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Michael Reagan speaks to Young American’s youth conference

Ashley Reagan, granddaughter of President Ronald Reagan, leads the Pledge of Allegiance on Friday afternoon during a luncheon to honor the 40th president and native of Dixon. (Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com)

By Sauk Valley Media staff report

DIXON — Michael Reagan spoke on Friday to the students gathered for the Young America’s Foundation youth conference held during the past two days at the Reagan Boyhood Home.

Michael Reagan, son of President Ronald Reagan, was the keynote speaker. He spoke about the values held by his father.

“I had parents who believed in a work ethic,” Michael Reagan said. “I really believe you only get that in the Midwest.”

Michael Reagan, son of President Ronald Reagan, was the keynote speaker Friday, July 23, 2021 in Dixon that caps off a two-day conference of high school students learning about the 40th President’s community and values that shaped him. “I had parents who believed in a work ethic. I really believe you only get that in the Midwest,” Reagan said about his father’s values. (Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com)

Fifty students took part in the two-day conference. The group toured the Reagan home and other sites that shaped his values, listened to speakers and learned the history of the 40th President. (Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com)

When faced with work struggles of his own, Reagan recalled his parents teaching him “if you let failure control the day, you’ll always be a failure,” often times with tough love and hard lessons. (Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com)

This was the first time the foundation, the owners of the boyhood home, had sponsored a conference at the site. The conference was titled “American Exceptionalism: The Education of Ronald Reagan and the Enduring Promise of the American Dream.” About 50 students attended.

Scott Walker, former governor of Wisconsin and president of the foundation, served as master of ceremonies. Patrick Gorman, executive director of the home, provided a prayer. Ashley Reagan, who is Michael Reagan’s daughter, led the Pledge of Allegiance. Program sponsor Larry Polhill and home program director Kyle Ferrebee also participated.

Former Wisconsin Governor and president of the Young America’s Foundation Scott Walker (left) interviews YAF program sponsor Larry Polhill about what Reagan’s legacy meant to him. He not only made changes that saved his business but Reagan “changed the character in the White House and the country.” (Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com)

Ashley Reagan, granddaughter of President Ronald Reagan, leads the pledge of allegiance Friday afternoon during a luncheon to honor the 40th president and native of Dixon. (Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@saukvalley.com)

Dixon