Hello Everyone,
This last week was full of community events. On Monday night, we had close to 50 people join us for the SD46 Town Hall Meeting to wrap up the 2017 legislative session. Thank you to all of those who attended, there were great questions and conversations that took place. I will be starting my twice a week “Coffee & Conversations” in the fall; stay tuned for the dates.
On Wednesday, I took a tour of a mobile exhibit at Adath Synagogue called thisishunger.org. It put together by mazon.org to raise awareness of hunger and lack of healthy food access that folks face across our country. The exhibit shared stories of families facing hunger, walked attendees through the process of meal planning for $1.40 per person and shared important statistics. In Minnesota, this organization has helped change policy to increase access to healthy foods through programs like “Market Bucks.” By providing matching dollars, “Market Bucks” enables folks who qualify for food assistance to buy more affordable produce at local farmers markets.
On Thursday, I attended a naturalization ceremony in St. Louis Park facilitated by the Hennepin County Courts. There were 174 people from 51 countries that became citizens that day after a lengthy process. Moving speeches were given by our very own Secretary of State Steve Simon and Mayor Jake Spano. But the highlight was definitely watching folks put their hands on their hearts and recite their first pledge of allegiance as new citizens to the United States. Many family and community members attended to celebrate and welcome their neighbors. A big thank you to the City of St. Louis Park for hosting such a beautiful event.
Last, but not least, here is a link to the bills that the legislature passed this year that become law on July 1, 2017. There will be another round of new laws going into effect on August 1, 2017 as well.
concerns and input are important to me. Do not hesitate to contact me. E-mail is still the best way to get a hold of me at rep.cheryl.youakim@house.mn or, you can reach me at 651-296-9889.As a reminder, I would be more than happy to attend a neighborhood association meeting, tour your business or meet over a cup of coffee. Your
thoughts,
Have a wonderful July 4th!
Cheryl