Pages serving in the state Senate

This past week, I had the pleasure of having my grandson J.R. Seewald not only stay with Judy and me in Helena, but also work with me on the floor of the Montana state Senate as a page. The first week of April, I sponsored Samantha May from Chester as page for the Senate.

With all the news coverage and excitement going on in Helena, I think taking a moment to highlight the great work of these high school volunteers is a welcome change of pace. So, thank you to both Samantha and J.R. for writing about their experiences in Helena for my weekly column.

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Samantha May, senior,

CJI High School

The first week of April, I had the opportunity to serve as a Senate Page in the 66th Legislature Assembly at our state capitol in Helena. While I was there, I assisted the senators and staff by running errands, delivering messages, and distributing bills, amendments and other official documents, as well as make A LOT of coffee.

My favorite part was working on the Senate floor in the midst of legislative action and listening in on hearings and committees. I also got the privilege to meet with the governor, lieutenant governor, and secretary of state and tour our state supreme court.

I loved getting to interact with our senators and learn about what they think is best for Montana. I made many new friends and I am so lucky to get the opportunity to make life-long memories with them.

I want to give Sen. Russ Tempel a big thanks for giving me the chance to experience this amazing program and choosing me to be one of his pages.

J.R. Seewald, senior,

Cut Bank High School

My week paging in the capitol was very interesting, although it got cut a bit short by the Easter holiday. I was able to learn so much about the legislative process and the people making a difference in our state. My first day was a bit of a crash course because the Senate was on the floor by 11 a.m. That same day, I got to watch as the Medicaid expansion bill was debated and voted on. This was by far the most debated bill while I was paging, and it was awesome watching our legislative process at work.

I really enjoyed meeting with some of the senators. It was a bit of an eye-opener to realize they are normal people just like everyone else. Everyone I had the pleasure to meet was more than kind. It was very cool to see politics put aside to treat everyone with respect. In what free time we were able to get we were able to tour the museum and the judicial branch of our state.

This experience has really benefited me in so many ways. Jean Johnson was my supervisor and she did an outstanding job giving us an unforgettable experience in a very hectic week. Thank you also to my grandpa, Sen. Tempel, for being my sponsor.

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We had a great Easter break — hope you did, as well. As always.

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Sen. Russ Tempel, R-Chester, can be emailed at [email protected]

See photos of May and Seewald at http://www.havredailynews.com/.