By ALANMICHAEL RUBIN (#0265)
While some argue it’s a positive for their experience, Boys’ State has such a focus on participation, meeting new people, and leaving your comfort zone, that cell phones just take away from this as a whole.
An important aspect of Boys’ State has always been the participation in the city, county, and state governments, and this often – at least on the municipal and county levels – takes place in a crowded room or in a courtyard, where the boys are in charge. This type of governance encourages participation , but there are still those who refuse to, and with cell phones it has become more common. While in the past, the boys would either die of boredom or participate, now they can just pull out a cell phone and occupy themselves indefinitely.
Another point: keeping a cell phone with you discourages branching out to new people. It’s a simple connection. With the entire world at your fingertips, including friends back home, why would you force yourself to be uncomfortable and awkward around new people? For many, cell phones stunt the incredible growth that Boys’ State encourages.
And last, but most definitely not least, it’s the comfort that cell phones provide. Boys’ State is a rigorous program, and with so many unfamiliar faces and practices, it can oftentimes be uncomfortable. Although being uncomfortable is usually attributed with the bad and ugly, it can also help foster growth, especially in a safe environment like what’s at SUNY Morrisville this week. Cell phones offer a taste of home, which ultimately encourages complacency in one’s comfort zone and discourages the testing of your own bounds.
Today, cell phones are allowed at Boys’ State, and perhaps that will change, or perhaps not. But regardless, their effect on the program is undeniable, and I urge you readers to be aware of your cell phone use, and maybe… just consider leaving them in your dorms!
*AlanMichael’s opinion does not necessarily reflect the entirety of the New York Boys State or its staff members, delegates or stakeholders.*
American Legion Boys' State New York 
The cell phone policy was addressed by YOUR Attorney General. He wrote a resolution that made such sense it passed you assembly, Senate and Executive branch unanimously. In fact after the bill was passed it was taken to The American Legions Executive Board were it was ADOPTED by them. Advocates for and against any cell phone use at Boys State agreed a policy that is COMMUNICATED to all, consistent to all and enforced on all should be a goal. Bravo to all of you.
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