Spring State Agenda - JSA

Transcription

Cover Art courtesy of Victoria Yu
Southern California Spring State 2014
Boom or Bust: America at a Crossroads
Letter from the Governor
Dear Fellow Statesmen and Stateswoman,
This convention marks a bittersweet time in the JSA year. While sending our senior statesmen and
stateswomen off on their own remarkable journeys, we recognize and applaud the growth and potential of
our inspiring underclassmen.
As an impressionable freshman, I attended Spring State 2011 and became enamored with the program and
people that embody our spectacular organization. I was overwhelmed by the inclusion and respect of the
students, and awed by the professionalism of the cabinet. I knew that I had found a place with this
incredible group.
Throughout the past four years, I have only expanded my passion and love for the people and message of
the Junior State. The lessons I learn both in working for JSA and through the message of Prof. Rogers have
shaped my most integral values. My JSA colleagues are my dearest confidants, and I greatly treasure each
relationship.
The Junior State of America has allowed me to develop as a thinker, a speaker, a leader and a friend. As the
largest student run organization in the country, JSA does not teach leadership, but rather provides a
tangible leadership experience. With this autonomy, we learn from our own mistakes and the guidance of
our peers. While allowing students to find their voice and express their opinions, JSA teaches us to critique
ideas, not the people who generate them. Unlike most teenage groups, we exemplify the integral
American value of “innocent until proven guilty”. Each student is welcomed into a community of open
minds and hearts where everyone is valued and respected.
Although it is with great sadness that I must close this chapter as a delegate and a leader, I look forward to
forever supporting our students through the alumni community.
Thank you for allowing me three humbling years of service.
With much gratitude,
Sabrina Lieberman
Southern California Governor
Convention Texting Service Number: 1 (916) 668-1198) 949-9494
Summer School Sign-Ups: Reg. Desk; Research Room: Elite 3
Teacher Advisor Room: Elite 1&2
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Letter from the Convention Coordinator
Dear Junior Statesmen,
Welcome to Spring State, the Southern California Junior State’s final overnight convention of the school
year. This weekend promises to spark ideas, fuel discussions, and ensure a lively JSA experience. I cannot
be more thrilled for this convention to unfold all its energy and exuberance, whether in controversial
thought talks, intense rap battles, or room-silencing elections.
Spring State is a special convention for all of us. For a few freshmen, Spring State may not only be your
first JSA experience, but also the first time you are surrounded by students from across the state- students
who are ready and eager to tackle the political, social, and economic issues facing our nation today. For
some sophomores, Spring State is the time you break out of the constraining barriers of shyness and selfconsciousness to run a regional campaign, or deliver your first subsequent speech. For a jillion juniors,
Spring State is a weekend to take a break from what many deem the “most stressful year of high school” to
escape to a world in which you have the liberty to focus on discussing issues that you care about and are
passionate about. And, for the sea of seniors, Spring State marks the conclusion of a JSA journey, yet the
beginning of a pathway in life in which the values and morals we gain in JSA will become evermore
present- perhaps even more present that they were during your time in JSA.
Throughout this weekend, I urge you to take advantage of all that Spring State offers. Whether through
considering an opinion that opposes yours, attending an informative workshop, speaking with the regional
and state candidates for offices within the Southern California Junior State, or simply making a new friend,
we can all utilize this convention to grow both as people and as statesmen.
On a more personal note, thank you for all your support, approval, and encouragement this year whilst I
served as your Convention Coordinator. This position and its workload- though heavy at times- helped me
foster my genuine desire to serve the people and develop leadership skills I never envisioned myself
embracing. I’d like to extend my thanks to all members of our Convention Department, as none of my
work this year would have been possible without their dedication, time, care, and helpfulness. Though my
service as Convention Coordinator has come to a closure, I sincerely hope that my service to this
organization and its people will continue to grow and thrive through next year and beyond.
Here’s to Spring State 2014!
My Warmest Regards,
Jennifer Kodia
Southern California Convention Coordinator
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Letter from the Lieutenant Governor
To my Fellow Statesmen, Stateswomen, and JSA,
As I sat down on my desk, ready to write this farewell address, I asked myself, “Where do I
begin?”
Where shall I begin to describe the love that you have shown me, the level of superb debate
and discussion I have witnessed, and the amazing people that I have had the privilege of
meeting? My answer to that question was to start from the beginning.
I joined JSA upon learning of its core mission, a non-partisan, non-profit organization aimed
at spreading civic engagement and political awareness to America’s youth. However, I stayed
in JSA after meeting the great eloquent speakers, vivacious debaters, and genuine good
quality people. You see, never in a million years would little ol’ freshman Jessica Shin have
thought how one organization could change her life. I’m not being overdramatic.
Through JSA, I have learned what it means to really be the people and exercise our rights as
citizens. Through JSA, I have learned the correct definition of politics, not the misconstrued
version being widely practiced today. Through JSA, I have learned what it means to be a
leader, and most importantly when to be a listener. Through JSA, I have met the next
doctors, statesmen and women, mothers, fathers, and leaders of this world. Through JSA, I
have become the friend, leader, and woman that I am today.
So now I ask each and every delegate here today to take advantage of all that JSA has to offer.
Today, speak at your first or tenth debate. Today, branch out and talk to someone new.
Today, I encourage you to be the people.
I look forward to my best and last Spring State ’14.
Best,
Jessica Shin
Southern California Lieutenant Governor
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Letter from the Speaker of the Assembly
Seniors of the Southern California Junior State,
A good friend once told me that every meaningful experience in life is like a journey around a full circle.
While I am not one to normally use simple metaphors to sum up an experience as profound as JSA, I do
find that this particular metaphor seems to perfectly sum up everything I want to say. So here goes nothing!
The beginning stage of this journey is characterized by a sense of raw eagerness to make a lasting impact.
We feel optimistic and excited for the future and our places in it. We take advantage of opportunities to
start getting involved.
As we embark on the journey, we must undergo a diverse set of experiences before we discover how to
make positive change. Every individual we meet, every obstacle we face, and every victory we celebrate
aggregate to form the crucial tools to making any sort of impact that we desire – knowledge about
ourselves and knowledge about the world around us.
After we understand how to make our impact and proceed to do so, we start to see the end of the circle.
Waves of nostalgia begin to overcome us and we may even start to feel lost. Our journey around this circle
has provided so much attachment and comfort. We feel confused on how to proceed. However, it is
important for us to remember that every meaningful experience in life is a circle that brings us back to
place we began with more insight and understanding on how to make positive change in the world.
It is time for us to step aside and let younger people like our past selves, eager to learn more about
themselves and the world, take their own JSA journey. It is time for us to use JSA’s lasting impacts on us –
a distaste for political apathy, a genuine sense of passion about issues affecting our world, and a motivation
to serve our country – to make our own lasting impacts on the world. It is time for us truly become active
members of our communities, never permitting injustice while always searching for social improvement. It
is time for us to start a new journey at the beginning of a new circle with the knowledge we have gained to
make something on this planet that lasts longer than our lifetimes.
It is time for us to be the people.
Sincerely,
Daniel Hamidi
Southern California Speaker of the Assembly
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Keynote Speakers: California Secretary of State Candidates
Dan Schnur
For almost 20 years, Dan Schnur has been teaching and motivating students -- from across the political spectrum -- to become active in
politics, government, and public service. Currently, he is on leave from his full-time position as Director of the Jesse M. Unruh Institute of
Politics at the University of Southern California. Dan continues to teach his popular class: Case Studies in Modern Leadership.
Dan is one of California’s leading political reformers, whose record includes serving as the Chairman of the California Fair Political
Practices Commission, where he worked to enforce state election laws and address political corruption.
Dan’s term as FPPC Chairman inspired him to launch Fixing California, a civic effort dedicated to campaign finance and political reform.
He also was Co-Chairman of Voices of Reform, a bipartisan statewide project, where he led the fight to take the responsibility for
drawing boundaries for legislative districts away from partisan politics and place it with an Independent Citizens Commission.
Dan’s candidacy is based on his strong belief that the office of Secretary of State – de facto Chief Elections Officer of California -- should be
non-partisan and independent of any political party. As Secretary of State, Dan will work to ban political fundraising during the legislative
session; he will support tougher campaign disclosure laws to make sure every political contribution is public within 24 hours; he will help
economic recovery and job creation by simplifying and streamlining California’s business licensing operations; and he will work to restore
voter confidence and participation by increasing civic education and by rebuilding the political center.
Before Dan became a full-time university teacher, he was a nationally recognized political and media strategist, whose record includes four
presidential and three gubernatorial campaigns. He served as the national Director of Communications for the 2000 presidential campaign
of U.S. Senator John McCain and spent five years as chief media spokesman for California Governor Pete Wilson.
In addition to his position at USC, Dan is an Adjunct Instructor at the University of California at Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental
Studies. He has held the post of Visiting Fellow at the John F. Kennedy School of Government’s Institute of Politics at Harvard University
and taught an advanced course in political campaign communications at George Washington University’s Graduate School of Political
Management. In addition, he was the founder of the Center for Campaign Leadership, a non-partisan effort to equip young people with the
skills essential for professional involvement in political campaigns.
Dan was an advisor to the William & Melinda Gates Foundation, the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, the Broad Education
Foundation, the James Irvine Foundation, and the Stuart Foundation on a variety of K-12 education, college and workforce preparedness,
governance and political reform efforts.
Dan’s commentaries have appeared in several newspapers, including the Los Angeles Times, the San Francisco Chronicle, the Sacramento
Bee and the New York Times. In addition, he has been an analyst and political commentator for CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, and National
Public Radio.
Dan is a graduate of the American University in Washington, D.C. He is married to Cecile Ablack, an international communications and
public affairs consultant. They live in Los Angeles with their children, Rob and Tessa.
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Pete Peterson
Pete Peterson was born in New York City, spending much of his early childhood on Shelter Island on Long Island
before his family moved to Sydney, Australia, when he was four years old. After living “Down Under” for several
years his family moved back to the United States, where he continued his primary education in the small town of
Gladstone, New Jersey. Peterson earned his BA in History from George Washington University, where he rowed
on the crew team for four years. He later earned his Masters in Public Policy from Pepperdine University, and was a
Public Policy Fellow at the Hoover Institution.
Peterson later became the first Executive Director of Common Sense California, a bipartisan, nonprofit “think-anddo tank” devoted to improving civic participation throughout the state. In 2010 Common Sense California joined
with the Davenport Institute at the School of Public Policy at Pepperdine University to become the Davenport
Institute for Public Engagement and Civic Leadership, where Peterson serves as Executive Director. He also cocreated the seminar, “Public Engagement: The Vital Leadership Skill in Difficult Times,” which has been attended by
over 500 public officials around the country. He has advised dozens of public engagement processes around
California.
As Executive Director of the Davenport Institute, Peterson is a nationally-recognized trainer, speaker, and advisor
on topics relating to increasing civic participation in government decision-making processes and explaining how
technology is changing the citizen/government relationship. For the better part of a decade, Peterson has travelled
throughout California with public officials to improve public processes on issues ranging from budgets to water
policy.
Peterson has also advised several California cities on the use of online public engagement and data visualization
platforms. Pete currently serves on the advisory committees to the Institute for Local Government’s Public
Engagement Program (League of California Cities), the California Civic Innovation Project, and the University
Network for Collaborative Governance.
Pete currently teaches a masters’ class at Pepperdine University titled “Leadership through Public Engagement.”
Preceding his work in public engagement, Peterson worked in the marketing/graphic communications industry for
a dozen years, consulting with clients such as American Express and Kenneth Cole on projects ranging from online
order systems to direct mail catalogues.
Pete lives in Santa Monica with his wife, Gina, and daughter, Elsa.
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Agenda at a Glance
Friday, April 25
Constant Throughout Convention:
Summer School Interest Sign-ups
JSA Office
Research Room
Chaperone Lounge
*Mandatory meeting in Block 1 for all chaperones
Registration
Registration
Luggage Storage
Registration Desk
Gold Key III
Elite 3
Elite 1&2
3:00 PM – 4:45 PM
Registration Desk
Platinum 6
Opening Session
Governor’s Address
Program Director’s Address
Convention Coordinator’s Address
Keynote Speakers: California Secretary of State Candidates
5:00 PM – 6:15 PM
Platinum 1-5
Block 1
Debate: Drone Usage
Debate: School-Related Stress
Speed Chess Debate: The Penny in Currency
Point of View Debate: Prostitution
Thought Talk: Public Education
Thought Talk: The Environmental Protection Agency
Special Activity: “Why JSA Summer School Is So Awesome” by student alumni
FEC/Candidates Meeting- Candidates MUST submit forms by this meeting!
MANDATORY meeting for all chaperones
6:25 PM – 7:15 PM
Platinum 1
Platinum 2
Platinum 3
Platinum 4
Platinum 7
Platinum 8
Platinum 9
Platinum 10
Elite 1&2
Dinner
7:15 PM – 8:15 PM
State Caucus and Nominations
8:20 PM – 9:15 PM
Platinum 1-5
Evening Activities
Dance
Karaoke
Movie Showing- Frozen
JSA Hangout Lounge
Curfew
9:15 PM – 12:00 AM
Platinum 6
Platinum 1
Platinum 2
Grand Ballroom F
12:15 AM
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Saturday, April 26
Breakfast
7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Block 2
Debate: Castration of Sexual Assaulters
Debate: A Flat Tax Rate
Speed Chess Debate: Harmfulness of Reality Television
Point of View Debate: Public Funds for Presidential Campaigns
Thought Talk: Wars Based Off Of Ideological Differences
Thought Talk: Female Pop Culture Leaders’ Influence in Feminist Movement
Special Activity: ARTivism Debate: Banning the Use of Photoshop
JSA Musical Chairs
9:00 AM – 9:50 AM
Platinum 1
Platinum 2
Platinum 3
Platinum 4
Platinum 7
Platinum 8
Platinum 9
Platinum 10
Block 3
Debate: Homosexuality
Debate: A Federal Four-Year University System
Speed Chess Debate: Banning Beauty Pageants
Point of View Debate: The Affordable Health Care Act
Thought Talk: A Three-Party System
Thought Talk: America as a Melting Pot
Special Activity: Rap Battle Debate: The Worst State
Get Into JSA Summer School & Fundraise- Led by Program Director Tracy Thomas
10:00 AM – 10:50 AM
Platinum 1
Platinum 2
Platinum 3
Platinum 4
Platinum 7
Platinum 8
Platinum 9
Platinum 10
Regional Nominations
Southern Empire Region
Angeles Region
Channel Islands Region
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Platinum 5
Platinum 1-4
Platinum 7&8
Lunch
12:00 PM – 1:20 PM
Block 4
Debate: International Law Prohibiting War
Debate: Inhumanity of Zoos and Aquariums
Speed Chess Debate: Parenting Classes for Expecting Parents
Point of View Debate: China’s Economic Growth on U.S. Economy
Thought Talk: Teen Bulimia and Anorexia
Thought Talk: Marriage
Special Activity: Time Machine Debate: Rebelling Against England
Building a Stronger Chapter- Led By NorCal JSA Program Director Brandon Harrison
1:30 PM – 2:20 PM
Platinum 1
Platinum 2
Platinum 3
Platinum 4
Platinum 7
Platinum 8
Platinum 9
Platinum 10
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Block 5
Debate: Elimination of Chivalry
Debate: Socioeconomic Affirmative Action
Speed Chess Debate: Effects of Religion
Point of View Debate: “Under God” in Pledge of Allegiance
Thought Talk: Nations Owning Nuclear Weapons
Thought Talk: Outer Space as a New Frontier
Special Activity: ARTivism Debate: Banning Animal Testing
Building a Stronger Chapter- Led By NorCal JSA Program Director Brandon Harrison
2:30 PM – 3:20 PM
Platinum 1
Platinum 2
Platinum 3
Platinum 4
Platinum 7
Platinum 8
Platinum 9
Platinum 10
Coffee Break
3:20 PM – 3:40 PM
Block 6: Workshop Block
How to eat for optimal energy and focus… and use JSA to bring it to your school!
-Led by Program Director Tracy Thomas
Open Senate Session
Moderator Workshop
Q & A with Miri Kornfeld, Israel-Palestine Conflict Expert
Summer School- the Student Experience
Council of Chapter Presidents Meeting
Assembly Meeting
Mock School Board Meeting
3:45 PM – 4:25 PM
Platinum 1
Block 7
Debate: Parents Decide Sex of Children
Debate: Human Cloning
Speed Chess Debate: Social Movements
Point of View Debate: The Tea Party
Thought Talk: Global Climate Change
Thought Talk: Voting Politicians Out of Office
Special Activity: Competitive Debate: Israel-Palestine
State Candidate Forum
TA Reception/Chapter-of-the-Year Judging
4:30 PM – 5:20 PM
Platinum 1
Platinum 2
Platinum 3
Platinum 4
Platinum 7
Platinum 8
Platinum 9
Platinum 10
Elite 1&2
Dinner
5:20 PM – 7:25 PM
Platinum 2
Platinum 3
Platinum 4
Platinum 7
Platinum 8
Platinum 9
Platinum 10
10
Regional Caucus and Elections
Angeles Region
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Platinum 5
Platinum 1-4
Platinum 7-8
Evening Activities
Dance
Karaoke
Talent Show
JSA Lounge
9:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Platinum 6
Platinum 1
Platinum 2
Platinum 5
Grand Ballroom F
Curfew
12:15 AM
Sunday, April 27
Breakfast & Luggage Storage
Luggage Storage
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Platinum 6
Governor’s Breakfast
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Catered full breakfast/coffee - $10, must sign up Fri and show wristband Platinum 7-8
State Elections
Speaker of the Assembly Election
Lieutenant Gubernatorial Election
Gubernatorial Election
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Platinum 1-5
Closing Session
Best Speaker Gavels
Awards and Closing Remarks by Tracy Thomas
12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Platinum 1-5
Governor Lieberman’s Closing Remarks
Swearing-In of 2014-2015 Elected Officials
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Full Agenda
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Friday, April 25
3:00 PM – 4:45 PM: Registration
Registration
Registration Desk
Welcome to Southern California JSA’s Spring State! Teacher Advisors and Chapter Presidents, please sign in your
chapter at the Registration Desk. Don’t forget to pick up agendas and nametags!
Luggage Storage
Platinum 6
Please drop off all luggage to the luggage storage room; luggage zones are organized by school. Luggage access will
not be available until dinnertime, so be sure to hold on to all necessities for the day.
5:00 PM – 6:15 PM: Opening Session
Opening Session
Platinum 1-5
It’s time for Spring State to officially commence! Have a seat and listen as Governor Sabrina Lieberman officially
welcomes you to the convention. Program Director Tracy Thomas will then touch on upcoming events for this JSA
year and summer, including JSA summer school, as well as brief over her convention rules. Afterwards, Convention
Coordinator Jennifer Kodia will elaborate on the weekend’s overview. Finally, California Secretary of State
candidates will have a discussion.
6:25 PM – 7:15 PM: Block 1
Debate: Drones
Platinum 1
Moderator: Noor Mumtaz (Guidance Charter)
Main Pro
Main Con
Ernesto Ambrocio (Newbury Park)
Edison Wong (Whitney)
Resolved, that the US should continue its use of drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles.
Following tragic events of September 11, 2001 the United States established that it will do whatever it takes
to protect its citizens. As part of the War on Terror, drones were used to eliminate suspected terrorists and gather
critical information regarding their activities; the drone warfare program was given a sharp boost under the
administration of President Obama, however it has been criticized for its inevitable side effect: the deaths of
innocents. Collateral damage is part of every war, but is the US’s use of drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles
justified?
Pro:
1. Drones are a superior alternative to sending soldiers.
2. Even if drones are not used for combat, there are valuable for reconnaissance purposes.
3. America's drone policy is effective in eliminating terrorists.
Con:
1. Drones are a terror-generating machine.
2. Drone attacks are not precise and have collateral, human damage.
3. America's drone policy is illegal, internationally.
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Debate: School-Related Stress
Platinum 2
Moderator: Payten Kirby (Orange County School of the Arts)
Main Pro
Main Con
Jennifer Kodia (University)
Saif Malley (CDM)
Resolved, increased school-related stress is detrimental to student learning.
With the rising competitiveness of college admissions, students are sacrificing sleep and health for success in
school. It’s hard to imagine a world without school-related stress; unless an individual does not care about school,
they will have a degree of stress. Still, stress can be eliminated Does doing well in school necessarily imply that one
has really learned?
Pro:
Con:
1. Rather than ruling students, teachers should focus on inspiring them so that they will want to learn.
2. Increased school-related stress will burn some people out and make them give up.
3. When people are interested in a subject, they will genuinely learn without having to be forced to do so.
1. School-related stress motivates students.
2. Without testing and stress in school, there is no way to measure advancement.
3. A degree of stress is beneficial in that it helps students retain the information.
Pro
Con
Debate: The Penny
Platinum 3
Moderator: Arni Daroy (University)
Main Pro
Main Con
Aidan Perricone (Palisades)
Richard Dunn (Servite)
Speed Chess: Resolved, that the penny be removed from United States currency.
For over two hundred years, the penny has been integrated as a one-cent coin in the American economy.
Recently reports have come out that the penny costs more than its worth, leading people to believe that the
government would save money if they eliminated the penny from currency. In 2011, the U.S. Mint’s annual report
stated that a penny costs 2.4 cents to make. That same year, 5 billion pennies were in circulation which amounted
to a cost of $120 million to produce only a mere $50 million of currency. Advocates of eliminating penny
production argue that the penny wastes money thereby hurting the national economy. Despite efforts to remove the
penny, a 2012 poll by Americans for Common Cents discovered that over two-thirds of American citizens rather
keep the penny in the economy. Opponents of eliminating the penny claim that this low denomination coin
stabilizes the economy by moderating high prices. They feel making the penny obsolete will result in inflationary
pressures that will be detrimental to working class families. Further, high prices that come along with the
elimination of the penny will discourage economic activity by making consumers choose lower priced items and
services. Though at various times legislation has been pushed to remove the penny from United States currency, the
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fate of the penny still remains up for discussion.
Pro:
1. The penny wastes money as it costs more than it is worth.
The total economic cost of the penny is estimated to be $900 million a year, which is a stark
contrast to the production of only $50 million worth of coin production.
2. Pennies have limited utility.
Many stores and toll booths do not accept pennies in bulk.
3. The U.S. government phased out the half cent in 1857, yet there were no severe repercussions.
There were no mass riots or economic recessions due to the elimination of the half cent.
Con:
1. Eliminating the penny will hurt the working class family.
The “rounding tax” associated with removal of the penny will constrain a family’s budget even more
than it is already.
2. Without the penny, there will be inflation.
If the penny is discontinued, businesses must round all prices. For profit reasons, it will most
presumably be rounded up.
3. Pennies aid the entire world through charitable programs.
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society raised $150 million in “Pennies for Patients.”
Pro
Con
Debate: Prostitution
Platinum 4
Moderator: William Huang (University)
Main Pro Mukund Iyer (Whitney)
Main Con Henry Huang (Marywood Palm Valley)
POV Debate: Resolved that prostitution be legalized.
Prostitution is regarded as one of the first businesses and has been a defining mark of women in United
States culture. Prostitution runs rampant throughout America, as it always has, because of the sexual desires of men
and the need of women for money. Women sell their bodies so that they can make money for a variety of reasons,
such as poverty, desperation, or choice. Prostitution used to be legal, until about 100 years ago, which has not
halted the business. However, prostitution laws have been made, and with these laws come opposition and the
desire from some people to legalize prostitution once again. Proponents of legalizing prostitution argue that it
would benefit the women as they would not be thrown in jail for their work. However, others believe that
legalizing prostitution would ultimately lead to hurting society by making hidden centers of prostitution more
commercialized and significant. Should we release our grip on prostitution?
Pro:
1. Legalization of prostitution would ensure safe sex, specifically STD tests and required use of condoms.
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2. The time spent by law enforcement officers trying to limit prostitution would be used to solve more serious
crimes.
3. Prostitution does not inherently harm anyone, other than the chance spreading of STD’s which is possible with
any sexual relationship.
Con:
1. Legalization of prostitution would lead to an increase in human trafficking.
2. Legalization of prostitution would not prevent the contraction of STD’s, only provide for testing.
3. The sex industry would not be controlled, it would expand with the legalization of prostitution.
Thought Talk: U.S. Public Education
Platinum 7
Moderator: Morgan Pak (Diamond Bar)
Thought Talk: Is the United States falling behind the global education curve due to our public
education system?
The United States currently holds a public education system funded by taxes which requires its youth to
attend school. This compulsory education system starts at a young age, around 6 years old, and is highly competitive
due to letter grades in each class and standardized testing for each state. In addition, the US system includes separate
classes based on academic achievement. Students are constantly challenged by tests, quizzes, and large amounts of
homework in their journey to succeeding in school. However, the United States is falling behind in key aspects of
education compared to the rest of the world. Many argue that our competitive attitude toward education, with
tracking levels and stressing of grades, which differs greatly from Finland, who ranks much higher than the US, leads
to these low rankings that the US receives. However, others contend that our rankings do not accurately reflect our
education, as the US also stresses extracurricular work, and that students from America are not behind the global
education curve. Are we truly falling behind due to our current system?
Thought Talk: The Environmental Protection Agency
Platinum 8
Moderator: Juan Hernandez (Carpinteria)
Thought talk: Is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) worth all of the funding that it
receives?
In 1970, the Nixon administration established the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to work for a
cleaner and healthier environment for the American people. As part of their mission, the EPA establishes pollution
standards, creates conservation programs, and conducts environmental research. As global warming, pollution, and
energy conservation become major issues that American and the world face, the budget has been afforded greater
expenses. The EPA uses this money to provide for more than 18,000 jobs and create products through programs
such as Energy Star, which helped save 1.9 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions (as of 2012). For the
2014 fiscal year, the government has allocated $8.2 billion to the EPA. Many argue that these funds are necessary to
preserve the environment and protect human health; however, others challenge this budget as discretionary and
believe there should be less funding as other departments of government desperately need a larger budget, including
welfare and education programs. For all the funding the EPA receives, do the benefits outweigh the costs?
Summer School- The Student Experience
Platinum 9
Led by: Panel of Summer School Student Alumni
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A useful workshop for those interested in attending Summer School in summer 2014- learn about fundraising for summer
school, earning a semester’s worth of high school credit, and living in the dorms of Georgetown University, Stanford
University, Princeton University, and the University of Virginia from the summer school alumni themselves.
FEC/Candidates Meeting
Platinum 10
Led By: FEC Chairwoman Jessica Shin (University)
This meeting is MANDATORY for all regional and state-level candidates. In order to run for office, candidates MUST
submit their declaration of candidacy form and ethics contract NO LATER THAN THIS MEETING!
7:15 PM – 8:15 PM: Dinner
Dinner
Refer to the “Nearby Food Options” page for eateries around the area. Please be back at the hotel by 8:00 PM sharp!
8:20 PM – 9:15 PM: State Caucus and State Nominations
State Caucus and State Nominations
Platinum 1-5
Check in with your chapter at state caucus! At this time, no one will be permitted to leave the hotel for the rest of
the night. Once all chapters are accounted for, we will begin with official nomination speeches for the candidates
running for Speaker of the Assembly, Lieutenant Governor, and Governor.
9:15 PM – 12:00 AM: Dance and Other Social Activities
Dance
Platinum 6
Karaoke
Platinum 1
Platinum 2
JSA Lounge
Grand Ballroom F
After a long day of debate, it’s finally time to unwind and dance the night away! Feel free to dress in
accordance with the optional “Disney- Happiest Convention on Earth” theme. Remember to keep both your
behavior and attire classy!
Not feeling the dance vibe tonight? Join us for a movie showing (Frozen) or some karaoke fun!
12:15 AM: Curfew
Curfew
Make sure to be back in your rooms by 12:15 AM!
Saturday, April 26
7:30 PM – 9:00 AM: Breakfast
Breakfast
16
9:00 AM – 9:50 AM: Block 2
Debate: Castration of Sexual Assaulters
Moderator: Katie Flattum (University)
Main Pro
Main Con
Platinum 1
Lilia Abecassis (University)
Keshan Huang (Van Nuys)
Resolved, that those convicted of sexual assault be castrated.
Chemical Castration is the process by which, through the use of drugs like antiandrogens, the libido, or
sexual desire, of a person is reduced. Unlike physical castration, which removes the sex organs, chemical castration
can be reversed, and is used in many countries to punish various types of sexual offenders. From Poland to Australia
to South Korea, child molesters in particular are targeted for either forced or voluntary castration, although in some
cases this is only for repeat offenders. Even in the United States, nine states have legalized chemical castration, with
California being the first, castrating 2nd offence child molesters who molest children under 13 since 1996.
Proponents of chemical castration argue that it is the most definite way to prevent further offenses by the most
reprehensible sex offenders, and that it is a way to not only punish, but also reform offenders. However, detractors
point out that chemical castration is widely considered “cruel and unusual punishment,” and that the high cost of
castration treatment drugs makes them inefficient for use for most sex offenders.
Pro:
1. Sexual offenders tend to have high rates of recidivism, which are reduced heavily, from 65 to 15 percent,
when castration drugs like Depo-provera are used.
2. Since chemical castration removes the sex drive of a sex offender, it can be a step towards rehabilitation of
the offender.
3. Only the most extreme sex offenders like repeat child molesters tend to be forced into chemical castration;
for most others it is simply an option for treatment.
Con:
1. Humanitarian organizations like Amnesty International and the ACLU have condemned chemical castration
as “cruel and unusual punishment,” and in violation of numerous international laws on humane treatment
and bodily integrity.
2. It’s hard to test whether chemical castration drugs themselves solve the problem of sexual crimes, as the
psychological causes of sex offending may involve more than just libido, and scientific studies involving
releasing sex offenders would be considered immoral to many.
3. Chemical castration drugs often cost more than those treated can reasonably afford, and can cause severe
side effects like osteoporosis and male breast growth.
Pro
Con
17
Debate: Flat Tax Rate
Platinum 2
Moderator: Nick Edman (Orange County School of the Arts)
Main Pro Mukund Iyer (Whitney)
Main Con Yishu Dai (Glendale)
Resolved, that a flat tax rate replace the current graduated tax rate.
Currently, the government levies income taxes based on a graduated income tax rate in order to raise
money for government programs and services. This system mandates that a higher tax be placed on higher levels of
income. People who support graduated tax rates include those who believe that wealthier people should contribute
more than those with smaller incomes. Proponents of this long used program argue that this system is fair as those
with more money have more room for freedom in spending. Opponents claim that graduated taxes unfairly target
those who earn more. Additionally, they propose that less money in the pockets of the rich means that there will be
a decrease in economic productivity as there will be less of a stimulus to buy or invest in valuable products. An
alternative to the graduated tax rate is the flat tax rate, in which there is one single tax rate for all income brackets.
Some regard this as an idea that will clarify the current tax code, unleash economic growth, and benefit all levels of
society. Others think that having one tax rate for everyone would burden the working and middle classes to benefit
the wealthier individuals in society. Whether the flat tax rate should replace the current and more traditional
graduated tax rate still remains in question.
Pro:
1. The adoption of a flat tax rate is projected to result in a stronger economy.
A clearer and evenly distributed tax policy will ensure greater financial security, give incentive for
higher wages, and increase private investment
2. Having one universal tax rate for people of all levels is fairer.
The flat tax rate does not bias benefits towards any income level.
3. Flat taxes only tax earned income.
People face less burdens and more economic capability when their assets are not taxed.
Con:
1. A flat tax would exacerbate the gap between the rich and poor.
Ultimately, the tax rates for the rich will deflate from its current level; whereas, the middle class
and poor will inflate.
2. A graduated income tax makes those who earn more, contribute more.
This progressive tax sets rates at appropriate levels in accordance with the needs of each income
level.
3. Small businesses may suffer.
Without the ability to deduct expenses, small business might have less profit.
More Information
18
Debate: Reality Television
Platinum 3
Moderator: Adam Jacobs (Tarbut V Torah)
Main Pro Koan Zhang (University)
Main Con Taha Maksud (Van Nuys)
Speed Chess Debate: Resolved, that reality television does more harm than good.
Reality television serves as a major source of entertainment for individuals and families across the country
on a nightly basis. For over 50 years, reality television shows have documented real-life actions of interesting people
through competitions, game shows, and the unscripted lives of people around the world. Today, popular shows
include American Idol, The Voice, Survivor, Jersey Shore, and Amazing Race, which all influence the millions of viewers
watching every episode. However, many people believe that these reality television shows influence their viewers
negatively. However, others believe that reality television separates itself from scripted television by providing what
the name suggests: reality. Knowing this, does reality television really do more harm than good?
Pro:
1. Reality television chooses to focus on only entertaining people to falsely portray the average human.
2. This type of television focuses on portraying stereotypes of people and exacerbates stereotyping in society.
3. Reality television includes immoral people who impose their lifestyles onto viewers, especially young viewers.
Con:
1. Certain reality shows depict a struggle that someone overcomes and can inspire others to do the same.
2. Reality television depicts immoral people to warn the viewers to not emulate that lifestyle.
3. Reality television provides entertainment to millions of families; TV stations prosper with the amount of viewers.
Debate: Public Funds for Presidential Campaigns
Platinum 4
Moderator: Fredy Ramirez (Bell Gardens)
Main Pro Corey Elder (University Prep)
Main Con Richard Dunn (Servite)
POV Debate: Resolved, The U.S. discontinues public funds for presidential campaigns.
A day after the supreme court removed aggregate limits on how much wealthy individuals can spend supporting
candidates, the White House agreed to enact legislation dismantling what was left of an alternative public financing
model set up after the Watergate scandal. The Government decided to scrap the last actively used part of the US
subsidy system which provided an $18m grant to support each party convention in 2012, and use the money to fund
national research into childhood diseases instead. While the majority agrees on this notion, some argue that without
public funding, campaigns will not have the necessary funding to perform duties required to effectively campaign.
Pro:
-Public funding should be used for things of greater importance than elections
-Campaigns get enough money from private funding to effectively campaign
-If public funding were to be available, the same amount should be given to all parties, not just the main two.
Con:
-Public funding is necessary for campaigns to effectively reach the general public
-Public funding acted as a watchdog on the campaign finance system, to limit the amount any given party received,
with this gone, new legislature must be put into place in order to regulate the campaign finance system.
19
Thought Talk: Wars On Ideological Differences
Platinum 7
Moderator: Aidan Perricone (Palisades)
Thought talk: Resolved, that wars based off of ideological differences cannot be won.
Is a war won when the enemy is dead, or when the ideas motivating the enemy are suppressed and
destroyed? A contemporary example of ideological differences in war is the “War on Terror” and its conflict with
Jihadist, religious extremists. Although wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have decimated local populations, it seems as if
extremism is only rising in the area. At the same time, wars such as the Revolutionary War in America were based
off of ideological differences between the colonists and the British, yet that war was won. Can wars be won if
enemies have ideological differences, or are they bound to continue?
Thought Talk: Dominating Pop Culture Women
Platinum 8
Moderator: Vivian Herscovitz (Tarbut V Torah)
Thought Talk: Resolved, that women who dominate pop culture are helpful to the feminist
movement.
Female entrepreneurs, politicians, and scientists help promote equality by blazing trails and dispelling
stereotypes, however, what about the women that dominate the media? Some believe that Britney Spears and Miley
Cyrus’s ownership of their sexuality is empowering and that self proclaimed feminists such as Lorde and Beyoncé
promote feminism through their lyrics. Others believe these women are not truly empowered, controlled instead
by the corporations backing them, and serve as poor role models to the next generation of women leaders. Are the
women that dominate our television, movie, and smartphone screens furthering the feminist movement or
hindering it?
Debate: Banning Photoshop
Platinum 9
Moderator: Samantha Bordy (Marlborough)
Speakers: Stacey Yu (University), Brooke Harmon (Centennial), Lina Yagan (University), Noor Mumtaz (Guidance Charter),
Sabrina Oh (Beckman), Raj Gambhir (Aliso Niguel), Krishna Das (Centennial).
ARTivism: Resolved, that the use of photoshop in advertisements and magazine covers be banned.
Photoshop has been used since its introduction in 1990 to manipulate and alter images, becoming a popular
method of retouching photographs for the advertising and magazine publishing industries. Recently this method has
come under fire with many saying these photoshopped images create unrealistic beauty standards that harm
women’s self confidence. However, proponents of photoshop argue that the program is necessary to create
presentable and professional images that sell their product.
Pro:
1. Many companies and magazines such as Aerie and Seventeen Magazine have already ceased using photoshop
2. Women and young girls often believe that the only way to be happy is to attain a certain unrealistic body type
3. Ads promote unattainable beauty standards that damage self worth and can lead to eating disorders in young girls
Con:
1. Companies should have the freedom to advertise their products as they like
2. This ban would take away the creative control of magazines and advertisers.
3. Allow companies to photoshop images in which images that have been retouched must be labeled
JSA Musical Chairs
Platinum 10
20
Led by: Sean Darryanto (Centennial)
Join in for a fun game of JSA Musical Chairs! Walk, skip, or even dance whilst the music plays, and when the music stops,
find a seat. The two people who are left standing will respond to an impromptu debate topic, until there is one player
remaining!
10:00 AM – 10:50 PM: Block 3
Debate: Homosexuality
Moderator: Katie Flattum (University)
Main Pro
Main Con
Platinum 1
William Huang (University)
Brian Kaplun (John Burroughs)
Debate: Resolved, that homosexuality is a choice.
For many years, people have been quoting religious texts and their own feelings to discriminate against
homosexuals, attempting to mark them as inferior. Though looking at homosexuals as inferior certainly may not be
justified, people have been debating whether or not homosexuals can control their sexuality. Many people who
believe that homosexuality is a conscious choice point to the fact that no gene has been proven to cause
homosexuality directly. However, opponents believe that homosexuality is not a choice due partially to genetics and
also that it is a preference acquired, not chosen, based on one’s environment. Can homosexuals help their sexuality?
Pro:
1. There has been no specific gene found that codes for homosexuality.
2. Sexuality comes from experimentation, and a person may choose to prefer one gender over the other.
3. Homosexuals can choose not to act on their homosexuality, which would alter their sexual orientation.
Con:
1. People inadvertently decide their sexuality through life experiences and based on environment.
2. Genetics play a partial role in sexuality as there have been links discovered by scientists.
3. People would not choose to be homosexual due to the overwhelming discrimination against homosexuals.
Debate: Federal Four-Year University System
Platinum 2
Moderator: Eddie Soto (John Burroughs)
Main Pro Keshan Huang (Van Nuys)
Main Con David Roudebush (Orange County School of the Arts)
Resolved, that the United States government establish a federal four-year university system.
With student debt exceeding the one-trillion dollar mark, many are looking to nations in Europe that
provide heavily subsidized, if not free higher education; but is socialized higher education really such good thing?
While the establishment of a federal four-year university system would help provide education to many Americans,
that money has to come from somewhere. Taxes will undoubtedly be raised and the fear of creeping socialism is
always prevalent among the populace as well. Given that, should the U.S. establish a federal four-year university
system?
Pro:
1. Students shouldn't be forced to go into debt because they want to pursue higher education.
2. If the government truly wants to promote societal welfare, free education is the first step.
3. Many developed nations have state subsidized schooling; the US is lacking in this.
21
Con:
1. The United States should not become a welfare state.
2. A federally funded university system would raise the tax burden on Americans.
3. Free education up to high school is enough; after that, those who are qualified may pursue it.
Pro
Con
Debate: Banning Beauty Pageants
Moderator: Kristy Hsi (Temple City)
Main Pro
Main Con
Platinum 3
Max Tacuchi (Van Nuys)
Brenda Solis (Marco Antonio Firebaugh)
Speed Chess: Resolved, that beauty pageants be banned.
Beauty Pageants began in the United States during the 1920’s and remain popular today, rising to further
notoriety and controversy through reality television shows such as Toddlers and Tiaras. However many are calling for
an end to these events, arguing that pageants judge women solely on their looks and can cause long-lasting damage
to one’s self worth. Proponents of pageants disagree, believing that these events are positive experiences, offering
benefits such as scholarships to the women who participate in them. Do these events promote objectification and
materialism or confidence and empowerment?
Pro:
1. Pageants damage contests’ self confidence
2. Child beauty pageants are harmful for development
3. Beauty pageants promote sexism in society by judging women solely on their appearances
Con:
1. Pageants offer benefits to the women who compete in them
2. Pageants promote diversity and change
3. Pageants judge contests on more than their appearance
Pro
Con
Debate: The Affordable Care Act
Platinum 4
22
Main Pro Jay Shah (Esperanza)
Main Con Ellen Naruse (CDM)
POV Debate: Resolved, that the Affordable Care Act has improved access to quality healthcare.
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, commonly known as “Obamacare,” is one of the most
controversial pieces of legislation passed in recent years. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was pushed through
Congress with the intentions of providing quality healthcare at a reasonable cost to as many citizens as possible. The
ACA set up a national healthcare exchange, and proponents of the law promised that participants in the exchange
would keep their doctors, and would not be denied coverage on account of preexisting conditions. However, these
promises are now being called into question, as the scrutiny on the ACA became compounded by a mishandled rollout of the healthcare exchange website. Furthermore, there are questions as to whether the insurance offered on the
exchange is actually quality healthcare, and whether the costs are reasonable.
Pro:
1. Has enabled those to simply sign up online or over the phone for affordable insurance
2. The healthcare exchange provides not only affordable insurance, but also quality insurance; people can choose to
keep their existing doctors, and opt for a better plan.
Con:
1. The cost of insurance for preexisting conditions has been unreasonably high, and premiums skyrocketed.
2. About 85% of U.S. Citizens already had healthcare before this law was passed.
Thought Talk: Three-Party System
Platinum 7
Moderator: Payten Kirby (Orange County School of the Arts)
Thought talk: Resolved, that the two-party system in America will eventually turn into a threeparty system.
Historically, the United States of America has operated under a two-party political system. While third
parties like the Populists, Progressives, and Independents have won gubernatorial races and even electoral votes, the
vast majority of American politics has catered to two parties. Currently, these two parties are the Democrats and
the Republicans. These parties together make up 100% of the United States Congress, counting two independents
that caucus with the Democrats, and 89% of Americans identify as a member of them, or as independents that lean
towards a party. However, a growing number of Americans do identify as either independent or the member of a
third party, with the number of independent Americans reaching a high of 40% in 2011, which was matched in
2012. In addition, a number of third parties have risen to prominence over the past few elections, including the
classically liberal Libertarian and environmentalist Green parties, which received, in total, 1.5% of the vote in the
2012 presidential election. American dissatisfaction with the two major parties has also risen, with 61% of
Americans viewing the Republican Party unfavorably, and 53% viewing the Democratic Party as such. These
factors, as well as last year’s government crises involving the debt ceiling and government shutdown, have led to
60% of Americans expressing the need for a third party to properly represent the people. Will three parties survive
and thrive in the American political landscape? Will a new political movement replace one of the current major
parties? Will the current parties simply reform, and regain the support of the people?
Thought Talk: America As a Melting Pot
Platinum 8
Moderator: Safina Motiwala (University)
Thought Talk: Is America still a melting pot?
23
The term “melting pot” has been used to describe America for decades. For a country to be characterized as
a melting pot, it would include a wide variety of types of people, largely focusing on immigrants and their
respective ethnicities. These types of people would somewhat assimilate to create a somewhat homogeneous nation
with one resonating culture depicted in the general population. America attracts millions of immigrants through the
promises given by the “American dream” and, as a result, immigrants from around the world come to begin new
lives in America. Although there are a variety of people with different backgrounds present in America, the idea that
the nation is still a melting pot has been challenged. Many believe that America is no longer a melting pot and is,
rather, a “salad bowl” or “cultural mosaic,” suggesting a heterogeneous mix of people. They believe that the
immigrants in America have no need to assimilate as they are becoming more and more accepted and are retaining
their own cultures to the point where they do not become part of the resonating American culture. Others,
however, contest saying that the clothes people wear, the music they listen to, and the entertainment they enjoy
across the nation is largely based on American culture and, therefore, immigrants are keeping less of their own
culture compared to the culture they are adopting upon arrival. Does America deserve to boast its title of “melting
pot” anymore?
Debate: Worst State
Platinum 9
Moderator: Alexis Kallen (Adolfo Camarillo)
Rap Battle: Which State is the Worst?
Main speakers (no pro or con): Lilia Abecassis (University), Stacey Yu (University) and Arni Daroy (University), John
Abughattas (Santiago), Tyler Cashman (University), Luis Carranza (Van Nuys), Jackson Duneier (Santa Barbara), Aidan
Perricone (Palisades), Sabrina Oh (Beckman).
Ever since before the independence of the United States of America in the 1770s, the different states,
colonies, and territories of America have developed rivalries, grudges, and loathings for each other. Whether in the
form of athletic competition, political rivalry, border dispute, or full-blown civil war, the sections of our nation
have not shied away from fighting their rivals. The West fights the East, the North fights the South, and Texas fights
everyone. Rap music, as well, has a storied history of verbal conflict; the first formal diss track in Hip-Hop was
released in 1984, and more informal rap battles date back to the 1970s. In fact, the most famous battles were
between the rappers of California and New York, over the superiority of their respective coasts. So, participate in
two of the great American Cultural Heritages, and show how any given state is just the worst.
How to Get Accepted to, and Fundraiser for, Summer School
Platinum 10
Led by: Program Director Tracy Thomas
Tracy will go through the steps of how to get into JSA Summer Schools at Georgetown, Princeton, Stanford and the
University of Virginia as well as demystify the fundraising process, empowering everyone with a plan how to run a
successful fundraising campaign!
24
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Regional Nominations
Angeles Region
Platinum 5
Platinum 1-4
Platinum 7&8
Time for official nomination speeches for the candidates running for regional Senator, Vice Mayor, and Mayor!
12:00 PM – 1:20 PM: Lunch
Lunch
1:30 PM – 2:20 PM: Block 4
Debate: International Law
Platinum 1
Main Pro Samantha Bordy (Marlborough)
Main Con Ernesto Ambrocio (Newbury Park)
Resolved, that international law prohibits war.
International law aims to maintain global civility and peace, but is it effective? The vast number of broken treaties,
disregarded UN resolutions, and unnecessary wars seem to indicate that the international community cannot be
restrained. Still, international law has shown successes in areas such as suppressing nuclear proliferation. Such
examples point out the effectiveness of international law, but does it really prevent war?
Pro:
1. If effectively enforced and followed, international law does prevent war.
2. International law facilitates global issues in a peaceful manner.
3. International law suppresses the proliferation of nuclear weapons which reduces the possibility of war.
Con:
1. Currently, international laws violated with little to no repercussions.
2. Numerous wars have taken place despite the existence of international law.
3. Most nations are not immoral actors and adhere to the principles of realpolitik.
Pro
Con
25
Debate: Zoos and Aquariums
Moderator: Joy Park (Van Nuys)
Main Pro
Main Con
Platinum 2
Edison Wong (Whitney)
Matthew Cohen (Tarbut V Torah)
Debate: Resolved, that zoos and aquariums are inhumane.
According to the New York Times, more than 150 million people a year visit zoos and aquariums in the United
States. To many, these establishments are places of connection, where humans can interact with animals normally
viewed on television screens. They are also places of education, where scientists can study and preserve species.
However, opponents believe that these species should remain in their natural habitats, arguing that zoos and
aquariums serve as prisons for our entertainment that inflict physiological harm on wildlife. Zoos and aquariums
have become an accepted and beloved part of our society, but is it time to reconsider these establishments?
Pro:
1. These establishments inflict physiological and physical harm on wildlife
2. These establishments exist more for profit than for research
3. It is difficult to adequately provide for the needs of animals in captivity
Con:
1. Zoos and aquariums foster an appreciation for nature in the public
2. Zoos and Aquariums promote research and conservation
3. Care of animals in captivity has improved immensely
Debate: Parenting Classes
Moderator: Keshan Huang (Van Nuys)
Main Pro
Main Con
Platinum 3
Jeremy Chen (CDM)
Allen Chen (CDM)
Speed Chess: Resolved, that expecting parents be required to attend a parenting class before the
birth of their first child.
In February of this year, New York state Senator Ruben Diaz introduced a bill similar to this, it requires parents of
an elementary school student to attend a minimum of four parent support classes. If parent's don't go, 6th graders
won't move on to 7th grade. Outrage over this bill is in full swing, with parents calling the idea "crazy" and
"insane". They say it impedes on their freedom to raise their child however they desire. However, current statistics
show that at least 4 children die every day due to maltreatment, and about 30% of neglected children will later
abuse their own children. Two sides are evident, does forcing parents to attend classes impede on their freedoms?
or does it provide a way for parents to learn how to raise their children properly.
Pro:
1.Given child abuse statistics, it is necessary to educate parents to reduce the amount of maltreated children
2. Proper education leads to more well-rounded children, who then grow up to raise their children properly
Con:
1. Teaching parents how to be parents is impeding on their freedom to be parents however they want.
2. The classes will be ineffective, and will eventually be a waste of government resources.
26
Debate: China’s Economic Growth
Platinum 4
Main Pro Jay Shah (Esperanza)
Main Con Danny Robertson (CDM)
POV Debate: Resolved, that China’s economic growth ultimately benefits the American economy.
It is no secret that America has significant ties to the Chinese economy. A great deal of manufacturing jobs have
been outsourced to China, and China has become a major player in the overall global economy. But does the growth
of China’s economy benefit America’s economy, or does it threaten America’s status as the world’s preeminent
economic power? Also, is China’s economy even growing in the status quo? Some say that China’s growth rubs off
and positively affects America, while others point out that Chinese strength may suck opportunities away from
America.
Pro:
1. Chinese economic growth benefits the American economy because economic growth on an international scale has
a ripple effect- the global economy is interconnected and depends on every country.
2. China currently owns a great deal of American debt. America needs China to have a strong economy so that
China does not default on this debt.
3. Chinese economic strength means that industry in China will flourish, meaning that America can import goods at
a lower cost.
Con:
1. China’s economy is not in a good place now, as the resolution implies. China’s massive real estate bubble will
eventually burst, leaving their economy in a deep recession.
2. Chinese economic strength means that more American jobs will be outsourced to China, and America’s economy
will weaken due to a lack of availability of manufacturing jobs.
3. Chinese economic strength threatens America’s status as the world’s foremost economic superpower; China
could take control of exports that America would normally be producing.
Thought Talk: Teen Bulimia and Anorexia
Platinum 7
Moderator: Ami Hayashi (Adolfo Camarillo)
Thought Talk: Which aspect of American society is at fault for the increased rates of teen bulimia
and anorexia?
Over the past three years, the number of children and teenagers seeking help for an eating disorder rose by
110 percent. Many point fingers towards our society due to the pressure it places on both men and women to be
thin. However, which facet of our society is truly at fault? Is it the celebrities of the entertainment industry or the
photo-shopped models of the advertising industry? The pressure of social media or the pressure on high schoolers to
compete for selective admission to top universities? While some may argue that eating disorders are caused by inner
reflection, others contend that society in general is at fault, and still others assert that the answer may only be
formed on an individual basis. What is the true cause of these rising statistics?
Thought Talk: Marriage
Platinum 8
Moderator: Gabrielle Rosser (Orange County School of the Arts)
Thought Talk: Marriage is an outdated institution.
Marriage has been around since the earliest of civilizations, however, in this modern age America leads the
world in divorce. Current figures show that 41-50 percent of first marriages fail. Second-marriage failure rates stand
27
at 60-67 percent. Even more staggering is that third marriages face a 73 to 74 percent failure rate. The gender roles
traditionally placed upon husbands and wives causes clashes in the household due to new urbanization and the line
between roles being blurred. Some argue that marriage is a worthwhile tradition to uphold, the union of two people
who profess to love one another and an easy way to file taxes. While others hold the opinion that marriage is
outdated, unnecessary and a hindrance to society.
Debate: Rebelling Against England
Platinum 9
Moderator: David Roudebush (Orange County School of the Arts)
Main Pro John Abughattas (Santiago)
Main Con Ravi Sandhu (Whitney)
Time machine 1775: Resolved, that the colonies unite and rebel against England. (Patrick Henry vs.
Thomas Hutchinson)
Patrick Henry was born in 1736 in Hanover County in the Virginia Colony. While widely considered by the
people of his hometown to be a lazy derelict, Henry did pass the bar exam in 1760, beginning his political career in
the colonies. Over the next decade and a half, Henry was a fierce advocate for individual rights and political
freedoms in both the courts of Virginia and in the colony’s House of Burgesses. Most notably, his remarks on the
Stamp Acts of 1765 compared George III to historical tyrants like Julius Caesar and Charles the First, leading to
accusations of treason stemmed only by the voting of the Burgesses to pass his proposal. These actions led to Henry
rising to the forefront of the growing anti-British movement in the colonies. When the movement came to a head in
1774, Henry was, along with Thomas Jefferson, one of the leaders of the Virginian rebels, and a delegate to the First
Continental Congress. In 1775, Patrick Henry supported independence and the creation of a unified American state
for the same reasons he always had. Henry despised the British government for taxing the colonies without
representing the colonies in parliament at all, and viewed the distinctions between different states as remnants of the
old colonial regime. In his words, “The distinctions between Virginians, Pennsylvanians, New Yorkers, and New
Englanders, are no more. I am not a Virginian, but an American.”
Thomas Hutchinson was born into a prominent Bostonian household in 1711, and attained a Masters of Arts
from Harvard before embarking on his political career. From 1740 onwards, Hutchinson held a number of positions
within the colonial government of Massachusetts, often simultaneously. He was first, in the 1740s, the speaker of
the provincial assembly, and then, from 1758 to 1769, lieutenant governor, as well as chief justice, despite not
having any legal experience at all or expressing much interest in the position. His time as lieutenant governor was
marked by much unrest over the Stamp Act enacted by the British government in 1765, as well as later laws like the
Townshend Acts. In 1765, protesters against the Stamp Act ransacked his mansion, and violence continued
throughout both his lieutenant governorship and his term as governor, which lasted from 1769 to 1774. Hutchinson
was a staunch supporter of British Parliamentary power over the colonies, and viewed the colonists as fundamentally
having less rights than those who lived in England. He viewed the radical revolutionaries specifically as irrational and
easily enraged, especially after the attacks on his property. On his most basic level, Hutchinson was a rational
believer in the conservative order of his time, a loyalist to his core.
How to Build a Stronger JSA Chapter
Platinum 10
Led by: NorCal Program Director Brandon Harrison
NorCal Program Director Brandon Harrison will go through steps and ideas of how to build a stronger
chapter, including how to recruit members, encourage activism, and lead productive chapter meetings and debates.
2:30 PM – 3:20 PM: Block 5
28
Debate: Chivalry
Platinum 1
Moderator: Sophie Rosas-Smith (Valencia)
Main Pro Brian Kaplun (Burroughs)
Main Con Katie Flattum (University)
Resolved, that gender equality requires the elimination of chivalry from society.
In the High Middle Ages in Europe, knights were expected to follow a code of chivalry, honorable behavior
focused around gallant behavior towards women, piety and respect for the church, and fair treatment of other
Christians. During the same time period, the rights of women were highly restricted, with fewer opportunities for
education and advancement, and patriarchal institutions within society generally oppressed women. Both chivalry
and gender inequality remained common parts of European society after the middle ages. By the early 1900s,
chivalry became more and more focused on men assisting women with tasks that they thought women could not
accomplish on their own. Over the past few centuries, women’s rights have expanded dramatically, bringing society
closer and closer to gender equality, but there are still many inequities between genders. Many claim that chivalry is
still a manifestation of this inequality, and therefore must be eliminated in order to achieve full gender equality, but
others instead hold that chivalry is largely harmless and minor in today’s world, and isn’t a meaningful impedance to
equality.
Pro:
1. The idea of chivalry is based inherently around restrictive gender roles for both men and women: the man
as the valiant hero, and the woman as a helpless, graceful lady.
2. Chivalry is a relic of a time with much less gender equality than modern society, and thus, by its very
presence, acts as a reminder of the inequalities of previous time periods.
3. Chivalry is one of the main forms of benevolent sexism, a form of unequal treatment that is harder to
remove in order to create a society with gender equality, and removing chivalry from the cultural mindset
would be a strong first step towards eliminating it.
Con:
1. Chivalry can be more than just noble treatment towards women, and can refer to a wide range of honorable
behaviors, many with no gender-based connection at all.
2. Chivalry doesn’t really harm anyone, or degrade any gender, as it mostly deals with minor acts like holding
doors open, or lending a coat.
3. Keeping chivalry as a societal value makes people more likely to be respectful and noble in general, which is
admirable even if it does rely on some outdated gender ideas.
Debate: Socioeconomic Affirmative Action
Platinum 2
Moderator: Judah Young (Guidance Charter)
Main Pro Jessica Shin (University)
Main Con Lilia Abecassis (University)
Resolved, that affirmative action be based off of socioeconomic status rather than ethnicity.
The method through which colleges admit applicants is of great concern to us not only because we are high
school students interested in college, but because colleges are selecting the next generation of leaders in this
country. Proponents of the resolution may say that for it to be based off of ethnicity would be “reverse racism,” and
that all races can vary in socioeconomic status, whereas opponents of the resolution point to the need for increased
diversity on campus. There are also those who oppose affirmative action altogether.
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Pro:
1. There are rich blacks and poor whites. All races need help.
Affirmative action aims to help those in need, however those who are helped are not always needy.
Regardless of race, socioeconomic status can vary and so it should be based on that.
2. Admitting an individual based off of race is racism itself.
It is hypocritical to battle racism and the subjugation of an individual based on race, with exactly
that. People should be admitted based off of need, instead of race, which should not matter.
3. Affirmative action based off of socioeconomic status will even out the widening gap between the rich and
poor in this nation.
To help those in need, schools should try to help those who cannot afford tuition and those who
have not had opportunities to close the class gap.
Con:
1. Colleges need increased racial diversity.
There is a disproportionate number of Caucasians and Asians on college campuses, compared to
African Americans and Latinos.
2. Minority races have been suppressed by the majority and affirmative action based on race will even it out.
The reason minorities have low incomes is because they have been oppressed. In order to help the
races that have been treated unfairly, affirmative action must be implemented based on race.
3. There shouldn’t even be affirmative action. People should be chosen based off of merit and competence,
rather than race or class.
Why even have affirmative action? The best and brightest should be chosen; there are better
alternatives, such as community and state colleges, for those who need them.
Pro
Con
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Debate: Religion
Platinum 3
Moderator: Max Tacuchi (Van Nuys)
Main Pro
Main Con
Ahmed Shah (Van Nuys)
Rachel Endreson (Valencia)
Speed Chess: Resolved, that religion does more harm than good.
For thousands of years, human beings have killed one another over what will happen once they have been
killed. At the same time, human beings have also created amazing works of art and helped one another because of
divine inspiration. Religion brings its benefits to the human race, such moral guidance, but it has also wreaked havoc
and prevented the progression of the race as well. Everyone should have the right to believe in a religion, but is the
belief in a higher, divine power detrimental to us?
Pro:
Con:
1. Faith is belief without evidence. Such thinking is ignorant and prevents rational discussion.
2. Religious extremists want to impose their beliefs on others.
3. The dominant, Abrahamic religions are far from moral; these old texts only suppress progress.
1. People will abuse religion and use it for the wrong reasons, but it gives people a moral code to follow.
2. Religion inspired artists such as Michelangelo and it has contributed goodness to the world.
3. Religious movements such as liberation theology contribute to societal welfare.
Debate: “Under God” in Pledge of Allegiance
Platinum 4
Main Pro Arni Daroy (University)
Main Con Chanel Atanous (Orange Lutheran)
POV Debate: Resolved, that the words “under God” be removed from the pledge of allegiance.
For decades, the pledge allegiance has been recited in classrooms across the country as a form of uniting
Americans by having everyone declare their loyalty to our nation. In 1954, the phrase “under God” was added by
Congress to describe our “one nation” in an effort to combat the looming Communist threat during the Cold War.
However, many believe the phrase should be removed as it discriminates people who do not believe in God, such as
atheists, and that the pledge should be recited without the phrase. Others argue that the pledge is optional anyway
and that by not forcing people to say the pledge, the discrimination issue diminishes as people who do not believe
are not forced to say anything. With these arguments, should we remove the words “under God” from the pledge?
Pro:
1. The phrase “under God” discriminates against those who do not believe in God, namely atheists.
2. The phrase goes against the First Amendment as religion should be left out of the public schooling system.
3. The phrase was inserted was to unite America under the atheistic threat of Communism; it is no longer needed.
Con:
1. It does not discriminate against atheists as the pledge is not required to be said by all students.
2. There is discrimination against religious people as the phrase’s removal might be viewed as if God is not real.
3. “God” refers to a greater power of some sort that controls the world, not a specific religious God.
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Thought Talk: Owning Nuclear Weapons
Platinum 7
Moderator: Conor Morley (Marywood Palm Valley)
Thought talk: Do all nations have a right to own nuclear weapons?
The grotesque desperation of World War II culminated in the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki,
which heralded a new age of warfare. The Cold War that followed was characterized by the constant potential for
mutually assured nuclear destruction, which came awfully close to a reality at times of crises. Because nuclear
weapons have contributed to increased international tensions and the potential to destroy the planet, some have
suggested that their proliferation ought to be contained in order to preserve safety. At the same time, proponents
point to the Cold War and urge that high stakes and deterrence will prevent the outbreak of war. Because of this,
we must ask, do all nations have a right to own nuclear weapons?
Thought Talk: Space as a New Frontier
Platinum 8
Moderator: Vivian Herscovitz (Tarbut V Torah)
Thought talk: Is space a reasonable new frontier?
People have always looked towards the sky in question of what lies in outer space. Innovations perpetuated
by the mid-twentieth century space race made the reality of space as a new frontier possible. Man has reached the
moon and lived in space for various intervals of time on space stations. These achievements have prompted scientists
to look forward and to hope for further exploration of the “new frontier.” Scientists hope to discover Earth-like
planets, scientific properties of space, and vital resources such as water and fuel. With the potential for new
discoveries that may enhance life on Earth and sustain future human life, many support space as a new frontier that
should be explored; however, others question the costs and tradeoffs involved in making such an effort to explore
the new frontier. In early 2014, the government gave NASA a budget of $17.65 billion. Many taxpaying citizens
think that though space may hold new resources, domestic issues including the budget deficit take precedence over
delving into the new and “unreasonably” priced frontier. The question still remains up for debate whether space can
be a reasonable new frontier.
Debate: Animal Testing
Platinum 9
Moderator: David Todd (University Prep)
Main Pro Judah Young (Guidance Charter), Sander Straus, Jackson Duneier
(Santa Barbara), Madison Crane (CDM)
Main Con Yishu Dai (Glendale), Krishna Das (Centennial), Raj Gambhir
(Aliso Niguel)
ARTivism: Resolved, that animal testing be banned.
Each year, scientists test approximately 26 million animals for scientific and commercial research. Testing
animals began as a way to develop new medical procedures and to determine the safety of products that will
eventually be used by humans. Animal testing has resulted in vital procedures for many organisms especially
humans. Proponents argue that without testing animals, how else can products used by humans be determined as
safe? Despite the advances in science and commercial products made possible by animal testing, this form of
research has transformed into something inhumane. Methods, including lethal dose 50 (LD50), often test toxic
chemicals on animals to determine toxicity. This may often result in the killing of 50% or more of the test animals.
Additionally, opponents of animal testing argue that it should be banned as new and more humane alternative
testing methods have been developed. The banning of animal testing still remains an ethical question that weighs on
society’s conscience.
How to Build a Stronger JSA Chapter
Platinum 10
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Led by: NorCal Program Director Brandon Harrison
NorCal Program Director Brandon Harrison will go through steps and ideas of how to build a stronger chapter,
including how to recruit members, encourage activism, and lead productive chapter meetings and debates.
3:20 PM – 3:40 PM: Coffee Break
Coffee Break
Take this short breather to grab a snack, meet new people, finish up some debate research, or simply relax. Make
sure to be back in a JSA room at 3:40 PM!
3:45 PM – 4:25 PM: Block 6 (Workshop Block)
How to eat for optimal energy and focus… And bring it to your school!
Platinum 1
Led by: Program Director Tracy Thomas
Program Director Tracy Thomas will share the tips and tricks she has gathered from extensive nutrition and exercise
courses, as well as her own personal experiences, to staying both energized and focused. She will then branch into
how to bring this healthier lifestyle to your school and/or JSA chapter!
Open Senate Session
Platinum 2
Led by: Lieutenant Governor Jessica Shin
Join the Lieutenant Governor, LTG Chief of Staff, and regional Senators in this Open Senate Session as they discuss
both approved legislation and any current legislation on the floor. All students are welcome to attend!
Open Senate Session
Platinum 2
Led by: Lieutenant Governor Jessica Shin
Join the Lieutenant Governor, LTG Chief of Staff, and regional Senators in this Open Senate Session as they discuss
both approved legislation and any current legislation on the floor. All students are welcome to attend!
Moderator Workshop
Platinum 3
Led by: Director of Moderators Jane Lichacz
Want to learn more about how to moderate JSA debates? Attendance at this meeting is mandatory if you’d like to
moderate at future JSA conventions and events!
Q & A with Miri Kornfeld, Israel-Palestine Expert
Platinum 4
Moderated by: Payten Kirby
Miri Kornfeld works for StandWithUs and has given presentations on the Israel and Palestine conflict on over 50
college campuses in the U.S. and Canada, in addition to high schools in the Los Angeles area, in order to inform
students on Israel-related matters. She is now the director of StandWithUs’ national high school program and works
to educate young people on foreign issues in the region of conflict. Today we are lucky enough to have her speak to
JSA about the issue and answer questions from students!
Summer School- The Student Experience
Platinum 7
Led by: Panel of Summer School Student Alumni
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A useful workshop for those interested in attending Summer School in summer 2014- learn about fundraising for summer
school, earning a semester’s worth of high school credit, and living in the dorms of Georgetown University, Stanford
University, Princeton University, and the University of Virginia from the summer school alumni themselves.
Council of Chapter Presidents Meeting
Platinum 8
Led by: Director of Chapter Affairs Jameela Simmonds
A mandatory meeting for all Chapter Presidents!
Assembly Meeting
Platinum 9
Led by: Speaker of the Assembly Daniel Hamidi (Valencia)
A mandatory meeting for all assembly members! All other students are welcome to attend to learn more about the
assembly and its current planks.
Mock School Board Meeting
Platinum 10
Led by: Director of Political Activism Rachel Endresen (Valencia)
The Mock School Board is a situation in which selected students role-play a local school board. Each school board
consists of four members and a chairperson. Each school board will hear three complaints from members of the
district addressing: 1) School dress codes, 2) Charter school implementation and 3) Common Core teaching style.
4:30 PM – 5:20 PM: Block 7
Debate: Parents Decide Sex of Children
Platinum 1
Moderator: Eddie Soto (John Burroughs)
Main Pro Andy Pacas (Amino Leadership Charter)
Main Con David Roudebush (Orange County School of the Arts)
Resolved, that parents be allowed to decide the sex of their children.
Breakthroughs in science have enabled doctors to create and identify embryos of a certain sex, allowing
parents to chose the sex of their child. However, many question the morality of this practice. Opponents argue that
the practice is consumerist, borders on "playing God", and may upset the balance of the sexes in society.
Proponents argue that the procedure could aid in avoiding sex-specific, generic diseases and that parents have
freedom to chose their child’s sex if they please. While this practice is scientifically possible, is it morally
permissible?
Pro:
1. Gender selection could prevent infanticide
2. The procedure could aid in avoiding sex-specific, generic diseases
3. Parents have a right to chose
Con:
1. The procedure could upset the balance of sexes
2. The procedure uses expensive medical care for unnecessary purposes
3. Children should not be designed with specifications
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Pro
Con
Debate: Stopping Human Cloning
Platinum 2
Moderator: Samantha Bordy (Marlborough)
Main Pro Dominic Pardini (CDM)
Main Con David Gumberg (Van Nuys)
Resolved, that efforts to create human cloning practices be stopped.
Ever since the birth of cloning technology, the question of human cloning has dominated ethical and
scientific debates. Human cloning raises questions of the human mind and spirit in addition to the role of ethics in
society. Those who support efforts to clone humans argue that defective genes could be eliminated, traumatic
injuries can be healed, and life spans can be lengthened. Learning how to create human life may lead to faster
medical cures and a better way of life for the world. These people also see that human cloning will benefit both the
scientific community and the globe by providing incredible knowledge and the capability of creating life. On the
other hand, many think that all efforts to clone humans should cease. Opponents of human cloning advocate that this
scientific process will reduce the value of human life, present an ethical issue of violating natural principles of birth,
and possibly result in faster aging. Opponents also voice concerns over the treatment of cloned humans and how
they will interact with the world around them. They find that human cloning is better left alone. As technology
advances every day, the question of whether human cloning practices be stopped becomes more and more pressing.
Pro:
1. The value of human life and individuality will decline.
Humans may become more objectified and as an experiment rather than a living person.
2. It is unethical to tamper with something better left off to nature.
Human life is something that is created, not made in a laboratory.
3. Human life may age faster.
An “age stamp” from the older, cultured cell may be presented in the new life form.
Con:
1. Human cloning practices may lead to elimination of defective genes.
By culturing cells from “healthy” humans, the possibility of defective genes highly decreases.
2. Human cloning may lead to a better understanding of human life.
Developing new human life may lead to more knowledge about the mind and soul.
3. Life spans may be lengthened with better cures to ailments and tissues.
Effects of acquired injuries would be reduced as more cultured cells can just replace old, damaged ones.
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Pro
Con
Debate: Social Movements
Moderator: Max Tacuchi (Van Nuys)
Main Pro
Main Con
Platinum 3
Adam Jacobs (Tarbut V Torah)
Brenda Solis (Marco Antonio Firebaugh)
Resolved, that social movements ultimately lead to the polarization of the American people.
A social movement can be defined as any group action, formal or informal, primarily led by members of the
general population. In American History, numerous social movements, from the Abolitionists, to the
Prohibitionists, to the Socialists, have caused changes in the policy of the nation and have left lasting impacts on
American society as a whole. Modern social movements in America have chiefly been defined by the movements
that came about in the 50s and 60s like the Feminist Movement, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Anti-War
Movement. These movements brought about huge changes in American society, and still continue to affect it today.
They also sharply divided American society at the time, and faced much resistance from more conservative elements
in society. In recent years, a number of social movements have come to prominence in America, most notably the
hyper-conservative Tea Party movement and the anti-corporate Occupy Movement. More than ever, these social
movements have divided America along ideological lines; it’s hard to find someone who supports both Occupy Wall
Street and the Tea Party Caucus. The prominence of social movements in American culture over the past 50 years,
as well as growing social polarization and ideological division of Americans over the same period, have caused some
to blame the movements on the polarization. However, others have claimed that increased income inequality and
the influence of special interest groups are the greater causes of this polarization, if it truly exists.
Pro:
1. Over the past 50 years, social movements like the Feminist Movement and the Civil Rights movement have
shaped American society, with their supporters and detractors coming down on sharply divided ideological
lines.
2. As the Internet and other social media shape social movements into more and more niche environments,
division of American society into separate groups with different interests will occur naturally.
3. Social movements, including extremist or radical ones, can influence mainstream politics, including shaping
the ideology of mainstream political parties.
Con:
1. Social movements have existed in American society since at least the 1800s, and division and unity within
America has fluctuated for reasons beyond just social movements over time.
2. Relatively few people are members, or identify with, more extreme social movements like the Tea Party
and OWS, meaning their actual impact on American society is much more minor than what is presented in
media.
3. Current division in American society has a variety of causes, including increased income inequality, a wider,
more varied sphere of cultural options, and an increasingly hostile mainstream political discourse.
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Pro
Con
Debate: The Tea Party
Platinum 4
Moderator: Joy Park (Van Nuys)
Main Pro
Main Con
Olivia Leland (Orange County School of the Arts)
Chanel Atanous (Orange Lutheran)
POV Debate: The tea party become it's own party rather than an offshoot of the Republican Party
The TEA party has protested and complained it's way to noteriety with their extraordinarily radical rightwing viewpoints. They have become famous for fighting incessently with their fellow republicans, calling them
"establishment" republicans and saying that the current GOP leaders need to be evicted and replaced with TEA
party activists. It has been just over 5 years since the Republican Party birthed the tea party movement, and tensions
between mother and child couldn't be higher. While the TEA party claims they are the true republicans, current
republican leaders no longer identify with the TEA party and claim they are not part of the GOP any longer.
Idealogically, these two entities are already separate, but do they need an official schism?
Pro:
1. The TEA party is too idealogically separate from the GOP to be considered the same party
2. The TEA party and the GOP argue amongst themselves too much, and a schism is needed to restore order to the
GOP
Con:
1. Every party has it's radicals, that doesn't mean the radicals should split off and create their own party
2. A schism would NOT create order, it would cause more chaos due to Republicans being forced to identify with a
completely new party that claims it is still Republican
More Information
Thought Talk: Global Climate Change
Platinum 7
Moderator: Rachel Endreson (Valencia)
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Thought Talk: Are we too late to respond to global climate change?
Currently the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere today is roughly 390 parts per million
(ppm). The scientific community has agreed that 350 ppm is a tolerable upper limit. NASA climatologist James
Hansen has stated that 350 ppm is what we should strive for in order to have a planet that is “similar to the one on
which civilization developed and to which life on earth is adapted.” Scientists agree that it is not too late to reduce
the amount of carbon in our atmosphere, suggesting solutions like building solar plants instead of coal plants,
investing more heavily in public transportation and hybrid cars, and planting trees instead of chopping down forests.
However some argue that our earths global ecosystem is far too damaged ever to recover.
Thought Talk: Voting Out of Office
Platinum 8
Moderator: Arni Daroy (University)
Thought Talk: Should politicians be voted out of office instead of in?
The people of the United States currently vote for politicians to represent them on a state or nationwide
level. They vote for candidates based on a variety of factors, such as party association, platform of goals that they
will carry out if elected, and even the level of eloquence in rhetoric. People currently vote politicians into office
based on the previously named factors, which are, in one perspective, a preview of what is to come from a candidate
if elected. However, many people believe that politicians should not be voted into office; they should, instead, be
voted out of office. These people feel that no one truly knows the success of a politician until after the politician has
served in a spot for a certain amount of time. They argue that voting a politician out will more effectively prevent
politicians that affect the nation negatively from serving an extended time in office. However, others contend that
the people do not necessarily know what is best for the nation. These people would then vote out a politician who is
actually acting positively for the nation as a whole but negatively for a group of people who do not understand the
long-term effects of such actions. Should a new policy be implemented that votes politicians out instead of in?
Debate: Israel-Palestine
Platinum 9
Moderator: Jane Lichacz (Orange County School of the Arts)
Main Pro Ravi Sandhu (Whitney), Charles Lee (Sunny Hills), Ahmed Shah
(Van Nuys), Grande Nohemi (Maywood Academy), Henry Huang
(Marywood Palm Valley)
Main Con Matthew Cohen (Tarbut V Torah), Derek Nguyen (CDM), Elan
Karlin
Competitive Debate: Resolved, that the resolution to the Israeli-Palestine conflict is to establish a
free, independent Palestinian state.
In this debate, pre-selected debaters will present a formal argument on the Israeli-Palestine conflict, which
will then be judged by a panel of judges. The best speaker will be chosen by the panel of judges. Spectators are
welcome and subsequent speeches may take place if time allows.
State Candidate Forum
Platinum 10
Led by: Fair Elections Committee
Here, the Fair Elections Committee will lead a forum in which audience members may ask the candidates for
Speaker of the Assembly, Lieutenant Governor, and Governor questions about his/her JSA experience,
38
qualifications, platform, or any other JSA-related information that the audience members desire to know. Be sure to
pay close attention, as each and every one of you has the power to cast a vote in tomorrow’s state elections.
5:20 PM – 7:25 PM: Dinner
Dinner
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Regional Caucus and Elections
Angeles Region
Platinum 5
Platinum 1-4
Platinum 7&8
Check in with your chapter at regional caucus! At this time, no one will be permitted to leave the hotel for the rest
of the night. Once all chapters are accounted for, we will begin with the official 2013-2014 elections for the
positions of Senator, Vice Mayor, and Mayor for each region!
9:00 PM – 12:00 AM: Dance and Other Social Activities
Dance
Platinum 6
Karaoke
Platinum 1
Movie Showing-Frozen
Platinum 2
Talent Show
Platinum 5
JSA Lounge
Grand Ballroom F
After a long day of debate, it’s finally time to unwind and dance the night away! Feel free to dress in
accordance with the optional “Dance, Dance USA” theme. Remember to keep both your behavior and attire classy!
Not feeling the dance vibe tonight? Join us at the Talent Show, at the movie showing (Frozen) or at the
karaoke station!
12:15 AM: Curfew
Curfew
Make sure to be back in your rooms by 12:15 AM!
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Sunday, April 27
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM: Breakfast/Luggage Storage
Breakfast
Luggage Storage
Platinum 6
Be sure to grab something for breakfast, as well as place your luggage in the luggage room by 10:00 AM!
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Governor’s Breakfast
Platinum 7-8
Join Governor Lieberman at her final breakfast as Governor! Tickets are $10 and must be purchased on Friday; wristbands
will be checked at the door. Though all students are welcome, this breakfast is geared towards juniors and seniors.
10:00 AM- 12:00 PM: State Elections
State Elections
Platinum 1-5
Led By: Fair Elections Committee Chairwoman Jessica Shin
Time for the official 2013-2014 elections for the state positions of Speaker of the Assembly, Lieutenant Governor,
and Governor!
12:00 PM – 12:30 PM: Closing Session
Imperial Ballroom
Closing Session
Platinum 1-5
Take a seat and listen Director of Debate Alexis Kallen announces the Best Speaker gavel winners, Program
Director Tracy Thomas announces award winners, Governor Lieberman remarks on not only the weekend, but also
the entire 2013-2014 JSA year, and FEC Chairwoman Jessica Shin swears in the newly elected regional and state
officials. Have a safe ride home (or to Disneyland), and remember to please keep the JSA spirit alive and thrivingalways.
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Debater’s Guide
Procedure
Time
Main Proponent – Opening
6 minutes
Main Opponent – Opening
6 minutes
Subsequent Proponent
3 minutes
Subsequent Opponent
3 minutes
Move to Previous Question
Main Opponent – Closing
3 minutes
Main Proponent – Closing
3 minutes
Vote on Resolution
Debating Tips:
1. Organize your ideas in an easy-to-understand format.
a. State your point.
b. Explain your reasoning.
c. Back up your claim with an example.
2. Body language is just as important as speaking during a debate. Stand up straight, make eye contact, and emphasize
your points with hand movements.
3. Do not chew gum. You would be surprised how distracting it is.
4. Before you volunteer to speak subsequent, be sure of what each side stands for – the wording of resolutions can
be tricky.
5. Be passionate about your argument. If you’re not convinced, who will be?
6. Speak loudly and clearly. If the audience cannot hear what you’re saying, your argument probably will not have
much of an effect.
7. Prepare notes. It may not be school, but a little research could not hurt.
8. As a subsequent speaker, bring up a new part of the debate that has not yet been addressed.
9. Pay close attention to what a question is asking; some are meant to support your claims, while others are
asked to refute your argument.
10. Your closing argument should not merely be a restatement of your thoughts. Instead, consider what points have
been raised throughout the debate on both sides.
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All Things Convention
1. All rules for school field trips prevail. If it’s illegal outside of JSA, it’s illegal inside of JSA. Use of illegal drugs or
alcohol is not permitted. Students also will be punished if they are in a room where drugs or alcohol are present. The use of
tobacco products is not allowed. To ensure these rules are obeyed, the Teacher/Advisor and The Junior Statesmen Foundation
must approve the attendance of each delegate. We reserve the right to deny any student the privilege of attending the event.
2. At 7:15 PM, students will meet with their Teacher/Advisor for roll call and may not leave the hotel thereafter. At curfew,
Teacher/Advisors will check delegates at their rooms. Delegates must remain quietly in their own rooms after curfew. Pizza
deliveries and room service deliveries are not permitted after curfew. Delegates also are required to meet with the
Teacher/Advisor at other designated times.
3. Delegates must attend all conference activities.
4. At no time may young men and women be in each other’s rooms.
5. Delegates may not leave the convention hotel without the permission of their teacher advisor. During meal times, with their
Teacher/Advisor's permission, delegates may leave the hotel to eat in designated areas. Under no circumstances are delegates
to leave the hotel after 8:00 p.m.
6. Delegates must wear their nametags above the waist in a visible location at all times.
7. All students assigned to a room are responsible for any charges made to the room. All students assigned to a room are also
responsible for the condition of the room. No outside phone calls can be made from student hotel rooms. Room service and
other items may not be charged to a student’s room. No delegate may change rooms without the permission of The Junior
Statesmen staff members at the event.
8. No student may drive a car to the convention or ride in a student driven car during the convention.
9. Visitors are not allowed in the convention hotel. Delegates are not allowed to associate with any visitor who is not an
official guest of the Junior State program.
10. Students are expected to dress appropriately. Delegates should respect the rights of other hotel guests and not do anything
to damage the reputation of the Junior Statesmen program. Students must not open or throw anything out of windows.
Students must stay off balconies.
11. Students should not bring expensive items to the convention. Valuable items must be stored in the hotel safe or with the
bellmen. The Junior State/The Junior Statesmen Foundation is not responsible for items stored in a luggage storage area. No
large radios or portable stereos are allowed.
12. Delegates or delegations that are sent home for conduct problems will not receive a refund.
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Moderator’s Guide
Moderating Tips:
1. Make sure you have everything in advance: the agenda, best speaker ballots, and moderator packet.
2. Introduce yourself to the main speakers, know how to pronounce their names
3. Be assertive during the debate: get everyone’s attention when the debate starts, call the debate to order whenever
people get a little loud, and make sure people are respectful of the speaker. Remember, you’re the boss.
4. Familiarize yourself beforehand with Parliamentary Procedure and the various motions.
5. Mix it up when picking people to ask questions or make a subsequent speech. This opens the debate to an array of
opinions.
6. Even if you are moderating an exciting debate, you should finish on time. This allows the logistics of the
convention to run more smoothly.
7. If you’re running a Thought Talk, try to get as many people to speak as you can, otherwise it can turn into a
one sided voice of opinion.
8. There are no follow ups, and remember you choose who asks the questions
9. Have some enthusiasm! People will not be motivated if you are not!
10. “Point of clarification” does not exist. Do not let anyone fool you.
11. Always hand out the best speaker ballots after the resolution vote, and after the speakers have announced
their names. After the block, hand the ballots to the registration desk to be counted.
12. If the debate room gets too out of hand, do not be afraid to ask a cabinet member for help in restoring order.
Moderating Procedures:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Call the debate to order
Read the Resolution
Introduce the main speakers
Appoint a timekeeper
Affirmative (pro) opening speech [6 minutes]
Negative (con) opening speech [6 minutes]
Select subsequent speakers (alternating pro and con) [3 minutes each]
Motion to Previous Question
Negative (con) closing speech [3 minutes]
Affirmative (pro) closing speech [3 minutes]
Read the resolution again
Vote on the resolution
Announce the results
Pass out and collect Best Speaker Ballots
43
2013-2014 Southern California State Cabinet
Cabinet Web courtesy of Ernesto Ambrocio
To contact a member of Cabinet, please use the following email template:
firstinitiallastname@socal.jsa.org
Example:
Jennifer Kodia: jkodia@socal.jsa.org
SoCal JSA’s newspaper: The Pro Voice
Stay up to date on JSA news and read students’ political opinion pieces! Check it out at
socal.jsa.org/pro-voice/
Interested in submitting?
Email zdutton@socal.jsa.org
44
Food Options
Food Option Map courtesy of Christopher Alba
45
Hotel Map
46
47
Platinum 1
Platinum 2
Platinum 3
Plantimum 4
Platinum 5
Platinum 6
Platinum 7
Platinum 8
Platinum 9
Platinum 10
Fair Election
Committee
Metting
Opening Session
“Why JSA
Thought Talk:
Environmental
Summer School Is
Protection Agency
So Awesome”
Debate: School- SCD: The Penny in
POV: Prostitution
Related Stress
Currency
Thought Talk:
Public Education
Debate: Drone
Usage
JSA Musical
Chairs
Movie Showing
(Frozen)
State Caucus and Nominations
ARTivism Debate:
Banning the Use of
Photoshop
Dance
Thought Talk: Female
Pop Culture Leaders’
Influence in Feminist
Movement
Karaoke
Thought Talk:
Wars Based Off of
Ideological
Differences
Thought Talk:
America as a
Melting Pot
SCD: Parenting
POV: China’s
Classes for
Economic Growth
Expecting Parents on U.S. Economy
Mock School
Board Meeting
State Candidate
Forum
Mandatory
Meeting for All
Chaperones
Elite 1 & 2
(TA’s)
48
TA Recp. Chapterof-the-Year
Judging
Opening Session
Block 1
State Caucus and
Nominations
Evening
Activities
Debate: Castration
SCD: Harmfulness POV: Public Funds
Debate: A Flat Tax
of Sexual
of Reality
for Presidential
Rate
Assaulters
Television
Campaign
Thought Talk: A
Three-Party
System
Get Into JSA
Rap Battle Debate:
Summer School &
The Worst State
Fundraise
Block 2
POV: The
SCD: Banning
Affordable Health
Beauty Pageants
Care Act
Time Machine
Building a
Debate: Rebelling
Stronger Chapter
Against England
Debate: A Federal
Four-Year
University System
Thought Talk:
Marriage
Debate:
Homosexuality
Thought Talk: Teen
Bulimia and
Anorexia
Special Activity:
ARTivism Debate:
Banning Animal
Testing
Block 3
Thought Talk:
Thought Talk:
Nations Owning Outer Space as a
Nuclear Weapons
New Frontier
Thought Talk:
Voting Politicians
Out of Office
CIR
POV: “Under
God” in Pledge of
Allegiance
SER
Debate:
Inhumanity of
Zoos and
Aquariums
SCD: Effects of
Religion
AR
Debate:
International Law
Prohibiting War
Debate:
Socioeconomic
Affirmative Action
Regional
Nominations
Block 4
Debate:
Elimination of
Chivalry
POV: The Tea
Party
Building a
Stronger Chapter
Block 5
SCD: Social
Movements
CIR
POV: Point of View Debate
Competitive
Debate: IsraelPalestine
Summer School Council of Chapter
The Student
Assembly Meeting
Presidents Meeting
Experience
AR
Talent Show
SCD: Speed Chess Debate
Thought Talk:
Global Climate
Change
Q&A with Miri
Kornfield
Debate: Human
Cloning
Moderator
Workshop
Debate: Parents
Decide Sex of
Children
Open Senate
Session
Block 7
Regional Caucus
and Elections
Movie Showing
(Frozen)
State Elections
Karaoke
State Elections
Closing Session
Evening
Activities
Closing Session
Key:
000000!1
SER
Health and
Nutrition, and
Applying it to JSA
Dance
Block 6

Spring State Agenda - JSA

Transcription

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