We hope your early summer is going well, despite all the humidity and the unsettling news from around the country (and world). What can one person do? Start close to home and do one or two small things to support the good in our country.
“politics… is the ancient and honorable human endeavor of creating a community in which the weak as well as the strong can flourish, love and power can collaborate, and justice and mercy can have their day… a civic community sufficiently united to know our own will and hold those who govern accountable to it.” — Parker Palmer
Every little step helps build that civic community. Here are some links for volunteer opportunities coming up soon. Take a look and pick one or more to sign up for— we need and REALLY APPRECIATE your help!
July 19
EAST BETHEL BOOSTER DAYS BOOTH AND PARADE
Our northern neighbors in SD31 need as many of us to turn out as possible. Volunteer for the Booth (10 am- 7 pm) or the Parade (3-5 pm)— or BOTH!
Our biggest fundraiser of the year, and a chance to get together with other DFL’ers from nearby districts. Lots of good food and good friends. Sign up to volunteer, and/or send us your info for silent auction items. Every cent from these items goes to SD31, so submit an item or two to the auction!
For Silent Auction — print and fill in the Bid Sheet (see link). We need name, address, and value of the item to be donated (for our reports). This can be dropped off with the item at the Picnic.
NEW for this year SD31 is working with other DFL Districts to run a Donut Booth at the State Fair. And we share in the proceeds. Shifts are 5-6 hours in length, and can be as much fun as they are work. We have openings on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday of Fair week— one morning and 3 afternoon times are available. Sign up here:
* Candle Light Vigil Wednesday 6/25 for Melissa and Mark Hortman and John and Yvette Hoffman
* SD31 Needs VOLUNTEERS for Summer events starting Saturday 6/28
Greetings, DFL Friends– It is easy for our heads to spin with all that is happening at the national and world levels. We have no idea where Trump’s war will take us all. And we in Minnesota are also still reeling from the assassinations of Melissa and Mark Hortman and the shooting of John and Yvette Hoffman. Below find details about the Wednesday 6/25 Candlelight Vigil for Melissa. Let’s join with other local DFL’ers in this event.
AND there are many ways to be take action this summer— SD31 needs lots of volunteers— so please sign up! Read on for specifics.
And don’t forget our monthly meeting on July 8!
Meanwhile, keep cool and spend some good summer moments with family and friends.
Wednesday, June 25
7:30 PM
Candle Light Vigil
In honor of Melissa and Mark Hortman
And supporting John and Yvette Hoffman
Hosted by Transformative Circle, empower Diaspora, and League of Women Voters
Take a look at these opportunities and sign up— enjoy the company of fellow progressives and speak out to our community. The next big event is the Ham Lake “Freedom Festival” this Saturday— shared with SD32. Then, the Coon Rapids Parade on July 2, shared with SD35.
*Anoka County Fair July 22-27— Tuesday-Sunday Anoka Co DFL
Ramsey Game Fair August, 2nd & 3rd Weekends
*North Metro Picnic– Long Lake Park, New Brighton August 12— Tuesday
Several other SD’s
Picnic & Silent Auction
*Ramsey– Happy Days September 6— Saturday
Parade/ Booth?
Linwood–Family Fun Days September 6— Saturday
* = SD31 DFL planned involvement— SPECIAL NEED FOR VOLUNTEERS!
School Board Meetings
Anoka-Hennepin
Work Sessions allow for observation only— but we need people to watch what is happening! Major decisions are often made in these meetings, without a written record.
Work Sessions– Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka
Mondays
6/30— 4:30 pm- Board Policy Committee Meeting
8/11— 5:30 pm- Regular Work Session
Regular School Board Meetings– Sandburg Ed. Center, Anoka 1902 2nd Ave
Mondays, 6:30 pm
7/14
8/25
If you cannot make the meetings in person you can also watch live. The agenda and streaming link are posted here:
Make a donation of any size to SD31 and get a full refund— before the legislature takes it away!
Contribute whatever you can– and then GET A FULL REFUND for any amount up to $75 per person. If you make smaller donations, save your receipts and submit them together— this is a one-time refund per person. Each member of a couple can get the full $75 refund.
After donating atVoteBlueMN.org, just print and fill the following document and send it in with your receipt. The address is on the form.
Newsletters and other Emails from SD31 DFL will typically be sent out on Monday or Tuesday, once or twice a month. If you have an item to share, please submit it by noon on Friday to:
We also welcome longer items for our website if you have articles, blogs, or letters that you would like to share! Check the site out at VoteBlueMN.org.
THANK YOU for every effort you are able to make— no matter how large or small. Stay connected with us as we struggle to resist the authoritarian extremists and make our communities, state and country better!
No Kings, and More … All of a sudden, from LA and across the country, so much is going on. Here is a quick but limited update about some of the leading events.
“NO KINGS”
Once again, Indivisible has taken the lead in organizing these protests– originally to counter the huge Soviet-style military parade Trump has ordered for his birthday this Saturday, 6/14. And now with the repression spanning out from LA, it is even more important that ordinary citizens join together and speak out against the corruption, the hatred, and the madness. It is equally important that we do this PEACEFULLY– and not give Trump’s military reasons to attack and create scenes for their theatrical show of force. Protests are scheduled for several spots in Minnesota this Saturday— but you will need to sign in at a link to get specific information and register.
or join the regular protests at Emmer’s Office– Otsego Tuesday 430-530 pm, Saturdays 11 am- noon
Closer to home – take 1: State DFL Daily Call messages
Some recent highlights… Friday, June 13– listening session in Bloomington at the VFW. Congresswoman Kelly Morrison and Former Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough are special guests. Visitors are invited to attend. June 13 Humphrey-Mondale– dinner with JB Pritzker. They have a dedicated Content Creators table at the event to get the word out- Saturday, June 14- No Kings Day–there are 37 rallies in MN. Richard Carlbom, DFL Chair, will be at 4 of them. Monday June 16- Richard will be at the Bemidji Fish Fry
New Co-host: DFL Director of Operations Hannah Dereje will join the calls as a co-host
Expect an announcement Monday about a New Program for Summer of Action that districts can join.
LA situation: Trump wants to expand his authoritarian regime. He is trying to distract from the fact that big business is making lots of money with changes in tariffs and the big bad bill. We need to continue to hold him to account.
Message of the Day: Minnesota Democrats are fighting for workers, not corporate power.
June 11 graphic shows a Minnesota Reformer article about how Democrats protected the ban on non-compete agreements from carve-outs sought by big business. Share graphics like this from the DFL: https://dfl.org/post/
Closer to home – take 2: Volunteer for SD31 DFL this summer
SD31 DFL had our monthly meeting this Tuesday, 6/10. Chair Leslie Pendergast shares this quick summary: “The biggest call out for the newsletter is that we’re looking for volunteers for various parades, fairs and other activities. Sign-ups for all the various festivals are on the Neighborhood Network website. We also are canceling our Aug meeting so that everyone can join the North Metro Picnic (on Tuesday August 12) to participate and donate silent auction items. Protest this weekend of course. Buses are full.”
Several candidates are seeking endorsement to run as the Democrat against Congressman Emmer in 2026. CD6 DFL is organizing a series of forums to introduce each candidate and their values. These events are also a chance for you to share your thoughts on the key issues facing our district. We’ll be holding four forums across the district, each focused on the unique challenges in our communities. Check out the calendar for these events here: https://cd6dfl.com/candidateforums
Thank you, and keep up the good work. Let your voice be heard, in PEACE and LOVE!
Greetings, DFL Friends– We hope you are getting a good start to your summer. The geese have been bringing lots of babies into our yard— a mixed blessing but a sign that life goes on despite our political ups and downs.
Speaking of ups and downs, as we bounce between wet and dry, hot and cool at this time of year, it is reminiscent of the newly minted term, TACO Trades. Investors are finding out that Trump’s threats are often drastically cut back as time goes on— “Trump Always Chickens Out!” Trump seems to time his threats to help his billionaire friends and family benefit from the market swings.
Well, his administration does not ALWAYS back down—ask the people who have been wrongly deported to cruel prisons in El Salvador, Sudan, Libya.
Corruption and Cruelty seem to be the order of the day from Washington. And so-called conservatives seem no longer to be interested in the Constitution they once revered. Check our website for a refresher on the Bill of Rights and what they mean to us!
There will be many ways to get active this summer— see below or go to VoteBlueMN.orgfor ideas. See you this summer!
_____________________________________
Key Upcoming Events (details below)
June 9— Monday
5:30-7 PM
Anoka County DFL Celebration for Jerry Newton & Fundraiser
Crooners Supper Club, Fridley
June 10— Tuesday
6:00- 8 PM
SD31 DFL Monthly Gathering
Andover Community Center
June 13— Friday
5:30- 9 PM
MN State DFL Humphrey-Mondale Dinner
Special Guest Gov JB Pritzker
June 14— Saturday
NO KINGS Protest events
Otsego (10-12), Anoka (11-2), Forest Lake (10-12), and Minneapolis (11-1)
Protests at Tom Emmer’s Office- organized by Indivisible
Saturdays 11:00 Am -12:00 Noon
Tuesdays 4:30-5:30 PM
Tom Emmer Office, 9201 Quaday Ave, Otsego (Elk River) MN
__________________________________________
TUESDAY, June 10 (and the second Tuesday every month)
SD31 DFL Monthly Gathering for Social Connections and Business
6:00 pm Social / 6:30 pm call to order
Andover Community Center- Community Room A
____________________________________________
MONDAY 6/9 and After
School Board Meetings — St Francis And Anoka-Hennepin
The students and faculty of our school districts need our continued support as the right-wing faction seeks to undo years of progress and stop anything related to equity or teaching history honestly without whitewashing.
Anoka-Hennepin
Work Sessions allow for observation only— but we need people to watch what is happening! Major decisions are often made in these meetings, without a written record.
Work Sessions–-.
NEXT: Monday 6/9, 7/14
5:30 pm Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka
Regular School Board Meetings—
NEXT: 6/23, ?7/14, 8/25
6:30 pm, Sandburg Ed. Center, Anoka 1902 2nd Ave
If you cannot make the meetings in person you can also watch live. The agenda and streaming link are posted here:
State DFL Humphrey-Mondale Dinner Minneapolis Hilton
The 13th annual Humphrey-Mondale Dinner will be held the evening of Friday, June 13th, 2025 with keynote speaker, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. The Annual Humphrey-Mondale Dinner is the largest DFL event of the year and tickets will sell out quickly. If you’re interested RSVP today to save your seat and hear from Governor Pritzker and our incredible Minnesota leaders!
If you are interested in attending click Reserve Tickets to sign up.
__________________________________________
SATURDAY. June 14
“No Kings” National Mass Protest
This is planned as a counter to Trump’s militarized dictatorial “Birthday” event. It is organized by a separate group.
Protests are planned across the Metro region— at somewhat differing times. The closest are:
Otsego (10-12)
Anoka (11-2)
Forest Lake (10-12)
Minneapolis (11-1)
For more info, or to sign up: https://www.nokings.org/ _______________________________ Links and Notes You Can Use Keep checking our SD31 DFL Website: VoteBlueMN.org
The Silence of Republicans on Trump defying the Constitution— Heather Cox Richardson:
Make a donation of any size to SD31 and get a full refund— before the legislature takes it away!
Contribute whatever you can– and then GET A FULL REFUND for any amount up to $75 per person. If you make smaller donations, save your receipts and submit them together— this is a one-time refund per person. Each member of a couple can get the full $75 refund.
After donating atVoteBlueMN.org, just print and fill the following document and send it in with your receipt. The address is on the form.
Email Updates and Submissions Newsletters and other Emails from SD31 DFL will typically be sent out on Monday or Tuesday, once or twice a month. If you have an item to share, please submit it by noon on Friday to info@VoteBlueMN.org
We also welcome longer items for our website if you have articles, blogs, or letters that you would like to share! Check the site out at VoteBlueMN.org.
_______________________________
THANK YOU for every effort you are able to make— no matter how large or small—to help prevent tyranny in our country, and to make this state and country better. Please stay connected!
Greetings, DFL Friends– We hope you have been managing in the heat… and don’t get hit now with hail or tornadoes. The world seems to keep getting hotter, and more climate-chaotic— despite Trump’s efforts to silence National Weather Service and climate science. Thermometers don’t lie (unlike Trump and the GOP)!
The news keeps on coming about Trump’s abandonment of the US Constitution and embracing of Corruption and Cruelty. There are lots of ways to respond, to resist, and to try to find a solid way forward. One of the best ways is to stay connected with others, especially fellow DFL’ers. The summer looks like it will be a “long hot summer” in more ways than one. Take a look at the opportunities for action that are just past your doorstep. Each of us can pick one thing to do and stick to it.
Our most recent general SD31 DFL monthly meeting took place on Tuesday May 13. See notes below, as well as lots of other activities locally and across the Metro.
_____________________________________
Key Upcoming Events (see details below)
**Saturday 5/17: COMMUNITY ADVOCACY FAIR— 11 am -2 pm
Sponsored by SD31 DFL Outreach
Rum River Library, Anoka
Tuesday 5/20: Clean Elections MN Webinar with Sec. of State Steve Simon 7 pm
“The Threat to Voting by the SAVE Act and President Trump’s Executive Order”
Daily: DFL Statewide Call. 1045 am (info below)
Weekly: Protests at Emmer’s Office, Otsego
Tuesdays 4-5 pm
Saturdays 11 am- Noon
_________________________________________
TUESDAY 5/13 was our most recent
SD31 DFL Monthly Gathering & Business Meeting
Items discussed included (unofficial list):
*Treasurer report was presented. We have a solid pad in our account.
*The group agreed to have a budget plan (spending and income) by the time of the August meeting
*Elaine Drew was elected as assistant Treasurer
*Several Director positions remain open— please volunteer!
*Same for State Central Committee representatives (2 positions)
*Abbey Payeur, nonpartisan candidate for School Board, talked about her campaign
TUESDAY, June 10 (and the second Tuesday every month)
6:00 pm Social / 6:30 pm call to order
Andover Community Center
Officers for 2025-2027: Chair: Leslie Pendergast 1st Vice Chair: Andy Hillebregt 2nd Vice Chair: Alyson Gullette Secretary: Betsy O’Berry Treasurer: George Drew Outreach Officer: Nichole Hayden
Congratulations and THANKS to our new officers!
__________________________________________
SATURDAY 5/17
** NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORK- COMMUNITY ADVOCACY FAIR! **
Our Neighborhood Network now has connections with thousands of voters. One important upcoming event sponsored by the NN is the Community Advocacy Fair. This is “An event designed to connect community members with non-profit organizations that provide valuable services and volunteer opportunities.”
This gathering is a great opportunity to connect with fellow community members, enjoy some refreshments, and talk with others who work to support important causes in our community. These are community members of non-profit organizations who provide valuable services and volunteer opportunities that make a positive impact in our district. No RSVP required.
Date: Saturday, May 17 Time: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm Place: Rum River Public Library 4201 6th Ave NW Anoka MN 55303 For more on the Neighborhood Network, check out their separate website, http://dflneighborhoodnetwork.net
AND If you would like to support this great work, here is a direct link:
HUNGER: From school meals to SNAP, Minnesota Republicans are trying to cut the programs that prevent working families from going hungry. Congress is voting this week to cut SNAP benefits. This is for children and seniors in particular. They are taking food out of people’s mouths to fund tax cuts for billionaires. Find the graphic at dfl.org/post
RADICAL RIGHT EXTREMIST RUNNING FOR GOVERNOR: Minnesotans don’t want Kendall Qualls or his far-right agenda anywhere near Minnesota government—which is why they’ve already rejected him twice before. See the graphic at dfl.org/post
Kendall Qualls is set to announce that he is running for Governor. Qualls is a culture warrior. He wants to defund public education. He opposes family planning.
HEALTH CARE: 230,000 Minnesotans could lose their health insurance if the GOP Medicaid cuts pass. Representative Morrison is building a coalition to fight back.
TARIFFS KILL MINNESOTA BUSINESSES: Small businesses across Minnesota are being devastated by Donald Trump’s chaotic trade wars. Minnesota’s jobs and businesses are on the line. Trump’s trade war and tariffs only help a few large businesses and billionaires. Our 4 Republican members of Congress are CHOOSING to help a few billionaires on the backs of MN small businesses.
Some of the recent suggested actions:
Put this message on your social media and tag Reps. Finstad, Emmer, Fischbach and Stauber. Ask them why they want kids to be hungry.
Use DFL.org/voteno to send letters to members of Congress about the cuts to SNAP benefits.
Join us at the Humphrey Mondale dinner June 13. Humphreymondale.com Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is the keynote speaker.
_______________________________________________
SATURDAYS 5/17, 5/24, 5/31, 6/7, and every Saturday
SD31 DFL Saturday Coffee Break
830-11 am
Starbucks inside Andover target
______________________________________________
TUESDAYS 5/20, 5/27, 6/3, 6/10
SATURDAYS 5/17, 5/24, 5/31, 6/7, 6/14
Protest Emmer And Musk Every Tuesday And Saturday
at Emmer’s Otsego office— organized by Indivisible North Metro Place:
Tom Emmer Office, 9201 Quaday Ave, Otsego (Elk River) MN
Times:
Tuesdays 4:30-5:30 pm
Saturdays 11 am- Noon
____________________________________________
Sunday 5/18
Indivisible North Metro Bridge Brigade
Champlin- 10-11 AM
Parking at Mann Theater in Champlin by the pedestrian bridge. Bring your American Flags!
This is a recurring event every week.
___________________________________________
MONDAY 5/19 and After
School Board Meetings — St Francis And Anoka-Hennepin
The students and faculty of our school districts need our continued support as the right-wing faction seeks to undo years of progress and stop anything related to equity or teaching history honestly without whitewashing.
Anoka-Hennepin
Work Sessions allow for observation only— but we need people to watch what is happening! Major decisions are often made in these meetings, without a written record.
Work Sessions— 4th Mondays, 5:30 pm Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka. NEXT: 6/9
Regular School Board Meetings— Mondays, 6:30 pm, Sandburg Ed. Center, Anoka 1902 2nd Ave.
NEXT: 5/19, 6/23
If you cannot make the meetings in person you can also watch live. The agenda and streaming link are posted here:
North Metro School Board Candidate Night & Community Fundraiser
(sponsored by School Board Integrity Project)
Starts at 6:00 PM
Alloy Brewing Company
2700 Coon Rapids Blvd NW
Coon Rapids, MN
Join us for a fun and energizing evening as we kick off the 2025 school board campaign season in the North Metro!
Meet local school board candidates from across districts like Anoka-Hennepin, Fridley, Mounds View, Spring Lake Park, and more. Enjoy great food, inspiring guest speakers, and meaningful conversations about how we can protect our public schools and support leaders who put students, educators, and integrity first.
Come for the conversation, stay for the community. Together, we can build a future where honesty, inclusion, and the freedom to learn are at the center of public education.
This event is hosted by the School Board Integrity Project (SBIP). Donations are welcome and will go directly toward supporting local candidates and our community engagement efforts.
Can’t make it but still want to contribute? You can donate here:
State DFL Humphrey-Mondale Dinner Minneapolis Hilton
The 13th annual Humphrey-Mondale Dinner will be held the evening of Friday, June 13th, 2025 with keynote speaker, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. The Annual Humphrey-Mondale Dinner is the largest DFL event of the year and tickets will sell out quickly. If you’re interested RSVP today to save your seat and hear from Governor Pritzker and our incredible Minnesota leaders!
If you are interested in attending click Reserve Tickets to sign up.
_______________________________ Links and Notes You Can Use Keep checking our SD31 DFL Website: VoteBlueMN.org
The Silence of Republicans on Trump defying the Constitution— Heather Cox Richardson:
Make a donation of any size to SD31 and get a full refund— before the legislature takes it away!
Contribute whatever you can– and then GET A FULL REFUND for any amount up to $75 per person. If you make smaller donations, save your receipts and submit them together— this is a one-time refund per person. Each member of a couple can get the full $75 refund.
After donating atVoteBlueMN.org, just print and fill the following document and send it in with your receipt. The address is on the form.
Email Updates and Submissions Newsletters and other Emails from SD31 DFL will typically be sent out on Monday or Tuesday, once or twice a month. If you have an item to share, please submit it by noon on Friday to info@VoteBlueMN.org
We also welcome longer items for our website if you have articles, blogs, or letters that you would like to share! Check the site out at VoteBlueMN.org.
_______________________________
As always, THANK YOU for every thing you are able to do— no matter how large or small—to help prevent tyranny in our country, and to make this state and country better. Please stay connected!
Greetings, DFL Friends– As we note on our website, momentum is growing— protests are spreading. Maybe it is even safe to say that people are starting to “wake up”? Please make use of our website to locate events such as protests and other gatherings. There is a lot going on and we want to keep this newsletter manageable! Besides helping with protests and letter-writing, REMEMBER our Park Clean-up in Saturday 4/26, our regular meeting on 5/13, and our big Community Advocacy Fair on 5/17.
And By the Way, April 21-28 is International Dark Sky Week. Check out
https://idsw.darksky.org/ to learn more about what we can do to preserve and protect one of our most threatened resources and legacies.
_____________________________________
Key Upcoming Events (see details below)
Monday 4/21: Health Care for All Minnesota Town Hall. 7 pm
Anoka County DFL Meeting 7 pm @Teamsters Hall, Blaine
Tuesday 4/22: Earth Day Rally at MN State Capitol. 130-330 pm
Protest at Emmer’s Office, Otsego. 430-530 pm
Friday 4/25: MOVIE NIGHT IS CANCELLED for this month
Saturday 4/26: DFL Coffee Break. 830-11 am
SD31 Park Cleanup— Hidden Creek Park North. 11 am- 1 pm
Protest at Emmer’s Office, Otsego. 11 am- Noon
Monday 4/28: A-H and St Francis School Board Meetings 630 pm
Wednesday 4/30: SENIOR CAUCUS Rally to SAY STOP to 100 Days of Destruction 1-3 pm
Friday 5/9- 5/11: Young Democrats of America National Convention- Minneapolis
Tuesday 5/20: Clean Elections MN Webinar with Sec. of State Steve Simon 7 pm
“The Threat to Voting by the SAVE Act and President Trump’s Executive Order”
Daily: DFL Statewide Call. 1045 am
Tuesday 5/13: SD31 DFL Monthly gathering. 6 pm
Saturday 5/17: Community Advocacy Fair. 11 am -2 pm
_________________________________________
TUESDAY 5/13
SD31 DFL Monthly Gathering & Business Meeting
Our next SD31 DFL Meeting:
Tuesday, May 13 (and the second Tuesday every month)
6:00 pm Social / 6:30 pm call to order
Andover Community Center
At our last meeting, our annual conference or business meeting or “convention,” we elected new officers for the 2025-2026 term: Chair: Leslie Pendergast 1st Vice Chair: Andy Hillebregt 2nd Vice Chair: Alyson Gullette Secretary: Betsy O’Berry Treasurer: George Drew Outreach Officer: Nichole Hayden
Congratulations and THANKS to our new officers!
__________________________________________
MONDAY 4/21
Anoka County DFL Meeting
7 pm, Teamster’s Hall, Blaine
_________________________________________
MONDAY 4/21
Health Care For All: Minnesota Town Hall 7pm
This important gathering will focus on federal government actions that are harming Minnesotans – and how we can respond together. Speakers include: US Representative Ilhan Omar (MN-05)
DFL Floor Leader Jamie Long
MN Senators Omar Fateh and Doron Clark
MN Representatives Esther Agbaje, Emma Greenman, Katie Jones, Sydney Jordan, Samantha Sencer-Mura, Mike Howard, Anquam Mahamoud, and Aisha Gomez.
Date: Monday, April 21
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Will be shared via email before the event
Click HERE to register and receive the location details!
For these town halls, we’re also looking for:
Personal stories about how harmful federal policies are impacting you or your family
Volunteers to help greet or sign people in at the event
If you’re willing to share your story or volunteer, please email us at info@hca-mn.org
_____________________________________
TUESDAY 4/22
Earth Day Rally at the MN State Capitol 1:30 – 3:30 PM
Join Friends of the Boundary Waters and their partners in front of the Minnesota State Capitol at 1:30pm, and make your voice heard.
This event will bring together advocates for clean water and air, for climate solutions, Indigenous rights, public lands protection and more.
This Earth Day, your presence matters now more than ever. The decisions being made today will affect our wilderness areas for generations to come.
Event Details:
What: Earth Day Rally at the Minnesota State Capitol steps (or Rotunda in bad weather)
at Emmer’s Otsego office— organized by Indivisible North Metro Place: Tom Emmer Office, 9201 Quaday Ave, Otsego (Elk River) MN
Times: Saturdays 11 am- Noon
Tuesdays 4:30-5:30 pm
________________________________________________
SATURDAY 4/26 (and every Saturday)
SD31 DFL Saturday Coffee Break
830-11 am
Starbucks inside Andover target
__________________________________________
SATURDAY 4/26
** SD31 Park Cleanup**
Saturday 4/26
11 am -1 pm
Hidden Creek North Park
2620 Bunker Lake Blvd, Andover
We need your help! Pitch in for an hour or so to help clean up a corner of our community— let’s keep showing them we are “Good People Doing Good Things.”
____________________________________________
MONDAY 4/28 and After
School Board Meetings — St Francis And Anoka-Hennepin
The students and faculty of our school districts need our continued support as the right-wing faction seeks to undo years of progress and stop anything related to equity or teaching history honestly without whitewashing.
Anoka-Hennepin
Work Sessions allow for observation only— but we need people to watch what is happening! Major decisions are often made in these meetings, without a written record.
Work Sessions— 4th Mondays, 5:30 pm Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka. NEXT: 5/12, 6/9
Regular School Board Meetings— Mondays, 6:30 pm, Sandburg Ed. Center, Anoka 1902 2nd Ave.
NEXT: 4/28, 5/26
St Francis
2nd and 4th Mondays , 6:30 PM, Community Room, District Office
4115 Ambassador Boulevard NW, St Francis MN 55070
NEXT: 4/28, 5/12
_____________________________________________
WEDNESDAY 4/30
DFL Senior Caucus: Rally to
SAY STOP to 100 Days of Destruction
1-3 pm
Minnesota DFL Senior Caucus, in partnership with allied organizations, is hosting a rally to say STOP to 100 days of destruction – and to defend the programs that keep our communities healthy, stable, and secure.
We’re calling for:
No more attacks on Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and Veterans’ health care
A government that works for the people, not corporate profiteers
Protection of essential public programs for future generations, not just today’s retirees
Rally Details:
Where: MN State Capitol (75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., St. Paul MN 55155
Time: Order food— room opens at 12:30; Meeting starts: 1:00 PM
_____________________________________
SATURDAY 5/17
** NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORK- COMMUNITY ADVOCACY FAIR! **
Our Neighborhood Network now has connections with thousands of voters. One important upcoming event sponsored by the NN is the Community Advocacy Fair. This is “An event designed to connect community members with non-profit organizations that provide valuable services and volunteer opportunities.” Date: Saturday, May 17 Time: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm Place: Rum River Public Library 4201 6th Ave NW Anoka MN 55303 For more on the Neighborhood Network, check out their own website, http://dflneighborhoodnetwork.net
AND If you would like to support this great work, here is a direct link:
https://secure.actblue.com/donate/sd31nn
Also, don’t forget our weekly DFL Coffee Break every Saturday morning 830-11 at the Starbucks inside the Andover Target.
_______________________________________
TUESDAY 5/20
Clean Elections Minnesota Webinar with Sec. of State Steve Simon:
“The Threat to Voting by the SAVE Act and President Trump’s Executive Order”
The DFL State party started daily communication calls Monday – Friday at 10:45AM These calls highlight what is important to talk about for the day along with text to post on your FB pages. If you’re interested in signing up for these calls, click this link: Sign Up For DFL Comm Calls
State DFL Humphrey-Mondale Dinner Minneapolis Hilton
The 13th annual Humphrey-Mondale Dinner will be held the evening of Friday, June 13th, 2025 with keynote speaker, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. The Annual Humphrey-Mondale Dinner is the largest DFL event of the year and tickets will sell out quickly. If you’re interested RSVP today to save your seat and hear from Governor Pritzker and our incredible Minnesota leaders!
If you are interested in attending click Reserve Tickets to sign up.
_______________________________ Links and Notes You Can Use Keep checking our SD31 DFL Website: VoteBlueMN.org
Fighting for Due Process for us all— Heather Cox Richardson on Abrego Garcia:
Make a donation of any size to SD31 and get a full refund— before the legislature takes it away!
Contribute whatever you can– and then GET A FULL REFUND for any amount up to $75 per person. If you make smaller donations, save your receipts and submit them together— this is a one-time refund per person. Each member of a couple can get the full $75 refund.
After donating atVoteBlueMN.org, just print and fill the following document and send it in with your receipt. The address is on the form.
Email Updates and Submissions Newsletters and other Emails from SD31 DFL will typically be sent out on Monday or Tuesday, once or twice a month. If you have an item to share, please submit it by noon on Friday to info@VoteBlueMN.org
We also welcome longer items for our website if you have articles, blogs, or letters that you would like to share! Check the site out at VoteBlueMN.org.
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As always, THANK YOU for all the work you are doing to help prevent tyranny in our country, and to make this state and country better. Please stay connected!
4. Appoint of Temporary Chair for Elections Wayne Grimmer
5. Reading of the Affirmative Action Statement read by Wayne
II. Election of State Party Officers
Election of SD31Chair
Leslie Pendergast nominated, elected unanimously
Election of SD31 First Vice Chair
Andy Hillebregt nominated, elected unanimously
Election of SD31Second Vice Chair
Alyson Gullette, nominated, elected unanimously
Election of SD31 Outreach and Inclusion Officer
Nichole Hayden, nominated, elected unanimously
Election of SD31 Secretary
Betsy O’Berry, nominated, elected unanimously
Election of SD31 Treasurer
George Drew, nominated, elected unanimously
Election of SD31 Deputy Treasurer
No nominations, position open
The State Central Committee now has two openings.
There are now 5 open director positions.
These positions will be filled at the next executive meeting.
This part of the meeting was adjourned at 6:52
Leslie back to chairing
Addendum: Wesley and Cheryl Volkenant are no longer serving in capacity as finance representatives and will be removed from the SD Bank accounts. George Drew as treasurer will remain on the accounts and Leslie Pendergast as chair will be added.
III. Officer Reports
Chair Leslie
Three buses were sent to the State protest rally
25,000 people were at the Capitol
Other people attended the Anoka
Vice Chair Alyson
Reported that more people than expected attended the Anoka County protest
The protest was peaceful, there was a lot of traffic, waves from cars, young people, variety of signs,
incredible day
Outreach Officer Charlie
There was a big mailing last week. Sent out 3800 letters. 6500 letters so far this year.
144 zones, 186 active members, talking to 4988, 45% of all of the Democrats in the SD,
3800 homes, 8600 voters, 18000 overs total. The stamps and printing have been donated in kind by the network. $3032 donated. In the hole $1200. Crew of 14 people put together the mailing.
Nichole reported May 17 will be an Advocacy Fair at the Rum River Library. We did Outreach to over 200 local organizations. Organizations cannot solicit at the library. Attendees can offer email address. Deadline until Wednesday prior to the event. Open House style. No signage is allowed at the library.
Treasurer
Current balance is $11,303
IV. Allied Group reports
Anoka County DFL
Betsy reported Anoka County is not dependent on redistricting. Convention last Saturday with Richard Carlbom keynote speaker. About 100 people attended. Election of officers, 4 incumbents and Janelle Calhoun new Outreach Officer. Some changes to the constitution. Then social time with treats. Opportunity for various districts to connect. Anoka County is an important county. We have flappable seats. Next meeting will be April 21, at 7pm third Monday of the month, in person meeting, will be electing directors and setting up committees. We need to improve communication within the county.
Anoka County Senior Caucus
Mel reported caucus meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at Davanni’s. We have 100 people on the mailing list. Our meetings have about 35 attendees. We lost elections in School Boards. Parents’ Alliance has memberships in 48 states. St. Francis School Board lost members in the last election. District 11 is tied. Almost didn’t pass a budget. It’s not a non-partisan election any more. We had the School Integrity Project speaker. Summer social in Duluth. Mel convinced the state organization that the School Board elections are a senior issue.
CD6
Wayne reported May 3 Business Conference at the Teamsters. Wayne will be stepping down for CD 6 chair.
CD8
Leslie reported that they have not had meetings. The chair stepped down. There are some changes.
SCC Updates
Betsy reported they meet 4 times of year. A new election of officers. Richard Carlbom was elected to replace Ken Martin. Richard has been very active in Minnesota DFL. We kept Marge Hoffa as 1st Chair who has been active in participating in DFL activities throughout the state. Incumbent Shivanthe was reelected. Incumbent Secretary Cerie was reelected. New Outreach Officer Quentin Ochama.
V. Old Business
Committee Informational Update
Leslie reported they had a meeting with 5 committees at the library.
Events
Have had 2 meetings
Parades and fairs are coming up (11 events)
Wants to have some branding at the events (tables, tent…)
Needs budget money about $700
Betsy moved to approve up to $1000, Mel seconded, passed
Alyson inventoried the contents in storage
Anoka County DFL has a storage unit.
Park clean up in Andover, want to be visible, need pictures on the website
Hidden Creek North, needs cleaning up now. Alyson proposed April 26 at 11am.
She asked City Hall to move the sign to a more visible place.
Outreach (Advocacy)
Nichole is looking for volunteers to help with the Advocacy Fair at Rum River Library on May 17 at 10am. Please email her at nicholehayden@edinarealty.com
If you can do just one thing: Keep on contacting your Legislative and Congressional Reps! Be persistent, every week or every day. Call or email. Pick the topic you care most about. Keep it simple. Demand they explain if they are not supporting the Constitution, or if they are supporting MAGA-corruption.
Greetings DFL Friends— It is Business Meeting Conference Time! Every year our local Senate District has a Business Meeting Conference/Convention, with different tasks for even-numbered years and odd-numbered years. This year we elect officers for the 2025-2026 cycle. See below for the Invite material— but PLAN TO ATTEND on TUESDAY APRIL 8!
Also check out our next Movie night— March 28— when we will get a break from all the pain and enjoy the heartfelt comedy of Mike Birbiglia!
Then read on for other events, alerts, and links.
___________________________________________________________________________ MOVIE NIGHT and Potluck this FRIDAY March 28!
We are aiming for a little relief and happiness this month— and have selected a comedy routine by the amazing Mike Birbiglia— “The Old Man and the Pool.” As before, we will gather at the Andover Community Center in the Teem Room. The potlucks have been working well, so that is the plan again this month— bring a dish or dessert to share, or come as you are! No worries, there is always plenty to go around. Please sign up by Thursday, March 27th so we can get a count on the number of people to expect. And remember we depend on small voluntary donations— we appreciate it if you are able to help. Mobilize Link:
What: COMEDY: Mike Birbiglia— The Old Man and the Pool Date: Friday, March 28, 2025 Time: Meet at 5:30PM for the potluck. Movie starts at 6:00PM Location: Andover Community Center, Teem Room 15200 Hanson Blvd. NW, Andover, MN 55304 Enter using door #13 located on the NE corner of the building
LOCAL Senate District Conference/Business Conference
Tuesday, April 8, 2025
All Democrats who live in our District are welcome at the conferenceto attend and to run for any of the open offices for the next 2-year cycle.
This conference/meeting will be the kick-off for the political activities of this critical year. If you only come to one DFL meeting this year, make this the one!
Official voting Delegates were elected in 2024, and will receive a separate invitation. Even if you are not an official Delegate, we hope you will attend and will consider serving as a district officer.
Open Positions include:
Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, and Outreach & Inclusion Officer. There are also open positions for Director. The SD31 Constitution will be reviewed, and resolutions will be considered.
Please respond to this email (to info@VoteBlueMN.org) if you wish to be considered for one of these positions, or contact us at the same email if you have questions.
Date:Tuesday, April 8, 2025 Time: 6:00 pm: Registration begins 6:30 pm: Meeting starts —(meeting expected to take 90 minutes- 2 hours) Place: Andover Community Center
Community Room A
15200 Hanson Blvd NW, Andover, MN 55304
Accommodations: If you will need accessibility accommodations for the conference, please contact: Vice Chair Leslie Pendergast at (763)442-8986.
“Donald Trump and Elon Musk think this country belongs to them. They’re taking everything they can get their hands on, and daring the world to stop them. On Saturday, April 5th, we’re taking to the streets nationwide to fight back with a clear message: Hands off!”
A major national protest will take place in Washington DC. There will also be marches in every state capital, including St Paul.
“Indivisible National along with many other civic organizations has designated April 5th HANDS OFF DAY! Many of you will be heading to the state Capitol, but others will have an opportunity to rally a little closer to home!
Once you’ve registered, the location will be emailed to you.
We’ll make some signs, but please feel free to bring your own. We’re focusing on the theme of “HANDS OFF __”! Some ideas: PUBLIC EDUCATION, VETERANS’ BENEFITS, OUR JOBS, PUBLIC LANDS, HEALTHCARE, MEDICAID, MEDICARE, SOCIAL SECURITY, OUR LABOR UNIONS, IMMIGRANT FAMILIES, OUR LGBTQ+ COMMUNITIES, OUR ENVIRONMENT, OUR DEMOCRACY, UKRAINE, PANAMA, GREENLAND, MEXICO, CANADA, NATO….” Register here: https://mobilize.us/s/EEfhiu
This is a national mass activation in defiance of the Trump-Musk billionaire takeover and the Republican assault on our freedoms and our communities. Hands Off! is an all-in moment for the pro-democracy, pro-worker movement—a demand, a warning, and a rallying cry that responds to the primary reasons for our mobilization:
• Trump and Musk are attempting an illegal power grab is a crisis we must stop. • Trump, Musk, and congressional Republicans are gutting services, raising prices, and racing towards slashing Medicaid, Social Security, and more. • Trump, Musk, and congressional Republicans are on this path of destruction for the benefit of their billionaire allies.
Whether you are mobilized by the attacks on our democracy, the slashing of jobs, the invasion of privacy, or the assault on our services—this moment is for you. We’ll be part of a massive, visible, national rejection of this crisis. Our goal is to show that the people—the majority—are taking action to stop the corruption and power grab.
Bring your signs, and meet us for this inspiring, peaceful, and mobilizing show of solidarity.
DON’T FORGET our other regular weekly and monthly SD31 meetings:Weekly: DFL Coffee Break Every Saturday in March Starbucks in Andover Target on Bunker Lk Blvd 8:30-11:00 AM Monthly: SD31 DFL Social and Business Meeting These meetings are as much about getting together for mutual support as they are for business. So please brave the elements and come out to join your friends! Time: 6:00 pm Social / 6:30 pm call to order
Place: Andover Community Center — Community Room A
Next regular meeting (after the conference): May 13, 2025
PROTEST EMMER AND MUSK EVERY TUESDAY AND SATURDAY
at Emmer’s Otsego office— organized by Indivisible North Metro
ATTEND SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS — ST FRANCIS AND ANOKA-HENNEPIN Anoka-Hennepin School Board Meetings
Work Sessions— 4th Mondays, 5:30 pm Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka. Next Regular Board Meetings: Mar 24, April 28, May 27
Regular School Board Meetings— Mondays, 6:30 pm, Sandburg Ed. Center, Anoka 1902 2nd Ave. Next Work Sessions: Apr 14, May 12.
Work Sessions allow for observation only but we need people to watch what is happening! Major decisions are often made in these meetings, without a written record. We need observers to help keep the Board accountable, especially in this critical Budget period.
St Francis School Board Meetings
2nd and 4th Mondays
6:30 PM
Community Room, District Office
4115 Ambassador Boulevard NW, St Francis MN 55070
Next Meetings: March 24, April 14, April 28, May 12
Check out the “FIGHTING OLIGARCHY TOUR” https://berniesanders.com/oligarchy/ The tour started on February 21 in Omaha, Nebraska, and has visited Wisconsin, Colorado, Nevada, and Arizona. Bernie Sanders has been joined by Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) in several sites. They have been visiting places that voted for Joe Biden in 2020 but for Republican House candidates in 2024.
The message: The Oligarchs who want to run our lives have wealth over $200 billion each, while 60% of families live paycheck to paycheck, and 85 million in the US live without adequate health insurance. Just short of a million people are homeless in this, the so-called richest country on earth.
“The oligarchs’ nightmare is that we will not allow ourselves to be divided up by race, religion, sexual orientation or country of origin, and will together have the courage to take them on.”
Contribute to SD31-DFL and get a REFUND before the legislature takes it away!
The cycle has started again for 2025, and is being threatened in the legislature this year: Contribute whatever you can to SD31 DFL– GET A FULL REFUND for any amount up to $75 per person. After donating at VoteBlueMN.org, just go to this site to find, print, and fill the following document— then send it in with your receipt: ________________________________________________________
Email Updates and Submissions Newsletters and other Emails from SD31 DFL will typically be sent out on Monday or Tuesday, but only if there is new information or announcements that need to be sent as reminders. And more often during the lead-up to the election. If you have an item to share, please submit it by noon on Friday to info@VoteBlueMN.org
We also welcome longer items for our website if you have articles, blogs, or letters that you would like to share! Check the site out at VoteBlueMN.org.
As always, Thanks for your efforts and PLEASE stay connected at the movies, our conference, protests, and all the other ways we can support each other and this state and country.
A Good Economy for Working Families— Fighting Hatred and Racism— Liberty and Justice for ALL, Including Health Care, Women’s rights and reproductive freedom— Taking care of our Home– the Earth
Our Moral Guideposts:
Love Your Neighbor— Truth, Justice and Compassion— Non-Violence— Showing up to Do Your Part
From our Neighbors in SD46, here is a great opportunity to learn more about the crisis facing Healthcare in Minnesota:
DFL46 hosts an EduCivics Speaker Series on pressing issues. Our next event addresses Minnesota’s health care crisis. Please pass along to your groups.
The presentation will be led by two experts on the American health care system:
Rose Roach, Chair, Health Care for All MN, and National Coordinator, Labor Campaign for Single Payer
Dr. Carrie Henning-Smith, associate professor UMN School of Public Health, and co-direcor of the UMN Rural Health Research Center.
They will discuss our high costs and poor results compared with other industrialized nations; the particular problems in rural Minnesota with its lack of access and mounting burden of medical debt; and what work is being done on health care in the legislature.
