A.M. Best has affirmed Thrivent Financial for Lutherans’ A++ (Superior) rating as well as its stable outlook. The A++ (Superior) rating is the highest of the ratings agency’s 16 ratings categories. A.M. Best cited Thrivent Financial’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, its favorable and increasing earnings trend, rising assets under management, and its strong affinity and name recognition within its Lutheran policyholder... READ MORE >
In celebration of the release of The Pie Place Cookbook, a launch party will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. May 16 at the Pie Place Café in downtown Grand Marais. The cookbook, billed as “food and stories seasoned by the North Shore” and written by Kathy Rice, is published by Lake Superior Magazine. It is a unique collection,... READ MORE >
The annual stand examination list for potential timber sales on state-administered forest land in the upcoming fiscal year is now available for public review, said the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The list is for fiscal year 2014, which begins July 1 and ends June 30, 2014. Comments will be accepted during a 30-day public comment period that ends... READ MORE >
Minnesota’s terrestrial (land-based) invasive species outreach program known as, “PlayCleanGo: Stop Invasive Species in Your Tracks” is kicking off a new campaign, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). “The campaign aims to do two things: encourage outdoor recreation on Minnesota trails, parks and recreation sites and to educate and create awareness among outdoor recreationists about terrestrial invasive... READ MORE >
On Friday, May 17, Mark Powers will work with the students of Great Expectations School in classroom “Junk Jam” workshops, leading a hands-on experience in how everyday objects can become musical instruments. Students will find that rhythm exists everywhere and that by working together they can discover music in their own environment, their own bodies, and even in the vocalization... READ MORE >
Sarah Stonich will visit the Grand Marais Public Library at 3 p.m. May 20 as part of a 16-library tour across the Arrowhead Library system with her new book Vacationland. Stonich describes the book as “very much a regional title set in Minnesota resort country,” and says it’s expected to be a popular summer read. The author also said she... READ MORE >
Minnesota GreenCorps is now recruiting hosts and AmeriCorps members for the upcoming program year. Minnesota GreenCorps is an AmeriCorps program that the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) started in 2009. AmeriCorps is a national service program that helps communities with a wide variety of challenges. Its goals include reducing solid waste and increasing recycling in communities, reducing greenhouse gases and... READ MORE >
Be it a popular spot like the headwaters of the Mississippi, or an obscure locale well off the beaten path, a new partnership between Lutsen Mountains and Conservation Minnesota has started a discussion about the people’s favorite places in the state. The easy-to-use web portal allows users to check out recommended locations near wherever they are in the state, and... READ MORE >
The gift of friendship can mean a lot for those on the journey of aging or serious illness—just someone to hear their stories, be with them or remind them of their significance. Care Partners volunteers provide companionship in the client’s home, at the Care Center, or the hospital. Volunteers provide ongoing friendly visits, a compassionate presence at end-of-life, phone check-ins,... READ MORE >
Have you ever wanted to learn to fly fish? Are you interested in learning more about water quality and why it is important for fish? Cook County Soil and Water Conservation District is partnering with MN Trout Unlimited, Cook County Kids Plus, Cook County Extension and Community Education to host a fun-filled day (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) of fishing... READ MORE >
