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Author Archives: Charlie
SD31 DFL News- Holiday Edition
December 12, 2024
Friends—
Warm Holiday Wishes! First, a quick look at upcoming events— and then further on, a few thoughts about the old year transitioning to the new one…
Read on for…
- New Look for Our Websites
- December Events
- New Dates and Times for 2025 (Movie Night Jan 31!)
- Winter Clothing Donations Needed
- Links Worth Checking Out
NEW LOOK FOR OUR WEBSITES
First, MANY THANKS to Mark Lopez for all his work helping SD31 DFL get started with our website after re-districting! After 4 years, Mark has a number of new activities, and lives in another district— and he has passed the torch to Charlie Baarsch and our Communications group.
We are now in the process of making some updates to the two websites we sponsor. We hope that these sites will become active hubs where people check in frequently for new information. Please be sure to checkout our sites several times in the next few weeks:
VoteBlueMN.org
dflneighborhoodnerwork.net
DECEMBER EVENTS
We will not have a general meeting in December, but there are still a few important events before the end of the year:
Saturday Morning SD31 DFL Coffee Break 08:30-11:00 am
Starbucks in Andover Target, 2000 Bunker Lake Blvd
For DFLers looking for politically compatible company. We just get together, talk over events, relax, and get re-energized to face another week. Drop in, stay as long as you like, and see what we are all about. Charlie is usually there.
Saturdays— December 14, 21 and 28 and January 4 and 11
December 16, Monday
Anoka County DFL Holiday Party Potluck
6 pm 12/06/2024
Betsy O’Berry’s House
8701 160th Ct NW, Ramsey MN 55303
NEW DATES AND TIMES FOR 2025
Mark your Calendars for our new meeting times and other events:
** Movie Night Returns with a Potluck in January!**
We are bringing back a favorite event from earlier last year— monthly movie night, joining with our friends from SD35. We will start in January with a potluck to watch the inspiring movie Pride, about the real events when LGBTQ folks joined with coal miners in a major strike in the UK— a fun reminder of what can be done through solidarity!
Movie nights will be on the last Friday of each month in 20252025
Place: Andover Community Center— Teen Room
Date: Friday, January 31
Time: 530-830 PM
SD31 DFL General Monthly Meeting Shifts to TUESDAYS
Our regular monthly meetings will move to Tuesdays in 2025— the second Tuesday of each month.
Place: Andover Community Center— Community Room A (DOWNSTAIRS!)
Date: Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm Social Gathering, 6:30-8:00 pm business meeting
Anoka-Hennepin School Board Meetings
Work Sessions-– Mondays, 5:30 pm Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka.
Regular School Board Meetings— Mondays, 6:30 pm, Sandburg Ed. Center, Anoka 1902 2nd Ave.
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.
Next Regular Board Meetings: Jan 13, Jan 27, Feb 24
Next Work Sessions: Feb 10, March 3
Anoka County DFL Senior Caucus
From Mel Aanerud (aanerud4@comcast.net):
January 8 we will have Representative Ginny Klevom, the chair of the State Legislative Task Force on Aging. We will also hold elections for officers – Chair, Vice chair, Secretary and Treasurer and any other officer we believe we need.
Place: Perkins in Blaine— 12545 Ulysses St NE
Date: January 8
Time: Order food— 11:30 AM; Meeting starts: 1:00 PM
MN Legislature Session Begins
The next session of the MN Legislature begins on
Tuesday, January 14.
The schedule calls for the legislature to finish its work by
Monday, May 20.
WINTER CLOTHING DONATIONS NEEDED
There has been a request for warm winter clothing for unhoused and underserved Native Minnesotans from aid groups that Ellen Hadley (of SD35 DFL) works with. Gifts will benefit residents of Four Winds Treatment Center in Brainerd, the CHUM Center in Duluth, and Nenookaasi Aid for unhoused people in Minneapolis. These groups do outreach on the streets of Duluth and Minneapolis every day, and the warm gear that is donated will help save lives, literally.
The needs are mostly for men, but also women, and include the following items:
- Warm jackets and snowmobile suits
- Snow pants, Long underwear, Warm socks, sweaters, flannel shirts
- Boots, Belts
- Mittens and gloves, Hand and toe warmers, Hats and scarves
Folks from SD35 can arrange to pick up items at your homes. They will arrange to transport items to the volunteers who get them to our Indigenous neighbors in need. Call Ellen Hadley at 763-227-9361 to arrange pick up.
LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT
In this newsletter we aim to be uplifting, as far as we can within the limits of reality! Right now it is hard to find items that fit the bill. And of course we need to stay alert to know what is happening— not only in the US but in places like Ukraine and Syria. Expect to see more of those in 2025. But here is one especially good link from Heather Cox Richardson, about a black serviceman who saved others and then paid the ultimate price for Democracy and against fascism on December 7, 1941:
“When America came under attack before, people like Doris Miller refused to let that happen. For all that American democracy still discriminated against him, it gave him room to stand up for the concept of human equality—and he laid down his life for it.”
Keeping warm at this darkest time of year
A little good news—as of December 12, we have passed the earliest sunset of the year— the sun will set later each day after that! Ironically, we wait until January 6 for our latest sunrises, when the sun starts to rise earlier each day again.
We are closing in on the end of a very strange and difficult year. Yet despite the many awful outcomes of the November election, in SD31 we have drawn together and worked hard to be sure that progressive voices are heard in our community. We have discovered new candidates who help carry this message forward (Thanks once more to Dara, Gadisa, Betsy, and Mike!). Our Neighborhood Network has flourished under Charlie’s innovative leadership, showing us that there are more progressives and liberals out here in SD31 than any of us imagined— Good People, Doing Good Things!
As we await the unfolding of the new year in 2025, and prepare ourselves mentally to resist the worst that will be coming our way, let’s all recharge with family and friends, and celebrate this time of year as a time of personal rest and reflection. Let’s find some peace and draw strength from one another.
And let’s remember our shared values, the values that unite us in this work, that we repeat at the end of every newsletter— the values that we will need to guide us in the coming year:
Love Your Neighbor
Truth, Justice and Compassion
Non-Violence
Showing up to Do Your Part
We hope you have a warm and restful Holiday Season!
Your Editor,
Peter
And the whole SD31 DFL Communications team
Contribute to SD31-DFL and get a REFUND
The cycle starts again for 2025: 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:
https://cfb.mn.gov/citizen-resources/board-programs/public-subsidy-of-campaigns/political-contribution-refund-program/
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.
THANK YOU for the energy to move forward despite the fears and frustrations we all face. In whatever ways we can we all need to keep working for a country where
EVERYBODY COUNTS and
No One is left behind…
Step by Step, Always Together, Always Forward.
SD31 Communications
info@VoteBlueMN.org
Our Core Values and Moral Guideposts:
A Good Economy for Working Families
Fighting Hatred and Racism
Liberty and Justice for ALL— including Women’s Rights and Reproductive Freedom
Taking Care of our Home– the Earth
Love Your Neighbor
Truth, Justice and Compassion
Non-Violence
Showing up to Do Your Part
SD31 DFL This Week
November 1, 2024
ONE LAST MESSAGE
BEFORE THE BIGGEST ELECTION
OF OUR LIVES!
FINAL DAY OF VOTING:
TUESDAY NOVEMBER 5
Greetings, DFL Friends–
As this is being written, we have 4 days until Election Day. We all are getting pretty anxious by now, with all of the different polls flying around. Fortunately there are a number of good signs and a lot of DFL Folks with optimism out there. But meanwhile the GOP seems to be just getting more racist, misogynist, and violent in their rhetoric.
So all we can do is to keep doing our best, and to be true to our values. Let’s remind others of how important it is to care about honesty, compassion, and decency; and the Constitution and the Rule of Law. None of these should even be up of debate.
It is time for a new chapter in American history, charted by Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. It is time to heal our divisions. And yes, together we must find a new way forward, not back. It is now over to all of us to be sure that is the path we follow. Remember:
WHAT UNITES US IS GREATER THAN WHAT DIVIDES US!
VOTE, AND BE SURE OTHERS DO TOO!
- What You Need to Know to Vote/ Rides to the Polls
- Watch With Friends Election Night!
- Neighborhood Network Celebration Dinner 11/11
- This Week & Upcoming Events
- SD31 Monthly Meeting Info
- Candidate Campaign Links
- Open Positions- Andover Commissions
- Links You can Use
What You Need to Know to Vote
It is now too late to Vote by mail. Early in-person voting is in progress, and runs through Monday November 4th. Please consider voting early in case something comes up on the final day of voting, “Election Day,” Tuesday November 5th. Please share this information with your friends and family.
You can Register on Election Day— bring your paperwork!
- To register or update your voter registration click HERE (Register or Update Registration)
- To view your sample ballot click HERE (Sample Ballot)
- To find your polling place click HERE (Find Polling Place)
- Vote early in person
- Track your absentee ballot
– You can have an “agent” pick up and/or deliver your ballot.
– Details you need to know, including polling sites, can be accessed via this link:
https://www.sos.state.mn.us/
- Need more help? Call 1-877-600-8683 or your county election office
DFL Rides to the Polls Program
If you are interested in volunteering as a driver, or you are out door knocking and a voter needs a ride, this is good information to know:
- Sign up for volunteer drivers: Volunteer drivers can sign up directly for a brief 30 minute training here, or call 651 251 6363 to sign up.
- Request a ride for voters: Voters should call our DFL Voter Protection Hotline at 1-833-335-8683 (1-833-DFL-VOTE) to request a ride.
- Contact: if you have any other questions, contact Josh Koenig, Deputy Voter Protection Director, at jkoenig@dfl.org or 703 872 9714.
- Other: We are still recruiting for bilingual drivers and Hotline workers if you have interested volunteers who speak languages other than English fluently.
WATCH THE ELECTION RESULTS WITH FRIENDS ON NOV 5!
When it has all been said and done…
Join the SD31-DFL Election Night Watch Party – November 5th
Make sure you don’t spend election night alone. Plan to attend an election night party and share the evening with like minded DFLer’s. Join our Local Candidates:
- GADISA BERKESSA
- DARA GRIMMER
- BETSY O’BERRY
SD31 has joined with Betsy O’Berry, County Commissioner candidate, for a watch party that evening at Aurelio’s Pizza. Aurelio’s has really been impacted by the construction on Highway 10 and they are extremely grateful that we are supporting them. Feel free to invite your friends and neighbors.
Date: Tuesday, November 5th
Time: Festivities start at 7:00pm
Location: Aurelio’s Pizza,
6415 US Hwy 10, Ramsey, MN 55303
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORK CELEBRATION DINNER
MONDAY NOVEMBER 11 @ 6:00-8:00 PM
DAVANNI’s COON RAPIDS
If you have been involved with the Neighborhood Network this year, we are inviting you and your partner, if any, to a Celebration Dinner honoring the dedicated members and supporters of DFL SD31’s Neighborhood Network project.
Join us as we celebrate the commitment and faithful support that have propelled this project to its remarkable success.
“This special evening will be filled with a happy reflection on this year’s events and accomplishments as we look into next year’s opportunities and challenges. Together, let’s toast to our achievements and look forward to growing our political reach to even greater lengths next year.” Charlie, Carrie, Alyson, and Michael
Special Presentation by: HOPE 4 YOUTH
Date: November 11, 2024
Time: 6:00 pm to place your food order – Meeting starts at 6:30
Location: Davanni’s Coon Rapids Party Room at 3430 129th Ave, Coon Rapids
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Please note: To save our budget for next year’s activities, each of us will be responsible for our own food expenses.
Go to this link to reserve your spot:
https://
THIS WEEK & Upcoming Events
Every Saturday Morning— SD31 DFL Coffee Break 9-11 am
Starbucks in Andover Target, 2000 Bunker Lake Blvd
Next Dates: Oct 12, Oct 19, Oct 26
Future Anoka-Hennepin School Board Meetings:
Work Sessions-– 5:30 pm Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka.
NEXT: 11/4, 11/23, 2/10/2025
Regular School Board Meetings-6:30 pm, Sandburg Ed. Center, Anoka 1902 2nd Ave.
NEXT: 11/25, 12/9, 1/13/2025
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.
Also— the Board is seeking non-parent community members for its curriculum council. See this link or call these numbers for more information:
Community Curriculum Advisory Council
https://www.ahschools.us/Page/
763-506-1063
763-506-1066
763-506-1135
763-506-1162
And these events from Clean Elections Minnesota:
November is National Native American Heritage Month
Wednesday, Oct 30. “The Battle for Congress: What’s at Stake?” 12-1 CT via Zoom.
Monday, Nov 18, MinnPost Social: Election Debrief. 5:30 – 7:00 CT at the Minneapolis Cider Company.
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 1:30-3:00. Democracy Talks book club. 1:30 – 3:00, at St Joan of Arc Church, 4537 3rd Ave. So, Mpls 55419. Topic to be announced.
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 5:00-6:30 pm: Bimonthly CEM Board meeting
SD31 DFL Monthly Meeting– Our Last Gathering of the Year–
Be Sure to Join US!
Thursday, November 21
6:00 pm Social / 6:30 pm call to order
Andover Community Center
NO MEETING IN DECEMBER, AND THERE WILL BE A NEW MEETING DAY STARTING IN JANUARY 2024— The Second Tuesday of each Month, starting on January 14.
SD31 Candidate Campaigns
Gadisa Berkessa 31B
(Eastern Andover, Ham Lake, Oak Grove, East Bethel, Linwood, Athens)
https://gadisa4mn.com/
Dara Grimmer 31A
(Ramsey & Western Andover)
https://vote4grimmer.com/about
County Commission Races— Primary August 13
Betsy O’Berry— District 1: Anoka, Ramsey, Nowthen, St Francis
Mike Gamache— District 5: Andover, Coon Rapids, Oak Grove
https://www.reelectmike.com/
OPEN POSITIONS ON ANDOVER ZONING AND NATURE PRESERVES COMMISSIONS— PLEASE APPLY!
The City of Andover has openings on their Planning and Zoning Commission and the Nature Preserve Commission. The deadline for these applications is December 13.
These commissions make a big difference in shaping the future of Andover. This is government by the people, at the most basic level. Please consider applying.
Check the links below for more information:
https://www.andovermn.gov/
https://www.andovermn.gov/253/
https://www.andovermn.gov/257/
Our editor has more information if you have questions:
info@VoteBlueMN.org
Links You Can Use
Keep checking our SD31 DFL Website: VoteBlueMN.org
Are You Sure You Are Registered to VOTE?
Check out this Common Cause site:
https://www.commoncause.org/
Just Imagine the World if the fascists win:
“When Speech Becomes Sedition: Tales from Trumps ‘New America’”
By Thom Hartmann
https://hartmannreport.com/p/
Trump/Musk Plan to bring us “Temporary” Hardship and End Obamacare:
Read this from Heather Cox Richardson:
“Everyone’s going to have to take a haircut…” — Elon Musk
(By the Way, he means everyone besides himself)
https://heathercoxrichardson.
There is Still Time to..
HELP OUR TRUMP REMOVAL PROJECT AND GET YOUR REFUND.
Contribute whatever you can to SD31 DFL–
This year we must get out the vote to defeat Trump and elect as many democrats as we can.
If you have not already done so, contribute to us and then GET A FULL REFUND for any amount up to $75 per person.
After donating at VoteBlueMN.org, just print and fill the following document and send it in with your receipt.
https://mcusercontent.com/
SD31 DFL Leadership
Co-Chair: Alyson Gullette
Co-Chair: Leslie Pendergast
Secretary: Wes Volkenant
Treasurer: George Drew
Outreach Officer: Charlie Baarsch
Communications Director: Peter Miller
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.
Thank you to everyone who has been working so hard. We need to be proud of all of our efforts to turn us away from the threat of fascism and dictatorship, and to make our communities better.
Every action we take helps bring joy back into our lives, and helps build a more unified country where EVERYBODY COUNTS and No One is left behind.
Step by Step, Always Together, Always Forward!
Especially For the Next 4 days: DO IT NOW!
Peter
SD31 Communications
info@VoteBlueMN.org
Our Core Values: A Good Economy for Working Families; Fighting Hatred and Racism; Liberty and Justice for ALL— including 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
SD31 DFL This Week
October 24, 2024
LESS THAN 2 WEEKS TO GO!
FINAL DAY OF VOTING:
TUESDAY NOVEMBER 5
- Greetings– Time to Get Out and VOTE!
- What you need to know to VOTE
- This week & Upcoming Events
- SD31 Monthly Meeting Info
- Candidate Campaign Links
- Neighborhood Network
- Links You can Use
Greetings, DFL Friends–
We are closing in on the final hours of this critical election. In the balance are not just the Presidency— but both houses of Congress and the Minnesota State House— and then there are all the local elections.
Have you voted already? Remember this set of questions (the famous questions of philosopher Hillel) as you make plans for late October and early November:
If I am not for myself, who will be?
If I am not for others, what am I?
If not now, when?
Loosely translated for the modern mind, this comes down to:
Look after yourself.
Take care of others.
Do it now.
Take care of yourself, take care of others, VOTE. And encourage others to vote as soon as they can. Turnout is now the most vital thing, and you are the next link in the chain.
So VOTE and then PASS IT ALONG!
Remember all of Trump’s promises to undermine the outcome of the election, to be a dictator, to disregard the constitution, to deport millions, to use the military against those who disagree with him. The rule of law, and our entire way of life, are at stake. Do everything you can to assure that we welcome Kamala Harris as our next President.
What You Need to Know to Vote
Vote by mail and early in-person voting is in progress now, and runs through Monday November 4th. Please consider voting early in case something comes up on the final day of voting, “Election Day,” Tuesday November 5th. Please share this information with your friends and family.
- To register or update your voter registration click HERE (Register or Update Registration)
- To view your sample ballot click HERE (Sample Ballot)
- To request your absentee ballot click HERE (Absentee Ballot)
- To find your polling place click HERE (Find Polling Place)
- Vote early by mail
- Vote early in person
- Vote from military or abroad
- Track your absentee ballot
– You can have an “agent” pick up and/or deliver your ballot.
– Mail-in ballots must be received by Election Day, so mail early.
– Details you need to know, including polling sites, can be accessed via this link:
https://www.sos.state.mn.us/
- Need more help? Call 1-877-600-8683 or your county election office
______________________________
THIS WEEK & Upcoming Events
SATURDAY OCTOBER 26
Neighborhood Network— FINAL RALLY of the YEAR!
See below for details…
MONDAY OCTOBER 28
Regular Anoka-Hennepin School Board Meeting
6:30 PM
Future Anoka-Hennepin School Board Meetings:
Work Sessions-– 5:30 pm Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka.
NEXT: 11/4, 11/23, 2/10/2025
Regular School Board Meetings-6:30 pm, Sandburg Ed. Center, Anoka 1902 2nd Ave.
NEXT: 10/28, 11/25, 12/9, 1/13/2025
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.
Every Saturday Morning— SD31 DFL Coffee Break 9-11 am
Starbucks in Andover Target, 2000 Bunker Lake Blvd
Next Dates: Oct 12, Oct 19, Oct 26
Join an Election Night Watch Party –
November 5th
Make sure you don’t spend election night alone. Plan to attend an election night party and share the evening with like minded DFLer’s.
** SD31 DFL / Betsy O’Berry Election Night Watch Party **
SD31 has joined with Betsy O’berry, County Commissioner candidate, for a watch party that evening at Aurelio’s Pizza. Aurelio’s has really been impacted by the construction on Highway 10 and they are extremely grateful that we are supporting them. Feel free to invite your friends and neighbors.
Date: Tuesday, November 5th
Time: Festivities start at 7:00pm
Location: Aurelio’s Pizza, 6415 US Hwy 10, Ramsey, MN 55303
And for those with close connections SD-35, another option is…
SD35 DFL Election Night Watch Party
SD35 DFL will be hosting an Election Night watch party at Alloy Brewing in Coon Rapids. Plan to attend and watch the election results come in for both National, State and local elections.
Date: Tuesday, November 5th
Time: Festivities start at 7:00pm
Location: Alloy Brewing Company, 2700 Coon Rapids Blvd., Coon Rapids, MN 55433
Coordinated Campaign Door Knocks and Phone Banking
This is a statewide DFL effort and does not directly affect SD31— but it is a great opportunity to help out in close races.
If you want to help with Door Knocking or Phone Banking, check out the Coordinated Campaign Office:
Coon Rapids Campaign Office, 1557 Coon Rapids Blvd., Coon Rapids, MN
DFL Rides to the Polls Program
If you are interested in volunteering as a driver, or you are out door knocking and a voter needs a ride, this is good information to know:
- Sign up for volunteer drivers: Volunteer drivers can sign up directly for a brief 30 minute training here, or call 651 251 6363 to sign up.
- Request a ride for voters: Voters should call our DFL Voter Protection Hotline at 1-833-335-8683 (1-833-DFL-VOTE) to request a ride. We are also working to have a survey question added to VAN Scripts for GOTV so that voters can request a ride at the doors, which we will then follow up with a daily phone bank. Finally, we are working to add a sign-up link on the DFL website, but our Hotline remains the best way to have a voter sign up for a ride.
- Contact: To request a copy of our interested parties memo, or if you have any other questions, contact Josh Koenig, Deputy Voter Protection Director, at jkoenig@dfl.org or 703 872 9714.
- Other: We are still recruiting for bilingual drivers and Hotline workers if you have interested volunteers who speak languages other than English fluently.
______________________________
SD31 DFL Monthly Gathering & Business Meeting
Our last monthly gathering was held on October 17.
Our Next SD31 DFL Meeting:
Thursday, November 21
6:00 pm Social / 6:30 pm call to order
Andover Community Center
NO MEETING IN DECEMBER, AND THERE WILL BE A NEW MEETING DAY STARTING IN JANUARY 2024— STAY TUNED!
______________________________
SD31 Candidate Campaigns
Gadisa Berkessa 31B
(Eastern Andover, Ham Lake, Oak Grove, East Bethel, Linwood, Athens)
https://gadisa4mn.com/
Dara Grimmer 31A
(Ramsey & Western Andover)
https://vote4grimmer.com/about
County Commission Races— Primary August 13
Betsy O’Berry— District 1: Anoka, Ramsey, Nowthen, St Francis
Mike Gamache— District 5: Andover, Coon Rapids, Oak Grove
https://www.reelectmike.com/
______________________________
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORK
Network Rally October 26- Saturday
Our LAST BIG EVENT before the Election!
9-11 AM
Starbucks inside Andover Target, 2000 Bunker Lake Blvd
There is still time to help turn the tide for this election.
You can help us put together and send out one mailing to our neighbors in October.
Come to our DFL Neighborhood Network Rally this Saturday!
Here is an update from NN Leader Charlie:
With 15 new sign ups this week from our 268 piece “Do Something” Letter sent out last weekend we now have 102 Networkers!
We are serving 22 precincts; 2528 homes with 5565 voters.
Our October 26 mailing has swollen to 2456 letters up from last month’s 1830 letters from 72 Networkers. Up 600 homes +30 new Networkers in one month!
Congrats to everyone involved!
Charlie
Donate Stamps to the NN…
Another great way to help is donating stamps—you can drop them off at the DFL Coffee Break.
If you want to find out more, email Charlie at
Outreach@VoteBlueMN.org
or call 763.200.1078.
If you would like to support our project financially here is the link:
https://secure.actblue.com/
Join us and share in all the good DFL energy!
______________________________
Links You Can Use
Keep checking our SD31 DFL Website: VoteBlueMN.org
Are You Sure You Are Registered to VOTE?
Check out this Common Cause site:
So you think “It Can’t Happen Here”?
Read this from Heather Cox Richardson:
“Imagine a would-be dictator setting out to persuade a sovereign people to vote away their rights…”
And here is Trump’s 2025 Takeover Strategy–
Read this from Thom Hartmann:
“From internment camps to abolishing free press—how Trump could make his worst threats real…”
League of Women Voters Candidate Forums
For Completed LWV Forum Recordings:
https://www.lwvmn.org/2024-
______________________________
HELP OUR HARRIS-WALZ SUPPORT WORK and TRUMP REMOVAL PROJECT— AND GET YOUR REFUND!
Contribute whatever you can to SD31 DFL–
This year we must get out the vote to defeat Trump and elect as many democrats as we can.
If you have not already done so, contribute to us and then GET A FULL REFUND for any amount up to $75 per person.
After donating at VoteBlueMN.org, just print and fill the following document and send it in with your receipt.
https://mcusercontent.com/
______________________________
Your SD31 DFL Leadership
Co-Chair: Alyson Gullette
Co-Chair: Leslie Pendergast
Secretary: Wes Volkenant
Treasurer: George Drew
Outreach Officer: Charlie Baarsch
Communications Director: Peter Miller
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.
______________________________
Thank you to everyone who has been working so hard to make our communities, state, nation, and world better, and to turn us away from the threat of fascism and dictatorship.
Every action helps defeat the extremists, brings civility, sanity, and joy back into our lives, and helps build a more unified country where EVERYBODY COUNTS and No One is left behind.
Step by Step, Always Together, Always Forward…
DO IT NOW!
Peter
SD31 Communications
info@VoteBlueMN.org
Our Core Values: A Good Economy for Working Families; Fighting Hatred and Racism; Liberty and Justice for ALL— including 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
SD31 DFL This Week
September 23, 2024
VOTING HAS STARTED IN MINNESOTA!
- This week
- What You Need to Know to Vote
- SD31 Monthly Meeting Info
- Other Upcoming Events
- Candidates
- Neighborhood Network
- Links You can Use
Greetings, DFL Friends–
It is a beautiful sunny fall day. And as we slide into autumn, we are moving into the final weeks of this crucial election season.
As of last Friday. Early voting has started in Minnesota. Look for another email with “Sample Ballots” based on Mel Aanerud’s “picks”— his recommendations for the best progressive and common-sense candidates in elections in SD31 and Anoka County.
Meanwhile, many DFL’ers have been putting up signs around the District— watch for the signs and consider helping with this or other activities going on. See below for more about Neighborhood Network events.
It is an exciting time, with Harris making progress in the polls— and the gop seeming to be faltering in their weirdness and xenophobic hatred. But it will take all of us to prevent them from “winning” and making Project 2025, Mass Deportations, Abortion Bans, and right wing religious conformity into reality.
So PLEASE do whatever you can to help the Harris momentum keep building!
And there seems to be a new atmosphere locally too. Our SD31 Candidates are knocking doors and getting signs up around the district, with a surprising amount of support. Pitch in, in whatever way you can. Gadisa and Dara need your help!
And we need people to attend School Board meetings, especially in Anoka-Hennepin where a major budget shortfall is threatening many aspects of quality and open-minded education. Make a plan to attend and keep the Board accountable— see details below.
Peter
SD31 DFL Communications
THIS WEEK
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 23
Anoka-Hennepin School Board Meeting
Regular Meeting @ Board Room, Sandburg Education Center in Downtown Anoka
6:30 PM
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 26:
DFL Reproductive Freedom Get-Together
The DFL Neighborhood Network is serving pizza at a FREE get together on Thursday, September 26 in Minnesota Congressional District 31B for anyone who believes the Gov’t should “Mind It’s Own D*MN Business!” when it comes to a woman’s body.
Kamala Harris: ‘Nobody Will Be Safe’ With a National Abortion Ban:
https://youtube.com/shorts/
Go to the Neighborhood Network to RSVP and get your free tickets.
https://
Seating is limited so reserve spots for you and your friends now.
Thursday, Sept 26
6:00 PM
Ham Lake Lanes and Lounge, 16465 MN-65, Ham Lake, MN
MONDAY OCTOBER 7
Anoka-Hennepin School Board Meeting
Work Session—Observation Only but we need people to watch what is happening!
These are often the meetings where the real decisions get made, and there are no notes or record. We need eyes and ears to keep the Board accountable.
5:30 pm Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka.
What You Need to Know to Vote
(from Clean elections MN— See link below)
Election Day is Tue., Nov. 5th 2025. Early voting starts Fri., Sept. 20. You can vote absentee — see these links for details:
– You can have an “agent” pick up and/or deliver your ballot.
– Mail-in ballots must be received by Election Day, so mail early.
– Details you need to know, including polling sites, can be accessed via this link:
https://www.sos.state.mn.us/
- Need more help? Call 1-877-600-8683 or your county election office
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SD31 DFL Monthly Gathering & Business Meeting
Our last monthly gathering was held on Sept 19.
Next SD31 DFL Meeting:
Thursday, October 17
6:00 pm Social / 6:30 pm call to order
Andover Community Center
(Agenda in preparation)
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Other Upcoming Events:
Check out our website for more info:
VoteBlueMN.org
Every Saturday Morning— DFL Coffee Break 9-11 am
Starbucks in Andover Target, 2000 Bunker Lake Blvd
Next Dates: Sept 28, Oct 5, Oct 12, Oct 19, Oct 26
Future Anoka-Hennepin School Board Meetings:
Here are the dates for the rest of the year— make a note:
Work Sessions: 5:30 pm Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka.
NEXT: 10/7, 11/4, 11/23, 2/10/2025
Regular School Board Meetings-6:30 pm, Sandburg Education Center in Anoka 1902 2nd Ave
NEXT: 9/23, 10/28, 11/25, 12/9, 1/13/2025
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SD31 Candidate Campaigns
Gadisa Berkessa 31B
(Eastern Andover, Ham Lake, Oak Grove, East Bethel, Linwood, Athens)
https://gadisa4mn.com/
Dara Grimmer 31A
(Ramsey & Western Andover)
https://vote4grimmer.com/about
County Commission Races
These are nonpartisan races. SD31 members tend to support these progressive candidates— be sure to help them out if you can:
Betsy O’Berry— District 1: Anoka, Ramsey, Nowthen, St Francis
Mike Gamache— District 5: Andover, Coon Rapids, Oak Grove
https://www.reelectmike.com/
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NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORK
See above for more about our Reproductive Freedom Event on Thursday 9/26!
Networkers Rally October 26- Saturday
We have Only 1 more big Rally to send letters— before the election— We need help addressing envelopes!
The Neighborhood Network is our very own grassroots project, reaching over 3000 voters in our district. You can help us put together and send out one mailing to our neighbors in October. Mailing about 25 letters will make a big difference!
Neighborhood Network Has Signs!
The NN has Harris/Walz signs that Charlie will bring to next Saturday’s Coffee Break. These signs are “free” but we will ask for an optional donation of $3 or more depending on the voter’s situation.
Donate Stamps to the NN…
Another great way to help is donating stamps—you can drop them off at the DFL Coffee Break.
If you want to find out more, or if you are not able to attend, email Charlie at
Outreach@VoteBlueMN.org
or call 763.200.1078.
If you would like to support our project financially here is the link:
https://secure.actblue.com/
Join us and share in all the good DFL energy!
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Links You Can Use
Keep checking our SD31 DFL Website: VoteBlueMN.org
Are You Sure You Are Registered to VOTE?
Check out this Common Cause site:
League of Women Voters Candidate Forums
https://www.vote411.org/
Tuesday Sept 24
Ham Lake City Council
Submit questions: https://forms.gle/
The Refuge Golf Club | 21250 Yellow Pine Street NW | Oak Grove, Minnesota 55011
For Completed LWV Forum Recordings:
https://www.lwvmn.org/2024-
Clean Elections MN
What you need to know to vote in MN General Election:
https://mailchi.mp/
Thom Hartmann:
Trump and Johnson’s Shocking Bid to Suppress Women’s Votes
This is Not What Real Men Do
Heather Cox Richardson:
On the effect of Biden/Harris policy on US reduction in Overdose deaths + the gop’s self-proclaimed “Black Nazi” in North Carolina:
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HELP OUR HARRIS-WALZ SUPPORT WORK and TRUMP REMOVAL PROJECT—
AND GET YOUR REFUND!
Contribute whatever you can to SD31 DFL–
This year we must get out the vote to ELECT HARRIS and WALZ, and our LOCAL MN Candidates, and defeat Trump.
If you have not already done so, contribute to us and then 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:
https://cfb.mn.gov/citizen-
______________________________
Your SD31 DFL Leadership
Co-Chair: Alyson Gullette
Co-Chair: Leslie Pendergast
Secretary: Wes Volkenant
Treasurer: George Drew
Outreach Officer: Charlie Baarsch
Communications Director: Peter Miller
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.
______________________________
Thank you to all who are working hard to make our communities, state, nation, and world better, and turning away from all the hatred. Every small bit helps defeat the extremists, brings civility and sanity and joy back into our lives, and helps build a more unified country where EVERYBODY COUNTS and No One is left behind.
Step by Step, Always Together, Always Forward!
Peter
SD31 Communications
info@VoteBlueMN.org
Our Core Values: A Good Economy for Working Families; Fighting Hatred and Racism; Liberty and Justice for ALL— including 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
SD31 DFL This Week
August 27, 2024
** LABOR DAY Issue **
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Happy Labor Day Week, DFL Friends!
What an amazing convention week— so many great speeches and events… and the feel of the tide turning toward positive energy, optimism and JOY! The sense that if we all keep working at this, something very big may happen— a good election outcome, yes, but MAYBE also a shift in our country, regaining a sense of unity and shared values. Of course that sounds naive, and we have “miles to go before we sleep.” And it depends not only on the messages from the top, but on the work and the lives of each of us.
Our participation in the North Metro Picnic has generated over $1000 in new funds for SD31. A HYUGE THANK YOU to all of you who donated time and items to make this such a success!
One of the new “Yellow Signs” from the Anoka County DFL is in our yard and has this message: “What Unites Us Is Greater Than What Divides Us.” Let’s go into the next 2 months with that spirit, and do everything we can to see that Harris and Walz are elected in November with such a margin that all of the right wing’s scary tactics cannot undermine the outcome!
We hope many of you get a good Labor Day break this coming week, and that you get rested and re-energized. This newsletter will likely not be published next week. But we will see you again in September.
Now just for fun, watch William Galison and “The TIMOTHY WALZ.”:https://youtu.be/aKh-PdKMXJ4?
- This week
- SD31 Monthly Meeting Info
- Other Upcoming Events
- Candidates
- Neighborhood Network
- Other Volunteer Opportunities
- Links You can Use
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THIS WEEK (And the Next)
SATURDAY AUGUST 31: FUNDRAISER FOR GADISA BERKESSA
Gadisa is gathering people from his immigrant and faith communities at this special event, and EVERYONE is invited!
Even if you have already donated, please make a plan to come to this event. Oromo/Ethiopian food will be served, and the Joy will be overflowing!
Saturday, August 31
4:00 pm
4201 Regent Ave North, Robbinsdale MN. 55422
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 7: THREE EVENTS
1- Linwood Family Fun Days
Booth Set-up is at 8am: 10am-5pm
Street dance to 11pm
22817 Typo Creek Dr. NE, Stacy MN 55079
2- Ramsey Happy Days
Booth and Parade
Booth set-up @ 7:30am-10am;
Open 11am-7pm
PARADE: LINE-UP 10 AM/ Parade 11 AM to around Noon
7550 Sunwood Dr. NW Ramsey, MN 55303 Happy Day Field
SD31 and Betsy O’Berry for County Commissioner (see links below) are in need of parade marchers and booth staff. SD31 and Betsy will have separate groups marching— but you might be able to march in both, as they start at different times
3- DFL Saturday Morning Coffee Break— Neighborhood Network connections
9-11 AM
Starbucks in Andover Target, 2000 Bunker Lake Blvd
Next Dates: August 31, September 7, September 14, September 21
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 9
Anoka-Hennepin School Board Meeting
Work Session—Observation Only– but we need people to watch what is happening!
5:30 pm Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka.
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SD31 DFL Monthly Gathering & Business Meeting
Our last monthly gathering was held on August 15.
Next SD31 DFL Meeting:
Thursday, September 19
6:00 pm Social / 6:30 pm call to order
Andover Community Center
(Agenda in preparation)
______________________________
Other Upcoming Events:
Check out our website for more info: VoteBlueMN.org
Every Saturday Morning— DFL Coffee Break 9-11 am
Starbucks in Andover Target, 2000 Bunker Lake Blvd
Next Dates: August 31, September 7, September 14, September 21
Anoka-Hennepin School Board Meetings:
The students and faculty of Anoka-Hennepin School District need our continued support all through this school year, as the right-wing faction seeks to undo years of progress and stop anything related to equity or teaching history honestly without whitewashing.
Work Sessions– Observation Only but we need people to watch what is happening!
5:30 pm Education Services Center, 2727 Ferry St, Anoka. NEXT: 9/9
Regular School Board Meetings- Comment allowed at the beginning
6:30 pm, Sandburg Education Center in Anoka 1902 2nd Ave. NEXT: 9/23
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SD31 Candidate Campaign Links
Gadisa Berkessa 31B
(Eastern Andover, Ham Lake, Oak Grove, East Bethel, Linwood, Athens)
https://gadisa4mn.com/
Dara Grimmer 31A
(Ramsey & Western Andover)
https://vote4grimmer.com/about
County Commission Races
These are nonpartisan races. SD31 supports these progressive candidates– be sure to help them out if you can:
Betsy O’Berry— District 1: Anoka, Ramsey, Nowthen, St Francis
https://www.betsyo.org
betsyoberry24@gmail.com
Mike Gamache— District 5: Parts of Andover, Coon Rapids, Oak Grove
https://www.reelectmike.com/
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NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORK
We have Only 2 more Rallies to send letters— before the election. We need help addressing envelopes!
The Neighborhood Network is our very own grassroots project. We are reaching over 3000 voters in our district, and we want to keep expanding! We are working to help Elect Harris and Walz in this election but also to build community for the future. We are aiming at 2026 and 2028, not just 2024!
You can help us put together and send out two mailings to our neighbors between now and November. If you can address and mail about 25 letters each time, it would be greatly appreciated. Come to our next DFL Coffee Break next Saturday morning, at the Starbucks in the Andover Target (on Bunker Lake Blvd). See above for details. You will meet other concerned people in our district and the Neighborhood Network leaders, talking about how you can get involved in your precinct at this pivotal moment in history. At these meetings, you will receive around 25 pieces of literature to address and mail out to nearby DFL neighbors (or to drop off at the doors if you are so inclined! Remember, these are friendly DFL doors). Rallies are fun and provide an opportunity to socialize, share experiences, and discuss politics in a safe environment.
Another great way to help is donating stamps—you can drop them off at the DFL Coffee Break.
If you want to find out more, or if you are not able to attend, email Charlie at
Outreach@VoteBlueMN.org
or call 763.200.1078.
If you would like to support our project financially here is the link:
https://secure.actblue.com/
Join us and share in all the good DFL energy!
______________________________
Other Volunteer Opportunities
If you would like to volunteer for something more than the events we list here, the DFL would love to have you. Contact the Coon Rapids office field organizer Isaac Jones at 651-600-9265. Wherever you choose to put your time, if you can volunteer a few hours it will go a long way to ensure that we keep moving forward to a more joy filled and brighter future. THANKS!
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Links You Can Use
Keep checking our SD31 DFL Website: VoteBlueMN.org
The Science of Messaging— by our Connections Lab friends, George and Lisa Greene— THIS TUESDAY Aug 27 and Thursday August 29— These are fantastic trainings, and are the last ones scheduled until after the election:
Thom Hartmann:
Freedom Takes Center Stage: Harris and Walz’s Secret Weapon Against the GOP. Kamala Harris and Tim Walz have kicked it off…
And… The GOP’s Last Stand: Cruelty is All They Have Left:
Heather Cox Richardson— the best 1-page summary of the electrifying DNC— “Rockin’ in the Free World”
https://heathercoxrichardson.
______________________________
HELP OUR HARRIS-WALZ SUPPORT WORK and TRUMP REMOVAL PROJECT— AND GET YOUR REFUND!
Contribute whatever you can to SD31 DFL–
This year we must get out the vote to ELECT HARRIS and WALZ, and our LOCAL MN Candidates, and defeat Trump.
If you have not already done so, contribute to us and then GET A FULL REFUND for any amount up to $75 per person.
After donating at VoteBlueMN.org, just print and fill the following document and send it in with your receipt.
https://mcusercontent.com/
______________________________
SD31 DFL Leadership
Co-Chair: Alyson Gullette
Co-Chair: Leslie Pendergast
Secretary: Wes Volkenant
Treasurer: George Drew
Outreach Officer: Charlie Baarsch
Communications Director: Peter Miller
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.
______________________________
Thank you to all who have been showing up and pitching in to help with our Picnic, the Neighborhood Network, Candidate Campaigns, and just being out there as “Good People Doing Good Things” in your family and community. Every small bit is helping to defeat the extremists, bring civility and sanity and joy back into our lives, and to build a more unified country where EVERYBODY COUNTS and No One is left behind.
Step by Step, Always Together, Always Forward!
SD31 Communications
info@VoteBlueMN.org
Our Core Values: A Good Economy for Working Families; Fighting Hatred and Racism; Liberty and Justice for ALL— including 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