House Republican Minority Leader Themis Klarides, whose district includes part of Orange, recently was the keynote speaker for the Northeast Junior State of America event held in Stamford. Klarides talked about the legislative session and the importance of young adults becoming involved in politics.
The Junior State of America is a student-run organization that cultivates democratic leadership skills, challenges members to think critically and advocate their own opinions, develops respect for opposing views and promotes rising above self-interest to promote the public good. JSA is committed to developing a diverse, cross-section of young leaders for a democratic society.
From left: Ryan Anastasio of Amity Hight School; ECR Vice Mayor Patrick Burland of Amity High School; state Rep. Themis Klarides; Melanie Lust of Staples High School; and Lindsay Dry of Staples High School.