With the legislative session over, and activity around the capitol quiet, I thought that now would be a good time to settle back and enjoy the Minnesota summer. My wife however, reminded me on Father's Day, that it was also the point in time in which days will start getting shorter. I'm not sure why, but for some reason I found that somewhat depressing.

Aside from that, however, a lot of activity has been occurring at MDVA that keeps us on our toes. Most recently I presented to the Governor's Council on Ending Homelessness. According to the statistical 'point in time' count, we found a 50 percent decrease since 2010 in Veteran homelessness in Minnesota. More importantly, MDVA has developed the /mdva/resources/homelessnessandprevention/homelessveteranregistry.jspHomeless Veteran Registry which enables us to follow up on the services and housing opportunities given to Veterans experiencing homelessness in Minnesota. If you know of anyone who is experiencing homelessness, they can join the registry by calling 1-888-LinkVet, (546-5838).

Also Minnesota has proclaimed July as Hire a Veteran month in Minnesota. Throughout the state there will be a number of activities occurring throughout the summer and the best way to keep track of those events is either through your local media or our website, MinnesotaVeteran.org.

One of the most interesting events I participated in recently was the laying of the time capsule at the Minneapolis Veterans Home on June 18. The event was special in that we were able to provide a number of things for inclusion. The one I found most interesting was the recording of the entire ceremony on an iPhone. As I was watching our staff recording the event, I wondered how they will be recharging the battery 50 years from now. It reminded me of a young soldier who asked me when we found some old beer cans buried in the ground 'how did I know that they were so old.' Easy, I said, they were opened with a 'church key.' It is amazing to see how time has flown by and how advanced we have become. Yes, even in the consumption of beer!

Take the time to enjoy the beautiful Minnesota summer. And I ask that you also take time to be with your family and loved ones. Our nation and state have gone through a lot in the last 15 years. If these years taught us anything, it should be the importance of our family, friends and freedom. Shortly we will be celebrating the Fourth of July. Let us all take time to reflect on the significance of that day and why it is so important for us all. Enjoy your summer!