Dear neighbors,
It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving is just around the corner! I hope you and your loved ones are able to enjoy some quality time together this week.
Congratulations Eagle Scouts
Seven members of Troop 95 became Eagle Scouts this weekend. This is the highest rank that a Scout can earn, and just five percent of them achieve it. Congratulations to Antonio, Eli, Grant, Isaiah, Jacob, Jacob, and Tavin!
Special CWD Hunts in Southeastern Minnesota
Yesterday, the DNR announced that there will be two special deer hunts in December. By participating in these hunts, Minnesotans can help limit the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD), a fatal neurological disease that spreads through contact with infected deer. Special hunts lower deer densities in areas where CWD is prevalent, reducing the potential for contact with infected animals. They also remove infected deer.
The hunts will take place in permit areas 643, 646, 647, and 648 on Friday, December 20 through Sunday, December 22 and Friday, December 27 through Sunday, December 29. More information is available here.
This weekend I joined researchers from the DNR and the University of Minnesota to collect lymph node samples from hunter-harvested deer.
Free Park Friday
November 29 – the day after Thanksgiving – is Free Park Friday in Minnesota. On this day, entrance fees to all state parks and recreation areas are waived. Gather your family and friends and spend some time in the great outdoors!
More information about Free Park Friday is available here.
Upcoming Events
There are lots of great community events in the next few weeks!
South St. Paul Tree Lighting Celebration
When: Sunday, December 1 from 5-6 p.m.
Where: Central Square Community Center, 100 7th Avenue N., South St. Paul, MN 55075
Click here for more information.
South St. Paul’s 11th Annual Hat, Mitten, and Sock Drive
When: Sunday, December 1 – Sunday, December 15
Where: South St. Paul City Hall, 125 3rd Avenue N., South St. Paul, MN 55075 (Donations will also be accepted at the Tree Lighting Celebration.)
Click here for more information.
West St. Paul Kiwanis Club’s Holiday Breakfast
When: Sunday, December 1 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Where: Dakota County Lodge – Thompson Park, 1200 Stassen Lane, West St. Paul, MN 55118
Click here for more information.
West St. Paul’s 6th Annual Secret Holiday Shop
When: Saturday, December 7 from 9-11 a.m.
Where: Dakota County Lodge – Thompson Park, 1200 Stassen Lane, West St. Paul, MN 55118
Click here for more information.
Cold Weather Rule
As the first winter storm of the year approaches, I want to draw attention to Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule. This rule helps people who are struggling to afford heating bills. Currently in effect until April 15, it protects Minnesotans from having their heat shut off when they need it most.
You can learn more about the Cold Weather Rule here. Please make sure that your family, friends, and neighbors are aware of this program, and remember to watch out for one another this winter.
I always appreciate hearing from fellow community members, so please feel free to reach out. You can contact me anytime at rep.rick.hansen@house.mn or 651-296-6828.
Sincerely,
Rick Hansen
State Representative
|