It's been amazing to see how many organizations, individuals, schools and businesses give much of their time, money and energy to those in need during the holiday season.
So Carlton County, give yourselves a pat on the back - your selfless acts and generosity have helped so many people get food, clothing and shelter this holiday season.
Here are some prime examples of what you all did to help those in need.
- Heather Carlson's sixth grade class at Barnum Elementary spent the past two months knitting and crocheting mittens, hats and scarves to donate to the Salvation Army.
- Employees at the Black Bear Casino came together to help Lee and Kami Defoe have the Christmas they deserve. Only days earlier, their house caught fire and burned to the ground, completely destroying everything they own - including photo albums and other priceless items that can't be replaced. The Black Bear employees, along with help from the Fond du Lac Reservation, pooled their money, gathered donations and provided the Defoes with an entire host of Christmas gifts -- not to mention putting them up at the Black Hotel until they get back on their feet.
- The Sappi and Jarden Brands "Women of Steel," female members of the Local 11-63 (Sappi) and Local 970 (Jarden) United Steel Workers, gathered donations, gifts and necessities for the Outreach Center in Cloquet. The donations of toiletries, household goods, cash and other "goodies" went toward The Outreach Center's annual Christmas Party.
These cases of generosity are just the tip of the iceberg. If you hadn't noticed, every community within Carlton County has had some kind of organization take time and effort during this unbelievably busy holiday season to brighten somebody else's Christmas.
Way to remember what Christmas is truly all about, Carlton County. You've brought true meaning to the "Season of Giving."
Mat Gilderman
