| For Immediate Release | For more information contact: |
| March 6, 2002 | Shannon Robinson (651-296- 5989) |
ST. PAUL State Representative Rich Stanek (R-Maple Grove) took time out during the House of Representatives floor session on February 27 to visit with Lindsey Shapiro, a senior at Maple Grove High School.
Rep. Stanek took part in a panel discussion at Maple Grove High School earlier that day where Shapiro served as the moderator. When she found out that the veto override for the bipartisan budget agreement would be introduced on the House floor that afternoon, Shapiro asked Stanek if she would be able to join him at the Capitol to hear the debate.
"I was a high school page last session and really enjoyed the work," said Shapiro. "I liked being at the Capitol there is a real energy in the atmosphere when the House is in session." Shapiro's favorite part of the debate over the budget agreement was listening to Rep. Phil Krinkie (R-Shoreview) explain why he was changing his position on the veto override.
After she graduates this spring, Shapiro plans to attend George Washington University in Washington, D.C., to pursue a degree in international affairs. "I have always been interested in politics," said Shapiro, "and may consider running for office someday but that is definitely a long-term goal."
Rep. Stanek commented, "I enjoy spending time with students when they come to visit the Capitol, especially when they have such a strong interest in politics. People like Lindsey Shapiro will be our leaders in the near future, and it is encouraging for me to see her taking such an active role in government."
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Rep. Rich Stanek can be reached at 543 State Office Building, St. Paul, MN 55155; by phone at (651) 296-5502; or by e-mail at rep.rich.stanek@house.leg.state.mn.us. If you would like periodic updates on the legislative session, visit Rep. Stanek's website at www.house.mn/33B and click on "Email Updates."