MARILYN HAGERTY: Good old days return today at Myra Museum

Just for today, John Hanson of Grand Forks thinks he is Mayor Henry Wheeler. He will talk about his part in foiling the Jessie James gang in its robbery attempt at Northfield, Minn.

Hanson will review the colorful slice of life back in 1918 when Henry Wheeler took office as mayor of Grand Forks. He will answer questions in the Myra Museum where Doug Munski will preside at an open forum.

The forum is part of the living history events bringing back the “good old days” beginning at noon today on the grounds of the museum on Belmont Road in Grand Forks.

The event was arranged by Marly Peterson, a retired UND professor and member of the board of the Grand Forks County Historical Society. She left no stone unturned as she lined up people to demonstrate and teach knitting. She is bringing the Lustron House of the 1950s to life and making sure there will be a card game in the Mobil Gas Station.

Alyce Stokke with singers from St. Mary’s Catholic Church will be there with hymns of the olden days. For sure, they will sing “Amazing Grace” and the “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”

And I wonder, why not “Rock of Ages.”

Singers from the UND music department as well as the Polish National Alliance Dancers of Warsaw, N.D., will be there.

Today’s event runs the gamut from wood carving and square dancing to Charlie Chaplin films.

Best of Itasca

July is the time to be out and about. And a visit to nearby Itasca is the destination for summer visitors. After perusing the book, “The Best of Itasca,” I would recommend it - not only as a guide but for the excellent photography.

The book was done by Deane Johnson, a retired physician who grew up in Grand Forks. In his introduction, he writes, “Growing up on the prairie of Grand Forks, N.D., leaves one longing for trees and hills, so the lake country of northern Minnesota was always a dream.”

Their affection for Itasca convinced him and his wife, Jill, to make their home in nearby Park Rapids, Minn.

Also a writer, Jill Johnson is author of “Little Minnesota: 100 Towns Around 100.”

Ask Marilyn

Q . What’s going on down at Reynolds, N.D., this coming week?

A. Well, the 300 people who live there are getting ready for an anticipated crowd of 300. It’s the second year for Rib o’Rama contest - the one that used to be just a rib dinner in the park. On Saturday, they have contests going for ribs, chili and baked beans.

It all begins at 5 p.m. with judging and taste testing.

Reach Hagerty at  mhagerty@gra.midco.net  or  (701) 772-1055 .