Payton to attend Boys State

    Wills Payton has been selected to represent Coal City High School and Coal City American Legion Post 796 at the 83rd annual session of Illinois Premier Boys State, June 9 to 15, at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston.
    American Legion Illinois Premier Boys State is a unique program for outstanding high school juniors that focuses on participation and personal experience in a model state. It is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction.
    Founded by Legionnaires from Illinois in 1935, Boys State participants, selected by their school and local American Legion, learn governmental processes through fictional political parties that conduct legislative sessions, party caucuses and elections. The program includes keynote addresses, visits from government officials, presentations, concerts and recreational activities.
    The program started in Illinois expanded across the country. A few notable Boys State alumni include Roger Ebert, Michael Jordon, Neil Armstrong and President Bill Clinton.
    Payton is the son of Michele and Chad Payton.