The Big Sandy Mountaineer -

Grace Finke a senior this year at Big Sandy High School was selected to go to Girls State this month. She wanted to go "to expand my horizons on learning about the government and how things work. It's impressive.

Everyone has an idea on how things may work, but it's totally different when you are actually there and creating your own real government and the process it takes to get things done." She was so impressed and she had a lot of fun in the process. "I really enjoyed learning."

Her understanding on how things work is more solid now that she has been a part of this experience. She and one of her friend started out running for Governor and Lt. Governor, but after looking at other options they changed total directions.

"We decided we both wanted to be a part of the mock trial". She became the District Court Clerk. Her job was to keep track of evidence. She really enjoyed the process and who knows may considered working in that area later in life.

"I think it is important to be involved in government. If you don't vote, and wish that the person wasn't in their position, what right do you have to say so, if you don't vote"

Grace wants to encourage all the girls at Big Sandy High School, all those students younger than her, to go to Girls state next year. "It's great and they would really like it. I would like to thank all the people in the American Legion Auxiliary for sending me."

According to Tracy Sibra a member of the Big Sandy American Legion Auxiliary more than one girl can go next year. Grace hopes there will be a number of girls want to go. It's that good.

Girls State gives young women leaders the opportunity to learn how important it is to be an accountable citizen and like Boys State the girls participate in a mock government. They learn every aspect of how the government works including elections in the judicial, legislative, and executive arms of the governing process. They learn how to discuss and express their opinions on various subjects important to our current way of life.

Big Sandy can be proud of our representative. Grace Finke won the Helping Hand award at Girls State this year, which is truly an honor to receive. This kind of attitude is so necessary to have if you want to be a valuable citizen of the state. No matter where you live, to be a true citizen you must be willing to help others for the better of your community

The American Legion Auxiliary is responsible for various programs including Girls State. The Poppy program and the Christmas table of crafts all go to support Veteran Affairs and Rehabilitation programs.