Single question enables five to attend Boys State
BONNERS FERRY — An unusual question prompted the American Legion to send five juniors to Boys State instead of one.
The American Legion was only going to send one person because of limited funds, but two candidates met the criteria so those chose them both, said Post Chaplain Mike Ashby.
After interviews with all five candidates and deliberations, American Legion Post Commander Terry Spence, Ashby and other members announced this year’s representative, Bradley Thompson, and alternate, Wesley (Dalin) Hubbard.
After they finished explaining the logistics, one of the boys asked “What if we could pay our own way? Could we all go?”
Nobody had ever asked that question before said Ashby. After a few phone calls, the American Legion concluded the boys could pay their own way. But to meet the deadline, the money had to be sent the next morning.
All four boys were there with the money in the morning. Bradley Thompson, Wesley Hubbard, Nic Savage, Christian Trocke and Sean Varelman will represent Bonners Ferry at Boys State in Nampa June 9-15.
—Courtesy photo
In observance of agriculture, spring, and new beginnings, Farm Bureau is pleased to announce this year’s first baby of spring. Jaxon Barajas, born April 5 to Ashley and Zeke Barajas, was welcomed by sisters Gabriella and Marissa, and brother Evan. Jaxon weighed in at 8 pounds 5 ounces, and was 21 inches long. Farm Bureau Chairwoman Rene’ Riddle presented Ashley and Jaxon a basket filled with baby gifts including a beautiful baby quilt made by Virginia Cowley. Congratulations to the Barajas family.
“These are the kids who will be the leaders,” said Ashby.
At Northwest Nazarene University, the five juniors will run for office, learn public speaking, create and enforce laws, actively create and run a working government and tour the capital.
Being actively involved in student council and knowing three boys who previously went to Boys State, Bradley Thompson said it was only fitting to try and go to Boys State.
“I hope to learn as much as possible,” said Thompson. “Hopefully I will get new perspectives.”
Thompson is involved in cross country, student council, Leadership and National Honor Society. Thompson plans to enter the U.S. Air Force and work in explosive disposal. He then plans to get a full education.
“I’ve always been interested in politics,” said Wesley (Dalin) Hubbard. “It is a way to learn more about politics and the structure of government.”
Hubbard, who won a flight scholarship, is currently working towards his pilot’s license.
He is also involved in the LDS youth group, piano, farming and agricultural.
After high school, Hubbard plans of pursuing a medical or agriculture field in college and completing a LDS mission.
“I hope to improve my leadership skills and learn more how government works,” said Christian Trocke.
Trocke is involved in Student Council, National Honor Society, EYSC (Engaging Youth Serving Community), football and basketball. He has been Student Council president the last two years, made the Honor Roll and played varsity football his sophomore year.
Trocke plans to attend college and pursue a master’s degree to become a physician assistant. While attending college, Trocke plans on participating in the school’s ROTC program so he can become an officer in the U.S. Air Force.
“I hope to become a better leader and more appreciative for what people do in government,” said Sean Varelman.
Varelman is involved in Honor choir, football, scouts, acting, writing and drawing.
He received the most improved award in football his freshman year and most valuable scout team player his junior year.
Varelman plans to go to college to study philosophy, literature and writing. After college, he plans to become an actor.
With intentions of joining the Air Force for a career, Nic Savage thought it would be beneficial to know how the government works.
Savage is involved in leadership at the high school and is interested in learning to fly drones and planes.
He is a former volunteer fire fighter, currently off duty because of work and school.