The Campbell-Richmond American Legion Post #63 in Clarkston hosted a breakfast reception for this year’s Boys? State Attendees on March 20.
Chris Kato Jr., Jason Kuhn, Michael Via and Tony Chester were the Clarkston High School students honored.
‘My brother went and it trickled down to me,? Kuhn said. ‘He had a good time and I decided to do it.?
Chuck and Dana Fortinberry added a highlight to the morning when they provided needed funds to send the area’s two alternates, Daniel Mayer of CHS and David Hughes of Brandon High School, to the camp as well. The cost totalled around $600.
‘It was really nice to have some community leaders step up and allow us to send six people,? Roger Deaton, Boys? State chairperson, said.
The students, known as delegates, have the opportunity to learn more about city, state and federal government and politics during the one-week camp at Michigan State University.
‘It seems like a lot of fun, going really in depth into the background of how government works,? Via said.
The reception allowed the delegates to meet with one another and talk with former ‘staters? who attended the breakfast to share their experiences.
‘It give you a really in-depth look at how campaigns work,? Anthony Cocciolone, a 2003 stater, said.
The staters also heard about the history of the American Legion and remarks from local dignitaries as well.
‘Seeing them really gives you hope,? Deaton, said. ‘These guys are volunteering, in sports and have all As.?
Boys? State has been in existence in Michigan since 1937. Close to 900 student leaders attend the conference, representing all locations of Michigan. Each two Michigan staters are selected to represent the state in the national program, Boys? Nation.
Famous former staters include Neil Armstrong, Bill Clinton, Tom Brokaw and Michael Jordan.