(Twin Cities November 28, 2007) – The I35W Bridge Long Term Recovery Committee (LTRC) is coordinating the efforts of nonprofits and disaster response agencies that are working with survivors and families of the I35W.

Bridge collapse. The LTRC agencies are distributing funds from the Minnesota Helps – Bridge Disaster Fund™ to aid survivors. The fund, which has collected more than $1.1 million, is managed by The Minneapolis Foundation. To date, $270,000 has been granted to agencies from the fund ($216,000 for group services, $53,100 to aid individuals). One hundred percent of the money contributed to the fund will be distributed through organizations to aid survivors and families.

Concerned citizens looking for answers in curbing the rate of underage drinking will join together in recognition of the 10th anniversary of the Shutting Off the Tap to Teens conference on Monday, Dec. 3 in Bloomington. Addressed will be everything from creating an awareness of those who provide and market alcohol to teens to the role schools and communities play in reducing the continuing problem of youth access to alcohol. 

The conference, held from 8:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. at the Bloomington Civic Plaza at 1800 W. Shakopee Road, also will include a special review of the last 10 years of alcohol policy in Minnesota and all that remains to be accomplished.