Staff Reports


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Perpich Arts High School hosts information session for prospective students

Perpich Arts High School will host its final information session for students from around the state who are interested in attending the two-year program for grades 11 and 12. The information session will be Saturday, Jan. 12, 1-3 p.m. Registration is not necessary. Perpich is located at 6125 Olson Memorial Parkway, in Golden Valley, just west of the State Route... READ MORE >

DNR urges snowmobile safety

Recent snowfall will likely bring out more Minnesota snowmobilers and that means there’s an increased chance of an accident, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). There were six snowmobile-related deaths in Minnesota during the 2012 snowmobile season. That compares to 13 fatalities in 2011 and 19 fatalities in 2010. The usual causes of snowmobile accidents are operator... READ MORE >

Township association offers scholarships

The Minnesota Association of Townships (MAT) is proud to again offer a township scholarship program for high school juniors in the state of Minnesota. For the 13th year, the township association will award up to four $1,000 scholarships will be awarded. MAT is a nonprofit corporation representing Minnesota townships while promoting an understanding of the heritage, future and being a... READ MORE >

Help for depression is available

The illusion that Cook County is somehow sheltered from the stresses of today’s world is shattered when a community member or visitor is the apparent victim of depression and suicide or when a violent crime occurs. Depression is a serious illness that can be deadly. Experts estimate that at least 70 percent of suicides are a result of untreated depression.... READ MORE >

Photo contest highlights beauty of BWCA

The BWCABoard.com, which bills itself as the “Social Network of the BWCA,” is offering photographers the chance to share their favorite Boundary Waters scenes—and the possibility of receiving a prize. There are three contests starting now, each featuring a different aspect of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The first is the Gunflint Trail photo contest, which can be... READ MORE >

CLIMB Theater entertains, teaches character

Cook County has hosted CLIMB Theater workshops for a number of years. The theater group focuses on social skills and character education while entertaining students. The energetic theater company was back in November, focusing on the topics of empathy, exclusion and cliques. CLIMB stands for Creative Learning through Ideas using Mind and Body and the actors present the material in... READ MORE >

Food shelf needs don’t end after holidays

The Cook County Food Shelf, like many other community food programs, sees increased usage in winter months. And unfortunately, because communities all around the region see a greater need, the food available at greatly discounted prices through the Second Harvest Food Bank is reduced. So in the time of seasonal layoffs and families struggling to pay winter utility bills, when... READ MORE >

USDA Rural Development home repair grants available

Is your home in need of repairs? USDA Rural Development may be able to help. The agency has approximately $270,000 in grants available statewide for very low income homeowners for home repair to correct or remove existing health, safety, sanitary and accessibility issues. Grants up to $7,500 may be available to eligible households. The program is available to homeowners living... READ MORE >

Water monitoring volunteers needed

Are you interested in getting outside and volunteering this summer? There are opportunities to go and play in water while doing some science in Cook County. All volunteers will be trained in the spring 2013. Cook County Soil & Water is not asking for a commitment, but would like to hear from you if you are interested. Soil & Water... READ MORE >

Community urged to “Keep It Moving” in February

“Keep It Moving,” a month-long countywide winter carnival of indoor and outdoor activities, is being planned for residents during the entire month of February. The goal is to get more people more active in February. Persons and businesses are invited to plan a fun, active community event, or to offer discounted rentals or services that support people in winter activities.... READ MORE >