 Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan celebrated the Governor’s Fishing Opener on Lake Pepin in Lake City. The Governor and Lieutenant Governor each caught a walleye.
On Friday, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan participated in interviews with local press and outdoors outlets across the state, joined a group of fifth grade students at Ohuta Beach Park to learn about fishing, water quality, and wildlife, and visited the Department of Natural Resources’ Mussel Lab. Lieutenant Governor Flanagan hosted a women’s fishing event and visited Frontenac State Park. Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan also made stops at small businesses in the Lake City area and attended a community celebration.
On Saturday, Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan joined the opening day launch ceremony before fishing on Lake Pepin. Afterwards, they joined other anglers for a shore lunch. Photos from the weekend’s events can be found on Flickr.
"Minnesota’s fishing opener is special. It’s an exciting and important day for thousands of Minnesotans who are ready to kick off the season, and personally one of my favorite days of the year," said Governor Walz. "I always look forward to highlighting new communities and this one is an easy sell. An exceptional destination for fishing, a great location for tourism and a beautiful place to put down roots, I cannot speak highly enough of this city. Thank you to our hosts and to everyone who celebrated with us, and happy fishing!"
"Minnesota is defined by its natural resources and exceptional outdoor recreation, and this year’s fishing opener was an excellent reminder of all that the state has to offer," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "Lake City is a gem, and this year’s fishing opener was extra special, serving as an opportunity to highlight an important message: women currently make up less than 20% of anglers in Minnesota. But we’re ready to change that. Across the state we’re working to increase the number of women involved in fishing and outdoor recreation and this weekend in Lake City was a reminder that outdoor spaces and sports are for everyone. I am so grateful to our hosts and the community for joining us."
 Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Flanagan visited First Avenue in Minneapolis to sign a bill into law that will strengthen consumer protections for ticket buyers. The bill reforms the processes related to the sale, advertisement, and resale of tickets for concerts, sports, and cultural events.
"Whether Minnesotans are selling out Target Center to cheer the Timberwolves on in the playoffs or catching a concert or a play downtown, they’re paying too many hidden fees while competing against exploitative third parties," said Governor Walz. "This law will change that. We are protecting consumers and ensuring that Minnesotans can purchase tickets for their favorite events without having to empty their pockets."
"It's no secret that I love live music – from Portugal. The Man to New Kids on the Block to Beyoncé. However, in recent years, enjoying live music has become more and more difficult," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "And, it’s not just music. Whether purchasing tickets for a concert, ball game, or live theater, a lack of transparency in ticket sales, mysterious fees, and hiked prices are making these events less accessible. That’s why I’m so excited for the passage of this bill. For music, sports, and theater fans alike, this bill will ensure Minnesotans can continue to attend their favorite events – without the sticker shock."
 Governor Walz and Lieutenant Peggy Flanagan congratulated Christina Bogojevic as she was sworn in as colonel of the Minnesota State Patrol at a pinning ceremony in Saint Paul.
"Col. Bogojevic is a passionate, dedicated leader with a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to the people of Minnesota," said Governor Walz. "Through years of service with the Minnesota State Patrol, she has consistently demonstrated deep compassion and an unyielding commitment to keeping our roads and communities safe. I have no doubt that she is the right person for this role. I congratulate Col. Bogojevic and look forward to working with her."
"I am excited to congratulate Col. Christina Bogojevic as she steps into her new role," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "As the second woman to lead the Minnesota State Patrol, her appointment reminds us that there is a place for everyone in this line of work. With her collaborative nature, deep passion, and strong commitment to keeping our roads safe, Col. Bogojevic will continue to move our state patrol in the right direction and make Minnesota safer for everyone."
 Governor Walz led a briefing to provide information about air quality conditions in the coming months and discuss how state agencies are preparing. Leaders from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Department of Public Safety presented an overview of the air quality forecast for the coming months, including factors such as wildfire, and safety protocols for air quality alerts.
"Today I was briefed on the air quality forecast for the coming months, including factors such as wildfire," said Governor Walz. "In Minnesota, we’re good at handling fires and extreme weather not just because we have experience, but because we have a plan."
"Last year, we had a record-breaking 52 air quality alert days. As someone with asthma, and a mother of a child with asthma, it was especially concerning to our family," said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. "As temperatures continue to increase, we’re working to prepare for extreme weather to keep Minnesotans safe."
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