Secretary of State Ruth Johnson joined other state and local leaders in celebrating Metro Detroit Youth Day on July 11 on Belle Isle and had a message for the estimated 37,000 kids in attendance:
“Very soon, it’s going to be your generation’s turn to make our state and our communities even better,” Johnson said. “All these people here today have made it their mission to help you. They believe in you and I believe in you. And I have a feeling Michigan is going to be in good hands with your generation.”
 Ice Cube, the rapper and actor, was a special guest and inspired the kids with a message based on his own experiences and success, telling them everyone faces challenges in life and that we must work hard to overcome them.
The first Youth Day was held 35 years ago as a way to bring kids ages 8-15 from around Metro Detroit together for a day of fun and constructive activities and it has grown to become the largest youth event in Michigan. More than 360 community and youth organizations now participate and outreach efforts include motivational speakers, mentors, anti-substance abuse messages and college scholarships.
Johnson and five other leaders were honored with a Distinguished Service Award at the event.
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 SOS cheers Golden Games participants
Secretary of State Ruth Johnson attended closing ceremonies of the 2018 Golden Age Games at the Recreation Center in Waterford on June 29 and congratulated the senior citizen athletes on their achievement.
The Games were held from June 19-28 and are an activities program organized by Waterford Parks and Recreation for area residents age 50 or older. Gold, silver and bronze medals were given in competitions that included bocce ball, bowling, table tennis, basketball, horseshoes, shuffleboard, golf, cornhole, pickleball, baking, Euchre and photography.
Johnson had lunch with participants, led the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance during the ceremony and gave an update on the Secretary of State’s Office.
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