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 at 7 p.m. on […]
County to revamp the Comprehensive Land Use Plan
There have been a number of contentious issues facing the Cook County Planning & Zoning Commission in recent years—use of recreational vehicles for living quarters, establishment of dog sled kennels, placement of communication towers and more—and the planning commission relies on the Cook County Comprehensive Land Use Guide Plan for direction. At the January 21, 2014 meeting of the Cook […]
Who is next?
Two weekends ago, while helping to remove the Christmas decorations from the church, I was asked “Who is going to do this next year?” Wondering what the question meant, I sought clarification. “Well, look around we are all old…there are no young people here.” “Who is going to know what to do?” The question made me wonder: is religion dead? […]
Irene Legat Leng
Irene Legat Leng was born in Sundance, Wyoming (1911) to Frank and Elsie Legat. Irene grew up in the Big Horn Mountains. Her father was a U.S. Forest Ranger. At age 12, the family was transferred from the Big Horns to Superior National Forest. Irene gave up her prize black pony for a bicycle. Her father exchanged his saddle for […]
Challenges and rewards for Michaela Peterson in Uganda
When Michaela Peterson of Hovland, a 2013 graduate of Cook County High School, headed to Africa in August 2013, she had no idea what awaited. Now, five months into her nine-month stay in Kampala, Uganda, she has faced a multitude of trials—language barriers, a challenging job, unsanitary conditions, illness, homesickness— but has managed to keep a positive attitude in the […]
Down Memory Lane
10 Years AgoJan. 23, 2004 Grand Marais city councilors said last week that although they support the concept of a North Shore Dragon Boat Festival this summer, they could not honor a request for a $2,000 donation. The request was made as part of a presentation on the event by committee members. Lutsen Town supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday night to […]
New county administrator learning the ropes
A minute after meeting new County Administrator Jay Kieft he asked, “Would you like a cup of coffee?“ When Kieft left the office I noticed a plaque on the windowsill. I was writing down the homily when he came back in with two cups of coffee, and said, “If you look around my office you will see lots of little […]
Three ways to stay on course
Even when the mind is happy and healthy, times of distress can make it difficult to think clearly and resolve issues. That is why it can be useful to have some guiding principles during times of distress. The following are ones that I personally use and recommend: 1. Argue with a “we” in mind. There are a lot of barriers […]