Sen. Schoesler sponsors two pages

OLYMPIA — Sen. Mark Schoesler, R-Ritzville, hosted two pages during the last two weeks at the Capitol.

Charlie Alford, a Jennifer Middle School student from Lewiston, Idaho, served as a page March 6-10.

PaulDavid "PD" Buri of Colfax, a freshman at Colfax High School, served as a page March 13-17.

Alford was sponsored by the 9th District Republican from Ritzville. He was one of 15 students who served as Senate pages during the ninth week of the 2023 legislative session.

"This week has been really fun, being able to learn more about the government and see whether bills get passed or not," Alford said.

Alford worked on a mock bill that would make community college more affordable.

"It was wonderful having Charlie as my page this past week," Sen. Schoesler said. "He is a very smart individual with a promising future ahead of him."

In his free time, Alford enjoys skiing, water sports, tennis and basketball. He hopes to attend Idaho State University to pursue a degree in architecture or mechanical engineering.

Alford, 14, is the son of Nathan and Joanna Alford of Lewiston.

Buri was one of 14 students who served as Senate pages during the 10th week of the 2023 legislative session.

"My dad is a lobbyist and so he told me about the page program. I thought it would be a great opportunity if I decided to pursue politics later in life," Buri said.

During his time in Olympia, Buri worked on a mock bill that would require on-duty officers to wear a body camera. To fund this proposal, the cost of traffic citations, such as a speeding ticket, would double for repeat offenders.

"I have really enjoyed my week here at the Capitol; everyone is so nice," Buri said. "If you have the opportunity to become page, it is a really enriching program and I would highly recommend it."

"It was a pleasure having PD as my page this past week. He is very passionate about learning and a very kind young man," Schoesler said.

In his free time, Buri enjoys spending time outdoors and playing basketball. He is also an avid collector, with coins being his favorite. He hopes to attend Eastern Washington University and become a marine biologist.

Buri, 15, is the son of David and Becky Buri of Colfax.

Schoesler represents the 9th Legislative District, including Whitman, Lincoln, eastern Adams, eastern Franklin, southern Spokane and other counties.