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.

Terry Jackson

Terry Stuart Jackson left us suddenly on December 18, 2024.

Darold E. Rosbacka

January 20, 1939 – 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!

Cook County Curling Club update

The Cook County Curling Club enjoyed collaborating with Independent School District 166 Community Education for a four week program to learn the fundamentals of the game of curling in November and December 2024. There were two different classes offered that were back to back to each other. The Youth Class had 4th through 6th grade students and the second class was a Child and Parent class.