Demand spikes in recent month as supplies dwindle

by Erin Johnson
Thisweek Newspapers

An Eagan food shelf is putting out a plea for donations of food and money as it sees an increase in the number of families coming through its door while supplies dwindle.

“The food shelf has responded this month to about 10 percent  more families than we ever had in the past,” said Lisa Horn, executive director of the Eagan Resource Center. “We’re at the point where we really can’t keep up.”

That’s an increase of about 50 more families than the typical 400 each month, she said.

The food shelf expects to have a total of about 17,000 visits in 2009.

“I think many families are either experiencing hunger or are one paycheck away from it,” she said. “We’re seeing middle class families coming through our doors, when a couple of years ago that wouldn’t have been the case.”

One cat had to be euthanized after beating; three others vanished while he lived with girlfriend in Eagan

by Erin Johnson
Thisweek Newspapers

A man accused of beating his girlfriend’s cat so badly it had to be euthanized has been sentenced to 30 days in jail.

Ryan Jason Wolcott, 24, of Maple Grove was also sentenced to up to two years of probation.

Wolcott was charged in Dakota County with felony animal cruelty in April. He was also charged with animal abandonment in connection with the disappearance of three other cats belonging to his live-in girlfriend in Eagan.

Wolcott pleaded guilty to both charges.

“Any cruelty of this nature to a helpless animal is unconscionable and deserves a jail sentence,” said Dakota County Attorney James Backstrom.

Council members, department heads to take questions, suggestions

by Erin Johnson
Thisweek Newspapers

The city of Eagan will hold an open house Dec. 8 for citizens interested in learning more about the budget and how it relates to services the city offers.

The open house is a chance for residents to ask questions and make suggestions about city services as Eagan officials continue to hammer out details of the 2010 budget.

City Council members and department heads will be on hand at the open house, as will a list of services Eagan offers and information about reductions that have been made to date.  

by T.W. Budig
ECM Capitol reporter

The 2nd Congressional District race took more shape Tuesday, Nov. 17 with Burnsville Democrat Dan Powers’ announcement that he intends to challenge four-term Republican U.S. Rep. John Kline, R-Lakeville, to represent the district.

Speaking at a Capitol press conference, Powers, who holds a commercial pilot’s license and has long ties to the roofing industry, said he had considering running last election.

PHOTO: Dan Powers announced on Tuesday that he will seek the Democrats endorsement in the 2nd District. Photo by T.W. Budig