East Haddam Young Republicans Group Promotes Involvement

Instead of spending valuable time in heated debates over political issues, the East Haddam Young Republicans prefer to focus their energy on working together and getting involved. The mission of the group is to help the community, state and country by assisting the Republican Party through community service, volunteering and campaigning.

The group is united by some of the common beliefs of the Republican Party, including fiscal conservatism, but does not debate the issues with each other, current President Brian Linares says.

“We understand everyone has different opinions.”

The group has hosted several candidates, attended the Republican State Convention and volunteered on approximately five campaigns. Group volunteerism has included phone banking, attending events with candidates, fundraising and waving signs at the East Haddam Swing Bridge during elections.

The Young Republicans enjoy doing volunteer work, but are also enthusiastic in learning about the process of government.

“I like how eager the kids are about the process (of government) and their excitement about attending the conventions,” says advisor Bryan Perry, chairman of the East Haddam Republican Town Committee.

“The Young Republicans have figured out a way to balance the politics with fun, while helping in the community at the same time.”

When not in campaign mode, the Young Republicans focus on community service and organizing the club. Community events the group helps with include Harvest House in conjunction with the town committee, the Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Gillette Castle and the Memorial Day Parade, to name a few.

The organization is open to anyone age 12 to 20, and includes those who classify themselves as Republican, independent and even those unsure of where they belong on the political spectrum.

Currently, there are about 10 active members that include, in addition to Linares, Will Cormier, Sara Dickinson, Cameron Dominy, Matt Garafola, Gretchen Lemke, Matt Long, Dan Manstan, Mike Zibbideo and Brittany Ziobron. Meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m., at the town hall annex, except July and August.

The East Haddam Young Republicans, also known as the TeenAge Republicans, was founded in January of 2010. Founding members included Brian Linares, Mike Zibbideo, Dan Manstan, and Sara Dickinson. The group currently has two advisors in addition to Perry; Economic Development Committee Coordinator Melissa Ziobron and Town Clerk Debra Denette.

In addition to helping form the group and serving as its president since it was founded, Brian Linares also helped found the Debate and Mock Trial teams at the high school, is president of the Future Business Leaders of America and is in his second term as class president.

“Kudos to Brian for organizing and getting more students involved so that this program continues,” Perry says.

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