Harbor Star Reflections

A Reflection on Belief and Suffering feat. Jeff Tweedy

2012-01-16T09:11:00.002-06:00

An excerpt from the Sunken Treasure DVD - a tour of the Pacific Northwest back in 2006...on creativity and suffering, and the boundaries between artist and fan. I believe Paul Simon has been channeling similar topics lately.

Photo: BW Trout, 2011

"There are people that love me, and that's really nice...I feel that, and it's really nice. I respect it. [However], people mis-understand that relationship quite a bit. They don't necessarily believe in me, they believe in themselves....

Kim Gordon from Sonic Youth once said, 'People pay to see people believe in themselves'. I think that's a very true statement. One of the things I really think is going on there is that... well, it's just like with people claiming that a piece of music makes them feel [a certain way]. I think that the opposite is probably true in that they have that feeling and the piece of music allows them to recognize it. I feel very flattered that people put me at the center of it. I enjoy that, it's nice. But, I think I have to be really rational about it, and remember that it's really coming from them.

The thing I bristle at is the idea that artists or musicians, or people that are creative, suffer more than anybody else. I think that is patently false. I think that everyone suffers...I think the world is kind of built on how well you cope with your suffering, how well you transcend it, move [beyond] it, and what you learn from it. I'm no different from anyone else in that regard. I just try to keep moving..."

The new Wilco album is entitled The Whole Love on dBPM Records. Go get it today.

O Antiphon!

2011-12-20T20:03:00.003-06:00

Theotokos - "God Bearer"

As winter solstice reaches its final twilight, let’s not forget about the O' Antiphon prayers and chant during these last "golden nights" before the birth of the Messiah (Dec 17-23rd). In anticipation of the coming year, [we draw inspiration from the most humble love of the Theotokos, who never hesitated to do the will of God. We trust in her prayers to God for us that we might, as the years pass, become more like her.] smile

FAN

Wishing you a blessed Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

Wisdom for the Office

2011-11-19T19:41:00.011-06:00

Whoever advocates for employee multi-tasking as a productive means for increasing work efficiency and improving outcome effectiveness might want to re-think their management philosophy. It's neither multi...fac-et-ed or task...orientated. Note to self. Please consider this advice next time you plan to take on even more projects ------------------------------

Source

Mary In Our Day Conference

2011-08-10T22:13:00.028-05:00

August 15^th brings a special event to the North Shore! The College of St. Scholastica presents Mary In Our Day -The Assumption + 61: a conference that explores the enduring significance of the Virgin Mary in today's world, including her place in the Church's life of prayer and her importance in music, literature, culture, and art.

Resources:

St. Scholastica: Renewed interest growing in Mary's role in faith life, depiction in art

The Benedictines Sisters St. Scholastica Monastery

Pray for us, O’ Queen Assumed into Heaven, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ,

Amen.

(1Thessalonians 4:14)

by HarborStar

The True Secret Behind Writing Music for Film or… Silence and Meaning

2011-07-29T21:27:00.081-05:00

It seems that in today’s world of film more and more filmmakers try to force emotional drama on the viewer. Rather than taking the time to collaborate with the set crew or develop plot transitions with tension and beautiful cinematography, one usually gets spoon-fed a series of over-baked, wimpy snippets of music that completely shatter the purpose of a film’s meaning. Don’t these people ever consider working with other artists involved in the production? If you’re tired of constantly having your film experience ruined by loud, inappropriate, or out of place music you’re not alone. Here’s an insightful excerpt from Polish composer Zbigniew Priesner on the creative relationship between music and film. It’s taken from the companion disc to the film The Double Life of Veronique (1991).

[“We must always keep in mind that the truly creative work of a film involves each of us creating the film while knowing that in the end there is a director, and even more importantly, a story. We contribute what we feel we should give of ourselves to [a] film. This would seem obvious, but nowadays it’s really not. Nobody talks about this today. When I try to speak about meaning with directors and producers, they really don’t get it. A composer writes music for a film, and in my opinion, it’s the function and role of the composer to add something the audience doesn’t see: the atmosphere of the film. It’s very metaphysical…

When I write music… I take into consideration not why to have music and where it goes, but why I should write it and what purpose it serves. Should it be some kind of narrative or anticipation? Or should it reveal something we don’t generally see but can feel?

There are twenty-two minutes of music in The Double Life of Veronique. There was mainly silence throughout, but this silence echoed loudly. Music introduced us to the mood, and silence was a respite from it. The silence meant more than the music. Today, in movies where music plays from start to finish, you never notice any variation. If there’s a short-break you think, ‘thank God, a breather.’ And then, it starts up again!

Directors and producers have no faith in their films. They don’t believe the story is strong enough to be told using music as one of the various means of artistic expression, as art, not just as a kind of wallpaper…[Film Director Krzysztof ] Kieslowski used to say, ‘For what’s different to seem different, there has to be a difference.’ ]

Resources:

Listen to the music of Zbigniew Preisner

Worthy Summer Presentations

2011-07-20T11:19:00.003-05:00

Variable Density Thinning Finland, MN

As Minnesota's rural economies struggle during the economic downturn, communities look to maximize their resources. The state's abundant forests present both opportunities and challenges, and hard decisions need to be made to ensure productivity and environmental legacy. A Co-production of TPT and the Charles K. Blandin Foundation.

Watch Forests and Minnesota's Rural Economy

Yellow Birch Regen Finland, MN

The world’s religions are seriously engaging in work to address ecological and social concerns related to climate change. How are faith communities responding to climate concerns, and what do their ethical and moral perspectives add to scientific approaches to climate change? This webinar will provide information about:

- History, trends, and tensions in faith community response to climate change

- Religious teachings and moral imperatives about climate change and environmental stewardship

- Engaged projects within faith communities as examples of response in action

Watch Religion, Environmental Ethics, and Climate Change

White Pine Germinants After Fire Deer River, MN

The Shutdown Back Page... or How to Pick Up the Pieces of My Broken Heart

2011-07-20T02:13:00.034-05:00

Perhaps its a memory, perhaps it's a dream. Here goes my MN State Government shutdown... in twenty bullets:

• Spent many hours preparing for the shutdown prior to July 1st including the forced cancellation of three regional, interdisciplinary and interagency ecological forestry field workshops. Dozens of hours wasted preparing for these. Forecast gloomy, overcast. Clenched fist.

• Despite being laid-off, went on planned vacation to Canada. Left during the sweltering evening heat of the Forth of July. Missed the fireworks. Hairball.. are you serious? Even less adventurous at the border crossing much to our surprise. Happy Trails!

• Enjoyed nature/biking, the BEST international music festival in North America, and the wonderful Manitoba culture. Voted best people once again in 2011!

• Ate vegan salads, burgers, and burritos. Lost 5 pounds.

• Witnessed the reunited Jayhawks w/Mark Olson and Karen Grotberg. Lamented the poor sound quality and lack of song selections from the 1997-2003 era. What? I know! Appreciated hearing Wichita (opener), Two Hearts, Red's Song, Black-Eyed Susan, and Lights. Still no Pray for Me however. New album to be released in September.

• Kept BW Trout on his toes most mornings with a bike ride/swim. Talkin punk rock blues with the kids, goofy nitrous sounds, NOFX? What about Fugazi ya hammerheads.Where's the official photos?

• Prairie Heat. Mini-Break. Big Rock Beverage.

• Didn't get Kristen's phone number, email, or facebook address. What was I thinking? Did agree to read and watch Guy Maddin's, "My Winnipeg" though.

• Camped and consulted with Red Green. Basking in the glow of the nightly paper birch fire.

• Jeff Tweedy closes with an intimate acoustic set of Wilco and solo selections. Impressive. Many folks missed it.

• Still no budget deal. Questioned at the US Border about my employment. Agents very surprised that MN DNR not working. Huh? Hopeful that agreement will be worked out. It's now ten days. Thinking about the Rut’s and Black Flag. Planning on contributing to the Staging the Future Capital Campaign and to membership with KAXE once again.

• Rear brakes went out on the SUV. Beginning to deplete the savings account. Worried about finances. No job to be found. Bills to pay.

• Had dinner with parents and cousins in Duluth but missed nephew's baseball tournament. Have to conserve on fuel. Applied for un-enjoyment insurance. First time in twenty years.

• Blessed Kateri Tekawitha Day. Much needed adoration and prayer time w/Jesus and Mary.

• Depressed...gained 5 pounds. Haven't sold the cabin yet. Getting desperate. Avoiding foreclosure a must.

• Read several books including the gripping adventure "Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey: The River of Doubt" by Candice Millard. Here’s a sample,

"Compounding the misery wrought by the rain was an overarching sense of isolation and uncertainty, a feeling that was magnified by strange noises that shattered the forest's silence and set the men's nerve on edge. That afternoon, as Roosevelt and the men in dugout paddled quitely down the river, a long, deep shriek suddenly ripped through the jungle. It was the roar of a howler monkey, one of the loudest cries of any animal on earth. The sound, which can be heard from three miles away, is formed when the monkey forces air through its large, hollow hyoid bone, which sits between its lower jaw and the voice box and anchors the tongue. The result is a deep, resonating howl that vibrates through the forest with strange, inhuman intensity and echoes so pervasively that its location can be nearly impossible to identify.

Worse even than the noises they could recognize were those that none of them could explain. These strange sounds, which disappeared as quickly as they came and were a mystery even to those who knew the rain forest best, had made a strong impression on the British naturalist Henry Walter Bates fifty years earlier. 'Often, even in the still hours of midday, a sudden crash will be heard resounding afar through the wilderness, as some great bough or entire tree falls to the ground,' the naturalist wrote. 'There are, besides many sounds which it is impossible to account for. I found the natives generally as much at a loss in this respect as myself. Sometimes a sound is heard like the clang of an iron bar against a hard, hollow tree, or a piercing cry rends the air; these are not repeated, and the succeeding silence tends to heighten the unpleasant impression which they make on the mind." pgs 156-157.

It’s really unfortunate what happened to Kermit.

• Went on a few bike rides along the North Shore. HOT! Parks Closed. Contemplate, reflect. Need a new plan for my life. Resurrect the Backwater-Spotlight?

• Day 18… hints of a “lights-on” budget agreement. I’m skeptical. I tell myself, “avoid Jerry Springer, avoid Jerry Springer”, etc. Worried more about MN families and the poor. My situation pales in comparison to those who really are suffering due to this ungrateful impasse. Quickly remind myself how my local property taxes went from $150 to $590. That’s fair…. right?

• Day 19… Got my work start-up call. How to pick up the pieces? How to salvage a summer field season? Feeling helpless about all aspects of my work.

• I'll raise you a twenty...

The Divine Mercy Image

2011-05-01T13:04:00.005-05:00

"There is nothing more man needs than Divine Mercy - that love which is benevolent, which is compassionate, which raises man above his weakness to the infinite heights to the holiness of God."

- Blessed Pope John Paul II -

New Training Course Planned For 2011 Field Season

2011-04-28T19:43:00.003-05:00

As we approach the month of May and the beginning of another beautiful growing season (finally), I can hardly wait to begin implementing a new field training course entitled Ecological Dynamics Rap or EDR for short. Developed by an award winning forestry consortium out of New Hampshire and packed full of innovative- "outside the box" approaches, EDR promises to revolutionize traditional thinking behind forest management. In fact, two recent studies from the Northeast, U.S. have demonstrated that successful completion of this course can result in positive morale increases of up to 44%! Hurry now to get your order in. No prerequisites needed. Only a desire to learn and have fun! For a brief testimonial please click on the link below:

Climate Change Continues to be of Interest in both Academic and Religious Circles

2011-04-25T12:57:00.008-05:00

For those looking for a little deeper exploration of phenology, especially in light of future climatic changes, check out Dr. Rebecca Montgomery’s webinar entitled: Phenology & Climate Change: How Timing of Biological Activity Affects Forests Now and in the Future. Prof. Montgomery presents scientific information in a very non-technical way providing a nice introduction to phenology, it’s historical context, and why it really matters. The hour long presentation is offered in a very down to earth style that is easy to follow and understand. No need for a science background whatsoever. And, if you missed something or want to review it again, you can pause the webinar and scroll back the audio/video. One of things that I found very interesting was a slide on the annual bloom records for the Cherry tree in
Japan (from 850 AD to the present!). Astonishingly... within the last 30 years, the flowering is occurring much earlier than has been recorded in the last 1200 years. A good demonstration case that seasonal responses of plants are definitely changing. Rebecca provides other phenological changes occurring locally as well.

She sums up the webinar with three basic take home messages and provides some implications for forest management in Minnesota:

• Phenology influences forest health and forest productivity.
• Phenology of plants and animals is changing.
• Minnesota’s climate is changing and tree phenology will likely change too.

Resources:Phenology & Climate Change: How Timing of Biological Activity Affects Forests Now and in the Future. Presented by Dr. Rebecca Montgomery, Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota.

Harvard Arboretum: Climate Change & Cherry Tree Blossom Festivals in Japan.

USA National Phenology Network

Minnesota Phenology Network (Facebook):

MN Climate Change Research Study: B4Warmed- Boreal Forest Warming at an Ecotone in Danger.

B4Warmed Research Plots

Visit here to see more images

As a natural resource professional and a Catholic, I am intrigued over the renewed interest in linking science and religion more closely together when addressing fundamental issues affecting our planet. One of the best examples of that is the current thinking and understanding of global climate change and its impact on creation. In recent years religious leaders have ramped up this environmental and moral discussion to the point that many Catholics are beginning to re-examine their views on the topic. One of the leading advocates in this discussion is the Catholic Coalition on Climate Change – a recent collaboration between the US Catholic Bishops and the greater Catholic community. Earlier this month they teamed up with Ave Maria Press to provide an informative and inspiring webinar entitled: Up in the Sky & Down to Earth: A Catholic Conversation on Climate Change and Creation Care.

Ave Maria Press provides the introduction: “Dan Misleh, the executive director of the Catholic Coalition on Climate Change, teams up with author and farmer Kyle Kramer for this thought-provoking webinar. Dan will discuss Catholic teaching as it relates to environmental stewardship and concern for the common good and the poor, especially in regard to the pressing problem of global climate change. Kyle will share reflections from over a decade of trying to put the principles of good stewardship and simplicity into practice on a small-scale organic farm, surrounded by family members, rural neighbors, and the nearby community of Benedictine monks.

I am sure grateful for Kyle's thoughtful presentation! He brings it all together while providing insight on how to transform our life through the virtues of hospitality and humility, and by honestly re-claming responsibility for our needs. Kyle provides some really simple ways for continuing our efforts to reduce our impact on the climate. It's time well spent listening to this gifted individual. Be inspired!

Up in the Sky and Down to Earth: A Catholic Conversation about Climate and Creation Care from Ave Maria Press on Vimeo.

Resources:

Catholic Coalition on Climate Change

Kyle Kramer - A Time to Plant: Life Lessons in Work, Prayer, and Dirt
(Sojourners Review, April, 2011).

Paschal Triduum Visual

2011-04-22T13:06:00.000-05:00

Palm Sunday Meaning and Reflection

2011-04-17T15:14:00.000-05:00

The meaning of Palm Sunday provides an opportune time for us to reflect on the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ, understanding that our search for God – important as that is – becomes truly meaningful when we begin to discern God’s deep, abiding love and never-ending search for us. Pray for me as I for you.

Palm Sunday from Dan Goren on Vimeo.

“My Kingdom does not belong to this world” (Jn 18: 36)

Resources:

Our Holiest Week: A Practical Guide to the Liturgies of Holy Week.

Franciscan Radio Palm Sunday Retreat: with Auxiliary Bishop Daniel E. Flores of Detroit (30 minute MP3 or podcast audio).

Politics and Truth: by James V Schall S.J

Meditation:

Closing Thoughts from St. Catherine of Siena:

"Let's go out and receive our King, who comes to us humble and meek. Oh let us who are proud behold the Master of humility coming to us seated on an ass! For our Savior has told us that one of his reasons for coming on that beast was to show us what our humanity had become by sin, and to show us how we should treat this ass, our humanity...Oh ancient Truth, you have taught us how we should treat this beast! I want you... to get on top of this ass; master yourselves; be humble and meek. And on what feet shall we get up there, sweetest love? On hatred of apathy and love of virtue.

But let's do this...the channel is open and flowing; so, since we need no provision the ship of our soul, let's proceed to provision it there, at that sweetness of channels, the heart and soul and body of Jesus Christ. We will find that this channel flows with so great a love that we will easily be able to fill our souls. So I say to you: don't be slow to put your eye to this open window. For I assure you that supreme Goodness has prepared the times and the ways for us to do great deeds for him. This is why I told you to be eager to increase your holy desire, and not to be satisfied with little things, because he wants great things! " The Letters of St. Catherine of Siena Vol. 1.

Suddenly Last Summer: A Playlist to Remember St. Dominic's Preview

2011-04-01T21:23:00.001-05:00

Since I just accidently deleted a post that I've been working on for two months, I'll offer this poor substitute collage of sounds and styles including a British family, Finish jazz, bluegrass, rock covers, and live music from Big Star, The Wailin Jenny’s, and Van Morrison. Plus, new songs from the former trucker Watermelon Slim and Daniel Lanois! A Found OTR playlist from years ago...I'm SO SAD about deleting my real April post... it's going to make me cry!

1. Ramsey Lewis Trio: "Wade in the Water"_ Chess Northern Soul (Chess)
The definitive 60's northern soul-jazz instrumental and spiritual that defines my whole reason for playing music on-air. Of course, Linda Tillery set me straight on the songs poignant origin.

2. Great Lake Swimmers: "Singer Castle Bells"_Lost Channels (Nettwerk)

The clock strikes 3 bells... stage light North.

3. Bjork: "I’ve Seen it All" feat. Thom Yorke_Selma Songs (Elektra)

4. Bjork: "New World"_Selma Songs (Elektra)
An amazing song pairing from the distinctive and creative Icelandic muse. Selma Songs was released in 2000 on the minor film success of Dancer in the Dark. Quickly we understand that Bjork presents us with the challenge: will it be sight or vision; cynicism or hope; relationship or relativism. Bjork captivates with her lyrical charm on these songs. I'm sensing the trees more than the forest. Vincent Mendoza's orchestral blend certainly adds to the albums cohesiveness. A fine example of how Pro-Tools can be put to effective use. AMG writer Heather Phares discusses the album’s flight.

5. Ali Farka Toure & Toumani Diabate: "Du Du"_World Circuit Presents (Nonesuch)

6. Headlights: "This One" feat. Tristan Wraight_Keep Your Friends and Loves Close, Keep the City You Call Home Closer (Polyvinyl Records)

Successful indie-rock bands build anticipation and sonic momentum on their best songs right? I find this little rock beat to be a prime example. Recorded as part of the Daytrotter Sessions in 2007. Is it any wonder why the Midwest continues to provide inspiration in a sea of mediocrity? I'm still campaigning for all time best title for an EP. Family I

7. The Books: "Cello Song" feat. Jose Gonzalez_Dark Was the Night (4AD)
It can be argued that Nick Drake shuddered at the thought of blending his acoustic guitar with anything other than traditional string and piano (see Bryter Later). The Books recognize that 70's folk-jazz craft, but honor Nick in ways he could never have imagined. Drake-co-phile Jose Gonzalez excels on his vocal muse. Take that.... Byrne and Eno.

8. Nick Drake: "Hazy Jane II"_Bryter Later (Hannibal)
9. Shirati Jazz: "Dr. Binol"_World Circuit Presents (Nonesuch)
Benga music for western followers. Popularized recently President Obama's love for Extra Golden.

10. Dalindeo: "Poseidon"_Open Scenes (Ricky Tick)
Inspired jazz from Finland! A quote from their website, "Before we get too nostalgic and retro here it must be stressed that this is contemporary music and the very sound of now. This is not 'lounge' or your average 'chill out' nonsense, on the contrary. Dalindèo's aim is to bring back the freshness, lightness, beautiful compositions and rhythmic textures of the era and combine it with modern approach. And this is where the producer Tuomas Kallio steps in. Kallio, well known and highly respected man behind The Five Corners Quintet and Nuspirit Helsinki, has been involved with the band ever since their first single release 'Poseidon' and has been a big influence in shaping the sextet's sound. " Harbor Star approved.

11. Maia Sharp: "Angel on my Shoulder"_Echo (Crooked Crown/Blix Street)
A talented female musician whose focus on the song-lyric continues to stir-up the attention of many AAA formats. I simply like her commitment to compositional songwriting. It’s not so much about posing for the attention. Sharp quietly exudes confidence and wins over the heart. Having released only four albums in twelve years- it's likely Maia spends a lot of time polishing and hemming down her songs…finishing the edges, rounding out the borders. This notes for you. She talks with iprong magazaine about the art of songwriting.

12. Great Lake Swimmers: "Pulling on a Line"_Lost Channels (Nettwerk)
Not of a long of songs today involve the concept of a line. It's impact of implied division or separation, like "drawing a line in the sand." Lead singer Tony Dekker expands on the meaning behind his curious lyric.

The line runs through like a train in a book,
Or metres underwater, ending with a hook
It sways in the air when there's wind enough to lift, The fine ones are boundaries when there is a rift

I'm just pulling on a line, on a line, I'm just pulling on a line
I'm just pulling on a line, on a line, & sometimes it pulls on me

The line, it inks across the freshly fallen snow,
Where only those embracing coldness would go
It whistles and it whispers, and sometimes it howls,
It sings to me sweetly from the trees and in vowels

I'm just pulling on a line, on a line, I'm just pulling on a line
I'm just pulling on a line, on a line, & sometimes it pulls on me

The line, it writes itself across the dark sky,
In the electric flushes ending with a sigh
It weaves itself into a fabric so true,
and flows just like the river, graceful and blue

I'm just pulling on a line, on a line, I'm just pulling on a line
I'm just pulling on a line, on a line, and sometimes it pulls on me

13. Regina Specktor: "Dance Anthem of the 80's"_Far (Sire)
It's not cool anymore to use "quirky" as an adjective to describe odd but creatively inspiring artists. Let's all quit it now. Since the de-frocking of over-baked descriptions, Specktor continues to stretch her muse. For someone associated with an 80's record label, this track is particularly pleasing.

Duluth Lakers Win... Leads to 1st Place for North Metro

2011-02-01T21:19:00.002-06:00

The North Metro Peewee B1 Pirates are the Champions of the PeeWee A “Chiller Challenge” Invitational tournament held last weekend in beautiful Hayward, Wisconsin. The team went undefeated in the four game round-robin tournament, with 2 wins and 2 ties!

Tournament Synopsis:
The Pirates got off to a slow start on Saturday morning with a 1-1 tie against Spooner, WI, but they stormed back that evening with an 8-2 win against a team from Ames, Iowa. They continued their dominate play on Sunday morning with a 6-2 win against the Duluth Lakers. Another win in the Sunday afternoon game would have all but sealed the championship for the Pirates, but a motivated home Hayward team (with the help of some hometown refereeing) fought for a 4-4 tie. That turned the Pirate players and parents into (temporary) Duluth Laker fans for the final game of the day, where a Laker win or tie over Spooner would give the title to North Metro. The enthused Pirate crowd cheered the Lakers to a win and then stormed the ice to receive their 1st place trophy. Congratulations to the North Metro Peewee B1 team!

Comments:
What impressed me was the team’s tenacity in playing both ends of the rink: back-checking in the neutral zone; killing penalties in key situations (critical in all levels of hockey); and a willful display to pass the puck to teammates. Despite a key injury... both goalies hung in there too.

It was great to observe their ability to work and cycle the puck along the boards as well – an offensive strategy that can be really effective in tiring out the opponent’s line and increasing the goal scoring opportunities. Scoring nineteen goals over a four game tournament is not at all uncommon in youth hockey. Out-shooting the opponents in every game? It can make all the difference in a team’s fun factor and confidence.

Without a doubt all the players (male/female), coaches, families and fans had a wonderful time.

The Irony?
Sure, I live in Duluth. Hockey culture here is alive and well. In fact, I would cheer and support youth hockey on the shore any time. BUT, to see my nephew and his North Metro team have fun and win a tournament? Priceless. Congratulations Dylan! I’m so proud of you.

Thanks also to the Hayward community for its amazing hospitality. Glad to know that I’m one of the last people from Minnesota to know that Famous’ Dave’s Barbeque originates from… well, Wisconsin. I'm not much of a ribs guy but thanks for feeding us!

Go Packers...

Resources:

North Metro Youth Hockey
Duluth Youth Hockey
Hayward Youth Hockey
The Birkie
Grand Pines Resort/ Famous Daves
St. Joseph's, Hayward WI

"Just Kids" One Year Later

2011-01-19T21:23:00.001-06:00

From Larry Williams to the B-52's... she built it up to break it down.

Fr. Barron's website, "Today, Ellyn Smith von Huben reviews Patti Smith's memoir entitled "Just Kids," reflecting on the life of this rock and roll hall-of-famer, but more importantly, proving once again that edifying spiritual truths can be found in unexpected places..." Read More

Resources:

National Public Radio: Fresh Air w/Patty

NY Mag

Frontier Psych

Solemnity Suprise: The Gift of Friendship

2011-01-09T20:44:00.002-06:00

While the Solemnity of the Baptism of our Lord brings a liturgical end to the Christmas season, it's purpose for us in the new year offers a special opportunity to ponder Christ's transformation of John's earthly baptismal repentence into heavenly salvation with the father and eternal life after death.

What about our own baptism? Most of us have difficulty remembering events that happened a few years ago let alone an early infant Sacrament. Actually, we renew our baptismal vows each and every time we bless ourselves with holy water. But today's feast reminds us of our need to renew more deeply our baptismal vows especially in light of Christ's gospel. To pray for an increase in the virtues of faith, hope, and charity (love). That's just one of things I pray for on Sunday evenings during my adoration holy hour. Tonight however was simply an unexpected-joyful surprise. Not one but two friends of mine who I haven't seen in a LONG-TIME just happened to show up for prayer at the chapel! Oh, what a happy night!

Thank you for this gift Danielle and Katy! It's so good to be with you in prayer. Know that I too will pray for you and your families.

Resources:

How Do You Discern A Vocation?

Looking Back...

2011-01-01T23:25:00.006-06:00

My local adoration chapel friend Mary from Superior, WI gave me a great little article/reflection put together by columnist Fr. Ron Rolheiser OMI entitled “Worldy Wisdom on the Meaning of Christmas”. The article is essentially a series of quotes that definitively sums up - in rather unconventional and striking ways - the importance of Christmas. I thought it was fitting to post today as we move forward into the New Year. Here’s just a few of them… looking back.

“Even at Christmas, when halos are pre-tested by focus groups for inclusion in mass market campaigns, they are hard to see. ... This is how halos are seen, by looking up into largeness, by tucking smallness into folds of infinity. I do not know this by contemplating shimmering trees. Rather there was a woman, busy at the Christmas table, and I looked up to catch a rim of radiance etching her face, to notice curves of light sliding along her shape. She out-glowed the candles. All the noise of the room left my ears and silence sharpened my sight. When this happens, I do not get overly excited. I merely allow love to be renewed, for that is the mission of haloes, the reason they are given to us. ... But when haloes fade, they do not abruptly vanish, abandoning us to the lesser light. They recede, as Gabriel departed from Mary, leaving us pregnant.” John Shea

“The incarnation does not mean that God saves us from the pains of this life. It means that God-is-with-us. For the Christian, just as for everyone else, there will be cold, lonely seasons, seasons of sickness, seasons of frustration, and a season within which we will die. Christmas does not give us a ladder to climb out of the human condition. It gives us a drill that lets us burrow into heart of everything that is and, there, find it shimmering with divinity.” Avery Dulle

“…Until Christmas comes again. [It is] then we are called at the deepest, most subconscious, least cognizant level to begin to live again. Christmas brings us all back to the crib of life to start over again: aware of what has gone before, conscious that nothing can last, but full of hope that this time, finally, we can learn what it takes to live well, grow to full stature of soul and spirit, and get it right.” Joan Chittiste

“God is not found in monasteries, but in our homes. Wherever you find husband and wife, that's where you find God; wherever children and petty cares and cooking and arguments and reconciliation are, that's where God is too. The God I'm telling about, the domestic one, not the monastic one, that's the real God.” Nikos Kazantzakis

I think many can relate to that last quote. Nothing against the monastic life…to be sure, I adore and pray for its special devotion - but Christmas time provides the unique opportunity to know God’s presence, especially as we once again encounter and dialogue with our families, relatives, or friends. First, we cherish the time to re-commit our bonds, our blood ties. We delight in the gift gifting and surprise even though most of us go well beyond our necessity. We delight in the free consumption of meals, beverages, and treats; often to the point of physical exhaustion. Finally we argue. Yes we argue over trite things like board game answers and rules, and whose friggen turn is it anyway? Would it ever be Christmas without children complaining, parents yelling, and relatives wondering what’s it all about?

It's so rewardingly special and dysfunctional!

It's About Climate Time!

2010-11-29T20:48:00.000-06:00

It’s about “climate” time folks!

Highlighting the intersection between science and religion, Joe Towalski writes for the St. Paul, MN Archdiocesan newspaper The Catholic Spirit. Below is a clip from his latest article entitled, “Prudence, civility needed in climate change debate”, Nov, 26^th, 2010:

[“Good science. Prudence. Both are needed as the world addresses the issue of climate change. I would also add one more thing: Civility as the science and its public policy implications are debated.

An associate professor at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul is among those pushing for more civility and clearing up misinformation that clouds the debate. John Abraham says the scientific community needs to present the science about climate and greenhouse gas emissions objectively and dispassionately if there’s any hope of convincing sincere skeptics and getting them on board to find solutions. He has launched a website to connect the news media to about 50 national experts on various topics related to climate change.

“We need to depolarize the debate,” Abraham recently told the StarTribune newspaper. “As long as we are polarized, we are stalemated.”

Hopefully, his efforts will be a positive step to help the media and the general public better address this important issue…”] Read the Full Article

Finally, a quality news article showcasing one professor’s plea for civility in the endless, mud-slinging debate over the pre-eminent topic facing our world. Thank you Mr. Abraham for sticking your neck out! Your efforts are appreciated by natural resource and forestry professionals throughout the Great Lakes.

Resources:

Star-Tribune Article: "Experts join climate debate - Seeking to avoid partisan politics, scientists speak up on global warming. " Nov. 25th, 2010. I recommend exploring the comments section that follows this article. It’s truly disheartening to see so much anger, rage, misinformation, and political banter. Even on Thanksgiving people?

Central Coast Climate Science Education

Skeptical Science: Examining Global Warming Skepticism

US Conference of Catholic Bishops: Global Climate Change - A Plea for Dialogue, Prudence, and the Common Good

The Catholic Coalition on Climate Change

Climate Change Humor from RJ Matson

Advent: The Season of the New Adam

2010-11-28T21:36:00.000-06:00

Advent is generally summarized as a time of hope, anticipation, and expectation. Often, we can find these themes in various scripture passages and in the writings of many of the saints. Occasionally, we can find shining examples expressed in the literary world. Madeline L'Engle was a gifted American writer who is often known for transforming her love for science, faith, and art into wonderfully expressive works of poetry. This poem entitled "Eve" is taken from the 1987 collection, "A Cry Like A Bell".

When we left the garden we knew that it would be

forever.

The new world we entered was dark and strange.

Nights were cold.

We lay together for warmth, and because we were

afraid

of the un-named animals, and of the others: we

had never

known about the giants, and angels gone wild.

We had not been told

of dwarves and elves; they teased us; we hid

whenever we played.

Adam held me. When my belly grew taut and

began to swell

I didn't know what was happening. I thought it was

the beginning

of death, the very first death. I clung to Adam and

cried.

As I grew bigger something within me moved.

One day I fell

and the pains started. A true angel came and

pushed the grinning

creatures back. Adam helped. There was a tearing.

I thought I'd died.

Instead, from within me came a tiny thing, a new

creature,

red-faced, bellowing, mouth groping for my breast.

This was not death, but birth, and joy came to my

heart again.

This was the first-born child. How I did laugh and

sing!

But from birth came death. He never gave me

any rest.

And then he killed his brother. Oh, my child. Oh,

my son Cain.

I watched from then on over every birth,

seeing in each babe cruelty ready to kill

compassion.

For centuries the pattern did not change. Birth

always meant death.

Each manchild who was born upon the longing

earth

in gratefulness and joy brought me only a fresh

ration

of tears. I had let hate into the world with that first

breath.

Yet something made me hope. Each baby born

brought me hurrying, bringing, as in the old tales,

a gift

looking - for what? I went to every slum and cave

and palace

seeking the mothers, thinking that at least I could

warn

their hearts. Thus perhaps the balance might shift

and kindness and concern replace self-will and

malice.

So I was waiting at that extraordinary intersection

of Eternity and Time when David's son (Adam's

too)

was born. I watched the Incarnate at his mother's

breast

making, by his humble, holy birth the one possible

correction

of all that I by disobedience had done. I knelt and

saw new

Adam, and I cried, "My son!" and came at last to

rest.

Prayer for Advent:

Lord Jesus, in these four busy weeks of Advent, help us to pause to remember the depth of your love for us. Beyond anything we deserved or could have imagined, love led you to a stable in Bethlehem and all the way to Calvary. Open our hearts to welcome you anew so that we can have something to share with a needy world each day.

Grant us joy of your friendship and bring us the strength, courage, and determination to
serve our brothers and sisters in your name.

Amen.
(Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary, Duluth, MN)

A Monthly Round-Up: October's Collection Pt. 4 or "Way to be Professional"

2010-10-25T22:04:00.003-05:00

It's quite amusing to read and view all of the attention being placed on a recent "entertainment-violence" hockey incident between a "ham en egger" checking forward and a supposedly sincere Minnesota Wild fan. I'm mean really c'mon now - only two weeks into another promising NHL season and we're forced to choose sides between these two?

Quickly after the incident, Michael Russo of the Star-Tribune writes: Runway view rocks, until run-in with a Canuck,

["I was just standing straight up applauding as he was getting kicked out," Engquist said. "He was out of control. So then I said, 'Way to be professional,' and he obviously didn't care for that comment and decided to grab me and almost dragged me over the rail…Engquist said nobody from NHL headquarters had called him as of late Wednesday afternoon, so he called Mark Stoffel, Xcel Energy Center's senior director of operations, who gave him the number for NHL security… Engquist said he has received no apology from the NHL, the Canucks or Rypien. He said he is "definitely" seeking legal representation.] Read More

Professional hockey players are an emotional bunch. Fans even more so...

According to President Gary Bettman, the NHL holds it's players accountable to the highest professional standards. My understanding is that, "under no circumstance are club personnel permitted to have physical contact with fans, or enter or attempt to enter the stands. ” History tends to side with Bettman- at least in so far as violence between players and fans.

But, is this really the "state of hockey" today?

Kaelon Lupton of Bleacher Report counters with, Rick Rypien Suspension Raises Questions Among NHL, Fans,

[Rugged Vancouver Canucks forward Rick Rypien made his court appearance Friday (Oct. 22) and received a six-game suspension for pushing a fan, during an embarrassing loss against the Minnesota Wild... Can we say overreaction? ...most people think six games is a joke, a weak punishment that laughs in the face of the NHL. The most recent six-game suspension was Sean Avery's, which he received for his Elisha Cuthbert-Dion Phaneuf controversy. So, assaulting a paying fan is equal to telling a "sex joke"? When you put it like that, it looks like the NHL dropped the ball on this one. Most people had anticipated anywhere from 10-20 games.”] Read More

Cooler heads prevail in the Vancouver media apparently. A sports headline which triumphantly states, NHL gets it right with Canuck Rick Rypien suspension: League commissioner Gary Bettman stunned the oddsmakers by refusing to overreact,

[For all the times the National Hockey League's ministry of justice is criticized for the ill-fitting suspensions it pulls out of its hat — or some mid-body aperture — to punish incidents requiring supplemental discipline, it behooves us to mention the odd time the league gets one right. Rick Rypien, meet King Solomon. He looks taller in the paintings, doesn't he?] Read More

An afterthought...

My answer to Mr. Engquist's potential legal action...ummmm dude, let it go. If last Friday's Canuck's vs Wild score is any indication, good hockey is really defined by off ice preparation and motivation rather than on ice revenge.

Do I really have a problem with the deep-seated, ingrained, and old school leadership inside the NHL?

Perhaps.

In case your wondering, the model ethic for professionalism in hockey was recently defined last winter in the 2010 Winter Olympic games... in Vancouver of all places. It's no surprise then as hockey moves forward, LET'S (both player and fan alike) all take notice.

A Monthly Round-Up: October's Collection Pt. 3 (maybe)

2010-10-20T21:51:00.005-05:00

I just finished reading Cap. Joshua Slocum's breath-taking journal about his ground breaking solo circumnavigation across the world. Just simply amazing! At the age of 51, this seasoned, gritty sailor set sail from Boston, MA - alone - in his thirty-six foot sloop "Spray" en route for such exotic and remote places like South America, the Straight of Magellan, Samoa, the Philippines, Cape of Good Hope, and St. Helena. Three years and 46,000 miles later Slocum returned unfettered and in better health than when he left. Here's a brief excerpt as he prepares to sail toward Gloucester- his first major destination:

["The wind freshened and the Spray rounded Deer Island light at a rate of seven knots...Waves dancing joyously across the Massachusetts Bay met her coming out of the harbor to dash them into myriads of sparkling gems that hung about her in every surge. The day was perfect, the sunlight clear and strong. Every particle of water thrown into the air became a gem, and the Spray, bounding ahead, snatched necklace after necklace from the sea, and as often threw them away. We have all seen miniature rainbows about a ship's prow, but the Spray flung out a bow of her own that day, such as I had never seen before. Her good angel had embarked on the voyage; I so read it in the sea."] pg. 26

Further on the arduous journey he gives us this awakening thought...

["During these days a feeling of awe crept over me. My memory worked with startling power. The ominous, the insignificant, the great, the small, the wonderful, the commonplace- all appeared before my mental vision in magical succession. Pages of my history were recalled which had been so long forgotten that they seemed to belong to a previous existence. I heard all the voices of the past laughing, crying, telling what I had heard them tell in many corners of the earth."] pg. 36

Slocum reading below deck as the Spray sails on!

It's moments like these that help me connect to all of the great travelers out there. I experienced a similar, very powerful feeling many years ago when undertaking my own "water voyage" en route to Hudson Bay, Canada. It occurred on a beautiful July evening as we paddled toward a remote harbor on the western side of Lake Winnipeg. Perhaps not a feeling but rather a calm, peaceful assurance that all is well. I felt transformed in a way- gaining an increasing respectful communion with the lake as we slowly... but surely crept towards our ultimate destination. The experience was like looking at oneself in an out of body sort of way. I experienced the lake as a truly living, breathing entity and I saw myself and my friend as welcomed travelers united with her waters and her waves. Difficult to describe in a sort of poetic way then , but today it seems more about how we understand ourselves in our environment. Not domineering individualists, but rather uniquely connected and spiritual creatures who are called towards our true and real purpose in life.

The Barnes & Nobles classic paperback edition from 2005 has several notable features you might be interested in including detailed sketch drawings from Thomas Fogarty, endnotes, a glossary of nautical terms, and selected commentary. The thorough introduction is provided by Texas A & M professor Dennis A Berthold.

The Chicago Daily Tribune summarizes "Sailing Alone Around the World" in April, 1900:

["Captain Slocum's simple and delightful narrative of his voyage around the world alone in the little sloop Spray combines the adventurous charm of 'Robinson Crusoe' with the life of and humor of Marryat. It is a rare good book for lovers of sea travels and adventure. The Captain is a literary artist as well as a daring and skillful sailor, and he tells his experiences with a delightful combination of modesty and delicate humor. Best of all, his story is true, and as remarkable for what it tells as for the way he tells it."]

I would expect nothing less of a Nova Scotian!

A Monthly Round-Up: October's Collection Pt. 2 (maybe)

2010-10-19T21:41:00.005-05:00

Q1- Why don’t you just move from Duluth to Grand Rapids and get it over with already? Q2- Why do you commute literally hundreds of miles a month to a job?

A1- Upwardly-mobile, promotional moving that is driven primarily by monetary motive doesn’t solve much I’m afraid. The decision to move or not to move (or even to sell), must be made with the utmost care and delicacy folks. It demands thoughtful reflection along with an acceptable resolution between the love(s) for work, faith-community, relational-desire, and north shore environment.

A2- As far as commuting to and from the workplace –that’s an even more sensitive topic with me these days. A topic so filled with complexity and competing priorities that I can’t even begin to illuminate how important it is, yet alone try to reconcile the issues like my increasing carbon foot print. Oh sure, there are many professionals who drive for a living. I respect all of you, especially those who deliver important packages. That’s not really what I mean.

Ken Nordine often asked, “What’s he building in there?”

He also echoes, “What’s he thinking about in there?…(in the vehicle)…in the time-commitment. Imagine fifteen-hours a week devoted to that drive… back and forth, every day… seems like one might need some snacks."

Perhaps the only really gratifying experience with long-distance work commuting is the simple fact that I have ample opportunity for prayer & dialogue. Perhaps it’s also the opportunity to observe a rare wildlife viewing event like this - October highway - morning encounter with an East Floodwood moose. I call him the “browsing adolescent”. Intellectual for sure, but definitely an extrovert and a showboat! How many moose do you know who will pose for the camera? (music by Dustin O' Halloran- Opus 23)

Resources:

Moose Sightings in MN

KAXE Phenology

KAXE Membership

Principles of Catholic Environmentalism: Because of the excesses associated with environmentalism in an increasingly pagan West, many Catholics shy away from formal involvement with the “environmental movement”. At the same time, Catholics are (or ought to be) by the very nature of their Faith deeply committed to responsible stewardship over nature, cultivating and even improving God’s patrimony for the common good. Read More

Don't stop reading yet...
For Reflection: Embrace suffering to foster a love for Creation

Rev. Bud Grant, Professor of Theology at St. Ambrose University (Davenport, IA), not former Viking coach ed. proposes a solution to saving the planet that isn’t quite as marketable -- or simple -- as reduce, re-use and recycle. His idea? Embrace suffering, out of love for both God’s creation and future generations.

“I’m going to suggest suffering is an environmental virtue -- in fact, the environmental virtue,” said Fr. Grant, who specializes in environmental ethics. In the opening keynote address entitled “Back to the Garden” at last Saturday’s diocesan Institute for Catholic Social Ministry in Peoria, IL, he outlined the “vast” scope of the crises threatening the earth, including global warming. “If we’re going to save the planet, we have to start acting like doctors,” he said. “We have a very sick patient,” he added, noting that 18 of the last 20 years were the warmest ever recorded. His prescription of “redistributive suffering” -- sacrificing our standard of living so that the impact of the environmental crises shifts away from the world’s poor and future generations -- is rooted in faith and family. Read More

A Monthly Round-Up: October's Collection Pt. 1(maybe)

2010-10-17T00:21:00.028-05:00

Here's a sampling of some stuff I've been reading, watching, or listening to this month. October is dedicated to our Blessed Mother Mary and her intercessory prayers are the inspiration behind this post.

If you've never heard of Therese Borchard perhaps it's time you did. She has a very insightful blog entitled Beyond Blue: a blog chronicling the daily spiritual journey of life with depression and anxiety. Now, before you go screaming into the night looking for your 24 hour ago sedated Halloween costume, give her site a try. Her writing defines what courage means. Not only does she provide concise and relevant personal stories, she tackles head-on the supremely taboo issue of depression and the spiritual life. I admire her as writer because she's not out to hustle anyone, or prescribe the "quick fix" medication prescription that society seeks so often. Rather, she provides a more thoughtful and instructive approach knowing full well that many people suffer from various forms of depression,

[ In my first blog post, I described my intention for Beyond Blue: "for it to become a comfortable place where we can pitch the unfair stigma of mental illness, expose our real selves, and lend each other an empathetic ear." ].

I think she's on to something here. What do you think? It's likely you know a family member or a friend who might be looking for some insights into the topic. Give them the opportunity to explore her site by sending this link.

Source: CNS Photo/The Valley Catholic

Therese also writes a column for the Catholic News Service. That's where I kick off my monthly round-up with her short article found in the entitled, "Nonprofit group shows that real men pray the rosary".

[“A few years ago, whenever someone mentioned the word “rosary,” I used to envision my grandmother at Mass, holding her crystal beads between her praying hands during the eucharistic prayers and throughout the second half of a church service. I certainly didn’t picture a businessman, with a cell phone in one hand, a wooden rosary in the other, telling his client to call back in a half hour because he’s one decade away from finishing the sorrowful mysteries. Apparently, I’m not the only person holding such stereotypes of the rosary.”] Read more.

Source: The Catholic Spirit & The Northern Cross

*** Shifting gears now.

Many folks should seriously pursue a better awareness and understanding of the opposing view. Northern Cross editor Kyle Eller provides an opinion piece that dissects why people (especially vampire novelist Anne Rice) seemingly mis-understand or get confused over the teachings of the Catholic Church. His editorial is entitled, "Leaving church does not lead to happiness."

["One of the best tests of honesty and intelligence is to look at how someone treats opposing views. A smart and honest person will understand and answer the strongest argument against his position. St. Thomas Aquinas is a great example — it’s sometimes said that the best-stated case against St. Thomas is the one he wrote before answering the objection. But men and women like St. Thomas are becoming an endangered species, even as our need for them increases. Some fail to understand an opposing view, either because of real limits to their intelligence or because they are unable to see past ideology or their passions. One hopes that few of the blowhards dominating our public discourse are genuine propagandists, deliberately distorting what others think, but I would almost prefer that to the many nowadays who prefer to avoid argument altogether and just call names."] Read more.

Perhaps we should call it: I'm fed up with the Church. I'll be much happier on my own, living life on my own terms!

***
Professor David Schultz teaches professional ethics, non-profit law, housing and economic policy, planning, and public policy at Hamline University. He also provides a lot of hyper-pithy and creative commentary about Minnesota politics. You might know of him from his popular appearances on Twin City radio, PBS Almanac, and Minnpost.com. He also writes a local blog entitled "Schultz's Take". I reference Prof. Schultz in this posting because I recently absorbed and reflected upon a paper of his that provocatively examines the dimension of morality, ethics, and "opposing views" entitled Professional Ethics in a Postmodern Society. As a state employee who strives to integrate the values of service and mission - (notable non-profit values) - and economic sustainability (timber supply contribution to the state of MN), I definitely gravitate toward an academic discussion that involves questions about how one ought to think about values and how they can be applied in one's job.

Below is Prof. Schultz's abstract:

[The ethical values that guide the public, private, and nonprofit sectors have traditionally been seen as distinct from one another as well as from the values that guide personal relationships. However, recent trends in the economy and employment are blurring these distinctions. This commentary discusses these trends, contending that what is emerging is a new postmodern world of work. It is marked by a blurring of public and private lives as well as an increasingly fine line separating the three economic sectors. As a result, the ethical rules that apply to different facets of life and work are being challenged, necessitating a rethinking of the moral boundaries and rules governing professional behavior.]

Source: Public Integrity Issue: Volume 6, Number 4 / Fall 2004

Alt. Source: Challenge to Minnesota ban on same-sex marriage: good law, bad politics Read More

Alt. Source: Justice Scalia: No Such Thing as a Catholic Judge Read More

Curiosity and the leafless tree?

One ethical aspect that I personally think some of my co-workers "forget" is the importance of recognizing our unique role in natural resource stewardship. Our mission is truly for and about the citizens of the state of Minnesota - it ought to avoid excessive catering to partisan and exclusive special interests. Although we often get caught up and self-involved with our work priorities, let's take a moment to listen...

*** John 15: 1-12

More to follow... (maybe)... gabba, gabba hey! Wait a minute Joey. We have some significant issues to discuss... yes, no... ok, we both agree that we don't like Communism, but wait- are you up there with the Father?

Exploring the Theory Behind Autumn Leaf Color Variation: Europe vs USA

2010-09-24T22:20:00.068-05:00

The question is a simple one. Why Are Autumn Leaves Red in America and Yellow in Europe?

Following an ant on maple leaves... from Prince Turtle on Vimeo.

["Walking outdoors in the fall, the splendidly colorful leaves adorning the trees are a delight to the eye. In Europe these autumn leaves are mostly yellow, while the United States and East Asia boast lustrous red foliage. But why is it that there are such differences in autumnal hues around the world? A new theory provided by Prof. Simcha Lev-Yadun of the Department of Science Education- Biology at the University of Haifa-Oranim and Prof. Jarmo Holopainen of the University of Kuopio in Finland and published in the Journal New Phytologist proposes taking a step 35 million years back to solve the color mystery".] Read More

On a local level Linda Radimecky, Fort Snelling State Park naturalist for the MN DNR poses another typical fall question:

Q: Why do trees change color in the fall and what determines if we have a good display on a given year?

A: Those magnificent colors you see in the fall are actually there all summer, it's just you can't see them because of the green chlorophyll in the leaves. As our days get shorter and the temperatures cool down, trees cease green chlorophyll production, causing the yellow chlorophyll to show. Any sugars trapped in the leaf react with each other in the presence of sunlight to form the reds and oranges - thus the more sun, the more brilliant the colors. The best weather conditions are the same ones we enjoy in the fall - bright, cool days and chilly but not freezing nights. The slightest change - too hot, too cold, too wet or too dry - can slow the process or cause trees to lose their leaves before they change color.

Minnesota is fortunate to have many excellent places to view the changing season, from the northern hardwood forests along the North Shore to the prairie regions of the state. To get the latest information on when and where the fall colors are expected to be at their peak, check out the DNR's website.] Read More

tamaracks by *collectiveone on deviant ART

In light of the autumnal mysteries discussed above, let's try to recognize a song for the season. Take a listen to the vid below. See if you can guess who the references might be. I'll give you a hint, "By the Time I Get to Phoenix" by _________; not the Right Banke, but the__________ who wrote Walk Away R_________; and the M's & the P's who sang _________ ; also covered in glorious punk glee by the Ramones!

What's really special about this song fellow hipsters is the catchy, repetitive drumming pattern blended in with great 60's pop music samples and a killer lyric that would make George Harrison proud. Oh wait a minute now, is it about The Fall of Joy Division?

Spring Retreat Visuals: Dealing With Loss and Moving

2010-05-28T11:41:00.003-05:00

by HarborStar

The End, by Mark Strand

Not every man knows what he shall sing at the end,
Watching the pier as the ship sails away, or what it will seem like
When he’s held by the sea’s roar, motionless, there at the end,
Or what he shall hope for once it is clear that he’ll never go back.

When the time has passed to prune the rose or caress the cat,
When the sunset torching the lawn and the full moon icing it down
No longer appear, not every man knows what he’ll discover instead.
When the weight of the past leans against nothing, and the sky

Is no more than remembered light, and the stories of cirrus
And cumulus come to a close, and all the birds are suspended in flight, Not every man knows what is waiting for him, or what he shall sing When the ship he is on slips into darkness, there at the end.

Resources:

St. John's Abbey
Poetry by Mark Strand

Beyond the Surf Pt.2: Getting Closer to Florida's Heartbeat

2010-05-09T00:00:00.002-05:00

Declared a National Natural Monument in 1964, the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a splendid example of Florida’s native ecosystem diversity. Major vegetation communities include the pine flatwood forests, wet prairies, central marsh wetlands, lettuce lakes, sawgrass & pond cypress wet forests and... perhaps most importantly, North America's largest intact stand of bald cypress wet forest. What follows is a wee bit of resource links to pictures, websites, and music you might find interesting:

by HarborStar

In southwestern Florida in the beginning of the century, the strands of bald cypress extended miles and miles. In those virgin bald cypress stands were giants towering 130 feet, with girths of 25 feet -- an awesome sight before the onslaught of the lumbermen in the 1920's. A remnant of that virgin forest, now the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, a veritable living museum piece, escaped the destruction in the nick of time just as the cutting crews were coming upon it. It is now the largest remaining stand of virgin bald cypress in the country... The Acquisition and Development of the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, 1952-1967 by Carl W. Buchheister

Descriptions taken from the Audubon Center self guided tour.

The roots of the strangler fig (Ficus aurea) left are often thought to be vines growing on a host tree. Strangler figs can grow like a normal tree from the ground up; they also may start high up in another tree and send roots down to the ground. As the roots grow, they wrap around the host tree, sometimes killing it. At Corkscrew, frost limits strangler fig growth and they do not kill their host trees. The fig fruit is a favorite of pileated woodpeckers.

At least twelve species of air plants (Tillandsia spp) right are found within the swamp sanctuary, each one related to the pineapple. All of them epiphytes, or plants that grow on other plants without the aid of soil, but they are not parasites, doing no harm to the host tree. Nutrients are taken from falling organic debris and rainfall trapped by the plant. Several Corkscrew Sanctuary epiphytes are on the State Protected Plant List as endangered or threatened.

Resources:

Collier County

Tigertail Beach

What Bird

Primate discrimination is alive and well...

Beyond the Surf or A Whole Lotta Hot Tub- Pt. 1

2010-04-16T23:15:00.120-05:00

Normally a vacation to southern Florida in February means warm temperatures, sunny skies, and peaceful breezes on the beach right? This year turned out be vastly different. Daytime temperatures struggled to reach the 70's while chilly evenings resembled many a autumn night in Northern Minnesota. It's kind of hilarious, but spending a week in Naples resulted in listening to several local and unexpected rants about the southern weather anomalie. Imagine that in Gator country?

Of course, let's not forget that a cool weather pattern means zero chance of encountering Florida mosquitos not to mention the abundant, creepy-crawly tropical insects and amphibians.

Despite our base camp location of brazenly developed retirement havens - complete with dreamy, manicured golf courses - I am amazed at the amount of outdoor opportunties still available in Southern Florida. Ya'll know it, places like beaches, parks, nature preserves, museums, hiking, canoeing, fishing, rookeries, swamps... it's all here in most spectacular wonder!

Now I'm no photographer of taste, but I was easily lured into taking pictures at will, hoping in every way that I at least captured a sense of wonder for my own personal Florida. An "A" for effort is my motto... Not all of these photos are mine though. I support family photo-sharing so thanks to my parents for a contributing a few. Look for a few additional photo logs to come...

When quizzed I will tell you that one of my main objectives for a vacation is to strive for relaxation and peaceful communion with Christ. I am very grateful for finding that at San Marco Church on the Island. Thanks and prayers for a special guest- Fr. Freund! Still, I couldn't help but spent a fair amount of time traveling around the region with my Dad. I'm glad he shares my passion for exploration. Early on in the trip we spent some time exploring things like Dania Beach and Pier, Retro-Car Shows, and the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). My mother gets full credit for taking us to a very special restaurant called "Cracklin Jack's" a taste of the Everglades! I chose their andouille sausage served over dirty rice w/sauteed onions, peppers, mushroom, and garlic!

Although a sauna would have been more appropriate, most nights in FLA concluded with a warming hot-spa experience! Another reason to be grateful for family.

Resources:

by HarborStar

San Marco Catholic Church

A Christain community of faith, striving to be closer to God.

Florida Catholic of Venice
Diocese of Venice 1984-2009

Dania Beach

Sandy beaches, fishing, and ethnic diversity w/out the crowds.... especially when the temps hover around the mid-60's.

The International Game Fish Association

Everything you ever wanted to know about the passion of fishing and why guys spend thousands of dollars on gear, tackle, boats, etc. Includes art, film, and photography exhibits.

Cracklin Jack's

Seafood combos, frog legs, grouper, red meat, mahi,mahi, pulled pork, catfish, clam, gator tail!

Song of the Night:

Folks Just Simply Love Forests or... What's Up With Collaboratives These Days

2010-03-20T10:46:00.000-05:00

On occasion people ask me to post about what it’s like being a forester with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN DNR). One reason is that Northern MN folks just simply love trees and forests! There’s also a sincere and genuine interest in how foresters helps manage, sustain, and restore our beautiful forests, especially those found in the Arrowhead region of Minnesota. Here’s a short excerpt from a recent MN DNR newsletter that I came cross last month showcasing improvements we are making with integrating diverse and wide-ranging approaches to managing our forests despite the recent challenges of climate change, forest pests, and invasive species, and a economic downturn.

[A group of 35 MN DNR managers and staff met recently to share progress on interdisciplinary forest management coordination and to identify strategies for continued progress. The group included commissioners; division directors, and regional and area managers from Forestry, Ecological Resources/Waters, and Fish and Wildlife; regional directors; and OMBS staff involved in forest management coordination. Regional and area staff presented updates on “Adaptive Forest Management Projects.” These projects were designed to improve the DNR’s ability to integrate multiple forest management objectives, monitor progress, and course correct when management practices are not effective in the face of change.

Michelle Martin, profiled approaches for integrating oak management and rare species conservation in a unique blufflands site in southeast Minnesota. Steve Piepgras, spoke about silvicultural treatments to diversify aspen stands for improved wildlife habitat and timber value while responding to new biomass markets. Bill Schnell discussed the Manitou Collaborative on the North Shore Highlands and its innovative work to diversify forest stands and restore conifers. Erik Thorson presented alternative practices to improve regeneration of jack pine.

Commissioners and division directors noted staff enterprise in tackling complex issues, trying new approaches, and using monitoring and evaluation to learn and adapt. Regional managers and directors then presented success stories in broader interdisciplinary coordination. The meeting wrapped up with discussion of continued challenges – issues requiring greater policy and management direction. These included high conservation value forests, school trust land issues, and roles and responsibilities for coordination among disciplines and Central Office, regional, and area staff.]

One of the major focus points of my position has been my involvement with the Manitou Collaborative and its Ecological Silviculture Patch Project. Like most forest management projects, it's taken a few years just to get the treatments setup, to coordinate objectives and design management prescriptions, and to offer timber sales to on auction. Fortunately we've made it this far, but it's going to take several decades before we truly see the fruits of our labor. Below is a summary of the project. By no means does this capture all of the subtle nuances involved with forest management, but hopefully it will give the reader a little insight into how we integrate ecology with silviculture, and how we might adapt to future changes in the environment.

Field Evaluations:
MN DNR Divisions of Forestry, Wildlife, Ecological Resources, Fisheries, and Office of Management and Budget.
Manitou Collaborative Partners include The Nature Conservancy, USFS-Superior National Forest, Lake Co. Land Department, MN DNR, MN Forest Resource Council-NE Landscape, and Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center.

Landscape Context:

The forest area is located within the Manitou Collaborative in the Arrowhead-Lake Superior region of Northeastern Minnesota just west of the small community of Cramer, MN.
The objective is to regenerate more than 70% of the mesic mixed forest within the designated patch back to a young, vegetative growth stage. Over several decades, plans are to develop much of the area into a multi-age mixed conifer forest using a variety of silvicultural techniques. The MN DNR stands will be managed along with 65 acres of USFS land. Stands are located within a designated Minnesota County Biological Site (MCBS) ranked as Moderate in biodiversity. This project is consistent with overall direction provided by the NE MN MFRC Landscape Committee and MN DNR's North Shore Sustainable Forest Resource Management Plan (SFRMP). Briefly:

Move cover type composition closer to the range of cover type composition that historically occurred. Maintain/increase patch size.
Provide a representation of growth stages that historically occurred.
Maintain/increase species, age and structural diversity.

Increase long lived conifers (white pine/white cedar) both as a cover type and a within stand component.

Past Management Practices:
Second growth forest in a relatively undisturbed condition. A few scattered, old white pine or white cedar stumps present. No recent management activity observed.

Present Conditions: (general composition and structure):
The forested area is dominated by large diameter paper birch and quaking aspen (9-15”dbh). Additional species present include balsam fir, white spruce, black spruce, red maple, and white cedar. Basal area range from 40-130 sq. ft/acre. The paper birch is considered a high-risk species due to its old age, top-dieback, and overall stand decline. Coarse woody debris (CWD) and snags are present in average numbers. The woody understory is comprised of moderate to heavy density shrub species along with many balsam fir seedlings. Only a few white pine seedlings are present per acre.

Age of stands = 70-90 years old but varies considerably depending on the location within a stand and the topographical aspect.
Growth Stage = mature
Native Plant Community Classification = Fire Dependent Northern Mesic Mixed Forest.
Timber Volumes = Quaking Aspen 12-20 cds/acre; Paper Birch-9-12 cds/acre; White Spruce 4 cds/acre; Balsam Fir 1.5 cds/acre; White Cedar 1 cds/acre; Red Maple 0.2 cds/acre; Black Spruce 0.5 cds/acre, and Black Ash 0.1 cds/acre.
Woody Regeneration (0.1-5”dbh) = Balsam Fir 1180 trees/ac; White Spruce 30 trees/ac; White Cedar 20 trees/ac; Black Ash 15 trees/ac; Red Maple 5 trees/ac; White Pine 5 trees/ac (estimate).

Desired Future Stand Conditions:
Regenerate 70% of the patch to a young growth stage while maintaining and/or enhancing significant components of the mature growth stage and its unique characteristics. Overtime, manage the patch as a mixed conifer-hardwood stand while restoring and increasing the presence of white spruce, white pine, and white cedar tree species. Stand structural diversity will be promoted through a series of actions including retention and protection of:

Scattered and clump reserve areas both outside and adjacent to the harvest areas. These will serve primarily as a source of desirable conifer seed.
Within stand tree species diversity including mature paper birch, quaking aspen, spruce, white pine, white cedar, black ash, and red maple.
Fine and coarse woody debris, snags, and downed logs.
Native Plant Community (NPC) functionality including intact remnants of the herbaceous layer.

Silvicultural Prescription:
Cutting Blocks A and C: Shelterwood w/Reserves (see native plant community map below). Harvest and full tree skid paper birch and quaking aspen to a residual basal area of 40 sq. ft/acre. Block A requires full tree skidding of all harvested trees during dry summer or fall conditions to help reduce the woody shrub component, and to help scarify and expose the mineral soil layer. Block C will be frozen ground harvesting only. Reserve hardwood tree species including quaking aspen and paper birch will be evenly spaced throughout the harvest area. Additional reserve species include white and black spruce, white cedar, red maple, black ash, white pine, and all non-hazardous snags. Logging slash will be piled at designated landings. Some fine woody debris (FWD) will be re-distributed across the site. Logging operators are to leave at least 5 sound downed logs/acre (includes current CWD existing onsite). All temporary water drainages will be kept free of logging residue. Refer to MN DNR Forestry timber sale permit #B010605 for additional information.

Blocks B and D: Seed Tree w/Reserves (see native plant community map below). Harvest and full tree skid paper birch and quaking aspen . Full tree skidding during frozen ground harvest conditions only. Reserve hardwood species includes 6-12 (9-15”dbh) quaking aspen /acre (Block B) and 4-6 (9-15”dbh) quaking aspen or paper birch/acre (Block D) throughout the site. Additional reserve species includes white and black spruce, white cedar, red maple, black ash, white pine, and all non-hazardous snags. Logging slash will be piled at designated landings. Some FWD will be re-distributed across the site. Logging operators are to leave at least 5 sound downed lsound downed logs/acre (includes current CWD existing onsite). All temporary water drainages will be kept free of logging residue. Refer to MN DNR Forestry timber sale permit #B010605 for additional information.

Soon after harvest a regeneration check will be undertaken to assess conifer tree species presence and stocking. Depending on the regeneration check outcomes and further Manitou Collaborative discussions, mechanical site preparation methods will be evaluated. Planting contracts will also be initiated and crews will be instructed to plant conifer species in harvested areas. Specific planting spots will be located in scarified areas and in inclusions containing minimal hardwood sprouting. Other portions of the harvested site will focus on natural regeneration of hardwood species. All future planted white pine and white cedar will be protected from animal herbivory at least 5 years after planting. At year 3 post-harvest, the harvested area will be evaluated for a mechanical spot release of planted conifers. Over time, the developing stands will be scheduled for an intermediate harvest treatment.

Native Plant Communities and Harvest Treatments in the Manitou Patch – Ecological Silviculture Project (State Land)

Integrated Ecological and Silvicultural Considerations:

Get the right species on the right sites
The Manitou Collaborative certainly takes advantage of ecological principles and silvicultural interpretations. Recent fieldwork by MN DNR staff has confirmed the NPC class for all the vegetation within the patch project. Historical data indicates that fire dependent mesic forests were composed of a broader and more mixed composition of conifer species than currently present in the landscape. Although quaking aspen and paper birch tree species are suitable in this area, the desire for more long-lived conifers like white pine and white cedar is a specific outcome of this project. Tree species suitability tables indicate that white pine, white cedar, and white spruce all rank good to outstanding in their ability to compete with other plants in the community. Therefore, we are confident that these species can be restored and will grow into large, mature trees which will provide a multitude of benefits while contributing to future biological diversity and wood products.

Ensure future management options
Differing societal needs for wood products, potential climate change, and threats from invasive species and insects all play a role in the future composition of the forests. By incorporating the full range of silvicultural activities through the vegetation growth stages over time (young to old), we can have greater confidence in meeting the desire for a variety of tree species, habitat conditions, and stand structural conditions rather than simply growing forests to economic rotation and harvesting most or all of the trees in one activity. This suite of actions may include planting, site scarification, improvement techniques like hand release of target species, and intermediate harvests like thinning or variable density spacing. Specifically managing for diversity and complexity puts us in a better position to respond to change.

Treatment design must link biological legacy and treated area
Biological legacies usually involve reserving portions of intact forest or representations of uncommon growth stages. Forest ecologists define biological legacies “as the organisms, organic matter (including structures), and biologically created patterns that persist from the pre-disturbance ecosystem and influence recovery processes in the post-disturbance ecosystem (Frankin et al 2000). Legacies occur in varied form and densities, depending upon the nature of both the disturbance and the forest ecosystem.” Specific efforts went into determining and locating legacies within the patch project and we focused on leaving elements that provide significant purpose and function. These include spruce conifer seed trees, dying and standing dead trees, fine woody debris, advanced understory regeneration of desirable species, and clumped islands of older growth stages FDn43b2 plant community. Leaving these in a diverse spatial configuration throughout the site ensures the opportunity for herbaceous plants to re-colonize the site and maintains the ecological integrity of biological processes of growth and decay.

Don’t compromise ecological function
We should always ask fundamental questions about our treatment prescriptions.

Will the sale design ensure adequate organic nutrient pools for regenerating trees?
Will the sale design ensure adequate fine and coarse woody debris onsite
Will the sale design, equipment, or season of operation negatively impact the site hydrology and riparian zone function?
Will sale activity minimize the release of undesirable seed banks? Will post harvest activity promote invasion of exotic species?

Forest Health Considerations:
Most of the paper birch type is overmature from a commercial standpoint. The trees have significant birch decline and top dieback and should be harversted to capture and further mortality. However, pure paper birch cover types lend themselves to shelterwood harvests and residual trees will provide high shade for planted and naturally regenerating understory conifers. Many of the resdual trees will die in the next 5-10 years thereby provide increasing light availability for understory-planted conifers, Some are dead already. Aspen is also mature and showing evidence of phellinus, hypoxylon canker, and top dieback. Mature balsam fir trees are scattered throughout and have likely seen periodic spruce budworm outbreaks in the past. All of the balsam fir will be harvested, but established and newly developing seedlings and saplings continue to pose budworm forest health concern. For more information about these species and related insect and disease issues click here.

Wildlife Habitat Considerations:
From a wildlife perspective, this is a course scale habitat management project which will provide more long term benefit to nongame species than the traditional game species. The initial harvest of the project site will improve moose browse conditions and long term may provide some thermal cover benefits particularly along the periphery and adjacent to suitable riparian habitats for moose. Refer to page 168 in Tomorrow’s Habitat: Forest-Upland Coniferous is listed as a Key Habitat for Species in Greatest Conservation Need within the North Shore Highlands Subsection. An active goshawk nest site is located in Block A. Nest protection has been incorporated into the sale design through DNR Forestry’s Supplemental Terms and Conditions Permit to Cut. In general, the silviculture prescriptions attempt to meet habitat preferred by the goshawk. Refer to the DNR Northern Goshawk Management Considerations. Lessard-Sams funding has been approved for planting blocks A and B. Funding for planting this site is just the initial phase. Long term, additional funding will be required for plant protection to reduce browse damage and selective hand release to maintain/improve within stand diversity. Forestry has done a good job of retaining reserve/legacy patches within the harvest area which adds to the diversity of the patch. Retaining a commercially viable production of forest products is also a desired outcome, particularly in regards to the trust fund status of this land.

Monitoring Plan:
Currently being overseen by Manitou Collaborative Partner- The Nature Conservancy... more on this as the trees grow and life unfolds.

The famous writer and itinerant outdoors conservationist Aldo Leopold sums up a poignant aspect of our work:

"Conservation is a state of harmony between men and land. By land is meant all of the things on, over, or in the earth. Harmony with land is like harmony with a friend; you cannot cherish his right hand and chop off his left. That is to say, you cannot love game and hate predators; you cannot conserve the waters and waste the ranges; you cannot build the forest and mine the farm. The land is one organism. Its parts, like our own parts, compete with each other and co-operate with each other. The competitions are as much a part of the inner workings as the co-operations. You can regulate them—cautiously—but not abolish them.

The outstanding scientific discovery of the twentieth century is not television, or radio, but rather the complexity of the land organism. Only those who know the most about it can appreciate how little we know about it. The last word in ignorance is the man who says of an animal or plant: "What good is it?" If the land mechanism as a whole is good, then every part is good, whether we understand it or not. If the biota, in the course of aeons, has built something we like but do not understand, then who but a fool would discard seemingly useless parts? To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering."

-Round River pp 145-146

All Good Things Come In Three

2010-03-16T23:29:00.000-05:00

In keeping with the St. Patrick's Day tradition, I present you three stellar and captivating artists whose music is often defined as energetic, joyful, and humorous. Debates aside, I think its safe to say that celtic folk music - and the closely related genre of bluegrass - acts as a particularly unique catalyst for people to gather in love for song and dance. I've had the special fortune of seeing each of these artists perform live, partaking in that singular pleasure of being in tune...right in tune... with the rhythmn and melody, never wanting it to cease. Imagine that feeling akin to what a runner experiences when reaching that state where body and movement transcend immediate surroundings.

What's the difference between a jig and a reel you say? Check out the traditional celtic pub band Dervish peforming live in the mid-1990's Donegal, Ireland:

Tim O'Brien has always been a Cavan County man. Here he teams up with the Chieftains to perform live Shady Grove (Trad):

Lisa Hannigan is a rising star in the world of modern celtic-folk and indie rock. She effortlessly blends the new with the traditional in her amazing song entitled "I Don't Know" performed impromptu live in Dingle, Ireland:

Where to find live celtic music in northern MN?

Brigid's Irish Cross- Bemidji, MN
Dubh Linn Irish Pub- Duluth, MN
Carmody Irish Pub- Duluth, MN

May God give you...

For every storm, a rainbow,
For every tear, a smile,
For every care, a promise,
And a blessing in each trial.
For every problem life sends,
A faithful friend to share,
For every sigh, a sweet song,
And an answer for each prayer.

"Éirinn go Brách"!

The Light

2010-03-13T13:10:00.002-06:00

There once was a holy man, well into his eighties, who spent his days in prayer, fasting, and caring for the poor. Walking through the market one day, he saw a young woman of extraordinary beauty selling figs.

"You are so beautiful!" he exclaimed. "I can see light shining through you, above you,

around you..."

"It is God's light", she said, drawing her colorful shawl tightly around her.

"I am very foolish" he apologized. "I want to hold you yet I am married, nearing the end of my days..."

The woman looked at him steadily.

"You see the same light I see in you; it is not my light any more than it is your light.""But how can I say good-bye to you- my heart is breaking", he wept.

"God's children always shine from the inside out", continued the woman. "The glow is really God's love beaming through our compassion, friendliness, and above all, inner peace."

"Light brings forth light, the light of God's presence", murmured the old man. "As long as we dwell in this light, we will always be together..."

Having paid for a dozen figs, he smiled and continued his journey.

---Elizabeth Anne Stewart

John 8:12

The Light of Life from daihei shibata on Vimeo.

To be or not to be an Underdog? Team USA Hockey

2010-02-15T13:17:00.381-06:00

Ever since 1998 when the International Olympic Committee (IOC) allowed professional athletes the opportunity to play for their respective countries, the talent pool and depth in ice hockey has increased exponentially. Most hockey experts agree- having a diverse and talented pool of players usually results in greater parity among the competitive teams, if not overly favoring the traditionally dominant countries that we all know about. History knows that exceptions exist.

In the 1970's, Team Canada boycotted the Olympic games over the supposedly flagrant use of professional players in the former USSR. The question remains why? Is it relevant to consider administrative "cold war mentality" factors including pressure from a neighboring country and of course, the progressive 1970's Canadian politics? Was it because of certain vocal hockey purists- we know they exist in Canada- who regularly discredited and ridiculed the foreign opponents while promoting their own brand of old fashioned team spirit? Not that USA is free of scrutiny. We've always been known as a country that defends rugged individualism.

he shoots... he SCORES!

In retrospect, we humbly recognize that Soviet Union athletes like goalie Vladislav Tretiak and forwards Valeri Kharlamov and Boris Mikhailov were simply disciplined hockey players whose skill level, team-play, and use of strategy were considered a step above your average puckster. Sure they played together more, sang songs, lived closely, and bonded together as comrades. So what. A simple recognition of these facts suggests that these guys were the hockey sharks of yesteryear. Untouchable. In fact, nobody dominated world competition hockey more than the USSR in 1956-1976. Not even Canada. That all changed in 1980 with the "amateur" victory of Team USA’s “Miracle on Ice”.

Personally I am very fond of the concept of amateur only international hockey. But today, we live in a different time. The 20th Century Herb Brooks ice hockey model seems antiquated now, and not consistent with other high profile international sports like soccer, basketball, baseball, etc.Can anyone say rugged individualism. A good idea that’s run its course in the sporting world perhaps. In any case, if you have a position on why the IOC should limit Olympic competition to amateurs I’d love to hear it. Would your answer involve money, greed, NHL contracts, endorsements….?

What hasn’t changed in sporting competition is the idea of an underdog. Whether it’s civil rights, politics, social justice, music, or sports the concept of an underdog can often be a blessing in disguise. Texas indie-rock band Spoon defied thematic odds and crafted an edgy-uptempo song entitled "The Underdog". A critical and subversive commentary on the dominant powers that even Van Morrison can like. Perhaps it's also a rubuttal of the Goliath syndrome found in sports today. Lead-singer Britt Daniels raspy vocals pleads with us,

"Cause you don't talk to the water boy
and there's so much you could learn but you don't want to know,
You will not back up an inch ever,
that's why you will not survive,
The thing that I tell you now
It may not go over well
And it may not be photo-op
in the way that I spell it out
But you won't hear from the messenger,
don't wanna know bout something that you don't understand,
You got no fear of the underdog,
that's why you will not survive! (Hey!)"

The underdog mentality even raised it's head before this years Super Bowl. In what's becoming a tired media cliche, important news anchors raise the question, "Who do you like in the Super Bowl." Naturally, President Obama was more favorable of the underdog football team the New Orleans Saints. But I refer you again to the ice hockey world because it's worth repeating Team USA’s most-unpredictable achievement as the watershed example of underdog sports victory. In contrast, an even earlier generation of hockey players and critics point to the forgotten-miracle on ice that occurred in 1960 at Squaw Valley, California. Arguably in their minds, the best team ever to lace the skates and take the gold. Can anyone say rugged individualism?

Forgotten Miracle Trailer from Forgotten Miracle on Vimeo.

Resources:
The First Miracle on Ice
Before the Miracle on Ice: 'Team of Destiny'

Which brings us to the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver B.C, Canada. No serious hockey critic considers Team USA a threat to the win gold or even place in the top three. A common factor that usually adds up to being identified as the underdog. If your General Manager Brian Burke, placing more media attention and focus on Canada and Russia while simultaneously downplaying the strength of your own players does have a certain advantage. Coach Ron Wilson would rather view the team as the "bad guys". Not goon mentality per se but a collection of players with youthful vitality capable of overcoming a hostile environment in a boiling point arena overflowing with Canadian pride. Sam Donnelon of phillynews.com sums up how to spin Team USA's chances in Vancouver.

In the Harbor Star school of hockey goaltending is everything in the Olympics. For Team USA to place or win gold, top goalie Ryan Miller (Buffalo Sabres) will need to perform like a circus act... he'll need to stand on his head to stop the onslaught of pucks coming his way. What about the rest of the team? In an interview with managing editor Shawn P. Roarke of nhl.com veteran forward and Minnesota native Jamie Langenbrunner (New Jersey) expresses an admirable gritty approach to the upcoming games,

"I never consider myself an underdog... I go into every game believing I can win and that I am going to win. It's the organizations I've grown up playing in and fortunately I've been on some good ones and it's kind of fed that a little bit...I don't think anyone going on the ice wearing our jersey is going to be thinking, 'Oh we don't deserve to win tonight.' That's not going to be our mentality and that's not going to be anyone's mentality. We're all competitors, we're all in the NHL and we're all the top of our profession."

Read more: U.S. team: We're no underdogs vs Young US team relishes underdog role.

What's hard to believe is no Canadian ice hockey team has won gold medal while being the Olympic host nation. Nevertheless, I'm concerned about our neighbors to the north. While I acknowledge the passion of the sport and it's link to the cultural fabric of Canada, I cannot help but whisper ...the pressure's on my friends of the North! May the best (or luckiest) team win. By the way...do you have a game plan to stop Alexander Ovechkin? I don't think we do either.

Finally, let's all be sure to watch and support our Women's ice hockey team. The growing rivalry with Canada is not to be missed. As former Wisconsin Badger Hockey coaching legend Bob Johnson says, "It's a great day for hockey!"

Predictions anyone?

Men
Gold- Russia
Silver- Canada
Bronze- USA

Women
Gold- USA
Silver-Canada
Bronze-Finland

Seriously Jude... why are you leaving those trees?

2010-01-18T19:17:00.001-06:00

Anytime I’ve prescribed a silvicultural treatment that calls for leaving a fair amount of residual trees during a harvest invariably I’ll hear the catch-all phrase from local loggers, “why are you leaving these trees? There just going to blowdown anyway, so we should cut them now and not let them go to waste!” Naturally, in a good-hearted and thoughtful way, I’ll respond by stating, “not all of them will…. but more importantly let me explain why we are leaving these trees.” So goes a typical day in the woods for many foresters in Northern Minnesota. A day that’s often fulfilled more by explaining the “why” behind forest management than attempting to meet local economic timber needs.

I say that with a bit of trepidation. As a forester, I am very attuned to the timber market conditions that result from a major economic downturn. It concerns me to see people go out of business. No one denies that the logging community and other wood product workers have suffered recently. However let’s not forget an important connection that’s still “in need” if we want to maintain the ability to manage our forests for a variety of needs including timber. That connection is human relationship. The desire not only to recognize the other but to build a shared understanding of “forest community”, where foresters support loggers and loggers support foresters. Although we might be at odds on an individual timber sale, we should recognize that our common interests ought to transcend any minor differences.

So Jude… why are you leaving these trees? Stay tuned...

The Recovery of Hope Visualized

2009-12-22T23:25:00.010-06:00

Magnificat sent me this amazing replication of the Christ child. Enjoy it's pure radiance and beauty. Have a Blessed, Merry Christmas!

My soul magnifies the Lord,

And my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
For He has regarded the low estate of His handmaiden,
For behold, henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
For He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him from generation to generation.

He has shown strength with His arm:
He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
He has put down the mighty from their thrones,
and exalted those of low degree.
He has filled the hungry with good things;
and the rich He has sent empty away.
He has helped His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy;
As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to His posterity forever.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen
LK 1: 46-55

***
Lord, in this holy season of prayer and song and laughter, we praise you for the great wonders you have sent us: for shining star and angel's song, for infant's cry in lowly manger. We praise you for the Word made flesh in a little Child. We behold his glory, and are bathed in its radiance.

Be with us as we sing the ironies of Christmas, the incomprehensible comprehended, the poetry made hard fact, the helpless Babe who cracks the world asunder. We kneel before you shepherds, innkeepers, wise men. Help us to rise bigger than we are. Amen.

The Recovery of Hope Visuals

Thanks and many prayers for Fr. Nassal C.PP.S. and his Advent retreat special this month. The Holy Spirit is working through you and your offerings have inspired us all. I sincerely hope that your ministry in Berkeley continues to transform and heal those in need.

Being Thankful

2009-11-24T23:17:00.040-06:00

Taking a moment to recognize where Thanksgiving Day is truly celebrated—

Perhaps the World Ends Here
by Joy Harjo

The world begins at a kitchen table. No matter what, we must eat to live.
The gifts of earth are brought and prepared, set on the table. So it has been since creation, and it will go on.

We chase chickens or dogs away from it. Babies teethe at the corners. They scrape their knees under it.

It is here that children are given instructions on what it means to be human. We make men at it, we make women.

At this table we gossip, recall enemies and the ghosts of lovers.
Our dreams drink coffee with us as they put their arms around our children. They laugh with us at our poor falling-down selves and as we put ourselves back together once again at the table.

This table has been a house in the rain, an umbrella in the sun.
Wars have begun and ended at this table. It is a place to hide in the shadow of terror. A place to celebrate the terrible victory.
We have given birth on this table, and have prepared our parents for burial here.

At this table we sing with joy, with sorrow. We pray of suffering and remorse. We give thanks.
Perhaps the world will end at the kitchen table, while we are laughing and crying, eating of the last sweet bite.
Copyright © 1994 by Joy Harjo. Used by permission of W.W. Norton & Company, Inc.,

— while always being thankful for a long-cherished tradition that celebrates unique ways of living…. in Eucharist, for family,

Resources:

Tex Avery’s Wild Turkey Satire

Smithsonian on Thanksgiving

A Catholic-Historical Perspective on Thanksgiving

Red Green Turkey Jerky

Recipe

Twenty Years After

2009-11-08T21:29:00.072-06:00

I remember it relatively well even though I was just a pimply-faced kid not too far removed from high school. My educational pursuits were on an eighties slow-burn template, and factory work was the popular thing to be into. Or maybe it was simply the opportunity to own up to the popular phrase "get a job". Of course, my high school buddies worked there too, and assembly line culture had it's moments despite the fact that I wasn't really cognizant of Solidarity. Despite this working class foray, I had a mild interest in socio-political events. TV, print-news, and radio were the media trifecta influence at the time, and I remember a lot of presidential speeches and video clips from abroad. I can vaguely remember a number of feeble attempts to make connections between faith and politics… though I wasn’t well versed in one or the other (due to my biased analysis of political "de-volution" in a divided USA).

Perhaps my understanding of the event was influenced more by a declaration for new forms of protest music and twenty-something selfish independence, rather than a willingness to understand the particulars of a foreign culture. One doesn’t have to look too far back. Do you remember the aggressive reactions in the mid to late 1980’s? The glorification of post-punk / culture in direct reaction to the Reagan administration?

Today, we all recognize how profound this event has become…. how much We- as a collective society- have learned from it. Considered one of the most important events of modern history, November 9th marks the 20th Anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.

I’m certain there will be many new informative- "intelligentsia" media reports in the next few weeks. If you find one inspiring please share it!

Resources:
Against the Grain
Not surprising, our prolific Ratzinger Fan Club quickly responds with some interesting links. A cool site.. no doubt.

Pope John Paul II Encyclical Centesimus Annus (The Hundredth Year-Chapter 2)

Russell Shaw (OSV): Pope John Paul II and the toppling of the Berlin Wall
A wonderful in-depth discussion on the events leading up to the Berlin Wall collaspe. Unfortunately, this article is not available online at this time. Shaw's premise resonates with many because he provides a more holistic view of the complexities of Europe and the Soviet Union in the late eighties, and suggests that too little emphasis has been placed on the influence of religious culture at the time...particularly in Poland. "It would an exercise in religious triumphalism to say, or to even imply, that the events of late 1989 had exclusively spiritual causes. But it would be triumphalism of a secularist variety to deny or ignore their spiritual roots and cite only political, economical, and military explanations."

The Beatles Rocked the Kremlin (Aired on PBS, November 9th)
On a related note, I came across this unique and presumptuous (in a good-humored way) documentary on public television coinciding with the twentieth anniversary of the Berlin Wall. According to award winning film director Leslie Woodhead, Beatle-Mania was ablaze in the former Soviet-Union and the forbidden music was ultimately responsible for Communism’s collapse. But don’t take his word for it. Listen in carefully to a hilarious "cast of character" interviews including Beatle fanatics, rock critics, musicians, and even Russian deputy prime minister Sergei Ivanov. Learn more about Beatle mythology. Who knew the Beatles performed an impromptu live set at a undisclosed Russian airport prior to their official concert stop in Japan? Not me. Who knew that John Lennon was sighted on the streets of Moscow? Not you either. It’s all here....all stylized in a way to counter the propaganda of their time.

A Productive Day leads to "We Really Can Get Along."

2009-10-27T20:11:00.024-05:00

This morning was simply and most profoundly...productive. Webster's defines it as "creatively fertile" and I couldn't agree more. Despite the recent weeks of discussion over budget cuts, boundary realignments, hiring freezes, and doing more with less, today...I allowed myself the luxury of listening carefully and responding respectively. Some call it relationship building, ya know... of the human kind.

Part of the reason for continued clarity - or the need to post this simple reflection - comes through my weekly hour with the Blessed Sacrament, and it just so happens to be after that hour... a Tuesday night. Despite some wishful neighborly report(s), I haven't experienced any visions and I'm not into loud video games, creepy-helloween, or the like. Just a simple desire to open myself to the Holy Spirit. A gentle reminder of Prudence and Her comfortable desire that inspiration’s not far behind.

"The sun is out, the sky is blue, it's beautiful and so are you..."

Then in a flash, I remembered a meditation from last September’s Magnificat: or better yet- it pierced my heart like a crown of thorns...

Work and Love

"We must always remind ourselves that our first work does not arise from the capacity to create new structures, but rather it is… a sensibility to the common and singular needs that exist: the use of intelligence and energy to assist in the creation of a more human environment in the situation where you are. Only if the imagination is awakened can new forms of work be invented. This can only spring forth from an amazement, a devotion, a love for what man is. The factory remains the factory, (or in my case… the DNR remains the DNR) but it’s not like it was before. Wherever a presence – determined by this passion for man – expresses a generosity, steadfastness, and imagination, and meets with a certain openness, the work environment is not like it was before.

I have heard you tell me a hundred times, ‘Now I go to work with a passion that I never expected, that before I never even dreamed possible,’ which means that you don’t go to the job you used to go to, but you perform a ‘new work’, a more human work that doesn’t leave out any aspect, any particular.

Nothing is more concrete than love. Outside of love, concreteness is established by developing a preconceived idea into a program, a program into a preconceived idea. That is, by an ideology that is determined to find its own way and exploits everyone it encounters in the process. Instead, a group of people gathered together who try to keep in mind the true sense of man as a creature of God becomes capable of inventing the truly new. Beyond any scheme, it doesn’t remain prisoner of the ordinary programs and always finds a space in which a new flower or new leaf may come to life. In those places where people get together in this way they become truly creative, they become real protagonists in the world. This is why we want to become protagonists in the working world, not as the representatives of categories or roles or interest groups, but representatives of man."

Monsignor Luigi Giussani

(Monsignor Giussani was a priest from Milan, Italy, who was the founder of the ecclesial movement Communion and Liberation).
　
Now, enjoy some hit songs above!

Photo Source: www.sandrodiremigio.com

Forestry in Action

2009-08-08T08:06:00.007-05:00

A ten minute clip from our friends and colleagues in Aitkin County MN. For the record, intermediate refers to that transition period between a young and older-mature forest. Writing and implementing silvicultural prescriptions will vary depending on the native plant community, soils, and management goals. Little oak seedlings...yes!

For more information about intermediate stand treatments click here

Confessions of a Tree Hugger

A Special Summer Week Continues

2009-08-04T20:44:00.133-05:00

After the glorious marriage celebration (at the Croatian Hall) of my friends Brent & Dalma Weigelt, the special summer week continues.

I'm also glad to have re-visited and re-affirmed the connection between the Cathedral in St. Paul, MN and the feast Day of St. John Vianney (August 4th). For those of you who don't follow Catholic feast days, today marks the 150 Anniversary of this humble, venerated priest (1786-2009). Most biographies consistently remark how Vianney struggled in academia. As a young man, he was often criticized as a poor scholar and a hopeless seminarian. In fact, his aversion to military service wasn't welcomed either.

One might also reflect over his generation's abundant persecution, doubt, and evil... often consistent with the many modern-like threats that tempt us too. Yet to St. John Vianney, these grave concerns only strengthened and focused his prayer-life.

Along with a special priest who believed in his gifts, Vianney eventually passed his exams and was ordained as a local parish priest in Ars, France. Today, we know him as a beacon for his absolute commitment to the Sacraments and especially for his dedication to hearing confessions for thousands of European parishioners and priests. In June of this year - concluding the 2008-2009 "Year of St. Paul", Pope Benedict XVI proclaimed a new "Year of the Priest" theme. St. John Vianney is the very WELCOME follow up.

If I may, let me quote from the Cathedral of St. Paul Bulletin (August 2, 2009) - Fr. Joseph R. Johnson (Rector)...

"St. John Vianney is also the secondary patron of our Archdiocese after St. Paul... This humble French parish priest was a seminary classmate of Mathias Lorcas, first bishop of Dubuque (IA). Bishop Lorcas came from that same region of eastern France and brought other colleagues as missionaries with him, including Joseph Cretin, first bishop of St. Paul! As a gift to the Missionaries in America, the bishop of their home diocese offered to educate their seminarians for them. Young John Ireland was thus sent to France for his seminary studies just a few miles away from St. John Vianney's parish of Ars.

Our close ties to St. John Vianney should keep the ideal of priestly holiness ever before our eyes. Your priests are very human... and yet God can work miracles through these broken instruments. Pray that your priests will always see their lives as a participation in the ministry of the Good Shepard and be willing to sacrifice themselves in service to the Church. Pray that your priests will always strive to proclaim the full truth of the Gospel and not just the parts that won't offend our society or even their own parishioners. Pray that many young men in our Archdiocese [and across the world- my emphasis] will listen to God's call and respond generously with an unreserved "fiat!" And be sure to read about the great saint and pray to him as a special companion on our journey of faith!"

St. John Vianney is an inspiration for us all. I'm so fortunate to have participated in the Sacraments at the Cathedral of St. Paul, despite the Great-Thanks hotel broken glasses incident. A special thanks to all of the priests that I've encountered in my life... from baptism and confirmation on up to the present day. I especially want to recognize Fr. Rob Kroll (SJ) for all the work that he does in his ministry. I'm praying for you this year!

Resources:

Catholic Fire

Standing On My Head

Pope Benedict XVI & St. John Vianney

Priest Year News

St. John Vianney Photo Credit: DCF Delacruz

July, July!

2009-07-24T10:55:00.019-05:00

I haven't been posting much... I know. Sloth-mania, new job, and old reflections are keeping me occupied. I will be posting a WFF 2009 review very soon however. In the mean time, enjoy this visual collection from some very talented artists- Deviant Art. Of course, there's another corny harborstar music-show to sample from Playlist. And, I'll be on-air tonight for another musical round of "on the river".

My very special blessings for my best friend Brent and his beautiful bride to be Dalma. Your upcoming marriage consecration is in my heart and prayers!

http://justsitback.deviantart.com/?title=Slideshow&rssQuery=favby:HarborStar/8150778

The white pine cross

A Prairie Home Reminder

2009-07-03T12:27:00.106-05:00

Available now at your local Pamida...straight from the crystal depths of Lake Superior, North Star Productions presents: A Prairie Home Reminder. Not found in any slick coffee cafe, these thirty-six deliciously smooth cuts are compiled exclusively for the wounded and the triumphant. Over two hours of music with a rich variety of string wavelets and spirited folk, fuzzed guitars and pedal steel- banjo, dub, and horns to boot. A soundtrack sure to ease those mid-summer blues! Listen now on the playlist above. Enjoy in your backyard with ice caffeine drink and vinyl fold out lawn-chair.

Side 1

1. Okkervil River: Antartica Starts Here- Golden Opportunities EP (Self-Released)

2. Oumou Sangare: Djorolen- Worotan (World Circuit)

3. King Sunny Ade & His African Beats: Ja Funmi- Juju Music (Mango)

4. Hey Rosetta!: Red Heart- Into Your Lungs (Sonic)

5. T Nile: Cabin Song- The Cabin Song EP (Self-Released)

6. Arlo Guthrie: My Creole Belle- Running Down The Road (Rising Son/Koch)

7. Neko Case: Magpie In The Morning- Middle Cyclone (Anti)

8. Tim Eriksen feat. Riley Baugus & Tim O'Brien: I Wish My Baby Was Gone- Cold Mountain ST (DMZ/Columbia)

9. Chatham County Line: Chip Of A Star: IV (Yep Roc)

10. Del McCourey Band: 1952 Vincent Black Lightning- All Star Bluegrass Celebration (Rainmaker Productions)

11. Hayes Carll: Faulkner Street- Trouble In Mind (Lost Highway)

12. Loudon Wainwright III: Daughter- Golden Slumber: A Father's Love (Sony/Columbia)

13. Martha Wainwright: Hearts Club Band- I Know Your Married But I Have Feelings Too (Universal) Check this out too!

14. Burning Spear: Walk- Our Music (Burning Music)

15. Elvis Costello & The Atractions: Green Shirt- Armed Forces (Rhino Reissue)

16. Elvis Costello & The Attractions: Everyday I Write The Book- Punch The Clock (Rykodisc)

17. Alex Cuba Band feat Jason Mraz: Dramatica Mujer- Humo De Tabaco (Globe Star Recordings)

18. Jenny Whiteley: Take Your Time And Do It Right- Dear (Black Hen Music)

Side 2

1. Chris Thile (The Punch Brothers): Raining At Sunset- Not All Who Wander Are Lost (Sugar Hill)

2. Bell Orchestre: Rajasthan- Demo (Self-Released). Check out their latest video. Harbor star recommends...

3. Iron & Wine: Flightless Bird, American Mouth- The Shepards Dog (Sub Pop)

4. Hey Rosetta!: There's An Arc- Into Your Lungs (Sonic)
5. Josh Ritter: Golden Age of Radio- Golden Age of Radio (Signature Sounds)
6. Watermelon Slim: Oklahoma Blues- Big Shoes To Fill (Southern)
7. Ridley Bent: Nine Inch Nails- Buckles And Boots (Open Road Music)
8. Jenny Whiteley: Dance Till Dawn- Self-Titled (Self-Released)
9. Xavier Rudd: The Wind Cries Mary- To Let (Universal)
10. Elvis Costello & The Fairfield Four: That Day Is Done- All This Useless Beauty (Rhino)
11. The Campbell Brothers: Celebration And Giving- Sacred Steel Vol. 2 Live! (Arhoolie)
12. DJ Logic feat Miri Ben Ari: Soul Kissing- The Anomaly (Ropeadope)
13. The Deep Dark Woods: Foggy Night- Self Titled (Self-Released)
14. Great Lakes Swimmers: Pulling On A Line- Lost Channels (Nettwerk)
15. Alana Levondoski: Misty Sea- Unsettled Down (Rounder)
16. Loreena Mckennitt: Ancient Pines- Parallel Dreams (Quinlan Road)
17. T Nile: Trees- At My Table (Self-Released)
18. Jon Rauhouse feat. Neko Case: River Of No Return-Steel Guitar Rodeo (Bloodshot)

Winnipeg Folk Festival 2009 Yay!

Am I Not Your Mother?

2009-06-05T19:11:00.002-05:00

Our Lady of Guadalupe Shrine & Conference 053109

I Can't Operate The Mic Anymore or All Things Sahm

2009-04-30T17:47:00.213-05:00

As they say in some rustic quarter entertainment business... "He's Baaaaccckkk!" Well, not quite. Despite irritating mic feedback and a peculiar clammy vocal feeling- which I attribute to an extended period away from radio and a pre-swine flu experience- I thorougly enjoyed being re-initiated within the programming saddle. Like other KAXE volunteers of late, I'll jump on the bandwagon and post my playlist and thoughts from a recent OTR experience 4/24/09 (7-10pm). What follows are the selected songs, albums, and labels. Nothing ground-breaking here, except for the idea that I can post comments and reflections weeks after the live program. The downloads unavailable now and for good reason...

1. Ramsey Lewis Trio: "Wade in the Water"_ Chess Northern Soul (Chess)
The definitive 60's northern soul-jazz instrumental and spiritual that defines my whole reason for playing music on-air.

2. The Chantays: "Pipeline"_Pipeline (Varese Sarabande)
High surf

3. Clifton Chenier: "I Got The Blues"_ Live at Grant Street (Arhoolie)
4. The Groove Collective: "Dfu"_People People, Music Music (Savoy Jazz)
Acid jazz connoisseurs step out and unveil this Kuti afro-beat influenced composition. The driving, melodic backbeat underscores a free-style sax while capture the essence of middle Africa. Band includes NYC protégé DJ Smash.

5. Animal Liberation Orchestra: "Barbeque"_Fly Between Falls (Brushfire)
6. Buckwheat Zydeco: "When the Levee Breaks"_Lay Your Burden Down (Alligator) Chenir's B-3 organist (yes, that's right) returns with a diverse and powerful new album. One of the highlights on the album is his version of the original river classic...first recorded by Memphis Minnie and Kansas Joe McCoy. We all know it by Bonham's thump, but BZ provides the modern touch!

7. Camera Obscura: "French Navy"_My Maudlin Career (4AD)
We've come to expect reverby, string-laden songs complete with up-tempo rhythm's and " I want to be Heartbroken" lyrics. Cam Obs and Tracyann Campbell rarely disappoint. I expect continued raves from this new tinny platter.

8. Shawn Lee feat. Fanny Franklin: "Cruel Woman"_Soul In The Hole (Ubiquity) West coast multi-instrumentalist doesn't stray far from his love of soul music. By enlisting contemporary vocalists and musical sounds, Lee provides an modern soul update. *** stars.

9. Sharon Jones & Dap-Kings: "Inspiration Information"_Dark Was The Night (4AD) Todays best soul and R & B band provide positive vibe and a deliciously smooth re-working of the relatively unknown Shuggie Otis classic. Luaka Bop records brought most of us up to speed with their fine 2001 reissue of Shuggie's 1974 album Inspiration Information. Incredible album! Muscially complex yet combined the best elements of rock, pop, and trippy psychedelic soul! The Dap Kings selection is one of many to be found on the 2009 Red Hot/4AD Label Compilation 'Dark Was The Night' The "inspiration" for the record is a bit challenging to describe. A showcase for independent music appears to be the overall purpose, but there is also a strong and liberal promotion for AIDS awareness and prevention. An underlying Christian theme also emerges in the artwork and liner notes. Aaron Dessner describes,..."the Dore illustrations for Milton's Paradise Lost, which make up the art imagery in this booklet evoke a 'fallen' world of struggle, but also the capacity of art to inspire us to rise above the obstacles put in our path. Our nights may be dark, but music gives us inspiration and hope of brighter days to come." A question of mine- We all agree that musical ideals continue to soar, but do they achieve lasting social change?

Red Hot was one of the first music companies to promote AIDS awareness. Bless their hearts. Unfortunately, they stop short of truly grasping the full complexities of the modern issue. I'm led to believe in the liner notes that the best approach for reducing AIDS is safe sex. Huh? A full understanding of this challenging social issue would also consider faith-based approaches including promotion of monogamous marriage and abstinence. Fortunately, we can agree that more medical advances and treatments are needed. Still, many developing countries lack basic education, forego women's rights, and turn away from faith in God....My prayers go out to the many individuals who work directly with AIDS patients, and to the Vicar of Christ, Pope Benedict XVI.

Again, these are my initial impressions of "Dark Was The Night" What's truly inspiring is Shuggie's lyric sung by Ms. Sharon Jones! In a soul beat groove!

"He had a rainy day... I'm in a snake-back situation... here's a pencil pad... I'm gonna spread some information...you, makin me happier, now I am snappier, while I'm with you....I...got to be having you...cause I am happier...when I met you...

Your my little symphonia singing the weather...I get a dark blue rain...I get a slap-back call for the blue yonder...I get a purple string...cause it isn't in tune...beside the whistle-cat...singin the hours...along a frosty road side...always in time...

I get another rain... makin me happy...that will take me for another ride up in the sky..." Shuggie Otis (1974)

10. The J.B's: "My Brother (Parts 1 & 2)"_Funky Good Time (Polydor)
11. Orgone feat Fanny Franklin: "I Get Lifted"_The Killion Floor (Ubiquity)
Patiently awaiting a new release from this west coast soul-funk ensemble. Another fine example of talented musicians -fused- with fresh, dynamic vocals. See also The Dynamites feat. Charles walker.

12. Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears: "Sugarfoot"_Tell 'Em What Your Name Is (Lost Highway) A Speedy tempo, Humble Pie strut defines Lewis' brand of high energy R & B. I sense a new voice for gut bucket blues and Austin TX rap. Following in the footsteps of Archie Bell, Lewis brings much needed grit and glory to an over-saturated Americana scene. Overall, the album reminds me of the singular and soulful wail of Marriot's"30 days in the Hole" Look it up.

13. Cyril Neville: "Shake Your Gumbo"_Brand New Blues (M.C) Surely influenced by BW Trout's "The Electric Gumbo Show"

14. Brigitte Demeyer: "Shepherd"_Red River Flower (BDM Music) Inspired Gospel folk from independent Americana artist. Buddy Miller and Al Perkins provide that extra push. I'll never tire of saying it, Nashville... how about a little commercial airplay! Oh, never mind. Let's keep Demeyer where she belongs- well steeped in community radio.

A writing clip from her website: "Those who follow DeMeyer will recognize her artistry on this album while noticing as well that it has risen to a higher level. “Being in Nashville affected me,” she says. “When I’d worked before with Buddy, sometimes it was done by mailing music files back and forth. But to have him show up and be in the studio with me and the other players is a completely different experience.”That’s evident from the first notes of the track, “Shepherd.” The groove is relaxed but irresistible, sweetened by rustic dobro fills from Al Perkins and down-home harmonies on the chorus prayer: “Oh, Lord, make a shepherd out of me.” The feeling continues throughout Red River Flower, whose acoustic textures, lashed by flashes of rock intensity, illuminate the ache and understatement of DeMeyer’s vocal.

15. Wayne Hancock: "Movin On #3"_Viper Of Melody (Bloodshot)
16. Malcolm Holcombe: "Marvelene's Kitchen"_Another Wisdom (Purple Girl)
17. Bearfoot: "Good In The Kitchen"_Doors & Windows (Compass)
From the great state of Alaska no doubt. Up and coming blugrass outfit shines on closing acapella number... Kitchen dreams as opposed to kitchen nightmares. Stay tuned for a reprise of the Chef Ramsey's April fools suprise.

18. Indigo Girls: "Second Time Around"_Poseidon & The Bitter Bug (Vanguard) Solid release from Emily Saliers and Amy Ray. Dylanesque on this particular track. Poseidon... appears to be their first true independent release. Recommend seeing the duo with a full, live band on-stage... not with guitar techs and others off-stage.

19. U2: "Dancing Barefoot"_Best of Singles & B Sides (Island)
20. Buddy & Julie Miller: "Ellis County"_Written In Chalk" (New West)

ALL THINGS SAHM
Doug Sahm unquestionably provides music in-spiration. One doesn't have to be a musician to appreciate his love for style. A "Jack" of all genres, master of none, DS always brought a smile to the music. A border lyric, a groove on, a stimulated Texas home-run! Sir Douglas keyboards... keyboards... and keyboards...A very fond song title sums up his state of mind at times: "You Never Get Too Big And You Sure Don't Get Too Heavy, That You Don't Have To Stop And Pay Some Dues Sometime."

21. Freda & The Firedogs: "Be Real"_Keep Your Soul- A Tribute To Doug Sahm (Vanguard)
22. The Bottle Rockets: "Lord, I'm Just A Country Boy In The Great Big Freaky City"_Songs of Sahm (Bloodshot)
23. Sir Douglas Quintet: "The Tracker"_Singles (Varese Sarabande)
24. Flaco Jimenez & The West Side Horns: "Ta Bueno Compadre"_Keep You Soul
25. Doug Sahm: "I'm Not That Kat Anymore"_Best Of (Mercury)
26. Jimmy Vaughan: "Why Why Why"_Keep Your Soul

27. Tom Russell feat Gretchen Peters: "Guadalupe"_One To The Heart, One To The Head (Scarlet Letter and Frontera Records) Hmmm, this song gets closer and closer toward the sacred heart of Jesus through Mary. No one questions TR's committment to the folk troubadour persona, and his unique ability to define Southwestern culture, but I'm not sure he captures what true devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe is all about. The story is a lengthy one. Her message is not. May is the month for Mary!

28. The Elders: "Better Days Ahead"_Better Days Ahead (Pubtone)
Celtic influenced rock from Mid-America. Seasoned veterans display abundant musicianship and a knack for foot-stumping, hummable sing-alongs.

29. Amadou & Mariam: "Magosa"_Welcome to Mali (Because Music)
30. Nicola Conte feat. Lucia Minetti: "Kind of Sunshine"_Other Directions (Blue Note) How many Italian jazz producers do you know? Probably just one considering Conte's major lable exposure on Blue Note back in 2004 . This isn't, "you are my sunshine, my only sunshine... you make happy when skies are grey." But, it is uplifting and beat driven. No sampling or sound collages here. Pure instrumentation that does launch jazz in other directions. Conte's worth exploring if you like genre-bending. He's well versed in electronica, club, bossa nova, and classical.

31. Soundtrack Of Our Lives: "Bigtime"_Origins Vol. 1 (Republic)
Psych-Rock from Sweden. A reflection on the state of the modern world? KAXE is currently promoting their new album, "Communion" on Yep Roc. An album worthing spending time with. Listen for the Nick Drake cover.

A FOLKY CONCLUSION
32. Joe Rathbone: "Mary"_Mad July EP (Prime Cut)
33. Alela Diane: "Dry Grass and Shadows"_To Be Still (Rough Trade)
34. Angus & Julia Stone: "Paper Aeroplane"_A Book Like This (Capitol)
35. Justin Townes Earle: "Can't Hardly Wait"_Midnight At The Movies (Bloodshot) Fine rendition of the Replacements song circa 1987. Justin's warm vocal provides a softer but no less tamer shunning of the bigtime. Oh addiction.... how we mourn you.

"Lights that flash in the evening,
Through a hole in the drapes
I'll be home when I'm sleeping
I can't hardly wait
I can't wait. Hardly wait." Paul Westerberg (1987)

36. Alison Brown: "The Road West"_The Company You Keep (Compass)
One of the top instrumentals of the year. Brown's bluegrass and jazz influences merge together in pure transcedence. Recommended.

37. Hem: "Almost Home"_Funnel Cloud (Nettwerk)
38. Wilco: "What Light"_Sky Blue Sky (Nonesuch)

The Ice & Snow Days

2009-03-31T18:59:00.078-05:00

It’s ice... that’s not so Minnesota nice.

Weather in March is always a tricky and unpredictable phenomenon. Last week a major low-pressure system concentrated a powerful ice storm right around the communities of Finland, Silver Bay, and Isabella. Heavy ice brought down power lines and many residents lost power for two or three days. As one might expect, the storm created a landscape disturbance in the forest. Folks I work with responded quickly. DNR chainsaw crews sawed their way through and opened up select campgrounds, parks, roads, and trails. Still, I'm guessing that thousands of downed trees block several miles of remote roads and trails. Photo credit: Natalie-the fishin chick from Silver Bay.

For a slideshow of ice damage in the North Shore State Parks visit here . Read about how ice storm leaves ‘heartbreaking’ tree damage in its wake.

How about you? Have your trees been impacted by extreme weather recently, maybe an ice or thunder storm, or severe winds? If so, you might be able to claim "casualty losses" on your federal taxes. For additional information read "Income Tax Deduction for Timber Causalty Loss" by Dr. Linda Wang, Forest Taxation Specialist, USDA Forest Service.

Remember that line from the Blues Brothers film? Jake- " How often do the trains go by?" Elwood- "So often you won’t even notice it." Well, I ask a similar question, "When will the snow-plows stop plowing?" Answer- "Just as soon as pundits stop predicting when spring will arrive".

Fair enough.

On Monday March 30th the sun came out and things started slowly melting. Well, sort of. As I left the truck and put on my snowshoes, I began to hear a lot of sharp cracking and popping. Looking up, I witnessed an aerial parade of small ice chunks breaking off branches and sailing rapidly to the ground.I began to worry about getting pummeled by flying ice chunks. Although I was SO looking forward to working in the forest, that inner voice spoke to me… maybe another perfect day. The shrubs adjacent to the trail were so densely packed with ice, I might need a machete just to hack my way through. Needless to say, this wasn't going to be a productive day.

It's Tuesday, guess what? The Arrowhead region of Minnesota gets pummeled by another winter storm warning!

Yippee! Let's sing have I told you lately...

Requiem Pt. 2:

When everyone’s rested I’ll think about the driver,

the plow

whose sand truck

struck-

the blade dropping Grrrrrrrrr!

In sleep I’ll dream about flashing yellow lights

bouncing playfully off the Celtic cross that overlooks my bed.

I’ll barely notice my neighbors car alarm

activating again,

alarming for the 24th time-

the blade dropping Grrrrrrrrr!

Glancing at The picture of Jesus,

"I thirst"

it’s 1:44am.

He contemplates a mysterious spread called de-icing

that works on Duluth roads

usually steeped

and provided with peace of mind

for struggling motorists getting somewhere.

When everyone's rested I'll think about the driver,

the plow

whose sand truck

struck-

the blade dropping Grrrrrrrrr!

The grinding roar of a snowplow blade on concrete doesn’t bother much me anymore. Why should it?

Here's a little mini-set of music:

The Ice & Snow Days

Requiem for a Snowfall

2009-03-11T20:46:00.014-05:00

Note to self and to all who long for Spring: Don't worry so much.

Renewal is certain

Birth is majestic

Life is sublime.

Thanks to Paul Davis for capturing these hopeful images. (HD video may take awhile to load.... repeat for the full stream effect)

Requiem for A Snowfall from Paul Davis on Vimeo.

Passenger Seat

I roll the window down

And then begin to breathe in

The darkest country road

And the strong scent of evergreen

From the passenger seat as you are driving me home.

Then looking upwards

I strain my eyes and try

To tell the difference between shooting stars and satellites

From the passenger seat as you are driving me home.

"Do they collide?"

I ask and you smile.

With my feet on the dash

The world doesn't matter.

When you feel embarrassed then I'll be your pride

When you need directions then I'll be the guide

For all time.

-Ben Gibbard
[Death Cab For Cutie- Transatlanticism (Barsuk,2003)]

A Glimpse of Africa

2009-03-02T20:15:00.024-06:00

War Dance (2007)

Directors: Sean Fine & Andrea Nix Fine
Music: Children of Uganda

Home
Interview w/Directors
Village Voice Review
Boston Review

Dreams of Dust (2008)

Director: Laurent Salgues’
Cinematography: Crystel Fournier
Music: Mattieu Vanasse & Jean Massicotte

Film Movement
Dear Cinema Review

Thanks to St. Anthony Messenger (inside front cover) for their photo and inspiration honoring the United Nations Day for Women's Rights and International Peace (March 8th,2009).

A selected poem:

You may write me
down in history
With your bitter,
twisted lies.

You may trod me
in the very dirt
But still, like dust
I'll rise.

- Maya Angelou, "Still I Rise"

Africa Can Become the Continent of Hope - Pope Benedict XVI

Unconventional Characters Drive the Story—A Valentine’s Day Film Festival

2009-02-10T20:24:00.124-06:00

It’s been a nagging question for years. What is Valentine’s Day really about? A chance to patronize the candy, flower, card, and jewelry industries? An opportunity to get out of town for an extended "holiday"? An overdue excuse for treating your spouse to a lavishly prepared meal at the local diner? One surely can’t deny any of these questions.

I know that thousands of Americans across the country will be renting DVD's to watch on the starry, starry Saturday night so I’ll add a further luxury - Valentine’s day provides an opportunity to watch cool, interesting film.

Here are four picks for Valentine’s Day 2009:

Be My Valentine Charlie Brown (1975): TV ABC- USA. Charles Schultz

It’s fun and refreshing to dig up this well-known animated comedy. Sometimes we forget just how important Charles Schultz was to a generation of children including myself. Sorry Charlie Brown, but Snoopy and Linus steal most of the spotlight in this classic tale of missed opportunity and unrequited love.

>

Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown
ABC Special

Who Am I This Time (1982): TV PBS American Playhouse- USA. Directed by Jonathan Demme

Sweet and charming theatrical adaptation of Kurt Vonnegut Jr's popular short story features early acting prowess of Susan Sarandon and Christopher Walken. I really loved this simple, small town look at how community theater brings people out of their shell. Walken’s stage transformation fulfills toward the end of the play. Another reason to remind local school boards that cutting arts programs can have unintended results. This film debuted well before Christopher Guest’s outrageously funny Waiting for Guffman.

Quote from the film-

Harry (at Helene's insistence, reading a passage from Romeo and Juliet, which she has given to him as a gift after the final performance of A Streetcar Named Desire): I take thee at thy word, call me but love... and I'll be new baptized. Henceforth... (to Helene) — I never will be Romeo — never.

Helene (exasperated, wanting to speak to him directly, but returning to the lines of the play): What man art thou that thus bescreen'd in night so stumblest on my counsel?

Harry: By a name I know not how to tell thee who I am: My name, dear saint, is hateful to myself, because it is an enemy to thee... (continues reading from Romeo and Juliet)]

"Who Am I This Time" also provides an early glimpse into Academy Award winner Jonathan Demme’s directorial skill. He’s well known for his work in Stop Making Sense (Talking Heads Concert), The Silence of the Lambs, The Manchurian Candidate, and The Agronomist (Documentary).

All Movie Guide Synopsis

Eagle vs Shark (2007): Independent- New Zealand. Directed by Taika Waititi

Napolean Dynamite notwithstanding- awkward, romantic bauble features malls, costume parties, and unfinished high school business. I admire Loren Horsley (Lily) and Jemaine Clement's (Jarrod) dedication to character in this truly one of a kind film. We all know people like this and that's the point. The female perspective clearly wins here.

Indie rock soundtracks continue to be a focal point in small films and Eagle vs Shark is no different in this respect. Taika Waititi takes liberty to enhance M. Ward's version of David Bowie's 80's classic "Let's Dance" at a pivotal point in the film.
R-language

Eagle vs Shark

St. Therese of Lisieux (2004): Luke Films-USA. Directed by Leonardo Defilippis

Poignant family-friendly drama reveals how Therese of Lisieux became one of the most beloved saints in modern history. Known as the little flower of Jesus, St. Therese’s child-like spirituality and unassuming prayer life became a model for many seeking to know God.

Up and coming film director Leonardo Defilippis addresses the question why Therese is so popular,

"Thérèse Martin's short life as a 19th-century French nun might have been buried in obscurity if she hadn't written down her story and her spiritual philosophy before her premature death from tuberculosis at age 24. Her sister, who was also the mother superior of the monastery, asked her to write down her childhood reminiscences, and out of obedience Therese complied. What followed was not just a charming story of her early life, but also a clear explanation of her "little way" to get to Heaven. This little book spread like wildfire throughout the world, because of the simple ideas that Saint Thérèse presented: how ordinary people can grow close to God through the day-to-day tasks in their lives. After her death in 1897, miracles attributed to the young nun's intercession began to be documented almost immediately, and the Carmelite nun was put on the fast track to sainthood and canonized in 1925." National Review Online, 2004.

Before seeing this film for the first time, I was apprehensive about who would be cast for the lead role. My understanding is that after hundreds of auditions, Defilippis found Catholic convert Lindsay Younce- a perfect fit for the part. Younce is the reason to watch this film, but don't overlook Defilippis who plays the role of Therese's father.

Despite serious criticism from secular and religious media, the film still works as a testament to faith. Good set locations and a superb musical score should lift most spirits in the end.

Therese the Movie
St. Luke Productions

I’ve always enjoyed films that present unconventional, gifted, unique, and original characters. Labeled as awkward and sensitive, the lead’s in these films rise above todays definitions of "character". In a way, that’s what Valentine’s Day is all about—a celebration of the uniqueness of each and every person. Posing the question another way, what should Valentine’s Day lead us toward? To recognize and honor love between adults and children not just on the second Saturday of February, but everyday. This year I promised myself more opportunities to express love in ways that go beyond the superficial. In February, that means going on a spiritual retreat.

Ethnic 2020 illuminates: "Beyond the roses, chocolates and historical ties to a pagan fertility festival, you'll find the real meaning of Valentine's Day. It's the true love that compelled a young Christian to give up his life rather than stop sharing his faith."

Have a love-filled Valentine’s Day

Airplane Heroes

2009-01-21T21:43:00.048-06:00

A dedicated pilot. A trustworthy cockpit crew. An alert staff who rose above the "you ain’t nothin but a waitress in the sky" stereotype. I can think of dozens of ways to describe and praise these newly anointed heroes. What really struck me was how the media considered the event to be a miracle. I ask... if we agree that a miracle occurred and I do, how should we consider tragic events where the outcomes result in human suffering and loss of life? Are miracles purely the result of human action or is there divine intervention? Or, are all heroic acts just random, unconnected events that have no larger significance . Some would say the latter. For me, it's a combination of several things. But ultimately a unification of the secular and the sacred.

I was a bit surprised by the media overhype however. Here's one blogger's reaction and links. Closer to home, I received this message in my email recently:

"Like [Minnesota] state employees during a natural disaster, the well-trained, unionized crew-members reacted coolly under pressure. Question: Who do you want piloting the plane on your next trip? Answer: A unionized, trained crew with years of experience. " - MAPE

US Airways Flight 1549 Surveillance Video from DuckStud on Vimeo.

Local Laundermat Overcharges

2009-01-16T22:04:00.052-06:00

Once a month or so I drop off some shirts for cleaning at a local Duluth laundry. Usually I'm a happy and satisified patron. Not anymore.

Today my bank tells me that "sohboh" laundermat of Duluth charged $514.49 for a laundry drop-off on 12/15/08. Yep, that's right!

Whoa... when's the last time a sucker dropped off a dozen shirts for laundry and signed for them only to realize they cost 45x times worth the value? Granted, I'm not financially savvy when it comes to balancing books, but usually I know when someone overcharges.

I remember.

P.S- between you and me, the actual charge should have been $54.49 not $514.49.

Now that the holiday's are over be sure to review your checkbook and credit card purchases. One important questions to ask...."Did I keep all of the receipt(s)"?

Please ma'am and/or sir, I just want my $463.00 back + the $30.00 bank overdraft. Let's avoid court if possible. No hard feelings and I'll pray for you.

New Year's Resolution- More Art & Hockey

2008-12-31T18:46:00.050-06:00

Last week my mother and I had the unique opportunity to witness up close an amazing art exhibit entitled Vatican Splendors. Since late September, the Minnesota Historical Society (MHS) (only one of three exhibits in the US) has on display a massive treasure of Vatican art and artifacts. Truly inspirational and captivating!

Here’s my recommendation. Take a road trip to St. Paul and visit the Historical Society and the Cathedral of St. Paul… home to 800,000 Catholics in the Twin Cities. For a delicious downtown Italian meal visit the Trattoria Da Vinci and try their yummy pasta! Finally, catch a Minnesota Wild hockey game at the Excel Center. They have several home games in January including exciting match-ups with both Edmonton and Anaheim.

Due to popular prayer, Vatican officials extended the exhibit in Minnesota so don’t wait too long. The curtain closes on January 19th and it’s likely that an opportunity like this won’t be available for some time, if ever again. The tour takes about 1 ½-2 hours depending on the crowds. It’s worth purchasing the headphones to hear selected audio descriptions on the origins and stories behind the objects on display. Plus, having the headphones on kind of blocks out all the distracting conversations that typically occur during a guided tour like this.

For a free download message from the audio tour go this link.

Press Release Short:

Approximately 200 objects will be presented in galleries and recreated environments that enhance the visitor’s understanding of their historical and artistic significance. Items in the collection – which include tiaras; mosaics; paintings; works by well-known sculptors; papal rings and jewels; intricately embroidered silk vestments; precious objects from the Papal Mass; armor, swords and uniforms of the Papal Swiss Guard; and gifts to the popes from such notable figures as Napoleon and the Dalai Lama – are on loan from the Vatican Museums, the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, the Office of the Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff, the Reverenda Fabbrica of Saint Peter, the Apostolic Floreria, private collections and the Papal Swiss Guard.

"The art and artifacts in this exhibit are doubly precious – because of their deep religious significance and because of their beauty and rich cultural heritage," says Most Reverend John C. Nienstedt, archbishop of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

Exhibit Highlights

Exhibit Photo Gallery

Selected Objects Photo Gallery

What's your favorite hockey song?

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T11:57:00.009-06:00

Looking for Christmas music? Check out Catholic Music Express or Catholic iPod.

Blessed is he who possesses Bethlehem in his heart,
and in whose heart Christ is born daily.

- St. Jerome

Sister Winter from Matthew Forrey on Vimeo.

Year of the Song

2008-12-22T21:30:00.021-06:00

Here's a collection of songs that caught my attention this year. Nothing too eclectic or ground-breaking, just some harbor star favs, beats, and ear candy reflections. Selecting songs from imeem is rather interesting. Even though the rock category tends to dominate their site, I do see an attempt to provide for a broad selection of musical genres. Keep in mind that blogger geeks are limited to certain genres when creating goofy music playlists like the one found below.

Nobody will ever allow old school-CD quality soul, jazz, or country to be available on these sites will they?

Well, one positive is that imeem does provide direct download links to iTunes and Amazon. It's just that... well.... I mean.... man I don't want to deal with purchasing 128 or 256bps downloads anymore. Give me CD quality or heaven forbid the analog album. I'm soooo tired of poor quality audio and poor quality streaming. Blah, blah.... yeah I know that many folks find download sound quality acceptable on iPod's. When is it going to improve?

Oh why did I get rid of all those obscure 80's indie rock albums. What about the Godfathers! As one critic suggests, too much guitar and not enough synth. Kind of like my religious devotion at the time.

Alas, I'd rather be playing music at our station.

Year end promo-- Be sure to tune into 91.7 KAXE or visit our website and read about staff and volunteer music favorites. We always provide MP3 clips of recent shows and featured programs like Center Stage (MN Music). Tune in New Years Eve for a special On The River with you hosts Heidi and Tom. I understand they will be featuring many, many music favorites from 2008.

My selections below may conjure up a smile or a frown. You might dance to the music, or plug your ears to the noise. Reflect perhaps. Hopefully pray. It's all for you.....

For The Waiting- 2008

Not included but worthy of mention:
- The Acorn "Crooked Legs" (Glory Hope Mountain)
- Jonatha Brooke "There's More True Lover's Than One" (The Works)
- Hacienda Brothers "Soul Mountain" (Arizona Motel)
- Raphael Saadiq "Keep Marchin" (The Way I See It)
- Justin Townes Earle "The Good Life" (The Good Life)
- Jakob Dylan "War Is Kind" (Seeing Things)
- The Dynamites "Every Time" (Kaboom!)
- Gary Louris "True Blue" (Vagabonds)
- Fleet Foxes "Ragged Wood" (Self-Titled)
- The Mother Truckers "Quiet Night" (Let's All Go To Bed)

That Special Place or The Waiting is the Hardest Part

2008-12-16T20:26:00.060-06:00

Everyone has special, quiet places they cherish don’t they?

Perhaps it’s on the deck, or in the ice-house, or at the cabin. Maybe it's more specific- that corner window seat in a local coffee shop. That 3rd floor couch in a Minneapolis library. The 14th pew... about halfway down the aisle is the exact spot where the sun shines through the stained glass window and lights up the church. All of these places serve a purpose.

Shhhhhhhh. I’ll let you in on a secret. There’s one more. You may not know it yet. You may not even know what or where it is. You may even have to ask someone directions. It’s….. your local Adoration Chapel!

Fortunately for Duluthians, we have a perpetual adoration chapel located downtown across from St. Mary’s hospital next to St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish.

Adoration chapels are one of God’s greatest gifts. Here is a place to spend quality time with Jesus. Pray, vent, laugh, cry… but most of all take part in adoration of Jesus Christ present in the Holy Eucharist.

Most of the time I pray in silence. Some nights people just walk in ready to talk. A situation arises where I get to listen to a homeless or intoxicated person. This usually doesn't last to long unless...

Last month was very interesting. I walked into the chapel on a regular Tuesday night and immediately witnessed a rather vocal discussion between the 5pm adorer and a gentleman with a pronounced Irish accent. Once they realized I was here for the 6pm hour, the conversation muted. After a few minutes though, I understood the issue. An attempt to convince that the English are to blame for a variety of maladies in Northern Ireland.

It really happens folks.....

One of the greatest benefits of Tues. nights is seeing my favorite couple the Balaich's! They come every week… always with a smile. Best of all, they never forget to say goodnight.

No matter what mood I come in with, I always go away feeling blessed. Tonight being no exception.

I want to share with you a brief passage from the late spiritual writer Henry Nouwen. He’s very popular, especially with Catholics. Henry has that rare writing gift. A special ability to capture the essence of our longing for God.

This is from a collection of writings entitled “Living in Hope” (Tuesday, 3rd Week of Advent). A reflection that seems to be addressed specifically to me, given my grumbling lately. I'll spare those details for now.

I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father. John 10: 14-15

[Increasingly, we feel we have less and less influence on the decisions that affect us. So it becomes increasingly important to recognize that the largest part of our existence involves waiting in the sense of being acted upon. The life of Jesus tells us that not to be in control is part of the human condition. His calling in life and ours are fulfilled not just in action but also in passion, in waiting.

When we realize that God in Jesus Christ is waiting for our response in divine love, then we can discover a whole new perspective on how to wait in life. We can learn to be obedient people who do not always try to act but who recognize the fulfillment of our deepest humanity in passion, in waiting. The spirituality of waiting is not simply our waiting for God. It is also participating in God’s own waiting for us and in that way coming to share in the deepest love, which is God’s love. ]

(For Sherilyn and your brother Nate… praying for you)

“The waiting is the hardest part”
- Tom Petty -

Oops... I forgot. This blog is supposed to be about music.

Holland vs Rafferty

2008-12-15T19:25:00.026-06:00

Jolie Holland

Our Lady of Guadalupe,
Queen of the America's.... Pray for us

Gerry Rafferty

Santa's Little Trucker

2008-12-13T10:04:00.020-06:00

Need to find a last minute gift for that sweetheart trucker gal or guy? Consider these items recently found in the Pamida clearance section….

CB Trucker cocktail glasses? 10-4 good buddy. There perfect for serving up tasty martini’s to thirsty business executives. Add olive and stir so dust doesn’t affect taste.

Trucker Music? No problem. Cue up these snappy beats and you’ll have them talking and dancing in no time.

20 Most Wanted List

What do I want for Christmas?

Forester Sale Adminstration- Pt. 2 (Yellow Birch Trees!)

2008-12-12T19:28:00.073-06:00

Below are some photos showing one of several forest management projects I’m working on.

This forested area is located 5 miles north of Beaver Bay, MN in a large-patchy landscape dominated by northern hardwoods, aspen, and paper birch. After several field visits together, the forester and botanist agreed to prescribe a regeneration cut timber sale. Both envisioned a stand that would contain many structural and compositional characteristics of an older growth stage but still allow for selective timber management. Many of the trees are reserved from harvest including all of the conifers and the larger, older northern hardwood tree species like black ash, basswood, sugar maple, and the mysterious yellow birch.

The harvest prescription is to remove all of the paper birch, aspen, and maple less than 14" dbh (diameter at breast height) in strips and small gaps. The harvested openings will provide room for suckering and sprouting tree species like aspen and sugar maple.

My task as the sale administrator is to make sure the logging crew implements the set of instructions written up for the sale. But of particular interest to me as one who loves silviculture (and who can't seem to find a job in it, or even utilize my Union to challenge it) is how to regenerate the elusive, yet very unique yellow birch.

The silvicultural literature out there suggests four main requirements that are necessary for yellow birch to regenerate successfully and grow into mature trees:

1. Adequate seed trees and seed to regenerate. Check.

Although it’s rare to find in Northern MN nowadays, this stand has the seed trees! Many large diameter, mature (some decadent) trees are found throughout this area. Le Magnifique!

Yellow birch typically has good seed crops every 2-3 years and this season appears to be exceptional. Upwards of 1-5 million seeds/acre can be dispersed in a good year. Most don’t take however.

These are seeds (pistillate bract) I collected today before old man blizzard explodes over the North Shore.

2. Adequate seedbed conditions. Question mark.

The literature is very consistent here. Although seed can grow and germinate on stumps, mossy logs, and decayed wood, the best conditions is exposed mineral soil. According to the USFS Silvics manual (one of the traditional i.e old school... sources of silvicultural information):

"In undisturbed stands, yellow birch can only regenerate on mossy logs, decayed wood, rotten stumps, cracks in boulders, and windthrown hummocks because hardwood leaf litter is detrimental to its survival elsewhere (45). In June most seeds germinate in compacted leaf litter that birch radicals and hypocotyls cannot pierce (10). Drying of the litter during the growing season kills most germinants. The remaining seedlings later succumb to frost damage or are smothered by the next leaf fall. Unless stands have been burned or heavily disturbed by blowdowns or logging, abundant birch regeneration is normally restricted to edges of skidroads or landing areas on well-drained sites. On less-well-drained soils, sufficient moisture remains in the leaf litter to result in adequate establishment if advance regeneration of other species is removed."

Harvesting this sale was not allowed during non-frozen ground conditions. That restriction was prescribed to ensure that soils and herbaceous vegetation would be protected. Perhaps the greatest benefit of this regulation is the protection of the shallow (fine) roots of desired reserve species. One problem with frozen ground harvesting however is that the skidding process doesn’t necessarily scarify the soil adequately enough. It appears that only the main skid trails have leaf litter removed and exposed mineral soil. One way we can get around this is to underplant yellow birch bare-root seedlings and other preferred species directly into the ground.

3. Adequate light and other environmental conditions for optimal growth (post-harvest). The literature suggests small openings or gaps from 0.1 to 0.6 acres in size. Check.

Given the nature of the felling and skidding patterns, a variety of gap sizes are present. This should allow us to try a few different regeneration strategies including different planting configurations.

4. Adequate control of and protection from competitive species including vegetation and animals. Unknown.

Rabbits, deer, aggressive raspberry shrubs, sugar maple, and other damaging agents all play a role in preventing that little yellow birch seedling from maturing into a sapling and eventually... a fully grown tree.

I get asked this question a lot. When will you know if this project’s successful? Some new forester 10 or 15 years from now will have to answer I suppose. Guessing the DMT needs more stressed out program foresters to help the ECS specialists with this too....

Now… enjoy this from the other elusive "burch"

Found...One Dollar Bill

2008-12-10T22:24:00.028-06:00

Here's a great little find from the streets of Duluth.... near a neighborhood dining experience that connects books to people and so much more.

The upside down dollar bill tells all in December. Check this out- Found Mag

What have you found lately?

When you awake finds Duane Allman attempting to tease out a gut bucket from the swamp! Gator Country

Forester Sale Adminstration Pt. 1

2008-12-02T20:58:00.047-06:00

Foresters throughout the State are busy administering timber sales and for me this means more opportunities to get out of the office!

Since we haven’t received much snow lately, most of the upland forest mesic soils in Northern MN have had time to freeze properly. Occasionally there are small inclusions ( wet areas ) however that aren't adequately frozen just yet. These might be located in one of the main equipment traffic areas like a skid trail or a haul road. One way that foresters allow loggers to operate across these wet areas is by recommending the construction of a "slash mat bridge".

Typically, a slash mat bridge contains a grouping or piling of small logs, brush, and/or branches that are placed on top of a semi-frozen drainage or wet area. This allows equipment to travel over the sensitive area without seriously damaging the soils. Properly constructed, a slash mat bridge minimizes compaction and prevents rutting.

Skidder with a drag of aspen crossing a wet ash drainage -

slash mat bridge installed

Stay tuned over the winter months for more examples of foresters and loggers working together to manage and sustain Minnesota's forest resources...... if we make it through December.

It's hopeful anticipation mixed with economic blue.

Thanksgiving Reading

2008-11-25T22:00:00.054-06:00

Have a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving.....

The Feast-time of the Year

This is the feast-time of the year,
When plenty pours her wine of cheer,
And even humble boards may spare
To poorer poor a kindly share.

While bursting barns and granaries know
A richer, fuller overflow.
And they who dwell in golden ease
Blest without toil, yet toil to please.

Dora Read Goodale (1866 - 1915)

[The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God.

In the midst of a civil war of unequalled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union. Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle, or the ship; the axe had enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years, with large increase of freedom.

No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.

It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.]

- Abraham Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation- 1863

Post-Halloween Film Recommendation

2008-11-19T20:16:00.042-06:00

Mix dramatic monologues with keen theatrical production and what do you get? Tales from the Madhouse.

Netflix describes it simply : "Inside a run-down Victorian sanatorium, eight peculiar individuals share their confidential stories of encounters with Jesus of Nazareth, an incident that's had a lasting effect on them. It soon appears that each of these odd characters bears a contemporary resemblance to characters found in the Gospels. "

Pilate’s Wife [Mat 27: 19]
The Rich Man* [Mat 19: 16-22]
The Best Friend [Mat 27: 3-5]
The Mourner [Luk 7: 11-15]
The Servant Girl [Luk 22: 56-62]
Barrabas [Luk 23: 18-25]
The Centurion [Mat 8: 5-13, Mat 27:54]
The Thief [Luk 23: 33-43]

For a glimpse check out this trailer.

Additional Links:

Catholic Video
The Bible Society

Originally released by the BBC as a Lenten and Holy Week reflection, Tales from the Madhouse seems appropriate for the Advent season as well… a time of poignant anticipation and quiet hope. The genius behind Tales comes from the quality presentation of the actors including heavyweights like Claire Bloom and Jonathan Pryce. Although the overall presentation leans toward the halloween thriller genre, a closer examination reveals significant insights into the Gospel characters and our response to them. Keep in mind these presentations are not Bible expositions, nor am I advocating this as authentic Christian interpretation.

If you rent this film, it’s best to watch one or two segments at a time. Attempting to watch the whole thing through may spoil the reflection. Even if you know nothing about the Bible, an engaged viewing will give you a deeper appreciation for Jesus Christ.

Some say Tales from the Madhouse is hopeless? I ask the curious...What do you say?

It’s kind of like TV on the Radio vs Cat Stevens:

Asking You, Asking Me

2008-11-07T17:58:00.101-06:00

Have you ever been asked that get to know you question, "what do you do"? I hear it all the time and I continue to be amazed by the response I get to my answers. Here’s the scenario.

Q: Joe Plumber- What do you do for a living?

A: I’m a forester.

Q: Joe Plumber- Oh. What’s a forester do?

A: A forester is a person who is engaged in forest management or conservation. I’ve been called a tree hugger, a timber beast, and everything in between.

Q: Joe Plumber- Oh.

A: Let me explain. As a state forester our mission is to "provide a long-term, sustainable yield of forest resources from state forest lands; improve the health and productivity of other public and private forest lands and community forest lands; and protect life, property, and natural resources from wildfires." The Minnesota Conservation Volunteer actually included an article about what state foresters do. Read more – Tree Guardians

Q: Joe Plumber- Oh, you mean a forester doesn’t just walk in the woods all day and count trees?

A: Well, yes we do…. but I see your still confused. Let’s dig a little deeper. It’s easy to imagine what a wildlife biologist or a naturalist does, right?. They study and describe all the neat, cute little animals and plants of the world. Birds, flowers, deer, fish…. these are often strikingly beautiful and easily observable to most backyard aficionado’s. But wait a minute. Let’s not forget the trees!

Foresters love working with trees and learning everything about them. In fact, we love them so much that we are pleased to announce a brand new re-publication of Minnesota's Forests and Trees: A Primer. This is FREE and available just for you Joe! After reading and studying, you just might know what a forester does. You’ll certainly be able to impress and educate your family, friends, and scenesters with things like:

Tell a story by studying a tree’s growth rings.

Have comfort that you can still love the Earth and cut trees.

Know the location of Minnesota’s first sawmill and when it opened.

Be able to explain what happens with fall colors and the weather.

"This book is written for those of us who care about trees and forests and who want to share our knowledge with others. With a little motivation, each one of us can teach about trees, care for trees, and establish a legacy of trees around our schools, homes, and communities. Please share what you learn with students, neighbors, community leaders, and others who care for trees and forests.”

Joe, you should also check out this new video on the one-billionth tree awaiting next year’s planting!

And remember Joe- A happy white pine is a protected white pine!

... from seedling to maturity...

The timber program forester:

Now I’m going to ask you what everyone’s asking me…. What do YOU do?

The Owls "Channel" from Magic Marker on Vimeo.

Vibraphone Your Vote

2008-11-03T20:05:00.052-06:00

Ace Records
Voter indecision got you blue? Let the vibes help with the circle or the square, or rectangle (musical selections on Playlist above).

If all else fails, you're encouraged to pray... always.

Replacing the '98.6' hit song with '91.7'

2008-10-24T19:03:00.094-05:00

Northern Observer: "P Dubby aka Harbor Star was arrested last night for allegedly stealing music lyrics and posting a shocking music video on You Tube."

"Criminal investigators are looking into a local case regarding P Dub's involvement with the 1967 hit 98.6 by Keith. A Spokesman for PD claims that his miranda rights were violated and that musical adaptations are legal under the common law Public Domain (Trad.) clause. A bootleg video has been obtained but due to legal copyright and authorship, Judge C.R. Magney has refused a release to the public. P Dubby's court appearance is scheduled on October 31st, in Grand Rapids, MN District Court. "

It really works! If your favorite song lyric contains a radio station frequency or "baby", try replacing it with 91.7FM, Jesus, or Mary. Not only will this provide the opportunity for unique interpretations, it will encourage you to support Authentic Local Radio KAXE!

Sing along and have fun!

Good evenin' moon I say it's good to see you shinin'

I know Blessed Mary brought you to me

She prayed for me yesterday hello your silver glowin'

Got autumn and winter runnin' through me

Hey 91.7 it's good to hear you once again, oh

Hey 91.7 her love's the medicine that saved me

Oh I love my Mary

Hey K..A..X..E…... I see you’re beamin’
Must be because I found my Mary

You know she's got me floating… On The River

I want to go to where it takes me

Hey 91.7 it's good to hear you once again oh
Hey 91.7 her love's the medicine that saved me

Oh I love my Mary

You know she's got me floating… On The River

I want to go to where it takes me

Hey 91.7 it's good to hear you once again, oh

Hey 91.7 her love's the medicine that saved me

Oh I love my Mary

-repeat-