Dear Spring State Delegate,

On behalf of the Northern California Junior State of America, I would like to welcome you to Spring State 2014. As you will see in the coming days, this fast paced convention is filled with energy and excitement. Over this weekend, you will partake in debates that will challenge both yourself and your peers to find resolutions to our nation’s current domestic and foreign issues.

While deciding the theme Spring State, our attention turned to the current tumult across the United States and around the world. With so many voices trying to direct our nation in so many conflicting ways, it is difficult to find the true direction our nation should take. Spring State, “Boom or Bust: America at a Crossroads,” is designed so that you can explore the differing solutions to our nation’s problems with hundreds of other intelligent and like­minded individuals from across Northern California.

As Ronald Reagan once said, “Peace and freedom are the highs aspirations of the American people. Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.” This weekend presents you with the time to decide how our nation is going to defend freedom for our generation and preserve it for all of posterity. I know that through our creative genius and constructive conversation, together we will find resolutions.

In addition to the political discourse this weekend, Spring State also presents you with the opportunity to elect the officials who will run your Northern California JSA State next year. I ask that you consider the experience of each candidate, understand their platforms, and participate in the excitement and passion that is campaigning. Your voice is never strongest silent, but most potent when heard.

I am so glad that you are joining us at this convention. I would also like to thank you in advance for making this convention the extraordinary experience it is and truly hope you enjoy your weekend.

Sincerely,

Joshua Kisbye Northern CA Governor Junior State of America

­1­ #BeThePeople The Northern California Junior State of America

Proudly Presents Spring State 2014 Boom or Bust: America at the Crossroads Agenda at a Glance Friday, April 4th Registration 3:30­5:00 Registration Desk

Luggage Storage 3:30­5:00 Sedona

Block 1 4:00­4:45 Salon A: Resolved: The United States government should prioritize the environment over the economy. Salon B: Resolved: The Volcker Rule should be adopted so as to prevent proprietary trading. Salon C: Resolved: Congress create a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. Salon D: Resolved: China’s economic growth ultimately benefits the American economy. Salon E: Speed Friending

Opening Session 5:00­5:45 California Ballroom

Dinner 5:45­6:55

State Nominations 7:00­8:30 California Ball

Teacher­Advisor Information Meeting 7:10­8:10 Santa Barbara

­2­ #BeThePeople Regional Caucus 8:30­8:45 Salon 1­3: CVR Salon 4: GCR Salon 5: GGR Salon 6: EBR

Evening Activities 9:00­12:00 Sierra: Teacher’s Reception Santa Barbara: FEC meeting 9:00­9:30 Newport Beach: Game Room 9:15­10:00 Salons 1­3: Talent Show 9:30­11:30 Grand Ballroom: Dance 9:00­12:00

Curfew 12:15am

Saturday, April 5th Block 2 9:00­9:55 Salon 1­3: Mysteriobate: Foreign Affairs Salon 4: Resolved: Stand Your Ground laws do more good than harm. Salon 5: Resolved: The Bush doctrine should guide American foreign policy. Salon 6: Resolved: Students should have the right to use self­identified gender facilities. Salon A: Resolved: The Federal Reserve should undergo public audits. Salon B: Thought Talk: How does technology affect social and political activism. Salon C: Debate 101 Salon D/ E: JSA Talks Portland: Moderating 101 Santa Barbara/Newport Beach: Senate Meeting

Block 3 10:00­10:55 Salon 1­3: State Candidates’ debate Salon 4: Resolved: American patriotism does more harm than good. Salon 5: Resolved: Same­sex marriage is no longer the LGBT community's most pressing issue. Salon 6: Resolved: The Keystone pipeline XL extension should be constructed. Salon A: Resolved: The United States should adopt the Universal Credit in lieu of welfare programs. Salon B: Thought Talk: What effect will the Bridgegate scandal have on Chris Christie? Salon C: Resolved: Waterboarding is a justified practice for American Intelligence. Salon D/ E: JSA Talks Portland: TA Meeting ­3­ #BeThePeople

Block 4 11:00­11:55 Salon 1­3: State Candidates’ Debate Salon 4: Resolved: In San Francisco, tech industries do more harm than good Salon 5: Resolved: Parental consent should be made mandatory for underage abortions. Salon 6: Resolved: All states should use nonpartisan redistricting commissions to determine electoral lines. Salon A: Resolved: Income disparity threatens the long­term stability of the American economy. Salon B: Resolved: The U.S. drone program in Pakistan has done more harm than good. Salon C: Resolved: There should be a Pigovian tax on high sugar and high fat foods. Salon D/ E: JSA Talks Portland: Resolved: California should abolish the death penalty. Santa Barbara/Newport Beach: Thought Talk: How has Pope Francis I influenced the reputation and future of the Catholic Church?

Lunch 12:00­1:25

Block 5 1:30­2:25 Salon 1­3: Resolved: Alcohol intoxication should not prevent legally­recognized consent. Salon 4: Resolved: Buffer zones outside of abortion clinics are unconstitutional. Salon 5: Resolved: Hillary Clinton was an ineffective Secretary of State. Salon 6: Resolved: Public college tuition growth should be capped at current values. Salon A: Resolved: Senate filibusters undermine democratic principles. Salon B/ C: Resolved: The Affordable Care Act has improved access to quality healthcare. Salon D/E: Political Fair Portland: Junior Date of America Santa Barbara/Newport Beach: Thought Talk: What is the future of North Korea with Kim Jong Un?

Block 6 2:30­3:25 Salon 1­3: Resolved:The United States should intervene in other countries to stop human rights abuses. Salon 4: Resolved: The US government should promote neutrality. Salon 5: Resolved: The 2013 Farm Bill should be repealed. Salon 6: Resolved: The Arizona religious freedom bill is justified. Salon A: Thought Talk: Are Frank Underwood’s actions for the greater good or strictly selfish? How effectively will he be able to carry out his duties? Salon B: Resolved: The MLB, NBA, and NFL should allow the use of performance­enhancing drugs.

­4­ #BeThePeople Salon D/E: Political Fair Portland: Resolved: All new passenger vehicles should be powered by alternative energy. Santa Barbara/Newport Beach: Assembly Meeting

Block 7 3:30­4:25 Salon 1­3: Resolved: Restrictions against smoking should be lifted in the UC system. Salon 4: Resolved: Creationism should be taught in schools alongside evolution. Salon 5: Resolved: The UN should prosecute Netanyahu for crimes against humanity. Salon 6: Resolved: The Federal government should actively close the gender wage gap. Salon A: Resolved: The Olympic Games do more harm than good. Salon B/C: Japanese internment was a necessary measure to preserve national security during the Second World War. Portland: Mock School Board Santa Barbara/Newport Beach: High school should prioritize the liberal arts over STEM programs.

State Elections 4:30­7:00 California Ballroom

Dinner 7:05­8:30

Regional Check­In 8:30­9:00 Salon 1­3: CVR Salon 4: GCR Salon 5: GGR Salon 6: EBR

Evening Activities 9:00­12:00 Newport Beach: Governor’s Roast Santa Barbara: Game Room Grand Ballroom: Dance

Curfew 12:15

Sunday, April 6th Luggage Storage 8:30­9:00 Sedona

Regional Elections 9:00­10:25 Salon 1­3: CVR

­5­ #BeThePeople Salon 4: GCR Salon 5: GGR Salon 6: EBR

Block 8 10:30­11:15 Salon 1­3: Thought Talk: What will be the most important issue in the 2014 election cycle? Salon 4: Resolved: America is the greatest threat to world peace. Salon 5/Salon 6: Resolved: The California DREAM Act should be repealed. Salon A: Resolved: The debt ceiling should be abolished. Salon B: Chapter of the Year Award (TAs Only) Salon C: Resolved: Resolved, that voting be mandatory in the United States. Salon D/E: Resolved: The sale of human organs should be legalized.

Closing Session 11:25­12:25 California Ballroom

­6­ #BeThePeople Friday, April 4th Block 1 4:00­4:45

Salon A Resolved: The United States government should prioritize the environment over the economy.

Proposition: Alex Vu, Dougherty Valley High School Opposition: Skylar Thoma, Oakland Technical High School Moderator: Christine Hughes, San Mateo High School

Is it in the United States’s interest to prioritize the environment over the economy? While climate scientists and environmentalist would likely argue yes, others believe that our lacking job market and below­target economic growth are more pertinent issues to address. Environmentalists argue that sustainability and preservation investments will reduce long term costs associated with climate change and resource depletion. Replacing our existing energy infrastructure to supply perpetual and renewable energy resources is also viewed as both a job creation and training program. Others, including many conservative politicians like Marco Rubio (R­Fla.) who said "no matter how many job­killing laws we pass, our government can't control the weather," argue that environmental protection laws do too much harm to the American economy to be considered. Furthermore, environmental protection is a global issue that would require cooperation and action from the international community. Should the United States prioritize long­term solutions with the possibility of poor short­term effects, or short­term solutions with the possibility of poor long­term effects?

Salon B Resolved: The Volcker Rule should be adopted so as to prevent proprietary trading.

Proposition: Arbel Efraty, Lowell High School Opposition: Alexander Magganas, Piedmont High School Moderator: Lynn Vu, American Indian Public High School

In 2010, President Obama announced the Volcker Rule. Created by Paul Volcker, former Federal Reserve Chairman under Carter and Reagan, this rule restricts the types of investments commercial banks can make, thereby limiting the amount of risk. The hope was that by preventing banks from making speculative investments, that are high risk yet have little benefit to customers, a recession would be less likely. These investments are often funded by money invested in a bank, without the knowledge of investors and clients. If the investments bear fruit, then the bank makes money. If the investments fail to generate revenue, money that was saved and invested in the bank is lost. The rule was adopted as part of Dodd­Frank, and is currently being implemented to debatable effects. ­7­ #BeThePeople Salon C Resolved: Congress should create a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.

Proposition: Sophia Lee, Northgate High School Opposition: Clarice Roo, Northgate High School Moderator: Maya Para, Castro Valley High School

As of 2011, there were over 11 million undocumented immigrants in the United States. During his first presidential campaign in 2008, President Obama promised to introduce a comprehensive immigration bill. In 2010, members of Congress debated passing the DREAM (Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors) Act, designed to give a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who came to the United States before they were 16 years old and who would be between 12 and 35 years old at the time of the law’s adoption. The national DREAM Act failed in the Senate, but in July of 2011, California enacted the California DREAM Act that made it easier for undocumented immigrant students to apply for college scholarships. 774,700 undocumented immigrants have been deported in the last two fiscal years. Currently, there are 15 states that have adopted education­related DREAM Acts, but there are no comprehensive immigration bills on the floor of either the House or the Senate. With a path to citizenship, undocumented immigrants could become full, protected members of American society. However, the costs and precedent set by allowing large numbers of illegal immigrants to achieve legal status may outweigh the benefits. Furthermore, the extent and ease to which a plan would provide citizenship is highly controversial.

Salon D Resolved: China’s economic growth ultimately benefits the American economy.

Proposition: Kevin Wu, Piedmont High School Opposition: Jesse Steshenko, Alternative Family Education Moderator: Becca Caccavo, Balboa High School

The American and Chinese economies are undoubtedly symbiotic. While the US relies on China for cheap labor, cheap manufacturing, and cheaply imported goods, China is dependent on America to import its goods and sustain its economy. While a boost in China’s economy will likely benefit its citizens, the increased affluence of its citizens could pose a threat to its current manufacturing model that many American businesses depend on. However, a boost in China’s economy also has the potential to be beneficial to America’s economy through increased demand for high­quality, luxury American exports.

Salon E: Speed Friending

­8­ #BeThePeople Saturday, April 5th Block 2 9:00­9:55

Salon 1­3 Mysteriobate: Foreign Affairs

Proposition: Sophie Vo, George Washington High School & Jessica Weiss, Lowell High School Opposition: Brad Davis, Armijo High School & Nick Whitaker, Piedmont High School Moderator: Christine Hughes, San Mateo High School

Find out the resolution when the debate starts!

Salon 4 Resolved: Stand Your Ground laws do more good than harm.

Proposition: Andrew Chough, Dougherty Valley High School Opposition: Jason Lee, Alameda High School Moderator: Julian Trevizo, Castro Valley High School

When confronted with a dangerous situation, ‘Stand Your Ground laws’ grant an individual the right to use deadly force rather than retreating. Some believe Stand Your Ground laws serve the common man; these laws promote and protect the innocent without the fear that “the right to self­defense will be legally problematic.” People feel safer, knowing that they do not have to accept tragic fates as victims. On the other hand, other scholars argue that Stand Your Ground laws only promote retaliation and more violence. Additionally, a study by Texas A&M economics professors observed that Stand Your Ground laws had a correlation with an increase in raw homicide since their inception. Do Stand Your Ground laws help more than harm?

Salon 5 Resolved: The Bush doctrine should guide American foreign policy.

Proposition: Nick Whitaker, Piedmont High School Opposition: Nils Franco, York High School Moderator: Brian Montesinos, Redwood High School

The Bush Doctrine is composed of three primary points: 1) in a world of threatening foreign nations, the US may strike first; 2) it is important and helpful to gather allies, but the US “will act alone if necessary; 3) the US will "extend the benefits of freedom across the globe" in order to build "a balance of power that favors freedom.” The first, the preemptive strike policy, remains the most controversial. Many believe that this type of self­defense is arrogant and harms the U.S. in the long run. As seen with Iraq, it can be difficult to accurately assess foreign threats and strike first; at what point is America ­9­ #BeThePeople simply hostile and aggressive to foreign nations? However, some would argue that many foreign powers are tyrannical and can pose major threats to American national security. How should the U.S. strike a balance between diplomacy and military intervention in a world that seems increasingly hostile to the U.S. and other democracies?

Salon 6 Resolved: Students should have the right to use self­identified gender facilities.

Proposition: Samantha Gonzalez, University High School Opposition: Abha Pandey, Oak Grove High School Moderator: Maya Para, Castro Valley High School

Not allowing transgender students to use the proper facilities is considered discriminatory by many accounts. In fact, Maine’s highest court ruled that prohibiting transgender students to choose which bathroom to use violated a law prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Recently, California passed legislation that would allow students to choose the facilities that correlate with their self­identified gender. While this may aid some students, it may cause tension or discomfort for the majority of students. Furthermore, Gender neutral bathrooms, as some propose, could be a breeding ground for verbal harassment that gender­specific bathrooms avoid. Furthermore, public schools may not be the proper place for this type of policy change to first be enacted.

Salon A Resolved: The Federal Reserve should undergo public audits.

Proposition: Cheyenne Jacobson, Oakland Technical High School Opposition: Marc Cunningham, Lowell High School Moderator: Sam Bellis, University High School

Currently the Federal Reserve is audited by the Comptroller General of the United States. Authorizing public audits of the Federal Reserve would mean the Comptroller would make these audits available to the public and to Congress. Many feel that with the recent expansion of the Federal Reserve balance sheet it is crucial for the public to be aware of where money is being transferred. Others argue that this sort of public audit would be prone to adverse market effects, and weakens the power of the Federal Reserve. Should the people have the right to know what exactly the Federal Reserve does, or will that negatively affect the market?

Salon B Thought Talk: How does technology affect social and political activism.

Moderator: Amy Liu, Alameda High School

­10­ #BeThePeople Technology, in particular social media, has given many once unheard voices a new platform to advocate for their causes. It helps people unite locally, nationally, or even globally. For example, in the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics, over 2 million people rallied behind Yuna Kim and protested for further investigation of the “unfair” scoring. More recently, through social media, news of California’s SCA­5, a law changing California’s restrictions on affirmative action for college admissions, spread among students everywhere, spurring them into action. While some people believe that social media is a good medium for spreading information, others believe that social media lacks accountability. Moreover, while technology allows for news to spread more quickly, in haste, information may be completely false. How does technology help or hinder social and political activism?

Salon C Debate 101

Come learn the basics of debate and public speaking in this workshop!

Salon D/Salon E JSA Talks

Rassim Chettfour ­ Contemporary Youth Values Mohammed Syed ­ Poetry, Passion, and Politics Cari Hartigan ­ Nature, Society, and Architecture

Portland Moderating 101

Come learn the basics of moderating in this workshop!

Santa Barbara/Newport Beach Senate Meeting

The Senate’s 2014 Spring State meeting.

Block 3 10:00­10:55

Salon 1­3 State Candidates’ Debate

Come watch the state candidates debate the merits of their platforms, characters, and records of leadership in JSA.

Salon 4 Resolved: American patriotism does more harm than good.

Proposition: Naayl Kazmi, Foothill High School

­11­ #BeThePeople Opposition: Harrison Bouch, Piedmont High School Moderator: Alex Stuteville, Piedmont High School

Patriotism is usually defined as attachment to one’s own country. It has been a particularly prevalent force in America, which surveys have consistently rated one of the most patriotic countries. However, not all view this as a positive thing. Taking pride in one’s country can be beneficial as shown after 9/11, when the American populace banded together and united for the pride and safety of the United States, shaking off a great tragedy. However, the “‘Murica” culture is also considered to foster racism and a closed­minded perspective towards other cultures, and during this same period, many minorities­­especially Arabs and Muslims­­faced greater levels of discrimination. Does American patriotism do more harm than good?

Salon 5 Resolved: Same­sex marriage is no longer the LGBT community's most pressing issue.

Proposition: Diana Lopez, Richmond High School Opposition: Cheyenne Jacobson, Oakland Technical High School Moderator: Gabe Gennarelli, Redwood High School

At the dawn of the LGBT movement, acceptance and equality were easily the most pressing issues. Now, 12 states allow gay marriage and approximately 53% of Americans think it should be legal. With this success, some wonder if their are other more pressing priorities, like transgender rights. Many argue, however, that the movement should still focus on marriage before adopting other priorities. Is it time to find new causes, or has the movement not yet gained adequate ground?

Salon 6 Resolved: The Keystone pipeline XL extension should be constructed.

Proposition: Alexander Magganas, Piedmont High School Opposition: Elena Radding, Alameda High School Moderator: Lynn Vu, American Indian Public High School

The Keystone Pipeline system is a transnational oil pipeline that runs between the US and Canada. Already three of the four phases of the project have been completed, but a fourth, called Keystone XL, is awaiting approval from the US government. President Obama said he will not allow the extension to be built if it raises greenhouse gas emission, which many environmental activists feel is not a sufficiently critical approach. However, the State Department has approved the project and believes it should begin its completion. Yet there have been multiple large scale protests in DC condemning further pipeline production. As more environmental reports come out in the coming months, Obama is expected to

­12­ #BeThePeople make a decision. Should we prioritize the environment over and its long­term health over the economy? Or should a new, cheaper source of oil be created despite environmental concerns?

Salon A Resolved: The United States should adopt the Universal Credit in lieu of welfare programs.

Proposition: Anand Kannappan, Dougherty Valley High School Opposition: Mary Joplin, York High School Moderator: Melissa Papuc, Redwood High School

The idea behind implementing Universal Credit is to replace the current welfare system with a single lump­sum minimum income given to individuals. Under the current U.S. welfare system support is given through a variety of means including food stamps, housing assistance, and health care. Under a Universal Credit system, aid would be given in monthly cash payments to every household or individual in the nation. The proposed approximately 1,500 dollar payment would not be taxed and the initial income tax bracket would be set right above it. The hope of such a program is that it would reduce government dependency while providing aid that efficiently supports the unemployed or underemployed. However, some feel that such a program would be insufficient or that it would lead to misuse.

Salon B Thought Talk: What effect will the Bridgegate scandal have on Chris Christie?

Moderator: Eugenia Yeo, Irvington High School

In September, 2013, the New Jersey Port Authority closed two lanes of the George Washington bridge. Being the most traffic­filled bridge in the world, the closures created high levels of traffic and delays. The Port Authority said the closures were for a traffic study, but New Jersey Democrats were suspicious and decided to further investigate. After Christie's re­election, Democrats began to allege that the bridge closure was politically motivated. When communications between the Port Authority and Christie’s staff were released, it became clear that the closures were unnecessary and punitive. There has yet to be any evidence directly implicating Christie, but his national reputation has already been damaged. As a 2016 hopeful, many are asking if Christie will be able to escape this scandal.

Salon C Resolved: Waterboarding is a justified practice for American Intelligence.

Proposition: Nick Whitaker, Piedmont High School Opposition: Leonard Eisen, Pinole Valley High School Moderator: Brian Montesinos, Redwood High School

­13­ #BeThePeople Waterboarding has been a highly controversial practice in American intelligence. The method involves lying a subject on an inclined plane, with their feet over their head, and pouring water down their nose. This gives the subject the sensation of drowning without actually having their airways obstructed. After 9/11, the Bush Administration had legal experts research advanced interrogation techniques, who found that waterboarding did not constitute torture. Still, the practice has been highly criticized, and was banned by President Obama in January, 2009. Some intelligence experts believe that this type of practice­­"enhanced interrogation"­­enables the retrieval of information necessary for American security. However, others feel that these cause the detained to invent stories or sustain mental trauma. Is waterboarding moral? Effective? Beneficial?

Salon D/Salon E JSA Talks

Nicole Garay ­ Parenting Today Patrick Varner ­ Changes in Technology Skyler Thoma ­ Partisanship in Congress

Santa Barbara/Newport Beach Assembly Meeting

The 2014 Spring State Assembly Meeting.

Block 4 11:00­11:55

Salon 1­3 State Candidates’ Debate

Come watch the state candidates debate the merits of their platforms, characters, and records of leadership in JSA.

Salon 4 Resolved: In San Francisco, tech industries do more harm than good.

Proposition: Penelope Fergison, Lowe lHl igh School Opposition: Sophie Vo, George Washington High School Moderator: Nina Krishnan, Mission San Jose High School

In the past five years San Francisco has experienced a tech boom with major companies such as Twitter and Salesforce making a name in the city. However, this has led to notable controversies such as Google busses, which had been using city stops to transport workers to Palo Alto. The city has now decided to charge Google for using these stops, but the extent to which employees are separating their places of work and life is indicative of greater changes in how our society interacts. Additionally, the tech industry has been blamed for causing housing prices to rise far above reasonable levels without

­14­ #BeThePeople providing much in the means of economic benefits to the city. Do corporate behemoths like this serve their communities, or cause more harm?

Salon 5 Resolved: Parental consent should be made mandatory for underage abortions.

Proposition: Felipe Afanador, San Mateo High School Opposition: Andie Mercado, Lowell High School Moderator: Maya Para, Castro Valley High School

When birth control fails or is not used, women must make the decision of carrying or terminating a fetus ­ an unfortunate decision made even tougher when placed upon a minor. The bond between a parent and a child is a very important one, but everyone has their right to privacy, especially in the medical domain. Parents are responsible for their children but how far does this responsibility extend? Should they be able to dictate what their children do with their offspring? The decision to have an abortion is a very important one, especially for a minor who may not have the resources to care for a child, but should parents be allowed to stop these decisions from being made?

Salon 6 Resolved: All states should use nonpartisan redistricting commissions to determine electoral lines.

Proposition: Naayl Kazmi, Foothill High School Opposition: Jessica Weiss, Lowell High School Moderator: Becca Caccavo, Balboa High School

Every 10 years, state legislatures redraw electoral lines for members of the House of Representatives, subject to approval by the governor. This has proven to be an effective and efficient system of adjusting the constituency base to adequately represent Americans. However, some argue that this allows parties to gerrymander districts in order to keep Representatives in office and believe the power of drawing districts should lie outside the partisan realm. Many feel that this practice allows for poorly or falsely representative politicians to be elected into their positions. Others, however, view it as a necessary aid whose exploitations are far fewer than its benefits.

Salon A Resolved: Income disparity threatens the long­term stability of the American economy.

Proposition: Danilo Dubocanin, Branham High School Opposition: Paul Jeon, Dougherty Valley High School Moderator: Anyu Silverman, Redwood High School

­15­ #BeThePeople Since 1970, the incomes of the top 1% of Americans have been increasing at a startling rate, while the incomes of most Americans have fallen. This disparity has long been cited as motivation for the poor to become like those above them. However, it is argued that as the economy becomes more and more top­heavy, growth will stagnate and the economy will eventually falter. Since its presentation as a political focal point in President Obama’s 2014 State of the Union, both Democrats and Republicans have been discussing the potential effects of this disparity and what possible solutions may be.

Salon B Resolved: The U.S. drone program in Pakistan has done more harm than good.

Proposition: Mohammed Syed, California High School Opposition: Jason Lee, Alameda High School Moderator: Melissa Papuc, Redwood High School

U.S. drones are a newly prominent feature of counterterrorism across the globe in the 21st century. The vehicles are currently used to survey and strike targets in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen, and Somalia. Some argue that drones are highly effective in conflict. They can provide for long term reconnaissance and have a high degree of precision striking. They can be controlled from long distances, posing little to no harm to their operators. Others argue that drone targets are similar to targeted assassinations, and raise legal concerns such as the question of whether targets are receiving due process and are safeguarded from improper targeting. Innocent civilians have also been killed or injured, creating widespread ill and resentment for American policy in the region. Drones have even been cited as one of the largest causes for recent al­Qaeda recruitment. Has the U.S. drone program in Pakistan done more harm than good?

Salon C Resolved: There should be a Pigovian tax on high sugar and high fat foods.

Proposition: Sydney Ng, Irvington High School Opposition: Cooper Logan, Lowell High School Moderator: Kimia Zahedi, Northgate High School

High sugar and high fat foods are some of the leading causes of obesity, which create numerous health problems for one­third of Americans and cause billions of dollars of damage to the economy. A tax on these foods might discourage their purchase and convince Americans to eat more healthily and alter their diets to avoid such foods. However, this might place an undue burden on the lower class, who spend most of their income on purchasing food. Furthermore, many feel that the government should not force consumers to change purchasing preferences by raising taxes. Should the government implement this type of “sin tax?” Or should the government allow these unhealthy foods to compete in the market like all others?

­16­ #BeThePeople Salon D/Salon E JSA Talks

Brian Montesinos ­ The Face of Modern Education Makiez Arghandewal ­ Opium among the Taliban Sarah Nixon ­ Everyday, Ordinary Miracles

Portland Resolved: California should abolish the death penalty.

Proposition: Max Kohn, Northgate High School Opposition: Tyler Ho, Pinole Valley High School Moderator: Eugenia Yeo, Irvington High School

The death penalty is a punishment reserved for the most egregious of crimes. However, some question whether the death penalty has any place in the civilized world and if it can be implemented fairly. On the other hand, there are those who consider the death penalty to be the only punishment suitable for crimes such as premeditated murder. Proponents of the death penalty argue that it is an effective deterrent and discourages would­be criminals from committing heinous crimes. Currently, California only allows it in special circumstances of first degree murder, such as drive­by shootings and multiple murders. Does the death penalty have a place in California’s criminal justice system?

Santa Barbara/Newport Beach Thought Talk: How has Pope Francis I influenced the reputation and future of the Catholic Church?

Moderator: Sam Bellis, University High School

A year ago, Pope Francis became the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first pope to have not only an active Twitter account but one with over 10 million followers. Yet, controversy follows this pontiff in regards to his past and stance on many social issues. He worked to restore the standing of the Argentine church, which was compromised by its failure to confront the military junta in 1976­83. Critics assert that he did not do enough to support church workers or victims, whose relatives often sought him out directly to unload stories of torture, kidnapping and murder. Francis has himself been accused of complicity in abuses in those days, with a criminal suit filed against him by a human rights lawyer in 2005. Pope Francis has also been very different from previous pontiffs with his social issues. He is most known for his work with the poor even before he became the pope and is seen as a very humble figure. The Pope has also has taken a more open stance towards the LGBTQ community and towards other religions, stating that the Catholic Church is entitled to their beliefs and opinions but they have no place in politics. Pope Francis’s decisions have made many atheists and liberals happy. However, many fear that he has strayed from Catholic traditions.

­17­ #BeThePeople Block 5 1:30­2:25

Salon 1­3 Resolved: Alcohol intoxication should not prevent legally­recognized consent.

Proposition: Andrew Chough, Dougherty Valley High School Opposition: Clarice Roo, Northgate High School Moderator: Sophia Lee, Northgate High School

Rape laws have a variety of circumstances in which one cannot consent to sex. Rape is defined as penetration without consent. These circumstances vary from state to state, but in many states, consent cannot be given when a person has a BAC of over 0.08. On average, this is equivalent to drinking three beers, shots, or glasses of wine within an hour. As sexual assault and rape become ever more prevalent issues across the nation in colleges, bars, and clubs, it is important to determine a strong legal line for behavior that is acceptable and unacceptable. Should a state of intoxication prevent legal consent, ensuring that people don’t misrepresent their position while under the influence? Or should individuals be allowed to legally consent whilst inebriated as a result of their own actions and environment?

Salon 4 Resolved: Buffer zones outside of abortion clinics are unconstitutional.

Proposition: Caroline Novack, Piedmont High School Opposition: Sophia Lee, Northgate High School Moderator: Alex Stuteville, Piedmont High School

“Public safety vs. free speech.” That is the issue at the heart of McCullen v. Coakley, which may decide if Massachusetts’s mandated 35­foot buffer zone around the entrances of abortion clinics violates anti­abortion protesters’ First Amendment right of free speech. The Massachusetts law says that individuals, with the exception of clinic staff or patients, must stay 35 feet from the entrance of the clinics. The law is intended to provide staff and patients unobstructed access to the clinics. It was a response to increased violence against abortion providers, including the killings of two abortion clinic workers outside a clinic in a Boston suburb in 1994. Should free speech be limited by placing buffer zones outside of abortion clinics, or should the right to protest be protected?

Salon 5 Resolved: Hillary Clinton was an ineffective Secretary of State.

Proposition: Travis Lanham, Leigh High School Opposition: Amy Liu, Alameda High School Moderator: Julian Trevizo, Castro Valley High School

­18­ #BeThePeople Hillary Rodham Clinton served as United States Secretary of State under President Barack Obama from 2009 to 2013, playing a major role in shaping the Obama administration’s foreign policy. She was preceded in office by Condoleezza Rice and succeeded by John Kerry. She was the third woman to hold this position. She is also the only former First Lady of the United States to become a member of the United States Cabinet. The State Department, under Clinton's leadership, came under investigation after a deadly attack on a U.S. diplomatic post in Benghazi, Libya killed U.S. ambassador Christopher Stevens and three others on September 11, 2012. An independent panel issued a report about the Benghazi attack, which found "systematic failures and leadership and management deficiencies" in the State Department. Clinton's testimony on the Benghazi attack came on January 23, 2013. Speaking to members of the House Foreign Relations Committee, she defended her actions while taking full responsibility for the incident. Since taking office in 2009, Clinton repeatedly stated over the years that she was only interested in serving one term. She officially stepped down from her post at the State Department on February 1, 2013. Questions still remain as to whether she could have taken a more proactive role in shaping foreign policy, or whether what she enacted was effective in resolving crises.

Salon 6 Resolved: Public college tuition growth should be capped at current values.

Proposition: John Grimaldi, Alameda High School Opposition: Jesse Steshenko, Alternative Family Education Moderator: Lynn Vu, American Indian Public High School

For decades, the politics of higher education have followed familiar lines: Democrats champion higher Pell Grants for needy families, tuition tax credits for the middle class, and cheaper student loans paid for by cutting banks out of the system. Republicans advocate more modest Pell Grant increases and, with a few exceptions, protect the student­loan banks that enjoy a lucrative, risk­free business. One proposed solution is to place a limit on the growth of tuition at public institutions. For example, Gregory Gray, president of the board of regents for higher education in Connecticut, is pushing a plan that would freeze tuition and fee growth by about 2 percent in each of the next three years at the state's community colleges and state universities. This way, costs can be minimized for students and help ensure a larger population goes to college. However, these costs must be shifted elsewhere, likely to taxpayers in the form of budget cuts and tax increases. Is the value of public college worth these costs?

Salon A Resolved: Senate filibusters undermine democratic principles.

Proposition: Elena Radding, Alameda High School Opposition: Skyler Ho, Dougherty Valley High School Moderator: Gabe Gennarelli, Redwood High School

­19­ #BeThePeople Progressive and labor groups renewed calls for Senate leaders to reform filibuster rules that have allowed Republicans to repeatedly stonewall presidential nominees and legislation, including gun control. Fix the Senate Now, a coalition of more than 70 progressive and labor organizations, sent a letter to Senate leaders that brought to light the issue of judicial vacancies caused by filibusters that Republicans have repeatedly used to block President Barack Obama's nominees. The coalition's letter urges Senate leaders to change rules requiring 60 votes to break a filibuster. There are over 30 more vacancies now than when President Obama took office, dozens of which are classified as “judicial emergencies,” show a clear abuse of political power. Should we have faith in the wisdom of democracy and one man, one vote, or should we continue to allow the party that lost at the polls to block legislation?

Salon B/Salon C Resolved: The Affordable Care Act has improved access to quality healthcare.

Proposition: Nils Franco, York High School Opposition: Marc Cunningham, Lowell High School Moderator: Stetler Brown, University High School

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010, more popularly known as Obamacare, was highly controversial right from the start. It has many pros and cons, both of which can be picked out to effectively support either side. The Act was designed to reduce overall healthcare costs by making services available to the 32 million who were not able to get insurance. Many Americans used the emergency room as their primary physician, and this resulted in high payments. Obamacare also requires that all plans cover 10 essential health benefits. Preventive services are free, which lowers healthcare costs by treating diseases before they reach an expensive crisis. The federal government will pay for the states to add people who can't afford health insurance to Medicaid. Insurance companies also cannot deny children coverage for pre­existing conditions, or drop anyone from coverage once they get sick. That being said, the ACA has its flaws. There were 30.1 million people who bought their own private health insurance. Many of them have had their plans cancelled by the insurance company because the plan didn't meet the 10 essential health benefits. Their cost of replacement is high. Between 3­5 million people could lose their company­sponsored health care plans. Many businesses will find it more cost­effective to pay the penalty and let their employees purchase their own insurance plans on the exchanges. Increased coverage may actually raise overall healthcare costs in the short­term, because many people will receive preventive care and testing. These additional tests, such as cancer screening and cholesterol tests, will lead to higher medical spending. The ACA is the most severe overhaul of US healthcare since Medicare and Medicaid in the mid­1960s. The ACA has high expectations of success by both Americans and policy makers alike. Has the Affordable Care Act improved access to quality healthcare?

Salon D/E Political Fair

­20­ #BeThePeople Meet with representatives of various political parties and causes at our political fair!

Portland Junior Date of America

Bid on JSAers for the opportunity to take them on a date while fundraising for our state!

Santa Barbara/Newport Beach Thought Talk: What is the future of North Korea with Kim Jong Un?

Moderator: Kimia Zahedi, Northgate High School

Since Kim Jong­Il’s death and the succession of his son Kim Jong­Un in December last year, speculation has been rife as to which direction the new young leader will take the country. Kim Jong­Un, the "dear leader" of North Korea and at 31, the youngest dictator of modern times, is at an immense crossroads within his country. The country arguably has the worst human rights records, a massive cult of personality for the founders, and immense labor camps for those who defy the regime, yet there are reports of cracks within this Stalinist regime. Also in recent news, the public sacking of Kim Jong­un's uncle drew signs over the stability of leadership in the country, as his uncle was rumored to be second in command to the young dictator. In fact, rather than see a regime collapse around him, he was able to consolidate his power and purge any opposition in a Machiavellian fashion. Knowing this, it would seem as though Kim Jong­un is even more power­hungry than his father was, but there is an important distinction. Behind the potential iron curtain, it is truly difficult to know what the objectives of this new leader are. While the purge of his uncle may be seen as a return to the past as his uncle often traveled to China for business relations, it may have been that the young Kim truly desires to expand the country's horizons. Given this immense complication, will Kim Jong­Un lead the way to the future, or remain the status quo?

Block 6 2:30­3:25

Salon 1­3 Speaker of the Assembly Debate

Come watch the candidates for Speaker of the Assembly debate the merits of their platforms, characters, and records of leadership in JSA.

Salon 4 Resolved: The US government should promote net neutrality.

Proposition: Leo Meier, Berkeley High School

­21­ #BeThePeople Opposition: Jessica Weiss, Lowell High School

Net neutrality is the principle that says all information flowing across the Internet should be treated equally. But with more people streaming data­rich video and playing online games, the Internet faces congestion concerns. Should carriers be able to sell multi­tiered access to heavy users? Should sites that generate massive traffic ―like Google and Yahoo! ―pay extra fees? The U.S. Government is examining Neutrality and its financial, legal, and social implications. Do we need federal intervention to ensure fairness, or is this an issue for the market to work out?

Salon 5 Resolved: The 2013 Farm Bill should be repealed.

Proposition: Calvin Chiu, Chinese Christian High School Opposition: Arbel Efraty, Lowell High School Moderator:

The Farm Bill is a comprehensive piece of legislation that is typically approved on a five­year basis. Ever since the first multi­year agricultural bill passed in 1965, the Farm Bill has always experienced bipartisan fanfare because it addresses urban and rural hunger, as well as farms and agribusinesses. The bill controls funding to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program which gives food stamps to the poor. The bill also subsidizes farms and insures farmers. In the 2013 version of the bill, Republican leaders stripped out the nutrition title—affecting food stamps and local food banks—to win back conservative votes. Direct cash payments to producers have also been terminated in this version and there were two significant revisions to supplant decades­old commodity prices and production provisions for to commodities such as grains, upland cotton and milk. The 2013 Farm Bill saw many cuts to important programs; however, it does substantially lower costs. Is this new version an example of beneficial government reform, or does it harm the citizens it should serve?

Salon 6 Resolved: The Arizona religious freedom bill is justified.

Proposition: Madelyn Chen, Lowell High School Opposition: Allie Cauthorn, Armijo High School Moderator: Eugenia Yeo, Irvington High School

Arizona’s religious freedom bill would allow business owners to use their religious beliefs as a potential defense in a civil court in order to demonstrate that a law is inapplicable if it overly burdens one’s freedom to practice religion. However, many view this as a means to deny service to gay and lesbian customers under the pretense of religious beliefs. On February 26th, Arizona’s very pro­business governor, Jan Brewer, vetoed the controversial legislation despite its approval in both chambers. While this angered many business owners on the basis of it taking away their right to religious

­22­ #BeThePeople freedom, many corporations like Apple and AT&T heavily lobbied against the bill. Should businesses have the right to discriminate in such a manner? Are religious freedoms sufficiently protected in America?

Salon A Thought Talk: Are Frank Underwood’s actions for the greater good or strictly selfish? How effectively will he be able to carry out his duties?

Moderator: Nina Krishnan, Mission San Jose High School

Francis Underwood is notorious for being a cruel and effective politician. From his dealings with Peter Russo, both in aiding and hurting him, to his manipulation through the chain of command, Frank Underwood knows how to get things done. Does his shady politicking cause more harm than good towards his aspirations? Or, do his actions provide him with the ability to do even more good than otherwise possible?

Salon B/Salon C Resolved: The MLB, NBA, and NFL should allow the use of performance­enhancing drugs.

Proposition: Jackson McDonough, Northgate High School Opposition: Andrew Chough, Dougherty Valley High School Moderator: Julian Trevizo, Castro Valley High School

Performance enhancing drugs consist of a variety of substances that are intended to improve athletic sports performance. Some of these substances are naturally occurring, easily available, and completely legal while others are manufactured, illegal, or banned by many sporting organizations. Many athletes, coaches, politicians, and fans feel that the use of certain substances is unethical in sports. The use of steroids first became a worldwide scandal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics when Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson was stripped of his gold medal and world record for the 100 meters when the steroid Stanozol was found in his urine. Later in 1992, American football player Lyle Alzado admitted to two decades of steroid abuse and died of brain cancer which he blamed on his use of steroids. Most recently in 2013, several Major League Baseball (MLB) players were accused of obtaining performance­enhancing drugs ("PEDs"), specifically human growth hormone, otherwise known as the Biogenesis baseball scandal. After the year­long suspension of Yankee superstar Alex Rodriguez, many are left contemplating the future of the sports and the authenticity of sport stars to come.

Salon D/E Political Fair

Meet with representatives of various political parties and causes at our political fair!

­23­ #BeThePeople Portland Resolved: All new passenger vehicles should be powered by alternative energy.

Proposition: Michael Grey, Berkeley High School Opposition: Paul Jeon, Dougherty Valley High School Moderator: Amy Liu, Alameda High School

With all of the pollution that has been spurned from increased carbon emissions into the air, our society has been forced to look at new ways of cutting down on emissions, especially in the reduction of the number of vehicles on the road through carpooling and public transportation. Although these are semi­effective methods, the increased number of people in today’s society means that all passenger vehicles may need to be powered by alternative fuels, solving the potential problem of global warming as opposed to going around it through the usage of public transportation. Skeptics say, however, that our Earth has been subject to these conditions previously, and that we should not worry any further with wasting valuable money and research time on alternative energy that would yield much less energy per unit than our current fossil fuels. Furthermore, both sides have argued about the positive and negative economic impacts of new fuel sources. What should the fate of energy in the passenger vehicle industry be?

Santa Barbara/Newport Beach Assembly Meeting

The 2014 Spring State Assembly Meeting.

Block 7 3:30­4:25

Salon 1­3 Resolved: Restrictions against smoking should be lifted in the UC system.

Proposition: John Grimaldi, Alameda High School Opposition: Felipe Afanador, San Mateo High School Moderator: Julian Trevizo, Castro Valley High School

Starting January 1 this year, all 10 UCs banned smoking and the use of tobacco products on campus, including e­cigarettes. This came as a part of a campaign to reduce second­hand smoke on­campus and create a friendlier environment for all students. California is a historically anti­smoking state, but some consider it a step too far, limiting the rights of students and punishing them for minor offenses.

Salon 4 Resolved: Creationism should be taught in schools alongside evolution.

Proposition: Caroline Novack, Piedmont High School

­24­ #BeThePeople Opposition: Nina Dabit, Northgate High School Moderator: Alex Stuteville, Piedmont High School

Since the time of Darwin to the Scopes Monkey Trial to today, there has been argument over the conflict between religion and science over the origin of the world as it exists today. Some believe that only legitimate science, supported by research and testing, is the only thing that belongs on school curriculum. Others argue the greater message of faith, and demand creationism be taught in schools to allow individuals the opportunity to decide the truth for themselves.

Salon 5 Resolved: The UN should prosecute Netanyahu for crimes against humanity.

Proposition: Mohammed Syed, California High School Opposition: Gibson Katz, Tamalpais High School Moderator: Clarice Roo, Northgate High School

Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician and the current Prime Minister of Israel. Netanyahu is the first Israeli prime minister born in Israel after the establishment of the state. After his victory in the 2013 elections, he became the second person to be elected to the position of Prime Minister for a third term. In 2012, Netanyahu was listed 23rd on the Forbes magazine's list of "The World's Most Powerful People." In 2010 and 2012, he was ranked first on the list of the "Most Influential Jews in the World" by The Jerusalem Post, and in 2013, third. Despite his achievements, Netanyahu is criticized by much of the policy world for his expansionist and often argued “unjust” policy in regard to the Palestinian state. In the 2012 Gaza­Israel clashes, critics claimed that Israel had won because it suffered minor losses of only six, and it inflicted serious damage on the Gazan infrastructure and killed 163 Palestinian “terrorists.” The Nuremberg Trials of the 1940s established that “initiating a war of aggression is the ultimate war crime in that all other evils spring from it.” Israel argues that it punished the Palestinians in response to rocket attacks on southern Israel coming out of Gaza over the past year. But the mostly homemade rockets did little damage to Israel and killed no one. And to date, in 2013 more than 340,000 settlers lived in the West Bank, more than triple the number 20 years ago when the peace process began. Supporters argue that Netanyahu has only exercised his rights of security to a sovereign nation, and maintained stability in the Middle East. Should the United Nations prosecute Netanyahu for crimes against humanity?

Salon 6 Resolved: The Federal government should actively close the gender wage gap.

Proposition: Dawnia Brody, Alameda High School Opposition: Travis Lanham, Leigh High School Moderator: Anyu Silverman, Redwood High School

­25­ #BeThePeople In the United States, women earned as little as 73% of what men in the same position earned. To many feminist advocates, this is a clear example of the gender disparity in the country. They argue that the federal government should institute laws and programs that mandate equal pay for all employees, regardless of gender. However, many believe the statistics presented to be misleading and that any disparities in wage are dependent on a variety of factors aside from simply sex. Furthermore, any action could be considered an overstep from the government in the market.

Salon A Resolved: The Olympic Games do more harm than good.

Proposition: Al Shah, Northgate High School Opposition: Paul Jeon, Dougherty Valley High School Moderator: Christine Hughes, San Mateo High School

The Olympic Games are an icon for world unity, providing common ground for all nations to compete peacefully with one another in sports ranging from badminton to fencing. They are a place to display the possibility of harmony and an integral part of our history. However, the Sochi Olympics gained much attention this year for costing upwards of 50 billion dollars in construction costs. Many argue that the Olympics cause serious economic damage in cities where they take place and do not create any positive outcome for humanity.

Salon B/Salon C Resolved: Japanese internment was a necessary measure to preserve national security during the Second World War.

Proposition: Calvin Chiu, Chinese Christian High School Opposition: Harry Yoon, Dougherty Valley High School Moderator: Gabe Gennarelli, Redwood High School

Shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, FDR issued an executive order allowing over 127,000 Japanese to be interned in camps away from their homes. In 1944, in Korematsu v. United States, the Supreme Court ruled that internment was a necessary war time measure; however, after mounting pressure, in 1988 Congress gave 20,000 dollars each to the victims of internment as an apology. During the Second World War, the possibility of the West Coast becoming a war zone and victim of sabotage was a very real threat to many Americans, meriting drastic defense policy. As time has passed, many believe interment was unfair and racially motivated. Still, the debate remains, over whether greater security on the West Coast justified internment and whether the safety of the American majority should be prioritized over the rights of any minority.

Portland Mock School Board

­26­ #BeThePeople Santa Barbara/Newport Beach Resolved: High school should prioritize the liberal arts over STEM programs.

Proposition: Naayl Kazmi, Foothill High School Opposition: Dawnia Brody, Alameda High School Moderator: Nina Krishnan, Mission San Jose High School

In a 2014 Gallup poll, only 39% of Americans considered the quality of public education to be either very or somewhat satisfactory. There is the question of where to shift the focus of our education. Some recommend following in Finland’s educational ideals, which produce some of the highest global STEM (Science,Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) scores. As society becomes increasingly ingrained with technology, it makes sense that education should too. However, the liberal arts have been shown to aid in the creation of critical and creative thinking skills that allow for a much broader skill base and the ability to solve problems as opposed to developing systems.

Block 8 10:30­11:15

Salon 1­3 Thought Talk: What will be the most important issue in the 2014 election cycle?

Moderator: Clarice Roo, Northgate High School

Will Republicans or Democrats take hold of the U.S. Congress come the next election cycle? And what will be the issue that will most decide the 2014 congressional elections? Will the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) trump the issue of government spending? Are foreign policy or national security issues more important at this current time? And what about legislation regarding abortion, gay rights, immigration, and gun control? In a recent poll taken by the National Journal, both Democrats and Republicans agree that the economy is their number one concern when selecting a President. But with it slowly bouncing back, is the economy really the most important issue in the 2014 election cycle?

Salon 4 Resolved: America is the greatest threat to world peace.

Proposition: Brad Davis & Ashton DeLano Opposition: Joshua Kisbye & Governor­Elect Moderator: Melissa Papuc, Redwood High School

Since its inception in 1776 the United States has been a catalyst in some of the key conflicts and events of the world. From its Revolutionary War to its current engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq, the

­27­ #BeThePeople U.S. has been often at war. Since World War II, American forces have been continuously deployed and America almost constantly at war with other nations. While American military force was essential in defeating the Nazis, in a majority of these conflicts, the U.S. have claimed its actions strive towards a free world and a greater global peace, but does that necessarily mean that the U.S. is achieving that goal? Has the United States’ increased involvement in world affairs become a detriment to world peace, or is it our current actions that have prevented the next world war?

Salon 5/Salon 6 Resolved: The California DREAM Act should be repealed.

Proposition: John Grimaldi, Alameda High School Opposition: Abeeha Shamshad, California High School Moderator: Amy Liu, Alameda High School

First introduced to the Senate in 2001, the DREAM Act was written to provide Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors living in California. The DREAM Act would provide conditional status to those illegal immigrants who “entered California before the age of sixteen, lived in California continuously for five years, earned a high school diploma (or GED), and did not commit any crimes that would otherwise restrict someone from entering the country.” Their conditional status would therefore make them eligible for a wider range of Cal Grants and other financial aid opportunities. Also, during this six­year period of conditional status, “these minors will have been required to complete two years in uniformed service (the military) or two years in an institution of higher learning, and must pass a second criminal background check before being considered a full citizen.” Opposition, however, argues that much like affirmative action, the DREAM Act is giving immigrants and minorities an “undeserved” and costly upper hand in higher education.

Salon A Resolved: The debt ceiling should be abolished.

Proposition: Alexander Magganas, Piedmont High School Opposition: Anand Kannappan, Dougherty Valley High School Moderator: Anyu Silverman, Redwood High School

As the United States entered the first World War in 1917, Congress adopted a “debt ceiling,” a statutory limit to the amount of money that could be borrowed by the United States, as an attempt to force itself to be fiscally prudent and demonstrate Congress’s fiscal responsibility to the public. Though lawmakers determine the amount of debt that the nation takes on by setting tax rates, which control how much money our nation collects, and setting spending levels, which controls how much we spend, a debt limit stops this process from going on autopilot. By requiring a new authorization for higher borrowing, lawmakers get a chance to reassess taxing and spending priorities.

­28­ #BeThePeople The ceiling has been raised almost 100 times since it was established and has gone from less than $1 trillion in the 1980s to $6 trillion in the 1990s. Every time the limit is raised, the opposition party in Congress gets a chance to chastise the party in power in the White House and argue for its spending priorities. It has been raised every single time because if it were not raised, the Treasury Department would be legally forbidden from issuing bonds, that is, taking on new debts to pay for the legally binding obligations the nation must pay for whether that be interest on old debt or payments to government contractors and employees. In 2011, Republicans in Congress used the threat of not raising the debt limit, of risking a default on U.S. debt or obligations, to coerce spending cuts from President Obama. Should we have a debt limit to force our nation to periodically reassess its spending obligations and as a means of leverage to force spending reductions that would not be otherwise politically possible? Or, is the threat to America’s credit and political stability that a default enough reason to abolish the debt limit altogether?

Salon B Chapter of the Year Award (T/As Only)

Salon C Resolved: Voting should be mandatory in the United States.

Proposition: David Bronstein, Northgate High School Opposition: Elena Radding, Alameda High School Moderator: Alex Stuteville, Piedmont High School

Turning 18 in the U.S. comes with many new privileges such as being able to vote. However, this privilege is used at low levels, with only 50­58% turnout among those eligible. With a rate this low, should the privilege become a duty? Research has shown that the number of active American voters has dwindled over time, and that the majority is not very clearly represented in the polls, only the politically active who seek a personal agenda as opposed to a national one. Mandatory voting would cause for people to take their rights much more seriously and think about the people they put in public office, but this may not always be the case. Mandatory voting also has the potential to cause the still apathetic voters to ignorantly cast votes without any thought or knowledge of the candidates, which greatly deters the democratic process. Should voting be necessary for everyone, or only those who see it fit to cast their vote?

Salon D/Salon E Resolved: The sale of human organs should be legalized.

Proposition: Julian Arthur, Alternative Family Education Opposition: Pierre Vo, George Washington High School Moderator: Kimia Zahedi, Northgate High School

When a person suffers from a failing organ, it’s as simple as getting a transplant… right? Although

­29­ #BeThePeople the solution may seem simple, there are not always enough available organs to supply the need, since the only organs available for transplant are gleaned from people who allow the removal of their functioning organs post­mortem or from the donation of accessory organs. This being said, there are long waiting lists for people in need of organ transplants, and these lists usually are in favor with enough privilege to buy their way up the list, causing for poorer patients to be at a loss, potentially costing them their lives. This being said, should people be granted the right to sell their organs in order to help those in need, or should we not support the idea of healthy people handicapping themselves for a profit margin?

­30­ #BeThePeople Convention Map

­31­ #BeThePeople ­32­ #BeThePeople