Northern Wilds May 2022

WATERFALLS — FISHING WITH MOM — ICE CREAM — DULUTH ROSE GARDEN — FORAGING

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VOLUME 19 ISSUE 05

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Block Grant Investments Mean Services For You Each year, the North Shore Health Care Foundation awards block grants (lump-sum funding) to our community partners who deliver palliative care and senior services, health care and healthy living education, and emergency response. A max of $10,000 is available to our block grant partners after a successful annual application. This investment by the Foundation means these services are there for you and your family. This funding helped deliver a wide variety of services in 2021 through our partners.

Cook County Higher Education CCHE is our partner in health education. 2021 events focused on self-care, medical training, and community health and growth, including: Self-care events: Mental Health Awareness, Gratitude, Neck & Back Pain Relief, Herbal Home Remedies, and Meditation.

Medical training events: CPR/AED, First Aid, Nursing Assistant Certification, and Infection Control.

CCHE also provided training on Recognizing Elder Abuse, Companion Volunteer Training, Suicide Awareness, and Introduction to Dementia Friends. CCHE hosted 41 events focused on self-care, caring for others, and medical training. 21 events addressed Indigenous culture and racial healing.

243 low-cost ($50) laptops were distributed to community members for education, work, communication, and medical appointments.

Care Partners of Cook County Served 103 total clients 28 Senior Rides clients received over 248 rides; over 10,000 miles transported!

14 Delivery clients received over 60 deliveries 30 caregivers received coaching & support

Help us champion solutions, donations accepted at: NSHCF@boreal.org l 218-387-9076 NorthShoreHealthCareFoundation.org

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17 clients received care coordination/end-oflife care 22 clients received over 173 hours of chore assistance 14 clients received over 147 volunteer visits 34 clients received 245 telephone calls of support or reassurance 43 volunteers donated over 1200 hours to provide companionship, rides, deliveries, and chore help These services helped clients and caregivers maintain independence, remain in their homes, access medical services, avoid exposure to COVID-19, and combat social isolation.

Cook County Emergency Services In 2021, emergency services as a collective identified the need for a live-burn fire training center. The Cook County Fire Chiefs' Association took the lead on this project to begin site preparation at the Colvill Fire Department where the facility will be located.

Old shipping containers will make up the main structure of the facility. Construction is expected to be complete in 2022. The facility allows for more frequent training and interagency response training among Fire, EMS, and Law Enforcement; keeps responders and training dollars in Cook County,

Celebrate Spring After enduring a wet, cold April, it’s finally May, which means it should officially feel like spring— though I have a hard time believing the lakes will be open and that snow will be melted up the Gunflint by fishing opener. Who knows, maybe we’ll skip spring this year and jump straight into summer. Either way, we’re optimists around here, so cue our spring stories on gardening, hiking and walleye fishing.

This month’s issue was themed around foraging and living off the land, starting with an Along the Shore story on Round River Farm owners David and Lise Abazs in Finland. Round River Farm supplies vegetables to farmers’ markets, operates a seed farm, and even works to help protect the future of the North Shore’s forests. Rae Poynter wrote a feature story on foraging through the seasons, covering everything from wild leeks, fiddleheads and mushrooms to blueberries, maple syrup and hazelnuts. She also teaches us how to properly compost. Michael Furtman introduces us to the invasive buckthorn plant and what we can do to stop it from spreading. Last but not least, Chris Pascone tells us the history of the Duluth Rose Garden, which boasts more than 2,500 roses and 12,000 non-rose plantings.

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 storyideas@northernwilds.com.

The month of May is known by many for two major things: Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 8) and fishing opener (Saturday, May 14). Chris Pascone has a story about both, aptly titled Fishing with Mom. In his Northern Trails column, Gord Ellis teaches us all about wading and the different types of waders. Joe

Shead covers Temperance River in this month’s Fishing Hole.

We couldn’t write about spring without including a feature story on waterfalls. Eric Weicht rounds up a few of the must-see waterfalls on the North Shore, though there’s plenty more to explore. While you’re out and about, check out some of the events occurring this month, including a smelt parade and party in Duluth, a couple of foot races, music festivals and hikes. Afterwards, go get some ice cream—dining columnist Virginia George has the scoop on a few great locations.

Across the border, Peter Fergus-Moore interviews Magnus Theatre’s artistic director, Thom Currie, on how they were able to keep live theatre going during the pandemic. Elle Andra-Warner has a story on the International Friendship Gardens of Thunder Bay. This is no ordinary garden—it’s a collection of 18 distinct garden areas and monuments representing a mosaic of cultures of the city’s immigrant residents.

In other news, as of April 1, fully vaccinated travelers are no longer required to provide a pre-entry covid-19 test to cross the border, making things a lot easier. Anyone entering Canada will still need to use the ArriveCAN app though.

Here’s hoping for many sunny, warm days this month, with summer just around the corner.

—Breana Johnson

Want a Good Read?

Check out our bookstore online.

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Where the Fish Are! Cook County, Minnesota is a guide to 366 lakes with data about the fish species and population status, public access and acreage. Contour maps for 68 popular fishing lakes are included.

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Cook County is justly famed for its quality fishing. From wilderness waters teeming with trophy walleyes to secluded ponds Prune Lake stocked with brook trout, this county provides wonderful fishing opportunities.

Lake trout, smallmouth bass, walleyes, northern pike, black crappies, yellow perch, whitefish, muskies and stream trout swim in the county’s lakes. This book tells you where to find them.

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PLANNING, RESUPPLYING, SAFETY, BEARS, BUGS, AND MORE

The Historic Beacons of Minnesota, Isle Royale and Ontario

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—Shawn Perich Outdoor Writer and Publisher

BY ANNIE NELSON

$14.95 ISBN 978-0-9740207-7-8

51495> Northern Wilds Media, Inc. of Grand Marais publishes the monthly Northern Wilds magazine, which is available at dozens of North Shore locations from Duluth to Thunder Bay. Printed in the United States by Northern Wilds Print & Copy. www.northernwilds.com

By Jack Blackwell

By EllE AndrA-WArnEr

A guide to over 350 fishing lakes Includes 68 depth contour maps

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A comprehensive guide to the lighthouses and navigational beacons from Duluth, Minnesota to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Learn about the storms and shipwrecks that led to their construction, the lonely lives of the keepers and the role lighthouses play in present-day maritime navigation. $22.95

Veteran long-distance hiker Annie Nelson compiled the information and advice you need for a successful thru-hike adventure on the 310-mile Superior Hiking Trail. $14.95

Seventeen-year-old Jack Blackwell joined his grandfather, Alec Boostrom, on his northern Minnesota wilderness trapline. There he learned the story of his grandfather’s life of wilderness adventure on Lake Superior’s North Shore and deep within the canoe country. $14.95

Join the authors on the trails that lead to the magnificent waterfalls of Lake Superior’s North Shore. Maps and directions to over 150 waterfalls are included in this unique guide. $19.95

One devastating day in November, 1975, the Edmund Fitzgerald succumbed to gale-force winds, plunging to the bottom of Lake Superior and leaving no survivors. This haunting tale looks back to one of the most legendary, mysterious and controversial shipwrecks on the Great Lakes. $9.95

From wilderness waters teeming with trophy walleyes to secluded ponds stocked with brook trout, this guide contains data about fish populations and access for 366 lakes.

Contour maps for 68 popular fishing lakes are included. $14.95

s h o p . n o r t h e r nw i l d s . c o m NORTHERN WILDS

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SERVING THE NORTH SHORE A N D TH E WI LDE R N E SS B E Y ON D PUBLISHERS Shawn Perich & Amber Pratt

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EDITORIAL Shawn Perich, Editor editor@northernwilds.com Breana Johnson, Managing Editor breana@northernwilds.com ADVERTISING Destry Winant, Sales Representative ads@northernwilds.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Katie Viren • katie@northernwilds.com OFFICE Roseanne Cooley • billing@northernwilds.com

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35 Fishing Hole 36 Travel 38 Following the Ancestor’s Steps 39 Reviews 40 Strange Tales 41 Northern Sky

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CONTRIBUTORS Elle Andra-Warner, Gord Ellis, Peter Fergus-Moore, Virginia George, Jeff Hicken, Michelle Miller, Deane Morrison, Hartley Newell-Acero, Chris Pascone, Rae Poynter, Joe Shead, Eric Weicht, Sam Zimmerman

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Bot-any Mother’s Day gifts yet?

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Mother’s Day Gifts easy as 1-2-3

Step 1: Stop in today and prepay for hanging baskets for Mom Step 2: Fill out included card and gift to Mom on May 8th Step 3: Mom brings in card to claim her baskets!

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Through many years of tending the land, the Abazses have been able to grow hundreds of crops in a small area. | SUBMITTED

Living off the land

Farming on the North Shore FINLAND— When you think of Minnesota’s North Shore, “farming” is likely not a word that comes to mind. With its harsh winters and challenging soil types, growing food in this region is difficult—difficult, but not impossible. Several growers along the North Shore supply locally grown food to the community through farmers’ markets, community-supported agriculture (CSAs) and providing food to local grocery stores. One such farm is Round River Farm in Finland. Started

by David and Lise Abazs as a homestead in 1988, Round River Farm supplies vegetables to farmers’ markets, operates a seed farm, and even works to help protect the future of the North Shore’s forests.

“Ever since I was young, I wanted to farm,” David said. “I grew up in New York City and one day I saw an episode about the Amish.

After that I told my parents that I wanted to farm when I grew up, and that’s stuck with me ever since.”

David met his wife, Lise, while working at a research farm in New Mexico. They were planning to move to the East Coast to caretake a farm in Maine, but Lise, who had grown up in Minnesota, wanted to return to her home state. David, on the other hand, wasn’t so sure.

“I went to the library and researched tree types, snowfall, and access to an ocean. So, I said, ‘The only place I’d want to move to is Finland, Minnesota.’ When we came here at 23, we came with the intent to stay for the rest of our lives and now 33 years later, we’re still here living and farming,” he said.

When they moved to Finland, the Abazses wanted to regenerate an existing farm rather than clearing forest. They found an old Finnish homestead that had been abandoned and began the five-year process of getting the soil fertile enough to farm. Through many years of tending the land, they’ve been able to grow hundreds of crops in a small area, despite the bedrock being only 22 inches un-

derground. To maximize the growing season, the Abazses built four greenhouses and start planting seedlings inside in the early spring, and start planting outside in the greenhouses in April, even while there’s still snow on the ground. By mid-May some of the outside fields are typically ready for planting.

To maximize the growing season, the Abazses built four greenhouses. | SUBMITTED

Round River Farm has adapted and shifted focus throughout the years. They initially started with livestock and vegetables, with increasing but variable production, and took whatever they had grown to farmers’ markets. But as their soils got better and productivity became more consistent, they started a CSA, which they ran for 25 years.

“So for 25 years we were running the CSA up to 65 shares and doing three farmers’ markets, all from one acre,” David said.

“Throughout all this we also had part-time jobs and we designed it that way because we never wanted to be 100 percent dependent on growing food. We wanted to be sure we were intentionally building our soil and capacity, and if we were too dependent on production, we might have skipped some cover crops or land investment. By having the balance between jobs outside and inside the farm, it gave us the opportunity to put more resources back into the land.”

This balance between living off the land while also giving back to it underpins every aspect of life at Round River Farm, even the name—Aldo Leopold’s essays on Round River emphasize the need to live in harmony with the land and understand its cyclical nature.

The focus on regeneration at Round River Farm is found not only in soil cycles but also in the energy cycle and water cycle. David said that being truly regenerative is not merely a matter of sustainability, but a matter of creating cycles that get richer and richer.

“The cool thing is when you increase organic matter you also increase production, which increases resilience to heavy rainfall in the absorption factor. You increase the

Round River Farm owners David and Lise Abazs. | SUBMITTED amount of carbon, which helps the planet.

That same acre with half a percent organic matter held about 6,000 pounds of carbon.

Now at 15 percent organic matter it holds 194,000 pounds,” he said. “That’s what we’re looking for—all these things that make those cycles more regenerative.”

David said that while Round River Farm is continuing to sell vegetables at farmers’ markets, they are shifting to focus on growing climate-forward tree seedlings. With the climate growing warmer, the boreal forest is expected to recede northward, and within 50 years the North Shore could be home

to a deciduous forest. To maintain a forest canopy in the region, it’s necessary to be forward-thinking when tree planting, and to bring in not only tree species that will thrive here, but genetics from trees in more southerly areas of Minnesota that are adapted to the climate we will see in northeastern Minnesota’s future.

“The forest is changing whether we do anything or not, and how it changes and whether it’s resilient to changes is what we’re part of through the Forest Assisted Migration Project,” he said.—Rae Poynter

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Glossy buckthorn (shown here) tends to be under 3 feet in height, while common (also known as European) buckthorn grows the tallest, up to 10 feet in height. | MINN DEPT OF AGRICULTURE

A thorn in our side

The #1 Pest in May is

Dealing with the invasive buckthorn plant

No-see-ums

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for Sensitive Environments Cluster Flies Ants Carpenter Ants Mice Wasps/Hornets Pantry Pests Spiders/Centipedes Asian Lady Beetles No-see-ums All Crawling Insects

Buckthorn, specifically the non-native common and glossy species (we do have a harmless native buckthorn, the alder-leafed).

They are loved by birds because they produce large amounts of berries to consume (the seeds of which are spread in their droppings). And they are hated by foresters because they spread rapidly, crowding out native shrubs, shading out wildflowers, and stifling young tree growth. They also diminish wildlife habitat, so you can add wildlife managers to the “not a fan” list.

According to the Minnesota DNR, these buckthorn species were first brought here from Europe as a popular hedging material. They became a nuisance plant, forming dense thickets in forests, yards, parks and roadsides. Glossy buckthorn has been sold by the nursery trade in three different forms, so its appearance can vary. Today it is illegal to sell or transport buckthorn plants.

Of the two, the common (also known as European) buckthorn grows the tallest, up to 10 feet in height. Glossy tends to be under 3 feet in height. Since they are similar in appearance to some native shrubs, such as chokecherry and dogwoods, it takes a bit of study to tell shrubby species apart. Thankfully, the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network has a great online tutorial which can be viewed at: bit.ly/misincommonbuckthorn.

Perhaps the easiest way to determine if you have buckthorn on your property is to wait until late autumn. Buckthorn holds green leaves into winter, long after our native shrubs have shed theirs. If you spot a bush or small tree with green leaves in November or December, you’re almost certainly looking at buckthorn.

So, is buckthorn a problem in the Northern Wilds region? According to Cassandra Baysal, the Minnesota DNR NE region invasive species specialist, so far, we’re lucky.

“Lake and Cook counties seem to be the leading edge of buckthorn, both glossy and European, in Northeast Minnesota. We have treated several forested stands in the last couple of years, and more seem to appear on the landscape every year. These infestations typically have a moderate density of buckthorn presence where we assume the infestation started, then moves towards lower densities the further we get from the epicenter. They require multiple years of treatments because they typically have a pretty abundant seedbed. The North Shore hasn’t really seen the super dense buckthorn understories that many parts of Minnesota have. For example, in Aitkin County there are stands where literally nothing else is growing in the understory as buckthorn densities have blocked all sunlight, and it’s pretty tough to walk through these stands because of these high densities.”

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Birds love buckthorn because they produce large amounts of berries to consume (the seeds of which are spread in their droppings). Since they are similar in appearance to some native shrubs, such as chokecherry and dogwoods, it takes a bit of study to tell shrubby species apart. | MINN DEPT OF AGRICULTURE So far, buckthorn has not impacted the forest product industry here, wildlife habitat or recreation, and the DNR would like to keep it that way. Bushwhacking to your favorite brook trout stream is tough enough through alder. It would be all but impossible through buckthorn, which is where private property owners come in—halting the spread.

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“Buckthorn is typically more of a problem in and around towns in Northeast Minnesota,” said Baysal, “but it is definitely spreading. Some of the buckthorn population centers are located where a landowner planted buckthorn as a hedge 30-some years ago.”

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Getting rid of it isn’t easy, though, containing its spread is somewhat more manageable.

“There is no law on the books that says you need to eradicate a population on your property, and buckthorn removal is relatively expensive, thus cost prohibitive for many folks. My advice is to remove small populations and seed producers first,” prompted Baysal. “They are the easiest to remove and prevents further spread. Then tackle the larger populations.”

“Smaller shrubs can typically be handpulled,” continues Baysal. “As you get into older and larger buckthorn shrubs, they will need to be cut down and the stumps treated with an herbicide. Garlon4 and Pathfinder are typically what we use on forested stands (active ingredient for both is triclopyr). Pathfinder is a ready-to-use herbicide, whereas Garlon4 needs to be mixed prior to use. The best times to treat are late

Cabins - Camping - Fishing Hiking - Canoeing

Leaves of the non-native common and glossy buckthorn species, as well as the harmless native alder. | MINN DEPT OF AGRICULTURE summer to early fall, as the shrubs are actively taking resources to the roots in anticipation of winter.”

There is a wealth of information on identifying and managing buckthorn on the Minnesota DNR website. If you suspect you have this invasive species on your property, or might have spotted it in the forest, a bit of time on their website will be a great help.

View it at: bit.ly/buckthornmndnr.

ANTHONY INGRISANO Painting

it isn’t immune. To avoid the catastrophic problems experienced in parts of nearby Aitkin County, a lot of watchful eyes and willing hands will be needed, or it could become a real thorn in our side.—Michael Furtman

Northern Wilds country may be at the leading edge of the spread of buckthorn, but

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Garden Center offers: Trees, shrubs, perennials Annual bedding plants & hanging baskets Veggies and herb plants House plants, mini plants, air plants & orchids Flower and veggie seeds Soils and Fertilizers Garden hand tools and gloves Garden art and metal work Ceramic flower pots Garden décor & zen gardens Open

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Celebrating 37 years!

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Composting is a great way to reuse waste rather than sending it to a landfill. | STOCK

How to properly compost GRAND MARAIS— Why compost? Composting is a natural process whereby organic material such as yard clippings or food waste decomposes into a nutrient-rich mulch or additive to soil. Composting is a way to reuse waste rather than sending it into a landfill and also a way to help your plants get the nutrients they need to help them grow. It’s a win-win.

The basic building blocks of a compost pile are carbon and nitrogen. Carbon is found in almost all organic matter and should make up the bulk of your compost pile. Nitrogen is also crucial for composting, but should be added in lesser amounts. As a general rule, higher amounts of carbon are found in “browns” such as cardboard, newspaper, wood chips, and straw. Higher amounts of nitrogen are found in “greens” such as grass clippings, weeds, and vegetable scraps. The ideal ratio of carbon to nitrogen is about 30:1. Too much nitrogen and your pile may start to smell, while too little and the composting process will slow down.

To get started, you will need some sort of compost container. This can be as simple as arranging some fallen logs into a box shape that you can use as a makeshift bin, or as complex as a full three-chambered system for different stages of decomposition. You can also use barrels or commercially built compost tumblers. Whichever of the many options you choose, you’ll want to keep your compost contained, and you’ll want to make sure your structure allows for air circulation. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, active composting happens when your compost pile is between 130 and 160 degrees. Your compost pile should be turned once or twice a month to prevent the center from cooling down too much. This can be done with a rake or can be done by rolling if your compost is in a barrel or a container specifically designed to be turned. (Keep this in mind when buying or building your structure.)

Much of the yard waste a typical homeowner encounters is compostable. This includes fallen leaves, grass clippings and weeds, all of which make a great start to your compost pile. When first starting, layer your compost

and add a little bit of water to dampen the mix. From there you can add nitrogen: this can take the form of a compost starter which includes nitrogen and necessary microbes, or a lawn fertilizer that’s high in nitrogen. Either way, adding in nitrogen will help the bacteria that makes composting possible.

As you build your compost pile, you can continue adding new layers and adding water if needed to prevent it from drying out. For many people, composting is a great way to reduce the amount of food waste that ends up in landfills. Foods such as vegetables, fruits, coffee grounds, tea bags, nut shells and eggshells can be composted. Do not compost animal products such as meats or dairy products, or oils and other greasy foods—these can cause your pile to smell and can attract all sorts of wildlife, from flies to bears.

As your pile decomposes, the University of Minnesota Extension recommends starting new compost piles with new materials, rather than adding scraps to a pile that is mostly composted. During the summer, your compost pile should decompose within a few months. Composting is still possible in the winter, but there are a few things to keep in mind: first, remember that the need for balancing carbon and nitrogen remains the same. Since food scraps are nitrogen-rich, you will need to have a supply of carbon-rich browns to layer with food waste.

Also be aware of the risk for too much moisture from snowfall in an open-air container; a covered compost tumbler works well for keeping excess moisture from snow out of your compost.

Once you have a fully decomposed pile, your compost will be about half of its original height and look like dirt, with no easily recognizable scraps. Mixing compost into your garden beds can provide a nutrient boost and help balance water drainage issues that can occur in sandy, rocky, or heavy clay soils. You can also add compost into the soil when planting trees and shrubs. Reusing the organic matter from your property is one of the easiest ways to care for the earth and enjoy a healthy garden in the process.

—Rae Poynter

Magnus Theatre and the warriors of art THUNDER BAY—“I’ve been in theatre for over 26 years and I’ve never faced anything like this,” Thom Currie shakes his head. “I’m a natural optimist. When the pandemic started, I thought, ‘Two weeks and this’ll all be done!’ Nope. We shut down Sunday, March 15, 2020.”

Like so many public venues in Ontario, Thunder Bay’s Magnus Theatre went dark for the foreseeable future. As governments and health authorities Canada-wide struggled to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, Currie, Magnus’ artistic director, and staff struggled to figure out how to keep theatre working safely in the pandemic.

As the company tried to second-guess the pandemic (and governmental responses), Magnus laid off most of its staff briefly in the spring of 2020.

“But we are in the upper 50th-percentile of employers here (in Thunder Bay),” Currie explains. “We chose to bring the staff back, not for a week or two, but permanently.”

In an odd twist of fortune, the Magnus Theatre facility’s converted century-old building needed lots of renovation and upgrading. The 20 recalled staff had plenty to do. As the pandemic evolved, and restrictions were in constant flux, Currie hit upon an outdoor theatre venture for the fall of 2020. Magnus’ location adjacent to Waverly Park, with its new outdoor stage, was ideal.

“We called in the health unit and they inspected the premises, told us what needed

“I took a long look at our audiences and asked people as they came out how comfortable they would be with full attendance,” Currie says, “and they said they weren’t. We stayed with 50 percent for that reason. People need to feel comfortable in our setting.”

Just as Magnus converted its auditorium back to its usual setup from theatre-in-theround in January of this year, COVID-19 tapped the world on the shoulder. With the Omicron variant on the loose, gathering places faced yet another shut-down. Currie jettisoned one production that would have been impossible to mount under the new circumstances.

to be done and put in place,” Currie says.

“We also worked with the actors’ union for safety protocols for the cast.”

A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline opened in September, 2020, with audience members sitting on portable chairs they had brought, and the cast on a makeshift stage off the parking lot. And then, as so often happens in the northwest, weather struck.

Part of “two years of pivoting,” as Currie put it, includes more summer outdoor shows. “There is a thirst for that here.”

“There was this ebony cloud coming over the park—rain and hail,” Currie recalls. “We covered everything and ran. But the audience just sat there in the rain until it was over.”

As the sun reappeared, actors and staff looked at each other, asked the audience if they wanted the play to continue. The answer was an emphatic ‘yes,’ so after a few minutes uncovering equipment and readying the venue, Patsy Cline continued.

“Andrew Cecon, who was born and raised here, looked out at the audience and shouted, ‘You are Warriors of Art!’” Currie chuckles. “That was when I realized that if a hundred audience members stuck around in such a situation, we were doing something right.”

Magnus moved back inside that winter, again with a health unit inspection, with the theatre-in-the-round production of The Drowning Girls in November. Because of spacing and social distance restrictions, only 50 people at a time were permitted in the audience gallery. As well, Magnus struggled to mount a version of its Young Audience

Gunflint Pines

A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline— and then the weather struck. | SUBMITTED Tour for school-age children. Foreseeing another shut-down, Currie arranged to have the plays filmed with local actors and then screened at local and regional schools. Using Zoom technology for Q and A sessions, Magnus reached some 15,000 school children in the process.

Come September of 2021, Magnus was able to mount an indoors run of Home: A Bluegrass Celebration, with 50 percent audience attendance. Then the province allowed full audience capacity, but Currie was uneasy going that route.

“It will be a full outdoor experience, with a bar, snack stand and lots else,” Currie says, adding that as Waverly Park is not part of Magnus Theatre’s property, he is anxious that Magnus not be in the way of other users of the park. Moreover, Magnus has just acquired a giant saddle tent that Currie hopes can be set up seasonally in the park, with fixed seating on risers so that people do not have to bring their own chairs.

Arguably, like its audiences, Magnus is a warrior of art—it was the only professional theatre in Canada to be operating throughout the pandemic period.

—Peter Fergus-Moore

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It was 55 years ago that the 6.1-hectare (15 acres) garden park was unveiled by the Soroptimist Club and given as a gift to today’s city of Thunder Bay for Canada’s 100th Centennial in 1967. The park is located on the north side of Victoria Avenue at Hyde Park Avenue.

The project was built in two phases. In the first phase, gardens were dedicated to the Dutch, German, Italian, Finnish, Hungarian, Polish, Lithuanian, Slovakia and Ukrainian heritage communities in Thunder Bay. The second phase was for the Greek, Chinese, Filipino, East Indian, Scottish, Croatian, Portuguese and Slovenian communities, plus one garden representing Canadian heritage.

State-of-the-art solarpowered cottages on historic Silver Islet overlooking magnificent Lake Superior.

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THUNDER BAY—Visiting Thunder Bay’s International Friendship Gardens, created by the Soroptimist Club of Fort William-Port Arthur (now Soroptimist International of Thunder Bay), is like taking a relaxed walking tour around part of the world. This is no ordinary garden—rather, it’s a collection of 18 distinct garden areas and monuments representing a mosaic of ethnic cultures of the city’s immigrant residents.

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The park’s entrance arch has a flagstone bronze site plan to the garden sites. The individually-landscaped gardens are connected by paved barrier-free walkways, benches to enjoy the views, picnic tables, floral displays, and two man-made small lakes named Reflection and Soroptimist.

Journalist William Hryb wrote in an article about the Gardens (Papers & Records, 2012, Thunder Bay Museum Historical Society) that the park is “evidence that people can unite and build a monument to friendship.”

It is something to remember during difficult times.

The Ukrainian garden is unique in that it has two gardens side by side. One represents Ukrainian religion, while the second is for the city’s Kuria groups. Its monument exhibits a cross which recognizes the Christianity in Ukraine and there’s also a black stone with two silhouettes: St. Volodymyr, the King of Kiev, and Olga, the country’s first ruler.

At the Polish gardens, a traditional monument honouring Poland’s royalty and heroes is on a high mound of earth surrounded by

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May 5-21

The Ukrainian garden monument. | ELLE ANDRA-WARNER oak and linden trees. The Lithuanian site is on a high hill surrounded by a fieldstone wall with a plaque displaying the country’s coat of arms, which is one of Europe’s oldest national symbols; the monument’s figure is Smutkelis, meaning Guardian. At the German gardens, visitors can view a millwheel and a millhouse with a stream running into Reflection Lake; a plaque over the entrance reads about unity, freedom and peace to all mankind.

At the other 14 gardens and monuments, ethnic representations include a Chinese pagoda, windmill, a classic Doric column, a stone obelisk, bronze swans, distinctive statues, monuments with blue tile steps representing the waters of the world, and much more.

“A place of beauty,” wrote Hryb. “The magnificent park reflects the appreciation that the diverse cultures share with Earth.”

—Elle Andra-Warner

P SMARTY N T S by

Shelley Hoffman and

Stephen Sparks

tickets: magnustheatre.com | 807.345.5552

Betsy Bowen Studio & Gallery 301 First Avenue West, Grand Marais, MN 218-387-1992

The Rose Garden has over 250 varieties of roses, as well as other flowers. | ED LEE

Author Chris Pascone with his family. The Duluth Rose Garden provides a beautiful backdrop for photos. | MARY RASCH

The Rose Garden

Where Duluth gets perfect DULUTH— Gardening in a gritty city with vicious winds off Lake Superior, winter temps to 40 below, and often dreary skies from October through April is tough enough.

Building a garden of dreams on top of a concrete freeway tunnel raises the challenge.

And doing it on volunteer gardeners’ goodwill makes it an even more otherworldly accomplishment. Yet Duluth’s Rose Garden is all this and more. It’s a piece of manicured perfection that rivals a proper English garden, with brick-lined paths, a stone fountain, and a marble gazebo. The city of Duluth had the vision, passion and commitment to spend vast sums on a rose garden over a freeway tunnel, making the Rose Garden a heroic feat of human ingenuity. And it all began from a European immigrant’s love of freedom.

The Rose Garden was designed in 1967

by Ausma Klints—an immigrant who settled in Duluth in 1951. Klints was born to a florist in Jekabpils, Latvia. Her 2007 obituary mentions her love for flowers and of freedom: “Escaping from a communist controlled country, she wanted to show her appreciation of her new freedom by starting a public rose garden for all to enjoy.” Her family credits her with “20 years of long hours of labor, so that we may all enjoy the present Rose Garden.”

Klints simultaneously formed the Duluth Rose Society, which raised $5,000 in donations to get the garden started. The society planted more than 2,000 rose bushes of over 70 varieties in the Rose Garden, which was designed in a series of perfect concentric circles, giving it the proper “English” style (Klints herself referred to it as “European”).

Disaster almost struck in the late 1980s, when the Rose Garden had to be temporarily removed to make way for the Interstate 35 extension into east Duluth. Again, volunteers came to the rescue: the Rose Garden was rebuilt in 1994 in its current home within Leif Erikson Park, perched atop 7 feet of soil resting on the Interstate tunnels, and the Lake Superior Rose Society was formed to care for it. This non-profit organization

continues Klints’ spirit to this day, and the garden now boasts in excess of 2,500 roses and 12,000 non-rose plantings.

According to Carol Borich, treasurer of the Lake Superior Rose Society, its members are volunteer rosarians who help the city of Duluth maintain the Rose Garden by doing various seasonal tasks.

“Rose Society members assist the city park maintenance workers in “tipping” the tender roses in fall, and raising them from their winter protection in the spring,” says Borich. “During the summer, the members assist with properly pruning the spent blossoms to keep the roses in bloom, while teaching visitors and new volunteers the correct methods for this task.”

Borich adds that the vast majority of Rose Garden maintenance is done by highly skilled city staff tasked with caring for the Rose Garden.

But it’s not just roses that make the garden special—it’s the incredible view of endless Lake Superior from the garden’s open plateau. It’s the tooting of the North Shore Scenic Railroad trains as they bustle down the tracks below the garden. It’s the sail-

boats that ply the waters in view of the garden on Wednesday evenings in summer. It’s the runners, bicyclists, and skateboarders who glide along the Lakewalk within steps of the garden. This constant movement in all directions gives the Rose Garden its rhythm and energy.

These characteristics are captured by professional photographer Mary Rasch, who has framed the Rose Garden’s beauty in countless wedding, prom, and family photo shoots. She notes: “For me, the Rose Garden is like Alice in Wonderland—you have the roses, the benches with the swirl design, the scroll design at the top of the gazebo. It’s such a unique and well-manicured garden, it’s a draw for people.”

Rasch has her own personal story about the Rose Garden as well—she and her future husband had their first date there, their first kiss, and then (to keep the streak going) a marriage proposal, all from the same bench in the gazebo, surrounded by the luscious smells of over 250 varieties of roses.

The Rose Garden can be accessed from a free parking lot at London Road and South 13th Ave. East, and Rasch suggests the Rose Garden is a great starting point for a Duluth walking tour, without the Canal Park traffic.

Betsy Bowen Studio and Gallery will host a

Season Opener on Friday May 27 from 4:00 to 6:00 pm.

Fresh paintings and woodcuts from Betsy, as well as pottery, jewelry, and much more by local and regional makers.

Refreshments, too!!

Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday 11 am-5 pm or call for appointment.

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Radio brought to you by your friends and neighbors.

So, could the Beatles have been singing about Duluth all along when they were “sitting in an English garden, waiting for the sun?” Go take a walk in Duluth’s Rose Garden and make the call yourself.

—Chris Pascone

Celebrating 24 years of truly, local radio on the North Shore!

North Shore Community Radio 90.7 FM Grand Marais 90.1 FM Grand Portage 89.1 FM Gunflint Trail Listen online at

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MAY 2022

13

Points North Dogs Have Good Advice By Shawn Perich

Sometimes it is wise to follow the advice of a dog, especially when slippery, spring snow is involved.

Several inches of new snow from a late April storm laid on top of the remaining crust from a long winter in a deeply shaded valley. All of it was as hard as ice from a few days of chilly nights. My dog Rainy and I knew just how cold it had been, because we had camped in the back of the truck along the river the previous night. Now the sun was just starting to rise, which pushed the cold down to ground level in the valley.

Rainy advised not walking on this stuff, especially on the steep trail leading down to the river edge. He backed away from the slippery trail and refused to go down to the river. I called him a chicken and continued fearlessly forward. Rarely is a Lab a chicken. Far more often, they are smart. Perhaps smarter than their human companions.

Going where the Lab wouldn’t go, I bravely walked on, believing my fishing waders would find a grip where he did not. I lost my grip on my first step down the slope, landing on my back and falling downhill head first. I went quite a ways without anything to slow my descent. The dog watched from the top of the hill, clearly unwilling to join this madness. Eventually, my descent was stopped by a tree in my way. I was happy that I hadn’t broke my fly rod or some part of my body as I slid down the hill. But just as I contemplated this good fortune, the tree gave way and I was off again, still upside down and on my back.

This time I didn’t go very far, but the fly rod didn’t survive.

By this time, Rainy had found a safe route down the hill, but we had to go to the truck for another fly rod before beginning the day’s fishing. This time, I followed Rainy to the truck, having learned a lesson for the day. No doubt it will need to be relearned again on a future fishing adventure. I sometimes wonder why the dog keeps coming with me, other than because I have the truck keys and the kibbles. Then again, we also go on fun adventures and enjoy each other’s company.

Rainy and I have gone on many adventures, some simple and some more complex. We usually visit places where few others go, but those places are getting harder to find. | SHAWN PERICH This was not our only dangerous outing. When Rainy was young, my fishing partner and I decided to fish opposite sides of a river running high with extreme spring runoff. The flow was perhaps as high as I have ever seen it. Rainy followed my friend across the river and then attempted to return to my side without using the snowmobile bridge he had used to first get over there. My friend stopped Rainy’s first attempt before he went beyond the point of no return. However, on his second attempt, Rainy passed the point of no return as he tried to join me on the far shore. The current was so strong that it pulled him to where a tangle of downed trees lined the bank and made it impossible for Rainy to reach the shore.

grip among the downed trees and somehow found the strength to make his way to the bank. I laid with him on the bank for at least 10 minutes until he slowly regained enough strength to get back to the truck. That day I learned my lesson. You should not risk your life or that of people and creatures you love.

Most of our treks are simple adventures. Usually, we visit places where few others go. There are still some of these places left, but they are getting increasingly difficult to find. As more people seek the quiet, the quiet gets harder to find, but we have to keep searching for it. Because once we stop searching, we’ll lose it forever.

It was also impossible for me to reach the bank through timber left from clearing a power line. Rainy was pulled underwater several times; it was horrific. On what would undoubtably be his last attempt, he fortunately found his

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MAY 2022

15

Waterfalls

Adventures in the Spring

By Eric Weicht

Located in Grand Portage State Park, the rugged 3.5-mile hiking trail to Middle Falls offers spectacular views. | CRAIG SCALI

S

pring in the North is an acquired taste. In some ways it’s like coffee—a little muddy and bitter, but after a while it’s hard to imagine life without it.

May in particular is a beautiful, unique time to be on the North Shore. Hiking trails are less crowded, bugs are still dormant, and the birdwatching is at its best just before the leaves bloom. The star of this springtime show, however, are the waterfalls.

There are so many waterfalls along the North Shore of Lake Superior—more than most people will see in a lifetime of exploring—and the best time to experience these watery wonders is during the spring melt when water levels are at their highest. They range in size from the fleeting “phantom falls” that decorate rockfaces along Superior and Highway 61 after a heavy rain, to the 131-foot Niagara-like cascade that is Kakabeka Falls near Thunder Bay. Spring waterfalls are beautiful, but they can also be treacherous. It is important to bring appropriate gear for the day’s conditions—extra layers, food and water, as well as hiking boots with good traction (maybe even a pair of snow cleats depending on the spring), hiking poles, and a first aid kit. Make smart choices and don’t forget a camera.

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Kakabeka Falls At a whopping 131 feet high, Kakabeka Falls is the second highest waterfall in Ontario. Accessing the falls is an easy walk from the parking lot, but there are a few more challenging hikes (especially during spring conditions) that give access to portions of the Kaministiquia River as well as Little Falls, which—despite its name—is well worth the extra effort.

Nicknamed “Niagara of the North,” Kakabeka Falls has been carving itself out of the unstable shale beneath its flows since the decline of the last ice age. The surrounding layers of shale contain some of the oldest fossils in existence—some as old as 1.6 billion years—and the waters beneath the falls are a preferred spawning area for endangered Lake Sturgeon.

The Legend of Green Mantle: Look closely into the mist off the Kaministiquia River as it roars over Kakabeka Falls and you might just see Princess Green Mantle; the Ojibwe princess who selflessly led a troupe of Sioux warriors over the edge of the falls to save her tribe from attack. Read more about the legend at: bit.ly/kakabekafallslegends.

High Falls on the Pigeon River High Falls is the tallest waterfall in Minnesota with a top to bottom height of 120 feet. Located in Grand Portage State Park right on the U.S. Canadian border (i.e., the Pigeon River), High Falls is an accessible 0.5-mile out-andback hike along a paved trail. On most days in the spring, mist rises up from below high enough to soak the various overlooks—so don’t forget to bring a rain jacket.

Parking is available right off of Highway 61 before the border crossing, and there is a great visitor center at the trailhead with information about the falls and surrounding area. Looking out over the raging river from the trail, it’s wild to imagine what it would have been like for the voyageurs portaging their canoes around the rapids below.

Would they have been impressed or frustrated by the impassable falls? Probably a little bit of both.

Johnson Falls The High Falls in Grand Portage State Park is Minnesota’s highest waterfall at 120 feet. | RYAN GRIFFIN

Devil’s Kettle Perhaps the most famous of the North Shore waterfalls because of its “mysterious Kettle,” Devil’s Kettle is a must see for anyone willing to hike out to it.

The kettle itself is only 1.5 miles from the mouth of the Brule River, but the 200-plus stairs that lead down to the series of waterfalls that contain the Devil’s Kettle are way less fun on the way back up. The closest trailhead to Devil’s Kettle is located in Judge C.R. Magney State Park, so be prepared to pay a small parking fee that goes towards the maintenance and protection of the park.

Caribou Falls The Caribou Falls State Wayside is often overlooked but well worth a visit. The trailhead and parking lot are well maintained, as is the 1.2-mile out-and-back trail to the falls. At 35 feet in height, Caribou Falls is an impressive sight to see, and in the summer when water levels are lower and the current is less severe, it can be a fun place to go for a swim.

Pro tip—after taking the stairs down to Caribou Falls, hike back up and continue along the trail towards the top.

There is a platform that overlooks the falls from above, and the short hike to get to it passes beneath a number of gorgeous white pine. Well worth the extra effort.

For years, nobody knew where all of the water that pours into the Devil’s Kettle disappeared to. There are rumors of people trying to solve the mystery using colored dyes, GPS equipment, and even ping pong balls, but nobody was able to figure it out…that is, until recently when hydrologists working for the DNR used “science” to solve the age-old mystery. But why give it away here?

Some mysteries are better left unsolved.

Of all of the waterfalls in Northeastern Minnesota, Johnson Falls is perhaps the most challenging to access. Johnson Falls is a twotiered waterfall that is remote even by Boundary Waters standards, and requires a bit of bushwhacking off of Pine Lake to even find.

There are a number of ways to get to Johnson Falls, all of which involve a mix of paddling and portaging.

The two most common put-ins are either at Clearwater Lake or East Bearskin, with the Clearwater route requiring more portaging but less paddling, and the East Bearskin route more paddling but less portaging. Most folks paddling to the falls use it as an excuse to spend a night or two (or five) camping in the BWCAW, but out and back to the falls can be done in a full day of paddling.

To get a better sense for what it takes to access the falls, its best to contact a local outfitter. Not only will they provide up-to-date trail conditions and equipment, but they will help set expectations for aspiring adventurers. An important element of being prepared is knowing what to expect on a trip, especially when traveling into remote areas like the BWCAW. For further information on accessing Johnson Falls, check out the description on Clearwater Outfitter’s website at: clearwateroutfitters.com/trail-johnson-falls.

M

ake it an Adventure!

With so many options, the best advice is to get creative in experiencing spring waterfalls. See how many you can see in a day! A twohour drive is all that separates Caribou Falls near Silver Bay from Kakabeka up in Ontario, and there are so many easy access falls in between—Cross River, Temperance, Onion River, Cascade, Fall Creek, Kadunce, Devil’s Kettle and High Falls to just name a few…

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17

Foraging through the Seasons

By Rae Poynter

Most of us have gathered wild foods at one point or another; if you’ve ever picked a fresh berry on a hot summer hike, then you’ve harvested wild food. But for some, going deeper into the world of foraging is both a great way to add new plants to your diet and to learn more about the earth around us.

Ian Andrus is a Cook County resident and experienced forager. He teaches foraging classes at North House Folk School, and he and his wife Rachel own and operate Creaking Tree Farm, and has long been interested in the challenge of collecting edible food.

“It’s actually tough to find edibles in this area,” Andrus said. “I grew up an hour west of the Twin Cities and there was so much you could find outside. I moved here 12 years ago and have learned that edible foods are out there, but they’re fewer and far between.”

For beginners, the idea of going into the woods to find edible foods may seem challenging, but Andrus offered a few tips to get started. First, a key thing to understand is that the seasonality of any wild edible follows the growth of the plant, from greens to fruits and then to roots, and it’s often easiest to identify plants during the flowering stage.

A good field guide and an edibles guidebook for your region are musts, and it can be helpful to take a class or to go with someone more experienced.

“You have to become a student of all plants,” Andrus said. “It’s hard to jump in and only learn about the edible ones. Get familiar with botanical names and the different parts of plants which might be referenced when you read a field guide.”

Andrus said that beginners shouldn’t try to learn everything at once—start with three or five plants you want to identify until you get comfortable with those and go from there. And when sampling new plants, try them one at a time—if you have a reaction to something, it’s easiest to pinpoint any intolerances that way. Finally, before going out, take some time to learn about harvesting ethics.

“Some people go a bit crazy and try to over-harvest or even sell what they find, which is not what you want to do,” Andrus said. “Make sure you understand the broader picture of what you’re harvesting—is it widespread or hard to find? Is it

Ian Andrus teaches foraging classes at the North House Folk School in Grand Marais. | SUBMITTED fast-growing or slow-growing? Those are the questions you should be asking.”

Part of understanding the broader picture, too, is appreciating the rich history of harvesting wild foods in this region. Foods that can be gathered here have been gathered by the Anishinaabe for generations and good ethics will help keep these plants around for generations to come. (Also note that while many edibles can be harvested in small amounts for personal use in Minnesota, some— such as wild rice—require a permit, and some locations may be protected. Always check your local rules and regulations before you go.)

But for those who are interested in giving foraging a try, here are some of the foods that can be found throughout the year:

A good field guide and an edibles guidebook for your region are musts for those new to foraging. | SUBMITTED 18

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Wild leeks are susceptible to overharvesting. | SUBMITTED

Wild leeks can be harvested in the spring, though they can be hard to find. | SUBMITTED

Spring In early spring, one of the first sources

of food from the land comes from tree sap.

Sap starts running in maple trees when daytime temperatures reach above freezing but nighttime temperatures dip below freezing, usually around mid-March to mid-April, though that can vary. Several regions of the North Shore contain large stands of maple trees and even some commercial syruping operations. It takes about 40 gallons of maple sap to make one gallon of syrup, and only trees larger than 10” diameter should be tapped. The Minnesota DNR has an online guide on how to collect sap and make syrup at home.

While the maple syruping season gets most of the attention, birch trees can also be tapped for sap. Birch sap typically starts running after the maple season ends. While its lower sugar content makes it less ideal for turning into a syrup—it takes over 100 gallons of birch sap to make birch syrup—some people enjoy drinking the sap, or “birch water” straight from the tree.

As the earth continues to warm, plants start emerging and growing leaves. Ferns are abundant throughout the region, and the fiddleheads can be harvested while they are still curled. Wild leeks can also be

found, though they can be hard to find and are susceptible to overharvesting.

“If you find wild leeks, cut them a little bit above the bulb. The whole leaf has the same flavor, and keeping the bulb helps alleviate the regeneration pressure,” Andrus said.

Some other edible spring foods include dandelions, spring beauties and curly dock leaves.

Summer As spring moves to summer, plants move from sending up greens to producing flowers and fruit. Surprisingly, early summer can be a challenging time for foraging.

“Sam Thayer has written some of the best books on wild edibles,” Andrus said.

“I went on a foraging hike with him and learned that early summer was a potential starvation point if you’re not finding fish, since it’s between greens season and berry season. Game is also easier to track and trap in the winter than it is in the summer.”

However, once July rolls around, berries become abundant. The North Shore is home to many edible berries such as raspberries, blueberries and thimbleberries.

Wild raspberries produce fruit that looks

The North Shore is home to many edible berries, such as blueberries, raspberries and thimbleberries, all found in the summer. | SUBMITTED just like a smaller version of the raspberries you would find in a grocery store.

Raspberry bushes prefer sun and grow in recently cleared areas and along the forest edges. Their leaves can also be used for tea. Blueberries can also be found in clearings and on rocky hilltops. They grow on small shrubs and can do well in areas previously burned by wildfire, such as parts of the Gunflint Trail. Thimbleberries are bright red and look similar to raspberries.

They grow on plants with wide leaves of five lobes.

Autumn As summer begins to relax into autumn,

foragers can find hazelnuts throughout the Northland. Beaked hazelnut is the more common variety in the Arrowhead region, and their shade-loving shrubs produce green husks, inside of which the hazelnuts can be found.

Late summer and early autumn are also when wild rice can be harvested. Permitting for wild rice runs from August 15 through September 30, though harvesting is only allowed when wild rice has ripened, usually in September. Wild rice stands are usually accessed by canoe and harvesters use flails to tap the grain into

the canoe while preserving the plants. Be sure to check the Minnesota DNR website for more information about permits and other regulations surrounding wild rice harvesting.

Late summer and early autumn also bring an abundance of fungi to the Northland, and recent years have seen a surge in fungi interest. Varieties include chanterelles, king boletes and lobster mushrooms.

(Only eat fungi that you have confidently identified, as some regional mushrooms can make you ill or can even be poisonous.)

Rose hips, which form after rose pollination, can also be found in the late summer and into the fall. Rose hips are an excellent source of vitamin C and can be made into syrups, jellies or tea.

Winter As you may have guessed, winter is a

scant time for edible plants in the Northland, but some evergreen needles can be used for teas—pine, spruce and cedar needles can be all be steeped in hot water to make tea. Enjoy the warming beverage and vitamin C boost while waiting for spring to return.

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By Breana Johnson

May Exhibits There’s a lot to see this month with multiple exhibits on display at the Duluth Art Institute, UMD Tweed Museum of Art, Thunder Bay Art Gallery, Thunder Bay Museum, and Johnsons Heritage Post in Grand Marais. Be sure to check out our events calendar for detailed information, but before you do, here’s a small sample of what you can expect to see.

Art of the Elements Gallery in Grand Marais will open on May 26. This kilnworked glass piece, by Sharon and Steve Frykman, is titled “Spring” and is part of a five piece set. | FRYKMAN ART STUDIO

The World We Know, New Acquisitions to the Permanent Collection is currently on display until June 12 at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery.

This acrylic on kraft paper piece by Norval Morrisseau is titled “DemiGod Figure Two,” c. 1970. | NORVAL MORRISSEAU

Marjorie Fedyszyn’s exhibit Irreproachable, at the Duluth Art Institute, will be on display until May 26.

This piece is titled “Object of My Affection” and is polyester satin sisal rope over foam and plywood. | MARJORI FEDYSZYN 20

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The Duluth Art Institute’s Annual Member Show will take place May 26-June 26. Kelly Schamberger won the People’s Choice Award last year for this oil on linen piece, titled “I Am The Daughter.” | KELLY SCHAMBERGER

Katie Lemieux’s exhibit, Ending Up, is on display until June 19 at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery. This ceramic piece is titled “What’s in a Gaze.” | KATIE LEMIEUX

Kimberly Layer’s exhibit The Giving Forest, at the Johnson Heritage Post, will be on display May 27-June 19 and features both her paintings and photography. Layer paints in oils and acrylics. | KIMBERLY LAYER

Dylan Cheek

Putting Pencil to Paper CREATIVE SPACE: By Michelle Miller The North Shore is known for its wealth of talented artists who live and work throughout the Arrowhead region. Each artist’s story and creative journey is personal and unique. For Dylan Cheek, his journey began back in grade school, filling notebook after notebook of pencil drawn doodles.

“Yep, I was that kid,” he says with a chuckle.

Realizing drawing was what he wanted to pursue after high school, he attended UW-Stout, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in fine arts with an emphasis in studio art. College is where he came into his own and developed the style he still uses today. Cheek works with pencil and paper as his medium of choice and enjoys the detail and life-like intricacies the richness of graphite brings to a piece. He describes his work as “hyper-realistic,” focusing on one particular detail of a subject in a photograph and building from that. Nature is a common theme, for example, and when looking at a tree, he will concentrate on a section of bark and capture as much detail as possible. He sometimes combines highlights from several sources of inspiration to create one finished drawing. Cheek’s energy for his work is contagious and when he shares the technical aspects of the creative process, it is truly engaging to hear.

The Knife River native tributes his interest in nature and outdoors to his mom’s love of gardening. When he realized he could duplicate flowers and they turned out “pretty darn good,” he was hooked.

He moved from doodles to creating works of art for commission and local exhibits.

A familiar theme with many artists, most of his pieces are prints, as it is tough to permanently be separated from the original. Cheek’s work is currently displayed at various locations. His notecard-sized pieces are available at the Mocha Moose Coffee Shop just outside of Two Harbors on

the Scenic Drive. His larger prints are on a permanent exhibit at the Cloquet Public Library.

In 2014, Cheek had an idea to combine his art with his passion and interest in history, specifically the history of the big boats of Lake Superior. In the early 1980s, young Cheek saw the ore boats at the Duluth Canal for the first time. He was fascinated by the pier, the boats and remembered it being a deeply personal experience. So, when he came across a photograph years later from the early 1900s of a boat nestled in the DMIR ore docks, he experimented with a sketch of it. He admits he had no expectations of how it would turn out but was pleasantly pleased with the final result. Cheek eventually had a collection of nearly 20 drawings and during his research realized the story of each boat was just as interesting as capturing their images. He decided a book including a bio for each picture would be a great tribute to the rich history and the subjects themselves.

A Knife River native, Dylan Cheek’s journey began back in grade school, when he’d fill notebook after notebook with pencil drawn doodles. | SUBMITTED

“Boats are like human—they are born, go through life challenges and have an end of life; each with a fascinating story to share,” says Cheek.

The book takes the reader on a complete exploration of boating history and he hopes it sparks appreciation in others as it did for him while writing it. It is his goal to have it available soon, throughout the North Shore, once a publisher is secured.

The day-to-day world of a working artist can be disheartening at times, but Cheek says that his motivation comes from the fans of his art. Knowing his work has touched someone on a deeper level is what keeps him doing what he loves.

Additionally, his parents have been a consistent source of encouragement throughout his artistic pursuit. He continues to explore new subjects and techniques from

In 2014, Cheek had an idea to combine his art with his passion and interest in history, specifically the history of the big boats of Lake Superior. | SUBMITTED his small in-home studio, which doubles as his bedroom.

fall. All of his work can be viewed on his website: dylspencildrawings.weebly.com.

Cheek has been a featured artist with the Annual 20/20 Art Tour—which highlights galleries in and around Two Harbors—and he may make an appearance again this NORTHERN WILDS

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222022_NORTHERN_WILDS_CANADA_MAY.indd MAY 2022 NORTHERN1 WILDS

4/11/2022 10:23:07 AM

The annual Smelt Parade and Party in Duluth will begin at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 8. | SUBMITTED

GROWING TOWARDS THE LIGHT

MFRC’S SPRING YARD & CRAFT SALE

April 29-May 22 Visit the Johnson Heritage Post (JHP) in Grand Marais for the 13th annual art show sponsored by the Spirit of the Wilderness Episcopal Church. This year’s show theme is “Growing Toward the Light” and features two- and three-dimensional works of art by artists of all ages. An opening reception will be held Friday, April 29 from 5-7 p.m. and the show will remain on display until May 22. An artist’s talk will take place at 5 p.m. on Friday, May 6 with Michelle Wingard speaking about the intersections between creativity and spirituality. Wingard is an installation-based photographer, curator and arts educator residing in Minneapolis. She will also conduct a hands-on intergenerational art project workshop for the public at JHP on Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m. to noon. cookcountyhistory.org

HOMEGROWN MUSIC FESTIVAL

May 1-8 The Homegrown Music Festival is an annual community celebration of the original and diverse music of Duluth and its surrounding communities. What started in 1999 with 10 acts has matured to an eightday community-wide local music, arts and cultural extravaganza. The festival kicks off on Sunday, May 1 with live music and fun activities at various locations, including a free children’s music showcase at the Duluth Public Library from noon to 2 p.m. and at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum from 12:30-2:30 p.m. Performers include Dan

May 7, Saturday Visit Thunder Bay, the land of the Sleeping Giant, to attend the biggest yard and craft sale—the Thunder Bay Military Family Resource Centre Spring Yard and Craft Sale. It will be held on Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m. to noon at HMCS Griffon, 125 N. Algoma Street. There will be many tables to shop through with various items available. Admission is $2 and all the proceeds will go to programs and services for military families in Thunder Bay. For more information, contact: info@thunderbaymfrc. ca or call 807-345-5116.

SMELT PARADE & PARTY

See over 70 dancers of all ages perform in the 6th annual Cook County YMCA dance performance, held May 19-21. | JENNY GILBERTSON the Monkey Man, Woodblind, Brian Barber, Beats by Girlz, Jeremy Lepak and Steve’s Overpopulated One-man Band. More information can be found online. facebook.com/ duluthhomegrown

WORLD ACCORDION FESTIVAL

May 6-8 Harrington ARTS Center (HARTS) and A World of Accordions (AWAM) will be hosting a live-music accordion festival at

1401 Belknap St. in Superior. Music and lectures will be ongoing from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. with refreshments available from May 6-7, and a polka service will be held on Sunday, May 8. AWAM’s large concert hall allows for 6-foot seating distances if needed. Tickets can be ordered or paid at the door and the Sunday Polka Service is free. Many of the performances will also be live streamed on AWAM’s Facebook and YouTube channels. worldofaccordions.org

May 8, Sunday After a two-year covid shutdown, the Magic Smelt Puppet Troupe will hold their annual Smelt Parade and Party on Sunday, May 8 in Duluth. This free, family-friendly event begins at 3:30 p.m. with the presentation of the Smelt Queen at the grassy plaza at the Aerial Lift Bridge (behind the Maritime Visitor’s Center), followed by a second line parade on the Lakewalk. The parade will include a stilt walking Royal Guard, an energetic school of silver smelt puppet and mask dancers, a musical procession featuring a delegation from the Kingdom of Smelt, and music by the Brass Messengers.

Participants and spectators are encouraged to wear silver. After the parade, head to Zeitgeist Arts Café for a smelt fry and party at 5 p.m. magicsmelt.com

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museum and nature center

Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center

opens for the season

May 28th

Ellie Eskuri and Mary Waller on the Yellow Birch Trail at NSTT’s last event at Crosby-Manitou State Park. | SUBMITTED

FIRE FIGHTERS TEN MILE ROAD RACE

Join Us!

May 29th 4:00-6:00pm for the Special induction of the Chiovitte MN state record walleye

May 12-24 The Fire Fighters Ten Mile Road Race has been a Thunder Bay tradition since 1910, promoting an active, healthy lifestyle for runners of all skill levels. This year’s race will again be held virtually. Similar to last year’s virtual event, runners can select and complete a 10-mile route of their choosing during the designated running period of May 12-24. There is no time limit to complete your 10-mile distance, provided it is completed all “in-one-go.” Those interested in participating can register online. 10mileroadrace.org

Bob Bruininks will tell the story of his near-state record walleye.

• Silent auction • Story telling

The Superior Spring Trail Races in Lutsen will take place on Saturday, May 21 this year. | CARY JOHNSON as a side dish to share and your own beverage. Then, on Sunday, May 15, register for a walk between 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at Temperance River State Park in Schroeder. There are two trail options, totaling 10 km; a harder 4km trail or an easier 6km trail. Again, lunch will be available with a donation. Registration is required to participate (register on-site) and fees for each walk are between $2 to $8. nstt.org

• Museum • Nature Center • Watercraft Building • Cabin Exhibit

28 Moose Pond Drive, Grand Marais 55 miles up the Gunfl fliint Trail (Hwy 12).

218-388-9915

gunfl fliinthistory.org 24

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COOK COUNTY YMCA PRESENTS: DIVA NSTT FIRST WALKS

May 14-15 The NorthStar Trail Travelers will kick off their walking season with two first walk events on the North Shore. The first walk takes place on Saturday, May 14 at Crosby-Manitou State Park in Finland between 9 a.m.-2 p.m. There are three different trail options totaling 11km, including an easy 2km trail or a harder 7km trail. There will also be brats, hotdogs and more available for donation. After the walk, the club will host its popular hobo soup supper. Bring along something to add to the pot, as well

May 19-21 Over 70 dancers of all ages will perform in the 6th annual Cook County YMCA dance performance, titled Diva and featuring songs of empowerment and strength. The recital features ballet, tap and jazz dances, choreographed by Christine Curtis, Breana Johnson and Lenna Stever.

The recital will be held at 7 p.m. (6 p.m.

Thursday) at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts in Grand Marais. Tickets are $12.50 for adults and $7 for youth. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the door. tix.com

SUPERIOR SPRING TRAIL RACES

May 21, Saturday Located in Lutsen, the Superior Spring Trail Races traverse the Sawtooth Mountain Range on the Superior Hiking Trail. Runners will face extremely hilly, rugged terrain, crossing rivers and streams through the Boreal forests. Courses include a 12.5km at 9 a.m., a 25km at 8 a.m. and a 50km at 7 a.m. The 25km and 50km start and finish at Caribou Highlands Lodge and the 12.5k is a point-to-point race, finishing at Caribou Highlands Lodge. Aid stations are provided for the 25km and 50km and spectators are welcome for all three races.

Registration is required to race. superiorspringtrailrace.com

DULUTH DYLAN FEST

May 21-29 Head to Duluth to celebrate Minnesota’s native son Bob Dylan. This year’s Duluth Dylan Fest will kick off on Saturday, May 21 with a party at The Rex at Fitger’s at 7 p.m., featuring music by Cowboy Angel Blue. Other festival activities throughout the week include a Bob Dylan trivia night, lots

seven aunts sneak peek

This year’s Fire Fighters Ten Mile Road Race will be held virtually May 12-24. | ANNA BUSKE

Staci Lola Drouillard, author of Walking the Old Road, will share why she was inspired to write about her aunts, her writing process as it relates to personal, community, and women’s history, and she will stitch it all together by reading from chapters of Seven Aunts.

June 9 - 6-7:30pm FREE - Zoom RSVP at: www.mycche.org

CookCountyHigherEducation www.mycche.org · 218-387-3411 300 West 3rd Street, Grand Marais NORTHERN LANDSCAPES FESTIVAL Up to 700 racers will take part in this year’s Le Grand Du Nord, held Saturday, May 28. | CLINT AUSTIN of live music, a singer-songwriter contest, an acoustic jam session, a tour of Bob Dylan sites, and a lecture by Peter K. McKenzie, author of Bob Dylan: On a Couch and Fifty Cents a Day. More information can be found online. duluthdylanfest.com

LE GRAND DU NORD

May 28, Saturday Up to 700 gravel grinders will take to unpaved routes on fat-tire bikes, starting from Hwy 61 in Grand Marais. Held by Heck of the North Productions, the Le Grand Du Nord offers three events for cyclists: a 110-mile, 54-mile and 26mile route. With more than 5,500 feet of climbing and a decidedly remote feel, the 110-mile course is beautifully challenging.

The 54-mile course has plenty of climbing and miles of forested roads. The 26-mile “marathon” route is a Le Grand-worthy introduction to gravel cycling with its mix of paved and gravel roads, climbing, and great Lake Superior views. The first wave starts at 8 a.m. and spectators are welcome—watch the start and finish of the race across the street from Voyageur Brewing. Race registration required. heckofthenorth.com

WALLEYE INDUCTION CELEBRATION

May 29, Sunday Visit the Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center on the Gunflint

Trail for a special induction of a near-record walleye caught by Bob Bruininks on Loon Lake. The celebration will be held at the Chik-Wauk watercraft building from 4-6 p.m. and it will include a raffle of a wire walleye sculpture by artist Bud Bullivant.

Bob Bruininks will also be there to tell his story. Enjoy an evening of fish pictures and big fish stories. gunflinthistory.org

June 3-5 Learn about the birds, wildflowers, insects and geology of the northern landscape at this annual North House Folk School festival in Grand Marais. This year, Jonathan C. Slaght will hold a presentation titled “Owls of the Eastern Ice: Blakiston’s Fish Owl Conservation in Russia” on Saturday, June 4 at 7 p.m. Other festival highlights include more than a dozen field-focused courses, including birding by ear, beekeeping basics, northwoods nature through the lens, central North Shore’s geologic story, lichens: pioneers of the northwoods, and more.

Course registration required. northhouse.org

Get Ready for the Finland Farmers Market 2022!

June 16th — October 6th Every Thursday 5-6:30 pm Under the Pavilion at the Clair Nelson Center, 6866 Cramer Road, Finland

Brittany Haas, Brittany Karlson & Joe K. Walsh

Vendors: 1st week is free!

Fee: $5/week or $50/season

More info or to register call

218-353-0300

or check out our website at

www.finlandfarmersmarket.com

“a modern string band — from bluegrass to old-time with many stops along the way”

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

We want to offer community learning experiences related to food at the market, so it’s time to get creative.

Want to be involved? Have an idea?

Contact us! 218-353-0300 or email katee@friendsoffinland.org

Tickets $20 adults, $10 youth 18 and under for sale at northshoremusicassociation.com or at door

We are able to accept credit cards, EBT and SNAP

May 28 at 7 pm

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NORTHERN WILDS CALENDAR OF EVENTS Thru May 1

Thru July 24

May 6-7

May 10-12

Wrapped in Culture Thunder Bay Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, theag.ca

And in 1948, I Came to Canada: The Holocaust in Six Dates Thunder Bay Museum, thunderbaymuseum.com

School House Rock Live Jr. 7 p.m. (2 p.m.

Saturday) Eveleth City Auditorium, Virginia, MN, lyriccenteronline.org

A Song Rings Out Concert: Lost Composers of

Thru Sept. 30

May 6-8

May 11, Wednesday

George Morrison: Connections Grand Portage National Monument Heritage Center

World Accordion Day & Dr. Willard A. Palmer

Superior Shares: Virtual Open Mic Night 6 p.m. lakesuperiorwriters.org

Sarah Brokke: Embody Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org North x North Film Festival Zeitgeist Arts, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com Spring Craft Revival: Online Shopping Thunder Bay, craftrevival.ca A Year with Frog & Toad 1 p.m. & 4 p.m.

Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org

Thru May 7 Don Kottmann: Winter Lovers Exhibition Joseph Nease Gallery, Duluth, josephneasegallery.com

Thru May 15 Anti-Social Art: Experimental Practices in Late East Germany Tweed Museum of Art, Duluth, d.umn.edu/tma Jonathan Thunder: A Mural Project Tweed Museum of Art, Duluth, d.umn.edu/tma Glassworks from the Collection of Don and Carol Wiiken Tweed Museum of Art, Duluth, d.umn.edu/tma Native Regalia: Past and Present Tweed Museum of Art, Duluth, d.umn.edu/tma

Thru May 22 Spirit of the Wilderness Art Show: Growing Toward the Light Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

April 29-June 1 George Morrison: Imprint (Reception May 26 at 5:30 p.m.) Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

May 1, Sunday A Year with Frog & Toad (Sensory Friendly) 10 a.m. Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org Hymers Fair Spring Local Artisan Market 10 a.m. CLE: Heritage Building, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/hymersfallfair

May 1-8 Homegrown Music Festival Duluth, facebook.com/duluthhomegrown

May 2, Monday Movie Showing: A Wrinkle in Time 2 p.m.

Ely Public Library, elylibrary.org

May 3, Tuesday Eric Johnston: Run with the Bull Comedy Tour 8 p.m. On the Links, Thunder Bay, campfirecomedy.ca

Thru May 26

May 4, Wednesday

Marjorie Fedyszyn: Irreproachable Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Thru May 27 Carl Gawboy: New Paintings, Old Stories AICHO’s Dr. Robert Powless Cultural Center, Duluth, aicho.org

Thru May 29 Swedish Folkdräkt Fantasy Nordic Center, Duluth, nordiccenterduluth.org

Thru May 31 1821: A Union of Rivals Exhibition Thunder Bay Museum, thunderbaymuseum.com

ZZ Top 7:30 p.m.

NORTHERN WILDS

May 6-29 Secondary School Art Show Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

May 7, Saturday LSW Virtual Writers Café 9:30 a.m. lakesuperiorwriters.org MFRC’s Spring Yard & Craft Sale 10 a.m. HMCS Griffon, Thunder Bay, info@thunderbaymfrc.ca Inter-generational Art Project Workshop 10 a.m. Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org Zorya Ukrainian Dancers 7 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

TBSO: Brew & Beethoven 8 p.m.

O’Kelly VC Armoury, Thunder Bay, tbso.ca

May 8, Sunday Mother’s Day

Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, decc.org

May 12, Thursday Just for Laughs Comedy Night in Canada: Hosted by Rick Mercer 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

May 12-24 Fire Fighters Ten Mile Road Race Thunder Bay, 10mileroadrace.org

May 14, Saturday Minnesota Fishing Opener Walleye Fishing Opener Breakfast 5:30 a.m. Veterans on the Lake Resort, Ely, facebook.com/veteransonthelakeresort NSTT First Walks 9 a.m.

Crosby-Manitou State Park, Finland, nstt.org The Depot Steam Festival 10 a.m.

The Depot, Duluth, experiencethedepot.org Nice Girls of the North Marketplace 10 a.m. Spirit of the Lake Community School, Duluth, nicegirlsofthenorth.com Dance Dynamics Studio 2:30 p.m.

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Mother Mother: The Inside Tour 8 p.m.

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Gala for the Grove Masquerade Ball 5 p.m. Birch Grove Community School, Tofte, birchgroveschool.com

Spirit of Dance 6:15 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

May 9, Monday

Stand Up Comedy: Jon Dore 7 p.m. & 9:45 p.m.

DaVinci Centre, Thunder Bay, campfirecomedy.ca

May 5-21

Art in Motion 6 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Smarty Pants Magnus Theatre, Thunder Bay, magnustheatre.com

May 9-Sept. 5

May 6, Friday Free Movie: Big Hero 6 8:30 p.m.

The Depot, Duluth, experiencethedepot.org

MAY 2022

The Diary of Anne Frank NorShor Theatre, Duluth, norshortheatre.com

Shen Yun with Live Orchestra 7:30 p.m.

Duluth Lions Club Pancake Day 6 a.m.

Decc, Duluth, facebook.com/duluthlionsclub

The World We Know Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

26

May 6-22

Fay Gleeson Dancers 7 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

May 5, Thursday

Thru June 12

Katie Lemieux: Ending Up Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

Celebration Talent Dance Competition II Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, decc.org

Magic Smelt Parade & Party 3:30 p.m.

Duluth, magicsmelt.com

Growing Toward the Light Artist Talk with Michelle Wingard 5 p.m. Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

Thru June 19

Festival 10 a.m. Harrington Arts Center, Superior, worldofaccordions.org

the Holocaust 6:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Museum, thunderbaymuseum.com

Christopher Harrison: Contemporary Visions (Reception May 26 at 5:30 p.m.) Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

May 10, Tuesday Kahoot! Commercial Jingles 3 p.m.

Ely Public Library, elylibrary.org

May 15, Sunday NSTT First Walks 8 a.m. Temperance River State Park, Schroeder, nstt.org Studio One Dance 2 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

May 18-21 Alice in Wonderland 7:30 p.m.

Cambrian Players Theatre, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/cambrianplayers

May 19, Thursday Get Crafty: Birdfeeders 3 p.m.

Ely Public Library, elylibrary.org

May 19-21 Chequamegon Bay Birding & Nature Festival Ashland, WI, birdandnaturefest.com Cook County YMCA Dance Recital: Diva 7 p.m. (6 p.m. Thurs.) Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, tix.com

May 23, Monday Victoria Day Hey, It’s a Holiday: World Turtle Day 3 p.m. Ely Public Library, elylibrary.org

May 19-28 Make Believe 7:30 p.m. Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org

May 25, Wednesday

May 20, Friday Artist Closing Reception: Ryan Pennesi 7 p.m. Tettegouche Visitor Center, Silver Bay, friendsoftettegouche.org

May 21, Saturday City Wide Rummage Sale Throughout Ely Superior Spring Trail Races Caribou Highlands Lodge, Lutsen, superiorspringtrailrace.com Nearly Naked Ruck March Noon, Mont Du Lac Resort, Superior, 23rdveteran.org Festiversary 2 p.m. Bent Paddle Brewing, Duluth, bentpaddlebrewing.com Writers Gathering 2 p.m. Northwoods Friends of the Arts Gallery, Cook, nwfamn.org

May 21-22 Wilderness First Aid Courses Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply, Grand Marais, stoneharborws.com

May 21-29 Duluth Dylan Fest Duluth,

June 3-5

Le Grand Du Nord Gravel Cycling Classics Grand Marais, heckofthenorth.com

Northern Landscapes Festival North House Folk School, Grand Marais, northhouse.org

Cook County Market 10 a.m. Senior Center Parking Lot, Grand Marais, facebook.com/ccfarmandcraft

May 24, Tuesday Riverdance 7:30 p.m.

Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, decc.org

May 28, Saturday

Hillside Makers’ Market 10 a.m. Perception Coaching, Duluth, facebook.com/hillsidemakersmarket

Wednesdays

Brittany Haas, Brittany Karlson & Joe K. Walsh

Queen: It’s a Kinda Magic 7:30 p.m.

Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

7 p.m. Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, northshoremusicassociation.com

May 25-29

May 29, Sunday

Alice in Wonderland 7:30 p.m. (2 p.m. Sun.) Cambrian Players Theatre, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/cambrianplayers

May 26-June 26 DAI’s Annual Member Show (Reception May 26 at 5:30 p.m.) Depot Great Hall, Duluth, duluthartinstitute.org

May 27, Friday Season Opener Reception 4 p.m. Betsy Bowen Studio & Gallery, Grand Marais, woodcut.com

May 27-June 19 Kimberly Layer: The Giving Forest (Reception May 27 at 5 p.m.) Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org

WEEKLY EVENTS Thunder Bay Country Market 3:30 p.m.

CLE Dove Building, Thunder Bay, tbcm.ca

Thursdays Date Night at the Winery 6 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us

Hike for Hospice 11 a.m. Boulevard Lake, Thunder Bay, hospicenorthwest.ca

Saturdays

Walleye Induction Celebration 4 p.m. Chik-Wauk Watercraft Building, Gunflint Trail, gunflinthistory.org

Thunder Bay Country Market 8 a.m.

CLE Dove Building, Thunder Bay, tbcm.ca Tour the North House Campus 2 p.m. North House Folk School, Grand Marais, northhouse.org

May 30, Monday Memorial Day May 30-31 All The Daze Productions: Once Upon a Mattress 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

June 3, Friday Artist Reception: Bailey Aaland 7 p.m. Tettegouche Visitor Center, Silver Bay, friendsoftettegouche.org Jeremy Hotz 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

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The North Shore Dish Freshly Churned Nostalgia By Virginia George

As the weather warms up and we start digging ourselves out of our hibernating holes, we can begin our spring preparations. Now, I know it was technically spring some time ago, but with a wet and cold April, we Northlanders are on a delayed schedule and we take our summers seriously. They are short enough that we need to squeak every last moment out of them, so it’s time to tune up the bikes, check your swimming suit for moth holes, and if you haven’t taken the snow tires off yet, it’s probably safe. It’s also the time of year to start thinking about stalking your favorite ice cream joint.

It must be a Minnesota thing, because plenty of people I know have never heard of an ice cream shop closing down for the winter. Near my childhood home, we had a small Dairy Queen that closed down and became a Christmas tree lot every year, and some of my favorite ice cream shops here in the Northland are seasonal as well.

It turns out I have a lot of nostalgia tied up in ice cream, but more importantly, the relationships that have been nurtured around it. My earliest memory of ice cream magic involves a gallon of Kemps Tin Roof Sundae. Ice cream was certainly not a seasonal affair for my grandfather, a Danish immigrant and certified sweet tooth. With a twinkle in his eye, he’d ask who wanted dessert and send one of the grandkids to the overfilled chest freezer on the porch to return with a gallon of ice cream. He’d scoop out the bowls and pass around the Hershey’s chocolate syrup.

A few years ago, I was picking up dessert for my own family, and as I scanned the freezer cases, I came across the Tin Roof Sundae. I hadn’t had it in ages, but nostalgia kicked in and I decided to introduce my own kids to it, but without the chocolate syrup. Though they never had the opportunity to meet my grandpa, they feel a sense of connection to him through slow churned cream, fudge and peanuts.

Merla Mae, Thunder Bay

Merla Mae is one of those summer sensations, with a lot to offer. It is an old timey drive-in ice cream shop and burger joint.

Merla Mae burgers are made from fresh, local beef and a Bennett’s Bakery bun, truly keeping everything as local as possible.

Merla Mae also makes all their ice cream in house and they offer a variety of flavors, as well as dairy-free options. Ice cream flavors

Merla Mae in Thunder Bay is an old timey drive-in ice cream shop and burger joint. They offer a variety of ice cream, as well as ice cream cakes. | MERLA MAE NORTHERN WILDS

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Love Creamery in Duluth offers kombucha, prosecco or craft beer ice cream floats. | VIRGINIA GEORGE vary from traditional ones like bubblegum, Oreo and strawberry, along with seasonal favorites like apple pie and pumpkin spice.

Cinnamon bun. Blueberry cheesecake.

How is a person to choose?! Merla Mae’s dairy and gluten-free gelato is available in equally delicious flavors, like watermelon and peach mango. Besides these traditional offerings, Merla Mae makes the most beautifully crafted ice cream cakes.

Love Creamery, Duluth

Love Creamery has two storefronts, with the original in the Lincoln Park Craft District, and a second store in Canal Park.

Their menu includes espresso drinks as well as ice cream, with to-go options like pints and ice cream “sammies” as well.

Love Creamery always has a couple “Plain Jane” flavors ready to scoop, and their ever-changing and infinitely creative freezer of small batch ice cream will keep you coming back for more. Love Creamery’s waffle cones are gluten free and vegan, and their vegan ice cream gets rave reviews. You can even stop in for a kombucha, prosecco or craft beer ice cream float. Love Creamery focuses on sourcing their ingredients locally when it’s possible and sustainably when it’s not.

Northern Expressions, Ely

Northern Expressions is a gift and ice cream shop, located in the heart of Ely. Northern Expressions makes their waffle cones fresh daily, and if you’re not careful, you may find yourself suddenly in front of the ice cream counter, having been lured in by their sweet siren call. Northern Expressions is home of the Mini Donut Shake, made with freshly made mini donuts, and while you eat your ice cream, you can wander through the vast gift shop and explore the various northern Minnesota themed décor offered for sale. Northern Expressions will open with the fishing season this year, the weekend of May 14.

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Dairy Queen, Two Harbors and Grand Marais

Home of the Blizzard, Dairy Queen carries soft serve ice cream and many ice cream treats. The Two Harbors location serves hot dogs and chips in lieu of burgers and fries, and has an adorable walk up storefront and resident wooden bear. It’s a great stop if you’re out and about, biking through town, or need a leg-stretcher on your way up the shore. If you’re looking for a burger with your ice cream, the Grand Marais DQ is the place to be. Both of these locations are right on Highway 61, so you can’t miss them.

For many years, my family has had a tradition on Memorial Day weekend where we visit the cemetery. My dad grew up in a small town in north central Minnesota and my grandmother’s whole family is buried there. Every year on the Saturday of Memorial Weekend, all my dad’s cousins convene at the cemetery. We place silk flower arrangements on the graves of those we were closest to, and start off across the rows to find some more long-lost, or newly lost, loved ones. It seems like a strange tradition, but we look forward to this ritual of connection every year.

After we have paid our respects and “made the rounds” to the various friends and family who live there, we head over to the local Dairy Queen. Let’s be honest, some people come just for the Dairy Queen.

But, here in Minnesota, Memorial Day weekend is the official kickoff of summer, so it’s always packed. If it’s nice enough, we eat at the picnic tables outside and feed the resident emus some french fries.

I doubt the ice cream has much to do with it, but the slow churned frozen sweetness has been a vehicle of connection in my family. With so many wonderful choices here in the Northland, I continue to make ice cream memories with my own kids. So wherever your summer takes you, I hope you’ll find moments of connection and maybe even a little nostalgia. You know where to find me.

Snoring:

Minor Irritation or Major Issue?

By Hartley Newell-Acero Snoring is such an ordinary part of people’s lives that it’s easy to become complacent about it. But is it just a harmless part of the sleep soundscape, or does all that “sound and fury” signify something?

It’s estimated that almost 60 percent of men, 40 percent of women, and more than 25 percent of children snore. As a person relaxes during sleep, the muscles in the throat loosen and narrow the airway. Then, when the person breaths, it causes the limp tissue to flutter like a flag in the wind, generating the familiar rattling sounds of snoring.

Things that can increase the likelihood of snoring include: Nasal congestion or obstruction—Having allergies, nasal polyps, or a deviated septum can limit the amount of air that’s able to flow through the nose. (A deviated septum occurs when the thin cartilage divider between the nasal passages is off-center or crooked. That makes one of the passages smaller and harder to breathe through.)

Challenging anatomy—The size and shape of muscles and tissues in the neck can

impact snoring. Some people just have large tonsils, tongues, or soft palates (that’s the muscular part at the back of the roof of the mouth—it sits behind the hard palate, which is the bony part of the roof of the mouth).

These anatomical structures can all block airflow. Additionally, the size and location of the jaw can cause the tongue to collapse backward, also blocking the airway.

Alcohol consumption or use of sedative medications—These both cause muscles to relax, including the muscles of the mouth, jaw and throat. Alcohol also causes nasal irritation and throat dryness.

This increases airway resistance and makes breathing more difficult.

it’s stored near the outside of our bodies.

However, it’s also deposited on the inside of our bodies around our internal organs and inside our neck and throat. Once there, it increases the amount of soft tissue and crowds breathing passages, reducing the amount of air that can get through.

Snoring can be no problem at all, a minor irritation, or a major issue, depending on its type, severity, and frequency.

Pregnancy—Changes in pregnancy contribute to snoring in a couple of ways. First, the amount of blood in a pregnant person’s body increases, causing blood vessels to expand and nasal passages to become swollen. Secondly, weight gain increases the tissue in the throat and neck and narrows the upper airway.

Soft, sporadic snoring is normal and doesn’t require any intervention (as long as it’s not bothering your bed partner).

Being overweight—Excess weight can cause snoring for anyone. It’s easy to see where adipose tissue (fat) is located when

Sleep apnea snoring is loud. There are moments when breathing stops, followed by gasps for air. These are signals of sleep

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Primary snoring happens more than three nights a week. It can be more disruptive to a bed partner but isn’t cause for concern unless there are signs that sleep quality or quantity is being diminished.

apnea, a serious (and potentially deadly) sleep disorder. Also watch for: • Daytime drowsiness • High blood pressure • Nighttime teeth grinding • Frequent nighttime urination • Difficulty focusing/brain fog • Waking with a dry mouth • Morning headaches and congestion While not everyone that snores has sleep apnea, almost everyone that has sleep apnea snores.

Read the full version of the “Topic of the Month” newsletter to learn more about the causes of sleep apnea, its potentially dangerous complications, and its treatments. The full version also contains links to all the resources cited in the newsletter.

This issue, and 60+ more, are at: sawtoothmountainclinic.org.

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Northern Trails All about Wading By Gord Ellis

One part of fishing that doesn’t get talked about much is wading. That may be because most anglers don’t need to wade to catch fish—they either angle from a craft such as a canoe, kayak or boat, or stand on a dock or shore. None of those angling locations really require wading. Yet if you are a steelhead angler, lake angler that shore casts or a fly fisherman that targets trout and other species in streams, wading is a big part of the game. For all those latter folks, here is a guide to wading and waders.

Types of Waders

There are really two basic types of waders. Hip waders are as advertised: they are waterproof coverings that will keep you dry to about the tops of your legs. Hip waders usually have the boot built into the wader.

The typical hip wader is made of rubber and each one has a strap that wraps around your belt to keep them up. Chest waders provide more protection from water and will usually ride half-way up your chest.

Chest waders come in both boot foot and stocking foot designs and are made from a wide range of materials. Rubber waders are the most common and cheapest, although they tend to be cold in the early season.

Chest waders made of neoprene and are warmer, but have fallen out of favour in recent years. Most premium chest waders are now made of various breathable materials; Gore-Tex are the industry standard. Be prepared to pay a handsome price for them.

Stockingfoot waders require you buy wading boots as well. These boots come in a wide variety of designs and are also on the pricey side. Wading boots will also have a variety of soles available. Some have a rubber tread; others have a type of foam that grips well on slimy rocks. Some even have cleats. I like foam soles on standalone wading boots, but they are not great on snow. Bootfoot waders should not be too loose or there will be blisters. Boots for stockingfoot waders, on the other hand, need to be bought a size larger to fit the wader stocking and feet. If possible, don’t buy wading boots without trying them with the waders.

Wading Techniques

Wading is an art that almost everybody must learn on their own. If you have an experienced friend or family member, I’d recommend watching them closely and

Chest waders are useful in larger, deeper waters. | GORD ELLIS asking a few questions. My main advice is to go slow and be sure of your footing.

Every year I see people take a cold plunge steelheading and that can end a fishing day quickly. Some anglers use a wading stick and that can provide you a pivot point and brace if you slip. I’ve always found wading sticks a tad awkward, as you have one hand holding a fishing rod and the other holding the stick. But to each their own. Take your time when wading and take small steps.

Keep your feet slightly apart, but not so much that it feels awkward. Balance is everything when wading, so if you feel even slightly unstable, back out of the water.

Many people wading for the first time will under-estimate the power of a current and how that can impact stability. Small rocks and sand also have a habit of being swept away underfoot and that creates its own set of problems.

Safety and Wading

While wading is generally a safe undertaking, it can also put you in situations that become potentially deadly quickly.

For instance, more than once in my fishing career, I decided to wade across a river that was flowing high and found myself suddenly in danger. The situations varied,

but they all added up to the same deadly possibilities. One time, I went over my waders due to an unseen pocket of deeper water. Another time, a chunk of ice came down the river from behind and nearly took me off my feet. Luckily, I was able to stay upright, but it easily could have gone the other way.

Crossing rivers is tricky and you must always remember if you are going across in one direction, you will have to come back.

In the springtime, the water level of a river or creek can go up during the day, and that can make a spot that was wadable in the morning impassable in the afternoon. If you do get swept off your feet, the worstcase scenario is your waders fill with water. This creates an anchor effect that can turn deadly fast. All people in chest waders need to wear a belt of some type and cinch it up tight around your waist. This is not really an option for people in hip waders although some have a cinch at the top to make them tighter to the leg. It is a good idea to wear an inflatable personal flotation device (PFD) when wading, particularly on larger rivers or when fishing solo. Although it can be a bit awkward at first, the inflatables are streamlined and light. Some companies are incorporating the inflatable PFD into a fishing vest, which covers two uses

at once. Every season, anglers from across North America drown due to a wading error or accident. A PFD reduces that chance.

Maintenance and Storage

Waders of all types need to be dried out and hung after each use. Waders that are wet and left in a sealed bag can mildew and even rot. When waders are being used a lot, carrying them in a permeable or mesh bag reduces the chance of mildew and allows air to circulate. I’d recommend putting high quality insoles in your bootfoot waders. These will keep your feet warmer and should be removed and dried after every use. Stand-alone wading boots should also be allowed to dry out after use, if possible. Check waders and boots for signs of cracks or abrasion. Generally, anglers learn the hard way about leaks in their waders.

A patching kit or a rube of Aquaseal is a handy thing to have in your vest or fishing pouch for on the water mends.

Wading is a great tool for getting closer to fish and to accessing spots many others can’t. Just remember to take your time and always err on the side of caution. Don’t wreck a good fishing day with a bad choice.

NORTHERN WILDS

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Fishing with Mom

By Chris Pascone My mom taught me how to fish. She and I would walk down Northwest Road to our neighborhood stream in rural western Massachusetts and fish for native brook trout.

There was a culvert under the road there, with a small pool on the downstream side perfectly sized for 6-year-old casts. Simplicity was the name of the game. A couple split shot, a plain hook and a worm.

“Let it sit on bottom,” my mom would say. “Give the fish a chance. Be patient.”

Just wait. That was maybe the best lesson I learned as a kid. Good times! We occasionally caught 8-inch beauties and pan fried them for dinner. These memories remain etched in my mind forever.

Fast forward 35 years to early 2020. We invited my mom to Duluth to help us take care of our 6-month-old daughter so my wife could go back to work. My mom drove out to Minnesota for the first time and covid hit the nation just as she was heading cross-country. She arrived on Saturday, March 21 and the next Monday, my employer—a public school—went to online learning. The plan was for her to stay for three months, until my school year ended, but I ended up working from home for those next three months. Suddenly, my mom and I ended up having a lot more time together.

The author and his mother, Marion, with an exceptional steelhead caught on the Baptism River in Tettegouche State Park. The female was released, as per Minnesota steelhead regulations. | SUBMITTED

That spring everything was as new to us as everyone else. I wasn’t expecting to stock up on 70 percent alcohol hand sanitizer at our local distillery. I wasn’t expecting to be home with my wife and three kids, plus my mom. We took it as an opportunity though. Our favorite pastime— fishing—had now become one of only a handful of things a person was allowed to do in society. And my mom was by my side.

Together, we made trip after trip down to the pier in Duluth to fish for coho salmon. This was our covid oasis. A huge stretch of concrete, still open to the public, with ample space to spread out. Those who have walked down the pier from the Lift Bridge in April or May are well aware of the draw this place has on fisherfolk. Early spring is the time of year to target salmonids within casting distance from shore. The time when us little guys, without big and fancy motor boats, have a shot at catching our dream fish.

What a nice irony that a manmade structure meant to protect ships from heavy seas can also serve as a meeting place for generations of fisherfolk, like my mom and me.

These fishing trips brought us even closer together. We would stand for hours, watching our bobbers drift up and down in the current, then shoot below the surface if a fish hit, only to surface again—harmlessly—every time we missed the hookset. It’s a slow style of fishing, very conducive to talking. You stand and watch the water, doing almost nothing but wait. That’s what we did for three months. Sometimes early mornings before work, sometimes later in the day after online teaching was over. The pier became our sanctuary—our bubble—and fishing became our defense. It was our way of protecting ourselves, physically, out in the fresh Superior breeze, and metaphorically, by practicing continuity through the hobby and traditions we both enjoy.

The big ships coming through the canal would grab our attention when fishing was slow, and my mom ended up making a classy painting of the Lift Bridge. She was expecting the cold winds whipping off the lake to be a barrier to her, but in true Duluth style she adjusted to them and accepted them. She assimilated to the challenges of early spring fishing on Lake Superior—I was proud of her.

Often times, my older daughters would accompany us and go rollerblading on the pier while we fished. Other

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The author’s mom, Marion, and her granddaughter, Adriana, on a cold, windy morning fishing on the South Pier in Duluth. Grit and determination to get through raw weather are key to early-season fishing. Family bonding during covid times made it all worth it. | SUBMITTED

EVERYTHING AN ANGLER NEEDS to get out on the

times we brought the baby too, in her carriage. She was already a part of Duluth fishing culture before she could stand up.

water from fly rods to bobbers, with brands like ST. CROIX and TENKARA.

We had very limited fishing success (I did catch one wild steelhead that I released), but the pier for us was about more than the fish. It was about mother-son bonding and taking a stand against the pandemic-induced clo-

sures. It was about keeping our traditions and our sanity.

It was about going back in time to those walks down to our neighborhood trout stream when I was 6 years old. It was about self-care and taking care of each other. Fishing can do that for people.

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TEMPERANCE RIVER

BY JOE SHEAD

SALMON: In the fall, starting in September, you’ll likely encounter pink salmon below the barrier. Later, cohos and an occasional chinook may turn up.

BROOK TROUT: “The inland portion is all brook trout water,” Weberg said. “We do regular water temperature monitoring during the summer. It gets stressfully warm for brook trout by July through August. Some tributaries provide cooler water.” Weberg said some tributaries, such as

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STEELHEAD: “Steelhead numbers are average to a little below average,” Weberg said.

The area between the mouth and first barrier are all within Temperance River State Park, providing access all along the river.

Plus, there is plenty of casting room. The only problem is, this section of river isn’t very long. Weberg said spring steelhead anglers may occasionally catch a splake or brown trout.

OTHER FISH: The upper reaches of the Temperance River hold a coolwater fishery, consisting of walleyes, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, northern pike and a few other common area species. These species are found within the lakes through which the river flows, but they can be found in the river as well. Many of these lakes lie within the Boundary Waters and haven’t been surveyed in decades, but old lake surveys often indicate good populations of walleyes and smallmouth bass. “It’s a well-connected system,” Weberg said. “It’s got numerous lakes in the system. As you get up from the lake, there’s really no barriers other than beaver dams. There are a lot of stretches of the Temperance that aren’t very accessible and could yield some pretty awesome wilderness fishing.”

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VITALS: Temperance River flows out of the west side of Brule Lake in the Boundary Waters. From there, it flows through a handful of Boundary Waters lakes as it makes its way south toward Lake Superior. The river flows 39 miles. It’s slower in its upper reaches, where it flows through several lakes. At the middle, it courses through many rocky runs. Near the mouth, this swift river has cut through the bedrock over eons of time.

As a result, the river cascades down many

GAME SPECIES PRESENT: Steelhead, salmon, brook trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, yellow perch and northern pike.

ive

ACCESS: You can access Temperance River from several road crossings. For steelhead in the lower reaches, park at the wayside rest stop where Highway 61 crosses the river at Temperance River State Park between Schroeder and Tofte. If you want to pursue brook trout farther upstream, you might try along a small U.S. Forest Service Campground where the river crosses the Sawbill Trail. To get there from Tofte, travel about 13 miles up the Sawbill. The campground is on your left, just past Pancore Lake Road.

There are a few road crossings along The Grade as well.

Heartbreak Creek, Sixmile Creek and Blind Temperance Creek, attract brookies when the main river gets too warm and they also hold their own populations of trout. “We’ve seen the best brook trout numbers as you head further inland into some of those sections that have tributary streams,” Weberg said. “A brook trout in excess of 12 inches is certainly a possibility.” Weberg noted the river is fairly wide and wadable, making for decent casting. He recommends anglers target trout early in the season before warm water stresses fish.

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WHY GO: The Temperance River gets good runs of spring steelhead in its lower section.

The middle to upper stretches holds native brook trout, plus, you may find coolwater species such as smallmouth bass, walleyes and northern pike in the upper reaches. This scenic river boasts several gorgeous waterfalls and winds through a wilderness-like setting that holds untapped fishing potential.

waterfalls and runs through deep gorges.

The river allegedly got its name because the swift flow prevented sediment from building up and forming a gravel “bar” at the mouth.

“It supports an anadromous migratory fishery within the first barrier falls in the park,” said Matthew Weberg, assistant area fisheries supervisor. “It doesn’t hold a lot of good spawning habitat, but it draws in a lot of fish because it puts out a lot of water.”

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Lake Superior

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Sickle Lake

By Jeff Hicken

Four of us, Steve, Ed, Larry and I, signed up for a fishing trip. We were veterans of an ill-fated venture the year before, which began with a car accident in Minnesota and ended with us upside-down in a flooded plane in Neultin Lake, Manitoba, hundreds of miles from civilization. Despite our history, two newbies, Norb and Ted, joined us. A near-death experience like that couldn’t happen twice, we figured.

Soon after landing in Flin Flon, a small northern mining town which straddles the Saskatchewan-Manitoba border, we were in a float plane for a 30-minute flight to our destination. Hundreds of lakes glimmered below us as we soared eastward at 1,000 feet, and the splashdown went smoothly.

The resort, Sickle Lake Wilderness Camp, had advertised itself as a haven for walleye, lake trout and northern pike, and for bear hunting as well.

The “wilderness camp” was my kind of place. Adjacent two-bedroom cabins were cleaned by the staff daily. There was running water and plumbing. Home-cooked breakfast and dinner in a comfortable lodge. Buck Macgregor ran it, and his wife tended the bar.

On Monday, Buck met us at the dock with our guide. “This is Nick. He’s been with us for years.”

Nick looked like the real deal. Wiry, yet muscled. His face was eclipsed by the bill of his cap. I extended my hand, but he ignored the gesture, keeping his arms crossed over his large chest. “He doesn’t talk much,” Buck said, as Nick’s eyes remained fixed on the ground.

Ed Davenport and our guide with a soon-to-be-released northern pike. | SUBMITTED to throw the Daredevle spoon that was lodged in his jaw. After an eternity, he gave up the fight and Nick scooped him up in the landing net. Twenty-five pounds! Nick held the trophy long enough for me to snap a couple of photos, then let it go, since our policy was “catch-and-release.”

“We go now,” Nick said.

Ted was my boat partner. A good friend, he could be a man of few words, but was loquacious when it came to fishing. The northern pike, pre-historic looking torpedo-like creatures, were big and savage. On the first day, Ted pulled in a 10-pounder.

As we inserted a jaw-spreader to remove the hook, there was a large, dead northern in his gullet.

There was a shore lunch every day. The other two boats from our group would pull up to a point and the guides would start a campfire, clean some walleyes or lake trout, peel potatoes and onions, and open a can of beans. Meanwhile, we’d relax and talk. The guides would try to extend the lunch, since it meant a break from running the boats.

That night, Ted and I were talking with Buck and his wife at the bar. “Nick sure is a great guide,” I said.

“I’ll tell you how great he is,” Buck said.

“A couple of months back, he had two guys in his boat, and one of them had the brilliant idea that he’d stand up while he was fighting a northern. He was a heavy guy and he capsized the boat. Three of them ended up hanging on the edge. Nick swam the boat to shore. They could have died otherwise.” As he spoke, I had a flashback 36

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I’d thought that Nick might say something. Perhaps a compliment on my handling of the catch, or at least a smile. Instead, he started the motor and moved us to another bay.

“Fish here,” he said.

Typical “shore lunch” scene. Steve Schmidt [STANDING], Ed Davenport and author Jeff Hicken. | SUBMITTED to our crash in the icy waters of Neultin Lake, and the despair of our almost hopeless prospects during that moment. * * * Something unusual happened on Tuesday. Instead of sticking to the main lake with the other boats, Nick motored us forward. There was no explanation. The 40-horsepower Mercury was wide open,

NORTHERN WILDS

and soon we were beyond sight of the lodge.

Finally, Nick geared down and steered us into a bay. “Fish here,” he ordered.

Ten minutes later, I felt a tug on my line.

It had to be a big northern. He sounded, peeling the line from my reel. Then, just as quickly, his massive head breeched the surface. He thrashed desperately, trying

* * * Friday was getaway day. The Twin Otter had arrived to take us back to Flin Flon, and was tied up at the dock. The weather had changed, though. A cold wind was blowing, and there were whitecaps on the lake. Again, I flashed back to the stormy morning of our plane crash in Neultin Lake.

“No worries,” Buck said. “Not a major.

We’ll get you to Flin Flon in time for your next flight.”

We made it on time, but Buck was wrong in saying that it wasn’t “a major.” The Maple Leaf Flag at the airport was flapping in the wind, which had increased since Sickle Lake.

There was a crowd at the gate for our flight. It was parents and 40 or more high

GREAT FOOD CRAFT BEER AMAZING VIEW

Ted Klohs [BACKGROUND] and author Jeff Hicken in front of the wilderness cabin. | SUBMITTED

Heading out to parts unknown with Nick at the helm. | SUBMITTED

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BEER & school kids, on their way to a band competition in Winnipeg. When we loaded into the 737, the chatter from the kids was deafening.

The sky above was blue, but the atmosphere was increasingly turbulent. As the plane pitched and yawed, the flight attendants staggered down the aisle. I glanced over at Steve and Ed. They were sweaty and fitful. Soon enough, we began our descent into Winnipeg. The lower we flew, the more the plane rocked. The clear sky turned brown and opaque from the dust kicked up by the wind. As the city became visible, we could see trees heaving in the gale. Car lights were on.

When we approached the runway, there was a sudden thump, and the plane veered to the right. My stomach hit my mouth, and I grabbed an air-sickness bag, just in case. The shrill conversation of the teenagers stopped abruptly, and someone screamed “We’re gonna crash!” At the last moment, the engines behind us roared and we were back in the air. The force of it pushed me back in my seat.

The pilot was determined to try it again, though. Down we went. I looked for the flight attendants, but they’d disappeared.

A puff of black smoke flew at us as we slammed down, then bounced up, then down again. As the pilot cut the engines, a gust caught us, rocking us from side to side, the luggage knocking in the overhead

carriers. It was like being on the Scrambler at the carnival, except that the momentum was tenfold.

When the plane lurched to a stop, the cabin erupted in cheers. I did not join in.

Entering the airport, we saw that we were alone. The lights were dimmed. A couple of security guards were standing nearby, and when I walked past them, they greeted me.

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“Welcome to Winnipeg,” one of them said, with an ironic grin. “We were afraid you weren’t going to make it.”

“What happened here?” I asked one of them, gesturing toward the empty hallways.

“We’ve been shut down for hours. All the flights got re-routed to Regina. That pilot of yours, he must have a hot date in town.”

Mark your calendars: May 21-22

I looked for Ted and found him seated near the restroom, his face ashen.

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“Nothing personal, but I’m never going on another trip with you guys,” he said.

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MAY 2022

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Gidaanikeshkaagonaanig Gidaanikoobijiganinaan Following the Ancestor’s Steps

Mashkiki obimiwidoon awe Mashokde Bizhiki Buffalo Carries the Medicine

By Sam Zimmerman I was recently asked if I had ever painted a bizhiki (buffalo), as they are a respected awesiinh (wild animal) for any Indigenous peoples. When I sat down and thought about it, the bizhiki (buffalo) provided food, hides for clothes and warmth during the cold biboon (winter) season. I wanted to capture the warmth of ziigwan (spring) in this painting, with the waabishkaa bizhiki (white buffalo) running through the ozhaawashkwaa mashkosi (green grass).

The sacred ishkode (fire) is between them, burning shkodawabuk (sage) to the ancestors. The phases of the moon are high above them representing the passing of time as mashkiki obimiwidoon awe mashokde bizhiki (buffalo carries the medicine). The medicine of this painting is finally captured in the waawiyezidibikgiizisoog (full moon) in the center.

Follow my studio on Facebook and Instagram @CraneSuperior or if you have ideas for a North Shore painting, cranesuperiorstudio@gmail.com.

Be Firewise In-person and Virtual Hands-on Classes Coming in May and June Charcuterie • Chaga • Forging Dying • Birding • Ceramics Knife Sharpening • Spring Wild Edibles Birchbark Canoe Building Starts June 5th!

Cook County Firewise has programs available that assist property owners with free Firewise Assessments, hazardous fuels reduction projects, sponsoring chipper days, and providing county-wide brush disposal areas.

Contact us for more information about Firewise and what you can do to better protect your property from wildfires.

COOK COUNTY

email firewise@co.cook.mn.us www.cookcountyfirewise.org M I N N E S O TA

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The North Shore’s full-fiber broadband network, providing phone & internet service throughout Cook County.

218-663-9030

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Easy-Walking North Shore (Lake Superior) Tips and Suggested Tours for the (Somewhat) Mobility Impaired

By Elizabeth Bingham World Prospect Press, 2021, $10.99

Just as the title suggests, this North Shore travel guide is aimed at those who want to enjoy the area with limited mobility required. Running 120 pages long, the book is broken down into three major sections: Duluth, Lower Highway 61 and Upper Highway 61. Within each section is information on major sights, transportation and lodging options, and suggested tours and activities.

This guide is a good start for anyone planning an easy walking adventure along the North Shore, from Duluth to Grand Portage.

—Breana Johnson

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By Barbara Yurkoski

National Archives of Canada, 2021, $7.99

The novel takes place in a community near Thunder Bay, where environmental toxicity has forced the closure of its gold mine. Plans to build a questionable production facility come up against advocates of environmental sustainability. The book’s interconnecting themes deal with the resultant job losses, small town politics, nature in a boreal forest, and effects of conflicts on relationships among couples, family, friends and community. Central characters are Lily, and her husband and daughter, who are navigating family life as Lily gets deeper into an eco-tourism project which is at odds with those looking for glitzier community options. Interesting descriptions of nature are developed throughout as we see how its forces can affect a community. This is a good read.—Elle Andra-Warner

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Lemons in the Garden of Love A Novel

By Ames Sheldon

She Writes Press, 2021, $16.95

It’s 1977 and while searching for a topic for her doctoral dissertation, Cassie Lyman finds a trove of suffrage cartoons, diaries, and letters left behind by Kate Easton, founder of the Birth Control League of Massachusetts and an unsung hero in the women’s suffrage movement. Cassie soon discovers that she and Kate are closely related and they have more in common than she could have imagined.

While written as a novel, many of the characters are based on real people and actual historical incidents. The letters written in the novel are also largely quoted verbatim from actual letters. Lemons in the Garden of Love reminds us how far women have come in the fight for equality and reproductive health, as well as what’s at stake. This is a great, thought-provoking novel that everyone should read.

—Breana Johnson

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Strange Tales History in a Cup of Tea By Elle AndraWarner

Did you know that tea is the world’s second most popular beverage after water, followed by coffee, orange juice and beer?

Tea is also the world’s oldest beverage, going back almost 5,000 years. According to legends, it was the Chinese emperor Shen Nung (aka Red Emperor, the ‘divine healer’) that discovered tea in 2737 B.C. when tea leaves fell into his hot drink. However, there is skepticism about the story as people may have been drinking tea already, leaving it a mystery as to when or how tea was first discovered.

Some Tea Trivia

Freshly picked tea leaves from a tea farm in Kenya. | NEIL PALMER

So, what’s the source of tea? Well, all teas (except herbal) come from the same origin: the leaves and buds of Camellia sinensis species of evergreen shrubs or small trees (aka tea plant, tea tree or tree shrub).

However, while the teas share the same plant, it’s the tea processing that produces the different variety of the tea tastes of white, yellow, green, oolong, dark tea and black tea.

Although Chinese tea didn’t arrive in North America until the 1600s, tea-making from a variety of plants and trees had been going on for thousands of years by Indigenous people.

These included teas from willow-bark and oak-bark (now available in health food stores); spruce tip needles; cedar; and plants like Labrador tea; chamomile; lavender; blueberry, mint and many more.

The tea categories are primarily determined by the various levels of oxidation, e.g., from zero percent (green) to 80-100 percent (black). Tea oxidation occurs when oxygen reacts with enzymes in tea leaves to turn brown, like a cut apple.

Controlling the amount of oxidation—either stopping or increasing it—is the main factor in tea processing.

Simply put, the tea we drink goes through six basic steps. Harvesting the tea leaves. Withering or wilting the leaves to lose moisture. Leaf disruption (breaking the leaf by rolling, chopping or tearing to accelerate oxidation). Oxidation. Fixation (stop oxidation by heating the tea leaf for all teas but black). Drying (remove all moisture).

The first teas were brought to Europe from Asia in the early 1600s by the Portuguese and Dutch. It became a luxury beverage which only the wealthy could afford. By the late 1640s, tea found its way to North America by the Dutch to sell in their settlement in New Amsterdam (today’s New York). Canada’s first tea shipment arrived in 1716 by the Hudson’s Bay Company.

Globally in 2020, the tea revenue was $186.67 billion (Statista) with the highest tea production in China, India, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Vietnam. China is also the largest consumer of tea at over 1.6

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The United Nation’s International Tea Day is observed annually on May 21, thanks to a resolution passed in 2019 by the U.N. to raise awareness of tea’s long history, cultural and economic significance around the world.

Guinness World Records have certified two kinds of ‘tea’ records: one for the World’s Largest Sweet Iced Tea record in 2016 by Summerville, S.C. when the town brewed 210 pounds of loose tea for 2,524 gallons in a 15-foot-tall jar named Mason; the other, the World’s Largest Cup of Hot Tea achieved in Dubai in 2018 when 1,321 U.S. gallons (5,000 litres) were brewed in a teacup 12 feet high, 4.6 feet in diameter and heated to 85 degrees Celsius.

The second step in tea production: processing of the dried tea leaves. | WIKIMEDIA: BDX million pounds—but on a per person capita basis, Turkey, Ireland and the United Kingdom are the world’s biggest tea drinkers.

dians drank 22.4 gallons (85 litres) of tea per year, making the Canadian tea market worth $426 million.

The only tea grown in North America is in South Carolina at the 127-acre Charleston Tea Garden with hundreds of thousands of tea bushes on Wadmalaw Island, a few miles south of Charleston. The bushes are direct descendants of ancestral tea bushes brought over from China and India over 100 years ago.

Tea innovations happened in both Canada and the U.S. Americans are credited with the public popularization of “iced tea” at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair (though it had been in use since the 1860s in southern U.S.) and credited with the invention of the “tea bag” around 1908 by a New York tea dealer Thomas Sullivan. He originally made small silk bags to hand out samples of tea but it eventually evolved into paper when clients dunked them in hot water.

Though coffee is more popular than tea in North America, each day more than 159 million Americans do drink tea and in 2018, they consumed 3.8 billion gallons of it (Tea America). And in 2015, Cana-

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In Canada, the pre-blending of teas and pre-packaging of tea before selling was

Now, does tea taste better from a bone china cup? Consensus from tea connoisseurs, is “yes.” Bone china is non-porous, thin-lipped for easier sipping, and its smooth inside surface keeps the natural tea tannins from separating from the tea and attaching to the cup. “The ability of bone china to increase the body of tea is remarkable,” notes the website Tea Crossing.

No matter your tea preference or tea drinking vessel, thousands of years of tea-making history is behind your cup of tea. started by Theodore Harding Estabrook over 100 years ago. And the popular tea “London Fog”—vanilla earl grey latte—originated in Vancouver in 1997.

NORTHERN SKY MAY 2022 By Deane Morrison, MN STARWATCH

May opens with the two brightest planets low and close together in the eastern morning sky. Jupiter will be just above brilliant Venus, in the act of passing it en route to a rendezvous with Mars.

The Red Planet will be glimmering to the upper right of the pair. Jupiter rapidly closes in on Mars and catches it on the 29th, when it will appear close above Mars.

Jupiter continues along the same path toward Saturn, but the ringed planet moves steadily westward, away from Jupiter, too fast to catch.

That’s because Saturn, the most distant from the sun of the three bright outer planets, orbits most slowly. Thus, Earth’s orbital motion pushes it most rapidly westward across the sky. Mars, being the closest and speediest of the three, resists the push and lingers in the eastern sky the longest.

To see the planets, try to get outside just before the sky starts to lighten.

Full views. A fraction of the price.

In the evening sky, Leo, the lion, is high in the south at nightfall on May Day. The brilliant star in the southeast is Arcturus, in kite-shaped Bootes, the herdsman. Below and slightly west of Arcturus is Spica, the brightest star in Virgo, the maiden. All these stars move westward as the hour and the calendar move forward.

May’s full moon treats us to a total lunar eclipse the night of the 15th-16th. The eclipse begins at 9:27 p.m. May 15, when the moon first contacts Earth’s umbra—the inner part of its shadow, where the sun is completely blocked. Totality lasts from 10:29 p.m. to 11:53 p.m. The moon is deepest within the umbra at 11:11 p.m. After totality ends, the moon will be partially eclipsed again until 12:55 a.m. May 16.

Let’s hope for clear weather that night.

The University of Minnesota’s public viewings of the night sky at its Duluth and Twin Cities campuses have been curtailed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. For more information, visit: d.umn. edu/planet.

Bluefin Bay Condos & Townhomes

Own a piece of Minnesota’s Favorite Resort

All units are currently sold. To be notified when something comes available, email eric@bluefinbay.com.

Eric Frost

Sales Agent, Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts

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 $174K-$215K, includes furnishings.

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.

218-663-6886 | eric@bluefinbay.com

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

Local 663-8777 • Toll free (877) 664-8777

6th Annual Lutsen Block Party June 24th!!

Live Music, food and more!

Info@TimberWolffRealty.com

LIVING THE BIG DREAM ON THE BIG LAKE! NEW!! SUPERIOR STUNNER! High-end, quality built home on the Shores of Gitche Gumee. Lightly used, with finish details rarely seen on the North Shore. Built-In cabinetry throughout, gorgeous tiling, granite counters. Right between Splitrock Lighthouse and Gooseberry Falls. Commanding view over the lake, and sweet little beach. 3 Bed, 3 Bath with additional workshop/studio. Sold with gorgeous furnishings.

Bike Path right at the driveway entry. Iona’s Beach Scientific Natural Area and State Access Protected Harbor about a ¼ mile away. This is a Stunner!

MLS#6101781 $1,300,000

E L A S ING D N PE

LAKE SUPERIOR CONDO IN TOFTE!

D L SO

MLS# 6101459 $235,000

6th Annual Lutsen Block Party June 24th Live Music

by Boyd “Bump” Blomberg from 5-7 Food, Beer Vendors and Prizes!

Everyone is welcome, come join the fun!

Sponsored by Musty Barnhart Agency, Lutsen Liquors and TimberWolff Realty

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

Local 663-8777 • Toll free (877) 664-8777

6th Annual Lutsen Block Party June 24th!!

Live Music, food and more!

Info@TimberWolffRealty.com

HOMES, HOMES, HOMES, READ ALL ABOUT ‘EM!!

D L SO

E L A S ING D N PE

SERENE GETAWAY IN TOFTE! Nearly new and lightly used home in the Tofte woods. Sweet ephemeral creek meanders through this 2 acre property.

Open layout with open space off the living room for an office, craft-room or den. Three season enclosed porch is bonus room for chilling with cribbage and drinks. Kitchen is light-filled and awaits your creations. The propane fireplace kicks in when needed, or fire it up anytime for extra ambiance. 1.5 stall garage with attic storage. Shed in place for more storage. Peaceful walking prevails within the platted gravel roads. Bike path is right there! Tofte is a hop, skip away.

MLS#6101582 $239,000

SOAK IN THE VIEWS OF PARADISE BEACH! Located 15 minutes east of Grand Marais, the quiet side of Life! While not ON Lake Superior, this home is perched on a hillside just across the highway from Paradise Beach, a long stretch of public shoreline on the Big Lake. The views are astounding, and the taxes are low! The home sits on 5+ acres, and was built in 2005 with two large covered decks perfect for soaking in the lake views while enjoying a meal, or perhaps an afternoon siesta! Inside the home, In-floor heat warms the toes. Two gas fireplaces are nice for instant warmth and ambiance. (Also allows for a duel-fuel rate on the electric boiler – nice on the pocket book!) Three bedrooms. The main bedroom is spacious including a walk-in closet, terrific en suite bath, gas fireplace and bump-out window for a reading nook or meditation space. The kitchen is roomy with views to Superior and granite countertops. Living room is made for gathering and comfort with cathedral ceilings and access to the front porch. Study or den area off the living room perfect for contemplating the big questions, or just zoning out on the TV. Attached garage is handy and is entered via the laundry. All this on a single floor. The basement sprawls, is dry, has access to outside and awaits your vision or all your stuff! You’ll Love living on the North Shore!

MLS#6101215 $489,000

LAKE STYLE HOME WITH HARBOR VIEWS! This home is all about enjoying Lake Superior views. Great Location within walking distance to downtown Grand Marais and all it has to offer. Unwind and relax while enjoying the Lake Superior breezes on the sprawling deck and plan your next adventure. Quiet street location and tons of space for everyone to enjoy with 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Detached garage completes the package!

E L A S ING D N PE

MLS#6101923 $349,900

INLAND LAKESHORE OPPORTUNITIES!

D L O S

LUTSEN TAIT LAKE OASIS— A LINDAL CEDAR HOME! MLS#6095596 $799,900

D L O S

WILDERNESS LAKE GETAWAY! MLS#6100777 $799,000

CHECK OUT OUR NEW LOCALLY CR AFTED TIMBERWOLFF WEBSITE , SEARCH ALL MLS LISTINGS AT TIMBERWOLFFREALTY.COM NORTHERN WILDS

MAY 2022

43

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

Local 663-8777 • Toll free (877) 664-8777

6th Annual Lutsen Block Party June 24th!!

Live Music, food and more!

Info@TimberWolffRealty.com

CAMPN’, HUNTN’, FUN GETAWAY LAND, INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE! SILVER BAY TO SCHROEDER AREAS NEW! Enjoy the wilderness on 24+ acres!

Year round access with electricity at the street! Plenty of space to create your up north getaway! Only 6 miles up the Cramer road from Schroeder you have close access to many inland lakes and trails.

MLS#6101541 $79,000

Spectacular views lot near Illgen Falls!

Just a short hike from Illgen Falls and across the street from Tettegouche State Park this lot has beautiful Lake Superior and ridge views from the building site! Mix of pines, birch and maple, with the Superior Hiking Trail (and the Fantasia Overlook) only a quarter-mile away.

Property is part of an association with a shared road, well, and septic already in place. It won’t take much to build your dream cabin here!

MLS#6100288 $95,000 SOLD!

Seclusion at 8271 Blackwoods Drive!

Over 16 acres of sugar maples, beautiful! Year round access but gives you feeling of remote location. There is plenty of room to build and have the seclusion that you looking for- in fact the project has already begun since the current owners have already installed a driveway. Easily create a comfortable basecamp while building your dream getaway!

MLS#6097285 $78,900 PRICE REDUCED!

TOFTE AREA South Sloping parcels at LeVeaux Mountain!

Beautiful build sites, one parcel has a wildlife pond and the other views of Lake Superior from the top! Yr Round access, electric and fiber along the road, sensible HOA makes this a gem to build your dream North Shore home! $67,000 EACH!

LUTSEN AREA Lutsen Build sites with shared septic and well just waiting for your little cabin ideas! Looking for a site to build without spending an arm and a leg? These sites are it! Well and Septic in place, just Build and Enjoy!

MLS#2309328 $39,000 AND OTHERS, JUST ASK ABOUT MINK RANCH!

Perched on the Foothill of Lutsen Mountains, this five acre parcel has both views of Eagle Mountain as well as Lake Superior!

Beautiful trees complete the package. With a thoughtful Home Owner’s Association in place, you’ll enjoy peace and quiet in the heart of Lutsen!

High ground, rolling terrain, year round access!

MLS#6099659 $89,900 SOLD!

HOVLAND AREA The Wilderness at your fingertips! 92+ acres just off the Tom Lake Road in Hovland. Dream and scheme the getaway cabin, build it out of timber right off the land. Wander all the nooks and crannies to find that ideal getaway. Make some ski trails or hunker down. Open up a patch for a back-to-the-lander’s dream garden or just keep it wild and natural: a place to walk, preserve, hunt, and contemplate the big questions. Unwind a bit here, get in a natural groove. Bring your vision, energy, passion and love!

MLS#6098528 $84,900 SOLD!

This Nearly 40 acres is a great recreational area for the outdoor enthusiast! Remote and secluded land, perfect for hunting or hiking, wild life viewing or planting trees and camping. Judge Magney State Park is close by – featuring the Devil’s Kettle and scenic hikes. The historic Naniboujou Lodge is also nearby and worth to visit!

MLS#6098693 $69,900

MLS#6089001 SOLD! MLS#6089003 SOLD!

Beautiful parcel at Birch Cliff, located between Lutsen and Tofte, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds! Dine at BlueFin and Ski the day away at Lutsen Mountains from this lovely corner build site with decent Lake Superior views and views of Carlton Peak in the distance. LeVeaux Mountain is to the North, wowser setting!

MLS#6099657 $75,000

LAKE SUPERIOR LAND

D L SO

LAKE SUPERIOR LAND 250+ FT 3.8 ACRES!!

Wowser of a Lake Superior parcel just 20 minutes to Lutsen Mountains Ski and Summer Resort and just over an hour from Duluth! Meander the accessible 254 ft of rocky shoreline for agates, sit on the ledgerock for gorgeous Sunset views. This lovely piece of the Big Lake is BUILD READY with driveway to build site in place, electric and fiber are nearby. Enjoy the land as you wish, a quiet getaway small footprint cabin or the year round Lake Superior home you have dreamed of! And to top this all off, enjoy the hiking opportunities offered at Sugarloaf Cove Interpretive Center just a five minute walk from this land!

MLS#6100619 $375,000

FIND THOSE NEW LISTINGS FIRST!!

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

Local 663-8777 • Toll free (877) 664-8777

6th Annual Lutsen Block Party June 24th!!

Live Music, food and more!

Info@TimberWolffRealty.com

Considering Selling? Curious what your home or land is now worth? Follow the recommendations of our many satisfied clients….call TimberWolff for your updated Comparative Market Analysis TODAY! r when we star ted to al re r ou A nn a and Viktor as er tz ol fi nd Joh n Oberh th rough the process us ith w d We were fort un ate to ke or w ly s and nort h. He patient g multiple proper tie in look ing for a place up ew vi re d an ng ki best rities, chec ed us fig ure out the lp he of clar if yi ng ou r pr io t ke ar m l ca lo e ledge of th lots. Joh n’s vast know d h is option available.

Joh n’s gu idance an ith w ly th oo sm t en w ing ne Negot iation s and clos m mend Joh n to anyo co re y hl ig h ld ou w e ta il. W at tent ion to ever y de the Nor th Shore. at ty er op pr a r fo g look in Source: Realtor.com Irene I do unreservedly recommend Nancy Iverson to any other buyer / seller. She was immediately empathetic and responsive to my needs, yet pragmatic. She was able to communicate the information I needed with clarity and kept the process moving along efficiently. Throughout, and especially when we encountered unexpected problems, she remained supportive and helpful, certainly beyond the call of duty. I remain deeply appreciative and grateful for her guidance, consideration, and successful delivery in record time. Thank you, Nancy!!

Source: Realtor.com

Mar y I would like to state without re s choosing K im Wolf f as your re ervation that al estate agent will be at the to p of the list of the smartest decisions you’v e e v e r m a d e. I had a long-held family propert y to sell; I live 5 h work full time.

I could not hav ours away and e her expertise, willingness to a done this without lways go abov a n d b e y o n d, a e vailability, and ethical and wis guidance. I giv e e K im the lion’s share of the cre for the succes sfu dit Source: Realto l outcome. Thanks, K im! r.com

Kym My husband and I have worked with TimberWolff Realty many times over the past 15 years - specifically Silviya Duclos.

In all of our purchases and sales, Silviya repeatedly demonstrated key attributes that kept us coming back. She is very responsive, professional and has a deep knowledge of not only the north shore area but best practices, county and state requirements and real estate knowledge. There are many realty companies on and near the shore but not one will provide the professional service Silviya at TimberWolff Realty provides. Highly recommend!

Source: Realtor.com

CHECK OUT OUR NEW LOCALLY CR AFTED TIMBERWOLFF WEBSITE , SEARCH ALL MLS LISTINGS AT TIMBERWOLFFREALTY.COM NORTHERN WILDS

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218-387-2131 800-732-2131 101 West highway 61 grand marais, mn 55604

INLAND LAKE PROPERTIES

NE W 1 0 9 W i ldwo o d Lane

21 Voyageur Bay

Meticulously maintained 2BR/2BA home on Pike Lake. Situated on a beautiful private lot with amazing accessible lakeshore! Easily launch your boat and go catch some walleye. Kayak, swim, hike, bike or snowmobile, endless opportunities. Park your car and store your toys in the heated 24 x 36 garage.

MLS TBD •

This sweet two bedroom, one bath cabin is surrounded by towering pine trees and located on the shores of Gunflint Lake, which is a very desirable lake because of the size & quality, fishing and direct BWCA access right out your front door. The cabin is situated on a USFS leased lot.

$625,000

MLS 6101051 •

$339,900

LAND 64X C o u nty R oad 6

64X County Road 6

This 4.78 acre lot offers great privacy and is only 10 minutes from Grand Marais. A gently rolling terrain offers multiple opportunities to build the cabin or home of your dreams

Here is a your space in the country. It is 4.87 acres of healthy birch,balsam, pine, and spruce gently rolling southern exposure that will create a wonderful building site.

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in nd

MLS 6098187

g

$59,900

X X X M o u ntain Trail Nicely wooded 5 acre lot with fabulous views of Lake Superior.

Close to Grand Marais, but country privacy--end of the cul-de-sac lot with great height.

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MLS 6097785

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$124,900

1 1 4 2 Ca mp 20 R d 170+ acres of heavily forested land that has been replanted with many beautiful pine trees, poplar & cedar trees. Features gravel pit and pond and abutting State land.

MLS 6097348

MLS 6098184

$57,900

1 4XX Camp 20 Rd Terrific 55 acres with an amazing mix of forest. Balsam, spruce, birch, aspen and some maple and white pine. Want room to recreate? This is it.

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g din

MLS 6097013

$60,000

1 X B randon Lane Beautiful lot just outside Grand Marais. Fall River runs through this property. Dramatic frontage!

MLS 6095813

$62,000

$159,900

Jonvick Creek Sites 5 lots from 1.5 - 4.8 acres In the heart of Lutsen, just off the Caribou Trail. Maples, Pines, and cedars in varied arrangements will make a great back-drop for your home or cabin. Sites adjoin public land.

$44,900 - $56,900

XX Tamarack Trl Looking for a Lake Superior property to go camping on or to build your dream home?

Make sure to check this lot with 386 ft. of shoreline, 3.83 acres, driveway, cleared area AND Farquhar Creek frontage.

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in nd

MLS 6099224 •

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$174,900

918 Cutoff Rd Beautifully wooded lot with garage and drilled well already completed. Close to town and the Pincushion Ski Area. What a location for your recreational getaway or year round home!

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in nd

MLS 6096726 •

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$109,900

w w w. c b n o rt h s h o r e . c o m ©2022 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

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NORTHERN WILDS

HOMES & CABINS

2 17 N Broadway

LD SO

Whether you are looking for a home or an investment, this 2 bedroom house with guest cabin is a rare opportunity. The property is conveniently located close to downtown. Both units have an off-street parking area. There is a storage building for yard tools or recreational gear.

MLS MLS 6101087 •

d pen

ing

d pen

5 2 Lo n e C edar R oad This uniquely designed, quality built, 2BR, 2BA ROUND home sits on a beautifully maintained, 20A piece of paradise. This is a one-of-a-kind property and it won’t last long!

MLS 6101424

$239,900

ing

1818 W Highway 61 Unique opportunity to find long-term, residential rental homes in the city limits of Grand Marais. There are two 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom homes and a two bedroom, 2 bath home.

$469,900

MLS 6101604

$549,900

218-387-2131 800-732-2131 1 0 1 W E S T H I G H WAY 61 GRAND MARAIS, MN 55604

1 9 0 N Loon La k e Rd

PE N D I N G

Majestic forest surrounds this equally majestic 3 bedroom, 3 bath home all set on 14 acres with over 650’ of Loon Lake shoreline.

Open concept, granite counters, beautiful fireplaces, large attached garage...it has it all! Can you imagine having your own stunning forest, complete with walking & snowshoeing trails, majestic old growth cedar trees and plenty of wildlife? Cabins like this rarely come on the market and this home is being sold basically turnkey, making it easy to start living the dream!

MLS 6101054

$949,900 w w w. c b n o rt h s h o r e . c o m ©2022 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

NORTHERN WILDS

MAY 2022

47

50 YEARS OF HELPING YOU FIND HOME

CONTACT OUR TEAM TODAY!

Coldwell Banker North Shore is a locally-led business leveraging the resources of a national powerhouse. We are the top-producing team of real estate professionals on the North Shore – helping buyers and sellers with luxury homes, commercial properties and everything in between.

Virginia Detrick Palmer BROKER

|

OWNER

|

REALTOR ®

218-370-0211

Julie Joynes Carlson REALTOR ®

218-370-8068

And when it comes to your client experience, Coldwell Banker North Shore’s customer service-focused team is here to serve.

When you’re ready to buy or sell a new home or commercial property, contact us to discuss the current conditions and how it impacts your bottom line. Give us a call, email or even drop in. We can’t wait to be of service!

Aimee Luick

Eric Frost

LICENSED ASSISTANT

REALTOR ®

218-387-2131

218-370-1362

AS YOUR HOMETOWN TEAM, WE OFFER: • Free Market Analysis • Virtual Tours • 360 Degree Photographs • Personalized Marketing Plan

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• Fully-staffed Office for Quick Service • Representation Along Entire North Shore

101 WEST HIGHWAY 61

MONDAY — FRIDAY

GRAND MARAIS,

8:30 A.M. TO 4:30 P.M.

MN 55604

218.387.2131

©2022 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

48

MAY 2022

NORTHERN WILDS

Kelly Holtzman OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

218-387-2131

C BNO RT HS HO RE.C O M

Talk to Terry!

Terry R. Backlund Broker/Owner Phone: 218-387-1501 Cell: 218-370-8977 Email: Terry@BacklundRealty.com

T.C. Backlund Real Estate Agent Phone: 651-373-5504 Email: Ty@BacklundRealty.com

Lori A. Backlund Real Estate Agent 4400 CASPERS HILL RD GRAND MARAIS, MN

we Love Listings!

Saleng Pendi

40 Acre parcel. Subdivision potential.

MLS#6101149 Price: $94,900

5.9 acres close to town.

Ready for your dreams.

MLS# 6099380 Price: $62,500

5 N BROADWAY GRAND MARAIS MN

Saleng Pendi

Commercial Building 2578 sq. ft.

Restaurant. Great location.

Possibilities MLS# 6095312 Price: $399,000

3700+ sq. ft.

Commercial building on mainstreet.

Exposure to high volume pedestrian and vehicle traffic.

MLS# 6100518 Price: $499,900



X5 CTY RD 7, GRAND MARAIS, MN

Newe Pric

7 W WISCONSIN ST, GRAND MARAIS, MN

4300 CASPERS HILL RD, GRAND MARAIS, MN 40 Acre parcel with open field.

Hunting potential.

MLS# 6101148 Price: $84,900

New Listing

For results list your property here

We have buyers looking for homes



Phone: 218-387-1501 Cell: 218-370-8977 Terry@BacklundRealty.com NORTHERN WILDS

MAY 2022

49

MAY 2022

NORTHERN WILDS

LD SO

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NORTHERN WILDS

MAY 2022

51

REALTORS®: Mike Raymond, Broker • Linda Garrity, Realtor • Cathy Hahn, Assoc. Broker, ABR/GRI. Larry Dean, Realtor • Jake Patten, Realtor • Jess Smith, Realtor • Sue Nichols, Assoc. Broker • Gail J. Englund, GRI

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

INLAND WATER PROPERTIES

HOMES & CABINS

Red Pine Realty had a record year for sales in 2021, ranking 10th of over 200 offices in the entire Lake Superior Area Association MLS!

LARGE TWO ISLAND LAKE RETREAT GRAND MARAIS.

This 46+ acre property includes a peninsula with outstanding lake views.

Wide creek and tons of wildlife. Privacy assured with over 1600 ft of lake front, plus over 2000 ft of creek. Literally walk to the BWCAW. Charming 4-season, 2 bdrm cabin with large dock and easy lakeshore access.

Property can be sub-divided. MLS#6087574 $895,000

TOM LAKE ESCAPE.

This cabin boasts 195 ft of gorgeous shoreline on Tom Lake, manicured lawn, and covered deck space on two sides of the house for relaxing and entertaining! Lake draw water, a mound septic system and generator power. Year round access. MLS#6092306 $339,000

NEW! LUXURIOUS HOME W/ LAKE SUPERIOR VIEWS

Breathtaking Lake Superior views from every room, the deck, and the yard of this luxurious home on 6.94 acres. Special features include two fireplaces, heated floors, infrared sauna, walk-in custom closets, built in sound system, new carpet, 3 car heated/insulated garage, and even a heated sidewalk so there's no shoveling! All furnishings including original local artwork can remain with the home. MLS#6102250 $695,000

NEW! LAKE SUPERIOR VIEW HOME

HUGE PINES, PRISTINE VIEWS, GUNFLINT LAKE

This large, densely wooded lot has 171 feet of shoreline on big water Gunflint Lake. Direct BWCA access, huge white pines, classic wilderness boulder shore and vast views of Canada across the lake. Nice building site with easy access to the water. Good year-round road access with power and Broadband at the parcel. Build your dream lake home on this outstanding lake lot. MLS#6099440 $299,900

EXCEPTIONAL TOM LAKE LOT.

Let us help you in the sale of your property, or as a buyer, we can help guide you through the process of acquiring property on the North Shore.

SALIENG PE N D

Come make your remote off-grid home here on Tom Lake, on 1.7 acres with 300 feet of beautiful shoreline, and on one of the good walleye lakes in Hovland! Year round access enables you to enjoy the property endlessly. Additional property and shoreline available (MLS#6092306).

MLS#6092307 $97,000

Comfortable house conveniently located 3 miles east of Grand Marais. Home is accented w/ aspen paneling & hardwood floors. Ample deck space between house & garage to enjoy the outdoors, grilling or picnicking. Lots to explore w/ hundreds of public acres abutting north side of property and the Devil Track River nearby. Garage has plenty of room for vehicles & tools, includes a workshop area and unfinished studio apt. upstairs for guest room/rental space.

MLS#6102062 $475,000

NEW! LARGE 4 BEDROOM HOME NEAR GRAND MARAIS

Original custom built Octagon home located just 4 miles from Grand Marais on the Gunflint Trail. The totally renovated home has bright sunny spaces, and cozy warm areas for separating a large family or guests. Quality is evident throughout, with beamed ceilings, gas fireplace, gas "wood stove", new hardwood floors, plus new mechanicals/appliances. 2-car detached garage w/ one side used as heated shop space. 8 acres of woods provides privacy & room to roam. Potential to split home into 2 units.

MLS#6102163 $462,500

HOVLAND TIMBER FRAME HOME

Nice, compact home with fresh updates!

You'll love the handmade character of the timber framing, accented by versatile concrete & hardwood floors throughout. Huge garage provides plenty of space for boats, snowmobiles & adventure gear.

Fiber optic internet allows you to work remotely. This 37+ acre property is close to Lake Superior, Judge Magney State Park & border lakes for your adventures. MLS#6100812

SOLD

SALIENG PE N D

CHARMING TOFTE COTTAGE

Lovely cottage in Tofte w/ year-round views of Lake Superior!!

Home was completely remodeled in 2008.

Includes 2 bdrms, office/den, bathroom, and a fireplace. One car garage w/ studio/ workshop offers space to create/work/relax. Complete w/ a creek, bridge, fire pit, sweet little gate & more in a natural setting. The perennials are beautiful as is the front deck. Cedar shake siding & a metal roof on the home. State bike trail across the road is a fun bonus. Adjacent lot to the east is included in the sale! MLS#6102100 $250,000

COMMERCIAL

FORMER AIR FORCE BASE.

Formerly operated as an Air Force Base years ago and now somebody can bring their ideas and creativity to create something special. Endless possibilities w/ the existing structures, the sewer/water already in place, power, internet, sidewalks and streets. It'd be tough to beat the panoramic views, too! Complete with a beautiful trail system. Some structures potentially salvageable. New roofs on some.

MLS#6097816 $800,000

LARGE GRAND MARAIS LOT.

Nice 3.60 acre commercial lot with potential for multi family housing subject to city approval. Good location on the west end of Grand Marais just off Hwy 61. Easy access to the bike trail.

MLS#6089284 $159,500

www.RedPineRealty.com • Locally owned and operated since 1996 • info@RedPineRealty.com 52

MAY 2022

NORTHERN WILDS

RIVER/CREEK LAND/BUILDING SITES COMMERCIAL REALTORS®: Mike Raymond, Broker • LindaFRONTAGE Garrity, Realtor • Cathy Hahn, Assoc. Broker, ABR/GRI.

Larry Dean, Realtor • Jake Patten, Realtor • Jess Smith, Realtor • Sue Nichols, Assoc. Broker • Gail J. Englund, GRI COMMERCIAL LOT IN DOWNTOWN LUTSEN

NICE HOME SITE NEAR GRAND MARAIS

LAKE SUPERIOR PANORAMIC VIEWS

minutes from town.

Frontage on Little Devil Track River.

home/cabin site, take a look at this 5.29 acre lot. Along with the incredible views there are also other enticing factors such as the convenient road access, access to power & broadband (right at the lot), proximity to town, the state bike trail & more. Lot includes a lovely mix of trees and the topography is interesting & accommodating.

Red Pine Realty • (800) 387-9599SNADLIENG

Highway 61 frontageroad access, nice creek borders the east property line, nice mature forest. Great .95 acre location for a small gallery, retail or restaurant. Adjoining 1.05 acre commercial lot available, plus a 1.3 commercial lot adjoins to the north and is available, giving potential for a large site. MLS#6099360 $97,900

PRIME COMMERCIAL LOT - LUTSEN

Great visibility in downtown Lutsen with Hwy 61 frontage-road access on a nice 1.05 acre forested lot. Would make a great location for a small gallery, retail or restaurant. Adjoining .95-acre commercial lot available, and another commercial 1.3 acre lot is available adjoining to the north, making potential for a large site.

Nice elevation and views If you want panoramic (218) 387-9599 • Fax (218) 387-9598 • info@RedPineRealty.com from this 6.75 acre lot views of Lake Superior off ofGrand County Rd 6Marais, just from55604 your future PO Box 938, 14 S. Broadway, MN

MLS#6031740 $52,900

40 ACRE SOLITUDE

Off grid 40 acre parcel with small pond surrounded by wildflowers, ferns and raspberry bushes.

Located in an area with plenty of trails to explore. Near Tom Lake. Seasonal access by 4WD vehicle. Year round access by OHV, snowmobile, cross country ski, snowshoes, dog sled or paratrooping!

MLS#6102020 $95,000

NEW! LUTSEN MAPLE FOREST LOT

SALIENG PE N D

Beautiful 5.24 acre wooded lot, covered in Maple Forest. In the fall this beauty will be ablaze with stunning colors. Caribou Lake Public Access nearby, hiking trails, Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort, Gitche Gumee bike trail and all the things the North Shore has to offer.

MLS#6101093 $45,000

MLS#6099361 $97,900

ROLLING TERRAIN & POND

RIVER/CREEK FRONTAGE MONS CREEK WILDLIFE

40 acres w/ easy road access, good building sites, mature trees & open water views of Mons Creek. Lots of moose & waterfowl inhabit this 600 ft section of Mons Creek!

You can canoe for some distance in the creek. Includes deeded access to Lost Lake, private wilderness lake, only a short walk away.

Homeowners association stocks lake w/ brook trout. Walk-in landing provides easy access for canoe or small boat. Gated roads for security & privacy. Lost Lake Retreats is a truly secluded & private wilderness escape.

Deep woods and private access to Lost Lake. Good road access and many building site options.

Beautiful beaver pond and creek split the 20 acre property. Lost Lake is a tucked-away gem with limited private property and no public access. Good trout fishing and moose sightings. This is a remote retreat property with the added bonus of lake access on a pristine wilderness lake.

MLS#6098652 $43,900

LAND/BUILDING SITES

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MLS#6101916 $88,900

LARGE PARCEL NEAR SHORE.

This heavily wooded 12 acre parcel is within a short walk to the shore of Lake Superior. Great lake affect and plenty of privacy. Rough shared driveway in place.

Close to Broadband and power. Older travel trailer included. MLS#6090231 $87,900

NEW! CARIBOU HILLSIDE LOT

MLS#6089089 $69,900

Beautiful 5+ acre wooded lot, covered in Maple Forest. In the fall this beauty will be ablaze with stunning colors. Caribou Lake Public Access nearby, hiking trails, Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort, Gitche Gumee bike trail and all the things the

MONS CREEK AND VIEWS

1000 ft of Mons Creek frontage & a great view from a high build site. Easy road access, but lots of privacy. 40 acre property w/ private deeded access to Lost Lake, a short drive away. Private lake w/ limited use, a true wilderness feel. Perfect cabin retreat location w/ added bonus of private wilderness lake access. Homeowners association stocks lake w/ brook trout. Walk-in landing provides easy access for canoe or small boat. Roads are gated for security & privacy. Lost Lake Retreats is a truly secluded & private wilderness escape. MLS#6089090 $69,900

DEEP WOODS, MONS CREEK.

Nice “40” with good tree cover and creek frontage, where you could launch your canoe.

There's a great building site overlooking Mons Creek from a high point. Good road access, but private and secluded. The property has private deeded access to Lost Lake, which is a short walk away. Wilderness feel. New trail cut into the property so you can see the potential! MLS#6089091 $58,900

ENDLESS OPPORTUNITIES LOT

15.71 acre parcel just 3 miles east of Grand Marais. Good Lake Superior views from multiple building sites. Resort Commercial zoning. Property has been surveyed and wetlands delineated. Subdivision potential.

Access driveway on west boundary line is in place. Great location!

MLS#6098504 $199,900 SPECTACULAR LAKE VIEW.

Expansive lake views and enchanting forest make up a unique 13 acre parcel. Just 15 minutes from Grand Marais, and a short walk to Lake Superior's shore.

Power and Broadband are available. Shared driveway leads almost to the property line. MLS#6090230 $132,000

North Shore has to offer. MLS#6101915 $87,900

WOODED SECLUSION IN GRAND MARAIS.

Great wooded lot on west end of Grand Marais. Build your home within a short distance of the bike trail & a mile walk/ drive into town, with privacy on a dead end shared road. Mature evergreen forest, nice building sites & good lake effect, only a quarter mile off of Lake Superior. Small creek adds charm when it's running. Really secluded feeling location. Private sewer & water, city power.

MLS#6087228 $69,500

www.RedPineRealty.com • Locally owned and operated since 1996 • info@RedPineRealty.com NORTHERN WILDS

MAY 2022

53

LAND/BUILDING SITES REALTORS®: Mike Raymond, Broker • Linda Garrity, Realtor • Cathy Hahn, Assoc. Broker, ABR/GRI. Larry Dean, Realtor • Jake Patten, Realtor • Jess Smith, Realtor • Sue Nichols, Assoc. Broker • Gail J. Englund, GRI NEW! GRAND MARAIS VACANT LOT

Red Pine Realty • (800) 387-9599

Nicely wooded parcel on quiet street in the west end of town.

Three full city lots facing south with city street, curb and gutter, utilities nearby. Build your home here and enjoy a quiet location within short walking

distance to the harbor. MLS#6102018 $63,000

LARGE ACREAGE NEAR TOM LAKE

CARIBOU HILLSIDE LOT

Beautiful 5.01 acre

wooded lot, covered (218) 387-9599 • Fax (218) 387-9598 • info@RedPineRealty.com in Maple Forest. In PO Box 938, 14 S. Broadway, MN 55604 the Grand fall this areaMarais, is

SALIENG PE N D

ablaze with stunning colors. Caribou Lake public access is nearby along with hiking trails, Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort, Gitche Gumee bike trail, and all the things the North Shore has to offer.

MLS#6101439 $55,900 HOME SITE NEAR GRAND MARAIS Nice 5

40 acres near year round road access and power. An easy walk to the Tom Lake boat landing. Shared easement granted to build driveway into property. Many great building sites. Great recreational area. Easy access to trails and other lakes.

MLS#6095113 $60,000

GREAT LOCATION FOR HOME OR CABIN

acre property close to town on black-top county road. power and phone at the lot. Broadband available. Dense woods and potential Lake Superior Views.

Close to hiking, bike trails and all the wilderness adventures you desire. MLS#6096706 $56,900

NATURE LOVERS PARADISE

40 ACRES – STONES THROW TO TOM LAKE

40 acres with an easy walk to the Tom Lake boat landing.

Year-round road to within 1000 feet, power is possible here. Driveway easement granted to build shared access. Many great building sites. Easy access to trails and other lakes.

MLS#6095114 $60,000

LUTSEN MAPLE LOT

Beautiful 5.30 acre wooded lot, covered in Maple Forest. In the fall this area will be ablaze with stunning colors. Caribou Lake public access is nearby along with hiking trails, Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort, Gitche Gumee bike trail, and all the things the North Shore has to offer.

SOLD

MLS#6101438 WOODS, VIEWS AND PRIVACY

Broadband and electric on a year round, school bus route! This is a mature, wooded lot with spruce, poplar, birch, cedar and Balsam. Ample space on 5 acres for building your new home. Notice the huge National Forest land on the back side of the property. This is a nature lovers paradise, deer, grouse, wolf and fox hanging out in your backyard.

MLS#6101289 $47,000

TAIT LAKE PINE LOT

Welcome to Tait Lake Pines! You'll appreciate the private & peaceful location in Lutsen, MN, complete with its own hiking trails, outstanding views/settings, finely maintained roads, year-round accessibility, access to power, a calm and serene overall vibe AND deeded lake access to Tait Lake!! It'll keep you close to the Superior Hiking Trail, many more inland lakes and trails, Lutsen Ski Resort, Superior National Golf Course & access to food/beverage. MLS#6098276 $43,250

Just minutes west of Grand Marais on a black-top county road with power at the site, Broadband nearby. Five acre parcel with southern exposure. Potential Lake Superior views. Very affordable building site!

MLS#6096700 $45,900

PEACEFUL LUTSEN LOT

Private & peaceful 2.39 acre location in Lutsen, MN with its own hiking trails, outstanding views, maintained roads, year-round accessibility, access to power, and deeded access to Tait Lake!

Close to the Superior Hiking Trail, many more inland lakes, Lutsen Ski Resort, Superior National Golf Course and access to food and beverage. MLS#6098277 $42,000

REMOTE PEACE & QUIET

Hide away in this beautiful dense forest, with remote trails and private lake access to Lost Lake, a limited private property lake with no public access, and trout!

Twenty acres of rolling topography and nice building sites for your cabin retreat.

MLS#6098653 $41,900

REMOTE WOODED HIDE-A-WAY

This 20 acre parcel is remote and has nice southerly exposure.

Deeded access to Lost Lake gives you a place to fish and listen to the loons. It’s a lake with limited private property and no public access. Great area for ATV’s and miles of roads to explore. Lot C.

MLS#6098654 $39,900

Nice lot only 4 miles from Grand Marais on county road. Potential Lake Superior views from a high lot with dense forest. Great location for your home or cabin. Close to trails and all the recreational opportunities in the area. MLS#6096711 $58,900

GREAT LOCATION HOME SITE.

Just minutes from Grand Marais on black top County Rd 7, a 5+ acre lot with easy access to power and Broadband.

Good building sites.

MLS#6094099 $45,900

FORTY ACRES NEAR FINLAND

Old homestead property in “Cramer” adjoining state land, and very close to Cramer Lake. No road access.

SALIENG PE N D

MLS#6095233 $34,900

www.RedPineRealty.com • Locally owned and operated since 1996 • info@RedPineRealty.com 54

MAY 2022

NORTHERN WILDS

CATCHLIGHT

White-tailed deer Late May in northern Minnesota presents a multi tude of baby animals. This precious white-tailed deer fawn is a prime example. I was searching for morel mushrooms when I spotted the little deer. It laid still while I took a few images and then I quickly moved on; its mother, I’m sure, was nearby.

— Bill Marchel NORTHERN NORTHERNWILDS WILDS APRIL MAY 2022

55

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