Northern Wilds February 2017 by Northern Wilds Magazine

I C E D I V I N G — D O G S L E D D I N G — M E M O R A B L E D AT E S — S N O W A R A M A — V A L E N T I N E ’ S D AY

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FOR THE

LOVE

feb 2017

OF THE

NORTH

volume 14 issue 2

TWO HARBORS BEAVER BAY TOFTE LUTSEN GRAND MARAIS GUNFLINT TRAIL grand portage THUNDER BAY NIPIGON

outdoors events arts reviews health dining calendar catchlight

RED HOT

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FEBRUARY PAGE 2017 1 48

A red hot winter Love is in the air throughout the Northern Wilds…and not because Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Out in the woods, it’s mating season for foxes and wolves. Chickadees are singing love songs. Ravens are ready to nest. At night, you can hear the hoots of owls looking for romance, too. While it may seem like the dead of winter to those of us who live indoors (although the prolonged January thaw seemed like something else), for the creatures of the boreal forest, the growing daylight is evidence of the coming spring. They get an early start on the short growing season. Of course, people begin to stir as well, which is why we celebrate Valentine’s Day now rather than, say, in November. That’s why the theme of this issue is red-hot winter. We thought the theme would inject a little romance into the magazine. And it did. You’ll find a fun feature about memorable dates that several of our writers enjoyed or endured. Either way, everyone had a story they wanted to share with you. Within this issue, you’ll find an extra helping of stories on a wide range of topics. Since it is summer on the southern half of the globe, we have a piece on Cook County’s 50-year association with the workforce in Antarctica. Closer to home, we have a story about the renovation of a terminal in Duluth Harbor that will make it easier to handle massive cargoes, such as the blades for wind turbines. In Thunder Bay, a very independent workforce will gather this month for the annual Fur Trappers Convention. But Northern Wilds isn’t about all work and no play. Casey Fitchett tells us what it is like to prepare for a sled dog race, while Erin Altemus shares what she thinks about while out on the trail with a dog team. Elle Andra-Warner takes us beneath the ice with the thrilling sport of ice-diving. Gord Ellis drops a line beneath the ice in search of freshwater cod, a fish you most likely know by another name. If all of this outdoor fun isn’t enough, perhaps you’d be interested in the Nearly Naked Ruck March in Duluth.

Indoors, managing editor Breana Roy found local artists and photographers interpreted the Red Hot Winter theme in colorful and intriguing ways, which she shares in Spotlight. There you will also find a story about a surprisingly young jazz ensemble called Laney and the Tramps. Maren Webb takes us to a newly opened restaurant on the shore of Devil Track Lake.

Restaurant Awards and Photo Contest Speaking of restaurants, this month we kick off our annual Northern Wilds Restaurant Awards. You’ll find a paper ballot in this issue and you can vote online at surveymonkey.com/r/nwilds. By doing so, you may be selected to win a $50 gift certificate to a local restaurant. The awards contest includes all restaurants within our Northern Wilds coverage area. We are also starting a new monthly photo contest this month. The monthly winner will receive a free Northern Wilds cap. Each month will have a different photo theme. Deadline is the last day of each month. We will notify the winner within the following week. See our ad on this page for the upcoming monthly themes. Submit your photo to Northern Wilds Facebook Page or email it to contest@northernwilds.com. Here are the rules: All photo entries must include the following information: 1) Contestant’s name and contact information. 2) A short description of the photograph indicating where and when the picture was taken and identification of persons shown in the picture. 3) Photo resolution needs to be 10 megapixel or at least 3,000 kb. 4) Contestants agree to allow Northern Wilds Media to publish the photos (with credit) for editorial and publicity purposes.— Shawn Perich and Amber Pratt

Do you have a question for one of our writers? Or an interesting photo, recipe, or story you’d like to share with Northern Wilds? Please send it to breana@northernwilds.com.

Monthly

Photo Contest Enter our monthly photo contest for a chance to win a Northern Wilds cap! Each month will have a photo theme. • February: Be My Valentine • March: Home Sweet Home Deadline is the last day of each month. We will notify the winner within the following week. Ken Greshowak, Duluth | 2016 Winner

To ENTEr: Submit your photo to the Northern Wilds Facebook page or send it to contest@northernwilds.com. See the Photo Contest page on Northern Wilds website for rules. northernwilds.com/contests/photography-contest

FEBRUARY 2017

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FEBR UA RY 2017

VOLUME 1 4, I SSUE 2 w w w . n o r t h e r nw i l d s .c o m SE R VI N G T H E N O R T H S HO R E A ND T H E WI L D E R N E S S BE Y O N D PUBLISHERS Shawn Perich & Amber Pratt EDITORIAL Shawn Perich, Editor editor@northernwilds.com Breana Roy, Managing Editor breana@northernwilds.com ADVERTISING Sue O’Quinn, Sales Representative sue@northernwilds.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN Katie Viren • katie@northernwilds.com Drew Johnson • drew@northernwilds.com OFFICE Roseanne Cooley billing@northernwilds.com CONTRIBUTORS Erin Altemus, Elle Andra-Warner, Corey Belt, Kim Casey, Eric Chandler, Gord Ellis, Kim Falter, Casey Fitchett, Joe Friedrichs, Deane Morrison, Julia Prinselaar, Kelsey Roseth, Amy Schmidt, Javier Serna, Rhonda Silence, Emily Stone, Kathy Toivonen, Maren Webb, Eric Weicht, Bailey Wolding Copyright 2017 by Northern Wilds Media, Inc. Published 12 times per year. Subscription rate is $28 per year or $52 for 2 years U.S. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part requires written permission from the publishers. Northern Wilds Media, Inc. P.O. Box 26, Grand Marais, MN 55604 (218) 387-9475 (phone/fax)

41 FEATURES 18 Memorable Dates

The good, the bad, and the romantic

22 All Paws on Deck

Gearing up for a sled dog race

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24 DEPARTMENTS

REAL ESTATE

5 Along the Shore 24 Spotlight 27 Events 32 Calendar 35 Dining 39 Health 41 Northern Trails 42 Dog Blog 43 Reviews 43 Fishing Hole 44 Northern Sky 45 Wild Traditions 47 Strange Tales

48 Coldwell Banker Northwoods Realty 49 Backlund Realty 50 Red Pine Realty 53 Keller Williams Realty 54 Timber Wolff Realty 58 Coldwell Banker North Shore 61 Lutsen Real Estate Group 62 Real Living, Remax, Bluefin Bay

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aD dEADLINE February 17

Cover

Catchlight

“Ice Fishing” by James Smedley

“Bobcat” by Paul Sundberg

WE ASK...

Do you celebrate Valentine’s Day, yes or no? Let us know at www.northernwilds.com Have you ever had frostbite, yes or no? 50% Yes, 50% No NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

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An LC-130 military ski plane refueling at Williams Field. | COREY BELT

Antarctica and Cook County GRAND MARAIS—When the leaves fall from the trees and the lakes begin to freeze, many of the human denizens of Cook County (not to mention the migratory birds) move south for the winter. These ‘snow-birds’ elicit a wide range of reactions from their friends and neighbors who remain behind to endure the challenges of winter. However, some Cook County residents head south in the fall and continue all the way to the bottom of the earth, where the summer snow and ice of Antarctica is as cold as our northern winter. This migration may seem rare and strange, but it’s more common in our community than you may think. Last fall, I found myself in this category of long-distance migrants. I leveraged several contacts and was hired as a Fuels Operator with the United States Antarctic Program (USAP). In late September, I boarded a plane in St. Paul and flew to Christchurch, New Zealand. Christchurch is the staging area for the majority of the Antarctic scientific research programs funded by the U.S. government through the National Science Foundation (NSF). Although most Americans are not aware of our endeavors on the southern continent, a great deal of important scientific research occurs each year in Antarctica on the three stations and dozens of field camps managed by the NSF. Since the signing of the Antarctic Treaty in 1959, all nations have rescinded territorial claims below 60 degrees south, and human activity on the continent has been limited to scientific inquiry and exploration. Research can range from biological studies of

Author Corey Belt at the South Pole. | COREY BELT seals and penguins, to glaciology, as well as astronomical studies of the sun and the microwave sounds of the Big Bang. The wildest and most remote continent provides an ideal setting for studying aspects of the natural world that have never seen the influence of man. In Grand Marais, however, the USAP is relatively well-known. As I was preparing to deploy last year, I met a surprisingly large number of local residents who had been to “the Ice” or had connections to friends and family who had. I expected to be met with blank stares when I explained my destination, but instead, many people were familiar with the journey I was about to undertake. It turns out that our small community has a nearly 50-year connection to Antarctica. As I became aware of this history, I asked more questions. I reached out to a few local friends that I knew had spent time on the Ice in order to learn more about the intersection

Emperor penguins in Antarctica. | COREY BELT of these two seemingly disparate places. Many of the connections between Antarctica and Cook County seem to have been woven by Jim Holman, who first went to the Ice in 1978 and spent a total of five summers working at McMurdo Station and Palmer Station. He heard about the program from Cook County resident, Larry Shepard. Holman worked as a carpenter on various projects, including the building of Williams Field, which is an

important landing strip on the Ross Ice Shelf that services the LC-130 military ski planes that provide the bulk of transport missions throughout the Antarctic continent. Holman remembers his time fondly, especially the zodiac boats at Palmer and the summit of Mt. Erebus near McMurdo. He recommended the program to many other Cook County locals, including Steven Cross, Jerry Lawson, Virginia Danfelt, Tim Briggs, Jim Rammel, Tom Faye and

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FEBRUARY 2017

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McMurdo Station, located in Antarctica. | COREY BELT his own son, Ian Holman, who spent one season in McMurdo several years ago. Danfelt first heard about the opportunity to work in Antarctica by watching a slideshow given by Holman. After she completed her first contract, her now husband Bob Martin decided to follow her on the adventure. Martin worked two summer seasons as a carpenter between South Pole Station and McMurdo Station, and Danfelt worked three summers as a cargo and inventory manager at a remote research camp called Siple. They remember being drawn to the opportunity by the desire to travel and witness a place that could not be visited in any other way; a remote place so utterly different to the rest of the human experience. Martin remembers visiting the site of a crashed airplane and the historic huts built by early explorers R.F. Scott and Earnest Shackleton. Danfelt remembers the light and shadow of the glacial plateau, the comradery and fun antics of her workmates and the Adelie penguins she saw near McMurdo. They both remember the total silence and empty wilderness of the landscape and its spiritual effect. When Briggs heard about working in Antarctica from Holman, he never

FEBRUARY 2017

thought he’d make it his career. He grew up in Grand Marais and still owns a house west of town, but has spent nearly 30 years working on the Ice and is currently a project manager with the Antarctic program in Denver. Briggs has worked with fellow Cook County locals and recommended the experience to many of them. In the late 1980s, Leonard Sobanja took him up on the offer and spent a season on the Ice. His son, Kurt Sobanja, followed his dad to Antarctica and then returned for more than 10 seasons, including two winters. He even proposed to his wife, Natalie, on Christmas Day at the South Pole.

The spirit of our North Shore community resonates all the way to the very bottom of the world. So the next time that you’re wondering where your friend went for the winter and thinking that they may be enjoying the sun in Arizona or Florida, just remember that for some of us, there is a cold, frozen paradise at the bottom of the world that beckons with an ancient call.—Corey Belt

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Bob Martin when he was at the South Pole in the 1980s. | BOB MARTIN

The USAP offers its participants a free trip to New Zealand and the chance to save money in a place where all your needs are provided—there is absolutely nothing to buy. This is a great opportunity for seasonal workers. Many, but not all, program participants come from northern states. Our familiarity with living and working in cold, rural climates and small, isolated communities prepares us for the rigors of life in Antarctica. While these are factors that can lead to success on the Ice, the most important qualification that all participants share is a desire for adventure and fun that overshadows any of the challenges inherent in living in Antarctica. It turns out that these qualities are shared by many of our neighbors.

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The Clure Terminal’s recent renovation tripled its outdoor storage capacity and doubled its heavy-lift cargo handling capabilities. | PAUL SCINOCCA

Terminal renovation a boon for shippers DULUTH—There is one dock in the Duluth working waterfront that stands out from the rest; the Clure Public Marine Terminal; the only general cargo dock in the harbor, and it recently received a renovation. The Duluth Seaway Port Authority’s maritime masterpiece, the Port of Duluth Intermodal Project, is opening for the upcoming shipping season. The nearly $18 million investment is the largest infrastructure project taken on by the Port Authority in more than 50 years and it is set to impact the Twin Ports shipping industry. Other docks in the Duluth harbor receive bulk items, such as iron-ore and grain. The Clure Terminal, however, can receive project cargo, such as large pieces of equipment, or heavy-lift cargo. This previously vacant, underutilized dock will play an integral role as a new distribution hub for industries such as mining, oil and gas production, pulp and paper, and wind energy. Large cargo such as wind turbines, with extra-long blades, will be offloaded from those ships onto the reinforced heavy lift dock (which can receive items up to 700900 tons) and staged on the property. From there, the cargo will be shipped to its destination by truck or rail car. Adele Yorde, the public relations manager for the Duluth Seaway Port Authori-

ty, said this dock can help shippers utilize each mode of transportation to the greatest level of efficiency. “The longer you keep any cargo on water, you are gaining that economic and environmental benefit, because the emissions are less and the fuel efficiencies are so much greater,” said Yorde. Revitalization of the dock took about 30 years of planning. Once the project was designed and funding was obtained, contractors began rebuilding and expanding the 28-acre dock, taking 18-months to complete. A new rail spur was built, the deck was resurfaced, a new roll-on/ roll-off dock was constructed, water was dredged to increase the terminal’s depth, and lighting and security fencing was installed. Completion of the project tripled the outdoor storage capacity of the Clure Terminal and doubled its heavy-lift cargo handling capabilities. Yorde said the dock is the perfect staging area that will “enhance the competitiveness of the entire region by increasing freight capacity via the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway System.” The available acres of storage on the property may open up opportunities for new shippers in the future.—Kelsey Roseth

Our newest title - a great winter read!

WINTER

Adventures Await in Cook County

Winter is long for a reason, and that’s just the way we like it in Cook County. By bike, boot, ski, or snowshoe, we have hundreds of trails and two million acres of pristine beauty ready to explore. Call for a catalog or visit out website to see all our children and adult titles, note cards, and blank journals.

Plan your winter adventure and find lodging at:

VisitCookCounty.com

PO Box 188, Ely, MN 55731 • 218-365-3375 • RavenWords.com NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

Altai Hok skis Different and fun TOFTE—You’ve tried cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. How about something that combines the best of both sports? The Hok ski, by Altai Skis, bridges these two worlds. Hoks are short and wide and include built-in climbing skins. “Skins” used to be actual animal skins that were strapped to the bottom of your skis to aid in climbing steep slopes. Now, they are artificial, but still help during the climb and also help to create a slow, controlled descent. Another interesting feature of the ski is the ability to use a universal binding that goes with any boot or winter footwear. The ski company is named after the Altai Mountains in Central Asia. Hok (pronounced “hawk”) is the word for ski in the language of the Tuwa people in that region. Sarah Lynch, of Sawtooth Outfitters in Tofte, said this is the second season they’ve rented Altai Hok skis. Lynch called them “gliding snowshoes.” When asked what people say about them, she instantly replied, “They love them. They really enjoy trying something different, something new.” Sarah Lynch of Sawtooth Outfitters explores the North Shore on Altai Hok skis. | SARAH LYNCH

Lynch sees three types of outdoor enthusiasts using the Altai Hoks. “We rent a lot of winter camping gear and the skis are pretty popular with people

Retail

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Winter Camping Gear, Hok Ski’s and Trek Fat Bikes 7213 Hwy 61 · Tofte, MN 55615 218-663-7643 www.sawtoothoutfitters.com

Where can I find Northern Wilds in Duluth/ Superior?

heading into the BWCA. There are people who want to try something new instead of snowshoes. And some people just want to break trail behind their house,” Lynch said. Lynch spent time last winter trying out the skis. “They’re fun. Really fun. More exciting than snowshoes,” she said. Two of the three Minnesota rental locations for Altai Hoks are along the North Shore: Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply in Grand Marais and Sawtooth Outfitters in Tofte. Consider exploring the Northern Wilds in a whole new way. For more on this unique piece of outdoor gear, visit altaiskis.com.—Eric Chandler

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A close up of Altai Hok skis. | SARAH LYNCH

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Blast from the Past

Vintage Snowmobile Ride Saturday, Feb 25 Lutsen Trail Breakers Snowmobile Club is hosting its second annual Vintage Snowmobile Ride at Cascade Lodge. Bring your vintage sleds and come enjoy a 20 mile ride on the trails with awards and prizes to follow.

9 am event registration - $10 per sled For more info: cascadelodgemn.com/ 2017vintagesnowmobile.php Larry McNeally: 218-370-9268 8

FEBRUARY 2017

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• Whole Foods Co-op • Cashwise Liquor

G R A N D

• Cub Foods • Edgewater Hotel • New London Cafe • Burrito Union • The Duluth Pack Store • Red Mug • Northwest Outlet

• Canal Park Hotels • Spirit Mountain • Perkins restaurants • Canal Park Brewery

and many more!

Northern Wilds is distributed freely at over 150 locations from Duluth to Nipigon, Ont. You can also subscribe or read it online at www.northernwilds.com

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· BUILD YOUR OWN SANDWICHES Turkey · Roast Beef · Chicken Salad Egg Salad · Tuna Salad

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Ice diver Shawn Harper “stands” on the ice ceiling above him. | NOAA/CREATIVE COMMONS

Wally’s Thunder Country Diving provides an ice diving course in March. | MICHELLE WALTERS

Ice diving into an upside down world THUNDER BAY— Ice diving takes diving to a new level and into a completely different world. Considered a type of “penetration diving,” the dive takes place under ice, typically with only one entry or exit point. Thunder Bay veteran diver and instructor Wally Peterson, owner of Wally’s Thunder Country Diving, explained, “What’s up is down, what’s down is up. You can use the ice as the floor. An ice diver can stand and walk, even skate, upside down on the ice ceiling.” While ice diving is not for everyone, it is gaining in popularity and as Wally’s website notes, is one of the “most adventurous scuba specialities with some of the most surreal scenery that few get to experience.” Having done many ice dives, Wally said, “Visibility under ice is way better than diving in summer. Double the visibility because there’s no wave action, no algae. The biggest misconception about ice diving is that it is dark under the ice. It’s not. The light comes through the ice and the dive hole. And if the ice is clear, you can see people on the ice while you are under the ice.” Before taking on an ice dive, Wally needs a minimum ice thickness of one foot. A recreational ice dive would be two divers, a suited-up safety diver on surface (to enter in an emergency), a tender for each diver (surface person at the end of a pull line) and a communication line pull link (sometimes also a two-way radio

communication or wireless with fullface mask). “We teach them the line pole signals. One big pull: ‘I’m OK, give me rope.’ Two big pulls: ‘Take up line.’ Three big pulls: ‘Bring up slowly.’ And three-plus big pulls: ‘Get me out now’ or ‘Your time is up; you are coming up now.’ And the diver and tender repeat each signal,” he said.

Loggin’ Food at its Finest

Most ice divers use a dry suit vs wet suit, plus there’s a cold water regulator, safety lines and harness. Armed with chain saw, ice chisel, tongs and a shovel, the dive team cuts a hole in the ice. From the hole, Wally’s teams shovel snow to put spokes in lines from the dive hole (like spokes in a wheel) and arrows in the lines to show an ice diver how to get back to the hole. Popular ice dive locations include Oliver Lake, Silver Islet, Silver Harbour and Lake Superior by Lakeview Lodge. According to Scuba Diving’s online article, the twelve Best Ice Diving Destinations in the World by Brooke Martin, (scubadiving.com/ best-ice-diving-locations) are Canada’s Tobermory/Ontario; Baffin Island/Pond Inlet, Newfoundland’s Conception Bay, St. Lawrence River; America’s North Pole, Alaska and Hudson River/New York; Russia’s Lake Baikal and White Sea; Switzerland’s Lago del Naret; East Greenland; Japan’s Hokkaido; and Antarctica (McMurdo Sound apparently voted the ‘best ice dive in the world’).

A diver braves the cold and ice. | MICHELLE WALTERS For those wanting to try ice diving, registration is now open for an ice diving course with Wally’s Thunder Country Diving, tentatively scheduled for evenings of March 22-23 with an ice dive the following weekend (depending on weather conditions). The course covers everything a diver needs to know to start ice diving. For more info, visit thundercountrydiving.net. —Elle Andra-Warner

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Feb 4 Fun Run Feb 5 Bowl Buffet Feb 18 Drag Races DJ at the Loggers Lounge after the race.

FEBRUARY 2017

Historic lighthouses added to National Register DULUTH—Two iconic lighthouses in Duluth were added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) last June. They mark both sides of the entrance to the canal in Duluth, near the famous Aerial Lift Bridge. They are instantly recognizable by anybody who has visited Canal Park and have a proud history. The United States Coast Guard (USCG) applied for NRHP status for the lighthouses in February 2016. These applications describe the buildings and their history in detail. The Duluth Harbor North Pier Light was built in 1910. It’s a steel conical tower with a black base, white sides, and the lantern area is painted black. It has a red LED lantern in the 37-foot tower that shines (three seconds on/three seconds off) on a focal plane 43 feet above the water. When it’s clear, you can see the “red, right, returning” helper from 16 miles away. The Duluth Harbor South Breakwater Outer Light was built in 1901. The building is made of white painted bricks with a red roof. The rectangular fog signal building includes a two-story lantern superstructure. The fog signal building housed many different types of horns, but probably the most famous was the Type “F” diaphone signal. It had a very loud and unique voice, but it stopped operating in 2005 when the electrical power supply failed. The fixed green light has a focal plane 44 feet off the water and can be seen 17 miles

away. It was designed to work in tandem with the Duluth Harbor South Breakwater Inner Light, listed on the NRHP in 1983. That light is 68 feet above the water. It was designed so that sailors would put the taller, white Inner Light directly over the green Outer Light. Then they’d know they were lined up for a safe entry to the canal and under the Aerial Lift Bridge (proud member of the NRHP since 1973). The North and South Lights are important parts of Duluth’s maritime history, but this listing on the NRHP may just be the beginning of a new chapter. The National Historic Lighthouse Preservation Act (NHLPA) was passed in 2000. This provides for the transfer of lighthouses at “no cost to eligible entities defined as federal agencies, state and local agencies, non-profit corporations, educational agencies, or community development organizations, for education, park, recreation, cultural, or historic preservation purposes.” According to the Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association website, if no entity steps up to take ownership, the lighthouse can be offered up for public sale at auction. For example, the Duluth Harbor South Breakwater Inner Light was listed on the NRHP in 1983. The USCG made a Notice of Availability (NOA) for that lighthouse in 2007, stating that it was “excess to the needs of the USCG.” No suitable entity took the free lighthouse so it was sold at auction in 2008. In another example, the Superior Harbor South Breakwater Light

CONTRACTORS: Erosion Certification required by NPDES Permits

Summer sunset over the Duluth Harbor South Breakwater Outer Light, North Pier Light, South Breakwater Inner Light, and the Aerial Lift Bridge (left to right), all listed on the National Register of Historic Places. | ERIC CHANDLER (also known as the Wisconsin Point Light) was listed on the NRHP in 2007. In 2013, the USCG issued a NOA, putting that lighthouse on the market. They reissued the notice in June 2016, still looking for an organization to take ownership. Presumably, if nobody steps up, it will be put up for sale. Depending on the lighthouse, the lights and signals may still need to operate as federal aids to navigation as a condition of the sale. According to a 2014 report by the General Services Administration, since the

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Tues. & Thurs. Wing Night

Erosion and Stormwater Construction Installer Course (6 PDH) 8am - 4pm Tuesday April 11, 2017 Lutsen, MN

$.50 wings with Sriracha Buffalo or maple BBQ, blue cheese or ranch along with celery. Only available in the Poplar River Pub. (Winter specials available November through April. Not available holidays or with other specials.)

This one-day course is designed for those who install or inspect erosion and sediment control devices and establish vegetation on construction sites.

This course is free and includes a free lunch. Space is limited. Please register by April 4, 2017. Register online at www.cookswcd.org or call 218-387-3649. Course funding provided by the Minnesota Board of Soil and Water resources through the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment’s Clean Water Fund in collaboration with the Cook Soil & Water Conservation District and Lutsen Mountains.

FEBRUARY 2017

NORTHERN WILDS

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NHLPA passed in 2000, 113 lights have been transferred, 64 percent were taken over by stewardship transfers and 36 percent (41 lights) were sold at an auction, generating $5.6 million. The USCG also benefits by not having to spend money to maintain facilities they no longer need. It’s exciting to see the two lighthouses getting their historic due. And it will also be interesting to see whether the Coast Guard continues to see them as necessary or decides to give them up.—Eric Chandler

Cuesta Café

Another adventure

Youth Ski Correction: Lappe Nordic Ski Club In the January issue, our story on youth ski programs found along the North Shore did not include one of the most established cross-country ski programs on the shore: the Lappe Nordic Ski Club. Founded some 30 years ago, Lappe Nordic is a volunteer run Nordic ski club whose mission is to promote competitive and recreational cross-country skiing in individuals of all ages. The club is based out of the Lappe Nordic Ski Center in Thunder Bay and offers a variety of different youth programs. “We’re a family-oriented club,” says Fiona McKenna, the Jackrabbit coordinator for Lappe, “one focused on helping people of all ages have a good ski experience while enjoying a healthy outdoor lifestyle and staying active throughout the year.”

The Cuesta Café, owned by Jim and Yvonne McGrath, offers catering. | MCGRATHS

RED ROCK—The Cuesta Café is located within the Red Rock Township Community Recreation Centre. Run by Jim and Yvonne McGrath, it offers tasty meals made from scratch. Every day a fresh soup is created and bread is baked on site. In the evenings there are specials, like steak sandwiches and ribs. Breakfast is served all day. A variety of pizzas and sandwiches are also available. And for those children who aren’t sure what they want to eat, they have three humorous choices—the I Don’t Know, which is a basket of mini-corndogs and fries; the I Don’t Want That, a basket of chicken fingers and fries; and I Don’t Care, grilled cheese and fries. Jim and Yvonne are originally from Schreiber, Ontario. They have four children, four grandchildren and another one on the way. Their decision to open up a café came as a result of Jim hearing on the radio, that the Community Recreation Centre was looking for someone to run their restaurant from September to March. He talked it over with Yvonne and nine days later, they were setting up the Cuesta Café. They’d been to Red Rock for the Folk Festival and always enjoyed the people and coziness of the township. “Even the children are friendly and polite,” Jim added. Awed by the community’s reception to their arrival, Yvonne stated that they brought flowers and baking. Yvonne has worked in the food industry all of her adult life. She’s done everything from waitressing, cooking and managing a restaurant and a golf club. She said that she first got into this line of work to make additional money, so their children could participate in activities like hockey. Jim retired a couple of years ago from the railway and was eager to try his hand at working in a restaurant. He said that he had found last winter a bit slow, and thought this was a great way to pass away the colder months. The café opened in September and it has been busy right from the start. So much so, that they had to hire four people to keep up with the demand. They also offer catering and recently did the local Fire Department’s Christmas dinner. Jim and Yvonne are fond of traveling. Last year, they drove to the East Coast. It took them two months because they wanted to enjoy all the sights. They have also spent a lot of time in their 24-foot boat. They know the northern shore of Lake Superior so well that they can list off the islands and all the treasures they offer. So when it comes to running the café, they see it, as Yvonne jokingly shared, “another adventure.”—Kim Casey

For any parent looking to introduce their three-tosix year old to the sport, there is the Bunny Rabbit Ski Program, designed to introduce these young kids to skiing through games, challenges and “discovery activities.” The Jackrabbit Ski Program is Lappe’s program for kids age’s six to 10, and with four different levels within the program, Jackrabbits offers a great opportunity for kids of all skill levels to enjoy and develop their skills in both classic and skate skiing. Lappe even offers a Para-Nordic Program for kids. For more information, visit lappenordic.ca.

New non-profit helps young girls DULUTH— A Duluth-based mother and daughter team turned their passion into a reality with If the Dress Fits. Started in 2015 by Ashleigh Arntson and her mother Amy, If the Dress Fits provides an outlet for mothers and daughters to donate their new or used prom dresses to other girls who otherwise would not be able to afford prom. The mother and daughter duo collected over 200 dresses and reached out to dress stores for help with their fundraising efforts. Many people also donated money to help with the dry cleaning expenses, dress alternations and other services. Last November, If the Dress Fits became an official non-profit organization. For more information, contact Ashleigh at ashkarntson@gmail.com or visit facebook. com/ifthedressfits101.

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FEBRUARY 2017

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Snowmobilers gather to enjoy the trails during the Snowarama for Easter Seals. | RHONDA SILENCE

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FEBRUARY 2017

GRAND PORTAGE— For the 14th year, the Grand Portage community is hosting Snowarama for Easter Seals. All are welcome to join the fun—by hitting the scenic Grand Portage trails, by gathering around a cheerful winter bonfire or by heading to the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino to enjoy the after party on Saturday, Feb. 11.

of work to collect pledges that benefit Easter Seals of Ontario.

Snowmobilers who sign up for the event have two options for riding, both starting at the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino. There is a long ride of approximately 120 miles, taking riders to stops along the Gunflint Trail. There is also a shorter ride of approximately 35 miles that takes riders to Ryden’s Border Store. Both routes meander through snow-covered trees and offer stunning views of Lake Superior.

“Funds raised at the event help provide financial assistance for essential mobility and communication equipment and fully accessible summer camping opportunities,” said Harrison.

Both routes also pass by the Grand Portage Trail Center on Mineral Center Road (County Road 17). One of the Snowarama organizers, Mary Ann Gagnon of the Trail Riders, said members of the snowmobile club will once again be there with a welcoming bonfire. There will be hot chocolate, hot dogs and chili to warm everyone up. The historic Trail Center is accessible by car as well, so folks not up to snowmobiling can also enjoy some winter fun. And Gagnon said the trails should be perfect by February 11. Trail administrator Bob Vogel reported on the Trail Riders Facebook page that, as of New Year’s Eve, much of the Grand Portage system had been dragged and is ready for riding. But Snowarama for Easter Seals Kids is more than just a snowmobile ride. Before hitting the trails, participants put in a lot

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Rhonda Harrison, senior development officer for Easter Seals, explains that over the past 13 years, the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino Snowarama has raised over $333,000 for children and youth with physical disabilities.

It’s easy to want to participate in Snowarama when attendees meet Easter Seals ambassadors like 13-year-old Zachary Pylychuk, of Thunder Bay. Zachary’s condition—spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), sometimes referred to as children’s Lou Gehrig’s disease—confines him to a wheelchair. Zach has been serving as the Snowarama Easter Seals ambassador for nine years and the Grand Portage community—and Snowarama riders—have enjoyed getting to know him. This determined young man and his mother, Jacqueline Pylychuk, matter-of-factly talk about motorized wheelchairs, lifting devices and the custom van needed to get around—things families without a child with physical disabilities don’t have to worry about. Easter Seals notes that a power wheelchair for a child with a severe disability can cost as much as $32,000—the price of a small car. And as children grow, new chairs are needed. Families also need to find ways to cover the cost of other neces-

sities, such as lifts, ramps, bathing equipment and basic living expenses. The financial burden on families to care for their child at home can be overwhelming. Jacqueline’s family is grateful for the assistance from Easter Seals. At last year’s Snowarama, she said, “One of the best things about support from Easter Seals is that it helps kids like Zack achieve a level of independence they couldn’t otherwise.” And while the fundraising is rewarding itself, there are added incentives. Riders enjoy a complementary dinner at the Grand Portage Community Center, a poker run and a Saturday night dance at Grand Portage Lodge and Casino. Anyone can join the fun, but the events are free to those who collect pledges. And, to celebrate the 14th year at Grand Portage Lodge and Casino, with every $100 in pledges earned, riders have a chance to win one of 14 fabulous prizes—including two trips to Las Vegas. But the bottom line, said Harrison, is the benefit to the Easter Seal children and their families. She expressed appreciation to the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino, the Grand Portage Trail Riders, the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and to all the riders who participate. “Snowarama would not be a success without the snowmobiling community,” said Harrison, adding, “Together we are helping kids be kids.” For more information visit snowarama. org.—Rhonda Silence

Kicksled trend glides its way up the Gunflint Trail GUNFLINT TRAIL— As he prepared to enter his first winter in the Northern Wilds, Gunflint Lodge owner John Fredrikson wondered about a new means to travel across the snow and ice that was sure to come. Already equipped with skis, snowshoes and other means of traversing the landscape for both himself and the guests who visit Gunflint Lodge each winter, Fredrikson wanted something unique for the business he and his wife, Mindy, purchased in the summer of 2016. And satisfying this urge for uniqueness came in the form of something known as a kicksled. “We had heard about kicksleds and realized that now we’re in the perfect setting for them,” Fredrikson said. “So we checked it out and it turns out there was a distributer right here in Minnesota.” And while indeed there is a company that sells kicksleds in Minnesota, it’s probably important to answer one instrumental question: What exactly is a kicksled? The easiest way to visualize a kicksled is to picture a chair stationed on a pair of skis. One person can sit in the chair and simply enjoy the ride, while another stands on the ski-type blades supporting the chair and propels the sled forward as though pushing a scooter. “Using a kicksled is very similar to cross country skiing–you get the same great exercise,” said Ben Lind, who owns Scandia Kicksled in Minnesota. “The difference is that you don’t need special boots and you are holding onto a handlebar. Because a kicksled has a seat, one person can ride and another can ski.” Another highlight of the kicksled is safety, according to Lind. “The chances of falling are small,” he said. “The seat is also handy for holding your gear if you go ice fishing,

hauling wood or other supplies, and just to sit and rest and enjoy a cup of coffee when out on the trail.” Linda and Ben Lind have been importing and selling kicksleds in Minnesota since 1985. Ben is of Norwegian descent and spent a year studying at the University of Oslo in Norway in the late 1960s. Most of Ben’s family members in Norway had a kicksled, so Ben learned to cross country ski and kicksled while he lived there. Linda said a key feature of kicksleds is that they can be used by all ages. “There are a variety of sizes and optional child seats for youngsters,” she said. “Our grandchildren have used them from the age of two and up. And senior citizens can use them to walk behind when on slippery conditions.” At the beginning of 2016, Ben and Linda’s daughter and son-in-law, Kristie and Brent Fingerson, took over Scandia Kicksled. They continue to import and sell the kicksleds from their base of operations in Houston, Minnesota, and much of the clientele remains the same. “We have two major audiences,” Linda said. “The first are young families who want to get out as a family to exercise. And we have grandparents who want to pass on a bit of their Scandinavian heritage to their children and grandchildren.” And regardless of who buys a kicksled or for what purpose, one truth is universal with kicksleds. “A kicksled makes a wonderful family gift because a whole family can use it and be outdoors together,” Linda said. And for John Fredrikson and his visitors at Gunflint Lodge, that’s exactly what they’re hoping for.

Kicksleds are becoming a popular means of travel in Minnesota and Ontario. | SUBMITTED said. “And if they work out as we hope they will, we’ll be buying more soon.”—Joe Friedrichs

“We’re excited to have these two kicksleds,” Fredrikson

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Finding the right home for our elders

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“The most important factor in choosing a facility is to keep the elder close to family and the community that they are connected to,” said Belinda Hudler, the activities director at the Care Center in Grand Marais. “It is also important for the family member to be able to participate in events in the community. This gives them a sense of purpose and connection to the things that they are familiar with.” Finding a home that fits the specific needs of the individual is a necessity. For example, the Care Center offers full nursing services for those who aren’t able to care for themselves or need more consistent medical care. Other places, such as Hillhaven in Grand Marais, provide assisted living services for those who need less aid; though they still offer physical therapy and hospital recovery stays. Licensed as Family Adult Foster Care for ages 55 or older, Hillhaven is a great fit for semi-independent individuals and prides itself on helping its residents “feel like (they) are living in a four bedroom house with some friends and caregivers,” said Becky Stoner, one of the owners. Along with running Hillhaven, Becky and Loren Stoner both act as a physical therapist and chiropractor, respectively. Hillhaven also has great amenities for its residents to enjoy, such as a view of Lake Superior, a garden and a pond. Ecumen Scenic Shores is a non-profit organization in Two Harbors that has Medicare five-star quality rated skilled nursing care and rehabilitation services, as well as a unique program called “Ecumen Awakenings” that focusses on replacing sedating drugs with sensory stimulation, aromatherapy, cooking and more. They also have an array of social and recreational opportunities, such as therapy dog visits,

FEBRUARY 2017

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drum circles, bingo, paddle ball and evening cocktails. All of these activities help foster a strong community, something Ecumen Scenic Shores finds very important. Anna, one of the nurses, says that the thing residents enjoy the most is “the comradery here between people who are in a similar situation to themselves.” Community Partners, also located in Two Harbors, helps residents over 60 live in their own homes, while still receiving the care they need. Community Partners is a great fit for those who need a little extra help from volunteers and support services, but are still capable of living at home. They offer rides and companionship to medical appointments and help with grocery shopping and household chores. The Community Partner volunteers, which includes high school students, allow family caregivers a chance to focus on personal needs while their elder relative is cared for. The Minnesota Veterans Home in Silver Bay provides a place for residents to live independently, while receiving 24hour nursing care. The building overlooks Lake Superior and their programs focus on enjoying the beautiful outdoors. To help their residents experience the North Woods, they have a garden, a four-season porch and a pontoon boat. Also located in Silver Bay is Carefree Living (part of Spectrum Health Companies). They offer assisted living, along with memory care services. Their memory care unit is a Music and Memory Certified Care organization, run by specially trained staff. When looking for a home, take into consideration things like activities offered, closeness to family, medical care, and transportation to provide the highest quality of life for the resident. Taking the time to find the right place will allow your loved one to continue living a purposeful life, while receiving the medical care and assistance needed.—Bailey Wolding

A Northern Wilds tropical oasis turns 50 THUNDER BAY—The year-round tropical oasis in the middle of Thunder Bay, the Centennial Botanical Conservatory, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. The Conservatory, which opened on Nov. 18, 1967, was a centennial project of the Fort William Board of Parks management to commemorate Canada’s 100th birthday (cities of Fort William and Port Arthur were amalgamated by the Ontario government in 1970 to form the City of Thunder Bay). It cost $162,000 (equal to about $1.2 million in 2016) to construct the Conservatory, using 18 tons of glass and steel from southern Ontario and three tons of amethyst and split granite mined locally. Rated by Trip Advisor as number seven of 62 “Things to do in Thunder Bay,” visitors can stroll the pathways to enjoy the tropical plants (conveniently labelled), trees and shrubs from around the world, and meander through a vibrant landscape that includes a waterfall, bridge and wishing ponds. The lush tropical environment under glass is also a popular location for wedding ceremonies and photos. Where else in Northwestern Ontario can you go for a tropical refuge during the winter, without paying for airfare/hotel? While winter rages on outside, it’s the perfect place to bring a book to read on a garden bench, do some sketching or photography, or just take a break, warm and cozy from the winter cold. Admission is free (donations appreciated), there’s free Tbaytel.net public Wi-Fi and the facility is barrier-free.

dens, picnic benches, perennial gardens and walking trails that link up with other city recreational trails. Since the summer of 2014, visitors can also view the honeybee functioning beehives on the west side of the Conservatory, which were placed by beekeepers Rudy and Lois Kuchta, members of Thunder Bay Beekeeper’s Association. For history buffs, there’s an extra bonus. The Conservatory, with its distinctive glass arboretum, was designed by the famous American greenhouse manufacturer Lord & Burnham, which had been designing and manufacturing greenhouses since 1849, including New York’s Haupt Conservatory, and Buffalo and Erie County’s tri-dome glass Conservatory (which when built in 18971899 was one of the largest public greenhouses in the U.S.). The city-owned Conservatory is supported by the Friends of the Conservatory, a volunteer organization described on their website as, “a group of forward-thinking citizens working to creatively enhance and promote the use of the Conservatory and its property.” And they’ve been very successful, as thousands visit each year to enjoy the mini-tropical paradise, the gardens, and special events, like January’s The Green House; a “tropical get-away with an afternoon of music,” co-hosted by the Friends of the Conservatory and musician Matt Migz. For more information, go to friendstbconservatory. com.—Elle Andra-Warner

Outside on the grounds during the summer months, there are community and children’s gar-

The waterfall and wishing ponds add a soothing touch to the vibrant, tropical-like environment. | ELLE ANDRA-WARNER

NSHCF awards $12,000 grant GRAND MARAIS—The North Shore Health Care Foundation (NSHCF) board has approved a request from Cook County Public Health and Human Services (PHHS) director Josh Beck and his supervisory team for funds to support front line staff. County staff that work with the most atrisk members of our community need support and training. This grant will enhance the quality of services by providing the following staff training opportunities: Signs of Safety, Forensic Interview Training and Person-Centered Training, as well as a facilitated peer support group. Signs of Safety is a strengths-based, safety-organized approach to child protection. The focus of the framework is building partnerships with parents and children and dealing with the issues of maltreatment. In a case of suspected maltreatment, the investigation of risk is expanded to encompass strengths and build upon Signs of Safety. This approach is used internationally and demonstrated success for child protection workers throughout the world. The First Witness Forensic Interview Training provides enhanced education to professionals investigating allegations of child abuse. The course is designed for law

enforcement officers, social workers, prosecutors, child protection attorneys and forensic interviewers. Staff will learn about child development, memory, legal issues and testifying in court through a combination of lecture, discussion, recorded interviews and an interview practicum. Twelve members of the Cook County PHHS Multi-Disciplinary team—including four social workers—will attend the course. Grant funds will allow Cook County to host the training, thus reducing time/travel costs for local participants. Person-Centered Training incorporates both person-centered thinking and planning. Person-centered thinking focuses on the “now” and promotes service planning that empowers people who receive services. Five employees will attend the first section of the person-centered training. Another part of the grant will support staff development and retention through ongoing trauma informed care training. Investing in the education of Cook County employees related to trauma-based care will in turn benefit each individual who requests or receives services It is widely known that human services staff experience high rates of secondary traumatic stress and burnout from high

[L-R] Martina Williams, Alison McIntyre, Josh Beck and Bob Fenwick receive a $12,000 check from Karl Hansen [CENTER] of NSHCF. | SUBMITTED

workloads. Secondary traumatic stress can manifest itself in significant emotional, physical and personal ways. Part of the grant will allow the agency to bring in an outside mental health practitioner to facilitate an internal peer support group.

Staff members will be able to speak freely about concerns they may be having with general job and casework stressors.

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FEBRUARY 2017

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North of the Border

Also coming to the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium is the smash hit Mama Mia, performing two shows as part of their farewell tour. This funny and heartwarming musical, based on the songs of ABBA, will be held at 8 p.m., Feb. 14-15. tbca.com The Children’s Centre Foundation in Thunder Bay, in partnership with Lakehead University, is inviting the community to “run away from the cold” with the eighth annual Thunderwolves Indoor Marathon on Sunday, Feb. 12. Held at the Lakehead University Hanger, the event is open to any and all runners, regardless of age or skill level.

Beautiful bras from A to J, Swimwear, Sleepwear, Shapewear and the “Sympli” clothing line.

The Thunder Bay Art Gallery will be holding “A Question of Animals” during Family Day on Monday, Feb. 13. All ages can participate in a creative animal-themed activity to take home. Then, explore the large animal exhibit, with drawings by Amanda Burk and paintings by Norval Morrisseau and Elizabeth Buset. Activity will be held from 12:30-3 p.m. theag.ca

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Rooster’s Bistro

The Red Lion Smokehouse will be holding special events throughout the month, including a Wine Lovers Wine Tasting from 8-10 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 14. Spend the evening tasting four different wines with your Valentine. Cost is $25 per person. Also be sure to check out the Blue Grass Brunch event on Sunday, Feb. 26 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. There will be a brunch menu with tasty cocktails and live music. Other events include the My Bloody Valentine theme night on Feb. 11, a Video Game Tournament on Feb. 15, Quiz Night on Feb. 22, and 90s Night Music Bingo on Feb. 25. redlionsmokehouse.ca

We’re not fast food. We’re good food fast!

Fur Trappers Convention Celebrating the business of wild fur

Open Daily 8 am-3 pm

32 St. Paul St. (807) 344-7660 roostersbistro.com

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THUNDER BAY—The Northwestern Fur Trappers Association (NWFTA) will be celebrating 40 years with their 2017 convention from Feb. 24-26 at the CLE Heritage Building in Thunder Bay. The convention is a free event open to the public. Representatives from every part of the industry will provide information from harvesting wild furs to producing fur products.

YOU A YOU’RE YOU ALREADY KNOW YOU’RE GONNA LOVE IT YOU ALREADY KNOW .5 PO YOU’RE GONNA LOVE IT! YOU ALREADY KNOW YOU’RE GONNA LOVE IT!

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For tickets call 684-4444 or visit WWW.TBCA.COM

ALL TICKET SALES FINAL - NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES

TUESDAY FEB. 14 WEDNESDAY FEB. 15 BOTH SHOWS AT 8:00 PM To l l F r e e 1 - 8 0 0 - 4 6 3 - 8 8 1 7

FAREWELL TOUR

TUESDAY FEB. 14 WEDNESDAY FEB. 15 BOTH SHOWS AT 8:00 PM TM

For tickets call 684-4444 or visit WWW.TBCA.COM

To l l F r e e 1 - 8 0 0 - 4 6 3 - 8 8 1 7

ORDER TICKETS ONLINE AT FAREWELL TOUR www.tbca.com Call 684-4444

Feb 14 - 8PM Feb 15 - 8PM For tickets call 684-4444 or visit WWW.TBCA.COM

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To l l F r e e 1 - 8 0 0 - 4 6 3 - 8 8 1 7 ALL TICKET SALES FINAL - NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES

ALL TICKET SALES FINAL - NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES

FEB. TollTUESDAY Free 1 - 800 - 463 - 881714 WEDNESDAY FEB. 15 FEBRUARY 2017 17 BOTH SHOWS AT 8:00 PM

For more information on times, scheduling and events during the convention, go to nwfta.ca or Northwestern Fur Trappers Association Inc. on Facebook. —Kathy Toivonen

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TUESDAY FEB. 14 WEDNESDAY FEB. 15 BOTH SHOWS AT 8:00 PM

sentations of mammals, fish and birds. The convention also offers demonstrations on trapping and skinning techniques, booths for retailers and organizations, and presentations by guest speakers from Canada and the U.S.

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FAREWELL TOUR

Fur-accented fashion designed by Thunder Bay furrier Katie Ball. | SILVER CEDAR STUDIO

FAREWELL TOUR

YOU ALREADY KNOW YOU’RE GONNA LOVE IT!

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For tickets call 684-4444 or visit WWW.TBCA.COM

One local trapper, though, has built a business by keeping the furs that she has harvested. Katie Ball is a trapper and furrier who crafts fashions with the furs. From her workshop, Silver Cedar Studios, Katie works with an electrically updated 1905 Bonis Fur Sewing Machine to create fur and fur accented fashions. A fashion show highlights her work every year at the convention. Another local business in attendance will be Black and Tan Taxidermy, which creates amazingly artistic pre-

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ALL TICKET SALES FINAL - NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES

Interestingly, beaver pelts are not only tanned and used for fashion, they are also still used to make felt for highend felt hats such as top hats, fashion hats and cowboy hats. Rabbit fur is also combined with beaver fur and felted for moderate quality hats.

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The fur industry, both wild and farmed, generates millions of dollars globally. For example, the 2014/15 fur auction in Helsinki, Finland auctioned 13 million ranched mink from American Legend Cooperative in the U.S.; 2 million ranched fox from Saga Furs in Finland; and 1 million wild fur (beaver, mink, marten, lynx, squirrel and otter) from Fur Harvesters Auction Inc. in Canada. The business of wild fur brings in tens of thousands of dollars in Northern Ontario alone. However, even though the trappers themselves don’t always see the big buck benefits in the industry, it has cultivated a way of life for many people. In Ontario, trappers harvest wild furbearing animals on registered trap lines or with private land trapping permits. After the animal is skinned, stretched and dried, the furs are shipped to the auction houses in Canada, the U.S., or Finland to be purchased on the world market.

YOU ALREA YOU’RE GONN

Calling all anglers and fly fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone suffering from winter fever. Enjoy a night of fishing films and giveaways at the Fly Fishing Film Tour at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium on Saturday, Feb. 11. Start the evening with the symposium and vendor fair at 6 p.m., followed by movies and door prizes at 7 p.m.

It features a full marathon, half marathon, 10km run or walk, a kid’s fun run, and a marathon relay for teams of two or more. The first race will begin at 8 a.m. Runners are encouraged to collect pledges before race day. Proceeds from the event will support the Children’s Centre Foundation, providing financial support to children’s mental wellness programs. Registration is required. thunderwolves.ca/ indoormarathon

How well do you know your partner? Find out with The Dating, Newlywed and Not So Newlywed Game, hosted by Spencer Hari. Held at Victoria Inn on Feb. 11, the evening will begin with a gourmet dinner, followed by the show and prizes for the audience. The event will be held from 6:30-9:30 p.m. and tickets can be purchased online. keynoteevents.ca

Memorable Dates

The good, the bad and the romantic

Temples and Trees By Eric Chandler

I was at the outer edge of the empire along the shore of the Yellow Sea. I had an awful head cold, but I still went to the party. And there she was: the young U.S. Air Force captain with brown hair that I kept crossing paths with. Like me, she was stationed at Kunsan Air Base on the west side of the Korean peninsula. I drank enough liquid courage at the party to ask her out. I suggested a road trip the next day. She agreed.

Mom and baby reunited post-date and no worse for wear, thanks to babysitters Grandma and Grandpa. | MAREN WEBB

Parents’ First Date

I decided on Byeonson-bando National Park, located on a mountainous peninsula just across the bay, south of the air base. In the boldest (or stupidest) first date move ever, I invited her to sit in the black ’86 GMC S-15 pickup that Uncle Sam let me bring across the Pacific. It had a cracked exhaust manifold that made it bang and smell like a diesel. We drove south under a late-fall overcast and I tried to keep snot from running down my face. We drove through the scenic mountains and stumbled onto the Naesosa Temple. On the way to the entrance, we walked past a dangsan tree; a sacred tree, often seen as a village guardian. This yelkova serrata (or Japanese elm) was over 500 years old. It was known as the Dangsan Grandfather. We passed the gate and walked along the path, lined on both sides by mature fir trees, like a dark, green tunnel. The firs ended after a quarter mile and cherry trees then lined the path. Snow started spitting out of the sky. We were almost the only people there. We passed through the inner gate and saw the massive Dangsan Grandmother. This yelkova tree was 1,000 years old. We passed some more buildings and shrines until we found the Main Buddha Hall of the temple. Shelley, who I barely knew, climbed the steps and I took her picture. Steep mountains and snow surrounded us. The original temple was built in 633 A.D. It was burned by the invading Japanese in the late 1500s and rebuilt in 1633. The Main Buddha Hall was made entirely with wood. No nails. The Dangsan Grandmother and Grandfather trees stood guard over the Temple as the centuries swept by. I found an Asian Philosophy text that said, “The holy trees almost always stand in pairs, as 18

FEBRUARY 2017

NORTHERN WILDS

By Maren Webb

People tell you that your life will change; “enjoy sleep while you can,” they say. They encourage you to take care of yourself and your marriage. And to get out on a date once in a while.

Shelley at the Main Buddha Hall, Naesosa Temple in Korea, 1994. | ERIC CHANDLER evidenced in the tree of grandmother (halmang dangsan) and grandfather (halbae dangsan). These two trees symbolically emphasize harmony and balance between the masculine and feminine principles, Yang and Yin, rather than suggest the idea of a center.” Twenty-two years after that first date, I sometimes find myself outside with that same brownhaired lady, surrounded by hills in the falling snow. I like to imagine any harmony and balance we have coming from those Naesosa Temple trees. But mostly, from Grandmother. She had to be patient 500 years longer than Grandfather. Almost as patient as Shelley is with me.

Yes, this is the advice that you get before having children. And from what I can tell so far, it’s good advice. So, my spouse and I decided that as parents of a twomonth-old, it was time for us to go on our first date as parents. We went to brunch at the Vanilla Bean restaurant in Two Harbors. We’ve all seen this scenario on TV and in the movies; the parents go out to eat, but the whole time they are fixated on whether the kids are ok at home and struggling to not call the babysitter. In our case, it probably helped that the babysitters were Grandma and Grandpa and we were less than 10 minutes away. While our date was phone call and (mostly) worry free, our phones were on and our daughter definitely came up in conversa-

tion more than once. But, I think that’s how it is meant to be. Life changed the moment we became parents, for the better. Just as date night changed when we went from boyfriend and girlfriend to husband and wife. Our lives will never be the same now that we have a beautiful daughter to think about and whom we’ll enjoy new experiences. Date night may become less common, but we’re learning from friends on how to make it happen; great ideas like having at-home dates after the kids go to bed and having a babysitter on retainer one night a week. I expect that in the future we’ll also be marking our calendars with the local YMCA’s Parents Night Out dates and calling up the grandparents to babysit. While date night may never look the same, I couldn’t be more thankful for the reason why.

A Short Courtship

Romance with Mice

By Kim Casey

My grandfather Norman was never one to dwell on the past. When his marriage to Evelyn ended, he left the small mining town of Wawa and moved to Thunder Bay. His daughter Heather followed shortly after and hadn’t been living with him long, when she met Denis. Their attraction immediate and strong, they got married after a very short courtship. Norman didn’t think his only daughter had had enough life experience to deal with the demands of being a wife, so he didn’t attend the wedding. However, as doubtful as he had been of the young couple’s hasty union, he didn’t hesitate to support Heather when she became pregnant. When she went into labor,

By Joe Friedrichs

Norman rushed to the hospital. An hour later, I was born. My grandfather couldn’t have been more proud. Just when he thought life couldn’t get any better, in walked Denis’ mother. This was the first time he had met Ida. Intrigued by the robust widow, Norman asked my grandmother on a date. The standard practice of a romantic dinner and a movie was of no interest to the self-taught charmer; he took her bowling because he wanted a chance to admire her curves without appearing obvious. But Ida must not have minded, because they married three months later, and remained husband and wife until their deaths.

My Valentine’s 2013 was like a Bukowski poem, with scenes from ley Kubrick film.

Norman and Ida were married for 35 years. | KIM CASEY

My Bad Date

“I’ve been watching you,” she said. “Would you like to go for dinner?” “Uhhhhh...” I stammered, very much the red faced, northern bumpkin.

It was indeed the strangest and most unsettling greeting I’ve ever heard upon checking into a place of lodging.

“Meet me at dorm X (this detail is lost) tonight at 6 pm.,” she said firmly, but with a smile, before she walked away. I can’t even remember if I asked for her name. I met the mystery woman at the allotted time and we walked to the restaurant. What I recall about the evening has been distilled into a handful of vivid memories. She stated early on she was looking for a marrying type. Apparently I fit some—not all—of her physical criteria. But

Meanwhile, it was Valentine’s Day and romance was supposed to be the theme. Not long after entering our assigned room, Maggie and I both felt cheap and dirty. The linens on the bed were old and stale. The room was bare, other than a small wooden chair and a lonely nightstand that looked more like a deflated basketball resting on top of a huge golf tee.

she also wanted to know where I was from (she had no clue where Thunder Bay was), what my parents did, how much my family was worth, and what I was taking in school. It felt more like a job interview. She must have picked up fairly quickly that my family was not quite rich enough for her tastes, and that I was a bad financial bet. The interrogation heat went down and she began to focus on drinking...a lot. At the end of the night, I went and paid the substantial bill. When I returned, a tipsy Miss Manners was stuffing the cutlery in her purse. “What are you doing?” I whispered, both embarrassed and shocked. “I need better cutlery in my dorm room,” she slurred, nonchalantly. “And they work it into the price anyway...” Awkward does not quite cover the walk back to her dorm. There was no second date.

It all went down in a central Minnesota town on the shorelines of a lake. Staying at a hotel that, in part, dubbed itself ‘The Castle,’ I knew we were doomed from the moment we entered the dilapidated structure. My wife Maggie and I noticed the castle looked more like an old barn than the Swed- Joe & Maggie Friedrichs. ish monument we were | JOE FRIEDRICHS hoping for. A man, who appeared as though he’d dropped straight out of The Adams Family and could be named nothing short of ‘Lurch,’ greeted us behind a tiny desk in the lobby. “The plumbing is not working in the room next to yours,” he said. “But you should be fine.”

Gord Ellis

In 1982, I was in my first year of University, in London, Ontario. There were many young women around and some were friendlier than others. One afternoon, after an incredibly boring economics class, an attractive, nicely dressed brunette classmate approached me.

Day in Charles mixed a Stan-

After accepting our fate in The Castle, the sun slowly started to set on the far side of the lake. I calmly sat in the chair and opened a copy of the John Fante book Ask the Dust. Maggie went to turn on the water for a bath in the room’s clawfoot tub. In doing so, a brown sludge oozed from the spout. It wasn’t quite milk-shake thick; more like a Dr. Pepper colored liquid with random globs of pudding tossed in. It was getting awkward. We said very little for the next hour. Despite the rough start to our Valentine’s Day getaway, it wasn’t until we heard the gang of mice that we knew it was time to flee. We could laugh about the sludge water. After all, we didn’t come to soak in a tub. And ultimately, it was possible to sleep under the strange sheets decorating the bed. But when the walls surrounding us came to life with the pitter-patter and relentless scratching of what must have been dozens of mice, something had to give. Gord Ellis in his 20s, circa 1982. | GORD ELLIS

We are okay with mice. Spending time in a cabin during a Minnesota winter often means seeing the occasional mouse. But The Castle was infested. It sounded like an army of mice lived in the walls. So at approximately 10:45 p.m., we checked out. The staff refunded some of our money, but we still paid more than $100 for our few hours spent at The Castle. We drove away in the cold night and sought shelter elsewhere. The highways and prairies were dark as we rolled along. Just before midnight, a Super 8 hotel manager agreed to rent us a room for $90. We sat down on the bed. The room was magically silent. It was Valentine’s Day, 2013. NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

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You Can’t Take it with You When You Go By Amy Schmidt

The hostess seated Andy and I at a dimly lit booth in the back of the restaurant. The booths were high, and once seated, the outside world seemed to disappear. We were two souls, lost in the exhilarating blur of being 20 and in love. The waitress burst abruptly into our tiny universe to take our drink order. We ordered club sodas with lime and bitters because they made us feel sophisticated and because they were as free as a glass of water. Alone again, we talked in hushed tones about the approaching winter break, his plans for Christmas and mine. Maybe we’d sneak out of family obligations to go for a walk in the woods north of town. Our drinks came and he excused himself to the bathroom. I glanced around the room, noting the inhabitants of other tables. Clearly not as happy as us, they ate their food with bored and dissatisfied expressions. As he slipped back into his seat, our food arrived. We thanked the waitress and reached for our silverware. With a flourish meant to make me laugh, Andy snapped open his cloth napkin and laid it over this lap. If the expression on his face changed momentarily, a small flash of panic, I was too busy relishing in his perfection to notice. Over our meal, we talked candidly about social issues and the meaning of life. He had so many profound things to say. I was swept away in the sea of his thoughts and remained content, bobbing up and down like a drunk sailor. We had dessert and shared a cup of coffee, because it was romantic to sip from the same mug and be-

WINTER ENTERTAINMENT Classical Music & Dinner Sundays 7 – 9 PM Acoustic by the Fireplace Mondays, Thursdays & Fridays 8 – 10 PM

Amy and Andy have had nine years of wedded bliss. | AMY SCHMIDT cause one cup was cheaper than two. Once the waitress brought us the bill, we paid and stood to leave. Weaving our way through the maze of tables, I noticed we were receiving strange glances and smirked smiles. Envy, I thought to myself, they can tell how happy we are and they’re envious. Andy reached for my hand as we approached the hostess, standing sentinel near the exit. I nodded to her, hoping she’d notice us and see how in love we were. Instead, she reached forward to snatch the cloth napkin that was hanging like a cape from the zipper of Andy’s pants. “I think we’ll keep the napkin, sir,” she said.

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FEBRUARY 2017

NORTHERN WILDS

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Unexpected Benefits of Fishing Tournaments By Elle Andra-Warner

It all started back in 1988 when a Thunder Bay real estate company sponsored a two-day fishing tournament at Lac des Mille Lac (a two-hour drive west of Thunder Bay) for the local chapter of the charity Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus Association of Ontario (SBHAO). At the time, I was the Ontario chair of SBHAO and a single parent, newly-separated, with three children (ages 15, 12 and six). Tournament organizers had invited me to attend and bring greetings from the provincial board at the wind-up presentations.

new scenic café 5461 north shore drive duluth, mn 55804

The tournament had plenty of entrants, lots of activities (including free helicopter rides), and a large media boat to take invited guests and families of the local SBHAO members fishing. So on Saturday afternoon, when it was our group’s turn on the boat, I joined two other mothers, a couple of volunteers and five children (including two of mine) to go fishing. The boat was captained by volunteer Glenn Warner, a tall, easy-going guy with a wonderful smile. With life jackets on securely, we all piled in—the kids were super excited about going fishing on a cool boat. It was a fun time with lots of chatter and laughter. No one caught a fish, but the kids had a great time. And we all enjoyed chatting with Glenn. The tournament wound up the next day, with the handout of prizes, presentations and a variety showcase on a stage with chairs in front. At some point, Glenn sat down beside me for a short while to watch. We chatted as new friends do, and I learned, among other things, that he was a divorced dad; though neither of us gave any indication of a ‘romantic’ interest in the other.

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Later, when my group was leaving to drive back to Thunder Bay, Glenn came over to our van to see us off. At the end of the conversation, he casually asked if he could call me some time to get a coffee. I gave him my phone number. And call he did. We went for coffee, married two years later, and after almost 27 years, are still together. Who knew that fishing tournaments and volunteering for charity could have such unexpected benefits?

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NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

A race is a culmination of months and years of practice of one's craft. It's the thrilling winner-takeall event that showcases the preparation and dedication of the athletes. Depending on the stage of one's career, goals for the race's outcome may vary, but the excitement still pushes participants to give everything they know they can. For sled dog mushers, racing not only entails the mental and physical preparation of the human, but also of the team of animals working feverishly to make their owner proud.

Andrea DeBoer during the Gunflint Mail Run. | NACE HAGEMANN 22

FEBRUARY 2017

NORTHERNâ&#x20AC;&#x201E; WILDS

treated myself to my first sled dog outing in January, 2013. It was my first winter outside of the state of Virginia and my upcoming birthday necessitated a novel experience. Being new to the North Woods, the concept of mushing up to that moment in my life had always been confined to a movie screen. I went out with a local guide, feeling the strong pull of the dogs and silently praising myself for wearing the appropriate number of layers to stay warm. I was amazed by the dogs. They were lean yet strong, excitable yet streamlined. As we rode, my mind drifted to the small connection I was forming to the mushers, past and present, who harnessed the power of dogs for necessity and for sport.

dogs tend to get bogged down with too much food in their stomachs, lower temperatures typically require more fuel. The mushers are required to attend a mandatory musher meeting the day before, during which the organizers go over the trail and the signs that they have out. They also answer questions the mushers may have about the course and the race's specific rules. The musher meeting is followed by veterinary checks for every dog racing. The vets will check one of the most anatomical features of the racing dogs: their feet. They will also take the time to listen to heart rates, check for sore muscles and joints and monitor the dogs' weight. To ensure the dogs are adequately prepared for the race, the veterinarians will also chat with racers about their respective training programs.

Dogs have been used to pull freight in the northern regions of North America, Siberia, the Arctic and even in the American southwest for more than 4,000 years. The first written account of turning this activity into a competition, however, didn't occur until the 1850s. Travelers on the route between Winnipeg and St. Paul challenged one another to an informal race that evolved into the memorable 1917 event on which the movie Iron Will was loosely based.

A hearty breakfast starts the race morning for DeBoer and her crew. After rallying her kids to help take care of the normal chores, like feeding the dogs and scooping poop, it's time for her to check in again on their feet. “The morning of the race we check all their feet again. We have to stay on top of any foot issues and put foot cream on them to keep them healthy,” said DeBoer.

As Alaska's Gold Rush captivated a world audience at the turn of the century, the sled dog races garnered attention there as well. The All-Alaska Sweepstakes race, first held in the spring of 1908, is the oldest organized sled dog race in the world. Spectators bet large sums of money on participants running the 408-mile trek from Nome to Candle, Alaska and back. When WWI interrupted the gold rush and interest in sled dog racing, the event dwindled.

Putting more straw in the dog boxes and adding fiberglass windows are additional steps the team takes to ensure the dogs stay warm when the temperatures plummet well below zero degrees Fahrenheit. The morning of the race also requires loading the sleds—one for primary use and one as a backup.

As a non-winter running and cycling race participant, I am familiar with the necessary preparations to get myself feeling good at most starting lines. The thought of adding eight barking dogs, all their food and medication, breakable (yet necessary) equipment and endless winter gear to the mix seemed like an overwhelming prospect. Having a race result depend on the animals in your care made me wonder where these mushers even begin the work required to have a smooth race. Mushers today, like Grand Marais resident Andrea DeBoer, navigate a very different racing environment than their predecessors. Currently, in her fourth year of racing, DeBoer was preparing herself for the Gunflint Mail Run Sled Dog Race in early January when I questioned her about the most intense aspects of preparation that get underway about seven days before the race. Though DeBoer is a local contestant for the Mail Run, she will often start packing her truck a few days ahead of time for the out of town races, like Ely's Wolftrack Classic 30. The truck, which transports the dog team and all the gear, will be loaded down with dog coats, dog blankets, extra gang line sections, tugs, neck lines and first aid kits. Also thrown in the bins are headlamps, food scoops, bowls, extra collars, a poop bucket, a shovel and a tool box for sled repairs. Grab the hand warmers to put in the dogs' shoulder coats to keep their muscles warm and the wraps to cover their wrists after applying the topical massage oil and her truck is just about filled to the brim.

[ABOVE] DeBoer will

Though it's a task that typically takes less than ten minutes, changing out the runner plastic on the sled right before the start of the race can have a big effect on cutting down friction on the snow.

[LEFT] DeBoer with a

Mushing is a spectator sport that can draw large crowds of people who want to see all of the action. Inevitably, a team of cute dogs is the main attraction for the watchers, and most want to get a few pets in before they speed away. Unfortunately, all these unfamiliar faces can have adverse effects.

often start packing the dog truck a few days ahead of time for races that are out of the Grand Marais area. | ANDREA DEBOER new batch of puppies to train. | ANDREA DEBOER

Oh, and when her three kids also attend the event, DeBoer also has to ensure they have all of their supplies as well. “About a week before the race we start organizing the gear, making sure nothing is broken,” explained DeBoer. “We label it in bins to make the race morning easier and not as hectic.” Training for the dogs tapers just as a runner might do before a marathon. DeBoer spent the week before the eight dog, 70mile version of the Mail Run doing fourmile sprint runs with the dogs to keep them loose. Coordinating the food not only for yourself and your family (the human team), but also a team of eight to 10 dogs, is enough

to make even the most confident racer check and re-check their stash. The main focus of DeBoer's dog food planning typically happens the night before the race. The dogs will gobble down about seven pounds of meat during the course of the Gunflint Mail Run; about half the night before and the other half spread out throughout the main race day. “I get the food prepared into portion-sized containers. The night before the race, I figure out how much meat and kibble to bring. Making sure I have dog bowls is another good one,” she laughs. Determining out how much food to bring can also depend slightly on outside factors, such as temperature. While the

“We like to keep the dogs in their boxes until about half an hour before the start. The dogs aren't used to seeing all these other people around,” said DeBoer. “We don't want to stress them out.” With the clock ticking towards the starting time, the dogs are let out of their boxes and suited up. Because the temperatures for the Gunflint Mail Run this year were well below her threshold, and because the race consisted of two legs, all her dogs wore boots. She gets them all harnessed up with the help of her husband and former-musher mom. With her team on the starting line, DeBoer knows she's done all she can, just like the other mushers. They have all been through similar extensive preparations that most spectators will never fully understand. Though my connection to this aspect of life in the north is limited to the questions I ask and the dogs I pet, I gladly contribute a cheer for a safe and exciting race for dogs and humans alike.

NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

By Breana Roy

In February, most folks associate the term red hot winter with Valentine’s Day and romance.

RED HOT WINTER

But when I asked photographers and artists to interpret the theme, many sent photos Flower” by Grand Marais and paintings of brilliant “Fire Art Colony glass studio instructor winter sunsets and fireMary Bebie. | MARY BEBIE themed artwork. Others sent candles, red knitted-scarves and hearts. Here’s our favorite interpretations of a red hot winter.

“Winter Cardinaland” acrylic on canvas, by Aaron Kloss. See more of his work at aaronkloss.com. | AARON KLOSS

“Gimmie a Kiss” by Duluth artist Michelle Wegler. Her paintings can be found at Lakeside Gallery in Duluth and online at michelleweglerart.com. | MICHELLE WEGLER Julie Kuipery makes tealight candles out of branches. Her work can be found at escapenaturally.ca. | JULIE KUIPERY

Photographer Ryan Tischer caught this amazing red sunrise, titled “Aerial Liftbridge.” His work can also be found at Lakeside Gallery, or at ryantischerphoto .com. | RYAN TISCHER 24

FEBRUARY 2017

“Play” by Duluth artist Adam Swanson. Visit adamswanson.com for more of his artwork. | ADAM SWANSON

“Chip-carved Heart” by Linda Ottis, a member of the Northwoods Fiber Guild. | LINDA OTTIS NORTHERN WILDS

Smooth Sophomores put Talent on Display By Casey Fitchett Memories of high school conjure up a gamut of emotions for most people. During those formative years, some found themselves involved in athletic pursuits. Others devoted their attention to academics or clubs. For current high school students Sam Chandler and the Laney and the Tramps crew, high school memories will include visions of before school group practices, gigs squeezed into already hectic schedules and writing original songs to perform and record. Duluth residents Sam Chandler and Laney Goei have known one another since kindergarten. Though they spent years passing each other in the hallways, a musical collaboration wasn't proposed until the spring of 2015 when Goei, a vocalist, asked Chandler, a pianist, to accompany her. “Laney was getting into some jazz singing at the time and she knew I had been playing piano for a while,” said Chandler. “She has a voice like nobody else's. I was impressed right off the bat.” Because Chandler had a basic knowledge of theory at the time, he was able to put together arrangements from a lead sheet for their practices. The two began frequenting the Music Resource Center (MRC) after school and were paired with a music mentor who gave them advice for improving their sound. Following their first performance together—a talent show performance at the MRC—Laney and Chandler performed at the Zeitgeist Arts Center's atrium space. Perhaps it was their rendition of “Autumn Leaves” that attracted the attention of acquaintance and bassist Grant Carl. Scrolling through their Rolodex of musically-inclined friends brought them next to Hans Larson, a drummer. The group was rounded out in October 2015 to include Laney Goei, Sam Chan-

Needle felted art by Penny Ortmann, a member of the Northwoods Fiber Guild. | PENNY ORTMANN

EXHIBITS Nov. 10-Feb. 9

Arrowhead Regional Biennial Exhibition Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Nov. 10-March 5 Laney and the Tramps impress classmates and community members with their jazz covers and originals. | SUBMITTED

Recent Acquisitions to the Collection: Norval Morrisseau Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

dler, Grant Carl and Hans Larson. All four members have been involved with the school band since their sixth grade year and have been taking individual lessons for their respective crafts as well. Just this past November, classmate and guitarist Ryan Zelen joined the band for Duluth East High School's talent show and continues to rehearse and play with them now.

Dec. 2-March 5

The current 10th graders find time to practice for their gigs at an hour that is abhorrent to most their age: before school starts. A current repertoire of 16 songs takes the group to gigs at Beaner's Central, the Visit Duluth's Tour Operator Convention at the Duluth Depot, numerous talent shows around Duluth and an opening for a TED talk presentation at the Zeitgeist Art Center. While Chandler's training in jazz gives his compositions a mostly jazz sound, Carl's blues-based playing gives them a nuanced edge. While they play mostly jazz

standards, a few pop and blues songs also make the cut. Not to be underestimated is the influence of Goei's voice, especially when they cover songs like “Creep” by Radiohead. “She really makes the whole group shine,” said Chandler. Networking at gigs, improving musicianship and writing originals are immediate goals for Laney and the Tramps. An appreciation for the brevity of these four years doesn't escape them, however. “In the long run, we're just trying to have fun. High school only lasts so long and I think being a part of Laney and the Tramps will be a memorable part of our high school experiences,” said Chandler. “We just love making music together and I think that is what's keeping us together and pushing us forward.” Examples of the group's past performances can be found on YouTube.

Elizabeth Buset: Swine Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

Jan. 12-Feb. 12

My Expressions: My Mind, My Art Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

Jan. 13-March 26

Amanda Burk: Stories of Contentment & Other Fables Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

Jan. 14-Feb. 20

Quilting Exhibition Baggage Building Arts Centre, Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca

Jan. 24-March 26

Pop Evolution Tweed Museum of Art, Duluth, d.umn.edu/tma

Jan. 26-Feb. 24

Annual Membership Exhibition Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Feb. 1-28

NWFA Antique Quilt Show NWFA Gallery, Cook, nwfamn.org

Breana’s Pick

Feb. 2-12

OF THE MONTH

Ely Artwalk Ely, elywinterfestival.com

In January, the North House Folk School in Grand Marais held an open house to showcase their Community of Craft project. The group installation features six-inch wooden tiles, representing the work of over 100 instructors and intern alumni. With so much to look at, it’s hard to pick a favorite individual tile. The installation will be located in the north classroom all-year. Visit northhouse.org for more details.

Feb. 23-April 9

Elizabeth Kuth: Rooted Expression (reception Feb. 23 at 5 p.m.) Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org Carla Hamilton: Gezielt (Targeted) (reception Feb. 23 at 5 p.m.) Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Feb. 25-March 26

Fiber Arts Exhibition Baggage Building Arts Centre, Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca

NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

FUN FEBRUARY 11 SATURDAY EVENING

SUMMIT CHALET 5:30 - 8:30 pm

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OPEN MIC 2/21 & 2/28

DJ BEAVSTAR 2/16, 2/23, 3/2

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2/10, 2/17, 2/18, 2/24

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SUNDAY BLUEGRASs

FEB 12 - Black River Revue FEB 19 - Chris Silver Band FEB 26 - Evergreen Grass Band 3:30-5:30pm | FREe | ALl Ages

Songwriter Series MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS

JAN 30 - Gabriel Douglas FEB 06 - Molly Maher FEB 13 - Communist Daughter FEB 20 - Mason Jennings FEB 27 - Moon & Pullution

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FEB 01 - Teague Alexy FEB 08 - Ben Kyle FEB 15 - Moors & McCumber FEB 22 - Sarah Krueger MAR 01 - Gaelynn Lee FIND YOUR

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FEBRUARY 2017

NORTHERN WILDS

Participants in the Nearly Naked Ruck March must carry a pack full of weight. | AMY MAKI

NEARLY NAKED RUCK MARCH

CANDLELIGHT SNOWSHOE, SKI OR HIKE

FEB. 25, SATURDAY

Bundle up for a candlelight snowshoe, ski or hike at one of the various locations, happening throughout the month of February.

Hosted by 23rd Veteran, the Nearly Naked Ruck March in Duluth is a 10-mile hike that raises money to help veterans transition back into society. However, this isn’t an ordinary hike; you must carry a pack full of weight. The weight in your pack equals one pound for every $10 raised—raise $400 and carry 40 pounds. Or raise $2,000 as a team of 10 and each person will carry 20 pounds. The weight represents the weight carried in the battle against combat stress. Registration and bag pick-up begins at 8 a.m. in Canal Park and the hike departs at 10 a.m., traveling roughly five miles to Duluth East High School and back. Warming stations with a bon-fire, tent, restrooms, coffee and hot chocolate, will be located throughout the hike. There will also be optional turn-around points along the way. Located in Esko, 23rd Veteran is

a non-profit organization that empowers veterans with PTSD to lead successful lives. Founded by executive director and veteran Mike Waldron, they provide long-term help to veterans leaving the military and to those who were never properly transitioned. Waldron, who fought in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, also suffered from PTSD. He was offered medication but no real help or explanation for his pain. After a rough, dark battle, he eventually connected the pain to distinct combat experiences and made a conscious effort to take control of his life. After studying at Purdue University, he became dedicated to helping other veterans live successful, meaningful lives. All money raised in the march will go directly to the organization. There will also be a cash bar, silent auction, music and a presentation on Friday, Feb. 24; free with registration. 23rdveteran.org

The first Candlelight Snowshoe and Hike is at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park near Two Harbors on Saturday, Feb. 4. This self-guided hike is roughly a two-mile round trip and is suitable for all ages. Afterwards, enjoy a snack and hot beverage at the Trail Center. The hike will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. mndnr.gov Head to Atikokan, Ontario on Friday, Feb. 10 for the fourth annual Candlelight Ski and Snowshoe, starting at 6:45 p.m. at the Little Falls Recreation Centre. There will also be raffle prizes, food and beverages available in Motown at 5:30 p.m. Cost is $2 per person or $5 for a family. Snowshoes are available for rental. skibeatenpath.ca The Hartley Nature Center in Duluth will hold their annual winter fun event on Saturday, Feb. 11. In addition to the Candlelight Ski, Skate and Snowshoe, there will be food provided by New Scenic Café, Bent Paddle beer tasting and fat tire bike demonstrations. Activities will be held from 4-7 p.m. Registration required. hartleynature.org Head to the Oberg Mountain parking lot in Tofte for an evening of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or hiking along the candlelit trails. There will also be a bonfire, hot cocoa and cookies to warm up with. Event will take place

Remember to mark your miles for Move It! | STOCK on Saturday, Feb. 18 from 6-8 p.m. sugarbushtrail.org Gooseberry Falls State Park near Two Harbors will also hold a Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe and Hike on Saturday, Feb. 18. Begin at the Visitor Center and follow the glowing luminaries along the trail. A bonfire and marshmallows will be available at the Lady Slipper Amphitheater, and hot beverages and snacks will be at the Visitor Center. The hike will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. Skiers ages 16 and older will need the Great Minnesota Ski Pass to cross-country ski. mndnr.gov NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

13th Annual Arrowhead

Vintage Snowmobile Rendezvous

Family Event sponsored by the Finland Snowmobile/ATV Club & Local Businesses

Saturday, February 18 All Sleds Welcome!

Guided Ride at 10 am

Hygge Week is all about embracing life’s simple pleasures. | VISIT COOK COUNTY

Starts at Wildhurst (7344 Hwy 1, Finland) Moose Walk/Moose Run Loop Food/Beverages Noon - ? Outside Music Various Vintage Run Awards

Fun for the Whole Family! For more info: Leroy Teschendorf 218-353-7337 WildhurstLodge.com Finland Snowmobile/ATV Club

Charles J. Futterer Memorial Open Bonspiel March 10, 11 & 12, 2017 $200.00 ENTRY FEE Info: Chuck Futterer 218-387-9393 camarors@boreal.org Karen Futterer 218-370-2517 swinfutt@boreal.org

cookcountycurlingclub.com

Simply Northwoods Vacations! Year-round Cabins & Cottages on Minnesota’s Gunflint Trail

Ski - Snowshoe - Snowmobile Fireplaces & Sauna

Relax! 218.388.4454 · 800.533.5814 www.gunflintpines.com 217 S. Gunflint Lk • Grand Marais, MN 55604

In honor of Black History Month, NSMA presents:

Sam Miltich & Clearwater Hot Club featuring

Charmin Michelle A Tribute to Harlem Renaissance jazz singer Adelaide Hall with guest violinist Evan Price of Turtle Island Quartet

February 18, 7:30 p.m.

WINTER WARM UP SOUP & CHILI COOK-OFF FUNDRAISER Feb. 4, Saturday Head to Superior Shores in Two Harbors for the second annual Winter Warm Up Soup and Chili Cook-off Fundraiser. This year, 10 chefs from Duluth to Grand Marais will be competing in both categories. Vote for your favorites while also enjoying a cash bar, live music by Jeff Mitchell’s band Barely Manalo and a silent auction. All proceeds will be given to the St. Jude’s Hospital and Research Center, and the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota. The fundraiser will be held from 5-8 p.m. and cost is free; donations are suggested. jacobsenschefsservice.com

CHOCOLATE AFTER DARK

Adult: $20, Youth (18 & under): $10

Feb. 9, Thursday The 20th annual Chocolate After Dark fundraiser will include a sampling of chocolate creations from local chefs, a silent auction, a wine wall and a

Tickets at tix.com (no fees) or at door starting 6:30 p.m. www.northshoremusicassociation.com

FEBRUARY 2017

Feb. 2-12 Enjoy 10 days of winter fun in Ely with the Winter Festival and ArtWalk, featuring dozens of family-friendly events. Activities include snow carvings, a spaghetti feed, Dorothy Molter Museum tours, fat bike demos and rides, hockey and broomball tournaments, snowshoeing, a candlelight ski, live music, a crafts fair and the Great Nordic Beard Fest Throwdown. The Ely Folk School will offer classes, such as intro to digital photography, learn to make pasties, make your own beaver fur hat, or make an herbal eye pillow. There will also be over 400 works of art on display downtown, including art by over 20 new artists. elywinterfestival.com

Arrowhead Center for the Arts 51 W. 5th St. Grand Marais

ELY WINTER FESTIVAL & ARTWALK

NORTHERN WILDS

Chocolate After Dark is a fundraiser for Arc Northland. | SUBMITTED cash bar. The fundraiser will take place at the Duluth Depot from 5-8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at eventbrite.com. All proceeds from the event go to supporting and expanding Arc Northland; a non-profit organization that promotes and protects people with disabilities and their families. Arc Northland provides support for Southern St. Louis, Carlton, Lake and Cook counties. arcnorthland.org

HYGGE WEEK Feb. 9-15 Visit Cook County is launching its first annual Hygge week, Feb. 9-15. Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is the Danish ritual of embracing life’s simple pleasures; feeling relaxed, cozy and surrounded by the warmth of family, friends, community and fire. Activities include a trollbeads party at the Grand Marais Sivertson Gallery at 4 p.m., and a full moon reading of Nordic tales and singing at Drury Lane Books in Grand Marais at 5:30 p.m.—both on Friday, Feb. 10. Voyageur Brewing in Grand Marais will hold events on Saturday, starting with a brewery tour at 11 a.m., followed by knitting by the fireplace at noon, and ending with the Mukluk Ball from 5-7 p.m. Other hygge inspired events include stargazing, dogsledding and cross-country skiing. visitcookcounty.com

WINTER FROLIC Feb. 10-11 The annual Two Harbors Winter Frolic includes events the whole family will enjoy, including a medallion hunt, snow sculptures, sledding and skating. Friday night events include the restaurant chili cookoff, the community curling challenge, and the city vs. county exhibition curling challenge. Saturday is also jam-packed with events, starting with a pancake breakfast at 8 a.m. There’s also a photo scavenger hunt, the winter t-ball tourney, open community curling, the vintage snowmobile ride, live music, a bonfire with free s’mores and a bean bag tournament. A full schedule of events, and registration forms can be found online. twoharborswinterfrolic.com

CLOUD CULT Feb. 11, Saturday Originally from Duluth, Cloud Cult is an experimental indie rock band led by singer Craig Minowa and features two live painters on stage and background visuals. Known for being an independent band, they’ve released 10 studio albums and declined major record label deals. They’ve also received multiple awards and accolades from MTV, the New York Times and Entertainment Weekly. This well-known and highly anticipated group will perform at Papa Charlie’s in Lutsen at 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance or $16 at the door. Must be 21 or older to attend. lutsen.com

VINTAGE SNOWMOBILE RIDES This month, multiple vintage fun runs will take place along the North Shore. The first is in Two Harbors on Saturday, Feb. 11, featuring food, prizes and fun. Registration for the Winter Frolic Vintage Snowmobile Ride is at the Two Harbors airport between 9-11 a.m. Ride leaves at 11 a.m. and will arrive in Two Harbors around noon. Lunch will be included from Carmody 61. Contact Jim Mc Dannold at jlm.jr@hotmail.com for more info. Then, on Saturday, Feb. 25, head to Cascade Lodge in Lutsen for the Blast from the Past Vintage Snowmobile Ride, hosted by the Lutsen Trail Breakers Snowmobile Club. Enjoy a 20-mile ride on the nearby trails, followed by awards and prizes. Registration is at 9 a.m. Cost is $10 per sled. cascadelodgemn.com/2017vintagesnowmobile.php Also on February 18 is the 13th annual Arrowhead Vintage Snowmobile Rendezvous in Finland, sponsored by the Finland Snowmobile/ATV Club and local businesses. The ride will begin at 10 a.m. at the Wildhurst Lodge. There will be outdoor music, awards and food at noon. All sleds are welcome. wildhurstlodge.com

Activities at the Two Harbors Winter Frolic include a t-ball tourney. | SUBMITTED

Preparing For Healthy Change

in February!

Where Teams and Individuals are challenged to

Move IT! Eat Well! Be Well!

By candlelight in the beautiful Superior National Forest.

Register online to log your minutes/miles of physical activity and help our community Move It to our virtual Hot Springs Destination: Chena, Alaska!

Go to: www.sawtoothmountainclinic.org,

Saturday

and click on the Move It icon.

February 18, 2017 6-8 p.m. Oberg Mountain Trailhead Tofte, MN

Feb 4: Northwoods Food Project & Cook County Extension: Midwinter Potluck Comm. Center - discussion of veggie varieties and Seed Swap 4 pm, Potluck 5:30 pm Feb 12: North Superior Ski & Run Pincushion Mountain Winter Fest 10 am – all day Feb 16: “Inspiring Resiliency”: speaker Kami Norlund Sawtooth Mountain Clinic 5:30-7:30 pm Feb 21: “Stillness Matters” : speaker Marcia Hyatt Birch Grove Community Center Noon-1 pm More Events will be Posted on the website as they are added! Sponsored by: Cook County Public Health &

A Fun, Family-Friendly Event created by Ski enthusiasts, members of the Sugarbush Trail Association and area resorts.

www.sugarbushtrail.org

Human Services, YMCA, Sawtooth Mountain Clinic, Healthy Northland, and Moving Matters.

Valid November 1, 2016 - May 31, 2017

MOVE IT is about moving towards good health

in lots of ways, including being physically active. It’s also about choosing healthier foods and feeling more peaceful and engaged in life. NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

M-SAT: 9AM-7PM SUN: 10AM-6PM

FIRESIDE CHAT FEBRUARY

6-7 pm

with Richard Gruchalla & Carrin Rosetti Raku Potters of Duluth, MN

Grab-n-Go Cooler Dine-in Seating Organic Produce Bulk Foods Humanely Raised Meat & Dairy cookcounty.coop | 218.387.2503 Canadian Cash & Debit Accepted

The Northern Fibers Retreat celebrates all styles of fiber arts. | NHFS

FOR ALL YOUR VALENTINE’S NEEDS

Everyone Welcome! on the East Bay of Grand Marais, MN

DRURY LANE BOOKS

NORTHLAND OUTDOORS DEER CLASSIC & THE BOAT, SPORTS, TRAVEL & RV SHOW Feb. 15-19 Take advantage of two expos in one, featuring a variety of fishing and hunting seminars, vendors, workshops, and manufacturers on hand demonstrating the newest products. There will also be an endangered species exhibit, live entertainment by Mountain Faith, youth activities, and a variety of boats, docks, lifts, RVs, lodges and motorcycles. One ticket gives you admission to both events, located at the Duluth DECC. Cost is $10 for adults and $6 for students; ages five and under are free. shamrockprod.com

NORTHERN FIBERS RETREAT

Nordic Folk Tales and Poetry Acapella Folk Songs Rose Arrowsmith DeCoux Erika Ternes & friends

Friday, Feb. 10 5:30 p.m. Full Moon Rise & Bonfire 14 W. Wisconsin St., Grand Marais, MN 218.387.2491 | 888.880.4369

www.sivertson.com 30

FEBRUARY 2017

12 E. Wisconsin St., Grand Marais

NORTHERN WILDS

218-387-3370

Feb. 16-19 The Northern Fibers Retreat, hosted by the North House Folk School, Grand Marais Art Colony, and the Northwoods Arts Fiber Guild, celebrates all styles of fiber arts. This year’s retreat features seminars, a kids program, a Show n’ Share, and the popular Lunch and Learn series. Courses include knitting socks, creating decorative pins, bead weaving, rug hooking, spinning luxury fibers, needle felting, and a winter natural dye workshop. This year’s featured instructor is knitter Nancy Bush. She will teach two courses; knitting Estonian gloves and Estonian lace. Programs will be held at the Grand Marais Art Colony and the North House Folk School. northhouse.org or grandmaraisartcolony.org

SAM MILTICH & CLEARWATER HOT CLUB FEATURING CHARMIN MICHELLE Feb. 18, Saturday In honor and celebration of Black History Month, the North Shore Music Association with be hosting jazz singer Charmin Michelle, with Sam Miltich and Clearwater Hot Club. They will perform a tribute to American-born jazz singer Adelaide Hall, who was a major figure in the Harlem Renaissance. The Concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts in Grand Marais. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. Cost is $20 for adults and $10 for youth. northshoremusicassociation.com

WINTER CARNIVAL Feb. 18-20 Enjoy a weekend full of winter fun for the whole family at the Fort William Historical Park Winter Carnival in Thunder Bay. There will be a giant snow maze, tubing and sliding hills, skating, curling, carnival games and contests, live indoor and outdoor entertainment, fat bike rides, horse drawn wagon rides, storytelling, crafts, snow graffiti and more. You can also fire a musket, by donating $2 to the Canadian Corps of Voyageur group. New this year are hovercraft rides, for ages six and up. Cost to ride is $20. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, starting at 11 a.m. each day. The festival will be held from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. all weekend and tickets can be purchased daily or as a weekend pass. fwhp.ca

[ABOVE LEFT] Family SnowDay in Thunder Bay is a celebration of all things winter. | PETER WRAGG [ABOVE RIGHT] The Sleeping Giant Loppet race is for

all ages and skill levels. | DAN VENTRUDO

CHESTER BOWL WINTER CARNIVAL

Ride across Lake Superior at the Bike Across the Bay event in Washburn, Wisc. | PETE OLSON

BIKE ACROSS THE BAY

FAMILY SNOWDAY

Feb. 19, Sunday Bike across Lake Superior with the Bike Across the Bay event in Washburn, Wisc., hosted by the North Coast Cycling Association. Enjoy the incredible shoreline scenery, stunning rock formations, and discover the brownstone ice caves, cracks and crevices. Rides will be approximately 10k and 20k and start at 10 a.m. Winners will be awarded for both distances. Fee is $15 by Feb. 13 or $20 the day of. northcoastcycling.com

Feb. 20, Monday SnowDay is a free celebration of winter on Family Day at Marina Park in Thunder Bay. There will be activities and entertainment for all ages, including fat tire biking, snow carving, skating, kicksledding, snowshoeing, snowga-yoga, face painting and the new rail jam competition. You can also vote for Best Chili at the Empty Bowls Caring Hearts Chili Cook-off fundraiser. Or warmup with activities and craft demos inside at the Baggage Building Arts Center and Mariner’s Hall. The celebration will be held from noon to 5 p.m. thunderbay.ca/snowday

Feb. 25, Saturday The annual Chester Bowl Winter Carnival in Duluth features activities for the whole family. The event takes place at the base of the ski hill and includes carnival games, tug-o-war, a ski and snowboard limbo contest, mini snowmobile rides and hayrides. It will be held from 1-4 p.m. at Chester Bowl Park. Admission is free. (218) 724-9832

NIPIGON ICE FEST March 3-5 Ontario’s longest running, premiere ice climbing festival will feature ice climbing clinics for beginner to advanced levels and a women’s only clinic. There will also be a guided snowshoe trek, winter camping, a gear swap and raffle. After a

day of climbing, warm up at the Legion Hall and enjoy presentations by outdoor adventurers and climbing enthusiasts, beginning at 7 p.m. Event registration is required. outdoorskillsandthrills.com

SLEEPING GIANT LOPPET March 4, Saturday Originally called the Thunder Bay Ski Tour, the Sleeping Giant Loppet is a cross-country ski race for all levels and ages. Races include the 8km Mini-Loppet, 20km, 35km, 50km Free, 50km Classic and the 50km Skiathlon. Following the races will be a party and awards ceremony from 6:30-10 p.m. at the Sleeping Giant Brewery, featuring brewery tours, food from Pinetree Catering, and a separate children’s area with movie viewing and snacks. Race registration is required. sleepinggiantloppet.ca

Naniboujou Lodge and Restaurant Money Exchange Parcel Pickup

Dog Sledding Weekend

February 24 & 25. Naniboujou is partnering with Points Unknown Dog-Sledding Adventures for a unique weekend experience! Friday night: Presentation on dog sledding plus meet and greet with the dogs. Saturday: Time on the sled and with the dogs on site at Points Unknown. Arrangements to be made ahead of time so please call 218-387-2688 for details.

Call for info on Winter Weekend Packages & Dining Hours Located on Highway 61 just 14 miles east of Grand Marais

www.naniboujou.com 218.387.2688

10,000 U.S. and Canadian Souvenirs

Gas

www.RydensBorderStore.com

You’re invited to the Second Annual

WINE

218-475-2330

Duty-Free Liquor

BEER &

Family Owned Since 1947

Winter Warm Up Soup & Chili Cook-off

Saturday, Feb. 4, 5-8 pm Superior Shores Resort, Two Harbors This Free event is a fundraiser for St. Jude’s Hospital and the Epilepsy Foundation of MN. Suggested Donation: $10-$20 Music by “Barely Manalo” (Jeff Mitchell) Slient Auction

Come on down and cast your votes!

Sun-Thurs: 11am - 8pm Fri & Sat: 11am - 9pm 218-387-1915 401 E. HWY 61, GRAND MARAIS, MN

$3 OFF

Take Out or Dine In Expires 2-28-17

Any Large PIZZA Any Large PIZZA NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

FEBRUARY

Northern Wilds Calendar of Events Jan. 30-Feb. 11

Joe Paulik 8:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern,

Feb. 9-19

Crees in the Caribbean Magnus Theatre, Thunder Bay, magnus.on.ca

Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Feb. 1-28

Feb. 4, Saturday Ridge Riders Snowmobile Fun Run 9 a.m. Gunflint Trail, cookcountysnowmobileclub.com Midwinter Potluck 4 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais, sawtoothmountainclinic.org Winter Warm Up: Soup & Chili Cookoff Fundraiser 5 p.m. Superior Shores, Two Harbors, jacobsenschefsservice.com Split Rock Lighthouse Candlelight Snowshoe & Hike 6 p.m. Split Rock Lighthouse, Two Harbors, dnr.state.mn.us Meet the Chef Dinner 6:30 p.m. Lutsen Resort (218) 663-7212 TBSO: By Request 8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

You Can’t Take It With You 7:30 p.m. (2 p.m. Sun.) Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org

Black History Month Move It! Cook County, sawtoothmountainclinic.org

Feb. 1-4 Blackwoods Blizzard Tour ALS Fundraiser Duluth, web.mn.alsa.org

Feb. 2, Thursday Groundhog Day

John Beargrease Marathon Awards 11 a.m. American Legion, Two Harbors, beargrease.com Webinar: Celebrating Groundhog’s Day 4 p.m. International Wolf Center, Ely, wolf.org NOSFA: Manchester by the Sea 6:30 & 8:50 p.m. SilverCity, Thunder Bay, nosfa.ca Jon Miller 7:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Feb. 2-4

Feb. 5, Sunday Super Bowl LI NFL on the Big Screen 5 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com Bowl Party Buffet Hungry Jack Lodge, Gunflint Trail, hungryjacklodge.com

Feb. 8, Wednesday

Winnie the Pooh Kids 7:30 p.m. Paramount Theatre, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/plivetbay

Feb. 2-5 Superbowl Bonspiel Port Arthur Curling Club, Thunder Bay, pacurling.com Beauty & the Beast 7 p.m. (2 p.m. Sun.) Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, grandmaraisplayhouse.com

Feb. 2-12

Blood Drive 9 a.m. Two Harbors High School, mbc.org St. Mary’s Spaghetti Dinner 4:30 p.m. Silver Bay High School Cafeteria, lakecountycalendars.org

Feb. 8-12 FWCC Travelers Men’s Provincial Championship Fort William Curling Club, Thunder Bay, fortwilliamcurlingclub.com

Feb. 9, Thursday

Ely Winter Festival & Art Walk Ely, elywinterfestival.com

Feb. 3-4

Spring Career Fair Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, lakeheadu.ca Building & Contracting Workshop 8 a.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais, cookcountylocalenergy.org Chocolate after Dark 5 p.m. The Depot, Duluth, arcnorthland.org Celebrity Dance Challenge 7:30 p.m. Marshall School Auditorium, Duluth, minnesotaballet.org TBSO: Dueling Guitars with Joseph Roy & Matt Sellick 8 p.m. Italian Cultural Centre, tbca.com

GNDWIRE Records Ski Party

Feb. 9-15

Feb. 2-18 Green Day’s American Idiot 7:30 p.m. The Underground, Duluth, duluthplayhouse.org

Feb. 3, Friday National Wear Red Day: Heart Health Awareness goredforwomen.org Parmalee and Shane Martin 10 p.m. Grandma’s Sports Garden, Duluth, twinportsnightlife.com/parmalee.htm

Lutsen Mountains, lutsen.com

FEBRUARY 2017

Hygge Week Cook County, visitcookcounty.com

NORTHERN WILDS

Feb. 10, Friday Trollbeads Party 4 p.m. Sivertson Gallery, Grand Marais, sivertson.com Full Moon Nordic Tales & Songs 5:30 p.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, drurylanebooks.com Valentine’s Dinner Dance 6 p.m. Greysolon Plaza Ballroom, Duluth, facebook.com/ elegantvalentinedinnerdance Candlelight Ski & Snowshoe 6:45 p.m. Little Falls Recreation Centre, Atikokan, skibeatenpath.ca

Feb. 10-11

Fly Fishing Film Tour 6 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com The Dating, Newlywed and Not So Newlywed Game 6:30 p.m. Victoria Inn, Thunder Bay, keynoteevents.ca DSSO: Hidden Treasures 7 p.m. Duluth DECC, dsso.com Philip & Phriends 7 p.m. Two Harbors High School Auditorium TBSO: Dueling Guitars with Joseph Roy & Matt Sellick 8 p.m. Italian Cultural Centre, tbca.com Cloud Cult 9:30 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com My Bloody Valentine 10 p.m. Red Lion Smokehouse, Thunder Bay, redlionsmokehouse.ca

Feb. 14-15

Feb. 11-12

Feb. 15-19

Winter Frolic Two Harbors Curling Club, twoharborswinterfrolic.com Wolves After Dark 5 p.m. International Wolf Center, Ely, wolf.org Willie Waldman Project 8:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Pottery Workshops for Beginners Baggage Building Arts Centre, Thunder Bay (807) 684-2063 Arrowhead Chorale presents Choral Creations: Craig Carnahan & A Composition Competition 7:30 p.m. (3 p.m. Sun.) Sacred Heart Music Center, Duluth, arrowheadchorale.com

Feb. 10-12

Feb. 12, Sunday

DCC Duluth Ice and Mixed Fest Duluth, duluthclimbers.org

Feb. 11, Saturday Snowarama for Easter Seals Kids Grand Portage Lodge & Casino, snowarama.org Sno-Ho Rally & Poker Derby 10 a.m. Club Chalet/Legion Branch 145, Atikokan, atikokansnoho.com Dorothy Molter Fun Run 10 a.m. Ely, elyigloo.com Nice Girls of the North Marketplace 10 a.m. Lakeside Lester Park Community Center, Duluth, nicegirlsofthenorth.com Vintage Snowmobile Ride 11 a.m. Two Harbors Airport, jlm-jr@hotmail.com Free Family Art Day 11 a.m. Duluth Art Institute, Duluth, duluthartinstitute.org Chocolate Cup Challenge Noon, Nordic Lake Trail Head, Atikokan, skibeatenpath.ca Knitting by the Fireplace Noon, Voyageur Brewing, Grand Marais, voyageurbrewing.com Candlelight Ski, Skate & Snowshoe 4 p.m. Hartley Nature Center, Duluth, hartleynature.org Mukluk Ball 5 p.m. Voyageur Brewing, Grand Marais, voyageurbrewing.com Family Night 5:30 p.m. Summit Chalet, Lutsen Mountains, lutsen.com

Thunderwolves Indoor Marathon 8 a.m. Lakehead University Hanger, Thunder Bay, thunderwolves.ca/ indoormarathon Pincushion Mountain Winter Festival 10 a.m. Pincushion Mountain, Gunflint Trail, pincushiontrails.org Agate City Judo Tournament 10 a.m. Two Harbors High School Gymnasium, lakecountycalendars.org Timmy Haus 7:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Feb. 13, Monday Philip & Phriends 7 p.m. Silver Bay High School Auditorium

Feb. 14, Tuesday

Valentine’s Day

Ruby’s Pantry 5 p.m. Cook County High School, Grand Marais, facebook.com/ rubyspantrycc Valentine’s Day Soirée 5:30 p.m. Greysolon Ballroom, Duluth, loonopera.org A Valentine’s Day Murder Mystery Dinner 6 p.m. Fairlawn Mansion, Superior, superiorpublicmuseums.org Wine Lovers Wine Tasting 8 p.m. Red Lion Smokehouse, Thunder Bay, redlionsmokehouse.ca

Mama Mia 8 p.m. Thunder Bay

Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Feb. 15, Wednesday Community Conversations: Our Local Arts Economy with Amy Demmer Noon, Grand Marais Art Colony, grandmaraisartcolony.org Old MacDonald Had a Banjo 4 p.m. Silver Bay Public Library, silverbay.com Old MacDonald Had a Banjo 6:30 p.m. Two Harbors Public Library, twoharborspubliclibrary.com Video Game Tournament 8 p.m. Red Lion Smokehouse, Thunder Bay, redlionsmokehouse.ca Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel & RV Show Duluth DECC, shamrockprod.com Northland Outdoors Deer Classic Duluth DECC, shamrockprod.com

Feb. 16, Thursday Blood Drive 9 a.m. Vermilion Community College, Ely, mbc.org Kami Norlund: Inspiring Resiliency 5:30 p.m. Sawtooth Mountain Clinic, Grand Marais, sawtoothmountainclinic.org Gordon Thorne 7:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com Dance Party with DJ Beavstar 9 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Feb. 16-19 Northern Fibers Retreat Grand Marais Art Colony & North House Folk School, grandmaraisartcolony.org, northhouse.org

Feb. 17, Friday Blood Drive 8 a.m. Ely-Bloomenson Community Hospital, mbc.org Old MacDonald Had a Banjo 10:30 a.m. Ely Public Library, elylibrary.org Brothers in Arms 8:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Feb. 17-20 Great Backyard Bird Count birdcount.org

Feb. 18, Saturday Arrowhead Vintage Snowmobile Rendezvous 10 a.m. Wildhurst Lodge, Finland, wildhurstlodge.com

Snowmobile Drag Races 11 a.m. Hungry Jack Lodge, Gunflint Trail, cookcountysnowmobileclub. com Polar Plunge 2 p.m. Canal Park, Duluth, plungemn.org Fireside Chat: Richard Gruchalla & Carrin Rosetti 6 p.m. Sivertson Gallery, Grand Marais, sivertson.com Sugarbush Candlelight Ski & Snowshoe Hike 6 p.m. Sugarbush Trail, Tofte, sugarbushtrail.org Michael Monroe Log Cabin Concert 7 p.m. Grand Marais, michaelmonroemusic.com Sam Miltich & Clearwater Hot Club featuring Charmin Michelle 7:30 p.m. Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, northshoremusicassociation.com TBSO: Disco Inferno 8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com Chris Silver Band 8:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com Gooseberry Falls Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe & Hike Gooseberry Falls State Park, Two Harbors, dnr.state.mn.us

Feb. 18-20 Voyageur Winter Carnival Fort William Historical Park, Thunder Bay, fwhp.ca

Feb. 19, Sunday Bike Across the Bay 10 a.m. Washburn, Wisc., northcoastcycling.com Jim & Michele Miller 7:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Feb. 20, Monday President’s Day Family Day Empty Bowls Caring Hearts Chili Cook Off Baggage Building Arts Center, Thunder Bay, emptybowlsthunderbay.com Fam Jam 11 a.m. CLE, Thunder Bay, cle.on.ca Family Snow Day Noon, Prince Arthur’s Landing, Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca/snowday A Question of Animals 12:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca Sno-Ho Family Day 1 p.m. Club Chalet, Atikokan, atikokansnoho.com Open Skate 3:30 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais (218) 387-3015

Feb. 21, Tuesday Open Mic Night with Boyd

Blomberg 7 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com Marcia Hyatt: Stillness Matters Noon, Birch Grove Community Center, Tofte, sawtoothmountainclinic.org

Feb. 21-25 2017 U16 National Championships: Downhill Skiing Loch Lomond Ski Area, Thunder Bay, lochlomond.ca

Feb. 22, Wednesday DNR Public Meeting: Deer Management 6:30 p.m. Lake Superior College, Duluth, mndnr.gov/deerplan Quiz Night 8 p.m. Red Lion Smokehouse, Thunder Bay, redlionsmokehouse.ca

Feb. 23, Thursday TBSO: A Night at the Opera

8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com Dance Party with DJ Beavstar 9 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Feb. 23-26 Thunder Bay Boat Show CLE, Thunder Bay, cle.on.ca

Feb. 24, Friday Annual Beer Lover’s Dinner 6:30 p.m. Lutsen Resort (218) 663-7212

Feb. 24-25 Pink Ribbon Riders Snow Run Grand Ely Lodge, Ely, pinkribbonriders.com Dog Sledding Weekend with Points Unknown Dog Sledding Adventures Naniboujou, Grand Marais, naniboujou.com Thunderheads 8:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Feb. 24-26 Northern Ontario Provincial Wheelchair Championships Fort William Curling Club, Thunder Bay, fortwilliamcurlingclub.com Northwestern Fur Trappers Convention 9 a.m. (11 a.m. Fri.) CLE Heritage Building, Thunder Bay, nwfta.ca

Feb. 25, Saturday Commercial Drone Training Seminar Edgewater, Duluth, twincitiesdroneschool.com Nearly Naked Ruck March 8 a.m. Canal Park, Duluth, 23rdveteran.org Blast from the Past: Vintage Snowmobile Ride 9 a.m. Cascade Lodge, Lutsen, cascadelodgemn.com SHTA Guided Snowshoe Hike: Gooseberry Loop 10 a.m. Gooseberry Falls, Two Harbors, shta.org Free Art Film: Frida 10 a.m. Duluth Art Institute, Duluth, duluthartinstitute.org Old MacDonald Had a Banjo 10:30 a.m. Grand Marais Public Library, grandmaraislibrary.org Meet the Dogs & Mushers 11 a.m. Vermilion Community College, Ely, wolftrackclassic.com Trans Canada Trail Loppet Noon, Little Falls Community Centre, Atikokan, skibeatenpath.ca Chester Bowl Winter Carnival 1 p.m. Chester Bowl Park, Duluth (218) 724-9832 Successful Nature Photography 1 p.m. Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center, Duluth, boulderlake.org

WolfTrack Classic Pre-Race Dinner 4 p.m. Ely Senior Center, Ely, wolftrackclassic.com SplinterTones Celebrate Northeastern Minnesotans for Wilderness 7 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais, savetheboundarywaters. org/events Co-op Film Series: Queen of the Sun 7 p.m. Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, cookcounty.coop 90s Night: Music Bingo 10 p.m. Red Lion Smokehouse, Thunder Bay, redlionsmokehouse.ca

Feb. 26, Sunday WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race 9 a.m. Ely, wolftrackclassic.com Blue Grass Brunch 11 a.m. Red Lion Smokehouse, Thunder Bay, redlionsmokehouse.ca

Feb. 28, Tuesday Blood Drive 2:30 p.m. Tofte, mbc.org Open Mic Night with Boyd Blomberg 7 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Feb. 28-March 6 Wood Week North House Folk School, Grand Marais, northhouse.org

March 3-5 Nipigon Icefest Nipigon, Ontario, nipigon.net Bayfield Winter Festival Bayfield, Wisc. bayfieldwinterfestival.com

March 4, Saturday Sleeping Giant Loppet Thunder Bay, sleepinggiantloppet.ca

Mondays Nature Nook 10 a.m. Hartley Nature Center, Duluth, hartleynature.org Open Mic 6 p.m. Grandma Ray’s, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974 Songwriter Series 8 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com Acoustics by the Fireplace 8 p.m. Bluefin Grille, Tofte, bluefinbay.com

Tuesdays Open Studio 10 a.m. Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org Paul Bunyan’s Big Read Storytime 10:30 a.m. Grand Marais Public Library, grandmaraislibrary.org Live Music 6 p.m. Poplar River Pub, Lutsen Resort, lutsenresort.com

Wednesdays Open Skate 3:30 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais (218) 387-3015 Open Mic 5 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com Community Soup Suppers 5:30 p.m. Zoar Church, Tofte, zoarlc@boreal.org Winter Event Series 6 p.m. Grand Marais Public Library, grandmaraislibrary.org Songwriter Series 8 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Thursdays Live Music 4 p.m. Moguls

at Caribou Highlands, Lutsen, caribouhighlands.com Live Music 6 p.m. Poplar River Pub, Lutsen Resort, lutsenresort.com

DJ Trivia 7 p.m. Kamloops,

Two Harbors, superiorshores.com “Making It” Through Winter 7 p.m. North House Folk School, Grand Marais, northhouse.org Celtic Night 7:30 p.m. Red Lion Smokehouse, Thunder Bay, redlionsmokehouse.ca Acoustics by the Fireplace 8 p.m. Bluefin Grille, Tofte, bluefinbay.com Dance Party with DJ Beavstar 9 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Fridays Open Skate 3:30 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais (218) 387-3015 Live Music 4 p.m. Voyageur Brewing, Grand Marais, voyageurbrewing.com Friday Night Reels 6 p.m. Grand Marais Public Library, grandmaraislibrary.org Flashlight Tour 7 p.m. Glensheen Mansion, Duluth, glensheen.org Live Music 8 p.m. Kamloops, Two Harbors, superiorshores.com Acoustics by the Fireplace 8 p.m. Bluefin Grille, Tofte, bluefinbay.com Live Music 9:30 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Open Skate 3:30 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais (218) 387-3015 Live Music 4 p.m. Voyageur Brewing, Grand Marais, voyageurbrewing.com Live Music 7 p.m. Cascade Lodge & Pub, Lutsen, cascademn.com Flashlight Tour 7 p.m. Glensheen Mansion, Duluth, glensheen.org Music in the Lobby 7 p.m. Lutsen Resort, lutsenresort.com Live Music 9:30 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Sundays Free Sunday Fundays 1 p.m. Baggage Building Arts Centre, Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca Winter Fundays 2 p.m. Prince Arthurs Landing, Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca Open Skate 3:30 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais (218) 387-3015 Classical Music & Dinner 7 p.m. Bluefin Grille, Tofte, bluefinbay.com Free Nature Programs 7 p.m. Caribou Highlands, Lutsen, caribouhighlands.com

Saturdays Country Market 8 a.m. Canadian Lakehead Exhibition, Thunder Bay, thunderbaycountrymarket.com Tour the North House Campus 2 p.m. North House Folk School, Grand Marais, northhouse.org Live Music 3 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us

NORTHERN NORTHERN WILDS WILDS

FEBRUARY JANUARY 2017

LUNCH AT THE TAVERN

Need to priNt SomethiNg

GUN FLINT TAVERN ON THE LAKE DOWNTOWN GRAND MARAIS · 218-387-1563

UNDER $10 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 11:00 - 4:00 HOT DAGO

9.95

HOT TURKEY OLD SCHOOL

9.95

THAI LETTUCE WRAPS

9.95

PHILLY STEAK AND CHEESE ON A HOAGIE

9.95

MACARONI AND CHEESE WITH KIELBASA

9.95

CHEDDAR TUNA MELT ON FRENCH

9.95

BOWL OF SOUP AND ALL YOU CAN EAT SALAD

9.95

GRILLED SALAMI AND SWISS

8.95

CAPERED EGG SALAD

8.95

We use grass fed beef and pork sausage for our italian seasoned patty, grill it, toast our baguette, slather with our house marinara and melted mozzarella.**

Organic house roasted turkey served open faced with Tavern mash and turkey gravy, side of cranberry compote Baked org. tofu, org. chicken, scallions, crimini mushrooms, walnuts, ginger, cilantro and romaine. Sauteed ribeye strips, green pepper, onions, provolone cheese and horsey sauce.** Baked, bubbly and delicious like grandma would do.

Baked open faced with tomatoes, pickles, celery and onions in our mix .**

We can do it! BaNNerS · BluepriNtS poSterS · ViNyl

Open Mon.-Fri. 9-5 218-387-9475 • print@northernwilds.com 1708 West Hwy. 61, Grand Marais

Your choice of our soup of the day and salad with a chunk of buttered warm bread. On french with honey dijon, tomatoes, onions and greens.** On toasted french, open faced.**

WHAT ELSE?

** choice of greens w/vinaigrette or ripple chips

Add a cup of soup for $4 Add a salad for $4 DOLLAR OFF BREWPUB BREWS with your lunch meal. 1/2 off select bottles of wine all day Tuesdays

HAPPY HOUR

MON-THURS 4-7PM

off rail drinks, house wines & tap beers.

FREE CHIPS & SALSA IN THE RAVEN PUB $200 OFF APPETIZERS

Make your own

SPECIAL

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The Uffda, The Vild Vun, The Haviian, Bacon Cheeseburger, Italian Sausage, Pepperoni, Canadian Bacon, Buffalo Chicken, Chicken Bacon Ranch, Mushroom, Pepperoni Green Olive, Haviian BBQ Chicken, Vegie Zah, Beef, Black Olive, Green Pepper, Meat Zah, Shicken & Vild Rice, Margerhita, and on and on!

Try one Today! 218-387-1713 • 9 West Wisconsin St., Grand Marais 34

FEBRUARY 2017

NORTHERN WILDS

NOW OPEN Grand Marais Open Feb. into Dec. 120 W Hwy 61 Grand Marais, MN

DQ Item 1/2 Off Grand Marais 120 W Hwy 61 Grand Marais, MN

Off regularly priced item of equal or lesser value. Excludes $5 Lunch, DQ Cakes, and Take Home Boxes of Novelties. Not valid with any other coupons or specials. Limit 1 coupon, 1 per customer. Limit 1 per coupon. Void if copied. DQ logo property of AM.DQCorp Minneapolis, MN, 2011. Expires 12/31/2017

00 (any size)

Not valid with any other Grand Marais Two Harbors coupons or specials. 120 W Hwy 61 530 7th Ave Limit 1 coupon, 1 per Grand Two Harbors, customer. Limit 1 per Marais, MN MN coupon. Void if copied. DQ logo property of AM.DQCorp Minneapolis, MN, 2011. Expires 12/31/2017

The North Shore Dish Raven Rock Grill at Skyport Lodge By Maren Webb

Located just outside of Grand Marais, Skyport Lodge and Raven Rock Grill opened this past December, bringing new life to the former Devil Track Resort. This new family-run business is welcoming neighbors and visitors alike to try their menu and enjoy the beautiful views of Devil Track Lake. Local residents Cory and Rachelle Christianson dreamed of one day running a lodge up the Gunflint Trail. Instead, a great opportunity presented itself to them on Devil Track Lake. This local family has long-time connections to the area, as well as in hospitality and food service. The new name of the restaurant and bar is the radio handle for Rachelle’s family cabin on Saganaga Lake, and homage to Rachelle’s grandfather, Judge Ronald Hachey. Cory and Rachelle first met on the Gunflint Trail, after Cory moved to the area to help Sarah Hamilton and family when they purchased Trail Center. Hamilton, her mother, and Christianson worked together at the Drake Diner in Iowa, Cory’s home state. Rachelle’s family history brought her to the area. Now, they’ve made this area their home, with their two children and dog, Maggie. The Christianson family is not only running the business, their experiences are also inspiring its menu and direction. The current menu has many of their favorite dishes, such as the roast beef Skyplate Special, which would be known as the Blue Plate Special in Cory’s native Iowa. And from their time living and guiding in Key West, Florida, you’ll find several entrees with blackened fish, a staple in Key West. “The homemade blackened seasoning was our favorite spice to use on fresh fish in the Florida Keys,” said Rachelle. Blackened fish is prepared with their own Cajun-type seasoning and cooked in cast iron. The menu will change seasonally, making use of locally available products. On my recent visit to Raven Rock Grill, my party enjoyed the French dip, vegetarian black bean burger and the sauteed vegetable sandwich. The veggie sandwich has a great pesto mayo to add that extra zing and the fries have a nice special seasoning. Homemade is the name of the game. “We handmake everything” said Cory, with their roast beef being prepared in house and their soups and salad dressings made from scratch.

Cory and Rachelle are new owners of the Skyport Lodge and Raven Rock Grill, formerly the Devil Track Resort. | SUBMITTED citement about having the restaurant within a paddle, ski, snowshoe or pontoon ride from home. Fun outdoor activities do pair well with a meal and drink at Raven Rock Grill. Staying true to the location’s history, the place welcomes snowmobilers with parking and even convenient helmet storage inside. The lake and nearby trails offer a wealth of opportunities, from skiing to dog sledding, to build up your appetite before your meal. Or warm up with a hot beverage or an adult beverage at the bar. The lodge also offers rooms for nightly and weekly rental, perfect for those visiting from out of town or looking for a little getaway.

Menu options at the Raven Rock Grill include a French dip (pictured here) a vegetarian black bean burger, BBQ burger, Reuben and more. | MAREN WEBB The lunchtime menu features burgers, sandwiches and salads, and the dinnertime menu has entrees like the Canadian walleye dinner, 10-ounce ribeye steak, and walleye tacos. One of their rotating soups, the beer cheese soup, has become a fast favorite and their chili is available every day. The chili, called Tommy’s Chili, is named for the uncle who provided the recipe. They also offer a full bar to complement your meal. Kids are heartily welcomed by this family business, with a kids menu. It includes spaghetti with meatballs, grilled cheese, and a wee burger, the perfect size for your little sidekick.

Family and the local community have been key for the opening of the lodge and restaurant: from a local family connection who designed their logo, to the server aprons made by Chelsea’s Aprons—a Grand Marais enterprise owned by Chelsea Pusc. Their dessert menu also features locally made favorites, with key lime pie from the Pie Place and chocolate truffles from the Gunflint Mercantile (where Chelsea’s Aprons are also available for sale). Raven Rock Grill also features local beers on tap from Voyageur Brewery and Castle Danger Brewery in Two Harbors. The Christiansons also recognize their neighbors, cabin and home owners on Devil Track Lake, for the support they have offered. Some have even taken to Facebook, sharing their ex-

If you are looking for a special meal with your Valentine in February, this Valentine’s Day, Raven Rock Grill will have two specials, including a Surf and Turf with a 10-ounce cut of prime rib and shrimp, served with a seasonal vegetable, choice of potato and soup or salad. Sit by the fireplace for some extra romance with your special someone. “We are happy to have this opportunity to own and operate this beautiful lakeside lodge and to have our family living and working under the same roof,” said Rachelle. It is a family affair, with Rachelle out front, Cory in the kitchen, and their children, Sophia and Bo, rolling silverware. Raven Rock Grill is open seven days a week and is located 15 minutes from Grand Marais, on Devil Track Lake (205 Fireweed Lane). For more information, visit Skyport Lodge’s Facebook page or skyportlodge.com.

NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

Vote for your

Favorite Restaurants for a chance to win a $ 50 gift certificate to a local restaurant.

Do you have a favorite place to get a coffee, to eat breakfast or take the kids for dinner? The restaurants you vote for must be located in the Northern Wilds coverage area, which includes the North Shore communities from Duluth to Nipigon and over to Ely.

2017

Only one ballot per person. Do not choose the same restaurant in more than three categories or your entire ballot will be disqualified (Best server is exempt from this rule). You can mail in your ballot, drop it off at our office or vote online at northernwilds.com. Voting ends March 31, 2017. Look for the results in the 2017 Menu Guide and the June issue of Northern Wilds.

Official Ballot Which Restaurant has the best:

Limit 3 entries per restaurant (except for best server)

Use of regional ingredients? _______________________________________________

Appetizers? _____________________________________________________________

Ethnic fare? _____________________________________________________________

Steak? _________________________________________________________________

Northwoods character? ___________________________________________________

Burger? ________________________________________________________________

View? _________________________________________________________________

Fish? __________________________________________________________________

“Worth the drive?”_______________________________________________________

Pizza? _________________________________________________________________

Kid-friendly menu? _______________________________________________________

Soup? _________________________________________________________________

Vegetarian-friendly menu? _________________________________________________

Salad? _________________________________________________________________

Server or bartender? (include name and restaurant) _____________________________________________

Breakfast? ______________________________________________________________ Baked goods? ___________________________________________________________

Speedy service? _________________________________________________________ Take-out? _______________________________________________________________

Sweets? ________________________________________________________________ Coffee? ________________________________________________________________

Mail this ballot to:

Wine? _________________________________________________________________

Northern Wilds Media, Inc., P.O. Box 26, Grand Marais, MN 55604 or Vote online at surveymonkey.com/r/nwilds

Cocktails? ______________________________________________________________ Beer selection? __________________________________________________________ Regional craft beer? ______________________________________________________

Only one ballot per person. Name __________________________________________________________________ City ___________________________________________________________________

Happy hour? ____________________________________________________________ Music venue? ___________________________________________________________ Fine dining? ____________________________________________________________ Artistic flare from the chef? _______________________________________________

FEBRUARY 2017

NORTHERN WILDS

Phone _________________________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________________________

Recipes Sweet Treats

Voyageur Brewing

Otter Slide Imperial Brown Ale This snowshoe trail mix is a perfect snack to bring on an outdoor adventure. | KATHY TOIVONEN

2 tablespoons orange juice or rum In a bowl, whisk: 2 eggs ¾ cup honey or corn syrup ½ cup brown sugar

Snowshoe Trail Mix

¼ cup melted butter

By Kathy Toivonen

3 tablespoons flour

2 ½ cups Honey Nut Chex cereal

2 teaspoons vanilla

1 ½ cups Tiny Twists Pretzels broken up (some pieces will even look like little snow shoes)

Pastry: 2 cups flour

Cranberry pecan butter tarts make a sweet treat. | KATHY TOIVONEN

Cranberry Pecan Butter Tarts By Kathy Toivonen Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Filling: In a small saucepan, place the following and heat for 20 seconds on medium heat. 1/3 cup dried cranberries

Bake the tarts for 18-20 minutes or until the filling is bubbling and golden. Cool completely before removing from the tin. Recipe makes 12 large tarts or 24 mini tarts.

2 tablespoons sugar

1 cup slightly chopped roasted cashews with sea salt

½ cup lard

1 cup dried cranberries

¼ cup soft butter

6 oz (170 g) Baker’s white chocolate

½ teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt Cut together pastry ingredients with a pastry knife until crumbly. Then add 1 egg yolk and anywhere from 8-14 tablespoons of cold ginger ale (depending on how bubbly the pop is when poured). Roll out the dough on waxed paper and cut into circles for tarts. In each uncooked tart shell, place 1 heaping teaspoon of orange juice or rum soaked dried cranberries, and 2 pecan halves. Then pour in the corn syrup mixture until ¾ full.

In a large bowl, combine dry ingredients. Then, melt the white chocolate and pour over the dry ingredients. Mix well until everything is coated in white chocolate. Line a cookie sheet with waxed paper and spread the mixture on the cookie sheet. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to firm up the white chocolate. Break apart the larger pieces and serve in a bowl as a party mix.

By Eric Weicht After a long day spent snowshoeing through the woods or carving tracks through a fresh layer of powder, it takes a special kind of beer to lift that lingering chill from the day’s adventures. In the winter, it’s seldom a crisp, refreshing beer that’s craved when thawing out in front of a fire, but rather something rich and flavorful that’s meant to be sipped and appreciated over the course of a long winter night. Something malty, creamy and more often than not, dark in both color and flavor. Usually, a good porter or stout (or a hybrid of the two styles like Bent Paddle’s Black Ale) is my go-to winter beer. Recently, however, a new brew has been hitting the spot, and that beer is the Otter Slide seasonal at Voyageur Brewing in Grand Marais. The Otter Slide is an Imperial Brown Ale brewed with maple syrup from Wild Country (a North Shore “sugar bush” located near Lutsen) and infused with just a hint of peanut. Dry with a rich maple flavor that balances well with the sweetness from the malt, the Otter Slide earns its Imperial title with a massive grain bill and resulting abv of 8.2 percent. A complex beer full of flavor, the Otter Slide finishes smooth, making it a great beer with a local flair—even the bottle artwork was done by local North Shore artist Betsy Bowen. NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

A NATUR AL ED G E

Pink Cheeks Snow Drifts AND

ARE CALLING. HOW

FA R W I L L Y O U G O ?

MARCH

3-5

For more information visit us online:

www.nipigon.net Nipigon is 1 hour east of Thunder Bay, Ontario

Together for PolyMet

the perfect getaway - it’s in our nature.

visitthunderbay.com

Support for PolyMet Mining’s proposed copper-nickel mine isn’t just about creating jobs to the leaders of Northeastern Minnesota’s four largest chambers of commerce. They know the people behind the company and believe in the science, the technology and the safeguards that they’ve put into place to protect the water, the woods and the wildlife that they all love.

PolyMetMining.com

FEBRUARY 2017

NORTHERN WILDS

Melatonin Equals Healthy Sleep By Kim Falter

Christine Ordemann

Lutsen Manager/Insurance Sales business • auto • home health • life 5339 W. Hwy 61 #203, Lutsen www.mustybarnhart.com

218-663-0060

20 th Anniversary One of the great mysteries of human existence is our necessity for sleep. But why do we need it? We may never fully understand why, but we do know there is a succession of chemical reactions within the body that triggers wakefulness and sleep to keep the body healthy and balanced. Circadian rhythms are the 24-hour cycle of which all living beings are internally wired based on environmental cues. Humans have always relied on our circadian rhythms to regulate our sleep cycles, due to our exposure to light and dark. The moment we open our eyes in the morning, nerve pathways in the eye stimulate the area in our brain called the hypothalamus. A series of chemical processes then begin the sleep-wake cycle. Light hits your retina, which increases cortisol levels and body temperature to help you wake. Then, when night falls and darkness settles on the eye, melatonin is released from the pineal gland in the brain. At night, when your bed looks so inviting, that is melatonin at work. When our levels of melatonin or light exposure get off track, we see sleep disturbances. There are many factors that play a role in the disruption of melatonin production. Prescription and over-the counter drugs, traveling across multiple time zones, aging, diet and night shift-work all conflict with a healthy night’s sleep. When we travel across time zones or work at night, the brain essentially loses cues from the environment that trigger the chemical reactions that keep the body in tune with natural circadian rhythms. Same goes for artificial light at night, which is why you should reduce screen time in the evening. Light from computer screens, televisions, and the lighting in our homes all work against sleep. Light being obtained through the retina and subsequent neural pathway

is telling the hypothalamus that it is still daytime, therefore inhibiting the release of melatonin. More and more research is exposing the huge role diet plays in a healthy night’s sleep. Being overweight and having a diet low in healthy fruits and vegetables all result in sleep disruption. Although there are many foods that naturally contain melatonin, preliminary studies reveal that people who consume a diet high in a variety of fruits and vegetables have little to no problem getting a good night’s sleep. Food and exposure to natural daylight and darkness are crucial, but when these are not possible, most people turn to supplementation. Although supplementation is viewed as the cure-all for insomnia, few studies have proven this assumption. Melatonin supplements seem to primarily benefit those who tend to have difficulty falling asleep in the evening (versus those that have no trouble falling asleep but wake in the middle of the night), such as those suffering from jet lag and people who work at night. There is very little research on the long-term effects of melatonin use, but in the short-term, it has been deemed quite safe. A typical dose of around 1-5 mg seems to be the most beneficial. However, if you experience grogginess the morning after usage, you should probably reduce your dosage or avoid supplementation. Don’t disregard melatonin as merely a sleep inducer. Recent research has uncovered multiple functions it performs in the continuation of our health, although more research is needed. According to a Food and Nutrition Research study, titled Dietary factors and fluctuating levels of melatonin, “In addition to its regulatory role, melatonin has antioxidant capacity, immunomodulatory potency, and also appears to be protective against a variety of cancers...”

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2017 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm Duluth’s Historic Depot The 20th Annual Chocolate After Dark event will include sampling chocolate creations from local chefs, a silent auction, wine wall and a cash bar.

JOIN US! TICKETS $30 presale $40 at the door

All proceeds from the event go to supporting & expanding Arc Northland’s core services.

YOU CAN HELP!

A thank you to our sponsors: My 95.7, Discount Mattress, Lamar, MN Power, Fon-du-Luth Casino, Northern Wilds Media, St. Luke’s, Through Laura’s Lens Photography

Purchase tickets online at www.ArcNorthland.org or by calling (218) 726-4725 NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

BEST THING ABOUT A WINTER DAY?

A WINTER NIGHT.

Sometimes, the best thing about a North Shore winter is escaping it for just a little while. Come inside and make yourself at home!

AmericInn.com | 800.634.3444

AmericInn Lodge & Suites Two Harbors 1088 Hwy 61 North Two Harbors, MN 55616 218.834.3000 AmericInn Lodge & Suites Tofte 7231 W Hwy 61 Tofte, MN 55615 218.663.7899

Free hot, home-style breakfast | Hotel-wide, high-speed Internet | Indoor Heated Pool, Hot Tub & Sauna | Easy Rewards loyalty program 40

FEBRUARY 2017

NORTHERNâ&#x20AC;&#x201E; WILDS

Northern Trails Winter Burbot Fishing 101 By Gord Ellis

So, let’s talk burbot fishing. I realize some of you won’t get past that first line. That’s too bad, but I get it. Like many northerners, I grew up looking down my nose at the burbot. They were an unwelcome winter guest on more than a few lake trout or spec trips, and there would rarely be a kind thing said when the head of the burbot entered the hole. “Cut the line!” is probably the only one suitable for a family publication. The dry-docked burbot would wriggle and twist like a snake when pulled out of the water. Invariably, it would have the bait well down in its gullet. No one wanted to go there, so the line would be snipped and the fish cast aside. I’m sad to say many burbot were left on the ice, although I’m sure they were a welcome treat for the hungry forest creatures. That was then. Fast forward a few decades and things have changed. Not for every angler, I know. Burbot, somewhat like northern pike, will always have detractors. And I’m speaking specifically about northern Ontario here. I realize Minnesota has an ice fishing history and culture that has included the burbot for many years. That hasn’t been the case north of the border. Yet, it’s become increasingly clear that in more recent times, burbot have developed something of a cult following. There are more than a few ice anglers who target them and appreciate them both as a sport fish and as good food. Burbot are a unique fish in our waters. They have the unusual distinction of being the only member of the codfish family found in fresh water. All the burbot’s relatives live in the sea—it’s truly a freshwater cod. The burbot is also a fish of many names, including ling, lawyer (my favourite) and eelpout. The scientific name, Lota lota, is from the French, “Lotte,” which is equivalent to “pout.” These fish have all the hallmarks of a cod, from the wide mouth to the snake-like body with two soft dorsal fins. The barbel below the jaw of the burbot is the icing on the cake. The average burbot in most lakes is usually just a few pounds. However, northwestern Ontario is rapidly gaining notoriety as the home of the giant ling. On March 5, 2016, a Thunder Bay-based angler named Landan Brochu iced what is likely going to be the new Ontario record (the record is pending as I write this). His fish weighed 16.8 pounds—nearly one pound larger than the present Ontario record burbot weight of 15.8 pounds. That fish was caught by Ernie Arpin on March 14, 2003,

Landan Brochu of Thunder Bay with his giant burbot. | GORD ELLIS and measured 36.5 inches by 21 inches around. Brochu’s fish caused a stir not only in Ontario, but across North America. A short video I shot of Brochu and his fish was viewed over 100,000 times on the CBC Thunder Bay Facebook page in just a couple of days. The burbot fever is real. So, how do you catch a burbot? The good news is they are not that hard to catch. The tough part is finding places where burbot live and are more than just a random fish. Job number one is finding a lake with cold, clean deep water. Lake Superior has lots of these fish, as does Lake Nipigon, so you get the idea. Burbot spawn in February and March, and if you can locate where, you can have some great fishing. I’ve found they like reefs near deep water, in depths from 25 to 60 feet. The sweet spot seems to be 25 to 35 feet, but every lake is different. You may have to move around a bit to locate them. These fish stick to the bottom, so using electronics is more useful as a depth-finding tool.

Tom Armstrong battles a burbot. | GORD ELLIS

I’ve caught most of my largest burbot jigging. They will hit any number of presentations, including a bucktail hair jig, 4-inch tube jig and jigging spoon. The burbot can be a remarkably aggressive fish in the right situation and will chase a jig off the bottom. Adding a piece of minnow or herring to a lure as a sweetener never hurts.

(check your regs), I always lay a piece of bait out on a “dead stick” jigging rod or via tip up. The bait does not have to be lively, as burbot will use its well-developed sense of smell and taste to locate even a dead minnow. Any oily baitfish will also do the trick. You can either lay it right on the bottom, or suspend it just a few inches up. A single number four treble or two treble quick strike rig will ensure the most solid hook ups.

Since you can fish with two lines during the winter in most of northern Ontario

One thing I’d be remiss to mention is the impact of light on burbot. You can defi-

nitely catch them when it’s bright—Brochu caught his monster on a sunny, blue bird day—but the darker the day the better. If you are serious about your burbot, try the night bite. These things go squirrelly when the sun drops and if you are up for it, they won’t let you down. Just be careful; fish with a partner, have plenty of lights and don’t go too far offshore. Did I mention that burbot are delicious to eat? The term “poor man’s lobster” is highly accurate. You really can’t go wrong with a freshwater cod.

NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

MUSH LAKE RACING DOG BLOG:

Learning to Enjoy the Ride By Erin Altemus A family friend asked me recently what I think about for all those hours on the dog sled. A typical training run mid-winter can vary from two to six hours. It might be dark and it might be well below zero. Sometimes, I told her, I think about life—about things completely outside of mushing and dogs and where I am at that moment. But the majority of the time, I am looking at the dogs or thinking about my own condition—whether my fingers are numb, my face raw, or my legs tired. On the back of the dog sled, the view ahead consists of a trail, snow-covered trees and the back ends of a team of dogs. The musher has a clear view of each dog’s gait, the harness and the tug line that attaches the dog to the gangline. Especially in the day light, it is difficult to not focus on the tug lines. If a dog has a tight tug, usually all is well. But if a tug goes loose, I can spend an entire run staring at that dog, wondering if there is something wrong or if it’s just an off day. It is easy to fixate on one dog that has a loose tug line…or to stare, wondering if the tug is really loose or taut. Is that Buda pacing? Is Emmy’s butt pulling out to the side? Why is Victory running on the wrong side of the gangline? Should I stop and fix it or should I ignore it for now? And what about me? I am getting cold. Should I make myself eat something? Probably. But that would mean taking my gloves off to unwrap a snack bar, which I really don’t want to do. The further the musher lets themselves go down the spiral toward cold and hunger, the more difficult it is to pull it together. These thoughts all sound trivial, benign. But it’s one of the things I love about mushing. I get out of my head of larger world problems and focus on the small things right in front of me. Sometimes, everything is clicking. Every tug is tight, I am warm, we are whooshing along on the trail, and I can focus on the winter landscape sliding by. The dogs and I are content to just be.

Matt Schmidt runs the team down Poplar Lake in -30 degrees F. windchills during the Gunflint Mail Run, taking second place later that night. | JIM STONER Around the time this issue goes to the hands of readers, Matt and 14 dogs will be trotting along the Beargrease trail. I have run the mid-distance Beargrease and the marathon two times each, and until now, would not relinquish my favorite race to my husband. But now it’s his turn and I am excited for him to experience this race. He has done his share of difficult races, but the Beargrease will be different, in part because of the length—373 miles this year and in part because of the hills. As chief handler, I will drive the truck to each of the seven checkpoints, plus the start and finish with our crew of handlers, and we will be ready with straw, food for the dogs, and food for the musher. While

the musher rests for a few hours at each stop, the handlers will go over each dog— massaging their muscles, watching for any soreness, feeding them, and bedding them down on straw with fleece blankets so they too can sleep.

With 1,200 miles of training on this team, a second place finish in the first race of the season, and a team of veterans, many of whom have finished the Beargrease in the past, we are feeling better than ever about the Beargrease this year.

In early January, we had a practice round for the Beargrease at the Gunflint Mail Run sled dog race up the Gunflint Trail. Seventeen teams took part in two different races—an eight dog 60-mile race, and a 12dog 100-mile race. Temperatures the day of the race topped out at 0 degrees F, with wind chills hovering around -20 F. The dogs performed remarkably well in these temperatures, but it is more difficult for the musher, handling crews and volunteers.

Maintaining this positive attitude throughout the race is where the musher’s head needs to be. It’s easy to dwell on tug lines and dog gaits, especially if the run gets difficult. If Matt wants to have a “magic carpet ride” in the Beargrease that all mushers desire, he will need to keep it positive—singing to the dogs, taking care of himself and enjoying the ride. If he can do this, it will be magical for sure.

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They Came From All Around:

A History of the 1200 Square Mile Area from Nolalu to Northern Light Lake By Harold W. Alanen $34.95

Written in a storytelling style with plenty of photographs, this book delivers an extensive look at the rich history of a large area in Northwestern Ontario, just north of the Ontario-Minnesota border. In the 14 sections of the book, each with three to four chapters, we learn about the area’s geology, archaeology, and the peoples of the area, starting with the first peoples dating back 9,000 years and followed by First Nations peoples, fur-traders, miners, and European immigrants, particularly Finnish settlers, who began arriving in 1900 to work and farm on the free land. Their stories provide a glimpse of how pioneer communities survived and grew in the wilderness. There’s also a couple of mysteries, including petroglyphs and 11 man-made ancient stone boxes the size of modern-day milk crates, found openly exposed on the Canadian Shield.

Sky Blue Water:

d’Aulaires’ Book of Norwegian Folk Tales

Great Stories for Young Readers Edited by Jay D. Peterson and Collette A. Morgan

Adapted and illustrated by Ingri and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire

University of Minnesota Press, $19.95

This short story collection celebrates young adult fiction from new authors and from some of Minnesota’s most beloved and award-winning authors. Contributors include William Alexander, Mary Casanova, Margi Preus, Kevin Kling and Julie Schumacher. Featuring primarily never-published stories from the Prohibition Era to present day, there are tales of family secrets, bullies and young love. A portion of the proceeds from Sky Blue Water will go to the Mid-Continent Oceanographic Institute; a Twin Cities organization that offers free tutoring and writing assistance for students ages six to 18. —Breana Roy

University of Minnesota Press, $24.95

Adapted from the 19th century translations of Asbjörnsen and Moe, award-winning authors Ingri and Edgar Parin d’Aulaire offer readers of all ages a beautiful tribute to Norway, with 21 stories brought to life with distinctive copper plate etchings and drawings. Magical tales include “Cinderlad and the Troll,” “The Maid on the Glass Mountain,” and “The Ship That Went As Well by Land As by Sea.” First printed in 1938, this selection of timeless stories returns to enchant audiences all over again.—Breana Roy

Available in retail outlets in Thunder Bay or directly from the author.—Elle Andra-Warner

PANCORE LAKE WHY GO: Though it can be difficult to access, it’s a good place to fish for splake in the fall, winter and spring. ACCESS: As mentioned, access can be difficult, with a road leading to a carry-in access on its west shore that has been overgrown in recent years. Steve Person, Minnesota DNR’s Grand Marais area fisheries supervisor, said visitors should be careful not to end up on private property. DNR has tried to maintain signs properly marking the access, but they have disappeared several times. From the Sawbill Trail, head east and follow Pancore Lake Road for two miles, taking the first right, then, a left at the fork about a third of a mile down. The lake is another half mile down that road, but use caution—the other fork (to the right) leads to private property. VITALS: Pancore Lake, north of Tofte, is entirely in Cook County and half bordered by the Superior National Forest. The 31acre lake has a maximum depth of 38 feet, and a mean depth of 13.5 feet. The southern shore of the lake is bordered by private property. FISH SPECIES PRESENT: Splake and brook trout. ALL ABOUT SPLAKE: While brook trout were last stocked as fingerlings in 2013, DNR has settled on splake as the only species it stocks now, since they seem to fare

best in this lake, which was last reclaimed in 1959.

deeper lakes lose oxygen in the depths, keeping fish away.

“We are kind of getting away from managing some of these lakes for more than one species and we settled on splake as the best bet for that lake,” Persons said.

“They do tend to suspend,” he said. “People should fish from the bottom to right up to the ice. They could be anywhere in there.” —Javier Serna

It did receive 1,500 splake fingerlings in 2016, which were stocked via seaplane, since getting a stocking truck would have been quite difficult, Persons said. The lake, which was slated for a survey this past year, was skipped over. It was last surveyed in 2012, when several splake between 15 and 19 inches turned up. On Pancore, splake have small bugs to dine on, Carry-down though there are some minaccess nows in the lake, too.

15 20 25 30

SPRING AND FALL BEST: While some anglers have been known to hit Pancore in the winter, it’s best in the spring and fall, Persons said. “That’s when the water is the coolest,” he said. “In the summer, they may be down deeper in 8 or 9 feet. In the spring and fall, they are cruising the shorelines.”

35 30 25 20 10

WINTER, TOO: Persons said ice anglers should focus from four to 12 feet in the winter, because a lot of these smaller, NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

cook county/grand marais economic development authority

Prosperity

Minnesota

NORTH

A WHOLE NEW EDA Project Description

northern sky FEBRUARY 2017

By Deane Morrison— MINNESOTA STARWATCH

Investments/cash flow into Cook County

Workforce Housing – Grand Marais $2,100,000 To start in 2017 - Seven new owner-occupied homes New property tax estimated at $17,000/year Local match of $100,000 (Cook County) and $75,000 (City of Grand Marais) Leverages nearly $2,000,000 Workforce Housing – Lutsen $2,600,000 To start in 2017 - Sixteen new rental units New property tax estimated at $19,000/year Grants approved to date = $600,000, additional grants pending Local match of $140,000 (Cook County/EDA) Tax abatement bond requested Workforce Housing Study Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation, Northland Foundation, One Roof Community Housing Assisted Living and Elder Services Market Study Pre-development diligence in preparation for 25+ units Creates 20-30 FTEs New property tax estimated at $60,000

$81,500

$9,000

Cook County/Grand Marais Arrival/Departure Building $891,250 $261,000 from airport fund leverages $630,000 Includes $200,000 IRRRB Sale of two lots at Cedar Grove Business Park $55,000 Construction underway on one new business, one expanded business Two local contractors and subs working, supplies purchased New property tax estimated at $12,250/year Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) Ten new small business start-ups Over $7,257,550 in capital investments Superior National Golf Course Operating revenue, sales at the golf course Payroll, supporting 3 full time and 38 seasonal jobs IRRRB grants received to rebuild two nines Annual property tax for development around the course

$35,000

$800,000 $333,000 $1,200,000 $65,205

For a short month, February packs a lot of celestial delights. All month long, Venus shines brilliantly, reaching a peak on the 17th. On that day, it will appear in telescopes as a crescent, only about a quarter lit. But the planet waxes so bright because it’s swinging closer to Earth. Soon, it will drop into the sunset on its next rush between us and the sun. If you haven’t seen Venus yet, it’s the beacon in the southwest that outshines everything but the moon. Mars, to Venus’s upper left, is much dimmer. The two planets approach each other during the first few days of February, then separate as Venus begins to fall away. If you’ve been following this pas de deux for even one month, you’ll see that Venus is tracing a graceful arc that will culminate in its disappearance. February’s full moon rises over Grand Marais at 5:12 p.m. on the 10th, less than 90 minutes before the moment of fullness at 6:33 p.m. On that evening, the moon passes through the Earth’s penumbra, or light outer shadow. The height of this sub-

dued eclipse comes at 6:43 p.m. For morning viewers, Jupiter is high and brilliant in the southwestern predawn sky, with the bright star Spica, in Virgo, below it. Saturn, in the southeast, shines to the left of reddish Antares, the heart of Scorpius. In February, the knot of bright winter constellations reaches its pinnacle in the south during prime evening viewing hours. You might especially notice the two brightest stars in Orion (the hunter): Betelgeuse, in the northeast corner of the constellation; and Rigel, in the opposite corner. Both are gigantic stars that will end their days in a supernova explosion. And, of course, there’s Sirius, just southeast of Orion in Canis Major. Only about nine light-years away, Sirius is the brightest of stars and always a beautiful sight. The University of Minnesota offers public viewings of the night sky at its Duluth campus. For more information and viewing schedules, see the Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium at: d.umn.edu/planet.

For more information contact: director@prosperitynorth.com or 218-387-3112

Sponsored by Mark D. Consulting, LLC Serving Businesses and Residential Customers. 218-663-7149 Mark@MarkDConsulting.com

FEBRUARY 2017

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Wild Traditions Tinctures: Making the Most out of Herbal Medicine By Julia Prinselaar

In just a few months, another plant growth cycle will renew itself with the onset of spring. Horsetail, spruce tips and nettles are among the early arrivals as they send energy toward the sunlight, forming new shoots and buds of fresh leaves. Because of this, springtime and early summer can be ideal harvesting periods for certain wild edibles, as the new growth contains vital, potent medicine. In other circumstances, herbalists selectively harvest plants in the fall when they go dormant, returning energy to their roots.

Chaga chunks before they are ground and infused with alcohol and water in a double-extract tincture. | JULIA PRINSELAAR

For herbalists, making tinctures is a practical way to harness and preserve the medicinal qualities of plants at optimal levels for long periods of time and in concentrated amounts, making them easily portable. The root of an Echinacea plant, for example, is best harvested during dormancy. It can be dried and preserved for use all year round, then bottled and taken by the drop under the tongue or easily diluted in tea, juice or water.

monly begin with the basic method of tincture making to build their home apothecary. Aptly called the Simpler’s Method, it requires a short list of tools and ingredients: a jar, the herb and the menstruum— usually vodka or brandy. Chop or pound the herb, place it in the jar, cover completely with alcohol and seal it with an air-tight lid. Tinctures are generally left for up to six weeks and then strained, with the remaining liquid stored in a dark place away from sunlight. That’s all there is to it.

Tinctures are medicines made from herbs mixed with a medium known as the menstruum, which is typically a solution of alcohol and water. Water alone cannot fully extract the medicinal properties from most plants. Other solvents like cider vinegar can be used, but nothing extracts constituents quite like alcohol, allowing a broader spectrum of constituents to be pulled from the herb while preserving the extract at the same time—often for years and sometimes indefinitely, depending on its strength and quality.

Last fall, I tried tincturing Echinacea root to prepare for cold and flu season. E. purpurea, also called Purple Coneflower, is a valuable medicinal used in preventative medicine that boosts the immune system, although E. angustifolia is the more desired species. This hardy perennial attracts pollinators and is a common, showy ornamental for horticulturalists and gardeners. It grows well in our Lake Superior region,

Introductory and folk herbalists com-

The purple coneflower, or Echinacea, is a valuable medicinal used in preventative medicine. | ECOSUPERIOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM blooming tall, conical flowerheads with pinkish-purple petals. Echinacea can be harvested by carefully digging up a portion of a mature, well-established root and giving it a good scrub before making the tincture. The roots are tough and fibrous, and can be pounded with a mortar and pestle, or chopped up, before adding the menstruum and alcohol. While the Simpler’s Method is a great start for home use, commercial herbalists favour less guesswork and more math to calculate more precise plant to liquid ratios. Depending on the type of herb, the plant part, or whether it’s fresh or dried, the tincturing formula for one can differ from another because of variables like water content. Tinctures are taken by the drop, so using a formula helps ensure that the medicine’s strength is consistent from batch to batch. You can use the Simpler’s Method or more calculated ratios for many of the medicinal herbs in your own garden or in the wild—just be sure that you’ve positive-

ly identified what you’re working with, and research dosage and safety information from credible sources. If you have an existing health condition, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before experimenting with herbal medicines. Just because it’s natural, doesn’t always mean that it’s safe for you to ingest. Herbalism continues to offer health and healing for millions of people around the world. But if you’re unable to grow or harvest herbs where you live, don’t get discouraged—there are several dispensaries online that sell quality herbs. Inspired by the power of plants for self-healing, and driven by the desire to connect with the natural world, herbalism has shown me that Nature’s medicine is growing all around us, often in our backyards and gardens. Making your own medicine can be an empowering experience that saves you money and opens doors to a practice that’s rooted in culture, and counseled by tradition—one that includes science but has existed long before modern medicine.

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NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

Wild Delight

Hey sweetie: The colors of chickadee attraction By Emily M. Stone

Attract the Extraordinary

Even with a bird in-hand, it’s difficult to tell if it’s male or female. | EMILY STONE Although snow still blankets the ground, the sun’s rays are intensifying just enough to give the impression of warmth, if not the reality—that’s all it takes for blackcapped chickadees to get spring fever. Go outside and you can hear the amorous songs of male chickadees. The simplicity of their “hey sweetie” two- or three-note song is charming. But then, almost everything about a chickadee is charming. Their large head, tiny body and gregarious curiosity combine to make them easily perceived as cute. What’s difficult to perceive about chickadees is which ones are the males. Scientists refer to chickadees as “sexually monochromatic,” which means that males and females display the same color patterns. Female chickadees will even sing occasionally, taking away a clue that works for the similarly black-and-white common loon (only male loons give the yodel call).

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If you’re lucky enough to see a chickadee up close, take the time to examine it. The edge between black cap and white cheeks is not smooth, but shows finely divided feathers. The base of the black throat patch where it grades into white belly feathers is also irregular. Their backs are not pure gray, but tinged with warm beige around the neck that spills over onto their sides. But even with a bird in-hand, it’s difficult to tell if it’s a male or female. The chickadees themselves, of course, have no trouble seeing differences between the sexes. The key lies not in some failure of our observational skills, but in their ability to see in the ultraviolet spectrum. Birds have an extra type of cone cell in their retina that is sensitive to either violet or ultraviolet light, depending on the species, and their filters are set up to allow UV rays in. Humans have a type of cone cell that is sensitive to UV wavelengths, but we also have filters in our lenses that absorb 95 percent of UV light before it reaches our retinas. The other part of the equation, besides birds being able to see UV light, is that

their feathers reflect light in the UV spectrum. One study looked at birds that humans perceive as sexually monochromatic, and found that more than 90 percent of them were sexually distinct from the avian visual perspective. Another study went further and determined that all bird families possess feathers that reflect UV light. Even in species where males look different to us, UV reflectance may provide additional brilliance that we miss. Chickadees are part of this pattern. To other birds, males appear brighter white and deeper black than females, which results in a greater contrast between plumage regions. Males also have larger black patches, which we could potentially observe if we looked carefully. The differences are not only apparent between males and females, but between males of different ranks. Higher ranking males (who are preferred by females) display significantly darker plumage and a sharper contrast between white and black patches. Both of those characteristics, as well as larger black bibs, are also associated with greater reproductive success. The vibrant colors don’t cause reproductive success, though; they are simply an indicator to females about the health of the male. In one study, sick chickadees couldn’t preen their feathers effectively, and the resulting layer of dirt reduced the intensity of their UV colors, which signaled their poor condition to females. A similar effect was found in jumping spiders, where food deprivation decreased UV-iridescent ornamentation on their abdomen, and most likely made them less appealing as a mate. You might think that with their handsome colors, their amorous songs and their social natures, the spiffiest male chickadees might attract a downy harem to warm the long winter nights. Instead, no matter how far the temperature plummets, even the cutest chickadees find their own little tree cavity and sleep alone.

Strange Tales Stone Mysteries in the Northern Wilds By Elle AndraWarner

It is the “stones” in the world that hold some of the greatest mysteries, like Stonehenge in England; giant statues on Easter Island; rune stones in Scandinavia; and standing stones of Cornwall. And here in the Northern Wilds of Minnesota and Ontario, we also have ancient mysterious stone structures, including puzzling petroglyphs, strange stone boxes, stone dolmens, circles of stones and perhaps even a stone pyramid. On a road leading to the east end of Whitefish Lake, there are secret petroglyphs (engravings cut into rock) on bedrock—secret because they are now buried under a gravel road. But author-historian Harold Alanen knows the location and wrote about them in his recent book, They Came From All Around. Back in 1964, he accompanied Jack Snider, a reporter with the Fort William Daily Times Journal and the staff photographer, when Silver Mountain’s Allan Ilkka guided the news folk to the site. The markings covered a small area, were partially covered with moss and lichen, and seemed to be a few stylized letters of the English alphabet (including an inverted T), symbol-like “&” and the unusual carving of “a seated human figure holding a flag-staff with a banner that had a diagonal line plus cross lines that divided the ‘flag’ into quarters.” Also in the rock was a bent hook-like symbol, similar to the shape of gaff hooks, which were crafted by the copper people thousands of years ago. Nearby, under moss-covered bedrock, were petroglyphs of unfamiliar symbols, though one looked like an odd-looking “H” with a forked vertical middle line. Or perhaps it was a separated “X” linked by a horizontal line? Lakehead University’s archaeologist, the late Dr. Ken Dawson, identified the petroglyphs as a historical site. But who made the carvings, when and why remain unknown. Some people have suggested the puzzling markings might have been made in different eras by different creators. Years later, while in the forest near his property in Strange Township about five miles (eight km) from the site of the mysterious petroglyphs, Alanen discovered 11 mysterious moss- and lichen-covered boxes, each about the size of a milk crate. These old rock box-like structures, with four sides out of flat rock slabs and topped by rock ‘lids,’ are randomly scattered in an area of open exposures on the Canadian Shield. Some have collapsed while others are intact; all were empty. To date, no one in the

[TOP] The Callanish Standing Stones are a stone circle on the Isle of Lewis, Scotland, erected in the late Neolithic era

(5300-4800 B.C.). | CREATIVE COMMONS [LOWER LEFT] The dolmen on northern Kelso River, sometimes called the Sawbill Dolmen, consists of a large boulder four to five feet tall and eight feet long, supported by three smaller stones. | JESSICA HEMMER [LOWER RIGHT] A petroglyph found near Whitefish Lake. According to Harold Alanen, the photographer chalked the grooves to make them stand out in a photograph. | FORT WILLIAM DAILY TIMES JOURNAL, MAY 1964 archaeology world has been able to shed light on who constructed the old stone boxes or why. The mystery continues. Dolmen stones are another puzzling configuration found in the Northern Wilds. A dolmen is three or more upright small stones supporting a much larger stone. The oldest known dolmens are in Western Europe, dating back around 7,000 years ago, but their purpose or builders remain a mystery. There are two known dolmens in our region—one in Northern Minnesota and one in Northwestern Ontario. Both can be accessed by paddling. In northern Minnesota in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area adjacent to Quetico Park, there is a dolmen of three small stones supporting a large boulder four to five feet tall and eight feet long, sometimes called the Sawbill Dolmen. Setting out from Sawbill Lake campgrounds and paddling to the northern Kelso River, the dol-

men is on the river’s eastern shore across from the Kelso trailhead before Lajendida Lake. According to locals, the dolmen at one time had inscriptions like Norse runes carved into it. Across the border in Ontario, located a short distance southeast of Ignace, is a dolmen located close to the water’s edge on the southeast shore of a remote lake accessed by paddling and portaging from Devil’s Gap Lake. Some suggest the dolmens were put in place as some kind of ancient marker for burials, land claims or route markers by early peoples or Vikings. Stories have circulated for some time about a mysterious stone formation under the waters of Thunder Bay’s Boulevard Lake (a manmade lake from 1907 in the city’s north end), but it wasn’t until the lake was drained in the fall of 2015 that the stones became visible. The puzzling “C” shaped rock formation measures about 80

feet in diameter. It’s made from hundreds of stones, some as large as two feet, and is situated along a terrace edge overlooking the original river channel of the Current River. Lakehead University’s Dr. Scott Hamilton, who calls the formation “The Ring,” believes the circle may have been made by First Nations people, perhaps prior to European contact. Research on the stones continues and Hamilton has reached out to the community for any stories people have or may have heard from elders about who built the stone formation, when and why. As the story of the Boulevard Lake circle of stones continues to unfold, another stone mystery is developing at Arrow Lake Provincial Park, where people are talking about a large underwater pyramid of stones recently discovered, but not yet explored by scuba divers. What stories the stones could tell, if they could speak.

NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

Deb Niemisto 218-370-8434

Nan Bradley 218-370-8433

lockport@boreal.org

www.coldwellbankernorthwoods.com

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5 CTY RD 44 GRAND MARAIS

204 W. 1ST ST. GRAND MARAIS

79 CTY RD 44 GRAND MARAIS

Sale ng i d n e P

SOLD 4 Bedroom Classic Farmhouse 64 Acres with views. MLS# 6024158 Price: $269,000

3 Bedroom 3 Bath with two fireplaces on 9+ acres. Large pole barn and two car garage. MLS# 6026483 Price: $279,000

Sale g n i d n Pe

D L O S 6400 Sq. Ft. Commercial-ApartmentResidence. Cash streams galore. MLS# 6022592 Price $419,875

10 acres with 24 x 24 garage with studio apt. MLS# 6026422 Price: $110,000

Phone: 218-387-1501 Cell: 218-370-8977 Terry@BacklundRealty.com NORTHERNâ&#x20AC;&#x201E; WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

REALTORS®: Mike Raymond, Broker • Gail J. Englund, GRI • Linda Garrity, Realtor • Sandra McHugh, Realtor • Jack McHugh, Realtor • Larry Dean, Realtor

Red Pine Realty • (800) 387-9599 (218) 387-9599 • Fax (218) 387-9598 • info@RedPineRealty.com PO Box 938, 14 S. Broadway, Grand Marais, MN 55604

LAKE SUPERIOR PROPERTIES EXPANSIVE LAKE SUPERIOR RETREAT. Lake

INLAND WATER PROPERTIES NEW! GUNFLINT LAKE HOME – SAND BEACH.

SPECTACULAR LAKE SUPERIOR LOT. Framed

Superior charm and seclusion awaits on this park-like private retreat property with almost 90 acres, 1793 feet of shore, and 3 classic Aldrich log cabins with outstanding lake views. A rare, unique opportunity! MLS# 6024299 $2,250,000

EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY, STUNNING SHORELINE.

Elegant and comfortable 3 bdrm, 2 bath contemporary home. Beautifully wooded & private, with dramatic rocks & panoramic lake views on 223’ of easily accessed Lake Superior shore. The great room is shared with the gourmet kitchen, formal dining, & living area centered around the Finnish fireplace. The master suite is a lovely open space with a private office. The master bath suite is exceptional. Upgrades throughout, beautiful maple flooring. MLS# 2308811 $699,900

SUPERIOR AFRAME. This 3,300

sq ft Lake Superior home with original AFrame was expanded in 2006, adding 2,000 sq ft w/quality finishes. Stunning kitchen with large island, hickory cabinets, granite & lake views. 3 bdr, 3 bath, large gathering spaces and deck. Master bdrm with attached whirlpool/glass shower. MLS# 2313080 $549,900

CONTEMPORARY LOG HOME. Every room has

a Lake Superior view! This beautiful home on 6.5 acres features an open living/ dining room with cozy wood burning stove and wraparound deck. The shoreline is accessible with a fire pit and beach platform. The kitchen has a huge granite island and custom hickory cabinets with lots of storage. Extra large garage with room for 4 vehicles.

MLS# 6021770 $539,000 BEAUTIFUL LAKE SUPERIOR HOME.

Totally remodeled! This 3 bdrm, 3 bath home has a cool "Beach House" vibe with bleached wood beamed ceilings, hardwood floors and wall-to-wall patio doors offering expansive lake views. Located near Silver Bay with 200’ accessible shoreline. MLS# 6025439 $449,900

by palisades, the nicely wooded property has two or more perfect sites on which to build your special lake home. Views are classic old North Shore looking over Chicago Bay. Shared septic system is in place.

MLS# 2308784 $365,000

MLS# 2313294 $329,000 LUTSEN LAKE SHORE.

LOVELY LAKE SUPERIOR LOT – LUTSEN. Great lot with

excellent site for walkout. Surveyed and level open location for your new home. Parcel has a very neat, private cove and meandering 447' of shoreline.

Exceptional Lake Superior property in highly regarded Lutsen area. 150 feet of accessible ledge rock and gravel beach shoreline. Large, level building site surrounded by mature cedar, spruce and fir trees. MLS# 6024548 $299,500 PREMIER LAKE SUPERIOR PROPERTY. Beautiful,

very private 1.84 acre residential lot with 240 ft of Lake Superior shoreline in the Chimney Rock Platted Development. Premier quality with stunning elevated and panoramic views of the lake. MLS# 2313197 $249,900

LAKE SUPERIOR, BIG BAY, BIG VIEWS. Dense spruce forest, moss covered boulders and privacy make this a classic Lake Superior lot. 200 feet of shore with partial driveway in place, shared road maintenance, power and Broadband ready to go. MLS# 6022357 $212,500

A UNIQUE AND SPECTACULAR BUILDING SITE ON LAKE SUPERIOR. This site is build-ready

for your dream home plus garage lot. Spectacular views and privacy. All hookups are ready – septic, water, electric, phone & propane. House plans are available. Only 8 owners share this park-like former resort property. MLS 6023745 $92,900

INLAND WATER PROPERTIES WILDERNESS INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY.

2000+ acres of Cook County land with 6 lakes. Over 10,000' of shoreline. Various parcels spread across the Superior National Forest, most accessible via forest service roads. The Mark Lake parcel is 159 acres with 200’ shoreline for sale separately: $219,000. MLS#6025545 $3,100,000

SOLITUDE ON TAIT LAKE. Spacious 3 bdrm, 2 bath home

on 2.5 acres features a GREAT great room, gourmet kitchen with all stainless steel appliances. Charming master suite has sliding glass and lake view. Stunning open beamed ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors, cozy loft and a huge screened porch. Comfort-

ably sleeps 10-12. Detached garage. MLS# 2312977 $529,000

This charming 2 bdrm home sits on 4.62 acres, just 40 ft from the dramatic shore on a point. Many custom features and built-ins, 3-car detached garage with a fantastic upper level apartment, lrg storage sheds, plus a very unique

and rare sand beach! MLS# 6026327 $529,000

LOG CABIN SECLUSION - LOON LAKE. This beautiful log cabin

sits on the secluded north shore of Loon Lake and adjoins forest service land on two sides. The quality log work is impeccable. 2 bdrms, 2 baths, huge loft, wonderful 4-season porch, deck and full walk-out basement. The full stone fireplace is magnificent. The views are pure wilderness and the shoreline is classic Boundary Waters. MLS# 6023186 $439,000

GUNFLINT LAKE HOME & GUEST CABIN. Spectacular

views across the lake to Canada! 2 bdrms + lrg loft, 2 baths, guest cottage with ½ bath & laundry facility. The 200’ of lakeshore is easy to access. MLS#

6021137 $349,500 CHARMING CABIN ON SEAGULL LAKE. Lovely 2

bdrm, 1 bath cabin with 233’ of gentle shoreline with breathtaking views of the lake and islands. Wrap around decking sets only 35 feet from the water’s edge. Sold furnished. Many crafted built-ins and storage space. MLS# 6023785 $355,500 SEAGULL LAKE LOT - BWCAW VIEWS.This 10-acre lot has great views and 489 ft of accessible shoreline. Driveway and power are in place with a nice shed to store your gear. MLS# 6025512 $339,900

CHRISTINE LAKE HOME.

Immaculate 3 bdrm home on beautiful & quiet Christine Lake. Over 200’ shoreline with private boardwalk to floating dock and 6 acres for privacy. Knotty pine and tastefully painted interior. Deck, balcony and open design allow abundant light.

MLS# 6024054 $319,500 LARGE LOT PRIVACY – POPLAR LAKE. Dense

mixed forest, great views, & classic wilderness shoreline make these two lots perfect for a Mid-Trail lake home. Choose 2 acres with 165’ shoreline, 3 acres with 200’ shoreline, or both! MLS# 6026287 $134,900,

MLS# 6026286 $142,900, both for $245,000. MARK LAKE - 159 ACRES. The only private land on Mark

Lake! Good northern fishing. 200ft. Shoreline, forestry road or snowmoblie access. Motivated Seller! MLS# 6026299 $245,000

EAST BEARSKIN LAKE HOME. Charming 2 bdrm cabin

on 180 ft of E. Bearskin Lake. Federal lease property. Awesome views of the lake, level walk to the dock and shore. Includes utility shed, woodshed, aluminum canoe & boat.

MLS# 6023139 $225,000

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HOMES & CABINS

INLAND WATER PROPERTIES WILDERNESS SETTING - TUCKER LAKE.

A perfect place for your cabin or home with unspoiled views and lots of Gunflint Trail privacy. 3.68 acres and 554’ shoreline. Tucker Lake is a protected lake with added setbacks to protect the lake and views. Direct BWCAW access. MLS# 2309237 $224,900

TOTAL PEACE, PRIVACY AND SOLIALE TUDE ARE RIGHT S DING HERE! Charming and cutePEN

2 bdrm combination garage/ cottage. 2.50 acres and 402' shoreline with great lake access and view. Private and secluded feeling lot. A great, affordable way to get on fantastic Greenwood Lake! MLS# 6023045 $200,000

A-FRAME ON POPLAR LAKE. Classic 2 bdrm, 2 bath

A-Frame cabin in a beautiful setting overlooking Poplar Lake. End of the road privacy with year-round access. Very nice, gentle path to the 156’ of lake shore. Nice mix of trees. MLS#

6024438 $187,500 NORTH FOWL LAKE CABIN.

Lovely 2 bdrm cabin with sauna. The private 200’ of lake-front lot has gentle shoreline and great views. Remote water only access from the US side of the border. Stunning views and easy access to the border lakes. MLS# 6023214 $179,000

POPLAR LAKE-BWCAW ACCESS. Nice 2.11 acre lot with

beautiful west views of the lake and 244’ of shore tucked in a quiet bay. A small, updated 1 bdrm cabin sits right at the water’s edge. Plenty of room for a main home and garage. MLS# 6021031

LOTS ON NINEMILE LAKE. Two beautiful, large lots on Ninemile Lake in Finland. Lots adjoin Superior National Forest and Cabin Creek Unit Roadless Area with excellent shoreline and views. Power and year round access! MLS #6019489 $89,300 & MLS #6021813 $69,000 SNOWSHOE RUN LOTS. Set along a high ridge

overlooking Hare Lake in a mature northern hardwood forest. Yearround plowed and maintained county roads, power at each property and a clear water trout lake. MLS# 6019490 - 6019496,

6019498 Lake lot prices start at $48,800 END OF THE ROAD PRIVACY ON TOM LAKE.

WELCOME TO LAKE SUPERIOR. Warm &

beautiful light-filled end unit Aspenwood Townhome. The 2-story walkout style leaves you with plenty of options to get outside and close to the Big Lake. This 2 bdrm, 3 bath home includes 98% of all furnishings & personal property. It is also part of a successful vacation rental pool.

MLS# 6022175 $290,000 NEW! SUPERIOR LIVING ON THE LAKE. Gorgeous 2

2309227, 2309228 $159,000 and up CLASSIC POPLAR LAKE CABIN. Sweet, older 2 bdrm cabin on a bay of Poplar Lake with 100’ frontage. Great location! Charm in every room. Potentially a great vacation rental.

MLS# 6023157 $154,500 SUPREME LAND, SUPREME WATER. Over 20 acres

of amazing forest teamed with 300’ of awe-inspiring shoreline that rests at the southeast end of Tom Lake.

MLS# 6023688 $130,000 CARIBOU LAKE - HOME SITE. New price is well be-

low tax assessed value. Magnificent old-growth cedar and maple trees. Great, high build site on Sawmill Bay. 5.34 acres and 185’ lake frontage.

MLS# 2203572 $95,000

ing country home with outbuildings and some pasture for your horse! The 3 bdrm, 2 bath home has a country kitchen/dining room, huge living room, & 3 season porch. A cute log cabin sits near the home, and the land is special with a lrg wildlife pond

& planted pines. More land is available. MLS# 2309191 $279,900

REMOTE HIDE-AWAY. Charming custom

built 2 bdrm, 2 bath cabin tucked in the woods overlooking a beaver pond. A screened porch for summer dining. The living room is open and includes the kitchen and dining. A cozy Franklin stove warms the whole building. The full basement is a complete guest space . Generator power and over 100 acres to explore.

MLS# 6022886 $269,000 EXTRAORDINARY DUPLEX HOME IN LUTSEN. Beautifully

bdrm, 2 bath condo with unobstructed Lake Superior views! This unit has had everything redone and replaced. Convenient location with access to many recreational opportunities. MLS# 6026577 $147,000

STUNNING LAKE SUPERIOR CONDO. Quality finishes, granite

tile counters, wood fireplace and spa-like bathroom. Open concept plan with floating island for flexible dining and food prep. Walk out to a private patio and enjoy morning

are located on the south side of Loon Lake and offer great lake views, 152-218’ beautiful shoreline and many nice trees. The main road is in place and power is on the lot line. MLS# 2093855, 2159458,

CLASSIC FARM HOUSE AND 20 ACRES. Simply charm-

CONDOMINIUMS

AFFORDABLE CABIN ON CLEARWATER LAKE. Cute 2 bdrm cabin on

6023119 $169,000 SOLITUDE ON LOON LAKE. These 1-2 acre lots

bdrm, 2 bath cabin with sauna and bunkhouse. The 3.78 acres is surrounded by forest with Ninemile Lake across the road. Large kitchen/dining space, incredible master suite, upper level sunroom. Lots of room for guests! MLS# 6026570 $279,900

This beautiful wooded lot has its own bay/cove. There is a long curved driveway to a nice cleared build site. MLS# 6021553 $47,500

$169,900

very special Clearwater Lake with 180’ frontage. Very affordable for up north cabin life. MLS#

NEW! BEAUTIFUL HOME IN THE WOODS. Fantastic 3

sunrises over the big lake. MLS# 6025851 $82,000

HOMES & CABINS A GEM IN THE WOODS.

There is quality and detail at every turn in this magnificent 2 bdrm, 2 bath home hidden on 30 acres in the Grand Portage State Forest. Marble stairs and floors, loft, master bath with hot tub & sauna, soaring cathedral ceilings, and 2000 sq ft attached garage. Not your typical home in the woods, this is a rare gem waiting for someone who loves the outdoors, but wants the class of an elegant home at the end of the day. MLS# 6022895 $750,000

BEAUTIFUL LEVEAUX RIDGE HOME. “Mountain top”

3 bdrm home with calming Lake Superior views. Many recent upgrades, 2 woodburning fireplaces, and a 2+ car heated garage. Private setting and design, perfect for entertaining or escaping. MLS# 6025932

$349,000 PRCE REDUCED!

maintained 4 bdrm, 2 bath home tucked into its own wooded wonderland. Welcoming, open and updated. Perennial gardens, apple trees, fire pit, and dog kennel/run in place. Trails on the 3 acre property connect to state trails for skiing and snowmobiling. MLS#

6024809 $264,900

HOBBY FARM OR LOTS OF IDEAS.

This large property features open meadows, gardens, orchards, and a beautiful river. The living quarters with 4 bdrms, 2 baths and open living space is located above a 6-stall horse barn. A large pole barn, huge gathering hall, garage and various storage sheds provide lots of sheltered space. Two wells and septic systems. Easy county road access. What's your idea? MLS# 6018972 $259,900

MANY OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN CASCADE STATE PARK. Enjoy being surrounded by and

within the boundaries of Cascade State Park while taking in the amazing views of Lake Superior. This 3 bdrm, 2 bath home has been used as a successful vacation rental, a long-term rental and a primary

residence. MLS# 2309172 $234,900 FANTASTIC GRAND MARAIS HOME. This

solidly built one-level home has 3 bdrms, 2 baths, and attached 2-car garage. Open layout, updated mechanicals, geo-thermal system, new septic, and private wooded back yard with creek. Adjacent lot (MLS# 6022810) also for sale. MLS# 6022803 $225,000

NEW! HOVLAND HIDEAWAY. Charming 1 bdrm home with knotty pine walls, wood floor, & newer appliances. Designed with smart storage spaces. Large shed with wood fired sauna. All furniture included, only 200 yards from Lake Superior! MLS# 6026367 $89,000

www.RedPineRealty.com • (800) 387-9599 Fax (218) 387-9598 • info@RedPineRealty.com NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

REALTORS®: Mike Raymond, Broker • Gail J. Englund, GRI • Linda Garrity, Realtor Sandra McHugh, Realtor • Jack McHugh, Realtor • Larry Dean, Realtor

Red Pine Realty • (800) 387-9599 (218) 387-9599 • Fax (218) 387-9598 • info@RedPineRealty.com PO Box 938, 14 S. Broadway, Grand Marais, MN 55604

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES RENTAL COTTAGES - GOOD HISTORY - GREAT LAKE. Devil Track

Cabins is a long standing seasonal resort on the beautiful north shore of Devil Track Lake. The 5 charming, cozy cabins and owner's cabin each have a private setting and lake view. A wonderful family retreat! MLS#

6019988, 6024447 $387,900 MARKET, DELI, LIQUOR STORE – HOVLAND. A bustling

business in a beautiful rural community on the North Shore. Bakery, deli, pizza, convenience store, and liquor store under one roof. Large seating area & outdoor patio. Expansion/home site possible! MLS#

6023742 $349,900

BIG OPPORTUNITY, MANY POSSIBILITIES. Prime commercial loca-

tion in Hovland, 1000 feet of Highway 61 frontage. Large commercial space with a small 2 bedroom home and 1 functioning rental cottage. Many new improvements and upgrades. Two more small cabins could be rented, and there's room for many more...or other possibilities. Large 2-car garage plus two sheds. MLS# 6026089 $284,900

GRAND MARAIS PROFESSIONAL BUILDING.

The options here are endless and the opportunity is great. Ample parking and a nice sized storage building. Own/occupy the entire building, rent out one side & offset your ownership costs, or create “condo offices” & offer space to a variety of entities. MLS# 6020523 $269,900 COMMERCIAL LOT IN GRAND MARAIS. Good opportunity for a commercial building with a nice second story view of the harbor. Level 40 x 50 lot. A two story vacation rental could be built with a harbor view. What is your dream? MLS# 6024992 $53,500

RIVER/CREEK FRONTAGE SUGARBUSH, BEAVER, TROUT. Remote 80 acres ,10 miles from Grand Marais with easy access. Surrounded by public land. 700’ of Durfee Creek frontage. MLS# 6024638 $149,000 DRAMATIC CASCADE RIVER PROPERTY. River splits the 20 acre

property – never look at a neighbor across the river. Surrounded by public forest lands. MLS#

6020527 $74,900 WOODS, WATER & SECLUSION.Three 40 acre lots with 600 to

1000 ft frontage on Mons Creek. Also includes deeded access to Lost Lake. Private and secluded. MLS# 6021356 $59,900 or MLS# 6021357 $69,900 or

MLS# 6021358 $74,900. GRAND MARAIS - S CITY E ON CREEK. Wooded lot with ALLOT

G PENDIN

City services: water, sewer and electric at site. Nice south exposure and frontage on scenic Cedar Creek. Quiet street. MLS# 6026102 $59,900 LAND ON THE FLUTE REED RIVER. Enjoy privacy and seclusion in a deep 13 acre parcel with over 300 feet of trout stream in Hovland. Easy access with power, phone and broadband. Nice build sites. MLS# 2313215 $49,900 500’ ON MOHNS CREEK. Mixed topography of beautiful rolling land with many great build sites on 25 acres. Old growth cedar, spruce, pine and birch. Abuts state land. MLS# 6021088 $39,900

LAND/BUILDING SITES HOME SITE OR BUSINESS DREAM. This 13.4 acre property could be a great home site or resort-type business location. Adjoins Pincushion Mtn. hiking/skiing/biking trails. Lake Superior view with more land available. Zoned Resort/Commercial. MLS# 6026068 $214,900

LARGE WILDERNESS ACREAGE - LAKE ACCESS. This 80+ acre parcel includes 400 feet of shoreline on McFarland Lake. Building sites are located across the road on the hillside with potential lake views. Rugged property with high topography and old growth cedar and pine. Easy access to the BWCAW and Border Route Hiking Trail. MLS# 6024602 $203,000 OUTSTANDING LAKE SUPERIOR VIEWS Gorgeous 14.69 acre

parcel located within the boundaries of Cascade State park. Rolling hills, a variety of trees, and only 10 minutes from either Grand Marais or Lutsen. Many opportunities, potential for subdivision. MLS# 6023971 $175,000

MOUNTAIN TOP - WILDERNESS VIEWS. Fantastic vistas into the BWCA and surrounding rugged topography near McFarland Lake. Located at the end of the Arrowhead Trail with easy year-round access. The 122 acres has a high ridge and a “mountain top” for you to name. MLS# 6024599 $167,000 BIG LAND, BIG CREEK, BIG TREES. This nearly 100 acre Hovland area parcel is on the "front range" of the Farquhar Hills with a dramatic backdrop of rock cliffs and escarpments. There is a large creek running through the entire property with many fantastic building sites. MLS# 6024136 $138,900 PRICE REDUCED! INCREASINGLY RARE, LARGE RECREATIONAL PARCEL. 190 arces fully surveyed. The perfect retreat. Has a rich variety of trees, ponds, high and low lands, some meadow land and wetlands. MLS# 6023211 $150,000

BEAUTIFUL ACREAGE WITH LAKE VIEWS. Four 80 acre parcels located just south of Schroeder and a stone’s throw from Lake Superior! Each parcel features shared access off State Highway 61. The land features a gradual elevation, tiered building sites, beautiful lake views, and the Caribou River is within walking distance. MLS #6020335, #6021914, #6021916, and #6021918 $149,900 each. LARGE ACREAGE WITH WATER FEATURES. The headwaters of Irish Creek! Quality 160+ acres, 5 parcels sold grouped or separately. Many great features incl. old growth white pine, ponds, camping and building areas. MLS# 6023457 $149,500 INTRIGUING PROSPECT. High-quality items already in place include an insulated/heated slab for house/porch, insulated garage slab, electricity, driveway, the well, a time-dosed/heated septic system. Over 18 acres of privacy. MLS# 6021384 $114,900 UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY. Stunning Little Devil Track River frontage and

Pincushion Mtn. trail access make this 6.3 acre property perfect for skiers, hikers and mtn bikers. Zoned Resort/Commercial. MLS# 6026067 $103,900

HUGE POND-HUGE PRIVACY. Large 45+ acre wooded parcel located across from Tom Lake. Huge pond/lake in the very center of the acreage. MLS# 6022858 $99,000 BUILDING SITE, CREEK, RIDGE. This 47 acre parcel EMAPLE Lfacing SA has a lot to offer. There’s a nice south I building site just off a county road, a G N Da maple ridge adjoining federal land. Great Nand trout stream with beaver PEpond, location close to Grand Marais. MLS# 6022087 $69,900 RUSTICATE, RECREATE, RELAX. Reclusive Hovland hideaway – 43 acres with new driveway to “base camp” with a nice camper trailer and shed. Trails have been cut throughout the property which adjoins State land. MLS# 2313223 $64,900 PINES & LAKE SUPERIOR VIEW. Large 13+ acre pine filled lot on the hillside above Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center in Schroeder. Great lake views! Power, phone and broadband at the lot. MLS# 2313242 $64,900 GREAT LOCATION, QUALITY FOREST, BUILD HERE. These 10-acre parcels have a mature and mixed forest, southerly exposure, easy county road frontage and just minutes from Grand Marais. MLS# 6023274 $64,900, MLS# 6023275 $62,900, MLS# 6023276 $64,900 MAPLE HILL - HOME SITE. Heavily wooded 6.45 acre parcel with great privacy, county rd frontage, power and phone. MLS# 6023465 $64,500 30 ACRES - PANORAMIC VIEWS. Rare mountain top property with a 180 degree view of distant Lake Superior and the ridge to the north. Many trails in place with food plots for wildlife. MLS# 6020274 $55,000

RIDGES, PINES & VIEWS - ARROWHEAD TRAIL. Nice 20 acre parcel with high building sites and huge pines. The surrounding federal land leads directly into the BWCAW. MLS# 6024600 $63,000 RUSTIC WOODED WONDERLAND. Beautiful 40 acres of maple

forest with small rustic cabin bordering Judge Magney State Park. Enjoy the peaceful solitude of Aide Lake, rimmed by an open cedar grove just a short hike from the cabin into the park. MLS# 6025235 $59,900 WOODED HOME SITE This 5+ acre parcel is only 1.5 miles from Grand Marais and ready for your country home. Mixed forest, with forest service land in the back for exploring or hunting. A driveway and culvert are already in place. MLS# 6026053 $59,000

NICE LOT NEAR GRAND MARAIS. Beautiful gardens currently inhabit this lovely lot. Though it rests on Hwy 61 there are nice private niches to rest your home on. Walk to downtown Grand Marais! MLS# 6022810 $55,000 DENSE EVERGREEN FOREST NEAR GRAND MARAIS. Beautiful 5.8 acre property ready for your home plans, with survey and septic sites located, and many good building sites. Heavy trees and open areas. Easy county road frontage with power and Broadband close by. MLS# 6025992 $52,900

PERFECT 5 ACRE HOME SITE. This private and secluded build site is just waiting for your custom plans! Only five miles from town with five acres of great woods bordering public land on two sides. MLS# 6021986 $51,500 WOODED 10 ACRES IN HOVLAND. North woods seclusion plus electricity and broadband! Great forested parcel. The driveway is in leading to a secluded build site with nice trees. Cute shower house and outhouse. MLS# 6024396 $47,900 BUILDING SITE OVERLOOKING MCFARLAND LAKE. This pine studded 7 acre property has easy walking access to the county beach on McFarland Lake. Nice elevated build site with easy county road access. MLS# 6024601 $47,000 5 ACRES NEAR DEVIL TRACK LAKE. Must look! 5 acres in a diverse forest on the paved South Shore Drive. Private yet easily accessible. Lot borders forest service land. Driveway is in, septic sites identified. Ready for your plans! MLS# 6025167 $45,000 5 ACRES NEAR CARIBOU LAKE. Gorgeous corner lot with colorful maples and majestic cedars. Plenty of privacy. Close to hiking trails and the Caribou Lake boat landing. Year round access with power! MLS# 2279179 $40,000 LAND NEAR LITTLE MARAIS. Nice, large parcel consisting of 13.5 acres

with 1,100 feet frontage on Lake County Hwy 6. Electricity, broadband, and phone available at the road. Views of Lake Superior from the northeast MLS#6025325 $40,000

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS. Nice 6 acre parcel of mixed forest land only 6 miles from Grand Marais! Shared driveway is in, transformer on the property. MLS# 6024077 $39,900 QUIET AND PRIVATE. Choice 2.31 acre lot at the end of the road in Lutsen, ready to build. Priced to sell! MLS# 2309202 $39,500 WOODED ACREAGE – GRAND MARAIS. Two private 20 acre lots with hiking and ski trails, and abundant wildlife. A high building site offers seasonal views of Lake Superior. MLS# 2313172 $46,000 & MLS# 2313173 $35,000 LAND FOR ESCAPE AND RECREATION. Remote yet accessible 20 acres near Judge Magney State Park. Good mix of trees, high building site, some distant Lake Superior views. MLS# 6025397 $34,900

FIVE SECLUDED ACRES. One of eight secluded wooded 5-acre parcels bordering Govt. land. MLS# 2308827 $28,000 WILDWOOD ACRES IN TOFTE. Consider these affordable lots when you want to build economically in Cook County! Nice wooded +/- acre lots. MLS# 6025292-6025294 $17,500 – $20,000 PRIVATE HOME SITE CLOSE TO SUPERIOR. Very nice parcel with driveway, power and cleared building site. Privacy on dead end road near Silver Bay. MLS# 6023748 $19,900

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Timber Frame Classic 201’ Lake Superior stair access, 4 Bed, 4 Bath, 3000+sq ft, Silver Bay $720,000 MLS#6021593

322’ of Lake Superior Shoreline Power, Driveway, Clearing, Stairs Silver Bay $339,700 MLS# 6021564

600+ of Lake Superior Shoreline Windows Galore - Hovland $699,999 MLS# 6016038

NEW LISTING- FINLAND, MN, NON MLS 101+ Acres, one of the highest pts in the state- Lookout Mountain, 43 homes, trails, and more. Potential abounds! Call for details!

Surfside Townhome- Tofte 3 Bed 3 Ba Great Rental Income History $189,000 MLS# 6025061

NEW LISTING- HOVLAND, NON MLS Main House, Guest House, approx 5 acres, 590’ ft of Lake Superior Shoreline, Sweeping Views

Lake Superior- Croftville Rd! Grand Marais- Driveway, Electric $349,999 MLS# 6017106

Urban Loft Living on pristine 10 acres, Northfield UNDER CONTRACT

More LISTINGS on my websites, photo tours, & info. Have a Twin Cities Real Estate need? I can help there too! Let’s talk to discuss how I can help you!

Dave Lilja

call/text: 612-810-8779 email: dog28@me.com www.ThinkMinnesota.com NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

Winter Wonderlands Up North, Come Enjoy the Sunshine and Snow!

Call TimberWolff for Your Personal Tour of Homes & Land!!!

Local 663 - 8777 • I n f o @ T i m b e r W o l f f R e a l t y . c o m To l l f r e e ( 8 7 7 ) 6 6 4 - 8 7 7 7 WINTER LIVING ON LAKE SUPERIOR, WHAT DR EAMS AR E MADE OF!

SUPERIOR SENSE OF PLACE! Meander the tree lined driveway along Lutsen’s Rollins Creek Road, stumble upon the connecting ponds with Fountain and Sculpture celebrating the Sounds of Springtime! Over 8 acres of rolling terrain, experience the manicured path to the ponds, or stroll down the rock steps to the Tumultuous Shoreline, the Waves Pounding the over 600 ft of Rock with plenty of Splash! Inside the Fabulous home your guests will enjoy the Cascade of the Creek to the Big Lake just outside their bedroom window. The master bedroom Welcomes the Sunrises via huge windows overlooking the drooling shoreline… 0r Says Goodnight to the Sun while watching the flickering of the fireplace from bed. All the other parts of the home are Magnificent, from the gazebo with hot tub, to the large library, to the gourmet kitchen with function and charm. See it to Believe it is the Best! MLS# 6019683 $1,197,000

SALE NG I D N E SUPERIOR HOME! LUTSEN PLAKE

Vaulted Ceilings and Real Rock fireplace are only a couple of the features this home offers! Big views of the Big Lake, enjoy main level living with a finished walk out with two bedrooms/bath and family room...your guests will love visiting your winter retreat! Two car detached, 300 ft of shoreline! MLS#2038020 $569,900

SANDY BEACH SHORELINE ON LAKE SUPERIOR, AND A HECK OF A NICE HOME! Super

GORGEOUS SHORELINE WITH RARE SEA ARCH! The

views are from the deck of a ship. A crafters dream home, lots of elbow room, stone fire place for the ages and lower level walk out living space your friends and family will LOVE! Attached Garage!

MLS# 6023379 $549,0000

THE ADVENTUROUS CABIN ON LAKE SUPERIOR! Designed by the

value, completely renovated, the interior of this home should be in Architectural Digest! You will love it once you see it in person! MLS# 6022246 $399,000

NEW! SIMPLE LIVING ON LAKE SUPERIOR! A Step up

SALE NG I D N PE

Architect/Owner to be the base camp to all the Outdoor Adventure the North Shore has to Offer! Sweeping views of Lake Superior from the interior of the home, but you’ll want to stroll out to campfire at the water’s edge to really soak in the Big Lake! All you need in your lake getaway…garage, wood fired hot tub, and even a part owner in the Bread Oven! A Must See.

from Thoreau’s Cabin, Enjoy the peace and quiet this lovely little cabin offers on over 300 ft of Lake Superior Shoreline! Electric, and Nice gas Stove makes this a comfy and welcoming Cabin!

MLS#6026595 $240,000

MLS#6024683 $467,500

WOWSER LAKE SUPERIOR PROPERTY!

Jonvick Creek AND Lake Superior frontage! Lovely LUTSEN home, tons of potential for updating and making this home YOURS! Vaulted ceilings, welcoming warm feel to this Cabin, a Must See!

MLS#6026038 $530,000

DREAMY LAKE SUPERIOR CABIN, ACCESSIBLE SHORELINE! Tons of Value in this

Year Round Lake Superior cabin nestled Among the Mature Spruce of Tofte’s ledgerock shoreline…stroll along the level ledgerock shoreline in the summer and make this your winter Ski Retreat in the Winter! Minute’s to Cross Country trails, Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort or Tofte’s Hockey Rink! MLS# 2270954

$384,900 REDUCED!

! D L O S

PEACE AND TRANQUILITY, A LOG CABIN ON LAKE SUPERIOR! MLS#6022501 $549,000 AUTHENTIC 1940’S LAKE SUPERIOR CABIN! Step back

in time to the early days! Little cabin tucked in to an Amazing piece of Lake Superior on Cascade Beach Rd! Gorgeous accessible shoreline!

MLS#6026064 $324,900

WINTER SKI RETREAT ON LAKE SUPERIOR!

After a Day of Skiing, Relax in the Sauna! Or cozy up to the fireplace while absorbing Incredible Lake Superior views! Or snowshoe down to the Big Lake and enjoy a winter camp fire in the protected Cove on Lake Superior! Mint condition three bedroom, two bath Lake Superior home with two car detached garage and Sauna! Minutes to Lutsen Mountains!

MLS# 6023113 $550,000 REDUCED!

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Winter Wonderlands Up North, Come Enjoy the Sunshine and Snow!

Local 663 - 8777 • I n f o @ T i m b e r W o l f f R e a l t y . c o m To l l f r e e ( 8 7 7 ) 6 6 4 - 8 7 7 7 WILDER NESS LAKESHOR E, FOUR SEASONS OF R EST & R ELA X ATION! POPLAR LAKE CABIN ON 440’ OF SHORELINE AT THE TIP OF A PENINSULA! Ensconced in

quiet Boreal environment, Cabin sits proudly above the lake for long views over Poplar’s numerous islands! Home needs a little TLC, priced to sell!

MLS#2308952 $259,000 REDUCED!

CRAZY CUTE LOG CABIN ON CHRISTINE LAKE!

AT THE WATERS EDGE! Rustic cabin on Gust Lake, a Real Charmer! MLS#6022642

$110,000

Located just off a designated Mountain Bike Trail system, enjoy year round access, electric at street and a TOTAL SENSE OF SECLUSION! Canoe on Christine, Fly Fish in the Poplar or just go for a hike in the Superior National Forest! MLS#2308836 $145,000

REDUCED!

SWEET CABIN ON TONS OF PIKE LAKE SHORELINE!

End of the road, year round living in this Grand Cabin bordering the Superior National Forest!

MLS#6022181 $349,000

! D L O S

STYLISH LIVING ON CARIBOU LAKELUTSEN! MLS# 6025516 $475,000

GUST LAKE CABIN IN LUTSEN! Tons of value on a spectacular

FINE LIVING ON CARIBOU LAKE IN LUTSEN! Enjoy hosting holiday gatherings! Sprawling kitchen, granite counters, island w/ breakfast bar. Opens to the family room overlooking Caribou Lake, Spectacular views! Amazing Owner’s Suite! Pics don’t do this home justice, it’s a Must See! Minutes to Lutsen Mountains Ski & Summer Resort! MLS#2313246

piece of shoreline! Super fishing cabin on a peninsula point overlooking peaceful Gust Lake and the Boundary Waters a hop skip and jump away. MLS#6020330

$239,000

$465,000

CONDO IN THE WOODS!

Cross Country Skiers Dream! Centered in the midst of miles of Cross Country Ski Trails, there is a small resort condo on Lake GeGoKa in the Superior National Forest lands off Highway 1 between Lake Superior and Ely! Tons of shared amenities, nice lake views and surrounded by mature pines, this truly is a Winter Wonderland! MLS#6026214 $119,000

CUTE, FAMILY CABIN ON POPLAR LAKE. 200’ of level

GORGEOUS frontage, secluded, cedars, swimming, walleyes, relaxation. Super Cabin if we didn’t already say it.

MLS#6025737 $219,000

LUTSEN SKI MOUNTAIN RESORT AREA AND LAKE SUPERIOR VACATION TOWNHOMES! WINTER WONDERLAND IN LUTSEN! A perk to

LUTSEN LAKE SUPERIOR VACATION TOWNHOME AT LUTSEN RESORT!

Enjoy all that the historic Lutsen Lodge offers…a sandy beach, a cool River, Swimming pool, spa, FABULOUS dining… but enjoy it in STYLE at the Cliffhouse overlooking the historic lodge. Newer construction, Big views, Contemporary Design. Total Comfort. Nice rental income to offset expenses. MLS#6021422

$429,000

Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort is staying at a Primo Resort like Caribou Highlands! Ski In Ski Out, Overlooking Moose Mountain and Poplar RIver! View pics of each unit by searching MLS# on TimberWolffRealty.com!

108 BRIDGE RUN MLS#6023378 $112,000 128 BRIDGE RUN MLS#2120739 $121,900 526 MOOSE MOUNTAIN MLS#2217205 $128,500 518 MOOSE MOUNTAIN MLS#6023287 $159,900 AS CLOSE TO THE WATER AS IT GETS! A lovely one bedrm Condo, Updated Bath and Kitchen! Romantic Setting on Lake Superior, Excellent location at Blue Fin Bay! CONDO #30

MLS#6026238 $255,000

ELEGANT AND INCOME GENERATING QUARTER SHARE AT SURFSIDE! at Tofte’s upscale Surfside Resort. #7 is a stone’s throw from accessible shoreline you’ll LOVE, this townhome, and it’s affordable with the Quarter Share option! No other end unit compares on price, views or locale to the Big Lake. The interior is right out of the pages of Architectural Digest, total Luxury!

MLS#2272709 $199,000

FIVE BEDROOM 4 BATH TOWNHOME WITH RENTAL INCOME IN LUTSEN! Lovely home

COZY AND COMFORTABLE LAKE SIDE BLUEFIN CONDO, Very desirable

overlooking the Mountainous terrain, Ski In Ski Out, and an easy walk to the Alpine Slide, the new Gondola, and miles of trails. The Perfect North Shore Getaway!

MLS#6022881 $299,000

to rent, street level. Functional kitchen for cooking meals or even better, eat out at the Coho Café or Bluefin Grille, within walking distance. Remodeled bathroom! Tons of amenities, Maintenance free vacation home, nice rental revenues!

MLS#6022978 $237,500

CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK AND LIKE TIMBERWOLFF R EALTY! NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

Call TimberWolff for Your Personal Tour of Homes & Land!!!

Winter Wonderlands Up North, Come Enjoy the Sunshine and Snow!

THINK SNOW!

i n fo @ t i m b e r wo l f f r e a l t y. c o m I n f o @ T i m b e r Wo l f f R e a l t y. c o m

Local 663 - 8777 • To l l f r e e ( 8 7 7 ) 6 6 4 - 8 7 7 7

NORTHWOODS HOMES AND CABINS, IN TOWN OR IN THE WOODS!

STYLISH NORTHWOODS HOME, SUPER LOCATION! Minutes to BlueFin Bay on

HEY HANDYMAN! Come take a Look at this

Lake Superior, this home has it all! Gorgeous interior, featuring dream kitchen with tons of cabinetry and spectacular granite counters with built in breakfast bar. A great home for hosting family gatherings, let the kids play on the lower level and enjoy main level living with wrap around deck and upstairs loft bedroom/office space. MLS#6020313 $319,000

Tofte home with acreage! Lots to offer, the home is solid and has a nice flow. The kitchen has been upgraded! Large windows allow for lots of light, and accessory buildings are perfect for a workshop and garage! Curious? Give us a call to see this gem!

MLS#6022904 $189,000 NEW ROOF!

GRAND MARAIS FAMILY HOME! Perfect for the growing family,

convenient to school w/ 3 bedrms on main level and additional space on lower level. Large city lot, Chicken Coop in place!

MLS#6022686 $197,500 REDUCED!

E L A S ING D HOME BREATHTAKING N E PAND SETTING, Borders Cascade State Park lands! Highly desirable Birch Drive location, enjoy distant Lake Superior views through mature Red Pines! 3 bedrm 2 bath, lots of family space. Mint condition home, gorgeous. Two plus garage.

MLS#6025703 $299,900

SWEEPING HOME ON MAPLE HILLSIDE, DISTANT LAKE VIEWS AND RAVINE! All you can ask for, acreage, Maples!, and a huge garage with plenty of firewood storage for winter warmth! Newer construction, huge walk around deck and wide open living, Awesome Owner’s Suite, Tons of potential in walk out level! Must See!

BIG VIEWS OF THE BIG LAKE! Tiny Home on a Gorgeous Chunk of land in the Hovland area! Functional, MUST SEE! MLS#6025583 $108,900

MLS#2313265 $289,900 HUGE VALUE!!!

RUSTIC LIVING A HOP SKIP & A JUMP FROM GRAND MARIAS!

LOVELY LIVING IN GRAND MARAIS!

E SAL ING D N E P REDUCED!

Gorgeous lot in town with rambling creek to the back, 2 car garage, and just a Sweet Home! Large kitchen, master bedroom has deck overlooking back yard. A Muse See Home!

Charming rustic cabin on 10 acres of south facing forest with distant views of Lake Superior. Bordering public lands, great for hunting or hiking!

MLS#6022732 $204,900 HUGE VALUE!

MLS#6020031 $85,500 REDUCED!

BUNGALOW HOME OVERLOOKING LAKE SUPERIOR, WITH ATTACHED GARAGE AND ACREAGE! Perfect location between Grand Marais and Lutsen, the

best of both worlds! Two bedrooms, open kitchen and family room, with a large deck overlooking the lake! Great for year round living or a perfect low maintenance getaway home! MLS#6025328 $195,000

CUTE LITTLE LOG CABIN IN TOFTE, A MINUTE FROM BLUE FIN BAY!

Year round access, nice land, and a very habitable cabin! Enjoy as year round living or a getaway cabin!

MLS#6026035 $89,900

COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITIES, LUTSEN AND GRAND MARAIS! GRAND MARAIS 4-PLEX IN THE HEART OF TOWN.

E L A S ING D N E P

Remodeled and well maintained. Big time shortage of rentals in Grand Maraismakes this property a mustsee. Great views over the village to the harbor, Big Lake and Artist’s Point. Currently rented as yr round rental, but could be nice vacation rentals!

MLS#2308951 REDUCED! $279,000 SELLER SAYS SHOW ME AN OFFER!

SUPER OPPORTUNITY TO OWN MOST OF DOWNTOWN LUTSEN!

Approx. 9 ac bordered by Lutsen creek, this hotspot hosts 5 commercial businesses and a lot of apartments with good long term renters! 13 lot trailer park has been established since the 70’s, w/ each trailer owner paying lot rent. GORGEOUS LAND, mature pines, nice setting for future expansion with zero lot line setbacks. New compliant commercial septic system. Rental housing is in high demand in the Lutsen area, all rentals are full with long term history. Potential add’l income from retail space and garage/warehouse space currently used by seller. Seller Financing optional. MLS#2279185 $1,575,000

Call TIMBERWOLFF REALTY or visit www.timberwolffrealty.com for more information! 56

FEBRUARY 2017

NORTHERN WILDS

Winter Wonderlands Up North, Come Enjoy the Sunshine and Snow!

THINK SNOW!

Call TimberWolff for Your Personal Tour of Homes & Land!!!

n f o @ T i m b e r Wo l f f R e a l t y. c o m i n f o @ t i m b e r w o l f f r e a l t y . c oI m

Local 663 - 8777 • To l l f r e e ( 8 7 7 ) 6 6 4 - 8 7 7 7

CAMPN’, HUNTN’, FUN GETAWAY LAND, INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE! SILVER BAY TO LITTLE MARAIS TO FINLAND & ISABELLA!

TOFTE AREA NEAR BLUEFIN BAY RESORT!

Hwy 1 area Hunting Cabin on 10 ac

Wowser Lake Superior views on Overlook Tr!

NEW! Whitetail Ridge Overlooking Lake Superior! Just off Highway 1, Enjoy Sprawling Lake and Ridgeline views and Rugged Terrain! Yr Round Access, Electric. MLS# 6024856 $110,000 30 acres Wilderness, Borders lands next to Little Manitou River! MLS#2309327 $129,000

Mature Spruce and BIG Lake Views! Walk to Blue Fin Bay, drilled well in place!

Rocky Wall Overlooking Lake Superior just outside Silver Bay. MLS#2244646 $99,000 Rock Road in Silver Bay area! Great build site with creek frontage! MLS#2308638 $45,000

NEW! Nice parcel bordering USFS land, driveway roughed in, access to Tait Lk!

MLS#2309318 $64,900

Lakeshore on Ninemile Lake at the Village, common water and septic, build ready, borders common land! MLS#2309096 $39,000 REDUCED! SCHROEDER AREA NEAR THE CROSS RIVER! 10 Ac Parcels of Maples! Rolling Terrain of Mature Maples to a Sweet Building site Perched Over a Mixed Boreal Forest. Year Round Access and Electric at Road! MLS#2024250 $56,900 DRAMATIC Mountain Top Views, Rolling Hills, Maple Forests fading in to Spruce and Pine and year round access. Tons of acreage available, or just pick up a 40 for $70,000! MUST SEE, call Emily today! MLS#6001560, multiple#’s call for full map and prices! FROM $70,000 MLS#2090628 Sugarloaf Retreats on High Ridge Drive, Located a hop, skip and jump from Sugarloaf Cove on Lake Superior! Large parcel, with access to the Superior Hiking Trail! Yr Round access and electric to street!

MLS#1598640 $36,200

TOFTE AREA NEAR BLUEFIN BAY RESORT! LeVeaux Mountain, Super Views and Wildlife Ponds! MLS#2220050 $69,000 Just Up the Sawbill Trail Grab your little piece of the Northwoods, rolling terrain and small community feel with year round access, great build sites! MLS#2070510 Prices from $24,900!! Tofte vaag on the Sawbill, Nice Lake Views! Walk to the Coho, great location! FROM $49,900

MLS#1615956

MLS#2296509 $79,900 MLS#2272174 $49,900

LUTSEN LAKE VIEWS & WILDERNESS LANDS!

MLS#6023412 $35,000 High Ground End of Cul de Sac borders Superior National Forest! MLS#6021436 $49,900 Woodland Foothills Build Ready lots, Shared Water & Community Septic from

$19,000 MLS#2309328+

Heartland of Lutsen, 80 ac at the Foothills of Ski Hill ridge, near downtown Lutsen!

MLS#2312987 $119,000

Over 15 ac of Wilderness on Turnagain Trail in Lutsen! MLS#2216560 $69,500 Prime Build Site(s) just off theCaribou at Jonvick Creek!

LUTSEN LAKE VIEWS & WILDERNESS LANDS!

LAKESHORE BUILD SITES!

PIKE LAKE SHORELINE, SOUTHERN NEW! Maple Leaf Trail at Jonvick, Maples Galore! Nice elevated build site. Yr Round access, EXPOSURE! Nice big lake lot: 5+ acres, 225’ of frontage! Maples, cedars, fir, ash: a diverse mix of thriving Northwoods. electric. MLS#6024972 $49,000

The fall color is dreamy, try collecting maple sap in the spring! Shallow lake access, but it’s there, along with yr round access!

MLS#2313068 $167,700

GRAND MARAIS LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION! NEW! Hammer Road East of town! Expansive Lake Superior Views! Great Build Site at $49,900

MLS#6023586

Five Acres of Boreal Forest, Awesome Birch Drive location just west of Grand Marais! Yr Round access, electric at street. Perfect spot for year round home or getaway cabin, NO Home Owners Assoc! MLS#6025790 $42,000 PENDING!

MLS#1599157 $79,900 REDUCED!

Gorgeous 5 acre parcels in the Heart of Lutsen paved Caribou Trail locale bordering USFS lands! MLS#2174799 From

LAKESHORE BUILD SITES!

MLS#2289515 $57,500

30 acres of Prime Wilderness Land with year round access and electric at street with Views of Lutsen’s famed Clara Lake!

MLS#2080599 $137,500

80 Ac with Poplar River Frontage on the Honeymoon Tr!

MLS#2307399 $95,000

Gorgeous Views of Williams & Wills Lake in Lutsen! Year Round Access, electric, Mountain Top site bordering USFS land. A Wonderful place to build your home! MLS#2107927 $70,000

$150,000 PENDING!

Cty Rd 7 Murphy Mountain Lake View lands! Bargain Buys in young Poplar Forest, easy clearing for Sweet Lake Superior Views for as little as $39,900! Or Enjoy Hilltop Build Site with driveway in place.

MLS#2240533 $49,000

Creek Build Site just off the Caribou Trail at Jonvick Creek! Rare and Unique Build site!

for a nice “established feel” to this lot. Driveway in place, clearing done and electricity available! MLS#2309132

Corner Build Site in Town Walk to Harbor! MLS#2309203 $39,000 PENDING!

Lovely parcel just Up the Gunflint Trail, ready to build, mature pines great location!

$54,900 - $77,500

HEY HEY TAKE A LOOK AT THIS SUPER NICE CARIBOU LAKE BUILD SITE! The original cabin was recently removed, allowing

MLS#6022429 $49,900

MAJESTIC WHITE PINES ON TAIT LAKE SHORELINE! Lutsen’s favorite spot for

quiet recreation, this deep lot has 200 ft of shoreline and 3++ acres! Yr round access, electric, only 20 minutes to Lutsen’s Ski Resort! Five minutes to BWCA! Untouched virgin forest, a beauty of a lot! Includes the lakeshore lot and the back lot for TONS of value! $209,900 MLS#6025368

LAKESHORE 10+ ACRES BORDERING SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST! in Lutsen, year round access with over 10 acres and 200 feet of shoreline! Hilltop building site with cleared path thru cedar forest to Christine Lake, a super wilderness lake great for paddling your days away!

MLS#6023288 $99,900

SWEET PARCEL ON SWALLOW LAKE IN ISABELLA AREA! 220 ft of shoreline, 2.5 ac! MLS#2300576 $64,900 SWEET CLARA LAKE SHORELINE! Level Access from Build Site to Rocky Shores. Superior National Forest Lands! Electric, yr round access, Old Cabin in place to use now and build later!

MLS#1600179 $199,000

LAKE SUPERIOR LAND! JAW DROPPING LAKE SUPERIOR Ready to build with long winding driveway to build site, surveyed. Defined build site with Huge Views!! Rare opportunity close to Grand Marais and within walking distance from the Croftville Road, very nice for walks. MLS#6022564 $325,000

LUTSEN LAKE SUPERIOR CASCADE BEACH RD LAND! Very accessible, build site close to the water, listen to the waves of Lake Superior lapping the rocky shoreline! Gorgeous morning sunrises over the Big Lake, a must see! MLS#2308906 $299,000

END OF THE ROAD SPECTACULAR 280 ft of cliff shoreline with unobstructed Views across Lake Superior! Little Marais area, Build ready, driveway already in place!

400 FT OF STUNNING LAKE SUPERIOR SHORELINE minute’s to the Cross

MLS#2313255 $265,000

PLENTY OF ELBOW ROOM ON LAKE SUPERIOR! Nearly 800 ft of shoreline and

11 ac. of rolling terrain, with signs of the past logging roads and Spruce planted forests providing a sweet buffer from all of those pesky worries of the Real World! Driveway installed in to the mid-section of the land to allow you to explore which building site best fits your desires! MLS#2309271 $799,000

River in Schroeder! Rolling terrain, nice Evergreen stand giving nice buffer from ANY highway noise. Worth the walk through the wilderness to see the AMAZING 400 ft of sprawling ledge rock shoreline!!

MLS#2313305 REDUCED! $450,000

DREAMY LAKE SUPERIOR. land and lakeshore! Several acres of privacy and way more than 200 ft of Level Access Lake Superior shoreline in Schroeder, near Sugarloaf Cove Naturalist Area!

MLS#2090420 $275,000

VISIT US AT WWW.TIMBERWOLFFR EALTY.COM FOR PICTUR E SLIDESHOW! NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

www.CBNorthShore.com Serving Cook County since 1971

NORTH SHORE

(218) 387-2131 (800) 732-2131

101 West Hwy. 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604 info@cbnorthshore.com

On Lake Superior

Lake Superior Lots 57XX East Hwy 61 - $89,500 4.10A Lake Superior lot; 280’ shore. Driveway, septic mound, and underground electric already in place. Easyto-walk shingle/small cobble beach.

MLS 2297434

2884 W Hwy 61 - $327,500

1.30A, very attractive piece of vacant lakeshore located just past Terrace Point. 371’ of stunning ledgerock shoreline, with incredible views of the Grand Marais Harbor and the Sawtooth Mountain Ridge Line. MLS 6020179

East Hwy 61 - $999,999

7036 W Hwy 61

1000’ of beautifully rugged and secluded shore. 6 lots, house structure; you finish the interior, plus more than 30A of land to ensure ample exclusivity and privacy.

MLS 6020708 $425,000

MLS 6026201 $995,000

Over 28A, 1000’ of shore, and that is measuring it straight across. Meandering shoreline must be twice that much. The possibilities here are endless: family compound? Corporate retreat/ planned unit development?

4512 Cascade Beach Rd

68 Trailsyde

3BR, 3BA efficiently designed home with magnificent open great room. Wood burning fireplace, main level master BR that opens to huge wrap around deck. 218’ shore.

7310 E Hwy 61

Amazing cabin with cobblestone fireplace, all wood floors & tons of windows, nestled in by the water’s edge. 400’ of meandering ledgerock shoreline on 2.97A.

2BR, 2BA home on Lake Superior wirh 150’ shore. High ceilings, very open floor plan, & sliding glass doors in the LR leading to the deck.

MLS 6025052 $599,900

MLS 6021928 $269,900 PENDING

Com m e r c ia l

MLS 6022153

4556 Cascade Beach Rd

8 N. Broadway

1708 E Hwy 61

Luxurious 3BR, 2BA Lake Superior home on 1.4A and 200’ shore. Many amenities and expansive face Superior and the dramatic ledgerock shoreline. Excellent rental history.

4BR, 4BA home previously used as a B & B. Walk out lower level with a family room, large bathroom and laundry room. 236’ of Lake Superior shoreline.

MLS 6025899 $569,000

MLS 6023253 $224,900 PENDING

Condos

Tire and Auto Lodge

MLS 6026334 $479,500

This will work! Cooperative seller is ready to help you take off and build an already successful and established auto repair and tire business. Accumulate equity and grow this business into the future! MLS 2313262 $189,900

10 1st Ave West

108-2 Gunflint Trail

Prime commercial property with immediate income. Generate a cash flow with living, rentals, and owner run business space below. Great location for tourism near ample parking.

Bluefin Bay Tofte

Bluefin Bay has stunning Lake views and accessaward winning amenities and restaurants! Excellent rental potential. 1BR,1BA units with stunning views

Unit 27 MLS 6022267 $275,000 2BR, 2BA units with stunning views

108 Gunflint Trail

4BR, 2BA home right on the Gunflint Trail. This lot is commercially zoned with great visible location at the beginning of the Gunflint Trail. 2.5 car garage could be converted to retail space.

MLS 2161688 $199,900

Premiere downtown Grand Marais location! Commercial building consists of 1650 square feet with 35’ of street frontage. Flexible layout of building allows for multiple options. MLS 6024812 $224,900

Great commercial location with access off Gunflint Trail and Co. Rd. 7. Additional property available, or purchase with less frontage if you only want the shop building & area.

MLS 6024280 $149,900

Inland Lake Lots

Unit 17 MLS 6022417 $287,000 Unit 2 MLS 2298984 $319,000

Squint Lake

2.13A with lovely old white pine trees! Mid trail location, 221’ shore, abuts USFS.

MLS 2308814 $79,900

Poplar Lake

Convenient mid-trail location with deeded lakeshore access. Building site cleared, driveway in, utilities available.

MLS 2158160 $52,500

Two Island

5+ A of wooded land with 500+’ of shorelinea nd state land on two sides! Year round access; great recreational area.

Tom Lake

245’ of shore on 1.2A. Shoreline has its own natural boat slip!!

MLS 6024080 $45,000

Chester Lake

Grand Marais Condo’s

2BR, 2BA condo with amazing Lake Superior views, loft and underground parking. Many new updates to the kitchen and the bathrooms.

MLS 6025104 $289,900 SOLD

FEBRUARY 2017

Surfside

3BR, 3BA, end units with great views of Lake Superior. Excellent vacation rental history!

MLS 6023870 Unit 11A $210,000

NORTHERN WILDS

The only private parcel on Chester Lake. One of a kind opportunity! 40A, 300’ frontage! Rough cabin sold “as is”.

MLS 6022402 $149,900

Birch Lake

Heavily wooded 1.54A, 150’ of frontage on great trout lake. Direct, year round access off the Gunflint Trail.

MLS 2183859 $99,900

MLS 6023533 $74,900

Kemo Lake

One of only 4 lots on south shore. Private 2.34A with 200’ frontage on excellent trout lake! MLS 6021433 $139,900

Wilson Lake

4+A, over 335’ shore on premier Lake County lake. Driveway into building site, site prep work partially done, a septic system and a well! MLS 6021150 $220,000

Leo Lake

169’ shore, on 3.70A, mid trail location, with public access to other lakes nearby.

MLS 6023878 $124,900

Onagon Lake

Very nice 5A lot with lots of shoreline on both Cupid & Onagon Lake. Abuts Federal land for added privacy.

MLS 6022456 $119,900

Very peaceful lot with 222’of shore & shoreline on Cupid Lake. Located in the heart of the BWCA.

MLS 6022455 $49,900

Homes & Cabins

319 E 2nd Ave

Purchase three rental units for the price of a single home, or the lower units can be combined leaving a nice little family home with a studio apartment overhead. Or restore home into a two story single family home.

MLS 6024915 $168,000

176 Camp 15 Loop

1044 2nd Ave W

160A with 180+ degree views of the surrounding foothills. Very diverse forest... spruce bogs, cedar swamps, healthy birch groves, spruce, fir and healthy white pine. Owner/agent.

4BR, 3BA lovingly cared for home on 2 full acres of park like beauty. Private but within the city limits. Huge detached 1200 square foot garage for all the toys.

MLS 2313220 $149,900

MLS 6025039 $289,000

2499 E Hwy 61

Quality built 3BR, 2BA home on 9.5A with amazing views of Lake Superior. Combination kitchen and DR, open floor plan. Abuts Federal land to the north Huge additional garage and 1BR apartment!

MLS 6025059 $349,900

381 Moose Valley Rd

481 Co Rd 60

930 W 4th St

3BR, 4BA on 20A with amazing views of Lake Superior. Only minutes from town, abuts state land on the north. Energy efficient, in floor heat, gourmet kitchen. and huge detached garage!

Convenient and easy one floor living in a very quiet part of Grand Marais. 5BR, 3BA , well equipped kitchen, heated two car attached garage, plus 26 by 26 detached garage for the toys.

MLS 6025718 $469,000

MLS 6025180 $279,900

40 Taylor Lane

1911 Camp 20 Rd

Easily accessible, nicely wooded, year round 5+A. Abuts Federal land to the west. 24’x24’ garage with two doors providing space to store your toys and tools while deciding what to build.

MLS 6022762 $55,000

203 Victory Ln

3-4BR home on 7.66A. Lake Superior views, landscaped yard, raised garden beds, huge deck. Full basement with plenty of space for a workshop and family room just 5 minutes from town.

2BR, private but close to town on 8A. Out buildings include an older barn currently housing chickens, a wood burning sauna, a brand new screen house, and a 12 x 28 building that screams possibility.

Fully furnished, private, one room getaway on 40A. Wooded land with a wildlife pond and an abundance of recreational trails. Abuts federal land to the north.

Private and beautiful 20A with 2BR dovetail cabin, generator, batteries with inverter, a well and a cute little garage/ storage building. Borders Federal land on the west.

MLS 6026190 $259,900

MLS 6024267 $144,900

MLS 6021725 $69,900

MLS 6024727 $66,000 SOLD

260 County Rd 48

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Check out OUR BLOG

1183 Gunflint Tr

Octagon 3+ BR, 2BA home with open floor plan on 8A. Screened in porch, main floor office, fireplace, full basement, loft and a large deck. Being successfully rented in VRBO.

Co Rd 67 $72,000 - $82,000

Check out the views from these properties! 2 .7 - 3.48A with all utilities readily available - electric, broadband & telephone. DNR owned Lake Superior shoreline across the road so you can have the enjoyment of the lake without the cost.

MLS 6024403

at ColdwellBanker NorthShore. wordpress.com

MLS 6025633 $259,900 PENDING

Land W Hwy 61

Great location and development opportunities right off Hwy 61! 7.1A, zoned commercial and R-1. Additional R-1 acreage available.

Gunflint Trail Cross country skiers, hikers; this

Silver Fox Rd Two peaceful and quiet 5A pieces close to town with easements onto Federal land.

MLS 2170380 $149,900

property is connected to the Pincushion Cross Country Ski Trail system with the Little Devil Track River flowing through it MLS 2313364 $69,000

4018 County Rd 14 20A nicely wooded year round lot. Electricity and phone, abuts Federal land providing access to incredible amount of land.

Co Rd 67 2.24A, year round access, directly abuts State Land to the east. Fully surveyed and well-built private driveway. MLS 6024406 $39,900

shared driveway only minutes from town. Identified septic sites and fully surveyed! Approx. 430’ of creek frontage. OWNER will consider a Contract for Deed!

North Rd

Casper Hill Rd 19.6A just a few miles from town. Simple lean-to cabin to give you a head start on your get away. MLS 6023494 $45,000

9th Ave W.

MLS 2308865 $59,900

20A, very private, year round access. Power, phone and broadband available at the road!!

MLS 6024552 $39,900

Coyote Ridge Three 5A, private, beautifully wooded parcels close to town. Babbling, gurgling creek for your boundary. MLS 6021224 $45,000 - $65,000

78 Squint Lake Rd 5A surrounded on 2 sides by

Stonegate Rd 2A on public portion of desirable Stone Gate Road with lots of potential uses. Power, phone, and broadband are a stone’s throw away. County Rd 7 Oversize lot on Co Rd 7 but inside the city. The obvious benefits of broadband and other services.

Railroad Drive

Broadway Ave Wonderful location, oversize lot is

MLS 6023743 $49,900

MLS 6025787 $48,000

1.7A in the heart of Lutsen. Gently rolling topography, mature trees. Convenient location.

Rosebush Hill Lane Nicely wooded 5.40A with MLS 6024624 $49,900

Lovely .28A, corner, buildable lot in the heart of town. Heavily wooded with a gentle south facing slope. MLS 6026196 $67,900

Gunflint Trail - $97,500

Year round 6.46A on county maintained road with plenty of privacy. The cleared path up the property will help you visualize your future home on the North Shore! Also in close proximity to hiking, biking & skiing trails!

MLS 6026498

Co Rd 7 - $69,900

Beautifully wooded 7.7A, wonderful views of Lake Superior, just minutes from town on a county maintained road. Septic sites id’d, building site has been identified. MLS 6019917

MLS 6022528 $19,900

government land. Convenient mid-trail location.

MLS 6020283 $62,900

MLS 6025690 $39,900 - $69,900

MLS 6024916 $65,000

open to many opportunities for development and use.

NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

Inland

Lake

Homes

Tom Lake

Kemo Lake

Poplar Lake

Year-round, custom built, 4BR home on 4+A. 275’ of shore with dock in a secluded bay. Vaulted ceilings, log beams, lots of woodwork. Screen porch on full, walk-out lower level.

Remote lake cabin located close to town! Fully furnished super cute cabin built to accommodate year round usage. 16A, 500’of shore of great trout fishing.

2BR fully furnished cabin, off grid with propane lights, heat and fridge. 220’ of shore with boat house. Nicely wooded lot, easy access to the lake and excellent water clarity.

Charming 2BR cabin tucked away in the trees with cozy northwoods feel. 1.5A, 156' of shore, nice-sized deck and great views of the lake, with BWCAW access. Solid rental history.

MLS 6019286 $599,900

MLS 6022457 $219,900

MLS 2313186 $114,900

MLS 6019270 $229,900

Poplar Lake

Devil Track Lake

4BR home just steps from the water’s edge on a peninsula! End-of-theroad privacy bordering DNR land. Dining area has sliding glass door to the stone patio!

Devil Track Lake

2BR, 2BA year round log home with 190’ shore. Stainless steel appliances, quartz counters, open floor plan, peaked wood ceiling, log beams and screened in porch.

MLS 6023530 $569,900

MLS 6025051 $229,900 SOLD

Birch Lake

Poplar Lake

6BR, 5BA screened in porch and multiple decks. 1.52A with 222’ shore; great swimming in a quieter bay on the main lake.

Greenwood Lake

MLS 6023210 $349,900

Gunflint Lake

Seagull Lake

44A, 800+’ of shore, multiple rustic cabins, with propane lights, stove and fridge. Bordered 2 sides by Superior National Forest. All existing furniture, boats included.

3BR, 2BA cabin, open floor plan and 4 season porch. Private boat landing, huge garage, and Wildfire Sprinkler System. Multiple types of off grid operating systems so you can enjoy cell phone, electricity & running water.

Lovely year round 3BR, 2BA home. Large family room with propane fireplace and a nice sitting area. Also includes an older fixer upper cabin located at the water’s edge

3BR, loft, massive rock fireplace, kitchen with birch cabinets and island, walk out lower level with a family room and fireplace. BWCA lake with 400’shore on 6+A, abuts Federal land.

MLS 6022641 $489,900

MLS 6025773 $314,900 PENDING

MLS 6026539 $239,900

MLS 6022707 $549,900

McFarland Lake

2BR full cedar log cabin with over 300 feet of shore! Cathedral ceilings, wood floors, LOTS of windows overlooking the lake, ¾ bath and gas appliances. Complete yearround generator/solar panel system.

MLS 6024623 $379,900

Lar ge Acr eage 170A+ Camp 20 Rd - $169,900

110A W Highway 61 - $649,900

43A County Road 7 - $299,900

MLS 6022459

MLS 2164180

MLS 2170711

Heavily forested land that has been replanted with many beautiful pine trees. Rolling topography with many building sites and hiking trails. Features a gravel pit on the northwest corner and a small wildlife pond to the south. State land to the south.

120A Reason Rd - $109,900

80A Moose Valley Trail - $69,900

MLS 6025476

MLS 6021717

Wooded hideaway that is abundant with trails, wildlife and abuts State land on 2 sides. Located about 1.5 miles from Tom Lake Boat Access. Property is gently rolling and has a nice mix of healthy trees.

DAILY UPDATES AT www.CBNorthShore.com

Facebook.com/ cbnorthshore61 Coldwell Banker North Shore

FEBRUARY 2017

Nicely wooded with excellent development potential. Close to hospital and all the amenities of Grand Marais.. Multiple zoning (R1 & Far 3), survey and wetlands delineation completed in 2007. Electric at road.

Private wilderness with a partial view of Lake Superior. Variety of terrain; high peaks, rolling hills, and a wildlife pond. Year-round living on a county maintained road. FAR-1 and FAR-2 providing ample opportunity to for subdivision.

MEET OUR AGENTS:

Serving Cook County since 1971

Check out OUR BLOG at ColdwellBanker NorthShore. wordpress.com

NORTH SHORE 60

Nicely wooded land with varied elevations on the Highway 61 corridor. Year round access via Highway 61 and County Road 7. Many development options with multiple zoning: Far-3, R-1 and commercial.

NORTHERN WILDS

VIRGINIA DETRICK PALMER 387-2131

BOB CARTER 370-9054

101 West Hwy . 61 Grand Marais, MN 55604 info@cbnorthshore.com

HARRY DRABIK 475-2359

RICK AUSTIN 388-9434

(218) 387-2131

•

JULIE JOYNES CARLSON 370-8068

ERIC FROST 370-1362

(800) 732-2131

www.CBNorthShore.com

Lake Superior Properties

Lutsen In-land lakes Caribou Lake.

Lutsen Real Estate Group Using a fundamental business approach for all your real estate needs Office 218-663-7971

lutsenrealestategroup.com

525 Poplar River Condo. Part of the Lutsen Resort rental program.

MLS 6023499 $409,000

6294 Sea Villa Loop J7 MLS 6024480 $169,000

5402 W Hwy 61.

The owner named the property “Viewpoint” with a purpose and reason. This 3 bedroom two bath home has a view from each room and provides outstanding views on the entire North Coast of Lake Superior. Decks compliment three sides of the home including a private deck from master bedroom.Great room with fireplace enhanced by large lake facing windows. Guest cabin, oversized detached garage and new septic compliment the property. All you need is the key for this property! MLS 6023941 $545,000

391 Gunflint Narrows

Mike Larson 218-370-1536

Gorgeous 3 bdrm 3 bath on Sawmill Bay. Immaculate grounds. Simply beautiful. Additional shoreline and acreage available.

SALE ING PEND

A comfortable one bedroom authentic log cabin hand crafted by the owners with a nice view of Gunflint Lake. It located on a nice quiet bay in the northwest corner of Gunflint Lake with very clear water and a rocky shoreline. This property is 3 miles in from the main Gunflint Trail, with an easement along the private Gunflint Narrows side road. MLS 6022476 $229,000

MLS 6024837 $597,750

Caribou Lake.

3 bedroom cabin on private part of lake. Ready to go. New septic and more.

MLS 2020244 $319,900

Outsanding View Properties

48 County

Rd 34. SALE Timeless three G Nbedroom home. I D N PE

Bruce Kerfoot 218-388-2294

Outstanding views

MLS 2251195 $595,000

Steve Surbaugh 218-663-7971

Cabins and Land Superior National Golf Course Homesite. Perfect for new build. Water, sewer, power, broadband at site. (owner/agent)

MLS 602078 $59,000

Tait Lake.

Lot 16 - 2.8 acres. Deeded access to Lake with very nice build sites. (owner/agent)

MLS 6024063 $45,000

5402 (b) W Highway 61

Vacant Lake Superior Parcel in Lutsen. 2.5 acres and 333’ of Lake Superior Shoreline

Heritage Townhomes. Wonderfully appointed 3 bdrm townhomes overlooking Superior Natoinal Golf Course.

MLS 2308961 Starting at $329,000.

90 Hoaglund Drive Tofte

3 bedroom 3 bath 3 level Lindal Cedar Home. Finish detail, flooring and kitchen not yet complete/ perfect for new owner to complete to their own taste. Outstanding Lake Superior Views

MLS 6024998 $395,000

31 Eagle

Mountain. SALE Beautiful Mountain G N I Home at Lutsen D PEN

Mountains. Ski-in/Ski out and so much more.

MLS 2313086 $595,000

MLS 6023980 $349,000

When you visit our website www.lutsenrealestategroup.com you will find additional information on all properties in the area accompanied by multiple photographs for a more comprehensive overview of properties you may be interested in.

EARN MONEY WHEN YOU ARE AWAY BY PLACING YOUR HOME IN OUR VACATION RENTAL PROGRAM. Give Jayson Ernst a call today 218-663-7971 NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

BUYING OR SELLING

Lynne Luban

Call: 218-591-0985 Email: stphn.carlson@gmail.com or Realliving.com/steve.carlson.

OVER 4,000 FT FRONTAGE ALONG THE BAPTISIM RIVER

Over 10 years selling downtown MPLS Condo living. Currently representing this developers 9th project PORTLAND TOWER. I am available to meet with you in Grand Marais or Minneapolis to go over prices & floor plans.

Cell: 612-599-6986 Email: lynneluban@mac.com

THere’s a NEW CONDO BUILDING in DOWNTOWN MINNEAPOLIS 112 units with 63 SOLD! • 7 units available for immediate occupancy • 42 still available to customize.

A New Luxury Condo Development 740 Portland Avenue • Downtown Minneapolis

Steve Carlson 218-591-0985 stphn.carlson@gmail.com Realliving.com/steve.carlson.

One of a kind property on the sought after Baptism River. This 140 acres has over 4,000 feet of frontage on the Baptism just off Mattson Rd near Finland Mn. Privacy is what this is all about. For more information call 218-591-0985, email to stphn.carlson@gmail.com or Realliving.com/steve.carlson. MLS# 6007921 $250,000

• 17 story New Contsruction • Pet-friendly building • High end standard features • Community and Fully equipped exercise room, and outdoor roof top green space • Climate controlled parking • Just a few blocks from US Bank Stadium • Additional garage stalls available for purchase • Walk the Skyway for all your needs

• Within a few blocks of Lightrail • Close to the Nicollet Mall • Choose from many restaurants close by! • Walk two blocks to the new 9 arce Commons Park that extends from the US Bank Stadium to Portland Avenue. • Choose from many available options to customize your unit.

www.Realliving.com/Messina

Own a slice of Minnesota’s Favorite Resorts We bring you closer. To the lake, each other and your vacation property dreams.

Surfside on Lake Superior

Blueﬁn Bay Condos & Townhomes SOLD

Blueﬁn Unit 2

Blueﬁn Unit 17

2BR, 2 BA. You can’t get any closer to the lake than this.

2BR, 2 BA. Sweeping views. Rent as 1 or 2 units to maximize income.

Blueﬁn Unit 19 2 BR, 2 BA. A guest favorite. Both BR’s have panoramic lake views.

Blueﬁn Unit 27

Blueﬁn Unit 41

Blueﬁn Unit 61

1 BR, 1 BA. Charming unit with brand new bath, kitchen, and ﬁreplace.

2 BR 2 BA upper unit. Incredible lake views & reﬁned interior. Great rental income history.

3BR/3BA newly remodeled. Annual rental revenue over $100K.

FEBRUARY 2017

NORTHERN WILDS

Eric Frost Sales Agent, Blueﬁn Bay Family of Resorts Let Eric, exclusive sales agent for Blueﬁn Bay Family of Resorts, provide the details about each property and guide you through the process. Contact him today to learn more.

SOLD

New townhomes, total coastal luxury right on the shore of Lake Superior. 3,000 s/f, 3BR, 3BA. Quarter-share ownership w/ ﬂexibility for personal use & rental income. Excellent family retreat or investment property. Prices from $179K-$225K, includes furnishings.

218-663-6886 | eric@blueﬁnbay.com

CATCHLIGHT

Bobcat While checking out an area north of Grand Marais where several people had been seeing a bobcat, I came across this beautiful adult not far from the road. The bobcat was sitting in fresh snow watch-

ing me. I was able to use my tripod to take a long exposure, giving movement to the falling snow. Some of the flakes settled on it’s guard hairs outlining the cat in white.— Paul Sundberg NORTHERN WILDS

FEBRUARY 2017

e g d o el L

g r a e t E n e n C i e k S d l c i G o N o rd

Unspoiled. Serene. Spectacular. Unforgettable.

elcome to Golden Eagle Lodge, a family oriented, year-round resort located on the historic Gunflint Trail of Northeastern Minnesota. As the only residents on Flour Lake, and nestled in within the 3 million acres of the Superior National Forest, you can look forward to the quiet and solitude offered only from a true wilderness setting. Golden Eagle Lodge Nordic Ski Center is world class, nationally-known, and silent sports only. We are located on the Central Gunflint Ski Trail System, a well-marked network of more than 70km of beautifully groomed trails that begin right from your cabin’s doorstep. This trail system was built specifically for cross-country skiing and

is tracked for both traditional and skate skiers alike. All ski trail passes are offered at no charge to our cabin guests! We offer complete skiing and snowshoe rentals for all ages, a heated ski waxing room, a trail lit 7 days a week, and a private use sauna. All our modern housekeeping cabins have a fireplace wood stove, gas, or electric fireplace. We know much time, effort, and expense is invested in a vacation. We would be honored if you considered us as your vacation destination. We go out of our way to ensure every aspect of your visit will convince you to come back and see us again. You won’t be disappointed!

800-346-2203 • 218-388-2203

Golden-Eagle.com

Check out our Live Webcam! 64

NORTHERN Stay updated onWILDS ski trail conditions and snow totals

FEBRUARY 2017