Weekly News & Event Invitations
In this issue:
Civic Engagement
March Book Review
Funding Opportunities
Civic Engagement
Remembering Melissa Hortman
Roses are piled on Melissa Hortman’s desk in the Minnesota House Chamber on the first day of the 2026 legislative session on Tuesday. Ben Hovland | MPR News
Minnesota Legislature returns with tears, roses, remembrances of Hortman - Story by Dana Ferguson
Melissa Hotman died in a shocking act of political violence, This is the story of her life - The Minnesota Speaker’s closest friends and family open up for the first time. By Stephen Rodrick
Run For Something
One Country Project’s Hot Dish
The Hot Dish podcast, hosted by former U.S. Senator Heidi Heitkamp and her brother Joel, features entertaining stories of everyday people making a difference in rural and small-town communities. Heidi and Joel also discuss key issues with the elected leaders, policymakers, and academics who are creating new opportunities for rural Americans and finding practical solutions to their challenges. Punctuated with entertaining conversations and a healthy dose of sibling rivalry, One Country Project’s Hot Dish is informative, enlightening, and downright fun.
This episode is a rallying cry for anyone who’s ever felt the urge to make a difference in their community. Whether you’re new to politics or part of the old guard, Amanda Litman’s story and insights will inspire you to step up, speak out, and lead!
Elected Officials
Let your voice be heard—Share your experiences and suggestions with elected officials! Your voice can guide them to make better informed decisions to represent their constituents and create stronger communities that thrive for everyone!
Civic Engagement Resources:
February 2026: Civic Programs, News, & Resources
In the last Issue: Elected Contacts: LINK. Legislative Session Recording LINK
Check out: Our Civic Resources Page LINK
Morning Connections
Morning Connections is an informal meeting series that consist of light conversation over zoom. If you’re looking for a space to take time for yourself to just connect with others, we invite you to join us. Bring beverages, children, breakfast, pets, or work – the goal is to connect informally with other women and a host who will facilitate. We look forward to networking with you!
Funding Opportunites
Grant programs deadline extended!
Currently accepting letters of inquiry for three grant programs until 1 p.m. on Friday, February 24 (originally February 6)
🔹 Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation Arts & Culture Grant Program
🔹 Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation Democracy Grant Program
🔹 Mardag Foundation Food Access Grant Program
Serving Greater Minnesota
There are six regional foundations working to strengthen the communities and economies of Greater Minnesota. Established by the McKnight Foundation in 1986, each foundation is independent and serves its geographic region by delivering grants, business financing, regional programs, belonging work and donor services. The foundations also are regular collaborators on statewide initiatives.
Check out funding opportunies and community support with your local regional Initiative Foundation
March Reading Room
Rachel Maddow traces the fight to preserve American democracy back to World War II, when a handful of committed public servants and brave private citizens thwarted far-right plotters trying to steer our nation toward an alliance with the Nazis.
100 Rural Women creates connections and inspires leadership. We see a future where more rural women lead positive change for themselves, their families, communities, the nation and the world. We are committed to building leadership through networks, mentorship, education, and civic engagement. Our 501(c) 3 non-profit organization is non-partisan.