Grand Marais, Minn. (10/22/2026) - Visit Cook County announces a transition within its team, celebrating the retirement of Information Center Coordinator Carah Thomas-Maskell and welcoming two new staff members: Reece Hickman as Marketing & Communications Coordinator and Laura Scott as Information Center Coordinator. The staffing transitions bring together deep local roots and fresh perspectives as the organization continues its work supporting visitors, local businesses and the Cook County tourism community.
Celebrating Carah Thomas-Maskell’s Years of Service
After 8 years with Visit Cook County, Carah Thomas-Maskell is retiring from her role as Information Center Coordinator. A Cook County native with generations of family history in the region, Thomas-Maskell has been a familiar and welcoming presence at the Information Center since joining the organization in 2018.
Her lifelong connection to Cook County, extensive local knowledge and genuine enthusiasm for the region have made her an invaluable resource for visitors and community members alike. Whether helping travelers plan their first trip, sharing recommendations for hidden gems or scouring local businesses for their current hours of operation and upcoming events, Thomas-Maskell has helped countless people experience the best of Cook County.
"Carah has been a wonderful ambassador for Cook County, sharing not only her extensive knowledge of the area but also her personal connection to this place and the people who live here," said Linda Jurek, Executive Director of Visit Cook County. "I am deeply grateful for her years of service and friendship. Both leave a lasting impact."
Join us for a celebration!
To celebrate Carah’s retirement, Visit Cook County welcomes visitors, business owners, and community members to join us for some delicious cake, coffee, and wonderful memories as we raise a toast to Carah and send her off into this exciting next chapter with lots of love!
- When: Wednesday, October 28th, from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Where: Visit Cook County Information Center: 116 West Highway 61, Grand Marais
As Visit Cook County celebrates Thomas-Maskell's contributions, the organization is also excited to welcome two new team members who will support its ongoing work in destination marketing, visitor engagement and community partnerships.
Welcoming Laura Scott to the Information Center
Continuing the tradition of local knowledge and hospitality, Visit Cook County welcomes Laura Scott as Information Center Coordinator. Scott has strong family ties in the area and brings a personal connection to Cook County’s history, heritage, and community.
Scott will work alongside longtime Information Center staff member Catherine Carlson to oversee visitor services and daily operations. Dan Helmerson and Carolyn Higgins also work as Info Center team members. Together, they will continue providing personalized travel recommendations, connecting visitors with local businesses and helping travelers discover the diverse experiences available throughout Cook County.
The Information Center serves as an important resource for travelers exploring the North Shore, Grand Marais, Gunflint Trail and surrounding communities, offering firsthand knowledge and guidance that help visitors make the most of their time in the region.
Reece Hickman Joins Marketing & Communications Team
Visit Cook County also welcomes Reece Hickman as its new Marketing and Communications Coordinator. Based in Duluth, Hickman joins the team with a strong marketing and public relations background. Prior to joining Visit Cook County, Hickman served as the Social Media Marketing Specialist at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD).
With professional experience in social media strategy, digital storytelling and audience engagement, along with an established social media presence of her own, Hickman brings valuable expertise to Visit Cook County's growing in-house marketing efforts.
In her new role, Hickman will support the organization's digital marketing, social media, content creation and communications initiatives, helping share the stories of Cook County and connect new and returning visitors with the destination.
"We are thrilled to welcome Laura and Reece to the Visit Cook County team," added Jurek. "Laura’s family connections and understanding of our community will be a tremendous asset to the Info Center. And Reece brings a strong background in digital communications and creative storytelling. Together with our existing staff, they will help us continue strengthening how we serve visitors, support local businesses, and share what makes Cook County a very special place.”
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