HERBALISM—ORGANIZING TACKLE—COFFEE GUIDE—WOODWORKING—A FAMILY LEGACY
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grant Applications due may 1, 2022 Grant Application forms and eligibility criteria are available online at: www.northshorehealthcarefoundation.org
The North Shore Health Care Foundation proactively identifies opportunities to expand equitable health care and healthy living in Cook County, and champions solutions through funding, education and advocacy. Applications for the first round of 2022 grant funds are due May 1, by 5 pm. NSHCF currently awards grants for health, medical training and equipment,and projects and initiatives that further the vision of “A healthy community for all in Cook County”. Email NSHCF@boreal.org or call 218-387-9076 for any questions related to grant applications.
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Health and Wellness
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.
While many of us enjoy winter and the many outdoor activities it offers, the melting snow and warmer days of spring has a lot of us rejoicing. Sure, mother nature might throw a few more snowy days our way this month, but springtime is here. Before we know it, hats, gloves and snow pants will get put away; and good riddance to shoveling—hello sunshine, budding leaves and open water.
place April 24-May 1, both virtually and in-person. Speaking of arts and crafts, Chris Pascone writes about the ever growing and popular Lincoln Park Craft District in Duluth. Eric Weicht interviews musician Jerree Small, who will be performing at the upcoming Duluth Homegrown Music Festival. And Michelle Miller brings us big news from Two Harbors Community Radio and their annual Cabin Fever Reliever event.
With all the changes occurring in nature, spring brings a sense of renewed energy. So, for this issue, we wanted to focus on health and wellness. Rae Poynter starts us off in the Along the Shore section with a story on herbalism and another story about the benefits of yoga. Walter Rhein writes about his difficult journey training for the recent Birkie ski race in Wisconsin. On a different note, due to the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, it became legal for Minnesotans aged 18 and older to buy CBD oil products that contain less than 0.3 percent THC without a prescription. Eric Weicht interviews a local business that’s providing legal cannabis-based products in storefronts along the North Shore.
While you wait for open water fishing, Northern Trails columnist Gord Ellis suggests organizing your tackle and to check every rod and reel that you’ll be using. In his latest Points North column, Shawn Perich recalls the days of fishing for smelt as a kid and catching rainbow trout (also known as steelhead) on the Knife River. Last but not least, Dog Blog columnist Erin Altemus writes about her recent race adventures, including one that she competed against her husband in.
There’s a lot of art springing up this month in Grand Marais, starting with an exhibit by the North Shore Artists Member League at the Johnson Heritage Post, held April 1-24. Other shows include the Mother Earth Day Art Gala at Joy and Company, held April 18-24, and the Growing Towards the Light exhibit at JHP, held April 29-May 22. The annual Spring Craft Revival in Thunder Bay will take
The North Shore is filled with generations of families that have a deep connection to the area. Ryden’s Border Store in Grand Portage is no exception—this family story spans three generations and 75 years. Eric Weicht interviewed the family and got some great photos for this fascinating feature. It’s currently snowing as I write this, but I know the piles of snow will quickly melt as we inch towards spring. I, for one, can’t wait and I bet many of you feel the same.—Breana Johnson
Want a Good Read?
Check out our bookstore online. Ed 2nd
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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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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
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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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Copyright 2022 by Northern Wilds Media, Inc. Published 12 times per year. Subscription rate is $28 per year or $52 for 2 years U.S. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part requires written permission from the publishers.
14 Ryden’s Border Store A Family Legacy
16 The Long Road to the Start Line Training for the Birkie
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CONTRIBUTORS Erin Altemus, Elle Andra-Warner, Gord Ellis, Virginia George, Michelle Miller, Deane Morrison, Hartley Newell-Acero, Chris Pascone, Rae Poynter, Walter Rhein, Joe Shead, Eric Weicht, Nate White, Sam Zimmerman
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Herbalism Caring for the earth, caring for the self COOK COUNTY— Recent years have seen a surge of interest in both wellness practices and environmental awareness. In many ways, herbalism and natural medicine sit right at that intersection. Whether it’s growing an herb garden, foraging for fungi, or making your own rosehip tea, developing the ability to identify and utilize local plants can help cultivate a greater sense of self-sufficiency, wellness, and connectedness to the world around us. Brigette Nies and Gigi Stafne are two herbalists with connections to the North Shore. Nies is a Cook County resident and the owner of Ancient Traditions Healing, while Stafne is the director of the Green Wisdom School of Natural and Botanical Medicine in Wisconsin. Stafne has taught courses in herbalism at North House Folk school in Grand Marais for over 19 years, and both she and Nies have collaborated in teaching and in clinical work. For Stafne, her journey into herbalism began when she was starting to transition away from anti-violence work. After a bout of illness, Stafne’s mentor encouraged her to start in natural medicine. Thirty-five years later, Stafne has worked in many different realms of the natural medicine world, including opening one of the first natural medicine clinics in Wisconsin, working with Herbalists Without Borders International, and even helping to conserve disappearing plants. “I really feel like this is a calling and I integrate all of my experiences into my teaching,” Stafne said. According to Stafne, education is important when starting the journey into herbalism. While one’s first instinct may be to go to the internet to start researching plants, getting a local botany guide and learning from someone more experienced is a better way to start, since herbs vary region to region. It’s also good to be aware that some plants are incredibly strong and can have adverse interactions with other medications. (Those interested in herbalism should consult an experienced herbalist and/or your physician to make sure you aren’t using anything that could negatively affect your medications or preexisting health conditions.) Taking a beginner herbalism class also helps you learn more about the history and cultural aspects behind the herbs that grow in your region. “We want people to exercise good ethics,” Stafne said. “There’s also a propensity in the U.S. to go overboard and start exaggerating all of the benefits that plants have. Natural medicine isn’t going to replace allopathic medicine but you can integrate both into your life. There are ways to develop your own natural medicine cabinet so that you can attend to small things on your own. It’s very empowering for people to grow in self-sufficiency that way.” For those who are just beginning, culinary herbs can be a great entry point to learning more about herbalism. Starting to add nutritive plants—such as rosehips, dandelion root or mushrooms—to your diet is a simple way to start learning more about local plants while incorporating new flavors into
Whether growing an herb garden, foraging or making your own tea, developing the ability to identify and utilize local plants can help cultivate a greater sense of self-sufficiency, wellness and connectedness to the world around us. | BRIGETTE NIES your cooking. Understanding where your food comes from and adding more plants to your diet can help you make more conscious decisions about what you eat and how it affects you. “You can start small by incorporating simple things into your life,” Nies said. “An example would be a mint plant—it’s a perennial and you can easily make tea with it. I find that for beginners, finding stuff that you can use in teas or weave into foods is an easy way to start. Culinary herbs are nice that way and there are lots of culinary herbs that we can grow up here.” For the past five years, Nies has been growing a “living apothecary” on her land, with over a hundred varieties of medicinal plants that grow here in northern Minnesota. Last summer, she started a community-supported herbalism (CSH), which supplied 24 families in Cook County with herbal items such as salves, tinctures and teas that Nies formulated with plants from her land. She plans to continue the CSH this summer and possibly expand to up to 30 members. “The CSH has given me the opportunity to spend more time out in the garden with the plants and formulating a full range of items based on what is really flourishing in the garden,” she said. “I’ve found it’s created a lovely balance for me in that I get to spend more time out in the garden, and I’ve also discovered that I love the creative process of formulating with the plants and noticing what’s thriving.” Nies said that one of her favorite things about her journey into herbalism is the connectedness she has to the land. “I think the most magical gift in all of it for me is remembering that I am not separate from nature.”
[TOP] Gigi Stafne is the
director of the Green Wisdom School of Natural and Botanical Medicine in Wisconsin, and she has taught courses in herbalism at the North House Folk School in Grand Marais for over 19 years. | GIGI STAFNE [LEFT] “Natural medicine
isn’t going to replace allopathic medicine, but you can integrate both into your life,” says Stafne. Similarly, Stafne said that one of the most rewarding things about her journey is seeing that connectedness develop in others. “We become better stewards of the land, we become more concerned about climate change, and we start to think more about
living healthy and connected lives,” she said. For more information on herbalism, visit greenwisdom.weebly.com and ancienttraditionshealing.com.—Rae Poynter
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DNR accepting comments on Big 39 and Little 39 Creek Mitigation Project BEAVER BAY—The Minnesota DNR is accepting comments through April 14 on an Environmental Assessment Worksheet for a proposal to restore Big 39 Creek and Little 39 Creek. The project would restore 2,072 linear feet of historically degraded Big 39 Creek and 5,672 linear feet of Little 39 Creek. Once completed, the restoration would reestablish natural stream processes, improve floodplain connectivity, establish a meandered pattern, and provide additional habitat features such as wood and rock structures. The project, located in Beaver Bay Township in Lake County, is proposed by Northshore Mining Company and would mitigate and compensate for the partial loss of function these waterbodies experienced when they were straightened in the 1970s during construction of the Milepost 7 tailings basin.
Available at these area outlets: Duluth/Superior Barnes & Noble Great Lakes Aquarium Marine General Sports Northwest Outlet Superior Fly Angler
Grand Marais Fly Box & Co. Lake Superior Trading Post Stone Harbor Wilderness Suppy Twin Cities Bob Mitchell Fly Shop Fly Angler
To order by mail send $8.75* to: Lake Superior Steelhead Association P.O. Box 16034, Duluth, MN 55816 *Includes shipping and handling
For more information, join us on our website at www.steelheaders.org
Current Job Openings Nursing Aide Registered – Full or Part Time Laboratory Professionals-MLT, MT & Specialists – Full Time Paramedic – Full Time or Casual Home Health Aide – Part Time Dietary Cook – Full or Part Time Activities Assistant – Part Time EMT/Labor Pool – Full or Part Time EMT/EMR On-Call Staff – Casual Registered Nurse Hospital – Full Time or Casual Registered Nurse-Home Health Care – Full Time, Part Time or Casual Infection Control, Quality Improvement Coordinator – Full Time Materials Management Coordinator – Part Time Please visit: www.northshorehealthgm.org/employment for more information. 8
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The Environmental Assessment Worksheet was published in the March 15 EQB Monitor (go.usa.gov/xzQvJ). Copies of the Environmental Assessment Worksheet are available on the project page (go.usa.gov/ xzDwJ). Additional copies may be requested by calling 651-259-5723.
Hard copies of the Environmental Assessment Worksheet are available for public review at: Duluth Public Library, 221 W. First Street, Duluth, MN 55802 Silver Bay Public Library, 9 Davis Drive, Silver Bay, MN 55614 Written comments on the EAW must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 14, to the attention of Sara Mielke, DNR Ecological and Water Resources Division, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155-4025. Electronic or email comments may be sent to environmentalrev.dnr@state.mn.us with “Big 39 and Little 39” in the subject line. People who submit comments will receive a copy of the decision document, which includes responses to comments. Because all comments and related information are part of the public record for this environmental review, commenters’ names and email or postal addresses will be published and publicly available as they appear in the materials they submit.
Rainfall monitoring network seeks volunteer members NORTH SHORE—The state climatology office is looking for volunteer rainfall monitors for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS). The network includes more than 20,000 volunteers nationwide who measure precipitation in their backyards using a standard 4-inch diameter rain gauge and submit reports online. Climatologist Pete Boulay said the data from backyard rain gauges are helpful and important in many ways. “These volunteers help to verify high rain totals after big events, monitor drought and flooding, make our precipitation maps more accurate and provide needed guidance on Minnesota’s changing climate,” Boulay said. “This is also a great educational activity for families with kids and a rewarding hobby for anyone interested in weather or climate.”
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Volunteers are particularly needed in Lake and St. Louis counties, as well as outside the immediate Twin Cities metro area. Volunteers receive training on how to observe weather trends and submit their precipitation and weather event reports. All training material is available online. They must purchase or provide a standard 4-inch diameter rain gauge (available at discount through CoCoRaHS) and have internet access to submit reports. For the past two years, Minnesota has won the “CoCoRaHS Cup” for recruiting the most new volunteers of any state. To sign up or for more information, visit CoCoRaHS.org or contact Pete Boulay at: peter.boulay@state.mn.us. The website includes lesson plans for STEM students and instructional videos for all participants.
Yoga: A practice for the whole self GRAND MARAIS— Like many people who are interested in trying yoga, Carly Puch, a Cook County resident and yoga instructor, was first drawn to the practice for the physical exercise. Puch started practicing yoga with a DVD by instructor Rodney Yee, but as she continued in her practice, she came to realize that yoga isn’t just a physical practice: it’s a practice for the whole self, mind and body.
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“During the last year of my undergraduate degree, I got to take a yoga class as a part of my curriculum and realized it was the first time I had allowed myself to relax in maybe forever,” Puch said. “Being led live by an instructor was amazing. I had no clue what most of what she said meant, I was out of my element, but it became a practice I never stopped.”
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It’s a common misperception in the west that yoga is a series of poses. While the poses are certainly part of yoga, the practice runs much deeper. Yoga has ancient roots, having originated in northern India over 5,000 years ago. The physical practice that we call “yoga” today is actually just one of eight limbs of yoga. Susan Polege, business manager at Yoga North in Duluth said, “The typical idea that people have of yoga is based on asanas, which means poses. But yoga in general is much, much more than that. It includes ethical teachings, it includes meditation, it includes types of sensory deprivation that help you focus inward. And the purpose of the asanas is to help your body feel comfortable so you can allow your mind to focus inward. It’s a means to the end.” Within the world of yoga are different variations of the practice, such as Hatha yoga, Vinyasa yoga, and Yin yoga. Yoga North teaches SomaYoga, a methodology developed by owners Ann Maxwell and Molly McManus. SomaYoga combines practices from somatics, therapeutic yoga, and classic asana. “There is this idea in SomaYoga that you don’t push yourself to 100 percent, but you do what your body can do today, and you are able to do more if you respect your boundaries and allow yourself to stretch a little bit more each day,” Polege said. “We start each session with somatics, which includes internally focusing and is more of a slower and subtle practice. It’s been a favorite new addition to my life and I get more authentic poses, whereas in the past I would just muscle through my yoga practice and I wasn’t getting the actual benefits from it.” No matter which type of yoga you choose, developing a consistent practice can lead to many benefits. Many yogis report experiencing decreased stress, increased strength and flexibility, and a greater mind-body connection. Puch said, “It’s also helped to further connect me to other people in my life by making me pause and think about the role I play in relationships. It’s helped me learn my limits and how to set better boundaries. Anything that happens on the mat always ends up being a lesson for something off the mat and in the world.” One point that both Polege and Puch emphasized is that yoga is a practice that is truly open to everyone: there are no strength or flexibility requirements to practice yoga, and any practice can be adapted to each
Ensure your property has the correct insurance, inspections and licensing Collect and pay state sales, local lodging and other taxes on your behalf Address all guest communications and emergency calls Yoga is a practice that is truly open to everyone: there are no strength or flexibility requirements to practice yoga and any practice can be adapted to each individual’s ability levels. | CARLY PUCH individual’s ability levels. Although Western media and marketing perpetuates an idea that yoga is for thin, white, able-bodied women, in reality yoga is for people of all ages, body types and genders. “Yoga is for every body: everybody can benefit from it. You take into account the things that you can do and the things you can’t do,” Polege said. “Some of our teachers teach people who are in wheelchairs or have Parkinson’s—whatever adaptations you’re dealing with, we can work with that. It’s not going to look like an Instagram picture, but it feels great in that person’s body, which is what yoga really is.” Puch has recently been teaching yoga in Cook County’s schools through grants from the Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging and the North Shore Collaborative. The expe-
rience, she said, has been more rewarding than she could have imagined. “Young people are so receptive and open to learning new things,” Puch said. “The insight they shared about feelings of anxiousness and mental health was inspiring. Especially given the last few years, we know students need as much support as they can get. Sharing the practice of yoga with kids can help their resilience, coping skills, mental health and more.” Puch said that her advice to beginners would be to just start. Each session is a practice and there’s no end goal you need to be striving for.
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“Whatever knowledge you have of yoga is the perfect amount to start now,” says Puch.—Rae Poynter
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Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery presents
3rd Annual Member Show featuring over 30 artists
Opening Reception: Friday, April 1, 5-7 pm
Find current hours at: cookcountyhistory.org 115 W Wisconsin St., Grand Marais 218-387-2314
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Celebrating 24 years of local radio on the North Shore!
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Stretching from the corner of Garfield and Piedmont Avenues, and following Superior Street west to 40th Avenue, the Lincoln Park Craft District in Duluth is developing rapidly. | CHRIS PASCONE
Lincoln Park Craft District Small batch development DULUTH—Visit Duluth’s Lincoln Park Craft District once a week and it will always look different the next time you come. Change and development happen on a constant basis here. Blink once and there’s a new apartment building on Superior Street with retail shops spread throughout its ground floor (Enger Lofts). Blink twice and there’s a new small batch art gallery on 21st Avenue West (Kirsten Aune Textiles). There are new bars, restaurants and cafes sprouting up routinely here, as if from entrepreneurial seeds planted in the ground. Stretching from the corner of Garfield and Piedmont Avenues, and following Superior Street west to 40th Avenue, the Lincoln Park Craft District is developing at breakneck speed. If you start your day with tea or coffee, your Lincoln Park café choices have recently multiplied. Dovetail Café—a Craft District mainstay—is open every day from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., while newcomer 190° Coffee and Tea just came on board in January and stays open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Both cafes take pride in their handcrafted, artisan approach. “One of the things that I’m heartened by is there’s not a single chain store in the Craft District. There’s not an Arby’s, McDonald’s or Starbucks here. It’s people like us, who are trying to do something unique,” says Dovetail Café co-owner Bryan French. The Dovetail has a true dovetail cabin within, made from red and white pine milled from the 2016 blowdown in Duluth. French
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is proud that community members helped harvest and hew the wood used in the café. For a “stoked” café experience, try out The Back Alley—a neighborhood surf shop and cafe, where you can talk about surfing mighty Lake Superior with owner Jerome Fischer. Only in Duluth can you drink a matcha latte while discussing the merits of 10-foot waves on a freshwater lake.
For small batch clothing and footwear, visit artist Candace LaCosse’s Hemlocks Leatherworks on Superior Street. LaCosse also takes custom orders for handmade leather shoes and bags. | CHRIS PASCONE
Art lovers should check out the handcrafted wares at Karin Kraemer’s Duluth Pottery. The gallery, which opened in 2017, features an open-space concept with high ceilings and a creative atmosphere. Here, you can browse the work of clay artists and buy the same maiolica pottery mugs and dishes used in many area restaurants and breweries—another way in which local businesses support one another.
For outdoors-people, Frost River is a great shop for securing a Boundary Waters permit or just gearing up for the next adventure. Every product exudes a handmade ethos, all the way down to the hand-forged iron tent stakes made by local blacksmith Paul Webster.
Owner Chris Benson purchased the 100-year-old Frost River building in part because it’s on Superior Street, which makes it a recognizable address to visitors. “When you look at people visiting Duluth, Superior Street is a street that everyone knows, whether they’re coming from the Twin Cities, or Chicago, or wherever,” says Benson. Benson explains that he chose his building’s location because “Superior Street looks like a main street should. It’s a vibrant economic area for businesses to pull together.” Today, Frost River’s production and retail space is fully sustainable, using solar panels on the roof to power all of Frost River’s
The Dovetail Café has a true dovetail cabin within, made from red and white pine milled from the 2016 blowdown in Duluth. Co-owner Bryan French is proud that community members helped harvest and hew the wood used in the café. | CHRIS PASCONE sewing machines. Frost River also offers two free EV chargers outside for public use. Check out Kirsten Aune Textiles on 21st Ave West for kitchen wares and Scandinavian-inspired clothing, including the stunning “peasant blouses.” Aune is a “small-batch” artist who has lived in Lincoln Park for the last 17 years. Aune opened her showroom in 2020 and says she is now “part of the club,” adding that the Craft District business community members “want to support each other.” Her shop features “originality” that is made “here.” For even more small batch clothing and footwear, head to artist Candace LaCosse’s Hemlocks Leatherworks next to Flora North florists on Superior Street. LaCosse also takes custom orders for handmade leather shoes and bags. When you get thirsty from all your exploring, you’re in the right place: the Lincoln Park Craft District is synonymous with the craft beverage scene. The whole state knows Bent Paddle Brewing, but there are other players, too. For example, you’ll find two cideries—Duluth Cider and Wild State Cider—within three blocks of one another. Ursa Minor is another popular craft brewery here with a huge outdoor seating area. There are also great restaurant choices, in-
cluding Oink, Moo, Cluck for meat lovers, and Duluth Grill for vegetarians. If you’re with your kids (or without!), Love Creamery’s outrageous handmade ice cream is a must after dinner. Finally, it’s noteworthy that while retail and breweries have been growth drivers for the last 10 years in the Craft District, there’s a new economic driver here as well: housing. The new housing renaissance includes recently opened Enger Lofts (31 apartments), Lincoln Park Flats (74 apartments, set to open this spring), Urbane218 (45 apartments, planned to open in 2023), and a fourth development with a retail-residential mix planned for the former Anderson Furniture Building. You can see all of them on Superior Street. If you like meeting the people who make the wares they sell and chatting about hands-on crafts like sewing, boat-building, or beer brewing with the owners, you’ll be right at home in the Lincoln Park Craft District. Pick up surfing, buy a bouquet of exquisite flowers, or sample Minnesota’s best ciders—it’s all for one in this business community. Come take a look for yourself in the city’s most trendy, creative neighborhood that is the face of change in Duluth. —Chris Pascone
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APRIL 2022
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Points North The Future is in North Shore Anglers’ Hands gill-netting near streams in the lake, were common outlaw activities.
By Shawn Perich
Whether excessive harvest, changing lake conditions such as the decline in smelt and recovering of native lake trout and herring, as well as the expansion of non-native salmon, caused steelhead numbers to diminish, they certainly did. Fish managers responded by lowering steelhead limits, while increased law enforcement and changing times reduced poaching activity. Managers also stocked more rainbows for a period of time, though the addition of hatchery rainbows has declined somewhat during the last decade or so. Angler attitudes changed, too. Catch-and-release fishing became the norm.
It’s hard to recall just when it started. I remember Dad picked me up after morning kindergarten on a spring day and we went to a river on the edge of Duluth, where you could see big, black schools of smelt in shallow water at midday. They were so thick a little boy could walk along the shore and keep his feet dry while he caught 9-inch smelt with his hand. Wearing his hip boots, Dad even carried me out to the deeper water where I could sweep with a dip net and scoop up so many smelt that I couldn’t lift the net out of the water. So, Dad kept me in his arms and dragged the net to the bank. Maybe that was the day it started. At any rate, since then I’ve lived near Lake Superior’s North Shore and fished its tributaries and the big lake more than anywhere else. The massive smelt runs disappeared around the time I graduated from college at the beginning of the 1980s. A non-native species, they were pushed out of their niche in Superior by the recovery native fish. A non-native that remained was the rainbow trout, which anglers started referring to as steelhead when I was an early teenager, because the big ones that ran up tributaries to spawn were much like their kin on the Pacific Coast. Some say Superior’s rainbows are indeed descended from western steelhead. But given the numbers of hatchery rainbow strains that have been stocked in the lake during my lifetime, I wonder if that is truly the case. At any rate, the big rainbows are challenging to catch in tributaries large or small and have a draw on trout anglers that is unmatched by other trout and salmon species. I am among those anglers who have fallen for steelhead, a mystification that began at a young age. I’m not sure how young I was when I began fishing for them, but I remember Dad’s friends from Duluth’s far west end were usually at the Cable Hole on the Knife River. There, a cable prevented anglers from fishing within a closed refuge area at the waterfall that rainbows (as they were called then) had to navigate to reach spawning areas further upstream. The men, who worked at the steel plant or on the docks, arrived at the river between 3-4 a.m. to secure the prime fishing spots. When we showed up later in the morning, big rainbows they had caught hung on broken branches along the bank behind them. Back then, most everyone fished the Knife because it received such a terrific 12
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Changes also affected who went fishing, which was not necessarily a good thing. Anglers who enjoyed fishing for steelhead fish as a rite of spring that included eating fish were left out when catch-and-release regulations were adopted. For a time, fishing pressure declined. Friends and I remarked that it seemed the college-aged anglers had disappeared. That didn’t last. Young and middle-aged anglers returned… in hordes. Now, the same folks who were worried fishing for steelhead would become a lost art are concerned that the quality of fishing is diminishing due to angler crowding.
Whether you call it a steelhead or rainbow trout, the colorful fish is exciting to catch. | SUBMITTED rainbow run. Often you could watch a burst of rainbows make its way upstream. Everyone below you would begin catching fish. Maybe 15 minutes later, the anglers around you would start catching them and the action downstream would slow down. These schools of rainbows swimming for their spawning area were called a “run.” You could talk to the regulars and they would say things like, “A good run came in Thursday afternoon, but there hasn’t been much since then.” Back then, other rivers received far less fishing pressure than the mighty Knife. I remember fishing in a river with a fish hatchery on its banks. The reach near the hatchery has since been closed to fishing for many decades. We fished other rivers as well, although I don’t recall travelling up Highway 61 beyond Beaver Bay. Too young to fish, I recall watching Dad, while casting a spoon into the lake, battle and lose two
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rainbows in what, to a small boy, seemed giant surf crashing into a gravel beach near a river mouth. When my friends and I became old enough to drive, we began going after what were then called steelhead, buying Wisconsin licenses so we could fish another famous trout river just a short drive from our Duluth homes. I don’t recall catching more fish over there, although we certainly watched older, more experienced anglers do so. Back then, everyone kept their catch. The limit in Wisconsin was five daily, with three daily in Minnesota. Poaching, including midnight “snagging” in rivers and
Shawn Perich’s POINTS NORTH online
It is hard to pinpoint what created the crowds. It is easy to speculate, but more appropriate to consider and address the results. Experienced anglers now comment about how common it has become to catch fish that have hook scars or even hooks in their mouths due to previous encounters with anglers. Is this good for the fish, including their ability to spawn or their survival success? Some anglers boast about the number of times they caught the same fish as proof catch-and-release is harmless. But we never see the fish that don’t survive. Others observe some rivers have become so crowded with weekend anglers that fishing is not enjoyable and that even week days are crowded. Perhaps a future generation will show less enthusiasm in fishing, so the steelhead and the anglers who enjoy fishing for them will get a respite from crowding. But giving the rapid expansion of outdoor recreation of all sorts along Lake Superior’s North Shore, it appears unlikely this will happen any time soon. If so, it may be up to anglers to exercise restraint, either in time spent fishing or in the number of fish they choose to catch and release in a day. Ultimately, the future of angling quality is, as it always has been, in their hands.
Follow outdoor writer Shawn Perich as he reports on conservation issues and explores the North Shore wilderness with his dog Rainy. Sign up for this web exclusive blog at northernwilds.com
CBD on the North Shore GRAND MARAIS—The Superior Cannabis Company’s storefront in Duluth is not your typical smoke shop. In fact, it’s not much of a smoke shop at all. Superior Cannabis Company’s Canal Park location has an atmosphere more like that of a coffee shop or craft brewery than a place to purchase cannabis. The staff are welcoming and passionate about the products that they sell, and for a business that is all about breaking the stigma associated with cannabis, they do a fantastic job curating a pleasant, comfortable experience for their customers. Superior Cannabis Company specializes in “hemp flower and premium CBD products” as well as a “great selection of clothing, pipes and accessories.” In addition to running two store fronts— one in Duluth and one in Austin, Minn.—that offer both SCC and non-SCC CBD products, the Superior Cannabis Company sources its USDA certified organic hemp locally from “licensed family-owned farms” that grow and produce hemp in southern Minnesota. But really, what is CBD? CBD—or cannabidiol—is one of many chemical compounds found in cannabis. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is not psychoactive and does not produce the “high” most commonly associated with cannabis use. To date, there are well over 100 different types of cannabinoids that have been identified in addition to CBD and THC, and depending on the method of extraction from the original plant, different cannabis-based products will have varying amounts of each cannabinoid. With the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, it became legal for Minnesotans aged 18 and older to buy CBD oil products that contain less than 0.3 percent THC without a prescription. This sparked a surge in CBD products and sales in Minnesota, as well as hemp cultivation, and since then it has become more and more common to find CBD products in storefronts up and down the North Shore. One such local business that sprung up in the wake of the 2018 Farm Bill was Good
Harbor Wellness, a brand that currently provides local, legal cannabis-based products to the Cook County community. Good Harbor Wellness was founded by Cook County resident Steve Sherman and is based out of Grand Marais. As of the time that this article was written, their products can be found at the Gunflint Tavern, Cook County Whole Foods Co-op, Buck’s Hardware, and all the way up the Gunflint Trail at Trail Center Lodge. Sherman has been involved with the cannabis industry from the beginning, having spent time working for large corporations and small “mom and pop” shops all around the country. He started Good Harbor Wellness out of a passion for cannabis and, more broadly, out of a passion for wellness and healthy living. “I formulate all of my Good Harbor Wellness products to be as simple and as natural as possible,” says Sherman. “All of my tinctures, for example, are just cannabinoids, coconut oil and natural flavor, because it’s important to me that when you look at the label on any [Good Harbor Wellness] product, you understand everything that is in there.” “Good Harbor Wellness’ focus goes beyond cannabis,” continues Sherman, “it’s wellness and wellness is not just a supplement—wellness is the style of gardening that you do, the way that you interact with the community, the food that you eat, maintaining your microbiome and gut, and so much more.” According to Sherman, there are three different methods of extracting CBD from hemp. “First, there is isolate,” says Sherman, “where CBD is stripped from all of the other cannabinoids and added to products. Then there is broad spectrum, where the integrity of all of the different cannabinoids is maintained during extraction except for THC, and then finally there is full spectrum which maintains a little bit of THC but at a level that is below the 0.3 percent legal limit.” “I am a believer in full spectrum,” continues Sherman, “because I have found from my own experience, as well as the feedback
Steve Sherman harvesting hemp, legal cannabis. Sherman is the founder of Good Harbor Wellness, based out of Grand Marais. | SUBMITTED that I receive from customers, that cannabinoids work best when they are working together.” For Sherman, Good Harbor Wellness is all about helping people and—especially when it comes to his line of CBD products—he relies heavily on feedback from the community to find out what works and what doesn’t. “It’s a bummer, but because of how new [CBD] is and how it has only recently become legal to research,” says Sherman,
“there really aren’t that many clinical trials out there on the effects of CBD.” “So,” continues Sherman, “I have had to work hard to find anecdotal evidence for what products work for people and what products don’t, and adjust the products that I chose to carry accordingly. It’s an experience that has made me thankful for the small, supportive community that I am fortunate to call home.”—Eric Weicht
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Ryden’s Border Store:
A Family Legacy By Eric Weicht Ryden’s is a place with a story to tell, a story that is defined by change as much as it is by tradition. Ryden’s is a family’s story, a story that spans three generations and 75 years. It is a story that has been writing itself ever since Ed Ryden and his wife Mabel decided to start a new life on the “old border” with their young family of five back in 1947. As the story goes, Ed and Mabel were up vacationing on the North Shore from their home in Hill City, Minn., after Ed—a lumberjack by trade—injured himself and found himself temporarily out of work. It was on this trip that the two of them first visited what was then “The Sextus City Resort” by the old border crossing, a business that they would later purchase for $25,000 in 1947 and rename Ryden’s Pidgeon River Resort. “Pete still says that he can’t believe that his dad [Ed] was able to talk his mom [Mabel] into moving up there from Hill City,” says Phyllis Ryden, Pete Ryden’s wife and a big part of the second generation of Ryden’s that carried the business into the 21st century. “They had a nice beautiful house there in Hill City,” continues Phyllis, “one of the biggest in town, but somehow he convinced her to move up to the woods with five kids to a place that didn’t even have electricity.” “That’s true,” adds Pete, “but I’m glad that he did. I wouldn’t have had life any other way.” Today, Ryden’s Border Store is still around and still going strong under a third generation of Ryden family ownership, despite a tough couple of years brought about by the pandemic. Lori “Sam” Boomer and her husband Mike run Ryden’s Border Store and the Duty Free shop, while their cousins Debbie and Mike Ryden are in charge of the gas station next door. Sam took over Ryden’s Border Store and Duty Free seven years ago from her father, Larry, who had previously taken over the family business in 1973 from his father, Ed. Debbie and Mike took over Ryden’s Gas in the late 1990s after their parents—Phyllis and Pete—decided to retire from the family business after a lifetime of involvement.
[TOP] Ryden’s Border Store in 1966. [L TO R]: The original Ryden’s Pidgeon River Resort at the old border. Ryden’s Border
Store today, which is still going strong under a third generation of Ryden family ownership. | SUBMITTED of souvenirs, local artwork, candy, snacks, pop, beer, a money exchange service and Duty Free shopping at the border. Like their website says, “If we don’t have it, you’re too picky.”
“My dad [Larry Ryden] started me out by picking up garbage around the property when I was 5 years old,” continues Sam, “and I just kept working from there.”
The family business has changed a lot over the years—it’s even changed locations since it was first taken over by the Ryden family. Back in the early 1960s when the border crossing moved from 6 miles north of Mineral Center—a modern day “ghost town” that is little more than a cemetery anymore—to where it is today, so too did the Ryden family business.
Ryden’s Border Store is impossible to miss for anyone crossing the U.S.-Canadian border via Grand Portage. They have everything a traveler needs—a huge selection
Before the move to its present location in 1963, Ryden’s consisted of 23 cabins, a small hotel, a beer garden and a restaurant, all in addition to the border store, gas sta-
“I went away to college for a little while,” says Sam, “but besides that I’ve been working at Ryden’s my whole life.”
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tion and Duty Free business that are still around to this day. Up until a few years ago, Sam and Mike still ran a café, but, according to Sam, they decided to close that part of the business because of how hard it was to keep it staffed. Though the business has been downsized in some respects, it has grown in others. One of the cornerstones of the business today is, of all things, their parcel service, something that started with an unusual request from a customer. “The [parcel service] all started some 20 years ago or more, when a guy came in wondering if he could get a part shipped here that wouldn’t ship to where he lived in Canada,” says Sam. “That was before the internet,” contin-
ues Sam. “Now, with internet shopping and everything getting ordered online, this part of our business just kind of exploded.” Thanks in large part to the recent boom in internet shopping, Sam, Mike, manager Jaime Spry, and the rest of Ryden’s team rely on two forklifts to organize and store the many parcels they get sent into two large garages that they had built specifically for that purpose. They’ll take any sized parcel, so long as the customer is willing to come pick it up. “The reason the parcel service has taken off,” adds Sam, “is that a lot of products are only sold here in the U.S. and not across the border. Some products are cheaper here and sometimes it’s just a matter of there being more variety.”
The old border crossing from the Canadian side. | SUBMITTED
The Outlaw Bridge—original bridge that used to cross the Pigeon River at the old border. | SUBMITTED
The old border in the late 1920s. | SUBMITTED
A photo of the old gas station. | SUBMITTED
[L TO R] Mike Boomer, his wife Lori “Sam” Boomer, and manager Jaime Spry.
“When you think about it, the [parcel service] compliments the rest of our business really well,” continues Sam. “People drive down, pick up their cheap parcel, fill their car up with cheap gas, and pick up cheap beer at Duty Free on their way home. It’s a win-win; everyone’s happy.”
While a beer garden might seem a strange thing to find in a remote place like Ryden’s, it was actually a huge success for the Ryden family because of the “blue laws” across the border. “It used to be, back in those days,” says Phyllis, “that the main business was the Canadians coming down to drink on Sunday. The beer garden would be full of people from across the border on Sundays because they couldn’t drink back home.”
A Different Time and Place “You just can’t imagine what it was like if you were never there,” says Phyllis, reminiscing about life at the “old border.” “There was the restaurant, the beer garden, the cabins and the great big candy bar,” continues Phyllis. “The great big candy bar isn’t so different from what Sam and Mike have today, I suppose, but the business has had to change a lot from what it used to be.” “The gas station used to have one of those pumps that would pump the gas into a glass bulb,” adds Pete. “I remember pumping gas from it when I was 7 or 8 years old.” “It’s hard to imagine all of the stuff that was there,” continues Pete. “When you go back now and look, it doesn’t look like there is room for all of it.” When Pete’s parents Ed and Mabel first moved up to Mineral Center and the old border, none of the buildings that they owned had running water or electricity.
Sam and Mike run Ryden’s Border Store and the Duty Free shop, while their cousins Debbie and Mike Ryden run the gas station next door.
Mabel and Edward Ryden. They purchased what was originally the Sextus City Resort in Sept. 1947. | SUBMITTED Pete and his siblings were often responsible for hauling water to each cabin and making sure that each wood box was kept full of firewood to fuel the wood stoves during cold northern nights. “There was a big ice house,” recalls Pete, “that we would fill with ice that we cut from the lake each winter and pack with snow and sawdust. Then, all summer long we’d use it to refrigerate food at the restaurant, keep the beer cold at the beer garden, and sell to fisherman to ice their fish.”
Sundays were a wild, sometimes rowdy, time for the Ryden family, and it was on one of those Sundays in 1959 that a stray cigarette butt burned down most of the original store. One of the few things left standing was the red neon Ryden sign, the same sign that sits on top of the store today. “When everyone saw that the sign had landed standing up after the fire,” says Sam, “they would tell my grandpa that everything will be fine because the name stood strong; the name is still standing strong.”
An Uncertain Future In 2019, business was good and the future bright for the Ryden family. They had recently invested heavily into repaving their large parking area—a space able to comfortably handle the large RVs and creative trailer configurations that were passing through on a more or less regular
basis—and with the success of their parcel service adding to it, all things were looking up. But then 2020 happened, COVID-19 burst onto the international scene, the border shut down and business for the Ryden’s dried up. “Honestly, the pandemic has devastated us,” says Sam, “it’s been awful.” For a family business that has always been sustained by the traffic brought about by the border—whether it be selling beer and tobacco duty free or supplying folks with fuel and food on their way to the next destination—when the border shut down, so too did a majority of the Ryden business. According to Pete and Phyllis, Debbie and Mike have only been able to open the gas station for a couple of months since the pandemic. “It has been really hard,” says Sam, “but we are hopeful that things will turn around once the border opens completely and people start traveling like they used to.” “The current status is that people can come into the U.S. no problem, but going back into Canada you still need a negative COVID test,” continues Sam. “It does seem like the border is loosening up, though, and it seems possible that this summer will be back to normal.” “It will get going,” adds Sam. “We have hope.”
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Walter Rhein at the finish line of the American Birkebeiner with his wife and two daughters.
The Long Road to the Start Line Story and photos by Walter Rhein Every now and then you come face to face with your mortality. In those moments, you realize you have to make changes or you aren’t going to be there for the people you love. For me, that moment came in December of 2021. I’ve done the American Birkebeiner 18 times. When you’ve done it 20 times, you become a member of the Birchleggings club. Becoming a Birchlegger is a big deal. At this point in my life, I’m not a fast skier. However, I’d dreamed of becoming a Birchlegger because I thought it might make my wife and daughters proud of me. I think about that often; I’d like them to be proud. 16
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I stay active throughout the summer. I ride my bicycle and I go on runs with my dog. I thought I had maintained a decent level of fitness, but I was in for a rude awakening when the snow finally fell. The aerobic demands of cross-country skiing dwarf other forms of exercise. After the first snow, I went out to ski and found I simply couldn’t breathe. I’ve had asthma all my life, but it has been getting worse over the last few years. I’m fine to get around the house and go on family hikes, but I couldn’t get the air I needed to climb a hill on skis. Anyone who has ever done the
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American Birkebeiner, knows that the race is nothing but hills.
them anymore. But, I couldn’t breathe. The Birkie seemed hopeless.
I pushed aside my concerns and tried to train like normal. ‘Maybe I’ll feel better after a week or two.’ ‘Maybe I can push through this.’ The phrase “mind over matter” doesn’t apply when you can’t breathe. If you can’t get air, you’re done.
Then, I thought about my mother, who is still going strong at the Birkie even though she’s over 70. She doesn’t have an ounce of quit in her. It might take her all day, but the race officials would have to physically drag her off the course to make her stop. I couldn’t quit without a fight. I had to do everything in my power to at least try.
My first thought was that I had to quit. It was depressing. It didn’t seem fair. I’m 47 years old. I should still have a few decades of good skiing left. My girls are only now becoming active. It was heartbreaking to think I wouldn’t be able to keep up with
The American Birkebeiner is better than an annual checkup. When you go into the doctor, they ask if you feel okay. You say yes. They check a box and you’re on your way.
The American Birkebeiner start area—the 2022 races took place February 23-27.
This was Rhein’s 19th time skiing in the Birkie.
The medications Rhein used to help his asthma.
Rhein’s daughters Sofia and Ariel on a family hike.
A few years back, a close friend of mine had a heart attack completely out of the blue. The fact that he was fit and active caused the doctors to overlook some serious health issues. It was a miracle he survived. Hearing his story, I made an appointment to get completely checked out. Do a stress test. See a respiratory specialist. Be there for the ones who love you.
So, I tolerated it.
than I thought. We scheduled another ski a week later.
It’s always my intention to lose weight before the Birkie, but usually I lose steam and just suffer to the finish. After 18 Birkies you become mentally tough. But now I couldn’t breathe, and the one thing I knew I could control was the number of calories I consumed. If I couldn’t get more air, I’d make it so I didn’t need as much. I’ve never had the discipline to follow a diet. Desperation gave me that discipline. I reduced my calories. I eliminated inflammatory foods. I cut out alcohol. I also called my doctor and asked her to change my asthma treatment. She put me on Advair and told me it would take a month to get the full benefit.
“Because there’s something else I want more.”
My first few days training with the new inhaler and the new diet didn’t feel any better. It was like trying to train while you’re being choked. It’s already hard to commit to a workout. It’s even harder when you know shortness of breath is going to make the workout agony. But I thought about my kids. I kept in mind the hope of getting to 20 Birkies. I wanted to make them proud.
My daughters thought it was odd how I was only eating salad. “Don’t you want something else to eat?” they asked. “Yes,” I said. “Then why don’t you?”
“What’s that?” “Time with you.” The second week got a little easier. The third week was easier still. Five weeks to go until the Birkie, and I knew I still wasn’t good enough. After the fourth week, I called my doctor again. “I’m not getting enough out of the Advair, can we try something else?” “We could try Spiriva, but that takes four to eight weeks for full effect,” she said. I thought about it. It was a Hail Mary. But I thought the chance of improving was better than the certainty of knowing I couldn’t. “Let’s do it,” I said. My friend Jeff called me to train with him on the first day I tried the new inhaler. It was a struggle, but skiing with somebody showed I could push myself harder
“You looked a lot better today,” Jeff said. “Our pace was much faster.” I was also losing weight. In the end, I would lose 20 pounds in eight weeks. With two weeks before the Birkie, I knew I was going to at least line up and start. I didn’t have high expectations, but I thought maybe I could finish. I spent my last training week doing hill work. I did the same hill over and over. When I couldn’t ski any more, I trudged up the hill. I knew I’d be trudging at the Birkie, so I thought I might as well practice. I also allowed myself to eat more in the days leading up to the event. You can’t line up hungry at the start. My mom did the open track option this year. That meant her race was on Wednesday. Her start time temperature was a brutal -10 F. She finished. She offered to drop me off for my race, and she wished me good luck.
It doesn’t matter if it’s the Birkie or a 5k. It takes a huge amount of courage to even make the effort to take on a physical challenge. The race started. To my surprise, I felt good—I felt really good. I skied within myself. I skied smart. I didn’t push. I took what my body had to give; it gave enough. When I got to the finish line, my time was slower than that of the average racer. But the average racer isn’t a 47-year-old asthmatic. My kids were there, cheering, “Congratulation’s Daddy!” You can change your life in two months. You can go from hopelessness to triumph. I’ve learned I can no longer survive on pizza and beer and expect to perform physically like I could in my 20s. But with a commitment to proper nutrition and exercise, I can feel like I’m 20 again. It’s hard work, but when my girls say, “Come on Daddy!” I have to be able to run after them. Today, I know I can.
Standing in the starting pen for the 19th time in my life, I looked around and thought about all the stories of all the people who had gathered there. Some of them had probably overcome incredible obstacles. Everyone faces adversity in their lives. NORTHERN WILDS
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By Breana Johnson
Before the Light The North Shore Artists League will hold its third annual members show at the Johnson Heritage Post in Grand Marais this month. The show, titled Before the Light, will be held April 1-24, with a reception on April 1 from 5-7 p.m. See our events section for more information. This pastel piece by Grand Marais artist Linda Ricklefs Baudry is titled “The Time Between Selves.” To see more from her, visit: studiolrb.com. | LINDA RICKLEFS BAUDRY
Hovland artist Maxene Linehan will be showcasing this woven paper/collage piece, titled “Devil’s Kettle.” | MAXENE LINEHAN This is just one of the many leather pieces that will be on display by Up North Leather Craft owner Dee Closson. All of Closson’s products are designed, cut, stitched and stamped by hand in Hovland. | DEE CLOSSON
This piece by Lutsen artist Greg Mueller is made of reclaimed metals and mulberry wood. It is titled “Space Between the Breaths.” To see more work by Mueller, visit: greglmueller.com. | GREG MUELLER This hand-spun and hand-dyed wool krokbragd rug by Tofte artist Julie Arthur is titled “Sunrise Sundown.” For more from Arthur, visit: wifmanweaving.com. | JULIE ARTHUR
“March” is a watercolor and ink on paper piece by Grand Marais artist Kim Dayton. You can see more from Dayton on Instagram under the name @gunflintlove. | KIM DAYTON 18
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NORTHERN WILDS
Duluth Homegrown is back and so is Jerree Small
CREATIVE SPACE: By Eric Weicht As covid restrictions loosen and life regains some of its pre-pandemic normalcy, live music has been taking center stage again in the North Shore art scene.
of my own stuff. I’ve always loved the connection of making music with other collaborators.”
Lutsen Mountain recently started up their Songwriter Series, featuring artists like Charlie Parr and Moors & McCumber in a quiet, relaxed atmosphere that is all about the music. Dusty Heart will be the next artist performing in the Series, with a show Wednesday, April 6.
Small describes her music as “mostly folky,” but there is a lot more to it than that. Her lyrics are spectacular, absolutely, but so too is her voice and guitar playing, and as someone who calls the North Shore home, it is impossible not to find a little piece of that “home” in Small’s work as an artist.
And in even bigger news, Duluth’s Homegrown Music Festival will be taking place in person this spring, with numerous local artists performing live May 1-8 in an event that has become one of the North Shore’s greatest traditions.
Lake Superior’s influence on Small’s songwriting is palpable and can be seen in what she describes as the “themes of water” that have “seeped” into her songs throughout the years. Her 1998 album Sleeping Giant is as beautiful as a foggy morning in Duluth.
Homegrown is an annual music festival in Duluth that has been showcasing and celebrating local talent since 1999. What started with 10 acts performing in the NorShor Theatre’s cramped mezzanine has “matured,” according to the official Duluth Homegrown website, into an “eight-day community-wide local music, arts and cultural extravaganza.”
“I feel like [my songs] are just little meditations rolling out over music,” says Small, “made up of whatever is looping through my mind at a certain moment, mixed in with inspiration from all sorts of styles and sources.”
Homegrown 2020 and 2021 both had to be held online because of the pandemic, so the fact that performances will be live again this year is a big deal, not only for the organization and the city of Duluth, but for the artists, some of whom haven’t performed in front of a live audience since everything shut down in 2020. One artist who will be returning to the stage for Homegrown 2022 is Jerree Small, a gifted songwriter who plans to perform with Clancy Ward on Thursday, May 5 of the festival. This year will be Jerree’s 15th Homegrown. “I definitely went into a deep hibernation during covid,” says Small, “but I’ve missed performing and I’m excited to be back.” Born in Superior and raised going to school in Duluth, Small has been living in the Twin Ports area for most of her life. And, for all of her life, Small has been surrounded by music. “I’ve always loved music,” says Small, “and grew up with a very musical mother who let me tinker on the piano from the time I was a baby. We always sang on car trips or around the house when I was growing up.” “My dad is a huge music enthusiast too,” continues Small, “always recommending songs or artists for me to listen to. In my teens and 20s, friends taught me how to play the guitar and I started writing more
Jerree Small [ON GUITAR] with her band Coyote. | HANNAH GRUNZKE
“[My songs] usually start from a musical riff,” continues Small, “and that base will spark a lyric and then grow from there. It’s definitely been slower and sleepier in the last few years with covid, but I’m always writing or humming something new.” Despite her “hibernation” during the pandemic, Small has a couple of projects and collaborations in the works that are close to completion. Small will be appearing on Brothers Burn Mountain upcoming record and she has plans to release a documentary about one of her musician friends Marc Gartman—a project that she describes as being her most challenging project to date. “In making the documentary [about Marc Gartman], it was helpful knowing my subject personally,” says Small, “but challenging trying to sort out what an audience would relate to who didn’t already know this person.” “So,” continues Small, “I kept setting aside the project over the years, but it will be ready to view sometime this summer.” Learn more about Jerree Small and her music by visiting her website—jerree.com— or by listening to her albums Sleeping Giant and Mobius on your preferred streaming service. Stay up to date on Homegrown 2022 and learn how to become a volunteer by visiting: duluthhomegrown.org. Clancy Ward and Jerree Small will perform together at the Homegrown Festival. | HANNAH GRUNZKE NORTHERN WILDS
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pened to the tree throughout its life. Aspects like its diameter and grain direction all indicate different things. An internal knot was a branch that broke off. A wide growth ring was a season of abundant rain and sun. An uneven growth ring shows a struggle with the terrain or other trees for stability or light. All of these things influence what the final shape will be in a kind of conversation with the wood. If one is careful and patient and knows how to select which areas of the tree to work with, the transition from tree to object can go quite smoothly. If done right and taken care of, this bowl might live just as long or maybe even longer than the birch tree that it once was.
museum and nature center
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This hand-carved, work in progress bowl is made from green birch. | NATE WHITE
A Life Lived in Woodwork
May 28th
Behind the Craft: By Nate White
Special event planned for the installation of the MN State Record Walleye gifted by the family of LeRoy Chiovitte on Sunday May, 29th
The term woodworking is very broad and pretty ambiguous, but a lot of technical concepts within the different specialties—be it cabinet-making, coopering, or spoon carving—crossover. Understanding grain direction, wood movement, species selection, etc., is something all of those crafts-people would need to know to be successful at their particular craft within the realm of woodworking. Just as technical concepts carry over from specialty to specialty, philosophical and/or even spiritual aspects are also equally applicable across different types of woodworking, and probably most other crafts as well. One such concept that has always intrigued me is the idea of giving the tree or wood I am working with a second life as a chair, bowl, box, or whatever I’m creating at the time. Recently, on a trip to Maine, I was hand carving a bowl from green birch. Green
• Museum • Nature Center • Watercraft Building • Cabin Exhibit
birch isn’t a species; rather, green refers to wood that is freshly cut down, or at the very least, hasn’t been dried either by air or in a kiln. When one works with green wood you have to be vigilant about the conditions you are working in. If the piece dries out too quickly, it will check; first starting as fine, hairline cracks in the end grain that will eventually run the length of the piece, turning into large splits and chasms. These are the first steps of the wood’s decomposition. There are all these different things to navigate to try and coax this once living organism into a new object. Technically, the wood is dead, but it still has so much life. The tree’s vascular system is still intact and it will still breathe. Wooden objects still retain a significant amount of moisture long after the tree has been made into a door, table or cutting board, and depending on the season, that amount will fluctuate. So, as I work on this bowl, looking at the tree’s grain, I can see significant things that hap-
NORTH HOUSE FOLK SCHOOL
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This past autumn I took a basket weaving class at North House Folk School in Grand Marais with instructor April Stone. We were making hex-weave baskets using black ash. I had never done any basketry before and was very unfamiliar with the process of turning the ash log into the splints that would eventually become our baskets. April had prepared bundles of the ash splints for us to use for our baskets. She also brought a log that she had been harvesting material from for our class, to demonstrate, and, if any of us were curious, try our hand at the process of pounding out splints. Ash is a ring porous hardwood; meaning that a growth ring has a segment of dense fibers and a segment of loose, porous fibers. With the log sitting horizontally in two cradles at each end, it gets pounded with special mallets to pulverize the porous section of the growth ring, making it possible to peel off the dense segment that will become our basket material. Essentially, we were harvesting years of the tree’s life to become our baskets. The same things you can witness from looking at the grain of the top of a wooden table, you could see as one peeled back the growth rings of the ash tree; a thicker growth ring, the very tiny start of a new branch, the knot of a branch that had broken off and been grown over. It was a whole new way of looking at the trees’ first life and through the process of craft, becoming a new object and starting its second life. Even after a basket has been a basket for many years, if one wanted to, you could submerge it in water, let the fibers soak up the moisture, and the material would become pliable and workable again. The wood may be a bucket, a pack basket or part of a kite at this point, but somewhere inside, it always remembers its former life as a tree.
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Two Locations with local city leaders and a consistent weekday morning show lineup. Music-based programs range from Nordic roots to jazz to bluegrass and Friday’s feature live in-studio performances from a variety of local artists. Since the inception of this station, a key guiding principal has been inclusion and intergeneration accessibility. Youth Radio began in 2016 providing students with hands-on learning, both in front of and behind the microphone, and the Northshore Community School partnership came on board almost five years ago, providing weekly phenology reports from fifth-grade reporters.
The organization’s budThe 2020 Cabin Fever Reliever included a performance by Hannah Rey. get is supported through | SUBMITTED a combination of grants, donors, underwriting and TWO HARBORS—Two Harbors Community Radio fundraising efforts. A premier annual event is the Cab(THCR) KTWH 99.5 FM celebrated six years of being on in Fever Reliever Variety Show which had been canceled the air last September. This seventh year will prove to be since 2020 but is making a comeback this year. Historian exciting year of expansion, growth and new opportucally, the event has been held off site at different staging nities for this small, local radio station. Ten months ago, venues with tickets sales, a silent auction and concessions the board of directors explored moving from the current providing the revenue. To accommodate the uncertain output as a Low Power (LP) station to a Full Power (FP) times and the safety of the public, this year’s fundraiser local station. Currently, the 100 watts only reaches a will be more of a telethon format. 10-to-12-mile radius from the transmitter point located “It will be a hybrid event, airing live from the KTWH on the west end of Two Harbors in Lake County. studios and simultaneously streaming from our YouTube The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) peri- Channel,” says event coordinator volunteer Kim Leon. odically opens a short window of time for existing stations The entertainment lineup includes North Shore musito change status or new parties to apply for licensure. The THCR board, with consultation from technicians and en- cal legend, Charlie Parr, Virginia (Minn.) resident Nathan gineers, concluded it was a matter of survival to apply for Frazer, Two Harbors singer Tracy Parks, poet Bob Mahanthe change of status. The open period for new stations an, ventriloquist Jeremy Lepak, the Two Harbors Ukulele to apply could potentially take KTWH off the dial with Group and more. A highlight not to be missed, according the current LP status. Although the application for the to Leon, is Steve Solkela Sauna Sessions, featuring “four upgrade was not a guarantee, it was in the best interest guys singing opera in Steven’s Sauna.” The 2022 Cabin of the station to pursue this option. In early February, Fever Reliever is Sunday, April 24 from 3-5 p.m. and can the FCC acknowledged receipt of the application. Shortly be heard on KTWH 99.5 FM, streaming at ktwh.org and after, KTWH received approval, granting a 36-month li- on the KTWH YouTube channel. cense for construction. THCR board of director co-chair, For more information on the Two Harbors Community Chris Belfield, is thrilled this process can officially be- Radio, visit: facebook.com/ktwh.org.—Michelle Miller gin, stating, “The expansion from LP to FP enables us to explore more opportunities to better serve our listeners along the North Shore.” With these opportunities comes a deeper look into how to best serve the public. A three-year strategic plan will be put into place, a key component being the involvement, input and new perspective from community members. Belfield adds “we have a seven-year history of being a credible contributor to this community and we are looking forward to this new adventure.” In 2013 THCR began with a modest group of a dozen committed local residents and over the years has grown to nearly 110 volunteers lending their talents, support and energy to the station. KTWH provides 100 hours of programming throughout its weekly schedule. Such an aggressive schedule is a huge undertaking for a low power, community-based, non-profit station, and makes it quite unique within the industry. A community-based approach to programming boast over 50 hours of locally-produced shows and all hosts are volunteers. Over the years, programs have focused on environmental issues, veterans affairs, cooking, storytelling, interviews
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Duluth Cider, White Winter Winery, Castle Danger, Lake of the Woods, Lift Bridge, Surly and more. Brewfest will be held from 3-6 p.m. General admission is $30 and VIP admission is $55. Designated drivers get in for free. The VIP pass will get you in the doors a full hour early before general admission ticket holders, as well as access to specialty kegs, a VIP room fully stocked with an unlimited taco bar, access to the limited quantities of rare or unique beer, and a clean, private bathroom. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Tickets are limited can be purchased online. ggbrewfest.com
This art piece, titled “Split Rock Cove” by Matthew Klooster, will be part of the Mother Earth Day Art Gala at Joy and Company in Grand Marais, held April 18-24. | SUBMITTED
A GRAND NIGHT FOR SINGING
April 1-9 After a two-year hiatus, Northern Lakes Arts Association (NLAA) and Vermilion Community College are bringing back the Ely community spring musical. This spring’s production is a Rodgers and Hammerstein revue entitled A Grand Night for Singing, featuring many of their most popular tunes from their many successful musicals, including The Sound of Music, Oklahoma!, Cinderella, South Pacific and more. As usual, this will be a collaboration between the community arts organization and the community college, and will include high school and college students, as well as community members. Performances are April 1-2 and April 7-9 at 7 p.m. and April 3 at 2 p.m. at Vermilion College Theater. Tickets will be available online and at the door. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for NLAA members and $8 for students. northernlakesarts.org
tion by artist Kathy Fox Weinberg and live music from Fred Anderson. Other events include a meet and greet with Weinberg on April 2 from 2-4 p.m. and again on April 22 from 5-7 p.m. Artist Mary Bebie will hold a meet and greet on April 16 and April 23, both from 10 a.m. to noon. Last but not least, April 9 is meet the artists day, featuring meet and greets with Maggie Anderson, Mary Bebie and Robin Penner (from 10 a.m. to noon), and Lee Ross, Joan Farnam and Nancy Hemstad Seaton (from 2-4 p.m.). There will also be a presentation by Robin Penner at 11 a.m., titled “The Art of Dress in the Early 18th Century,” and readings and a discussion with author Jennifer Shoals from 1-2 p.m. northshoreartistsleague.org
GITCHE GUMEE BREWFEST
April 9, Saturday The annual Gitche Gumee Brewfest in Superior is finally back this year, after being postponed due to covid. Held at the Wessman Arena (on the UW-Superior campus), this fundraiser for the Superior Jaycees features over 20 brewers, including your favorite local and regional breweries, such as Bent Paddle,
THE MOTHER EARTH DAY ART GALA
April 18-24 Held at Joy and Company in Grand Marais, this art show is an annual kick-off to the summer season and this year it celebrates the most tenacious woman we know: Mother Earth. Artists interested in participating have until Friday, April 8 to submit their art that is inspired by the grandeur, beauty and fragility of Mother Earth. The show will take place April 18-24, with an in-person gala reception held from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, April 22. To submit artwork, go to Joy and Company’s website. joy-and-company.com
NORTH SHORE ARTISTS LEAGUE MEMBER SHOW
April 1-24 The North Shore Artists League will hold their third annual members show April 1-24 at the Johnson Heritage Post in Grand Marais. The show, titled Before the Light, will feature over 30 artists in various mediums. An opening reception will be held on April 1 from 5-7 p.m. with an introduc-
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This year’s Ely community spring musical is A Grand Night for Singing, held April 1-9. | SARA SKELTON
NORTHERN WILDS
niversary of the Duluth Junk Hunt and the vendors include Schaefer Design Co., Clover Valley Farms, Superior Sweets, Muddy Trails, Brass Bed Antiques, Heartland Trading Post, Two Harbors Baker and Midwest Charm. duluthjunkhunt.com
GROWING TOWARDS THE LIGHT
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 5 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 6 from 10 a.m. to noon. cookcountyhistory.org
This year’s Spring Craft Revival in Thunder Bay will take place both virtually and in-person. The in-person shopping portion will take place on Sunday, April 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at various locations. | SUBMITTED
HOMEGROWN MUSIC FESTIVAL IRON RANGE EARTH FEST
April 23, Saturday After a two-year hiatus due to covid, the annual Iron Range Earth Fest is back. Hosted by the Iron Range Partnership for Sustainability, it is a celebration of local traditions and practical resources for sustainable living in northeastern Minnesota. Held from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at various locations throughout Mountain Iron, this year’s theme is Energizing Our Future. There will be exhibits, demos and speakers, as well as a local marketplace, a silent auction, children’s activities, a phenology walk with John Latimer, lunch by Go Figur’s, and live music by Nadair. This year’s feature presentation is “Recycling Precious Metals from e-waste” by Macalester College’s Dr. Roopali Phadke. And don’t miss Saturday’s concluding presentation by Robert Blake of Solar Bear on “Native Nations Leading the Way in Renewables.” Admission to Earth Fest is free. irpsmn.org/earthfest
Held from 3-6 p.m. on Saturday, April 9, Gitche Gumee Brewfest in Superior will feature over 20 brewers. | SUBMITTED
SPRING CRAFT REVIVAL
April 24-May 1 The annual Spring Craft Revival is back this year, offering both in-person and virtual shopping opportunities from over 150 local and area artisans. The in-person portion will be held on Sunday, April 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at various locations in the Waterfront District of Thunder Bay, including the Delta Hotel, Goods and Co. Market, and the Thunder Bay Waverley Library. The virtual portion will take place April 25, opening at 10 a.m. and closing at 10 p.m. on Sunday, May 1. You can choose to pickup your purchases at Goods and Co. between May 4-7, or have your items shipped. craftrevival.ca
DULUTH JUNK HUNT
April 28-30 The Duluth Junk Hunt is a threeday indoor market that occurs every spring and fall in Duluth. Vendors come from all over the state of Minnesota and beyond, bringing vintage and re-purposed pieces. Held at the Duluth DECC, admission is $5 if purchased online—good for both days— and part of the proceeds will be donated to Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank (tickets can also be purchased at the door). The Junk Hunt features over 100 vendors and takes place from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Or, for $15 admission, take advantage of early shopping Thursday from 4-7 p.m. This year marks the 10th an-
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 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
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NORTHERN WILDS CALENDAR OF EVENTS Thru April 3
March 30-April 2
April 7, Thursday
Beth Livensperger: Don’t Like Mondays Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org
The Addams Family 7:30 p.m. Paramount Theatre, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/paramounttbay
Ragtime Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org
March 30-April 3
Fundraiser for the Rendezvous Powwow 5 p.m. Grand Portage Community Center, Facebook: Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa
2022 Lakehead University Honours Exhibition Thunder Bay Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, theag.ca 2022 Lakehead University Juried Exhibition Thunder Bay Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, theag.ca
Thru April 10 Linley Erickson: The Horse of Course The Nordic Center, Duluth, nordiccenterduluth.org
Thru April 16 Patrick Doyle: Scratch the Surface Definitely Superior Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, definitelysuperior.com Damen Chase Scott: XV Definitely Superior Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, definitelysuperior.com
Arrowhead Home & Builders Show 10 a.m. (5 p.m. Wed. & Thurs.) Decc, Duluth, arrowheadhomeshow.com
April 1-2 Upper Midwest Scuba & Adventure Travel Show Jimmy’s Event Center, Vadnais Heights, MN, umsatshow.org Wilde Tales: The Selfish Giant: Beyond First Impressions 7 p.m. (& 2 p.m. on April 2) Eleanor Drury Children’s Theatre, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/edctheatre
April 1-3 NLAA Presents: Rodgers & Hammerstein’s
Creators Project 8: Sofles-Limitless | Infinite Definitely Superior Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, definitelysuperior.com
A Grand Night for Singing 7 p.m. (2 p.m. April 3) Vermilion College Theatre, Ely, northernlakesarts.org
Thru April 30
April 1-24
Kristen Kaas: Refuge Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org Sarah Brokke Exhibition Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org
Thru May 1 Wrapped in Culture Thunder Bay Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, theag.ca
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
April 9, Saturday Nice Girls of the North Marketplace 10 a.m. Spirit of the Lake Community School, Duluth, nicegirlsofthenorth.com Meet the Artists Day 10 a.m. Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, northshoreartistsleague.org Gitchee Gumee Brewfest 3 p.m. Wessman Arena, Superior, ggbrewfest.com
DSSO: To Fall in Love 7 p.m.
Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, dsso.com
April 10, Sunday Whose Live Anyway? 7 p.m. Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, facebook.com/whoselive
LSW Virtual Writers’ Café 9:30 a.m. Held via Zoom, lakesuperiorwriters.org/events Ukrainian Pysanka Egg Demonstration with Lavona Czaplicki 1 p.m. Joy & Company, Grand Marais, facebook.com/joyandcompanymn Artist Meet-and-Greet: Kathy Fox Weinberg 2 p.m. Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, northshoreartistsleague.org Apres Ski Acoustic 3:15 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com
Granger Smith 7 p.m. Amsoil Arena, Duluth, decc.org
Timmy Haus 9 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen,
April 12, Tuesday Ruby’s Pantry 4:30 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais, rubys@boreal.org
April 13, Wednesday LSW Virtual Superior Shares Open Mic Nights 6 p.m. Held via Zoom, lakesuperiorwriters.org/events Parks After Dark: Stargazing & Night Hike 8 p.m. Hartley Park, Duluth, duluthmn.gov/parks
April 14, Thursday
lutsen.com
Artist Talk with Kristen Kaas 5:30 p.m. Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org
April 3, Sunday
April 14-16
April 6, Wednesday
Carl Gawboy: New Paintings, Old Stories AICHO’s Dr. Robert Powless Cultural Center, Duluth, aicho.org
Mountains, Lutsen, lutsen.com
APRIL 2022
Grand Night for Singing 7 p.m. Vermilion College Theatre, Ely, northernlakesarts.org
April 2, Saturday
Thru May 27
24
NLAA Presents: Rodgers & Hammerstein’s A
Classic Film Series: North by Northwest (1959) 6 p.m. NorShor Theatre, Duluth, norshortheatre.com
Presentation by Icelandic Horse Breeder Kydee Sheetz 1 p.m. The Nordic Center, Duluth, nordiccenterduluth.org
1821: A Union of Rivals Exhibition Thunder Bay Museum, thunderbaymuseum.com
April 7-9
North Shore Artists League Member Show (Reception April 1 at 5 p.m.) Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org
Native Regalia: Past and Present Tweed Museum of Art, Duluth, d.umn.edu/tma
Thru May 31
War on the Catwalk 8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com
Pippin 7:30 p.m. UMD Marshall Performing Arts Center: Main Stage, Duluth, tickets.umn.edu
April 16, Saturday
April 17, Sunday
Easter
Easter Egg Hunt 9 a.m. Slopes of Lutsen Mountains, Lutsen, lutsen.com
Celtic Illusion 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com
April 18-24 The Mother Earth Day Art Gala: Celebrate the Tenacious Woman (Reception April 22 at 4 p.m.) Joy & Company, Grand Marais, joy-and-company.com
April 19, Tuesday Women Hike Duluth 6 p.m. Hawk Ridge, Duluth, duluthmn.gov/parks Candlelight Vigil of Hope 6 p.m. Grand Marais Rec Park Pavilion, violencepreventioncenter.org
April 20, Wednesday Let’s Talk MN Presents Cloud Cult 7 p.m. NorShor Theatre, Duluth, norshortheatre.com
April 20-23 Pippin 7:30 p.m. UMD Marshall Performing Arts Center: Main Stage, Duluth, tickets.umn.edu
April 21, Thursday MercyMe Inhale (Exhale) Tour 7 p.m. Amsoil Arena, Duluth, decc.org
April 22, Friday
Earth Day
Earth Day Fair 4:30 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais Artist Meet-and-Greet: Kathy Fox Weinberg 5 p.m. Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, northshoreartistsleague.org Teen Night 6 p.m. Morgan Park Community Center, Duluth, duluthmn.gov/parks
TBSO: Ravel and Prokofiev 7:30 p.m. Hilldale Lutheran Church, Thunder Bay, tbso.ca
April 23, Saturday Free Park Day Minnesota State Parks, mndnr. gov/stateparks Iron Range Earth Fest 9 a.m. Mountain Iron, irpsmn.org/earthfest
Dusty Heart 8 p.m. Papa Charlie’s at Lutsen
Artist Meet-and-Greet: Mary Bebie 10 a.m. Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, northshoreartistsleague.org
Artist Meet-and-Greet: Mary Bebie 10 a.m. Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, northshoreartistsleague.org
April 6-9
ABBA Revisited 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay
April 23-24
The Addams Family 7:30 p.m. Paramount Theatre, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/paramounttbay
NORTHERN WILDS
Community Auditorium, tbca.com
Full Moon Hike 8 p.m. Park Point, Duluth, duluthmn.gov/parks
Paw Patrol Live! 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, decc.org
April 23-May 1
TBSO: An Evening with Steven Page 7:30 p.m.
A Year with Frog & Toad 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org
Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbso.ca
April 24, Sunday
A Year with Frog & Toad (Sensory Friendly) 10 a.m. Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org
May 1, Sunday
Spring Craft Revival: In-Person Shopping 10 a.m. Waterfront District, Thunder Bay, craftrevival.ca Coffee & Tea Open House 1 p.m. History Museum, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org Pippin: ASL Interpreted Show 2 p.m. UMD Marshall Performing Arts Center: Main Stage, Duluth, tickets.umn.edu
May 1-8 Homegrown Music Festival Duluth, facebook.com/duluthhomegrown
May 4, Wednesday ZZ Top 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay
Cabin Fever Reliver 3 p.m. KTWH 99.5 FM,
Community Auditorium, tbca.com
Two Harbors, facebook.com/ktwh.org
May 5, Friday
April 25, Monday Free Day at the Dentist Grand Marais Family Dentistry, 218-387-2774
Growing Toward the Light Artist Talk with Michelle Wingard 5 p.m. Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org
April 25-May 1
May 6, Saturday Art Project Workshop 10 a.m. Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org
Spring Craft Revival: Online Shopping 10 a.m. Thunder Bay, craftrevival.ca
April 27-May 1
Death Café 6 p.m. United Congregational Church, Grand Marais, carepartnersofcookcounty.org
April 29-May 22 Spirit of the Wilderness Art Show: Growing Toward the Light (Reception April 29 at 5 p.m.) Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org
April 30, Saturday Bally Open House & Dedication 10 a.m. Bill Bally Blacksmithing, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org Hillside Makers’ Market 10 a.m. Perception Coaching, Duluth, facebook.com/hillsidemakersmarket
Join us for refreshments on April 24th, 1-4 pm at the History Museum to learn about us, our mission and our volunteer opportunities at the History Museum, JHP Art Gallery, Ballys, and the Chippewa Church.
Bally Open House & Dedication April 30, 10 am - 4 pm Blacksmithing Demos & Tours: 10 am - 4 pm
April 28, Thursday
Duluth Junk Hunt 9 a.m. (4 p.m. Thurs.) Decc, Duluth, duluthjunkhunt.com
April 24, 1 - 4 pm
100 N. Broadway St
North x North Film Festival Zeitgeist Arts, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com
April 28-30
Coffee & Tea Open House
Tuesdays Walk & Talk Book Group Noon, Two Harbors Public Library, twoharborspubliclibrary.com
Building Dedication 1-2 pm
Wednesdays
Food & T-shirts
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
Saturdays 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
Jazz at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum 3 p.m. The Depot, Duluth, lsrm.org
DSSO: To Sing 7 p.m.
Decc: Symphony Hall, Duluth, dsso.com
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APRIL 2022
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The North Shore Dish Your One-Stop Coffee Guide By Virginia George
Twelve and a half years ago I walked into a coffee shop for my first day as a barista. It wasn’t the kind of coffee shop with frilly names on the board, rather, there were strange names like “Americano.” Cappuccino. Latte. Who in the world knew the difference? Well, it turns out a lot of people don’t know the difference, and today we are going to clear that up. This is your cheat sheet: your guide to knowing what in the world to order when the menu looks all Italian.
Back to the Basics Most traditional coffee shop beverages are made with espresso. That’s espresso, not expresso, no matter what anyone else says. The three main espresso beverages are americano, latte and cappuccino, and most other hot espresso drinks are a variation on these three. Espresso Shots: Espresso shots can be consumed on their own. The difference between coffee and espresso is the manner in which it is brewed. Coffee is brewed by hot water running over and through ground up coffee beans. Espresso is made with a finer grind of coffee, which is packed into a little “puck,” and then the water is forced quickly through these condensed and finely ground beans. Espresso beans can be used to brew drip coffee as well, so don’t let that confuse you. Americano: An americano is shots of espresso with added hot water. An americano is most akin to a cup of drip coffee, but has a different flavor profile because of its brewing method. From here on out we have drinks with steamed milk. Some coffee shops default to two percent; others use whole milk. Breve is a drink made using steamed half and half, and a “skinny” drink typically uses nonfat or skim milk. As coffee shops become more accommodating to those with food sensitivities and preferences, more options are becoming available. You may be able to get your favorite beverage made with almond, soy, coconut or oat milk. Always feel free to ask your favorite coffee shop what they have available that meets your dietary needs or palate preferences. Lattes and Cappuccinos: Lattes and cappuccinos are made of three parts: espresso, steamed milk, and foam. Their ratios are just different. A latte is made of mostly steamed milk, with a quarter to half inch
A blended beverage from Log Cabin Coffee in Ely. This drive-through coffee shop is open year-round. | LOG CABIN COFFEE NORTHERN WILDS
APRIL 2022
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South of the Border
of foam on top, while a cappuccino tends to lean toward half steamed milk and half foam. Foam is a byproduct of the milk steaming process.
Breakfast Served All Day
Most other drinks are a variation of the latte. By adding flavors and syrups to the cup, the possibilities are endless. Mocha? Add chocolate. French vanilla? Try some hazelnut and vanilla syrup. Coffee shops often have sugar-free versions of some of these flavor syrups, so be sure to ask if you don’t see anything listed.
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Of course, coffee shops offer all sorts of other beverages as well. Iced coffee, blended drinks, and teas, to name a few. Blended: Calling all blended drinks “Frappuccinos,” is like calling tissues “Kleenex” or bandages “Band-Aids.” The Frappuccino is a branded drink, but it is, in short, a beverage blended with ice. Some of these come with coffee in them and some don’t. Many shops these days have cold, blended options, and you can turn most of your favorite hot combinations into blended ones. Chai Tea Latte: Chai tea is a blend of black tea and spices. Some shops offer a presweetened chai tea concentrate, which is then mixed with steamed milk for the latte. Others may brew a tea bag in steamed milk to create their version of the chai tea latte. There is no one set “recipe” for chai tea, so you may find that you prefer one brand over another. If chai is your thing, be prepared for variation, and who knows, you may find a new favorite. Cold Press vs Iced Coffee: The final group of coffee drinks we are going to talk about here is iced coffee. Believe it or not, warm weather is approaching us here on the North Shore and you may find yourself wanting something cold and caffeinated. But is there a difference between cold press and iced coffee? Yes. The difference is in the brewing method. Iced coffee is coffee that is brewed hot, often at double strength, and then cooled quickly by adding ice to bring it back to a regular dilution. Cold press coffee, however, is brewed at room temperature, often overnight. This is by no means an exhaustive guide, but it is a place to start so that when you walk into a coffee shop for a drink, you don’t have that “deer in headlights” look I had on my first day of work. It can also help you to recreate the drink you love from one shop at another. Once you know the basic components of your favorite drink, you can explore making them at home, or tweaking the recipe with fewer pumps of syrup, more foam or alternative milk options. The North Shore boasts many unique coffee shops, so the next time you’re out and about, consider trying one of these:
Mocha Moose Kindness. Service.
Integrity.
Sustainability.
Buzzwords? Nope. The guiding values for a small, family-owned coffee shop on the North Shore of the greatest of the Great Lakes? Yep. One stop and you’ll feel how they ground this place and remind us why we’re here. 28
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NORTHERN WILDS
[TOP] A Latte from Mocha
Moose in Two Harbors. | MOCHA MOOSE
[LEFT] Bay Village Coffee
in Thunder Bay offers homemade donuts. | BAY VILLAGE COFFEE
Just south of Two Harbors, nestled along Scenic Drive, sits the Mocha Moose. This local shop serves coffee, espresso drinks, fresh baked goods and quick-serve food. Brian and Kate Hanley purchased the shop last April. They intended to create a cozy, clean and comfortable space for locals and travelers alike to connect to the North Shore. They came to see that the true specialness of any endeavor is brought to life by people. This starts with an amazing staff who live those values; they are the heart of the shop. Artists, musicians, locals and visitors come—all leaving a bit of themselves behind. This energy builds for all those who follow and there is no more beautiful setting to amplify this magic than the shores of Lake Superior itself. Sure, people come for the coffee (it is really good). But they stay for the community (the magic of connection) and the fresh-baked scones (seriously, the scones are really that good).
Log Cabin Coffee Many small local shops don’t offer the convenience of drive through service during these cold, northern winters and unpredict-
able, muddy springs. Log Cabin Coffee is Ely’s only drive-through coffee shop. They are open year-round for the drop in snowmobiler or the Boundary Waters traveler who needs one last boost of caffeine before a trip to enjoy the beautiful wilderness (and maybe that first feeling of civilization on their way out). They are located in, you guessed it, a tiny log cabin right in town, and have seasonal drinks and all-the-time staples to meet every need.
Bay Village Coffee Thunder Bay natives Gary Mack and Alan Forbes have traveled the world, lived all across Canada, and are back in Thunder Bay where they have owned the Bay Village Coffee shop since 2018. The globetrotters innocently brainstormed the idea to own a coffee shop over one weekend vacation—and the rest is history. Over the past several years, Bay Village has established themselves in the community with a focus on sustainability through local sourcing, composting and really good food. They offer owner-baked pastries, a delicious lunch menu, and offer foods that fit many dietary needs. Perhaps most importantly, Bay Village is a place of acceptance, of support, and they are always looking to pair their dark roast with a side of joy and encouragement. Did I mention homemade donuts?
As Americans, we are fortunate in so many ways. For instance, we’re able to walk into a grocery store, choose what we want to eat and feel safe doing so. However, we can’t let this confidence over-generalize to everything that we can put on, or in, our bodies. There are “health” products available in grocery stores, specialty shops, convenience stores and online that are contaminated, are not what they say they are, or don’t do what they claim to do. So, put on your “halo filtering shades” and:
Buyer Beware! For Sale ≠ Safe or Effective By Hartley Newell-Acero In February’s Topic of the Month, Health Halos and Horns, we explored how we can come to believe that something is either good or bad for us—even if we have little or no evidence to back up this opinion. This month we’ll look in more detail at how health halos are generated and how you can protect yourself from being blinded by their sparkle. Imagine for a moment that you’ve come from a visit with your primary care provider where you found out that your LDL cholesterol is high. Your provider suggests some dietary and lifestyle changes and prescribes a medication called a statin.
How do you feel about all this? If you’re like a lot of people, you might feel a mix of things—worried about what this means for your future well-being, irritated about the changes you need to make, and confused about what statins are and how they work.
What would you do next?
• Learn to spot misinformation and the health halos (or health horns) that it can create.
Again, if you’re like many people, you’ll hit the internet. This is a logical response. You probably do need to learn more. While diving into the internet for information is understandable, it’s also potentially risky.
How can you tell the difference between high-quality educational resources and impressivelooking sales pitches? It can be difficult. Putting the term “high LDL cholesterol treatment” into the Google search bar yields over 32,000,000 results. Some of the links that appear will provide you with information from reputable sites, some are links to sources of misinformation, and some are actually ads designed to look like regular links. Look closely—the only visible difference is the bolded word “Ad” that appears at the far left of the first line.
e e Fr
• Stay up-to-date with the latest recalls, market withdrawals and safety alerts, by visiting: bit.ly/fdasafetyalerts.
Notice anything new now? You’re not imagining it. Since you’ve searched for cholesterol information, you’ll probably start seeing similar health-related ads everywhere, including your social media accounts. “Surveillance advertising” allows organizations to gather data about your behavior and interests. That way they can show you news, recommendations, and ads that are individually chosen for you. Part of the problem is that advertising isn’t always obvious. Some ads appear to be news, education or opinion pieces, or personal essays, but they all have something in common: health halos around what they want you to buy.
• Remember that supplements are not reviewed for safety or effectiveness. If you buy them, notice where they were made: in the U.S. or in a country with weaker regulations? Always look for the USP or NSF seal to make sure they’re third-party verified. • Tell your doctor about any supplements that you take. Trust the person that’s been trained to care for you instead of the advertisements that have been targeted at you. This is a condensed version of Sawtooth Mountain Clinic’s “Topic of the Month” newsletter. Read the full version for tips on taking over-the-counter medication safely, how these medications can affect older people differently, and to access resources cited in the newsletter. This issue, and 60+ more, can be found at: sawtoothmountainclinic.org.
DAY AT THE DENTIST! MONDAY, APRIL 25
FOR UNINSURED PATIENTS: 18 months - 26 years 65+ years pregnant people of any age Call Grand Marais Family Dentistry for your appointment! 218-387-2774
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Fluoride
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APRIL 2022
29
GET READY FOR OUTDOOR LIVING
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APRIL 2022
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Northern Trails Sorting it Out: Organizing Tackle for Spring By Gord Ellis
I’m not sure why it happens, but every fall I do the same thing: when the hunting bug strikes, the fishing gear is quickly abandoned, usually in a terrible state of disarray. Every year I promise myself the tackle cyclone won’t happen; every year it does. It’s hard to know where to start when it comes time to face the music and get the fishing gear organized. The “spinner-rig tumble weed” is usually my first stop. Despite the time spent trying to keep the things organized in my boat, most of my spinner-rigs end up in a ball. It should be easy to unravel these clusters of hooks, spinners and lines, but that’s rarely the case. I spend hours trying to pull them apart. As often as not, frustration wins and the scissors come out. A few well-placed snips and you have the makings of several new spinner rigs. The new spinner rigs are all carefully rolled onto tackle tamers as they should have been when I was done with them. Frustration is replaced by relief. At least until next winter. One job I enjoy, but is no less frustrating, is the fly vest/fly box sort. It is shocking what a mess my fly boxes can turn into by the end of the open water season. Sorting through fly boxes is often full of weird surprises. The bass popper you had been madly searching for somehow made its way into the boat box with trout streamers. That box of dry flies you couldn’t find had been carefully hidden in a vest side pocket. Plus, how does every single fly in a box come detached from the foam hook holder? As a fly guide, I’m endlessly amazed when an angler cracks a fly box open and it looks like it just came out of a catalogue. My fly boxes rarely look like that even after I’ve sorted through them, never mind during the season. Winter is a good time to look old flies over and check for rusted hooks. Don’t be afraid to throw out a fly that looks compromised. Losing a fish due to a rusty hook is the worst. Masking tape and a sharpie help me remember what box has what flies in it as well. A little TLC will go a long way when it comes to your flies. In the same way, going through your tackle boxes or storage trays is an exercise that can be illuminating. Whenever I really start digging into various lure boxes and seeing what is there, treasures appear. Lures that I forgot about will surface. Sometimes these lures are ones I would normally use but they ended up being tossed into another drawer or box. Taking all the lures out of
Gord Ellis gets ready to organize his fishing tackle for spring. | GORD ELLIS get re-spooled. At minimum, I take several feet of old line off every reel, just to be on the safe side. On spinning reels, remove the spools and check for gunk and sand. A soft cloth or even a Q-tip can do wonders on a dirty reel. In some cases, adding a little reel oil to the spindle may be of help—a little will go a long way. Check rods for cracks or guides that are broken off or missing the ceramic centre. A rough-edged line guide is just a busted-off fish waiting to happen. Finally, if you are a spring steelhead angler, do yourself a favour and check over your waders. There is no experience more miserable than slipping into your favourite creek or river and feeling cold water leaking into your boots. A thorough examination for rips or tears on waders is always a good idea. If you find a tear, a patching kit or some aqua seal will make your spring fishing more comfortable. Sorting through a fly box. | GORD ELLIS a box and putting them on a table will also reveal things like rusty hooks or tarnished spinner blades. Winter is a good time to replace old or damaged hooks and buff up spoons and spinner blades that are dingy. Sometimes lures you never use need to be retired to make room. Create a yard sale box and put those “forever on deck” lures there. You will be amazed at how much room you can create.
Another pre-season fishing task is to check every rod and reel that will be put in service. If I was on the ball the previous year, all the drags will have been loosened before the rod and reels were put into the rafters. It always pays to check both the drag and the line on every reel. Not every fishing reel will need new line each season, especially if you use braid. However, the reels that get the most use almost always
Being ready and organized before the open water fishing season arrives is a satisfying feeling. It’s worth the time and will help kill off the last of those late winter days.
NORTHERN WILDS
APRIL 2022
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SAWTOOTH RACING DOG BLOG
It’s All Fun ‘Til the Mushing is Done BY ERIN ALTEMUS Two weeks after Beargrease we packed the truck again with 16 dogs and gear for three weeks and drove to Michigan. The Midnight Run starts at 8 p.m. in downtown Marquette amidst a crowd of thousands. Matt and I each ran an eight-dog team in the 90-mile, two-leg run. This was the first time Matt and I have run teams in the same class, essentially competing against each other. I left several teams ahead of Matt but with leaders that had never before raced in lead. Twice the leaders tried to turn down side streets. Both times I drove my brake into the pavement, screaming “Gee! Gee!” and some other choice phrases before getting them to turn back onto the trail. Several teams passed us on the 15-mile stretch of flat grade that leaves Marquette, but I didn’t see Matt. About half-way through the first leg, I heard a team approach and an illustrious whistle from the musher directed at me. Matt approached, but as his team ran past, they suddenly stopped when they recognized me and the dogs next to them. I threw in my snow hook. Matt ran up to pull his leaders past my team. I jumped on his sled. He was a little surprised to see me driving his dog team. I gave him his team back and off they went. The last five miles of trail into Chatham were memorable for the blizzard that whipped snow across the trail. Each team through had to break the trail back open. In the longer race, we later heard one musher had to use his axe to chop through a tree that fell on the trail. We each passed several teams on the way back toward Marquette, Matt placing fifth and me, eighth. Matt continued on from Marquette with 14 dogs and our friend Phill toward Maine.
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I flew out a week later to drive the team in the Can-Am 250, a race in Maine just south of the Canadian border. Two years ago, I scratched in this race. I knew we had a stronger team this year, but even so, my nerves ran high. The CanAm is an unsupported race, meaning when I arrived at each checkpoint, I was on my own—no help from handlers allowed. The first leg was 63 miles. In a panic about our dogs’ general disdain for the meat they had been eating all winter, Matt and I made several trips to the grocery store before the race, buying ground pork, chicken thighs, fish fillets and bacon. We wanted to make sure the dogs would snack. I knew I needed to take it easy on the first leg—save the dogs’ energy for later in the race. We stopped to snack several times—the chicken thighs and bacon were a hit. At the checkpoint, I baited water with kibble, which everyone ate, so I was able to go inside, see Matt and Phill, eat a plate of spaghetti and try to rest. Laying down did nothing for me though, so I was soon back up, drinking coffee and out with the dogs. Teams in the dog yard are all staked out in an open field with about 10 feet between each team. The last team in the race had just arrived and for whatever reason, the dogs were going wild, which made all the dogs in the field go wild. And as teams at the front began readying to go, the energy just increased until soon there were well over 100 dogs barking and howling to go. Enough of this, I thought. I bootied all 12 dogs, pulled blankets and notified officials I was ready. When I have run this race in the past, I haven’t had clean runs to Rocky Brook. I haven’t figured out why, but this year was different. We passed one team and while I
Before leaving Rocky Brook, I walked a few dogs that seemed a little off, but couldn’t find any major problems, so again I bootied all 12 and we shot out of the checkpoint just before dawn, right behind another team. The trail went down a plowed road for 100 yards and then turned abruptly to the right, where we launched full speed up and over a large plowed berm catching some air on the sled. Luckily, I stayed upright. Unfortunately, I made a poor decision about Hush. Now, if you remember from Beargrease, this dog caused me some major problems on my run to Sawbill because of a sore shoulder—whereupon I tried to bag her in the sled—and ended up with some lewd behavior from my lead dog Temper that cost us a great deal of time. Not wanting a repeat, and knowing from this very experi-
ence that Hush would not ride easily, I kept on running. But eventually, I decided I had to try and put her in the sled. I had luckily gotten a better sled bag with a good zipper. I planned my move and, in several minutes, had her clipped into the sled. I had not misjudged her though. She did not want to ride. She whined and howled and the dogs in the team kept looking back at us and even stopping. We were really losing speed on the uphills carrying Hush. Finally, after several miles, I gave up and put her back in the team. She was happy to be running. Even with this minor hang-up, we arrived at the third checkpoint in good time. At Sylver, I was 10 minutes behind Dennis and 25 minutes behind Andre, who was in lead. The forecast called for rain. It had been snowing earlier, but now the moisture came in a drizzle. It was hardly enough for me to worry about at the time, so I left the checkpoint with 10 dogs (Hush and Peaches stayed behind), ready to do some running in the monstrous hills on the 55-mile leg to Allagash.
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stopped to snack, Dennis Trembley passed us. We kept up with Dennis for most of the leg and eventually passed him again. We were second into the checkpoint just after 2 a.m. and the race seemed to be going very well.
P SMARTY N T S
May 5-21 32
Matt and Erin compete against each other in the Midnight Run, placing fifth and eighth. | PHILL HAAS
NORTHERN WILDS
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On the run to Allagash, the rain came on and off. Then it began to freeze, coating my sled, my parka, my mittens—everything, in a layer of ice. Finally, it just poured. For 15 miles I felt the wet inching up my sleeves, creeping between my toes, dripping off my lashes. The dogs would stop every few minutes and shake it off their fur, but I couldn’t shake it off. I had my tunes playing in my ears and found myself singing along to Celine Dion at the top of my lungs, headlight pointing into the fog, knowing the mountains extended on either side into miles of forest. Try to stay positive, I thought. This is still a race. Finally, I rolled into the checkpoint, just minutes behind Dennis and Andre. I could wring the water out of my boots and mittens. As soon as I stopped moving, I felt a chill creeping in. Luckily at the checkpoint, we were able to use a dryer. We were 36 hours into the race and I hadn’t yet slept. Allagash checkpoint centers around a small café on the Allagash River. Mushers can order anything off the menu. Matt and Phill were able to wait inside at this checkpoint and I sat inside with them to eat after the dogs were fed and sleeping. I downed a plate of bacon, French toast and some orange juice and went to find a bunk for a nap. An hour and a half later, I woke feeling terrible. I stepped outside and started dry heaving. The sleep deprivation was hitting hard. Coffee, ginger ale, water and anti-nausea medicine helped. I dropped Bruce due to general fatigue and we left. I was in third place by six minutes. If we had a great run here, I could win. Coming up behind me in fourth was veteran Iditarod musher Wade Marrs. We had a good run, but it wasn’t perfect. After five miles or so, I spotted Andre’s headlamp up ahead, but it took a while to catch him. As I closed in on Andre, Wade came up behind me and passed. It took two tries for me to get past Andre’s team, and by the time I did, I was not able to catch Wade. We tried. Temper and Keith gave the race their all. As we wound downward in the wee hours of the dark to Fort Kent and the finish, snaking around sharp turns, whipping around trees, and pushing through a sudden snow squall, I marveled at their
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Erin, Wade Marrs and Dennis Trembley finish the Can-Am 250 within five minutes of each other. | PHILL HAAS ability to make every turn without fear. Finally, as we cruised toward the finish line, I found our competitors. All three teams were within five minutes of each other and we lined up side by side in the chute. For the first time in a race of this length, I could truly say I had fun out there. It is fun when the race is a race and all is going well. Several days after arriving home, we loaded up dogs one last time for the Dog Days of Winter on the Gunflint Trail. Matt and Sylvia entered the eight-dog race and I did a 5-mile skijor. Turns out Temper, our main leader, had never skijored and wasn’t so sure about it. We had loaned dogs to several friends to skijor and they all passed me while I fell on my butt. Temper and Dee Dee eventually got the hang of it, but we still came in behind the other dogs from the kennel. While we wait for spring to arrive and the snow to melt, we’ll continue doing fun runs. With the looks of the snowpack from my window, I think we still have some great mushing ahead.
Mark your calendars: May 21-22 Find more information at stoneharborws.com • 218.387.3136
O N T H E E A S T B AY I N G R A N D M A R A I S
PICKEREL LAKE BY JOE SHEAD WHY GO: Pickerel Lake lies on the northern edge of Quetico Provincial Park. It offers breathtaking scenery, dotted by islands, 200-year-old red pines and even gorgeous beaches. Plus, the fishing in this unspoiled wilderness setting is equally impressive. ACCESS: There are two ways to access Pickerel Lake: the Stanton Bay access on the north-central part of the lake and the Dawson Trail Campground access on French Lake, just east of Pickerel Lake. To access Pickerel Lake via the Dawson Trail Campground access, drive west from Thunder Bay on Highway 11/17 and then merge onto Highway 11 at Shabaqua. From Shabaqua, travel west on Highway 11 for 98 kilometers (61 miles) and turn left into the Dawson Trail Campground to access Pickerel Lake via French Lake. Park permits and maps are available at the Ontario Parks office at the Dawson Trail Campground. Alternatively, keep traveling west beyond the Dawson Trail Campground entrance on Highway 11 for another 18 kilometers to the Stanton Bay Road and head south on this logging road until you reach the Stanton Bay access point. VITALS: Pickerel Lake is a sprawling 12,750-acre lake located within Ontario’s
Quetico Provincial Park. The lake is dotted with islands, plus numerous wilderness campsites. You can portage onto other lakes from Pickerel, or canoe camp all over the lake without portaging. A number of restrictions apply to Pickerel Lake including no motorized vessels, barbless hook requirements and no organic bait (no live bait). Park permits are required by residents and non-residents. Pickerel Lake is a multi-species angler’s paradise. The lake offers amazing fishing of a variety of species. GAME SPECIES PRESENT: Walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass and lake trout. LAKE TROUT: Fishing for lake trout is best in May and early June before trout
seek out colder, more-oxygenated water in the deeper basins. You can catch mackinaws by casting or trolling with a Williams Whitefish C70 or a Williams Wabler W60. Casting or jigging with a 3.5-inch white swimbait or a 4-inch Softplastic Minnow on a jig is also very effective. WALLEYE: Walleyes are plentiful along windswept shorelines, rocky points, rock piles, weedlines and mid-lake reefs. The aforementioned swimbait and Softplastic minnow are equally deadly on walleyes. NORTHERN PIKE: If you see shallow boulders with a touch of vegetation, you’re sure to find northern pike. Pike will attack most anything, including spoons, spinners and crankbaits. They can be caught while
casting or even while trolling as you paddle to your next campsite. SMALLMOUTH BASS: Smallmouth bass can be found anywhere there are rocks, often in the company of walleyes. Pickerel has some amazing smallie fishing. These powerful fighters can be taken on a variety of baits. Some good ones to try are a No. 7 Rapala Skitter Pop, a 4-inch Senko, a Blue Fox Vibrax spinner or a Ned Rig dragged behind the canoe.
View all our Fishing Hole Maps at: northernwilds.com/fishingholemaps
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Gidaanikeshkaagonaanig Gidaanikoobijiganinaan Following the Ancestor’s Steps
Kinnikinnick gijigijigaaneshiinh Smoking Mixture Chickadee By Sam Zimmerman When I was a gwiiwizens (boy), imbaabaa (my father) and nimishoomenh (my uncle) took me down to my nimishoomis (my grandfather’s) childhood home in Cannonball Bay, Gichi-onigamiing (Grand Portage Reservation). They showed me where my aanikoobijigan (ancestor, great grandmother) had her miskwaabiimizh (red dogwood) that she would harvest for her Kinnikinnick (smoking mixture). It was the first time I ever harvested it. Recently, I went out to harvest some miskwaabiimizh (red dogwood) and this little gijigijigaaneshiinh (chickadee) sat right next to me ganawaabi (she/he looks, watching) and singing. I watched for a few minutes, put down aseema (tobacco) and left before the bangishimo (sunset). I had been thinking about the quiet of the evening and wanted to capture it in a painting.
Follow my studio on Facebook and Instagram @CraneSuperior or if you have ideas for a North Shore painting, cranesuperiorstudio@gmail.com.
Money Exchange Parcel Pickup Family Owned Since 1947
218-475-2330
Duty-Free Liquor 10,000 U.S. and Canadian Souvenirs
Gas
www.RydensBorderStore.com
Date Night Thursdays 6-8 p.m. 202 Ski Hill Road, Lutsen northshorewinery.us 34
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The North Shore’s full-fiber broadband network, providing phone & internet service throughout Cook County.
218-663-9030
TrueNorth@arrowhead.coop www.arrowheadcoop.com
Annual Free Tree Seedling Giveaway at Hedstrom Lumber Offering White Pine, White Spruce, and Red Pine. Mix and match any variety up to a total of 250 seedlings per household. Cook County landowners/renters only. Persons interested should order online: hedstromlumber.com/seedling-giveaway. Ordering opens March 15 until sold out. Pickup date: Friday, May 6th, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Over 600,000 seedlings given out since 1997. www.hedstromlumber.com
Celebrating Over 100 Years.
The Steger Homestead Kitchen
Simple Recipes for an Abundant Life By Will Steger and Rita Mae Steger, with Beth Dooley University of Minnesota Press, 2022, $27.95
The Steger Homestead Kitchen is a collection of meals and memories gathered at the Homestead of Arctic explorer and environmentalist activist Will Steger. Founded in 1988 near Ely, the Steger Wilderness Center was established to model viable carbon-neutral solutions, teach ecological stewardship and address climate change. Will’s niece, Rita Mae Steger, is the Homestead’s chef and the pages are filled with her mouth-watering recipes. You’ll find everything from black bean wild rice burgers, curried red lentil soup and Indian butter chicken, to roasted squash salad, almond berry griddlecakes, angel pie and Steger wilderness bars. This is a great book that combines inspiration, hearty meals and practical advice.—Breana Johnson
The Big Island
A Story of Isle Royale By Julian May Illustrated by John Schoenherr University of Minnesota Press, 1968, $17.95
Originally published in 1968, this children’s picture book about wildlife on Isle Royale is now available again. Author Julian May writes about Isle Royale’s beginning, the kinds of animals that came to populate it and their effects on the pristine landscape. However, much has changed on the big island since the book was first printed. Following the story, renowned wolf expert L. David Mech includes information on what was done to help increase the wolf population and decrease the moose population, keeping nature in balance.—Breana Johnson
A Better Next
A Novel By Maren Cooper She Writes Press, 2019, $16.95
Jess Lawson is a 45-year-old wife, mother and business woman. Her youngest is getting ready for college and her husband has decided to take a job across the country—without her. Amid her divorce, her healthcare consulting firm uncovers surprising financial corruption that threatens a scandal. But despite all her burdens, Jess fights for her happiness. A Better Next is a heartwarming novel with themes of strength, determination, resilience and empowerment. Jess teaches us that with a little soul searching, there’s always hope for a better tomorrow.—Breana Johnson
For Sale: Off-Grid Luxury Lifestyle State-of-the-art solarpowered cottages on historic Silver Islet overlooking magnificent Lake Superior. Stunning lake house plus three-bedroom Chalet ideal for partnerships, extended family or for potential income. Both homes are fully furnished and equipped. The Chalet is featured in Superior Country’s Provincial Travel Guide as a lovely retreat, rents for $1350 CDN/ week and is booked the entire season. Large 2 car garage, fully equipped workshop, brand name equipment, wood stove for heating, ventilation system, metal roof and large Loft. The lake house built in 2013 is a Linwood custom home with open concept living area, triple pane windows and boasts a beautiful wraparound deck with stunning views of the lake. Must be seen. Silver Islet Ontario $939K CDN 2 family dwellings, 1 acre, road access Taxes $1773.21 CDN Inquiries: Karen Auld (807) 628-4908, karauld@gmail.com NORTHERN WILDS
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Strange Tales Trailblazing Women: The First Female Mayors By Elle AndraWarner
Trailblazing women. That’s an appropriate term for women who break trail into previously male-dominated fields. Here’s a snapshot look at some trailblazing first female mayors from both sides of the border. It took 138 years from the date that Duluth was incorporated as a city in 1878 before a woman became its mayor. On November 3, 2015 in the general election for mayor, Emily Larson won 71.94 percent of the votes. On January 4, 2016 she took the oath of office as the first female mayor in Duluth’s history.
Eunice Marian Wishart was elected as Port Arthur’s first female mayor in 1956. | SUBMITTED
As reported in the Duluth News-Tribune (December 24, 2016), she said at her inauguration, “I stand on the shoulders of generations of women—strong, determined and bold—who have created courageous paths of opportunity over generations and generations.” She won re-election in 2019 and is currently the city’s mayor. Prior to becoming the mayor, she was the president of the Duluth City Council; commissioner on the Duluth Economic Development Authority; board member of the Great Lakes Aquarium, Visit Duluth and the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission; and a consultant to non-profit organizations. Grand Marais was incorporated as a city in April 1903 but it wasn’t until 89 years later—in 1992—that elementary-school teacher Andrea Peterson became the city’s first female mayor, serving a total of four terms, spanning 1992 to 2002. Peterson started her teaching career in the early 1960s at Grand Portage Reservation Elementary School after she and her husband David graduated from college. She taught grades one through three, while David taught grades four to six. Later she continued her teaching career in Grand Marais at the Sawtooth Mountain Elementary School. In 1976, she was selected as Minnesota Teacher of the Year. An avid reader of murder mysteries, she also wrote and published three crime novels. In 2012, Peterson received the prestigious Tombolo Award from Sugarloaf: The North Shore Stewardship Association. The annual award was established in 2006 to recognize an individual or organization who has significantly contributed to the Sugarloaf mission, which is to “inspire the preservation and restoration of the North Shore’s 36
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The current mayor Emily Larson made history when she was inaugurated on January 4, 2016, as the first female mayor of Duluth. | LORIE SHAULL unique environment through education and exemplary stewardship, especially at Sugarloaf Cove.” Across the border into Ontario, the first mayor of the town of Port Arthur (now part of the city of Thunder Bay) was Thomas Marks, elected in 1884. For the next 72 years, it was only men that held that political position of mayor, even after the city was incorporated in 1907. That is, until 1956. That’s when 57-year-old Eunice Marian Wishart (1898-1982)—already a trailblazer with a long list of accomplishments—was elected the first female mayor. Eight years earlier in 1948, she had already cracked the powerful glass ceiling by being elected the first woman alderman on the Port Arthur City Council. Wishart was a campaign innovator. In her first bid to become mayor in 1952, she was the first local campaigner to ever buy radio time, blitzing residents with five-minute pep talks. And to beat the “alphabetic misfortune” of her name being last on the ballot sheet, she urged people to mark their ballots from the bottom up. It was a bitter battle, but she lost the election. But, she didn’t give up. In the 1955 December mayoralty race, she revamped her
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slogan to the catchy “Mark you ballot at the bottom” and purchased the first TV time sold locally. “Let’s say that as a woman I made sure the cameraman didn’t get too close,” the savvy Wishart later explained. It all worked—she won the election by a landslide, receiving more votes than her three male opponents combined. She was re-elected in the next two mayoralty elections (1957 and 1958). “Running a city is like running a home, only on a much larger scale,” she later told a reporter. In the neighbouring city of Fort William (incorporated 1907), Catherine Seppala (1907-1975) became the city’s first and only woman mayor from 1959 to 1960, after serving as the second woman to be elected to city council, serving from 1953-1958. Shortly after her election as mayor, Seppala said, “My biggest job in the coming year in council will be to convince the men that some women are as capable of accepting political responsibility as they are.” During her time as mayor, she hosted the 1959 visit to Fort William by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. Seppala garnered international media attention in January 1956 when—as chair of
In Fort William, Catherine Seppala became the city’s first woman mayor in 1959. | SUBMITTED Fort William’s Carnival Queen contest—she banned bathing suits in the pageant. Her explanation? The committee felt that “short skating skirts, sweaters and tams would be just as attractive and much more appropriate for the occasion.” She was back in the international media in 1959, when she may have inadvertently helped the book Lady Chatterley’s Lover become a best-seller after pressuring a local book seller to remove the book from shelves; he did and burned more than 700 copies.
NORTHERN SKY APRIL 2022 By Deane Morrison, MN STARWATCH
the planets, or on the 30th or May 1, when Jupiter passes above Venus. But whichever day(s) you choose, it’s best to get out just as day starts to break, to ensure all the expected objects have risen but none have yet been swallowed by the sun’s foreglow.
April’s full moon crosses the sky the night of the 16th. It follows Spica, the brightest star in Virgo, the maiden. Virgo is large and rather dim, but you may notice Corvus, the crow, an irregularly shaped four-sided figure just west of Spica.
On April Fools’ Day, Venus, Saturn and Mars sit close to each other above the eastern horizon, almost equally spaced and in that order left to right. But don’t be fooled; Saturn is rapidly gaining altitude, and on the 5th it passes less than a moon width
above Mars. As the month goes on, the three planets spread farther and farther apart while staying in a line. On the 25th, Mars will be exactly midway between Saturn and Venus.
TOF TE , MN
In the evening sky, the spring constellation Leo, the lion, is high in the south at nightfall. Leo’s brightest star, Regulus, anchors a backwards question mark of stars called the Sickle, which outlines the lion’s head. East of the Sickle shines a triangle of stars marking the hindquarters and tail. Look between Regulus and Pollux, the brighter Gemini twin, for the Beehive star cluster. It’s slightly closer to Pollux, and a star map will help. The Beehive is also called Praesepe, Latin for “manger.” Framing the cluster are two stars called Aselli, or asses, that feed at the manger.
As April opens, the stage is set for some serious planetary action in the morning sky.
CO M M E R C I A L B U I L D I N G FO R R E N T
FEATURES:
• 1,000 square feet on the main floor with two enclosed offices, open office space, restroom and small break room • 12’x12’ loft on upper level • Full basement with one finished 9’x14’ office and large storage space
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.
Around the 21st, Jupiter appears to the lower left of Venus; the gap between them narrows rapidly. Try looking on the 25th or 26th, when an old moon appears with
Full views. A fraction of the price.
CALL TOM AT (507) 254-2373 TO LEARN MORE
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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218-387-2131 800-732-2131 101 West highway 61 grand marais, mn 55604
INLAND LAKE PROPERTIES
sold
1 2 5 N P i k e L ak e R oad
21 Voyageur Bay
Quality built 3BR/3BA lake home positioned at the water’s edge. The connection to the lake is unbelievable with views of the water from the majority of rooms. The beach is easy access, perfect for swimming, kayaking or fishing.
MLS 6100454 •
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.
$539,900
MLS 6101051 •
$339,900
LAND 64X C o u nty R oad 6
643E 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. MLS 6097785
$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. 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 7 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! MLS 6096726 •
$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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HOMES & CABINS
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in nd
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2 17 N Broadway 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
$239,900
ing
NE W 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
$469,900
NEW 18 18 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.
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 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.
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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
Kali Blomberg REALTOR ®
218-370-9260
Rick Austin REALTOR ®
218-370-0784
• 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.
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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
X28 W 2ND ST GRAND MARAIS, MN
Saleng Pendi
SOLD
40 Acre parcel. Subdivision potential. MLS#6101149 Price: $94,900
we Love Listings!
313 5TH AVE W GRAND MARAIS, MN
SOLD 3 Bedroom 1 Bath 2 Car Garage Extra large lot. Walk everywhere. MLS# TBD Price: $279,000
4300 CASPERS HILL RD GRAND MARAIS, MN
New Listing
100’ x 120’ residential lot in town. MLS# 6099385 Price: $45,000
40 Acre parcel with open field. Hunting potential. MLS# 6101148 Price: $84,900
5 N BROADWAY GRAND MARAIS MN
X5 CTY RD 7 GRAND MARAIS, MN
Saleng i d n e P
Commercial Building 2578 sq. ft. Restaurant. Great location. Possibilities MLS# 6095312 Price: $399,000
7 W WISCONSIN ST GRAND MARAIS, MN
Newe Pric
3700+ sq. ft. Commercial building on mainstreet. Exposure to high volume pedestrian and vehicle traffic. MLS# 6100518 Price: $499,900
We have buyers looking for homes
5.9 acres close to town. Ready for your dreams. MLS# 6099380 Price: $62,500
For results list your property here For more details call or check our website
X20 CTY RD 60 GRAND MARAIS, MN
SOLD 19+ Acres for homestead or hunting land MLS# 6078387 Price: $89,900
Phone: 218-387-1501 Cell: 218-370-8977 Terry@BacklundRealty.com NORTHERN WILDS
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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 EXCEPTIONAL TOM LAKE LOT.
HOMES & CABINS
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
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
SOLD
GUNFLINT LAKE LOT
Property ready for a house to be built on 16.9 acres. Includes garage with loft, power and high speed internet. Enjoy 677 feet of calm, sandy shoreline on Gunflint Lake. Southern edge of property borders an inlet, occasionally animated by moose, beaver and waterfowl activity. Unique opportunity to establish yourself in a quintessential location in northern Minnesota, and take advantage of its many activities and sights. MLS#6097781
Red Pine Realty had a record year for sales in 2021,
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
COMMERCIAL
HOMES & CABINS
SOLD
BEAUTIFUL HOME, VERY PRIVATE LOT – SET UP AS DUPLEX
3 bdrm/2 bath home w/ new updates & living room/bdrm addition. New floors, some windows & patio doors, fireplace & appliances. New paint, roof & decks. Home is in great shape & set up as upper/lower duplex. Seasonal lake view from large windows. Large yard feels secluded & park-like. New screen porch addition (not finished) & lower patio take advantage of this setting. Peaceful retreat on new front deck. 1-car garage & woodshop shed for working on projects. MLS#6101101
HUGE PINES, PRISTINE VIEWS, GUNFLINT LAKE
Great off-grid camping or starter cabin, with access to power. Possible view of Gunflint Lake with selective tree removal. 10+ acre property abuts public land to the south. Really nice, simple getaway, or a good place to come to after a canoe trip in the Boundary Waters or a long weekend hike. Smaller building has storage space and a composting toilet. Come take a look, and have a seat on the screened porch. MLS#6097930
ranking 10th of over 200 offices in the entire Lake Superior Area Association MLS! 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.
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
SOLD
S. GUNFLINT LAKE RD CABIN
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 $149,500
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 $329,000
SALIENG PE N D
PRIME COMMERICAL LOTS - LUTSEN
Highway 61 frontage-road access, two nice forested lots (.95/1.05 acres). Great visibility in downtown Lutsen. Would make a great location for a small gallery, retail or restaurant. Plus a 1.3 acre commercial lot adjoins to the north and is available, giving potential for a large site.
MLS#6099360, 9361 $97,900 each
www.RedPineRealty.com • Locally owned and operated since 1996 • info@RedPineRealty.com 44
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RIVER/CREEK FRONTAGE 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 NICE HOME
Red Pine Realty • (800) 387-9599 SITE NEAR GRAND MARAIS
Nice elevation and views (218) 387-9599 • Fax (218) 387-9598 • info@RedPineRealty.com from this 6.75 acre lot off of County Rd 6 just PO Box 938, 14 S. Broadway, Grand Marais, MN 55604 minutes from town. Frontage on Little Devil Track River.
MLS#6031740 $52,900
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. MLS#6089089 $69,900
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
PEACEFUL LOT ON LONE PINE CREEK
SOLD
If you are looking for acreage close to Grand Marais but with that out of town feel, look no further, with nearby access to all the north shore has to offer including, but not limited to hiking trails, the Gitchi-Gami bike trail, inland lakes and more! Lot 13 is a great 6.9 acre parcel with nearly 520' of frontage on Lone Pine Creek. A peaceful lot on a private road. Please schedule your showings with a licensed real estate agent.
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#6101093 $45,000
BEAUTIFUL REMOTE LAND
EXPANSIVE VIEWS LOT.
MLS#6101248
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#6099470
MLS#6098652 $38,900
LAND/BUILDING SITES
SOLD
1.76 acre lot w/ gorgeous & unique views. Deeded Tail Lake access. Private & pristine wooded wonderful in Tait Lake Pines. Wonderful, peaceful setting with hiking trails, gravel roads, private association. Fish, paddle, ski, snowshoe & explore! Adjacent lot also available.
SOLD
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#6090231 $87,900 STUNNING ELEVATED BUILDING SITE
2.15 acres of wonderful woods, wildlife & end-of-theroad privacy! Deeded access to Tait Lake incl. & adjacent parcel is also for sale. Create your own peaceful haven & enjoy the silence, the water & the astounding ridge line & valley views! Private assoc. w/ hiking trails, maintained year-round roads, access to power/utilities & more. MLS#6101234
SOLD
LARGE ACREAGE NEAR TOM LAKE
MLS#6096716 NORTH RD LOTS
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.
SOLD
These 2 lots (12-13 acres) are the perfect rural spot for your cabin or home. County maintained road with broadband internet and electric at the roadside. Nice mixed forest of poplar, evergreen, and birch. YES, there is even 330+ feet of frontage on the Flute Reed River, a local trout stream. Great area for hunting and jumping off spot for fishing adventures. MLS#6100473, MLS#6100474
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
Beautiful, remote parcel near Cloquet Lake. Enjoy a mixture of mature forest, young trees, wildflowers and open space. Parcel surrounded by Forest Service land to the south and the west. Walking access to Cloquet Lake by way of 300' path. Quaint stream runs through the southeast corner of the property.
ROLLING TERRAIN & POND
SPECTACULAR LAKE VIEW.
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
MLS#6095113 $60,000 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
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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
SALIENG PE N D
Red Pine Realty • (800) 387-9599
TAIT LAKE PINES LOTS
Private & peaceful location in Lutsen, MN with its own (218) 387-9599 • Fax (218) 387-9598 • info@RedPineRealty.com hiking trails, outstanding views/ PO Box 938, 14 S. Broadway, Grand Marais, MN 55604 settings, maintained roads, year-round accessibility, access to power, a calm and serene overall vibe and deeded lake access to Tait Lake!! Close to the Superior Hiking Trail, many more inland lakes and trails, Lutsen Ski Resort, Superior National Golf Course and access to food/ beverage. 2+ acre lots are priced to sell. MLS#6098275 SOLD,
SOLD
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.
MLS#6101438 $59,900
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 $59,500 WOODS, VIEWS AND PRIVACY
MLS#6098276 $43,250, MLS#6098277 $42,000
MAPLE FOREST LOT
Private 5+ acre lot, covered in Maple Forest. In the fall this area is ablaze with stunning colors. Only Minutes from Lake Superior! Caribou Lake public access nearby, hiking trails, Lutsen Mountain Ski Resort, Gitche-Gumee bike trail, and all the things the north shore has to offer.
MLS#6101202
NATURE LOVERS PARADISE
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
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 $56,900
CARIBOU HILLSIDE LOT
Beautiful 5.01 acre wooded lot, covered in Maple Forest. In the fall this area is 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.
SALIENG PE N D
MLS#6101439 $55,900 HOME SITE NEAR GRAND MARAIS Nice 5
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 $54,900
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 $42,900 GREAT LOCATION FOR HOME OR CABIN
Serving buyer's and seller's needs in Cook and Lake County. We'd love to help you sell your property, or if you're buying we would like to make your North Shore dreams come true.
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 $36,900
REMOTE WOODED HIDE-A-WAY
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 $42,900
SOLD
North Shore has to offer. MLS#6098003
area for ATV’s and miles of roads to explore. Lot C.
LUTSEN MAPLE LOT
Beautiful 5+ acre wooded lot, covered in Maple forest. In the fall this beauty is ablaze with stunning colors. Caribou Lake Public Access nearby, hiking trails, Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort, Gitche Gumee bike trail and all the things the
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
MLS#6098654 $34,900 FORTY ACRES NEAR FINLAND
Old homestead property in “Cramer” adjoining state land, and very close to Cramer Lake. No road access.
MLS#6095233 $34,900
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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#TBA $1,300,000
E L A S ING D N E P
NEW!! LAKE SUPERIOR CONDO IN TOFTE! As soon as you walk in you will be amazed of the Lake views from every corner on the main level. Inviting living room with stone wood fireplace for the cool winter nights and access to the balcony overlooking Lake Superior. The kitchen is plenty big for meal prep and cooking. Very functional layout featuring separation between the sleeping space and hangout area. Great vacation condo, and successful vacation rental. Owners can decide how much they would like to enjoy it themselves and rent the rest of the time to help the cost of ownership. The location makes it very attractive for all ages: within close proximity to the Superior Hiking Trail, Lutsen Ski Resort, Superior National Golf Course, Gitchi Gumi bike trail is in front of the complex and numerous groomed cross country skiing trails.
MLS# 6101459 $235,000
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Spring has arrived on the North Shore. Plan your trip to Explore! Info@TimberWolffRealty.com
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HOMES, HOMES, HOMES, READ ALL ABOUT ‘EM!!
E L A S ING D N PE
E L A S ING D N PE
NEW! 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
NEW! 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!
MLS#TBA $349,900
INLAND LAKESHORE OPPORTUNITIES!
D L O S
D L O S
LUTSEN TAIT LAKE OASIS— A LINDAL CEDAR HOME! MLS#6095596 $799,900
WILDERNESS LAKE GETAWAY! MLS#6100777 $799,000
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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 SALE PENDING!
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 $79,900
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 SALE PENDING! 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 SALE PENDING!
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
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Spring has arrived on the North Shore. Plan your trip to Explore! Info@TimberWolffRealty.com
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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!
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CATCHLIGHT
otters I spotted these otters in the Baptism River near Finland. They are typically pretty easy to spot in the springtime as they pop up through the holes in the bright white ice. On this particu lar day, there were three of them that were pretty active chasing each -oth er around. They noticed me standing along the shoreline and every once in a while they would stop and look over at me, almost as if they were putting on a show and seeing if I was still watching.—Dustin LaVigne NORTHERN WILDS
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WIN
A BLACKSTONE 4-BURNER
Outdoor Griddle!
2ND PLACE: $150.00 gift card 3RD PLACE: $75.00 gift card Enter to win a Blackstone 4 Burner Outdoor griddle with your purchase of $50.00 or more at Cook County Home Center. Limit one entry per customer per day. Giveaway begins April 1, 2022 and ends April 30, 2022. Winners will be drawn Monday May 2nd.
The Blackstone 4 Burner 36 in. Gas Griddle in Classic Black is the master of outdoor cooking. Four independent heat controls and a scorching 60,000 BTUs for truly epic meals. Serve an entire crowd with full-sear restaurant-quality steaks or flip up to 28 burgers or 72 hot dogs! Any size party is served with a Blackstone. Cook anything, anytime, anywhere: Breakfast, lunch and dinner! Now fully equipped with the new rear grease management system for non-stress cooking and easy cleanup. • • • • • • •
Powder-coated steel frame with commercial caster wheels Propane tank fasteners Side shelves for additional prep space Four adjustable heat controls with built-in igniter Rolled carbon 7-gauge steel griddle top 2 inch high side to help keep food on the griddle Griddle top removes easily
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