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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Jennifer Schultz (DFL)

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Legislative Update - November 20, 2015

Friday, November 20, 2015

Dear Neighbors,

I’d like to let you know about a pair of upcoming events in our community. First, I invite you to a public meeting on Tuesday, November 24 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the St. Louis County Heritage and Arts Center (The Depot, 506 W Michigan St., Duluth) to discuss the artwork in the Minnesota State Capitol, both that is displayed currently as well as the possibility for new art in the Capitol.

Whether you are a teacher, a student, a parent chaperon for a class trip, a citizen whose job takes you to the Capitol, or just an interested Minnesotan I encourage you to attend and share your opinions.

The Minnesota State Capitol, originally opened in 1905, is currently closed to the public while it undergoes a top-to-bottom, three-year renovation, expected to wrap up in 2017. Capitol artwork includes, among other items, portraits of former governors, statues and busts of notable Minnesotans and paintings depicting historical state events.

Over recent years, however, some concerns have been expressed about the artwork on display such as: a lack of historical accuracy of certain paintings, governor portraits taking up too much wall space and very few women and minority groups being represented. This restoration provides a great opportunity to discuss how Minnesota history and values can be shared through this art.

Three members of the Capitol Preservation Commission's Art Subcommittee will be attending: co-chairs Representative Diane Loeffler, Former Justice Paul Anderson, and Ted Lentz, the President of the Cass Gilbert Society, will hear recommendations. Please consider sharing your thoughts with the committee and attend Tuesday’s meeting.

For more information, please visit: http://mn.gov/admin/capitol-restoration/about/preservation-commission/art/. This website lists a full inventory of artwork most recently on display, and has a short poll about your priorities. If you are unable to attend the meeting but would still like to share your thoughts, please send them to capitol.art@state.mn.us.

I also invite you to a forum on the future of Social Security and Medicare with Congressman Rick Nolan on Monday, November 23 from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at Peace Church (1111 N 11th Ave E, Duluth). This forum, hosted by the Minnesota Citizens Federation – Northeast, will discuss the proposals in Washington for these programs as well as the economic impact they have on Duluth residents.

These programs are crucially important, and there are many different perspectives regarding their future. The event is non-partisan, non-political, and open to the public; I hope you will attend.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Schultz
State Representative