133rd Airlift Wing Participates in Open Streets

Published Aug. 26, 2015
By TSgt Lynette Olivares
133rd AW Public Affairs

Minneapolis, Minn. -- Many airmen at the 133rd Airlift Wing are volunteers and active in many communities throughout the state and the Twin Cities. Recently, Airmen here participated in Open Streets Minneapolis, an event that promotes bringing the people of a local area together to meet each other.

On Aug. 23 a few main streets in downtown Minneapolis closed for a few hours and local businesses and establishments took to the streets to meet their neighbors and promote their products. Airmen from the base were there as well.

"What a great opportunity to be a part of Open Streets Minneapolis," said Staff Sgt Ryan Ringwelski, production recruiter for the 133rd Airlift Wing. "I appreciate how the 133rd Airlift Wing is committed to raising awareness in the community about the Air National Guard."

The event promotes healthy living, local businesses, sustainable transportation, and civic pride in Minneapolis. The idea and event started in 2011 and has grown to eight events in 2015. People from all over town are invited to walk, ride their bikes, and bring their kids, families and friends. There were even many canines that participated with their owners.

"We haven't always attended events like this, but it's a vital key is helping the community understand who we are and what we do," said Capt Winnie Tan, public affairs officer. "Our unit cares about the people within it and the community it serves - events like this is a fun and casual way to introduce ourselves to the people we serve and who may see us flying by."

Open streets Minneapolis has three events left this year, at University, Nicollet Avenue South, and Lowry Avenue North. For more information about this free community event, visit their website at: http://www.openstreetsmpls.org . For more information about the Minnesota Air National Guard visit: http://www.133aw.ang.af.mil .