West End News: September 18

Where would we be without Boreal Access over the last 15 years or so? 
 
It started up as a member owned cooperative back in the early days of the internet to provide dial-up service to Cook County residents and businesses.  At the time, the big providers couldn’t be bothered with our little bit of business.  Boreal became our crucial link to the amazing world-wide-web.
 
Boreal quickly became an indispensable community asset, providing news, classified ads, community calendars, the home page and the list-serves that we’ve all grown to depend upon.
 
Additionally, they provide web hosting, site design, technical advice, computer repair and many other services large and small.  In this day and age, it’s a rare treat to pick up the phone or send an email to a real person, someone you see at the grocery store, and have them respond immediately with expert advice and service.
 
Now, on the cusp of county-wide broadband internet service, Boreal’s role may be changing.  I sense a strong consensus in the community that Boreal continue to provide many of the services that we all rely upon.
 
As a result, Boreal Access is making a change in their tax-exempt status.  The change will allow them to apply for funds from foundations and make any personal or business donations they receive tax deductible.  This change is critical for Boreal to thrive into the future.
 
Boreal is a member owned entity, so to make the change they need the approval of 10% of their current members.  If you are a Boreal member, go to Boreal.org where you can cast your ballot in favor of the change.
 
Another great organization in Cook County is the North Shore Health Care Foundation.  They have, in recent years, organized the Oral Health Task Force in cooperation with Grand Marais Family Dentistry.
 
On Friday, October 3^rd, any child between the ages of 18 months and 18 years can receive a free dental exam, cleaning, x-rays and a few other basic treatments.  To schedule an appointment, call the dental office at 387-2774.
 
Oral health is a surprisingly important part of life, so early dental exams and simple treatments can contribute to a lifetime of good health.
 
The goal of the program is to make sure that every Cook County child receives basic dental care and gets in the habit of regular dental visits.
 
If you missed the phone number, you can contact WTIP for more information.  Thanks to all who donate their time and money to this important project.
 
Well, after an incredible season of blueberries I’m sorry to report that they are finally done.  Several nights of frost finally ended what may have been the best blueberry crop in more than 50 years.
 
However, not all is lost, because we can enjoy a slice of blueberry pie and then head outside for what is shaping up to be a great fall color season.  So far, only the underbrush and an occasional splash of color are showing.  I would estimate that the Sawbill Trail and the other back roads are still about 90% green.  The shore, as always, is running a little behind that.  It’s my guess that by this time next week, we should be entering the peak season for colors.
 
The fall colors basically do for the eye what the blueberries do for the taste buds – but with less calories.

For WTIP, this is Bill Hansen with the West End News.