Thursday, February 10, 2011

February 9th Day at the Legislature

Yesterday's "Day at the Capitol" was so much fun, that I wonder why we don't do it more than once a year?  What an amazingly beautiful building it is.  The energy there was palpable.  Everyone hustling and bustling about.  We were able to spend some time in the Gallery of the House of Representatives to watch them as they cast votes on various bills.  There was so much activity everywhere.

A a beautiful lunch was set up for the legislators in the Rotunda.  The decorations were so pretty.  I know that the hard-working legislators appreciate the meals.  Here's a picture taken of their luncheon, although it doesn't do it justice.


We met in Capitol Room 130 at 11:30, along with the Utah Valley Republican Women.  From there, we were escorted to the chambers of Senator Margaret Dayton.  She hosted us in the Rules Committee room.  We heard about 2 Navajo WWII code-talkers who had addressed the legislature that morning.  Senator Dayton became emotional as she re-counted their amazing story and presentation.  She discussed the proposed State Gun legislation and defended it as she reminded us how John Moses Browning's contribution had assisted in swiftly ending the two World Wars.  She was gracious to answer some questions, also.

We also heard from new Representative Holly Richardson (aka Holly on the Hill).  She filled us in on the past 10 days of her very busy life, and walked us through a typical day as a legislator.  The days are very long; they begin at 5AM, and go until 7 or 8:00 every night.  One of Holly's daughter's died last week, and it has been an emotional roller coaster for her.  As a club, we extend to her our condolences.

After meeting with Senator Dayton and Representative Richardson, we ate lunch together in the cafeteria.  I'd never eaten there before and was pleased with the taste and price of the food.  I took my 8 year old son with me, my 8 year old nephew and my mother, too.  Everyone had such a nice afternoon.  The only downside is the parking.  It does take a while, so it pays to go early, which we did.  Also, I backed into a car on my way out.  Of course.  Bad ending to a really fun afternoon.  I backed into my garage door a week and a half ago, too.  Sheesh.

Here are a couple more pictures.  I wish I'd taken more.  Not all of the photos are from my camera, so thanks to others for sharing.  :)



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