January 2025
Outgoing County Attorney Molly Hicken was honored at a reception held for her
After 17 years of service to Cook County, County Attorney Molly Hicken announced in October that she would resign to take another job as Chief Legal Officer at Midwest Family Ski Resorts, which means she will be general counsel/ legal advisor for Lutsen Mountains, Granite Peak, and Snow River ski resorts.
Boys take losses against Two Harbors and McGregor
On January 2, 2025, the Cook County boys' basketball team, determined to start the new year on a high note, traveled to Two Harbors to face the Agates. Despite a slow start that saw them fall behind 40-23 at the half, the Vikings fought back in the second half, playing the Agates evenly. However, their efforts were not enough, and they lost 72-53. This marks the eighth straight loss the Vikings have had against their North Shore rivals. The game was played in Silver Bay on a neutral court.
Cook County girls’ basketball team making progress on the court
After a year's hiatus from varsity basketball, the Cook County girls' team is a testament to the power of perseverance. With a young roster and only one senior, Molly Quello, they are eager to learn and improve. Coach Levi Libra ensures that every player who shows up for practice gets a chance to shine on the court. Despite not securing a win yet, their determination was evident in a recent game where they lost by a mere couple of points due to a missed three-pointer at the buzzer.
Darold E. Rosbacka
January 20, 1939 â December 30, 2024 Darold E. Rosbacka, age 85, peacefully passed away at home in Grand Marais on Monday, December 30, 2024. He was born to Urho and Hilma Rosbacka in Cloquet, Minnesota, on January 20, 1939. Darold graduated from Cloquet High School in 1957 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Social Studies with a minor in Physical Education from the University of Minnesota Duluth. He began his teaching career at Cook County High School, later obtained a Masters in Education, and retired from CCHS in 1998.
Rev. Carl P. Vaagenes
Rev. Carl Philip Vaagenes, age 97, passed away on December 29, 2024. He served as a missionary in Madagascar. Upon returning to the U.S. in 1972, he served as pastor at Zoar (Tofte) and Lutsen Lutheran Church from 1978-1991. He is survived by his wife, Ruth; four children; 10 grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren. Funeral service 11:00 am Monday, January 6 at North Heights Lutheran Church, 2701 Rice St., Roseville, MN. Livestream available at northheights. church.
Charles Humphrey
Charles Edward Humphrey, age 85 of Plymouth (formerly of Brownsville, TX), passed away on December 28, 2024. Survived by beloved wife, Janet 'Janie' Humphrey; daughter-inlaw, Sheila Humphrey; grandchildren, Lauren & Matthew Humphrey; brother & sisters; nieces & nephews; extended family members & friends. Preceded in death by parents, Edward & Amy Humphrey; son, Scott Humphrey. No gathering or service will take place at this time.
Conservation Officer Tales
Although the Cook County News-Herald knows that the majority of sportsmen and women are law-abiding folks, there are a few that run afoul of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Conservation Officers. Periodically, the DNR provides a report of some of the miscreants the Conservation Officers (CO) have encountered. The News-Herald shares these stories as a reminder to all to be safe and to follow the rules!
