Interesting. I have twice in my travels run into groups of young people who were taking part in Model Congress, and was taken by their energy and enthusiasm. My encounter with these kids was limited to waiting endlessly for the next elevator, but I was intrigued by the concept of a mock legislature. In addition to jamming the lobbies of some of my favorite hotels, these young future political hopefuls participating in Model Congress get to do some really cool stuff. They write bills and, unlike the current Congress, because they don't have to deal with the same Roadblocks, actually get them passed. Well, not actually passed into law, but passed into 'model-law' I guess.

And they get to meet some really interesting people.

Senator Kerry was in Western Massachusetts yesterday to deliver the keynote address at American International College's Model Congress. We've not yet found video or text of the speech, but there was news coverage of the event.

In the Senator's speech, as reported by The Republican, he spoke of international affairs, the climate and healthcare, and discussed the Bhutto assassination, which JK and Joe Biden had introduced legislation to try to avert. And he spoke to his audience about their role in determining America's future.

"You can make a difference, and we need you, now more than ever," he said.

Kerry was vigorously applauded.

"He was an amazing speaker, very passionate about what he said," said Monica M. Orefice, 17, a senior at the city's Sabis International Charter School.

"I think it was definitely very inspiring," agreed Kara M. Breen, 17, also a Sabis senior.

The local CBS affiliate reported on the event and on the Obama endorsement:

About AIC Model Congress

Founded in 1940, American International College's Model Congress is the oldest program of its type in the nation. The college welcomes hundreds of high school students from aproximately 20 highschools in Northeastern part of the United States. Highschool students propose and submit legislation, which is then debated at the college in a simulated U.S. Congress and Senate, run by American International College students. Several scholarships are awarded each year to the most outstanding delegates of the Congress. The Congress runs three days and is intended to provide a practical educational experience while challenging students to take part in the American system of government.

What does a Model Congress do?

This is not the group Senator Kerry spoke to yesterday, but it's a good look at what a model congress is all about, and what it means to those who participate.