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1276 WORDS | 9.8 MINUTE READ
Hi John,
However you commemorated September 11th, I hope it included some time to reflect on the lessons we’ve learned as a nation since. On my mind and among those we lost that fateful day was my close high school friend, teammate, and Wayzata native, Gordy Aamoth, Jr. Let’s honor the memories of those we lost by reflecting on the unity we felt after 9/11 and committing to its pursuit once again.
That united spirit was alive and well in Minnesota last week, so read on for more updates about how I celebrated Vietnam-era veterans, went on the job, and met with police chiefs and mayors from across our community. I included an invitation to my next virtual mobile office hours at the end, so take note if you or someone you know needs help navigating a federal agency:
Honoring Vietnam Veterans
I meet a lot of Vietnam-era veterans who have complicated perspectives about their service and their experience returning home. That's why I’ve been holding pinning ceremonies for Vietnam-era veterans and their families in our community through my partnership with the Vietnam War Commemoration Program. Last week, I hosted our eighth commemoration, where we recognized fifteen Vietnam-era veterans and surviving family members. My gratitude goes out to Mayor Julie Maas-Kusske for welcoming us to Maple Plain, to the Orono Rotary Club for adorning our event with beautiful flags, and, of course, to our honorees, who each received official lapel pins as a small token of our nation’s gratitude.
I am always moved by the incredible stories that are shared during our ceremonies that serve as reminders of the sacrifices made by our servicemembers. As a Gold Star son, I’ll continue my efforts to ensure that all veterans are appropriately recognized for their service, and I remain committed to being a voice for them in Washington.
On the Job with Dean
Last week, I continued my "On the Job with Dean" initiative by picking up shifts at Minnesota businesses so I can better understand the challenges they face. I worked at five incredible organizations, beginning with Memorial Blood Center in Plymouth. After a tour of their impressive facility and learning more about the nationwide blood shortage from their staff, I spent my shift greeting and checking in donors and serving refreshments during the donation process.
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| Thank you to the staff at Memorial Blood Center for everything you do! |
On Wednesday, I put on a safety vest and got to work for an exciting morning with Sun Country Airlines to experience what it’s like for their team on the ground at the MSP Airport. I spent my shift checking guests into their flights and following checked bags from guest hand off to the airplane. Airline employees do a lot of behind the scenes work to ensure that passengers have smooth and safe flights, and this visit served as a reminder to show gratitude for the work that is often underappreciated.
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Speaking of flight safety, I visited Minneapolis Air Traffic Control for a tour of their radar room and control tower and met with staff to learn more about the critical work they do each day. Covering approximately 330,000 square miles of the Midwest region, their employees handle everything from managing the flow of aircrafts in and out of the airport airspace, to guiding pilots during takeoff and landing, to monitoring aircrafts as they travel through the skies. Amidst staffing, hiring, and funding challenges, their employees remain committed to the work, and I look forward to continuing to be a partner in trying to resolve these challenges.
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| Getting a firsthand look at the radar room was an unforgettable experience. |
After a break, it was time to get back to work with a shift with UPS. I got in uniform, jumped in the truck for a route with Chris, and got to work helping to deliver packages throughout Edina. During our afternoon on the job, I learned more about what the everyday routine of a driver looks like and how my Porch Pirates Act can help keep packages safe on doorsteps. I had a blast and look forward to putting “the browns” back on in the future!
For my last shift of the week, I travelled to Gale Woods Farm on Whaletail Lake in Minnetrista. I helped their staff get ready for their Farm Fest in October by picking apples, pressing apples for cider, harvesting tomatoes, and caring for chickens. It was the perfect way to spend an afternoon, and I left impressed by their hard work and the educational opportunities they offer for visitors. We can all learn a thing or two about agriculture, food production, and land stewardship, so stop by next time you’re in their neck of the woods!
Listening and Learning
Local leaders know local issues best, which is why I prioritize creating spaces for us to share ideas, discuss policy, and identify ways to collaborate. In addition to meeting with chiefs of police last week, I reconnected with mayors representing over a dozen communities from all corners of Minnesota’s Third District. We are blessed to have such principled public servants leading our cities, and, as always, I left our meeting feeling grateful that we are all unified by doing better for our cities and our country.
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| All my gratitude to these amazing leaders for working together for the greater good. |
Celebrating Malayalee Culture
On Saturday, I celebrated Onam Sadhya - a vegetarian feast that celebrates the harvesting festival of the state of Kerala, India - with the Minnesota Malayalee Association (MMA), an organization working to preserve and promote the culture and heritage of the Kerala people. It was a wonderful gathering spent celebrating their culture through performances, and included a lighting ceremony.
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| A memorable afternoon spent with the Minnesota Malayalee Association, thanks for having me! |
You're Invited: Virtual Office Hours
Since coming to Congress, providing best-in-class constituent services has been my top priority. More than anything, that means helping you navigate federal agencies whenever you need our assistance. Whether it’s related to a passport or visa application, Social Security or veterans benefits, or anything else, my team and I want to help. My staff is holding virtual office hours to provide the assistance you need from the comfort of your own home. Pre-register here to ensure my staff has the information they need to best assist you. Here are the details:
WHAT:
Virtual Office Hours
WHEN:
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
WHERE:
Zoom (link to be provided upon registration)
If you cannot attend but need assistance with a federal agency, my outstanding team of constituent advocates will review your case and work with you to try to resolve your problem, whatever it might be. If you have open casework with our office, please give us a call at 952-656-5176 for an update on your case. In addition to regular mobile and virtual office hours, my team is available to help you online, by phone or in person at our Minnetonka office Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM.
Funding for the federal government is currently set to expire at midnight on September 30th. If Congress does not provide new funding by that time, the federal government would be forced to shut down. At this moment, we do not know how a potential shutdown will affect federal agencies and the services they provide. As more guidance is issued, our office will ensure that we keep you updated.
Keep the faith, and keep in touch,
Dean Phillips
Member of Congress
 Resources For You
My team and I are here to serve every person and every corner of our community. I want to make sure you have the resources you need to succeed:
- Donuts with Dean: Welcoming Minnesotans to Washington is one of my favorite parts of this job. We'd love the opportunity share some conversation, and donuts, next time you’re in town! To reserve your spot at an upcoming event, please complete this form, including all attendee information and the date of your preferred session.
- Energy Savings Hub: The U.S. Department of Energy has launched a one-stop shop for American families and consumers to access tools to cut energy costs through rebates and energy efficient upgrades. Click here for a list of green tax credits and other rebates.
- Look before you book: Do you have international travel plans on the horizon? Make sure you are prepared before you book! Visit https://travel.state.gov/ to check your passport expiration date, apply for a passport, and much more.
- The Congressional App Challenge is back: Calling all middle and high school coders - are you innovative, creative, and driven to solve problems? Then the Congressional App Challenge is for you! Registration is open, so head to my website to learn more.
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