The latest installment of the Independence Party of Minnesota's "Independent Thinking" series features

"Common Cents: Minnesotans weigh in on taxes and spending"

The legislature has has struggled to balance Minnesota's budget. So now it's your turn!

The Independence Party welcomes the Citizens League, in partnership with the Bush Foundation, for a community conversation to share information about Minnesota’s budgetary challenges and to ask: What values and priorities are important to solving Minnesota’s budget challenges?

 The interactive session is designed to help Minnesotans better grasp the fiscal issues confronting the state in a relaxed and highly interactive environment. The workshop is a nonpartisan space where everyone can learn and work together. Minnesotans of all backgrounds and political persuasions are encouraged to participate. The workshops are fun, informative and interactive. No need to be a budget expert.

We'll bring the pizza. You bring the solutions!

Ridgedale Public Library

12601 Ridgedale Drive, Minnetonka

Tues, July 17, 2012, 6:30 p.m.

(Pizza and soft drinks will be provided)

**NOTE** Space is limited so please RSVP

Why get involved?

Last year, workshops involving over 600 people were held around Minnesota.  The evaluations were highly positive--participants enjoyed participating in the discussion and said they learned quite a bit.

"Great presentation, fun, nice tablemates, interesting discussion.”  – Edina participant

"Terrific session. Please do more!” – Worksite participant

“People with different ideas, perspectives, and ideologies can have a rational and productive discussion.” – Minneapolis (Northeast) participant

""This table was very diverse. We had a fabulous discussion. Started a bit adversarial—but ended jovial. I think people make assumptions about others and close off, but then open up later.” – Rochester participant

The findings from each individual workshop will be summarized and posted online at www.CitiZing.org, and the overall findings will be presented to the Governor and state legislators.

How to schedule or for more information: 

Contact Juve Meza at the Citizens League, jmeza@citizensleague.org or 651-293-0575.  All workshops are presented free of charge. Workshop hosts will have responsibility for meeting logistics and recruiting participants.  The Citizens League requests that groups be a minimum of 20 people in size and of mixed backgrounds and/or ideologies.

Prepared and paid for by the Independence Party of Minnesota.