Lake Time Magazine - Issue 7 (Spring 2017)

SPRING 2017

FOR THE PE OP P L E , FRO M T TH E P E O P LE

FORAGING FOR SPRING'S BOUNTY // IDEAS + RECIPES // SUSTAINABILITY

PHENOLOGY + SIGNS OF NATURE’S AWAKENING // WATER QUALITY + CONSERVATION

PRESERVING TRADITION

WA WATERS IMAG E BY J I M B R A N D E N B URG

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I LO V

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VIRGINIA

BEMIDJI

T N OW

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TWO HARBORS

DETROIT LAKES DULUTH

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OA

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MINNEAPOLIS

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LETTER

PUBLISHED BY bE.MEDIA HOUSE

PUBLISHER MEGAN KELLIN

FROM THE EDITOR

EDITOR CHRISTINA MONSON

SALES & MARKETING KELLY KABOTOFF

It’s never easy to write an Editor’s Letter, especially one that preceeds our superb and thoughtful “HELLO” from publisher Megan Kellin. And as any writer would relate, the concept of writers block is very real and can be quite paralyzing. However, as fate would have it, oftentimes someone or something comes into my life that gives me the push I need and nearly every time it happens to be a little thing called “inspiration.”

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Lately, inspiration has been oozing from every corner of my life… whether it be from my child’s ever-growing imagination(!), events on television, an ailing family member, or a thoughtful comment from a friend or reader… this spring I feel a renewed sense of inspiration and excitement. To find inspiration in every day life can be challenging… truth be told. Sometimes that inspiration is cloaked in camouflage, difficult to detect. Other times it comes to you with full abandon. It can take a keen eye to pick out those moments worthy of our attention and thoughtfulness.

My job… this job… allows me innumerable moments of inspiration.

Primarily from you, Sir or Maddam Reader. You lead such fascinating lives that I often wonder how we could ever come close to running out of content… and I assure you, we won’t! You inspire me… us. You are this magazine!

I’ve come clean about the fact that I’m originally from Iowa (go Iowa!) but I think that’s perhaps my biggest asset in this thing we call Lake Time Magazine. If you’ve read previous issues, you’d know that my family has a longstanding tradition of vacationing on northern MN lakes. It’s in my blood as much as any of you born on MN soil… mine is just condensed into one week per year x 30 some odd years. Fair enough? Good. My point? Having not grown up here, it’s easy for me to find inspiration in many things BUT I also get to see what inspires you. It’s important for your stories and inspiration to be discovered and told and sometimes to be reminded of the beauty that can be found in every day things; things that inspire your neighbors, your family, your friends.

This spring, look around you. Find your inspiration! Find your voice and make it known. Follow your heart and embrace it every day.

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HELLO

T

JUST KEEP SWIMMING here are endless metaphors for starting and running a business, and I'd like to take this opportunity to recognize just how much these water-based sayings really are a part of our culture. After all, this is the ‘water issue,’ it would almost be unjust not to overuse the clichés, puns, and colloquialisms when relating life to water.

On the face of it you may be wondering what swimming has got to do with business.

So here’s my attempt to muster up some obvious puns and metaphors such as ‘swim your way to success,’ ‘sink or swim,’ or ‘dive in at the deep end,’ but the real magic and power in their meaning comes from their delicate subtly. My favorite: Just keep swimming.

The phrase, "Keep moving forward," has been appearing a lot in my life lately, and I think it's the perfect topic for our spring issue. Winters in these parts, albeit beautiful, can get long - it’s innate that people retreat and recalibrate. But what would spring be without having first experienced the winter.

Spring is our season to step outside, gain new perspective, and move forward.

You see, when I set out to write this issue’s HELLO column, it felt like we were caught

in the perfect storm at Lake + Co., we couldn’t catch a break - I mean for months; between personal lives, death, illness, and motherhood, we were drowning, literally in our own ambitions. Then it hit me – while our culture doesn’t really like to acknowledge it, hard times happen. They teach us lessons, make us stronger, and give us a deeper sense of who we are and what we want out of life. Our lessons in life and business are no different than anyone else’s, but talking about them could have value to you, our readers: the inspired …And the parallels to the radical tides faced by those intrepid (or crazy) enough to have set sail on such an inherently risky pursuit. The pursuit of happiness as we like to jokingly refer to it around the office. But it’s true.

If you’ve been following along in our other issues, you’ll already know that there’s a lot of heart and soul dumped into these pages.

I mean everything. It’s our H2O (2 parts heart, 1 part obsession). And all with good reason; we exist to tell the story. To bring people together.

We work hard on culture, knowing it’s one of the hardest things to transfer. It’s why economies struggle, it’s why businesses

lose their direction and it’s why people get discouraged. But part of what makes our communities work is having people from all walks-of-life, bound together. And one thing that binds people together: storytelling.

That’s truly our mission with Lake Time Magazine - to go beyond. To make the connection, expand the boundaries of our individualistic pursuit of happiness, and shift reality. The more we promote, applaud, and actively inspire well-intended efforts, the more others will be drawn to them.

In that spirit, we urge you to take a cue from those who are, and have been, making waves – the adventurers, the activists, the makers, the doers, the dreamers …they’re all right here in these pages. And, amazingly, in our neck of the woods. We love the idea of the unknown, and we celebrate those bold enough to explore.

So keep going. Keep riding the waves and taking risks because in the end, it’s the unknown, where the possible and impossible collide, that keeps us afloat.

It’s not so much the wave or the ride, but sometimes it's enough just to be out there, keeping your head above water.

"LUCK IS IN CATCHING THE WAVE, BUT THEN YOU HAVE TO RIDE IT." -Jimoh Ovbiagele

BY MEGAN KELLIN

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Finding inspiration on the shores of Lake Superior and the trials and tribulations of life, Trampled By Turtle’s frontman, Dave Simonett, releases a poignant solo album about love, loss, and life.

Teaching today’s youth about finances is crucial for their future successes and life planning. Learn some Finance 101 tips and tricks here.

Introducing an Iron Range company helping businesses dial in their financing on a global level.

With the arrival of spring’s bounty from the forest floor and the opening of walleye fishing season, foraging season has begun! Get out, hunt, and eat like royalty!

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26 MADE

LOVE

MUSIC

ART

Project Lulu uses art to help ease the minds and hearts of patients and caregivers when dealing with the frightening reality of a tragic health diagnosis.

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BIZ

Exquisite luxury boating at its best- read up on a Duluth company doing big things in beautiful ways!

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TRAVEL

Our friends at Lake Superior Magazine share their Lake Superior Circle Tour map and details. Travel the We’ve all seen the billboards along the highway or the Great Lake in style... don’t forget your passport and agents monitoring the public lake landings. This issue is camera! crucial to lake life. Read and educate yourself about the importance of maintaining the quality of our lakes.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

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ENTREPRENEUR

34 We LOVE our readers and when we received this heartfelt letter, we just knew we had to share it because we feel the same about lake country and we know that you do too. Grab the tissues and reminisce some of your favorite family lake memories.

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MOVEMENT

GATHER

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LEGEND A unique legend created by an Iron Ranger makes a pretty great northern MN story. Read up on the origin of St. Urho (pron: Urraho) and the frog vs. grasshopper conundrum.

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FISHING

Spring has sprung- the trails and paths are open and Spring signals the first signs of open water and the the lakes are soon to follow. Take these tips on how to much anticipated walleye season opener. Take a trip to get outside this spring.

Lake of the Woods and enjoy superior fishing.

38 GATHER

20 JOIN THE CONVERSATION

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We’ve all heard the term Big Data.

Technology and the digital data and information that comes with it has exciting implications for the future.

MN boasts a bounty of beautiful fairways. Here we list the 10 Best Public Golf Courses in MN.

A local woman shares her troubled past in an inspirational story of recovery and the meaning of true family values.

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YOUTH

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Mushrooms? For a drink? Yep, tea. In the forests of northern MN- and likely your own backyard- there grows a funny looking fungus with medicinal properties and documented health benefits.

Lake Time’s own event calendar is filling up fast with spring events around the state. You can find us at these sweet soirées. Come and say “hi!” and join in the fun.

Just like us, youngsters can get a bit stir crazy after a long winter- here are some super cute activities to try at home.

“Living in harmony with the natural world”... a lesson in life, yes, but also in gardening. Enter permaculture.

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ON THE RADAR

DIGITAL

FAMILY Follow one mother’s journey of adoption and the lessons you can learn about humility and compassion.

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SCIENCE Okay, guys... this is cool! Learn how you can (or already are) tracking data that scientists want!

PLAY

UNITED WAY

GARDENING

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Tiny home living is all the rage on TV but there’s a growing population of Minnesotan’s who are living the tiny life and loving it.

We look outside northern MN to the metro area and find a chef who knows how to make your mouth water.

HOME

EAT

DRINK

MEET THE MAKER Easily one of our all time top favs in the state, Larissa Loden is doing beautiful and inspiring things in the world of jewelry. Check out the live succulent necklaces she creates! That’s crazy cool!

SITES & SCENES

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Your go-to guide for area events!

Want to see us at an event?

Write to us at: hello@laketimemagazine.com 11

FISHING

We are northern Minnesota's magazine.

A celebration of the communities that make us great.

Our Lake Towns. Our people. But it’s more than a magazine.

It is a community. A state of mind. An internal compass.

The true north.

MEET THE FOUNDERS:

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INA MONS ON IST R H

F

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F

N DECHAIN E LIA IL

KELLY

WINNER 2016

- THE L

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SHOP CO

MMPA AWARD

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TOR-IN-C ED I HI E

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2016 MMPA AWARD WINNING PUBLICATION

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OVERALL DESIGN OVERALL EXCELLENCE FEATURE DESIGN

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MUSIC

D A V E S I M O N E T T,

to best known as frontman

Trampled by Turtles,

se “Furnace,” band this year to relea took a break from the side project. k n Winter, his folk-roc an album with Dead Ma ildren, and ch e, living apart from his “Furnace” tackles divorc r with his tou oke with Dave while on life in the aftermath. I sp Chicago. bandmates, en route to Congratulations on a beautifully done album. “Furnace” is an intimate and very personal album lyrically, while musically explorative.

enough to think everyone will like it. That’s not true for any record.

You escaped life in the city for respite in rural Minnesota while writing this album. Why was that important for you to do that?

Lake Superior is my home. It’s where I go to feel peace and I was in pretty desperate need of peace at the time.

Are you able to get past the emotional content when performing these songs in front of an audience?

I imagine songwriting is always a personal process, but this release ties into your own delicate experiences. What is that like to put yourself out there?

Nerve wracking. I’ve never made anything quite that personal. I was pretty close to not releasing it, actually.

There has been great acclaim for “Furnace” already. One of my favorites was in AP News – ‘You’d have to go back decades to find a more cathartic breakup album — perhaps as far as Bob Dylan’s “Blood on the Tracks,” the gold standard for such things. “Furnace” reassures us that the human heart is beautiful even when it’s in anguish.’

MUSIC

Compared to Dylan! Have you been surprised by the reaction?

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I’ve been pleasantly surprised, for sure. I can never gauge how anything is going to be received. I like to pretend I don’t care about response but it’s pretty hard to shut all that stuff out especially with Twitter and whatnot. But I’m not ignorant

I don’t have any problems playing the stuff live. There’s so much else going on in my head on stage like trying not to screw up and making sure my fly isn’t down, etc.

You’re out on tour a lot - There must be pros and cons of going solo versus full band tours.

What are some of those in your opinion?

There are. Solo tours are lovely for me because I’m a crotchety bastard and I like to be alone.

Driving around the country by myself is one of my favorite activities. However, I equally, but in different ways, enjoy touring with a band. There’s nothing quite like playing music with other people. It’s a simple but well-established joy.

Northern Minnesota holds a special place in your head and heart, yet you grew up in southern Minnesota. What is it about the North Shore that’s different for you?

I blame the lake. It has some kind of magnetic pull on me that keeps me coming back. I’m happy there’s no cure.

It sounds like you’re a contin-

uous songwriter. When you’re writing songs today, are they for Dead Man Winter or Trampled

by Turtles?

Both...neither...not sure. That choice usually gets made after the songs are done and really mainly depends on what project is next for me. I don’t alter the process in any way based on what band is going to record the song. I feel like either band could play any song I write. I’m such a basic musician compared to any of those guys.

Setting the scene: It’s 2003 in Duluth, Trampled is playing a show at Pizza Luce. You guys are rehearsing some new songs and having a few beers, talking about the band’s future. What does that conversation look like?

Ha, it probably looks like it’s taking place between kids! You’ve got the beers part right but I don’t think we ever talked about the future. It’s a very hard industry in which to think that way. At least for me.

You’ve been in the music scene for many years, and are very well connected. What musician in the MN scene would you like to collaborate with that you haven’t yet?

I don’t know... collaboration for me has always been pretty spontaneous. Not something I’ve sought out, generally. Maybe P.O.S. (of Doomtree).

QUICK QUESTIONS: Go-to road snack?

Cigarettes Hotel, motel, or couch?

Not above any of ‘em.

Interstate or highway?

Highway Coffee or soda?

Coffee How do you stay sane on the road?

I don’t.

Kari Hedlund is the Music Director at Northern Community Radio, KAXE/KBXE. She listens to music all day, every day; also puts on concerts and helps with various community events, including the annual Bemijigamaag Powwow, Record Store Day, and more. In her spare time, Kari enjoys gardening, nature hikes, boating, and hanging with her husband, Kyle, and 4 year old, Anders.

We are Northern Community Radio

A mix of NPR news, regional arts, culture & public affairs programs, and a great variety of music

A u t h e n t i c L oc al R ad i o comments@kaxe.org | (800)662-5799 | kaxe.org

L u nc h • Di n n e r • Co c k ta i l s

220 Main Ave S, Park Rapids, MN | 218-237-4212 MENU AND SEASONAL HOURS ONLINE w w w. t h e g o o d l i f e c a f e p r. c o m

SEEKING SOLACE THROUGH

E X P R E SS I V E A R T S

Q&A with founder, Lisa McKhann Q: What is Project Lulu?

A: Project Lulu is a nonprofit bringing expressive arts to individuals and communities in need. Based in Duluth, MN, we have both online and in-person resources to help individuals tap into their creative abilities. We know that expressive arts provide release and reprieve for those living with challenges, especially illness or infirmities. Art-making builds community and empathy in all who learn from shared artworks. Project Lulu was founded in 2012, and primarily serves residents of northern Minnesota and northern Wisconsin.

Q: Tell us about your personal journey that led to the founding of Project Lulu.

A: I was working as a mixed-arts performer and teacher when I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at age 45. (As of April 1st, that will be nine years ago!) About a year after the hoopla of chemotherapy was past, my hair was growing in, and apparently I looked more myself. Lots of people were very positive, but inside I felt really scared and shaky. I wished for a place to unburden some of my shameful fears, when everyone else seemed so eager—and naturally, ready—to move on.

So, I created the pilot website of what became Reflecting Pool®.

It was with a small art-project grant from our local Arrowhead Regional Arts Council, plus the help of nine volunteer breast cancer survivors (including Kathy Dodge of Grand Rapids, now a Project Lulu board member). Using my creative writing background and performing know-how, I wrote a script from the excerpts, which was performed live as a staged reading in Duluth. Some area doctors and researchers attended and were impressed by the project.

My dad was a doctor who died of cancer, so for me as a writer and artist, to bring arts and humanities into this health and science world was amazing. We began a research study with Essentia Institute of Rural Health using our Reflecting Pool prototype.

One hundred women with breast cancer diagnoses from around the region wrote and read in six-week sessions. A script of their excerpts, “Good To Get It Out,” has been presented at live readings to physicians, patients, families, and the public. It’s powerful, how

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simple language illuminates and helps make meaning of complicated feelings. Our nonprofit was founded as a charitable organization to support partnerships with area healthcare centers and to offer high quality programs at no or low cost to participants.

Q: The concept of healing through journaling has some notable research supporting it. How have you seen these initiatives help people?

A: Yes, expressive writing has been used with several populations as a way to process traumatic experiences. Journaling is commonly prescribed by psychologists, counselors, nurses, and others to help an individual process a life challenge. Done with support through our Reflecting Pools, participants see the spectrum of thoughts and feelings commonly experienced by others like them. They are guided to accept the full range of emotions, from some positives even, like moments of deep gratitude and huge love, amid the really hard stuff of illness and loss.

Q: Who benefits from participating in Project Lulu?

A: Our programs serve patients, family caregivers, and friends, particularly those living with cancer, but also other health crises or chronic conditions, like stroke and traumatic brain injury. Expressive arts are proven to benefit the psychological and social well-being of individuals. As a person’s mental state improves, the benefits ripple outward to family, coworkers, and friends. The community at-large benefits too. The human spirit takes inspiration from those facing loss of life or capacity, when they encounter something true.

Truth is beauty. Beauty elevates us all. Our programs could serve those struggling with non-health issues, too, as communities try to strengthen and heal amid broader social concerns.

Q: Not only is Project Lulu geared toward those going through a health crisis, but just as equally for those who have survived and the caregivers that are beside them through their journey. Tell us about the emotional needs that survivors and caregivers have that may not be easily recognized.

A: We see the emotional effects of health crisis spreading out over time and space from a health crisis. Sometimes patients go on to

ART live for years in chronic pain or as ‘survivors’ fearful of recurrence, which takes a toll on their emotional well-being. Caregivers find themselves overwhelmed in what can be a crushing role they did not choose. While filled with worry and fear for their loved one, they are the gate-keeper. Not only do they provide as much direct support as they can, they also commonly battle finances, insurance, family, not to mention the heroic task of navigating the medical health system. There is deep isolation here, with no time for friends and regular activities. As our population ages, communities will benefit from understanding and countering the emotional toll of illness with programs like ours.

Q: Besides the medical and physical challenges of an unexpected diagnosis, was it commonality with others that you sought?

A: Our programs provide a couple levels of privacy and community for people who share a common condition or concern. We started with cancer patients and their caregivers, yet we know there is relevance for many others. Our programs provide space for honest expression, which can be kept private or safely shared. Participants find a reprieve in drawing and movement, they find unexpected release and truth in a poem or scrawl. All emotions play into recovery, so we try to open the full-spectrum, from healthy denial, rosy glasses and humor, to dark worry and mortal fear. It’s all real and valid. Then, too, there is value in doing abstract expression with no conscious meaning, just letting color, line, rhythm, and energy take charge. These activities help unblock and reconnect us to life-affirming energy within and around us.

Q: Community seems to be a large part of the effectiveness of Project Lulu. How can a sense of community and familiarity help individuals in need of Project Lulu?

A: It may seem strange to the young and healthy, but there is a lot of isolation that happens around health issues. Shame is not an uncommon feeling either. These are tough things to say out loud, let alone overcome. Another host of isolating factors comes in the lay of the land here. We live in a rural, lightly populated region with dark, arctic winters. Sometimes towns feel too small, with not enough privacy. Sometimes we want connection with folks who ‘get’ what we’re going through.

Creative expression enlivens us. Even done alone, whenever your eye or imagination are engaged, you are living, you are in the moment of generating, of life. This is good medicine.

Done in community, or shared, one person’s poem becomes her Voice and together with others, you begin to hear the broad chorus of truths.

This is empowering for individuals and community alike. Project Lulu participants are learning about themselves. But in sharing, they are educating the community as well. The benefits fan outward from there.

Q: Expressive arts have widespread applications through a range of techniques individuals can use to express themselves. What techniques does Project Lulu promote for expression and how do they work?

A: We love to mix it up at Project Lulu, just like kids do. That’s where ‘Lulu’ comes from, evoking kids. One minute they’re drawing with chalk on the sidewalk, the next they’re dancing in the grass to made-up songs. In our workshops, artist-teachers lead poetry writing, drawing, and collage, plus movement and dance. Our sessions encourage folks to try everything, and our teachers make

PASTEL COLLAGE MADE AT ARTS EXPRESS TWIN PORTS BY DULUTH’S THERESA KOENIG, AN OVARIAN CANCER SURVIVOR, MOTHER, PIANIST AND VEGETABLE FARMER.

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ART A: Living through a health crisis tends to leave folks feeling abandoned and adrift at some point. “What next?” Often when the busy, heroic time of treatments has passed--for cancer patients, when it becomes a waiting game--“What next?” has no simple answer. Project Lulu programs help individuals move from the intense inward focus of physical healing back into themselves and some community.

We hope people will see expressive arts as a simple, innate healing tool. It is poised and at the ready. We have creative energy in us. We just need to exercise it a bit, find some playful yet dedicated time and space. Take a sketching class, and then carry that sketchbook with you to appointments. Carry a journal, read poetry, find a poet blogger like our poet-teacher Sheila Packa, and let her inspire you. Find a dance class; music and movement are good for the spirit, which in turn helps heal the body. Arts are not extra, they are core.

BETTY BRASGALA MADE THIS ABSTRACT PASTEL DRAWING IN ONE QUICK SITTING AT AN ARTS EXPRESS WORKSHOP IN GRAND RAPIDS. BETTY DIED LAST YEAR FROM BREAST CANCER.

it easy to immerse. For instance, Betty Brasgala, the Grand Rapids woman who made the abstract color study here, walked into the Saturday workshop saying, “I can’t draw!” Well, she sure could handle color, form, and space! Like many, Betty was proud of what came through her in the guided, quick renderings. We see that as people learn some techniques for feeling their way into language, line, and movement, they usually stumble upon some true “Wow” moments. They learn something about themselves and say something unique that elevates their sense of self-worth.

Though we always focus on the process of art-making, the products are so beautiful and the participants so willing to share, we created a touring exhibit. Poems, drawings, collage, and videos from Arts Express have toured area hospitals in Duluth, Grand Rapids, and Moose Lake. There are gorgeous videos on our website (www.projectlulu.org) in which cancer survivors combine their art, poetry, and dance to beautiful effect.

Q: As a society, we tend to be reserved with our feelings. We can sometimes place boundaries on our self-expression. What is the message you’d like to send people who fall into this category?

Why do you believe that self-expression can help to heal?

A: There’s quite a bit of evidence that depression and anxiety can accompany illness. These emotions easily spiral deeper without a place for honest expression. In fact, bottling up sadness, fear, and anger – emotions that naturally accompany a scary diagnosis – can compress them into depression. Just naming emotions with some specificity helps us: “Oh, I’m furious today. Wow. Just a raging bull and everything is a china shop.” And in seeing and saying that, in naming it, we are already one big step toward moving through it.

Anxiety can be a chronic condition for those with ongoing health concerns. Self-expressive arts activities provide a deep reprieve of color, texture, sound, rhythm. Even if something harsh is expressed, the truth of that expression is beautiful and healing, for the artist herself and for others who encounter it.

Q: The idea of “what’s next” plays a large part into the concept of Project Lulu… tell us about how the tools provided through Project Lulu can help people suffering from health issues or caregivers dealing with the emotional toils navigate through what happens next.

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Q: What do you want people to take away from learning about Project Lulu?

A: Project Lulu is just a friendly nudge to help uncover what each of us already has at our disposal as a source for emotional healing.

It doesn’t have to be talking or thinking or writing ‘about’ illness.

It can be doing abstract color play, or telling a story with your body in space. It can be a poem describing a horse you see in the pasture on the way to work each day, and how its spirit touches yours. This beauty of true seeing, bringing it through our simple bodies and hearts, and expressing it back out – this is the magic of art-making.

Q: Are there ways that people can become involved to help with Project Lulu’s mission?

A: Project Lulu is a small nonprofit, supported by regional grants and health partners, local businesses, and individual donors. We work hard to keep programs free and low-cost to participants, so access is not hindered by income level. We are always looking for donations, large and small, to extend our programs to new communities. As a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, contributions are tax-deductible. To sponsor an Arts Express workshop or help underwrite the traveling exhibit in a new community, talk to our Executive Director, Jeanne Riese, Jeanne@projectlulu.org Donate online at: www.projectlulu.org/donate Or by check to: Project Lulu, 2109 Minnesota Ave., Duluth, MN 55802 More great ways to become involved include: •sign up for our newsletter www.projectlulu.org/eNews •look for us on Facebook facebook.com/projectlulu •donate items (digital projector, laptop, video camera, portable green screen) •apply to become a Project Lulu artist-teacher •invite us to do a presentation in your community •explore & join a Reflecting Pool www.projectlulu.org/reflectingpool •volunteer for us in Duluth or as liaison in your community For further conversation, email Jeanne Riese, Jeanne@projectlulu.org

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AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES

Article and video by: Ryan DeChaine – Wired2Fish Inc. and Itasca AIS (watch video on laketimemagazine.com) Northern Minnesota | Itasca County, Minnesota. A land of water and woods, rich history, and family legacy - many words conjure up images of this place of exquisite beauty. It’s easy to see. The rugged land inspires people to get outside and live life. When it comes to water, well, the resource is diverse and many - natural lakes, reservoirs, rivers & streams, and countless wetlands with rich aquifers under foot. Itasca County is nothing short of a geological masterpiece sculpted by the glaciers 10,000 years ago – which gifted this landscape with over a thousand lakes, and the Mississippi River.

ITASCA COUNTY’S PRISTINE WATERS SHAPE OUR DNA. Generations of Minnesotans and outstate guests live and have visited here to nurture souls into outdoors spirits, and in turn, have become stewards of the land. We’re fishermen, boaters, divers and swimmers, kayakers and canoeists, sailors, sunrise watchers, huntergatherers; we’re Lake People. We’d like permanence to describe our natural resources – a shared desire to hand down a land and its water, unchanged, so that others experience the same greatness that has shaped our lives. But change is not always a consequence of time. This video seeks to address some of the risks posed by aquatic invasive species, specifically in our own Itasca County. We’re fortunate that in partnership, we have the ability to stop the onward march of invasive organisms that threaten the places we so very much love. The time is now to do something about it. Let us partner as a community of users, bound by a beautiful place, and preserve our outdoor traditions.

THREAT DEFINED AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES So what are aquatic invasive species and the issue with them? To broadly define, aquatic invasive species are organisms that are nonnative to a particular place. They evolved elsewhere in the world, and those that excel here are usually from a similar latitude and climate regime oversees. Global commerce has connected our world and with it, moved plants and animals unintentionally and sometimes intentionally. Biologically speaking, invasive species outcompete native species – which didn’t evolve the defense mechanisms to fend them off. The result is often dominance by the invasive organism, and this can spell big change in the form of reduced abundance of desired plant and animal species. There are several AIS in Minnesota, but let’s take a closer look at a few in particular that pose a high risk of diminishing the recreational value and overall health of our Itasca County waters.

STARRY STONEWORT A relative newcomer, the starry stonewort is a grass-like algae that can form expansive and impenetrable pillow-like mats. The first confirmed discovery of starry stonewort was on Lake Koronis 20

in Stearns County in August of 2015. Since that time, it has rapidly spread and formed sprawling and nearly impenetrable mats in certain areas of the lake. The footage speaks for itself. The impact on recreational use has been severe, with many shoreline owners unable to swim or deploy boats from lifts and docks without clogging props. Aerial inspection reveals massive mats that span near-shore shallows and extending outward into the lake significant distances. Starry stonewort may displace native vegetation and adversely affect spawning sites for several gamefish species not to mention that it just flat out blocks fish from successfully living in infested areas.

Since 2015, starry stonewort have been confirmed on several northcentral Minnesota lakes, including Red Lake, Cass Lake, Moose Lake in Beltrami county, and Lake Winnibigoshish. Starry stonewort plants, plant fragments, and the white flower-like bulbils are highly susceptible to transport on boats, trailers, personal watercraft, and lakeshore equipment. Close proximity to Itasca County coupled with its ease of transport and recreational impact makes the starry stonewort a significant cause for concern.

ZEBRA MUSSELS Zebra mussels are fingernail-sized animals that attach to solid surfaces in the water and can significantly alter the physical and chemical makeup of infested waters. Once established, they carpet entire hard bottom areas with a crust of sharp-edged shells, including manmade objects like watercraft, lakeshore equipment, and pipes. Take Mille Lacs or even our own Sand Lake – these iconic and productive waters are experiencing gamefish populations in turmoil, in part, due to the restructuring of the food web – zebra mussels feed on the tiny plankton that support our diverse fish communities. This leaves less food for native fish, with much of the productivity being absorbed and fixed by zebra mussels at the base of the food chain. Water clarity increases as a result of their filter feeding, but there’s a common misconception that increased water clarity is good. To our visual senses perhaps, but clarity increases come at a cost – the removal of critical plankton, the food required by larval fish. This can reduce game fish abundance, as commonly seen with walleye, which thrive in windswept and turbid lakes like Big Winnie, Bowstring, Leech Lake, and Mille Lacs. Factor in that walleye are also more competitive feeders in lakes with some stain, so clearing of the water doesn’t bode well for the walleye or anglers that pursue them. Zebra mussels fall under the high spread risk category. Our county AIS inspectors have experienced and treated several cases of watercraft zebra mussel encrustations on Sand Lake. Boats and pontoons that have been in the water for extended periods of time pose the biggest risk.

OTHER HIGH-RISK AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES The spiny water flea is an invasive microscopic animal that feeds on the desirable native zooplankton that also occupy the base of the food chain. These native zooplankton are the required food for most minnow and panfish species, plus juvenile walleye, while the spiny water flea is not on the menu – their size and structure make them difficult for small fish to eat. The more abundant the spiny water flea,

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the less food that remains for small fish. Lake Vermilion and Mille Lacs are nearby waters infested with the spiny water flea. They can be spread in bait buckets and boat hulls, residual trailer water, or by attaching to boating equipment such as fishing line and anchor rope. And many of us have heard or seen the effects of Eurasian watermilfoil and curly leaf pondweed. Both are present in Itasca County, and form dense and matted stands, reducing water acreage for recreation such as boating or swimming. Residents of Little Jay Gould can attest the excessive growth of curly-leaf pondweed, and the impacts on water usage. Like most AIS, the likely way it's transported is by attaching to boats, trailers, and other water-based equipment.

The MN Department of Natural Resources website provides a comprehensive listing of aquatic and terrestrial invasive species – AND – there’s many other devastating AIS at the doorstep of the United States. Practicing a thorough Clean Drain Dry procedure will help keep Itasca County waters clean from stateside and foreign invaders on the threshold of entry.

WHAT CAN YOU DO? CLEAN | DRAIN | DRY CLEAN DRAIN DRY IS A SIMPLE 3-STEP PROCESS performed anytime we remove something from the water; boats, trailers, lakeshore equipment, or other water-related gear (insert scuba). Start off by performing a full 360-degree visual inspection of all surfaces, making sure to remove weeds, sediments, and other organics. Next, remove all drain plugs to empty live wells and boat hulls - transfer bait to clean fresh water or properly dispose of it in accordance with Minnesota law. And finally, either manually dry with rags or let the equipment sit long enough to air dry. Very little water is needed to keep certain AIS alive. Itasca County’s inspection team is active at lakes accesses throughout the county to help inform, educate, and perform inspections, but can’t be everywhere. We’re all partners in preventing the spread, and the Clean Drain Dry process is an easy, quick, and effective way to prevent new infestations. Should we meet you, our county inspection team strives to be minimally invasive and always friendly.

Like you, we’re users of the resource and prideful of what we have. High pressure and hot water decontamination services are available to you, and encouraged if you detect or are concerned about watercraft or lakeshore equipment harboring AIS. PLEASE CALL THE ITASCA COUNTY AIS INFORMATION HOTLINE (218-256-4243) WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS PERTAINING TO AIS. WE’RE HERE TO HELP.

LET’S LEAVE A GIFT OF CLEAN ITASCA COUNTY WATER IN AN UNALTERED STATE. Because when it comes to water, we don’t want any change. Nature gave us perfection, and it’s our charge to maintain and enhance it.

Let’s partner to preserve our Itasca County Outdoor Tradition.

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MEET ONE OF THE VIDEO SPONSORS Itasca Water Legacy Partnership (IWLP) is a citizen led 501(c)3 membership organization whose mission is to "Team Up with others... to maintain abundant, clean water" and as their name demonstrates, their focus is Itasca County. They have projects completed or in progress across the clean water domain, including shoreline buffer and protection, water sampling and baseline mapping of lakes, nutrient loading science studies, economic value of water citizen survey, septic system replacement funding, local water quality lab development, and the 5th grade Youth Water Summit, in addition to their strong presence in Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) management.

As one of the video's sponsors, this time IWLP has partnered with Wired2Fish, Itasca County, and now Lake Time Magazine to help raise public awareness about the spread of AIS by focusing on common ways by which AIS are spread and what you can do about it. AIS is not a simple problem, but by following common sense and the few regulations already in place each of us can slow the spread and keep our water clean. As the video clearly shows, many invasive species ride on the bottom of our boats, on our trailers, and in our live wells.

If we are not careful, they ride along with us to the next lake we visit.

IWLP finds grant money and works to start clean water initiatives that need focus. We helped Itasca County begin its AIS unit by teaming with the DNR and local lake associations to train and pay for inspectors on boat landings at key destination lakes in Itasca County four years ago. That modest beginning has quickly blossomed into a staff of 18 seasonal inspectors managed by an AIS coordinator that did 18,472 inspections on 35 landings at key destination lakes in 2016.

This team now reports to the local Soil and Water Conservation District office and also has strong efforts in education, prevention, early detection, control of existing infestations, communications, and community action projects related to AIS. It was due to the efforts of the AIS coordinator that this video was envisioned and strong partners like Wired2Fish were brought on board to make it the excellent education piece that it is. IWLP is a membership organization, if you want to learn more about us and "team up" yourself, then search for IWLP and visit us online. http://itascawaterlegacypartnership.org//

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GIVE YOUR CHILDREN THE GIFT OF (FINANCIAL) KNOWLEDGE

BY KRISTINA GAALAAS

T

hinking of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day this season, whether you’re a mom, dad, or even grandparent, you might expect some nice homemade cards and maybe even a memorable gift. But, of course, your greatest reward is spending time with your kids and grandkids and watching them grow. In return, you can give them a gift – the gift of knowledge. Specifically, in the months and years ahead, teach them the financial skills that can help make their lives easier and more rewarding.

For starters, encourage your children to become savers. You can do this in a couple of different ways. First, set a good example.

You might explain to your kids that you want to buy a certain item, but you are waiting for it to go on sale. Or, if it’s a particularly bigticket item, like an ultra high-definition television, tell your children that you simply can’t afford it now, but that you are putting away some money each week until you can. You might even make a chart showing your progress.

Another way to help your children become better savers is to provide them with a monetary incentive. To illustrate: For every dollar they put into a “piggy bank” or an actual savings account, tell them you’ll put in, say, 50 cents. They are likely to be pleased and excited by how much faster their money grows with your contribution, and they may well become more motivated to save. Furthermore, you’ll be giving them a valuable lesson for later on in life, when they work for a business that offers to match their contributions to a 401(k)

or other retirement plan. Unfortunately, many young people, upon taking on their first “career” jobs, either under-contribute to their retirement plans or ignore them completely – thereby making it more likely that, later on in their working lives, they will have to come up with much bigger sums each year to accumulate enough resources for a comfortable retirement.

Learning to save is certainly important – but children should also learn about investing. To help get your children interested in becoming investors, point out that they can actually own shares of companies with which they are already familiar – the companies that make the games they play, the movies they watch, and the food they eat. In fact, you could even simulate the investment process by letting them choose a stock and then follow it. To make the results more tangible, use “play” money to represent an initial investment and add or subtract to the pile to track the ups and downs of the real stock. You might even explain some of the reasons for the stock’s movements. For example, if you and your child are following the stock of an entertainment company, and that company produces a blockbuster movie that leads to sequels, spinoffs, and merchandise tie-ins, you can point out how these developments have pushed up the company’s stock price.

You might also explain that while these short-term price movements are interesting – and maybe even fun – to follow, investing is actually a long-term endeavor, and the best investors often hold stocks for many years before selling them.

By following these suggestions, you can help your children acquire good financial habits – and seeing them put these skills to good use can provide you with many happy Mother’s and Father’s Days in the future.

Teach them the financial skills that can help make their lives easier and more rewarding. and implementing a plan to achieve them. A Grand Rapids native, she’s also glad to call her hometown her hometown again. “THERE’S NO PLACE LAKE HOME.”

BIZ

KRISTINA GAALAAS has been a financial advisor since 2004. She enjoys the face time and think time involved with families and small business owners to create specific financial goals

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FISHING

Symphony Takes Sail

I

in Harmony with Nature

n every issue we seek out our northern inventors, doers, and makers. We’re excited to introduce the innovative Marcel LaFond, founder of Symphony Electric Boats – an internationally admired and sought after product and company…right out our back door, in Duluth, MN.

Frank Lloyd Wright was a strong influence on Symphony Boat Founder Marcel LaFond, whose parents broke ground on the construction of a Wright Usonian house on the day he was born.

MADE

LaFond is not formally trained in design but has carried a fascination for how others solved a design challenge and how he might do it if he were given the task. This came about in part with numerous hours of taking apart broken or old items as a child.

But being raised on a Minnesota lake also gave opportunity to break down the elements of a boat under sail, a propeller thrusting a motorboat forward, or the simple act of holding one’s breath under water.

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In the 1980’s he built an all-electric car from parts of a Volkswagen Beetle.

Over the decades he studied small craft design and boat building in Maine, worked with motor yacht designs, and years later he turned to aircraft… When all

was said and done the Symphony Boat Company finally germinated.

“

I SAW THE NEED TO MAKE NEW WATERCRAFT THAT WERE GENTLER ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND THAT FOSTERED MORE POSITIVE INTERACTION BETWEEN THE BOATER AND WATERWAY.

”

“Just like the quiet electric motor that has complemented the company’s philosophy,

Symphony Boat is silently gaining relevance in the world of boating. The electric vehicle industry is growing. Together with partners Torqeedo U.S. and Lamboo Technologies, Symphony Boat Company is poised to become the Tesla of the boating industry,” says LaFond.

LaFond dreamt of the elegant classics of the early 20th century and how to bring that charm and romance of boating to a more efficient and environmentally friendly future. And like the Wright house he grew up in, the ultimate goal was a good design that endured.

The Six-1 Conductor (a.k.a. the Allegro Project) is the first American installation of the Torqeedo 80 hp Deep Blue inboard all-electric motor. With an approximate displacement of 2400 lbs., the motor will push her up to 27 mph.

Allegro’s look and design were an attempt to make an elegant, yet minimal boat with the durability of the aluminum outer hull.

Which lends a decidedly modern tone to the final composition, and the bamboo, wood, and hull shape itself, to evoke the sleek look of a classic barrel-back runabout.

The V-bottom hull shape gets shallow as you go and the beamy stern jumps to plane effortlessly with six passengers. Design elements go beyond the

YOUR Community Bank bamboo and electric propulsion. Efficient table style seating contributes to more social engagement while skimming the water. They are very easy to handle making them perfect for high-end resorts where guests can rent one for a unique experience.

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One of our first launches was with two women in northern Minnesota who wanted to silently take in the beautiful wilderness of those northern lakes. I thought that was really cool!

Another really fun project this winter has been the development of a tiny house boat. At 20’-6” long and boxy as you might expect, it still has big personality. At about 130 square feet of insulated cabin, it can be the first boat in the spring and the last one out in the fall. In our northern climate, this helps wring out as much of the season as possible in comfort. A tiny stove/fireplace designed for ocean cruising warms the cabin on cold days. The insulated roof also keeps the space cool on hot summer days.

“These boats have strong appeal to all kinds of adventuresome folks but it should be a hit with kayakers and sport fishermen on the St. Louis estuary and all lake lover alike,” states LaFond. Motors are an option too, says LaFond, as he designs, builds, and configures the interiors on an individual basis.

Look for other off-beat designs coming out of the design and build shop in Duluth, “We are truly excited about our future and invite you to check out one of these beautiful watercrafts as part of electric vehicle future,” LaFond says.

More information at www.symphonyboat.com

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TRAVEL

ALL THE WAY AROUND People will ask, so what is the best way to visit Lake Superior? There really is only one answer: It’s best to travel in circles … or rather,

IT’S BEST TO TRAVEL THE FULL CIRCLE, touching all four shores along the three states and one province that create the Big Lake neighborhood.

It’s been a long time coming, but these four shores now identify with the whole Lake Superior watershed. That wasn’t always the case. Back in 1994, Lake Superior Magazine published the first map to include the land features and highways around all of the lake. Before that, you needed a separate map for Minnesota, Ontario, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

Today, that map is part of our annual Lake Superior Travel Guide tracking along the 1,300 or so miles of the Circle Tour. More than 5.25 million copies of a free version have been distributed and we have a Circle Tour quick-look map, too (seen here).

That travel guide was first published in 1988 due to customer demand and there’s also now a book, Lake Superior, the Ultimate Guide to the Region.

Lake Superior Magazine has gladly become the “Lake Superior Circle Tour HQ,” and they’re darn glad for it; they even set up a selfie-site in their Duluth outlet store and started the Lake Superior Circle Tour Club. (When you complete your circle, join for free to receive a Circle Tour Club logo cling, a certificate of circular achievement, and the chance to share travel tips on their website.)

T R AV E L

There’s no question more people want to circle the Big Lake by car, RV, motorcycle, bicycle, boat, and other favored transportation. (One retired couple walked around and wrote a book.)

Whatever the mode, you must allow time for rock picking, tourboat cruising, big boat watching, food sampling, attraction visiting, museum hopping, and just meeting friendly local folk.

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Don’t forget your passport (or other proper border-crossing ID) and your camera. You’d better bring an extra camera card, too; you’ll be taking lots and lots of photos.

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Global Impact

from the Heart of Hibbing

“

WHEN YOU THINK OF HIBBING, MINNESOTA, ‘AWARD-WINNING BUSINESS CONSULTING’ MAY NOT COME TO MIND – BUT IT SHOULD. KARINE WOODMAN, OF 24HR BOOKKEEPER, HAS BUILT A GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED ACCOUNTING SERVICES FIRM LOCATED RIGHT IN THE HEART OF HIBBING.

”

By embracing technology and providing expert services for payroll, bookkeeping, and QuickBooks™ training, Woodman and her team have quickly become sought-after business consultants, and 24hr Bookkeeper was recently named Intuit’s Global Firm of the Future.

As the U.S. finalist, the company competed with finalists from the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Setting the company apart from the competition was its ability to integrate third-party software and apps with QuickBooks, and having a cloud-based approach to accounting services.

To Woodman, business accounting services translates into something more meaningful, helping people.

“We’re in the business of being trusted,” Woodman says.

“We take care of people’s babies, their financials, and that takes a lot of trust. We truly care, and want our clients to be successful.”

Woodman knows being a business owner can be a lonely place, and strives to create simple and efficient workflows for her clients so they can better understand their business financials. And because, her business regularly happens via video conference, Woodman can help business owners from across the nation – and does – all from her office in Hibbing.

positioned itself to clients in all industries, but finds that the majority of their clientele are in the construction, professional services, healthcare, and hospitality industries.

What is it like to run a national business out of Hibbing, Minnesota?

When I started 24hr Bookkeeper in 2010, I was seeking to help business owners on the Range tackle important business functions like accounting, payroll, and QuickBooks. These aren’t issues unique to only Hibbing, or northern Minnesota. Accounting is often a challenge for many business owners across the nation. Like many small businesses, we had a modest beginning but we quickly started attracting attention outside of the region. My organization has grown along with the technology we use, which is really the backbone of 24hr Bookkeeper.

Today my growing staff and I leverage technology to serve clients all over the nation. We conduct all our consulting via video, and are able to train businesses on QuickBooks and workflows through shared screens.

We provide accounting services, but we’re in the business of helping people. At 24hr Bookkeeper we help business owners grow and succeed by creating simple and efficient workflows. When you understand your bookkeeping, everything else tends to fall into place.

Why do customers come to 24hr Bookkeeper?

Woodman founded 24hr Bookkeeper to help businesses on the Iron Range manage accounting, payroll, and QuickBooks. Fast-forward seven years and the team provides consulting services to businesses across the nation. 24hr Bookkeeper has 30

Our customers are looking for help. They’re busy business owners who need to offload a portion of their work, and we’re happy to provide services to support them. Our knowledge of QuickBooks and third-party QuickBooks integration is what keeps them coming back.

We build strong relationships with our customers. We know their businesses inside and out, and we’re driven to help our customers

ENTREPRENEUR succeed. The 24hr Bookkeeper team becomes a part of their team, and we’re all in it together.

Many of our customers are in the professional services, healthcare, and hospitality industries, but we are seeing a lot more construction companies looking to outsource some or all aspects of accounting.

And since 24hr Bookkeeper was named Intuit’s Firm of the Future for 2016, we’re seeing more and more customers wanting to work with us. It’s a very exciting time!

What does it mean to be Intuit’s Firm of the Future?

It’s been an adventure! Intuit recognizes that cloud technology is the future of business, and with the Firm of the Future award, Intuit acknowledges a firm that has not only adopted cloud technology, but is using it to drive business forward.

24hr Bookkeeper was a natural fit for this competition. We leverage cloud technology to work with our clients every single day, and we’re always learning and growing more proficient in QuickBooks and the third-party applications that can be integrated.

To me, being named Intuit’s Firm of the Future is not only a big win for my business, but for all entrepreneurs in rural areas. I’m a reallife example that living in a small town does not limit your potential for success. You can grow on a large level no matter where you live.

Networking, putting yourself out there, and embracing technology are keys to a prosperous business in a small town.

ARTICLE SUPPORTED BY THE ENTREPRENEUR FUND How has the Entrepreneur Fund helped 24hr Bookkeeper?

I’ve developed a mutual relationship with the Entrepreneur Fund.

I share my expertise by assisting and facilitating training with Entrepreneur Fund clients in the areas of QuickBooks and financial services. Many first-time business owners don’t know where to start when it comes to bookkeeping, payroll, or accounting, so it’s been great to offer this kind of assistance to help local entrepreneurs get started on the right foot.

Soon after I began facilitating workshops, I got to know some of the Entrepreneur Fund business advisors. I started working 1:1 with an advisor, and I found a lot of value in the advice and guidance I received. I knew I wanted to take my company to the next level, and having support from someone with actual small-business experience helped me to systemize operations and streamline 24hr Bookkeeper’s fast-paced growth.

Contact Karine Woodman at 24hr Bookkeeper: 2900 E Beltline, Suite 4 Hibbing, MN 55746 (218) 440-1097 info@24hrbookkeeper.com

http://www.24hrbookkeeper.com

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Dear Editor: I wanted to thank you and your team and let you know my new subscription to Lake Time Magazine made me laugh. After a year in which I lost my wife of 41 years to brain cancer, it was a delight to begin my New Year with a smile! Reading your wonderful magazine brought the following thoughts flooding through my mind.

You see, I grew up on a lake. The only challenge was it was in the 195Os & ‘6Os and the lake was one named Erie. The year we left Ohio to live in Minnesota was the same year the Cuyahoga River caught fire. Plus, spray painted in large letters on the old stone quay jutting from the Cleveland lakeshore were the words “Help me! I’m dying! Signed Lake Erie.” No one ever painted over those words because at the time everyone knew they were true. If you swam in it your skin often got inflamed from the parasites. If you fished and caught anything it was unsafe to eat. It seemed a fairly useless body of water to me, certainly as a kid. So you can forgive me for not growing up understanding there was actually some kind of allure to lake time.

Luckily I happened to meet, fall in love with, and marry a wonderful woman from Hibbing. In our earliest conversations she shared with me her love of something she amorphously referred to as ‘the lake.’ Quickly I began to believe one of the things I needed to do was visit some of these wonderful places she was describing to me: Sand Lake, Lake Vermilion, Pokegama Lake, Side Lake, Squaw Lake, while peppering in others I sadly no longer recall.

I quickly turned into an eager student being led by a lake living zealot as my teacher.

I had much to learn!

MY FIRST LESSON was what she explained to me were ‘the opposites of lake living.’ You could enjoy them en masse or solitarily. There was enjoyment in lake activity, but also inactivity. Just as often the noises of the lake were as welcoming as were the times of lake induced silence. There was enjoyment to be had with a group of friends and family, waterskiing, busting the waves motor boating, gliding along on a pontoon with food and drink, or partying on the beach. Then there was a totally different enjoyment to be relished in solitude. The beauty of a lakeshore sunrise or sunset.

Early morning coffee on the dock listening for the call of a loon. Losing yourself as you gazed deep into the crystal clear waters of a lake too chilly to be welcoming to someone from Ohio.

Bonfires, skinny dipping, stargazing, and the chance of seeing a ‘shooting star.’ Standing silent, hand-in-hand with the love of your life with the only sound being the gentle lapping of the tiniest of wavelets at your feet.

LESSON NUMBER TWO revolved around the magic she insisted was held inside a small, well used hut by the beach. She instructed this was something called a sauna. Heck, I was so clueless she even had to teach me how to pronounce it! I dared enter my first one at Side Lake only because she took me by the hand and dragged me in with her. I was smitten, not only by her, but by the incredible experience of that first sauna and subsequent vibrant dip in the lake. It now happens to be the highlight of any trip made to the lake by every one of our family members. Summers or winters, I’ve learned after-sauna lake water is never too cold and if it happens to be frozen, a snowbank works just fine!

HER THIRD LESSON was what she taught as ‘the luxury of lake time.’

She insisted it made no difference how long it took us to drive to the lake nor how long we could stay, because once there the clock ticked to an entirely different paradigm of time. It slowed down, it allowed for manic activity as well as ample time for deep reflection and healing peacefulness. Minutes at the

LOVE lake washed away weeks of non-lake time and stress. Even breathing managed itself on a new pace of its own. I learned delaying your departure from the lake by an extra 3O minutes often provided the same exhilaration as staying an extra day.

I BELIEVE SHE MAY WELL HAVE RUED HER NEXT LESSON. She taught me you could also use lake living in autumn for something called duck hunting.

Over our years of marriage I often playfully reminded her I proposed to her before I ever knew her folks owned a duck camp on Squaw Lake. It’s the God’s honest truth, too!

Really! Just prior to our first Squaw Lake visit I asked “what should I wear?” Her response was “anything camo.” When I replied “what’s camo?” she was reminded I grew up in a place very far away from ‘Up North.’ She kindly asked if I had anything green to wear so I took my green ski jacket. Well before dawn that first morning she came into the main cabin and saw me in my dark green ski jacket, which happened to also have a 3 inch wide white stripe running all around my chest! Without a word she turned, left, and returned wearing a bright white stocking cap saying “I don’t want you to feel out of place, but promise me you’ll ask for camo on your next birthday, PLEASE!” I asked and now own more camo than any sane person needs, but of course can still use more!

I AM THANKFUL MY WIFE PASSED HER LAKE LIVING PASSION TO ME. I’ve come to realize it must be a dominant gene in one’s DNA as our children and now grandchildren desire nothing more than lake time.

THERE WAS STILL ONE MORE LESSON FOR ME, THOUGH. Shortly before she passed away my wife informed me she had been talking with her brother and it was her desire to help keep the lake cabins in the family. She asked if I agreed, but I could tell it was more of a statement than a question. Plus from her smile I knew she knew… long ago she’d managed to convert this old Buckeye into a full-fledged lake lover. It was during that same conversation she also told me there were five shores where she wished some of her ashes to be scattered. One ocean. Four lakes.

SUMMERS AND FALLS WILL NOW FIND ME AT THE LAKE FULLTIME THANKS TO HER FORESIGHT AND LOVE. Certainly at times it will be bittersweet as our children, grandchildren, and I truly miss her there, perhaps more than anywhere else.

Then again there’s nowhere else we feel her spirit as closely as we do in the incredible beauty of a lakeshore sunrise, the sparks rising from a dusk bonfire, in the enchanting call of a loon, a majestic eagle soaring on unseen thermals, or seeing her wave to us in a shooting star. We shouldn’t be at all surprised since one of her favorite quotes was the following penned by singer/songwriter Bill Medley:

“You danced into my heart like sunshine on the water and made my world a better place to be.”

Keep up the great work and thank you for bringing the lake to me especially when I can’t be at the lake!

Sincerely,

Scott

A fulltime resident of Minnesota for over 30 years, Scott Phillips is a writer and genealogical historian. He says the best thing in his life was marrying ‘a Ranger,’ Mary Kay D’Aquila, of Hibbing. Together they raised their children in Minnesota. Scott has been published by more than two dozen organizations, including the Minnesota Genealogical Society and will soon have a story in the Virginia Historical Society newsletter.

Scott is happy to be back living in Minnesota for, as he says ‘the three best lake seasons’ and brings along his children and grandchildren whenever possible. You can follow Scott on his award-winning website at http://OnwardToOurPast.com, on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/ OnwardToOurPast, or Academia.edu at https://independent.academia. edu/ScottPhillips10. His email is scott@OnwardToOurPast.com.

35

BIZ

MOVEMENT It can be a bit unsettling for me in the winter when my world is covered by a thick blanket of snow. There’s a strange “all or nothing” approach to getting around on foot. I feel trapped, boxed in by the snow unless I strap on my snowshoes or skis. Then, suddenly everything is accessible and I can zig zag across the area in almost any direction. I don’t know about you, but after a few months of haphazard travel I’m ready for order and reason.

That’s why my favorite spring moment in northern Minnesota is when the snow melts and familiar trails reemerge. Suddenly everything feels back in place and foot travel feels organized and with purpose. I know when I’m going the right direction and I know when I’m off the beaten path.

I’m not picky. I have the same level of affection for secluded nature trails and more heavily traveled paved trails.

Northern Minnesotans are a community of active nature lovers, so it’s no surprise that trail systems are plentiful across this part of the state. I am fortunate to live near some fantastic trails that I can access on a daily basis. Here are a few of my favorites: • North Country National Scenic Trail: Once completed, the NCT will be the longest continuous hiking trail in the United States. The trail cuts across northern Minnesota, offering hikers spectacular views of our forests, lakes, and rivers. I enjoy both hiking and trail running on the sometimes challenging terrain of the NCT. There’s no time to get bored when you’re navigating the twists, turns, and hills of the forest.

• Paul Bunyan & Heartland State Trails: This paved system of trails stretches from Brainerd to Bemidji and from Park Rapids through Walker to Cass Lake. It is a popular trail for walkers, runners, and cyclists; however it’s not uncommon to see wildlife making use of the trail as well. I’ve spotted deer, fox, porcupine, and too many squirrels to count. Sometimes I stop to observe and sometimes I move a little quicker in the opposite direction.

• Itasca State Park: My favorite state park offers an abundance of trail opportunities. From a paved bike trail to numerous nature trails more suited to foot travel, there’s something to suit everyone’s style. You can even experience a section of the NCT where it cuts across the south end of the park.

As a runner and yogi, you’ll often find me logging miles on foot or just stopping to stretch out and enjoy nature at a beautiful spot along the trail. On my more adventurous days, when I want to step out of my routine, you might find me cycling, rollerblading, or hiking. What about you? What are your favorite trails and how do you enjoy them? Do you stay on the route laid out before you or do you prefer to sneak off the beaten path? Do you enjoy meeting others along the way or are you more likely to savor the sights and sounds of nature in a more remote area?

MOVEMENT

I’d love to hear about your favorite trails and how they inspire you to keeping moving.

36

Share your stories and pictures on social media using #LTMinMotion.

Happy trails to you!

Tara

Tara Entringer has always dreamed of living in Minnesota. That dream became a reality four years ago when she moved “Up North” with her husband, Jeremy, and their three dogs. She loves to celebrate local culture at quirky, small town events, especially if Bemidji Brewing IPA is on tap. Tara is passionate about anything that allows her to be active and enjoy nature; running, kayaking, snowshoeing, yoga, etc. and she’s currently training for the 2017 Boston Marathon. Her mantra is “Live the life you’ve always imagined.”

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NATURE'S EDIBLES

38

by Kitty and Bill Lindner

Lake country is bursting with a myriad of wild edibles...nature’s first fruits await the most savvy of foragers.

From its long, wintery slumber the earth is awakening. Soil thaws and drinks in the melting snow. Gentle rains know to come, stirring the ground with life. The classic smell of spring is surely in the air. And the sun’s warm rays rouse our first plants into budding.

As the cyclical calendar drives Mother Nature’s hourglass, the very first spring edibles emerge. Wild leeks are the first to push out of the forest floor. Fiddlehead ferns pop up from the moist earth. Walleye are instinctively drawn up the warming creeks and shallow shoals to spawn.

And finally, when conditions are perfect, the queen of spring is heralded in; the long awaited morel mushroom is announced. Together, these jewels of the outdoors present as the ultimate spring bounty feast.

39

GATHER

MOREL MUSHROOMS Slightly nutty in taste, morels are widely considered the most prized of wild mushrooms. Common varieties include yellow and black morels. In North Country, the black morels are predominant.

Warm weather, humidity, and rain serenade the morel for her spring debut. She is regally posed for a relatively short window of time. Those who discover this spring treasure and culinary reward are willing to spend hours in pursuit.

In this region, black morels are a healthy challenge to find because they blend in with their environment. Once you find one, get on your knees and scan intently. You’ll often see more when you get into a mind/ eye profile. They can be found in cleared areas and both mature and young Aspen.

Hillsides and swails are often key spots.

Keep a close eye on the ground and bring a mushroom stick to shuffle leaves and move brush. “When you think you know everything about finding morels, then think again, because they will make a fool out of you,” says Pat Swedman, life long mushroom hunter from Max, Minnesota.

HOW TO CLEAN AND TRIM MORELS: 1. Using a vegetable brush or soft toothbrush, remove debris from outer part of morel.

2. Place morels in colander and rinse in cold water until they come clean.

3. On a cutting board, slice morels lengthwise to find hidden debris and to confirm that it is a true morel. It should be hollow inside; if it is not hollow it is NOT a true morel.

Pay dry.

FIDDLEHEAD FERN Fiddlehead is a stage of growth, a tightly coiled young shoot, resembling its namesake head of a violin. There are look-alikes; but only one species is edible, the fiddleheads from the Ostrich fern.

At this early stage, they have a bright chlorophyll flavor. Some say they taste like asparagus with a hint of fresh green bean. You’ll find this delicacy late April or early May, across much of the state in low areas, and near creeks and rivers. They are best when harvested when they first appear, just a few inches above the ground. Fiddleheads are in their coiled form for about only two weeks until they unfurl into graceful greenery. Rest assured, in season you can also find them in pint-sized baskets at specialty grocery stores, local markets, or food co-ops. Fiddleheads can be steamed, blanched, pureed, or sautéed. They are lovely as a side, or added to pasta dishes, as accompaniment to fish, and in salads.

HOW TO CLEAN/BLANCH FIDDLEHEADS: 1. Trim brown ends from the fern shoots and pull off the papery skin.

2. In a colander, rinse with cold water 2 or 3 times until clean, then drain and pat dry.

3. Blanch in a pot of boiling water for about 2 minutes and shock in a bowl of ice water.

4. Skim off any remaining chaff.

Rinse a final time. Use immediately or refridgerate.

GATHER

WALLEYE The walleye fishing opener has a long history of being the official sign of spring.

Walleye are really abundant in our lakes and rivers. Fortunately, fishing opener coincides with the other spring treats. Once you’ve caught your own walleyes and have prepared them with these prized delicacies, the reward is complete and ready to savor.

RAMPS

Light, white and flaky, moist and very clean tasting, walleye lends itself well to a variety of preparation: panfried; pan-seared; batter coated/fried-shore lunch style; baked; broiled and grilled.

Ramps (wild leeks), another harbinger of spring, break through the soil in late April or early May. You’ll see colonies of them occupying shaded, cool, damp areas of deep deciduous forests. Look for their long, green, pointed oval leaves. To distinguish them from others, crush the waxy leaves to release the oniony-leek aroma. If the soil is very moist it’s much easier to pull up the ramps. If the dirt is even medium-dry, you’ll need hand or full-length garden tools to dig them out. Loosen the dirt deep below the bulb, being careful to not damage the bulb. Pull up enough for dinner and leave the rest to go to seed and germinate. Once picked, it looks similar to a table onion or scallion; but the leaves are broad, similar to a tulip. The leaves and bulbs are eaten raw or cooked and are especially popular in soups. The bulbs pack a powerful garlicky-onion punch when folded into pasta, salads, and pesto. The leaves can be wrapped around fish, for a subtle scenting, while being roasted. Bulbs can be sautéed and added to any recipe that calls for onions or shallots. Ramps are also delightful in egg dishes, risotto, quesadillas, tofu, Asian cuisine, and biscuits. Ramps can be pickled and enjoyed for up to a year in the fridge. Another idea is to snip off part of the fresh leaf and immerse it in gin or vodka for spring tonic martini.

TRIMMING RAMPS 1. Snip the roots away. Cut the white bulbs from the blush part and stem of the plant and rinse well. Set aside the stems for other uses.

2. Heat olive oil or grapeseed oil on low to medium heat. Once hot, add ramps.

3. Toss and fold for about five minutes.

4. Ramp bulbs are ready for eating or adding to recipes.

ABOUT RAMP GREENS/FORAGING OR BUYING ~Choose only vibrant green leaves (not pale, and skip the wilted ones) ~Rinse leaves in cold water to keep them fresh, and dry well. Then store them in the refrigerator in damp paper towels and place in an unsealed plastic bag.

41

GATHER

PAN-FRIED WALLEYE WITH MOREL-LEEK SAUCE (Developed by Teresa Morrone)* Serves 2 Seasoned Flour: 1/3 cup all purpose flour 2 tablespoons cornmeal 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional) 4 to 6 ramps, trimmed and rinsed 2 to 3 tablespoons butter, divided 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped morels 1 cup half-and-half or evaporated skim milk Fillets from 1 eating-sized walleye, skin removed Sea salt and freshly ground pepper To make the seasoned flour, combine the flour, cornmeal, onion powder, paprika, salt, and garlic powder (if using), in a zippered plastic bag; shake well and set aside.

Slice the ramp bulbs into 1/8-inch-thick slices; slice the greens into 1/2-inch-wide strips.

Sauce: Melt about 2 teaspoons of the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the ramps and sautĂŠ for a few minutes until soft. Add the morels and continue cooking until they are just tender, 3 minutes.

Push the mushrooms to the side of the pan, and sprinkle 2 teaspoons of the flour mixture into the juices stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently. Stir in half-and-half. Adjust the heat so the mixture bubbles very gently; simmer while you prepare the fish. Be sure to stir the sauce occasionally while you are cooking the fish.

Dredge the damp fish fillets in the flour. Melt 1 tablespoon of the remaining butter in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Shake the excess flour from the filets and add the fillets to the skillet in a single layer. Reduce the heat slightly and cook until the fish is a rich golden brown on the bottom. If the skillet seems dry, add a bit more butter, then turn filets and cook until fish is just done, 4 minutes on each side.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer the fish to a serving plate. Spoon the morel sauce over the fish and serve immediately.

FIDDLEHEADS WITH ASIAN DRESSING (AS SHOWN) Serves 2 2 teaspoons soy sauce 2 teaspoon dark sesame oil 2 teaspoons rice wine (optional) 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sesame seeds 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or equivalent desired heat factor 1 cup fiddleheads Combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice wine (if using), sugar, sesame seeds, and cayenne in a bowl or small container; mix well. (This can be done earlier in the day; store mixture at room temperature.) Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fiddleheads. Return to a gentle boil, and cook for 10 minutes. Drain and refresh immediately with lots of cold water. Drain a second time and refresh again immediately with lots of cold water.

In a mixing bowl, combine the fiddleheads and dressing, stirring to coat. Let stand for at least 10 minutes, or as long as an hour before serving. Serve at room temperature.

* Teresa Marrone is an independent author; she has written over a dozen cookbooks, including the newly released Dishing Up Minnesota. She is also the author/photographer for a series of photographic field ID guides on wild berries and fruits (published for four regions of the US). Teresa is also co-author of a growing series of photographic field ID guides for mushrooms, including Mushrooms of the Upper Midwest, co-authored with Kathy Yerich.

Another 100 years

BUILDING FOR the future

Photo provided by Wood Works Homes

www.mntimber.com Deer River, MN

A R A J ALA COMPANY

LEGEND

of St. Urho

M

By Mike Mattson

innesota has been known as the birthplace for many famous and epic legends and heroes. Paul Bunyan is one that comes to mind almost immediately. However, Minnesota lays claim to the birth of another legend.

And that legend is the patron Finnish Saint, St. Urho.

about. After hearing all about St. Urho, he got on the phone and called his editor, Clarence Ivonen. “We may have something newsworthy here at Ketola’s.” The next day, a reporter was at the store, getting the scoop on St. Urho. The story and the ode were reported and printed. History had been made!

St. Urho was created in Virginia, Minnesota in 1956 by Dick Mattson, the store manager for Ketola’s Department Store. Dick was quick-witted and known as a master in creating stories. The actual origins of St. Urho came when Dick was giving Gene McCavic, a died-in-the–green Irishwoman who always wore green on St. Patrick’s Day, a hard time about St. Patrick not being as great as the Finnish saint. When asked who the saint was, Dick eloquently stated “you’ll find out!”

Since that time, the legend has grown. Changes have been made to the original story, creating a small controversy over its origins.

Professor Sulo Havumaki, who was a professor at Bemidji State University, stated that it was grasshoppers instead of frogs. Investigations by writers, authors, scholars, investigators, and historians have been completed. These investigations have agreed that St. Urho was created by Dick Mattson.

That day and into the night, Dick did his best in trying to back up what he had boasted. To make a long story short, Dick tried several Finnish names that would sound good. He eventually arrived on Urho, which was also the first name of Finland’s president at that time. But what was it that St. Urho did that would be better than St. Patrick’s snakes? Yet another dilemma. Searching for an answer and a direction, a solution hopped into being. Frogs. Big frogs. Not your every-day run-of-the-mill bullfrogs. Gigantic frogs!

Gigantic poisonous frogs!! Frogs big enough to wipe out all of the grain crops and vineyards with the venom on the skin of their belly when they crawled and hopped! That’s it! St. Urho chased all these monstrous frogs out of Finland, and saved the crops so the Finns wouldn’t starve. Take that, St. Patrick! Dick was now ready to boast about his newly-created saint!

LEGEND

The next day, Ketola’s Department Store was abuzz; from the shoe department to jewelry to men’s and women’s wear, about the new saint in town. Taken in by all the hubbub, Gene McCavic then set out to write the “Ode to St. Urho,” using Dick Mattson’s Finglish (a dialect that is a cross between English and Finnish). The original ode was written on a piece of wrapping paper; a rather inauspicious beginning of an epic. That authentic piece of wrapping paper is on display at the Iron Range Interpretive Center in Chisholm, MN.

44

Once completed, the business office decided to throw a surprise party in the basement coffee room for the new saint. A cake was baked and decorated with frosting that looked like frogs. A good time was being had by all, as Dick continued to expound on the newfound saint and his exploits! It just so happened that, on the day of the party, an advertising salesman from the Mesabi Daily News was in the coffee room to set up the design for the next sale at Ketola’s. He noticed the cake, and casually asked what it was all

St. Urho’s story has continued to grow over the years. Newspapers and publications around the world have printed articles and information about the Finnish saint. In New York and Helsinki, St. Urho’s pubs can be found. Celebrations take place every year to celebrate St. Urho’s adventures across the continents. Above all, everyone has a good time!

So, to everyone who is Finnish or is a Finnish wannabe, Happy St. Urho’s Day! In the words of Gene McCavic’s original epic: “ Ooksie, kooksie, kulama fie, Sainta Urho iss ta poy for me!

He sased dose rogs bot leek and leen, Prafest Finn I effer seen!

Some celeprate for St. Pat unt his nakes, Put Urho boyca, he got what it takes!

He got tall and trong from feelia sour, Unt ate kullyamoiakka effry hour.

Dat’s how he could sase does pig kreen rogs, What krew as pig as shack bine logs!

So let’s gif a sheer, in our pest vay On May twenny eight, St. Urho’s Day!!”

It should be noted that, in the original epic, May twenty-eighth was identified as St. Urho’s Day. This was due to the fact that winters in northern Minnesota are known to be rather long. And cold.

So, in order to have a day when celebrations could take place outside without wearing seven layers of clothing, that day was set.

Since then, the day was changed to March sixteenth. That way, both Finns and Irish can make it a two-day celebration instead of one.

Sisu!!!

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SPRING

T

ON THE RAINY RIVER

here is a spring tradition for some anglers that goes back generations. As the warm and welcomed spring sun begins to melt the ice and snow, the Rainy River just east of Baudette, MN begins to show pockets of open water. The open water that begins showing its beautiful hues slowly makes its way to the west and north, eventually ending up in Lake of the Woods. As the ice gives way to open water, thousands of walleyes are making their way to their spawning grounds. In addition, the river is home to a strong population of huge lake sturgeon that have connections to the dinosaur ages and will labor the strongest angler’s arms with their sheer strength. It is spring, we are in MN, fishing seasons are still open and this is tradition.

Depending upon the spring, open water often appears the third week of March, but every year is different. The local tourism bureau and resorts provide daily updates on the progress of the open water, fishing reports,

46

By Joe Henry

and any other pertinent info. For anglers who haven’t hit the water since the fall, this is very important information.

While fishing for walleyes is closed in most of the state, this area, being border water with Canada, is open for walleye fishing through April 14th.

This allows for some unique opportunities to not only catch a walleye of a lifetime, but also for big numbers of fish that are concentrated in the river.

The first anglers to appear are the brave souls who elect to bring up smaller boats that can be pushed across the shore ice and carefully slid into the icy waters. These are the pioneers of the walleye run and obviously “safety first” has to be the mantra here. Most anglers wait for the accesses to be ice free so they can land their boat more traditionally. The county is good about using backhoes to help speed up the natural process of the access ice moving out and also creating a safer environment to those who would get their boat in the

water regardless.

For walleyes, tackle during this time is simple. A good jigging rod, a handful of jigs, and either minnows or bright plastics will do the trick.

Many anglers will vertically jig over the side of the boat, working the bottom foot of the water column. Anchor up and work a section of water. Oftentimes, groups of walleyes are on the move and will come to you.

Lake sturgeon have made a strong resurgence in the Rainy River and on Lake of the Woods and now are very strong in numbers and size of fish. This strong surge is believed to be attributed to no commercial netting for many years and the incorporation of the clean water act. At one point, paper mills upstream were adding “stuff” to the waters of the Rainy River that weren’t conducive to the reproduction of sturgeon.

That has all changed for the better and the sturgeon have reacted nicely.

These prehistoric fish are a blast to catch. Fish can get to over 100 lbs. and fight hard, often showing off their acrobatics by leaping out of the water. In many cases, it’s almost like catching an ocean fish right here in MN.

As far as lodging, there are a lot of choices. The Lake of the Woods resorts and hotels around Baudette and on the river are a natural choice.

To make it easy, there is an entire list of lodging at the Lake of the Woods Tourism website, www.LakeoftheWoodsMN.com.

The small businesses in the area have most everything you need.

Bait shops carry the hot jigs, plastics, sturgeon rigs, and live bait.

Hardware stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and souvenir retailers are buzzing this time of year. Things are hopping in the north country and people are excited.

Spring walleye and sturgeon fishing is tradition and an exciting time in these parts. Almost a rite of passage to the warmer months ahead, it marks the official start of open water fishing that many anglers have been looking forward to. It seems only appropriate the kickoff to the open water season involves some of the largest walleyes in the land sharing the water with the prehistoric sturgeon stacked up in one beautiful river. It is spring in MN, this is tradition, and if you like fishing, it is game on!

Anglers will anchor up in or on the sides of a hole in the river. The tackle used is heavier than your normal walleye gear. 60–100 lb. test, big reels, and a stiff rod is the norm for these giants. On the business end of this setup, anglers will use a 3-4 ounce no roll sinker combined with a sturgeon rig, which is an 18” snell made of 60 lb. test with a big circle hook. Load the circle hook with a few nightcrawlers or a combo of crawlers and frozen shiners and fish the bottom much like fishing for carp or catfish. It isn’t rocket science and angler success is high.

If you want to make things simple, use one of the resort’s guides. Wake up on a nice spring morning, have a nice breakfast, and at 8am step aboard. Everything is taken care of for you. The guide provides the rods, reels, tackle, bait, and they know where the fish are. This is a great option for many. The only thing you need to think about is what to wear and what would you like for lunch. Easy and simple.

The walleye season on Lake of the Woods and the Rainy River is open through April 14th and opens again in mid-May for the MN Fishing Opener. Lake sturgeon have either a “catch and release” or “keep” season through May 15th and then again on July 1st. If you decide to become part of the tradition, a MN fishing license is required and, of course, you'll want to know the regulations. Oh yeah, one more thing, bring a camera!

47

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DIGITAL

SEEING THE FOREST THROUGH THE TREES WITH BIG DATA

BY JAMIE COFFEL

In past issues of Lake Time Magazine, we’ve taken high level looks at the Internet of Things, rural healthcare technologies, and the evolving electric grid. While all very different topics, they are similar in that they have the potential to produce a massive amount of data. Storing this data has become an industry of its own, but unlocking the value in the data can be a bit more tricky. Introducing “Big Data.”

We’ve actually been collecting data for many years. However, the pace and volume of that data has been increasing exponentially in recent years as high speed communications and networked devices become engrained in our society. Big Data refers to the more recent trend of leveraging computational analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence advancements to pour over data and make real world use of this powerful resource.

A small scale example may be found right on the side of your house.

Many electric utilities are currently investing in advanced electric meter systems capable of providing instantaneous data to the utility either on a regular schedule, when requested, or even when the meter detects sub-optimal situations. While some only see this as an opportunity to save money over in-person monthly meter readings, that doesn’t pass a basic cost-benefit analysis. The investment, which can reach into the millions of dollars, only pays for itself when real-time data is put to use automating the substation and electric distribution systems and reducing the cost of delivering power to the end user. With such insight into the local grid, utilities can now better manage outages, line losses, power theft, and power quality issues driving a healthier bottom line and providing a payback on the investment.

The electric utility example is one where data volumes are relatively easy to manage, analyze, and automate. Big Data makes its most impressive impacts when applying enormous amounts of data against incredibly complex problems such as the fight against cancer.

Putting theory into practice is IBM’s Watson Health and the Watson Health Cloud. It provides a computing resource capable of consuming and analyzing 10,000 scientific articles and 100 clinical trials in any given month; a pace previously unattainable for oncology professionals. In 2016 IBM announced a partnership with Illumina, a producer of genome data sequencing technologies. Together, Watson and Illumina can soon match a patient’s specific genomic information with treatment regimens most likely to be effective for that patient.

While not a replacement for experienced medical professionals, it does give doctors a powerful new set of tools and has even given rise to a newly booming profession, data scientist.

Data scientists are tasked with using these tools to study data to provide information driven answers and conclusions using various analysis techniques. The role requires a broad knowledge of statistical and probabilistic analyses, an innate problem solving skill set, and a natural curiosity in the answers often hidden behind the evidence.

It is estimated that by 2020 there will be more than 30 billion devices collecting data streams. Being able to interpret and take advantage of all this data will lead to great economic and societal benefits enabling us to lead healthier and more productive lives.

While fossil fuels drove the Industrial Revolution, information is driving the Big Data Revolution. Fittingly, some even refer to Big Data as the new oil; a powerful and valuable commodity capable of transforming our way of life.

JAMIE COFFEL Jamie

Coffel has over 25 years’ experience in electric utility and automation businesses. He consults for several near start-up companies and has led the development of some of the utility industry’s best selling energy management products.

A patent-pending technology inventor and former utility commission vice-president and board member, Jamie has also been active in the development of several industry initiatives such as the Society of Automotive Engineers’ Vehicle-to-Grid standards and the Electric Power Research Institute’s project that led to the development of the ANSI/ CTA-2045 Modular Communications Interface for Energy Management.

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Adoption

Mountain & Valley

by Anna Bailey

Meet our daughter, Amilia Degenesh.

She embodies light and life, and we adopted her at the age of nine months. She is the inspiration to our story of Adoption: The Mountain and Valley My husband and I weren’t one of those families that always had their heart set on adoption. We didn’t have it planned out. It wasn’t even on our radar. Nathanael sneezed on me, and I got pregnant. It was that easy. Although, after four pregnancies, and three births, we were told it wouldn’t be wise for me to conceive again. You see, instead of waiting to contract at 40 weeks, my body started at 17 weeks. Now this is craziness!...I am NEVER early for anything. Since my body was done hosting babes, we started the process of adoption.

Our short nine-month journey of international adoption is unheard of and was one of perfect timing and answered prayers. Not one roadblock stood in our way.

I realize that many of you may want to curse at me and throw your slipper. We had no problem conceiving, and our adoption journey was the one you see in brochures. But, not you. You are aching to be a mama. You have tried everything. You have prayed, you have begged, and you have bribed. I can’t say I know where you’ve been, but I do sincerely ache with you. I am so sorry that it has been so hard. But, do hope you read on. It would be my honor.

We started our paperwork in August of 2006 – piles and piles of

paperwork; I literally did one thing at a time and always just made the deadline… If I had to do it again today, I would have no idea where to start.

We first saw her face on March 6, 2007.

I knew the phone call would be any day now. With each ring, my hopes soared. This time, I was not let down. I quickly gathered my senses and sat down on the basement stairs. She was a healthy seven-month old baby girl. Her name was Degenesh Abera, and she was ours. I hung up the phone with our social worker, and quickly called Nathanael at work. We both ran to our computers and opened up the coveted email with her picture. We finally saw her for the first time. What a dolly! Those eyes and pouty lips had us hooked.

After a few chaotic weeks of travel planning, packing, medical shots, and more paperwork, we were off on a 30-hour trip around the world.

I have watched the video over and over with grateful tears. The miracle of this day does not fade.

We traveled to meet her birthmother on April 29, 2007, which is unheard of! We had the honor of meeting our daughter’s birthmother in the very town that she was born! An unimaginable, long, dusty, and bumpy trip to her village.

We pulled up outside our meeting place, anxious and excited. For 20-30 minutes we sat across the table from Amilia’s birthmother.

FAMILY Big brown eyes and a beautifully formed face graced the 16-year old tender-hearted girl. She was nervous and soft-spoken. Yet when amused, she would giggle and light up just like our daughter. There is one moment in our translated conversation that I will never forget. I asked, “What do you want your daughter to become when she grows up?” Without hesitation, she answered, “A preacher or a singer in church.” At that very moment we all realized that not only do we share a daughter, but also a common faith. Just as we had prayed for her, she had prayed for us.

Our family was complete with the most beautiful little girl I had ever laid eyes on, Amilia Degenesh Bailey. We were on top of the mountain! all

know

what

comes

after

the

mountain

top.

No one I ever talked to, or book I read, prepared me for the next year of my life and the struggles I would have becoming an adoptive mother. As high as the mountain was, so low the valley.

We arrived home on my 30th birthday, and while severely jet lagged, we were over the moon!

After the initial hellos, cake, and welcome home party, the routine came. My husband went back to work, and I was home with four children ages 4, 3, 2, and 9 months.

What was wrong with me that I couldn’t attach to my new adopted daughter?

At that time, I did not have the insight or emotional energy to try and figure out why. I was barely surviving.

I remember one moment in time with crystal clear clarity.

Once again, Amilia was crying inconsolably in her crib. Unknown to me, my 4 and 3-year old boys had let the dog out, and he was now running around the neighborhood causing trouble. As I ran out the door with my older boys to chase the dog, I realized I had no idea where my 2-year was. We called him “Silent Sammy” because he never made any noise, but he was constantly moving and into something. The dog became the least of my priorities, as I started to search for Sammy. I finally found him in the garage, clinging to the top of a six foot ladder! He was quietly whimpering (probably because he had been there a good while and had grown weary) and bleeding. I quickly snatched him up, and ran out to the yard to find my boys. I was met by our wonderful neighbor who told me the two older boys were running around the streets looking for our dog.

But, we all know what comes after the mountain top.

T h e va l l e y .

Before I go any further, know this. One of my highest values is authenticity and honesty, so that is what you are always going to get from me. Period. I will share the ugly and broken parts of my life with you. I do so in hopes that you will trust me, learn from my mistakes, and be encouraged that you are not alone.

Admittedly, one of my greatest downfalls is the ugly kind of PRIDE. I don’t like to ask for help, and I am certain and sure that I can handle most situations. Raising three boys, four and under, was a lot to handle. But in my opinion, I was knocking it out of the park; I was supermom. Looking back now, I see that I had set myself up for disaster. Not only had we experienced a mountaintop adoption experience, but I had also elevated myself to the “Supermom” status.

At the base of mountains are valleys, and pride comes before the fall.

The fall was painful and ugly. I was undone and at the lowest point in my life thus far. I was not attaching to my new daughter. She was a mystery to me. When I tried to explain my despair and depression to close friends, I was unable to find words. The only one who I felt heard me, was God.

Boys, ages four and three, were running the streets without supervision.

My 2-year old was traumatized and bleeding. My baby had been crying in the crib for over an hour. And, oh yeah, the dog was lost.

I honestly don’t remember what happened next. I must have found the kids, dog, and taken care of my bleeding Sam. I do remember calling my husband at work though. I quickly re-told the story to him, in hopes that he would drop everything and come home. At that moment I didn’t really need physical help, but I was emotionally DEAD. Looking back on it, I should have told him that I needed him take me to the mental ward. I was losing my mind and was in despair. I had placed my value in my “supermom” status, and I was clearly failing. My

FA M I LY

But, we The valley.

My picture perfect daughter had also unraveled. She took her cues from my lousy behavior and anger. Crying constantly, I was unable to settle her down. It was as if an emotional, irrational teenage girl was living in the body of my one-year old. The only time she was content, was when sleeping. Most days, I would leave her in her crib crying. I could not console her, and I quickly grew weary of trying; my anger rising, I knew she would be safe there. This went on for weeks and then months.

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FAMILY despair went on for a good six months before I came to this realization.

My greatest efforts to attach and love my adopted daughter were falling desperately short. My pride and failure had paralyzed me. One day, many months in, as I was headed once again to her bedroom on a mission to stop her incessant crying, I asked for help. Honestly, I don’t remember asking for help before this point. My pride had blinded me, and didn’t want to admit I couldn’t love her on my own. It was a simple prayer.

God, help me to love her, because I can’t do it on my own.

From that moment on, things changed. I came face to face with the reality of where my pride had taken me, and I needed help.

Attachment didn’t come overnight. Honestly, it took until she was at least two before it seemed healthy. Along with asking for help, I fought hard to embrace humility. Before this point, I didn’t realize how my pride ruled me.

If I could sum up my lesson to share with you:

Be strong, be courageous, and be bold.

Love those babies with all you have and be confident.

But don’t be full of pride. Don’t think that you are better than others are. Also, don’t judge them.

Anna Bailey Anna sheepishly admits she may be the messiest member of her busy family of six. Her patient husband Nathanael, of sixteen years, has learned to live with her messy downfalls. Nathanael and Anna have 3 biological boys and an adopted daughter; Isaac, Lincoln, Samuel, and Amilia Bailey. Take a step back into the 1950’s, and that’s what you’ll see in their Lakeside neighborhood. Families share meals and kids play pickup games of ball.

Anna is passionate about building community and investing in her amazing city, Duluth. Somehow in the midst of her creative chaos, Anna runs her own business making and selling reclaimed art and furniture.

Sawdust is her girl glitter, and power tools her best friends. She is also is a singer-songwriter, and you may just catch her singing at the local pub or pizza place.

I learned the hard way. I told myself that I was awesome, that I was supermom, and that I was doing a better job than you.

Shame on me. Please, please forgive me.

Now mamas, if you are on the other side of the plate, and embrace self-distrust and lack of confidence, listen up. Don’t believe the lies that you are failing, and that you are not enough. You, are enough.

Growing our family through adoption not only brought me the most loving, sweet and sassy daughter, but it also taught me humility. I am tearful, and my heart overflows with gratitude. I love my daughter so!

And I wish you well on your own journey.

Article compliments of Duluth Mom’s Blog: Duluth Mom’s Blog is a locally focused parenting resource serving moms in the Duluth and surrounding area. We have a writing team made up of twenty eight Duluth based moms in all walks of life, and we’ve made it our mission to connect local families both online and offline. Find out more at DuluthMomsBlog.com

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THE

Phenology SCIENCE OF

by John Latimer

When I tell someone for the first time that I am a phenologist it usually engenders one of two responses, a look of complete bewilderment or the mistaken assumption that I can discern their psychological make-up by mapping the lumps on their heads. I prefer the bewildered look over the possibility that I might be a Phrenologist.

servers take the time to estimate the percentage of leaves having reached maximum expansion.

The data would be useful to scientists but it is a personal choice as to whether or not you want to commit to the extra effort.

Flower development starts with the first flower bud opening or the expansion of the male catkin.

The second stage is the ability to identify separate Phenology is at its core a finely tuned look at the flower parts. Followed by the first full bloom and natural world. Some might argue that what I have then peak bloom and finally last flowers. Now you described fits the definition of a naturalist. I’m have fruit set and you can fond of saying that a pherecord the development of nologist is just a naturalist PHENOLOGY IS AT ITS CORE the fruit or seeds. who takes the time to write it A FINELY TUNED LOOK down. A naturalist will tell you AT THE NATURAL If plants aren’t your thing then perthat the light green color seen on haps bird migration. We all long for WORLD. the aspens are the newly emerging the arrival of the first robins of spring. leaves. A phenologist will tell you the Lately robins have been staying throughout same thing, only they will go on to tell you the winter in the north. This is a risky stratethat this year’s emergence varies from the avgy, but if they are successful they are able to be erage by several days and that the earliest they the first on a territory. So how do you determine have emerged in his records occurred in the such when the robin you see is a risk taker or a migratand such a year. or? My own standard is, are they singing their full song, and in the following days are more and more One of the nice aspects of phenology is that you being seen? If that is the case then I assume that need not be an expert to pursue it. You can begin migration has begun. in your own backyard or in your flower gardens.

Pick your perennials and note when they emerge Of course there are other birds that migrate and from the soil, when the first leaf unfurls, and then don’t spend the winter in our part of the world. first, peak, and last flowers. Or select a tree and Killdeer, great blue herons, red winged blackbirds, watch as it breaks bud. That first slight change as and white throated sparrows are just a few easily something red or green or in some cases white recognized migrators. All of these birds will arrive cracks open and starts to expand. Some like the within a few days of one another with the possible red maples open their flowers first and then follow exception of the great blue herons, who must use with the leaves. day length as their trigger. In thirty-four years of records the arrival of the great blue herons varies The stages of bud burst for a leaf begin with that by about a week, while the robins range from early first crack in the sheath and a tiny sliver of color March to early April. Such consistent timing on the peeking out. The next marker is when can the leaf part of the great blue herons cannot be affected stem, or petiole as they are called, be seen? This by weather. is usually within a few days of bud burst. Finally, I note when the leaf has reached full size. Some ob-

54

SCIENCE SOME OF THE OBSERVATIONS I MAKE ARE RELATED TO SOUNDS. For instance the arrival of the first loons, which, coincidentally almost always occurs within a few days of the ice going out.

Speaking of ice going out many of you may have such records, which means that you are already phenologists. These are quite valuable to scientists especially if they go back several decades. Once the loons arrive they immediately begin to call. Frogs call from swamps and ponds and with a little effort you can learn the different songs. The order is usually wood frogs first followed by boreal chorus frogs, spring peepers, gray tree frogs, and American toads. There are others and as you develop a sense of your surroundings you’ll quickly learn them.

Then there are the ovenbirds whose return is usually the first week in May. They are very hard to see because they are quite secretive but their call is loud and proud.

“Teacher teacher teacher” or “pizza pizza pizza” can be heard ringing strong from the forest. They arrive in the middle of the night and the next morning you can hear them while driving your car. They are that loud.

So why bother? Keeping up with all these events can take a bit of time and, if like me you start by writing your notes on a calendar, tracking down previous year’s notes can be a struggle. Yet in this day of computers it is easy to structure a spreadsheet and then comparing notes is a relatively simple task.

THE TIMING OF RECURRING BIOLOGICAL EVENTS TELLS US A GREAT DEAL ABOUT CLIMATE. My own records are the subject of study at the University of Minnesota and Harvard.

It turns out that I’m a better observer than statistician. It remains to be seen what the experts may tease out of my data. It is fairly obvious that there are some significant changes taking place.

Beyond all the science lies a far more rewarding outcome. YOU WILL BECOME MUCH MORE ATTUNED TO NATURE. Stress seems to melt away when you’re focused on the natural world. Start small, a few minutes each week to note what has changed. It won’t be long and you’ll be expanding your interests to include all manner of natural occurrences. I haven’t even mentioned butterflies and dragonflies, two of the most intriguing and beautiful wonders just outside your door.

John Latimer is a retired rural mail carrier who has hosted the Phenology Show on Northern Community Radio for the past 33 years. Using his 100 mile daily route as a base to record the changes of hundreds of plants and animals he has amassed a database of nearly 50,000 individual notes. He has worked with the University of Minnesota and Harvard University to establish phenology protocols and share data. He is one of the founding members of the Minnesota Phenology Network.

If you are in terested in p ursu in g p h enolog y there are several web based sites that will help you. My group, the Minnesota Phenology Network (MnPN) has joined with the National Phenology Network (NPN) to focus on seven organisms found throughout the northland that we track yearly. These include red maples, tamaracks, loons, eastern bluebirds, ruby throated hummingbirds, monarch butterflies, and lilacs. NPN has created worksheets that can be downloaded to a smart phone or printed to assist in data collection. They have also created a primer showing various stages of development in flowers and leaves. It doesn’t matter what level of involvement you attempt the rewards are enormous.

I broadcast the Phenology Show on Northern Community Radio every Tuesday morning at 7:20 and will help you to stay abreast of what is happening around lake country. You will find the program at 91.7 FM in Grand Rapids, 90.5 Bagley and Bemidji, 89.9 in Brainerd and 103.9 in Ely. Here are a few web sites you may also wish to visit that deal in phenology. Good Luck! usanpn.org/mnpn/species usanpn.org Monarchjointventure.org learner.org/jnorth/ enature.com ebird.org bugguide.net

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BY E. NOLAN

FOR THE LOVE OF GOLF

L

ists are like love stories—subjectively slanted towards one lover’s perspective, and no passionate arrangement stands without its fair share of quarrels. “Beauty” and “Greatness” in golf reveal this bias; with their categorical results respectively—though never authoritatively—determined by each club holder. We are blessed with much beauty to swing our clubs at in Minnesota; but, should also concede there exists no specific formula for quantifying the state’s greatest golf experiences. There is only one order of truth to which you must subscribe in this particular “Top 10” tribute: alphabetical order.

In both lakes and golf courses, Minnesota is remarkably top heavy when it comes to the “most popular” outdoor playgrounds. If you’re of the mind that the state gets prettier the further Up North you go, then the fact that eight of these properties exist north of Brainerd should not surprise you at all.

Bobby’s Legacy at Cragun’s Resort: (Brainerd) One of the most famous names in Golf Architecture—Robert Trent Jones Jr.—designed two championship courses for the Gull Lake resort, weaving 36 holes along the shores of two smaller lakes: Stephens and Legacy. In validation of the “to each his own” mantra, Golf Digest Magazine gives a little more love to the other course—Dutch Legacy.

But, while each makes its own case with several stellar holes, the seven “Signatures” (holes deemed a 9 or 10 on a “10 Point Beauty Scale”) on Bobby’s Legacy—including the precipitous, panoramic tee shot on #17—take the overall cake in greatness. www.craguns.com (FootGolf: Cragun’s offers FootGolf, with 22-inch cups, on their Reversible Par 3 course)

The Classic at Madden’s Resort: (Brainerd) The Classic is revered as much for its first-class service as it is for the first-class golf; a correlative truth that impressively translates across every facet of a guest’s experience at this Gull Lake resort. Loaded with water hazards and seven “Signature” holes—most notably #2 and #3, adjacent Bass Lake—Scott Hoffman’s only career design is both memorable and gaining in acclaim every year. The “pinnacle” moment would have to be the approach shot on #16, adjacent the picturesque wooden bridge, or any time spent dining in The Classic Grill. www.maddens.com (Golf Caddies: The Classic has Minnesota’s only public golf player-assistance program)

P L AY

Deacon’s Lodge at Breezy Point Resort: (Breezy Point) Arguably Arnold Palmer’s

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greatest American design, it is great fortune for Minnesota members of “Arnie’s Army” that “The King’s” most lasting architectural legacy was left here, and appropriate that it was built to honor his own father—Deacon’s—legacy. Purposefully plotted around the lush, Loon living areas of Shaffer and Lynch Lakes, Deacon’s Lodge has nine “Signature” holes, including the Par 3, 17th towards another lake—Douglas—that Mr. Palmer deemed worthy of being included on his list of the “18 Best Holes” he ever designed. www.breezypointresort. com (Ireland: Most contend Mr. Palmer’s greatest worldwide design is Tralee Golf Club in Ireland. www.traleegolfclub.com)

Legend at Giants Ridge: (Biwabik)

“Jeff Brauer” is to “most underrated golf architect” as “#17 on Legend” is to “prettiest hole in Minnesota.” (If only the truth on achievement tests were so obvious.) Brauer designed both boulder-infused beasts at Giants Ridge—Legend and Quarry— and, while Golf Digest (again) finds more beauty in the opposite direction, there’s no question Legend belongs in America’s Top 100, too. Legend has seven “Signature” holes, with highlight features like the “giant” foot bunker on #3, the peninsula green on #11, and the state’s most sublime setting—the tee boxes of #17, on Sabin Lake. www.giantsridge.com (Green Gate Guest Houses: Stay & Play experiences don’t get any more unique, artisan, or aweinspiring. www.greengateguesthouses.com)

Legends Club: (Prior Lake) With water in play on 13 holes, Garrett Gill’s Legends Club is virtually a lake itself. The surrounding master-planned community only marginally interferes with the rampant beauty of the round, and with eight, solid “Signature” holes, Legends Club is solidly in the conversation with Stoneridge (and Troy Burne, just across the Wisconsin State Line) for the honor of the “Twin Cities Best Course.” The most anticipated and memorable shot of the round comes at the Par 3, 13th, with an extensive all-water carry to a wall-guarded green. www.legendsgc.com (Tee Times Magazine: The foremost authority on all golf in Minnesota and Wisconsin. www.teetimespress.com) The Pines at Grand View Lodge: (Nisswa)

One of two 27-hole arrangements on this list, and the crown jewel of one of America’s greatest family resorts, Joel Goldstrand’s Pines Course can claim the fame of having had its “Marquee” hole—#7 on the Lakes nine—prominently featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated’s 2016 Golf Calendar. Wedged between the resort’s main property, on the north shore of Gull Lake, and the southern edge of Roy Lake, The Pines boasts eight “Signature” holes in all, and an abundance of Northwoods beauty. www.grandviewlodge.com (Miniature Golf: Wildwedge Mini Golf in nearby Pequot Lakes could be Minnesota’s best tiny tour. www.wildwedge.com)

Quarry at Giants Ridge: (Biwabik) Built just north of Embarrass Lake, Jeff Brauer’s Quarry is nothing if not intimidating. Originally slated to be set entirely on the cliffs of the quarry—the eventual design sacrificed none of that projected drama in becoming what Golf Digest claims is Minnesota’s best public golf course, and their 25th ranked public course in America overall.

The Troon Golf managed Quarry hosts seven “Signature” holes—including the breathtaking quarry launch at #7—and the area’s most scenic Friday Night Fish Fry, in the Wacootah Grille overlooking Lake Mine. www.giantsridge.com (Mesabi Trail: This famous 120+ mile biking and snowmobiling trail weaves around the scenic surrounds of Giants Ridge. www.mesabitrail.com)

PPLAY LAY

The 10 Best Public Golf Courses in Minnesota GIANTS RIDGE LEGENDS HOLE 17 - PHOTO BY PETER WONG

GRAND VIEW PINES #4 - PHOTO BY PETER WONG

MADDEN’S THE CLASSIC #16 - PHOTO BY PETER WONG

StoneRidge Golf Club: (Stillwater)

Bobby Weed’s StoneRidge is undisputedly one of the three best public courses in the Twin Cities metro. The other two “bests” depends on who you ask. Famous for their personable staff, white barn, chocolate chip cookies, and Linksstyle golf, it is easy to find something new to love on each visit. With seven “Signature” holes, including the gorgeous “Splinter” #10 and “Barn” #11, around the pond, StoneRidge sits just off I-94 but feels (in golf season) like it’s in the UK. www.stoneridgegc.com (Danny’s: Considered one of the 5 Best Golf Restaurants “19th Holes” in Minnesota. www.dannysbarandgrille.com)

Superior National at Lutsen Resort: (Lutsen) Officially, the spectacular 18-hole River/Canyon course doesn’t open until late 2017; but, if you have visited since the River nine reopened, you understand why Jeff Brauer’s masterful renovation simply cannot be omitted.

(Wait until you see the new #6 on Canyon!) With four “Signature” holes on the River nine alone—including two panoramic tee shots at Lake Superior and the breathtaking swing over the waterfall on #2—and a bonus nine holes, (Mountain) this is easily the premier amenity for one of The Great Lakes’ premier resorts: Lutsen Resort. www.lutsenresort.com (Worlds Best Donuts in Grand Marais: The hottest stop in one of Lake Superior’s coolest spots. www.worldsbestdonutsmn.com)

The Wilderness at Fortune Bay Casino: (Tower) Recently listed on

the Golf News Network as the #1 Public Course in America, it seems the media world is finally catching on to the pure, natural splendor of golf experiences in Minnesota (particularly in the Iron Trail region). Another Jeff Brauer creation, this KemperSports managed property features twelve “Signature” holes weaving through the boulder fields above Lake Vermilion. With one of Minnesota’s “5 Prettiest” holes at #3, an island green at #12, and stunning views around almost every corner, it is hard to imagine a better place to revel in the awesomeness of golf in our state. w w w. g o l f t h ew i l d e r n e s s . c o m (Wilderness Grill: Pair the stellar “19th Hole” staff and food with panoramic “Pure North” patio views for the perfect wrap to a perfect day.)

E. Nolan has been a Travel and Leisure “Agent” since 2007, writing golf, resort, and family articles for 18 American publications and tourism agencies in that time. A Rochester native with four kids and a Hospitality Management degree, E. has played 428 golf courses in 39 states, and another 38 courses in 12 countries.

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YOUTH

SPRING FEVER. SPRING AHEAD. It’s spring in Minnesota‌ about that time to get creative with the kiddos - they are antsy as heck to get outside!

Here are a couple fun projects to spawn the creative side with almost any household products we all have sitting around.

By Jessa Roy

1. The love tree

Supplies needed: Pink construction paper 2nd piece of construction paper (any color) Red and black tempra paint Scissors Small dish for paint Paint brush Tape STEP 1 Cut a heart shape from the random color construction paper. If you have older children they could cut it themselves.

STEP 2 Tape the pink paper to the table and then tape the paper with the heart cut-out over the top of the pink paper.

STEP 3 Place a small amount of red paint in a small dish. Tell the kids to put their fingers in the paint. Tell them they are going to use their fingers but not to sweep like a paintbrush but to dab dab dab and they should dab dab dab on all of the pink until the pink is all gone.

When you remove the top piece of paper you'll be left with the heart.

STEP 4 Now put a little black paint in a small container. With a small brush you (or your child depending on age) can paint a "trunk" on your love tree.

If you have very young children that are unable to dab dab dab until the pink is gone you could fill in the heart shape so you still get the idea.

YOUTH

2. Peacock

58

Supplies needed: Purple, green, and blue tempra paint Paper plate Blue construction paper cut into a small bowling pin shape for the peacock body Glue STEP 1 Give your child a paper plate and small amount of each paint.

STEP 2 Tell your child to use their fingers to dab or

smush the paint with their fingers. Let them know they are making beautiful bird feathers so they can mix the paints however they want. Tell them to dab, smush and dot paint all over until they think their feathers are beautiful!

STEP 3 Next have them glue the "body" onto the plate. Finish with eyes and a beak. You can draw them or your child can draw them, depending on age of child and desired end product.

If you have a tiny little one at home that you don't want to leave out, paint their little feet with the same paint.

3. Parrott

Supplies needed: Construction paper (colors in pic) Glue Scissors Depending on age of child either you or your child can cut out these shapes. Preschoolers will have enough to do without having to cut.

This can be a learning project in directions, colors, and shapes.

STEP 1 Glue the green P on your paper (I put an "x" on the glue side so the P ends up the right direction.)

STEP 2 Find the biggest red shape and glue that where the birds tummy should be.

STEP 3 Find the white circle, that is the parrots eye! Glue that where you want his eye to go.

STEP 4 Find the black circle. Glue that inside the white circle. That is called the pupil. Look at each other's eyes! Your child will like finding the pupil! Explain how wherever they put the pupil is where the parrot is looking! Imitate the parrot looking around. That's good for a few laughs!

STEP 5 Now find the beak. Tell the child it's orange and it looks like the letter C. Tell them it's the parrots mouth. They should put that where the mouth should be (according to them).

STEP 6 Last there are three feathers. Tail feathers! Let them put the feathers where they think the feathers should go... this may be good for some laughs!

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LIVING

TINY

By Katie Krantz

COU LD YOU DO IT?

When we tell people that we live in a tiny home, the most common response is, “oh, well I would love to do that but I just never could. I have too much stuff.” I can’t help but think that stuff isn’t important, right? We use stuff and love people, not the other way around.

We like to think we live out this saying, and living in our tiny home helps us remember to do that.

A tiny home is what is typically known as having less than 400 square feet. Some tiny homes are on wheels.

Some are on a foundation. Some tiny homes have running water and electricity. Some do not. Life is more work when it comes to living tiny, but it is simpler. We embrace life’s small pleasures.

Other people may have hot running water and rooms made just for storage, but do they truly appreciate what that means?

MAKING A HOME

HOME

Although tiny home living has been trending in metro areas lately, it has truly been a common way of living in the North Woods for a long time. Throughout my time in Cook County, I have discovered many locals that live in small homes, without running water or without electricity.

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Generally, people do not live in this beautiful area because they want to spend time in their homes; they live up north to spend time outside.

This is why small spaces make perfect sense in a location where there are expansive forests filled with lakes, rivers, trees, and wildlife. Through living in what is essentially a wooden tent, we connect more with the world around us. There are plenty of perks to living in a tiny home. We have enjoyed

countless hours outside and had many wildlife encounters.

We have now lived in our tiny home for a year and a half. Our home is smaller than the size of a standard master bedroom. The outside dimensions of the building are 10 x 14 feet. With six inch walls, that leaves just 117 square feet inside. On a typical day, we do the same things that most couples our age do. We make yummy meals, exercise with our puppy, bathe, spend time with friends, sleep, and do house chores. Living in northeastern Minnesota is like living in a giant playground. From our home, we can walk to the Superior Hiking Trail. We can take our dog swimming in Lake Superior, or explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness just up the trail.

WE FEEL THAT OUR TINY HOME DOESN’T LIMIT US, BUT RATHER IT URGES US TO BE CREATIVE IN THE WAYS WE DO THESE EVERYDAY THINGS. We do not have a well or a septic system. Rather, we have an outhouse and a water system that Tom developed. We have a 14 gallon tank in our loft, and the water is fed by gravity down to our sink. We use that sink to brush our teeth, wash our dishes, and cook. I won’t lie - this can be tough, but it brings opportunity. In the winter when we need a shower, we make a fun time of it and use the hot tub at the resort where Tom works. In the summer, we have a lot of fun exploring nearby lakes and rivers to bathe in.

We discover new spots that we wouldn’t have otherwise found. We connect with nature in ways that we may not have thought of, had the necessity not been there. If we had been able to hop in the shower at home, we wouldn’t necessarily have a reason to check out the river - complete with waterfalls - down the road. We are also fortunate enough to have a seasonal stream that goes through our property.

Cooking meals can be a bit problematic, but it does promote ingenuity. Cooking tools that we have include an induction stove top, convection oven, toaster, slow cooker, and grill. When meal planning, I try to think of meals that use one of each. If I have to use the oven for two things, it takes longer and food can get cold. Also, the counter

HOME

space is very small. Our counter is seven feet long, with a lot of space used up by the coffee maker, toaster, sink, etc. We have a mini fridge that is 4.1 cubic feet. We have just one cabinet and tend to use the loft for additional food storage.

For entertainment, we hike, swim, bike, ski, snowshoe, motorcycle, take drives, and just generally utilize the amazing landscape in which we live. We find ourselves outside as much as daylight and good weather allow. We are located near trailheads, rivers, and Lake Superior. But then again living in northern Minnesota means the weather sometimes forces us to spend more time indoors than we would prefer. We do have electricity in our tiny home, but for the first year, we lived without internet. We read many books, watched movies, and played cards. Now that we do have internet, we indulge in TV shows and cruising the world wide web. We also frequently have friends over for bonfires and barbeques in the summertime.

Because of the space limitations, we rarely have people over in the winter.

Tiny homes can also be an alternative to the tricky housing market up north. In an area where it can be expensive to build and the homes for sale are limited, tiny homes offer a solution. The costs of utilities are drastically reduced as well. This past summer was a warm one and we were able to air condition our whole home with just one little window air conditioner. In the winter months, we heat with just one electric baseboard. My co-worker, Molly O’Neill has said that tiny home living has allowed her to pay down debt.

Something that no one will ever tell you about living in a tiny home is that they are very difficult to keep clean. With such a small space, there is nowhere for the dirt to spread out. Even though we have to clean our home more often, the task only takes about ten minutes.

We are constantly conscious of buying and receiving things. We do not have the space to accumulate more than we use.

BUILDING THE DREAM My now husband Tom had been living on the north shore for a year before I met him. He had already bought the shell of the home and was planning to live in it alone. The building was made by North House Folk School located in Grand Marais. It was the result of a class titled, “Build Thoreau’s Cabin: Basic Building Skills Workshop,” which they host every spring. I remember Tom had said, “I have dreamed of living in a tiny home in the woods since high school. I just don’t feel like I need a lot of stuff or a lot of indoor space. I want to be more focused on spending time outdoors.”

Little did Tom know his tiny dream was about to get even tinier. We met about a month after he had bought the cabin. Ten months later, we were engaged. Six months after that, we got our puppy, Letty.

Tom said, “If I had known that I would be married and have added a furry companion to the mix, I might have opted for just a bit more square footage.”

That summer, Tom and I bought land off the Sawbill Trail. We worked hard to clear the building site, which is more of a task than I thought it would be. We moved countless trees, stumps, and brush.

We burned piles of brush that were the same size as the house.

Once the building was on site, we started getting pretty excited. The dream felt so real. Tom and I learned a lot more about the construction process than we thought we were going to. With the help of a friend, we installed windows and a front door. We wired the home all by ourselves and we were pretty proud of our work. Tom borrowed a nail gun and learned how to install tongue and groove walls and lay down floors. His parents came up to help and we painted the home and outhouse. We are still so grateful for all of the support we received.

Throughout the process, we learned a lot about how to make this dream a reality. We learned about the power of working with friends and creating something that would last. We gained an appreciation for the land on which we placed our home, and the resources that it gave us. Every square foot of our home means something to us, and every time I look around I recall a memory of putting it together. While our tiny home may not be our forever home, I believe tiny home living fills me with a gratitude that will last beyond tiny home times.

Thomas and Katie Krantz were both born and raised in the western suburbs of Minneapolis. However, it wasn’t until they both moved to the North Shore that they met. They are now married and have been living in their tiny home since August of 2015 with their dog, Letty. Their passions include hiking in the woods, fishing, motorcycling, and playing with their puppy.

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Find your ahhh...

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Turning the Table on Tragedy

by Amanda Dosen-Windorski

“We came to the Grand Rapids area about seven years ago to escape. To hide really.” Monica, a mother of three, went on in grave detail about her challenging past. Her childhood shrouded with abuse and exploitation. She ran away at age twelve, only to live on the streets of Chicago. It didn’t take long for Monica to learn that this was not living; this was surviving on the streets. But, as horrible as it was, she wasn’t locked in closets or in rooms with the windows nailed shut. She didn’t have to watch drug deals or tricks being turned in her own home, and they could not hurt her.

Simple things like clothes, school, friends, and nutritious meals were not in her picture. Monica wanted more. She needed more.

She attempted to enroll herself in school, however, a child without an adult or permanent address was a red flag. Authorities were forced to return her to the home she longed to escape.

Drugs, homelessness, and prostitution plagued her existence until, at age 18, a woman pulled up to her corner. “This angel invited me to her home for a hot meal, a hot shower, and a warm bed. After that first night, she made it her mission to take care of me and another girl from the street. It took 18 months of tough love to get clean. We did it the old fashioned way, but she was there through it all. I remember her using a straw to slowly drip water into my mouth when I was in the worst of it. That was more than 27 years ago. I am still thankful today.”

After receiving intensive therapy and having her young daughter Karly, Monica was encouraged to try to make peace with her mother. Her feelings were rejected. Monica’s mother attempted to alienate young Karly and even sought custody of her. Feelings from her childhood flooded back. She couldn’t imagine Karly cowering in a corner of a hazy, dimly lit room where she once sat while drugs and sexual favors were easily and openly shared. Monica knew the cycle stopped here. Now. The battle went to court. Hearings were not pretty. Ultimately, she was granted custody and her mother never pursued visitation. Monica and Karly moved, and never looked back.

As time passed, Monica fell in love, got married, and had Xavier, her healthy and active son. As a former street kid, life - her life 66

seemed to be perfect for the first time. She had a happy marriage, a lovely family, a house… but tragedy loomed.

Now a new family of four, the couple experienced challenges as many new couples do. The way Monica and her husband coped, however, was very different.

Unbeknownst to Monica, her husband was using drugs on the sly. During one of his highs, he turned on 18-month-old Xavier causing serious and irreversible damage. It would take the next four years, many hospital visits, doctors, and therapists to determine a Traumatic Brain Injury diagnosis. She could finally get her son the help he needed.

Again, Monica was on her own with two children under the age of five. They had to leave. With her children and as much as she could pack, she closed the door on that part of her life. She was determined to give her children a better life.

Monica found a job and made some friends. Every spare moment was spent caring for her kids, but Xavier required more. More of everything. More of her time and attention. Sometimes it was more than she felt she could handle. But, Monica always rose to the challenge. “I haven’t always made the best choices in my life, but I have always taken responsibility and learned.”

The day her divorce was finalized, it felt like she could breathe for the first time in years. Although her family would continue to have physical, mental, and emotional struggles, Monica stated, “I didn’t know it, but this was just the first of many blessings to come.”

Within the year, Monica gave birth to her son Troy. She still struggled with her past and PTSD from Xavier’s tragedy. Now money was tight. Working became impossible. Day-to-day survival for her family was Monica’s primary focus. She didn’t receive child support or alimony. Her pride and past experiences kept her from seeking help from government agencies.

“In our area, we have lots of places to help people, you just have to know where to look,” Monica explained. She learned from a neighbor that the food shelf at Second Harvest could help supply some food for her family. Monica quickly planned a visit with young Troy in tow. To her surprise it seemed just like a grocery store with fresh produce, canned and dry goods, even meat and dairy. She was relieved to discover how friendly and helpful the staff was.

It was refreshing to Monica that her children would witness a different “parking lot exchange” from those of her youth. She went on to explain that if someone received an item that another person could use more, the two would exchange items in the parking lot so both parties would benefit.

“The food shelf really helps stretch our food budget. We scour ads for price matching, plan our meals, and make our shopping lists.

We always try to plan around what is available at the food shelf. We never waste food,” Monica stated.

Monica continues to utilize resources in our small community, most recently programs through KOOTASA Community Action. The United Way of 1000 Lakes financially supports the food shelf at Second Harvest and other area food shelves as well as many other community organizations. Agencies like these formed a web of support around Monica and her family. “But,” shared Monica, “the Food Shelf remains a huge blessing.”

“I didn’t grow up in a home with a mom, let alone one who taught me about cooking and shopping. I was just trying to survive.”

Monica shook her head remarking about how things have changed.

“Now I’m the Mom and Troy has become the real chef in the family.

He is teaching me. He loves cooking and serving it to all of us and he is really good at it. It may seem weird, but food and this kitchen has really helped bring this family together.”

“We always eat dinner together,” stated Troy. “We aren’t afraid to try new things. We talk about lots of stuff and we never lie.”

“Food helps our family get stronger. It does more than fuel our bodies. We are feeding our family’s network – our connections with each other – around this table. Our mealtime is a kind of therapy of us. I encourage my kids to ask me or tell me anything. We don’t keep secrets. This food, this table, has done so much for us. We are all growing – physically, mentally, and emotionally. We may not have much, but we have this time together. Many families can’t say that.

“Listening to my kids has brought me into the world they live in today,” Monica reflected. She has worked hard and has come a long way to provide for her children. Her family’s life today is a far cry from her family life as a child. “It makes me look back at all of my ugly past and makes me thankful for the beauty I have today. Life may not be perfect, but it’s going to be alright. You just have to step back, clear your mind, and focus on what is truly important – each other.”

The United Way of 1000 Lakes fights for the basic needs, education, and health of every person in our community.

Every day, United Way carefully stewards contributions to make the greatest impact in peoples’ lives. United Way unites against hunger by investing in our areas food shelves, providing more than two months of food for close to 7,000 people visiting Deer River, Bigfork, Nashwauk, and Grand Rapids.

United Way of 1000 Lakes UnitedWayof1000Lakes.org

PHOTOS BY JANNA SALMELA PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO SPACE PROVIDED BY MACROSTIE ART CENTER INSTRUCTOR BRUCE BARTOS

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PROJECT STOVE SWAP

By Fireplace Lifesyles

INCENTIVES TO CHANGE OUT OLD WOOD STOVES AND PURCHASE NEWER MODELS RANGE FROM $325 TO $10,000 Project Stove Swap is managed by Minnesota nonprofit Environmental Initiative, in partnership with Minnesota Power. The project offers financial incentive for residents, small businesses, and nonprofits in 17 northeastern Minnesota counties to replace obsolete or inefficient wood burning stoves.

Businesses and residents of Itasca, St. Louis, Koochiching, Cass, Aitkin, Beltrami, Carlton, Cook, Crow Wing, Hubbard, Lake, Morrison, Otter Tail, Pine, St. Louis, Stearns, Todd, and Wadena Counties, can now take advantage of Project Stove Swap, a new program that can save them money on a new wood stove or heating appliance purchase. Project Stove Swap is an effort to swap out old, inefficient wood burning stoves with newer models that cut heating expenses, reduce air pollution, and increase safety.

To learn more about Project Stove Swap, eligibility, or how it works, contact Fireplace Lifestyles or visit Environmental Initiative’s website at http://www.environmental-initiative.org/

Participants apply with Fireplace Lifestyles, Inc., to determine eligibility and can receive incentives ranging from $325 to $10,000, depending on the type of replacement and income level. Customers are responsible for all costs above the incentive amount.

Fireplace Lifestyles, Inc. has been helping residents in these counties find their ideal heating solutions for the past 17 years.

The beautiful showroom features over 50 burning models on display. You can see and compare flames, fireplaces, stoves and inserts, as well as surrounds, stone veneer displays, and accessories.

Appliances used as a primary or major heat source and manufactured before 1990 are generally eligible for replacement through Project Stove Swap. Eligible appliances include wood and wood pellet stoves, fireplace inserts, fireplaces, forced air furnaces, and hydronic heaters.

Fireplace Lifestyles is pleased to be participating in Project Stove Swap not only to help the environment, but also to help our customers save money while participating. Our professional and certified staff is glad to help find the right replacement unit for our customers. We offer a wide range of brands and products to suit almost any need. You can even replace your old woodstove with a gas unit on this program.

Residents and businesses in the Northeastern Minnesota counties can apply

for project stove swap by calling Mary Lynn, Mari, or Spike at Fireplace Lifestyles 218-327-2929.

About Environmental Initiative Environmental Initiative is a nonprofit organization based in Minneapolis that builds partnerships with business, government, and nonprofit leaders to develop solutions to Minnesota’s environmental problems.

PRE-1998 OLD WOOD STOVE? OR INEFFICIENT OPEN FIREPLACE? 65% OF THE NATION’S WOOD STOVES ARE OLDER, INEFFICIENT DEVICES. STOVE SWAP OFFERS GREAT INCENTIVE TO ADD THE NEW TECHNOLOGY. Wood smoke contains a mix of pollutants that can lead to a variety of short-term and long-term health issues.

1114 NW 4th Street Grand Rapids, MN 55744 218-327-2929 www.fireplacelifestyles.com

BIZ

Planning for the Permaculture

GARDEN

By Erin Blegen

{Almost} Spring.

I wish I could leap in the air and truly proclaim “SPRING!” but... it’s Minnesota.

And still, that anxious, niggling, obsessive desire to plant something is brewing deep within the pit of my being. Are you feeling it, too?

But where to start? How can you set yourself up for a great growing season? And most importantly, will this be the year you try something completely different? I’m talking permaculture; employing even one permaculture practice into your current garden. Why? Because I know that from there, you will take it a step further the next time.

And the next.

First, let us briefly define permaculture: Permaculture is a design system that is both ethical and in harmony with the natural world.

It gives out more energy than it takes in. It is stable and lasting.

It promotes integration rather than segregation. It values diversity.

And yes, it most certainly sounds like a perfect model for life in this world, does it not? Permaculture and its ideals may sound big. And they are. But it doesn’t need to be complicated. HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS HOW YOU CAN GET STARTED IN THE PERMACULTURE DIRECTION THIS VERY GROWING SEASON:

1. Observation. The first thing you should do- especially if you haven’t yet chosen a garden spot- is observe. South-facing spaces will receive the most light. Is there any natural wind protection available? Is there a natural slope that could provide the advantage of water shed? Location is key and the better location you have gets you that much further ahead right from the start.

2. Composting. If you don’t have a compost pile, start one today.

As in now. I would suggest your pile being in close proximity to your garden. Food scraps, newspaper, cardboard, dryer lint, coffee filters, leaves, grass clippings, etc. - compost them all! Turn regularly.

3. Commit to Mulch. If you haven’t been mulching your garden in the past, start this year. A good mulch routine will vastly cut down on the need to weed, retains soil moisture, and feeds your soil as it breaks down.

4.

Preparing the Garden. Have you in previous seasons been tilling up your garden plot every spring? Not only does it cost money to rent or buy a tiller, but it requires energy and disturbs the soil structure that is so vital to a healthy, permaculture-supported soil environment. This year, try something different. The day before you plan to prepare your garden, water the plot really well. The next day, layer cardboard over your space, overlapping the sheets to make sure the weeds can’t get through. Then lay down alternate layers of compost and mulch until you have a depth of 8-12” thick.

Water thoroughly. You can plant directly into this. The cardboard will eventually break down and the composting weeds beneath will provide food for your plants. No digging necessary.

5. Plan Before You Plant. Which plants require the most attention from you? Those should be planted near the main entrance of your garden, to both cut down on your energy output and to make sure that you can stay on top of their harvest. Plants that have a longer growing period (such as pumpkins) that require less of your attention should be placed at the back of your garden.

6. Companion Planting. As mentioned, permaculture promotes integration and diversity. Rather than planting crops in single file of like plants, do some good research on which plants should be grown together to both deter pests and aid in one another’s growth. Let’s take the garden favorite, tomatoes. Basil is a popular companion for

GARDENING tomatoes as they not only repel pests but improve growth and flavor.

Other great choices include chives, onions, parsley, mint, and garlic.

Just as important as understanding companion planting is knowing what NOT to plant together. Members of the brassica family (broccoli, cauliflower, kale, etc.) will stunt the growth of tomato plants. Fellow nightshade family members such as potatoes and peppers can encourage blight amongst themselves.

7.

Succession Planting. A good plan before you plant should involve some succession planting to ensure a steady harvest and to give you the best use of your space. Crops that grow quickly and can be grown early such as lettuce, spinach, and radishes will be tapering off or finished by the time you are putting in your later season crops such as corn. Additionally, planting in intervals (as in not planting all of your beans at once, but rather at 10-day intervals) will allow you to harvest steadily through the season rather than all at once and done.

8.

Grow in Harmony With Your Location. Here in the north, I had to learn the hard way that I would not be able to grow a 90-day Brandywine in our short growing season. I had to do some research and start growing 70-day varieties to ensure that I got tomatoes before the frost. If you’re new to gardening, talk to some local gardeners or your county extension office. Find what thrives in your area. Don’t waste unnecessary energy on growing plants that are not conducive to your location.

9.

Encourage Beneficial Predators. Chemical pest control is not only damaging to the environment, but to your soil health. Finding natural ways to fight pests include some previously mentioned suggestions such as companion planting and good soil health which support strong plants more able to defend themselves. Another way is to encourage natural predators such as frogs, toads, and snakes, which can help control your mice, slug, and bug population. Keep a rock pile near your garden for snakes to make a home in. A clay pot set into the soil with a little bit of water can encourage frogs, while a clay pot upside down propped up on some rocks can create a nice little shelter for toads.

These are just nine simple ideas on how you can start integrating permaculture concepts into your home garden. Choose one. Choose them all. And start enjoying a more harmonious approach to growing your own food today.

Erin Blegen is a wife, mother, and homesteader.

She and her husband Josh, along with their three children, reside on their farm in Grand Marais where they strive for selfsufficiency through raising and growing most of their own food. They embrace responsible animal husbandry, nose-to-tail eating, permaculture gardening methods, and living a from-scratch lifestyle.

You can catch up with Erin and her family at www.yellowbirchhobbyfarm.com.

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EAT

Wild in the Kitchen

with Minnesota Bound and FireLake's chef, Jim Kyndberg

What is Minnesotan cuisine to you?

Jim Kyndberg, Executive Chef of FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar in downtown Minneapolis, is always exploring what Minnesotan cuisine means to him and how it is evolving in the local dining scene.

While the cuisine is constantly being redefined, there is a certain sensibility to what drives Chef Jim’s menus, both in the restaurant and at home. While many know typical Midwestern cuisine as being heavy in meat and potatoes, chefs like Jim Kyndberg are becoming more diverse and willing to explore a wider palette of grains, vegetables, meats, and flavors, a trend helping to broaden the horizons of what Minnesotan cuisine is and can be. Chef Jim responds to the availability of a broad array of ingredients from Minnesotan farms. With that, he is able to establish an authentic way of connecting to the state’s heritage and people.

“One thing I personally do believe in relation to Minnesotan cuisine is that it has to be real. I don’t feel as a whole we like a lot of smoke and mirrors when it comes to our food. Be honest and cook from your heart and people seem to appreciate what you have to offer."

What was the history/thought of the restaurant before the farm-to-table movement became trendy?

When FireLake opened its doors 14 years ago, they had decided that they wanted to be a restaurant that created the best food they’d ever had, and ultimately they realized this came straight from their Minnesotan backyards. The grocery store tomato would never taste the same as a tomato from their garden. Even then, Minnesota had an abundance of growers, ranchers, and producers that they knew they wanted to highlight in the region. Their “DNA” meant capturing the flavor of the flame (on the grill or the rotisserie), timeless warmth, using fresh and local meats and produce. It also meant providing guests with a crisp, seamless, and friendly atmosphere, yet maintaining a place where Minnesota does business.

E AT

With respect to the food, they wanted to use real wood. Mesquite on the wood burning grill. Apple, pecan, cherry woods in the pit smoker. The restaurant’s name literally comes from the flame kissed flavor of its food in combination with the land of 10,000 lakes.

72

The menu today continues to be geared to the local, regional, and sustainable philosophy that it did when the restaurant first opened. Over the years they have had more time to work with their local farmers, growers, and producers on distribution and build those relationships.

Chef Jim remarks, “It was the connection and long term commitment the restaurant had to Minnesotan cuisine and local sustainable business practices which made the job irresistible for me. I had a chance to take the style of food I had fallen in love with and present on the big city stage.”

What do you look for in a local purveyor/producer?

Chef Jim’s first qualification for a local purveyor is integrity. He wants to ensure the purveyor’s passion and effort is showing through in their work, as this directly affects the food the customer is putting in their mouth.

“If they care about their product as much as I care about mine we have a chance at building lasting relationships.”

Secondly, he looks for great customer service. “In working with farmers, you often have to take into consideration what they cannot control. They must play by the rules of nature. Storms happen, draught happens, and hey, just about any weather can happen in Minnesota. But if they take the time to let me know these situations with as much advance notice as possible I can adjust my menus and keep my customers satisfied.”

What FireLake recipe would you like to highlight?

“The Bison Bourguignon recipe has been on FireLake’s menu for almost three years and has really earned the title as a signature dish. Growing up in Minnesota, pot roast was a staple no matter what the season. And that is basically what Bourguignon is – really good pot roast. It is done in the French style of searing your meat and then cooking low and slow over a long period of time, incorporating great vegetables, and of course quality red wine. The other thing I love about this dish is the main ingredient – Eichten’s Bison. Eichten’s is a local family owned farm just north of the Twin Cities which FireLake has been proud to support since day one.”

EAT

BISON BOURGUIGNON Serves approx. 8-10 people

INGREDIENTS: 1 Bison Chuck Roast (4-5lb.) cut into 3� cubes trimmed Kosher salt + pepper Olive oil - approx. 1/4 cup 4 medium carrots 4 stalks celery chopped large 8 ounces cippolini onions cut in half 8 ounces crimini mushrooms cut in half

3 cloves garlic, chopped 1 large sprig of thyme 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 bottle red wine, Cabernet Sauvignon preferred 6 cups beef stock 1 pound fingerling potatoes, smaller the better Fresh chopped herbs for garnish

PROCEDURE: 1. Season bison with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour and pat to remove excess flour. Sear in hot cast iron braising pan using olive oil. Brown meat on all sides and remove from pan. Place on paper towel to rest.

2. Using same pan add vegetables with remaining olive oil; sautĂŠ for approx. 5 minutes to lightly brown. Add garlic and herbs and deglaze with red wine. Reduce wine by half.

3. Add beef stock and return bison back to pan. Cover with a tight fitting lid and reduce heat to a very soft simmer.

4. Cook bison slowly for approx. 2 1/2 hours until meat is just starting to become tender. Add potatoes and cook an additional 1/2 hour until potatoes are soft and meat is fork tender.

5. To serve, ladle bison, vegetables and reduce braising liquid into a bowl and garnish with chopped herbs.

M I N N E S O TA CUISINE INSPIRED BY THE SEASONS FRESH. LOCAL. SUSTAINABLE. Adjacent to Radisson Blu Minneapolis Downtown

F I R E L A K E R E S TA U R A N T. C O M 3 1 S O U T H 7 TH S T R E E T (612) 216-3473

2017 ICONIC FEST JULY 7-8th OUTDOOR CONCert held at the green lantern 9 miles east of brainerd, mn on hwy 18 Music festival featuring music from 70s, 80s & 90s

tickets & info at: www.iconicfest.com camping available!

T.G. Sheppard

$7.95 US

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joe diffie

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THE GEORGIA SATellites

11

DRINK

In the deep, dark forests

CHAGA

By Christina Monson of northern Minnesota’s landscape, there exists an unsightly growth on our everfamiliar birch trees that has the capacity to bring medicinal properties and health benefits to a growing international audience. You’ve likely walked under these growths and never noticed them or paid them any attention. If noticed, at first glance you may think of a burl on a tree, however, these growths are certainly no ordinary extension of tree bark… these are mushrooms.

Chaga, or Inonotus obliquus for you sciency folk, is a growth that is jet black on the outside with a deep golden interior. Its look and feel is closer to a piece of charcoal than what you’d typically think of as a spongy fungus. Chaga thrives in our cold northern climate, which makes northern MN, WI, and Canada (as well as Russia, Korea, eastern and northern Europe, and Alaska) a playground for those seeking these medicinal mushrooms.

CHAGA SERVES AS A HEALING PARTNER FOR THE TREES ON WHICH IT GROWS- HEALING DAMAGED OR SPLINTERED BARKBUT ALSO AS A HEALING PARTNER FOR HUMANS. It feeds on the nutrients and compounds found in birch trees and concentrates them into a form that is of great value to human health.

So, what is so important about chaga? For several hundred years or perhaps several millennia, chaga has been consumed as foodground and put in stews, soups, and beverages. Some cultures found that despite their harsh climates, regular chaga consumption not only boost physical stamina but also prevented many degenerative diseases, and was also thought to prolong life. Research shows that cultures across the globe have used chaga to cure everything from tumors to cancer to lung diseases, and to fight stress, regulate energy, and combat inflammatory skin diseases… to name a few. It has widespread health implications.

What is in chaga mushrooms that make them such a powerful health agent? One of the key sterols found in chaga is lanosterol which helps the body rebuild cell membranes and possesses antiviral properties.

Polysaccharide, which is a known immune system supporter, is found in high levels in chaga, specifically 1,3 beta glucan (the most potent and healing polysaccharide). This is known for activating the immune system and reducing and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Chaga is also found to be high in B complex, which offers a myriad of health benefits including immune support, nervous and digestive system regulation, promoting cellular energy production, hormone production, and helps power your brain, heart, lungs, and other organs. Research indicates great things for chaga in the world of healthcare, without the toxicity often seen with medication.

Chaga isn’t exactly “rare” but it isn’t an unlimited resource, either.

Typically, it can take a tree up to 15 years to regrow chaga after it’s been harvested safely- cut even with the tree bark, as opposed to carved out of the tree completely. Safe chaga extraction from the tree is so important for this to be a continued health resource for the future.

Chaga can be made into tea or purchased as a tincture with sublingual drops that are absorbed under the tongue and directly into your blood stream. You can find chaga products in various health food stores, organic markets, and online but make sure what you are buying and who you are buying from maintains the highest level of purity and conservation techniques.

Do your research and give chaga a try. Search it out and prepare it yourself or buy it ready to be consumed.

DRINK

Chaga is typically harvested in the winter (easier to find without the other forest foliage) and is cut from the tree with chisels and hammers in order to maintain the most clean and unpolluted specimen possible, but also as to cause no harm to the tree itself.

Companies like Icecube Enterprises, Inc. in Remer, MN pride themselves on abiding by strict practices of clean extraction- only human muscle and simple tools; no chainsaws with gas fumes and pollutants that could adversely affect the purity of the mushroom.

In addition, they will only accept chaga that has been harvested from live trees. Why is this so important?

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MEET THE MAKER

Larissa Loden AT LAKE TIME MAGAZINE, WE LOVE TO FIND LOCAL, AUTHENTIC, AND INSPIRED MAKERS WHO ARE DOING AWESOME THINGS IN RETAIL RIGHT HERE IN THE NORTHLAND. We chatted with Larissa Loden, a Minneapolis-based jewelry designer, to find out what makes her tick. Her designs are a best seller at The Lake + Co. Shop, and we are proud to bring you her story as our featured Minnesota Maker.

You're not from Minnesota originally. What brought you here? And what has inspired you to stay?

No, I'm not originally from MN. I actually grew up in upstate New York, sandwiched in between the Catskills and the Adirondacks, in a small town called Schoharie. My graduating class size was around 80 people… so yeah, not too big.

MEET THE MAKER

I came out to Minnesota because of my husband. We met at a music festival in NY (he was touring with the festival, doing technical stuff for them). I had just graduated high school, and knew I wanted to go to school for art education and knew Minnesota had some great schools so I was like yeah, I will come to MN. I mean you have winter, we have winter, so that wasn't a big deal.

76

I have been in Minnesota now for almost 15 years and I have to say I love it here. I love how connected to the outdoors MN is. Pretty much once it is 55 or warmer I will bike to my studio. (Yeah I know 55 is warm for bike standards but I am a wimp!) What really inspires me about MN is the amount of creativity that comes out of this area, but also the work ethic behind that creativity to get stuff done. People here don’t just think "Oh, that would be nice." They think “Oh that would be nice, now let’s figure out how to do it and do it.” That kind of culture is intoxicating for me and just keeps me going.

We love that you make jewelry for women who are 'strong and fearless.’ Who are some strong and fearless women that inspire you?

Oh gosh, there have been so many strong and fearless women who have inspired me. A big one for me is Amy Poehler. Her book Yes, Please is a constant inspiration and reminder that I am not crazy. One thing that came out of that book that has somewhat become a personal mantra of mine is, "Good for you, not for me." Society can be quite judgy sometimes, "Oh you haven't done X yet?"

"You should do it this way." etc. Amy came along and was like “Oh, no, no, no. Good for you, but not for me.” That statement was really a life changer for me, but it also reminds me that while that works for me, that might not work for other people. We also love Parks and Recreation at the studio.

Our two yearly sales "Treat Yo Self" and "Galentine’s Day" are inspired by the show.

Another person is of course my Mom. She has instilled in me a tireless work ethic and I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without this work ethic. But even more so she knew not to stifle my creativity at a young age and let it flourish.

Having that opportunity has really let me know that if I can work hard enough I truly can make anything happen.

What is your favorite piece in your current collection?

This is such an interesting question, as people sometimes think I walk around caked in jewelry. I am very simple in what I wear and very monochromatic. We often joke in the studio I only know two colors: chambray (denim) and black.

My favorite piece right now is probably our Araya necklace. It is our first collaboration piece we have done with another MNbased artist and I love what the product is combined. It is an effortless piece that can be worn with so much.

What's next for Larissa Loden?

I have a couple more collaboration projects I would like to have happen this year. One is with a MN-based illustrator named Emily Krueger- I am very excited about that one! I also have some great designs burning holes in my sketchbooks that I would love to get some time in the studio to figure out. That is the hardest thing - running a business and finding time to design.

If you are going to head up north for a weekend, what's on your agenda?

Water, definitely something with water. I think from growing up on the East Coast and spending lots of time on the ocean, the sooner I can get myself by some water the happier I am. I just find something so calming about being by water. I have also really gotten into hiking the past couple of years, so always looking for more good trails to trek. Food! Love, love, love food. I love finding the hidden gems or sometimes not-so-hidden gems that are worth the wait.

DON’T SLIP - GET A GRIP

Introducing new natural crepe rubber soles at ItascaLeathergoods.com

Women’s Cota in “Antique Brass w/rubber sole”

Lake George MN Factory Store | Crosslake MN Town Square | Hayward WI Downtown Made in Minnesota

SHOP THE STORIES A curated collection of goods dedicated to telling the story behind the brands. Because it’s not just about the product, it’s about the people behind the product. It’s about the inspiration and the cause, big or small. We're pleased to introduce to you The Lake + Co. Shop.

Bench Pressed Cherry Rock Design Dirty Knees Soap Company Duluth Pack Faribault Woolen Mills Fierce Mally Finch Designs Hi Little One Her Bunnies Three Hagen & Oats Itasca Leathergoods J. Marie and Sweet Pea Lakeside Clothing Larissa Loden Jewelry Live & Love MN

Love Your Melon MBMB // Made by Michelle Brusegaard Minnesota Made Apparel Nest Pure Pick & Shovel Wear Pink Linen Designs Sanborn Canoe Company Sota Clothing Taki Watches Tess + Tricia Jewelry The Medium Control The Wild Acorn Up North Market Woodchuck

www.thelakeandco.com 218.999.9609

Get your event(s) publicized! Email hello@laketimemagazine.com

SITES & SCENES Here’s where you can find Lake + Co. this spring.

Twins Opener - FireLake Grill House April 3

2017 Governor’s Fishing Opener - St. Cloud May 11-14 The 70th Annual Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener will be held in the Greater St. Cloud area and includes the communities of St. Cloud, Sartell, and Sauk Rapids.

The Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948. It was designed to improve Minnesota’s economy through the development and promotion of the state’s recreational opportunities, especially fishing. The first opener was a cooperative promotion between the state’s resort industry, media, and public officials. Today, the emphasis is even broader. It celebrates the kickoff of the summer tourism season. The special partnership continues today with a promotional focus on a host

MAY JULY MAY JULYSEPT./OCT.

APRIL JUNE Home Games

A L L S TA R B R E A K

MIAMI MARLINS

A L L S TA R B R E A K

MIAMI MARLINS

Road Games

Schedule subject to change.

T W I N S B A S E B A L L . C O M | 1 - 8 0 0 - 3 3 -T W I N S SEPT./OCT.

Northwest Sportshow is a four day event being held from March 23 to March 26, 2017 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, MN. This event showcases products like power boats, fishing boats, pontoon boats, motors, marine electronics, trailers, lifts, docks, and personal watercraft, etc. in the Business Services, Sporting Goods, and Toys & Games industries. Be sure to stop by our booth and say hi!

APRIL

Northwest Sportshow - Minneapolis March 23-26

To kick off the Minnesota Twins home opener on Monday, April 3 and celebrate the start of baseball season, FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar Minneapolis Downtown will host the restaurant’s seventh annual tailgate event, complete with a ‘Pig on the Porch.’ Located outside of the 31 S. 7th Street location from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Executive Chef Jim Kyndberg and his culinary team will kick off the festivities roasting a whole hog, from Moo, Oink, Cluck Farm on the patio to create an all-star menu. During the tailgate, partner Lift Bridge Brewery will release their refreshing Mango Blonde Ale for the season.

AUGUST JUNE

You don't have to be Irish to appreciate all the excitement associated with this decades-long tradition! Dust off the lawn chairs, get your Irish face on and load up the whole family as this 43 year celebration ensures fun for all ages! Gather your family and friends and search for the Pot 'O Gold beginning Thursday, March 16. Register for The 4th Annual Clover Dash 5K which takes place on Saturday, March 18. The race begins and ends in Crosslake's Town Square, so after the race you're in the perfect spot for pre-parade entertainment and more! Purchase a Raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes and show your Blinkie Button for deals and discounts all over town!

AUGUST

2017 St. Patrick's Day 43rd Parade & Celebration – Crosslake March 17-18

community as well as recreational opportunities statewide.

“The Mississippi River is America’s most-renowned waterway, and I am excited to host Home Games Road the Games 2017 Governor’s Fishing Opener on its waters in subject thetoSt. Cloud area,” said Gov. Mark Dayton in a Schedule change. press release.

T W I N S B A S E B A L L . C O M | 1 - 8 0 0 - 3 3 -T W I N S

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79

ON THE

RADAR EVERYTHING THAT’S UP-AND-COMING THIS SEASON

MARCH Mar 10 Mar 10 Mar 10 Mar 10 Mar 10 Mar 10 Mar 10 Mar 10 Mar 10-11 Mar 10-11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 11 Mar 12 Mar 12 Mar 12 Mar 12 Mar 12 Mar 12 Mar 12 Mar 13 Mar 14 Mar 14 Mar 15 Mar 16 Mar 16 Mar 16 Mar 16 Mar 16 Mar 16-19, 23-26 Mar 17 Mar 17 Mar 17 80

Harry Potter Trivia Challenge, Ely Charles J. Futterer Memorial Open Bonspiel, Grand Marais Joe Paulik, Voyageur Brewing Co., Grand Marais Timmy Haus, Moguls, Lutsen Live Piano Music, Red Paddle Bistro, Gunflint Trail Friday Night Reels, Grand Marais Public Library, Grand Marais Timmy Haus, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen John Gorka, Grassroots Concerts, Nisswa Flashlight Tours at Glensheen Mansion, Duluth Live music at the Eagles, Grand Rapids Saturday Morning Art Films: Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus, Duluth Perch Jerk Fishing Tournament, Grand Rapids Dat Dere Jazz, North Shore Winery, Lutsen Eric Frost, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Plucked Up String Band, Voyageur Brewing, Grand Marais Live Piano Music, Red Paddle Bistro, Gunflint Trail Briand Morrison, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Jim McGowan, Cascade Restaurant, Lutsen Charles J. Futterer Memorial Open Bonspiel, Grand Marais The Sugar Tour Cross Country Ski Event, Lutsen Viva Knievel, Lutsen Heartland concert Association, Park Rapids Women’s Expo, Walker Go Wild for Nature and Books with Mary Casanova , International Falls Dog Days of Winter Fun, Gunflint Trail Scandinavian Jazz Brunch, Moguls, Lutsen Lehto & Wright, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Nature Program, Caribou Highlands, Lutsen Monroe Crossing, Reif Center, Grand Rapids Luck of the Irish Concert Community Church of Walker, Walker Songwriter Series with Chris Koza, Lutsen Open Mic Night, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Itasca State Park:Circle Time, Park Rapids Live Jazz and VFW, Grand Rapids St. Patricks Day Business After Hours, Ranier Jim & Michelle Miller, Moguls, Lutsen Dance Party with DJ Beavstar, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Making it Through Winter Series, North House Folk School, Grand Marais CenterStage MN: Corey Medina, Reif Center, Grand Rapids The Duluth Playhouse Children’s Theatre presents: The Lion King Jr., Duluth Eric Frost, Voyageur Brewing Co., Grand Marais Joe Paulik, Moguls, Lutsen Live Piano Music, Red Paddle Bistro,

Mar 17 Mar 17 Mar 17-18 Mar 17-18 Mar 17-18 Mar 18 Mar 18

Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18 Mar 18-19 Mar 19 Mar 19 Mar 19 Mar 19 Mar 19 Mar 21 Mar 22 Mar 22 Mar 23 Mar 23 Mar 23 Mar 23 Mar 24 Mar 24 Marais Mar 24 Mar 24 Trail Mar 24 Mar 24 Mar 24-25 Mar 24, 25, 31, Apr 1

Gunflint Trail DuLutsen Music Festival, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen St. Patrick’s Celebration, Cascade Lodge, Lutsen Reif Dance Company Show, Reif Center, Grand Rapids The Little Mermaid, Jr. Reif Center, Grand Rapids Live music at the Eagles, Grand Rapids 13th Annual Rudy Zwieg Decoy & Sporting Collectible Show, Alexandria Saturday Morning Art Films: Through a Lens Darkly: Black Photographers and the Emergence of a People , Duluth Empty Bowl Glaze-a-thon, Duluth Spring Splash Pond Skim/Rail Jam, Detroit Mountain, Detroit Lakes Polar Plunge, Grand Rapids 5K Leprechaun Leap, International Falls Gordon Thorne, North Shore Winery, Lutsen LazyLightning420, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Timmy Haus, Voyageur Brewing Co., Grand Marais Live Piano Music, Red Paddle Bistro, Gunflint Trail St. Patrick’s Celebration, Cascade Lodge, Lutsen Log Cabin Concert with Michael Monroe, Grand Marais DuLutsen Music Festival, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Lake Region Bldrs. Home & Sport Show, Sports Arena, Detroit Lakes Free Movie “American Experience, Ansel Adams”, Tamarac NWR, Rochert Canoe Paddle Carving Workshop, International Falls Scandinavian Jazz Brunch, Moguls, Lutsen Lakeshore Conservation Club Wild Game Dinner, Nisswa Chili cook off, Immanuel Church, Walker Open Mic Night, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Career Fair in Coleraine, Coleraine Live Jazz and VFW, Grand Rapids Artist Talk: Elizabeth Kuth, Duluth Saturday Morning Art Films: Downtown 81, Duluth John Gruber, Moguls, Lutsen Dance Party with DJ Beavstar, Papa Charlie’s, Grand Marais Kris Kristofferson Concert, Shooting Star Casino, Mahnomen Pushing Chain, Voyageur Brewing Co., Grand

Mar 25 Mar 25 Mar 25 Mar 25 Mar 25 Mar 25 Mar 25 Mar 26 Mar 27 Mar 27 Mar 27 Mar 28 Mar 28 Mar 29 Mar 29 Mar 30 Mar 30 Mar 30-31 Mar 31 Mar 31 Mar 31 Mar 31 Mar 31 Mar 31 Mar 31-Apr 1

APRIL Apr 1 Apr 1 Apr 1 Apr 1 Apr 1 Apr 1 Apr 1 Apr 1-2 Apr 1-2, 6-9

Timmy Haus, Moguls, Lutsen Live Piano Music, Red Paddle Bistro, Gunflint

Apr 1, 6-8 Apr 2 Apr 3

Timmy Haus, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Reina de Cid, Grassroots Concerts, Nisswa Live music at the Eagles, Grand Rapids The Ballad of Newton Badger, Reif Center, Grand Rapids

Apr 3 Apr 3 Apr 3-4 Apr 4 Apr 4, 5, 9, 12, 26

Maple Syrup Family Day, Grand Rapids Family Festival, Lutsen Mountains, Lutsen Briand Morrison, North Shore Winery, Lutsen Shane Martin, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Jim & Michelle Miller, Voyageur Brewing Co., Grand Marais Live Piano Music, Red Paddle Bistro, Gunflint Trail Dat Dere Jazz, Cascade Restaurant, Lutsen Scandinavian Jazz Brunch, Moguls, Lutsen DAI Artist Reading Group, Duluth Songwriter Series with Dusty Heart, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Team Up to Green Up- Raptor Center, Grand Rapids Classical Music Concert by Russ Peterson Trio, Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes Open Mic Night, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Songwriter Series with Phil Heywood, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Live Jazz and VFW, Grand Rapids Pete Kavanaugh, Moguls, Lutsen Dance Party with DJ Beavstar, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen The Underground presents: Clown Bar, Duluth Taste at Fitger’s, Duluth College of St. Scholastica Theatre presents: Orestes: Blood and Light, Duluth Joe Paulik, Voyageur Brewing Co., Grand Marais Timmy Haus, Moguls, Lutsen Live Piano Music, Red Paddle Bistro, Gunflint Trail Spring Job Fair- Northern Lights Event Center, Walker Live music at the Eagles, Grand Rapids Submission Deadline: Duluth Art Institute May December 2018 Exhibitions, Duluth Conservatist Aldo Leopold Day, Grand Rapids Homegrown Photo Exhibit Submission Deadline, Duluth Saturday Morning Art Films: American Splendor, Duluth Heart O’Lakes Barbershop Harmony, Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes Ring of Kerry, International Falls Nisswa PTO Bloom Event, Nisswa Wolf Family Rendezvous, Ely College of St. Scholastica Theatre presents: Orestes: Blood and Light, Duluth The Underground presents: Clown Bar, Duluth Free Movie “Wild Ways”, Tamarac NWR, Rochert Tonic Sol-Fa Concert, Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes “Past Times” Art Exhibition Open House, Ely Miss Nisswa Scholarship Pageant, Nisswa STOMP, Reif Center, Grand Rapids Theresa Caputo Live - The Experience, Duluth Live Jazz, Grand Rapids

See your events listed here!

Apr 4, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 Apr 4, 11, 18, 25 Apr 5-9 Apr 6 Apr 6 Apr 7 Apr 7 Apr 7 Apr 7 Apr 7 Apr 7 Apr 7-8 Apr 7-8 Apr 8 Apr 8 Apr 8 Apr 8 Apr 9 Apr 9 Apr 10 Apr 10 Apr 11 Apr 11 Apr 13 Apr 13 Apr 13-15, 19-22 Apr 14 Apr 15 Apr 15 Apr 15 Apr 15 Apr 16 Apr 17 Apr 18 Apr 20 Apr 20-23, 26-30 Apr 21 Apr 22 Apr 22 Apr 22 Apr 22 Apr 22-23

Live Music at the Eagles, Grand Rapids Open Studio at the Duluth Depot, Duluth Arrowhead Home and Builders Show, Duluth Open Studio at the DAI Lincoln Center, Duluth Eric Frost, Moguls, Lutsen Timmy Haus, Moguls, Lutsen Timmy Haus, Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen Pierce Pettis, Grassroots Concerts, Nisswa First Friday Art Walk, Grand Rapids Strings For All Ages, Grand Rapids Nelson Illustions, Reif Center, Grand Rapids “Seussical” the Musical, Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes International Falls Outdoor Expo , International Falls Saturday Morning Art Films: Exit Through the Gift Shop, Duluth Maple Syrup Days, Vergas Mountain Meltdown Festival, Lutsen Mountains, Lutsen Nisswa American Legion Turkey/Ham Bingo, Nisswa Mountain Meltdown Festival, Lutsen Mountains, Lutsen Jeffrey Siegel’s Keyboard Conversations: An American Salute; Reif Center, Grand Rapids Artist Statement Workshop, Duluth Sea of Bowls, Duluth Empty Bowl, Duluth 24th Annual Empty Bowl, Duluth Harlem Globetrotters 2017 World Tour, Duluth Boyd ‘Bump’ Blomberg, Moguls, Lutsen UMD Theatre presents: Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Duluth John Gruber, Moguls, Lutsen Saturday Morning Art Films: Pussy Riot: The Movement, Duluth Plein Air Duluth: Paint du Nord Submission Deadline, Duluth Nevis Easter Egg Hunt, Nevis Nisswa American Legion Easter Egg Hunt, Nisswa Free Movie “Great Plains-America’s Lingering Wild”, Tamarac NWR, Rochert DAI Artist Reading Group, Duluth Feeling History: African American’s Reach for Equality, Reif Center, Grand Rapids CenterStage MN: Dusty Heart, Reif Center, Grand Rapids The Duluth Playhouse presents: La Cage Aux Folles, Duluth James Sewell Ballet, Reif Center, Grand Rapids Celebrate Earth Day, Grand Rapids Kinship Partners Purses for Partners, Nisswa Lake Life Exhibit Grand Opening, Children’s Discovery Museum, Grand Rapids Mother Son dance, Grand Rapids Northwoods Paddle 2-Day Workshop,

Apr 23 Apr 24

Apr 25 Apr 28 Apr 28 Apr 28 Apr 28-29 Apr 29 Apr 29 Apr 29 Apr 29 Apr 29 Apr 30 Apr 30-May 1

MAY May 1 May 1 May 1-4 May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 May 3 May 3, 10, 17, 25, 31 May 4 May 4-6 May 4-7 May 5 May 5, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 May 6 May 6 May 6 May 6 May 6 May 6 May 7 May 7 May 9 May 9 May 11 May 12 May 12

Grand Rapids Lakes Area Community Concert Band, Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes “Lest We Forget: Sandra Brick and Fred Amram” Exhibit Reception & Artist Talk, Duluth Empty Bowl, Ely MOTION with Post Traumatic Funk Syndrome, Holmes Theatre, Detroit Lakes Wild Ponies, Grassroots Concerts, Nisswa Northland Arboretum’s Arbor Day Wine Tasting, Brainerd Brainerd Jaycees Run for the Lakes Marathon, Nisswa Free Family Art Day, Duluth Brantley Gilbert in Concert, Duluth North Country Trail, Park Rapids Children’s Fair, Grand Rapids Apple Trees 101, Grand Rapids Duluth Homegrown Music Festival, Duluth Good Samaritan Bowl, Brainerd Homegrown Music Festival Photography Exhibit, Duluth Dad and Me: Happy Mother’s Day, Grand Rapids Duluth Homegrown Music Festival, Duluth Open Studio at the Duluth Depot, Duluth North Country Trail, Park Rapids Live Jazz, Grand Rapids First Friday Art Walk, Grand Rapids Grand Rapids LaCrosse Shootout, Grand Rapids The Duluth Playhouse presents: La Cage Aux Folles, Duluth Rosanne Cash Concert, Shooting Star Casino, Mahnomen Live Music at the Eagles, Grand Rapids Theatre L’Homme Dieu’s Annual Run for the Roses, Alexandria Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra presents: Now and Then, Duluth Ham Run Half Marathon & 5k, Gunflint Trail Marcell Family Center Spring Fling, Marcell Mounted Eagles Run for the Horseshoes 5K, Pequot Lakes Youth Crappie Tourn, Walker Deer River Family Prom, Deer River Grand Rapids Area Male Chorus Concert, Reif Center, Grand Rapids Homegrown Photo Stupor Exhibit, Duluth Heartland concert Association, Park Rapids Annual Gala and Awards Dinner, International Falls School of the Minnesota Ballet Student Performance, Duluth Opening Fishing BBQ & Minnow 5 miles, Grand Rapids

Submit to submissions@laketimemagazine.com

May 12-14 May 13

BY KRISTINA GAALAAS

May 13 May 13 May 13 May 13 May 13-14, 20-21, 27-28

May 18 May 18 May 18 May 18 May 18-20, 25-27 May 18-21 May 19 May 19 May 20 May 20 May 20 May 20 May 20 May 20 May 20 May 20 May 21 May 21 May 23 May 25 May 26 May 26-29 May 27 May 27 May 27 May 27-28 May 27-28 May 28 May 28 May 28 May 30 May 31

Working for Wolves, Ely “Strongman: Joe Klander” Opening Reception and Wrestling Event, Duluth The Nice Girls of the North Second Saturday Marketplace, Duluth Itasca Orchestra & String Concert, Grand Rapids National Train Day, Duluth Gull Lake Welcome Wannigan & Fishing Opener, Gull Lake The Duluth Playhouse Children’s Theatre presents: The Stinky Cheese Man And Other Fairly Stupid Tales, Duluth When Reading Comes to Life: “If You Give A Pig A Pancake, Deer River Nisswa Chamber Spring Dinner, Nisswa CenterStage MN: Actual Wolf, Reif Center, Grand Rapids Spring Musical, Immanuel Lutheran, Walker The Underground presents: The Importance of being Earnest, Duluth Festival of Birds, various locations, Detroit Lakes 5th-8th Grade Spring Dance at the YMCA, Grand Rapids Minnesota Orchestra, Reif Center, Grand Rapids Paint on the Rails on the North Shore Scenic Railroad, Duluth Nature Writing - Spring in the North, Ely Ely’s 7th Annual City Wide Rummage & Business Crazy Day Sale, Ely Minnesota Bike Opener, Park Rapids North Country Trail, Park Rapids Reading by Design- Summer Reading Kickoff, Grand Rapids Kinship Partners Chocolate Walk, Nisswa Spring Phenology, Grand Rapids Free Wildlife Movie, Tamarac NWR, Rochert Color Dash, Park Rapids Water Legacy Day, Grand Rapids Walker Rotary Stem & Stein, Walker Art Along the Lake, Cook County Avenue of Flags, Oak Grove Cemetary, Detroit Lakes Art Along the Lake, Cook County Log Cabin Concert with Michael Monroe, Grand Marais Le Grand Du Nord Gravel Cycling Classic, Grand Marais Discovery Dives, Area lakes, Detroit Lakes 3rd Annual Wilderness Medicine Workshop, Duluth Awake the Grapes Run, Alexandria Free Wildlife Movie, Tamarac NWR, Rochert Art Along the Lake, Cook County Nisswa Women’s Club Fashion Show, Gull Lake Duluth Superior Film Festival, Duluth

See your events listed here! Submit to submissions@laketimemagazine.com 81

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