As you are probably aware today was the first day of the 2010 legislative session. The day was spent in the chamber as we began the day with some formal pomp and circumstance including an opening prayer given by Elder M. Russell Ballard, the national anthem and several other selections from BYU’s Vocal Point (including a rousing rendition of “Rise and Shout” as an encore), introduction of our two new House members and the rest of the Representatives, and introduction of the interns and most importantly all those who serve primarily behind the scenes as legislative pages, support staff and security. Speaker Clark spoke on the challenges we are expected to face this session and his commitment to face those challenges in a manner consistent with Utah’s being voted the number one best managed state. Utah Supreme Court Chief Justice Christine Durham also spoke on some of the innovations the judicial system has put into place in light of the budget cuts they have experienced this past year. It was a great day in the chamber, full of inspiration and motivation. During the lunch hour I was part of a panel of women legislators who spoke to a group representing “Leadership Park City,” which identifies, encourages and trains emerging leaders. It was great to hear from my colleagues about their bills and principles that guide them during the session. One theme that came across from us all was the need to work together to find common ground and solutions we can all agree on. Tomorrow we get on with the work of actually putting that ideal into practice.
