Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As the Christmas holiday quickly approaches, I’m reminded of this quote from Mary Ellen Chase – an important American literary scholar and graduate from the University of Minnesota: “Christmas, children, is not a date. It is a state of mind. ” It is my hope that all of you can spend Christmas filled with good food, laughter and love.
I want to pause and thank you for the honor of a 3rd term representing you in the Minnesota Senate. It is a privilege and I never take it for granted. Your input is invaluable and while we will not always be in full agreement on all issues, we can always agree we have much to be thankful for in being able to call Minnesota home.
As the country slows down for a few days while we celebrate Christmas and ending the Hanukkah celebration, let us each remember our military women and men serving our country. Many on distant shores. We thank our police, nurses, fire fighters and all who are working to keep us safe and well over the holiday. Also, those facing difficulties in day-to-day life. It is a precious time for family, friends and community.
Mississippi River Crossing Study
We’re getting closer to developing a plan for the Northwest Metro Mississippi River Crossing!
An initial study was conducted for the potential need for a new Mississippi River crossing in 1989. Later studies explored travel demands, possible new river crossing locations and the impact on the environment. All were completed with community involvement, however no consensus was reached.
As a result of legislation I authored in 2019, (SF539) a new study is underway with current efforts focusing on travel patterns and traffic investigation. Growth in the area is expected to continue, which will inevitably lead to more congestion.
You can find more information and sign up for email updates here:
www.mndot.gov/metro/projects/mississippicrossing
State Small Business Relief Package
Last Monday, the Minnesota Legislature approved a new economic assistance package that will help small businesses and workers who are struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The legislation, which passed with strong bipartisan support, includes direct assistance for businesses hit hardest by COVID-19 and helps protect economic security for workers with extended unemployment benefits. This critical assistance will help workers, families, and small businesses make ends meet until we receive more aid from the federal government. Click on the link below to see more information from DEED.
https://mn.gov/deed/newscenter/social-media/deed-developments/?id=460882
Thank you!
It is my greatest honor to represent you the citizens of Brooklyn Park, Champlin and Coon Rapids here at our great state capitol. In addition to representing you, I absolutely enjoy it when you come visit. With the Covid safety measures in place, please feel free to contact my office to set up a meeting, reach out and tell me what matters to you so I can continue working on your behalf. You can reach me by email at sen.john.hoffman@senate.mn, phone by 651-296-4154. I am at 95 University Avenue Suite 2235 in the Minnesota Senate Building
Sincerely,
Senator John Hoffman
If you have any questions or concerns feel free to call my office at 651-296-4154 or by e-mail at jhoffman@senate.mn
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On December 19th, we delivered Toys to Mercy Hospital This was our 10th year and it wouldn’t happen without the generosity of those that have given and continue to give, especially this year. Also, it cannot happen without the partnership ofPrimrose School of Champlin ParkCoon Rapids MN Fire DepartmentBuona Sera RistoranteJim AbelerJohn PiperJoan ‘Hall’ LunderbyBrigitte and Brandon Griffiths,Virgillolello RaffaeleYvette HoffmanJoe Picket.
Together we have brought and continue to bring a little bright spot in Children right here in our area at Mercy Hospital. This has been a non partisan collaboration with Senator Jim Abeler and I for years.
We came together as a community to bring happiness to kids. THANK YOU.
Minnesota’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan
The Governor recently unveiled a COVID-19 vaccination plan that aims to quickly, equitably, and safely deliver a free vaccine to any Minnesotan who wants one. The first shipments of the Pfizer vaccine, which the FDA has authorized for emergency use, arrived in Minnesota on Monday.
Health care workers and long-term care residents will be the first to receive the vaccine, followed by essential workers, seniors, and people with preexisting conditions who are more likely to become seriously ill if they contract the virus.
The distribution process will take several months. In the meantime, it’s important to continue doing all we can to keep our communities safe, including wearing a mask, social distancing, staying home when possible, and getting tested if you feel sick.