Girls State inaugurates new mock governor

BANGOR – A new governor was inaugurated at Husson College on Friday afternoon, concluding a week of mock legislative sessions held during the 57th annual Girls State program.

Gov.-elect Rhea Kappa of North Yarmouth was selected from a group of almost 400 girls who have just completed their junior years at 187 Maine high schools, according to program director Nora Thombs.

In the program, sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary, girls serve in House and Senate positions as well as on town councils in mock municipalities including Friendship, Humility and Liberty. The Nationalist, Populist and Federalist parties were represented.

Aside from learning about lobbying, amending bills and public speaking, Kappa, a Nationalist, said forming new friendships was a highlight of the program.

“I’ve met so many friends this week,” she said. “I have not met somebody that I can’t talk to.”

Kappa, who succeeded Elizabeth Reinholt of Cornville, said education is her top priority as governor.

Sharon Fuller of Old Town served as Kappa’s secretary of state during the program and was awarded a $1,000 scholarship from Samsung. While her plans for college education don’t include political science, Fuller said wanting to understand more about her state’s government sparked her interest in the program.

“I just thought this would be a really good opportunity to learn, to be a more informed citizen of Maine,” she said.

The Boys State program also concluded Friday at Maine Maritime Academy in Castine. Delegates from both groups will attend the Boys Nation and Girls Nation programs in July in Washington, D.C.