Access To Democracy

Returning guests, Heidi Haley-Franklin and Jennifer Hendrickson, are back with host Bill Raker, to share more information on the services and support programs for individuals and families impacted by dementia.

Heidi Haley-Franklin is VP of Programs at Alzheimer’s Association of MN and ND, Jennifer Hendrickson is the Director of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s In the Twin Cities.

Heidi explains how people can sign up for virtual and in-person programs and how those who are interested can volunteer. Jennifer relates highlights from the successful 2024 TC Walk to End Alzheimer’s. You’ll find this interview inspiring and helpful, whether or not you are dealing with dementia related issues in your life.

What should consumers know about the services and benefits available from the Social Security Administration (SSA)?

Spokespersons Rhonda Whitenack and Brian Rudolph engage in an informative discussion with host Bill Raker that helps consumers understand what’s offered and how to “do business” with the SSA.

Learn how to set up and use an SSA account. Brian and Rhonda offer advice on Medicare enrollment, explaining the process and the options and how they relate to one’s retirement status, plans or schedule.

A Special Video!
This celebrates Access to Democracy’s 25th Anniversary. We have a review of many years, highlighting special guests over the years and many events and times. Special host is Don Shelby, a legendary TV Personality in Minnesota and the country!

(Thank you, Don!)

Enjoy!

Caring for some 5,000 animals at the MN Zoo is an enormous, complex responsibility. We learn a lot from Kurt Heizmann, Director of Animal Care at the MN Zoo, about how it’s done and who does it.

With host Bill Raker asking questions of curiosity, Kurt tells how the Zoo “sources” its animals; he explains the roles of “ambassador animals”; and he exposes which group of animals is “a handful to manage”.

This is a fun and informative conversation!

Eagan City Council Member, Cyndee Fields, shares her passions, experiences and perspectives reflecting on her 23+ years serving on the Council with host Bill Raker.

It’s a bit of a “civics lesson”, as we learn how Eagan’s City Government functions with elected officials, professional administrative staff, and volunteer advisory commissions all working together to develop plans, goals, strategies and actions to provide for the general common good of the community.

The results: Eagan is consistently rated highly as a “best place to live” in numerous categories.