News

For What It’s Worth

Nature programs are a favorite, and it never ceases to amaze me how, after feeding at sea, a mother penguin returns to her colony with the mission of listening for “Junior” among the ear-busting din of up to a million neighbors. It seems impossible, but I think humans relate. In fact, it seems we register voices in our mind almost as well. I’m warmly reminded of the high-pitched laughter of neighbor Bill Haavisto, the velvet drawl of my bus driver, John Hill, the violin pitches of writer Nelmi Koivu, the staccato retort of coach Frank Fortune, the business-like monotone of Cook business owner, Don Simonson, the neighborly bluster of Orr’s, Everett Soger, the matter-of-fact command of neighbor, Irma Lokken, and the circus-style banter of teacher, Kathy Leding. They’ve all been gone for a decade or more, but their memories and voices live on.

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Women in Mining event highlights leadership and growth in the industry

Well, we sure got hot last week. Much needed rain really was welcomed this past weekend too. I sure hope this will help out the gardens as they sure are slow this year. We need consistent warm weather and warm nights to help these gardens to kick into high gear and start to grow. There is some stuff doing well, but warm weather sure would help out. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, radishes and onions are really doing great.

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Cook Lions donate to Brimson Fire Dept.

On Monday, June 23, a handful of Cook Lions Club members took a road trip to present a $1,000 check to the Brimson Fire Department. Their group of 14 dedicated volunteers led the charge against the Jenkins Creek and Camp House forest fires this spring. Their courage and commitment remind us that even small communities can make a big impact when they come together to protect what matters most.

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Trout stocked in Iron Range mine pits

Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation (IRRR), in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), continues its long-standing fish stocking program in legacy mine pits across the region. On June 4, rainbow trout were released at Kinney Pit in Kinney as part of the spring stocking effort. In total, approximately 5,600 rainbow trout — totaling 2,800 pounds — were stocked in 2024 at Kinney, Mott, St. James and Tioga pits.

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Divas to perform in Cook July 9

Enjoy this Vegas style musical trio, Shannon, Sharon and Rosie. The gals, performing on July 9 from 6 to 8 p.m., have a wide variety of tunes in their expansive musical repertoire featuring Shannon on the keyboards, Sharon with her guitar and drums, and Rosie with various rhythmic instruments. Sharon and Rosie both hail from right here on the Iron Range. Shannon is originally from Rawlings, Wyo., but has been here for over 35 years. Sharon has been performing since she was young. She also plays at events with her husband, Dan, and does various shows and private parties as well. Rosie owns Firelight Galleries and has been performing in bands since after high school. Shannon teaches private music lessons and has served as the choir director at the E.R.A.T.S. (East Range Academy of Technology and Science, a public charter high school in Mt. Iron, Minn). She performs solo, as well as with the Divas, entertains for private parties and different venues. These ladies are “three of the hardest working musicians” you will encounter. They all share in their love for performance, and feel lucky to be able to do it together.

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