BOYS STATE – Zachary Hufnagel of Owosso, who attended Boys State, shown with his mother, Victoria Hufnagel. (Courtesy Photo)
The Kiwanis Club of Owosso sponsored Zachary Hufnagel, son of Victoria and Matt Hufnagel, who will be a senior at Owosso High School, to attend Michigan Boys State, “A National Civics Leadership Program” to help young men learn about government and how it works.
Delegates have the opportunity to learn about city, county and state government in one week at Boys State rather than in an entire semester in a formal classroom setting. Boys Staters meet with elected officials to learn more about the duties and responsibilities of a variety of positions in government from people on the “inside.”
Additionally, in Boys State, each citizen has the opportunity to learn for himself that his government is just what he makes it. All boys are placed into two cities where they can elect government officials to run their city. This also includes electing Supreme Court justices to maintain law and order.
“Zach was surprised to learn what it takes to run a city and what is going on right here in Owosso,” said David Shepard of the Kiwanis Club. “One of Zach’s highlights was when the boys were bused to the State Capitol for a tour. The Legislature was not in session, but Zach was able to sit in State representative Ben Glardon’s chair and at his desk. Zach had a great time and met many new friends. Kiwanis Club of Owosso supports youth in our community to make a difference.”
