Straight Ahead, Together

Straight Ahead, Together

Dear Northlanders and Fellow Minnesotans,

The events of the early morning hours of June 14, 2025, were beyond anything I could have ever imagined. As a woman who is rarely without words, I found myself truly speechless.

In an instant, lives were stolen—House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman, her husband Mark, and their beloved dog Gilbert were senselessly assassinated in their home. Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were also targeted, shot multiple times by the same perpetrator, and Senator Hoffman remains hospitalized.

This politically motivated act of violence struck at the very heart of our democracy. It left many of us physically ill with shock and sorrow, overwhelmed with grief for our friends, colleagues, and their families. It was a moment that forever changed us all.

As news of the tragedy unfolded, a manhunt swept across the state. Law enforcement provided protection to all legislators—Republicans and Democrats alike—as the suspect remained at large. I am deeply grateful to our sheriffs and police officers who worked tirelessly to ensure our safety and ultimately brought the suspect into custody.

That Saturday morning was filled with sorrow, tears, and a shared sense of disbelief. I joined my colleagues—across both sides of the aisle—in prayer and mourning. We are elected to serve the people of our districts, but in this moment, we were simply people—grieving together. The support, encouragement, and prayers from so many of you meant more than words can express. Thank you.

In the days that followed, I found strength and comfort in conversations with colleagues and constituents alike. The unity we showed in grief is a reminder of what truly matters. We may come from different parties, but first and foremost we are Minnesotans.

Shortly after the tragedy, I traveled to Norway with my aunts—a trip planned long before, but one that came at the right time. Surrounded by family and the quiet beauty of a distant place, I found space to reflect, grieve, and begin the process of healing. I was reminded of an important truth: we cannot serve others well if we don’t take care of our own hearts first.

One of the wisest lessons I’ve carried with me comes from my dear Rotarian friend, Jack Sodebier. Our farewell greeting was always: "Imer garata aus"—Always straight ahead. And so, to Jack and to all of you, I promise to keep moving forward with a spirit of service and renewed commitment.

We will remember Melissa and Mark, and we will continue to pray for John and Yvette. Their dedication to public service will live on in how we lead, how we care for each other, and how we continue forward—together.

With heartfelt gratitude and faith in our shared path forward, Rep. Natalie Zeleznikar

Minnesota House of Representatives, District 3B

A poem I wrote while in Norway.

Honoring those we lost and prayed for the recovery of those injured while in Norway.

Community

Congratulations to the Hermantown trap team who qualified for State! Way to go Caden, Keegan, Max, Cooper, Cam & Kylah. 

Congratulations to Chase Graves for coming in 4th place at the by-invitation-only State Tournament of the top 100 trap shooting athletes in Minnesota!

Congrats to Proctor High School trap team who placed 22 in state league tournament. Way to go Gabe, Lane, Henry, Tobias and Anthony. 

Congrats to Two Harbors High School trap team. 24 of our 26 shooters had Varsity level scores. 

Congratulations to all who participated in the state trap event with 8,000 participants!

Stopped to support future entrepreneurs. 

It is road construction season and Fredenberg Township is grateful for new roads. 

Community Events

Excellent opportunity for free CPR training. 

Saturday July 12th, Two Harbors Heritage Days parade at 1:00 p.m. a fantastic festival all weekend long! 

Duluth welcomes the US Navy Blue Angels, who arrived on Sunday afternoon as they plan to spend the week in Duluth prior to the July 5-6 Duluth Airshow, presented by Essentia Health. 

Get your tickets now at www.duluthairshow.com 

Hundreds participated in the 17th annual Breezy Point and raised over $120,000 with nearly 500 runners participating in the event. The race raises money for Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge's Duluth branch, which helps those dealing with addiction in the Twin Ports. 

Thank you to Steve and Sandy Paulson for making a difference in the lives of many! 

Ground breaking at Duluth international airport for critical life link helicopter to serve Northern Minnesota.

I was happy to co-author this bill. 

For the love of Northern Minnesota!

Happy 4th of July

As we gather with family and friends this Fourth of July, let us take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary freedoms we are blessed to enjoy as Americans. Our nation was founded on the individual rights, and limited government, values that continue to guide us today. 

In Minnesota and across the country, this day reminds us of the sacrifices made by generations of patriots to secure the freedoms we often take for granted. As your representative, I remain committed to defending those liberties and ensuring that the American dream remains within reach for all. 

Happy Independence Day, and may God Bless America.