BETHEL – Bethel Post 81, American Legion, held its annual recognition dinner honoring Boys and Girls State delegates. Seven of the eight delegates sponsored by the post were present with family members and friends. Girls state delegates Jessica James was unable to attend due to out-of-state employment but reported her experience to be rewarding.

In addition to the students, Ross Parker, Megan Bailey, Matthew Mills, Anika Barton, Frank Emerson, Clayton Smith and Lauren Barletta, the post also welcomed Maine American Legion Department Commander Gene Bickford and his wife, Joyce; Second District President Edith Lemieux of Lewiston; past Androscoggin County Commander Raymond Lemieux of Lewiston; Oxford County Commander Jerry Greenwell; and Second District Treasurer Jeri Greenwell.

Prior to the dinner, Post Commander Richard Farren led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance following presentation of an American flag sent to the post by member, Ernie Aguilar, now serving in Iraq. It was followed by reading a poem about the flag written by Aguilar.

After the dinner, Americanism Officer Don Feeney conducted a question-and-answer session with the delegates concerning their experience and perceptions of the Boys/Girls State programs. The evening included a meal.