Access To Democracy

Eagan Fire Chief Hugo Searle, returns to “Access to Democracy” with host Steve Francisco to discuss his adventures growing up in Wales and Africa, his mountain-climbing experiences, including two treks to the top of Mount Everest, and his lengthy career as a firefighter.

Early in his life, Hugo knew he was “made” to be a firefighter. Chief Searle led Eagan’s transition from a part-time on-call fire department to a full-time department.

The Chief reviews steps that homeowners and renters can take to reduce the risk of fire, including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and the storage of hazardous materials. Chief Searle reminds us just how quickly fires can spread and the importance of safely evacuating and calling for help.

Finally, the Chief offers his advice to those who may be considering a career as a firefighter or EMT.

The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office enforces consumer protection laws. Our guest, Noah Lewellen, Assistant AG, talks in depth with host Bill Raker, about the AG’s mission and role in serving consumers.

Noah cites several examples of the top scams and frauds being experienced by Minnesotans and explains their nature and details. He identifies “red flags” that consumers should be alert to that may help prevent someone from becoming a scam victim.

Noah clarifies the distinction between scams and frauds which are illegal activities, and predatory or unfair practices, which are legal activities but are financially harmful activities.

Learn about the Victim Restitution Fund being considered for MN.

Our guest, Erin Parrish, Advocacy and Outreach Director for AARP Minnesota, joins host Bill Raker, to explain how AARP advocates at the state and national levels for policies that benefit consumers.

Erin reviews several priorities being considered by the MN Legislature that are focused on improving consumers’ wellbeing. She speaks to policy priorities at the federal level that include protecting and preserving Social Security Benefits and care giving for family members.

Voter education and engagement are also priorities for the non-profit, non-partisan AARP.

Dave St. Peter has been the President of the Minnesota Twins organization since 2002, and has been a guest on our show for just as long. The Twins are now one of “Access to Democracy” benefactors.

In his annual visit with Alan, Dave discussed many aspects of the team, Target Field improvements, its expansive and unique food choices, challenges from last year’s off-season, and his hope for team improvement once the many injured players return to the regular lineup.

Julia Decker, Policy Director for the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota (ILCM), joins host Steve Francisco to discuss her organization’s work providing free legal representation to immigrants and refugees.

Immigration and refugee issues are a top concern for many voters and Julia does a masterful job in explaining some of the complexities surrounding these issues as well as correcting some of the mistaken ideas about who immigrants and refugees are, where they come from, and why they seek a better life in America. She also speaks out against hateful rhetoric about immigrants.

ILCM helps immigrants and refugees navigate issues such as obtaining green cards, processing asylum requests, and citizenship applications. Julia calls upon Congress to finally pass fair and balanced immigration reform.