Northern Wilds Jan. 2017

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WINTER CRAFTING — ICE FISHING — ROSEMALING — PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS

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We’re ready for the New Year The beginning of the New Year is a good time to reflect on the year just passed. At Northern Wilds, it was a pretty good year. We saw modest growth of our publications, added vinyl lettering and sign-making to our print shop and made some improvements to our operations. So, it wasn’t a big year, but a good year all the same. From what we’re hearing, many of our friends in tourism-related businesses had an excellent summer and fall. Visitors began arriving in May and kept on coming right through November. It’s great to see this facet of our North Shore economy grow. That growth is reflected not only in more traffic on the highway, but also in the proliferation of new, small businesses. In virtually every community you can find new restaurants, coffee houses, retail shops, craft breweries and other services that cater not only to visitors, but also to the people who live here. You won’t hear too many complaints from the locals about all of the choices they now have for good food and drink. Actually, if you hear anyone complaining at this time of year, it is generally about the cold weather. In some years, January is an endurance test, because the mercury in the thermometer may fall below zero and stay there for days. Even though we are now past the Winter Solstice, the days remain terribly short. Unless you work outdoors, the only time you can enjoy some daylight is on your days off. In the Northern Wilds, we take the cold and darkness in stride. This is when we enjoy indoor hobbies and activities. In this issue, we feature a number of ways our neighbors make the most of the short days and long nights. You’ll meet a woman who started an online rock and jewelry shop. We also take a close look at the Norwegian art of rosemaling. There are stories, too, about knitting, fishing tackle repair and charcoal drawing.

Not everyone stays indoors during January. Gord Ellis explains how advances in winter clothing and gear have warmed up the frigid sport of ice-fishing. Eric Chandler reports on the Arrowhead 135, a non-motorized competition where the racers take on the extremes of winter on foot, on bicycle and on skis. Breana Roy shares an image by photographer Christian Dalbec of a lake carrier entirely sheathed in ice. Maren Webb seeks a more civilized path and tells us about some of the new coffee shops that have opened in Two Harbors, Lutsen and Thunder Bay. Nearly everyone in the Northern Wilds is familiar with the whiskey jack, although you may know it as the gray or Canada jay. Surprisingly, this common, unusually friendly bird is not known to everyone in Canada. Elle Andra-Warner tells us this unfamiliarity became an issue recently when the whisky jack was named Canada’s national bird. Some folks thought the common loon was a better choice. Actually, that one was already claimed by both Minnesota and Ontario, although it also adorns Canada’s one dollar coin. While we are speaking of Canada, we should point out the present exchange rate between the U.S. and Canadian dollar greatly favors American travelers. As our readers undoubtedly know, Thunder Bay offers an interesting array of restaurants and entertainment. Now is a great time to warm up with a road trip to the Great White North. Here at Northern Wilds, we’re ready to dive into the New Year. We have exciting stories planned for the issues ahead. We’re also itching to get started on new projects. So, let’s slap that New Year Baby on the butt and get started! We wish everyone the best in the coming year. —Shawn Perich and Amber Pratt

2016 Outdoor Photography Contest Winners We received over 200 entries for our photo contest this year; all of which were incredible, making judging extremely difficult. Everyone in the office had their favorites. But after a few rounds of voting and persuasion, we finally agreed upon the winners.

First place will also receive $250 in class credits to the North House Folk School in Grand Marais. Cash prizes of $50 and $25 will be given to the second and third place winners. A big thank you to everyone who participated in the contest.

To see the winning photos, visit northernwilds.com or follow Northern Wilds on Facebook. The 2017 photo contest will begin later this year.

Wildlife

1  2  3  H

Mother Bobcat & Kits David Brislance, Lutsen

1

Cedar Waxwing Walt Huss, Coon Rapids Fox Tracks Ken Greshowak, Duluth onorable Mention: Loons at Sunset Bob Berlute, Bloomington

2

JANUARY 2017

Landscape

NORTHERN  WILDS

Sleeping Giant Brad Muckenhirn, Mankato

2

The Beauty of Fury Jackie Scherer, St. Paul

3

Shattered Shore Ken Greshowak, Duluth

1

People

Voyageur Canoe Outfitters Crew Brad Muckenhirn, Mankato

2

My Mom Katelyn Kotanen, Thunder Bay, Ontario

3

Summer Days in Grand Marais Bethany Burner, Hovland

1  2

Pets

Betsy Sandy Updyke, Hovland Turbo in Tree Sherri Donek-Smith, Grand Marais

3

Riley’s 14th Birthday Alison Gimpel, Duluth


JA NUA RY 2017

VOLUME 14, ISSUE 1 w w w . n o r t h e r nw i l d s .c o m SE R VI N G T H E N O R T H S HO R E A ND T H E WI L D E R N E S S BE Y O N D PUBLISHERS Shawn Perich & Amber Pratt EDITORIAL Shawn Perich, Editor editor@northernwilds.com Breana Roy, Managing Editor breana@northernwilds.com ADVERTISING Sue O’Quinn, Sales Representative sue@northernwilds.com

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

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FEATURES

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REAL ESTATE

18 Winter Crafting

5 Along the Shore 24 Spotlight 27 Events 32 Calendar 35 Dining 39 Health 41 Northern Trails 42 Dog Blog 43 Reviews 43 Fishing Hole 44 Northern Sky 45 Wild Traditions 46 Strange Tales

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

A cure for the winter blues

22 Rosemaling

An exercise in precision and detail

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aD dEADLINE January 20

Cover

Catchlight

“Maggie Friedrichs” by Joe Friedrichs

“Pileated Woodpecker” by David Brislance

WE ASK...

Have you ever had frostbite, yes or no? Let us know at www.northernwilds.com Have you eaten lutefisk? 53% Yes, 47% No NORTHERN  WILDS

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The Arrowhead 135: A true northland adventure INTERNATIONAL FALLS—The Arrowhead 135 is often listed among the toughest endurance races in the world. This human-powered ultramarathon covers 135 miles along the Arrowhead State Trail from International Falls to Tower. Competitors can choose to compete in three different categories: bike, foot or ski. Racers must carry a long list of survival gear, including camp stoves and sleeping bags. There are only three checkpoints along the way where racers can stop to warm up. They can’t accept aid from anybody but other competitors and volunteers at the checkpoints. The race is capped at 150 athletes and already full for this year’s race. You can’t just sign up, though. You have to finish a qualifying race to prove you’re up to it. The 13th edition of this race takes place from Jan. 30-Feb. 1. Ken and Jackie Krueger are the race directors. Ken Kreuger described what’s new for this year’s race. “One of the things that makes the Arrowhead Ultra 135 so hard is there is very little support offered for racers,” said Krueger. “There are three checkpoints where you can get help; one of the checkpoints offers only water. The biggest change for the 2017 Arrowhead is that we are offering a totally unsupported option, for which 40 racers have signed up. These racers will not get food, water, or the chance to warm up for the duration of the race.” It seems the race wasn’t quite tough enough. Krueger is a seven-time finisher of the race himself and noted another new part of this year’s race. Kicksleds (think dogsled without the dogs) have increased in popularity in recent years. “Starting this year, kicksleds will be in a separate division,” Krueger said. “They will continue to count as a “foot” finish.” Anne Flueckiger of Duluth has volunteered at race checkpoints and raced. She didn’t finish her one attempt on skis due to fatigue, but still had good things to say. Flueckiger’s favorite parts of the race was “the beauty of the woods in winter. Meeting people from all over. Just skiing for hours and hours.” For her, the toughest part of the race was lack of sleep. Leah Gruhn of Duluth has started the Arrowhead six times (five bike, one ski) and finished four times (all bike). This veteran had a lot to say about her races. Tendonitis forced her to withdraw in 2011. Deep snow in 2013 forced her to push her bike instead of ride it, leading to a DNF (did not finish). “While a DNF is exceptionally frustrating, it is always a fantastic learning opportunity. It gnaws on you, perhaps eternally,” said Gruhn. Gruhn had advice for the rookies: • Test all of your gear/food/bike/etc., no matter how seemingly minor.

Racers proudly finish last year’s 135-mile race in the bitter cold. | SUBMITTED • Take every opportunity possible to learn. Don’t stop gathering info.

and suffer. I love the training as much as the race.”

• For everything, have a Plan A. Have a Plan B. Think through it all ahead of time so that you’re prepared.

There was a common theme among the racers about the best part of the ultramarathon. Everybody mentioned the people: their fellow racers, the volunteers and the race directors. They also praised the challenge of 135 winter miles.

• Don’t carry too much stuff, as the extras will weigh you down and slow you down. Knowing what to leave behind takes experience. The way the race punishes people seems to draw them back for more. Tony Stensland of Duluth will race on foot this year. Last year, in the bike category, he withdrew halfway through the race. He’s raced many different events over the years but says, “The Arrowhead is unlike any of them.” “I got my butt kicked. Still, I loved it and despite pushing my bike probably at least half of my ride, I was still enjoying it,” said Stensland; a typical Arrowhead athlete attitude. Patrick Susnik of Duluth is another example of someone who keeps coming back for more. He DNF’d three times in the foot division before finally finishing on the fourth try. “Guess I had to please the Arrowhead gods first,” Susnik said. His advice to rookie racers: “Train! A lot! You need to get yourself in those uncomfortable places

“The coolest thing ever is to take an impossible task and actually do it,” said Gruhn. Stensland commented on “the great sense of adventure that comes with it.” He said, “It’s so unlike any other event that

I’ve ever done and probably the closest I will ever come to a true wilderness adventure. Arrowhead is a great opportunity to tap into the explorer in a person. Most of us don’t get to have that sense in our modern lives...” A line in the Arrowhead race rules sums it all up: Arrowhead is about you, the wilderness, your inner dogged spirit and self-sufficiency. If you think you have what it takes to sign up for this adventure in the Northern Wilds, visit the race website for more details: arrowheadultra.com.—Eric Chandler

BWCAW lottery information ST. PAUL—The BWCAW 2017 lottery application period began on Dec. 14 and will continue until 9 p.m. on Jan. 11. The lottery is for the following entry points and dates: Fall Lake entry points D (Fall Lake, Newton Lake, Pipestone and Beyond) and 24 (Fall Lake); Moose Lake entry points F (Moose Lake to Newfound and Sucker Lakes), G (Moose Lake to Prairie Portage to Basswood

Lake) and 25 (Moose Lake) for dates between May 1-Sept. 30. Lottery results will be available on Wednesday, Jan. 18. Reservations for all entry points can be made on a first-come, first-served basis beginning Jan. 25, at 9 a.m. CST. For more information, visit recreation.gov or talk to a local outfitter.

NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

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Youth ski programs along the North Shore NORTH SHORE —Snow is falling, temperatures dropping and things are at long last starting to look like winter along the North Shore. This wintry change can only mean one thing; ski season has arrived. With hundreds of kilometers of gorgeous ski trails from Duluth to Thunder Bay, the North Shore and surrounding area is one of the best places in the world to pursue this historic pastime. A craft for people of all ages, skill levels and physical abilities, cross-country skiing is a skill that provides enrichment through both physical activity and by establishing a connection with nature in a fun, active, winter setting. However, with all of the equipment, time, and energy required to get kids started with cross-country skiing, it can understandably be a bit of a challenge to get youth involved with the sport. Thankfully, along the North Shore, there are plenty of youth ski programs and opportunities to help get your kids involved. Here are a few of the programs available throughout the area.

DULUTH When exploring youth ski opportunities in Duluth, a good place to start is the Duluth Cross-Country Ski Club (DXC). They offer a KidSki program for ages four to 12 at Snowflake Nordic Ski Center that runs every Sunday from Jan. 8–Feb. 12. KidSki is a progressive program (meaning kids have an opportunity to progress to different levels as their skills improve) with an emphasis on using a fun, game-based approach to teaching kids the craft of cross-country skiing. Parents are also encouraged to get involved, either through the program ParentSki or by becoming a volunteer. DXC is always looking for volunteers to help out with food, the chalet, coaching, and the carnival at the end of the year. Other youth cross-country skiing programs from around the Duluth area in-

Youth skiers can find programs for all skill levels along the North Shore. | SUBMITTED General information can also be found at elynordic.org/mysl. KidSki in Duluth offers a progressive program, available for ages four to 12. | SUBMITTED clude the Nordic Spirit Youth Ski League at Spirit Mountain, and the Nordic North Stars Youth Programs. More information can be found for both of these opportunities at duluthxc.com/other-local-programs and nordicnorthstars.com.

GRAND MARAIS

nal fee, and just like KidSki in Duluth, they are always on the lookout for volunteers. If interested in signing your child up for Y-ski or volunteering as a group leader or group assistant, contact Patty Johnson by email at patjj@hotmail.com or visit pincushiontrails.org for more information.

In Grand Marais, Y-ski is the local youth cross-country ski program. Sponsored by the North Superior Ski and Run Club, Y-ski is a program held at the Pincushion Mountain Trail System on Sundays from 1-3 p.m., designed to encourage kids to develop their cross-country skiing skills through games, group activities and general exposure to the sport.

ELY

Y-ski is affordable, fun and accommodating to young skiers of all skill levels. Equipment is available to rent for a nomi-

To get in contact with MYSL either email MYSL@elynordic.org, or join the Ely Youth Ski League group on Facebook.

The Minnesota Youth Ski League (MYSL) Hidden Valley Chapter is situated up near Ely and is another great program that helps introduce the area’s youth to cross-country skiing. MYSL emphasizes skiing as a fun, lifelong activity, and is available for kids between the ages of four to 15.

Do You HAve

THUNDER BAY Like Duluth, Thunder Bay has all sorts of great youth ski programs available to the community. The Kamview Jackrabbits, for instance, is a program based out of the Kamview Nordic Center that strives to provide a recreational yet instructional ski experience for kids. Like many of the youth ski programs along the North Shore, they are entirely run by volunteers and always looking for leaders, assistant leaders and helpers. For more information, check out the Kamview Jackrabbits Facebook page. For young skiiers looking to take their Nordic Skiing to the next level, the Big Thunder Nordic Ski Club offers more rigorous opportunities and junior racing programs out of Kamview. For more information, visit btnordic.ca/programs. —Eric Weicht

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Snowmobilers can expect another great riding season with no new rule changes for riders in the Superior National Forest. | RHONDA SILENCE

Local riders not affected Rates by new “over-snow” rules 1/2 Price GRAND MARAIS—Snow has begun falling in the Northland and snowmobilers are making plans to head out to their favorite riding areas. Last winter, the U.S. Forest Service updated its travel management rules regarding “over-snow vehicles,” so some riders may be wondering if that means a change in riding opportunities. As of now, there should be no change for riders in the Superior National Forest.

Service has the authority to allow oversnow use. However, it also determined that U.S. Forest Service managers must specifically designate which roads, trails and areas can be used by over-snow vehicles. Once over-snow vehicle use designations are completed for a unit or district, over-snow vehicle use will be allowed only on those designated routes and in those designated areas.

The process leading to the rule change started in 2010 when Winter Wildlands Alliance, a coalition of over 90 organizations, challenged the Forest Service’s authority to give managers in its 154 National Forests the authority to oversee over-snow vehicle use.

Good news for local snowmobilers is that the new rule allows old management decisions to be rolled into the new plans and local Forest Service officials retain the discretion to manage over-snow vehicles in keeping with local conditions as appropriate. That means previous decisions regarding over-snow vehicle use in the Superior National Forest will remain the same.

National Forest Service policy already restricted where off-road vehicles could go in the summer, but in the winter, snowmobile management was optional. The Winter Wildlands Alliance asserted that the Forest Service was not doing enough to protect opportunities for quiet winter recreation and allowed significant damage to fragile winter ecosystems. According to Superior National Forest spokesperson Kristina Reichenbach, oversnow vehicle use is regulated separately from other types of motor vehicle use because there is less potential damage to the environment. Reichenbach added, “Over-snow vehicle use for transportation or for recreation is limited to times when snow is deep enough to avoid damage to the ground. When properly operated and managed, over-snow vehicles do not make direct contact with soil, water or vegetation.” Cook County Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club president Forrest Parson agrees that snowmobiles leave no trace. “We’re not impacting anything. Once the snow and ice is melted, tracks are gone,” said Parson. A 2013 decision in the U.S. District Court in Idaho concluded that the Forest

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“The rule is that cross-country travel by snowmobile is legal except where prohibited,” said Jon Benson, assistant ranger for Recreation and Wilderness for the Tofte and Gunflint Ranger Districts. “In general, that means that snowmobiles can travel anywhere they aren’t specifically prohibited. For example, places where snowmobile use is not legal, including but not limited to the Boundary Waters, ski trails, hiking trails, biking trails, etc.” Under the new rule, National Forests with existing decisions will need to develop an over-snow vehicle use map, and provide public notice of its availability. Benson said Superior National Forest has yet to receive direction regarding completing the map. However, Benson said, “As far as I am concerned, we are not planning any changes that would be noticed by snowmobilers this winter. It should be the same as last year.”

With Wade Christensen’s son Adam aboard, three generations of family have worked for Duluth-based GPM, a pump manufacturing company started by Wade’s father-in-law, Pete Gemuenden Sr. Because mining is one of the industries GPM serves, Wade wholeheartedly supports PolyMet Mining’s plan to open Minnesota’s first copper-nickel mine. The economic diversification from the new mine will provide jobs for generations to come.

That’s good news, said Parson, who encourages snowmobilers to prepare for another great riding season. “I can’t wait for the lakes to freeze up,” he said.—Rhonda Silence PolyMetMining.com

NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

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Video documents harrowing tale of wilderness rangers in Pagami Creek Fire ELY— A video posted online in late November of 2016 details how close Minnesota’s Pagami Creek Fire came to taking the lives of six U.S. Forest Service employees. The video comes to the surface five years after the massive fire was put to rest. First detected on Aug. 18, 2011, the Pagami Creek Fire eventually raged across approximately 93,000 acres of land in and around the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). Nancy Moundalexis, one of the Forest Service employees interviewed in the video, told Northern Wilds that safety of all parties was the constant, primary objective on Sept. 12. “I just feel extremely relieved that no public or Forest Service employees were seriously injured in the fire,” she said. According to the DNR, the Pagami Creek Fire was the seventh-largest fire in Minnesota history and the largest inside state lines in nearly 100 years. The powerful blaze vaporized trees and resulted in a towering 35,000-foot plume that created its own weather system. Smoke from the fire drifted as far as Chicago. A series of reports, including the extensive document titled Pagami Creek Fire Entrapments—Facilitated Learning Analysis, show that the Forest Service severely underestimated the blossoming power of the Pagami Creek Fire during a twoweek window in late August and early September of 2011. These miscalculations allowed a half-acre burn to grow into a massive firestorm that could be seen from space. Highlighting this underestimation of the fire’s power was a decision over Labor Day weekend to dump 1,700 gallons of jellied gasoline from helicopters onto the fire. According to the public documents, which date back to the year of the fire, the rationale for the ‘burn-over’ using gasoline included concern that conditions were too volatile to put crews on

Photographs from the tiny island on Lake Insula where four wilderness rangers escaped the Pagami Creek Fire. | NANCY MOUNDALEXIS the ground and worsening drought conditions in the region. A burn-over is typically done to create a firebreak, or gap, in the hopes of containing spreading wildfires. In this case, the plan did not work properly. And while Forest Service fire-management policies were under question immediately after and in the years following the Pagami Creek blaze—including the fact the fire settled in with a price tag of $23 million—the aforementioned video is the first public play-by-play of events as told by the six wilderness rangers whose lives were in danger. The crew of six had to deploy emergency fire shelters as the Pag-

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ami Creek blaze approached, a last-resort policy that potentially saved their lives. Anthony Petrilli works on the design and safety of fire shelters for the U.S. Forest Service. He also recorded the video of the six wilderness rangers as they explained what happened during the fire. The interviews of the six rangers were conducted in 2012 by Petrilli and Lisa Outka-Perkins on Insula Lake, where the narrow escape occurred one year prior. “They have a one of a kind tale to tell,” Petrilli said of the wilderness rangers interviewed in the project. “It’s a harrowing tale.”

The six fire-qualified wilderness rangers interviewed in the video are Todd Stefanic, Chris Kinney, Nancy Moundalexis, Andrea Lund, Nancy Hernesmaa and Naomi Weckman. They explain in great detail during the 35-minute video what happened as the fire approached on Sept. 12. The climax of the stories comes with the explanation of the crew deploying their fire shelters, which resemble large blankets covered in aluminum foil. Prior to deploying the shelters, four of the rangers took refuge on a tiny island on Lake Insula. Two others, Weckman and Hernesmaa, abandoned their canoe and

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The forest has started to recover following the 2011 Pagami Creek Fire. | BRIAN KNUTSON deployed their shelter while floating in Lake Insula, relying on their life jackets to keep them afloat. As they recall the incident, the six wilderness rangers describe burning embers shooting through the sky like laser beams, almost no visibility due to smoke and a disturbingly dark sky and the sound of the approaching fire being like that of an oncoming train. Weckman and Hernesmaa describe hypothermia setting in while they hid under their fire shelter in the lake. When the fire finally passed and they could emerge from the lake, hail started to pound the women from the sky. Petrilli is based in Montana at the Forest Service’s Missoula Technology and Development Center. When asked why media attention has focused largely on the size

of the fire, what happened to campsites in the BWCAW or on regrowth of the forest rather than the harrowing escape of the six wilderness rangers, Petrilli did not mince words.

fied. They are not firefighter experts; they are minimally qualified to no fault of their own. Their job is not to be firefighters. Their job is wilderness rangers and public safety.”

“Fire shelters don’t make the news unless they don’t work and people die,” he said. “But when people live, yeah, it’s not going to make the news.”

Petrilli made it clear during an interview with Northern Wilds he did not want to comment on the specifics of Forest Service policy regarding fire management of Pagami Creek or any other fire. And the video featuring the six wilderness rangers was created specifically for educational purposes to be used by the federal government and other firefighting agencies.

According to the Forest Service reports and the stories of the six interviewed in what is essentially a short documentary, on Sept. 12 the wilderness rangers were making public contacts to ensure that no recreationists were in the area that had been closed due to safety concerns. “These folks were wilderness rangers,” Petrilli said. “They’re minimally fire quali-

All told, the Pagami Creek Fire destroyed numerous campsites and rendered many canoe portages and trails unusable and unsafe within the federally-protected wilderness. And yet, just five years later,

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the burn area remains a popular destination for visitors to the BWCAW. Despite its immense size, the Pagami Creek Fire caused no serious injuries or human deaths. And for the six Forest Service employees interviewed in the video, the memories of what happened on Sept. 12, remain vivid more than five years later. “As strange as it may sound, as far as being out on Insula, I still feel awed and humbled by the power and immensity of that fire,” Moundalexis said. “And I will never forget what it was like out there that day.” The video described in this story can be viewed at: wildfiretoday.com/tag/ pagami.—Joe Friedrichs

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The art of chainsaw sculptures THUNDER BAY— Have you ever noticed the six-foot killer whale on Thunder Bay’s Memorial Avenue? And nearby, the blue heron, standing bear, pelican and giant mushroom, plus a life-size ninja warrior and mountain man?

embrace the cool of winter

The statue-like carvings are some of the latest of more than 1,700 chainsaw sculptures that Thunder Bay’s Lee Fedorchuk has crafted in the past 23 years. At his North of Superior Carving shop on Memorial Avenue across from Intercity Mall, latest finished sculptures are on display outside alongside where he uses his chainsaw to make new ones. Fedorchuk, who works outside on-site, even in the winter, said, “I get a lot of business from the drive-by traffic. I’m usually working on about 20 carvings at the same time.” Chainsaw sculpture is a relatively new form of art, with the oldest chainsaw sculptures being recorded in the 1950s. It combines modern technology of the chainsaw with the ancient art of woodcarving. It is pretty amazing what a chainsaw can create from blocks of wood. Winnipeg-born Fedorchuk, who came with his family to Thunder Bay in 1975, became interested in chainsaw sculpturing back in 1991 after seeing at a local gas station carvings of a bear and an eagle by a world champion from Two Harbors. “My interest was so strong that I bought both carvings. I immediately acquired large blocks of pine and started carving.” He had experience using a chainsaw, but no formal training in carving. “I’m totally self-taught,” said Fedorchuk. His first chainsaw sculpturing show was at Red Rock in 1992; soon he was appearing at events like the Canadian Lakehead Exhibition, trade shows, powwows, and fishing tournaments. What’s been his most popular carving? “Bears are number one, followed by eagles,” said Fedorchuk. His carvings are large and range from life-size sculptures of people (like chiefs with headdress, mountain men, cowboys, Paul Bunyan, voyageurs) to wildlife, sea animals, fish and birds.

JANUARY 27-28 Embrace the cool of winter with 2 days of outdoor competitions, family friendly events, live music, food vendors, beer gardens and more!

frostival.com FARGO - MOORHEAD - WEST FARGO 10

JANUARY 2017

NORTHERN  WILDS

“People put the carvings in their backyards, dens, businesses, houses and camps. Carved on green wood and sealed, the carvings can be placed outside or inside,” said Fedorchuk. “I get lots of repeat customers.” Fedorchuk’s carvings have also become valuable public art pieces around the region. About 20 years ago he carved the dramatic bald eagle sculpture for the Fort William First Nation, and it still greets visitors on Mount McKay lookout. And recently, he finished two sculptures

The bald eagle chainsaw sculpture at Thunder Bay’s Mount McKay Lookout was created by Lee Fedorchuk about 20 years ago for the Fort William First Nation. | ELLE ANDRA-WARNER for a spring installation in downtown Nipigon: a five-foot, four-inch great blue heron and six-foot carving of an eagle perched on a branch. Fedorchuk can be contacted via his North of Superior Carvings Facebook page, by texting him at (807) 6322646, or dropping in to see him on-site. Lee does custom orders as well as sales from already finished carvings. —Elle Andra-Warner

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Hygge

a Cook County state of mind.

The Bayfront Blues Festival in Duluth will be held July 15. | VISIT DULUTH

Duluth in 2017: Exciting events to expect DULUTH—This year, events are set to make a big impact in Duluth. Sure, 2016 was a signature year for the city. It hosted multiple crowd-pleasing, milestone occurrences, including: • 10th annual Hockey Day Minnesota in February • Bob Dylan’s 75th birthday bash in May • The 40th anniversary of Grandma’s Marathon in June • The 50th anniversary of the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center (DECC) in August, featuring the Temptations and Beach Boys Duluth may not have as many major milestones to celebrate in 2017, but it’s on track to be just as exciting for both businesses and the general public. The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon kicks off 2017. The race takes place on January 29 and there will be other related events leading up to, and following, the race. Bob Gustafson, the media communications manager for Visit Duluth said “the surroundings of the snow, hearing the dogs, and the excitement that surrounds that event,” draws people in from out of the area. The weekend after Grandma’s Marathon, the Outdoor Writer’s Association of America is hosting its 90th annual conference. The 3-day event will attract more than 400 writers, photographers, bloggers, authors and media members to Duluth to connect with others in the industry and enhance their skills.

There are many more events in store for Duluth this year. In addition to the fan favorites such as Tribute Fest, North Shore Inline Marathon, Bentleyville Tour of Lights, AMSOIL National Snocross, and more, the Duluth Air Show is back for the second year in a row. Typically, the event is held every two years, but it’s making an exception, as the Blue Angels are coming on June 3-4. In October, the Ice Breaker Tournament will be hosted at the AMSOIL Arena on October 6-7. This premier college hockey event features the University of Minnesota Duluth, New York’s Union College, Michigan Tech University and the University of Minnesota. It will be the first men’s college hockey tournament AMSOIL Arena has hosted. “There are some events that are being planned, that haven’t been announced yet,” said Gustafson, building anticipation for events to come and dates to be announced.—Kelsey Roseth Thomas Rhett - Home Team Tour March 4 | Duluth | decc.org/event/thomas-rhett

RAIN - A Tribute to the Beatles

March 9 | Duluth | raintribute.com/shows/duluth

Harlem Globetrotters World Tour

April 13 | Duluth | decc.org/event/harlem-globetrotters2017-world-tour

Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is the Danish ritual of savoring

Duluth Airshow

life’s simple pleasures, in other words, enjoying the quiet pace of an “up north” winters’ day.

June 3-4 | Duluth |duluthairshow.com

Outdoor Writer’s Association of America Conference June 24-26 | Duluth | owaa.org/2017conference

Grandma’s Marathon

June 17 | Duluth | grandmasmarathon.com

“It’s going to be a phenomenal chance for us to showcase Duluth,” said Gustafson. “That’s going to pay dividends for us, for years, from the standpoint of the materials they produce.”

Bayfront Reggae and World Music Festival

It will be the third time that the writing conference has been hosted in Duluth. It’s first time was in 1969, and it’s most recent was in 1996.

21st Annual NorthShore Inline Marathon

July 15 | Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth | bayfrontworldmusic.com

29th Annual Bayfront Blues Festival

August 11-13 | Bayfront Festival Park, Duluth | bayfrontblues.com

Hygge Week | February 9-15

Knitting by the fire, candlelit skiing, guided snowshoe adventures, lodging specials, and more.

Visitcookcounty.com/hygge

September 16 | Duluth | northshoreinline.com

Ice Breaker Hockey Tournament

October 6-7 | AMSOIL Arena, Duluth | umdbulldogs.com/ icebreaker

NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

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Agencies deny hard rock mineral lease renewal WASHINGTON—The U.S. Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture announced important steps to protect the watershed of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW).

Guided hikes will take place at Jay Cooke State Park and Tettegouche State Park on Sunday, Jan. 1. | SUBMITTED

Take a new year hike ST. PAUL— Minnesota state parks join other states in a nationwide effort to get thousands of children and adults outside hiking on Sunday, Jan. 1. The effort, led by America’s State Parks, includes guided hikes in all 50 states. In the Northern Wilds, guided First Day Hikes will take place at: Jay Cooke State Park in Carlton from 10:30 a.m.-noon and 1-2:30 p.m., and at Tettegouche State Park in Silver Bay from 1-4 p.m.

1

Most winter programs—includ-

ing the First Day Hikes and candlelight events—are free, but a vehicle permit is required to enter Minnesota state parks ($5 for a one-day permit or $25 for a year-round permit). Those who don’t already have a vehicle permit can purchase one at the park or in advance. Visit mndnr.gov/reservations, log in (or create an account), click on “entry permit,” select a duration of “one-day” or “year-round,” and continue as directed. The emailed permit can be printed and must be displayed in vehicles during a visit.

Citing broad concerns from thousands of public comments and input about potential impacts of mining on the wilderness area’s watershed, fish and wildlife, and the nearly $45 million recreation economy, the agencies took actions that denied an application for renewal of two hard rock mineral leases in the area, as well as initiated steps to withdraw key portions of the watershed from new mineral permits and leases. “The Boundary Waters is a natural treasure, special to the 150,000 who canoe, fish, and recreate there each year, and is the economic life blood to local business that depend on a pristine natural resource,” said Agriculture Secretary Vilsack. “I have asked Interior to take a time out, conduct a careful environmental analysis and engage the public on whether future mining should be authorized on any federal land next door to the Boundary Waters.” It was in recognition of its irreplaceable resources that Congress set aside the Boundary Waters more than 50 years ago. Today, more than 150,000 annual visitors help drive the local economy through tourism and outdoor recreation. As the surface management agency, the Agriculture Department’s U.S. Forest Service has

issued a decision withholding consent to the renewal of two mineral leases located on lands near the wilderness area within the Superior National Forest in northern Minnesota. As a result of that decision, the Interior Department’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the agency managing the mineral deposits, is subsequently rejecting the renewal application, which was submitted by Twin Metals Minnesota in 2012. The two leases, initially issued in 1966 and most recently renewed in 2004, would have allowed for the mining of copper, nickel and associated minerals from the leased lands. However, no mineral production has occurred on either lease since the original date of issuance. In not consenting to the lease renewals, the Forest Service cited the potential risk of environmental contamination of the surrounding watershed as a key concern. The two leases are located directly adjacent to and within three miles of the BWCAW, respectively. Contaminated water could have dramatic impacts to aquatic life, sport fisheries, and recreation-based uses and communities. The BWCAW is the only large lake-land wilderness in the National Wilderness Preservation System. In establishing the wilderness area, Congress directed the Forest Service to maintain its water quality, protect its fish and wildlife, and minimize the environmental impacts associated with mineral development.

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Simply Northwoods Vacations!

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Fort William Historical Park was awarded the prestigious National Cultural Tourism Award last November. | STAFF

THUNDER BAY—The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) awarded Fort William Historical Park (FWHP) the prestigious “National Cultural Tourism Award.” The award recognizes FWHP’s commitment to visitor satisfaction, its vital role as a regional economic promoter, and for its social impact and legacy in the community. The award, sponsored by Parks Canada, was presented at the TIAC Awards Congress in Gatineau, QC, last Nov. 30. At the awards presentation, Daniel Watson, chief executive officer of Parks Canada, remarked, “Parks Canada is pleased to recognize Fort William Historical Park as an important and vibrant part of Ontario’s and Canada’s cultural richness.” Sergio Buonocore, general manager of FWHP, comments, “The Fort is extremely proud to be recognized with this prestigious award. It is through the hard work and dedication of the staff here at FWHP, that we continue to rise to the top of our industry and gain national attention for our efforts. I would like to extend my personal gratitude to everyone working here at the Fort for your relentless pursuit of excellence and our collective journey of cultural education and celebration.”

demonstrated a commitment to the development and promotion of authentic, innovative and enriched cultural tourism visitor experiences, or a tourism organization that has demonstrated a commitment to culture as a key aspect of encouraging and promoting tourism growth within their region. The Canadian Tourism Awards are recognized as the most respected accolade available in Canada for the tourism industry, and have become the standard of excellence for businesses and organizations in the travel industry, showcasing the nation’s best tourism products, services and experiences.

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Fort William Historical Park has previously won a TIAC Award in 2006 in the “National Event of the Year” category for “Rock the Fort.” The “National Cultural Tourism Award” recognizes a cultural organization that has

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Fort William Historical Park wins award

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“This is home. It is easy enough to locate on paper, or in one’s imagination, but on the inconvenient sprawling earth it is difficult to reach.” The trip to the nearest town, Yellowknife, is 210 miles of wilderness lakes and trails, home to wolverine and caribou. Whether dogsledding across Great Slave Lake at 60 below, musing philosophically on the values of a northern life, peeling logs for the homestead cabin, or piloting a bush plane over millions of acres that rarely feel a human footstep, Dave shares both ordinary and lifechanging moments with humor, insight, and really good writing. 16 color photo pages

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(218) 387-9119 · hillhaven@boreal.org 1681-1683 E Hwy 61, Grand Marais, MN www.HillhavenAssisted.com NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

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Minnesota Environmental Fund grants $176,000 to protect Lake Superior

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I f y o u n e e d i t , we c a n p r i n t i t — L o c a l ly !

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ST. PAUL—The nonprofit Minnesota Environmental Fund (MEF) is granting a total of $176,000 to four of its member organizations to protect the clean water and natural resources of the Lake Superior watershed. These funds were awarded to MEF in a community service settlement agreement as recommended by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, and are intended to address and provide justice for environmental degradation in Lake Superior. The settlement was made with the owners of the ocean freighter M/V Cornelia, who pled guilty in a plea agreement to discharging oily bilge water in the Great Lakes. “When the United States Attorney’s Office needed an experienced partner to distribute these funds to strong environmental nonprofits working within the Lake Superior watershed, the MEF was ready with effective member groups and great projects,” said Cordelia Pierson, executive director of MEF. Each of the four recipients, North American Water Office, Parks and Trails Council of Minnesota, The Nature Conservancy, and The Trust for Public Land, will be working over the next year on these land restoration projects. The projects include planting over 2,500 wild fruit plants in collaboration with local Native American tribes, acquiring and restoring high priority land for Minnesota State Parks, restoring the ecological balance of 250 acres of forests along key rivers, and protecting priority land in the Lake Superior watershed. The MEF engages workplaces and individuals to support leading nonprofit organizations that protect, conserve and restore Minnesota’s environment. In 2015, the Fund raised $511,000 at more than 100 workplaces across Minnesota, reaching more than 200,000 employees and supporting over 20 organizations. The City of Duluth, the University of Minnesota-Duluth, the State of Minnesota, and federal agencies are all workplaces in the Lake Superior area that offer giving to the Minnesota Environmental Fund. Employees can choose to give through payroll, giving with each payroll or a one-time gift.

Rack Cards

Table Tents

New Year’s Eve Entertainment

Signage • Banners

& More!

Spruce Roots 10 pm-12:30 am Late Night Menu

Served 9-11 pm

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JANUARY 2017

NAWO will be collaborating with two tribes on wild fruit and berry restoration projects, one in Carlton County with the Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College, and the other in Cook County with the Grand Portage Chippewa (Ojibwe). The Wild Fruit and Berry Project will plant over 2,500 shrubs and trees, from black raspberries to wild plums, significantly expanding the availability of these fresh, healthy foods to community members in Fond du Lac and Grand Portage. The tribes will collaborate with NAWO on recruiting and training people to plant and care for the wild fruits and berries, and will own and maintain the plantings and equipment.

North Shore State Park Protection Fund, Acquisition: $50,000 Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota The North Shore State Park Protection Fund will help the Parks and Trails Council of Minnesota (P&TC) complete one or two of the highest priority acquisition and habitat restoration projects at state parks on Lake Superior. P&TC has protected extensive stretches of Lake Superior shoreline, resulting in nearly 4,700 acres being added to eight North Shore state parks. These critical natural ecosystems of the Lake Superior basin include wetlands, springs, trout streams and shorelines that are vital to our water. Before protecting lands within our state parks, P&TC must restore habitat—often the single biggest obstacle to adding critical lands to our state parks on the North Shore. The North Shore State Park Protection Fund will support this critical restoration, leverage matching funds, and provide for the permanent protection of these natural areas, a gift for generations to come.

Sustaining Forests and Freshwater in the Lake Superior Watershed, Restoration: $32,000 The Nature Conservancy

Fresh Fish on the Menu

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Wild Fruit and Berry Project, Restoration: $44,000 North American Water Office (NAWO)

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About the Projects

Classical Music & Dinner Upper Grille,every Sunday · 6-8 pm Acoustics by the Fireplace every Monday, Thursday & Friday · 8-10 pm

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7192 W. Hwy 61, Tofte

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View from Split Rock Lighthouse. | SRI DHANUSH This project will support the Nature Conservancy (TNC) treating 250 acres of riparian forests in sub-watersheds of Lake Superior to enhance forest diversity, resilience, and water quality protection values. Treatments will include restoring long-lived conifers such as white spruce, white cedar and white pine; planting red oak and yellow birch trees; protecting them from deer browse; and clearing brush so that trees will have enough light to get established. Pending approval of other grant applications, this grant from the MEF could leverage up to $600,000 of matching and complementary funds, allowing TNC to treat 2,500 additional acres in the Lake Superior Watershed, and over the next ten years, a total of 30,000 acres of forest in the region. The proposed restoration project is part of TNC’s ongoing commitment to developing comprehensive climate change adaptation strategies that focus on conserving key forest functions in a changing climate.

Northwoods—Critical Shoreline Protection: $50,000 The Trust for Public Land Protecting forested land guards and improves the water quality of our rivers and lakes in the Lake Superior watershed; protects forests that store carbon; and provides exceptional recreational opportunities for people of the region. However, lands along these rivers and lakes are in high demand for residential and second home development. The Trust for Public Land’s Critical Shoreline Protection grant will help acquire and conserve at-risk shoreline, preventing it from being sold for private development.

For Sale

406 1st Ave E, Grand Marais 3 beds 3 baths 1,806 finished sq ft

For Sale by Owner-$259,000 Located in the heart of Grand Marais. This recently built home has the master bedroom and all amenities located on the main floor. Upstairs offers a view of the lake with two bedrooms and a full bathroom. French doors lead to a wooded backyard. The house also has a 1,176 square foot unfinished walkout basement. Visit our listing at www.zillow.com-Type in property address to find photos and more information. Contact Info:

Hana Senty, (218) 370-1417, hanasenty@boreal.org


Can old growth forests be restored? HOVLAND— Residents of Cook County were curious this fall about some forest management work that occurred on public land along the Arrowhead Trail, Pincushion Mountain, Pike Lake Road and Moose Valley Road. The underbrush was cleared from beneath mature trees. The resulting park-like forest appeared to be the opposite of a traditional timber harvest. So, what’s going on? These are ongoing projects that aim to restore longlived conifer species, such as white pine, white spruce and white cedar, that were common on the North Shore prior to European settlement. Early logging and subsequent wildfires eliminated much of the original forest, which grew back to early successional species such as birch and aspen. The human-caused disturbances greatly altered wildlife habitat. Forests that once supported woodland caribou became more conducive to species such as moose and white-tailed deer, both of which thrive in early successional forests. Deer browse on white pine and cedar has greatly limited regrowth of those native species. Also, white pine is very susceptible to invasive blister rust, which has hindered some past attempts to restore the species. Sarah Poznanovic, a natural resources specialist working for the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), said the sites will be planted next spring with white pine, white cedar, yellow birch, white spruce, and paper birch. To foil browsing deer, all but the white spruce will be caged with fencing. The fencing is similar to strategies used by the state parks and other organizations along the shore to protect seedling from deer. Computer models suggest that white pine will do well on the shore in the future. Elsewhere along the North Shore, trees that typically grow in a somewhat warmer environment, such as northern red oak, have been planted, too. The red oaks come from the Chippewa National Forest in north-central Minnesota. Two grants are funding the restoration work along the North Shore. One is the Joint Chiefs’ Landscape Restoration Partnership/Lake Superior North Shore Coastal Forest Restoration Project, which is a partnership between NRCS and the USFS. The other is a Conservation Partners Legacy (CPL) grant, which is a partnership between Sugarloaf: The North Shore Stewardship Association, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and USFS. The Joint Chief’s project area covers approximately 270,000 acres of land from Two Harbors to Grand Portage within roughly 3.5 miles of the lake shore. The CPL grant focuses on restoration work on state and federal lands within and near Cascade State Park. Through these projects, land managers intend to protect water quality, provide wildlife habitat and develop a resilient future ecosystem where uncertain climatic conditions may exist. One of the challenges to reforestation on the North Shore is the mix of land ownership. About 40 percent of

Join us for the 33rd Running of the

White cedar are among the tree species planted along the North Shore. | COLDSNAP PHOTOGRAPHY the land is privately owned with the remainder a mix of federally owned national forest, state parks, county lands and tribal property. For the Joint Chief’s project, 275 acres were planted in 2015 and 2016 on federal land. An additional 322 acres are planned to be planted in 2017. For the CPL grant, 354 acres were planted on state and federal land from 201416, with 173 acres planned for 2017. For more information, visit northshoreforest.org. —Shawn Perich

Rentals

Retail

 Downhill & Cross County Skis  Snowboards  Snowshoes

 Clothing  Gloves  Hats  Cross Country Equipment

JOHN BEARGREASE Sled Dog Marathon

JANUARY 29 The race starts in

Two Harbors

Please no pets. Come early.

Event Schedule January 21:

12:00 Cutest Puppy Contest – Fitger’s

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

January 22:

Beargrease Photo Exhibit Great Lakes Aquarium

January 28:

8:00 - Vet Checks - Beaver Bay 5:30 Opening Ceremonies American Legion, Two Harbors

January 29:

9:00 Meet the Mushers 11:00 a.m. RACE START – Two Harbors

Money Exchange

January 30:

3:00 Mid-Distance Awards – Trail Center

Parcel Pickup Family Owned Since 1947

218-475-2330

February 2:

Duty-Free Liquor 10,000 U.S. and Canadian Souvenirs

Gas

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655 Arthur Street W., Thunder Bay, Ontario • P7E 5R6

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Hot Breakfast, free airport shuttle Wherever Life Takes You, Best Western Is There.®

11:00 Marathon Awards American Legion, Two Harbors

Visit:

Beargrease.com NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

15


The Naniboujou Lodge near Grand Marais passed through numerous owners until 1963 when the Wallace family took responsibility. | TIM & NANCY RAMEY

Naniboujou Lodge is up for sale GRAND MARAIS— Naniboujou, the Cree god often associated with trickery and joy, has been credited with digging Lake Superior, forming the Apostle Islands, and teaching people medicinal skills. The Cree lived in Canada, north of the wellknown Naniboujou Lodge on Superior’s shore, while the Ojibwe lived on Minnesota’s shore. The Ojibwe had their own version of a trickster god called Nanabush. No one knows why the founders of Naniboujou Lodge chose Naniboujou over Nanabush as the name of their exclusive club. However, no matter the history, the name Naniboujou is now famously associated with a lodge on the North Shore rather than the Native American god that created Lake Superior. The Cree influence doesn’t stop at the name of the lodge. When a visitor first steps through the doors of Naniboujou Lodge they will immediately notice the bright paintings on the dining room ceiling, which were inspired by Cree designs. Within the same room, they will also spot the massive fireplace, containing 200 tons of native rock and credited with being the largest in Minnesota. If a visitor continues exploring the lodge, they will find only 24 rooms. If they take any pictures of the building or the beautiful shoreline, they will not be able to send them to any friends or family, as the lodge has no cell service or Wi-Fi. These features have been valued highly by the current owners of the lodge, Tim and Nancy Ramey, as they want Naniboujou to remain a natural escape for their guests. That includes an escape from the busy world of cell phones, email and other technological distractions. “Our guests are the ones who really want to enjoy the outdoors, and don’t want to be bothered by what else is going on in the world,” says Tim, as he explained why he and his wife have refused to expand the lodge, even though it may have brought in more money. “We aren’t in it for financial reasons,” he mentioned, 16

JANUARY 2017

New owners Tim and Nancy circa 1985. | TIM & NANCY RAMEY

as he told the story of how he and Nancy came to the lodge. The Lodge originated as an exclusive club, including members such as Babe Ruth, Jack Dempsey and Ring Lardner, and encompassed the entirety of Judge C.R. Magney State Park, as well as its current property. However, this club quickly disbanded. “Guests got there and there wasn’t anything to do, promises weren’t fulfilled, and there weren’t adequate numbers of guests. Not to mention the stock market crash,” said Tim when speaking of the club’s failure. It passed through numerous owners until 1963, when the Wallace family took responsibility for the lodge, which was in shambles. The Rameys knew the Wallaces through their shared Minneapolis church, and often visited the lodge to help the Wallace’s repair it. In 1977, the two Wallace boys passed away in a tragic canoe

NORTHERN  WILDS

The bright paintings on the dining room ceiling were inspired by Cree designs. | TIM & NANCY RAMEY accident at the mouth of the Brule River. “Imagine having two sons to help out around the lodge. Those two sons were the core of the operation, and after they passed away the Wallace’s didn’t know what to do, so we came up to help more and more,” said Tim. In 1980, soon after the loss of their sons, the Wallace’s decided to sell Naniboujou, and turned to the church. The church bought the lodge with plans to use it to train missionaries to run hotels before going overseas (this never happened) and asked the Rameys to take over management as they had spent so much time there. “We agreed to manage the lodge as long as the Wallaces stayed around to help out,” said Tim. Five years later, the church decided to sell the lodge, and through prayer and community support, the Rameys decided to purchase the lodge rather than head

overseas to work in association with the church in Indonesia. The Rameys have now managed the lodge for 36 years, and have decided to sell it. “Everything is going better than it ever has,” says Tim, “but we are just tired and wouldn’t mind being apart from having to be responsible for the lodge.” Though the Rameys are very attached to Naniboujou, they feel like they are not able to run the lodge as well as they used to. They raised seven children at the lodge, and one, Paul, stayed around to help. However, Paul cannot run the lodge on his own. “I’m 66 and it’s a lot of hard work. It’s just hard to continue operating at the pace we have to. Nancy would love to stick with it, but she knows we can’t do it forever. We decided to begin by putting it on the market, and then go from there,” said Tim.—Bailey Wolding


Family Day Weekend - February 18TH, 19TH, 20TH A weekend full of winter fun for everyone, this Family Day weekend!

ACTIVITIES • • • • • • • •

Adult $10

Giant Snow Maze Tubing & Sliding Hills Wagon Rides Skating

Youth

Children 5 and under

8

$

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Winter Crafting For some people, winter can be a drag—the days seem shorter and the bitter cold can make outdoor activities miserable. Thankfully, our writers provided us with some indoor activities to pass the time and cure the winter blues.

Agates Rock—an Online Jewelry Shop By Joe Friedrichs When I first mentioned moving to the North Shore permanently, my wife Maggie had one concern: winter. “What about the six or seven months of cold and darkness?” she reasonably questioned. My immediate (and very excited) response did not settle her uneasiness toward the situation. “Ice fishing!” I exclaimed, foolishly thinking this would be a mutually sound solution to pass the time during winter. The fishing works for me as a means to combat the winter blues. However, Maggie needed something else. And two years later, using her own creative prowess, she’s found the perfect recipe to make winter meaningful and downright enjoyable in the Northern Wilds. And it all starts with the agate. A longtime collector of stones, gems and other interesting items found along the shores of Lake Superior, Maggie has taken her collecting habits from that of the casual hobbyist to one of an entrepreneur. These days, she continues to collect what she refers to as “treasures” from the shorelines and wooded areas of nearby lakes and streams. But now, rather than simply putting them on a shelf for display or to stare at under a magnifying glass, she wirewraps the pieces and sells them online. Online jewelry sales from independent artists continues to grow in popularity. In this sense, Maggie happened to open her online shop on the website Etsy at the exact right time.

Maggie Friedrichs stays busy in her home office, which is a cabin on the shores of Lake Superior. | JOE FRIEDRICHS

“It seems like people are looking to shop locally or avoid corporate merchandise,” Maggie said. “So my shop allows people to buy things that are handmade; from polishing the stone, to wire-wrapping it, and even making the gift box that I put it in.”

sell from home without having to rent an expensive art studio or open a physical location in order to sell her products. And with Etsy, business has been solid as a stone for Maggie since she opened her online store in October 2015. “I spent about a year making pendants, polishing stones and just kind of building an inventory for the shop,” she said. “And I was pretty nervous leading up to the launch of the page thinking ‘Is anyone going to like this?’” As of the first week in December 2016, Maggie had more than 230 sales at her Etsy shop. Her products have been shipped to Paris, Minneapolis, San Francisco and tiny towns she’s never heard of before. Sales have ranged from amethyst pendants using stones Maggie found near Thunder Bay, to pieces of driftwood collected on a beach near Grand Marais. Sale prices ranged from $5 to $30, with most items selling for approximately $18. “My reason for opening an online shop was not so much for the money as it was to connect with other ‘rockhounds’ from around the world. I’ve always had a passion for rocks. There is so much beauty in nature, even on a small-scale, like the banding on a tiny agate. All you have to do is to look closely,” said Maggie, who is also a teacher at the local high school in Grand Marais. “My online shop has opened up a new world to me.” And while ice fishing works for me to pass the time during winter, for Maggie and other hobbyists looking to take their craft to the next level, opening an online shop on Etsy is the perfect avenue for wintertime success. To view Maggie Friedrichs’ online store, visit: etsy.com/ shop/earthrainbowgems.

Etsy not only allows Maggie to sell her pendants, earrings, sun catchers and raw or polished stones, it opens up her “rock shop” to a worldwide market. According to its website, Etsy was founded in 2005 in a New York apartment, “to fill a need for an online community where crafters, artists and makers could sell their handmade and vintage goods and craft supplies.” In other words, Etsy allows Maggie to work and 18

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Maggie creates one-of-a-kind jewelry, like this agate pendant, using stones, gems and other interesting items found along the shores of Lake Superior. | MAGGIE FRIEDRICHS


Fishing Fever By Kim Casey The most dangerous time for an angler, especially one with no interest in ice fishing, is at the onset of January. With Christmas festivities over and nothing but long cold nights to look forward to, he can come down with a serious case of fishing fever. There is nothing more heartbreaking than to see a full-grown man moping around the house, muttering about the big one that got away. Sadly, there are no vaccines for the malady and if left untreated, he won’t be able to look at pictures of past fishing trips without becoming teary-eyed and despondent. But it’s not all bad news. He can break through his feverish funk by cleaning up his gear and tackle. At first it won’t be easy, and each time he gets near his prized fishing implements, he will be flooded by fond memories. Some so strong he will swear that each time he picks up his rod, he can feel the slight tug of a sure fighter on the other end of the line. But with some coaxing from his loved ones, the angler can start by sharpening his pocket and filet knives. Once his pliers have been lubricated, he can gently wipe down his rod and open up his reel to make sure everything is intact. By the time he gets to testing his fishing line, it may look like he’s gotten through the worst. But the fever can never be fully cured until he has opened his treasured tackle box. Sweat may pour from his brow, when he lovingly holds

Tackle created by Glenn Hart. He sells them at his business, Nipigon River Bait Shop. There are jigs, muddler minnows, spinners and spoons. | KIM CASEY up the bent hook that caught the pickerel now stuffed and hanging on the living room wall. But remind him it’s all about patience and timing, as he carefully takes out the spinners, bobbers, sinkers, hooks, plugs, jigs, spoons and plastic worms. It is usually at this point, when he’s cleaned the tackle box and put the lures in a more organized system, that he will be smiling and well on his way to a full recovery. If the angler experiences a relapse, which is very possible with spring fishing being so far off, he can put his renewed fever at bay by making his own customized lures.

There’s plenty of suppliers and internet tutorials on the art form. And if he is looking for a more adventurous and economical approach, he can make lures from recycled materials found around the house. The possibilities are limitless and best of all, it will keep the angler distracted until he can get back outside and cast his line in the promising waters again. Please note: women can also contract this serious condition and it was only for the sake of pronoun simplicity, that anglers in this article were referred to as males.

Charcoal Drawing­—Creating Trees from Trees By Kathy Toivonen The contrast of soft, white snow and a silhouette of trees makes an inspiring subject for charcoal drawing. But the trees provide more than just the scene, they also provide the medium of charcoal and paper; and with the addition of only an eraser, even the novice artist can create a masterpiece. Charcoal can be purchased in many forms: pencils, compressed sticks and processed willow sticks. Or you could try the grass roots method and use the cold, raw charcoal from the fireplace. The kind of charcoal produced is determined by the kind of tree that was burned; and even though it all looks the same, there is a way to identify the different kinds of charcoal. Softwoods are evergreen trees, such as spruce and pine. Charcoal from softwood produces soft, chalk-like images and the charcoal can easily crumble when in use. Conversely, charcoal from hardwood, such as birch and poplar, draws more like a pencil with sharp, dark images (this is a generalization as you may discover a piece of charcoal with both characteristics. The paper to create your image on is also made from both softwood and hardwood trees. Use a paper with some “grit” or “teeth” that will hold the charcoal. Smooth paper, such as copy paper, will not hold the

image well; but a multipurpose artist paper will work fine. Also, have a piece of scratch paper handy so you can test the charcoal. You will also need a white vinyl eraser. To begin, scribble some soft charcoal on the scratch paper to make a pile of charcoal dust. Rub two or three fingers in the dust and rub the charcoal from your fingers onto the working paper. This will make a base of colour much like applying a base coat for a painting. Then, erase out the trunks of a few birch trees and a moon. Always resist the urge to wipe away the eraser crumbs with your hand as you may smudge your work. You can blow or shake off the crumbs. Next, draw in some background evergreen trees with soft charcoal. You can tap the images lightly with your finger to fade them out a bit and give them a far-away look. Lastly, add details to the trunks and branches of the birch trees with the hardwood charcoal or a charcoal pencil. Once you’ve finished your artwork, spray it with a fixative to protect the image from rubbing off. Charcoal is a very forgiving medium in that you can easily re-apply charcoal or erase out images. So try your hand at charcoal drawing using these basic techniques and you will soon discover how to add and subtract layers and develop your own style of winter scenery.

Create your own winter scene simply using charcoal, paper and an eraser. | KATHY TOIVONEN NORTHERN  WILDS

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DRURY LANE BOOKS

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We will be

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all winter!

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Thurs-Sat 10 AM - 4 PM

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Pattern by Margaret K. K. Radcliffe/Maggie’s Rags Besides making a thick dishcloth, the Chinese Waves pattern makes a nice spa cloth; just fold it and tuck a bar of handmade soap inside it. (Before using or gifting it, set the color by washing the cloth in the sink and adding a bit of vinegar to the water. Lay flat to dry.) | ELLE ANDRA-WARNER

12 E. Wisconsin St., Grand Marais

218-387-3370

Knitting is the New Yoga By Elle Andra-Warner There’s something wonderfully creative and therapeutic about knitting. It’s rhythmic and repetitive, yet so calming, relaxing, stress-relieving, meditative and comforting that it’s being called the new yoga. Today’s knitters are carrying on a craft going back over a thousand years, with the earliest example of knitting with two or more needles being cotton socks made in Egypt about 1000-1200 A.D. The first European knitters were in Spain and Italy, and according to Irena Turnau (The Knitting Crafts in Europe from Thirteenth to Eighteen Century), the first guild of knitters was active in Paris by 1268. By the end of the 16th century, knitting guilds were all over west and central Europe, with membership open only to men who had gone through six years of training to become master knitters. And it was the Middle Ages powerful fashion trend of wearing knitted stockings that drove the professional knitting industry (similar to Europe’s later obsession with beaver hats that drove the fur trade in North America). Fast forward to the 21st century; knitting is still one of the world’s most popular crafts. Besides the sense of accomplishment it delivers, researchers now recognize its health benefits, even hailing it as a form of meditation. American-born designer and artist Kaffe Fassett called knitting the “most therapeutic thing in the world.” So how is yoga like knitting? In the article Reap the Mind Health Benefits of Yarn Craft, Australia’s Dr. Jenny Whiting, Uni-

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versity of Sydney, wrote, “The relaxation, calmness, clarity and the rhythmic action of repeated stitches are highly reminiscent of meditation practices and forms of meditation have been studied for their effects on the brain.” She noted that Albert Einstein is said to “have knitted to calm his mind and clear his thinking.” Repeating stitches over and over has been compared to doing a series of yoga poses over and over—both calm the heart rate and breathing, helps relieve stress and leads to better concentration. And, a halfhour of knitting burns 55 calories. Bottom line—knitting is good for your brain and your health. During the long cold winter months in the Northern Wilds, knitting/crocheting is a particularly relaxing activity. I’ve been a knitter for years, making things like spa cloths (dishcloths), mitts (texting mitts are ‘in’ now), socks, cowls, slippers, wrist warmers (big in northern Europe) and the occasional sweater or afghan. I use bamboo knitting needles, knit in the Continental style (wool used on left hand), and use the website Ravelry (ravelry.com), to find hundreds of knit/crochet patterns, many of which are free. Why is the ancient craft of knitting still so popular world-wide? A line in Sheep&Stitch’s online article History of Knitting, Part 2 says it best, “Knitting satisfies a deep desire in us to create beautiful things and it allows us the satisfaction of being a creator.”

Materials: 100% cotton yarn (such as Sugar’n Cream; Lily’s) and US7 (4.5 mm) needles. Cast on 45 stitches. Row 1 (Right Side): Knit Row 2 (Wrong Side): *K1, Slip 1 purlwise*, repeat, ending with K1. Row 3: Knit Row 4: K2, *Slip 1, K1* to last 3 stitches. Slip 1, K2. Repeat these 4 rows to desired length, finishing the last row on the Wrong Side. Bind Off.

Guinness Book of World Records Knitting Trivia • Record for knitting world’s largest knitting needles was set in May 2013 by Jeanette Huisinga of Casey, Illinois, using needles 13 feet, 0.75 inches long (3.98 m.), 3.25 inches (8.5 cm.) wide and weighing 25 pounds each • World’s longest knitted scarf measures 14,978 feet, 6 inches (4565.46 m.) long, knitted by Helge Johansen of Norway in 2013. • World’s longest scarf knitted while running a marathon goes to David Babcock, who in 2013 knit a 12-foot long scarf in garter stitch using size 15 plastic needles while running the Kansas City Marathon in under six hours. • World’s fastest knitter is Miriam Tegels from the Netherlands, who set the record by hand-knitting 118 stitches in one minute in 2006.


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The art of rosemaling originated in the lowland areas of eastern Norway around the year 1750. The bellows above is the work of Edna Bowen. | EDNA BOWEN

Rosemaling An Exercise in Precision and Detail By Casey Fitchett Requiring precise brush strokes, intricate geometric elements and specific color blends, rosemaling is a type of fine Norwegian decorative art with a long history of weaving its way through the mountains and the valleys of Norway and across the Atlantic. Like many other aspects of Norwegian culture, the art form is still practiced on the North Shore by some with a particular connection to their cultural roots. 22

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Rosemaling as a style began in the lowland areas of eastern Norway around the year 1750. After artists were trained within a “guild,” the often-poor city dwellers would paint churches or homes of the wealthy in exchange for money or room and board. As these commissions took the city dwellers to various rural areas, the artists felt less encumbered by the constraints of the guilds. This relative freedom meant taking more liberties with

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the rules of the art. Distinct styles developed within the valleys and the amateur rural artists began painting on small objects like cups and boxes. Rosemaled trunks housed the belongings of the immigrants traveling across the Atlantic to make a new life in America. Rosemaling in America didn’t take off, however, during this wave of immigration. It was instead made popular by the Norwegian-Americans in the 20th century. Per Lysne, a Norwegian-born immigrant who came to America in the early 20th century, is credited with the revival of rosemaling. Though he had a good job painting and decorating wagons in his new home in Wisconsin, the Great Depression hit hard. When business slowed, Lysne began rosemaling again. Within a few years he was being visited by the press and was getting invaluable marketing for his interior decorating business near his home. By the 1940s, there was a year-long wait for a rosemaled plate created by Lysne. There are at least seven varieties of rosemaling that have particular color sets and designs that distinguish them. The Os style, for example, features backgrounds that are typically white or red and includes geometric shapes like cubes and squares. There is typically a heavy detail on the leaves of the flowers that may be symmetrical or asymmetrical. North Shore local Mary Schliep is an award-winning rosemaler who does her work in mostly the Telemark style. These particular designs are asymmetrical with scroll branches that emerge from a root center. The leaves and flowers are varied and irregular. “I started out [rosemaling] doing Telemark on wood. I did a bunch of glass ones last year. It’s hard because you put the paint down and it’s there—you can’t go over it or cheat,” she said with a laugh.

Edna Bowen with her booth at the Norsk Hostfesk in Minot, North Dakota. | DALE BOWEN Schliep, who has been doing rosemaling art for about 30 years now, has been teaching the skill at North House Folk School in Grand Marais twice a year since it opened in 1997. She sends in her work to annual competitions to the Vesterheim Nor weg ia n - A mer i can Museum and Heritage Center in Decorah, Iowa. The museum, which is considered to be the penultimate display of Norwegian-American history in the country, is home to over 33,000 artifacts, 12 historic buildings and a folk art school. Work submitted to their rosemaling contest has to be flawless to come close to receiving an award. “This year I entered a carved ale bowl and where it was carved, they said I didn’t stain it dark enough in the crevasses. My design was perfect, my colors were perfect, and then there was one little tiny smudge you wouldn’t even hardly know and that was criticized,” said Schliep. Recent accolades include an award at the 2015 Norsk Hostfest in North Dakota for her booth of rosemaled pieces. Along with entering the Vesterheim contest, Schliep sells her work at the Schroeder sale and has other pieces at Betsy Bowen’s studio in Grand Marais and at the North House Folk School. Her largest piece to date is a commissioned 36 inch plate to hang above a fireplace. The detailed designs, especially for a piece that large, demand a great deal of time and energy. “It’s hard to judge how long it

takes because there are a lot of preliminary things—you have to paint your plate, sand it, paint it again, sand it,” explained Schliep. “If it doesn’t cover just perfect, you might have to paint it again. Some colors require a third coat, especially the reds.” The work spent preparing the wood base is just the beginning of the process. “After glazing the plate, then you design your own pattern. I design most all of my patterns now,” said Schliep. “I transfer the pattern on, then start painting—the fun part. I imagine a big plate takes me about six or seven hours of just painting.” Teaching gives her a constant reminder of what it’s like to be a beginner again. She always makes sure to give her students encouragement on their first attempts. “It’s like playing the piano. You don’t learn to play the piano in three days,” she said, in reference to the length of her classes. “Just start taking classes, keep at it, and practice your brush strokes.” Edna Bowen is another North Shore local who has been doing rosemaling art for approximately 25 years. As the daughter of two Norwegian immigrants, she appreciates the connection to her heritage and to her parents. “I feel rosemaling keeps me connected to my family’s history and their origin. I learned from [my parents] to appreciate the Norwegian art, cooking and way of life,” said Bowen. “My three sisters were also taught crafty things by my mother, two of which are also rosemal painters. All four of us girls got coverage in the Minot, North Dakota newspaper as the sisters participating in the Norsk Hostfest annual event. We all had booths and sold our work.” Bowen paints in the Telemark style, as well as the Gudbrandsdal and Valdres, Rogaland, and Os styles. “Each style is unique in appearance, some more intricate than others. I primarily paint on wood,” said Bowen. “I have done a couple on canvas, and my designs also appear on my granddaughters’ arms as a tattoo. My most prolific work is on Lake Superior stones, which I sold at the Farmer’s Market as Grand Marais souvenirs.” Her work can be found at the Twin Ports Rosemaling Society annual show in the Duluth area, and at Joy & Co in Grand Marais.

Mary Schliep created these Valdres style plates and the Telemark style box. | MARY SCHLIEP NORTHERN  WILDS

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By Breana Roy

“Owl Always Love You,” created by Jill Terrill, can be found at Joy & Company in Grand Marais. | JILL TERRILL

A Fresh Start For many of us, a new year means a fresh start; a time to start over, make changes and set resolutions. A new year provides hope and something to look forward to. And while many of us tend to break our resolutions (I plead guilty), something you can always depend on is a plethora of new artwork, which can be found at numerous galleries and gift shops along the Shore. North Dakota artist Rando created this original acrylic as part of his “American Brave” series. It is the newest piece at Kah-Nee-Tah Gallery in Lutsen. | RANDO Tom Christiansen recently created this bronze hummingbird as a tribute to his mother. It can be found at Last Chance Gallery in Lutsen. | TOM CHRISTIANSEN This woodcut loon puzzle was made by Jim Mike of Almelund, Minn. It can also be found at Joy & Company in Grand Marais. | JIM MIKE

Great Gifts in Lutsen sells earrings, necklaces and rings by Superior Jems. | SUPERIOR JEMS

Watercolor artist Ken Crawford recently created “Sunset on a Northern Lake.” It can be found at Gallery 33 in Thunder Bay. | KEN CRAWFORD 24

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Feel the Soul with Big Wave Dave and the Ripples

EXHIBITS Nov. 8-Jan. 29

By Casey Fitchett

Maria Cristina Tavera: Un-Typing Casta Tweed Museum of Art, Duluth, d.umn.edu/tma

“Funk, soul and rock and roll” is the catchy descriptive phase used to encapsulate the dance-worthy music of the Big Wave Dave and the Ripples band. The desire to cut a rug is a common thread at every one of the group’s shows, from the Twin Cities to the Twin Ports and in Lutsen on the North Shore.

Nov. 10-Jan. 8

Norval Morrisseau: New Acquisitions Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

Nov. 10-Feb. 2

4North: New Work by Alison Aune, Kirsten Aune, Ann Klefstad and Arna Rennan Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

An organic idea borne out of a shift in musical interest, in 2011 trumpeter Dave Adams and trombonist Alex Nordehn were playing in a ska band called Coal Car Caboose. As Nordehn began listening to more soul music, he expressed interest to Adams to form a group to pump out those types of tunes. Adams agreed to sing and the two brought in another friend to play the drums.

Nov. 10-Feb. 9

Arrowhead Regional Biennial Exhibition Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Nov. 11-Jan. 8

John Books: Oxen of the Sun (artist talk Jan. 2 at 7:30 p.m.) Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

“The three of us met and hatched the Big Wave Dave and the Ripples inspire good times and soulful vibes with their plan. We got six together for the original upbeat music. | SAMANTHA LINDBECK iteration and got 45 minutes of music tenor sax. Throw in a keyboard to the member to member, but I think we ready to open a show for Coal Car,” rhythm section and the result is typically can all agree we like playing club gigs. said Adams. “The crowd loved the soul a full house and sound. We try to have a good time and hope sound from the beginning.” that catches in the crowd as well,” said Big Wave Dave and the Ripples’ That first show was the break the Adams. “We’ve been very fortunate group needed to begin booking regular music includes both covers and originals to find nine people that are dedicated that are full of spirit and life. gigs. Not long after their debut, they and willing to work as a team toward a were asked to play a regular show every “The originals and homages to the common goal. It’s a little like herding Thursday at the Rex Bar in Duluth. current and past greats provide the cats at times, but we make it work. It’s a vibrations to get people smiling and good group of guys.” “We scrambled to get three hours of moving their feet as the eight-piece music together,” reminisced Adams. “We Counting more than the nine horn band plays soul/funk/rock/blues held our residency for two years at the members on stage might mean that the Rex in Duluth and have been rolling ever for the masses,” explains their bio. group has invited Twin Ports talents like since.” The nine dedicated members play in Randy Lee, Sarah Krueger, Nate Case venues from weddings to bars and have and others to join them as they boogie. The evolution from the formation traveled as far as Madison, Wisconsin for has seen the addition of three more After rocking out at Papa Charlie’s in members, bringing the total now to nine a show. Though the number of shows Lutsen on New Year’s Eve, the group’s varies, they average hitting two or three soulful men. The horn section grew by next appearance is at the Rex Bar in a month. Their favorite place to play? two: from a trumpet and a trombone Duluth on January 7. to the addition of a baritone sax and a “I think that this might vary from

Nov. 15-Jan. 6

BBAC Member’s Winter Exhibition Baggage Building Arts Centre, Thunder Bay (807) 684-2063

Nov. 18-Jan. 21

Ineffable & Creator’s Project 6 Definitely Superior Art Gallery, Thunder Bay, definitelysuperior.com

Dec. 2-March 5

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

Dec. 3-Jan. 8

Cecilia Lieder: Woodcuts & Stone Lithographs North Prints Gallery, Duluth, northernprintsgallery.com

Dec. 10-Jan. 31

Aaron Kloss: Homeland Lakeside Gallery, Duluth, lakesidegalleryduluth.com

Dec. 29-Jan. 8

Jim Sannerud: At the Table Grand Marais Art Colony, grandmaraisartcolony.org

Jan. 13-March 26

Breana’s Pick

Amanda Burk: Stories of Contentment & Other Fables (reception Jan. 13 at 7:30 p.m.) Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

OF THE MONTH

Jan. 14-Feb. 20

Look closely and you’ll see that under all that ice is a ship. In mid-December, Christian Dalbec captured this photo of the Indiana Harbor arriving in Two Harbors Agate Bay just before sunset. “It was loaded down with ice built up from a wavy journey across Lake Superior for their cargo of taconite pellets,” said Dalbec. To see more from Christian Dalbec Photography, visit cdalbecphotography.com.

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

Jan. 22, Sunday

Beargrease Photo Exhibit Great Lakes Aquarium, Duluth, beargrease.com

Jan. 26-Feb. 24

Annual Membership Exhibition (reception Jan. 26 at 5 p.m.) Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Jan. 27, Friday

Winter Plein Air Exhibition 5 p.m. Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais

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ADVERTISMENT

John Beargrease, namesake of the race, delivered North Shore mail with a dog team in the late 1800’s. | CARTER RICE

The best way to see the race is as the teams pass through checkpoints. | CARTER RICE

Sled dog races heat up winter! Dog days on the North Shore are during the middle of the winter. That’s when the sled dogs come out to race. The biggest race of the season begins north of Two Harbors on Sunday, Jan. 29: the nearly 400-mile John Beargrease Sled Dog Mike Keyport Marathon. The annual race, which began in 1980, celebrates historic musher John Beargrease, who used a dog team to deliver mail between Two Harbors and Grand Marais during the late 1800s. His great-grandson, Grand Portage band member Mike Keyport, serves on the race’s board of directors. Mushers from across North America compete in the race, which this year offers a $35,000 purse. However, the mushers aren’t in the race for the money, because even the $6,125 first-place prize would barely cover the dog food bills for the average racing kennel. “The mushers are rich in experience and broke on paper,” says race director Jason Rice. “They do it because they love it.” The race, which follows groomed snowmobile trails, begins on Sunday when there is less snowmobile traffic, although local snowmobile clubs that maintain the trails and the mushing community have a good relationship. The race route follows the high, snowy ridges above Lake Superior, with checkpoints at Finland, the Sawbill Trail, Trail Center on the Gunflint Trail and Grand Portage Lodge. The winner usually crosses the fin26

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ish line at Billy’s Bar in Duluth on Wednesday. For spectators, the best way to see the race is to attend the Sunday start, which will be held in a gravel pit along County Hwy 2, nine miles north of Two Harbors, or to wait for the teams to pass through the various checkpoints. Super fans even follow the marathon from checkpoint to checkpoint. You can log into beargrease.com and use the GPS tracking for each racer to predict when they will pass through the next checkpoint. The marathon isn’t the only race. The Mid-Distance Race is a 150-mile race that also offers a purse. Then there are Recreation and Junior races, and a Cub Run for kids. The races allow folks with smaller kennels or teams to try racing and hopefully fosters coming generations of mushers. “Mushing is very much alive,” Rice says, “but now the trend is for smaller teams and more family involvement.” Dog-lovers will find other activities associated with the race to enjoy. One is the Cutest Puppy Contest held at Fitgers in Duluth on Saturday, Jan. 21. Another is the Beargrease Photo Exhibit which opens Sunday, Jan. 22 at the Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth. The magic of the Beargrease wouldn’t occur without the support of its sponsors, beginning with the Grand Portage Chippewa Band and the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino. John Beargrease was a member of the Grand Portage Band. “Grand Portage helps out in numerous ways throughout the year,” Rice said. Other primary sponsors include Duluth Trading Company, KQDS Radio, I Fan Sports Network, Vanilla Bean and the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board.

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Cutest Puppy Contest

Saturday, January 21 Puppies 4 - 9 months Proof of vaccinations are required. Fitgers in Duluth MN. 11:30 - Registration 12:00 - 2:00 - Voting 2:00 - Awards announced

Photo Exhibit Grand Opening

Sunday, January 22nd

Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth MN.

Vet Checks

Saturday, January 28 Beaver Bay MN 8:00 am - 1:00 pm

Opening Ceremonies

Saturday, January 28 American Legion, Two Harbors MN. 5:30 pm More information coming soon.

Meet The Mushers

Sunday, January 29 9:00 am. Join us at the start staging area of the race to see the dogs and their mushers prepare for the race. Please - no pets! Service pets welcome.

Race Start

Sunday, January 29 11:00 am

Mid Distance Awards Banquet Monday, January 30 Location: Trail Center Time: 3:00 p.m.

Marathon Awards Banquet Thursday, February 2 Location: American Legion, Two Harbors MN 11:00 am. Other information coming soon


The annual Gunflint Mail Run will take place Jan. 7-8 and begin at the Trail Center Lodge. | NACE HAGEMANN

Robert Burns Dinner Returns To Cook County January 21, Saturday

The traditional birthday celebration of Scottish poet Robert Burns is returning to Cook County on Saturday, January 21 at Cascade Restaurant in Lutsen. The event will feature a tartan weaving demonstration during happy hour, piping in of the haggis, a full course dinner, various toasts, poetry readings and singing. Tamara Carruthers from Thunder Bay will be the piper. After dinner, Zach and Nissa Morgan will recite the various toasts and some of Burn’s poems. There will be a sing-a-long of some of Burn’s well known folk tunes for the conclusion of the program. Robert Burns was born January 25, 1759 and died July 21, 1796. In his short lifetime he became Scotland’s national hero. He is considered a writer of the people and used every-day Scottish language in his poetry and songs. He is renowned for his narrative poetry, such as “Tam O’Shanter” and many familiar folk songs such as “Auld Lang Syne,” “A Red, Red Rose,” and “Flow Gently Sweet Afton.”

Happy hour will be from 6-7 p.m. with a cash bar available and dinner will begin at 7 p.m. The cost of the dinner is $35 per person, which includes a full course meal of cock-a-leekie soup, roast beef, neeps and taddies (mashed potatoes and rutabagas), salad, soda bread, dessert, a soft beverage and a wee dram of whisky for toasting the haggis. Dinner reservations can be made with Jeff Morgan, 1703 E. Hwy 61, Grand Marais, MN, 55604. Reservations must be paid by checks only. Checks may be made to Jeff Morgan. Deadline for reservations is January 11. After January 11, there will be an extra $5 charge for the dinner. You don’t have to be Scottish to attend; all are welcome. However, wear your tartan if you have it. For more info, call (218) 387-1221 or email creative@boreal.org.

Scottish poet and writer Robert Burns will be honored with a dinner at Cascade Restaurant in Lutsen. | SUBMITTED NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

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Register now for:

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

New Home Construction Workshop

For building professionals Business and homeowners DLI CU credits available

February 9, 2017

Grab-n-Go Cooler Dine-in Seating Organic Produce Bulk Foods Humanely Raised Meat & Dairy

Details at www.cookcountylocalenergy.org Email localenergy@boreal.org to request a registration form or call the Community Center at 218-387-3015 Receive early bird rates until January 20. This workshop is made possible in part by donations from:

cookcounty.coop | 218.387.2503 Canadian Cash & Debit Accepted

FOR ALL YOUR GROCERY NEEDS

Partners: Cook County Local Energy Project (CCLEP) University of Minnesota Extension Cook County

Follow Us!

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

Black Market Brass will be performing on Friday, Jan. 6 at the Lake Effect Festival in Lutsen. | SUBMITTED

LAKE EFFECT MUSIC & SKI FESTIVAL Jan. 6-7 A decade-long tradition, the Lake Effect Music and Ski Festival at Lutsen Mountains will feature six bands over two days. Headliners include Frogleg and Black Market Brass on Friday, and Sonny Knight and the Lakers and The People Brothers Band on Saturday. Admission is $13 in advance or $16 at the door per night, or $22 in advance for both nights. Must be 21 or older. There will also be free Apres Ski music starting at 3:15 p.m. on Saturday. Music will be held at Papa Charlie’s. lutsen.com

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208 East Hwy 61 • Grand Marais, MN 55604 218-387-2500 • 800-247-6020 • www.GMHotel.net JANUARY 2017

Jan. 7-8 The Gunflint Mail Run Sled Dog Race is a continuous race consisting of two legs of equal distance, separated by a mandatory layover for the 12-dog teams. There are two classes: a 12-dog, 110-mile race and an 8-dog, 70-mile race. Races will start at 8 a.m. on Saturday at the Trail Center Lodge, and an awards ceremony breakfast will be held at the lodge at 10 a.m. on Sunday. Spectators can find great viewing spots at Big Bear Lodge, Rockwood Lodge or Trail Center Lodge. gunflintmail.com

BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL

Stay 2 nights, Get the 3rd night

28

GUNFLINT MAIL RUN

NORTHERN  WILDS

NORPINE FAT BIKE CLASSIC Jan. 7, Saturday Cycling fanatics will brave the cold and snow at the inaugural Norpine Fat Bike Classic in Lutsen. The 24mile long-course and 16-mile short-course will take place on cross-country ski trails, requiring riders to be on 3.7-inch or wider tires. Top finisher awards will be given to the top three overall male and female athletes in four age groups. The Norpine is part of the 45NRTH Great Lakes Fat Bike Series, which showcases the best fat bike races in the Great Lakes Region. norpinefatbikeclassic.com

Jan. 7-8 & Jan. 29 The Banff Mountain Film Festival is a compilation of high-energy outdoor films and documentaries with environmental messages. The film competition is held in Banff, Alberta every fall, followed by a world tour featuring the winning films. This year, the festival will be at the Duluth DECC Jan. 7-8, hosted by the Duluth Cross Country Ski Club. The festival will also be at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium on Sunday, Jan. 29. The event will begin at 7 p.m. at both locations. banfcentre.ca

JEFF DUNHAM Jan. 11, Wednesday International comedy sensation comic and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham will be bringing his Perfectly Unbalanced tour to the Amsoil Arena in Duluth for one night of non-stop hilarity. The show will include new surprises, as well as old favorites Walter, Achmend, Peanut and Bubba J. Tickets can be purchased at the DECC ticket office or online at ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. decc.org.


UNDER THE MOON, ICE & SNOW Jan. 14, Saturday Deep winter often brings up images of cozy blankets and hibernation, but lots of things are happening under that snow and ice. Head to Sugarloaf Cove in Schroeder for an evening campfire and lantern led walk. Learn about the comings and goings of nature during the deep winter and enjoy the moon rise over Lake Superior. Event will be held from 5-8 p.m. and is free for all ages. sugarloafnorthshore.org

GRAND MARAIS OLE OPRY BLUE RODEO Jan. 11, Wednesday With the recent release of their 14th studio album, titled 1000 Arms, the country rock group Blue Rodeo will be on tour in 23 cities, including Thunder Bay on Jan. 11. Songs off their new album include “Superstar,” “The Flame,” “1000 Arms,” and “Mascara Tears.” Tickets are currently on sale and every ticket includes a digital copy of 1000 Arms. The concert will be held at 8 p.m. at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium. tbca.com

Jan. 14, Saturday The North Shore Music Association presents the fourth annual Grand Marais Ole Opry, a classic country and old-time music showcase featuring local and regional musicians. Emceed by WTIP’s “Classic Country” host Carl Solander, this year’s lineup features two Twin Cities groups, The Saddle Sores and Cherry Dirt, and 4 Mile Portage, Gordon Thorne and Rose and Jay Arrowsmith DeCoux. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for youth under 18. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance. arrowheadcenterforthearts.tix.com.

Where can I find Northern Wilds on the North Shore? • Scenic Cafe • Super One Two Harbors • Blackwoods Grill • Betty’s Pies • Finland Co-op • Four Seasons • Gooseberry State Park • Camp 61 • Bri Esa’s Convenience Store • Our Place • Coho Cafe • Lutsen Resort • Lockport Store • Cascade Restaurant • Cook County Co-op

Comedian and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham will perform on Jan. 11 in Duluth with Achmend and other memorable characters. | RICHARD MCLAREN

COOK COUNTY RIDGE RIDERS

8 ANNUAL SNOWMOBILE TH

FUN RUN

Loggin’ Food at its Finest

February 4, 2017

The club’s largest fundraiser for scholarships and trails

Registration – 9 a.m.

At the Club House on Devil Track Lake $20 entry fee for ride only. Entrants can ride or drive a vehicle. Collect your cards at the sponsored locations to enter to win: Raven Rock Grill (formerly the Landing), Gunflint Pines,Windigo, Trail Center, Hungry Jack, and the Club House on Devil Track.

[ • Stone Harbor • Grand Marais IGA • Grand Portage Trading Post • Ryden’s 66 • Ryden’s Border Store • Grand Portage State Park and many more!

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

Lakeside Dining [ Full Bar [ Open 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

December 26 — End of March

Lakeside Cabins Snowmobile Rental 24 Hour Gas

Finish – 5:30 p.m.

All cards must be back to the Club House on Devil Track Lake.

[

Cash Prizes: $500 High Hand or $200 Low Hand Join in the Festivities! Beginning at 6:00 p.m.

DJ • Raffles • Food • Prizes

All are welcome to attend the party at no charge. Everyonee Welcom

Check FaceBook for more info and updates

Sponsored by

www.cookcountysnowmobileclub.com NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

29


The Derelicte 9 fashion show in Thunder Bay will feature 34 acts. | CHAD KIRVAN

BOULDER NIGHT SKI & SNOWSHOE NORTHLAND 300 Jan. 18-22 The Northland 300 is a 300mile, 3-day charity snowmobile ride, made up of volunteer participants who raise funds to support Special Olympics Minnesota. The ride will begin in Ely and includes a banquet and prize drawings. The Northland 300 is never cancelled and 100 percent of all funds raised goes directly to the Special Olympics Minnesota. Registration is required to participate. northland300.org

Jan. 28, Saturday Break out your Hawaiian shirt and enjoy a tiki-lit snowshoeing or skiing adventure at Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center in Duluth. Later, gather for hot beverages and snacks around the fire. The event will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. Cost is $10 before Jan. 21 or $15 the day of. Must bring your own ski or snowshoe gear and headlamp. d.umn.edu/boulder

BEAUTY & THE BEAST Jan. 26-29 & Feb. 2-5 The Grand Marais Playhouse will be performing Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, starring Amelia Roth as Belle and Aliya Marxen as the Beast. The show will held over two weekends and begin at 7 p.m. (2 p.m. on Sundays) at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts in Grand Marais. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for youth under 18. grandmaraisplayhouse.com

FROSTIVAL FESTIVAL Jan. 27-28 Winter should be enjoyed, not tolerated, so head to Fargo, North Dakota, for the Frostival Festival, featuring everything from cardboard sled races, snow fort making, a chili feed, geocaching, skating, snowshoe races, and a sled parade. There’s also a Winter Bird Festival, the Frozen Fantasy Family Dance, snow and ice sculpture making, and numerous races and tournaments; not to mention food, drinks and music. Most Frostival events are free and open to all ages. frostival.com

THUNDER BAY CREDIT UNIONS

30

JANUARY 2017

NORTHERN  WILDS

DERELICTE 9: FASHION ODYSSEY Jan. 28, Saturday Wearable art, fashion, dance, music and performance collide with runway models and contemporary design elements to create a Fashion Odyssey on the catwalk. This year’s show will feature 34 acts, 15 wearable art pieces, live music, a raffle, costume prizes, food,


nine local fashion houses and over 100 artists and models. The show will begin at 8 p.m. at the Black Pirates Pub in Thunder Bay. There is a cover charge of $15 and you must be over 19 years of age to attend. definitelysuperior.com

JOHN BEARGREASE SLED DOG MARATHON Jan. 29-Feb. 2 A qualifier for the famed Iditarod in Alaska, this is the longest dog sled race in the Lower 48. Over a dozen mushers will compete in the nearly 400 mile long full distance marathon, and over two dozen in the mid-distance race. The races will start just outside of Two Harbors at 11 a.m. and all checkpoints and road crossings are easily accessible to the public, providing many opportunities to see your favorite team. Other Beargrease events include the Cutest Puppy Contest at Fitgers on Jan. 21, a photo exhibit at the Great Lakes Aquarium on Jan. 22, and the opening ceremonies at the Two Harbors American Legion on Jan. 28. beargrease.com

SKI PARTY

RIDGE RIDERS FUN RUN Feb. 4, Saturday The 8th annual Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club Fun Run on the Gunflint Trail is open to anyone and everyone; join by snowmobile, car and even plane. Collect cards from participating locations, while enjoying a ride on the scenic trails. Be sure to take advantage of the food and drink specials along the way. Upon completion, you’ll return to the Club House on Devil’s Track for a big reveal. There will also be cash prizes, numerous giveaways and raffles. cookcountysnowmobileclub.com

The Frostival Festival in Fargo features everything from geocaching to cardboard sledding. | SUBMITTED

BEER &

WINE

Feb. 3-4 Lutsen Mountains will hold the second annual Ski Party—a weekend of ski, snowboard, and music, curated by the folks at GNDWIRE Records. This two day party includes live music by Dead Man Winter, Frankie Lee and The Pines on Friday, and Sims, Gramma’s Boyfriend and Night Moves on Saturday. Music will be held at Papa Charlie’s. Admission is $15 in advance or $28 for both days, and $18 at the door. Must be 21 or older to attend. lutsen.com

The Beargrease races will start just outside of Two Harbors. | SUBMITTED

Sun-Thurs: 11am - 8pm Fri & Sat: 11am - 9pm 218-387-1915 401 E. HWY 61, GRAND MARAIS, MN Valid November 1, 2016 - May 31, 2017

$3 OFF

$3 OFF

Take Out or Dine In Expires 1-31-17

Take Out or Dine In Expires 1-31-17

Any Large PIZZA Any Large PIZZA NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

31


JANUARY Northern Wilds Calendar of Events Nov. 25-Jan. 8

Jan. 6-7

Jan. 13-22

Jan. 20, Friday

Jan. 25, Wednesday

A Glensheen Christmas Glensheen Mansion, Duluth, glensheen.org

Lake Effect Music & Ski Festival

Fantastic Mr. Fox Duluth Playhouse, duluthplayhouse.org/childrens-theatre

Timmy Haus Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen,

Jan. 14, Saturday

Jan. 20-22

SHTA Guided Hike: Brewer Park Loop 10 a.m. Haines Road Parking Lot, Duluth, shta.org Duluth Wedding Show 10 a.m. Duluth DECC, decc.org Under the Moon, Ice & Snow 5 p.m. Sugarloaf Cove, Schroeder, sugarloafnorthshore.org Malanka! New Year’s Eve Ukrainian Style 6 p.m. Royal Canadian Legion Slovak Branch 129, Thunder Bay, (807) 577-2100 Michael Monroe Log Cabin Concert 7 p.m. Grand Marais, michaelmonroemusic.com Grand Marais Ole Opry 7:30 p.m. Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, northshoremusicassociation.com

Provincial Firefighters Championships Port Arthur Curling Club, Thunder Bay

Greater Downtown Council Annual Dinner Duluth DECC, downtownduluth.com TBSO Classical featuring Principal Flutist Penelope Clarke 8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Jan. 21, Saturday

Jan. 26, Thursday

Dec. 30-31 Michael Monroe Log Cabin

Jan. 7, Saturday

Concert 7 p.m. Grand Marais, michaelmonroemusic.com

Norpine Fat Bike Classic Lutsen, norpinefatbikeclassic.com

Dec. 31, Saturday

Jan. 7-8

New Year’s Eve Dinner Extravaganza 5 p.m. 4 Seasons Supper Club, Finland (218) 353-7371 New Year’s Eve Celebration: A Red Carpet Affair 6 p.m. Landing 61, Two Harbors DSSO: Remember When Rock Was Young 7 p.m. Duluth DECC, dsso.com New Year’s Eve Celebration 7 p.m. Loch Lomond Ski Area, Thunder Bay, lochlomond.ca New Year’s Eve Festival 8 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com New Year’s Eve Party with Northwoods Band & Rock-a-Billy Revue 8:30 p.m. Clearwater Grille & Event Center, Duluth, clearwatereventcenter.com New Year’s Eve Party with Spruce Roots 9:30 p.m. Bluefin Grille, Tofte, bluefinbay.com

Jan. 1, Sunday Ski & Tube Night Fundraiser 7 p.m. Loch Lomond Ski Area, Thunder Bay, lochlomond.ca

Jan. 2, Monday Artist Talk: John Books 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Art Gallery, theag.ca

Jan. 3, Tuesday Open Mic Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Jan. 5, Thursday Cecilia Ramon: Intro to Biomimicry & Sustainable Design 5:30 p.m. Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org Fresh Air Series #2 7 p.m. Lappe Nordic Centre, Thunder Bay, lappenordic.ca DJ Beavstar Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

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JANUARY 2017

9:30 p.m. Lutsen Mountains, lutsen.com Black Revue 8 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

2 Person Champagne Bonspiel Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais, cookcountycurlingclub.com Gunflint Mail Run 8 a.m. Trail Center Lodge, Gunflint Trail, gunflintmail.com Banff Mountain Film Festival 7 p.m. Duluth DECC, duluthxc.com

Jan. 8, Sunday New Year Open House Noon, Bodymind Centre, Thunder Bay, bodymindcentre.com Timmy Haus 7:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Jan. 9, Monday Blood Drive 2 p.m. Tower Civic Center, Tower, mbc.org

Jan. 10, Tuesday Sugarbush Annual Meeting 5:30 p.m. Lutsen Resort, Lutsen, sugarbushtrail.org Open Mic Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Jan. 11, Wednesday 4North Artist Talk 5 p.m. Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org Jeff Dunham: Perfectly Unbalanced 7:30 p.m. AMSOIL Arena, Duluth, decc.org Blue Rodeo: 1000 Arms Tour 8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Jan. 12, Thursday DJ Beavstar Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Jan. 13-14 Timmy Haus Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

NORTHERN  WILDS

Jan. 16, Monday Martin Luther King Day MLK Community Breakfast & March Duluth, mlk-duluth.org

Jan. 17, Tuesday Chad Brownlee 8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Jan. 18, Wednesday Blood Drive 11 a.m. Silver Bay High School, mbc.org Community Conversations: Largescale Functional Installations with Melissa Wickwire Noon, Grand Marais Art Colony, grandmaraisartcolony.org

Jan. 18-22 Northland 300 Snowmobile Run Ely, northland300.org

Jan. 19, Thursday Fresh Air Series #3 7 p.m. Lappe Nordic Centre, Thunder Bay, lappenordic.ca TBSO: Jessica Linnebach performs Mozart 8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Jan. 19-22 Robins Minor Hockey Tournament Thunder Bay, robinstournament.ca

lutsen.com

Empty Bowl Throw-a-Thon 10 a.m. Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org Cutest Puppy Contest Noon, Fitgers, Duluth, beargrease.com The History & Nature of Installation & Conceptual Art 2 p.m. Grand Marais Art Colony, grandmaraisartcolony.org Family Night 5:30 p.m. Summit Chalet, Lutsen Mountains, lutsen.com Robert Burns Dinner 6 p.m. Cascade Restaurant, Lutsen, creative@boreal.org Dessa with Fraea 9:30 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com DSSO: Russian Tales 7 p.m. Duluth DECC, dsso.com Cook County’s Most Wanted 9 p.m. Grandma Ray’s, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

Jan. 21-April 30 The 100 Day Project Grand Marais Art Colony, grandmaraisartcolony.org

DAI Member Exhibition Opening Reception 5 p.m. Duluth Depot, duluthartinstitute.org Dead Pigeons 7:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Jan. 26-29 Northland Figure Skating Competition Duluth DECC, decc.org Elks Central Canada Tournament Thunder Bay, elkshockey.pointstreaksites.com Beauty & the Beast 7 p.m. (2 p.m. Sun.) Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, grandmaraisplayhouse.com

Jan. 27, Friday Timmy Haus Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Jan. 27-28 Frostival Fargo/Moorhead, frostival.com

Jan. 22, Sunday

Jan. 27-29

Beargrease Photo Exhibit Great Lakes Aquarium, Duluth, beargrease.com Jim & Michele Miller 7:30 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Jan. 28, Saturday

Jan. 22-27 Winter Plein Air Menogyn Lodge, Gunflint Trail

Jan. 23, Monday Blood Drive 10:30 a.m. Two Harbors Lake View Clinic, mbc.org

Jan. 24, Tuesday Gunflint & Lake Superior: Ontario’s Private American Railroad 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Museum, thunderbaymuseum.com

Tour de Kamview Races Kamview Nordic Centre, Thunder Bay tbnordictrails.com Snowmobile Fun Run Fortune Bay, Tower, ely.org Kirsten Aune Studio Demonstration 10 a.m. Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org Auditions for Cabaret and Billy Elliot: The Musical 10 a.m. The Playhouse Conservatory, Duluth, duluthplayhouse.org John Beargrease Opening Ceremonies 5:30 p.m. American Legion, Two Harbors, beargrease.com Boulder Night Ski & Snowshoe 6 p.m. Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center, Duluth, d.umn.edu/boulder Yuk Yuk’s Comedy 8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com


Derelicte 9: A Fashion Odyssey 8 p.m. Black Pirates Pub, Thunder Bay, definitelysuperior.com Splintertones Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Jan. 28-29 Gun & Knife Show 9 a.m. Duluth DECC, decc.org

Mondays

DJ Trivia 7 p.m. Kamloops,

Live Music 3 p.m. North Shore

Nature Nook 10 a.m. Hartley Nature Center, Duluth, hartleynature.org

Acoustics by the Fireplace 8 p.m.

Live Music 4 p.m. Voyageur

Fridays

Live Music 7 p.m. Cascade Lodge

Open Mic 6 p.m. Grandma Ray’s,

Jan. 29, Sunday

Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

Meet the Mushers 9 a.m. Two Harbors, beargrease.com Auditions for The Stinky Cheese Man & Other Fairly Stupid Tales and Time Stands Still 2 p.m. The Playhouse Conservatory, Duluth, duluthplayhouse.org TBSO: Back to the Future 3:30 p.m. Grassroots Church, Thunder Bay, tbso.ca Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour 7 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Bluefin Grille, Tofte, bluefinbay.com

Jan. 29-Feb. 2 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon 11 a.m. Two Harbors, beargrease.com

Jan. 30, Monday

Acoustics by the Fireplace 8 p.m. Songwriter Series 8 p.m.

Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Tuesdays Empty Bowl Open Studio 10 a.m. Duluth Art Institute, duluthartinstitute.org

Live Music 6 p.m. Poplar River

Bluefin Grille, Tofte, bluefinbay.com

Live Music 4 p.m. Voyageur

Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us Brewing, Grand Marais, voyageurbrewing.com

& Pub, Lutsen, cascademn.com

Brewing, Grand Marais, voyageurbrewing.com

Music in the Lobby 7 p.m.

Live Music 4 p.m. Moguls at

Live Music 9:30 p.m.

Caribou Highlands, Lutsen, caribouhighlands.com

Friday Night Reels 6 p.m. Grand Marais Public Library, grandmaraislibrary.org

Lutsen Resort, lutsenresort.com

January 14, 7:30 PM

Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Sundays Live Music 10 a.m. Moguls at Caribou Highlands, Lutsen, caribouhighlands.com

Pub, Lutsen Resort, lutsenresort.com

Live Music 8 p.m. Kamloops,

Wednesdays

Acoustics by the Fireplace 8 p.m. Bluefin Grille, Tofte, bluefinbay.com

Winter Fundays 2 p.m. Prince Arthurs Landing, Thunder Bay, thunderbay.ca

Live Music Red Lion Smokehouse,

Classical Music & Dinner 6 p.m.

Open Mic 5 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Community Soup Suppers 5:30 p.m. Zoar Church, Tofte, zoarlc@boreal.org

John Beargrease Mid-distance Awards 3 p.m. Trail Center, Gunflint Trail, beargrease.com

Raise a Pint Nights Voyageur Brewing, Grand Marais, voyageurbrewing.com

Jan. 30-Feb. 1

Songwriter Series 8 p.m.

Arrowhead 135 Marathon Arrowhead Trail, International Falls to Tower, arrowheadultra.com

Thursdays

Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Live Music 4 p.m. Moguls

Jan. 30-Feb. 11

at Caribou Highlands, Lutsen, caribouhighlands.com

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

Live Music 6 p.m.

Jan. 31, Tuesday

Two Harbors, superiorshores.com

Poplar River Pub, Lutsen Resort, lutsenresort.com

Two Harbors, superiorshores.com

Thunder Bay, redlionsmokehouse.ca

Saturdays Country Market 8 a.m. Canadian Lakehead Exhibition, Thunder Bay, thunderbaycountrymarket.com Tour the North House Campus 2 p.m. North House Folk School, Grand Marais, northhouse.org

featuring

Bluefin Grille, Tofte, bluefinbay.com

The Saddle Sores, Cherry Dirt, 4 Mile Portage, Gordon Thorne, Rose & Jay Arrowsmith DeCoux performing classic country and old-time music

Arrowhead Center for the Arts

51 W. 5th St. Grand Marais $20 adults, $5 youth at door or tix.com (no fees) www.northshoremusicassociation.com

Marianas Trench with Shawn Hook 7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Feb. 2, Thursday John Beargrease Marathon Awards 11 a.m. American Legion, Two Harbors, beargrease.com

Feb. 2-5 Beauty & the Beast 7 p.m. (2 p.m. Sun.) Arrowhead Center for the Arts, Grand Marais, grandmaraisplayhouse.com

Feb. 2-12 Ely Winter Festival Ely, winterfestival.com

Feb. 2-18 Green Day’s American Idiot

7:30 p.m. The Underground, Duluth, duluthplayhouse.org

Feb. 3-4 GNDWIRE Records Ski Party Lutsen Mountains, lutsen.com

Feb. 4, Saturday Ridge Riders Snowmobile Fun Run Gunflint Trail, cookcountysnowmobileclub.com

NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

33


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NORTHERN  WILDS


The North Shore Dish New Coffee Spots to Try this Winter By Maren Webb

For many of us, coffee is the fuel that powers our days. Coffee shops offer not only a way to satisfy that caffeine fix, they also offer an experience, from a social interaction to a quiet escape. The Northern Wilds area is fortunate to have many locally owned coffee shops, including several that have opened this past year in Two Harbors, Lutsen and Thunder Bay. All are serving up coffee, each with their own special touches. Cedar Coffee Company is aptly named as it is nestled in a grove of cedars in Two Harbors, attached to the Spokengear bike shop. Opened by Dan and Kirsten Cruikshank in May 2016, (Dan being one of the founders of Granite Gear), this business has local roots beyond the cedars. “We wanted to create a special place for our friends and the community to enjoy,” said owners Dan and Kirsten. They have accomplished this goal with a beautiful café that serves quality espresso drinks and a healthy, interesting café menu. Open for breakfast and lunch, Cedar Coffee Company has a full menu of espresso and tea drinks and hot and cold entree items. For breakfast, be sure to check out their breakfast burrito and their two hash options (potato Brussels sprouts hash and apple chicken hash). At lunch, the café serves a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, soups and salads, as well as a new Korean rice bowl. Baked goods are available, including croissants with jam and raspberry lavender scones. As Cedar Coffee makes their own syrups, their espresso drinks are a special treat, as is their chai latte made with their own tea blend. Being a locally owned small business, Cedar Coffee Company also supports other local businesses with the products they buy and sell. Their coffee beans are sourced from Duluth Coffee Company, roasted in Duluth by Eric Faust. They also sell local products like Love Creamery Ice Cream, Never Summer Sugar Bush Syrup, Jams by Jan, honey from Bar Bell Bee Ranch, and Castle Danger Beer. Locally Laid Eggs are used for their menu items. After you enjoy your coffee in the beautiful café, pop on over to the attached bike

Enjoy a mocha and croissant at Fika Coffee in Lutsen [ABOVE] or warm up with a cup of soup and coffee from Up Shot Coffeehouse in Thunder Bay [BELOW]. | SUBMITTED Cedar Coffee Company is located at 1130 11th Street, Two Harbors, just north of Shopko and Super

shop, Spokengear, to browse a wide range of gear, or get a repair done on your bike. They also have some great products for sale in between the two shops, including Hydroflask bottles (a personal favorite), locally produced Epicurean cutting boards, and coffee brewing equipment for the home coffee brewer.

new café. Fika Coffee opened its doors last June after years in the wholesale coffee business. Fika, a Swedish word meaning coffee break, is at the heart of Fika Coffee. Owner Josh Lindstrom aims to create the opportunity for “a moment of quiet indulgence in an otherwise hectic day, a time to gather with good friends for great conversation, a sweet treat and a hot cup of coffee.” At Fika Coffee, their menu is simple and straightforward. The ingredients, especially the coffee, are the stars. A popular item to try is the maple latte, made with whole milk (unless requested otherwise) as it allows for a nice blend with the sweetness of the maple. Fika also uses straight chocolate—Ritual Chocolate, which is bean to bar—in their mochas and hot chocolates, creating a very creamy, rich drink. Elvin’s Bakery from Grand Marais provides Fika with fresh baked goods each day and they also serve Love Creamery Ice Cream from Duluth.

One. For more information and to view their menu, visit cedarcoffeecompany.com. In Lutsen, a well-loved local coffee business has put down physical roots with a

“I would like to see Fika become people’s first and last cup of coffee when they come to visit Cook County,” said Lindstrom. When you stop in the shop, be sure to pick up some whole bean coffee for excellent brewing at home. Fika Coffee beans are sourced through several importers, in-

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Cedar Coffee Company in Two Harbors has a full menu of espresso and tea drinks, as well as hot and cold entrée items. | SUBMITTED

Fika Coffee is located in the Clearview Building on Highway 61 in Lutsen. For business hours and more information, visit: facebook.com/fikacoffeeroasters. North of the border, a new coffee shop has opened in Thunder Bay: Up Shot Coffeehouse. Located in downtown Fort William on Thunder Bay’s south side, owners Crystal Co and Aundrea Rajamaki transformed an empty, dusty space into a family-friendly, welcoming coffee shop to live out their long-time dream. Up Shot opened last October and has been welcoming customers from near and far. Featuring locally roasted coffee by Wolfhead Coffee, Up Shot also has a well-rounded menu, including homemade soups, salads and sandwiches. The TAB sandwich is one of their most popular items, with turkey, avocado, bacon, alfafa sprouts, Havarti cheese, and a sriracha mayonnaise. Baked goods are from Rustic Sugar Bakery, including favorites like lemon raspberry scones and banana nut bread. For drinks, their Up

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Shot Blend coffee is a customer favorite, as is their rotating feature latte, which is a non-menu drink available each week for customers to try. Apple cider is also available from local Mountain Stream Orchard, which grows, harvests and processes the apples. While all are welcome at Up Shot, owners Co and Rajamaki have made a special effort to make families feel extra welcomed. They have added a baby room for parents with a rocking chair and a changing table outfitted with supplies. As a new mom, I greatly appreciate when businesses make it easier for families with young ones to frequent their establishments. Up Shot Coffeehouse is located at 111 ½ May Street South in Thunder Bay. For more information including their daily soups list, visit: facebook.com/ upshotcoffeehouse. This winter, enjoy a hot cup of coffee at one of these stellar new coffee shops and you might find a new favorite brew.

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The Powerful Potato Controversial, life-changing and versatile— the potato has truly shaped our world. By Kim Falter How exactly did that lovely baked potato sitting on your plate go from a staple of the Andean diet to a world power? Well, the potato has a lot going for it. First, it resides underground. Since it is not dependent on a stalk for production—above ground and exposed—it is quite prolific and can grow in size. Second, you don’t need to dig it up and store it unlike corn and other grains. In the past, potato crops were left in the ground and harvested when needed (as long as the ground temperature remained above 27 degrees F.). This ground storage proved quite lifesaving from anyone planning to steal your food, as it was much more difficult to dig up and steal a crop of potatoes, as opposed to the grains that had to be harvested and stored for the winter. Lastly, potatoes are a nutritious, prolific food source. Yields can be quite large with the potato and the crop is relatively easy to grow when compared to others. Before potatoes were introduced to Europe, the world looked much different than it does now. Famine was common. Charles C. Mann, author of How the Potato Changed the World from Smithsonian Magazine said, “Before the potato (and corn), before intensive fertilization, European living standards were roughly equivalent to those in Cameroon and Bangladesh today. On average, European peasants ate less per day than hunting-and-gathering societies in Africa or the Amazon.” Simply said, Europeans could not feed their populations and witnessed multiple famines until the arrival of the large, nutrient affluent potato. Finally, Europe could be fed. The potato originated in the Peruvian Andes of South America, with archeological records dating back to 2500 B.C. It is believed that this power to feed large numbers of people with relative ease gave rise to the Incan empire. Replete with gold and silver, it was quite the thriving society until the Spanish arrived. The Spanish took what they could, left the South Americans dying of unknown illnesses, and brought the potato (and gold and silver) back to Europe with them. It took a while for this strange vegetable to catch on. Many were resistant of the fact that it did not have to be grown from a seed. Some claimed it was an aphrodisiac (not a positive attribute back then). Others said it was the cause of leprosy. Eventually, it won over the poor as they were finally able to feed their families and pull themselves out of poverty. This led to the growing power of Europe. With people fed, these societies were able to thrive. The one drawback to this magnanimous crop was the lack of diversity. In the Andes, the diversity of potatoes, even to this day, is so extensive (over 5,000 different species) that some varieties remain unidentified. This diversity has protected their crops from mass failure. A crop killer may move in, but it will not affect every plant the same way; diversity ensures that some varieties will survive. Potatoes are grown from cutting of the “eyes,” or sprout, from the potato itself; they are essentially clones. Only a few varieties were brought to Europe from Peru, which led to a monoculture: only one predominant variety of potato was grown. So when the mold Phytophthora infestans, otherwise known as the “vexing plant destroyer,” found its way to Europe, it essentially wiped out the vast

majority of potato crops in Europe. No one was hit harder than Ireland, causing the Potato Famine, leaving millions dead and millions immigrated. To this day, it is still one of the worst famines in history; leaving Ireland the only country less populated today than it was in 1845. The potato thrives in cooler climates, which is great news for us gardeners on the North Shore. The days of the monoculture are behind us, and therefore multiple varieties are available. Potatoes can be started from seed, but cutting out the sprouting parts of an existing tuber is the easiest way to begin your potato patch. This prolific crop can be planted as soon as you can work the soil in spring. It is important to plant these sprouting potatoes four to five inches deep, and to remember to continue to cover the emerging potatoes with compost, soil or straw as the plant grows throughout the summer. Nutritionally, potatoes have received a bad rap. This has really done this nutritious root vegetable a disservice. It is high in carbohydrates, but at around 100-150 calories. It also provides some protein, as well as a wealth of nutrients such as vitamin B and C, potassium, magnesium, iron and zinc. It can be used in a variety of dishes, and it has been used medicinally to calm the intestines and reduce inflammation.

Warm Potato Salad with Bacon-Mustard Dressing 2 pounds potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped 1 medium onion, cut in 1/2-inch slices 2 medium apples, peeled and sliced 3 slices of bacon 1/4 cup cider vinegar 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard Salt and Pepper, to taste Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Coat a roasting pan with butter or oil. Toss potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, salt and pepper. Place on roasting pan in a single layer and roast for 10 minutes. Scatter onions on top of potatoes and roast another 10-15 minutes. Stir in apple slices and roast another five minutes more. While roasting, cook bacon in a skillet until crisp. Drain on paper towel and crumble. Whisk vinegar and mustard together with a little salt and pepper into bacon drippings in the skillet, off heat, scraping up all brown bits. Drizzle apples and vegetables with dressing, top with crumbled bacon. Serve hot or at room temperature. Serves 10.

Carmody Irish Pub & Brewing

Hop Pickin’ By Eric Weicht Cruising down East Superior Street in downtown Duluth, I nearly missed the green and gold signage and bright neon lights illuminating the outer brick wall of Carmody Irish Pub & Brewing. It was a wintry Sunday night and I was in need of a fun place to unwind for a bit before taking on that seemingly endless stretch of highway south to the Twin Cities. So I stopped by Carmody’s. With four core beers and a couple of seasonals offered by the brewery, there were plenty of Carmody beers to choose from— an impressive accomplishment given the humble size of their three-and-a-half barrel system. I was in a hoppy kind of mood, so I went with the Hop Pickin’ seasonal. An IPA that’s brewed like an amber, made with five different kinds of malt, and seasoned with hops grown by “a local friend of the brewer,” Hop Pickin’ is a hop-forward IPA with a twist. The large grain-bill adds a complexity to beer that balances well with the bitterness of the hops, and if it hadn’t been for the long drive ahead of me I would have undoubtedly stayed for a few. Outside of the four mainstays you never really know what you’re going to find when you check out the chalkboard behind the bar. So next time you’re passing by, stop in and see what’s on tap.

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Put the ‘D’ in Your Diet By Amy Schmidt

Greek Salad with Sardines

According to Mayo Clinic, spending 10 minutes per day in mid-day sun goes a long way toward providing our bodies with the proper amount of vitamin D. But what about those cold, low-light winter days that northern Minnesota is known for? During winter, the earth’s position in orbit means we don’t get the intense sun we enjoy in the summer months. It also means the UV level is lower, which, among other things, results in less vitamin D absorption when we spend time outdoors. The recommended daily amount of vitamin D is 200-400 IU/day for infants up to age one, 600 IU/day for everyone age one to 70, and 800 IU/day for adults 71 and older. During the winter months, we need to look towards supplementation and our diets to get the recommended daily amount.

EatingWell Magazine, May/June 2010

Eating a diet rich in Vitamin D is another key way to ensure you’re getting enough of this important nutrient. Foods such as salmon, sardines, milk, eggs and fortified dairy products like cheese and yogurt are all great dietary sources of vitamin D. And while one doesn’t need much of an ulterior reason to enjoy fresh caught Lake Superior salmon, foods such as canned sardines may be a little more difficult to introduce into your diet. Mary Zbaracki, registered dietician at the Sawtooth Mountain Clinic, comes to the rescue with a great salad recipe that includes this mysterious, saltpacked fish. She recommends choosing sardines with skin and bones (which are edible) as they have more than four times the amount of calcium. Focusing on foods high in vitamin D, paired with proper supplementation, will help get the body through the cold, dark days that are on Minnesota’s horizon.

3 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced 2 teaspoons dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 3 medium tomatoes, cut into large chunks 1 large English cucumber, cut into large chunks 1 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion 2 tablespoons sliced Kalamata olives 2 4-ounce cans sardines with bones, packed in olive oil or water, drained Whisk lemon juice, oil, garlic, oregano and pepper in a bowl. Add tomatoes, cucumber, chickpeas, feta, onion and olives. Divide among 4 plates and top with sardines.

Ham and Cheese Casserole 6 large eggs 1 cup milk 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary 5 cups chopped spinach, wilted 4 cups whole grain bread, in 1-inch cubes 1 cup diced ham steak 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/2 cup chopped jarred roasted red peppers 3/4 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Coat a 2-quart casserole with cooking spray. Whisk eggs and milk in a bowl. Add mustard, rosemary and pepper. Toss spin-

ach, bread, ham, and roasted red peppers in a large bowl. Add egg mixture and toss to coat. Transfer to the prepared dish and push down to compact. Cover with foil. Bake until set, 40–45 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with cheese and bake until puffed and golden, 15-20 minutes more. Cool for 15 minutes before serving.

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Northern Trails Keeping Warm on the Ice By Gord Ellis

My angling friends and I sometimes joke that ice fishing would be a lot more fun if you didn’t have to do it in the winter. We generally spin this pithy comment while unloading gear in temperatures so cold it freezes your eyelashes together. Needless to say, frosty weather is a large part of ice fishing. No cold equals no ice. No ice means no ice fishing. It’s a catch-22. So if you enjoy winter fishing on frozen water, the odds are you will bump into some chilly air more often than not. Most of my childhood ice fishing memories include either being cold, or trying to get warm. My family did quite a bit of ice fishing when we were kids, although my California-born mother usually had some good reason to skip these winter outings. Smart woman. There was no snowmobile in our family so all ice fishing was done by accessing lakes on foot. Staying warm while walking into the lakes was normally not too difficult. Deep snow took care of that. However, once at the destination, all that sweat would start to freeze. The liners of our snowmobile boots would absorb water, and when the walking stopped, the freezing started. Cold feet! This is why a giant fire along the lake shore was generally among the first things done on arrival. That fire was a life saver, and we all huddled around it for most of the day. When we weren’t staying warm around the flames, we were gathering wood to keep it stoked. This generally meant that ice fishing holes might not have been tended quite as well as they could have been. As often as not, the lines would be frozen into the hole, requiring some careful spudding. From time to time, there would be small fish hanging on the line. Other times, the line would be broken. Just part of the reality of that old-style cold weather fishing. Fast forward a few decades. Ice fishing is more popular than ever. However, there have been major leaps and bounds in technology around keeping warm. That doesn’t mean you won’t get cold on the ice. But overall, the comforts available are way ahead of what most of us grew up with. One example of this is boot liners. You use to not have a lot of options when it came to the liners you could use in your boots, but that has all changed. Many winter liners now have perspiration wicking materials, or include other heat holding elements. One of the most amazing additions to my boots has been battery operated insoles. Normally, I hate just about

Staying warm on the ice is the key to enjoying the day. | GORD ELLIS better today than it was just a decade or so ago. Back in the day, a snowmobile suit was state of the art and some of these things were both stiff and not particularly warm. That scenario has really changed. Today, I’ve got a couple different specialty ice fishing suits—one is called the Sno-Suit—that are not only super warm, but feature large, deep pockets for putting gloves or knit caps in, and an extra-large insulated hood that protects your face from winter winds. These suits also have reinforced knees for when you are doing some heavy lifting around an ice fishing hole.

Good winter clothing and battery operated insoles are just a couple of ways to keep warm during the cold winter months. | GORD ELLIS anything battery operated. Yet, the Thermacell brand battery powered insoles are pretty amazing. You simply charge two reusable batteries that slip into the insoles. The insoles then go into your boots. The insoles don’t get too hot. What they do is keep your feet at a temperature that does not allow for freezing or cooling. If you

are sitting or standing with your feet on ice for long periods, they really help overall comfort. They even have a controller to regulate the heat. I get four to six hours out of them, which is usually about a day’s worth of ice fishing for me. The clothing made for ice fishing is far

Finally, one of the true revelations the past few years is how handy a heater can be on ice. There are many different types of portable heaters, the majority are fueled with propane cylinders. These things do emit CO2 so you need to use them in a situation where there is some good ventilation. I like to use pop up ice fishing shelters and keep a window or two open. However, you can also use a heater outside as long as it’s not too windy. The heaters take the chill off cold hands and feet. Inside a tent, the heater will allow you to fish without gloves or even a cap. They can be a little tough to start if they get frozen up with snow, so if you transport them on a snowmachine make sure the heater is well covered up. I’ve even used a propane heater to warm up a pepperette for mid-day snack. So yes, you can be warmer and more comfortable ice fishing this year. Does that mean you will never be cold? Uh, no. It’s winter. But it’s nice to know the time spent being comfortable will be longer.

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MUSH LAKE RACING DOG BLOG:

The Weather Rollercoaster By Erin Altemus We have been on what my favorite forecaster from Minnesota Public Radio, Paul Huttner, calls a “weather rollercoaster.” I am admittedly obsessed with the weather. This time of year my most-frequented websites include weather.com, the Updraft Blog from MPR and NOAA. If there is a blizzard imminent, I update the weather forecast every 15 minutes. Snow is everything to us this time of year. We’ve run 600 miles with the dogs on the ATV— the loud hum of the engine and numb and sore thumb from pressing the gas throttle are old news, and getting on sleds is all we can think about. In mid-November we went from an abnormally warm fall, with hardly a sub-freezing temperature, straight into winter with an 8-inch snowfall. Matt and I hooked up sleds and took two small teams on a 14-mile run. Admittedly, this was rough going, especially on the plowed driveway—bouncing up and down on the gravel for a while before hitting the unplowed road made us think twice about that idea. We hitched back up to the ATV for a few more runs. A few days later, another good snow gave us all we needed to go back to sleds. Matt hooked up 10 dogs and I had eight. We didn’t plow our road this time, choosing instead to pack a base with our cars so that we’d have a good surface for the sleds. It was dark by the time we left the dog yard, and I should have put a few more seconds into tidying up my sled, but I pulled the rope, mittens and ropes flying everywhere and the power of eight strong dogs flew out into the dark. I could barely hang on much less pick up my snow hook that was bouncing alongside the sled and tuck in the mittens that were hanging from the handle bar. I concentrated so hard on trying to keep myself on the sled and all the pieces of my gear together that we were well down the road before I looked up. Something about the dark and the snow flying up from the road and just how strong the dogs were (I put all my attention into braking), disoriented me. I kept thinking the big hill was still ahead (which I dreaded) and then suddenly we hit Pine Mountain Road,

and I realized we had gone down the big hill and survived. We had several beautiful runs on sleds before it rained for two days, sending rivers of water across our trails, melting most of our snow and sending us back to the ATV. There is little that will dampen a musher’s spirit more than rain when we should be getting snow. But, right during the rain storm, we did have a fortunate thing happen; Mush Lake Racing welcomed its first live-in handler. Andrew came to us from his last gig in Utah, having never spent a winter in Minnesota before. On one of our first runs, he asked when we might see the sun. Andrew will help train, feed and care for the dogs, help handle for the races, and maybe even run a race himself. For us, the extra hands are a relief. He’s also taken to bringing a dog into the handler’s quarters with him every night, which is a great way to get to know the dogs and give them extra attention. But after the second night, I happened to stop by and there was a large chunk of his bedspread missing—some sled dogs have better house manners than others. After several runs training on the ATV with us, we set Andrew up with his own team and both of us set off on a 20-mile run down a new trail, each with our own 10-dog team. Matt was to meet us part way to snack the dogs and then again to bed the dogs down on straw for a few hours before we would run them home again. This kind of “mock checkpoint” is good training for what the dogs will experience at the races. Unfortunately, we hadn’t vetted the trail well enough, and when I hit a stretch of muddy looking puddles, all I could do was keep running the dogs forward. Pretty soon I had my ATV stuck in the mud, the back end sinking to above the tires. “I think I need some help back here,” I called to Andrew. He came running up, his team screaming and my team hollering, and the both of us could not budge that ATV. I finally looked at the water and went in, pushing the ATV from behind as the ice cold water seeped into my boots. Andrew nudged the gas and it surged ahead, dragging me through the mud as it went.

Happy mushers and happy dogs running on sleds in early December. | ERIN ALTEMUS Five feet later was another pool and it was stuck again. Fortunately, Matt found us and he went in to his waist, pushing the ATV and got it out. One more “stuck” and we were on solid ground. The dogs had swum through and were covered to their ears in thick mud. We found a different route around the

mess for Andrew’s team, and he emerged dry and unscathed. Heck of an indoctrination to mushing. This morning I woke to a new winter weather advisory posted by NOAA—a possible three to five inches of snow tonight and maybe a few more tomorrow. This would be enough to get us back on sleds. So bring on the snow, we’re ready.

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This natural snack is made from sunflower seeds and a few simple ingredients. It crunches like a nut and is used like a nut, but as their slogan says, “like a nut but we’re NOTS!” This sunflower snack is non-GMO project verified, vegan certified and top eight allergen-free. They also come in different flavors; original, peppa, Cajun, and hot. NOTS! are available at the Duluth and Grand Marais Whole Foods Co-ops, or order them online at nots-snacks.com.—Breana Roy

Ice-Out returns to the frigid and often brutal Prohibition-era borderland of author Mary Casanova’s beloved novel Frozen. After his father dies, 19-year-old Owen Jensen is responsible for keeping his mother and five brothers alive, but in a time of rampant bootlegging, corruption and poverty, things are tough. It gets worse after Owen is caught up in the suspicious deaths of a sheriff and border deputy. Inspired by real events in early 1920s Minnesota, and by Casanova’s own family history, Ice-Out is a story of young romance against terrible odds; stuck between rich and poor, and right and wrong. —Breana Roy

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Author and chef Beatrice Ojakangas reflects on life growing up in a big Finnish family in northern Minnesota, with this delightful memoir and cookbook. Ojakangas tell stories of cardamom and rye, growing up on venison, having a Finnish mail-order bride and chef for a grandmother, and how working hard led to an appearance with Julia Child and Martha Stewart. Homemade is chock-full of recipes, anecdotes and a kind humor that brings Finnish culture to life.—Breana Roy

MAYHEW LAKE Portage to Little WHY GO: It’s generally an Mayhew Lake easily accessibly (depending on snowfall) warm-and hard-water option for lake trout, with 5 10 v 20 the possibility of picking up a brownie. Because access is limited, it’s the type of lake you will generally have to yourself during the warm-water season. LAKER EBBS AND FLOWS: Mayhew And above all else, while the lake is known hasn’t been sampled by fisheries managmore as a numbers lake, it has shown over ers since 2009, said Steve Persons, Mintime it’s capable of producing some large nesota DNR’s Grand Marais area fisheries lake trout. supervisor.

ACCESS: Mayhew, about 34 miles north of Grand Marais and just north of the Gunflint Trail, is accessible from Mayhew Lake Road on the east side of the lake. There’s a dirt ramp, but it’s basically a carry-in access. Don’t try launching any larger vessels. Canoes and john boats small enough to carry are all you’ll want to attempt. VITALS: This 220-acre Cook County lake sits inside the Superior National Forest, a few miles west of Poplar Lake. It’s a fairly clear lake, measured at 18 feet by Minnesota DNR. And it’s pretty deep, with a maximum depth of 84 feet, and a mean depth of 32.5 feet. FISH SPECIES PRESENT: Lake trout, brown trout, northern pike, bluegill, green sunfish, yellow perch, white sucker, blacknose shiner, creek chub, fathead minnow, northern pearl dace and spottail shiner.

What that survey showed was that Mayhew, though it’s always been more of a numbers lake for lake trout, can also produce a few big fish. That year, three lakers in the 25- to 29-inch range were sampled, as well as one fish between 30 and 34 inches. This, despite a forage base lacking in the fatty, high-calorie ciscoes that are typically present when lake trout are able to grow big. These lake trout have to subsist largely on bugs, though there are species such as yellow perch, white sucker and other minnows species present. It’s believed that lake trout would have been present in the lake originally, though it was reclaimed in the 1960s. “As early as 1938, we had survey crews saying that trout were among the most abundant fish species there,” Persons said. “They weren’t stocked before 1940s, so they were probably native.”

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So it’s not surprising that on top of a stocking regimen that has put about 3,000 lake trout yearlings into the lake every three years, there’s also some documented natural reproduction that has persisted in the lake. DNR was considering scaling back lake trout stockings as a result, but northern pike got into the lake after a fish barrier between Loon and Little Mayhew lakes failed. That has been replaced. “Northern pike can be big consumers of trout,” Persons said, noting that such concerns have caused DNR to hold off on scaling back trout stocking. IF IT’S BROWN: DNR also stocks Mayhew with brown trout yearlings every other year. That fishery isn’t doing bad, either. “There are actually some nice browns in there, and people do catch them,” Persons said.

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lake trout. That 2009 survey turned up three brown trout between 20 and 24 inches. “They were stocked to provide a bonus fishery, a species not confined to deep water,” Persons said of the European trout species known for being more tolerant to warmer water, meaning they can be found in more shallow water during warmer months. PIKE GOT IN: Only one northern pike turned up in that 2009 survey, and most of the pike in Mayhew are not going to be very big. “People occasionally catch a nice one,” Persons said.—Javier Serna

But most of the browns that are caught typically bite in the warm-weather months, whereas most of ice fishing effort involves NORTHERN  WILDS

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Pink Cheeks Snow Drifts

northern sky JANUARY 2017

By Deane Morrison— MINNESOTA STARWATCH

AND

ARE CALLING. HOW

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

As New Year’s Day fades, a young moon hangs in the southwest near Venus and Mars. And as the sun sets on the last day of January, a young moon again visits the planets, this time coming much closer.

January’s full moon was known to many Algonquin Indians as the wolf moon, for the hungry howling of wolf packs in the deep snow. It reaches fullness at 5:34 a.m. on the 12th. At that moment it will shine in the west, between the Gemini twins and the bright star Procyon in Canis Minor.

The planets are also approaching each other as Mars drops behind Earth in the orbital race and Venus gets ready to plunge into the sunset on its next trip between the Earth and the sun. As usual, Venus is by far the brighter planet. The distance between them shrinks from 11.7 degrees on New Year’s Day to 5.4 degrees on the 31st. Try not to miss the VenusMars-moon gatherings, especially the one on the 31st.

As it wanes, the moon visits the morning planets. It appears near Jupiter on the 19th, when it will be almost at last quarter phase, and a lovely crescent rises close to Saturn on the 24th. The bright winter stars are now coming into their own and will all be up in the east by about 8 p.m. Like a reigning monarch, Sirius, the brightest of all, is the last to make its entrance.

For morning viewers, Saturn makes an entrance in the southeast, climbing higher and appearing earlier every day. By the third week of January it will be easily visible an hour before sunrise, with the red star Antares, in Scorpius, off to the right. High in the south, Jupiter shines brightly during the predawn hours all month. It rises several hours ahead of Saturn and travels the sky above Spica, the bright star in Virgo.

The University of Minnesota offers public viewings of the night sky at its Duluth campus. For more information and viewing schedules, see the Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium at: d.umn.edu/planet.

Help us save special places!

www.ParksandTrails.org the perfect getaway - it’s in our nature.

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park 44

JANUARY 2017

NORTHERN  WILDS

Photo by Lisa Nilles

visitthunderbay.com


Wild Traditions Animal Rendering: a Seldom-practiced Skill By Julia Prinselaar

I was reorganizing my chest freezer last month to prepare for a delivery of beef from a local farmer. Chest freezers are one of those things that can be a useful household appliance if they’re kept tidy and well organized. Otherwise, they can easily morph into a vacuous black hole that swallows bags of odds and ends into its darkened corners. When storing food in smaller spaces, it’s helpful to keep an updated stock of your inventory. My freezer isn’t very big, with two or three bags being stacked on one another. I usually separate each type of food in bags and tape a list on the door of the freezer. Once a bag is emptied, I cross that food item off the list. But every now and again,

an orphaned bag of fiddleheads or Swiss chard unknowingly disappears, only to be rediscovered with a seasonal clean-out of the freezer. This can be a pleasant surprise: finding a bag of blueberries that you thought you had none of until the next harvest. In my case, I found about 15 pounds of pig fat and skin that a friend gave to me earlier last year. With freezer space at a premium (and questioning myself: why pay money to store something that doesn’t need to be frozen?) now was the time to turn this fat into a useful product.

Many supermarkets today receive fresh meat already cut and packaged, leaving less palatable items like kidneys, feet, ears and brains off their shelves. Finding bones for soup, or for your dog, can sometimes be tricky. Unless you raise the animal yourself, you’ll probably have to source your rendering fat from a local butcher, farm or abattoir. The process itself is pretty straightforward. I’ve rendered pork fat in a cast iron pan and unknowingly made pork rinds, the crispy skin that’s leftover.

Rendering is a process that converts animal tissue and other inedible parts into value-added materials. More narrowly, it refers to the rendering of whole animal fatty tissue into purified fats, like lard from a pig or tallow and suet from beef. Traditionally, this important skill has been used to make staple goods like soap and candles, and was commonly used at home in cooking and baking. Today, it is found less in the home and more on a commercial scale. The rendering industry converts animal by-products into pet food, feed supplements, fuel, glues, cosmetics— even currency. The Bank of Canada recently confirmed that its polymer banknotes may contain traces of tallow. According to

WOOD WEEK

February 28 - March 6

Using a slow cooker is by far the simplest way I’ve found to make lard using electric heat: add about a quarter cup of water, the chopped fat, and let it simmer for a few hours. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and pour into a heat-proof container to cool.

Rendered pig fat (lard). | JULIA PRINSELAAR Rothsay, one of Canada’s largest rendering operations with six processing facilities in the country, only about 50 percent of a cow, 60 percent of a pig, and 72 percent

Friday Night Prime Rib Rubbed with herbs and spices and slow roasted to perfection Starting at $19.95

Nobody does Winter better!

Tues. & Thurs. Wing Night

Community Youth Play Performances are:

“MAKING IT”

through winter

Thursdays at 7pm Jan, Feb, & March Lectures, Films, Skill Shares

www.northhouse.org for info 888-387-9762

500 W Hwy 61 - Grand Marais, MN

WWW.NORTHHOUSE.ORG

If you enjoy eating meat, rendering is one more way toward using the whole animal and developing a deeper appreciation for its life.

WINTER SPECIALS ©Disney

Featured Instructor Peter Follansbee

of a chicken actually land on grocery store shelves. The rest—in addition to anything that’s expired and returned—typically ends up at a rendering plant.

Jan. 26-29 & Feb. 2-5

Thurs.-Sat. 7 PM, Sun. 2 PM Tickets: $10 adults, $5 under 18

$.50 wings with Sriracha Buffalo or maple BBQ, blue cheese or ranch along with celery. Only available in the Poplar River Pub.

February 2-12, 2017 elywinterfestival.com

(Winter specials available November through April. Not available holidays or with other specials.)

Festival Hotline 218.365.SNOW (7669)

The Snow Sculpture Symposium, Ely Art Walk, Kubb Tournament, Candlelight Skiing, Outdoor Gear Demo, Guided Snowshoe Hikes, Food, Music & More!

Friday Jan 27

is Food Shelf Friday BOGO ticket free with Food Shelf Donation of $10 or 10 items.

Sunday Jan. 29

is donation at the door day, Pay What you want for ticket. (on-line sales regular price)

Arrowhead Center for the Arts 51 W. 5th St. Grand Marais For more information and the schedule go to:

grandmaraisplayhouse.com

Hwy 61, Lutsen MN 218.663.7212 for Dinner Reservations

This activity is made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council, thanks to appropriations from the MN State Legislature’s general arts and cultural heritage funds; a grant from the Gardner humanities Trust; and the Ely Chamber of Commerce.

NORTHERN  WILDS

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45


Strange Tales What’s More Canandian than the Whisky Jack? By Elle AndraWarner

It was an announcement in mid-November that many Canadians didn’t see coming. That’s when the Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS), publisher of Canadian Geographic magazine, at their AGM in Ottawa set the media abuzz with their official recommendation that the grey jay be Canada’s national bird as part of the celebrations for the country’s 150th year of existence this year. RCGS had selected the grey jay—more commonly known as the whisky jack and before 1957, as the Canada jay—after an online popular vote by Canadians, a lively public debate and consultations with experts. But at first, the decision didn’t sit well with some Canadians. For starters, the grey jay had placed third in the popular vote, behind the common loon and snowy owl. After almost 50,000 votes were cast, the top five birds out of the 450 species found in Canada were the common loon (13,995), snowy owl (8,948), gray jay (7,918), Canada goose (3,616), and the black-capped chickadee (3,324). So, how did a third-place choice come to be top bird? According to RCGS, it was the result of a three-phase process. In January 2015, Canadians were asked to vote for a “bird species that could represent this nation of forest, prairie grassland, Arctic and sub-Arctic, maritime and wetland, agricultural and urban areas and many other habitats.” When voting closed on August 31, 2016, Canada’s top five favourite birds had been decided by popular vote. That kicked in phase 2; in September 2016 the RCGS convened a panel of experts that debated which of the five birds they believed “most worthy of the honour” and they chose the gray jay. “You’ve got a bird that’s intelligent, friendly and hardy—and that to me epitomizes Canadians,” said David Bird, emeritus professor of ornithology, McGill University. Adding to the controversy was that RCGS used the American spelling of ‘gray’ in the announcement instead of the Canadian spelling ‘grey.’ That however quickly died down, as most Canadian media used grey jay or its common moniker whisky jack. Actually, neither name is official. The bird was first named in 1766 by Sweden’s Carolus Linnaeus (who developed the biological classification) with its Latin scien46

JANUARY 2017

Besides the English names of grey jay, Canada jay and whisky jack, she is wisikejack to the Cree-Ojibway, Gwiingwiishi to the Anishinaabe, and mésangeai du Canada to the French. | EARL ORF tific name Perisoreus canadensis, which translated into English is Canada jay, the name used in English for the next 191 years. That changed in 1957 when the American Ornithologists’ Union renamed it ‘gray jay’ (American spelling) in its Check List of Northern American Birds. But since its official scientific name didn’t change, the argument is made therefore that the only official English name is Canada jay. Most Canadians best know the bird by its moniker whisky jack, which comes from the Anglicization of the Cree-Ojibway name wisikejack, meaning “mischievous prankster.” Some Canadians (mainly urban dwellers) said they’d never seen or heard about the bird, asking “The grey what?” and there was a Twitter storm of comments about why the common loon—already the provincial bird of Ontario and state bird of Minnesota—didn’t get top spot. And some thought the search for Canada’s national bird was just a publicity stunt for the magazine. Regardless of the controversies, Canadians have enthusiastically now embraced the idea of the whisky jack becoming Canada’s national bird. And here’s some reasons why the experts chose the third-place grey jay/whisky jack as the top bird. The grey jay is found year-round in every Canadian province and territory and ex-

NORTHERN  WILDS

cept for certain parts of the U.S., does not exist anywhere else, nor has any geographical entity claimed it as an official bird. She is prominent in First Nations folklore; lives in the boreal forest; doesn’t migrate; and, is so cold-hardy, she has even been observed incubating eggs in temperatures as cold as -30C. About the size of a blue jay, she is a member of the corvid family (crows, ravens, magpies and jays) and considered an intelligent bird with a brain-to-body ratio similar to that of dolphins and chimpanzees. Extremely friendly, many of us in the Northern Wilds can tell stories about enticing the whisky jack with some food to land on our shoulder or hand. “So we’ve got ‘smart,’ ‘hardy,’ ‘friendly’ and ‘loyal.’ What greater way to describe the typical Canadian, eh?” wrote Bird in the Ottawa Citizen article “Not so loony: why the grey jay soared to victory as Canada’s would-be national bird” (Nov. 26, 2016). Canada, which came into existence in 1867, has big plans for its 150th anniversary this year, and there’s lobbying going on for the Canadian federal government to officially designate the ‘grey jay’ as its National Bird during its celebratory year.

“Gwiingwiishi has lived with us since the beginning. She is a life giver, a trick player and one of the smartest beings in Creation. Everything she does challenges thought and perception, gifting teachings of responsibility, relationship and life. Many say she is a food-stealer, but she is brave in her fearlessness, bright in her mistakes. She is kind to those who are kind back, harder on those who need a dose of humility. She is the best parts of all parts.” Niigan Sinclair, associate professor in department of native studies, University of Manitoba. “Anishinaabe Stories About the Mischievous, Wise Gray Jay,” Canadian Geographic online, Nov. 2016.


Nature’s Beauty

REAL ESTATE SALES

High-Quality Wild Bird Food New Construction Central Lutsen Location

EZ Grab & Pour Bags

•Lake Superior and mountain views •Slab on grade with radiant in-floor heat •2 bedroom 1 bath •Affordable pricing •Energy Star appliances, LED lighting, 2x6” walls with R21 insulation •Energy Star windows and doors •Local contractor built on site •Call for complete plans and input into finishing materials

Performance Seed BUCK’S

1st Ave W & Hwy 61 • Downtown Grand Marais Open 7 Days A Week @ 6 am 218-387-2280 • www.buckshardware.net

Judy Motschenbacher, Broker | 218-370-8940 | motsch@boreal.org

BEST THING ABOUT A WINTER DAY?

A WINTER NIGHT.

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

AmericInn.com | 800.634.3444

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

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

JANUARY 2017

47


m

Talk to Terry! Terry R. Backlund Broker/Owner

Lori A. Backlund Real Estate Agent

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

2441 CTY RD 7 GRAND MARAIS

120 W. 8TH AVE. GRAND MARAIS

New iL sting

12TH 1ST AVE. W. GRAND MARAIS

D L O S

5 Bedroom, 3 Bath, Office + more. Fabulous kitchen, bath and gardens. Income potential lower level. MLS# 6025967 Price: $324,900

3 Bedroom 1 Bath 1176 Sq. ft. Large Kitchen MLS# TBD Price: $109,000

2500 Sq. Ft. Commercial. Solid Renters. Great Location. MLS# TBD Price: $319,900

102 CTY RD 6 GRAND MARAIS

253 S. SHORE DRIVE DEVIL’S TRACK LAKE

204 W. 1ST ST. GRAND MARAIS

Sale g n i d n Pe

Sale g n i d n Pe

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

4 Bedroom 2 Bath Home 2 Car w/ Cabin. 216 Ft. Devil’s Track MLS# 6022415 Price: $359,900

For results list your property here!

s s e n i s Bu y t i n u t r o p p O

Growing business for sale. Strong 6400 Sq. Ft. Commercial-Apartmentnumbers. Turn key. Fabulous opportunity. Residence. Cash streams galore. MLS# 6021526 Price: $240,000 MLS# 6022592 Price $419,875

Phone: 218-387-1501 Cell: 218-370-8977 Terry@BacklundRealty.com 48

JANUARY 2017

NORTHERN  WILDS

15 W HWY 61 GRAND MARAIS


Deb Niemisto 218-370-8434

lockport@boreal.org

www.coldwellbankernorthwoods.com

NORTHWOODS REALTY

1 Norwood Shores - Lutsen Lake Superior Townhome

7072 Two Moose Trail Wilson Lake - Finland

Enjoy your days on Lake Superior in Lutsen with this 2 BR, 1 BA four season low maintenance Townhome. MLS 2184109 $235,000

Experience Solitude on one of the most beautiful lakes around. Acreage with many amenities ready for use & enjoyment. MLS 2294912 $249,000

Ski In/Ski Out Lutsen Condo 124B Caribou Highlands Resort

Superior Lake Home 23 Norwood East - Lutsen

Brand new, totally updated condo with over $40k in improvements. Sleeps 4, fireplace, fitness center, pool, sauna. Income opportunity. MLS 6025581 $119,000

Furnished 3 BD, 4 BA with attached garage, new W/D and owners suite on main floor. 600’ shared shoreline, small established association with low dues. MLS 6021331 $649,000

N E W!

Nan Bradley 218-370-8433

Clara Lake Lot Lutsen 15 Island Circle Drive SW facing Clara Lk lot minutes away from Lutsen and Grand Marais. Year round access, electric at road, many trails & lakes nearby. MLS 6019732. $149,000

Lutsen Resort Condo 551-553 Poplar River Rd

Commercial - 126 Airport Rd Grand Marais Airport

Luxury 3 BDRM unit at Lutsen’s premier Lake Superior resort. 3 separate rental units, many resort amenities and much more. MLS 6023424 $399,000

Commercial hanger, heated, electric, insulated, rental income. MLS 2116969 $249,900

PRICEED C REDU

58 Sunrise Dr Cabin Lake Superior Views

S O L D!

Cute cabin with loft, fireplace, lots of storage, nice kitchen galley, near Surgarloaf Cove, low maintenance. Move-in ready! MLS 6023566 $144,900

BUYERS

invest in life on the shore!

Contact Nan & Deb to discuss great opportunities 218-370-8433

Lockport@boreal.org

Happy New Year and Enjoy the Snow!

NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

49


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

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

LAKE SUPERIOR PROPERTIES

INLAND WATER PROPERTIES LOVELY LAKE SUPERIOR LOT – LUTSEN.

EXPANSIVE LAKE SUPERIOR RETREAT.

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

6024299 $2,250,000

EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY, STUNNING SHORELINE. Elegant and

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

SUPERIOR A-FRAME.

This 3,300 sq ft Lake Superior home with original A-Frame was expanded in 2006, adding 2,000 sq ft w/quality finishes. Stunning kitchen with large island, hickory cabinets, granite & lake views. 3 bdr, 3 bath, large gathering spaces and deck. Master bdrm with attached whirlpool/glass shower.

MLS# 2313080 $549,900

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

2313294 $329,000 LUTSEN LAKE SHORE. Exceptional

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

PREMIER LAKE SUPERIOR PROPERTY. Beautiful, very private 1.84 acre residential lot with 240 ft of Lake Superior shoreline in the Chimney Rock Platted Development. Premier quality with stunning elevated and panoramic views of the lake. MLS# 2313197 $249,900 LAKE SUPERIOR, BIG BAY, BIG VIEWS. Dense spruce forest, moss covered boulders and privacy make this a classic Lake Superior lot. 200 feet of shore with partial driveway in place, shared road maintenance, power and Broadband ready to go. MLS# 6022357 $212,500

A UNIQUE AND SPECTACULAR BUILDING SITE ON LAKE SUPERIOR. This site

is build-ready for your dream home plus garage lot. Spectacular views and privacy. All hookups are ready – septic, water, electric, phone & propane. House plans are available. Only 8 owners share this park-

CONTEMPORARY LOG HOME. Every room

has a Lake Superior view! This beautiful home on 6.5 acres features an open living/dining room with cozy wood burning stove and wrap-around deck. The shoreline is accessible with a fire pit and beach platform. The kitchen has a huge granite island and custom hickory cabinets with lots of storage. Extra large garage with room for 4 vehicles. MLS# 6021770 $539,000

BEAUTIFUL LAKE SUPERIOR HOME.

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

SPECTACULAR LAKE SUPERIOR LOT. Framed by palisades,

the nicely wooded property has two or more perfect sites on which to build your special lake home. Views are classic old North Shore looking over Chicago Bay. Shared septic system is in place. MLS# 2308784 $365,000

like former resort property. MLS 6023745 $92,900

INLAND WATER PROPERTIES WILDERNESS INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY.

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

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

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

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

LOG CABIN SECLUSION - LOON LAKE. This beautiful log

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

GUNFLINT LAKE HOME & GUEST CABIN. Spectacular

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

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

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

CHRISTINE LAKE HOME.

Immaculate 3 bdrm home on beautiful & quiet Christine Lake. Over 200’ shoreline with private boardwalk to floating dock and 6 acres for privacy. Knotty pine and tastefully painted interior. Deck, balcony and open design allow abundant light. MLS# 6024054 $319,500

LOG CABIN GETAWAY.

Once "Aspen Annie's" north woods road house, now your log cabin getaway on beautiful and serene Aspen Lake. 5+ acres border on County and US Forest public land to the north. Includes 12 X 8 storage shed and very nice new 8 x 8 wood shed. Level, easily accessible shoreline. Year round access. MLS#: 6021562 $279,000

CLASSIC CABIN ON CLEARWATER LAKE. Well

maintained 2 bdrm, 1 bath cabin cared for by the same family for over 60 years. 205 feet of shoreline on much sought after Clearwater Lake with direct access to the BWCA. MLS#

6023955 $259,000 NEW! MARK LAKE - 159 ACRES. The only private land on Mark Lake! Good northern fishing. 200ft. Shoreline, forestry road or snowmoblie access. Motivated Seller! MLS# 6026299 $245,000 LARGE LOT PRIVACY – POPLAR LAKE. Dense

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

MLS# 6026286 $142,900, both for $245,000. EAST BEARSKIN LAKE HOME. Charming 2 bdrm cabin on 180 ft of E. Bearskin Lake. Federal lease property. Awesome views of the lake, level walk to the dock and shore. Includes utility shed, woodshed, aluminum canoe & boat. MLS#

6023139 $225,000 WILDERNESS SETTING - TUCKER LAKE. A perfect place

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

www.RedPineRealty.com • Locally owned and operated since 1996 • info@RedPineRealty.com 50

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NORTHERN  WILDS


HOMES & CABINS

INLAND WATER PROPERTIES TOTAL PEACE, PRIVACY AND SOLITUDE ARE RIGHT HERE! Charming and

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

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

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

MLS# 6024438 $187,500 NORTH FOWL LAKE CABIN. Lovely 2 bdrm cabin with sauna.

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

POPLAR LAKE-BWCAW ACCESS. Nice 2.11 acre lot with

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

MLS# 6021031 $169,900 AFFORDABLE CABIN ON CLEARWATER LAKE.

Cute 2 bdrm cabin on very special Clearwater Lake with 180’ frontage. Very affordable for up north cabin life.

MLS# 6023119 $169,000 SOLITUDE ON LOON LAKE. These 1-2 acre lots are located on

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

2093855, 2159458, 2309227, 2309228 $159,000 and up CHARMING LOG CABIN RETREAT. This cozy little log cabin sits in

the woods on beautiful McFarland Lake. The sleeping loft and screen porch make it feel bigger than it is. The lot has 150 feet of frontage and there's plenty of room for a future main cabin. MLS#

6025442 $152,900 CLASSIC POPLAR LAKE CABIN. Sweet, older

END OF THE ROAD PRIVACY ON TOM LAKE. This beautiful wooded lot has its own bay/cove. There is a long curved driveway to a nice cleared build site. MLS# 6021553 $47,500

CONDOMINIUMS THREE-LEVEL LAKE SUPERIOR CONDO. Beauti-

SUPREME LAND, SUPREME WATER. Over 20

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

6023688 $130,000 CARIBOU LAKE - HOME SITE. New price is well below tax as-

sessed value. Magnificent old-growth cedar and maple trees. Great, high build site on Sawmill Bay. 5.34 acres and 185’ lake frontage. MLS# 2203572 $95,000 LOTS ON NINEMILE LAKE. Two beautiful, large lots on Ninemile Lake in Finland. Lots adjoin Superior National Forest and Cabin Creek Unit Roadless Area with excellent shoreline and views. Power and year round access!

MLS #6019489 $89,300 & MLS #6021813 $69,000 SNOWSHOE RUN LOTS. Set along a high ridge overlooking Hare Lake in a mature northern hardwood forest. Year-round plowed and maintained county roads, power at each property and a clear water trout lake. MLS# 6019490 -

6019496, 6019498 Lake lot prices start at $48,800

HOBBY FARM OR LOTS OF IDEAS. This large property features open

ful views and quality finishes. 3-bdrm, 3-bath, accommodates 10. Outdoor access from each level with two decks and a patio right on the shore. Main floor has open floor plan with great room, kitchen and dining room - perfect for entertaining. Attached garage is a rarity on the shore. Perfect North Shore home or offer as a vacation rental. MLS# 2312996 $374,900

WELCOME TO LAKE SUPERIOR. Warm & beautiful

meadows, gardens, orchards, and a beautiful river. The living quarters with 4 bdrms, 2 baths and open living space is located above a 6-stall horse barn. A large pole barn, huge gathering hall, garage and various storage sheds provide lots of sheltered space. Two wells and septic systems. Easy county road

access. What's your idea? MLS# 6018972 $259,900

light-filled end unit Aspenwood Townhome. The 2-story walkout style leaves you with plenty of options to get outside and close to the Big Lake. This 2 bdrm, 3 bath home includes 98% of all furnishings & personal property. It is also part of a successful vacation rental pool. MLS# 6022175 $290,000

STUNNING LAKE SUPERIOR CONDO. Quality finishes,

EXTRAORDINARY DUPLEX HOME IN LUTSEN. Beautifully maintained

4 bdrm, 2 bath home tucked into its own wooded wonderland. Welcoming, open and updated. Perennial gardens, apple trees, fire pit, and dog kennel/ run in place. Trails on the 3 acre property connect to state trails for skiing and snowmobiling. MLS# 6024809 $264,900

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

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

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

the big lake. MLS# 6025851 $82,000

HOMES & CABINS A GEM IN THE WOODS.

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

BEAUTIFUL LEVEAUX RIDGE HOME. “Mountain

top” 3 bdrm home with calming Lake Superior views. Many recent upgrades, 2 wood-burning fireplaces, and a 2+ car heated garage. Private setting and design, perfect for

2 bdrm cabin on a bay of Poplar Lake with 100’ frontage. Great location! Charm in every room. Potentially a great vacation rental. MLS#

6023157 $154,500

REMOTE HIDE-A-WAY.

Charming custom built 2 bdrm, 2 bath cabin tucked in the woods overlooking a beaver pond. A screened porch for summer dining. The living room is open and includes the kitchen and dining. A cozy Franklin stove warms the whole building. The full basement is a complete guest space . Generator power and over 100 acres to explore. MLS# 6022886 $269,000

entertaining or escaping. MLS# 6025932 $355,000

CLASSIC FARM HOUSE AND 20 ACRES. Simply

charming country home with outbuildings and some pasture for your horse! The 3 bdrm, 2 bath home has a country kitchen/dining room, huge living room, & 3 season porch. A cute log cabin sits near the home, and the land is special with a lrg wildlife pond & planted pines. More land is available. MLS# 2309191 $279,900

HOVLAND OPPORTUNITY.

Large home or commercial opportunity on Hwy 61 between Hovland and Grand Portage. This 7 bdrm, 3 bath home has resort/commercial zoning allowing for many options. Large deck, stone fireplace, Lake Superior views. A great home for a large family, or your business dream. MLS#

2313085, 2313088 $289,900

rental and a primary residence. MLS# 2309172 $234,900

FANTASTIC GRAND MARAIS HOME. This

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

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES OUTPOST MOTEL. A thriving business with a long history of impressive earnings, solid base of repeat customers, and excellent online reviews, the Outpost Motel is a turn-key opportunity. The business includes a motel with 10 conventional rooms, 3 kitchenette suites, a cottage, apartment, and 17 acres - room for expansion! Remodeled owner's home has 3 bdrms, 2 baths, and breathtaking views of Lake Superior. MLS# 6020562 $610,000

SALIENG PE N D

RENTAL COTTAGES - GOOD HISTORY - GREAT LAKE. Devil Track

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

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

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

6023742 $349,900

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

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

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

COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES BIG OPPORTUNITY, MANY POSSIBILITIES. Prime commercial loca-

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

GRAND MARAIS PROFESSIONAL BUILDING.

The options here are endless and the opportunity is great. Ample parking and a nice sized storage building. Own/occupy the entire building, rent out one side & offset your ownership costs, or create “condo offices” & offer space to a variety of entities. MLS# 6020220 $269,900 COMMERCIAL LOTS IN LUTSEN. Two commercial-zoned lots fronting Hwy 61 in Lutsen across from Lockport Store. Great visibility, nice forest, lake view. Third lot is zoned residential. Bring your business idea! MLS# 6020464 $179,000 COMMERCIAL LOT IN GRAND MARAIS. Good opportunity for a commercial building with a nice second story view of the harbor. Level 40 x 50 lot. A two story vacation rental could be built with a harbor view. What is your dream? MLS# 6024992 $53,500

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

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

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

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

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

G PENDIN

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

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

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

LAND/BUILDING SITES OUTSTANDING LAKE SUPERIOR VIEWS Gorgeous 14.69 acre parcel located within the boundaries of Cascade State park. Rolling hills, a variety of trees, and only 10 minutes from either Grand Marais or Lutsen. Many opportunities, potential for subdivision. MLS# 6023971 $175,000

MOUNTAIN TOP - WILDERNESS VIEWS. Fantastic vistas into the BWCA and surrounding rugged topography near McFarland Lake. Located at the end of the Arrowhead Trail with easy year-round access. The 122 acres has a high ridge and a “mountain top” for you to name. MLS# 6024599 $167,000 BIG LAND, BIG CREEK, BIG TREES. This nearly 100 acre Hovland area parcel is on the "front range" of the Farquhar Hills with a dramatic backdrop of rock cliffs and escarpments. There is a large creek running through the entire property with many fantastic building sites. MLS# 6024136 $159,900 INCREASINGLY RARE, LARGE RECREATIONAL PARCEL. 190 arces fully surveyed. The perfect retreat. Has a rich variety of trees, ponds, high and low lands, some meadow land and wetlands. MLS# 6023211 $150,000

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

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

HUGE POND-HUGE PRIVACY. Large 45+ acre wooded parcel located across from Tom Lake. Huge pond/lake in the very center of the acreage. MLS# 6022858 $99,000 BUILDING SITE, CREEK, MAPLE RIDGE. This 47 acre parcel has a lot to offer. There’s a nice south facing building site just off a county road, a trout stream with beaver pond, and a maple ridge adjoining federal land. Great location close to Grand Marais. MLS# 6022087 $69,900 RUSTICATE, RECREATE, RELAX. Reclusive Hovland hideaway – 43 acres with new driveway to “base camp” with a nice camper trailer and shed. Trails have been cut throughout the property which adjoins State land. MLS# 2313223 $64,900 PINES & LAKE SUPERIOR VIEW. Large 13+ acre pine filled lot on the hillside above Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center in Schroeder. Great lake views! Power, phone and broadband at the lot. MLS# 2313242 $64,900 GREAT LOCATION, QUALITY FOREST, BUILD HERE. These 10-acre parcels have a mature and mixed forest, southerly exposure, easy county road frontage and just minutes from Grand Marais. MLS# 6023274 $64,900, MLS# 6023275 $62,900, MLS# 6023276 $64,900 MAPLE HILL - HOME SITE. Heavily wooded 6.45 acre parcel with great privacy, county rd frontage, power and phone. MLS# 6023465 $64,500 30 ACRES - PANORAMIC VIEWS. Rare mountain top property with a 180 degree view of distant Lake Superior and the ridge to the north. Many trails in place with food plots for wildlife. MLS# 6020274 $55,000 RIDGES, PINES & VIEWS - ARROWHEAD TRAIL. Nice 20 acre parcel with high building sites and huge pines. The surrounding federal land leads directly into the BWCAW. MLS# 6024600 $63,000 RUSTIC WOODED WONDERLAND. Beautiful 40 acres of maple

forest with small rustic cabin bordering Judge Magney State Park. Enjoy the peaceful solitude of Aide Lake, rimmed by an open cedar grove just a short hike from the cabin into the park. MLS# 6025235 $59,900

WOODED HOME SITE This 5+ acre parcel is only 1.5 miles from Grand Marais and ready for your country home. Mixed forest, with forest service land in the back for exploring or hunting. A driveway and culvert are already in place. MLS# 6026053 $59,000

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

PERFECT 5 ACRE HOME SITE. This private and secluded build site is just waiting for your custom plans! Only five miles from town with five acres of great woods bordering public land on two sides. MLS# 6021986 $51,500 WOODED 10 ACRES IN HOVLAND. North woods seclusion plus electricity and broadband! Great forested parcel. The driveway is in leading to a secluded build site with nice trees. Cute shower house and outhouse. MLS# 6024396 $47,900 BUILDING SITE OVERLOOKING MCFARLAND LAKE. This pine studded 7 acre property has easy walking access to the county beach on McFarland Lake. Nice elevated build site with easy county road access. MLS# 6024601 $47,000 5 ACRES NEAR DEVIL TRACK LAKE. Must look! 5 acres in a diverse forest on the paved South Shore Drive. Private yet easily accessible. Lot borders forest service land. Driveway is in, septic sites identified. Ready for your plans! MLS# 6025167 $45,000 POWERS LAKE ROAD ACREAGE. This is the beautiful ‘40’ that you have been waiting for. Easy access off Powers Lake Road. Electricity and broadband – a real bonus! MLS# 6022202 $42,000 5 ACRES NEAR CARIBOU LAKE. Gorgeous corner lot with colorful maples and majestic cedars. Plenty of privacy. Close to hiking trails and the Caribou Lake boat landing. Year round access with power! MLS# 2279179 $40,000 LAND NEAR LITTLE MARAIS. Nice, large parcel consisting of

13.5 acres with 1,100 feet frontage on Lake County Hwy 6. Electricity, broadband, and phone available at the road. Views of Lake Superior from the northeast.

MLS#6025325 $40,000 THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS. Nice 6 acre parcel of mixed forest land only 6 miles from Grand Marais! Shared driveway is in, transformer on the property. MLS# 6024077 $39,900 QUIET AND PRIVATE. Choice 2.31 acre lot at the end of the road in Lutsen, ready to build. Priced to sell! MLS# 2309202 $39,500 WOODED 2.4 ACRES. Tait Lake back-lot with driveway in and cleared building site ready for your cabin. Electric is on site. MLS# 2297619 $39,000 WOODED ACREAGE – GRAND MARAIS. Two private 20 acre lots with hiking and ski trails, and abundant wildlife. A high building site offers seasonal views of Lake Superior. MLS# 2313172 $46,000 & MLS# 2313173 $35,000 LAND FOR ESCAPE AND RECREATION. Remote yet accessible 20 acres near Judge Magney State Park. Good mix of trees, high building site, some distant Lake Superior views. MLS# 6025397 $34,900

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

www.RedPineRealty.com • Your easy source for new MLS listings daily • info@RedPineRealty.com 52

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Urban Loft Living on pristine 10 acres, 4 Bed, 3 Bath, 3000+sq ft, Northfield $819,000 Call for Info

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

Dave Lilja

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

JANUARY 2017

53


TimberWolff wishes Everyone a very Happy and Healthy New Year!

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

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

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

ENT G N I T CON SALE

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

PEACE AND TRANQUILITY, A LOG CABIN ON LAKE SUPERIOR!

SALE G N I D PEN

Walk to Caribou Creek Waterfall from this Welcoming Log home! Vaulted, Beamed Ceilings, Wraparound deck and a wonderful move in ready interior! Some of the best lakeshore around, a must see!

MLS#6022501 $549,000

GORGEOUS SHORELINE WITH RARE SEA ARCH! The views are from the deck

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

MLS# 6023379 $549,0000

SALE NG I D N PE

MLS#6024683 $467,500

$384,900 REDUCED!

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

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

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

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

WINTER SKI RETREAT ON LAKE SUPERIOR! After a Day of Skiing,

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

THE ADVENTUROUS CABIN ON LAKE SUPERIOR! Designed by the

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

MLS# 6023113 $585,000

NEW! WOWSER LAKE SUPERIOR PROPERTY!

Jonvick Creek AND Lake Superior frontage! Lovely LUTSEN home, tons of potential for updating and making this home YOURS! Vaulted ceilings, welcoming warm feel to this Cabin, a Must See! MLS#6026038 $530,000

NEW! AUTHENTIC 1940’S LAKE SUPERIOR CABIN! Step back

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

MLS#6026064 $324,900

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

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

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

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

MLS#2313255 $265,000 PLENTY OF ELBOW ROOM ON LAKE SUPERIOR! Nearly 800 ft of shoreline and

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

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

MLS#2313305 REDUCED! $450,000 DREAMY LAKE SUPERIOR. land and lakeshore! Several acres of privacy and way more than 200 ft of Level Access Lake Superior shoreline in Schroeder, near Sugarloaf Cove Naturalist Area!

MLS#2090420 $275,000

CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK AND LIKE TIMBERWOLFF R EALTY! 54

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TimberWolff wishes Everyone a very Happy and Healthy New Year!

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

Local 663 - 8777 • I n f o @ T i m b e r W o l f f R e a l t y . c o m To l l f r e e ( 8 7 7 ) 6 6 4 - 8 7 7 7 WILDER NESS LAKESHOR E, FOUR SEASONS OF R EST & R ELA X ATION! CONDO IN THE WOODS! Cross Country Skiers

FINE LIVING ON CARIBOU LAKE IN LUTSEN! Enjoy hosting

MLS#6026214 $119,000

MLS#2313246 $465,000

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

holiday gatherings! Sprawling kitchen, granite counters, island w/ breakfast bar. Opens to the family room overlooking Caribou Lake, Spectacular views! Amazing Owner’s Suite! Pics don’t do this home justice, it’s a Must See! Minutes to Lutsen Mountains Ski & Summer Resort!

CRAZY CUTE LOG CABIN ON CHRISTINE LAKE!

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

$110,000

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

REDUCED!

SWEET CABIN ON TONS OF PIKE LAKE SHORELINE!

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

MLS#6022181 $349,000

! D L O S

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

GUST LAKE CABIN IN LUTSEN! Tons of value on a spectacular piece of shoreline! Super fishing cabin on a peninsula point overlooking peaceful Gust Lake and the Boundary Waters a hop skip and jump away. MLS#6020330

$239,000

POPLAR LAKE CABIN ON 440’ OF SHORELINE AT THE TIP OF A PENINSULA! Ensconced in quiet Boreal environment,

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

MLS#2308952 $259,000 REDUCED!

SECLUSION ON GREENWOOD LAKE’S EAST BAY! Charming newer construction log sided cabin with great Lake Views tucked in to the shoreline of a quiet bay…imagine fishing your days away on Greenwood!

MLS#6019922 $249,000

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

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

MLS#6025737 $219,000

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

LUTSEN LAKE SUPERIOR VACATION TOWNHOME AT LUTSEN RESORT!

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

$429,000

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

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

MLS#6026238 $255,000

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

MLS#2272709 $199,000

FIVE BEDROOM 4 BATH TOWNHOME WITH RENTAL INCOME IN LUTSEN! Lovely home overlooking the Mountainous terrain, Ski In Ski Out, and an easy walk to the Alpine Slide, the new Gondola, and miles of trails. The Perfect North Shore Getaway!

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

MLS#6022881 $299,000

MLS#6022978 $237,500

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

JANUARY 2017

55


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

TimberWolff wishes Everyone a very Happy and Healthy New Year!

THINK SNOW!

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

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

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

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

HEY HANDYMAN! Come take a Look at this Tofte

STYLISH NORTHWOODS HOME, SUPER LOCATION! Minutes to BlueFin Bay on Lake Superior, this home

home with acreage! Lots to offer, the home is solid and has a nice flow. The kitchen has been upgraded! Large windows allow for lots of light, and accessory buildings are perfect for a workshop and garage! Curious? Give us a call to see this gem! MLS#6022904 $189,000

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

NEW ROOF!

GRAND MARAIS FAMILY HOME!

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

MLS#6022686 $207,900

LOVELY LIVING IN GRAND MARAIS!

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

round access, nice land, and a very habitable cabin! Enjoy as year round living or a getaway cabin! MLS#6026035 $89,900

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

MLS#6022732 $204,900 HUGE VALUE!

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

Charming rustic cabin on 10 acres of south facing forest with distant views of Lake Superior. Bordering public lands, great for hunting or hiking! MLS#6020031

$95,000

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

MUST SEE HOME! MLS#6025703 $299,900

SWEEPING HOME ON MAPLE HILLSIDE, DISTANT LAKE VIEWS AND RAVINE! All you can

ask for, acreage, Maples!, and a huge garage with plenty of firewood storage for winter warmth! Newer construction, huge walk around deck and wide open living, Awesome Owner’s Suite, Tons of potential in walk out level! Must See! MLS#2313265 $289,900 HUGE VALUE!!!

BUNGALOW HOME OVERLOOKING LAKE SUPERIOR, WITH ATTACHED GARAGE AND ACREAGE! Perfect location between Grand Marais and Lutsen, the best of both worlds! Two bedrooms, open kitchen and family room, with a large deck overlooking the lake! Great for year round living or a perfect low maintenance getaway home! MLS#6025328 $199,900

BARGAIN PRICE!

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

JANUARY 2017

NORTHERN  WILDS


TimberWolff wishes Everyone a very Happy and Healthy New Year!

THINK SNOW!

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

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

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

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

TOFTE AREA NEAR BLUEFIN BAY RESORT!

Hwy 1 area Hunting Cabin on 10 ac

Wowser Lake Superior views on Overlook Tr!

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

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

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

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

MLS#2309318 $64,900

Lakeshore on Ninemile Lake at the Village, common water and septic, build ready, borders common land! MLS#2309096 $39,000 REDUCED! SCHROEDER AREA NEAR THE CROSS RIVER! 10 Ac Parcels of Maples! Rolling Terrain of Mature Maples to a Sweet Building site Perched Over a Mixed Boreal Forest. Year Round Access and Electric at Road! MLS#2024250 $56,900 DRAMATIC Mountain Top Views, Rolling Hills, Maple Forests fading in to Spruce and Pine and year round access. Tons of acreage available, or just pick up a 40 for $70,000! MUST SEE, call Emily today! MLS#6001560, multiple#’s call for full map and prices! FROM $70,000 MLS#2090628 Sugarloaf Retreats on High Ridge Drive, located up the Surgaloaf Road from Sugarloaf Cove Naturalist Area, Enjoy large acreage parcels w/ electric & Yr Round access! FROM $29,000 MLS# 159860 TOFTE AREA NEAR BLUEFIN BAY RESORT! LeVeaux Mountain, Super Views and Wildlife Ponds! MLS#2220050 $69,000 Just Up the Sawbill Trail Grab your little piece of the Northwoods, rolling terrain and small community feel with year round access, great build sites! MLS#2070510 Prices from $24,900!! Tofte vaag on the Sawbill, Nice Lake Views! Walk to the Coho, great location! FROM $49,900

MLS#1615956

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

LUTSEN LAKE VIEWS & WILDERNESS LANDS!

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

$19,000 MLS#2309328+

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

MLS#2312987 $119,000

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

LUTSEN LAKE VIEWS & WILDERNESS LANDS!

LAKESHORE BUILD SITES!

VOYAGEUR POINT ON POPLAR LAKE! NEW! Maple Leaf Trail at Jonvick, Maples Galore! Nice elevated build site. Yr Round access, New boat dock allows you to get out over the water and look down the bay. Nice path from dock to boat house and electric. MLS#6024972 $49,000 to elevated home site MLS#2184576 $159,000

PIKE LAKE SHORELINE, SOUTHERN EXPOSURE! Nice big lake lot: 5+ acres, 225’ of frontage!

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

MLS#6023586

Five Acres of Boreal Forest, Awesome Birch Drive location just west of Grand Marais! Yr Round access, electric at street. Perfect spot for year round home or getaway cabin, NO Home Owners Assoc! MLS#6025790 $42,000 Corner Build Site in Town Walk to Harbor! MLS#2309203 $39,000 PENDING! Cty Rd 7 Murphy Mountain Lake View lands! Bargain Buys in young Poplar Forest, easy clearing for Sweet Lake Superior Views for as little as $39,900! Or Enjoy Hilltop Build Site with driveway in place.

MLS#1599157 $79,900 REDUCED!

MLS#2240533 $49,000

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

LAKESHORE BUILD SITES!

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

MLS#2289515 $57,500

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

MLS#2080599 $137,500

80 Ac with Poplar River Frontage on the Honeymoon Tr!

MLS#2307399 $95,000

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

MLS#2313068 $167,700

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

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

$150,000 PENDING!

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

$54,900 - $77,500

Maples, cedars, fir, ash: a diverse mix of thriving Northwoods. The fall color is dreamy, try collecting maple sap in the spring! Shallow lake access, but it’s there, along with yr round access!

MLS#6022429 $49,900

LAKESHORE 10+ ACRES BORDERING SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST! in

MAJESTIC WHITE PINES ON TAIT LAKE SHORELINE!

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

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

MLS#6023288 $99,900

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

MLS#1600179 $199,000

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

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

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

SUPER OPPORTUNITY TO OWN MOST OF DOWNTOWN LUTSEN!

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

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

JANUARY 2017

57


www.CBNorthShore.com Serving Cook County since 1971

NORTH SHORE

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

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

On Lake Superior

Lake Superior Lots 57XX East Hwy 61 - $89,500 4.1A, 280’ shore. Driveway, septic mound and electric in place.

MLS 2297434

2888 W Hwy 61 - $299,900

Great views of Artist Point and the Sawtooth Mtns on 1.24A with 200’ of ledgerock shore. MLS 6020121

2884 W Hwy 61 - $327,500

1.30A just past Terrace Point, only a few minutes from town. 371’ of stunning ledgerock shore. MLS 6020179

Stonegate Road - $219,900 - $229,000

7036 W Hwy 61

4512 Cascade Beach Rd

68 Trailsyde

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

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

MLS 6020708 $425,000

MLS 6026201 $995,000 NEW

7310 E Hwy 61

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

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

MLS 6025052 $599,900

MLS 6021928 $269,900

Two premium lots sited along scenic Chicago Bay. Nicely wooded, private, 1.17A, 200’ shoreline. MLS 6022145

Com m e r c ia l

East Hwy 61 - $999,999

What a piece of shoreline!! Over 28A with 1000’ of Lake Superior shore, measuring it straight across; meandering shoreline must be twice that much!

MLS 6022153

4556 Cascade Beach Rd

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

MLS 6025899 $569,000

1708 E Hwy 61

8 N. Broadway

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

MLS 6023253 $249,900

Condos

108 Gunflint Trail

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

Bluefin Bay - Tofte

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

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

Unit 17 MLS 6022417 $287,000 Unit 2 MLS 2298984 $319,000 Unit 19 MLS 6025245 $330,000 PENDING

East Bay Suites 2BR, 2BA with views of Lake Superior from both bedrooms as well as in-unit owner storage. End of building and top floor privacy make this a special unit. Excellent rental record and income.

Unit #301 MLS 6023153 $299,900

MLS 2161688 $199,900

Heavily wooded with year-round access. 112’ shore on county maintained road.

Two Island 5+ A of wooded land with

Pike Lake

The only private parcel on Chester Lake. One of a kind opportunity! 40A, 300’ frontage! Rough cabin sold “as is”. MLS 6022402 $149,900

58

JANUARY 2017

MLS 6023870 Unit 11A $210,000

NORTHERN  WILDS

MLS 6024280 $149,900

MLS 2158160 $52,500

Chester Lake

MLS 6025104 $289,900 PENDING

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

MLS 6025589 $59,900

245’ of shore on 1.2A. Shoreline has its own natural boat slip!! MLS 6024080 $45,000 2.63A, 205’ shore with a healthy mix of trees! Property is surveyed, septic sites are identified. Additional 60A for sale. MLS 6025008 $55,000

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

108-2 Gunflint Trail

Leo Lake

MLS 6023502 $79,900

Surfside

10 1st Ave West

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

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

Tom Lake Year round, 1.10A, 171’ shore, nicely wooded, driveway and cleared building site. MLS 6025129 $114,900 SOLD

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

MLS 6026334 $479,500 NEW

Inland Lake Lots

Incredible Palisades views! Over 200’ shore, yearround access and healthy mix of trees.

Grand Marais Condo’s

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

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

Birch Lake

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

MLS 2183859 $99,900

Squint Lake 2.13A with lovely old white

pine trees! Mid trail location, 221’ shore, abuts USFS. MLS 2308814 $79,900

500+’ of shorelineand state land on two sides! Year round access; great recreational area.

MLS 6023533 $74,900

Kemo Lake

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

MLS 6023878 $124,900

3.7A, 200’ of shore. Abuts federal land to the south for added privacy.

MLS 6021754 $149,900

Onagon LakeVery nice 5A lot with lots

of shoreline on both Cupid & Onagon Lake. Abuts Federal land for added privacy.

One of only 4 lots on south shore. Private 2.34A with 200’ frontage on excellent trout lake!

MLS 6022456 $119,900

Loon Lake

MLS 6022455 $49,900

MLS 6021433 $139,900

Very private, year round 4.4A with 298’ shore. Dramatic building sites overlooking the federal land across the water.

MLS 6023845 $139,900

Greenwood Lake

Lots of privacy with 4.2A and 300’ shore including a slight peninsula which will provide multiple views!

MLS 6023267 $179,900

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

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

Trip Lake One of a kind property. Private 30+A, 325’ shore. Borders federal land; power, phone & broadband available.

MLS 6025496 $149,900 SOLD


Homes & Cabins

319 E 2nd Ave

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

MLS 6024915 $168,000

176 Camp 15 Loop

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

MLS 2313220 $149,900

61 Mort Meadow Rd

4BR, 2BA home on 40A with private pond. Gourmet kitchen, LR with plush carpets and double-sided gas fireplace.. Master BR suite has fireplace, whirlpool tub, quartz vanity and large walk-in closet.

2499 E Hwy 61

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

MLS 6025179 $498,500

MLS 6025059 $349,900

381 Moose Valley Rd

481 Co Rd 60

930 W 4th St

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

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

MLS 6025718 $469,000

MLS 6025180 $279,900

260 County Rd 48

1044 2nd Ave W

40 Taylor Lane

1911 Camp 20 Rd

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

MLS 6022762 $55,000

203 Victory Ln

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

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

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

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

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

MLS 6026190 $259,900

MLS 6025039 $289,000

MLS 6024267 $144,900 PENDING

MLS 6021725 $69,900

MLS 6024727 $66,000 PENDING

L a ke S u p e r i o r V i e w Facebook.com/ cbnorthshore61 Coldwell Banker North Shore

Check out OUR BLOG

1183 Gunflint Tr

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

at ColdwellBanker NorthShore. wordpress.com

MLS 6025633 $259,900 7.1A Great location and development opportunities right off Hwy 61! 7.1A Commercial lot (Zoned Commercial and R-1). Additional acreage of R-1 behind. Agent Owned. MLS 2170380 $149,900

Gunflint Trail Cross country skiers, hikers; this

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

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

MLS 2308865 $59,900

North Rd 20A, very private, year round access. Power, phone and broadband available at the road!! MLS 6024552 $39,900

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

78 Squint Lake Rd 5A surrounded on 2 sides by

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

Casper Hill Rd

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

Stonegate Rd

2A on public portion of desirable Stone Gate Road with lots of potential uses. Power, phone, and broadband are a stone’s throw away.

MLS 6022528 $19,900

government land. Convenient mid-trail location.

County Rd 7 Oversize lot on Co Rd 7 but inside the city. The obvious benefits of broadband and other services.

Railroad Drive

Broadway Ave Wonderful location, oversize lot is

MLS 6023743 $49,900

MLS 6025787 $48,000

MLS 6020283 $62,900

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

2.7A – 3.48A across the road from state owned Lake Superior shoreline. Utilities readily available.

MLS 6024403

E Hwy 61 - $65,000

7.6A on the upper side of Hwy 61. A great location for your future home--close to Grand Marais!

MLS 6025034

Gunflint Trail - $97,500

Year round 6.46A on county maintained road with plenty of privacy. Great views of Superior! MLS 6023319

Morgan Rd - $79,000

20A, great mix of trees, elevated lot, abuts Cascade State Park to the west, federal land to the north.

Land W Hwy 61

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

Silver Fox Rd Two peaceful and quiet 5A pieces close to town with easements onto Federal land. MLS 6025690 $39,900 - $69,900

Zeke’s Rd 20A with a mix of trees close to the west

end of Cook County. The Superior Hiking Trail is just down the road! MLS 6025863 $69,900

Rosebush Hill Lane Nicely wooded 5.40A with

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

MLS 6023679

Raven Feather Rd - $119,900

6.65A of nicely wooded just west of Grand Marais. End of road location with federal land to the west PLUS incredible views of Lake Superior. MLS 6024147

Co Rd 7- $69,900

Beautifully wooded 7.7A. Septic sites id’d, building site has been identified. MLS 6019917

MLS 6024624 $49,900

9th Ave W.

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

MLS 6024916 $65,000

open to many opportunities for development and use.

NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

59


Inland

Lake

Homes

Tom Lake

Kemo Lake

Poplar Lake

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

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

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

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

MLS 6019286 $599,900

MLS 6022457 $219,900

MLS 2313186 $114,900

MLS 6019270 $229,900

Poplar Lake

Devil Track Lake

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

MLS 6025051 $229,900 PENDING

MLS 6023530 $569,900

Birch Lake

McFarland Lake

Devil Track

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

Devil Track Lake

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

MLS 6024623 $379,900

Gunflint Lake

Greenwood Lake

Devil Track Lake

Tucked into a quiet bay protected by Devil Point on the north shore of the lake! Year round, Berber carpet, southern windows, low maintenance and updated!

3BR, 2BA home on 1A, overlooking 150’ of shore. Whirlpool, walk-in shower, large sunroom with southern exposure. There is a fully furnished summer cabin also!

MLS 6025547 $289,900

MLS 6025687 $194,900

Seagull Lake

Poplar Lake

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

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

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

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

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

MLS 6022641 $489,900

MLS 6025773 $314,900 PENDING

MLS 6023141 $299,900

MLS 6022707 $549,900

MLS 6023210 $349,900

Lar ge Acr eage 110A W Highway 61 - $649,900 Wooded, year round land with multiple zoning.

MLS 2164180

83A on Mons Creek, abuts Judge Magney State Park. Historical log cabin; abundant with wildlife.

MLS 6025279

120A Reason Rd - $109,900

Wooded with trails, wildlife and State land on 2 sides. 1.5 miles from public Tom Lake boat landing

MLS 6025476

120A Murmur Creek - $99,900

Excellent hunting land located south and east of Deer Yard Lake! Abuts Govt land on three sides.

MLS 6025009

41A Camp 20 Rd - $46,900

170+ Camp 20 Rd - $169,900

43A County Road 7 - $299,900

Check out OUR BLOG at ColdwellBanker NorthShore. wordpress.com

JANUARY 2017

Seasonal Lake Superior views, multiple zoning, electric at road.

MLS 2170711

DAILY UPDATES AT www.CBNorthShore.com

NORTH SHORE NORTHERN  WILDS

80A of private wilderness with a partial view of Lake Superior. Yearround living on a county maintained road. MLS 6021717

Colorful maple forest, perfect for hunting, hiking, or retreating!! Survey done; additional abutting lakeshore available.

Wooded with excellent building sites close to the Superior Hiking Trail. Surrounded by State Forest on 2 sides! MLS 6026321 PENDING

Facebook.com/ cbnorthshore61 Coldwell Banker North Shore

80A Moose Valley Trail - $69,900

60A Island View Dr - $89,900

MLS 6020470

Heavily forested land, many beautiful pine trees. Gravel pit on the northwest corner, State land to the south. MLS 6022459

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83A Camp 20 Rd - $79,900

MEET OUR AGENTS:

VIRGINIA DETRICK PALMER 387-2131

BOB CARTER 370-9054

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

HARRY DRABIK 475-2359

Serving Cook County since 1971

RICK AUSTIN 388-9434

(218) 387-2131

JULIE JOYNES CARLSON 370-8068

ERIC FROST 370-1362

(800) 732-2131

www.CBNorthShore.com


Lake Superior Properties

Lutsen In-land lakes Caribou Lake.

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

lutsenrealestategroup.com

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

MLS 6023499 $409,000

5402 W Hwy 61.

3 bdrm w/ guest cottage. It’s called Viewpoint for a reason!

MLS 6023941 $545,000

6294 Sea Villa Loop J7

Watch the sunrise from this Lutsen Sea Villa. Close to cross-country and downhill skiing, snowmobile trails, hiking, golf, shopping and much more. The Resort has shared amenities such as the shared shoreline, pool and hot tub in the guest services building. One bedroom plus loft. Furniture and appliances included. Property management available. Keep this dream for your own weekend retreats or put it in the rental pool for additional income. MLS 6024480 $169,000

SALE ING PEND

391 Gunflint Narrows

Mike Larson 218-370-1536

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

MLS 6024837 $597,750

Caribou Lake.

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

MLS 2020244 $319,900

Outsanding View Properties

48 County Rd 34.

Bruce Kerfoot 218-388-2294

Timeless three bedroom home. Outstanding views

MLS 2251195 $595,000

Steve Surbaugh 218-663-7971

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

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

MLS 602078 $45,000

Tait Lake.

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

MLS 6024063 $45,000

5402 (b) W Highway 61

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

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

MLS 2308961 Starting at $329,000.

90 Hoaglund Drive Tofte

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

MLS 6024998 $395,000

31 Eagle

Mountain. SALE Beautiful G IN Home atMountain D Lutsen N E P

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

MLS 2313086 $595,000

MLS 6023980 $349,000

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

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

JANUARY 2017

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BUYING OR SELLING

Lynne Luban

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

OVER 4,000 FT FRONTAGE ALONG THE BAPTISIM RIVER

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

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

THere’s a NEW CONDO BUILDING in DOWNTOWN MINNEAPOLIS Occupying summer 2016 • 112 units with 70 still available to customize 60

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

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

A New Luxury Condo Development 740 Portland Avenue • Downtown Minneapolis

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

• Walk the Skyway for all your needs • Within a few blocks of Lightrail • Close to the Nicollet Mall • Walk to the new Commons Park, a 9 acre park that extends from the US Bank Stadium accross from Portland Avenue • Choose from many restaurants close by!

www.Realliving.com/Messina

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

Surfside on Lake Superior

Bluefin Bay Condos & Townhomes SOLD

Bluefin Unit 2

Bluefin Unit 17

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

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

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

Bluefin Unit 27

Bluefin Unit 41

Bluefin Unit 61

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

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

3BR, 3BA. End-unit w/incredible views. One of most requested.

JANUARY 2017

NORTHERN  WILDS

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

SOLD

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

218-663-6886 | eric@bluefinbay.com


CATCHLIGHT

Pileated Woodpecker I recently took this photo on our property in Lutsen. We have a pair of pileated woodpeckers that frequent our suet feeders daily. The male was posed in perfect, waning winter light, so his feather detail and colors were quite beautiful.—David Brislance NORTHERN  WILDS

JANUARY 2017

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Unspoiled. Serene. Spectacular. Unforgettable.

W

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

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

800-346-2203 • 218-388-2203

Golden-Eagle.com

Check out our Live Webcam! 64

Stay updated ski trail conditions and snow totals NORTHERN on WILDS

JANUARY 2017


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