Minnesota Public Radio's blog

The debate over the state budget is heating up at the Capitol. In just 15 minutes, you can try your hand at balancing the state's budget, and add your voice to this critical exercise in setting the state’s priorities by playing the Budget Balancer. Visit: www.mpr.org/budgetbalancer

The balancer gives you nearly 100 options for cutting or raising spending and taxes. Every time you make a choice, you can see what the consequences might be.

When you’re done balancing, you can email your budget to lawmakers and highlight your priorities for them. You can also compare your budget to the governor’s and those of others who have played the Balancer.

Stories have surfaced of Iraqi veterans having to navigate a bureaucratic maze only to receive inadequate care at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington D.C.

We've also heard stories of National Guard families facing financial hardship due to their service.

All of this has Minnesota Public Radio news wondering: To what extent are veterans getting the help they need to adjust to life at home after war?

Help us better understand this and related issues by sharing your stories and insights with MPR News. Just click here and fill out a brief survey form.

Muslims in America still face some fear and mistrust. A July 2006 Gallup poll showed that 39 percent of Americans feel at least some prejudice toward Muslims.

To address this, Muslims in Rochester have begun a series of cross-cultural discussions to bridge the divide with non-Muslims.

In your experience, what will it take to dispel mistrust and misunderstanding of Muslims? Are conversations enough? How much responsibility should the Muslim community bear in this effort?

MPR News wants your help exploring these questions. Share your insights by clicking right here and filling out this brief survey.