The economy of the Iron Range is the driving force for new and dangerous mining. I feel it is to our advantage to show an interest and compassion to their plight. The unions and the IRRRB have a stake in perpetuating the mining myth; not looking for solutions. Even our legislators praise the mining jobs and promise to fulfill all their financial dreams, in time.
The Save the Boundary Waters and other environmental groups use all their clout to stamp out mining with courts, scientific studies, and money. They appear ignorant to the loss of family funds, the stores going out of business and the failing towns and cities on the Range. If we do nothing, nothing will improve and desperation will be the defining mood for good reason.
I intend to go to the towns in the Iron Range with a clipboard and take a survey from the people who live there. Ask what they think should be done. With the gathered information from people drinking coffee, shopping for groceries and putting gas in their cars, conclusions can be drawn about the direction the people of this area would like to go. No top down declaration imposed from outside. Who could use this information a lot of different people, legislators, a candidate for elected office, local leaders, even businessman.
I intent to make a difference, but I need help. There are 11 cities identified on the map of the Iron Range, published in the Iron Range Visitors guide. If you have one day to spare for this project in the next couple of months, I would be so grateful. Make a difference. Take some action. Join me call 218-387-2700 or email ckrauz@boreal.org
Tina Kraus
Grand Marais
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