Model Congress

GULF HIGH SCHOOL, March 23, 2007.—Gulf High School's second annual Model Congress was held today, with the Senate meeting in the chorus room and the House meeting in the band room. Guest speakers were former U. S. Rep. Michael Bilirakis and current Pasco County Administrator John Gallagher. Mrs. Alwood reports that bills passed and signed into law by President Pam Maldonado dealt with requiring student athletes in state competitions to be tested for steroids and other drugs, breathalyzer test technology in new cars, teaching foreign language in elementary schools, driving tests for persons 65 and older, limiting appeals for death row inmates, a national recycling program, tougher sentencing for child molesters, closer monitoring for welfare fraud, and incentives for private industry to become more environmentally conscious.

Right photo: President Pam Maldonado enters the House chamber.
Left: Guests were County Administrtor John Gallagher and former Rep. Mike Bilirakis.
Right: House Speaker Damira Dopudj swears in the members.
Left: President Maldonado addresses a joint session of Congress.
Right: former U. S. Rep. Michael Bilirakis speaks.
Left: President Maldonado, Vice President Ryan Watson, Speaker Dopudj.
Former Congressman Mike Bilirakis addresses a joint session of Congress.
Rachel Aponte served as President Pro-tem of the Senate.
Right: Sen. Trishelle Leicht speaks on behalf of a bill.
Views of the Senate and House.
Right photo: House Clerk Jennifer McCoy and Majority Leader Ethan Thomas.
Right: representatives speak on behalf of proposed legislation.
More debate by congressmen.
Mr. Donaldson served pizza for lunch.

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