Gov. Tim Walz has appointed Elise Larson (an attorney with the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy) to the state Court of Appeals. Larson will fill the Eighth Congressional District vacancy that Judge James Florey, Virginia, left vacant.
Walz described Larson as “a remarkable lawyer who has excelled in every stage of her career,” in a press statement.
He said that “Her extensive background in civil and administrative law, and her experience as a clerk for some of the most prestigious judges in the region have prepared her well for the bench.”
Larson, who resides in Brainerd and is also the water program Director at the environmental advocacy organization. She is also an adjunct professor at University of Minnesota Law School teaching environmental law. She was, among other things, a law clerk to the state Supreme Court Chief Justice Lorie Skjerven Gildea and an attorney at Briggs and Morgan P.A. Her advocacy work included legal challenges against the PolyMet copper/nickel mine project.
JANA HOLLINGSWORTH
ROCHESTER
Bird flu is suspected in the deaths of geese
Six dead Canada geese from Silver Lake Park have been tested for avian Flu.
Rochester urges caution while testing results are awaiting.
Paul Widman, Rochester Parks and Recreation Director, stated that it is rare to find dead geese in the park without apparent injuries. “We are taking precautions to prepare for the avian flu and we work with state and county officials.”
Public parks are open but residents are asked not to get too close wild birds or surfaces covered with bird poop.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention it is rare for avian Flu to be transmitted from birds to humans. However, if enough of this virus gets inhaled, eyes, mouth, or nose, it can occur.
TREY MEWES
GRAND MARAIS
Rescheduled opening of campgrounds
In a news release, the U.S. Forest Service announced that some fee campgrounds in Superior National Forest won’t be open until May 6 due to a delayed spring. Some campgrounds remain unaccessible due snow. The forest service stated that campers who have made reservations will be reimbursed.
Fee campgrounds are more convenient than rustic sites because they have water, garbage, electricity, and bathrooms. Water service is dependent on temperature and might not be available when campgrounds close.
CHRISTA LAWLER
