This week’s column offers a discerning look at a variety of key events and figures shaping our current landscape, from athletic triumphs on the global stage to local legislative battles and the evolving face of government transparency. We navigate a series of ‘Cheers and Jeers,’ highlighting moments worthy of applause and those warranting critical examination, providing a comprehensive overview of diverse, impactful narratives.
Among the most celebrated figures earning a resounding ‘cheer’ is Lakeville native Regan Smith, an exceptional American Olympic swimmer whose recent performances have once again solidified her status as one of Minnesota’s preeminent athletes. At the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, Smith demonstrated her prowess, securing two silver medals with the potential for more before the competition’s conclusion. Her first podium finish came in the 100-meter backstroke, rekindling her compelling rivalry with Australia’s Kaylee McKeown, a showdown that continues to captivate the swimming world.
Despite McKeown narrowly touching first in Singapore, Smith’s remarkable talent is underscored by her enduring world record of 57.13 seconds in the 100-meter backstroke, a testament to her consistent excellence set during last year’s Olympic Trials. Training now in Austin, Texas, Smith continued her strong showing by claiming a second-place finish in the 200-meter butterfly. With her sights firmly set on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, which would mark her third appearance, there are clear indications that this formidable athlete shows no signs of slowing down, promising more thrilling moments in Olympic Swimming.
Shifting gears to a point of ‘jeer,’ the Albert Lea City Council faces scrutiny for its decision to obstruct the city’s inaugural cannabis dispensary. In a contentious 4-3 vote, the council effectively blocked The Smoking Tree, a move that Mayor Rich Murray defended by expressing his disapproval of how the state has, in his words, “rammed this down our throats.” This stance raises questions about local politics and governance, particularly for a former state legislator and Republican like Murray, who one might expect to be more amenable to fostering small business ventures and to possess a deeper understanding of state regulatory frameworks concerning a Cannabis Dispensary.
The council’s short-sightedness represents a significant disappointment for Jacob Schlichter, owner of The Smoking Tree, who had diligently secured a coveted microbusiness license from the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management and was poised to commence operations. Instead, Schlichter is now compelled to confront City Hall in what is likely to become a protracted and costly legal battle for taxpayers. A reversal of just one vote on the council could spare the city considerable expense and unnecessary litigation, allowing the new business to proceed without further impediment.
On a more positive note, a significant ‘cheer’ goes to the Minnesota Judicial Branch for its commendable and proactive engagement in social media. By utilizing platforms like Instagram (@mncourts), the branch is demystifying a less prominent arm of government, making it more accessible and relatable to the public. Beyond traditional legal updates, their innovative approach has unveiled intriguing aspects of judicial life, including the existence of a rock band named “Reasonable Doubts,” comprising multiple Supreme Court and district court jurists.
This unique ensemble features Isanti County District Judge Amy Brosnahan, who also plays tambourine, alongside Justices Sarah Hennesy and Anne McKeig. Hennepin County Judge Luis Bartolomei anchors the group on bass, while Wright County Judge John Bowen, Mille Lacs County Judge Mark Herzing, Ramsey County Judge Mark Ireland, and Duluth-based Senior Judge Dale Harris complete the lineup. These efforts provide a rare glimpse of legal professionals outside their formal robes, presenting them as ordinary individuals enjoying creative pursuits. Further online content includes Justices like Theodora Gaïtas discussing career transitions and Karl Procaccini sharing personal preferences, all contributing to humanize the Judicial System and enhance public understanding.
Finally, a notable ‘jeer’ is directed towards U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, for a stark and head-spinning demonstration of political duplicity. As the Senate Judiciary Chairman, Senator Grassley expedited the confirmation of Emil Bove, a former lawyer for President Donald Trump, to a lifetime appointment on the federal bench. Shortly thereafter, Grassley leveraged social media to laud his long-standing support of whistleblowers, even thanking founders of the National Whistleblower Center for their work and claiming to have aided many in regaining their jobs.
This sharp contrast between action and public statement highlights a critical issue of Political Commentary. One might observe that if Senator Grassley possessed even a fraction of the courage exemplified by whistleblowers or a consistent willingness to challenge former President Trump, his actions would align more genuinely with his public pronouncements. This duality raises significant questions about accountability and integrity within the highest levels of government.
