On Feb. 1, Max Chowning was one of seven high school juniors to receive their delegate package for Boys State, the American Legion program for high school juniors entering their senior year. In June, the Legion buses them to Tallahassee to stay at the Florida State University campus and participate in a weeklong intensive citizenship training, in which they are each elected to a roll in government for a mythical state. They go to the state capitol and debate legislation they create. They cover all three branches — executive (governor), legislative (House and Senate) and judicial (a supreme court). Elk member Frank Smith is the Boys State Chair for American Legion Post 5. Tampa Lodge sponsored Chowning, paying for his $400 room and board. He has participated in many Elks service Projects, as some of his family members are lodge members.
Pictured at the American Legion Post 5 are Frank Smith; Rita Smith, PER; Max Chowning; and Wendy Hall, Exalted Ruler.