Sunday Recap

Day one of Palmetto Girls State was absolutely fantastic! We managed to get 600 delegates moved in, hold two awesome assemblies and have city elections in just the first day.

After an official welcome from PGS Director Ms. Florence Belser, we heard from Mrs. Sally McKay, a professional speech coach and former Palmetto Girls State delegate, governor, & staff member. She reminded us that this week of Girls State is all about what you make it  – Girls State = potential. Mrs. McKay told us some great stories that reminded us of the great opportunities to grab hold of this week, and also some simple rules for good public speaking. She told us our talks are for our audience, not ourselves and that, as Usher says, "Slow down" in both speaking and in life. Lastly she reminded us to be passionate and always remember why you are where you are.

Why are we at PGS this week? To learn, to grow, to make lasting friendships and so many other reasons!

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Mrs. Pam King reminded us of a perennial Girls State quote of hers:
"As Christopher Robin says to Winnie the Pooh -
'You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.'"

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In the evening of our first day still fighting off heavy rain, we met again for another great assembly. We had a panel of two amazing City Councilwomen - the Honorable Jil Littlejohn of Greenville and the Honorable Kathy Maness of Lexington. They both spoke about the power of registering and getting out to vote, especially with such an important year of elections taking place.

A few great statements during their panel include:
"Don't complain about a problem, do something about it!"
"At the end of the day you have to be the best of the best at what you do"
"Issues should be around people, not parties."
"You should see the people who represent you on a regular basis, not just during election times."

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After a full day of great assemblies, we gathered together as cities and elected our city officers. Every delegate now holds a title in the state of Palmetto and the week is just beginning! We can't wait to see what the rest of the week has in store!

Thanks so much to all our speakers today! It was a fantastic was to start the week.

Palmetto Girls State 2012 is about to start!

We are excitedly anticipating the arrival of the 2012 Palmetto Girls State delegates! It's our biggest year ever with lots of new and exciting changes and we can't wait to see everyone!

Registration begins on Sunday June 10th from 9-12!
Don't forget - everyone checks in at Mabry-Smith-Yonce Hall (MSY) - part of the Templeton Center - before heading to your assigned room!