Dear Neighbor,
Here is an update from the Capitol.
Limited Availability for Driver and Vehicle Services
If you’re thinking about renewing your license or visiting your local DMV over the weekend, please know that they have limited availability due to statewide computer upgrades through July 24. Some locations may close all together, so call ahead before going in. Online tab renewals are also unavailable through the 24th.
You can learn more in a recent Star Tribune story here.
Around the Community
So many great local events are happening in our community over the next couple months. Check out some of the fun things you can do with your family below!
Anoka Classic Car Show
The Anoka Classic Car Show is a wonderful local event that runs throughout the summer with great music and food. Check out more about upcoming dates you can see these classic cars here.
Concerts in the Park
Enjoy free concerts this summer right in your own community!
Check out the dates and performances for Anoka here and Ramsey here.
Discover Anoka Days
Discover Anoka Days including their annual sidewalk sale is happening in downtown Anoka this weekend through the 22nd. Learn more here.
Food Truck Festival THIS Saturday
The Food Truck Festival is coming to Anoka with live music, games and of course lots of delicious food this Saturday! Get all the info on it here.
Anoka County Fair
The Anoka County Fair starts July 25 and runs through the 30th with events for the whole family. Coloring contests, live music, bull riding, tractor pulls and much more! Get the full schedule here.
Night to Unite
National Night Out is August 1, and the Anoka Community Anti-Crime Commission is supporting local neighborhoods putting on events this year to improve relations between citizens and law enforcement. A registration form for your neighborhood can be found here.
Cookout with the Cops & Safety Fair
On Tuesday, August 22 you can join the Anoka Police Department for its First Annual Cookout with the Cops and Fun Safety Fair from 5 to 7 pm at Akin Riverside Park. Free hotdogs, chips, water and freeze pops will be provided!
Farmers Markets
The Anoka Farmers Market began Monday, July 10 and will run through October. The market is located in the Lyric Arts parking lot (420 E. Main Street) and runs from 2-6 pm. Learn more here.
The Ramsey Farmers Market will also be starting in mid-July and run through early fall. You can go pick up some fresh local produce on Thursdays from 3-7pm at the Ramsey Municipal Center. Learn more here.
“The Draw” Summer Event Series
Every Thursday night through August, Ramsey is hosting concert style music. Food and drink will be available, along with events for kids before certain shows. See the full line up and learn more about this weekly summer event put on by the City of Ramsey Foundation here.
Happy Days Festival
The 19th annual Happy Days Festival in Ramsey is coming up! The event runs September 7-10 with events for the whole family including a Taste of Happy Days, movies in the park, family bike tours, bingo, the Ramsey Fire Department Chili Cook-Off, and much more! Learn more here.
smARTpass
Did you know your Anoka County Library card can get you into places around the Twin Cities for free including museums, music and live theater? Just visit smartpass.melsa.org for more information.
Ramsey Police Department Citizen’s Academy
Wednesdays from September 6 through October 18, the Ramsey Police Department is inviting citizens to “an intensive and interactive hands-on seven week course” to help strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community. Participants will learn more about how law enforcement operates and be able to share their ideas on how to reduce crime in the community. Applications are due by August 2, and more information can be found here.
Parks and Recreation
The Ramsey Parks and Recreation Department is putting on events throughout the summer including art events, yoga classes, theater and more. Get a full list of upcoming events and how to participate here.
***
Please know my office is available should you need assistance on a matter of state government. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-1729 or via email at rep.abigail.whelan@house.mn. I also welcome your input and ideas on legislation and matters moving through the Minnesota House. I am here to serve you and it is a joy! Thank you for the honor and privilege of being your state representative.
Have a wonderful weekend and summer,
Abigail