Category Archives: Uncategorized

The year was 1993. My three oldest sons Matt, Dylan, and Chris (Jack had not yet been born), along with my wife René and I, were staying overnight in the Twin Cities on our way to visit friends in Chicago. … Continue reading →

(Back row: John McLoughlin, John Benson, Larry Paasch. Middle row: Rick Washburn. Front Row: Mike, Wayne Rikala, Pat Pufall.) By Mark Munger (c) 2025 Where to begin? I guess, at the beginning. Back in the mid-60s, a new family showed … Continue reading →

By Mark Munger (c) 2025 I was raised by my parents, church school teachers, and my Scout leaders to always look for the good in folks. Sometimes, that’s a difficult task. I’m one of those people who wears an electronic … Continue reading →

Most readers of this newspaper know that, as a non-Finn and a writer, I’m an affectionate Fennophile-a lover of all things Finnish. Long ago, as a kid growing up in NE MN surrounded by friends of Finnish background, I realized … Continue reading →

Paul Vesterstein leaving Europe at age 19. Note his suitcase includes his destination: “Duluth, USA.” Proud Estonian American, businessman, skier, and longtime mentor Paul “the Count” Vesterstein recently passed at the age of 96. I was asked by the family … Continue reading →

(Photo Below: Fritz Mondale, Bruce, George Millard, Harry Munger)                                                       BRUCE WILIAM JOHN MEYER The characters I encountered through my old man, Harry, are rapidly leaving us. Bruce Meyer, a guy I met when I was eight years old, is … Continue reading →

Distance. I needed some between my recent electoral defeat to encapsulate my run for the Minnesota House. I think, to some degree, I’ve arrived at a point where I can work things out, if not orally then at least in … Continue reading →

Hello fellow residents of Northeastern Minnesota! As you know, I’m running for the office of Minnesota State Representative in District 3B on a platform of integrity, passion, and purpose. I was raised in the Duluth neighborhood of Piedmont Heights. I’m … Continue reading →

The Women of Copper Country by Mary Doria Russell (2019. Atria. ISBN 978-1-9821-0958-5) I love the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I’ve spent many days and nights there, attending Finnish festivals, signing books at North Wind Bookstore (formerly attached to Finlandia University), … Continue reading →

 An Interview with Hanna Pylväinen …                                 MM: Let’s start with the most exciting news, at least insofar as I’m aware. You were recently installed as … Continue reading →