Levinson Axelrod attorneys are out in the community helping to inspire the next generation of lawyers. On June 19, 2017, Todd Wachtel, Esq., a partner in our Hillsborough office spoke at the 72nd Session of the American Legion Boys State at Rider University. Todd was joined by New Jersey Supreme Court Justice Lee Solomon and a number of other attorneys from across the state.
Founded in 1946, the New Jersey American Legion Boys State helps to push the value and importance of our nation’s democratic form of government, as well as sustain an effort to preserve it. During their now week-long program, students from across New Jersey learn about, and then form, their own democratic State.
A complete program of educational and recreational activity is provided. A concert band is formed, a newspaper is published daily, and a portion of each afternoon is given over to an organized program of intramural athletics under supervision. Outstanding speakers and specialists contribute to rounding out the annual session.
The instructional program of the New Jersey Boys State has three phases: seminars, functional activities, and general assemblies. Seminars are held in general subjects such as government, law enforcement, legislative, and election procedures. The heart of the instructional program is functional activity of citizenship practice, such as the operation of the courts, legislative assemblies, administration of law enforcement, public welfare, etc. These activities take a considerable portion of the time allotted for instructional purposes, and constitute the chief means through which citizens “learn to do by doing.”
Todd is a proud alumni of the program, having participated in 1989. Other alumni include Senator Robert “Bob” Menendez, Governor Christopher J. Christie, Senator Cory Booker, and Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito.
“I really enjoyed my time as a ‘Boys Stater,’” said Todd. “Honestly, one of my first “Trials” was at Boy’s State. I don’t recall the facts of the case, but I remember it was a mock trial of a criminal case, where somehow I ended up having to stand on a chair singing the “Boys State Anthem” to a crowded lunchroom - and I was just the lawyer. I have to believe that my ‘client’ didn’t get off as easy. The energy at Boys State is contagious, I love going back to speak every year, and yes, I still remember all the words to the “Boys State Anthem.”
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