ST. PAUL, Minn. -- Minnesotans can put another feather in their cap: A report ranks the state first in civic engagement.
The Center for Democracy and Citizenship's ranking is an indication that Minnesota residents are more prone than others to participate in shaping their communities.
Study co-director Harry Boyte says it shows Minnesotans pride themselves on being problem solvers and the state "can be a civic classroom for the nation."
The ranking is based on strength of voter turnout, volunteerism, attendance at public meetings and involvement in fixing local problems. Minnesota is in the top 10 on all four and first when the categorical rankings are averaged.
The Center for Democracy and Citizenship is affiliated with Augsburg College.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
