Northborough – For several years Vincent F. Picard Post 234, The American Legion, has enabled local students to attend Boys State at Stonehill College in North Easton. The post is now accepting applications for local candidates for this year's program, which will be held Saturday, June 16 to Friday, June 22.
Gerard W. Bourque is the Picard Post 234's Boys State chair. He said that particular week in June was chosen so that it would coordinate with the final exams of most Massachusetts high schools.
Bourque said that to be eligible for nomination or appointment as a Boys State delegate, the candidate must: be a male high school student, have successfully completed his junior year, have one semester remaining, have not previously attended Boys State, sign the Boys State pledge, be recommended by his school officials or home school facilitator, have parent/guardians” permission to attend, and be certified by the sponsoring American Legion post, (Vincent F. Picard Post 234.)
Post 234 officials will interview and make the selection of the delegate(s). To be selected, a candidate must demonstrate a sincere desire to attend, strong leadership, outstanding scholastic achievement, good character, competitive spirit and the ability to work with others.
The objectives of Boys State include civic leadership and pride in American citizenship; interest in the detailed study of government; a full understanding of American traditions; and belief in the United States and a determination to maintain our form of government.
Bourque noted that the American Legion Post 234 or other community-minded organizations may pay the fees or tuition with no expense to the young men who participate.
For more information, call Bourque at 508-393-6382 or cell 508-277-9756 or by email at gwbourque@ verizon.net. Application forms are also available at www.maboysstate.org.
