Exceptional Lake Superior lots! Gorgeous building sites, very private desirable locations, some level to lake, some elevated. Gravel, accessible ledge rock & boulder shoreline, NE and SE facing sites to pick from. 18 miles to Grand Marais, 4 to Brule River for trout & salmon fishing & Devils Kettle Falls, 15 to Isle Royale ferry, 22 to Canada. Beautiful trees, protective covenants, community septic, electricity & survey.
“The
my life.” -Tim K.
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Embrace the Wild
August is a wonderful time of year—the weather is great, the water is warm, there are fewer biting insects, and the woods are filled with ripe berries and teeming with critters. And since we’re surrounded by such amazing wildlife in the Northern Wilds, we figured, why not make it the star of our issue?
Let’s start with our feature story. Chris Pascone writes about wildlife population changes over time in the Northern Wilds due to humankind, mainly focusing on the demise of woodland caribou, the rise of wood ticks, and the survival of coldwater fish such as lake trout, lake whitefish, and cisco. In Along the Shore, Steve Fernlund updates us on the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa’s bison herd. Last but not least, did you know that there are about 20 different types of gulls in the United States, and that the Arrowhead region has seen 19 species? Naomi Yaeger teaches us about the most common gulls seen along the North Shore, ring-billed gulls and herring gulls. Oh, and don’t call them seagulls.
August is also packed full of family-friendly events, from Fisherman’s Picnic in Grand Marais, to the Live from the Rock Folk Festival in Red Rock, Ontario. My August Spotlight showcases artwork from various exhibitions opening this month, as well as Art in Bayfront Park, held Aug. 17-18 in Duluth. And be sure to check out this year’s Minneso-
ta’s Farmers Market of the Year—the Lincoln Park Farmers Market in Duluth. A celebration will take place Aug. 8 from 3-6 p.m., featuring a community meal, zucchini car racing for the kids, guest speakers, lots of vendors, giveaways, and more.
Need to cool off this summer? North Shore Dish columnist Virginia George provides us with three great locations serving up delicious frozen delights. Or, you could always take a dip in the big lake—or any lake for that matter. While you’re outside, why not try your hand at bass fishing using crankbaits and topwater lures. Northern Trails columnist Gord Ellis has all the info you need to hook a big one. Not into fishing? Then try taking on the Superior Hiking Trail Association’s Hike 50 Challege instead.
Don’t forget to snap some photos while you’re out exploring, and enter them into our annual For the Love of the North photo contest, open now through Sept. 30. The top three winners of each category will win a cash prize! See our ad below for more information.
Time is flying by this summer, and by the time you read this, I’ll be on maternity leave. I’ll do my best to enjoy every moment of newborn bliss. I suggest you do the same with summer, before it’s gone.
—Breana Johnson
ENTER YOUR PHOTOS AND WIN PRIZES!
CATEGORIES: Landscape, Wildlife, Adventure Lifestyle, and Macro. Prizes will be awarded to the top three photos per category. Winners will be announced in the January 2025 issue of Northern Wilds.
ENTER BY SEPT. 30
WEBSITE: BIT.LY/LOVEOFNORTH
photo contest
Start by watching photography tutorials for beginners—YouTube is a great resource. Secondly, train yourself to have a good eye for photography; look at a scene and imagine what you could do photographically with it. Photography is more than taking pictures, it is creating an image from what is in front of your eyes. Lastly, shoot in all light conditions: photograph different light scenes in manual mode. —David Johnson
fish, photos and outdoor adventure. His contributions to U.S. and Canadian books, magazines and newspapers have earned him an arm load of national and international awards. He currently resides in Wawa, Ontario with his wife Francine.
R. Johnson is a photographer from Grand Marais. A fourthgeneration resident of the area, he grew up exploring the area’s vast forests, lakes, rivers, and streams. “I travel the back country all the time taking photos of anything that catches my eye; the northern lights are my favorite, followed by wildlife,” he says.
Sundberg has done landscape and wildlife photography since the early 1970s. Paul and his wife Karla moved to the North Shore of Lake Superior in 1976 managing several State Parks until his retirement in 2010. They currently reside near Grand Marais where Paul continues to pursue his passion for photographing Lake Superior and the Boundary Waters.
James Smedley’s wiry frame regularly labours under a heavy pack of camera gear in search of
Paul
David
REAL ESTATE
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CONTRIBUTORS
Elle Andra-Warner, Gord Ellis, Steve Fernlund, Virginia George, Kalli Hawkins, Jennifer Janasie, Dana Johnson, Deane Morrison, Hartley Newell-Acero, Liz O’Brien, Chris Pascone, Rae Poynter, Joe Shead, Victoria Lynn Smith, Naomi Yaeger, Sam Zimmerman
Copyright 2024 by Northern Wilds Media, Inc.
Published 12 times per year. Subscription rate is $32 per year or $60 for 2 years U.S. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part requires written permission from the publishers.
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Aug. 12
1.
HOME IGNITION ZONES
Limiting the amount of flammable vegetation, choosing fire-resistant building materials and construction techniques, along with periodic exterior maintenance in the three home ignition zones - increases the chances your home will survive a wildfire when exposed to embers and/or a surface fire. The zones include the Immediate Zone: 0 to 5 feet around the house; Intermediate Zone: 5 to 30 feet; and the Extended Zone: 30 to 100 feet.
2. LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE
To reduce ember ignitions and fire spread, trim branches that overhang the home, porch and deck and prune branches of large trees up to (depending on their height) 6 to 10 feet from the ground. Remove plants containing resins, and ensure mulches in the Immediate Zone (0 to 5 feet around the house) are non-combustible options like crushed stone and gravel. Maintain vegetation annually.
FIRE RESISTIVE CONSTRUCTION
3. ROOFING AND VENTS
Class A fire-rated roofing products offer the best protection. Examples include: Composite shingles, metal, concrete and clay tiles. Roof and attic vents should be screened to prevent ember entry.
4. DECKS AND PORCHES
Never store flammable materials underneath decks or porches. Remove dead vegetation and debris from under decks/porches and between deck board joints.
5. SIDING AND WINDOWS
Embers can collect in small nooks and crannies and ignite combustible materials; radiant heat from flames can crack windows. Use fire-resistant siding such as brick, fiber-cement, plaster or stucco and dual-pane tempered glass windows.
6. EMERGENCY RESPONDER ACCESS
Ensure your home and neighborhood has clearly marked street names and numbers. Driveways should be at least 12 feet wide with a vertical clearance of 15 feet, for emergency vehicle access.
BE PREPARED
Always evacuate if you feel it’s unsafe to stay – don’t wait to receive an emergency notification if you feel threatened from the fire.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
• Store firewood away from the home • Mow the lawn regularly
• Prune low-hanging tree branches • Landscape with fire-resistant plants
• Create small fuel breaks with hardscaping features
A look at the campground hosts of the Superior National Forest
NORTH SHORE—A Superior National Forest campground host serves many purposes. Beyond maintaining the campground, collecting site fees, and cleaning outhouses, campground hosts serve as tour guides, fishing gurus, and, most importantly, a welcoming presence in a remote setting.
Many Superior National Forest campground hosts, like Jack Davis and Suz Sullivan, are retired individuals who share a deep love for the northern Minnesota landscape and thoroughly enjoy meeting and helping others.
“I get to meet people from all over the world,” said Sullivan, a campground host at Sawbill Lake Campground at the end of the Sawbill Trail. “And being a campground host, I get to be in the Boundary Waters. So for me, that’s fun.”
Sullivan, who lives in Maryland, began visiting Sawbill Lake and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) in the early 1990s. Two years ago, after seeing a request for a campground host in the Sawbill Canoe Outfitters newsletter, she decided it was time to return to the vast northern Minnesota landscape and spend her summers as a campground host near the BWCAW.
She instantly fell in love with the owners and staff at Sawbill Canoe Outfitters and, ultimately, the campground host experience. She recently returned for a second summer with her two Irish Setters, 4-year-old Mariah and 12-year-old Atticus.
“Atticus is a campground host, too,” Sullivan said. He often greets incoming families and campers via the golf cart and keeps the kids occupied on slow summer days. “The kids are always loving on him. He lives for this.”
When Atticus isn’t keeping the kids’ company, he joins Sullivan on her daily campground host tasks. Each day, she begins her rounds at 6 a.m., starting with the dirtiest job first: cleaning the pit toilets. “There are 11 bathrooms, which are really gross,” Sullivan said. “But I mean, it’s part of the job.” Then, she transitions to checking reservations, cleaning the sites for the day’s arrivals, and answering questions from fellow campers.
Sullivan enjoys the slow-paced environment. When she is caught up on her morning campground hosting tasks, she frequently heads out on Sawbill Lake for a fishing adventure. When she needs a change of scenery or a delicious lunch from the Taste of India Spice and Curry food truck, she drives nearly 50 miles into Grand Marais.
Approximately 14 miles southeast of Sullivan, at Crescent Lake Campground, is 75-year-old Davis, another retired campground host. Like Sullivan, Davis grew up visiting the area with his family each summer. “My mom and dad found this place in the early 1960s,” he said.
In his 10th year as the Crescent Lake campground host, Davis also enjoys the slower-paced summer lifestyle. Each sum-
mer, he travels from Bloomington, Indiana, to Crescent Lake with his 3-year-old black Lab and co-campground host, Reggie. The two enjoy spending their days maintaining the campground and reeling in walleyes. “I just love Minnesota,” he said. “I like to go fishing all the time.”
Davis typically starts his day at 8 a.m. with breakfast and some quality fetch time with Reggie. Then, by early afternoon, he makes the campground rounds to check in newly arrived campers and clean the toilets. His day frequently involves answering questions about hiking nearby Eagle Mountain, or directing people with unfortunate fish hook accidents to the emergency room in Grand Marais.
When his responsibilities are complete, and the fish bite isn’t hot, Davis heads into Grand Marais to do laundry, grocery shop, or restock on supplies.
Throughout his extensive tenure as the Crescent Lake campground host, Davis has developed a handful of close friendships with returning campers. Each summer, he looks forward to catching up in person with friends from the Twin Cities or Cloquet rather than via email or text. Although there are multiple returning ‘regulars’ each year, Davis said, he enjoys seeing more inexperienced campers try something new. “I just try to help them out, to make life easier for them while they’re camping.”
Crescent Lake Campground and Sawbill Lake Campground are both Forest Service concession campgrounds operated by Sawbill Canoe Outfitters under a special use permit. “The special use permit identifies how the campground(s) should be managed in accordance with Forest Service policy,” Ryan Blaisdell, the Forest Service Recreation Specialist for the Tofte and Gunflint Ranger Districts, said.
Blaisdell said campground hosts play an invaluable role as stewards of the Superior National Forest and, ultimately, managers of the campgrounds. “They also can be a great source of local information for visitors,” he said. “We all greatly appreciate the work our campground hosts provide.”
If an individual is interested in becoming a campground host, Blaisdell said individuals should contact the Superior National Forest or the Concessionaire for concessionaire campgrounds. There are only a few requirements, including minimal manual work and working well with the public. And while having a dog is not a requirement, it is certainly a welcomed addition.
As for Sullivan and Davis, they both intend to remain in their campground host positions for many more years to come. “I figured another five years,” Davis said. “Then, I’ll be 80 years old, and I figure I’ll slow down by then.”—Kalli Hawkins
Jack Davis’ setup at Crescent Lake Campground. Davis has been a campground host at Crescent Lake for 10 years. | JACK DAVIS
Sawbill Lake Campground host Suz Sullivan and her 12-year-old Irish setter Atticus. When Atticus isn’t soaking up some love from other campers, he joins Sullivan with her daily host tasks. | SUZ SULLIVAN
Jack Davis and his 3-year-old black Lab Reggie. | JACK DAVIS
Shooting and archery range coming to Cook County
GRAND MARAIS—Almost every county in Minnesota has an established shooting and archery range. One that doesn’t? Cook County. Far northeastern Minnesota is one of just a few areas in the state without a gun or archery range. But that’s soon to change with the opening of Flintlock Range, a shooting and archery range that’s being developed north of Grand Marais. With a tentative opening later this year, Flintlock Range will provide Cook County’s first established location for target practice and education.
The driving force behind this new project is the Flintlock Range Association, a group of community members who have been volunteering their time and energy to help make a shooting range a reality. Justin Rexrode, the Flintlock Range Association president, said that the vision for an established range in Cook County has been in the works for over 20 years. Despite its sparse population, the heavily timbered landscape in far northeastern Minnesota means that there are few open spaces where people can safely set up a target practice. The go-to alternative thus far has been gravel pits or power line rightof-ways, neither of which are ideal solutions.
“Cook County is a spot that needs a shooting range,” Rexrode said. “There needs to be a place for people to safely learn how to shoot, for law enforcement training, for archery, for so many reasons—it was time.”
Although earlier efforts to establish a range were hindered by the high cost of land, a land exchange between Cook County and the U.S. Forest Service caught the attention of some who saw the potential for a shooting range. The parcel in question—360 acres on Forest Service Road 304, off the Gunflint Trail—would need quite a bit of work to develop it into a shooting range, but it was an effort the Flintlock Range Association was willing to take on. After several years of planning, paperwork, and fundraising, their proposal to establish the range was approved by the Cook County Board of Commissioners in January 2024. The county agreed to lease the land to the association, and now they’re at the stage of getting ready to start the actual development and turn this dream into a reality.
So what will the Flintlock Range entail? According to Rexrode, people visiting the range will first find the archery range, followed by a trap and skeet range, and finally a rifle and pistol range. The association will
set certain hours when people can access the range, in accordance with local and state regulations on when shooting ranges can be open.
While Flintlock Range will certainly appeal to people interested in recreational shooting, it will also serve another community need—education.
“The range is going to be essential for the youth firearm safety training at the local school district, for classes, as well as
[ABOVE] Forest Service Road 304 off the Gunflint Trail—the site of the new Flintlock Range in Cook County. | SUBMITTED
[LEFT] The Flintlock Range Association held a membership party back in April at Up Yonder in Grand Marais. | SUBMITTED
for local law enforcement training, as they have nowhere to train right now except for gravel pits,” Rexrode said. “Firearm safety is huge, and the more you can teach people safe handling practices, the safer people are with firearms.”
Currently, the biggest hurdle to developing the land has been the rainy summer. The Flintlock Range Association hopes the range could open before the end of 2024, but that timeline is dependent on weather and how smoothly the rest of the development process goes. Either way, Rexrode is looking forward to what the Flintlock Range will bring to Cook County.
“People were elated when they heard a range was coming about—people from all walks of life, including people who I never would have thought were shooting sports enthusiasts,” Rexrode said. “It hasn’t been an easy endeavor to get here and there’s lots of work ahead, but it’s something that’s really needed here.”— Rae Poynter
Lincoln Park Farmers Market Minnesota’s “Market of the Year” for 2024
DULUTH—Did you know that Minnesota has 375 farmers markets? Out of all these places of friendly commerce, the Lincoln Park Farmers Market (LPFM), operated by Community Action Duluth, has been chosen by the Minnesota Farmers’ Market Association as the state’s representative for National Farmers’ Market Week. Join the largest market celebration in the state at the LPFM on August 8, located at 3002 W. 3rd St. in Duluth.
So how did this West Duluth farmers market, in operation since 2017, make its meteoric rise to state stardom?
Northern Wilds reported last year on Community Action Duluth’s wide-ranging efforts to address food justice in Duluth (see “Making Food Accessible to All,” September 2023 issue). The non-profit holds the Hillside Farmers Market on Tuesday afternoons in the Essentia Hospital parking lot on East 3rd Street in Duluth, as well as the Lincoln Park Farmers Market on Thursday afternoons, from early June through late October. These markets harness federal grant money for providing food access by subsidizing EBT matches and “Market Bucks,” as well as by giving away $4 in PoP (Power of Produce) tokens for any child under 18 or adult over 60 to buy fresh, local produce at the markets. Community Action Duluth also operates the Mobile Market—a refrigerated van that brings food directly to people with mobility issues and sells them groceries at cost.
This year, Community Action Duluth’s herculean efforts to support healthy, local food chains and family vendors have received the state’s highest farmers market accolade. Sina War, engagement and inclusion director at the Minnesota Farmers’ Market Association, explains the selection procedure: “The Minnesota Farmers Market Association leads the annual statewide celebration with Minnesota Farmers Union, Minnesota Grown, and Land Stewardship Project as key partners. MFMA serves nine different regions of the state through public policy, marketing, and education. Each year, we select a farmers market in one of the nine regions. Our goal was to find a market in the Duluth area that could serve as a statewide example of food access programs, so we reached out to Lincoln Park Farmers Market.”
Sam Lindblad, food justice specialist and market organizer for Community Action Duluth, says the news came as a surprise: “It doesn’t feel quite real yet. I didn’t realize going into this that the Minnesota Farmers’ Market Association only picked one market for the entirety of the state to represent the national farmers’ market week. I was thinking maybe they pick one per region, and do festivities all week long, but no, it’s just one market for the whole state, for one day. I was like, ‘OK, it’s kind of a big deal.’”
The accolade is a reflection of the increased food access that the markets provide in two of Duluth’s poorer communities. The two markets are seeing increased attendance by both patrons and vendors.
Kayla Pridmore, the other half of Community Action Duluth’s dynamic market organizer duo, uses the amount of EBT subsidies distributed at markets as a metric for measuring market success. “We have been breaking EBT records week after week,” Pridmore said in late June. “The season is
already feeling tremendous. I feel like we’re finally hitting our stride of getting the critical mass of people, and a variety of vendors.”
Lindblad and Pridmore’s personal touch have been keys to the two markets’ fast growth. But Lindblad credits vendors with leading the way. “So many of our vendors actually started as customers. They came to the market and had a great time, and want to be involved in another way, and grow their own small business,” she says.
Pridmore, in turn, has high praise for Lindblad’s work at introducing small family businesses to market sales: “Sam does such a nice job of making vendors feel like ‘Yeah, you can do this. And we can help you. We’ll walk you through the steps.’ She really goes out of her way.”
But it wasn’t just growth in numbers of attendees and sales that persuaded the Minnesota Farmers’ Market Association to choose LPFM for the state’s top market celebration. Lindblad and Pridmore were attending an extracurricular meeting with the state association at which two of the market’s vendors, Mark and Mary Stone McConnell, piped up. “They just spoke the praises of the market, and said this is the best market in the area. They said it’s a great place to be a vendor, and a customer. It was really nice to hear feedback from them, because it’s such a big part of my job to support these ven-
dors,” recounts Lindblad.
So, what’s happening at the big event itself on August 8? Sina War says the event will start at 3 p.m. with guest speakers: “As part of the celebration, we invite state leaders to speak at the market. To honor the legislative wins that support farmers, we’ve invited Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham to present the Governor’s Proclamation for National Farmers Week to the Lincoln Park Farmers Market.”
Dr. Cunningham will be followed up with short speeches by MN state representative Liish Kozlowski and senator Jennifer McEwen, as well as Duluth City Council member Therese Tomanek.
The state legislators will then get to test their skills at racing zucchini cars (come see for yourself!) with the kids at the market. The event is also about celebrating local vendors and their fresh produce, of course. The market will have its greatest number of vendors for the season, and lots of giveaways.
There will also be a communal meal: “You know us, we’re gonna feed folks,” says Pridmore, famous for cooking mass amounts of paella on a huge pan at the markets. “This time we’re doing a community meal with Duluth Grill.”
Come get a taste for yourself on August 8 from 3-6 p.m.—Chris Pascone
Celebrate Minnesota’s “Market of the Year” at the Lincoln Park Farmers Market in Duluth on Aug. 8, from 3-6 p.m. | CHRIS PASCONE
From ring-billed to herring Meet the gulls of Minnesota’s North Shore
NORTH SHORE—A visit to Canal Park, Two Harbors, Grand Marais, or anywhere along the North Shore where humans are fishing or picnicking, wouldn’t be complete without observing gulls standing on rocks or posts, witnessing them fly, and hearing their wistful, pensive calls. However, they’re not seagulls; their specific names in northeast Minnesota are ringed-billed gulls, herring gulls, or simply gulls.
Most newspapers adhere to the AP Stylebook. It says to use the word “seagull” with caution, and the word gull is more encompassing.
Gaea Crozier is a nongame specialist with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. “These gulls are indigenous to northeast Minnesota in the Duluth area. Many of them have nests on Interstate Island near Duluth and Knife Island near Two Harbors,” said Crozier. She received her master’s degree in biology from the University of Minnesota Duluth, with a focus on birds.
“The word seagull is kind of like a common name or a slang name that people use for gulls,” she said. “Technically, seagulls are just a type of gull. We have several different species here. The gulls most commonly seen along the North Shore are the ringbilled gulls, which are a bit smaller and have a black ring on their bills. The other gull we see is the herring gull.”
There are about 14,000 gull nests on Interstate Island. Crozier knows this because she was involved in a project to count common terns, a threatened bird species in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Interstate Island is a small island created in the 1930s by dredging. It’s about 5 acres, and it’s covered with gulls and their nests, who are raising havoc for the common tern. It is situated in the St. Louis estuary—the Minnesota boundary line cuts through this small island with no human structures. In 2018, about 200 breeding pairs of common terns built nests on the island.
“The gulls can be aggressive, eating tern eggs and chicks, so we spend a lot of time trying to protect the terns,” Crozier said.
Both gulls and terns like to build their nests on flat surfaces. A gull will build on the flat roof atop a building or a flat rock
with no predators around.
Crozier described the complex relationship between gulls and humans. “People often feed them, which we discourage because it habituates them to humans and isn’t good for their health. It also exacerbates problems, like increased populations and the mess they create.”
Gulls do migrate, but it is possible to see them in Duluth in the winter. The open water of Lake Superior attracts gulls year-round, even in winter, provided they can find food. Though some people see gulls as nuisance birds, they have their place in the ecosystem. “They help regulate fish populations and are an integral part of the aquatic food chain,” Crozier noted.
Clinton Dexter-Nienhaus is the vice president of the Duluth Audubon and leads birding field trips for the society. According to him, there are 32-34 different species of gulls documented in North America. In the United States, there are about 20 different types of gulls. The Arrowhead region, including St. Louis, Lake and Cook counties, has seen 19 species.
“Typically, our numbers of gulls don’t fluctuate terribly down here in Duluth,” said Dexter-Nienhaus. “But up the shore, it certainly changes because there’s not the same accessibility to food or water, so the reason we get a lot of gulls around the Duluth area is because we have the big landfill over in Superior.”
He said that further up the shore, like Grand Marais, gulls don’t have that same food accessibility. “However, Grand Portage is a little different because there are commercial fisheries.”
The gulls like to nest on all the little “islands”—those rocks that just poke out of the water often will have nesting colonies. But he added those birds might fly down to Duluth for food and return to their nest.
Knife Island, about 300 feet by 800 feet, is a favorite nesting spot for gulls near Two Harbors.
“They’re such a dynamic species. They are very good flyers, so they cover a lot of ground in a day,” said Dexter-Nienhaus.
Gulls will eat junk food but bring their babies fresh fish.
You might think you are seeing more than one species of gulls, Dexter-Nienhaus said. “Gulls are one of the more difficult groups of birds to identify because they have different age classes and each age class looks different from one another.” It take gulls about four years before they reach adult plumage.
Laura Erickson is a bird expert who has authored 13 books and hosts a radio show called “For the Birds,” which is heard on many public and community radio stations.
She doesn’t mind if the general public calls herring gulls and ring-billed gulls seagulls. “It’s just an old word, probably from England, where people lived by the sea. I don’t mind the term because it’s what people call them, but a lot of bird watchers feel very offended because they want everybody to know their proper name.”
“Some don’t migrate very far, but most ring-billed gulls leave Duluth and Lake Superior for the winter,” Erickson clarified. “They go to the central and southern states, some as far as the Gulf or the Atlantic.”
Gulls are primarily meat-eaters, feeding on fish, insects, and water animals like shrimp and clams. Erickson mentioned that climate change had altered their migration patterns, with some now overwintering in Duluth.
Most people are familiar with ring-billed gulls. “That’s the one that comes to Mc-
and wants your french fries,”
Erickson described the subtle differences between ring-billed and herring gulls, which would be hard for the average person to notice without binoculars.
So, do gulls live near humans to eat junk food? “They live here naturally but have learned to exploit human food sources,” Erickson said. “Much like we take advantage of seasonal foods.”
“Oddly enough, the birds people tend most to dislike are usually the birds that are most like humans,” Erickson said, “And their ability to exploit sources of food.”
Some people like to feed gulls, but Erickson says that is not good for the bird’s health and attracts birds who will be pooping on picnic tables and mooching from people who do not want to share their lunch.
Erickson said that although many people see gulls as nuisance birds that grab picnicking families’ food, they have been on the North Shore forever.
“They are part of the fabric of the whole natural world.”—Naomi Yaeger
Gulls of the same species can look different according to how old they are. This is a first cycle ring-billed gull swimming. | CLINTON DEXTER-NIENHAUS
Donald’s
Erickson said.
An adult ring-billed gull in flight. | CLINTON DEXTER-NIENHAUS
The ring-billed gull got its name because of the ring around its bill. | LAURA ERICKSON
A first cycle herring gull standing. | CLINTON DEXTER-NIENHAUS
Augustin Grand Marais
A CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY AND CULTURE
August in Grand Marais is a month of community gatherings and cultural celebrations, offering a rich array of events and activities for all ages. The highlight of the month is Fisherman’s Picnic, a beloved annual tradition that brings together locals and visitors for a weekend of parades, live music, delicious food, and family-friendly fun. The Johnson Heritage Post and Grand Marais Art Colony continue to captivate art enthusiasts with their summer exhibits, showcasing the talents of regional artists. For a glimpse into the town’s history, take a tour of the historic Bally Blacksmith Shop, where you can see blacksmithing demonstrations and learn about this vital trade. Be sure to check out our Calendar of Events for dates, times, and many more exciting activities throughout the month.
Nestled on the edge of Lake Superior, Grand Marais offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and
small-town charm. The stunning landscapes, from the rocky shoreline to the verdant forests, provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Hiking, kayaking, and fishing are popular pastimes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the pristine environment. The town’s picturesque harbor is a hub of activity, where you can watch boats set sail, enjoy a leisurely walk, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views.
Beyond its natural allure, Grand Marais is a vibrant cultural center with a thriving arts scene. The community’s creative spirit is evident in the numerous galleries, workshops, and events that celebrate local artistry.
Whether nic by
hands-on workshop, or attending a local festival, Grand Marais offers a rich tapestry of experiences that capture the essence of the North Shore. Each visit is an opportunity to discover something new and inspiring in this enchanting town.
A Grand Marais tradition since 1971. The Lake Superior Trading Post has everything from fun gifts to camping gear and so much more! Open year-round.
Cook County Co-op: Food to go, to stay, and to cook at home. Here are some of our favorites. Join the fun at The Market.
Open Daily 11 am-5 pm
Shop online for books, cards, and prints
301 First Avenue West, Grand Marais, MN
Every Thursday 5-6:30 pm
Under the Pavilion at the Clair Nelson Center, 6866 Cramer Road, Finland
Vendors: 1st week is free! Fee: $5/week or $50/season More info or to register call 218-353-0300 or check out our website at
Grand Portage bison herd one pillar for food sovereignty
GRAND PORTAGE—For millennia, bison, or “Mashkode-bizhiki” in Ojibwe, were an integral part of the life of our native peoples. Bison provided food, clothing, and shelter. They shaped cultural practices and held deep spiritual significance.
Grand Portage, on the shore of Lake Superior at the U.S.-Canada border, is home to the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, one of the earliest Ojibwe settlements in Minnesota. It has been a significant meeting place for people from various cultures for centuries.
On April 11, 2023, the band took delivery of seven bison to begin a herd on its 80-acre Bizhiki Ranch. Bison are hearty creatures native to plains lands. They need lots of grassland to thrive, something that is hard to find in the boreal forests of northeastern Minnesota.
Jared Swader, tribal planner and bison herd manager at Grand Portage, said that about 70 percent of the ranch was wooded before the bison arrived, with the rest swampy and grassy. The entire property was fenced with solar-powered electric fencing, and now almost 30 acres have been planted with grasses. Logging continues on the property as they look to create more pasture land.
About 10 days after the herd arrived, an unexpected surprise showed up. “I was out walking the pasture that morning and saw a brand-new bull calf,” Swader said. “We didn’t even know that one of the cows we got was pregnant.”
Since then, Swader acquired four more bison from the Prairie Island community in November last year. The herd now includes 10 cows and two bulls, one of which was the calf born last April.
Swader said, “This program is all about food security for our community.” He expects that the first harvest and distribution of bison meat will start this fall.
Bison meat is low in fat and high in protein, similar to moose meat. It is considered a healthy alternative to beef. The bison are well adapted to the climate conditions on the North Shore and require minimal shelter over the winter.
“They’re such cool animals,” Swader said. “I was surprised by how relatable bison are, almost like dogs.” He went on to describe the docile creatures as friendly beasts who come when he calls for them.
Swader described the community’s reaction to the bison, saying that people were excited to see them arrive and are “wondering what’s coming next.”
In addition to ITBC and Moore’s active support, Swader has hired Bison Technician Andrew Anderson to help manage the herd.
Bison don’t require intensive daily care, another benefit of raising them.
We want to offer community learning experiences related to food at the market, so it’s time to get creative. Want to be involved? Have an idea? Contact us! 218-353-0300 or email market@friendsoffinland.org
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For decades, the band has been studying, considering, and implementing creative strategies to cope with a changing environment. In 2012, a report on their efforts identified Grand Portage as a food desert, needing various methods to provide secure food sources. At the time of the report, it was recognized that moose populations, a vital source of protein for the community, were on the decline. Bison was identified as a viable option to replace the food sources lost to declining moose populations.
In 2022 the band joined the Intertribal Buffalo Council (ITBC), a collection of 82 federally recognized tribes working to restore bison to Indian Country. ITBC efforts seek to preserve historical, cultural, traditional, and spiritual relationships for future Native American generations while achieving higher food sovereignty.
When the band hired Swader in 2015 as its programs administrator, he needed to gain experience with animal husbandry. He also oversees the band’s food sovereignty program, which is committed to self-sufficiency and preservation.
Working with Seth Moore, a Grand Portage biologist, and bison experts from the ITBC, Swader quickly learned how to manage a bison herd.
The bison farming effort is all about creating a healthy, affordable, and local food option for the 500 people who call Grand Portage home.
Bizhiki Ranch is located on Old Highway 61 in Grand Portage. The site includes a couple of storage containers with a tractor and skid steer, but little else. Visitors are asked to respect the fence line and make no effort to reach out and touch the bison. Bison are generally docile creatures, but showing them proper respect is best for them and you.
Steve Fernlund
On April 11, 2023, the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa took in seven bison to begin a herd on its 80-acre Bizhiki Ranch. | SUBMITTED
Experiencing the Superior Hiking Trail Association’s Hike 50 Challenge
TWO HARBORS—The Superior Hiking Trail Association, a Two Harbors nonprofit committed to appreciation, stewardship, and promotion of the Superior Hiking Trail, encourages participation in programming efforts like the Hike 50 Challenge. This annual motivational opportunity acknowledges users who finish 50 miles of the trail during a calendar year, according to the Association’s website. The challenge was established as a “fun way to engage the community to get out on the trails,” says Lisa Luokkala, executive director.
According to Luokkala, the challenge emphasizes promotion of lesser-known trail attributes, plus opportunities for all ages and skill abilities. “This is an opportunity to get people on new sections of the trail,” she says.
Participants can “accomplish the challenge over the entire trail-hiking season,” says Luokkala. “With such a broad demographic of users, some folks may be able to accomplish it over a number of days and others during a weekend walk in the woods,” she says.
Another critical aspect of the Hike 50 Challenge is its dedication to involving youth. “We try to make this kid-focused.” says Luokkala. Miles on the trail become more family-friendly with Birchy the Beaver (the Association’s mascot), championing challenge activities. “Beavers are the North Shore’s original landscape architect,” says Luokkala. And they remain an integral part of the Association’s messaging. In 2023, the challenge’s engagement theme explored beaver ponds, while this year’s engagement piece involves a Birchy nature photo scavenger hunt—a chance to take one photo for each mile completed on the trail, according to Luokkala.
The challenge’s draw for some is the simple pleasure of a patch. Every year, the Association unveils a new version of the patch, and staff encourages participation year after year to create a collection. The patch for 2024 features, you guessed it, Birchy the Beaver! The critter is shown with a camera in its paws, in an effort to take only pictures while exploring the Superior Hiking Trail.
Zach Johns from Hibbing completed the challenge in 2023. “I am a sucker for patches. My kids and I have hiked the Hiking Club Trail in every Minnesota state park. I do the Trailfitters Trail Challenge every year. If it comes with a patch, I’m in!” says Johns.
There are multiple ways to approach the challenge. Some might choose to explore the trail by section. Some may set goals for the whole family, others with a group of friends, according to Luokkala. Johns took the section-by-section approach, and ended up not only hiking the 50 miles needed for the challenge, but also the entire rest of the trail. “I celebrated the 25th anniversary of the first time I did a calendar year section hike of the entire trail by doing that again,” he says.
“Every weekend, July through October, I hiked different sections, either day hiking or backpacking with many of the friends I have made on the trail over the years,” says Johns.
Johns’ experience demonstrates the community that is built on the trails. “One nice part of trail engagement is that it makes people feel part of the trail. The trail doesn’t exist unless the community is there to support it, and this is one way we can strengthen and build community,” says Luokkala.
The Superior Hiking Trail Association offers resources for planning trail experiences.
“The section hikes that we provide are really great examples of things you can see and do in new ways,” says Luokkala. She shares
her favorite recommendation: “Section B: Martin Road to Lake County 301 is quiet. It’s more of a meandering walk through the woods, good for someone transitioning from pavement or sidewalks.”
Whether or not the Association’s recommendations are part of your overall plan, after you finish 50 miles and submit a completion form you are awarded an official Certificate of Completion (signed by Birchy) and the latest patch. Then it is time to pat yourself on the back. “These challenges are cause for celebration,” says Luokkala.
Miles you accrue can be used for other area hiking programs, such as the North Country Trail Association’s Hike 100 Challenge. In 2019, the Superior Hiking Trail officially became part of the North Country National Scenic Trail’s route (4,800 miles of trail from North Dakota to Vermont), according to Luokkala.
Having complimentary challenges has nurtured opportunities for the two associations to learn and grow together. This has strengthened the trail community in the state of Minnesota and beyond, according
to Luokkala. “Trail communication is not just connected to one trail,” she adds, “but to a love of hiking, to a love of being on the trail,” she says.
The Superior Hiking Trail is under 40 years old, but it has already greatly impacted the region’s identity, according to Luokkala. The final connection for trail completion at the southern-most terminus was made in 2017, not that long ago. Yet the sense for how much folks connect to the trail has already left a lasting impression. “The trail has had a really meaningful impact, is free to users, and has low barriers for access,” says Luokkala.
“We always hope users feel a greater connection to nature and in turn think about how these public lands and trails are protected and maintained. We need to build the next generation of stewards. We need to protect these very special public spaces for the next generation to enjoy,” says Luokkala. The Hike 50 Challenge educates users about trail culture, such as how to recreate responsibly on trails (leave no trace), according to Luokkala.
Consider supporting the Association’s stewardship through membership and volunteer opportunities. To learn more about the Superior Hiking Trail Association and the Hike 50 Challege, visit: superiorhiking.org.
—Jennifer Janasie
Day hikers take in the vista at White Sky Rock on the Superior Hiking Trail near Lutsen. | SHTA
Ride Duluth River Train
larly on the Grand Marais harbor. | SUBMITTED
Navigating history: Bill Hansen and the Hjördis
GRAND MARAIS—The Hjördis, a 50-foot traditionally rigged steel schooner seen regularly on the Grand Marais harbor, was acquired by North House Folk School in 1998. At the time, the Folk School was in its early days, and the boat was owned by someone else and had been dry-docked in Grand Marais for a few years.
An energetic, idea-driven leader, North House founder Mark Hansen decided that acquiring the tattered boat, restoring it, and using it for tours and classes was a brilliant idea. His cash-strapped board of directors was skeptical. Mark accepted the board’s challenge to make a formal proposal at its next monthly meeting, which he did. The board accepted his proposal and acquired the boat.
Bill Hansen (no relation to Mark), currently the lead captain of the Hjördis, was the only board member at that first meeting who thought the acquisition was a good idea. At the time, he had little idea of his role with the Hjördis 20-some years later.
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Kenneth Woodward built the Hjördis in the 1970s in his Detroit backyard. He used plans drafted by Thomas E. Colvin, a world-renowned designer and builder of junk-rigged sailboats. Colvin is said to have been a colorful, iconoclastic, and sometimes controversial nonconformist. The same has been said of North House founder Mark Hansen.
Greg Wright, executive director of North House, said, “Of course, you’d want a boat that looks like a pirate ship named after a Scandinavian goddess.” He went on to say that Hjördis is likely the most photographed item in Minnesota, words echoed by Captain Bill.
Its deep green hull and a full complement of maroon sails attract the attention of many shorebound visitors, who can be seen lining the harbor with cameras and cellphones pointed her way.
Woodward named the boat after his mother, who was named after a Norse goddess of war, Hjördis. In Norse mythology, Hjördis was a strong and independent woman, fitting for a boat that would sail the seas with determination and resilience. When he’d finished the boat, Woodward and his wife Katey moved aboard and sailed the junk-rigged boat around Florida and the Bahamas for over a decade.
By 1990, Randy Ellestad of Knife River had purchased the boat. He moved it overland from Detroit to Knife River and rigged it as a gaff-rigged schooner, a sailboat with two masts, typically with the foremast smaller than the mainmast.
North House offers six, one and threequarter-hour tours on the Hjördis on weekdays and seven tours Friday through Sunday for up to six passengers at a time. The crew emphasizes safety and education during those tours. “We see so many different people, and they seem so happy to be there,” Bill said.
The sailing schedules include sunrise and sunset experiences.
“Our passengers are universally thrilled with the tours,” Captain Bill said. “They can participate as much as they want, from raising sails to taking the helm.” He added that
The Hjördis, a 50-foot traditionally rigged steel schooner, can be seen regu-
Captain Bill Hansen aboard the Hjördis.
ETHAN SORENSEN
passengers can also just sit back, enjoy the view, and appreciate a different perspective of the North Shore, all while learning about the rich maritime history of the area.
Captain Bill, 71, has lived on the North Shore his entire life. Born in Duluth, he moved to Tofte at the age of three when his parents, Frank and Mary Alice Hansen, started Sawbill Canoe Outfitters. He was raised in the hospitality industry and is committed to providing rewarding experiences to his passengers, a testament to his deep-rooted connection to the North Shore.
After college, Bill was a reporter and camera operator for Duluth television station KBJR. After working six days straight in November 1975, he looked forward to having Tuesday, November 11, off. When his shift ended on the 10th, he went to a neighborhood bar for a beer and Monday night football. That fateful night the Edmund Fitzgerald sank in Lake Superior. The journalist that he was, Bill returned to the station right away after seeing a news flash about a missing ore boat. He and reporter Ray Niekamp drove to the Duluth Coast Guard station to cover the beginning of rescue efforts. While there, they got permission from the television station to rent an airplane and visit the last known site of the Fitzgerald
They arrived at the site as daylight broke, and from the airplane, Bill could see vessels responding to the distress call. While filming the scene, debris and oil from the Fitzgerald broke to the surface. The two young journalists flew on to Sault Ste. Marie, MI, where they interviewed officials of the shipping company and the Coast Guard.
The NBC network got wind of their efforts, flew reporters into Duluth, and used Bill’s film of the scene on the evening news the night of the 11th. Seeing the site of the sinking and meeting with the people most affected by it has profoundly affected Bill’s life. “It was a terrible tragedy, really grim,” he said.
After two years in television, Bill returned to Sawbill Outfitters to help his parents, eventually taking over the business. Today, Sawbill Outfitters is successfully operated by Bill’s daughter, Clare Shirley, and her husband, Dan. Bill and his wife, Cindy, retired and moved to Grand Marais in 2016. According to Bill, the third generation “is better at running it than we were.”
After retiring, Bill spent a year with the Peace Corps in Uganda.
Returning to Grand Marais, he earned a captain’s license from the Coast Guard and
went to work on the Hjördis. He is the lead captain and recruits and schedules the crew and captains who operate the tours. Two full crews work each day, one in the mornings and one in the afternoon and evenings. Five captains are working with Bill this season. They are Adam Gallagher, Katy Indvik, Andrew Siess, David Swierenga, and Dave Cooper.
Bill can be seen riding around Grand Marais on his e-bike. He’s enamored with alternative energy and has put over 3,000 miles on his bike in the past few years.
When North House took over, the Hjördis was equipped with its original diesel engine. After piecing together repairs in the early years, the engine was soon replaced with a modern Westerbeke diesel that, after 20 years, was starting to get temperamental. One day in 2021, returning to the harbor under diesel power, Bill decided that he was piloting “an ideal application for an electric motor.”
Installing a marine-grade electric motor was looking quite expensive when he stumbled upon Electric Yacht company in Golden Valley, MN. They offered to design the power system and engines for a DIY installation
along with a 25 percent discount.
North House quickly found donors for the conversion, and the order was placed with Electric Yacht. Bill picked up the system himself and brought it to Grand Marais. Local certified electricians Sam and Jonathan Hedstrom did all the wiring, and volunteers installed the motors and batteries. Hjördis had electric motors for the 2022 season.
“The Electric Yacht system is comforting and reliable,” Bill said. After a day of on-thewater tours, more than 50 percent of battery life remains. The batteries are charged each evening on the dock.
Greg Wright said, “Bill pushed for electric drive, and now we have a beautiful boat powered by sun and wind.”
Summing things up, Captain Bill said, “I tell people this is the most ideal retirement job.”
Tours are available seven days a week in season and people can visit northhouse.org for more information and to book a tour.
—Steve Fernlund
Wherever you go from here, you belong here. Walk into any one of our gazillion convenient locations using our mobile app. It’s the simple, secure way to check balances, pay bills, send payments and more— wherever, whenever. Take the next step at northshorefcu.org/NSFCUApp.
Captain Bill Hansen has lived on the North Shore his entire life.
| ETHAN SORENSEN
Ever-Changing Nature Wildlife Population Changes in the Northern Wilds
BY CHRIS PASCONE
Are our Northern Wilds really so wild if humans can create vast population changes in local species through our actions alone? |
Wildlife populations follow upand-down cycles for many species living in the Northern Wilds. Ruffed grouse are a famous example (this year’s MN DNR spring ruffed grouse population count is the highest since 1972). Snowshoe hare are another cyclical species, and to this day scientists debate what causes their cycles to rise and fall. Many species are also dependent on fluctuations in the populations of their prey. We are left to observe in awe how nature takes its course.
Yet what about those changes introduced by humankind? What would our Lake Superior fisheries be like today if non-native species like coho salmon or steelhead trout were never stocked in the lake? Are our Northern Wilds really so wild if humans can create vast population changes in local species through our actions alone? Let’s take a look at three species (a mammal, insect, and fish) to see how human-induced change has impacted—and continues to impact—life in our northern woods.
Demise of the Woodland Caribou
One monumental change that happened in an incredibly short timespan in the Northern Wilds was the demise of the woodland caribou. Prior to European settlement, this area included vast white pine, red pine, and jack pine tracts— home to the woodland caribou. The caribou ate lichens that grew beneath the towering pine canopies and on areas of exposed bedrock—wherever understory shrub and forb cover was sparse or very patchy. Then, at the end of the 19th century, humans came in with their saws to turn the stately pines into lumber for a growing nation. As deforestation and widespread, large catastrophic fires rolled over the Arrowhead, habitat for lichens and the woodland caribou was radically changed and diminished, and no longer capable of supporting a woodland caribou population.
Chel Anderson, Hovland resident and author of North Shore: A Natural History of Minnesota’s Superior Coast (published in 2015 by University of Minnesota Press), emphasizes that ground-living lichens are typically most abundant where light is more available under sparser cover of shrubs and herbaceous plants. These conditions are more common in woodland, exposed bedrock and raised bog native plant communities, than in forest plant communities. “Woodlands are very different from forests,” Anderson explains. “Often occurring on thinner, drier, more fire-prone soils, they typically have a more open understory than forests do. This understory fosters the growth of lichens, that woodland caribou use as a food source, particularly in wintertime. In more recent times, land management practices, suppression of natural fire disturbance regimes and land conversion have contributed to diminishing habitat with appropriate conditions and extent to support a population of woodland caribou throughout much of their former range.”
“Caribou couldn’t compete with what came after the logging—dense browse favored moose and newly-arrived deer.” | DAVID BRICKNER
Mankind’s clear-cutting of the north woods starting 130 years ago during the lumber craze effectively ostracized woodland caribou from northern Minnesota and the surrounding Canadian regions. But besides habitat loss, unregulated human hunting pressure also hastened the disappearance of woodland caribou from the area—another layer of human induced change. One of the last known woodland
BARB JEFFERS
caribou herds survived in the large, very remote peatland complex at the headwaters of the St. Louis River. In the 1891 Public Land Survey General Description for T59N R11W, the surveyor wrote: “Great numbers of Caribou (American Reindeer/Woodland Caribou) live in these swamps… If these animals are to be preserved, a fork of 10 sq. miles should be fenced and guarded as they are fast disappearing before the Winchester rifles of the hunters.” No such reserve was ever created.
The final blow to the caribou’s original territory came from other large mammals. Jean Cochrane, a conservation biologist who worked with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, says that caribou proved to be less adaptable than other ungulates. “Caribou couldn’t compete with what came after the logging—dense browse favored moose and newly-arrived deer, which thrive in young forests.” Thus, the habitat change created by humans favored other species to the detriment of less adaptable caribou.
The last caribou was seen on Isle Royale in 1928, and the last regular sightings in northeast Minnesota came in the 1940s. Long-time residents of the Grand Marais area may remember one exception to the disappearance of caribou. Cochrane recounts the event: “The last recorded caribou stragglers sighted in Cook County came down from Ontario to near Hovland in the winter of 1981-1982.”
Today, your best chance to observe woodland caribou in the wild may be on Canada’s Slate Islands, in Lake Superior, with an estimated population of 45. Some of these caribou were actually moved to the Slates by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry in 2018 from Michipicoten Island, where wolves were threatening to decimate the island’s herd.
Wood Ticks
Get a Ride to the Northern Wilds
Ask area old-timers if they remember seeing wood ticks as kids, and you’ll hear the same reply again and again: there were no ticks here in the past. “When I moved here 50 years ago, it was a nearly impossible task to get a wood tick on you,” recalls Anderson. “When I was young, nobody got ticks,” concurs Buck Benson, another long-time resident of the North Shore.
So, what happened? Anderson believes the spread of people, especially those with livestock or pets, and wildlife moving in from places where wood ticks were common, were mainly responsible for the introduction of ticks to the area. “The only place I could ever find ticks in my early years here was at the site of an old logging camp on the Cook County-Lake County line,” says Anderson.
“Movements and land use of people and animals carrying ticks began introducing wood (and other) ticks to new places,” Anderson continues. “The ticks’ spread was successful, as wood ticks dropped off of a draft horse, farm animal, dog, or wildlife
Overall, human intervention in the landscape has greatly affected the populations of caribou, ticks, and coldwater fish in our region.
| CHRIS PASCONE
species that it used as a host.” Those individual points of tick colonization have gradually expanded into a widespread population. “We now know that it doesn’t take long for ticks to spread across the landscape,” says Anderson.
Besides wood ticks, deer ticks (that carry Lyme disease), and winter ticks (that suck the blood and nutrients out of moose), are also at play in the north woods today. Anderson notes that a “synergy” of factors—such as winter ticks combined with a warming climate—have caused increased stress on moose survival. The winter ticks— quarter-sized when engorged—can cover a moose in the tens of thousands. While winter ticks may have existed naturally in the Northern Wilds in the past, their effects on moose are being exacerbated by longer warmer periods of the year. Despite their name, winter ticks can’t survive cold winters if they don’t have a host, like moose. Late falls give winter tick nymphs extra time to find a host, and early springs give females abundant leaf litter to lay their eggs in, leading to increased winter tick abundance. Little ticks, small as they are, and the diseases they may carry, are one of the most concerning changes in local wildlife patterns.
Survival of Coldwater Fish
The Minnesota state fish is the walleye. Also called “pickerel” in Canada, the walleye is categorized as a coolwater fish. The walleye’s range covers the entire state of Minnesota, and all of southern Ontario. But what about coldwater species, including lake trout, lake whitefish, and cisco—that have traditionally thrived in the cold, deep inland lakes of the Arrowhead, as well as in Lake Superior? Are they still thriving today? There are 855 total lakes in Minnesota documented to contain coldwater species, and many of them are currently under threat.
Aaron Sundmark and Derek Bahr are both lake IBI (“index of biological integrity”) biologists with the MN DNR. They are part of a team of researchers, together with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, developing water quality standards to protect coldwater lake habitats in Minnesota. This research involves measuring water temperatures and oxygen levels throughout the water column at the height of summer in Minnesota’s deepest, coldest lakes. Currently, Sundmark is taking teams of data collectors by canoe to the Boundary Waters
to measure what’s happening with water temperature stratification and dissolved oxygen in lakes that are potential refuges for coldwater species.
According to Bahr, “Whitefish, cisco, and lake trout are all good indicator species, which means that they are sensitive to, and respond predictably to various stressors that are occurring on the landscape. Because of their importance, and the recognition that they are sensitive to different stressors, the DNR is monitoring these populations, and observing trends through time.”
The DNR’s efforts have unfortunately revealed a decline in mean cisco catch per standard gill net in Minnesota inland lakes since the sampling protocol was standardized in 1993. Because of that decline, the DNR is making an increased effort to understand the actual threats to cisco and other coldwater species. These include cultural eutrophication (excess nutrients), climate change (warming lake temperatures), and aquatic invasive species.
August is the hardest month for coldwater fish, as lakes undergo the “summer squeeze”—the period of maximum oxythermal stress. At this time, the deepest parts of lakes do not hold enough oxygen for fish to breathe (caused by eutrophication), while water temps closer to the surface are too warm for coldwater fish to survive. These fish thereby get squeezed into a narrow vice of liveable habitat partway down the water column. As the vice tightens, fish can struggle to find suitable habitat from lack of oxygen.
Enter the “coldwater standards.” The DNR and MPCA have identified nutrient and oxythermal benchmarks (coldwater standards) that lakes should attain to continue supporting coldwater species. The DNR is aiming to prioritize protection of lakes of biological significance, protecting and maintaining them from shoreline development to give them the best chance of avoiding eutrophication and maintaining their oxythermal habitat.
The DNR’s research on water quality and temperature in coldwater lakes suggests that “many cisco or lake whitefish lakes currently do not have protective enough standards to properly support coldwater fish habitat.” And the DNR is doing something about it. Setting water quality standards will help the DNR to regulate activity in the landscape around coldwater lakes, thereby keeping water clean and cold for sensitive fish species.
Overall, human intervention in the landscape has greatly affected the populations of caribou, ticks, and coldwater fish in our region. In fact, one could argue that not a single wildlife species has gone unchanged by the influence of humankind since European settlement in the area. The caribou are gone, the ticks are here, and the survival of whitefish, cisco, and lake trout in our region will depend greatly on human protection of cold water as time goes on. While nature has always been changing, not only because of human intervention, it’s our duty to learn from the mistakes of our past, and to weigh the importance of our actions on local wildlife populations today.
From the Duluth Rose Garden to the PortLand Malt Shoppe
Story
and
Photos by Victoria Lynn Smith
I have four grandchildren, Clara, Michael, Evan, and Charlie, ages 12 to 5. During the summer months when I take care of them, I look for activities we can all enjoy. I call them “our adventures,” and if possible, I like them to include the outdoors, movement, learning, and fun. With four grandchildren, it’s nice if the activities are inexpensive, or better yet free. Nearby bathrooms are a big plus.
Last summer at the end of July, we went to the Duluth Rose Garden, followed by a stroll along Duluth’s Lakewalk to the PortLand Malt Shoppe.
I parked in the lot at Leif Erikson Park, located at 1301 London Road. Visitors enjoy free parking for up to three hours (April 1 to October 31), and nice restrooms are available. The Duluth Rose Garden, which is part of Leif Erickson, overlooks Lake Superior. On the day we visited, the sun tossed sparkles on the rippling water, while a gentle breeze off the lake kept us cool.
Charmed by colorful swaths of blooms, my grandchildren swarmed up and down the gracefully curved rows of roses. With over 2,500 roses in 275 varieties, they had lots to see and smell. “Hey, Nana, I didn’t know roses came in orange!” Michael, 10, said. It’s one of his favorite colors.
We strolled on the grass, admiring roses and other flowers planted in a nutrient-rich bed of soil, which is six feet deep and rests on a layer of concrete that forms the ceiling of a four-lane tunnel. Underneath us, traffic zoomed at 50 mph. People who visit the Duluth Rose Garden may not realize a freeway tunnel runs underneath it.
Hoping to catch a scent, [L TO R] Charlie, Clara, Evan, and Michael Smith smell the modern hardy roses, which bloom all summer but don’t have an aroma.
Planted alongside a row of roses, purple mintscented monardas attract pollinators.
In the early 1990s, a freeway extension usurped the previous rose garden, and the roses had to be removed. There was nowhere to store them, but rather than throw them away, 2,500 rose plants were given to Duluth residents. However, not all of the plants were given away. Some of the rose species were descended from plants dating back to the 1600s and 1700s. Those old varieties were planted in another part of the city, then replanted with the new varieties in the Duluth Rose Garden after the freeway was completed in 1994.
Because a tunnel runs under the garden, radiant heat from the earth is interrupted, and the roses need help to survive Duluth’s cold winters. In the fall, volunteers dig small trenches, tip rose bushes into them, then cover the bushes with dirt. The bushes have cords tied to them, and in the spring volunteers raise the roses by pulling the cords. Carol Borich, co-president of the Lake Superior Rose Society, said about 1,500 roses are tipped and raised each year.
My grandchildren bent their smiling faces toward silky petals in shades of pink, yellow, red, and orange, and inhaled deeply. After smelling various roses, Clara, 11, stood upright and said, “Nana, different roses have different smells!” She was smelling the old garden roses planted in a semi-circle along an open expanse of grass.
Borich tells people to “bring your nose” because old garden roses have lots of fragrance. She explained they have a short season but “bloom like mad for a month.” To Borich the different varieties of old roses smell like licorice, cloves, honey, or various fruits. But she points out people experience the same aromas differently.
Normally, mid-June to mid-July is the best time to enjoy the old garden roses. But during the winter of 2022-2023, Lake Superior froze, causing a cold spring, which delayed rose blossoms by two weeks. So, even at the end of July, Clara still experienced a smorgasbord of scents.
Clara moved to another section of roses and kept sniffing. “Some of these don’t have any smell,” she said. The unscented roses are modern shrub roses, which are hardier and easier to grow. They are disease resistant, so they don’t require synthetic chemical sprays. Plus, they bloom from the second or third week of June into September, providing con-
tinuous color in the Duluth Rose Garden, but they don’t smell like your grandparents’ roses. Charlie, 4, buzzed like a jolly bumblebee, visiting as many roses as he could, repeatedly calling out, “Nana, look at this beautiful flower,” as he admired each one. I thought he might be the grandchild least interested in roses, but he was gobsmacked by their beauty. He wasn’t even distracted when his brother Evan, 6, kept asking, “When are we going to get ice cream?” Evan enjoyed the roses but didn’t feel the need to greet each one—not when the PortLand Malt Shoppe was our next destination.
Eventually, our eyes and noses satisfied, we headed down the Lakewalk to the ice cream shop, hoping to tickle our tastebuds. Duluth’s Lakewalk, almost 8 miles long, runs from Bayfront Park to Brighton Beach. Our journey covered about 2,000 steps or .7 miles, doable for children four or older. Because bicycles and electric scooters share the Lakewalk, I reminded my grandchildren to stay on the right-hand side of the path.
Cobbled walkways, stone bridges, and hidden paths delighted us. Our walk started along a red-brick path edged with a black wrought-iron fence, which overlooks Lake Superior. Soon, Evan and Charlie spotted a graceful stone and cement bridge, spanning a set of railroad tracks. They pointed, quivering with anticipation, and asked, “Can we walk across that?”
Shortly, after crossing the bridge and descending a set of stairs, we encountered the Leif Erikson amphitheater. Completed in 1928, it was built for pageants, concerts, and community events, and is still used today. Made of stone and slate, it’s a semicircle stage with a tower on each side. Tourists are welcome to explore it. My grandchildren frolicked across the stage and ducked in and out of the towers, enjoying their 15 minutes of theatrical make believe.
Before reaching the ice cream shop, Michael spotted a dirt path to the left of the Lakewalk. Hemmed in by trees and bushes, it beckoned my four explorers, and one-byone they disappeared into the foliage. They climbed the small hill, walked parallel to the Lakewalk for less than two minutes, then reemerged with happy faces. (Note, because a different path at the top of the hill leads to the lakeshore, small children should be accompanied by an older sibling or adult.)
We continued along the Lakewalk until we reached Mile Marker 1 by a set of stairs, which we climbed. A walkway took us back over the railroad tracks and up to street level, right next to the PortLand Malt Shoppe.
The Malt Shoppe began life as a gas station in 1921. The Northwestern Oil Company name can still be seen on the top of the building. In the 1970s, the station became a dress boutique. It then became an ice cream shop in 1989.
May through September.
PortLand offers 14 flavors of delicious ice cream and lots of tasty toppings. Patrons can order malts, floats, and sundaes, or ice cream scooped into waffle, sugar, or cake cones. Because the Rose Garden and parking were free, I splurged on ice cream.
We sat at a nearby picnic table. Clara, Evan, and Charlie ate sundaes topped with their favorite sauces, and Michael licked ice cream from a sugar cone. I slurped a mint chocolate-chip malt topped with whip cream and a vanilla wafer, hold the maraschino cherry, please. We looked out upon a calm, sparkling Lake Superior and relished the sweet ending to our most recent adventure.
[ABOVE] The PortLand Malt Shoppe in Duluth is open from
[LEFT] Charlie proudly wears some of his chocolate sauce.
Blooming shades of sunshine—yellow roses symbolize friendship.
Clara smells Joseph’s Coat, a modern climbing rose, which the Lake Superior Rose Society will transplant in a year or two.
Many of this month’s events will include artists of all kinds showcasing their beautiful work. As far as festivals go, don’t miss Art in Bayfront Park, held Aug. 17-18 in Duluth. And be sure to check out the local art galleries for new exhibits, including the Johnson Heritage Post in Grand Marais. See our events section for more information.
Visit the Tettegouche State Park visitor center in Silver Bay throughout August for an exhibition by Emily Donovan. A reception will be held on Aug. 9 at 7 p.m. See more from Donovan at: emaluna.com.
| EMILY DONOVAN
Lauren Hefty of Grey Fox Artworks will take part in Art in Bayfront Park, held Aug. 17-18 at Bayfront Festival Park in Duluth. This acrylic piece on handmade watercolor paper is called “Gaia.” For more from Hefty, visit: greyfoxartworks.net. | LAUREN HEFTY
artist Laura Alexander of Sunshine Collective by Lola will be at Art in Bayfront Park. See more from Alexander at: sunshinecollectivebylola.com.
| LAURA ALEXANDER
Aug. 16-Sept.
Meadow and Mae artist Madeline Allen creates handmade polymer clay jewelry, such as these earrings, titled “Sigrid.” See more from Allen at Art in Bayfront Park, or online at: meadowandmae.com. | MADELINE ALLEN
Jewelry
Oil painter James Ellis will attend Art in Bayfront Park. This oil landscape piece it titled “Portal.” See more at: jamesellisfineart.com. | JAMES ELLIS
The Johnson Heritage Post in Grand Marais will feature artwork by Beret Borson Nelson from
6, with a reception from 5-7 p.m. on Aug. 16. The exhibition is titled “Northwoods Quilt Art.” Learn more at: cookcountyhistory.org. | BERET BORSON NELSON
Embodying the North Shore
SUMMER EXHIBITION IN GRAND MARAIS
Creative Space: By Dana Johnson
The North Shore of Lake Superior has been captivating creative minds for centuries. Rocky cliffs and beaches dance with the big lake’s moody waves, and color extends into the sky for miles. Artists seek this place for endless natural inspiration, and north woods art enthusiasts seek their work.
“Summer Exhibition: Embodying the North Shore,” hosted by the Grand Marais Art Colony (GMAC), is a show featuring 19 pieces on display in the Studio 21 gallery space. The exhibition includes work by many well-known local creators, and celebrates their connection to the area.
The collection of sculptures, prints, paintings, and fiber art were gifted to GMAC by the late Gene and Bonnie Martz, via the Martz Trust.
“Gene and Bonnie Martz were longtime supporters and members of the Art Colony, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s,” says Ruth Pszwaro, artistic director of GMAC.
Pszwaro mentions how Gene turned to art after serving in World War II, first earning a diploma in commercial art from the Minnesota School of Art (now the Minneapolis College of Art and Design), and then degrees in art/art education from the University of Minnesota.
“In 1978 the Martz’s bought a home in Grand Marais,” Pszwaro continues. “Gene was active in the Art Colony, where he taught several classes and also conducted two workshops in Tuscany and Umbria, Italy. Bonnie served on the board of directors, and
| GMAC
was an organizing force in the early years of the Art Colony becoming a non-profit.”
The Martz’s gift to GMAC had been planned for some time.
“Previous Art Colony directors and board members selected a number of pieces from the Martz Trust that would, upon their death, be bequeathed to the Art Colony,” Pszwaro explains. “Gene passed away in 2014 and Bonnie passed away in November of 2023. Their nephew Peyton, who was serving as their lawyer, reached out this past winter to set things in motion.”
by
and
The artworks were actually located in California, but a lucky connection with Museum Services Inc., based in Minneapolis, allowed for perfectly timed delivery via a transport van that happened to be going that way.
In addition to the generous art collection, the Martz Trust has also given toward the Art Colony endowment.
The Art Colony in Grand Marais is a celebrated hub and heart of the creative community on the North Shore, tracing roots back to 1947 when founder Birney Quick was inspired to bring his Minneapolis painting classes up north.
After some back and forth, Quick established the Town Hall Art Colony in the upper level of the old Grand Marais city hall building. He and co-founder Byron Bradley chose to continue GMAC independently after the Minneapolis School of Art discontinued the painting school, and in 1963 they purchased the St. John’s Catholic Church building to be their permanent space—now called Founders Hall.
“In its early days, the Art Colony offered much more than visual arts instruction,” Pszwaro recalls. “While that has always been our bedrock, Birney and Byron invited the Minnesota Ballet to perform, hosted Shakespeare on the Rocks, as well as numerous musicians and writers.”
A building adjacent to Founders Hall was purchased for studio space in 2005. In 2019, GMAC expanded again with the addition of Studios 21 and 17, a location which previously housed Arrowhead Pharmacy and Viking Hus. With a program and engagement increase of over 400 percent between 2009 and 2019, more space was a necessity.
“We currently host approximately 60 artists-in-residence annually, along with 50-60 classes for youth and adults,” Pszwaro says. Their original location is still used for offices and guest lodging, as well as the ceramics studio and two other classroom style studio spaces. Studio 17 is home to another classroom and the printmaking studio, and Studio 21 features two more studios, plus a dedicated gallery and store.
The “Embodying the North Shore” summer exhibition at Studio 21 features watercolors by Dave Gilsvik, Gene Martz, and Elaine and Howard Sivertson, acrylics by Liz Sivertson, photography by Jim Brandenburg, block prints by Betsy Bowen, mixed media by Keith Havens, batik by Jan Sivertson, sculptures by Dan and Lee Ross, and a tapestry by Eva Nemeth.
Art is an important part of the north woods experience, creating a cultural connection that brings together all who appreciate this unique place. GMAC has been a strong influence in the local community.
“Over the years, various organizations have spun off of the Art Colony’s creative energy, including the [Grand Marais] Playhouse, North Shore Music Association, and North House,” Pszwaro says. “These organizations have continued to deepen and mature various artistic disciplines with a more focused approach and excellence. We are so fortunate to live in a community where there are this many anchoring cultural institutions.”
The Studio 21 gallery, located at 21 W. Highway 61, is open from Memorial Day weekend to MEA weekend, Thursday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Summer Exhibition: Embodying the North Shore” runs until August 31.
“Summer Exhibition: Embodying the North Shore,” is hosted by the Grand Marais Art Colony and features 19 pieces on display at Studio 21. | GMAC
The exhibition showcases the work of over 10 different artists, including photography
Jim Brandenburg [LEFT],
watercolors by Gene Martz [RIGHT]. | GMAC
This acrylic piece was created by local artist Liz Sivertson. | GMAC
Sculptures created by Dan and Lee Ross are also part of the exhibition.
Wa n t a G o o d R e a d ?
C h e c k o u t o u r b o o ksto r e o n l i n e
the
his
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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
Bob Olson discovered the North Shore and Gunflint Trail in the 1950s. Driving a Ford Model A truck, he roamed the lonely north, meeting the resourceful characters who lived there, eventually making his home on a Gunflint Trail lake. Hop in with Bob and take a ride to adventure! $14.95
Join Shawn Perich on the North Shore of Lake Superior where everyday experiences, from an encounter with a curious coyote to a wilderness search for a lost hiker, become lively stories and the stuff of adventure. $14.95
Seventeen-year-old Jack Blackwell joined his grandfather, Alec Boostrom, on his northern Minnesota wilderness trapline. There he learned
story of
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Rock paintings, called pictographs, were created by Indigenous people. This book contains a description of every known pictograph site in the Boundary Waters and Quetico, complete with maps and directions to find them. $14.95
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. $16.95
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
From Andrew Hedstrom’s humble start sawing lumber on the banks of the Devil Track River north of Grand Marais, the Hedstrom family survived a century to become the modern, no-waste sawmill operation of today. $19.95
The Scandinavian lifestyle and job skills wellmatched the challenge of homesteading on the North Shore. Amply illustrated with photos, The Lake is Your Life tells the Fenstad family history from pioneering at Little Marais in 1883 to the beginning of the “New Era” in the 1950s. $19.95
A bouquet of invasives with so much color potential. | SUBMITTED
Processing lupine for dyeing, using both the flowers and the leaves. | SUBMITTED
Weeds to Wonders
Natural Dyeing with Invasive Species Behind the Craft: By Liz O’Brien
I first began working with natural dyes about six years ago. There was a large teaching garden at the educational farm where I worked at the time, and a portion of it was dedicated to dyeing flowers, some native to Minnesota, others introduced cultivars (Japanese Indigo) that grew well in that zone. Almost immediately, I was hooked. From that first encounter, I began experimenting with various dye sources, many of them exotic plant extracts I’d purchased in my excitement as I was first starting out.
This initial phase was illuminating for me in many ways—honing my skills as a dyer was just the beginning, and as I gained more experience and confidence in my skills, it still felt like something was missing. Recognizing that I was missing what drew me into this world at first, I began shifting my focus to look more closely at the landscape around me, seeking out local plants that could be used as dye sources. Ranging from alder and spruce cones, to birch bark and rudbeckia, the list was seemingly endless.
This past year, coming into the Artisan Development Program at North House Folk School in Grand Marais, one of my big goals was to create a color map of natural dyes of the North Shore. Initially, I wanted to continue focusing on using pigments from foraged native species or ones I grew myself. I’d even spent a fair amount of time in the last few years mentally mapping out favorite patches and locations of plants I wanted to visit or revisit for their color potential.
After much deliberation and with some resolve, I decided to widen my net, using what I could, based on what was currently blooming. This included invasive and non-native species—what better way to pull some weeds and prevent them from going to seed?
It’s no secret that there are many negative connotations associated with invasive and non-native species. It’s with good reason. Invasive and non-native species often outcompete native species and often have significant environmental and economic impacts to surrounding ecosystems, and in some cases, human health.
My own relationship with invasives and non-natives has been a long and winding road. I spent my first couple years out of college working on various trail, conservation, and restoration projects throughout northern Minnesota and in New Hampshire, where much of the work consisted of invasive species management, either by chemical means or through hand-pulling. To say I had a one-sided view of non-natives would be an understatement.
It’s only in the last few years that I’ve found my relationship with invasive species shifting. What first began as a crusade of intense management and misunderstanding led to a path toward recognition and a renewed sense of wonder. This softened outlook came about first from simply accepting that whether or not I liked it, invasive species were fast becoming a new normal on the landscape around me.
Yarn dyed with lupine. | SUBMITTED Liz O’Brien first began working with natural dyes about six years ago. | SUBMITTED
The next step came in taking the time to learn more about the natural history and context of the invasives around me—what they were used for, and did that play a part in their introduction (if it was purposefully introduced)? For instance, though tansy is quite noxious in our North Shore environment, it was commonly used as a companion plant in gardens to deter pests, for its culinary and medicinal qualities, and by traditional dyers for the deep, golden yellow hues it produced on wool and linen. The same can be said of lupine.
Finally, as I fell deeper and deeper into the world of natural dyes, I began seeing plants in a new light, first for their dye potential. Their status of native vs non-native was secondary, but ultimately influenced how much and where I gathered them. In most circumstances, I will always advocate for and choose a native species over a non-native, but I’d be remiss in denying the vibrant colors that lu-
pine, tansy, or orange hawkweed give off.
Experimenting with and incorporating non-native species in my dye practice has been a unique learning opportunity for many reasons. First and foremost, it has broadened my dye sources and has been a creative way to repurpose and re-shape the narrative around invasives and non-natives. Not to mention, there are no feelings of guilt at how much I’m able to collect at a time. The biggest takeaway for me, however, was that in choosing to use invasive species, seeing them the way I do now versus more than 10 years ago, I’m continually reminded of how time and a little reflection can combine to shift our perspectives into a new way of thinking.
Liz O’Brien is a textile artist in the Artisan Development Program at North House Folk School in Grand Marais, where traditional craft is taught on the shore of Lake Superior.
Liz O’Brien’s relationship with invasive species has shifted in the last few years. | SUBMITTED
SPIRIT VALLEY DAYS
Aug. 1-3 The annual Spirit Valley Days in West Duluth features three days of family fun. Activities include a craft and vendor fair, live music and entertainment, food trucks, a car show, a parade, street dances, kids activities, the Miss West Duluth Pageant, and more. The parade will be held on Thursday, Aug. 1 at 6 p.m. and the Car, Bike, and Big Rigs show will take place Friday, Aug. 2, from 4-7 p.m. Those wanting to participate in the car show can register for free. spiritvalleydays.com
FISHERMAN’S PICNIC
Aug. 1-4
This year marks the 95th annual Fisherman’s Picnic festival in downtown Grand Marais, and there’s a lot to look forward to. There’s bingo, live music, food and artisan vendors, the fish toss and loon calling contests, kiddy rides, blacksmithing demos, a trail run, a kid’s tractor pull, a cutest puppy contest, pancake breakfasts, a raffle drawing with a $10,000 grand prize, and of course, the fishburger stand. Don’t miss the fireworks over the harbor at 9:45 p.m. on Saturday, and the parade at 1 p.m. on Sunday. grandmaraislions.com
DULUTH MONARCH WAYSTATION GARDEN TOURS
Aug. 3, Saturday Held by the Duluth Monarch Buddies (DMB), this self-guided tour of seven Duluth certified monarch waystations features gardens with a mix of milkweed, nectar, and pollinator plants that provide habitat needed for the propagation and growth of monarch butterflies. The tour will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and hosts will be available to show off their gardens and answer questions. To take the tour, visit the First United Methodist Church (Coppertop) between 9:30-10:30 a.m. to purchase a tour
brochure with site names, addresses, and descriptions. A $10 fee per vehicle is requested to support DMB planting projects and conservation efforts around Duluth. duluthmonarchbuddies.org
CLE FAMILY FAIR
Aug. 7-11
The annual CLE Family Fair in Thunder Bay features all kinds of fun activities, including Midway rides, games and concessions, and kiddie rides. There will also be craft exhibits, cooking show demonstrations, a kids’ area, face painting, hands-on educational stations, live entertainment, fireworks, and more. This year’s performers include Lee Aaron, Doug and
the Slugs, Nick Glider and Sweeny Todd, Haywire, Destroyer, and hypnotist Corrie J. The fair will be held at the Canadian Lakehead Exhibition from noon to midnight, daily. More information, including admission and ride wristband prices, can be found online. cle.on.ca
LAKE COUNTY FAIR
Aug. 8-11
The Lake County Fair in Two Harbors provides four days of non-stop fun, from a 3k Dirty Dash obstacle race and a watermelon eating contest, to live music, the Midway Carnival, and the annual amateur talent contest. There will also be kids’ games and activities, daily prize drawings, food vendors and commercial booths, 4-H shows, MWA professional wrestling, free bingo with prizes, Ninja Anywhere, magic shows, escape rooms, a human tractor pull contest, a hay bale toss and frying pan toss contests, a pie contest and auction, and more. thelakecountyfair.com
The CLE Family Fair in Thunder Bay features all kinds of fun, including Midway rides. | SUBMITTED
The Duluth Monarch Waystation Garden Tours will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Aug. 3. | SUBMITTED
LIVE FROM THE ROCK FOLK FESTIVAL
Aug. 9-11
Held at Pull-a-Log Park in Red Rock, Ontario, the annual Live from the Rock Folk Festival is a music and arts festival that is run almost 100 percent by volunteers. The festival offers world class music on multiple daytime workshop-style stages, as well as an evening concert stage. This year’s performers include Aleksi Campagne, Connie Kaldor, Ian Tamblyn, Jada Siwak, Noah Derksen, Irish Millie, Lonesome Ace, The Pairs, Sophie Lukacs, and many more. There will be food and drink vendors, an artisan market, community led workshops, campfire jams, onsite camping, yoga, and more. The kids will have fun too in the Family Zone, featuring a playground and splash pad, artwork and crafts, face painting, a children’s parade, and more. Tickets can be purchased online in advance. livefromtherockfolkfestival.com
RENDEZVOUS DAYS & POWWOW
Aug. 9-11
Re-enactors from across the U.S. and Canada gather together during the annual Rendezvous Days, held at Grand Portage National Monument. In conjunction with Rendezvous Days, the annual Grand Portage Powwow, sponsored by the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, is an American Indian cultural gathering focused on dance, song, and family celebration. Visitors and tribal members alike are invited to watch and participate in the ceremonial powwow. This fun-filled weekend will also include artisan vendors, craft demonstrations,
hands-on workshops and special guests, a walk/run, bingo, a turkey shoot, a raffle drawing, and more. Admission is free. visitcookcounty.com/events
BAYFRONT BLUES FESTIVAL
Aug. 9-11 The annual Bayfront Blues Festival in Duluth features more than 15 acts at one of the region’s most beautiful openair venues. Held in Bayfront Festival Park, this year’s performers include The Devon Allman Project, Shemekia Copeland, Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. and the Legendary Ils Sont Partis Band, Bernard Allison, GA-20,
will also be food trucks available, and a beer tent. The gates open at 11 a.m. each day, and tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. bayfrontblues.com
PAJU MOUNTAIN RUN
Aug. 10, Saturday Held in Red Rock, Ontario, the 41st annual Paju Mountain Run is an 11.2km route that goes around the community of Red Rock, then climbs 715 feet up the Paju Mountain on a dirt road, and back down again. Registration
Joanne Shaw Taylor, Vanessa Collier, Yates McKendree, Ben Levin, and more. There
Aleksi Campagne is one of many performers taking part in the Live from the Rock Folk Festival in Red Rock, Ontario, held Aug. 9-11. | ANNA SELLERS
($60) includes refreshments before the race and a luncheon after the race during the awards ceremony. The non-competitive race begins at 8:30 a.m. and the competitive race starts at 9 a.m. There will be prizes for the top three runners in each age category of competitive runners, and all participants will be entered into a drawing for prizes. Showers are available following the race at the Recreation Centre. Race kits can be picked up at the Red Rock Legion between 7-8:15 a.m. on race day. facebook.com/pajumountainrun
TORI FINNISH MARKETPLACE AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
Aug. 10, Saturday Held as a fundraiser for the Finland MN Historical Society, the Tori Finnish Marketplace and Music Festival in Finland offers fun for the whole family. Enjoy live music by Thug, Sugar on the Roof, and Grandad’s Favorite, as well as great food, local art and craft vendors, blacksmith demos, museum and site tours, make-and-take crafts, a silent auction and cash raffle, kids’ activities, and more. The festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Finland Heritage Site. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. There will also be a pancake breakfast on Sunday from 8-11 a.m. facebook.com/finlandmnhistoricalsociety
FAT GUYS
ANNUAL CAR SHOW
Aug. 10, Saturday Hosted by Fat Guys Auto Parts in Thunder Bay, the annual Fat Guys Auto Parts Car Show truly stops traffic. One of the biggest and best cars show in northwestern Ontario, there will be classic cars, street rods, rat rods, antiques, muscle cars, trucks, and more. Those entered in the car show have a chance to win bags of cash, including $10,000 for Best in Show, and $1,000 for each category winner. Other highlights include local food and drink vendors, a beer garden, free face painting and glitter tattoos, carnival games, and more. This year’s special guests are from the adrenaline-pumping series “Street Outlaws,” Farmtruck and AZN—they will be driving their iconic ‘70s Chevy long bed truck all the way from Oklahoma to attend. The car show will
take place at Fat Guys Auto Parts and the surrounding neighborhood from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free; registration is required for those showing a vehicle/bike. fatguyscarshow.com
LIGHTHOUSE FESTIVAL
Aug. 16, Friday Head to Terrace Bay, Ontario, for the 12th annual Lighthouse Festival, held Aug. 16 from 1 p.m. to 2 a.m. Activities include an artisan street market and sidewalk sales, live entertainment, a beer garden, a corn hole tourney for all ages, radio control car demonstrations, bingo, food and drink vendors, a car show, and more. There will also be activities for the kids, including inflatables, a water slide, and face painting and balloon making with Dottie and Lulu the Clown. This year’s bands include Throwback, Curbside Cruisers, and local DJ Derek Boucher. A full list of activities can be found online. terracebay.ca/festival
WESTFORT STREET FAIR
Aug. 17, Saturday The longest-running event of its kind in Thunder Bay, the 42nd annual Westfort Street Fair takes place in downtown Westfort Village (Frederica Street) and offers a full day of family fun. There will be live music and entertainment, lots of delicious food and drinks, beer gardens, games, prizes, bouncy castles and activities for the kids, local vendors, artisans, and more. This year’s headliners are Thunder Gun, and the Heartbeat Hot Pepper Eating Contest. The fair runs from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and is free to attend. westfort.ca
GGTA NORTH SHORE BIKE RIDE
Aug. 17, Saturday The 24th annual Gitchi-Gami Trail Association North Shore Bike Ride will take place on Aug. 17 at 9 a.m. The recreational ride will offer 55mile, 34-mile, and 28-mile route options, as well as an 8-mile family ride on the trail, all starting at Gooseberry Falls State Park near Two Harbors. Refreshments will be provided at rest stops and post-ride. The 8-mile ride will also provide treats and special events. All adult riders will receive T-shirts, and younger riders will receive water bottles. All riders must sign waivers
Friday & Saturday Friday & Saturday Oct 4 & 5, 2024 Oct 4 & 5, 2024
Tee Times Between 8 am - 3 pm
Tee Times Between 8 am - 3 pm
Welcome bag
Multiple fun contest holes
CHANCES FOR OUTSTANDING PRIZES
Lunch & refreshments throughout the day
Friendly competition
A beautiful day on the links to support
The 24th annual GGTA North Shore Bike Ride will take place at 9 a.m. at Gooseberry Falls State Park. | PAUL SUNDBERG
ICE CREAM SOCIAL ICE CREAM SOCIAL
•
and wear helmets. Registration is required; kids ride free with a paid adult. ggta.org
ART IN BAYFRONT PARK
Aug. 17-18 Held on the beautiful Lake Superior waterfront in Duluth, Art in Bayfront Park features over 150 juried artists, as well as a festive culinary arts market, Art in Action demos, and lots of food and beverages to enjoy. Artwork incudes jewelry, photography, paintings, ceramics, metalwork, glass, and more, by local and regional artists. The festival will be held from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, and from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday at Bayfront Festival Park. artinbayfrontpark.com
ANISHINAABE KEESHIGUN
Aug. 17-18 Celebrate First Nations culture at Fort William Historical Park in Thunder Bay. Enjoy a free weekend filled with entertainment, hands-on activities, and demonstrations that highlight Anishinaabe culture, traditions, language, and technology. This year’s event will also include a pow wow highlighting regional dancers and drum groups, as well as a community feast. The community feast will be after 5 p.m. on Saturday and is open to all visitors. Anishinaabe Keeshigun will take place from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Saturday, and from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. fwhp.ca
LAKE SUPERIOR DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
Aug. 23-24 Head to Barker’s Island in Superior for the annual Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival. Watch or par-
ticipate in the races, feast on fantastic food, or take part in the 5k fun run. There will also be live entertainment both nights, a tug-of-war competition, a beer garden, food trucks, activities for the kids, and more. Race registration is required. facebook.com/lakesuperiordragonboats
RIBFEST
Aug. 23-25 The aroma of fresh barbecue will fill the Thunder Bay air during the annual Ribfest, held Aug. 2325 at Marina Park. All weekend long, enjoy saucy creations from Canada’s award-winning ribbers Ribs Royale, and Dinosaur Smokehouse, as well as local food and drink vendors, all in support of Our Kids Count. This family-friendly event will also include an artisan market, live entertainment, a 50/50 drawing, a kid’s zone with daily themes and activities, and more. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. ourkidscount.ca
WAWA SALMON DERBY
Aug. 23-25 The 42nd annual Wawa Salmon Derby in Wawa, Ontario, will be held Aug. 23-25 on Lake Superior. Known as “Wawa’s Superior Sporting Event,” the contest includes multiple categories with prizes, a parade of lights, pancake breakfasts, a fish fry, and activities for the whole family. The winner of the largest salmon wins $3,000 in cash. There is also a five-day pre-fishing contest held Aug. 17-21. Derby headquarters are located at Buck’s Marina. Registration fee required. wawasalmonderby.com
Celebrate First Nations culture at Fort William Historical Park in Thunder Bay with the Anishinaabe Keeshigun. | SUBMITTED
NOON Bingo Opens
1st
Fisherman’s Picnic
August 1-4
WEDNESDAY, july 31
WISE “Buffet in a Box” with all the traditional favorites: Lena’s fishcakes, Swedish meatballs and gravy, mashed potatoes, delicious side, and homemade desserts. Must pre-order online, $25 per meal at www.wisenorth.org. Choose your pick-up time: 11:30 am-1:00 pm lunch and 5:00-6:30 pm supper. WISE is a non-profit and this is a fundraiser for service and education in Cook County.
10 AM-6 PM Paint a Piece of Pottery by Grand Marais Pottery - The Hub, 10 Broadway Ave. Paint a piece of pottery, fired and ready for pickup Saturday morning
THURSDAY, August 1
8-9 AM Shavasana Yoga - 2nd Ave W & W Hwy 61, sponsored by Shook, Roam & Whimsy Co
9 AM Crazy Daze Sales – Visit local merchants around town
10 AM-2 PM Craft and Bake Sale - The Hub, 10 N Broadway Ave
10 AM-4 PM Rosemaling Demo by Tara Austin and a Natural Dyeing Demo by Liz O’Brien - North House Folk School, 500 W Hwy 61 on the commons
10 AM-5 PM Kids Rides Open – Senior Center Parking Lot - 10 N Broadway
10 AM-6 PM Paint a Piece of Pottery by Grand Marais Pottery - The Hub, 10 Broadway Ave.
11 AM Fishburger Stand Opens – Harbor Park
11 AM-UNTIL FOUND “DQ Medallion Hunt” rules and new daily clues at Dairy Queen, 120 Hwy 61 N, $100 prize to the first person to find it –sponsored by Dairy Queen
11 AM-12:30 PM North Shore Swing Band - Harbor Park Stage
11 AM-7 PM Axe Throwing by Valhalla Ave Axe Throwing, W Wisconsin St NOON Bingo Tent Opens –1st Ave. W & Hwy 61, sponsored by The SONS
1-2:30 PM Fred Anderson and Friends - Harbor Park Stage
3-5 PM Moonshot - Harbor Park Stage
5 PM Dairy Queen Cornhole Tournament, Stop by ahead of time at Dairy Queen to sign up and see official rules.” Bring boards and bags if you have a set. If not just bring yourself. – sponsored by Dairy Queen
5:30-6:30 PM
August
& Hwy 61 - sponsored by The SONS
12:30 PM Minnow Races – in front of Lions info booth, Wisconsin St. & 1st Ave W- sign up at Lions info booth, sponsored by Mike’s Holiday Station Store
1-2:30 PM Bug Lite - Harbor Park Stage
3 PM DQ Upsidedownright Thick Blizzard Race, maximum of 10 teams with up to 4 racers each, register at Dairy Queen, 120 Hwy 61 N, prior to racesponsored by Dairy Queen
3-5 PM Boyd “Bump” Blomberg – Gordon Thorne - Harbor Park Stage
3:30 PM-4:30 PM CCHS Alumni Baseball Game Registration & Warm Up –Cook County High School Ball Field
5 PM CCHS Alumni Baseball Game – Cook County High School Ball Field, behind school
6-6:30 PM Minnesota State Loon Calling Championship – Preliminary Round – Harbor Park Stage, sign up at Lions info booth
7-9 PM Grand Marais Playhouse, “I’ll Be Back Before Midnight”, The Arrowhead Center for the Arts - 51 West 5th Street, www. grandmaraisplayhouse.com
7-9:30 PM Street Dance – Evening Stars – Harbor Park Stage
SATURDAY, August 3
8-9 AM Shavasana Yoga, 2nd Ave W & W Hwy 61, sponsored by Shook, Roam & Whimsy Co
Fisherman’s Picnic Trail Run. Pincushion Mountain Trails – 2 miles north of Grand Marais off the Gunflint Trail, Co. Rd 12
8 AM-8:45 AM Race packet and bib pick-up
9 AM Kids Races ¼ mile Walk/Run or 1 mile Walk/Run $10 (parents can run with kids)
9:30 AM 5 Mile Walk/Run or 5K Walk/Run $35 Register at: www.pincushionskiandrun.org
through Friday, Aug 2nd until 5 pm
No race day registration (more info on back page)
Sponsored by Pincushion Ski and Run Club
9 AM Hoopin’n the Harbor Registration 3-on-3 Tournament – Wisconsin St.
9 AM-10 AM Oula Dance Class – Harbor Park, Sponsored by YMCA
9:30 AM Hoopin’n the Harbor 3-on-3 Tournament – Wisconsin St.
10 AM-3 PM Cook County Market – E. Wisconsin St.
10 AM-3 PM Free “Johnnypops” (until gone), Coop County Co-op,
20 E. 1st St. adjacent to Municipal parking lot
10 AM-4 PM Rosemaling Demo by Tara Austin and a Natural Dyeing Demo by Liz O’Brien North House Folk School, 500 W Hwy 61 on the commons
10 AM-5 PM Vendor and Craft Show– 1st Ave W.
10 AM-5 PM Kiddy Rides Open – Senior Center Parking Lot - 10 N Broadway
10 AM-5 PM Fun Games and Inflatables - Wisconsin St.
10 AM-6 PM Paint a Piece of Pottery by Grand Marais Pottery pickup fired pieces - The Hub, 10 Broadway Ave.
11 AM Fishburger Stand Opens – Harbor Park
11 AM-UNTIL FOUND “DQ Medallion Hunt”, rules and new clues daily at Dairy Queen, 120 Hwy 61 N, $100 prize to the first person to find it –sponsored by Dairy Queen
11AM-12:30 PM Emma Tweeten - Harbor Park Stage
11 AM-1 PM Meet and Greet with Sandra and Sofia Hisakuni – Drury Lane Books, 12 E Wisconsin St, free journals and haiku lessons. All ages appropriate – sponsored by Drury Lane Books
11 AM-7 PM Axe Throwing by Valhalla Ave Axe Throwing, W Wisconsin St NOON Bingo Tent Opens –1st Ave. W & Hwy 61 - sponsored by The SONS
12:30 PM Minnow Races – in front of Lions info booth, Wisconsin St. & 1st Ave W- sign up at Lions info booth, sponsored by Mike’s Holiday Station Store
12:30 PM Bhangra Pearls – Folk dance from Punjab, India – Harbor Park Stage – sponsored by Marathon & Blue Water Cafe
1-2:30 PM Portage Band - Harbor Park Stage
1-4 PM Bally Blacksmith Demonstrations – Bally’s Blacksmith Shop, corner of Broadway and 1st St. – sponsored by Historic Cook County
1:30 PM Rock Skipping Contest (all ages) – Harbor Park, sign up at Lions info booth
2 PM School Tour – Cook County ISD 166, 101 W 5th St, meet at Main Entrance Doors
2:30 PM Citizen of the Year Award – Harbor Park Stage
2:30-5 PM Kids Tractor Pull (ages 4-11) – Wisconsin St. – sponsored by Mike’s Holiday Station Store
2:45 PM Bhangra Pearls – Folk dance from Punjab, India – Harbor Park Stage – sponsored by Marathon & Blue Water Cafe
3 PM Cook County Alumni Basketball game - Pam Taylor Gym, ISD 166, 101 W 5th St, $5.00 entrance fee. Register to play at https://www.cookcountyschools.org/o/ce, $25.00 per player fee
5:30-6 PM Minnesota State Loon Calling Championship Finals – Harbor Park Stage
6:00 PM Cutest Puppy Contest – Harbor Park Stage, sponsored by Rocky Knoll Boarding and Lake County Veterinary – sign up at Lions info booth
7-9 PM Grand Marais Playhouse, “Curtain Up”, The Arrowhead Center for the Arts - 51 West 5th Street, www.grandmaraisplayhouse.com
7-9 PM Street Dance – DJ Mouwthe – Harbor Park Stage
9:45 PM Fireworks over the Harbor – co-sponsored by Visit Cook County & Grand Marais Lions Club
SUNDAY, August 4
8-9 AM Shavasana Yoga, 2nd Ave W & W Hwy 61 - sponsored by Shook, Roam & Whimsy Co
9:30 AM Waterfront Worship – Harbor Park Stage
10 AM-4 PM Rosemaling Demo by Tara Austin and a Natural Dyeing Demo by Liz O’Brien - North House Folk School, 500 W Hwy 61 on the commons 11 AM-UNTIL FOUND “DQ Medallion Hunt” - rules and new clues daily at Dairy Queen, 120 Hwy 61 N ,$100 prize to the first person to find it –sponsored by Dairy Queen
11 AM Fishburger Stand Opens – Harbor Park
11 AM-5 PM Vendor and Craft Show – 1st Ave W.
11:45 AM Fish Contest Winners Announced – Harbor Park Stage NOON Bingo Tent Opens - 1st Ave. W & Hwy 61 - sponsored by The SONS
NOON-1 PM Watershed Group - Harbor Park
1 PM Fisherman’s Picnic Parade, Downtown Grand Marais, Route starts at Elementary School Park Lot, down Broadway Ave. Right on Wisconsin St. and ends at Hwy 61. Send email to gmlionsclub@gmail.com to register parade entries -sponsored by Marathon Gas Station
2PM-5 PM Kiddy Rides Reopen – Senior Center Parking Lot - 10 N Broadway
3-5 PM Roxanne and Briand – Harbor Park Stage
3-5 PM Grand Marais Playhouse, “I’ll Be Back Before Midnight” The Arrowhead Center for the Arts, 51 West 5th Street, www.grandmaraisplayhouse.com
3:30 PM Lion’s Fish Toss – Wisconsin St., sign up at Lions information booth- sponsored by North Superior Fisheries
5 PM Grand Prize Drawing $10,000.00, Lions Info Booth - corner of Wisconsin St. and 1st Ave W.
6-7 PM Prize Winners Posted - Lions Info Booth - corner of Wisconsin St. and 1st Ave W. Prizes can be claimed at Info Booth on Sunday night. Starting at 10 am Monday morning prizes can be picked up at the Cook County News Herald – 1st Ave W.
Big Fish Contest
JULY 27 – AUGUST 3 – $10 entry fee (proceeds to go to Lions Club) Rules and registration online at BucksBigFish. com. Winners announced and prizes awarded on Sunday, August 4 at 11:45 am on the Harbor Park Stage. Prizes are $100 for 1st place, $75 for 2nd place and $50 for 3rd place for each category: Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Lake Trout, Salmon and Brook Trout.
Grand Marais, MN buy a raffle ticket 10, tickets $5 at local businesses and from Grand Marais lion’s Club members - They’re the ones in the yellow vests It ’s your pass to par ticipate in events all weekend long! Get Your collectible button!
3-5 PM Brothers in Arms - Harbor Park Stage
5 PM Rock Painting Contest Announced – Harbor Park Stage
August
NORTHERN WILDS CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Thru Aug. 10
From Where They Came: Portraits from Ukraine by Katherine Turczan Tweed Museum of Art, Duluth, tweed.d.umn.edu
John Hitchcock: Blanket Song Tweed Museum of Art, Duluth, tweed.d.umn.edu
The Company of Trees Tweed Museum of Art, Duluth, tweed.d.umn.edu
Linda Ricklefs Baudry & Paula Gustafson: Of Place & Time Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org
Summer Theater Festival: Curtain Up! & I’ll Be Back Before Midnight 7 p.m. (2 p.m. Sun.)
Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, grandmaraisplayhouse.com
Thru Aug. 17
DefSup 36th Anniversary Members Exhibition Definitely Superior Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, definitelysuperior.com
Thru Aug. 30
Maya Washington Exhibition Aicho Galleries, Duluth, facebook.com/aichogalleries
Thru Aug. 31
Summer Exhibition: Embodying the North Shore Studio 21, Grand Marais, grandmaraisartcolony.org
Thru Sept. 3
After the Burn Exhibition: Matt Kania Great Lakes Aquarium, Duluth, glaquarium.org
Thru Sept. 9
Ukrainian Matrix Exhibit Thunder Bay Museum, thunderbaymuseum.com
Thru Sept. 15
How To Write a Poem: Rhyme, Rhythm, & Repetition in the Permanent Collection Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca Jim Oskineegish: Keep Yourself Alive Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca
LOoooNLOOONLOONN: Owls, Loons & Birds: Norval Morrisseau Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca
Thru Oct. 6
Indian Day Schools in Canada: An Introduction Thunder Bay Museum, thunderbaymuseum.com
Thru Oct. 31
The Seeker Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center, Schroeder, sugarloafnorthshore.org
July 28-Aug. 3
IX Women’s World Baseball Championship Port Arthur Stadium, Thunder Bay, wbwc2024.ca
July 29-Aug. 2
Snacks Around the World 2 p.m.
Two Harbors Public Library, facebook.com/twoharborspubliclibrary
Aug. 1, Thursday
Battle of the Badges Charity Softball Game 5 p.m. Wade Stadium, Duluth, northernlightsfoundation.org
Brew Love North 5:30 p.m. Clyde Iron Works, Duluth, rmhc-uppermidwest.org
Book Signing & Q&A: Twin Ports Trains 7 p.m. Lake Superior Railroad Museum, Duluth, zenithcity.com
Aug. 1-3
Spirit Valley Days West Duluth, spiritvalleydays.com
Aug. 1-4
Fisherman’s Picnic Downtown Grand Marais, grandmaraislions.com
Author Talk & Seed Exchange with Teresa Peterson: Perennial Ceremony 6 p.m. Drury Lane Books, Grand Marais, drurylanebooks.com
Aug. 10-11
Wings of Time 10 a.m. Air Bravo Ramp, Thunder Bay Airport, noahc.org
Aug. 11, Sunday
Pickup Truck Opera: Faust 2 p.m. Finland Heritage Site, mixedprecipitation.org
Grand Marais Writers’ Guild Gathering 2 p.m. CCHE Or Via Zoom, Grand Marais, mycche.org
Music by the Lake: Southpaws 4 p.m. Skyport Lodge, Devil Track Lake, skyportlodge.com
Aug. 12, Monday
Perseid Meteor Shower 10 p.m. Fort William Historical Park, Thunder Bay, fwhp.ca
Aug. 13, Tuesday
Free Concert Series: Boku Frequency 6:30 p.m. Lincoln Park, Duluth, chesterbowl.org
Aug. 14, Wednesday
The Magic of Celtic Music with Willow Brae 10 a.m. Ely Public Library, alslib.info
Aug. 15, Thursday
Memory Café: Weaving Memories Together 1 p.m. The Hub, Grand Marais, grandmaraisartcolony.org
Movie Nights in the Park 7 p.m. Boulevard Lake Park, Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca/movienights
Aug. 16, Friday
The Magic of Celtic Music with Willow Brae 11 a.m. Two Harbors Public Library, alslib.info HeArt of the Caregiver Noon, Studio 21, Grand Marais, grandmaraisartcolony.org
Lighthouse Festival 1 p.m. Terrace Bay, Ontario, terracebay.ca/festival
The Magic of Celtic Music with Willow Brae 3 p.m. Duluth Public Library, alslib.info
Mean Girls: High School Version Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org
A Midsummer Night’s Dream: In the Woods 7 p.m. Hartley Nature Center, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com
Constant Change: Reflections Dance Company 7:30 p.m. (2 p.m. Sun.) Ely’s Historic State Theater, northernlakesarts.org
Aug. 16-Sept. 8
Beret Nelson: Quilts Exhibition (Reception Aug. 16 at 5 p.m.) Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org
Aug. 17, Saturday
Ride, Raffle, & Roll for ALS 8:30 a.m. Embarrass Town Hall, ely.org/events
Avoiding Practitioner Burnout: Resiliency Trees 9 a.m. Studio 21, Grand Marais, grandmaraisartcolony.org
GGTA North Shore Bike Ride 9 a.m. Gooseberry Falls State Park, Two Harbors, ggta.org Coffee in the Park 9 a.m. Portland Square, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com
Westfort Street Fair 9 a.m. Downtown Westfort Village, Thunder Bay, westfort.ca
Lighthouse Carnival 9 a.m. Porphyry Island
Lighthouse: Depart from Silver Islet Harbour, Ontario, clls.ca
Castle Danger Brewery Anniversary Party 11 a.m. Castle Danger Brewery, Two Harbors, castledangerbrewery.com
The Magic of Celtic Music with Willow Brae 11 a.m. Grand Marais Public Library, alslib.info Thunder Bay Drive-by Art Gallery Noon, Thunder Bay, Facebook: Tbay Drive By Art Gallery
Summer Matsuri 4:30 p.m. West Thunder Community Centre, Thunder Bay, Facebook: Lakehead Japanese Cultural Association
Free Live Music: Sharon Rowbottom & Dan Boyer 7 p.m. Tettegouche State Park Amphitheater, Silver Bay, lovinlakecounty.com
Aug. 17-18
Anishinaabe Keeshigun 10 a.m. Fort William Historical Park, Thunder Bay, fwhp.ca
Art in Bayfront Park 10 a.m. Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth, artinbayfrontpark.com
Aug. 18, Sunday
Supporter Appreciation Open House Dorothy Molter Museum, Ely, rootbeerlady.com
Free USDA Forest Service Nature Talks (Until Aug. 21) 2 p.m. Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center, Gunflint Trail, gunflinthistory.org
Thunder Bay Country Market 3:30 p.m. CLE Dove Building, Thunder Bay, tbcm.ca
Free Concerts on the Pier 5 p.m. Glensheen Mansion, Duluth, glensheen.org
Live on the Waterfront 6 p.m. Marina Park, Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca/live
Wednesday Night at the Races 6 p.m. Duluth, grandmasmarathon.com
Colvill Dance Practice & Lessons 7 p.m.
Colvill Town Hall: 2963 Hwy 61
Thursdays
Lincoln Park Farmers Market 3 p.m. Harrison Community Center, Duluth, facebook.com/lincolnparkfarmersmarket
Dark Sky Pano Program (Until Aug. 22) 3 p.m. Chik-Wauk Museum & Nature Center, Gunflint Trail, gunflinthistory.org
Thursday Art Nights 3:30 p.m. Joy & Company, Grand Marais, facebook.com/joyandcompanymn
Grand Marais Farmers Market 4:30 p.m.
Community Center Parking Lot, Grand Marais, facebook.com/grandmaraisfarmersmarket
Finland Farmers Market 5 p.m. Clair Nelson Center, Finland, finlandfarmersmarket.com
Beer Garden 5 p.m. Great Lakes Aquarium, Duluth, glaquarium.org
Date Night with Live Music 6:30 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us Summer in the Parking Lot 6:30 p.m. DaVinci Centre, Thunder Bay, smmds.ca
Free Music on the Ship 7 p.m. William A. Irvin, Duluth, decc.org
Fridays
Willow Springs Market 3 p.m. Willow Springs Creative Centre, Thunder Bay, willowspringscreativecentre.ca
Free Music in the Park Concert Series
7:30 p.m. City Center Park, Silver Bay, rockywallproductions.org
Free Movies in the Park At Sunset, Leif Erikson Park, Duluth, downtownduluth.com
Renegade Late Night Improv 10 p.m. Zeitgeist Arts, Duluth, zeitgeistarts.com
Saturdays
Thunder Bay Country Market 8 a.m. CLE Dove Building, Thunder Bay, tbcm.ca
The Hub Parking Lot, Grand Marais, facebook.com/ccfarmandcraft
Two Harbors Farmers Market 10 a.m.
320 7th Ave., Two Harbors, facebook.com/twoharborsfarmersmarket
Children’s Story Hour 11 a.m. Drury Lane
Books, Grand Marais, drurylanebooks.com
Free Harbor History Walking Tour 1 p.m. Cook County Historical Museum, Grand Marais, cookcountyhistory.org
Art Demo 1 p.m. Art & Soul Gallery, Ely, elysartandsoul.com
Sundays
Sunday Skates 10 a.m. Marina Skatepark, Thunder Bay, femaleboardercollective.ca
Clover Valley Farm Trail Noon, Two Harbors & Duluth, clovervalleyfarmtrail.com
Free Sunday in the Park Concerts 2 p.m.
Chippewa Park, Thunder Bay, chippewapark.ca
Weekend Wine Down 3:30 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us
Everyone’s favorite outdoor painting festival is back for its 22nd year!
Competition Week: September 6-13
Reception & Award Ceremony: September 13
Gallery Exhibition: September 14-October 6
Home of the Gunflint Trail’s ONLY Liquor Store, open daily @ 11 am
www.cookcountyhistory.org/pagm www.outdoorpaintersofminnesota.org dining with a view of poplar lake Contemporary Northern Food Curated Craft Beer & Cocktails
The North Shore Dish Chill Adventures: Local Frozen Delights
By Virginia George
Summers are for exploring, and around here, there is a lot to explore. We have interesting small towns peppered throughout the wilderness, we have bustling town centers that invite tourists and locals alike to interact with each other (or not), and we have more forests and trails and waterways than one could hope to ever explore in a single lifetime. All that exploring requires refueling, and what better way to refuel in the summertime than with some cold and refreshing frozen dessert?
We have the benefit of having plenty of delicious shops to choose from, and some will even come to you! So, if you’re out exploring this summer and need some refueling and refreshing, check out Epic Cones, Sydney’s Frozen Custard, or the PortLand Malt Shoppe.
Epic Cones THUNDER BAY
Epic Cones isn’t your everyday ice cream truck. You won’t see them rolling around with their bells and enticing music, slinging bomb pops and creamsicles to eager children. Instead, you’ll find their graffiti-inspired truck parked in all your favorite places, slinging nut-free desserts that will certainly drive your taste buds nuts.
Danielle and Adam Turuba began Epic Cones in 2018 with the goal of providing unique, flavorful, and memorable desserts that are both tree nut and peanut free, and darn delicious. They wanted a business that allowed them to interact with their community, be expressive through their work, and support community events. Everything sold from their food truck, and I mean everything, down to the toffee bits, is made in house. This ensures that they can safely remain nut free for their customers. Expanding their food inclusivity, Epic Cones has expanded their menu to include gluten and dairy free options for patrons with those sensitivities as well.
As for their menu items, I already mentioned the toffee bits. For the super sweet children and children at heart, you may want to try the cotton candy milkshake. Ice cream nachos are great for sharing, or for eating alone, and if you’re basic, they serve plain ‘ol soft serve ice cream cones as well. When stocked, you can also find (homemade cookie) ice cream sandwiches at Milk and Water Baking Co., which is pretty epic.
Epic Cones in Thunder Bay is a graffiti-inspired ice cream truck, slinging nut-free desserts that will drive your taste buds wild. | SUBMITTED
Epic Cones has been able to partner with the Thunder Bay schools, which are also nut free, and they sincerely hope they’ll have a chance to serve you this summer or in the years to come. Just make sure you bring cash.
Sydney’s Frozen Custard & Wood-Fired Pizza GRAND MARAIS
Sydney’s has been a destination in Grand Marais for ages, but a fire in April 2023 put them out of commission. First, they reopened in a new location while repairs were made, but Sydney’s is back in business at their original location on the point, and they couldn’t be more excited about it. The new building is made from two shipping containers welded together, providing space for an expanded upper deck boasting beautiful views of Lake Superior and the Grand Marais harbor.
The menu at Sydney’s Frozen Custard and Wood-Fired Pizza includes, of course, frozen custard and wood-fired pizza. (What their name doesn’t tell you is they also serve delicious salads and juicy Vienna beef Chicago-style hot dogs.) Custard is a little different than ice cream, with a rich, creamy texture, much denser than ice cream. Because custard is frozen quickly, the ice crystals are smaller. This, along with the higher egg yolk content, gives it that smooth, dense texture. Sydney’s custard is freshly made, along with their homemade hot fudge and caramel. You can get Sydney’s Frozen Custard in a malt, a float, a sundae, a cone, a dish… and with the plethora of options they have for toppings, your creation is only limited by your imagination. If the imagination is feeling a little rusty, don’t worry, grab yourself a Sydnami. You won’t regret it.
After the fire, Sydney’s is still rebuilding. Renovations of the old pizza kitchen will revive espresso and breakfast menus, and they plan to bring pita wraps and gyros back earlier than that. Further, Sydney’s hopes to add a bonfire pit for cool evenings on the lake.
PortLand Malt Shoppe DULUTH
One of Duluth’s most picturesque old-timey locations has to be the PortLand Malt Shoppe. The tiny building, a former gas station, stands alone in the historic formerly Portland area of Duluth. With a view of Lake Superior and the Aerial Lift Bridge, the malt shoppe has been in operation since 1989.
PortLand Malt Shoppe is famous for its malts, but they have hand-scooped ice cream as well, available in cake, sugar, or waffle cones. Mocha almond fudge is a favorite, but the strawberry cheesecake and cookies and cream are great options as well. When choosing a malt flavor, patrons are invited to choose both an ice cream flavor and a malt flavor, so the combinations are endless. Of course, no malt would be complete without whipped cream, a vanilla wafer, and a cherry to top it off. Other options include sundaes, root beer floats, and more. Eat your ice cream at the picnic table onsite, or take a relaxing stroll down the Lakewalk to continue exploring.
It’s a wild world out there, with much to see, people to meet, and small moments that matter. One doesn’t need to discover new lands to be an explorer. Maybe you’re a wilderness explorer, or maybe a city explorer. Maybe you don’t get out much. Memories can be made in all kinds of ways, and I hope you’ll make some time to see what’s out there. And while you’re at it, take a moment for a frozen treat. Epic Cones, Sydney’s Frozen Custard, and the PortLand Malt Shoppe… they’d love to meet you.
A Matter of Balance
By Hartley Newell-Acero
As you read this, are you feeling physically stable, steady, and like you’re on solid footing? Whether the answer is “Yes” or “No,” your sensation of balance was determined in a split second. Your brain took incoming signals from your eyes, ears, muscles, joints, and skin and then used that input to determine where your body was located in three-dimensional space. Now that it knows that, it will continuously make adjustments so that you can maintain or regain balance.
The bad news is that although balance problems can impact people of any age, they become more common as we get older. Issues with balance can be caused by:
Some medications. Check with your provider if you suspect medication may be contributing to balance issues. It may be possible to change your prescription.
Inner ear problems. If part of your inner ear becomes inflamed due to disease or infection, it can cause dizziness and imbalance.
Alcohol and drugs. These can cause you to feel woozy, lightheaded, and unsteady.
Other medical conditions. Diabetes, heart disease, stroke, or problems with vision, the thyroid, nerves, or blood vessels can
all cause dizziness and issues with balance.
The good news is that there’s lots we can do to prevent or improve balance issues. These seven simple tips can help you to be steadier on your feet:
1. Exercise can help people of all ages to have better balance. Exercise improves strength, flexibility, mobility, stability, reaction time, posture, coordination, endurance, and confidence. These are all vital components of being strong and steady. Pay special attention to the strength of your core—the muscles all the way around your midsection. They’re important for the stabilization of your whole body. Talk with your doctor before beginning a new exercise routine, and remember—it’s never too late to get started.
2. Balance problems due to high blood pressure can be managed by eating less salt (sodium), maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, and, if necessary, taking medication. If your blood pressure is too low, balance problems can be helped by staying well hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and standing up slowly.
3. Check your surroundings for fall hazards. Remove rugs, electrical cords, clutter, or other things that could cause you to trip. Put grab bars next to showers and toilets,
and handrails on both sides of stairs.
4. Choose footwear with grip. Avoid smooth-soled, slippery shoes, high heels, and walking in socks.
5. Be careful about walking in the dark. It can be disorienting and make it difficult to see trip hazards. Use nightlights or a flashlight to light your path.
6. Attend to vision and hearing problems and get them corrected as soon as possible. To make the calculations that are necessary to keep you upright, your brain depends on accurate input from your eyes and ears.
7. Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation does more than make you feel tired. It can also impair your sense of balance.
Feeling wobbly happens to everyone occasionally, but if it’s occurring frequently, you might have a balance problem. Ask yourself:
• Do I feel unsteady or like I’m about to fall?
• Do I sometimes actually fall?
• Do I feel dizzy or like the room is spinning around me?
• Do I feel as if I’m moving when I know I’m standing or sitting still?
• Does my vision become blurred?
If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, it may be time to take action. Ongoing balance problems can impact how well you’re able to do your ordinary day-to-day activities. They can also affect your relationships, work performance, recreation, and even whether it’s safe for you to drive or not. If you’re having trouble with your balance, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine the cause of balance issues, work toward a solution, and to brainstorm ways to minimize their impacts.
Over the years, the Emergency Department at North Shore Health has treated a boatload of fishing-related injuries. Safe removal of fishhooks, heat stroke, hypothermia, frostbite and lacerations from fish-cleaning accidents only skim the surface. During this peak fishing season on the North Shore, we would like to remind locals and tourists alike to please follow safety tips when fishing. If you have a fishing accident, know that we are here to care for your injury. For more information on fishing safety, visit: nps.gov/articles/fishing-safety.htm
Northern Trails Summer Bass on Topwater and Crankbaits
By Gord Ellis
Summertime weather and bass fishing just go hand in hand in northwestern Ontario. The warming water and the hot sun get smallmouth bass active and on the feed. My two favourite techniques for catching summer bass in northern Ontario are via topwater lures and crankbaits. Here is a guide to using them.
Topwater
For sheer thrills and pure angling fun, it’s hard to beat topwater fishing. The sight and sound of a smallmouth bass smashing a lure off the surface is one of the greatest thrills in freshwater angling. The key to a consistently good topwater bite is having water that is flat. Early morning and late evening are often prime times to use topwater bait, for this reason.
I like to use subtle topwater baits to start. Some of my favorites include the Chug Bug, the Rebel Pop-R, and the Rapala Skitter Pop. Throw the topwater onto the surface of the water and let it sit until the ripples dissipate. Then, with a jerk of the rod tip, make that lure talk. The concave mouth of a popper will spit out water and make a commotion on the surface. That splash and action is often enough to trigger a big bass to come up and eat the bait. If you don’t get a strike instantly, let the lure sit. Once the ripples dissipate, give the lure another pop and then reel in some line. Often, the second or third time that happens, any bass in the area will commit. I’ve had bass hit poppers that were sitting motionless on the surface, so don’t be in a rush to bring the lure in.
The strikes on prop baits are often explosive, as they really trigger bass.
If the surface of the lake has a little bit of chop on it, or the wind is coming up, I’ll often use a topwater lure that has a little more action. Some of the best are the prop baits that include the Rapala Skitter Prop, Whopper Plopper, and the Berkley Choppo. Any lure that has a prop on it will stir up quite a bit of commotion on the surface. There are different ways to fish with prop bait, but one of my favorites is to just start reeling very slowly and let that prop work on the surface. You can also pop the bait like you would a
chugging lure, and intersperse it with a stop and go retrieve. The strikes on prop baits are often explosive, as they really trigger bass. They work especially well on bass that are feeding on herring and minnows that are near the surface.
The final kind of topwater bait is a spookstyle bait. These lures are used in a technique called “walk-the-dog.” Spook baits are based off the classic Zara Spook. This lure type lacks a concave mouth and has no prop. It has a pointy head and swims on the surface with a silent, side-to-side motion. To make the lure work really well, you need to work the rod tip down and then reel in the slack that will make the side-to-side motion happen. There are times when a spook-style lure will attract bass when other types of topwater baits won’t. Bass will sometimes miss these baits if the retrieve pauses, so keep the spook bait going with a steady retrieve.
Crankbaits
As much fun as topwater lure fishing is, crankbaits are probably the most effective
way to fish for smallmouth bass in the heat of summer. The best crankbaits to use are known as jerkbaits, and this family of lures includes the Rapala X Rap, Rapala Maverick, and the Lucky Craft Pointer. The best jerkbaits for smallmouth bass will be neutrally buoyant, which means when you stop the retrieve, the lure holds in the water column. As often as not, bass will hit the lure when it stops, just before you twitch it again. You can use a jerkbait in a number of situations, but usually the best time is when the wind is blowing in on a shore or on a point. Throw the lure up into the shallows, crank it once, let it sit for a bit, reel up your slack, and then with a downward stroke of your fishing rod, get it going again. Strikes on jerkbaits are often strong and the bass is usually in the air seconds after the hookset.
I’d be remiss not to mention the lipped, diving crankbaits like the Rapala Shad Rap, and Fat Rap. These lures get down a little deeper and can imitate a crayfish or minnow. You can reel them down a rockpile, drop off, or even a downed tree along a shoreline. These diving crankbaits are also
quite effective when trolled, and when casting is not catching bass, this is a good trick to have in your pocket.
The best colours for crankbaits mimic what the bass are eating in lakes where there’s a lot of crayfish—orange, red, or even blue will be very effective. In lakes where the bass are feeding on baitfish or smelt, you’ll want to use a white or silver crankbait.
One final note: I recommend using a high-quality metal clip to attach both topwater and jerkbaits. The clasp allows the lure to have more action, but also makes it easy to change baits on the fly. When the bass are popping and you are looking for the right lure, you don’t want to be retying.
Make sure you give bass a shot this summer. You will not regret the time spent chasing these awesome fish.
Early morning and late evening are often prime times to use topwater bait. Shown here is a smallmouth bass caught on a chug bug. | GORD ELLIS
NORTHERN SKY
AUGUST 2024
By Deane Morrison, MN STARWATCH
In August we’re treated to two astronomical shows, one annual and one rare.
The annual show is the Perseid meteor shower, which peaks in the essentially moonless mornings of the 11th, 12th, and 13th. The best time will be near dawn, when the radiant—the spot in the constellation Perseus from which the meteors emanate—will be highest. With dark skies, you may see more than 50 meteors an hour. And while the meteors originate in Perseus, many will only flash into view after traveling a good distance from it.
The rare show is a close, mid-month encounter between Mars and Jupiter, which have been approaching each other amid bright constellations usually seen on winter evenings. This, too, is best viewed in the predawn hour, when the bulk of the winter stars will have joined the planets.
If you’re unfamiliar with the current morning sky, try venturing out on Au-
gust 3 or 4, when the two planets and the bright star Aldebaran, the eye of Taurus, the bull, form an almost equilateral triangle. Mars will be highest, Jupiter at the lower left, and Aldebaran at the lower right. The close encounter comes on the 14th, when Jupiter glides less than a moon width below the red planet. This all unfolds beneath the iconic Pleiades star cluster and just left of the V-shaped Hyades star cluster, which forms the face of Taurus.
During the last 10 days of August, look near the southern horizon at nightfall, when the aptly named Teapot of Sagittarius is highest. Its spout will be poised to pour tea on the tail of Scorpius. A short distance to the west glimmers Antares, the scorpion’s red heart.
On the 19th, August’s full moon rises in twilight and leads Saturn across the night sky. This is a blue moon according to the original definition: the third of four full moons coming in one season.
The University of Minnesota offers public viewings of the night sky at its Duluth
Afloat Again, Adrift
Three Voyages on the Waters of North America
By Andrew Keith
North Shore Press, 2024,
$19.95
Three major watersheds originate in northern Minnesota: the Mississippi River, flowing south; rivers and lakes flowing north to Hudson Bay; and waters flowing east to the Gulf of St. Lawrence. In Afloat Again, Adrift, author Andrew Keith chronicles his three summer trips, two by canoe and one by kayak, along these routes—each journey offering unique experiences and companions. Filled with heart, adventure, and inspiration, as well as some black and white photographs and a map, this is a fascinating and fun read that any outdoor enthusiast will enjoy.
—Breana Johnson
Braving the Minnesota Wilderness
The Soderbergs
By Joyce Leddy Northern Wilds Media, 2024,
$19.95
Braving the Minnesota Wilderness follows the remarkable journey of the Soderbergs, Swedish immigrants who settled in Sandstone and the Gunflint Trail in the late 1800s. Through personal memories and historical insights, it highlights their struggles, resilience, and pioneering spirit, celebrating the enduring courage of Minnesota’s early settlers. Filled with local history, old photos, touching anecdotes, and adventure, this book is a heartfelt tribute to those who braved the wilderness to build a new life. —Breana Johnson
Back Road Grace
By Scott Stowell
Writing Outfitter, 2024, $20
Written by Scott Stowell, Back Road Grace is a collection of 41 essays, memoirs, and short fiction about wilderness treasures and small-town life in the northern Minnesota Arrowhead region, some of which were previously published or aired on the radio. Using humor, humility, and heart, Back Road Grace is filled with wilderness encounters, stories from Stowell’s youth, and conversations with friends, family, and strangers. Many of the stories will leave you laughing, while others might leave you with tears. This is a great read for anyone who appreciates northern culture and the outdoors.
—Breana Johnson
Strange Tales
Shorthand Writing: The Cryptic Code of the Past
By Elle AndraWarner
It is thanks to the shorthand reporters of the ancient past—speedwriters of language—that the world has a record of historic speeches, parliamentary debates, dialogues, and sermons dating back over 2,000 years.
Does shorthand seem like an ancient, outdated way to take notes? Hmm…consider this. Ordinary longhand writing averages 35 words per minute (wpm); people speak at 150-180 wpm. The world record for writing shorthand is a whopping 350 wpm by Nathan Behrin in 1922 during a two-minute test—that’s an incredible writing speed of 5.8 words per second.
But back to historical times. Scribes in ancient Egypt had developed shorthand signs to make their writing faster and more efficient, as had the Chinese during the Han Dynasty (207 B.C.-220 A.D.) and the Greeks in the fourth century.
However, the world’s first recorded shorthand system is historically dated at 63 B.C. when Marcus Tullius Tiro, secretary to Roman orator Cicero, recorded Cicero’s debate on democracy in the Roman Senate. Tiro is credited with inventing a method of rapid writing that became known as Tironian Notes (though some say Cicero deserved credit). Back then, there were no pens or pencils for writing, so Tiro used a stylus with an ivory or steel point to record the shorthand on wax-covered tablets. Tironian Notes used a combination of letters and special symbols, consisting originally of 4,000 signs, later increasing to about 13,000. It was used in Europe up until the 11th century. (Trivia: Julius Caesar, who also used Tironian shorthand, was later stabbed to death with a shorthand stylus.)
Shorthand is a different way of writing English. It’s a symbolic writing method that uses symbols, signs, and/or abbreviations for words and common phrases. One historian wrote “shorthand is one of mankind’s most misunderstood and unappreciated skills often considered old-fashioned,” while another said that shorthand is one of the “world’s disappearing literary languages.”
So, is shorthand old-fashioned and no longer used? Well, shorthand is still used by journalists, professionals, court reporters, and journal writers. The process of writing in shorthand is called “stenography” and the person using it is a “stenographer,” though that term is fading out of use. By the 1800s, there were over 70 different methods of shorthand in use. Historical figures over time have used an eclectic
The ground-breaking shorthand system known as Gregg Shorthand was invented by John Robert Gregg (1867-1948) and was first published in 1888. | PUBLIC DOMAIN
mix of shorthand systems. They included Sir Isaac Newton using Shelton Shorthand in his notebooks, and England’s Samuel Pepys used Shelton for his diary entries and official papers (Thomas Shelton’s Short Writing was first published in 1626). Early Mayflower settlers recorded their history with shorthand. Former U.S. president Woodrow Wilson learned Graham Shorthand, developing it into his own version of Graham system writing, baffling scholars trying to interpret his shorthand. It took until 1960 to figure out Wilson’s shorthand he used for his acceptance speech for the 1912 presidential nomination. And author Charles Dickens used a difficult system throughout his life called Brachygraphy, which he called “a savage stenographic mystery,” and for which over the years he invented new symbols.
Shorthand as a secret language works great for love letters, like the ones written
Developed by England’s Sir Isaac Pitman and first published in 1837, Pitman Shorthand became one of the world’s most popular shorthand systems, and is still taught today.
| PUBLIC DOMAIN
by Canada’s former Prime Minister Sir John Sparrow Thompson (1845-1894) in the now extinct Dodge Shorthand, developed by Rhode Island’s Jonathon Dodge in 1823. Thompson was taught Dodge by his father and later Thompson taught it to his wife, Annie. When Thompson resided in Ottawa for his government work and Annie remained in Halifax, the couple would exchange love letters written in the secret code of shorthand.
It was in the 1800s that two men invented what would become the world’s two most popular shorthand systems, both still being taught today. England’s Sir Isaac Pitman (1813-1897) developed what became known as Pitman Shorthand. First presented in 1837, it soon was used in 15 countries. Based on phonetics, it records the sounds of speech using thick and thin strokes, length and position for the consonants and for vowels, short strokes, small
A variety of shorthand systems of the Lord’s Prayer, including Gregg, Pitman, and Graham.
| PUBLIC DOMAIN
dots, or dashes (though vowel sounds are optional). Over the years, different versions of Pitman Shorthand have been created, with the most recent being Pitman 2000. (Trivia: I learned Pitman Shorthand in high school but alas, now I can only write a few words in shorthand.)
Interesting that Pitman’s brother Benjamin “Benn,” who was born in England, later became a U.S. resident to promote his brother’s Pitman Shorthand in the U.S. He became the official stenographer using Pitman Shorthand during the trial of president Abraham Lincoln’s assassin, as well as recording other U.S. prosecutions involving Sons of Liberty and the Ku-Klux Klan. Shorthand in movies? Apparently, a form of Pitman 2000 was used for the language of the Vogons, a fictional alien race in the movie version of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
The second ground-breaking shorthand system, the Gregg Shorthand, was invented and first published in 1888 by John Robert Gregg (1867-1948). Like Pitman, the Gregg system is also phonetic, recording sounds of speech rather than the spelling. However, it uses thin strokes and lengths for consonants, while vowels are written as hooks and circles on the consonants.
Jumping to the 21st century, shorthand machines—like those used in court rooms now—are replacing the need for hand-written shorthand. But that’s a story for another day.
Example of the Pitman 2000 Shorthand. | WIKIMEDIA: FLAMENCO108
Following the Ancestor’s Steps
Niibin Namewag Summer Sturgeons
By Zhaawanoogiizhik / Sam Zimmerman
I am scared of ice fishing, so I admire akwa’wewinini (ice fisherman) who are zoongide’e (brave) enough to venture out onto the mikwam (ice) during cold baboon (winter) days to drill a hole and fish. When ziigwan (spring) arrives and the mikwam (ice) begins to melt, and the warm fishing season approaches, I begin to get excited about fishing.
Every niibin (summer) I promise myself to make time to fish— though I usually only get out to fish abiding (once) or niizhing (twice) per summer. I’ve been dreaming of being jiime (out on the water) fishing these past few weeks and watching namewag (sturgeons) shimmering under the surface. I made a promise to get out and go fishing before the end of July, at least two or three times.
My newest piece celebrates my love of namewag (sturgeons), the king of the fish.
Follow my studio on Facebook and Instagram @CraneSuperior or if you have ideas for a North Shore painting, you can email me at: cranesuperiorstudio@gmail.com.
Northern Wilds Real Estate
Covering the communities in the North Shore area from Duluth, MN past Thunder Bay, Ont.
Check in with any of our advertising Real Estate Agents for information on how to buy or sell your property.
Subscribe to our free online magazine with listings: northernwilds.com
LAKE SUPERIOR PROPERTIES LAKE SUPERIOR PROPERTIES
PRIVACY ON LAKE SUPERIOR – NEW STRUCTURES IN PLACE
Deeply wooded 1.9 acre lot on Big Bay has great views of the lake and hills along the coast. Privacy on 500 feet of shoreline with a long driveway from Hwy 61 and a buffer of state land. Charming guest cottage is just being completed, so you have a place to start while you finish renovation of an old cabin that sits right on the shore by variance from the county. The contractor is ready to go.
MLS#6112175 $535,000
INLAND WATER PROPERTIES
NEW!
CLASSIC GUNFLINT LAKE CABIN
LAKESIDE SANCTUARY – DEVIL TRACK LAKE
Secluded property features 9.89 acres of land and 255' of level and park-like shoreline on Devil Track Lake. Tucked away among the trees, enjoy solitude and privacy with a bonfire by the lake. Property features a newly-constructed 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom cabin with newly installed septic, well and A/C. Turn-key and fully furnished. Power & broadband connected!
MLS#6113979 $489,000 PRICE REDUCED!
GULL LAKE CABIN
MLS#6114437 $1,150,000
LAKE SUPERIOR HOME
Lake Superior home completely ready for you this summer. Whether you are inside the kitchen and living space or out on the covered deck, you can enjoy amazing views through all the seasons. Property includes a guest house perched on the shoreline and a boat house a few yards from the ledgerock which slopes gently into the lake. Two car garage with attached workshop.
MLS#6113985
Nestled in the towering evergreens is this classic Gunflint Trail cabin that has been enjoyed and cared for y the same family for 50 years! Enchanting inside and outside with impressive fireplaces built of stone directly from Gunflint Lake, 3 levels of living space designed to take advantage of the views along 422 feet of lakeshore and a setting crafted to be an oasis either as a second home or a year-round homestead. Mile O' Pine is plowed by the county for year-round access.
MLS#6114319 $749,900
ISLAND GET-AWAY ON GREENWOOD LAKE
Get-away to your very own island! Park at the public boat landing and use one of the modes of transportation included in the sale to get to the island: motorboat, pontoon, canoe or airboat, and a 4-wheeler to bring everything to the cabin. The 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom cabin is being sold fully furnished, along with everything needed to maintain the property. You need to see the island to fully appreciate the solitude, the sunrise & sunset views, the 6+ island acres to explore, and all of Greenwood Lake!
MLS#6113672 $589,900
Own a beautiful cabin on coveted Watters Point near the end of the Gunflint Trail with direct access to the BWCAW. Cabin sits on 1.7 acres on Gull Lake with many other lakes nearby to explore. Cabin features an open concept layout with a spacious loft area, a wood burning stove to take the chill out of the air and a 3-season screened porch.
MLS#6114612 $389,000
SPACIOUS GREENWOOD LAKE LOT
Spacious, wooded lot gently sloping to the waterfront. There are very nice views here of the majestic Greenwood Lake, with 338 feet of shoreline and 3.65 acres. Mature White Pines and a seasonal creek
WILDERNESS RETREAT LAKE LOT
A
NEW! GUNFLINT LAKE CABIN
Canoer's cabin on Gunflint Lake for your boundary waters adventures, time in the woods and relaxation. Cabin is a simple, one room space with a kitchen, dining table, and bunk bed, all situated in close proximity to the cozy fireplace. It is a "dry" cabin with no running water. Clean up in the small sauna. Equipped with power and fiber optic internet.
MLS#6114311 $175,000 GREENWOOD LAKE LOT
Great 2.10 acre lot with 241' of shoreline on Greenwood Lake! Property adjoins federal land to the south. Greenwood is a pristine and deep lake with 23+ miles of shoreline, the majority being federal. The property has a great build spot for your seasonal cabin or summer home with elevated views of the lake, surveyed and ready for your vision.
MLS#6114079
NORTHWOODS RETREAT TIMBER FRAME HOME
Perched atop rugged hills, this craftsman built timber frame home sits perfectly to take in the sunrise over Lake Superior while sipping
NEW! MONS CREEK 24+ ACRE PARCEL
Mixed topography of beautiful rolling land with great build sites on 24+ acres. Old growth cedar, spruce, pine and birch. Mons Creek meanders through the south property border where it abuts state land. Near Tom, Chester, Esther and Devilfish lakes and other fishing hot spots.
MLS#6114539 $45,000
NEW! LUTSEN 40 ACRES – CARIBOU TRAIL
Unique Lutsen area 40-acre parcel surrounded by Federal land with direct frontage on the Caribou Trail and a 1/4 mile along Murmur Creek Rd. Great options for access for a home or retreat property. Power and Broadband are accessible. Property has a variety of trees and elevations.
MLS#6114472 $249,000
11+ ACRE GRAND MARAIS LOT
11.03 beautifully wooded and private acres conveniently located just under 5 miles from Grand Marais. Property is ready for your vision with a driveway in and a build site cleared. Power and broadband at the countymaintained road.
MLS#6114292
NEW! BUILDABLE LOTS IN GRAND MARAIS
Buildable adjoining lots in a perfect Grand Marais location. Close enough to walk to all that the city has to offer but tucked away from it all in a moderately wooded neighborhood. The lots have nice screening from neighbors on all sides. Both lots have a building pad prepped and a driveway, but the culvert is not installed due to needed water and sewer hook ups. Contact the City of Grand Marais for building and utility installation information.
MLS#6114892, 6114894 $80,000 each
DEEP WOOD LIVING CLOSE TO GRAND MARAIS
Being deep in the woods, it is a treat to catch a glimpse of Lake Superior on a clear day from the bedroom window. Interior is accented by beautiful diamond willow railings and custom ironwork. Propane lights, refrigerator and cooking range reduce utility expenses.
MLS#6112373 $289,000 NEWLY CONSTRUCTED CABIN
Here's a great start to your North Shore adventures! Newly constructed cabin on almost 12 acres of land adjoining federal property. Cabin features a wood burning fireplace, a sleeping loft and living room. A perfect place to retreat or use as a starter cabin while working on your home.
Go a little further into the property and you'll see the cleared build site surrounded by Maple Forest.
MLS#6114304 $149,000
9 ACRES WITH OUTBUILDINGS
Lovely 9 acre wooded and private lot! Under 15 minutes to Grand Marais and a few miles from Cascade River State Park. Property has a nice creek flowing through the back of the property. A winding driveway opens up to a cleared area with a few outbuildings and a dry cabin for sleeping.
MLS#6114387 $159,000
SPLIT ROCK RIVER ACREAGE
Wooded 25.86 acres on the East Branch of the Split Rock River! An easy drive to many great locations - Gooseberry Falls, Split Rock State Park, Palisade Head and Tettegouche State Park. Joshua Road comes off of Lake County Rd 3 which is maintained and plowed by the county. There is a beautiful possible build site on a small bluff that could allow a view of the creek. Underground electric through the length of the property. MLS#6113698 $155,000
If you are looking for the feel of being deep in the woods but want to be close to everything Grand Marais city life offers, this 2.34 acre lot is the perfect fit. Big mature evergreens on an association maintained road. Electric and broadband are at the roadside. Well and septic are to be privately installed.
MLS#6114808 $72,500
TAIT LAKE PINES LOTS
A private and peaceful location flecked with old growth white pine in Lutsen, MN. Complete with its own hiking trails, outstanding views, finely maintained roads, year-round accessibility and access to power and broadband! Take your pick of lots, all with deeded access to Tait Lake!
MLS#6112701 $65,000 – 2.64 acres
MLS#6113950 $55,000 – 2.15 acres
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
40 ACRES NEAR FINLAND
Forty acres near Finland ideal for hunting or camping. Partial ATV access at the Rajala Woods Moose Creek site. Those trails will get you to within approximately 100 yards of the northern boundary of the parcel. Adjoins State and Rajala Woods Foundation land. Very close to Cramer, Nine Mile and Crooked Lakes. George Crosby Manitou State Park is four miles to the south.
MLS#6113720 $42,000
REMOTE, END-OF-THE-ROAD PRIVACY
Deeply wooded 20 acre parcel, remote with nice southerly exposure and creek frontage on Mons Creek, a trout stream. Deeded access to Lost Lake, a private access lake with limited private property. A place to fish, listen to loons and watch the sun set. Private area is gated and maintained by association. Main road access is seasonal. Broadband/power slated to come soon.
MLS#6112002 $41,400
OFF-GRID CRYSTAL BAY PARCEL
This is the definition of "off grid". Great parcel to experience pure nature. Abundant wildlife and quiet. Ideal for hunting, using as a base camp, or getting away from it ALL. Walk in access only. See documents for seller’s maps. Visitors will be on their own. On X Hunt app is highly recommended. Download GIS enabled map into the app before visiting the land.
MLS#6113928 $30,000
new 6006 Rollins Creek Road
Nestled in Lutsen, this dream retreat offers tranquility with 4.91 acres and 460 feet of breathtaking Lake Superior ledgerock shoreline. Features include a stylish 2bd/1ba home with updated kitchen and deck for sunsets, plus a seasonal 3bd/1ba guest cabin.
MLS TBD $1,495,000
reduced 73 Troll’s Trail
Indulge in the panoramic view of Lake Superior and the sounds of cascading waters of the Reservation River from this 2BR/2BA home. Enjoy the park-like setting including 300’ of shared Lake Superior shore.
MLS 6113682 $449,900
NEW XX Murphy Drive
LAND
Discover your sanctuary among five lush acres of dense forest, located minutes from downtown Grand Marais on an end of road location to increase your privacy.
MLS 6114679 $79,900
NEW 235 Clearwater Rd
Hop, Skip, and a Jump to all your favorite Gunflint Trail activities! This property is conveniently located mid-Trail. Driveway and cleared level area ready for your plans.
MLS 6114831 $89,900
Bally Creek Rd
Amazing opportunity to own this magnificent 26+ acre lot! You’ll love the privacy and endless acres of State & Federal land. The most significant feature this property has to offer is 400+ ft. of the Cascade River running through!
MLS 6114608 $149,900
78 Troll’s Trail
Affordable Lake Superior! Over 300’ of shared lakeshore and over 7 acres of shared land! Great opportunity to build a cabin or year round home on the North Shore.
MLS 6108596 $119,900
new 2205 W Highway 61
Location, location, location! This phenomenal Lake Superior property near Grand Marais spans 2.25 acres with 200 feet of amazing shoreline. Includes a 2BR/2BA home and a 1BR/1BA cabin. Incredible building sites close to the lake with breathtaking views.
MLS TBD $599,900
Unit 5 - Share A
A 3BR/3BA unit on the edge of Surfside on Superior’s resort property, offering unparalleled privacy with sweeping views of Lake Superior. Incredible opportunity to own a quarter-share.
MLS 6111523 $275,000
1315 E Highway 61
Incredible commercial opportunity. Current use includes a 3BR rental unit, office, and home! Cathedral ceilings, ample parking and great location!
mls 6104280 $995,000
HOMES & CABINS
NEW 178 Whippoorwill Lane
Beautiful 2BR/2BA log home with a 2 car attached garage perfectly placed on 40 acres! Overlooking a large pond full of wildlife, you’ll have a front row seat with the expansive southern facing windows. Step inside to discover the spacious interior, natural wood finishes, and cozy up to the stone wood burning fireplace.
MLS 6114189 $729,900
4919 North Road
Main floor living with this 2BR/2BA home. Gorgeous guest cabin is lovely – so many options. 22A abuts County land and the Flute Reed River flows through the property. Superior workmanship in this well constructed home is evident, whether it is in the design features, the craftsmanship or the quality of materials.
MLS 6112887 $649,900
122 Railroad Dr
Spacious and versatile home nestled on 1.45 acres of land in the heart of Lutsen, providing both privacy and convenience. With TLC, this 1845 square foot, 3BR/2BA one level home can be ideal for comfortable living.
MLS 6114076 $299,900
pending
5273 W Highway 61
Charming 3BR/2BA home, nestled in the heart of Lutsen, boasts 1,123sqft of living space. The recent quality renovation showcases quality craftsmanship.
MLS 6112485 $424,900
INLAND LAKE PROPERTIES
REDUCED 257 Seagull Lake Road
Exceptional Seagull Lake property with tons of privacy and breathtaking views. 10.62 acres with over 480’ of lakeshore ranging from a sand beach to ledgerock outcroppings. Brand new floating dock, camper in mint condition, 960 ft oversized insulated garage with slab floors and electric heat - use as a garage or convert to a cabin, your options are endless.
MLS 6113853 $539,900
REDUCED tom lake
Discover serenity in your own secluded cove with 242’ of wooded Tom Lake shoreline and 1.2A with a newer driveway.
MLS 6113529 $84,900
REDUCED
5461 Hwy 61 E
Affordable 3BR/1BA home on 8 acres with a view of Lake Superior, 750+ ft. of Carlson Creek, 2 garages with concrete slabs and electric to store your toys. This gem won’t last long!
MLS 6114029 $275,000
7168 Bayview Drive
Wow! A “Must See” property! Fabulous views of Lake Superior from this well-built 3BR/2BA home! Plenty of space with walkout basement rec room, large deck, and a detached garage.
MLS 6113814 $649,900
new
Greenwood Lake
Stunning lakeshore lots nestled in majestic pines, birch and balsam, abutting federal land with driveway in place. Power and broadband expansion is slated for 2024/25.
MLS 6114339 - $200,000
1.14 Acres, 200’ Lakeshore
MLS 6114337 – $225,000
1.53 Acres, 240’ Lakeshore
MLS 6114336 – $250,000
1.4 Acres, 265’ Lakeshore & 80’ Greenwood Creek
INLAND LAKE HOMES & CABINS
REDUCED 42 East Bay Lane
Discover your dream lakefront retreat on stunning Greenwood Lake, just a scenic drive up the scenic Gunflint Trail. Nestled amidst 20 acres of shared Association lands, this private property promises tranquility. Enjoy shared access to the pristine waters via a boat launch. Off-grid yet equipped with modern amenities including solar power with battery backup, this spacious log-sided home boasts panoramic lake views, a wood-burning fireplace, sauna, and expansive deck. With electric service and broadband coming soon, this is the perfect opportunity to embrace lakeside living. Don’t miss out – schedule a viewing today and turn your waterfront dreams into reality!
MLS 6114196 $849,900
REDUCED 11 Poplar Creek Dr
Picturesque haven just off the Gunflint Trail offers an exceptional opportunity to own a versatile retreat. This unique property is situated on 7.2 acres of pristine land, with 309 feet of shoreline that abuts the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.
MLS 6114875 $599,900
218 Brumbaugh Road
Charming Tom Lake cabin being sold turnkey so all you have to do is show up and start enjoying the lake life!
Situated on a beautiful 2.4A lot with stunning views and approximately 300’ of shoreline.
MLS 6112837 $379,900
new 185/187 Sag Lake Trail
Discover this exceptional 4BR/3BA home nestled along the scenic Gull Lake, with 467’ of frontage and approximately 5A of land, complete with rock outcroppings, pine trees, stunning views, and plenty of privacy. Ideal for the buyer wanting to enjoy paddling from their dock into the BWCAW. This meticulously maintained property features a back-up generator system, attached heated garage, HUGE spacious heated garage, and workshop along with two charming rustic sleeping cabins. Whether you are desiring a primary home or a 2nd home, you will appreciate the comfort, functionality, and natural beauty, this home, providing an opportunity to embrace end-of-the-trail lakeside living at its finest.
MLS 6114568 $1,500,000
NEW 7885 Gunflint Trail
Awesome 2BR/2BA cabin with 300’ of Poplar Lake shoreline! Classic Mid-Gunflint Trail cabin on one of the most sought-after lakes in the Cook County. Poplar Lake boasts multiple BWCAW access point
MLS TBD $459,900
1403A Pike Lake Rd
Escape to your 2BR/1BA cabin on Pike Lake! This charming, year-round retreat offers views of the lake that is mere steps away. Detached garage & workshop with an unfinished upper-level. Shared septic and well.
MLS 6114655 $359,900
CALL FOR A FREE MARKET ANALYSIS
Give one of our agents a call to learn more about why IT’S A GOOD TIME TO SELL. If you’re unsure if you want to move forward in the buying or selling process, our agents can give you the information you need to make the best decision for you. Sellers are given a FREE MARKET ANALYSIS to learn about:
Trends in property values
Recent sales data for comparable area properties
Local market demand + inventory levels
Valuable insights about the current state of the North Shore real estate market
Through our market analysis, you can gain a BETTER UNDERSTANDING of the potential value of your property, the competitiveness of the market, and the optimal pricing strategy for listing your home for sale. Our hope is to help you identify opportunities and challenges that may impact your selling process, allowing you to make more informed decisions.
STEVE SURBAUGH Broker and Co-owner
CLAIR NALEZNY Co-owner
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Our team has over 100 years of combined experience and we are local. Several of our staff are true blue born and raised locals and can help you navigate every corner of Cook County.
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Paperwork? No thanks. Operations and documentation is part of the package with Cascade Vacation Rentals.
Seamless integration? Sure thing. It's a no-brainer when our team can take you from purchase to rental considerations with an easy handoff and coordinated communications from your start to our ongoing management.
Looking to buy a property for a vacation rental? Through our sister company, Cascade Vacation Rentals, we have gained incredible knowledge about what North Shore visitors are looking for. We are happy to use that information to help guide you in purchasing a property that is not only a good fit for you, but will also increase your chances of high rental income.
NEW! CLARA LAKE RETREAT IN LUTSEN!
Nestled inland from Lutsen in an expanse of pure Northwoods is Clara Lake, and on it a classic 1 bedroom cabin resides in the middle of 400’ of pristine shoreline. From the 3 season porch which is perfect for cribbage games to the living room with lake views and a woodstove to take away the spring and fall chills, you will feel the stress melt away every time you visit. Summers will be enjoyed on the deck or in the water itself, while listening to the sounds of the loons.
Lutsen Mts and Superior National Golf Course about 20 minutes away, Brule Lake and the BWCA 20 minutes the other way - deeper North. Current owners have it all dialed in, just show up, unpack, and relax. Or, if you like to putter there’s always wood to split and whatever else you dream up: stones to arrange just so, lures to sort, build a shed if you like. Make it your place!
MLS#6114713 $399,000
NEW! ENJOY THE SOUNDS OF THE BAPTISM RIVER IN THIS COZY CABIN IN FINLAND! This small footprint cabin was moved to the property from an old resort built in the 40’s to this ideal spot on the Cramer Rd. Overlooking the Baptism River you will wake up to the sounds of the water and wildlife, easily reconnect with nature and relax. Tucked away up on a hill you feel like you are in the woods. This cute cabin is the perfect basecamp for all your favorite Up North activities! Large portion of the acreage is across the Baptism river – access it via canoe or small boat from the dock, and the parcel backs up to State Land and Superior Hiking Trail. Travel down the road to the many Hiking or Snowmobile Trails or travel back to Highway 61 to get to Gooseberry State Park or Tettegouche State Park to enjoy Lake Superior for the day. Visit today and Start the summer off right on the North Shore! MLS# 6114731 $189,000
NEW! LUTSEN LAKE SUPERIOR LAKESHORE BUILD SITE!
199 feet of quality shoreline, some elevated, and some sweet Ledge rock crawling in to the shores of Lake Superior, perfect for toe dipping in the hot days of August! An acre and a half of land, Lakeshore like this is hard to find located off a small frontage road just west of Lutsen, minutes to Grand Marais and all that the “West End” has to offer. Nicely buffered from Highway 61, the land has a nice roll to it, with a “bowl” allowing for creative design and stunning views for your future Lake Superior home!
to Pincushion Mt and beyond. 2.2 acres of forest, yard and gardens. A sweet little creek offers music, including a waterfall. Its quiet back here, but not far from all the delight and action of America’s Coolest Small Town – Grand Marais. Inside the home
Enjoy the Sunny Summer Days on the North Shore, Fall colors will be here soon!
CAMPN’, HUNTN’, FUN GETAWAY LAND, INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE!
LUTSEN AREA
CARIBOU LAKE PARCEL IN LUTSEN! Rare opportunity to acquire a lake lot on the coveted Caribou Lake in Lutsen! Nestled in the quiet Sawmill Bay, this lot offers a unique opportunity to build your dreamy cabin or home. Climb up to the top of the knob to see the views stretch out before you! Work with the layout of the land to create a magical and one-of-a-kind place! Located at a cul de sac, this parcel is accessed by privately year-round maintained road with electricity at the road! 1.71 acres and 242 ft of rugged shoreline can explore the best area for your future dock to enjoy the lake. Plenty of room for you to play and relax!
MLS#6111272 $299,900 PRICE REDUCED
NEW! FANTASTIC LUTSEN LAKE
SUPERIOR LOCATION! Bring your vision and build your Lake Superior Dream on this 1.49 acre vacant land parcel with sweeping views! Build your dream getaway or create a basecamp for your Up North Adventures. Enjoy a morning Kayak or watch the Gales of November roll in on the 199ft of Shoreline. Plenty of space to create your own oasis, all that is missing is you!
MLS#TBA $475,000
49+ ACRES WITH 1600 FT OF SHORELINE ON BIGSBY LAKE IN LUTSEN! Have the wilderness at your fingertips and STILL have room to create your own Up North Home Base for all your favorite outdoor activities! Watch the wildlife all around you as you sit back and let the stress of the world melt away. Beautiful setting with mature cedar trees and a mixed forest, perfect place to enjoy nature and wildlife. Ward Lake public access is nearby, take the walking path carrying your canoe and Caribou Lake Public Landing is only a few minutes driving distance, great place to spend the day fishing! This is the Ideal parcel to build your North Woods adventure base and create multiple trails, take a snowmobile or ATV ride or just relax by the lake, perfect for an outdoor adventurer!
MLS# 6110674 $249,900
FINLAND AREA
ENJOY LAKE LIFE! What a great spot for your vacation getaway cabin!! This lot has great view of Ninemile Lake in the Village at Ninemile planned development. The infrastructure is already there: electricity, shared well and septic, all you have to do is hook up to it. Shared ownership of approx 1800 ft of shoreline on Ninemile Lake, perfect for Summer time fun!
MLS#6113405 $60,000
FINLAND AREA
AFFORDABLE LOT AT NINEMILE LAKE! Lake view lot ready to build, with 1800 ft of shared shoreline on Ninemile Lake! This is a great opportunity to build a lake cabin or home. The Village at Ninemile Lake has all the infrastructure ready to go with shared septic and well, electricity at the lot. County Rd 7 is year round plowed road and the Association plows the roads within the development. Don’t worry the HOA dues are super affordable. Great opportunity for you to build your dream Lake home and enjoy for years to come!
MLS#6113406 $60,000
ENJOY THE VIEWS AT NINEMILE! Start enjoying your Inland Lake Dream! This lot was recently created by combining two lots, so it offers plenty of room to build your dream cabin or home with an amazing lake view and direct lake access! Shared Septic System and Well already in place, 1800ft of shared shoreline on Ninemile Lake- all that is missing is you and your plans for a dream getaway!
MLS#6113407 $150,000
GRAND MARAIS AREA
NEW! DEVELOPER’S DREAM IN GRAND MARAIS! Tucked away in a quiet area of Grand Marais, this parcel was platted for development! City Sewer and City water lines are approx. 200 ft from buildable area. Perfect for a small apartment complex, multi-housing, or cottage development, there is an in city walking trail traversing a beautiful wetland area on this large 3.27-acre parcel. Give this land a look with an eye to developing it in a sensible and economic manner, work with the City of Grand Marais to make this the next housing gem!
MLS#6113807 $260,000
NEW! BUILD YOUR DREAM GETAWAY UP NORTH IN GRAND MARAIS! This nice little build site has access to an in city hiking trail leading through wetlands for fantastic bird and wildlife viewing in the heart of Grand Marais! Designated for NO vacation rentals, this home site is perfect for a year-round resident looking to build a small footprint home with city sewer and city water nearby, just next door to the west! Don’t let this one get away, look soon and get building your home!!
MLS#6113809 $79,900
GRAND MARAIS AREA
NEW! 20 AC ON THE COUGAR TRAIL! High, dry land with plenty of elbow room. Deep in the woods feel, but only about 5 minutes to Grand Marais, Maple Hill Area. Power and fiber in the road. Wonderful diversity of trees, including some sweet maples. Plenty of nice build-sites.
MLS# TBA $129,000
NEW! REMOTE 80 ACRES OFF THE GUNFLINT TRAIL IN GRAND MARAIS! Looking for a truly remote property? Here are 80 acres surrounded by federal land just south of the South Brule River and a bit west of the Gunflint Tr. Crossing the South Brule River is necessary in route to property, No formal access exists currently. Prospective buyers are encouraged to contact the US Forest Service regarding establishing a special use permit for a path once they own the property. Moose tracks are plentiful. Wild, pure forest pulses along here – undisturbed, quiet and beautiful. The northern forty acres rolls and is a mix of upland and some lowlands. Go south, begin to climb, pass some giant ole’ aspens heading to some terrific views! Near to BWCA entry points and the Twins, Kemo and Pine Lakes. Halfway between Grand Marais and Trail Center. Plenty of elbow room to expand the mind and soul. Get away from it all! MLS#6113905 $69,000
NEW! DREAMED OF OWNING YOUR OWN REMOTE WILDERNESS LAND TO BUILD YOUR GETAWAY? Look no further! This Tucker Lake parcel has 18 acres of raw land and 300 feet of shoreline! The icing on the cake is the Tucker River runs through the land. Build your getaway on the Lake and listen to the sounds of the river in the background. Lots of space for a large retreat or a hidden away cabin. lakes and the BWCAW is a hop skip and jump away. $149,000 MLS#6114670
SALE
NEW! GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR PURCHASING OVER 2 ACRES IN THE CITY OF GRAND MARAIS! You don’t have to give up solitude to live in the city of Grand Marais, this is a perfect fit for a home with a great location. The YMCA and school are within walking distance and just a hop, skip and jump to the Gunflint Trail to access numerous trails for hiking, biking and snowmobiling and MANY inland lakes. This property has so many possibilities! Build your dream home, with access to all the comforts of the city of Grand Marais! Visit today and start your dream of enjoying the North Shore! MLS#6114386 $130,000
CATCHLIGHT CATCHLIGHT
northern Flicker
It was an early summer morning and I was hiking through an area that was recently treated with a prescribed fire burn by the U.S. Forest Service. I watched a northern flicker fly into a small excavated hole in the bark of a scorched, but still standing red pine about 6 feet off the ground. I crept closer and waited with my long lens fixed on the opening until the bird emerged from the cavity about a minute later. I assume the bird was feeding little chicks inside the tree.—Ryan Pennesi
W elcome to Golden Eagle Lodge, a family oriented, year-round resort located on the Gunflint Trail of Northeastern Minnesota, only 30 miles north of Grand Marais. As the only residents on Flour Lake, and nestled in the 3 million acres of the Superior National Forest, you can look forward to the quiet and solitude offered only from a true wilderness setting.
Each season has something special to offer; excellent fishing, canoeing, and hiking in summer and nationally-renowned cross-country skiing in winter. Visit our website to find in detail how each season can help shape your vacation.
We offer fully equipped, modern housekeeping cabins to ensure comfort during your stay in the North Woods. These lakefront cabins each have their own private dock and beautiful lake views as well as high-speed Wi-Fi to keep you connected.
We know much time, effort, and expense is invested in a vacation and we would be honored if you considered us as your vacation destination.
