Senate District 25 DFL

LeSueur County DFL Precinct Caucus Locations

2012-02-06T22:43:00.000-08:00

Here are the locations of the LeSueur County DFL's Precinct Caucuses:

Cleveland City – Cleveland City Hall

205 4^thStreet, Cleveland 56017

Cleveland Township – Cleveland City Hall

205 4^thStreet, Cleveland 56017

Cordova Township – LeSueur County Courthouse

88 S.Park Avenue, LeCenter 56057

Derrynane Township – Derrynane Township Hall

31255St. Thomas Road, LeSueur 56058

Elysian Township (P1/P2) &

Elysian City – Elysian Tourism Center

100 3^rdStreet S.W., Elysian 56028

Heidelberg – New Prague City Hall

118Central Ave N., New Prague, MN 56071

Kasota City& Township – Cleveland City Hall

205 4^thStreet, Cleveland 56017

Kilkenny Township - Waterville Twn. Hall

3^rdStreet, Waterville 56096

Lanesburgh Township – New Prague City Hall

118 Central Ave N, New Prague, MN 56071

LeCenter W1/W2 – LeSueur County Courthouse

88 S.Park Avenue, LeCenter 56057

LeSueur W1 – LeSueur-Henderson High School

901 E.Ferry Street, LeSueur 56058

LeSueur W2 – LeSueur-Henderson High School

901 E.Ferry Street, LeSueur 56058

Lexington Township – LeSueur County Courthouse

88 S.Park Avenue, LeCenter 56057

Montgomery Township – Montgomery Public Library

104 OakAvenue S.E., Montgomery 56069

Montgomery W1/W2 – Montgomery Public Library

104 OakAvenue S.E., Montgomery 56069

New Prague – New Prague City Hall

118Central Ave N, New Prague, MN 56071

Ottawa Township – Ottawa Township Hall

39120Bryant Street, Le Sueur 56058

Sharon Township – Le Sueur County Courthouse

88 S.Park Avenue, LeCenter 56057

Tyrone Township – Tyrone Township Hall

29246 St. Thomas Road, LeSueur56058

Washington Township – Cleveland City Hall

205 4^thStreet, Cleveland 56017

Waterville Township – Waterville Twn. Hall

3^rd Street, Waterville 56096

Waterville City – Waterville Twn. Hall

3^rd Street, Waterville 56096

Rice County DFL to Hold Precinct Caucuses on February 7th

2012-02-06T22:34:00.000-08:00

Rice County DemocratsGather to Cast Presidential Preference Ballot, Select Convention Delegates,Debate Party Platform, Elect Precinct Leaders

Rice County Democrats will gather on Tuesday, February7^th for the Democratic Farmer Labor (DFL) Party’s biennial precinct caucuses which will be heldat three locations: NorthfieldMiddle School, Faribault Middle School and Forest Township’s Town Hall.

At the precinct caucuses, DFLers will cast aPresidential preference ballot that will demonstrate their preference in theupcoming election. Attendees will have the opportunity to run and vote fordelegates supporting specific candidates or issues to represent the precinct atthe upcoming Rice County DFL convention on Saturday, March 31. There will alsobe an opportunity to introduce and debate resolutions for possible inclusion inthe Minnesota DFL Party’s action agenda/platform, and elect precinct leadersfor the next two years.

The caucuses will begin at 7:00 p.m. with registrationopening at 6:30 p.m. Presidential preference balloting will conclude at 8:00p.m. sharp. Ballots may only be cast in person; no absentee balloting isallowed.

Anyone who will be eligible to vote in Minnesota byNovember 6, 2012 may vote in the Presidential preference ballot. Anyone age 16 or over may participate incaucus business.

A list of all caucus locations statewide is availableat www.dfl.org. If you are unsure whatprecinct you live in visit the precinct caucus finder on the Secretary ofState’s website: http://caucusfinder.sos.state.mn.us/

WHAT: RiceCounty DFL Precinct Caucuses

WHEN: Tuesday,February 7, 2010, 7:00 p.m. (registration begins at 6:30 p.m.)

LOCATIONS:

NorthfieldMiddle School

2200division Street South, Northfield, MN 55057

– For precincts withinNortheastern Rice County that fall in Senate District 25:

TOWNSHIPS: Bridgewater, Northfield, and Wheeling

CITIES: Dundas,Dennison (part), Nerstrand, Northfield (8 precincts)

Forest Township Town Hall

3625 Millersburg Blvd., Faribault (Millersburg), MN

– For precincts withinNorthwestern Rice County that fall in Senate District 25:

TOWNSHIPS: Wheatland, Webster, Erin, Forest, Shieldsville,

CITY: Lonsdale

FaribaultMiddle School

704– 17^th Street SW, Faribault, MN 55021

– For precincts withinRice County that fall in Senate District 26:

TOWNSHIPS: CannonCity, Wells, Morristown, Warsaw, Walcott, and Richland

CITIES: Morristown,and Faribault (6 precincts)

Jobs Plan: Fix Our Bridges

2012-02-01T20:37:00.000-08:00

This is a bridge in Scott County, Minnesota (national bridge ID 5704).

It was built in 1936. It is now listed as "structurally deficient".

This bridge is located in the Second Congressional District

home of Congressman John Kline.

This is one of several bridges within the Second Congressional District which are labeled as "structurally deficient".

This bridge needs to be fixed. This bridge would create jobs.

Recently Congressman John Kline held a town hall where he was asked about jobs and fixing infrastructure - like this bridge.

Congressman Kline has been in Congress for 10 years.
And knows how not to answer a question.

10 years of ignoring the infrastructure in our Congressional District.

This is just one bridge that needs to be fixed. There are many more. Fixing the "structural deficient" bridges in our Congressional District would create private sector jobs - and those jobs would boost local economies.

Contact Congressman Kline and demand that he creates jobs by fixing the bridges in his district (click for contact information).

Photos are: (c) 2012 Senate District 25 DFL. All rights reserved.

Paul on Community Organizing

2011-10-25T20:32:00.000-07:00

Are you ready to lead?

The List: Jobs! Jobs! Jobs!

2011-09-23T18:08:00.001-07:00

It's Friday night and "The List" is back!

And tonight's "List" is all about JOBS! JOBS! JOBS!

Here are five things the U.S. Congress can do to spur

job creation and grow the economy.

5. Cut taxes on small businesses to help them hire and grow (read more)!

4. Fix our deficient bridges

(1149 in Minnesota to be precise - read more)!

Want to see if the bridges in your area are some of

the 1149 bridges deficient bridges in MN?

Visit: http://t4america.org/resources/bridges/

3. Invest in our schools! Modernizing Over 35,000 Schools -- From Science Labs and Internet-Ready Classrooms to Renovated Facilities (read more).

2. Put more money in the pockets of every American worker and family! (read more)

1. PASS THE BILL!

Specifically: The American JOBS Act

This legislation will achieve all of the above and more.

9/11 We Will Not Forget

2011-09-11T20:52:00.001-07:00

Tags: Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning), Alan Jackson, Alan Jackson Videos

Sibley County DFL Fundraising Dinner

2011-09-09T21:32:00.001-07:00

2010 Sibley County DFL Fundraiser

The Sibley County
Democratic Farmer Labor Party

invites you to a fund-raising dinner

When: Saturday, September 10th
- social hour at 5:00 p.m.
- dinner starts at 6:00 p.m.
- speeches, program and live auction starts at 7:00 p.m.

Where: American Legion, Gaylord

Cost: $20.00 per person

Details:
Please join your friends from the Sibley County DFL for an evening of fellowship and fun. Join us as wework to help lead this state and this nation into the future.

If you care about issues like good paying jobs,fare wages, and trying to do right by our veterans, join our efforts.

Our evening will start with social hour at 5:00 p.m., cash bar available, and a delicious buffet dinner scheduled to start at 6:00 p.m. Dinner is $20.00 per person. At 7:00 p.m., special guests, including elected DFL officials and candidates for various offices around Minnesota will address us.

This is free to the public.There will be a silent auction going on through out the evening, and a live auction will follow the speeches. Donations for either auction welcome.

For more information please contact Barb Johnson (507) 647-3030

The American Jobs Act

2011-09-08T20:07:00.001-07:00

Onward to Health Care Reform V

2011-08-14T20:27:00.000-07:00

In an earlier Blog I wrote about a bill introduced by DFL Sen. John Marty in the Minnesota legislature to address concerns about the high cost of state public plans that use HMOs for administration. A similar bill was introduced by Republican Sen. Sean Nienow. Neither bill was included in the final bills passed by the legislature. The Minnesota Universal Health Care Coalition (MUHCC) then encouraged people to contact the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) at the federal level to not approve a waiver to continue using HMOs for processing Medicaid payments. Unfortunately CMS approved the waiver, but they now require the HMOs to submit financial reports quarterly and annually along with additional reporting requirements. We'll see whether this bears any fruit in cost containment.

Joan and I traveled recently to the city of Tracy in SW Minnesota for a Health Care Forum. The forum had local community leaders discuss our current health care system and possible reforms that can increase access and lower cost. Dr. Michael DeBrule of Marshall, MN moderated the discussion and gave an excellent talk on what is wrong with our health care system and why the Minnesota Health Plan (MHP) would solve the cost problems, and provides high quality coverage for all Minnesotans. Approximately 40 people attended the event, asked many questions and showed interest in the plan. Several people have stepped up to build a regional team to educate in the SW Minnesota region. We are finding that Greater MN is very receptive to changes in how we pay for our health care.

The Minnesota Universal Health Care Coalition (MUHCC) in May hosted an event at the Park Square Theater in St. Paul, titled "Artists on Stage for Health Care". The event is part of the "Campaign for the Minnesota Health Plan". The event was a combination of health care stories, artists performing, and information on why and how to reform health care in Minnesota.

Those of you who have access to the Northfield Public Television (NTV) cable channel 12 can view the event on Tuesday, 8/16/2011. at 9pm and on Sunday, 8/21/2011, at 8:30pm. The show is entertaining and informative. I have a DVD copy of the show and can make it available for public showing. Give me a call or email if your interested; 507-645-0094, sjanusz@charter.net.

Join the DFL at the Rice County Fair

2011-07-21T13:45:00.000-07:00

The Rice County DFL has a booth at this year's Rice County Fair.

When: Tuesday, July 19th to Sunday, July 24th

Where: Rice County Fairgrounds
               1814 2nd Avenue Northwest
              Faribault, MN
               Located in the commercial building next to the Sellner Memorial Stage (see map below).

FOOD DRIVE:
The Rice County DFL will be holding a food drive at their booth during the fair. If you are able to please consider contributing non-perishable food items and/or baby items (diapers, formula, etc.). The donations will be given to the local food shelf after the fair.

For more details or to get updates from the fair visit the Rice County DFL's facebook page:

https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=108350275927623&closeTheater=1#!/event.php?eid=108350275927623

Remembering Ken

2011-07-05T00:29:00.000-07:00

In Loving Memory
Kenneth (Ken) J. Beck
1949 - 2009

Today we remember a dear friend and fellow DFLer. It's been two years since our community lost a champion of people, a teacher, an actor, a husband, a brother, a friend.

Today we celebrate the blessings we received in having known such a kind, and caring individual. We miss his laughter, his advice, his knowledge, his friendship, his passion and his love.

His contributions to us collectively and individually will never be forgotten.

Ken's D.F.L. Legacy

Ken served in the D.F.L at various levels. He first got involved back in 2004 within the Rice County D.F.L. as an at-large director. Ken said that he couldn't sit by any longer and wanted to fight for the change our country & state so desperately needed. In 2005 he was elected as chair of the Rice County D.F.L. when the chair at that time resigned. Ken served in that capacity until December 2005. He left that position after being elected as the Second Congressional District D.F.L.'s associate chair. In 2008 Ken was re-elected as the Second Congressional District's associate chair and he was also elected Historian of the Rice County D.F.L.

Ken made many contributions to his D.F.L. family over the years - from making his and Marcia's coffee shop open to D.F.L.'s candidates and the party itself to the wonderful words of wisdom & insights he gave to candidates, party members and friends.

Ken has been sorely missed over the last two years. His smile and laughter still echo in our hearts and minds. His words of wisdom still ring in our ears. His compassion and concern for others still lives on in our memories and our works.

We will always remember our friend Ken.

Lonsdale Area DFLers: Community Conversations

2011-06-17T18:17:00.000-07:00

You're invited to the Lonsdale area DFLers'
Community Conversations

Please join us on Monday, June 20,
at the Lonsdale Public Library, 1006 Birch Street NE,
starting at 6:30 p.m. for an insightful discussion
of an important topic.

A special guest speaker will discus poverty in our areaand what is being done locally to combat it.

This conversation brings together involved
and concerned neighbors who care about our community.

For more information please e-mail: sd25dfl@yahoo.com

Onward to Health Care Reform IV

2011-06-12T12:15:00.000-07:00

Joan and I went to an organized rally Saturday, May 21st at the State Capitol focused on the Legislature cutting 140,000 people off medical care, the huge HMO reserves, and the super inflated salaries of the CEO's of the HMO's. The rally was well organized with great speakers at the rotunda. We then got on buses (5 of them) and went to the Calhoun Beach Club where Medica's CEO, David Tilford, is a member. In the rain, about 200 of us chanted outside the club (with David Tilford supposedly inside)--great chants; can't remember any of them and the sheet with them on was "melted" in the rain. Anyway, the message was "GIVE THE MONEY BACK" and "PROVIDE HEALTH CARE FOR THE PEOPLE". One last chant I do remember: "We'll be back". Tilford was picked out because Medica has a contract with United Health Group, one of the largest health insurance companies in the country.

The four major Minnesota HMO's that contract with the State of Minnesota to administer public programs for low income people have financial reserves far in excess of what is needed for insurance solvency-- over $600 million in excess. This excess is due to the large profits that they amassed from their state program contracts. Returning this money to the state would be an important step in helping balance the state's budget. So far only Ucare has stepped up by returning $30 million.

Bills introduced for improved transparency and accountability for public health insurance plans have had no consideration by the State Legislature. This makes one think the health insurance companies have control of the process.

Note: Opinions expressed in this article are that of the authors and do not neccessarly reflect the views of the Senate District 25 DFL or DFL in general.

2011-05-23T22:51:00.000-07:00

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

May 1, 2011 - Osama bin Laden Dead

2011-05-01T21:32:00.000-07:00

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Carleton College Mentioned On The Last Word

2011-04-27T20:35:00.000-07:00

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

The List: Five Things to Know About the Republican's Budget

2011-04-21T19:30:00.000-07:00

Five Things to Know About the Republican's Budget

Minnesota Edition

5. State Economist Stinson has said that an all-cuts budget would be worse for business than an increase on the richest of the rich.

4. The GOP budget slashes 30,000 jobs, mostly in the private sector, threatening Minnesota's fragile economic recovery.

3. Cuts funding for internet safety programs that keep kids safe from online predators.

2. Take the food out of the mouths of seniors. The Republicans first proposed cuts to take meals away from 3,700 meals-on-wheels seniors each year

1. No matter what kind of Enron-accounting the GOP uses, their budget is still $1.2 billion short.

Ask D.F.L. Q&A via Twitter

2011-04-20T08:13:00.000-07:00

Everyone is invited to participate in "Ask D.F.L." on Twitter tomorrow at Noon. This is your opportunity to chat directly with the State Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party's Chair Ken Martin. Just type your question using the hash tag #askdfl

When: Thursday, April 21st
Noon

Where: On Twitter

Who: Everyone is invited to participate!
Interact with State DFL Chair Ken Martin.

Follow Senate District 25 DFL on Twitter (@SD25DFL) and Facebook!

Follow the State DFL on Twitter (@MinnesotaDFL) and Facebook!

Onward to Health Care Reform III

2011-04-13T19:31:00.000-07:00

The Republicans at the Federal and State levels are trying to privatize public health insurance programs. They see the increasing costs of these programs as major reasons for our government deficits. This is part of their agenda to solve all our problems with competition and the "free market". The "free market" has brought us to a government run by large corporations through their money buying elections.

They also conveniently forget how Wall Street created our current mess, not the public health insurance and other social programs.

Here in Minnesota the Republicans have put forward a privatization plan to change existing state public health insurance plans to a voucher system. Low-income Minnesotans would use vouchers to buy coverage in the private marketplace. The StarTribune has an article on how this would work, http://www.startribune.com/politics/statelocal/119371774.html.

The voucher system is complex and works fine as long as a person doesn't get sick. But the whole purpose of health insurance is to protect you when you do get sick!

If the Republicans were open to creative ideas they would embrace the Minnesota Health Plan (MHP), which covers everybody and cost less.

Note: Opinions expressed in this article are that of the authors and do not neccessarly reflect the views of the Senate District 25 DFL or DFL in general.

Real Stories of Health Reform

2011-03-22T19:58:00.000-07:00

Minnesotans feel the benefits of health reform every day. Here are just a few of their stories.

For years Democratic leaders have worked to end insurance companies worst practices, lower premium costs for families, and make sure every American has access to quality care. One year ago this Wednesday, President Obama and our Democratic leaders in Congress made that long-held dream a reality and signed the Affordable Care Act into law.
Check back each day this week to see a new video, highlighting the difference the Affordable Care Act has made for people and families around Minnesotans.
March 21, 2011, The Ihle Family

Not long after their son William was born, Justin and Kari Ihle of Brooklyn Park, MN found out their son had Tuberous Sclerosis. It's a genetic condition that affects William's major organs, his brain, and recently has caused seizures. William regularly sees 6-7 specialists and takes medication to help control the seizures. His condition is something that will need to be monitored for his entire life. And until the passage of the Affordable Care Act, it was a pre-existing condition that would have made it impossible for him to be approved for health insurance if his father had ever changed jobs, lost his job, or once William was too old for his parents' insurance. Watch the Ihles tell the story in their own words, and describe the real way the Affordable Care Act has helped their family.

[ Source - This is from the State DFL's website: http://dfl.org/RealStoriesHCR ]

Forums on LGA and Property Taxes

2011-03-11T12:24:00.000-08:00

House Minority Leader Paul Thissen would like to invite you to an informal roundtable discussion about LGA and how local communities might attempt to deal with potential cuts.

Northfield Roundtable DiscussionWhen:    Saturday, March 12th, 2011
                 10:00 a.m.

Where:   Northfield Community Resource Center
               Human Services Wing, 222 (HS222)
                1651 Jefferson Parkway
              Northfield, MN 55057
              ( map )Guests in Attendance include:
Former Tax Chair, Rep. Ann Lenczewski and Rep. Rick Hansen

Le Sueur Roundtable Discussion

When:    Saturday, March 12th, 2011
              1:00 p.m.

Where:    Le Sueur High School
                Commons
                  901 Ferry Street
                  Le Sueur, MN 56058
                ( map  )

Guests in Attendance include:
Former Tax Chair, Rep. Ann Lenczewski, Rep. Terry Morrow, and Rep. Kathy Brynaert

Onward to Health Care Reform II

2011-03-09T18:26:00.000-08:00

Onward to Health Care Reform II

It was disappointing that the T.R. Reid event scheduled for February 23rd was cancelled. Hopefully it can be rescheduled for later this year.

Health care issues are still brewing in the MN State Legislature. We attended an information house party on Sunday, February 27th, in Savage. Senator John Marty came to discuss health care reform at the state level. He was met by an enthusiast group of people with questions and concerns.

John started the conversation with a summary of the nine principles any health care reform must include. Those interested can find these principles at: http://mnhealthplan.org/principles.html. The Minnesota Health Act was drafted to meet these principles. John Marty, as the primary author, first introduced the bill to create the Minnesota Health Plan (MHP) in the previous legislative session. It passed four committees and was endorsed by over 70 Legislators. The bill has been re-introduced this session as; Senate File SF-8 and House File HF-51. Because of the change in the makeup of the Legislature, the bills will probably not be supported in this legislative biennium. At the house party, there was much discussion about the MHP; what it covers, the cost savings and how it would be funded. It is estimated we could save 20 to 25% as a state and still cover everyone’s health care needs.

We learned that Sen. Marty has authored another bill to address concerns over the high costs to insure people in our public Medical Assistance (MA) and Minnesota Care programs through HMO’s. The bill is SF-457, the “Managed care oversight and accountability in health care program contracts requirement”.

This bill:

Directs the Dept. of Human Services to directly administer the 95,000 new MA recipients

Specifies that, where we continue to contract with the HMO Plans, that the bids for these contracts be truly competitive

Demands that the Plans receiving state business keep their books using Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and undergo regular audits

This bill is in response to concerns raised in earlier health committee meetings as noted in our previous article. Let’s hope the bill has strong bipartisan support!

There is interesting news from the Connecticut state government. In January 2012, their agency that administers medical assistance to its low-income residents will eliminate using taxpayer dollars on managed care insurers. Instead, it will switch to fee-for-service for cost savings. This is similar to what John Marty’s bill is all about.

Some encouraging news has come out of Washington D.C. President Obama has endorsed a senate bill giving states flexibility in their approach to health care reform. The bill would allow states to begin implementation of reform plans starting in 2014 rather than 2017 as currently stipulated in the Affordable Care Act (ACA). These plans must meet or exceed the criteria in the ACA and would give states flexibility in their approach to health care reform.

(c)2011 Senate District 25 DFL / Steve & Joan Janusz. All rights reserved.

Note: Opinions expressed in this article are that of the authors and do not neccessarly reflect the views of the Senate District 25 DFL or DFL in general.

Senate District 25 DFL Central Committee Meeting

2011-03-07T08:30:00.000-08:00

We're excited to announce our first Central Committee meeting of the year with special guest Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak.

All DFLers are invited to attend.

Senate District 25 DFL Central Committee Meeting

When:    Saturday, March 26th, 2011
               10:00 a.m. start time

Where:   Lonsdale Public Library
                (large meeting room)
                1006 Birch Street NE
                Lonsdale, MN 55046
                ( map )

Stay tuned for more special announcements relating to the Central Committee Meeting.

Special Notice

2011-02-23T08:01:00.000-08:00

SPECIAL NOTICE:

Because of weather the T. R. Reid event scheduled for Wednesday, 2/23/2011 has been canceled and will be rescheduled. If you made a contribution to the event via the on-line registration, rest assured that it will be refunded.

Onward to Health Care Reform

2011-02-16T17:42:00.000-08:00

We, Joan and Steve Janusz, have been invited to contribute to the SD 25 web site. For the past three years we have educated ourselves on our health care system focusing on accessibility and payment. It’s been quite a roller coaster ride!

There are four major conclusions we believe:
1. Health care is an issue of justice; everybody has a “right” to quality health care

2. Our present health care payment systems are very costly and we can’t sustain the increasing costs

3. To rein in the costs and pay for health care everybody must contribute to a fund, based on their ability to pay

4. To change how we pay for health care requires a grass roots movement similar to how woman’s suffrage and civil rights were won; not something for the faint of heart!

We will use the Senate District 25 DFL web site to pass on information about happenings at the State and Federal levels regarding health care reform, with an occasional dose of our own thoughts and insights.

To get started: last week we attended two state house legislative health committee meetings. Both meetings focused on Medical Assistance (MA) and Minnesota Care (MN Care) which are public plans paid by the State. The administration of these plans is primarily contracted with insurance companies (HMO’s). It was interesting to observe a less contentious setting than last year’s session.

Before the first meeting there was a mini rally in support for better transparency between the public plans and the HMO’s. This was triggered by the statements made by David Feinwachs, former General Counsel of the MN Hospital Association. David dared to point out that the $3 billion given to the HMO’s remains unaudited.

The Health and Human Services Finance committee meeting had a full room of observers which surprised the chairperson. Presentations were made by the Minnesota Medical Association (MMA), MN Department of Human Services, David Feinwachs, and a representative from the Minnesota Council of Health Plans (Blue Cross, Ucare, etc.). The committee was striving to understand the costs of the public plans to the state. It was interesting how the legislators looked to David Feinwachs several times to help interpret things being said by the other presenters. Our overall impression was the legislators were not fully accepting what the HMO’s were presenting.

The Health and Human Services Reform committee meeting followed. This meeting focused on an overview of the public plans, implementation of the Expanded Medical Assistance program, and future changes that lie ahead with the Federal Affordable Care Act (ACA). The Expanded MA program is a result from provisions in the Federal ACA. At this point the plan is to enroll the approximately 95,000 people in the Expanded MA program through the State Dept. of Human Services (DHS). Then DHS would assign each of these people to an HMO. Thus, the insurance companies would end up with all 95,000 people. Because of expressed concerns and protests that question transparency and cost, it is hoped the DHS will reconsider this approach.

We realize from listening to these committees how complicated the rules are and procedures that exist with our public state health care plans.

Finally, there is a wonderful opportunity next Wednesday to learn more about health care reform. T.R. Reid, noted journalist, who produced the PBS Frontline documentary “Sick Around the World” and written the recent book “The Healing of America” is coming to Minnesota. See the below flyer for specifics on the event. Help spread the word about the event!

Note: Opinions expressed in this article are that of the authors and do not neccessarly reflect the views of the Senate District 25 DFL or DFL in general.

Welcome to the Future

2011-02-13T08:08:00.000-08:00

I-TEAM: Money For Home Inspections Used To Plug Budget « CBS Minnesota

2011-02-11T06:39:00.000-08:00

I-TEAM: Money For Home Inspections Used To Plug Budget « CBS Minnesota

This is what happens when we irresponsibly use budget shifts and cuts without any thought or reason.

In Honor of MLK

2011-01-16T20:35:00.000-08:00

On The Eve of Election Day

2010-11-01T21:14:00.000-07:00

Let's take a look at all the President and a Democratic controlled Congress has accomplished over the last two years.

I Remember... Do You?

2010-10-29T20:44:00.001-07:00

Star Tribune Endorses Mick McGuire (HD25A)

2010-10-27T20:59:00.000-07:00

We would like to congratulate Mick McGuire for receiving the Star Tribune's endorsement:

25A: Mick McGuire
Montgomery Mayor Mick McGuire's DFL candidacy gives voters in southwest-exurban District 25A the chance to send a pragmatic problem-solver to St. Paul. It's a chance they ought to seize as they replace GOP state Rep. Laura Brod.

McGuire, 58, has spent 18 years in nonpartisan city government, 10 of them as mayor, and 23 years as owner of a landscape contracting business. Those experiences have prepared him well for legislative service. They've instilled in him a deep understanding of what makes communities thrive, including a good sense of how government contributes to private-sector success.

His Republican opponent, Glenn Gruenhagen, declined our interview invitations. Gruenhagen, 58, is a Glencoe Silver Lake school board member whose campaign website prominently features his opposition to abortion, gay marriage and illegal immigration. Those are tangential matters at a time when state revenues are projected to fall nearly 20 percent short of scheduled spending in the next biennium.

As mayor, McGuire knows first-hand how to creatively cut spending to preserve basic services. He also knows that for cities like his, core services are now unavoidably on the chopping block if state aid cuts continue. State government could use that kind of knowledge.

( Full Story Star Tribune 10/26/10 )

Senate District 25 DFL's Statement on Recent Attack Mailers

2010-10-26T20:47:00.000-07:00

As Chair and Associate Chair of Senate District 25 DFL we are very disappointed about the State DFL's use of attack mailers in our district.

We respect our candidates, volunteers and supporters too much to have had any part in these attack pieces.

We have officially notified the State DFL of our disappointment and have requested that they stop using such tactics.

Shawn Groth
SD25 DFL Chair

Harriet Wishnick
SD25 DFL Assoc. Chair

Republicans Want to Repeal This?!?!

2010-10-26T12:31:00.000-07:00

Ballad of Paul & Sheila

2010-10-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

Wellstone!

2010-10-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

Photo courtesy of Wellstone Action!

Today we honor the memories of Paul and Sheila Wellstone.

It was eight years ago today when Paul and Sheila, their daughter Marcia and three campaign staffers - Tom Lapic, Will McLaughlin, and Mary McEvoy - were traveling to campaign events in northern Minnesota when their plane crashed near the Eveleth airport. There were no survivors.

Today we remember, reflect and honor their contribution in making our State, our Country and our World a better place.

Photo Journal: Lonsdale Chamber's Candidate Forum

2010-10-23T21:33:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from the Lonsdale Chamber's candidates forum which occurred this past Wednesday.

State Representative David Bly answers a question. (left: David's Republican endorsed opponent for State House)

State Senator Kevin Dahle answers a question. (left: Kevin's Republican endorsed opponent; right: Kevin's independent opponent)

More photos are posted on our facebook page: Lonsdale Chamber's Candidate Forum

Madore for Congress - First Commercial

2010-10-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

Election Day 101: Finding Your Polling Place via Smartphone

2010-10-04T07:21:00.000-07:00

Want to find your polling place via your smartphone?

Simply scan this barcode with your phone's camera (barcode scanning application may be required). Bookmark the site to use on election day.

White House White Board: Tax Cut Explanation

2010-10-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

So if it hasn't created jobs ("it doesn't work") why continue the tax cuts to the super wealthy?

~ September 11, 2001 ~

2010-09-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

Today we reflect back to the events of September 11, 2001.

We remember the lives and dreams lost on that horrific day.

We honor the survivors, first responders, and the 9/11 families.

Today we remember.

We will never forget.

God Bless All Who Were Touched That Day.

God Bless The United States of America!

The List: Five Things to Know About Labor Day

2010-09-06T07:59:00.000-07:00

1. The First Labor Day Parade:

On September 5, 1882, some 10,000 workers assembled in New York City to participate in America's first Labor Day parade. After marching from City Hall, past reviewing stands in Union Square, and then uptown to 42nd Street, the workers and their families gathered in Wendel's Elm Park for a picnic, concert, and speeches. (source)

2. Labor Day is About the Labor Movement:

Here's a great link that gives some history on the Labor Movement:
http://www.aflcio.org/aboutus/history/history/100years.cfm

3. Labor Day - How it Came About; What it Means:

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

Check out this link for more information:
http://www.dol.gov/opa/aboutdol/laborday.htm

4. More Work to Do:

Here's a link that shows each state's minimum wage - it was shocking to see where Minnesota is on this issue:
http://www.dol.gov/whd/minwage/america.htm#footnote

5. Honoring Our Nation's Hard Working Men & Women - in Our President's Words:

President Obama marks the end of Operation Iraqi Freedom

2010-09-01T20:53:00.000-07:00

Mark Dayton Addresses the Minnesota DFL State Central Committee

2010-09-01T19:08:00.000-07:00

This is Mark Dayton's speech to the Minnesota DFL State Central Committee on the day we officially endorsed Mark Dayton.

McGuire Responds (Le Sueur News-Herald)

2010-08-29T21:13:00.000-07:00

McGuire responds to letter in last week's News-Herald

I am responding to a submission in your last issue by David Anderson of Lonsdale with a clarification regarding some of the information he provided in his letter.

While it is true that I respectfully declined to submit the MCCL endorsement questionnaire, I would add that I also did the same with the NARAL endorsement questionnaire.

For the benefit of your readers, I would like to describe the nature of these questionnaires. In both cases, candidates are asked to answer a series of questions with only a “yes” or “no” response. In fact, the questionnaire instructions specifically forbid candidates from offering any kind of explanation or reasoning in their response to questions involving extremely complex issues. This format prevents them from offering any meaningful information about their stance on these issues. In both cases, the organizations are using these questionnaires as nothing more than litmus tests.

Complex issues require more thoughtful and nuanced answers than a simple “yes” or “no” response. Mr. Anderson may call this “smoke and mirrors,” but I believe that most people don’t see the world simply in black or white. As a candidate who seeks to represent House District 25A – in all its diversity—I believe it would be a disservice to see just the black or the white, without consideration of the many shades of gray in between.

I for one believe that there are too many polarizing influences in our current politics. This is one of the reasons I have chosen to run for the State House of Representatives. I do not come to this campaign, as some do, with a strong ideological agenda. Instead, I promise two things: to listen and to do my best to serve my constituents.

Mick McGuire

Mayor of Montgomery

Candidate for House District 25A

Source: Le Sueur News-Herald Thursday, August 19, 2010

Fifth Year Anniversary of Katrina

2010-08-29T20:26:00.000-07:00

Today we remember the victims of Hurricane Katrina. We honor those that died and those who survived. You are in our thoughts.

DFL STRONG

2010-08-29T18:31:00.000-07:00

at Webster Harvest Days Parade!

Today we had an AWESOME group of DFLers out to support State Rep. David Bly and State Senator Kevin Dahle in the Webster Harvest Days Parade. See the photos below of today's fun!

Thank you to all who volunteered! You all were GREAT!!

Our great volunteers standing with State Senator Kevin Dahle and State Rep. David Bly.


Waiting for the parade to begin.


The parade starts!


Alan and Charlie preps "Carla" (the car).

State Rep. David Bly gets the team ready.

Lonsdale Community Days Photos

2010-08-28T22:10:00.000-07:00

Supporters walk with State Senator Kevin Dahle down mainstreet.

State Senator Kevin Dahle with a supporter.

"Carla" (the car), State Senator Kevin Dahle and DFLers wait for the parade to start.

Remembering the Dream

2010-08-28T08:08:00.000-07:00

Lonsdale Community Days Parade

2010-08-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

Come walk with fellow DFLers in the Lonsdale Community Days Parade.

There will be two units available. One is the Rice County DFL's unit and the other one is State Representative David Bly's unit.
Information below.

When: Saturday, August 14th
Line up begins at 1:00pm
            Parade starts at 2:00pm

Where: Line up is on Industrial Drive Southeast
   Industrial Drive is off of Highway 19 in Lonsdale
               (Map)

Rice County DFL's Unit

Parade Unit Number: 38
Confirmed candidates walking with the Rice County DFL Unit are:
State Senator Kevin Dahle
T-shirts and signs will be available for these candidates.

Volunteers Needed:

To walk with the Rice County DFL, Candidates and Supporters.
Please contact Rich Keiser by phone: (507) 301-3346 to volunteer. You can also just show up.

State Representative David Bly's Unit

Parade Unit Number: 52
T-shirts and signs will be available for volunteers.

Volunteers Needed:

To walk with State Rep. Bly and Supporters.
Please contact David Bly by phone: (507) 645-8328 or by e-mail: david@davidbly.com to volunteer.You can also just show up.

Rep. David Bly on Health Care Safety Net in Greater MN

2010-07-16T20:53:00.000-07:00

State Rep. David Bly (DFL - Northfield) talks about the state of our health care safety net in Greater Minnesota and its impact on patients and providers.

Remembering Ken Beck

2010-07-05T16:40:00.000-07:00

In Loving Memory
Kenneth (Ken) J. Beck
1949 - 2009

Today we remember a dear friend and fellow DFLer. It's been a year since our community lost a champion of people, a teacher, an actor, a husband, a brother, a friend.

Today we celebrate the blessings we received in having known such a kind, and caring individual. We miss his laughter, his advice, his knowledge, his friendship, his passion and his love.

His contributions to us collectively and individually will never be forgotten.

Here's a story that ran in Ken's hometown newspaper roughly a year ago:
Beck made a difference in community

Happy Independence Day!

2010-07-04T18:09:00.000-07:00

DFLers throughout the Senate District celebrate Independence Day the American way - with food, family, friends, fireworks and parades (lots of parades)!!

Pictured above is State Representative David Bly, who walked with supporters in Veseli's Fourth of July Parade.

The Senate District 25 DFL wishes everyone a Happy and safe Fourth of July!

Check out our Facebook page to see more photos.

Fourth of July Parades

2010-06-28T17:00:00.000-07:00

Elysian's Fourth of July Parade

Join LeSueur County DFLers, and Candidates...

When: Sunday, July 4th, 2010

Parade starts at 2:00 p.m.

Line up starts at 1:00 p.m.

Volunteers Needed:

To walk with the LeSueur County DFL's parade unit and with candidates and other DFLers.

Please RSVP to Janet Straub, LeSueur County DFL Assoc. Chair
(click on Janet's name to send e-mail RSVP)

Click here for information about Elysian's Fourth of July Events.

***

Veseli's Fourth of July Parade

Join State Representative David Bly and Supporters...

When: Sunday, July 4th, 2010

Parade starts at 3:00 p.m.

Line up starts at 2:00 p.m.

Volunteers Needed:

To walk with State Rep. Bly and Surporters.
Please contact David Bly by phone: (507) 645-8328 or by e-mail: david@davidbly.com to volunteer.

Click here for information about Veseli's Fourth of July Events.

Republicans disdainful of unemployed Americans

2010-06-24T20:32:00.000-07:00

Rachel Maddow reviews disparaging remarks made by Republicans about unemployed Americans, referring to them as "hobos" and 'stray animals."

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Henderson's Sauerkraut Days Parade

2010-06-22T17:15:00.000-07:00

Join Le Sueur County DFLers and Candidates at Henderson's

Sauerkraut Days Parade

When: Sunday, June 27, 2010

Parade starts at Noon

Line up starts at 11:00 a.m.

Volunteers Needed:

Cherry Creek Days Parade - Cleveland

2010-06-19T20:49:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day for a parade! Thank you to the Le Sueur County DFL for organizing a parade unit to walk in Cleveland's Cherry Creek Days parade.

State Senator Kevin Dahle (SD25) and State Representative candidate Mick McGuire (HD25A) walked with an energetic group of DFLers and supporters.

Mick McGuire chats with parade spectators.

Mick McGuire's Ford tractor.

Mick McGuire waves at parade spectators.

photos courteous of S. Groth

Join us at the Cherry Creek Parade in Cleveland

2010-06-18T19:10:00.000-07:00

Join Le Sueur County DFLers and Candidates at Cherry Creek Days Parade in Cleveland.

When: Saturday, June 19, 2010

Parade starts at 5:30 p.m.

Line up at: 5:00 p.m.

To Volunteer (walk with the parade unit):

Line up no later than 5 p.m. by the grain elevator on the east side of Cleveland across the road from Kokomo's.

Candidates & Elected Officials:
Please RSVP to Janet Straub, LeSueur County DFL Assoc. Chair
(click on Janet's name to send e-mail RSVP)

LeSueur County DFL's First Parade

2010-06-09T20:01:00.000-07:00

Join Le Sueur County DFLers and Candidates at Waterville Bullhead Days Parade.

When: Sunday, June 13, 2010

Parade starts at 1:00 p.m.

To Volunteer:

Walk with the LeSueur County DFL's parade unit
Meet at Dave and Jane Cummiskey's residence
1280 Highway 13, Waterville
11:30 a.m.

Please RSVP to Janet Straub, LeSueur County DFL Assoc. Chair
(click on Janet's name to send e-mail RSVP)

Area Business Forums

2010-06-09T17:30:00.000-07:00

{from State Senator Kevin Dahle's weblog}

This past week I spoke at a meeting of the Northfield Downtown Development Corporation along with Representative David Bly. A few days later I spoke at at a gathering of the New Prague Chamber of Commerce along with Representative Laura Brod. With a couple of dozen persons on hand, the topics focused on the recently completed legislative session and the outlook for the next session. Of course there were some concerns expressed about Local Government Aid cuts, rising property taxes, the next state budget, the overall economy, and the health of our downtown businesses...

Read full posting here: http://www.kevindahle.net/wordpress/?p=693

State Rep. David Bly on the end of session

2010-06-05T18:15:00.000-07:00

Armed Forces Day - Thank You!

2010-05-15T17:46:00.000-07:00

We would like to thank the brave men and women who serve in our armed forces today, as our country celebrates "Armed Forces Day", and everyday.

History of Armed Forces Day:

In a speech announcing the formation of the day, President Truman "praised the work of the military services at home and across the seas" and said, "it is vital to the security of the nation and to the establishment of a desirable peace." In an excerpt from the Presidential Proclamation of Feb. 27, 1950, Mr. Truman stated:

Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 20, 1950, marks the first combined demonstration by America's defense team of its progress, under the National Security Act, towards the goal of readiness for any eventuality. It is the first parade of preparedness by the unified forces of our land, sea, and air defense.

Source: http://www.defense.gov/afd/military/history.html

Le Sueur County DFL - Old Fashion Bean Feed

2010-05-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

Join your friends and neighbors of the Le Sueur County DFL for their annual Old Fashion Bean Feed.

When: Saturday, May 15th, 2010

1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Where: Dave and Jane Cummiskey's Home

1280 Highway 13 North

Waterville, MN

Ticket Cost: $10.00

For more information please contact Janet Straub (mailto:jrstraub@usfamily.net ).

"Inside the Beltway" to Feature Dan Powers

2010-04-27T23:08:00.000-07:00

Carleton College's radio program "Inside the Beltway" with Erik Anderson and Dan Antoszyk to feature Dan Powers - DFL Endorsed 2nd Congressional District Candidate on May 5th's show.

Show Time: 7:00pm
Tuning In: 88.1 FM (in the Northfield area) - You can also listen online: http://www.krlx.org/dj_blogs/2117/

If you have a particular issue(s)/questions you'd like to see addressed, contact Erik at antoszyd@carleton.edu

St. Olaf College Democrats Celebrate "Blue Week"

2010-04-27T14:03:00.000-07:00

The St. Olaf College Democrats kicked off Blue week with an hour long event featuring State Senator Kevin Dahle of Northfield. Pictured above is State Senator Dahle listening to a question by the St. Olaf College Democrat's Chair Jason Teiken. Many issues were discussed from the budget deficit to the tone in the legislature.

Blue Week continues with the following events:

Dinner Discussion with Dan Powers - DFL endorsed candidate for Congress

The discussion will focus on Green Jobs and an update on Dan's Campaign.

When: Wednesday, April 28th

6:00 - 7:00 pm

Where: St. Olaf Campus

Buntrock Commons

Room # 143

Discussion with State Representative David Bly

The discussion will focus on Healthcare and the Middle Class Amendment

When: Thursday, April 29th

6:00 - 7:00 pm

Where: St. Olaf Campus (Northfield)

Buntrock Commons

Room #142

These events are open to the public.

Happy 40th Anniversary Earth Day!

2010-04-21T22:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Earth Day everyone!

I thought I'd provide some useful links dealing with Earth Day and Environmental Concerns. Please share with your friends!

The Earth Day Action Network:
http://www.earthday.org/

The Arbor Day Foundation:
http://www.arborday.org/

Need information on recycling electronics - check out the EPA's site:
http://www.epa.gov/wastes/conserve/materials/ecycling/donate.htm

40 tips to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day:
http://earth911.com/earthday/

Find a recycling center near you at Earth 911:
http://earth911.com

Earth Day is a worldwide event - so here's an interesting blog from the UK:
http://www.recyclethis.co.uk/

Sierra Club's website:
http://www.sierraclub.org/

Join the Earth Day Action Network on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Earth-Day-Network/22877548156

Know any other blogs or websites dedicated to the environment?
Please share by posting a comment with the link.

This is what we're about!

2010-04-02T07:01:00.000-07:00

"We all do better, when we all do better."

State Senator Dahle & Representative Bly Host a Town Hall

2010-04-01T11:12:00.000-07:00

This past Monday - State Senator Kevin Dahle and State Representative David Bly held a Townhall meeting at the Northfield Public Library. Roughly thirty individuals attended the meeting. A broad range of topics were discussed from health care to the budget deficit.

We would like to thank Senator Dahle and Representative Bly for listening to their constituents.

State Rep. Bly listens to constituent's concerns. (above)

State Senator Dahle listens to constituent's concerns. (above)

State Rep. Bly answers a constituent's question. (above)

State Senator Dahle shares a lighter moment with a constituent.

Photos: (c) 2010 Senate District 25 DFL. All rights reserved. You may not use the photos in this post without written consent of the Senate District 25 DFL. Use of these photos without consent is violation of the U.S. Copyright laws.