Summer 2007 Week Two Overview
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I am thrilled to report that the second week of SSI was exciting, challenging, fulfilling and life-changing. As in week one, we were filled to capacity with students from throughout Michigan and beyond. The guest speakers were all dynamic and inspiring. In addition to the legislative and media tracks, which are part of all three weeks, this session featured a judicial track that included both a Mock Trial and a Moot Court. What's the difference? The trial students serve either as lawyers for the plaintiff or the defendant in a criminal case, and in addition they take the seat in the jury box for another trial. I must say, these SSI trials are thrilling to watch. Everyone, including the coaches, judges and the observers are always amazed with the level of expertise demonstrated by these teenagers - especially with just a few days of preparation. The Moot Court is different in that each lawyer must argue a constitutional case before a panel of appeals court judges. The folks judging the cases always express their surprise with the high level of critical thinking and courtroom demeanor exhibited by the students. Over and over I hear adults tell us that just watching these young people gives them hope for the future. Amen!
I wish it were possible to fully communicate the scope and breadth of all that happens in one short week. SSI is a place where the spiritual and the practical come together in one intense experience that truly leaves a lasting impression! Let me leave you with some encouraging notes from a student, a parent, and a chaperone.
"Well, I just got back from camp (SSI) yesterday... And while I wish that camp would have never ended, I realize that it had to at some point. This past week was amazing, and I thank God for the privilege of being able to be apart of such an awesome experience. The camp is great, the people are awesome, and the lessons, I pray will stay with me forever. For those of you who are reading this, I encourage you... This camp is a life changing experience! The people are awesome! I've come away with so many quality positive relationships. DO WHATEVER IT TAKES! Make sure that you don't graduate without having experienced a week of SSI. It's given me time to refocus my life. It's so easy to become distracted by things that are really, in comparison, truly insignificant. I pray that I won't forget the things I've learned this week, and that everyone else who attends benefits from it as much as I have." - Ryan K., SSI Alum
"Thank you! Thank you for following God's leading in your lives; for making a vision of how to impact the next generation a reality, and for giving of yourselves. I truly appreciate that you have come along side of me as a parent, in helping to explain to my son that God has a plan and he can choose to follow His lead. You are inspiring and I pray that I too will be open to new plans God may have for my life to be used for His purposes. Again, thank you for impacting our world". - Diane H., SSI Parent.
"Thanks for a great camp last week. [Our family] had a good time and learned a ton. Thanks for all of your hard work in putting this together and keeping it running. God is blessing your efforts with much fruit here at our house. Thanks again for sharing God's love through your lives. Now I know why my kids all speak so highly of SSI. It's the people!!!! God's blessings, Jeff B." - SSI Chaperone and Parent
Week Two Media Track Broadcast #1:
Week Two Media Track Broadcast #2:
Monday Newspaper
Tuesday Newspaper
Wednesday Newspaper
Thursday Newspaper
Friday Newspaper
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