Letter from the Publisher
Northern Exposure
We live in a place that is unique and rich in culture. Outside the North, our region is recognized for its emotional minimalism, excessive modesty and anti-drama approach to life. Artful Living is focused on telling the stories of the North, enlightening our readers and friends with original content from great writers.
On the topic of friendship, last year I was invited by my new pal Ron Everson to join a fraternity of older gentlemen known as the Gyro Club. The name was adopted from the word gyroscope, symbolizing the ability to maintain a desired course and attitude regardless of outside influences. The club was founded in 1912 and has hundreds of chapters in the United States and Canada. We meet twice a month for lunch, with the primary purpose of promoting friendship and free exchange of ideas and experiences.
Ron introduced me to his younger brother, David, also a Gyro. This is how I learned about his remarkable ordeal of surviving six years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. David, we thank you for serving our country and sharing your story.
Also in this issue is the story of another friend, Lavonne Christensen, who suffered for years at the hands of a bully priest in a cult-like church on the north shore of Lake Superior. Both stories demonstrate how the human spirit can overcome physical, emotional and spiritual torture in some of the most challenging circumstances.
Welcome to the travel issue of Artful Living, chock-full of stories about how and where to vacation. We are proud to announce our new marketing partnership with Delta Air Lines. Complimentary copies of Artful Living will now be available to globetrotters at the Delta Sky Club at Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport.
Thank you for spending time with us. Travel has a way of expanding our minds to gain new experiences, knowledge and perspective. May this issue inspire you to take a trip to a place you have never been before.
Cheers,
Frank Roffers
Publisher + Editor-In-Chief
