Access To Democracy

ATD guest, Carolyn Deters, Executive Director of “Gifts for Seniors” shares with host Bill Raker, why and how the organization’s programs fulfill its mission of connecting with isolated seniors.

 
She passionately explains how donations of gift items and money from individuals and organizations, and the work of dedicated volunteers, bring joy and happiness to lonely seniors.

Carolyn tells about the origins and growth of “Gifts for Seniors”. She notes how the increasing numbers of our aging population will multiply the needs that the organization must be able to meet. From this interview, learn how you can help.

Hear and see fascinating facts about Flint Hills Resources (FHR) as Jake Reint, VP of Public Affairs at FHR, tells us about the Pine Bend Refinery with host Bill Raker. Learn the many ways the FHR operations benefit the community.

As a special feature, Jake introduces two drone-shot videos of the facility: one explores the 1,000 acres of oil refining structures and equipment; and the second highlights the 120,000+ panels in the 350-acre “solar farm” FHR has constructed. At 45 megawatts, the solar installation is the largest direct use of solar power in the U.S.

Don’t miss this news-breaking episode of ATD!

What do Eagan’s Advisory Commissioners do? Sarah Alig, Assistant Eagan City Administrator, answers that question in conversation with host Bill Raker. She explains the relationships between the Eagan City Council, the Commissioners, and the public.

Learn the various areas the Advisory Commissions have impact on and how they serve and benefit the community. Sarah answers more questions: What are the traits of a good commissioner? How are commissioners selected? How does someone apply to be a commissioner? How long do commissioners serve? What benefits do volunteers get for serving as a commissioner?

The interview highlights citizenry engagement in local government.

Lisa Lovering, Senior Financial Exploitation Investigator with the MN Department of Commerce, shares with host Bill Raker how the Department of Commerce oversees some 40 different industries and licenses about 250,000 professionals as part of its efforts to protect Minnesota consumers.

That includes investigating financial frauds and scams and assisting victims. Drawing from her experience and expertise in law enforcement, she describes several trending scams and how to recognize their “red flags”.

Lisa’s advice: Verify! Verify! Verify! Learn what to do if you know, or suspect, a scammer has taken your money or your identity.

It’s exciting to hear Matthew Carter, Executive Director, Dakota County Historical Society (DCHS) review with host Bill Raker the numerous memorable experiences one can have visiting the DCHS museums. He also shares the plans being made for future exhibits and events.

Former DCHS Board Member, Buzz Anderson, joins the discussion to describe the critical and rewarding role the volunteer board members provide for the Society.

A highlight of this interview is Matt and Buzz recount when at the Society’s 2024 Annual meeting a panel consisting of an airline pilot, the manager in charge at the MSP Airport, and a controller with the FAA described how their daily lives were impacted by the 9/11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. The connections to Dakota County may surprise you!