RCLLG September Newsletter

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Newsletter Content:

1. October Program Information

2. September Program Recap

3. November Tour Preview

4. 2025 Program Recaps

Crisis to Clarity: Cyber Takeaways from the St. Paul Attack

Friday, October 10, 8:00 - 9:00 AM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

This timely session will break down what happened during the St. Paul cybersecurity attack, how the response was managed, and what organizations can do to strengthen their defenses. Speaker information to come.

Do you know the definition of sexual exploitation? Last Friday, September 12th, Ashley Moore, Executive Director of C.A.S.T. - Citizens Against Sex Trafficking, answered this and spoke to members about human trafficking in Minnesota.

Ashley explained the definition of sexual exploitation: causing harm sexually for gain, such as power, popularity, or acceptance. We are seeing an increase in exploitation due to internet safety issues. An alarming statistic was shared - the Twin Cities is one of 13 geographic locations with disproportionately high rates of child sex trafficking - over 4,600 students. The average age of entry into sex trafficking in the Twin Cities is 11-14 years old.

Ashley discussed CAST's prevention approach through education, awareness, and collaboration. Their programs include Power Over Predators curriculum for schools, parent workshops, and professional development training. A Q&A followed. Check out the notes for more detail.

How You Can Help

• Invite C.A.S.T to give a presentation to your schools or boards
• If you have kids, bring up internet safety in conversations. Understand which platforms they use.
• Attend the October 2 free expert panel during the C.A.S.T. Community Awareness Event at NorthRidge Fellowship
• Educate yourself. View resources specific to Labor Trafficking from the MN Department of Health. MDH can provide Labor Trafficking prevention training.
• Want to do a deeper dive into Human Trafficking Exploitation 101 Training, Parent Workshops, or Staff Trainings? Complete C.A.S.T.'s Speaker Request Form.

November Tour Preview

From Trash to Treasure:

Behind-the-Scenes

Whether you missed the January tour or wish to revisit and learn more, join us November 14 at the Ramsey and Washington County Recycling & Energy (R&E) center! Here, trash doesn't just disappear - it gets a second chance at life. Registration will open soon for this exciting behind-the-scenes tour.

Member Resources

Add your resources here! Do you have an event or other resource applicable to RCLLG members? Contact RCLLG@fusionLP.org to showcase your event or resource.

2025 Program Recaps

January: RCLLG members were welcomed to the Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy Center to learn fascinating facts about its history, mission, and about the importance of diverting waste. This was followed by a tour of the facility.

February: Legislators and members convened at the Christ on Capitol Hill church to discuss legislative priorities and insights. A pizza dinner was provided.

March: Madeleine Poling and Rebecca Heisel of the Great Plains Institute spoke on the Charging Smart program and fleet electrification for local governments.

April: Dr. Rose Chu, Founder of Elevate Teaching and School Board Member for Roseville Schools, spoke on the "Elevate Teaching" initiative, which aims to promote and support the teaching profession.

May: Keith Lattimore, Director of Housing Stability in Ramsey County presented on the current landscape and strategies for addressing homelessness in the County.

June: Five panelists shared current projects and initiatives aimed at mitigating climate impacts in their Ramsey County communities.

July: Members were part of an exclusive tour of the Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) facility as it transitions from the old to the new plant.

August: Members convened at the Keller Grille in Maplewood for our "Sips & Sunsets" social.

Check out past program recordings & notes

If you have any questions about RCLLG, your membership, or news listed above, please email RCLLG@fusionLP.org.

Ramsey County League of Local Governments | www.fusionLP.org/rcllg