Rybak keynote speaker at Progressive Action dinner

April 16, 2009 by Howie · Leave a Comment

rybakparade Minneapolis Mayor R. T. Rybak will speak in Duluth on Friday about his green transportation and jobs initiatives, his early support for President Obama and recent work with the Obama Administration and what federal stimulus dollars are doing for Minnesota cities.

Rybak will be the keynote speaker at the 2009 Progressive Action Spaghetti Dinner Extravaganza. The title of his speech will be, “”Beyond Elections: Progressive Leadership.”

The mayor is expected to address federal stimulus dollars and their effect on city budgets, as well as a number of other critical topics facing communities across the Midwest and the country.

“One of Mayor Rybak’s key messages is, we can’t afford to keep doing things like we’ve done them in the past—in terms of jobs, education, transportation, health care, or the environment,” Progressive Action President Barb Olsen said. “These are critical times, and a progressive, innovative voice like Rybak’s is a key one.”

The event will be held from 6–8:30 p.m. at Peace Church, located at 1111 N 11th Ave. East in Duluth. It also features live music by Mad About Jane, a spaghetti dinner (vegetarian option available), a children’s activities table, and a silent auction featuring services and products from local independent businesses.

Duluth city councilor Jeff Anderson will serve as master of ceremonies, and a number of other local elected officials and currently announced progressive candidates will be attending and will share a few words with the audience as well.

The public is invited, and it’s family-friendly. Tickets are $15 apiece; children 10 and under are free. Tickets will be sold at the door and in advance at Green Mercantile, located at 209 E Superior St. in Downtown Duluth.

– Photo: Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak participated in the 2006 Twin Cities GLBT Pride parade. Published with permission.