Access To Democracy

Brian Ryks, Executive Director and CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission (the MAC), interviews with host Bill Raker. Brian explains the mission, vision, purpose and history of the MAC, noting that it owns and operates seven airports in Minnesota, making it one of the largest airport systems in the country. The “crown jewel” of the MAC is the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport (MSP), which is the 16th busiest airport by passenger traffic in North America. Brian talks about the significance and economic impact MSP has on the surrounding communities and the whole state. He enumerates the many awards and recognitions MSP has earned over the years. Brian describes some of the exciting changes that have been recently completed upgrading and expanding the facility to enhance the travelers experience who use the airport. He shares the vision and projected growth and usage of the MAC’s operations for future decades.

Michael Berndt, President Inver Hills Community College & Dakota County Technical College.  Being the President of one college would seem to be a full-time occupation, but to serve as the President of two colleges would seem to verge on the impossible. Michael Berndt is the unusual person who can do both – as President of Inver Hills Community College and Dakota County Technical College. Berndt has served in his dual role for three years. With a two decade background to several Minnesota State institutions, President Berndt brings all of that, plus impressive popularity with students, to his two colleges.

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Ian Graham Leask, Publisher, Calumet Editions, wears many hats. He is a partner with the Edina publisher (Calumet Editions LLC), a writer, a writing coach and literary consultant. Born in London, Ian has published several of his own books, and still has time to host a radio show on station KFAI, entitled “Write On! Radio.” He has degrees from the University of Minnesota in both English and writing, and discussed his multifaceted career with Alan, who has recently published his own novel with Calumet.

Kent Lee, CEO of East View Geospatial. The East View Companies are an amalgam of several corporations which perform several different and varying services. Working for both libraries, companies, academic institutions and international governments, with offices in seven countries, East View produces geospatial content and research materials around the world. Their map service is second to none and they specialize in hard to find information. Kent holds multiple degrees, from Columbia University and the University of Minnesota.