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Strong Work Ethic Helps Boys Town's 107^th Mayor Achieve Goals

With a strong work ethic formed by his upbringing on the family farm, Jordan Ridder says he has big plans during his term as the 107th mayor of the Village of Boys Town. His number one goal: to show both youth and adults the value of good character.

Boys Town's 107th mayor Jordan Ridder accepts a congratulatory belt buckle from one of his Cowboy constituents while Father Steve Boes, Boys Town National Executive Director, looks on. Ridder was elected to the office made famous in the Oscar-winning movie Boys Town by the more than 500 youth at Boys Town.

"Just being able to represent all the Boys Town kids is such an honor," said the Neligh, Neb., native after being sworn in. "I want to show all the good things Boys Town does, and that character does count."

A resident of the Village since 2005, Ridder was voted into office by the more than 500 youth living on the Boys Town Home Campus in Boys Town, Neb. As mayor, he represents his peers and more than 47,000 youth who find help, healing and hope at Boys Town locations across the country.

"As mayor, I want to show my fellow students how to follow instructions and respect Boys Town," said the 17-year-old leader. "I wanted to do this for the experience, to have fun, and to give back to Boys Town."

Ridder is a member of the soccer team and church choir. Following graduation, Ridder plans to attend a four-year college, majoring in music.

During his term in office, Ridder will work closely with elected vice-mayor is Robert LaBron of Atlanta, Ga., to represent the organization's youth. LaBron has been at Boys Town since 2005, and is a member of the football, basketball and track teams. After gradation, the 18-year-old plans to attend community college, majoring in construction management and continuing his work as a community volunteer.

Ridder shakes the hand of his elected vice-mayor Robert LaBron.

Father Edward J. Flanagan conceived the self-government system at the Village of Boys Town in 1926 as a tool for its citizens to build character, citizenship and a sense of community. The process was made famous in the 1938 Academy Award-winning movie "Boys Town," where Mickey Rooney portrayed Whitey Marsh, a tough young boy who turns his life around and becomes Mayor of Boys Town.

Strong Work Ethic Helps Boys Town's 107th Mayor Achieve Goals

Strong Work Ethic Helps Boys Town's 107^th Mayor Achieve Goals