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🚀Community voices | Meet KZYS, Project Optimist’s partner in the Central Minnesota News Collaborative
Somali

🚀Community voices | Meet KZYS, Project Optimist’s partner in the Central Minnesota News Collaborative

Ten-plus years ago the St. Cloud Somali Community Radio began broadcasting local news to thousands of Somali speakers in central Minnesota. This month Project Optimist and KZYS are launching the new Central Minnesota News Collaborative, designed to strengthen local news through partnerships.

Red prayer candles are lit with an image of Mary in the background at a Catholic church.
End-of-Life

‘Temples of the spirit’: A Catholic take on end-of-life plans

“Our belief is that we're temples of the Holy Spirit. The body that we have is where the Holy Spirit has lived,” said the Rev. Tony Wroblewski.

Carrots are seen at the end of a wooden barrel that sits horizontally on a stand outside.
agriculture

Ancestral seed relatives offer healing, better health

Dream of Wild Health farm recovers seed relatives, provides nourishment for urban families, and cultivates young leaders.

An illustration of people working in a nuclear generating plant.
Nuclear power

Coalition wants to end Minnesota's nuclear moratorium

Project Optimist spoke with Generation Atomic about why they feel now is the time to lift Minnesota's nuclear moratorium.

A woman and a man stand on the snowy ground next to a tall solar panel array. Evergreen trees are seen behind them.
Other nonprofit media

Solar power gives resort ‘new blood, new life’

After sitting dormant during the winter for the past decade, the Lodge of Whispering Pines is up and running on the strength of a solar project that largely powers its dozen cabins.

An illustration of a person discussing advance care planning with their doctor via a telehealth appointment.
End-of-Life

How and why to start your health care directive

Experts share insights and recommendations on where to start the advance planning process.

Cardboard boxes and paper are seen in a bunker at the Otter Tail County Recycling Center.
Environment

How Extended Producer Responsibility will work in Minnesota

Project Optimist finds out how the law aimed at reducing packaging waste could affect taxpayers, businesses, and consumers.

Recycling boxes sit on the curb outside a home in Canada waiting to be picked up.
Environment

Extended Producer Responsibility shifts recycling cost, promises investment

Minnesota wants producers to pay for recycling. How has that worked in Canada and the European Union?

Two women with dark hair smile as they pose for a photo in front of lilac bushes.
End-of-Life Featured

Community Voices ⎸ Project Optimist staff plan for the end — and it feels good

Life goals: Complete health care directives, draft a will, and enroll in life insurance in 2025.

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