Nick Collins - During my time at Hoosier Boys State, I had the honor of being the Werner City Counselor. Rudy Cope had the honor of being the Smith City Counselor.  In all, we had five counselors with Wabash ties.  There were two alums (Barry Tyler '06 & Nick Collins '03), two current students (Travis Smith & Craig VanSoest), and Rudy Cope.  The American Legion puts on this program to educated young people about the city, county, and state levels of government.  It was a vastly rewarding experience.

Our typical day started before 6:30 am with Reveille and flag raising.  During the course of the day counselors would teach about the political process and the positions of appointed and elected officials.  Most evenings, all of the Hoosier Boys State delegates would assemble for political rallies, information sessions, and speakers.  Towards the end of the week a group of delegates choose to attend sessions about the various careers in government.  One of those sessions allowed a group to observe the State Police firepower demonstration where they blew up a car, paint cans, and several pieces of fruit.  The delegates also saw the various semi-lethal weapons that SWAT Teams use.  The week ended with a memorial service to those American Legion Members who passed away this year and an awards ceremony for the delegates. 

Both Rudy and I enjoyed our experience.  The American Legion puts on a great program that raises the civic conscience of the future leaders of Indiana.  I will post a photo album later in the week.  You can find out more about the Hoosier Boys State Program at http://www.indlegion.org/HBS%20Introduction.html.  

A big shout out to Bole County for being the 2006 HBS TUG of War Champions!