News you can use
From Black Dog to reindeer
Tis the season to shop, which I have never considered a great pleasure. MOA is my idea of torture, and I’m a conscientious objector to Walmart.
I do like giving gifts, and not everyone needs another loaf of cranberry bread. Luckily, local options abound. Black Dog Cafe hosts a local craft sale for artists and near-artists today (November 29). Ginkgo Coffeehouse has a similar event on December 13. Ten Thousand Villages offers fair-traded gifts from around the world, with Mennonite values supporting local artisans and benefit nights supporting Minnesota non-profits. MORE »
A vegan turkey day report
Pass the Tofurky, bring on the vegan mashed potatoes, and be sure to leave some room for the chocolate carmel Chai Rice Dream. With just days to go before Thanksgiving, vegans from around the metro shed some light on how to celebrate a meat-free, dairy-free, egg-free, cruelty free “Turkey” day. MORE »
Giving thanks and giving back
This Thanksgiving, families throughout the Twin Cities will gather at the table and be thankful for what they have, despite the rough economic climate. But Thanksgiving can also be a time for people to help those less fortunate themselves: here is a list of ways you can help on Thanksgiving Day and beyond. MORE »
St. Paul Public Schools: Seeking community members for Board of Ed committee
The Capital Expenditures Advisory Committee (CEAC) reviews and comments on major capital expenditures planned by the district; members are appointed by the Board of Education to one-year terms. Applicants should have an interest in capital projects and the ability to work with a large advisory committee as a team member. The Board is looking for people who think strategically about district-wide needs and focus on what best meets the long-term needs of the students. MORE »
What happens when your vote is challenged in Minnesota?
Following news about mass voter challenge schemes in other states, such as Michigan, you may be wondering how voter challenges work and who is at risk of being challenged. Minnesota has strict laws about voter challenges, which are described below. If you are worried about being challenged, you can bring a photo ID card showing your address, or any of the other information that is needed for same-day voter registration. MORE »
You have the right to vote regardless of state or county fines or bills
You have the right to vote. Period.
If you have outstanding parking tickets or other traffic violations, outstanding utility bills, are behind on your mortgage, or other outstanding county fines, you still have the right to vote. You do not have to pay any of the above tickets, bills, or fines in order to vote. MORE »
“Vote by phone right now” calls
Voters in some states are getting strange, misleading phone calls about early voting. Some of these calls are computerized and claim to be from Michelle Obama, and deceptively trick voters into thinking they can “vote by phone.” Other calls are live and target Spanish speaking households –these households receive calls from someone claiming to be able to take the voter’s vote “right now” over the phone. MORE »


News you can use











