 Dear Neighbors, I hope this email finds you doing well and enjoying the crisp air and burst of snow. Now that the election has come and gone, the focus has shifted to what a tied state house might look like when we gavel in to do our work on January 14th. While this isn’t completely unprecedented, things have changed a lot since the last tie in 1979. I’m optimistic about the two women leaders from both parties determining a structure and path forward for how we will operate together over the next two years. A split House provides us with an opportunity to continue our work for the state and for my part, delivering the results our communities of Chanhassen and Chaska deserve. I hope you’ll keep reaching out to contact me anytime with ideas, questions, or to let me know how I can assist. Due to technical constraints, direct replies to this email will not reach me. You can email directly at rep.lucy.rehm@house.mn.gov or give me a call at 651-296-5506. Follow me on Facebook for more community and Capitol updates. Nature Heals; Get Outdoors!The old Minnesota adage “there is no bad weather, only bad clothes!” is a good reminder to get outdoors and enjoy what nature has to offer as the temperatures begin to drop. The Friday after Thanksgiving (November 29th) is one of Minnesota’s “Free Park Days”; an excellent time to revisit a favorite park or explore a new spot. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ puts together a great interactive map to plan your next adventure.  If you or someone you know has served our country in the military and is disabled, a new law I passed last year with local residents grants veterans free entry to our treasured University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. Check out what’s on during the Fall and Winter flora garden visits here.  The Cold Weather Rule in effect until April 30Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule (CWR), which is administered by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, protects residential utility customers from having electric or natural gas service shut off between October 1 and April 30. This rule is in place to protect Minnesotans who may have difficulty paying their heating bill from being disconnected. For more information, contact your utility company, or the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission at consumer.puc@state.mn.us or 651-296-0406. Small Business SaturdayOur small businesses contribute to the uniqueness, character, and drive the local economy in our communities. If you’re planning to get a jump start on your holiday shopping this year, I hope you’ll consider buying local.  Keep in TouchI’m wishing you a happy and relaxing Thanksgiving with your loved ones. I’m looking forward to spending time with my family and having my kids home for the holiday. Take care. In community, Lucy  |