Brandenburg picks up reins

The obvious distress of Pine Haven's council as they convened their regular Tuesday night meeting last week represented their respect for and friendship with Mayor John Cook, for whom all present grieved.

As the meeting convened, each council member answered as their name was called – all but Cook, for whom Mayor Pro-Tem Karla Brandenburg spoke, "Excused."

She officially informed those present that the mayor had passed away, stating, "It is with great regret and respect for his family that I inform the public of the passing of our mayor, John Cook, this past weekend. John served on the co...