Access To Democracy

Senator Jim Carlson returns to Access to Democracy with host Steve Francisco to offer his perspectives on what was accomplished in the 2024 session of the Minnesota Legislature.

Protecting access to health care and affordable prescription drugs, protecting womens’ health and reproductive rights, and passing new legislation to strengthen penalties for so-called straw purchasers of guns and banning binary triggers were a few of the top priorities that passed the Senate, House, and were signed into law by Governor Walz.

Senator Carlson explains why a supermajority requirement was one obstacle to passing a bonding bill to put Minnesotans to work.

If you have ever wondered what a city’s “Department of Public Works” is responsible for and the critical role it has in making life safe, healthful, and enjoyable for the residents and businesses, then here’s your opportunity to learn all about it.

In and interview with host Bill Raker Russ Matthys, Director of Public Works, City of Eagan, MN, shares how “public works” works. You’ll be amazed at the comprehensiveness and complexity of the planning, designing, implementing, and maintaining of public infrastructures. Russ tells us how he does it, how much it costs, and what it means to get it right.

Jeff Sheridan is the founding partner of the Eagan law firm Sheridan, Dulas and Kins, which specializes in criminal and family law.

Jeff has long been known for his slogan: “I don’t judge you. I don’t lecture you. I defend you. Period.” He has been recognized as one of the best lawyers in America in the field of criminal law by a national magazine. He and Randall Kins specialize in criminal defense, and protecting Constitutional rights.

DeAnne Dulas, who started as a clerk in the firm, has risen to become recognized as one of the best female lawyers in the State in domestic and family law.

The firm just became one of the Access to Democracy sponsors.

The annual Future City Competition (FCC) gives middle school students hands-on experience in learning about planning, designing, constructing, and operating a city of the future. Host Bill Raker brings the show to ATD with his three guests. Hear perspectives of the FCC program as Minnesota Coordinator Colleen Feller, explains the FCC’s history, objectives and process. Then classroom teacher and FCC coach, Theresa Back, talks about her role guiding the student team through the project.

Finally, seventh-grade student, Lorenzo Galindez, shares what he has experienced and learned in being on a project team for two years in the FCC. Lorenzo shows us and demonstrates his team’s prize-winning model city — a first for Access to Democracy program!

How does the doctor diagnose and treat a “seasick” seahorse? That’s just one of the many fascinating topics guest, Dr. Maya Iyer, MN Zoom Veterinarian Intern, shares with host Bill Raker.

Dr. Iyer’s passion for caring for animals is clearly evident as she takes us behind the scenes and talks about her experiences of tending to the medical needs of the 5,000 animals living at the MN Zoo.

She explains the similarities and differences in medical specialties, conditions and treatments for animals and people. And there’s a story about a Tree Kangaroo, too!