American Legion supports baseball, Boys’ State

MADISON – Members of Madison American Legion, Post 229 are acknowledging young people in the community with activities in early summer.

For 2019 Boys’ State, 62 high school men from North Alabama will travel to Montgomery on May 26. “Participants will spend the week in the Alabama state capital to learn the rights, privileges and responsibilities of franchised citizens,” Post Commander Larry Vannoy said.

“The training is objective and centers on the structure of city, county and state governments. Operated by students elected to various offices, Boys’ State activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, choruses and recreational programs,” Vannoy said.

American Legion posts select high school juniors to attend Boys’ State. A sponsoring post, local business or another community-based organization usually pays individual expenses. Two students from Bob Jones and Sparkman high schools and five from James Clemens High School will attend.

“Madison Post 229 is honored to sponsor one of these Boys’ State participants. They will return home on June 1,” Vannoy said.

In another activity for summer, American Legion Baseball will give players an opportunity to develop their skills, personal fitness and leadership qualities, while having fun in a team environment. Since 1925, American Legion has sponsored a nationwide youth baseball program and conducted fundraising nationally to promote players.

“The 2019 American Legion baseball season will start in late May with two varsity (rising high school seniors and under) teams, named ‘Madison Mayhem’ and ‘256 Tribe’ sponsored by Madison Post 229. Playing schedules are being developed and will be published on Post 229’s website (americanlegionpost229.org) when complete,” Vannoy said.

“Area veterans and the public are invited to attend games and show their support,” Vannoy said. For home games, the Madison teams will play at James Clemens’ field. Vannoy estimates the 2019 season to extend through the end of July.

Madison American Legion, Post 229 meets monthly on second Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Lunar Lodge, 740 Eastview in Madison. The post’s mailing address is P.O. Box 194, Madison AL 35758.

For more information, call Post Adjutant Stacey Harring at 256-258-8534 or visit Facebook/American Legion Post 229.