Dover students attend Buckeye Girls, Boys State

The Dover American Legion Post 205 selected three girls and two boys from last year’s junior class at Dover High School to attend Buckeye Girls State and Buckeye Boys State this summer.

The programs give participants exposure to the rights, privileges, duties and responsibilities of citizenship. The training is objective, practical and nonpartisan, with city, county and state governments operated by students elected to office. Activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement, assemblies, music and recreation.

Buckeye Girls State, Bowling Green State University, June 8–14 

— Lillian Garren, daughter of Kurt Garren and Dawn Spilker, was selected for the senate. 

— Peyton Grafe, daughter of Tommy and Brooke Grafe, ran for chief justice and made the top eight before being selected as a municipal judge. 

— Sydney McCabe, daughter of Molly McCabe, served as her city’s director of law and sanitation director. She also participated in trials as both defense and prosecuting attorney, and sang in the choir. 

— Bridget McCrate, daughter of Tim and Karie McCrate, was selected but unable to attend.

Buckeye Boys State, Miami University, June 8–15 

— Nathaniel Basso, son of Robert and Kristina Basso, was elected as a senator and enjoyed taking part in debates. 

— Cole Griesen, son of Mike and Robin Griesen, was elected as a house representative.

Sponsorships made participation possible. Girls State delegates were sponsored by Wendy’s, an anonymous donor and Dover American Legion Post 205. Boys State delegates were sponsored by Wendy’s and Pinnacle Foot & Ankle Center.

The Dover American Legion Post 205 thanked the businesses and individuals whose financial support made the experience possible.