making time
by Erik Osberg on 8/05/25
In 2011 I started a fishing/hunting related brand. The idea was to encourage people to “make time” to enjoy the outdoors. Our slogan was “it’s not about having time, it’s about making time.” We have attached that mentality to this campaign. We all get 24 hours in a day, what we do with that time is up to us. As for me, I choose to keep creating real connections throughout western Minnesota. Since announcing on March 11th, we have now made 62 campaign stops under our new slogan; “we can do better.”
In my humble opinion good leadership means taking more than your fair share of the blame when results don't meet expectations. It also means giving others credit when things do go well.
Last week the July Jobs Report was released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the numbers weren't good. Nonfarm payrolls growth totaled 73,000 in July, well below forecasts. In addition, the May & June numbers were revised lower. With the exception of the pandemic era, this was the worst Jobs Report since the great recession. As a former financial advisor & banker, I understand the math.
In response to the report, the current Administration called for the firing of the head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics. We are living in a revisionist era.
We need real solutions to real problems in Washington D.C. We need leaders who hold themselves accountable for their actions.
That is why I am running for Congress.
On Saturday, I attended my 1st ever Traditional Wacipi, aka Pow-Wow. The event was hosted by the Upper Sioux Community near Granite Falls, MN. When I say you could FEEL the significance of the event, I mean it. The pounding of the drums thumps in your chest. The rhythm of bells rings in your ear. A spiritual connection is created between those in attendance, the earth below their feet & the sky above their heads. The Grand Entry is a can't miss. It marks the beginning of the Wacipi with all the dancers in full regalia. I was fortunate enough to experience an extra special moment. Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, a member of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe & candidate for U.S. Senate, was allowed to address the crowd. Then one by one people entered the circle to shake her hand. After that a song broke out and a processional made it's way around the arena with more people joining in along the way. During the opening prayer, an elder referenced "one heart, one mind". One of the goals of this campaign is to connect with the tribal communities in western Minnesota. Over the weekend, we took a step towards that goal. Mark your calendars, the 2026 Wacipi is August 7th-9th. We plan on being there. As they say "Today we gather. Tomorrow we'll remember."
I attended two Minnesota Farmers Union events last week. One was in Wadena County, they other in Todd County. MFU President Gary Wertish was at both events & MN Dept. of Ag Commissioner Thom Petersen was at one of them. They shared their thoughts of the state of farming. Commissioner Petersen talked about the importance of farming in Minnesota. He pointed out our state ranks in the top 10 in pretty much every major ag commodity. We have some industry leaders in the private sector too. He talked about current crop conditions. He said from what he hears/sees it should be a good harvest across the board. One challenge has been to get hay put up. That being said, crop prices are really hurting. Commissioner Petersen also said that mediation notices were up in June when compared to years past. (These notices inform farmers of a creditor's intent to take action against their agricultural property.) Just one indicator that farms are facing challenges. We talked about localizing food supply and a potential resurgence in smaller farms. MFU President Gary Wertish gave an update on the Farmers Union Processing & Meats facility in Staples, MN. This project is an example of collaborative partners coming together to create local solutions. Ground broke in June and construction is expected to be completed in January 2026. The intent is to create a USDA inspected slaughter & processing site that gives area farmers & cooperatives an alternative when it comes to meat processing. Both Commissioner Petersen & MFU President Wertish touched on the need to restore stability as it relates to trade partnerships/relations. Wertish also encouraged people to keep showing up and sharing their stories. "Government is only as good as we make it." he said. We couldn't agree more. I was also allowed to introduce myself as a candidate for Congress. Thanks for the great meal & conversation.
The event in Todd County included a tribute to Alan Perish who passed away in May. Alan was a champion for rural places. He cared deeply about the success of small family farms. He was an advocate, tireless grassroots organizer and steward of the land. MN Farmers Union President Gary Wertish was there to share memories & stories of Alan. He encouraged those in attendance to carry on Alan's legacy of service. A.J. Peters shared a very poignant memorial. "Alan’s regional events, ranging from picnics to conventions, fostered a sense of unity and engagement among local farmers and supporters. He wasn’t afraid to bring tough issues—like antitrust concerns and dairy consolidation—before the broader community, helping shape meaningful legislative dialogues. Alan embodied the ethos of responsible land management, always guided by deep respect for his rural Minnesota roots." said Peters.
Other family & friends shared their stories of Alan too, some were very emotional.
There was quite a spread of food. I was especially excited to see brats on a charcoal grill. I was also really excited when I heard some good ol' fashioned polka being played. Can't go wrong with Roll out the Barrel . I also met a birthday buddy of mine. Thanks for having me & allowing me to introduce myself to more of my neighbors here in western Minnesota. We are connecting the dots.
I also attended a potluck on a farm near Fulda, MN last week. As well as a County Fair. Both were great opportunities to listen & learn.
Upcoming schedule:
Aug 6th - Farm Fest
Aug 6th - SD15 Corn Feed
Aug 8th - Stearns Co. Fair
Aug 9th - Upsala Heritage Day Parade
Aug 10th - Willmar Meet-n-greet
Thank you for all the support & keep up the good work!
Thanks to our generous donors, we are closing in on $70,000 raised. Our campaign relies on donations from folks like you. If you have already donated, THANK YOU! If you have set up a recurring donation, even better. If you would like to host a private party fundraiser, click here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/SKQtMANaY0W8nGqHcpukXA2
