Life is full of burdens; Jep’s is nine feet long and attracts hitmen.

The lifestyle writer for the Redford Beagle has problems, some he knows about – most he doesn’t. His slice-of-life column features candid reflections on life in The Land of Lakes and pancakes, in outer suburbia Minnesota, but mostly cat-in-tree stories and Rice Krispie treat recipes. But don’t let his naivete fool you. He knows what’s what, and his weekly publication turns toward spiritual observations and occasional, if accidental, bouts of wisdom, inspiring a run for the mayoral election against the villainous incumbent. Is he the town minstrel, a blabbering fool, or a sometime prophet? The cross he carries offers more answers than it does questions. Whatever Jep is, madman or portent, he is a man of conviction and accountability, destined for greatness or anonymity. It’s not for him to decide. He just wants to change the world, if the world will let him.