Tag Archive for: Boys State

, , ,

Senator Joe Manchin Extends Warm Welcome to Mountaineer Boys State Participants in Special Video Message!

Joe Manchin, a U.S. Senator representing West Virginia, has been serving the state since November 15, 2010. Born and raised in the coal mining town of Farmington, Senator Manchin deeply understands the values cherished by all West Virginians—family, common sense, fairness, and hard work. His grandfather, an Italian immigrant and town grocer known as Papa Joe, instilled in him the importance of serving the public, while his grandmother, Mama Kay, inspired his commitment to public service through her unwavering compassion for the less fortunate.

Throughout his political career, spanning from his days as a state legislator to his six-year tenure as Governor and now as a Senator, Joe Manchin has remained dedicated to his philosophy of “retail government.” This approach centers on connecting with constituents and prioritizing their needs and concerns. In Washington, he strives to bring the same spirit of bipartisanship that has guided him throughout his life, working across party lines to find practical solutions for the challenges facing our nation. His aim is to foster a new era of bipartisan cooperation within the Senate and Congress.

Job creation holds paramount importance for Senator Manchin. He firmly believes that the government should act as a partner, not an adversary, in creating an environment conducive to generating quality American jobs. Moreover, he recognizes the necessity of addressing our nation’s fiscal challenges while safeguarding the promises made to seniors and veterans by protecting Social Security and Medicare.

As Chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and a member of the Senate Committee on Appropriations, the Senate Committee on Armed Services, and the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Senator Manchin is at the forefront of critical issues. He advocates for a balanced national energy plan that harnesses all available resources while acknowledging the continued importance of fossil fuels. Senator Manchin envisions a commonsense approach that carefully balances environmental considerations with economic demands, aiming to achieve energy independence in our generation.

Beyond politics, Joe Manchin is an avid pilot, outdoorsman, hunter, angler, and motorcyclist. He has been happily married to Gayle Conelly for over five decades, and together they have three children—Heather, Joseph IV, and Brooke—and are proud grandparents to Joseph V, Sophie, Kelsey, Madeline, Chloe, Jack, Carly, Vivian, Beaux, and Knox.

 

For more information on Senator Joe Manchin office visit: https://www.manchin.senate.gov/

/0 Comments
, ,

From Coast to Coast: Jamie Summerlin’s Inspiring Journey of Honor and Impact

Embarking on a remarkable journey on March 26, 2012, Jamie Summerlin, a dedicated veteran of the US Marine Corps, set out on an extraordinary mission. His goal was two-fold: to pay tribute to our Military and Veterans while raising funds for Operation Welcome Home, a West Virginia-based veteran’s facility he co-founded in 2012. Starting from the scenic Coos Bay, Oregon, Jamie ran tirelessly across the nation, covering a staggering distance of 3,452 miles. Over the course of 100 days, enduring 10 pairs of running shoes, his resolute spirit impacted countless lives along the way. Ultimately, he triumphantly concluded his expedition in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, etching his name as the 48th person in history to complete a genuine Ocean to Ocean run across America.

Today, Jamie Summerlin assumes the role of CEO at Guidon Creative, an esteemed events management and promotion company renowned for its expertise in the Mid-Atlantic Region. Offering comprehensive consulting, management, and design services, Guidon Creative caters to events of all sizes, leaving an indelible mark on every occasion.

When he’s not shaping the future of event management, Jamie finds solace in Morgantown, WV, alongside his beloved wife Tiffany. Proud parents to Nicholas and Shayna, they are currently relishing their status as empty-nesters, cherishing the memories of a vibrant family life.

For more captivating insights into Jamie Summerlin’s extraordinary journey, visit: https://freedomrunusa.com/

 

NOTE: Mealtime speakers are sometimes delayed depending on how long it takes for the participants of the program to complete their meal.  If the live stream is active and you see the welcome video, the speaker has not taken the podium yet and we will activate audio at the time of the keynote.

/0 Comments
, , ,

Welcome to the 84th ALMBS

Get Ready for an Incredible Experience at American Legion Boys State, WVU Jackson’s Mill!

Brace yourselves for an amazing opportunity that’s not to be missed. Prepare to dive headfirst into the dynamic world of government instruction through one of the most respected and exclusive educational programs available to high school students in the United States.

American Legion Boys State is not your typical classroom experience. It’s a hands-on program where you become an integral part of local, county, and state government operations. Founded in 1935 as a response to socialist-inspired Young Pioneer Camps, this groundbreaking initiative was the brainchild of two Illinois Legionnaires, Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card. They brought the first-ever American Legion Boys State to life at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.

But wait, there’s more! The American Legion Auxiliary also organizes a similar program for young women called American Legion Auxiliary Girls State. It’s all about empowering youth and providing them with the knowledge and skills to become informed, engaged citizens.

During your time at American Legion Boys State, you’ll learn about the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of being a fully franchised citizen. The training is unbiased and focuses on the inner workings of city, county, and state governments. Led by elected student officials, the activities at American Legion Boys State include exciting sessions in legislation, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, stimulating assemblies, and even musical performances by talented bands and choruses. And let’s not forget the recreational programs that will keep the fun and camaraderie alive throughout the week.

To participate in this incredible program, high school juniors are selected by American Legion posts. In most cases, a sponsoring post, local business, community-based organization, or even an individual covers the Citizen’s sponsorship to the program. It’s a collective effort to ensure deserving students like you can be part of this transformative experience.

American Legion Boys State programs are held in all American Legion Departments across the country, except for Hawaii. While each program operates as a separate corporation, the core concept remains the same: teaching government from the grassroots level all the way up to the state level. So, get ready to dive deep into the fascinating world of governance and learn how to make a difference in your community.

As proud participants of American Legion Mountaineer Boys State, you should know that this program holds a special place in history. It is the second oldest Boys State program in the nation, dating back to 1936. What makes it even more unique is that it continues to be held at its founding location—WVU Jackson’s Mill. Despite the challenges faced during the war years and again during the COVID pandemic, the Boys State Board of Directors made the difficult decision to cancel the program in 1943, 1945, 2020, and 2021 due to the exigencies of the time.

So, get ready to embark on a remarkable journey filled with knowledge, growth, and unforgettable experiences. American Legion Mountaineer Boys State at WVU Jackson’s Mill is waiting for you to take your place in history. Get set to make lasting memories and friendships that will stay with you long after the event concludes.

/0 Comments
, , ,

Are you ALMBS ready?

The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State returns to developing the “Men of Tomorrow” in 15 days. Are you ready for this Week that Shapes a Lifetime?

Here is a preparation checklist:

  • Read entire contents of the Citizen Packet.
  • Obtain physical examination and bring completed WVSSAC Athletic Participation/Parental Consent/Physician’s Certification Form and Affidavit and Consent to Treat to Registration. The Affidavit and Consent to Treat requires a parent(s)/guardian(s) signature and must be notarized.
  • Attend an orientation session. (RSVP online; only two session remain June 1 and June 5)
  • Visit ALMBS website https://wvboysstate.org.
  • Subscribe to our channel on YouTube at https://y.wvboysstate.org, follow us on Twitter at: https://t.wvboysstate.org, follow us on LinkedIn at https://i.wvboysstate.org, like our Facebook page at: https://f.wvboysstate.org, and join the discussion on our Facebook group at: https://fg.wvboysstate.org.
  • Study law lecture, under the Legal Career Path.
  • Develop a plan (What you want to do/be at The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State.) and backup plan(s). (If first, second, third, etc. plans fail.)
  • Complete career path application, if interested; the Banking, Journalism, Office of Emergency Services, Corrections, State Police, DNR Police, Forensic Laboratory, and Homeland Security/National Guard career paths are hired positions and require the completion of an application.
  • Pack personal belongings/items, including one pair of navy-blue shorts, musical instruments, etc. per enclosed instructions.
  • Complete and bring the following additional forms to registration: ALMBS Pledge, Proposed Legislation Form, Summer Foods Household Application, National Guard Waiver, and Order Form.
  • Arrive at WVU Jackson’s Mill Main Pavilion (near swimming pool and West Virginia Building) on Sunday, June 12, 2022, between 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. (early arrival is recommended) with completed ALMBS Pledge, Proposed Legislation Form, Summer Foods Household Application, National Guard Waiver, WVSSAC Athletic Participation/Parental Consent/Physician’s Certification Form, notarized Affidavit and Consent to Treat, and Order Form, personal belongings, musical instruments, etc. and no more than $50.00 spending cash.

We look forward to your arrive in June as we return to WVU Jackson’s Mill for our 83rd session of ALMBS!

/0 Comments
, , ,

ALMBS Orientations Underway

Have you applied to attend ALMBS? Have you registered for an orientation session? Do so today!

You and your parent(s)/guardian(s) are requested to attend an Orientation Session. Preregistration for an Orientation Session is required. The purpose of the Orientation is to acquaint you and your parent(s)/guardian(s) with the ALMBS program. You will meet others who will be attending ALMBS and will have an opportunity to ask questions about the program. Please have the Citizen Packet with you during the Orientation Session.

The program should last approximately 45 minutes. Your local American Legion Post may have a supplemental orientation that will provide additional information. The orientation sessions will be held virtually. It is requested that the citizen be available by video; however, this is not required. Pre-registration should be completed on the ALMBS website at https://e.wvboysstate.org.

To register for an Orientation Session, you will need the password included within the Citizen Packet. After registering, a link will be sent to the email address provided so that you can join the virtual orientation session.

/0 Comments
,

2022 High School Recommendations and Applications Still Being Accepted

It remains our goal to have every high school and home school community in the State of West Virginia represented at each annual ALMBS session. We are willing to work with you to assure that your high school is represented at the program.

ALMBS is a leadership action program where qualified high school students take part in a practical government exercise. It is designed to develop a working knowledge of the structure of state government and to impress upon the citizen the fact that our government is just what we make it.

The goal of ALMBS is to teach good government through participation by becoming a mythical state government and operating it as such. It is an objective citizenship training program which strives to inculcate individual responsibility to the community, state, and nation.

ALMBS is still accepting HIGH SCHOOL RECOMMENDATIONS and APPLICATIONS for the 2022 ALMBS Camp to be held June 12-18, 2022.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Individuals who meet the below qualifications are eligible to apply for admission to ALMBS. Due to the cancellation of the 2020 & 2021 sessions, each high school senior class will be permitted at least one attendee to the 2022 session along with the junior class attendees.

  1. Be a member of the male enrollment of the current junior class.
  2. Have a 2.75 grade point average or higher on a four-point scale or its equivalent. (Note: Schools should use the most current cumulative grade point average as of the time of their response.)
  3. Have demonstrated outstanding qualities in the areas of school activities, community activities, and character.
  4. Have never attended an American Legion Boys State program previously.
  5. Be a citizen of West Virginia OR attend a high school in West Virginia.

 

ALMBS is open to those meeting the above requirements regardless of race, color, religion, disability, socioeconomic status, or national origin.

 

/0 Comments

What is ALMBS?

The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State is among the most respected educational programs of government instruction for high school students and is West Virginia’s Premier Leadership Academy. Each participant becomes a part of the operation of his city, county, and state government. The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State has been a program of the American Legion Department of West Virginia since 1936.

At the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State, participants are exposed to the rights, privileges, duties, and responsibilities of a franchised citizen. The training is objective and practical with city, county, and state governments operated by the participants elected or selected to the various offices and positions. Activities are varied and include many facets of government such as elections, legislative sessions, and legal proceedings. Law enforcement presentations, assemblies, guest speakers, band, chorus, recreational programs, a college/career fair, and a talent show are also held.
/0 Comments
, , ,

2022 ALMBS Applications Still Being Accepted

The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State (ALMBS) has long been recognized as one of the most respected educational programs of government and leadership instruction for high school students. We have accomplished this over eight decades by adjusting our program to keep pace with the times. The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged us to think creatively about how we can safely deliver a meaningful and engaging program and we are proud to return to this mission in 2022.

QUALIFICATIONS: Individuals who meet the below qualifications are eligible to apply for admission to ALMBS. Due to the cancellation of the 2020 & 2021 sessions, each high school senior class will be permitted at least one attendee to the 2022 session along with the junior class attendees.

  1. Be a member of the male enrollment of the current junior class.
  2. Have a 2.75 grade point average or higher on a four-point scale or its equivalent. (Note: Schools should use
    the most current cumulative grade point average as of the time of their response.)
  3. Have demonstrated outstanding qualities in the areas of school activities, community activities, and character.
  4. Have never attended an American Legion Boys State program previously.
  5. Be a citizen of West Virginia OR attend a high school in West Virginia.

WHERE AND WHEN: WVU Jackson’s Mill, June 12-18, 2022

APPLICATION: Complete the Application form and work with your High School Guidance Counselor or local American Legion Post to get registered. Limited slots are available, so ACT NOW!

/4 Comments
, ,

2022 ALMBS COVID Policy

The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State will adhere to all WV Bureau for Public Health and Lewis County Health Department guidelines that are in place at the time of the program. All participants, as in past years, will be required to have a physical examination and all participants will undergo a medical screening upon arriving at the WVU Jackson’s Mill facility. Frequent hand washing and hand sanitizing is encouraged and expected. Participants are encouraged to bring hand sanitizer and sanitization wipes. Social distancing and outside activities will occur when possible. As of publication, the WV Bureau for Public Health and Lewis County Health Department policies do not require mandatory mask wearing. Participants will not be required to wear masks but are encouraged to do so. This policy is subject to change and will be updated as necessary.

/0 Comments
, ,

2021 American Legion Mountaineer Boys State Session Cancelled

Friends of The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State,

It is with great disappointment we write to inform you that The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State (ALMBS) has been cancelled for 2021, in accordance with the consensus decision of The American Legion Department of West Virginia Mountaineer Boys State Board of Directors.

Meanwhile, The American Legion Boys Nation, The American Legion Auxiliary Rhododendron Girls State, and The American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation are all committed to holding their programs, even if it is in a virtual capacity.

Since 1936, The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State has been West Virginia’s Premier Leadership Academy, and this is officially the 4th time in its history that the program has been cancelled. This would have been the 83rd ALMBS.  The ALMBS staff stands ready to provide an in-person camp when it is SAFE for our staff and participants. It is anticipated that the 2022 session of ALMBS will be held at WVU Jackson’s Mill from June 12-18, 2022.

Throughout West Virginia, educators are working diligently to continue to engage students through unplanned and unprecedented distance learning opportunities. We salute ALL West Virginia teachers, guidance counselors, and administrators who have stepped up and continue educating our youth throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

We would like to extend a very heartfelt thank you to all the school personnel, American Legion comrades, Sons of The American Legion volunteers, sponsors, and our ALMBS staff and family for all their efforts put forth towards the potential for a 2021 program. ALMBS is truly blessed with your support and we look forward to working with you as we begin planning for the 2022 session.

We appreciate all our volunteers, alumni, veterans, and sponsors and encourage you to continue to remain safe and follow the guidance of your local health officials. If you have immediate questions that need to be answered, please contact us via email at almbs@wvboysstate.org. We will respond as quickly as possible.

Sincerely,

David “Robbie” Robinson, Director

Matthew Sampson, Assistant Director

ALMBS Cancellation Memorandum

/0 Comments