This past week, Sen. Bernie Sanders introduced a health care bill that includes a transition over several years to a fully single-payer “Medicare-for-all” system of health insurance in the U.S. … more

As we report this week, a new study by Center for Rural Policy Development highlights what the organization now calls the “quiet crisis” in rural Minnesota due to the lack of childcare options … more

As a life-long Democrat and one who has contributed to and voted for Congressman Nolan, it pains me to come to the conclusion that Nolan needs to go.  The issue has gone well beyond his all-out … more

I opened the front door of my red Jeep this morning expecting to see Old Dutch Gourmet White Popcorn all over the seat, but there wasn’t even a kernel anywhere, which surprised me, knowing the … more

As we report this week, political backers of the proposed Twin Metals copper-nickel mine near Ely have made progress in seeking to undermine federal funding for an ongoing study of the potential … more

The presenter at Tuesday Group this week was Rebecca Otto, Minnesota’s state auditor, who is running for Governor, and listening to her moved me to change the topic of this week’s column. By the … more

The proposed Ely Regional Community Complex would be a tremendous recreational asset to the Ely area, but it’s one that clearly makes some people nervous. Members of the Ely School Board, for … more

When ideas get lodged in our heads, it can be tough to shake them loose, even when there’s plentiful data that argues to the contrary. Take the notion that bigger is better in education. It’s the … more

Imagine if the President of the United States were willing to order members of his administration to violate the law and the constitution, while offering to protect them from accountability for their … more

I read for many reasons, but even my escapist fiction has to offer more than just distraction to keep my attention. Rich character development, interesting relationships, well-crafted writing, … more