Dear Neighbors,
I hope fall is treating you well, and hopefully we will get the opportunity to fully enjoy the third of our four seasons. Each Saturday, the Eden Prairie Outdoor Center(13765 Staring Lake Pkwy.) hosts “Nature Rocks!,” a free open house with hiking, interactions with live animals, craft projects and more. Check the city’s website for more information.
Coffee with Carlie
Everyone in the community is invited to join me for Coffee with Carlie next Tuesday morning October 29. We will meet at 10 a.m. at Smith Coffee & Cafe. Please bring your input and ideas about the issues that matter to you. As always, it’s an informal chat with no speeches or program, and you can stay for as long or as little as you’d like. I’m looking forward to a good discussion among neighbors!
Be Heard on Cannabis
One issue gaining more attention recently is recreational cannabis and proposals to repeal of the prohibition of adult use. There are many different viewpoints on this issue, and many questions need to be addressed as we discuss a potential legalization framework. Rep. Ryan Winkler, the House Majority Leader, has launched “Be Heard on Cannabis,” a statewide series of community conversations giving Minnesotans an opportunity to share their input on this topic. On Monday, November 18, one of these events will take place at the Eden Prairie Community Center (16700 Valley View Rd.) from 6:30-7:30 p.m. I’m committed to moving ahead on this issue in a thoughtful, responsible manner, and a big part of this is considering input from the community. I hope you will join us.
What: Be Heard on Cannabis Community Conversation
When: Monday, November 18, 6:30 PM
Where: Eden Prairie Community Center, Cambria Room Who: Hosted by Majority Leader Ryan Winkler, Assistant Senate Minority Leader Jeff Hayden, Rep. Carlie Kotyza-Witthuhn, Rep. Laurie Pryor, Rep. Brad Tabke, Sen. Steve Cwodzinski, with Special Guests Doug Friednash, Former Colorado Legislator and Former Chief of Staff to Gov. John Hickenlooper, and Stanley Garnett, Former District Attorney for Boulder County
High School Page Program
Do you know a high school junior interested in state government? Encourage them to apply for the Minnesota House High School Page Program. Each week, during the legislative session, about a dozen students spend a week at the State Capitol learning about the legislative process first hand. In addition to assisting legislators during House Floor sessions, students have the chance to meet with constitutional officers, judges and court officers, lobbyists, and members of the media. They also participate in a mock committee session designed to develop their leadership skills and to inspire them to think critically about the issues confronting our state.
This is an immersive, one of a kind educational experience. Please consider sharing this with your networks. The deadline to apply for the 2020 session is November 21. If you have any questions, please contact the House Sergeant-at-Arms Office at (651) 296-7452.
In 2017, the House DFL Caucus launched the Minnesota Values Project, which led to hundreds of meaningful conversations with people across all Minnesota about their priorities. Looking back on the input shared, a couple of things are clear: Minnesotans care deeply about our state and want to see one another succeed.
This work continues as we hear from more Minnesotans about the vision they have for their state. Looking ahead to the 2020 legislative session, my colleagues and I are looking to hear more perspectives and feedback from Minnesotans. You’re invited to take the new Minnesota Values Project survey. As we build a shared vision for our state, your input is crucial in this process. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts. Working together, we can strengthen our communities by improving education opportunities, making affordable healthcare a reality, and increasing economic prosperity for all Minnesotans.
Please continue to contact me with your input and ideas. I value hearing from you, so don’t hesitate to call or email me. It’s an honor to represent you.
Sincerely,
Carlie Kotyza-Witthuhn
State Representative