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Proclamation recognizing and commending the Oliver High School Law and Public Service Mock Trial Team upon capturing the Regional Championship in the Statewide Mock Trial Competition.
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WHEREAS, the Pennsylvania Bar Association Statewide Mock Trial Competition features high school students staging simulated jury trials; and
WHEREAS, each team consists of at least five students who play the roles of lawyers, litigants, and witnesses, all in an actual courtroom before a judge; students are assisted by a faculty coach and an attorney advisor with volunteer attorneys and community leaders serving as jurors in the trials; and
WHEREAS, the juries determine the winners in each trial based on the teams' abilities to prepare their case, present arguments and follow court rules. The experience gives students a better understanding of the legal profession, as well as the judicial system; and
WHEREAS, the Oliver High School Law and Public Service Mock Trial Team captured the Regional Championship for Allegheny County and was successful in the quarter-finals and semi-finals in Harrisburg, entitling the team to compete in the Championship round, which was held in the Pennsylvania State Senate Chamber in the state capitol; and
WHEREAS, this is the first time in the 20 year history of the Pennsylvania competition that a Pittsburgh Public School represented Allegheny County and was runner-up in the state;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Allegheny County Council hereby recognizes and commends the Oliver High School Law and Public Service Mock Trial Team upon capturing the Regional Championship in the Statewide Mock Trial Competition; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Oliver High School Law and Public Service Mock Trial Team's determination and resolve have led them to levels of achievement in which the entire community can be proud, and sets a positive example of excellence for all of Allegheny County. We hereby officially commend them on this distinguished accomplishment, which has earned the respect and esteem of this Council and the citizens of Allegheny County.