The 2012 Gunflint Mail Run was an impromptu sled dog race, put together by an amazing community effort, in just 12 days. By all accounts, the 120-mile race was a great success. It was different from the 290-mile John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, which had to be cancelled because of lack of snow in the Duluth area. The Gunflint Mail […]
Get involved– attend your precinct caucus
Although political caucuses are examples of grassroots democracy at its best, relatively few citizens attend their precinct caucuses—perhaps because caucuses, although they have been part of the American democratic process since 1763, seem mysterious to those who have never participated. Organizers of local political parties encourage citizens to come out and learn more about this opportunity on Tuesday, February 7, […]
Public Utilities Commission may take lead on biomass energy use
With the first phase of a two-phase biomass feasibility study completed, the Grand Marais Public Utilities Commission may step up to become a major player in pursuing the possibility of implementing biomass as a major source of local energy. On February 1, 2012, Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP) leader George Wilkes and CCLEP Biomass Coordinator Gary Atwood gave the […]
Autopsy finds bacterial infection to be cause of Schlienz’s death
Nearly a month after the December 27, 2011 death of Daniel Sidney Schlienz, 42, at Essentia Health – St. Mary’s Medical Center, the St. Louis County Medical Examiner released the final autopsy results. On January 26, 2012, Thomas P. Uncini, M.D., Chief Medical Examiner, released a statement that said the manner of death is ruled “natural” and said there was […]
Ups and downs and valentines
I’ve had a lot of jobs over the years. My current job, as editor of the Cook County News-Herald, is the job I’ve held the longest. I’ve muddled along as an amateur editor for 12 years. And it’s my all-time favorite job, despite the fact that I have people angry with me on a regular basis. I think I still […]
Supervisor doesn’t speak for all citizens
In response to the letter from Supervisor Ross Willson on January 28, 2012: In the letter, he states, “The fire chief has the township’s complete support.” The only way to have that type of information would be to poll the residents of Schroeder Township. I have spoken to other residents and no one has been polled either by phone or […]
Now is the time to get involved
“Now more than ever before, the people are responsible for the character of their Congress. If that body be ignorant, reckless and corrupt, it is because the people tolerate ignorance, recklessness and corruption. If it be intelligent, brave and pure, it is because the people demand these high qualities to represent them in the national legislature…If the next centennial does […]
Self defense and weapon training needed
In light of recent talk on security issues I am concerned and frustrated as to how we are going about it. There is talk on limiting access. Locking doors, etc., wouldn’t stop anyone. Lock all doors, if someone wants in, they will find a way. They could wait for you to go to your car or home, etc. You can’t […]
Jail next to courthouse was a good idea
I read with interest the article on beefing up security at the Cook County courthouse. Of particular interest was Sheriff Falk’s statement that having the jail attached to the courthouse would be better. That reminded me that when the courthouse expansion was proposed it included an attached jail with a secure “garage” on the recommendation of law enforcement professionals. However, […]