Owen Russell was a delegate at the Eighty-Fourth American Legion Alabama Boys State.

“He was a credit to his community and to Luverne High School,” American Legion wrote.  Owen Russell was involved in the County Government.

After being elected to a position in his county, he worked to develop a plan for the recruitment of an economic development project for his Boys State county.

His parents are Amy and Jason McManigle.

Gage Young was a delegate at the Eighty-Fourth American Legion Alabama Boys State. “He was a credit to his community and to Crenshaw Christian Academy,” American Legion wrote.  Gage Young was involved in the Elected and appointed interest group.

He fulfilled his responsibilities as an active citizen of Boys State by serving in his Elected and Appointed position. During his term, he learned about the responsibilities and benefits of citizenship in the State of Alabama and the United States.

His parents are Tonya and Dennis Crowe.

American Legion Alabama Boys State is a leadership program for young men who have completed their junior year of high school and are leaders in their schools and communities. This year’s delegates also include the young men selected for 2020 Boys State in 2020 since that session was canceled due to COVID-19. American Legion Alabama Boys State provides delegates with a working knowledge of how governments function on the city, county, and state levels.

By teaching youth to understand and appreciate the basic principles involved in the successful management of a democratic society, the American Legion believes they can keep America strong for future generations. Acceptance to Alabama Boys State is a privilege granted by invitation only. Delegates from across the state are selected by their school faculty and community leaders based on their demonstration of leadership, hard work, strong morals, and motivation.

Boys State is a full and active week held on the campus of The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, and an invitation to attend is one of the state’s highest honors.

At Boys State, students build new friendships, participate in a mock government, and hear from an array of Alabama leaders. These include congressmen, state elected officials, business leaders, civic leaders, and more.

Delegates join interest groups that focus on their individual career goals. In these educational breakout sessions, delegates not only learn from lectures but develop skill sets through field trips and hands-on exercises. Delegates will also have activity time during which they can participate in recreational activities such as sports, music, drama, and news media

Alabama Boys State is sponsored by the American Legion and is directed by the retired Judge Pete Johnson of Birmingham; the Assistant Director is Ret. Col. Mark Valentine, and the Chief of Staff is Judge Joel Laird of Anniston.