We need to stand up and defend Minnesota this summer. Gov. Pawlenty and his allies are drastically cutting the things we all need, use and love. In this land of 10,000 lakes, we’re already feeling the pain. St. Paul won't be hiring lifeguards at Phalen Beach. St. Cloud will be closing down wading pools and not filling 20 lifeguard positions. Mankato almost had to cancel fireworks on the 4th. Check out this map where you can track the cuts happening in your community. Then enter your zip code and write a letter to the editor to tell your community that we need a Minnesota that thrives, not just survives.