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Gander




*October 31, 2025*






Interim News

Dear friends and neighbors,

Boo! Halloween is here, and it’s time for candy, costumes, and maybe a few “spooky” surprises around the neighborhood. Whether you’re on a mission to fill your bag, doling out treats from the porch, or just soaking in the crisp fall vibes, I hope everyone has a safe, fun, and slightly mischievous evening. Nights like this are the perfect reminder of the strong community spirit that makes our towns such great places to call home.

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It’s Time to Reopen the Federal Government!

We’ve heard you loud and clear—Minnesotans are tired of the gridlock in Washington. Families just want to know they can put food on the table and have confidence in the programs they depend on. I care deeply about the wellbeing of "all" Minnesotans, and that’s why I’ve signed onto a letter to Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith urging them to help end this senseless shutdown before it hurts even more families.

The truth is, the U.S. House of Representatives has already acted in a "*bipartisan way*" to reopen the government through a clean continuing resolution. This would prevent a lapse in the SNAP program that’s set to take place November 1. Even a few U.S. Senate Democrats have joined that effort—but unfortunately, Senators Klobuchar and Smith have continued to drag their heels, allowing the shutdown to continue.

Because of the shutdown, SNAP (food stamp) benefits will not be issued to Minnesotans beginning November 1. Roughly 440,000 Minnesotans rely on this program, and the state cannot step in to cover the federal shortfall—doing so would cost $74 million each month that would not be reimbursed later. However, the Governor has allocated $4 million to bolster food shelves across Minnesota, and nonprofit partners are mobilizing to fill the gap.

If you or someone you know is affected, I encourage you to reach out to your local food shelf and county human services office for help. The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families has compiled a list of available resources and food shelves [HERE] [ [link removed] ]. It’s also important to note that other programs—such as General Assistance, Minnesota Supplemental Aid (MSA), MFIP cash benefits, Housing Supports, and Medicaid—remain funded and will continue operating normally.

The greater issues in play can and must still be resolved, but the American people should not be penalized in the process. It’s time to put people over politics and get this done. Minnesotans deserve leadership that’s focused on real solutions—not political games.

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What a Week on the Road!

Wow—what a week it’s been! I had the chance to hit the road across our district and beyond, making stops in some incredible communities, meeting amazing people, and seeing firsthand the innovation, hard work, and heart that make Northwest Minnesota so special. From classic cars and cutting-edge manufacturing to sustainable farms, hometown cafés, and inspiring community projects, every visit was a reminder of why I love representing this part of the state. So buckle up—let’s take a look at some of the highlights from the week!

 

The Shed: Where History Hits the Road
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Last Thursday, I hit the road with Rep. John Burkel and Senator Mark Johnson for a tour around Warroad and Roseau—two great northern communities with plenty to show off!

One of our favorite stops was The Shed [ [link removed] ], a hidden gem packed wall-to-wall with classic and muscle cars that’ll make any gearhead’s heart race. From vintage beauties to high-octane legends, this place is "seriously cool"—and open to the public!

If you ever find yourself up in Warroad, do yourself a favor and check it out!

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Homegrown Horsepower in Roseau
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Our tour also took us to Polaris Industries [ [link removed] ]—a name that’s practically synonymous with Minnesota innovation and grit.

Founded right in Roseau back in 1954, Polaris began as a small snowmobile shop and has since grown into a *global leader* in powersports, distributing its products to more than 120 countries. While the corporate headquarters now sits in Medina, the Roseau facility remains one of Polaris’ most important manufacturing operations—and it’s still buzzing with that hometown pride.

The plant now spans an impressive 828,000 square feet, producing snowmobiles and sportsman ATVs, and even features a state-of-the-art robotic paint system that boosts both efficiency and production capacity. With over 1,400 employees and openings for welders, assemblers, engineers, and more, Polaris continues to fuel opportunity and innovation in northern Minnesota.

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Sustainability in Action on the Hoseth Farm
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Next stop: the Blair Hoseth Farm just outside of Mahnomen in Norman County—where innovation meets good old-fashioned hard work.

The Hoseths are doing some seriously impressive things on their farm. They’ve embraced low-till and no-till practices, use cover crops to keep their soil healthy, and even let their cattle graze those crops—turning them into natural fertilizer that reduces the need for additional inputs. It’s a full-circle approach to sustainable farming that keeps the land productive and the environment strong.

Minnesota agriculture at its best! 

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A Classic Bite in Erskine
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If you haven’t been to the Ness Café in Erskine, you’re missing out—unless, of course, you have something against full-flavor, home-style cooking made just like Mom used to. The portions are "hearty", the atmosphere is "timeless", and the friendly banter from the staff is all part of the charm.

I caught a fair amount of good-natured flak from my server… which means I’ll definitely be back.

 

Building Hope in Northwest Minnesota
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This week, I had the pleasure of meeting Mitch Rautio in Erskine to hear about an exciting project that’s close to home—literally! Mitch is spearheading the Northwest Minnesota Center for Hope, a transformative initiative aimed at helping individuals and families facing addiction, homelessness, and crisis without having to leave their communities.

The Center will provide transitional housing, recovery services, life skills training, and faith-based mentorship—all under one roof. It’s a thoughtful, holistic approach designed to break cycles and give people the support they need to thrive right here in Northwest Minnesota.

What really stood out to me was how personal this mission is. Too often, families in our rural communities have to send loved ones hours away just to get help. The Center for Hope changes that—keeping recovery local, keeping families together, and giving people a second chance with dignity and support.

Investing in projects like this isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s smart for our communities. I’m really looking forward to continuing the conversation and exploring ways to bring this vision to life for our neighbors in Erskine, Bemidji, and beyond.

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No Tricks—Just Thanks!

What a week it’s been! From touring amazing local businesses and farms to visiting inspiring community projects, I’m reminded every day how fortunate we are to live in such a hardworking, creative, and caring part of Minnesota. And what better time to reflect on that than Halloween—a night when neighbors come together, kids laugh on every street corner, and the sense of community is palpable (even if it comes with a few spooky decorations)!

Thank you for taking the time to stay informed, ask questions, and share your thoughts. Your voice matters, and I encourage you to never hesitate to reach out. Whether it’s by phone, email, or by following me on Facebook [ [link removed] ] to stay up to date with what’s happening around our district, I want to hear from you. After all, keeping connected with our neighbors is the best treat we can give each other—no tricks involved!

Here’s to continuing the conversation, supporting one another, and making Northwest Minnesota a place we’re proud to call home—candy corn optional, of course.

Sincerely,

Representative Steve Gander

Minnesota House of Representatives, District 1B











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2nd Floor Centennial Office Building
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Saint Paul, MN 55155
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