Dan Sparks, DFL-Austin, is the District 27 senator.

Although much work remains in the 2019 Legislative session, it wasn’t St. Paul that was center stage last weekend. Instead the who’s who of the state and Legislature were in Albert Lea for the 2019 Governor’s Fishing Opener on Fountain Lake. As hosts for the first time, I’m happy to say the event was a major success for Albert Lea and the surrounding community.

The weekend began with a picnic Friday, where visiting legislators and community members were able to come together and celebrate. It was great to be able to greet Gov. Tim Walz, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Sarah Strommen and state legislators from across Minnesota with such a warm welcome from Albert Lea. Though the opener is just one weekend a year, it was a great way for us to show off everything we have to offer, and for people to see what makes our community great.

Saturday was the day for fishing, and I’m pleased to report that it was a successful day for most people out in the boats. While the lieutenant governor outdueled the governor, by catching three fish to his one, I, too, earned some bragging rights by catching a 32-inch northern pike. I also had great company and was joined by Freeborn County Administrator Tom Jensen and Produce State Bank Vice President Paul Buley.

While the day is for fishing, it’s also about building stronger relationships with those in our community, as well as other legislators. The fishing opener has a tradition of being a bridge for people to get past partisan divides. Instead of getting bogged down in political posturing, it allows us to enjoy a day together and to get to know one another in a real way.

It’s that kind of attitude that we need to bring to the table in the final days of the 2019 legislative session. It’s up to us to create a balanced budget that prioritizes everyday Minnesotans, and both sides need to find a compromise that works. Although it can seem unlikely, things can change quickly at the Legislature, and a final deal can be just around the corner. I remain optimistic that a final budget deal can be reached that balances investing in our priorities while responsibly preparing for future challenges.