August 2008
Jim Hanson
Have you ever dreamed of traveling the world while also being able to call Rainy Lake home? This dream is a reality for designer, Jim Hanson of Wayzata, Minnesota. In addition to traveling to beautiful places such as Versailles and the French Virgin Islands, the versatility of Hanson's career as a design consultant allows him to spend the majority of his time on Rainy Lake.
Hanson developed a love for Rainy Lake as a child. Prior to his family purchasing Atsokan Island in 1979, they rented from former caretaker, Gerald Wagness. Hanson reflects with fond memories of Wagness, a friend and mentor who helped foster his appreciation for the natural beauty and simplicity of the area. Hanson's parents are also residents of Atsokan and other family and friends are able to enjoy visits to this beautiful historic island. Hanson's father is a vast supporter of sports-fishing and played an active role in regulating commercial fishing on Rainy Lake.
Another tie to the history of Rainy Lake is Hanson's boat the Virginia. This fifty foot, 1927 Elco was named after the daughter of the original owner Major Roberts. Hanson had a dream of reuniting the Virginia back to her home of Atsokan Island and restoring her to her former glory. This dream became possible with the purchase of the Virginia and countless hours of hard work. Hanson is obviously proud of the restoration and enjoys sharing the unique experience with others by taking different groups aboard and showcasing her at events like Ranier Days on August 16th.
Hanson's talent as a Trusted Design Consultant includes magazine styling and producing, residential and commercial consulting, and has led to amazing opportunities such as being a member of the American Friends of Versailles (AFV). AFV is a group that promotes the French-American connection and raises funds to restore gardens at the French palace. Events are planned every other year with fourteen events in six days attended by some of the most prestigious people in the world, including royalty. Planning for these events involve traveling a couple times a year to various locations such as France, New York, Chicago or Palm Beach. Hanson's work with the AFV and other design projects has been featured in various magazines (i.e. Lake Minnetonka, Country Home, Metropolitan Home, Town and Country) and television appearances.
Locally, Hanson is a member of the International Falls Chamber of Commerce Board and has worked with businesses on design or event planning at Sha Sha Resort, Thunderbird Lodge and the Falls Hunger Coalition, to name a few. He is very committed to the area and is excited about the county branding process. Although these things take time (like restoring a boat) he is a patient person and is encouraged with people of this area moving in a positive, proactive direction.
In August of 2007 Almanac: At the Capital featured a story on the History of Rainy Lake, including Atsokan Island and the Virginia. This documentary will run periodically on public television due to the popularity of the show and can be viewed on the website at:
www.tpt.org
