Cook County News Herald

Center for Small Towns to present economic and demographic data




Jay Arrowsmith DeCoux, proprietor of the Art House B&B in Grand Marais, sees an interesting mix of people in the course of his day. A recent visitor was Kelly Asche of the University of Minnesota-Morris Center for Small Towns. A relaxed discussion over coffee at the B&B led to an interesting upcoming event. On Tuesday, September 23 from 6:30-8 p.m. at North House Folk School, Asche will give a presentation on rural demographic and economic trends for small towns, looking at Grand Marais in particular.

Arrowsmith DeCoux said Asche would share data on towns with similar economies, such as Ely as well as communities with dissimilar economic environments. “The goal is to learn more about where we’re headed,” said Arrowsmith DeCoux.

The presentation will not necessarily provide answers for the problems facing small towns. However, Arrowsmith DeCoux said an important part of the presentation was the Q&A session at the end. “It will be interesting to see the data he has to share, but also some narratives about what other communities have done,” he said.

There is no charge for the presentation, which will be held in the blue building at North House Folk School. Light refreshments will be served.



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