District Perspectives

Sandy Pappas 3 min read , ,

How Federal Funding Impacts Minnesotans

Until this January, I’d wager many Minnesotans didn’t spend much time thinking about the way our federal government moves money around. That’s what’s great about a government that works the way it’s meant to: only the people who are paid to think about it, have to think about it. But as we’ve seen since January 20, when the system starts to break down — or rather, is being actively destroyed — it becomes everyone’s problem. Problems like: Will I be able to feed my family this week if our WIC benefits are cancelled? Will I still be able to see my doctor if Medicaid funding is slashed? Will I have to quit my job to take care of my kids if Head Start shuts down? 

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Rebecca Noecker 2 min read , ,

Engagement Done Right

At the beginning of a summer now edging toward fall, I had the chance to attend the We Live Here community meeting hosted by the W. 7th/Fort Road Federation. I came away energized and grateful for a convening that was impressive in many ways. 

First, it was genuine. Too many community engagement sessions seem to be done for show or to “check the box” to say they’ve engaged the community when they knew what they intended to do all along. This meeting was the opposite. There was no preconceived agenda, no ulterior motive beyond an authentic desire to hear from people who live and work in the neighborhood. Notes were taken at each table and shared with everyone who attended, so it was clear what was heard and what was done with our input.

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Representative Dave Pinto
Dave Pinto 3 min read ,

Progress for Minnesota

Hello neighbors! As the summer begins to wrap up, I hope that you (like me) are looking forward to the State Fair and the autumn, our state’s most beautiful season.

Another “season” that is coming to a close is the 2023-2024 legislative term. And what a term it was – one of the most productive in Minnesota history. After many years of divided government and gridlock, the DFL-controlled state House and Senate and Governor Walz came together to pass budgets and policies that will have a positive impact for generations.

To provide just a few examples…

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María Isa Pérez-Vega 3 min read ,

Cultivating Creativity: How Minnesota’s 2023 Legislature is Investing in the Arts 

Minnesota’s vibrant arts scene is a cornerstone of our St. Paul identity. From the Ordway Center for the Arts to Teatro del Pueblo, and Penumbra Theater, our state fosters artistic expression across all disciplines. However, ensuring this creativity thrives requires ongoing support. The 2023 Minnesota Legislature took significant steps to prioritize programs and legislation that cultivate sustainability in the arts for Minnesotans of all ages. 

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