Nine years in Cass Lake

Nine years in Cass Lake

By Allan Olson

Its’ crazy how time flies as this month I celebrate working at the Cass Lake Times and reporting the news for its loyal subscribers for the last nine years.  The years of working and writing at the paper have all been different  - of course there are several things over the years that have been largely consistent.

I have covered the Chippewa Triathlon for over half of the last nine years, I’ve always covered the school board and other duties have been added as times change – including covering City Council, Cass County Board, more LLBO stories and I’ve been at countless games documenting their stories of the games. Along with that I’m able to cover all the many functions of the fun activities at the school – including the pep fest. I’ve also been privileged to attend a couple state tournament functions for the basketball team and several other exciting sports adventures over the years.

I started this adventure in “news” one week prior to the birth of my twins Abigail and Marcus who this year will be entering the fourth grade at CL-B elementary – another example of how time flies.  In addition my oldest child will be starting the seventh grade at CL-B and my youngest – will enter into the second grade.

Other fun memories are covering the annual summer activities in Cass Lake – including the games along with the Miss Cass Lake contest and in some years – the karaoke contest was also fun to watch.  I’ve had the opportunity to sit down with politicians of both parties, covered the close sheriff’s race and some of the politics involved in that and so many other events.

As usual – the most fun stories are the human interest stories, - those that tell a story about a person or family in particular. Most recently – interviewing the guests, that have been visiting BirchVilla Resort for the last 50 years. The feature stories I’ve done with many educators over the last couple years has also been enjoyable as I’ve been able to learn just a little bit more of about those people who educate our students. For this week’s edition I had the privilege of sitting with Richard and Arvilla Wittner for a story – I was able to feature how Richard started the bus company, his wife joining them and their youngest child eventually taking over the business. I’ve been able to interview several pastors who have come to the area to take of the spiritual needs of the guests and written about the opening and unfortunately the closing of several businesses.

Of course things haven’t been all roses to cover – I’ve had to write stories on troubles at the school with various administrators, shootings in the area and I’ve traveled to many accidents – and while it’s still a thrill to follow the fire trucks to the scene – I always hope that whatever it is, whoever it involves the people are always okay. As the way life goes some of the accidents I’ve covered have resulted in the death of its occupants – however, the majority of the time, the accidents are just fender benders and while it will likely cause some financial hardship for most – it’s better than the loss of a family member or friend.

During the last five years I’ve used this space to provide readers a glimpse into my life by writing about the exploitations of our family. Covering the toddler ages frustrating children, along with our family vacations, to various State Parks, in Minnesota along with a family trip, to South Dakota, Iowa, various weekend activities, geocaching trips and much more.

This week’s column was prepared a little earlier than usual  - well actually a week earlier than normal as we spent several days on the road once again visiting the “Treasure state” otherwise known as Montana. So for those who enjoy reading about my family adventures – look for this spot next week as I outline our Montana vacation.

I hope everyone enjoys their summer vacation and is able to spend some time on the lake and in the woods. Thanks to everyone for reading, and as always, please be safe while enjoying your favorite outdoor recreational activity and on the lakes. Remember to take pictures to preserve a lifetime of memories. Thanks for reading, and have a great week!