The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is soliciting proposals from public, private, or non-profit entities engaged in workforce development, economic development, or education for a second round of FIRST (Framework for Integrated Regional Strategies) grants. Applications are due by August 27. DEED will award four FIRST grants in the amount of $50,000 [...]

On Sunday, July 13th, I launched my bid for re-election as representative of the people in Minnesota House district 25B. About 50 people attended my kick-off event hosted by Bob and Suzannah Ciernia of Northfield in their beautiful, backyard garden. Supporters were treated to lemonade and root beer, cheese and crackers, an assortment of olives, [...]

Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) is seeking up to eight communities (a geographical community, a neighborhood, a county, groups of organizations, or any combination) to engage in asset based community development (ABCD) efforts leading to economic growth and prosperity.  As part of the grant, SMIF will provide up to $15,000 for community projects along with [...]