State Government Day was held February 7, 2020 in Olympia. The Class of 2020 and several members of the Class of 2019 (our snow make up day from last year) had an inspiring trip to our state capitol where they had up close and personal discussions with members of the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches. One participant commented, “I loved sitting in the session & hearing the voting. It was actually an issue pertaining to my job!”
Class members began their day at the Temple of Justice, led by Justice Susan Owens. Justice Owens gave a behind the scenes informative look at the state’s Supreme Court. The morning also included a visit to the Washington State Department of Transportation where the class learned of the many challenges facing state transportation from Deputy Secretary of Transportation Keith Metcalf. The class then had the chance to explore the State Capitol and surrounding campus or sit in on a committee hearing.
It was a busy day for legislators in Olympia. We were honored to have State Representative Dan Griffey (35th District) join the class for lunch. The Representative explored a variety of topics regarding state issues affecting Kitsap County. Representative Drew MacEwen’s Legislative Assistant Rob Barnes (35th District) shared Representative MacEwen’s legislative priorities.
We began our afternoon with a visit to the Governor’s office where the class met with Schyler Hoss, Director of International Relations and Protocol and Dontae Payne, South Puget Sound and Olympic Peninsula Regional Representative. The two took questions from the class which led to a very informative conversation. The day ended with a guided tour of the Capitol. Everyone enjoyed learning more about the historic building completed in 1928 by architects Wilder and White.
Thank you Trillium Employment Services for sponsoring the day and Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort for providing transportation.