JSA Kicks Off the New School Year

The Junior State of America, a national, non-profit, student-run organization dedicated to keeping students politically aware by offering the opportunity to participate in debates and thought talks on today's most controversial topics, is kicking-off the new JSA year with the Fall State and the Angeles Region One Day conventions.The Los Angeles region Fall State, an annual, two-day convention taking place this year at the LAX Marriot from Nov. 14 to Nov. 15, brings together JSA members from schools all over Southern California to share their passion for politics. "It's an opportunity for students all over Southern California to increase their political knowledge and awareness," said Southern California JSA Governor and Diamond Ranch High School senior Adam O'Neal. "This year's theme is 'Beyond the Horizon: Assessing American Influence.' " In addition to traditional debates and thought talks, JSA members can look forward to several other events. "This year, we will be having an advocacy program where we submit a piece of legislation into the California state assembly to get lawmakers to pass it" said Speaker of the Assembly and Apple Valley High senior Jairus Nytes. "There are going to be comprehensive speakers at opening and closing sessions, new activities such as mock trials, and attendees will be able decide whether they want an electoral college or popular vote to decide at next Spring State's elections" said O'Neal. Students in the Los Angeles region of JSA can also attend the AR One Day held this year at Loyola Marymount University on Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students will discuss in topics inspired by this year's theme: "Laying Down the Law: Questioning California's Constitution." "The purpose of the AR One Day is to have a forum for debate where everyone's opinions are welcome and respected." said AR Mayor and The Buckley School junior Matt Saunders. "This year, we are focusing on California Government and the prospect of a Constitutional Convention. California has suffered some of the worst economic losses of any state in the US. As students, we can constructively engage in a dialogue on how to fix our problems." Some of the topics to be discussed will include the legality of Capital Punishment and the necessity of a full-time legislature. For more information on JSA, visit www.jsa.org or www.angelesregion.com.

********** Published: October 16, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 26

NewsEric Pierce