I enjoyed seeing many of you at the Osseo Lions Roar Days last Saturday. Our community is blessed with the generosity of this and other organizations. As we look forward to another fall weekend, there are a number of outdoor activities and sporting events to enjoy – the fall colors are even starting in the northern half of our state!
Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge
I always appreciate visiting local organizations that provide a helping hand to those in need. I recently attended the grand opening of the Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge Lakeside Academy location. For those of you unfamiliar with this group, Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge works with those struggling to overcome chemical addictions. The new Lakeside Academy location provides addiction recovery services to teens boys from around our state and across the country. Nonprofits provide a significant portion of community-based services. It's important to remember that our local charities and nonprofits are sometimes the most effective resources for those in need. Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge is a fantastic organization and I encourage you to learn more by clicking here.
Public Safety
Earlier this week, I heard a presentation from the Commissioner of Public Safety, Mona Dohman. Although I do not sit on the Public Safety Committee, I am vice-chair of the Civil Law and Data Practices Committee and am very interested in data privacy, especially in relation to the Department of Public Safety (DPS). Going forward, I see our committee continuing to work closely with DPS on this important issue.
Minnesota Association of Collectors
I was fortunate to speak with the Minnesota Association of Collectors a couple days ago. We talked about how to make our state more business-friendly to keep our small businesses in Minnesota, as well as how to attract more. Our main-street businesses need the autonomy to grow and expand, creating jobs and stimulating our state’s economy free of excessive regulation.
Minneapolis Foundation
Today afforded me an opportunity to attend the Minneapolis Foundation’s Face Forward Futurist Conference celebrating the organization’s 100th anniversary. I heard from a number of speakers with policy suggestions and big ideas to influence the future and direction of Minnesota. I’m certainly encouraged to see where our state is headed.
I enjoyed spending the day with civic and business leaders Norm Rickeman, Board Chairman of the Minneapolis Foundation, and Greg Kurowski, President and CEO of Periscope.
If you’re interested in meeting with me – in St. Paul or in our area – feel free to contact my office at 651-296-5502 or Rep.Dennis.Smith@house.mn. Visiting and interacting with constituents is the best way for me to understand what is important to the people of our district. I look forward to hearing from you!
Have a fantastic weekend,
Dennis