junior State of America, he fights crime and saves the world working for the

Justice Society of America (JSA II). Most importantly, hes got 23 gavels. Care to bang

one?

Lilly Tahmasebi:Her business card says "I'll call you." Her passport requires no photo. She has

won the JSA lifetime achievement award. Twice. Gavels present themselves to her.

Moderators moderate themselves around her. She once had an awkward moment, just to

see how it felt. Enemies list her as their emergency contact number. Devils advocate(s)

ask her if they can speak. Her cereal never gets soggy, it just sits there, staying crisp,

waiting for her. She has inside jokes with strangers. Her words carry so much weight that

it breaks less interesting people's ears. If she gave you directions you would get lost 5

times and be 10 minutes early. She doesn't go to blocks, blocks go to her. She rarely goes

on blind dates, but when she does, its for JSA.

Salon 7 Genius Bar

This is your hub for all things related to The Quest. There will be computers set upto research questions should you get stuck during your journey.


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Salon A Thought Talk:What is the effect filibusters have in thepolitical process?Mod: Lea Finato, Leigh

In 1789, the first U.S. Senate adopted rules allowing the Senate to move the

previous question, ending debate and proceeding to a vote. Aaron Burr argued that the

motion regarding the previous question was redundant, had only been exercised once in

the preceding four years, and should be eliminated. In 1806, the Senate agreed,

recodifying its rules, and thus the potential for a filibuster sprang into being. Because the

Senate created no alternative mechanism for terminating debate, the filibuster became an

option for delay and blocking of floor votes. Today, the filibuster can be a weapon used

for stalling bills and wasting precious time in the Senate. It can also be used to discuss

matters of significant importance, such as recently when Senator Rand Paul held a

filibuster challenging John Brennan's nomination confirmation vote for the position of

Director of the CIA and demanding an answer from the Obama Administration to the

question should a President be allowed to target, and kill an American by drone attack,on American soil, without due process?" This went on for almost 13 hours, and ranked as

the 9th longest filibuster in US history. In this thought talk, we will discuss what effect

the filibuster actually has on the political process. Whatever the outcome may be, it is

clear that the filibuster has been a tradition in the Senate for many years. It is one of the

most distinctive differences between the Senate and the House and, for better or for

worse, holds a prominent position in the legislative process.

Salon B/C National Resolved: The Federal Assault Weapons Banshould be reinstated.Pro: Wyatt Lemons,LeighCon: Kevin Covarrubias, Oakland TechMod: Delenne Franco, San Mateo

Following the mass shooting in Newtown, Connecticut many began to call for

greater gun control legislation. As a result, they began to look to past legislation on this

issue. In 1994, President Bill Clinton signed into law the Federal Assault Weapons Ban,

which prohibited the manufacture and civilian use of semi-automatic firearms, also

known as assault weapons. This ban expired in 2004. Those in favor of reinstating this

legislation argue that there is no need for civilians to have such dangerous weapons and

that it would reduce mass shootings and widespread violence. Many have come out

against reinstating this ban. They cite the ineffectiveness of the previous weapons banand state that it is not the guns that are the source of the problem. Should the Federal

Assault Weapons Ban be reinstated or are there other ways to combat gun violence?

Salon D/E Boston Massacre: Resolved: California shouldimplement a sin tax on junk food.Pro: Nina Dabit,NorthgateCon: Marcos Nunez,Richmond


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Mod: Lynn Vu,American Indian II

Pro Con

May lower obesity rates. Limits the purchasing power of CA residents.

Encourages purchase of local goods.

Source for extra revenue.

People will still buy junk food; it will just raise the cost of

living.

As of late October 2012, the CDC had found that 24 percent of adults and 17.2

percent of children in the state of California were obese, amounting to over 15 million

people. This constant growth of obese adults and children has caused a major concern,

especially since California stands as the 12th least obese state in the U.S. (meaning 38

other states have higher obesity rates.) In an attempt to protect California residents and

encourage them to choose proper eating habits, a sin tax could be established. On the

other hand, as American people, we are entitled to the things we purchase and we should

have an unalienable right to indulge in what our purchasing power provides us. As seenin the Whiskey Rebellion of 1791, the American people do not take kindly to their goods

being overly taxed, regardless of the harmful effects. Does California need the sin tax as

a helping hand to lower obesity across the board, or are we to stay true to our age old

motto, no taxation without representation?

Seattle/Portland Mock Trial

Block 4 11:00-11:55Salon 3 Mysteriobate: It is rational to ________ ________.

Pro: Nick Whitaker,Piedmont

Con: Quinton Grounds, York

Pro Con

Were not going to

Make it that easy!

Thought you could look try to figure out the topic based on the blurb, eh? Nice try

and best of luck!

Salon 4 Resolved: The Pledge of Allegiance should be

mandatory for all students.Pro: Harry Yoon, Dougherty ValleyCon: Mari Galicer, LowellMod: Mary Joplin, York

Pro Con

American values must be taught and upheld. Discriminates against religious groups.

Many schools have a devoted time already.

Boosts morale among students.

Wastes valuable class time.

Mandate is excessive.


19/46

The Pledge of Allegiance is a symbol of nationalism, patriotism, and loyalty to

the United States of America. It has been officially recognized since 1942, and since has

had widespread use in American schools, sporting events, and government agencies. For

many citizens it is a daily practice, a fact of life encouraging nationalism. However, somesay that it discriminates against certain religious and non-religious groups because of the

inclusion of the line one Nation under God. Does the Pledge of Allegiance hold enough

patriotic value to merit its sanction in all US schools, or does its allegedly discriminatory

nature make it by definition un-American?

Salon 5 Speed Chess: Resolved: The vigilante acts of the hackergroup Anonymous are justified.Pro: Julian Arthur,Alternative Family EducationCon: Calvin Chiu, Chinese ChristianMod: Madeleine Elliott,Piedmont

Pro Con

Form of protest. People have right to privacy.

Aim to avenge victims.

Attack internet criminals.

Causes irreparable harm.

Promotes extrajudicial vigilantism.

The hacker group Anonymous, commonly referred to as hacktivists or people

that promote activism through hacking, are well known for their vigilante acts against

government corruption, Internet censorship, and homophobia as well as the wearing of

Guy Fawkes masks to conceal their identities. They have attacked numerous groups such

as the Syrian and U.S. governments, Facebook, a child pornography website, and the

Westboro Baptist Church. They believe their acts are justified because they are in protest

of groups they either strongly disagree with the views of or are widely opposed by much

of the general public. Even so, are they justified in hacking a website purely because they

do not agree with its views? Often times, these groups are either completely destroyed or

have been caused irreparable damage due to the work of these unidentified hackers. Is

this sort of protest an appropriate means to express an objection or is it an unwarranted

and overzealous means of destruction?

Salon 6 Resolved: Same-sex marriage should be legal BUTabortion should simultaneously be banned.Pro: Paul Jeon, Dougherty ValleyCon: Tyler Harris, BeniciaMod: Georgina Bailey, Harbor

Pro Con

All men are created equal, and should be treated equally. Not all men are born into equal circumstances, and some

people must live horrible lives because of this.


20/46

Those who have a chance at life, but are not born yet

should have the same chance as everyone else.

Abortions can be regulated when legal.

Domestic partnerships are a substitute for marriage.

Abortions are immoral and shouldnt be legal.

In the past year, same sex marriage has been on the hot seat of the political scene.

Should same sex couples be granted the same rights as heterosexual couples?

Coincidentally, abortion has also been highly debated. When does life begin, the favorite

question asked by both sides. Now is the time to make a choice-should we allow same

sex couples the legal rights of marriage, while not allowing women the right to choose?

Salon 7 Genius Bar


Salon A Assembly Meeting

Salon B/C Resolved: Individuals have the right to terminate theirown lives.Pro: Alexandra Costello,PiedmontCon: Rebecca Caccavo,BalboaMod: Erika Castanon, Center

Pro Con

Stops unnecessary pain and suffering of the terminally ill. Very few helped, a great many harmed.

It is a personal decision.

Some cultures find it honorable.

Effects on family and friends are life-long.

Undiagnosed depression underlies requests for assisted

suicide.

Currently, there are legal consequences for attempting to commit suicide in moststates in the U.S.A. However, there is much sympathy for the terminally ill who want to

end their lives via assisted suicide instead of suffering until they die naturally. Doindividuals have the right to terminate their own lives? Making assisted suicide legal

would help thousands of terminally ill patients take control of their fate, saving money,time, and pain. On the other hand, with depression rates on the rise, making suicide legal

could spark detremental results for American societies and individuals involved.

Newport Beach Formal Debate: Resolved: The United States patentsystem should be abolished.Pro: Evan Coleman, YorkCon: Travis Lanham,Leigh

The idea behind the patent system was to stimulate innovation by allowing

inventors to stake a claim to their products and discoveries. In todays modern age,

however, patents have grown into vague and obscure things that scare innovators from


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creating anything, in the fear of breaching someone elses patent. For example, Apple

sued Samsung for infringing on its round edged rectangle shape for smartphones, using

their patent to glean one billion dollars of the company. The patent system as it stands no

longer is a protector of the innovator, but an aggressor as well. Do the positives outweigh

the negatives?

Salon D/E Thought Talk:Walter White: Good or evil?Mod: Cassady Bogatin,Berkeley High

Walter White. Heisenberg. The man you hate to love, and love to hatethe star

of television show Breaking Bad. For five long years we have followed his desperate

pursuit of wealth and powerbut to what end? Although it began as a simple means to

provide for his tragically dysfunctional family, Mr. Whites suburban meth

manufacturing habit has grown into a black market behemoth, and remains the only

reason that any of us would ever care about anything that ever happened in Albuquerque.

His means have been varied, his actions ambivalent, but there is no denying the concreteresolve with which Walter goes about his daily routine as an enterprising chemist. The

only question, then, is whether or not he is justified in his actions (some of which are,

admittedly, quite heinous.) Is Walter White a force of evil? Is he criminal scum who

works for no reason other than to achieve his own selfish ends? Or, perhaps, is he a

misunderstood philanthropist, simply a sick man hoping to provide for his family? As

fellow character Gustavo Fring says, And a man, a man provides. And he does it even

when he's not appreciated or respected or even loved. He simply bears up and he does it.

Because he's a man.

Lunch 12:00-1:25

Block 5 1:30-2:25Salon 3 Resolved:Major league baseball should utilize instant

replay to review on-field calls.Pro: Arbel Efraty,LowellCon: Adrian Napolitano, Oakland TechMod: Dagmawi Fasil, Oakland Tech

Pro Con

Easier to make calls. It would slow down the game.

Removes conflict of interest threat from umpires (they

cant ignore the obvious).It wont cost any extra; there are already cameras on field.

It takes the human aspect out of the game.

There will still be bad calls that cannot be reviewed.

Baseball is one of Americas greatest pastimes alongside apple pie and freedom,

but baseball comes with the opportunity for many poor calls. In the heat of the action,

umpires have ended up making calls based on a poor field of sight, or the inability to see


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within a commotion of players. With the use of instant replay, umpires will be able to

carefully review plays, and having done so, administer the proper response. After decades

of playing the game without instant replay, should we continue the tradition, or institute a

system to keep the game fair?

Salon 4 Resolved: California should eliminate the provisionaldrivers license BUT minors should receive double thepoints and fines for moving violations.Pro: Christopher Calciano, YorkCon: Peter Lally,PiedmontMod: Ashton DeLano, California

Pro Con

Gives young drivers freedom to transport other people

and drive whenever they need to.

Unnecessary financial burden on parents if minors get

fined.

Will cause for young drivers to be extremely cautious,

because all fines are doubled.

Equality on the road is essential to keeping it safe.

They arent adults so they shouldnt be treated like adults.

Minors have the highest rate of accidents, and it needs to

be controlled somehow.

The provisional drivers license is provided to drivers between the ages of 16 and

18 for the first year they have their license. This is to ensure that younger drivers are

allowed the privilege of operating motor vehicles and becoming more experienced while

minimizing some of the risks of driving. For example, provisional drivers are prohibited

from driving past 11pm and driving unlicensed persons under the age of 25. These

restrictions sometimes serve as obstacles for young drivers who need to transport other

people and need access to other prohibited rights as a result of possessing a provisional

license. The solution to this problem would be doubling the points and fines forviolations on minors. The point of the provisional license is to ensure the safety of

younger drivers on the road, but fear of increased punishment for disobeying the driving

laws may cause drivers with provisional licenses to be extra cautious, another deterrent to

problems on the road. Should we keep the provisional license and the associated

restrictions, or remove it and raise the stakes for minors on the road?

Salon 5 Gubernatorial DebateGubernatorial candidates Joshua Kisbye and Kevin Covarrubias go head-to-

head.

Salon 6 Resolved:California should split into two seperatestates.

Pro: Calvin Chiu, Chinese ChristianCon: Rassim Chettfour,Armijo


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Mod: Ariel Barbieri-Aghib

Pro Con

Different political climates. Solution to a non-existent problem.

Vast geographic differences.

Easier to govern.

Transition will be difficult.

High costs to establishing a new government.

People of one of the largest states, both in population and in land, residents have

long called for California's division into Northern and Southern California.With the

breadth of political mindset and socioeconomic status, California is growing increasingly

difficult to govern. If a partition were to occur, each state would still have populations

between fifteen and twenty million, and the addition of two senators would help better

represent these populations. However, is this move really necessary? If the state is

difficult to govern, maybe it would be easier and more effective to reform and solve the

problems, not to divide and ignore the problems. Geographically, politically, and even

socially, the ends of California are hecka different. Should they be split? Salon 7 Genius Bar

This is your hub for all things related to The Quest. There will be computers set up

to research questions should you get stuck during your journey.

Salon A Assembly Meeting

Sierra Thought Talk:

What should crime-

ridden cities do toreform corrupt and/0r ineffective police departments?Mod: Samuel Zheng,Dougherty Valley

Crime is a perpetual silent contender for the top domestic ill that wont go away.

Crime is complex because it involves factors beyond law enforcement such as the

strength of the family, neighborhoods, schools, and churches. But crime is simple in the

sense that government officials can reduce crime by doing their jobnamely, by making

crime too unprofitable to practice. Yet many cities such as Oakland, Compton, and

Detroit still have issues in controlling crime. In this thought talk, we will examine the

role crime-ridden cities need to play in reforming their police departments.

Salon D/E Resolved: California should abolish the ballot initiative.Pro: Rachel Brodwin, Lick-WilmerdingCon: Julie Oatfield, LowellMod: Ema T. Barnes,Lowell

Pro Con

The job of politicians. Allows average citizens to be heard.


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The general populaces vote is easily influenced.

Unnecessary in modern era.

Lobbies and SIGs can have a harder time convincing

public.

Necessary for strong democracy.

In California, the ballot initiative is a means for citizens to directly legislate. It

provides the most powerful political representation for the average citizen. This

progressive era reform was passed as a way to reduce the power of political machines

that ran unchecked in power over state and city legislatures. However, these initiatives

can also muddy the political process and increase the possibility for pork barreling

unrelated laws on very popular legislation. While these laws provide results for

vocalization of ideas, do they overly usurp our political process?

Santa Barbara/ Political FairNewport Beach

Block 6 2:30-

3:25Salon 3 National Resolved: The USA PATRIOT act should berepealed.Pro: Mia Shackleford,LowellCon: Jessica Weiss,LowellMod: Nora Rodriguez, Pinole Valley

In October of 2001, President George W. Bush signed into law the USA Patriot

Act, which stands for Uniting (and) Strengthening America (by) Providing Appropriate

Tools Required (to) Intercept (and) Obstruct Terrorism. This act was a response to the

9/11 terrorist attacks in New York and was designed to deter and punish terrorist acts in

the United States and around the world. The major provisions of this act includedreducing restrictions in gathering intelligence and broadening the law enforcements

discretion in detaining and deporting suspected criminals. Since its enactment, those who

believe it is a violation of the fourth amendment due to the wiretaps, National Security

Letters, and indefinite detentions of immigrants associated with this act have criticized

this act. Those opposed also argue that this act has not been effective in finding

intelligence. There are, however, many who do not think it should be repealed. They cite

the numerous terrorist plots that this act has helped prevent and the importance of

protecting America. So, should the Patriot Act be repealed or is it necessary to protect our

country?

Salon 5 Resolved: All primary and secondary school teachersshould be required to keep guns in their classrooms.Pro: Rachel Brodwin, Lick-WilmerdingCon: Nicole Garay,Redwood

Mod: Nora Perry,Piedmont


25/46

Pro Con

Well-trained teachers will be more experienced than most

mass murderers.

Giving teachers guns simply adds more fuel to the fire.

Teachers are most trusted people in our society.

50 armed guards at the school can collectively stop any

gunman through sheer force of numbers.

Unless well guarded at all times, students could steal the

firearms and use them.

Teachers are people too, and are just as susceptible to

mental problems and anger issues.

When school shootings occur, leaders on both sides of the political spectrum try

to think of solutions to prevent them from ever occurring again. Some groups have called

for an increase of armed protection in schools, going as far as stating that there should be

a gun in every classroom. Proponents argue that as soon as a gunman steps into a

classroom, a teacher will draw and fire first, stopping the killer before he commits his

rampage. However, opponents argue that a massacre could occur if a student were to find

this gun, or if a teacher should be struck with mental illness. Would the arming of

teachers reduce risk or cause it?

Salon 6 Resolved: The United States is the greatest country onearth.Pro: Quinton Grounds, YorkCon: Leonard Eisen,Pinole ValleyMod: Emma Maiden,Acalanes

Pro Con

U.S.A. Poor education system.

U.S.A.

U.S.A.

High poverty rates.

Highest rate of incarceration.

It is shouted both honestly and ironically, "America is the Greatest Country in the

World." With such a rich history, amazing military might, massive economy, and

excesses of freedom, how can the US not be the best? But there are some downfalls

within this nation, debt, unemployment, war, poverty, and political stagnation. We have

had some major issues in the past, and the present, and there will be many in the future.

Perhaps too many to name ourselves the greatest country in the world.

Salon 7 Genius Bar

This is your hub for all things related to The Quest. There will be computers set up

to research questions should you get stuck during your journey.

Salon A Senate Meeting

Salon B/C Thought Talk:What public services, if any, should beprivatized?


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Mod: Erica Monicall, Piedmont

Who gainsand who loseswhen public assets and jobs are turned over to the

private sector? The corporate right endlessly promotes privatization of public assets

and public jobs as a cash-raising or cost-saving measure. Privatization means the public

turnover to a private company of assets such as airports, roads, buildings, or contracts ofa public function. Many cities contract out their trash collection. To raise cash, Arizona

even sold its state capital building and leased it back. The justification for privatization is

the old argument that private companies do everything better and more efficiently than

government, and will find ways to cut costs. Over and over we hear that companies do

everything for less cost than government. But it never seems to sink in that private

companies dont do things unless the people at the top can make a bundle of cash; if the

CEO isnt making millions, that CEO will move the company on to something else.

When government does something, they dont have to pay millions to someone at the top.

In this thought talk, we approach the question of which public services should be

privatized, if any at all.

Salon 4 Resolved: The Federal government should bailout printmedia.Pro: Julie Oatfield, LowellCon: Caitlin Lienkaemper,LowellMod: Kelly Bruner, Rodriguez

Pro Con

$112 Billion per year industry in US. US government already in $16 trillion debt.

Print media has been centuries-old standard.Digital media destroys jobs. Print industry is dying (transfer to digital is natural).Print media can survive on its own.

For the past 500 years, printed media has been the standard for newspapers,

periodicals, books, and all other forms of text-based publications. It is an institution

accounting for over 30,700 companies producing $112 billion per year in the US alone.

However, technological progress is driving much of this media from print to digital,

where media can be produced and distributed more quickly, cheaply, and efficiently.

Many American companies are finding it almost impossible to make this transition,

which is resulting in the destruction of jobs, and the outsourcing of labor to server

companies, which are often located in foreign countries. Is it the government's job to step

in and save a dying industry, or should the economy regulate itself?

Sierra National Resolved: The United States should become nergyindependent by 2025.

Pro: Ali Esfahani, Dougherty ValleyCon: Marc Cunningham,LowellMod: Lynn Vu,American Indian II


27/46

In his 2011 State of the Union address, President Obama proposed that 80 percent

of electricity production should come from clean energy sources by 2025. Many wonder

whether this goal is realistic and whether the United States is truly capable of complete

energy independence in 12 years. Recently, Exxon Mobile reported that the United States

was on track to be energy independent by 2025 due to the growing industry of natural

gas, which is expected to overtake coal. Those who share the same opinion as Exxon also

cite increased amounts of renewable energies such as solar and wind power. There are

some, however, who believe that this plan not feasible. They argue that the United States

is too dependent on foreign oil to become self sufficient and that there are not enough

sources in the country to supply its energy needs. Will the United States become energy

independent by 2025 or is this an unrealistic goal?

Salon D/E Activism

Want to learn more about activism? Come to the activism block, where we'll be

talking about everything concerning activism, like how to get your school more involved,

how Youth Advisory Boards will work, and who to contact to apply for internships.

Activism truly presents you with an opportunity to be the people, so don't miss out!

Newport/Santa Barbara Political Fair

Block 7 3:30-4:25Salon 3 Resolved: In times of peace, Congressional salaries

should be withheld until the Federal budget is balanced.

Pro: Mary Joplin, YorkCon: Julie Oatfield, LowellMod: Alex Adams, University

Pro Con

There would be more money that could go into other

departments.

Everyone has a right to be paid if they work.

Congress might actually get something done.

Congressmen would understand how it feels to be

unemployed.

They might go on strike.

Congressmen do work in peacetime, and should be paid

regardless.

Most Americans these days are frustrated with Congress' seeming lack ofproductivity. Our legislators do not seem capable of actually legislating. Some argue that

we should save tax money and incentivize Congress to be effective by withholding their

salaries until they balance the budget. However, others argue that Congress is slow only

because they are discussing the complex and important values of Americans. They are

representing our interests. Should they be penalized for standing up for the views of their

constituents instead of compromising with politicians? Would withholding Congressional


28/46

salaries provide an increase to productivity, or is it merely a solution to a nonexistent

problem?

Salon 4 Speed Chess: Resolved: End the Fed.Pro: Lucas Gruenwald, LowellCon: Duncan Morrow,FoothillMod: Kylea Rosen,Novato

Pro Con

The Federal Reserve has been inflating the US dollar at

high rates.

The federal reserve helps stabilize inflation.

Private institutions could handle the role of the Federal

Reserve.

Even with the Federal Reserve, there is a pattern of a

Boom and Bust economy in US history.

Without the Federal Reserve, there would be no central

US monetary policymaker.

Without a central bank for the US, a panic could deplete

all private banks of their available funds.

The Federal Reserve, or "The Fed, is the central banking system of the United

States. It controls inflation rates, bails out failing banks, supervises all banks, and helps

manage nationwide panics. The Fed has three goals: maximum employment, stable

prices, and moderate long-term interest rates; however, some argue that the economy

could, given the opportunity, self-regulate. The Fed exists somewhat outside US

government control, and it also loans money to the government, allowing them to pay off

debts. Is the Fed really necessary, and does it do its job correctly?

Salon 5 Thought Talk:What do women really want?Mod: Brad Davis & Aaron Pressman, Directors of Debate

Life is full of a great many mysteriesStonehenge, Machu Picchu, the imminentcontinuation of CSI Miamibut of all lifes wonders, one has eclipsed the rest. From

Galileo to Rousseau, Hobbes to Pusha T, many renowned philosophers have pondered the

answer to what can only be considered the greatest question in the history of our

existence: what do women really want? Since the dawn of time, man has struggled to

understand his strange, confusing counterpart. Today, we hope to finally take a step

toward finding an answer to this age old question.

Salon 6 Resolved: Regina George deserved to get hit by the bus.Pro: Kylea Rosen,Novato

Con: Bilegt Baatar,LowellMod: JT Greenberg, Central

Pro Con

Regina stole Cadys boyfriend.

Regina wouldnt let Gretchen wear the white gold hoop

earrings.

Regina is a master manipulator; her skill shouldnt be

punished.

Shes already fat from Calteen bars.

Regina wore sweatpants on a Monday... Shes so fetch.


29/46

Regina George is the queen bee of The Plastics in the cult teen dramedy movie

Mean Girls. A master of emotional manipulation and the coveted three way calling

attack, Regina George gets hit by a school bus near the end of the film after getting into

fight with protagonist Cady Heron. The question that has haunted us for almost a decade:Did Regina George really deserve to get hit by the bus? On one hand, Regina George is

probably the most fetch and sassy diva ever. So fetch. On the other hand, why should

Caesar just get to stomp around like a giant while the rest of us try not to get smushed

under his big feet? Brutus is just as cute as Caesar, right? Brutus is just as smart as

Caesar, people totally like Brutus just as much as they like Caesar, and when did it

become okay for one person to be the boss of everybody because that's not what Rome is

about! We should totally just STAB CAESAR!

Salon 7 Genius Bar/Chapter-of-the-Year Presentations

This is your schools opportunity to showcase how awesome your chapter was this

year and be named the Northern California Chapter of the Year.

Salon B/C Crisis ScenarioMod: Arnela Colic,Leigh

You have recently beeninformed that a North Korean fighter jet is en

route to the United States and is going to cross over Hawaii in approximately 8 minutes.

Time to intercept is 8 minutes as well, and at intercept we will be able to tell what

materials, if anything, are onboard the plane. We do not have radio contact with the

airplane, and North Korea is denying that there is any plane that has left their country,

even though it is clearly their design. Navy ships stationed throughout the Pacific may

have a clean shot at the plane, and likely could shoot it down before it crossed over

Hawaii. This leaves this room with a single question: you have 8 minutes to decide

whether the US Navy should shoot down this plane, having no idea what is on it, or wait

until it crosses over Hawaii. And this is just the beginning. The decisions are all up to

you.

Salon D/E Resolved: Targeted killing is a morally permissible toolfor National Security.

Pro: Karthik Prasad,NorthgateCon: Nils Franco, YorkMod: Jonah Demars,Alternative Family Education

The 21st

century has witnessed a rise in drone warfare led by the United States.

After millions of dollars invested in developing this powerful military technology and

many lives lost as a result, President Obama and his administration are in the process of

drawing up a drone warfare rulebook to set up the circumstances in which target by an


30/46

unmanned drone is justified. This has led many to wonder whether drone warfare can be

justified and whether it is a blatant violation of human rights. Those against this type of

warfare argue that it dehumanizes war while violating international law and peace. Those

in favor of this type of warfare argue that it is an efficient and effective means to

achieving the United States goals. Ultimately, is drone warfare a violation of human

rights?

Sierra National Resolved: A national right-to-work law should bepassed.

Pro: Ashton DeLano, CaliforniaCon: Gabrielle Pierotti,Alternative Family EducationMod: Malakai Wade, Alternative Family Education

Right-to-work laws are statutes that prohibit union security agreements, payment of

union dues, and fees as a condition of employment. These laws are designed to provide a

contract between employers and labor unions and to prevent the exclusion of workers

who are not part of a union. In 1947, the Taft-Hartley Act prohibited closed shop,

which compels businesses to hire union-only workers, as well as union shop, which

requires union membership after a given duration of employment. This act also allowed

for states to enact right-to-work laws. Currently, twenty-four states have such laws,

which has led some to advocate for a national right-to-work law. Those for this law argue

that it secures the right of employees to decide whether they want to join a union without

being threat of losing their job. Those who believe the United States should not pass this

law acknowledge that it is up to states to decide whether they should implement such a

law and that this law would weaken unions that are necessary for American success.

Should a national right-to-work law be passed or should this remain a state decision?

Santa Barbara/Newport Beach Political Fair

State Elections 4:30-6:30California Ballroom

Dinner 6:30-7:55

Regional Caucus 8:00-8:30Salon 1-3 GGR

Salon 4 GCRSalon 5 CVRSalon 7-9 EBR

Evening ActivitiesGrand Ballroom The Governors Ball 007: A Bond Affair 9:00-12:00Seattle/Portland Ninja 9:00-12:00Santa Barbara Game Room 9:00-12:00


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Newport Beach Bluegrass Jammin 9:00-12:00Sedona Teacher-Advisor Reception 9:45-11:45


Sunday, April 28

Regional Elections 8:40-9:55Salon 1 CVRSalon 2 GCRSalon 3 EBRSalon 7 GGR

Block 8 10:00-10:55Salon 3 National Resolved: The United States should provide

military assistance to pro-

democracy movements in theMiddle East.Pro: Jessica Weiss,LowellCon: Peter Lally,PiedmontMod: Jonah Demars, Alternative Family Education

During the spring of 2011, a series of revolts occurred in the Middle East, as

series that has become known as the Arab Spring. The world watched as countries in

the Middle East rose up against their dictators and existing leaders to establish new

governments in the hands of the people. The United States and other democratic nations

watched these protests intently, seeing opportunity for future democracies. Those in favor

argue that to have more democracies in the world would benefit the United Stateseconomically and would lead to a more stable Middle East. They also think that, as a

superpower, it is the responsibility of the United States to aid democratic uprisings.

Those against military assistance in the Middle East believe democracy should be a

grassroots movement and that it is not the role of the United States to get involved in the

internal uprisings of the Middle East. Should the United States provide military

assistance to pro-democracy in the Middle East?

Salon 4-6 Microbate: Resolved: Debates are a waste of time.Resolved: Women belong in the House.Resolved:

Ted Mosbys children are reallyadopted.Presented by Members of Cabinet

Pro Con

They take too long. Stimulate thought.


32/46

I would rather dance than debate.

Women are excellent cooks.

Women deserve equal political representation.

Ted is a loser.

Adoptions are heartwarming.

Good way to fill up a block.

Women are amazing.

Women belong in the Senate too.

Umbrella women.

Why would it be calledHow I Met Your Mother?

Time to waste time! In this fast paced microbate, the resolution will determine

how relevant debating is. Is it talking in circles, or actually applied some sort of rhetoric

strategies to convince an audience? On a more misogynistic note, the next debate talks

about the role of women in society. Although we have the outlying independent women

who dont need no man, this resolution seeks to take us back to a more traditional time

where the women remain as the homemakers in society. Oh wait - it is advocating the

need for women to be in the House of Representatives! Last but not least, the third

resolution gets into a question we have all wanted answered. In the showHow I Met Your

Motherviewers watch Ted Mosby tell his children the story of how he met their mother.

The audience has been left absolutely clueless as to whom the mother might be; whichhas caused for some speculation; maybe there is no mother! Ted could just be making a

long-winded story to express how he adopted the two, or we can actually look forward to

a good conclusion toHow I Met Your Mother.

Salon 7 Genius Bar


Sedona National Resolved: The democratization of Americansociety is the result of technological advances in mediaand communications.Pro: Paul Jeon, Dougherty ValleyCon: Ryan Thomas, LeighMod: Alex Adams, University

Throughout the history of the United States, the citizenry of the country has

become increasingly involved in the political and social matters of government. When the

Constitution was first written, it was largely in the hands of the elite. However, many

more have a voice in American society today. This suggests an important factor has

contributed to the democratization of American society over the past two hundred years.Many claim this factor is technological advances in the media. They argue that as

technology such as phones and computers have started to play a larger role in peoples

lives through phones and computers, they have more access to information, thereby

involving them in the political affairs of country. On the contrary, some might state that

society is not fully democratized and that technology has made people more aware of

issues, but those who pay attention to politics would have done so regardless of whether


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or not they would have had the technology. Do you believe the democratization of

American society is the result of technological advances or is American society not even

fully democratized?

Sierra National Resolved: United States should liberalize

immigration quotas.Pro: Evan Coleman, YorkCon: Marcos Nunez,RichmondMod: Leonard Eisen,Pinole Valley

In 1921, the Emergency Immigration Act was passed, the first law in the

United States to place a quota on the number of applicants allowed into the country.

Although the Immigration Act of 1965 did away with this act as well as other

immigration legislation that passed during this time, there are still quotas for many types

of immigrant visas. Each year, only 226,000 immigrants can receive family-based visas;

55,000 can receive green cards in a lottery; and 90,000 are permitted to enter as refugees.

Some feel that more immigrants should be allowed to legally enter the country. They

argue that immigrants are essential to the economy and to permit more to enter legally

would help combat the issues that arise with illegal immigration. Those against the

liberalization of immigration quotas feel that it is necessary to put restrictions on the

number of people who enter the country because there are limited resources in America.

Should the immigration quotas be liberalized or should they remain as they are now?

Keynote Speaker 11:00-11:30California Ballroom

Janine Zacharia was Jerusalem Bureau Chief and Middle East Correspondent for

the Washington Postfrom December 2009 through April 2011. During her time at

the Washington Post, she reported widely throughout the Middle East beyond Israel, the

West Bank and Gaza Strip, including assignments in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq,

Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Turkey. She reported on the uprisings in Egypt and

Bahrain as they began in early 2011. From 2005-2009, Ms. Zacharia worked as chief

diplomatic correspondent forBloomberg News based in Washington. During this period,

she traveled to more than 40 countries with then U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza

Rice and other senior administration and military officials. Ms. Zacharias earlier career

included five years as Washington bureau chief for theJerusalem Post, and five years in

Jerusalem working for various news outlets including theReuters news agency. She was

a regular contributor to theNew Republic and has appeared routinely as a cable news

analyst on MSNBC, CNN and other networks. She was also a regular panelist on Gwen

Ifills Friday evening roundtable, Washington Week in Review. During the 2008-2009

academic year, Ms. Zacharia was awarded a Knight Journalism Fellowship at Stanford


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University. She earned her Bachelors of Arts degree in Literary Studies from

Middlebury College and is originally from Long Island.

Bio courtesy of Stanford University

Closing Session 11:30-12:30

California Ballroom

Write for the Junior Statement

The Junior Statement is a monthly magazine that is sent to tax paid JSA members and teacheradvisers across the nation and is publicly available for viewing online through the national JSAwebsite. Its contents consist of student-written submissions that range from reports about JSAevents, conventions, and chapters to general opinion articles about divisive issues. ContactEditor-in-Chief, Anthony Kayruz, at [email protected] if interested in submitting pieces forpublication.

Speed Chess Official Rules

The speed chess debate is relatively new to the Northern California state. This format will allow fora fast-pace, heated debate, while still maintaining a civilized environment.

The main pro and con speakers will EACH be given a total of six (6) minutes to present their cases.The pro speaker shall go first. When she is done speaking, she shall hit her gavel, so as to signal to thetimekeeper to stop her clock. The con speaker shall then do the same. The speaker holding the floorwill alternate between the main pro and the main con speakers until time runs out. After bothspeakers have exhausted their six (6) minutes in the speed chess round, a round of subsequentspeeches shall begin. Each subsequent speaker will be given a total of two (2) minutes to give herspeech. Subsequent speeches will alternate pro and con, following standard JSA rules of parliamentaryprocedure. When there is a motion to the previous question, a second round of speed chess willfollow. This time, each main speaker will be given a total of two minutes. The main speaker for thepro will start, and the same rules as the first round of speed chess will apply. The debate will end withclosing speeches from the con and then the pro main speakers. Each main speaker will have two (2)minutes to give his or her closing speech. Standard JSA rules of parliamentary procedure will applyduring closing arguments.

Should one speaker exhaust all of his time before another, the speaker with time remaining has threeoptions. He may yield it to the chair, use it to give a speech of his own, or use it to take questionsfrom the audience. If the speaker chooses to take questions from the audience, both the questionsand the answers will count against the speakers time.

Should both of the speakers have time remaining when they have finished their arguments in thespeed chess round, they will take questions from the audience. These questions may be directed ateither one or both of the debaters. The actual question will not count against the speakers time, butthe answer will. Once a debater runs out of time, no more questions may be directed at that particularperson. At any point, if a debater who still has time left wishes to return to giving a speech during thespeed chess round, she may.

If there is a motion to extend the speakers time for the speed chess round, both speakers times mustbe extendednot just one.


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Formal Debate Official Rules

The formal debate is brand new to NorCal JSA this year, with the intention of fostering a morecompetitive atmosphere between speakers. Formal debate differs from normal JSA debate in a fewways. First off, all rounds are judged by an impartial moderator and at least one extra judge. These

judges shall evaluate all speakers based on their abilities to address the issues, offer solutions oralternatives, refute their opponent's arguments, and engage the audience. Judges will also fill out agrading sheet for each of the speakers, so as to ensure a fair process and provide constructivefeedback. Another major difference is that the opposing speaker may interrupt a speech to ask for aPoint of Information (POI), which count against the speakers time. This can be a question orstatement for the speaker, and may be asked at any point, except for the first and last minute of amain speech, and the first and last thirty seconds of a subsequent speech. Students who plan to give asubsequent speech are strongly encouraged to prepare in order to ensure high -quality arguments. Inaddition, audience members with the highest quality and quantity of notes will be favored whenchoosing a subsequent speaker. Most importantly, you may be asked to cite your source, so make sureyou know where your statistics and examples came from.

Letter from the Debate Department

This year, the Debate Department is continuing its experiment with a relatively new Best SpeakerBallot system.

In the past, there was a noticeable relationship between the best speaker winner and the side of thedebate in which the majority of students agree. For this reason, the debate department decided toreform the ballots so that they contain an evaluation system. This evaluation system will allow votersto rate the speakers based on their performance in two categories: Substance and Style.

Although it will involve a subtle increase in the amount of work for voters, the debate departmentstrongly believes that these measures are necessary to promote fair debates. Many speakers work hard

in preparation for these debates, and it is not fair when they outperform all other speakers, but still donot receive the gavel.

For these reasons, we ask all of you to please leave your opinions at the door when selecting a BestSpeaker. A common misconception is that the best speaker should be the main speaker on the sidewith which you agree. Although this can be tempting, it is very important to vote for the person whodid the best job. If you follow this system correctly, you will probably find yourself voting for aspeaker on the side you oppose about fifty percent of the time.

Furthermore, we ask that you do not take friendships into consideration when voting. We understandthat this can be difficult, so we have removed the name slot on the ballot in order to keep votesconfidential. If you still feel obligated to vote for your friend who you know did not do the best, try topicture how you would feel if you lost the gavel simply because your opponent brought a large chapter

to the debate. If you still feel that there is no way that you can remain impartial when voting, we askthat you simply abstain.

Finally, we request that you abstain from voting if you were not present for the vast majority of thedebate. If you miss one of the opening speeches, this can greatly disadvantage the debater who spokeduring your absence. Remember that voting for best speaker is entirely optional, and you always havethe option to abstain.


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The ballots will specify the criteria for voting in further detail. If you have any questions, please donot hesitate to ask one of the Directors of Debate, one of the Debate Staff members, or themoderator at your debate. You may also use the Text the Debate Department service to ask anyquestions regarding the selection of best speakers.

Most importantly, enjoy the debates, and have an excellent convention!

Sincerely,The Debate DepartmentNorthern CaliforniaJunior State of America


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The Quest

JSAgent:

This is your guide to completing The Quest. There are 20 questions in all and each

correct answer will award you one point. To earn extra points, you may complete any orall of the tasks listed at the bottom of The Quest Map page.

Your Mission: Beginning with the first location, visit each of the areas listed INCHRONOLOGICAL ORDER and answer the question that awaits you. At each location,

there will be a specific colored marker that you must use to place a check in the boxlabeled check, this will tell us that you did in fact go to all of the question points. If you

do not know the answer to a question you may work with a team, look it up in the GeniusBar room (located in Salon 7), or ask the Governor (Arnela Colic), Lt. Governor (Karthik

Prasad), or Speaker (William Du).

The Rules:1. You must complete the questions in the order that they are listed.2. You may not play during blocks. You may look up answers but under no

circumstances may you roam the halls during scheduled blocks in an attempt

to find the next question.3. You may play during the nighttime activities and mealtimes.

Breaking any of the rules will result in the immediate termination of your mission.

Keep your eyes open because at any moment I might decide to add bonus questions or

tasks to your quest; you must be prepared for anything.

The Quest ends at 9:00 PM on Saturday. At this time, all Quest Map sheets must beturned in to your respective tracks box which can be found at the registration desk in the

lobby.

I wish you the best of luck as you embark on The Quest.

Arnela Colic

Northern California Governor


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The Quest Map: Track A

YOUR NAME: ________________________________________________________YOUR SCHOOL:______________________________________________________

Check # Location Answer1 Salon 3

2 Salon 4

3 Salon 5

4 Salon 6

5 Salon 7

6 Newport Beach

7 Salon A

8 Salon B/C

9 Santa Barbara

10 Debate Desk in Lobby

11 Seattle/Portland

12 Registration Desk

13 See Governor Arnela

14 See Lieutenant Governor Karthik

15 See Speaker William

16 See Convention CoordinatorBahar

17 See Convention Coordinator Lilly

18 See Debate Director Aaron

19 See Debate Director Brad

20 See Communications DirectorJorge

Extra Points:

Each of the following tasks is worth three extra points. To be awarded these points, you must

show proof of completion of the task to any one of the people listed as question holders or anyone

seated at the registration desk.

1. Collect information from five different booths at the political fairInitials of person verifying:

2. Tweet a debate decision with the hashtag #bethepeopleInitials of person verifying:

3. Post a photo taken at Spring State on Instagram, tag @juniorstateofamerica and include#bethepeople in the caption [Select pictures will be reposted on the JSA Instagram Page]

Initials of person verifying:

4. Watch the gubernatorial debate in Block 5, Salon 5Initials of the Moderator:

5. Attend the JSA Summer School Session in Block 6, Salon A / Initials of Moderator:


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The Quest Map: Track B

YOUR NAME: ________________________________________________________YOUR SCHOOL:______________________________________________________

Check # Location Answer1 Salon 7

2 Salon 6

3 Salon 3

4 Salon 5

5 Salon 4

6 Seattle/Portland


8 Registration Desk

9 Newport Beach

10 Salon A

11 Santa Barbara12 Salon B/C

13 See Communications Director Jorge





18 See Speaker William

19 See Convention Coordinator Bahar


Extra Points:Each of the following tasks is worth three extra points. To be awarded these points, you

must show proof of completion of the task to any one of the people listed as questionholders or anyone seated at the registration desk.



3. Post a photo taken at Spring State on Instagram, tag @juniorstateofamerica andinclude #bethepeople in the caption [Select pictures will be reposted on the JSAInstagram Page]

Initials of person verifying:4. Watch the gubernatorial debate in Block 5, Salon 5

Initials of the Moderator:5. Attend the JSA Summer School Session in Block 6, Salon A

Initials of Moderator:


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The Quest Map: Track C

YOUR NAME: ________________________________________________________

YOUR SCHOOL:______________________________________________________

Check # Location Answer

1 Salon A

2 Salon B/C

3 Salon 7

4 Salon 6

5 Salon 3



8 See Convention Coordinator Bahar

9 Registration Desk

10 Salon 511 See Speaker William

12 Salon 4




16 Seattle/Portland

17 See Communication Director Jorge

18 Santa Barbara

19 Newport Beach


Extra Points:

Each of the following tasks is worth three extra points. To be awarded these points, youmust show proof of completion of the task to any one of the people listed as question

holders or anyone seated at the registration desk.



3. Post a photo taken at Spring State on Instagram, tag @juniorstateofamerica andinclude #bethepeople in the caption [Select pictures will be reposted on the JSA

Instagram Page]Initials of person verifying:

4. Watch the gubernatorial debate in Block 5, Salon 5Initials of the Moderator:

5. Attend the JSA Summer School Session in Block 6, Salon AInitials of Moderator:


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California Institute onLeadership & PoliticsAugust 11-14, 2013 University o Caliornia at Davis

For more inormation visit:www.jsa.org/summer

FScholarships Available!

Explore todays pressingpolicy challenges with thedecision makers who are

shaping our future!

Join us or the 2013 Caliornia Institute on Leadership andPolitics. This ast-paced 4-day exploration o Caliornia politicswill immerse you in a world o civics, interacting with electedocials, policy makers, business leaders, lobbyists, and others.

Through debates, simulations and other activities, you willimprove your leadership and public speaking skills, as well aslearn more about the politics, policies, and people that governCaliornia.

A daily speakers program allows you to meet and question toppolitical players in an open environment. Guests might includethe Governor and staf members, members o the

Nor Cal JSA Spring State Agenda

Documents

Transcript of Nor Cal JSA Spring State Agenda