Jim and Anne Deedrick fixed our coolers at Featherstone Farm for 25 years. When they retired and sold to a company out of town, I learned firsthand that local ownership isn't just sentimental — it's real economic value. Here's how the story of Thorne's Refrigeration has shaped my thinking about state-level policy supporting local business ownership.

Our current healthcare system puts local businesses at a disadvantage and forces patients to navigate a labyrinth of red tape just to afford basic care. But we don't have to settle for the status quo. I’m diving into the complex realities of healthcare in our district—the workforce shortages, the lack of transparency, and the potential for a better way forward. Read more to see where we go from here.

I've now seen at least four Featherstone employees buy homes in and around Rushford, most recently Ofelia earlier this year, and Mike was right: it is a powerful feeling of validation, seeing young people put down roots in this area, at least in part because of their commitment to Featherstone Farm. That's why I'm so focused on strengthening small, locally owned businesses in our district.

My Grandmother- Elizabeth Hedin- was a constant presence in my life from my first memories through my marriage to Jenni and beyond. It would be difficult to overstate her impact on me. She was an independent woman of remarkable curiosity, warmth and generosity. She was also a rock solid, smart, no nonsense Farmer-Labor Democrat.

As Featherstone Farm's H2-A visa seasonal workers return for another growing season, Jack reflects on how they’ve powered the growth of Featherstone’s $3 million operation…and why treating them fairly is about more than just retaining “good workers.”

ICE enforcement this past winter in Minnesota has hit a raw nerve for many people — and for me, as a farmer, it’s deeply personal.