HOLLAND PATENT — The Leon R. Roberts American Legion Post 161 hosted an informational meeting for several high school juniors who will attend Boys’ State at Morrisville State College later this month. Participants are selected for the program following an extensive application and review process, according to officials. The American Legion Boys’ State is a week-long program that immerses high school youth in citizenship and leadership training, according to the local announcement by Sons of the American Legion Adjutant Mike Parker of Roberts Post 161.

As part of the program, they learn the practical aspects of government as it exists in New York State, and come to recognize that the individual is integral to the character and success of government, according to the program website. Individuals also participate in physical fitness, team work and other activities under the guidance of American Legion counselors and  members of the Marines Corps.

During the past two years the coronavirus pandemic caused the in-person event to be canceled and a virtual event held in its place.

This year’s Boys’ State program will run from Sunday, June 26, through Friday, July 1.

Local youth selected to participate in the event include:

• Dominic Ambrose, New Hartford Senior High School;
• Tyler Barth, New Hartford Senior High School;
• Zachary Boisen, Rome Free Academy.
• Jack Elliott, Waterville High School;
• Joseph Gogola, Clinton High School;
• Nicholas Heselton, Clinton High School;
• Vincent Kelpadio, Rome Free Academy;
• Darren Pratt, Rome Free Academy; and
• Luke Williams, Notre Dame Junior/Senior High School.

Additional information on the Boys’ State program is available online at https://nylegion.net/boys-state/.