Boys' Nation

Adrian Culea 0452

Every year two citizens from American Legion Boys’ State Department of New York are sent to Washington D.C. for Boys Nations. Who is being sent this year is clouded in mystery until sometime today. Thursday the delegates from Boys’ Nations last year shared with us their experience.
Rory Eaton went first, informing us he was elected secretary of defense for Boys Nation. No matter how many honors he attains, he will always remember his time at Boys State because he says this is where he found role models and learned morals he has grown to embrace. His time in Washington D.C. was very special for him because he met gifted politicians such as Hillary Rodham Clinton. He also met current President George W. Bush. Eaton left us with a few words of advice, telling us not to be afraid to put down our swords and negotiate, which he believes is the foundation of government. He even gave tribute to the organization that has brought us all together to learn more about our country, “American Legion is my friend and yours and I wouldn’t be the same without them.”

Corn Dogs for Breakfast!

By David Howe Number 730

The second day of Boys’ State dawned wet. The hopes and expectations of the night before disappeared in the bleary minutes right after I awoke. I could tell from the stickiness of the air that the rain had intensified rather than decreased.
We were bustled out of doors at roughly 6:00 A.M. for P.T, disappointing any hopes that the rain would excuse us from our scheduled work out. We stood under the pouring rain, feeling the water soak into our clothes and u into our eyes. The muddy exercise that ensued, focused on core-of-body work-outs, and after this our county ran for about ten minutes. The work-out was wet and uncomfortable, but vindicating, and the rain that made it so unpleasant to do ground-based calisthenics, did have the benefit of waking us up. After our work-out, and a quick change, we headed to find out what a breakfast at Boy’s State consists of.
As we filed into the cafeteria building, the smell of eggs, potatoes, and meat met our noses. The menu turned out to be extremely heavy, given the earliness of the hour. Our bodies still steaming from our workout and the drenching rain, we applied ourselves to the repast as best our digestions would allow. Despite my best efforts however, nausea set in about my fourth bite of “pancake-on-a-stick” and I could tell I was not alone by the anguished expressions of my neighbors.
From my personal observations (and I am sure this would be supported by a poll, if taken) the entree was too rich. The number of people that can effectively manage a meal that rich before 7am, is small enough that the meal becomes more wasteful than should be the case. Through an iron will and a supreme wish not to vomit all over the table, I pulled through and lived to eat another day, but it was by no means a given.

The Two Mikes

Statesman Reporters Confess
By: Mike “Woodward” Bennett and Michael “Bernstein” Valvo




Have you ever wondered how a Nationalist reporter and a Federalist photographer could cover a story that was entirely within a Federalist Party Caucus? Well, here’s our story. (The Statesman editors, John and Brian, deny all knowledge of our actions)

While photographing the Federalist Party Caucus, “Woodward” observed a commotion in the Spafford County Section of the assembly hall, immediately suspecting foul play, photographed the outburst of up-raised hands. After being informed of the situation by our contact “Deepthroat”, went to get “Bernstein”, his faithful companion. Forgetting that he was a Nationalist, we had to think fast, as the convention was almost over. We took it upon ourselves to go undercover; this is where my partner in crime comes in.

Bernstein had absolutely no idea how we would accomplish this dangerous task. Together we both knew that this was extremely dangerous. We stepped up to the door, and we were both stopped. Nerves were running through Bernstein knowing that it would possible to be caught, and our mission would have been a failure. Luckily, we passed the inspection and went to find “Deepthroat.” The two of us found him and interviewed him and my faithful companion, Woodward, took a fantastic picture of myself interviewing our witness. The witness helped us find the new county chairman and the overthrown county chairman. Bernstein got quotes from both of the candidates without anyone ever finding out. After obtaining quotes and photographs we both flew out of the assembly hall as fast as we could. Mission accomplished.

In retribution for our dangerous acts while risking life and limb, our editors, John Nichols and Brian McDowell, who, by the way, still deny all knowledge of our acts, created a “Mike’s Hot Dog” award, awarded for dangerous reporting. Both Mike”Woodward” Bennett, and Michael “Bernstein” Valvo wish to send out our appreciation to both John and Brian for giving us the opportunity to excel, and all of their help. Neither of us is going to forget our memories from the press for a long time. Have a great trip home, and don’t ever forget what this experience has taught us.

Chris "Hunter S." Thompson

By Chris Thompson

Friday morning, Boys’ State heard the last speakers of the year. Admiral Edmund P. Giambastiani is NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Transformation as well as the number two most important military person in the United States. Giambastiani spoke about his experiences in the Naval Academy and Navy. He emphasized four qualities that he deems most important in life – confidence, competence, integrity, and stamina.
His speech ended with a kind remark to the crowd – “I wish you all the best, I wish you all success.”
Joe Griffo was the second speaker. He engaged the audience by asking about various places and sports teams from around New York State. Griffo encouraged Boys’ Staters to engage themselves in politics, and discussed several issues that effect citizens of New York, such as Native American casinos and military base closings.
Bob Neville spoke third. He talked about Suffolk county, as well as giving a shout-out to Dr. Nick Sallese. Neville gave Boys’ State delegates a hopeful message for the future, saying, “The future is yours.” He also commented on flag burning, specifically, how you shouldn’t do it.
Major Jodie Minks briefly spoke about the Air Force Academy. She taunted the crowd by first claiming that she would talk about sex, a claim that she would quickly renege. She pointed out that less than 5% of people who join the Air Force actually fly anything.
Dr. Nick Sallese ended the assembly with another of his inspiring poems about our nation’s flag. He also stated his hopes that the audience members “remember all of those wonderful things that happened this week at Boys State.”

Taps

By David Foster, 0083

Last night I left the press room to attend parade rehearsal, but my departure was a little bit too late and my county was already out on the track. I decided that it was best to return to the computer lab, and I volunteered to do extra work for Mr. Nichols. We had our Press Pizza Party and I returned to my dormitory at 10:30, just as band members played “Taps” outside the building.

After sleep, we awoke and dressed in our Physical Training clothes. Luckily, we learned fifteen minutes later that PT was canceled. The entire week we only did it twice, and I’m not complaining. We walked directly to breakfast and ate French toast, eggs, and orange juice. Then we proceeded to our daily assembly.

Today’s meeting felt particularly long, considering that it lasted more than two hours and featured five speakers. Admiral Edmund Giambiastani talked about his role in NATO and America’s war effort in Iraq. Former Rome mayor and Oneida County Executive Joe Griffo talked about the challenges of governing small communities in a state that suffers from economic decline. Dr. Nick Sallese spoke about patriotism and the flag, and finally, we were treated to a speech from last year’s Boys’ State Governor.

It was time for lunch, and our county marched to the dining hall to enjoy fish sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, and jello cups. When we returned to our rooms after lunch, I took a shower and my daily nap. At 2:15, however, rest time was over: the residents of Brieden, as well as every other county, prepared for the annual Boys’ State Parade. We put on clean shirts and long pants, left our water bottles and program books behind, and reported to the track.

After getting into formation, our county led the state and marched counter-clockwise around the track in front of hundreds of parents and relatives. The marching went well, and we listened to speeches by Dr. Sallese and Governor Nembhrad. Then, we all proceeded back to the campus, received dismissal from our sergeants, and congratulated each other on an excellent parade. I shook my Marine’s hand and came to the realization that a small part of me might actually miss my experiences here.

My final dinner of lasagna was delicious, but the cheesecake served for dessert was better. When I completed this penultimate meal with other boys who would be staying one more night, I returned to the press room to make this last report. Our final assembly was tonight, at which they announced cleanest county, best marchers, Boys’ nation attendees, and recipients of the Samsung Scholarship. My county won Best Drill. We also watched the Boys’ State video, which we will get on CD.

The majority of Citizens left with their parents after the assembly. Some participants, myself included, shall stay one last night and leave by bus in the morning instead. Looking back on my week here in Morrisville, I have no regrets. Waking up at 5:30 AM every morning wasn’t fun, but I actually began to adapt. In addition, I made many new friends with whom I will correspond after I return to civilian life. Overall, this experience has been positive, and in conclusion I highly encourage any high school junior to attend this program, and more importantly, to join the Press or the Band. Anything that gets you out of some marching is a good thing.

Joel is so cool...

Today is the last day for practicing our marching for the parade Friday (tomorrow). Boys’ State officials will judge each county on accuracy of marching and marching movements in terms of uniformity throughout the county. The peak of perfection is essential for winning the best marching county in Boys’ State.
Today, I believe, will be the last day of PT in the morning. Apparently we get Friday PT training off, which is very strange because having a break is very unlike the traditional Boys’ State schedule. In any case I won’t be complaining if PT is canceled.
As the week is coming to an end, the Lieutenant Governor and Governor of Boys’ State have been selected. Governor Travis Nembhrad and Lieutenant Governor Quinton Johnson were sworn in today. Both of these offices are held by Federalist candidates. The Nationalist party, for this year, is on the losing side as far as high office elections.
This week has been truly an excellent experience. Being a part of this years Boys’ State has been an honor. I feel that I have been made a better person throughout this rigorous process. Although resentment was sometimes my primary feeling, I believe that is was worth it.

Physically Strenuous

Day four of Boys’ State has proven to be the most important day, politically, thus far. As the “small time” caucus meetings have come to a close, the “big time” elections for Mayor and Lieutenant Mayor have gotten underway. As of tonight, the Mayor and Lieutenant Mayor nominations for the Federalists and the Nationalist have been officially chosen. Tomorrow the two nominees for each party will compete for the two most prestiges Boys’ State offices.
On the physical side of things, today, in my opinion, was the most physically strenuous days. PT has been increased, in terms of intensity. Also, marching critique has become more intense as well, as the parade at the end of the week draws near. It is becoming increasingly critical that our marching is next to perfect and our form remains flawless.
As the day comes to a close, tomorrow looks bright, as all the elections will be complete. The beginning of the actual work associated with one’s job will begin. The time for working is upon us as the week climaxes in three days.


-Joel Santora, 0047

A Boy's Dream

Day 7 Saturday July 2nd
(WHAT A DAY AT BOYS STATE SHOULD BE LIKE)

10:00-11:00 = Reveille, T.V.
11:00-11:30 = Breakfast
11:30-12:00 = Raise Flag
12:00-12:30 = Lunch
12:30-1:30 = Afternoon nap time
1:30-2:00 = Shower and Massage time
2:00-2:30 = Candy consumption time (STUAC Assembly Hall)
Meet in Gymnasium for seminars
2:35-3:00 = Ballet Lessons (Sgt. Santilli)
3:00-3:30 = Bubble Blowing Lessons (Sgt Velazquez)
3:30-3:45 = Break time
3:45-4:30 = Flower frolicking & picking (Sgt. Sturges)
4:30 = Seminars End!!
4:30-5:30 = Free Time
5:30-6:00 = Appetizers
6:00-6:30 = Dinner
6:30-7:30 = Sports/Free Time
7:30-8:00 = Free Time
8:00-8:30 = Video Game Time
8:30-10:00 = Crawl in bed and watch T.V.
10:00-11:00 = Mid-Night Snack
11:00 = Lights Out (Yeah Right!)
Matt Abbey #0027

My Experience Here at Boys' State of New York 2005

by John McKeegan #0574

Well, it’s almost here. The day that we never thought would come has nearly arrived. Against all odds, we have all survived the Boy’s State experience: the Marines, the drills, the early-morning reveilles. The end of this momentous week has created many memories. Personally, my Boy’s State experience has been nothing short of excellent.

Just after arriving on Sunday, I felt resigned to a horrible week of nonstop drilling, P.T., and incredibly boring seminars. Thankfully, I was wrong on all counts. One of the main reasons for this was being selected for the Statesman staff. John Nichols and Brian McDowell, two interviewers and newspaper heads, made an immediate and favorable impression during the press selection.

Throughout the rest of the week, early meals (thanks to the Press badge), 4:00 PM and after-dinner newspaper meetings, and the always excellent nightly political rallies kept my Boy’s State day interesting. The other guys on the Statesman staff also kept my time working with the newspaper interesting, as I got to know people from every corner of the state. Brian and John also kept things fresh with plenty of humor during the meetings mixed with the work ethic that we as Statesman writers were expected to uphold.

Many interesting speakers were heard during our week, including 1980 Boys Stater, L.A. attorney and 2003 Survivor star Andrew Savage, New York State Attorney General Elliot Spitzer, and current U.S. Marine Corps Major Brian W. Neil. All of our speakers reinforced that we were the future of the United States, and that our futures started now, for college was right around the corner.

Twice-daily political assemblies were held in the STUAC Gym, with a culminating point in the Boy’s State political process being the election of a Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and seven Justices. My press colleagues and I worked very hard to bring news of the various political and sports events taking place at Boy’s State, writing opinion columns on various topics as well.

Although waking up around 5:25 AM every morning remained a major sticking point during the week, once awake, the day went quickly, for there was never a dull moment. The meals were always welcomed, for I was always on the move, not having much other time to eat or otherwise rest. Looking back from the perspective of the last full day of Boy’s State, I can honestly say that while perhaps not a completely life-changing experience, this week has helped teach me the value of government in our country today.

Boys' State Governor Elected

By David Foster, 0083

After blogging and surfing the web yesterday, I attended the Assembly Political Rally at the Student Activities Center. Candidates for statewide political offices were given one last opportunity to give a speech and make an impression on the voters. However, the hall was hot, the fans were noisy, and few people seemed to be listening. The electorate was so inattentive that the presiding officers repeatedly threatened the arrest of noisemakers by campus police.

Nonetheless, voters paid good attention when the two candidates for governor, Federalist Travis Nembhrad and Nationalist Rory Eaton, gave their addresses. Both emphasized the ideals of America and the importance of Democracy. Citizens asked questions, and the race appeared close. It remained close until Rory Eaton sunk his candidacy by providing a condescending answer to a question. Mr. Eaton expressed his disgust at citizens that booed him at the rally, who responded by booing him more.

The assembly ran late and we finally returned to our rooms at about 10:30. After sleep, we ate our breakfast and proceeded to the voting booths. As we waited in line, we voted on Proposition 2 by paper, which would make desecration of the American flag a federal crime. In the booths, we selected candidates and cast our lots for Proposition 1, which would establish random drug testing in schools. My voting booth had a misaligned lever label which I reported after I voted, which probably contributed to more than thirty voters not selecting a Governor.

Election administrators tallied votes while we sat in seminars. The first, second, and third cities each attended separate workshops. Being in a third city, Carpenter in Brieden, I walked with my fellow residents to Hamilton Hall where we met a martial artist. He promoted the Air Force ROTC with inflatable toys that the citizens found amusing.

All counties then reconvened in the Assembly Hall, where last year’s Boys’ State Governor spoke about his experience last year. We sang patriotic songs and then they announced the election results. Nationalists took the positions of Comptroller and Attorney General, and captured four out of seven seats on the Court of Appeals. Federalists did considerably better by electing the Chief Justice, the Lieutenant Governor, and Travis Nembhrad as Governor. Brieden’s Nationalists and Federalists alike cheered Mr. Nembhrad’s victory because he is a native of our county.

After the assembly, we practiced more drills and then ate a delicious lunch of broccoli, fries, and a juicy medium-rare hamburger. The excitement of the day left me tired and I took a nap in the afternoon.

In tomorrow’s entry, I will write about our parade, which is why we do all of this marching.

Politics Loses to Sleep

By David Foster, 0083

After I blogged last evening, the Nationalist and Federalist conventions concluded after nominating their candidates for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and other positions. Although I was assigned to the Nationalist Party, the Federalist candidate for Governor is from our “county.” While party loyalty is important, I am waiting until speeches tonight at the political rally before I make a decision.

This morning, we held our daily assembly. Unfortunately, Assemblywoman RoAnn Destito could not attend, but we had the chance to listen to the electrifying orator Jeff Schafer. Mr. Schafer is a businessman who also served in the Navy. He talked about the importance of setting and achieving goals, framing his speech with the historical battle between Alexander the Great and Darius III, the King of Persia.

In the meantime, campaigning for Governor has begun in earnest. Federalist Candidate Travis Nembhrad met with his fellow members of my county of Brieden to develop a political strategy. Mr. Nembhrad’s campaign manager asked for our help in creating promotional signs and posters, and suggested that we spread the word about his candidate. Being undecided and torn between partisan and regional loyalties, I chose not to help and recharged with a nap instead.

When I woke up, I walked down to the lobby, where other dormitory residents were watching MadTV. There were some hilarious skits! But that has nothing to do with Boys’ State. After about forty-five minutes, I left for our 4:00 PM press meeting and went to dinner with the press staff. Today’s evening meal was the delicious combination of roast beef, mashed potatoes and beef gravy, ice cream, and a roll.

In tomorrow’s entry, I will discuss this evening’s Assembly Political Rally and tomorrow’s ballots for statewide offices.

Politics at Boys' State

By David Foster, 0083

Since my last entry, I have experienced more than my fair share of Boys’ State activities and events. Yesterday evening I attended Session One of the Nationalist State Party Convention and we began selecting candidates for the upcoming program-wide election of officers. Each county had already selected its candidates for the nomination, so we quickly started off discussing the offices and contenders. We first selected a permanent party chairman, and then moved to positions such as secretary and clerk. The gymnasium was hot and we alternated between having no air circulation and not being able to hear because of loud fans.

The Convention ran to its adjournment time at 10:00 PM and I returned to my room. I was exhausted, so I felt great relief when I realized I could close my room door to block out the light. I slept comfortably for the next six hours, until I received a relatively polite awakening this morning. Our counselor knocked on the doors to awaken us and we walked outside to complete our first day of Physical Training (we did not do PT yesterday because of flag raising duty). The exercises included ten push-ups, stretching, and a ten-minute run. We then ate breakfast, where they served excellent hash browns, and proceeded to the stuffy assembly hall for our daily session.

Our first speaker was Dave Valesky, who is a Democratic State Senator from Syracuse. Mr. Valesky was part of the four-seat gain that Democrats made in the State Senate in 2004. He had a little outside help from a Republican, however. Mr. Valesky won with 45% of the vote, while incumbent Rebublican Nancy Larraine Hoffman netted 44% and a Republican running as an Independent split the vote by taking away 11%.

Mr. Valesky discussed the challenges of state government and the tradition of concentration of power in New York State. More specifically, he spoke of how the Majority Leader in the Senate, the Speaker of the Assembly, and the Governor meet in a closed room to hammer out the budget. He added that a better system involves committee input in which each member plays a role in the process.

Our second speaker was Ron Tocci, a Legionnaire spoke against flag burning and desecration. He also discussed the movement to pass a flag burning amendment. It would override the 1989 Supreme Court Decision Texas v. Johnson, which declared unconstitutional the Flag Protection Act of 1989.

We left the session to practice drills and eat lunch. Afterward, the County convened to complete its selection of candidates to present at Sessions Two and Three of the Nationalist Convention. The entire party reconvened that afternoon at 1:30, where we nominated candidates for offices such as Court of Appeals Justice, Comptroller, and Attorney General. County Party Chairmen were making deals in which they would promise reciprocated voting. For example, if two counties each had a candidate for different offices, they would agree to vote for one another’s respective candidate to increase each County’s electoral chances. After two hours of this voting and negotiation, the session concluded and I left to participate in one of the many sports that Boys’ State offers here at Morrisville.

I reported to the tennis courts with my racket and played a vigorous match with a fellow citizen. Although I lost handedly, I welcomed some fun physical activity for a change. I returned to the cafeteria for dinner. Remarkably, our meals provide an occasional treat: today’s evening ration contained one of the best potatoes I have ever eaten.

In tomorrow’s entry: the dramatic conclusion to the Nationalist Convention, where the party nominates its candidates for Lieutenant Governor and Governor.

I'm Still Alive!

By David Foster, 0083

Another day done here at Boys’ State. After I last blogged, I returned late to the dormitory after getting lost, and needed a student to let me into the building. When I arrived I found everyone soundly asleep in their beds. I checked in with my counselor, put on shorts and a t-shirt, and drifted off to sleep.

So I wish. My first night sleeping here did not actually involve much sleeping. The mattress was not uncomfortable itself, rather the scorching heat and lack of more pillows.

After tossing and turning throughout the night, I finally began to drift off, until I was startled by what sounded like a bucket being thrown down the hall. I quickly made my rack as prescribed, put on my second Boys’ State Shirt, and left the hall with the rest of the County for the raising of the colors. Then, we performed some marching maneuvers and went to breakfast.

Luckily, this meeting was more of a treat than breakfast. The American Legion had lined up Eliot Spitzer, Attorney General and Gubernatorial Candidate for New York State. He is best known for his aggressive pursuit of dishonest Wall Street Brokers. Mr. Spitzer talked about the importance of honor and ethics, which is sorely needed in today’s government (Tom DeLay, anyone?). He also mentioned an interesting fact that I did not know before: when Mr. Spitzer was in high school, he played tennis against John McEnroe. When question time came, some Citizens fielded softball questions about their adoration of Mr. Spitzer. However, as a whole, our Boys’ State Citizens addressed important state issues such as the economic depression and the Native American casino case.

After exercising our cerebra with politics, we were now treated to a less governmental person, Andrew Savage. This former Survivor contestant talked about his experiences on the show, including the audition, alliances, and truth. Remarkably, Mr. Savage said that he never told a lie while fighting for the million dollar prize. Underscoring Mr. Spitzer’s message, his speech also focused on the importance of honesty.

After the assembly, I marched to lunch, took a nap, and then came to the computer lab to write. More importantly, I will be attending the Nationalists’ State Party Convention tonight. Therefore, I shall write about the politics and “parties” of Boys’ State tomorrow and discuss its role in teaching about government.

Boys' State Day 2

While the rooster was enjoying another hour of beauty sleep, we citizens were up at 5:30 A.M. Physical Training (PT) begins at approximately 6:00 A.M. A few push-ups and a mile later, came the big city and county caucus meetings for the week here at Boys' State. Elections ranged from selecting a county mayor to choosing our city and county police.
The city caucus is one of the most important focal points in all of Boy’s State. Government involvement in Boy’s State is an all too overlooked activity. Though most of the details heard about Boys' State are based mainly on rigorous drilling and exercise, delegate’s involvement in Boys' State government is where, for the most part, the learning is done. Many hours in the Boys' State day are dedicated to simulated-county and city government jobs. In brief, county and city involvement has a lot to do with politics and hard educational work.
Day 2 in Boys' State, a far busier day than that of the day we first arrived, is officially a wrap! After today, all county employment will officially be in motion and jobs will be in full swing. In a way Boys' State 2005 has just begun!

-Joel Santora, 0047

My First Day

Met by the overzealous, but appreciated, welcomes and the echoes of a deep resounding “Yes Sir!”, I arrived here a Boys State. Luckily I was able to find my room and turn in the paperwork with minimal stress and no casualties. Life here at Boys State has been surprisingly good so far. Though the stories from home left me weary after leaving the bus, the life here has been contrary to the popular opinion back home. The only problem, or inconvenience, I have incurred is the culture shock. The hours of the days have made the biggest impact on me. When thinking about the hours of my days back home in comparison to the hours of my days here, a fitting analogy came to mind. If you simply put yourself in the shoes of a fly on the highway that has just been crushed by a speeding semi-truck, the semi-truck being Boys State, you will have an appropriately revolted attitude towards the culture shock given from Boys State.
After my first day here at Boys State I have developed a tenative impression of the Marines that run my day here. I think the impression that one develops from the Marines is dependant upon the lifestyle that one has lead before their stay at Boys State. For me, my impression has been fairly bright. I think the respect that the Marines demand is a great thing for the youth of today. As much as that opinion sounds parentally induced, I truly believe that respect is a key part of an active American citizen.
Overall Boys State has been good fun and occasional hard work. I am optimistic about my next few days here at Boys State. I am confident that fond long lasting memories will be built and that my days will continue to be bright.