Northern Wilds

Caution: Big Bear Ahead

If you are a Minnesotan of a certain age (kinda old), you may have fond memories of the Hamm’s Bear. The cartoon bear was synonymous with the Minnesota Twins, which were sponsored by Minnesota-based Hamm’s Brewing Company. Television and radio ads often began with a tom-tom beat for a little ditty that included the company’s slogan, “From the land of skyblue waters.” You could find Hamm’s lighted signs at every backwoods watering hole and memorabilia in more than a few Northwoods cabins. Minnesota’s upnorth mystique was the backdrop for much of the advertising, which enhanced the state’s image as a vacation destination.

In the 1970s, Hamm’s traded its cartoon bear for the real thing. Footage for an advertising campaign featuring a man and his Kodiak bear was filmed on the Gunflint Trail. Of course, the city slickers from the ad agency needed a local guide. They found a good one: Rolf Skrien. In this issue we have a story we think you’ll enjoy. Chuck Viren recently visited with Skrien to hear his memories of working with the only Kodiak bear to ever visit the Gunflint Trail.

While the big bear occupies center stage, this issue is really for the birds. You’ll find a collection of stories about our feathered friends. Kelsey Roseth catches up with a couple of our favorite bird photographers, who share their advice on how to become a bird-watcher. Mike Creger tells us about the Sax-Zim Bog, which draws birders from across the country every winter to observe northern owls and other creatures of the boreal forest. Naturalist Emily Stone explains how to distinguish the common, look-a-like hairy and downy woodpeckers. Joe Friedrichs delves into a local mystery:

Are wild turkeys moving up the North Shore? Rhonda Silence introduces us to birders extraordinaire, Ken and Molly Hoffman.

Also in this issue, Peter Fergus-Moore talks with a Thunder Bay climber who’s found no shortage of rock and ice to test his skills. Ali Juten delves into the world of vintage snowmobiles. Eric Chandler writes about a Duluth program that connects kids with the outdoors. Our newest writer, Rae Poynter, reports on a popular North Shore art gallery and studio that is changing hands. Speaking of art, Breana Roy features a collection of photos taken by local photographers during last month’s deep freeze.

North Shore Dish columnist Maren Webb shares a few places where you can find chocolates for your special Valentine. Rose Arrowsmith DeCoux, in her first piece for Northern Wilds, tells us how to make your own truffles. Javier Serna samples the wares at two Irish pubs in Duluth. In the face of adversity, Amy Schmidt offers ways to foster your resilience. Out in the woods, Erin Altemus explains why she prefers to run a dog team after dark. Gord Ellis fills us in on fly-fishing. Julia Prinselaar explains how to find your way without the help of GPS. Elle Andra-Warner delves into the ancient legends of the thunderbird. Michael Furtman’s wonderful Catchlight photo “tops” this issue. So curl up, stay warm and start reading. Happy February! —Shawn Perich and Amber Pratt

FEBRUARY 2018

PUBLISHERS

Shawn Perich & Amber Pratt

EDITORIAL

Shawn Perich, Editor editor@northernwilds.com

Breana Roy, Managing Editor breana@northernwilds.com

ADVERTISING

Sue O’Quinn, Sales Representative sue@northernwilds.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Katie Viren • katie@northernwilds.com

Drew Johnson • drew@northernwilds.com

OFFICE

Roseanne Cooley billing@northernwilds.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Erin Altemus, Elle Andra-Warner, Rose Arrowsmith DeCoux, Eric Chandler, Michael Creger, Gord Ellis, Peter Fergus-Moore, Casey Fitchett, Joe Friedrichs, Ali Juten, Deane Morrison, Rae Poynter, Julia Prinselaar, Kelsey Roseth, Amy Schmidt, Javier Serna, Rhonda Silence, Emily M. Stone, Chuck Viren, Maren Webb

Copyright 2018 by Northern Wilds Media, Inc.

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Ken and Molly Hoffman—A lifetime of birding together

GRAND MARAIS—Molly and Ken Hoffman of Grand Marais are well-known locally as accomplished birders. They’ve lived in Cook County for nearly 40 years, enjoying the multitude of birds on the North Shore. What came first? Their love of birding? Or did North Shore birds get them started?

It turns out they’ve both always enjoyed bird watching. Ken started as a very young boy. Proof of that is a memento sitting alongside an abundance of bird books in the Hoffman’s cozy living room. It’s a little green recipe box, decorated with cutouts of birds. It was Ken’s when he was just 12 years old, his first filing system for his study of birds.

The two met in Duluth, where Molly grew up. She was in college when she met Ken, a U.S. Forest Service worker transferred to the northland from New Jersey. After they married, they continued to pursue their hobby. Molly laughs, “When you put two birders together, you’ve got some very intense birders.”

They learned from recognized birders in the Duluth area—Professor Kim Eckert, author Jan Green, geologist and birder John Green and others.

“When you start out, you are amazed at their abilities,” says Molly. “They know all these songs and they stun you with their knowledge.”

Over the years, Molly and Ken have become experts as well. They’ve learned that calls vary depending on the species of bird and why it’s singing. The sound changes when a bird is establishing its territory or when it is seeking a mate. “It isn’t always ‘chip, chip, chip’ or ‘chirp, chirp, chirp,’” Molly says. “It’s more complicated than that.”

The Hoffmans made many trips to Grand Marais and eventually settled here in 1980. Using Ken’s civil engineering skills, they launched their own business— Hoffman Land Surveying, which they operated for 22 years. Both Ken and Molly enjoyed the survey work which took them all over the county—and offered bird sightings along the way.

Molly recalls that sometimes while assisting Ken (by holding the “dumb end” of the survey equipment, she says), she would catch the song of a warbler. With her ever-present binoculars, she could seek out the bird sharing its song.

It’s not hard to hear bird song in the boreal forests of Cook County. Molly explains that the highest concentration of breeding birds in North America runs from the Arrowhead to western Minnesota, and then across the continent.

It is harder to see a bird than hear it, says Ken. When a bird is perched high in a tree, it’s difficult to spot. But when you hear the song, it’s easier to pinpoint the bird amongst the foliage. “You hear something—and then you just watch and wait,” Ken says.

Most of the watching and waiting happens in April, May and June—during breeding time. “After mid-July, it gets quiet,” says Ken.

But that doesn’t mean the Hoffmans aren’t birding in the off season. In fact, for many years they were involved in the area’s premiere winter birding event, the Audubon Christmas Bird Count. They were participants in the counting at first and then took over the recording and reporting from Dale Peterson in the 1980s. Molly kept meticulous records of the birds spotted during the Christmas Bird Count, adding exquisite sketches of some of the birds.

They enjoy sharing what they’ve learned. Molly has been an instructor at North House Folk School and Cook County Community Education. And for about five years, with encouragement from her neighbor, Randy Eastland, she produced Field Notes with Molly Hoffman for WTIP Community Radio.

“It was a challenge to learn to hold the mike at a certain distance,” remembers Molly. “And it was tough with the bugs. Holding the equipment, you can’t swat the bugs!”

Field Notes lead to the production of three Bird Songs of the Northern Woods CDs, produced for WTIP, with the support and assistance of Cathy Quinn. Proceeds

Molly remembers wading through nearly waist-deep swamp muck to see the bird. She and Ken stayed behind as other bird watchers filtered off. They were rewarded for their patience by seeing not just the adult solitary sandpiper, but its chicks as well.

Memorable sightings like that, is what has kept them bird watching all these years.

of the sale of the CDs benefit the local radio station and it can be purchased there. The set is coveted by aspiring birders.

And Bird Songs of the Northern Woods 3 includes a “bonus” song, the call of the Parus major, a great tit. Molly says it is the rarest bird they’ve seen in Cook County. The great tit, which looks a lot like a chickadee, but has a yellow breast with a black stripe, is normally found in Europe. It is a mystery how the bird came to be in Minnesota.

The bird’s identity was determined by sightings and photos taken at a feeder by Gail Johann of Hovland. Because it is not native or doesn’t migrate through this area, it doesn’t count for Minnesota birding lists. But it was still exciting to see it, says Ken. And Molly adds that it was exciting to capture the bird’s song.

When asked about other unusual birds, they are quick to recall sightings. There was a fieldfare, a rock ptarmigan, an Anna’s Hummingbird, and a slaty-backed gull. One of the most difficult, but satisfying sightings was the solitary sandpiper, seen on the Lima Grade Road off the Gunflint Trail.

Do they have advice for someone thinking of taking up the pastime? Molly suggests taking a birding class when offered at North House Folk School or Community Education. She says a good way to start is just by watching your bird feeder in the winter.

Ken adds that a good book is helpful. Their favorites? Ken prefers The Sibley Guide to Birds and Molly, Peterson’s Field Guide: Eastern Birds

They both stress the importance of good binoculars—not too small as that doesn’t give you the range you need; but not too heavy either, so they are easy to carry.

But the main thing they want people to know is how much birding can bring to your life. Molly says, “It enriches our lives. For most people, when you try to go out to observe wildlife, you may not see anything. Try to find a wolf or a moose, and you probably won’t have any luck. But birds—you can always see birds.”

Ken agrees, “The more you do it, the more you enjoy it.”—Rhonda Silence

Molly and Ken Hoffman have a lifetime of experience identifying birds in our northern forest. | RHONDA SILENCE

Some kids collect baseball cards. Ken Hoffman collected data on birds and kept it in this special box.

| RHONDA SILENCE

2018…The year of the turkey?

TOFTE—It took Thomas Spence more than 20 years to see his first wild turkey near the North Shore of Lake Superior.

“I’d heard about some sightings in Lake County near Two Harbors,” Spence said, “and a few near Silver Bay, but I’d never seen one until April 2017.”

This unexpected sighting of a turkey near the Sawbill Trail in Cook County is probably why Spence had the reaction he did upon witnessing the feathered creature dart through his yard.

“It kind of startled me,” Spence said. “It was bigger than anything I’m used to seeing here. I thought maybe it was the state record grouse!”

During the winter of 2017-18 snowy owls have been the bird of local lore in the Northern Wilds, with many reported sightings throughout the region. However, once spring arrives, there is the chance wild turkeys on the North Shore could once again become a hot topic.

Last spring there were numerous reports of wild turkeys that reached the desk of Dave Ingebrigtsen in Grand Marais. Ingebrigtsen, the recently retired Minnesota Department of Natural Resources assistant area wildlife manager, said most of the reports were credible, though it’s not certain if the animals were wild turkeys or farm birds.

“Cook County is likely the edge of the wild turkey range,” he said. “Whether turkeys expand their range or are introduced here, the winter will ultimately be the decider of their viability.”

A brutal cold snap in late December and early January likely put a damper on any form of a ‘turkey movement’ along the North Shore and surrounding region. Furthermore, harsh winter weather is not the only obstacle turkeys face in northern Minnesota and across the border into Ontario. Ingebrigtsen questioned whether there is a sufficient food source for wild turkeys along the North Shore and inland forests. And there’s the region’s wolves, bears, lynx and other animals that might consider turkeys an appropriate meal if given the opportunity.

“Cook County has the deepest snow in the state,” Ingebrigtsen said. “The shore land area has less snow, but it does have abundant predators.”

Ingebrigtsen has a long history of working with turkeys in Minnesota. He entered the scene not long after a wildlife research team introduced Merriam turkeys to a remote area in southeastern Minnesota in the 1970s. The genetics of that strain failed to take in Minnesota, so Ingebrigtsen and some other wildlife managers introduced

another subspecies known as Eastern wild turkeys several years later.

Though a rough winter not long after the introduction wiped out some of the turkey population, it appeared Minnesota was now home to wild turkeys for the long haul. Eventually, Ingebrigtsen and other wildlife officials introduced the birds in the Minnesota River Valley, and as far north as the Brainerd area. Due to the result of the harsh winter that killed the birds in southern Minnesota, Ingebrigtsen said he and his fellow researchers believed there would be a northern limit to the turkey range in Minnesota. They also believed the North Shore never presented itself as a realistic option to maintain a population of the wild birds.

However, it seems the times have changed. And as of 2017, many local residents, hunters, outdoor writers and wildlife officials are comfortable stating that turkeys now inhabit the forests near the North Shore.

And if they do in fact set up residency in the Northern Wilds, it’s possible some area hunters will take an interest in the fowl.

Darin Fagerman is a conservation officer for the DNR based in Cook County. Fagerman said there are spring and fall turkey hunts, and that it is legal to hunt turkeys along the North Shore and surrounding area when seasons are open. Lake, St. Louis and Cook counties all fall in the 508 Permit Area with regard to hunting seasons for wild turkeys in 2018. There are specific dates to hunt legally based on firearm or bow, and the type of permit one is hunting under. In general, the season runs from late April to May, but check with the DNR regulations to be certain of legal hunting seasons.

Fagerman said he has never encountered a turkey hunter in Cook County, adding that he doesn’t expect the sport to become a trend anytime soon.

“It will be interesting to see if any turkeys make it through this winter,” Fagerman said, specifically mentioning the brutal stretch of cold around the holiday season where temperatures failed to climb above zero degrees Fahrenheit for almost a week straight.

Meanwhile, if they can survive the harsh climate, Spence said he wouldn’t mind seeing another turkey bolt across his yard near the Sawbill Trail again this year.

“I would love to see them thrive up here,” he said, “but I think they may have a tough time finding food and adapting to our winters.”—Joe Friedrichs

A turkey wanders near the North Shore in 2017. | THOMAS SPENCE

Climber finds year-round opportunities

THUNDER BAY—The teenager gazed up at the portable climbing wall brought for a day to his Thornhill high-school. Intrigued by it, he climbed. And climbed. Arguably, he has never stopped climbing.

“I spent most of the day on that wall.” Aric Fishman remembers. “I always had a fascination with climbing.”

His older brother and a friend belonged to a climbing gym, which Fishman soon joined. In fact, his brother’s friend wound up being his mentor as Fishman pursued outdoor climbing with a passion that to this day shows no signs of abating.

Now, here in the northwest, Fishman shares his passion year-round. And to hear him tell it, there is no better place than the northwest region of Ontario.

“There’s a pretty good history of climbing in this region, an astounding number of cliffs to climb on,” he says. “Having already been a climber in different regions, I saw this place as unique and special.”

The region owes its unique climbing opportunities to massive glaciers moving in a southwesterly direction over 10,000 years ago. The profoundly heavy ice gouged out deep grooves in the landscape, leaving long “islands” of land called drumlins and eskers when the climate changed for the warmer as the ice melted. For the northwest, this has meant land formations like Thunder Bay area’s Norwesters, hard remnants of rock from which softer rock has long since weathered away. The perpendicular sides of some of these formations lure climbers from around the world, and as a bonus, are draped in huge sheets of

DNR announces new special angling regulations

NORTH SHORE—Special fishing regulations will change March 1 on a number of Minnesota waters following an annual public input and review process, according to the DNR.

For this spring, new statewide northern pike zone regulations that take effect on inland waters will make it possible to do away with several previously existing special regulations that apply to individual waters and aim for similar outcomes as the zone regulations. The new statewide pike regulations go into effect in time for the fishing opener on Saturday, May 12.

On waters that have a special fishing regulation, anglers are required to follow the special regulation and unless otherwise mentioned, all other regulations apply.

Flour, Hungry Jack and Two Island lakes in Cook County: These three lakes with restrictive size regulations (either a 12-20 inch protected slot or catch-and-release only regulation) on bass will be modified to a less restrictive, 14-20 inch protected slot with one over 20 inches to allow additional harvest of small bass while still protecting quality sized fish. Although the existing

ice from the freezing of cascading creeks in winter. Climbing is thus a year-round activity in the region.

“People actually travel to this area for the ice climbing,” Fishman explains. “But when I came here first, I didn’t notice that people were doing that nearly as much as for the rock.”

So when Fishman started up his business Outdoor Skills and Thrills, he focused on providing climbing adventures yearround. Certified by the respected Professional Climbing Guides Institute, he offers climbing adventures suited to his clients’ abilities and desires.

“I take people out on rock and ice climbing adventures, guided courses, outings and clinics,” he says. “I provide a lot of avenues through my website for people to book an adventure. When they book, I give them an information package, which has all the information that anyone could ask for or ever want to know—here’s where they’re going to meet, GPS coordinates, what they will do when they arrive, clothing considerations—this increases their confidence in the climb.”

Aware that not everyone who wants to try a climbing adventure is at his skill level, Fishman pays close attention to detail.

“Not only do I prepare them as much as possible before the time, but I have backup equipment because that can make or break an experience,” he says. “Being pre -

pared for people who come unprepared is very important.”

Fishman’s climbing adventure business has been so successful that he has expanded its scope, hiring a team of qualified guides to extend Outdoor Skills and Thrills’ reach. And that brings into play his own personal quest for a balanced life.

“I am nearly at capacity in output,” he says. “That’s why I am putting together a guiding team so that the business can handle more people who wish for a climbing adventure, without the risk of my burning out.”

This astute awareness of his own personal needs balanced against his passion to share his love of the outdoors in what he unabashedly calls “the incredibly beautiful sights” of this region, resonates with what he sees outdoor climbing adventures offering his clients. For him, climbing itself is more than just scrambling up and down rock or ice cliffs.

“Climbing outdoors ties everything together,” he says. “There’s the physical, of course. The mental aspect is a big part, where you are dealing with situations in front of you on the climb, stress, group dynamics if you’re in a climbing party. You learn when to back down, when to push ahead. It’s a great self-confidence builder.”

To learn more, visit: outdoorskillsandthrills.com.—Peter Fergus-Moore

regulations were shown to be effective, the new protected slot is expected to provide a similar protection to quality fish and with the added benefit of allowing additional harvest of abundant smaller bass.

Kraut , Peanut , North Shady, Squash and Tomato lakes in Cook County: Catchand-release regulations on trout in these five lakes will be dropped this spring. Additionally, the ban on winter fishing and special tackle restrictions for these lakes will go away. The catch-and-release with tackle restrictions and the winter fishing closure did not meet management goals for these stocked trout fisheries. They are remotely located and special regulations and the closed winter season did not provide quality fishing in these lakes. But the same special regulations will continue on three other lakes—Thompson, Thrush and Turnip lakes—that were reviewed at the same time.

Visit mndnr.gov/fishmn for more information on special fishing regulations. Special regulations that change March 1 will be listed in the 2018 Minnesota Fishing Regulations booklet.

A Wide Range of Opportunity

PolyMet’s copper-nickel mine is coming, Minnesota. Modern, safe and brimming with opportunity. Not just for a new generation of Iron Range miners and the businesses to support them, but with hundreds of millions in economic benefit for all of us.

Outdoor Skills and Thrills owner Aric Fishman. | PAUL DESAULNIERS

Trumpeters a triumph of conservation

ST. PAUL—When you hear the call of a trumpeter swan, it is a sound you never forget. A bold and ringing song of solitude and wildness, it is a call you will most likely hear in a lonely place. Trumpeter swans are increasingly common in the Northern Wilds, but they seek out the marshes, ponds and lakes where they are least likely to encounter people.

The swan’s song is also a triumph of conservation. The trumpeter is a native bird that disappeared in the 1870s due to unregulated subsistence hunting. In late summer, swans are unable to fly; the adults due to molting their primary wing feathers and the young, called cygnets, because they haven’t acquired the skill. This annual occurrence made them especially vulnerable to hungry pioneers.

Fast forward to the 1980s. Five or six pairs of trumpeter swans, the results of a small reintroduction effort, are nesting in Hennepin County parks. They are the only trumpeters in the state. The Minnesota DNR’s fledgling Nongame Wildlife program begins work on a statewide trumpeter swan restoration plan. Funding for the plan was provided by the then-new “Chickadee Check Off” on the state income tax forms, which allows individuals to donate a part of their refund to the Nongame Wildlife Fund. While the management of game species is funded

with hunting license fees and excise taxes on guns and ammunition, funding for specific nongame management, such as trumpeter swan restoration, comes from sources like the nongame fund.

Carrol Henderson, DNR nongame wildlife program supervisor, wrote the trumpeter swan restoration plan along with Dr. Jim Cooper from the University of Minnesota and was actively involved in the reintroduction effort. At the time, he said, it was believed the birds would repopulate the northern prairie potholes. It turned out the swans had other ideas.

The eggs came first. The DNR started the program with eggs from wild, nesting populations at the Red Rocks National Wildlife Refuge in Montana and other sources. Hatchlings were reared at the Carlos Avery Wildlife Management Area on the northern edge of the Twin Cities. For three years beginning in 1986, Henderson traveled to Alaska to collect, under permit, 50 eggs from wild trumpeters.

The Alaskan swans weren’t living in a prairie ecosystem. Instead they nested on bog mats in forested wetlands; a backdrop similar to habitat found in northern Minnesota.

In 1987, 21 two-year-old trumpeter swans were released at the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge in Becker County.

The following year, five trumpeters were released at Swan Lake in Nicollet County. In subsequent years, swans were released at other locations around the state from the southwest to north. Swans also began moving into new areas on their own.

To Henderson’s surprise, trumpeter swans introduced in northwestern Minnesota didn’t head west into the prairies. Instead, they began moving north and east. Henderson began receiving reports of nesting trumpeters from Ontario, as well as from places in northern Minnesota. He says the birds are well adapted to secluded northern lakes. The Minnesota Breeding Bird Atlas shows confirmed and potential trumpeter nesting activity in

From humble beginnings in the 1980s, the trumpeter swan restoration has been a resounding success. Henderson says the state population now exceeds 20,000. The total cost for over 30 years of restoration effort has been $500,000 from the Nongame Wildlife Fund.

While you may happen upon trumpeter swans in the Northern Wilds during the open water months, the best time to see them is during the winter. Trumpeters are short distance migrators. Thousands of them winter in the open waters downstream from power plants in Monticello and Fergus Falls. Others migrate to Iowa, Missouri, and Arkansas.—Shawn Perich

Lake and Cook counties.

Starting in the 1980s, the trumpeter swan restoration project has been a huge success. | EARL ORF

Gallery changes hands

LUTSEN—When Tom Christiansen opened Last Chance Fabricating in 1989, he considered it his last chance to make a living as an artist. You could say the chance paid off. For nearly 30 years now, Last Chance Fabricating has served as a sculpture studio, an art gallery, and a last resort for designers with unique projects to build. Tom Christiansen and Marcia Hyatt built Last Chance to be “a welcoming stop along the North Shore.” After many years of welcoming artists and visitors alike, Last Chance will be undergoing several chang -

es this year as Greg Mueller takes over the business and Christiansen moves his work to his in-home studio.

“I want to concentrate more on 2D art,” said Christiansen. “I will be working on sculpture too, just downsizing.”

Last Chance’s new owner, Greg Mueller, is also an experienced sculpture artist, having studied sculpture in art school and apprenticed under Paul Granlund. Before coming to Lutsen, he taught art across the country, from Ohio to South Caroli -

na. Though new to northern Minnesota, Mueller has been a part of several Grand Marais Art Colony workshops and Art Along the Lake, and through those experiences has become familiar with the North Shore. He said he is looking forward to becoming part of the community.

“It’s beautiful here,” Mueller said. “The people are creative and very welcoming.”

As Mueller takes over the business, perhaps the most noticeable change is that Last Chance will no longer be open as a gallery. Instead, the retail side of the business is shutting down this February and re-opening in Grand Marais in the spring. The change will allow Mueller to focus more fully on his own art, specifically public art for cities and commissioned work.

Despite the closing of Last Chance Gallery, Mueller is glad that the building will still be used as a studio: a site for keeping the arts alive and celebrating creativity.

“I’d like to grow the sculpture garden,” he said of his future plans for the property. In addition to his own work, Mueller plans to host art events at the studio and let Christiansen continue some of his sculpture work there.

“Last Chance isn’t stopping,” Christiansen affirmed.

While Mueller looks forward to having more time for his sculptures, Christiansen is ready for the freedom to pursue his own art from home. Even though he is moving on, Christiansen is grateful for his years at Last Chance Gallery and the opportunity to connect with so many people. One of his favorite aspects of operating the busi

ness was working with Stan Tull and Lester Morrison for five years.

“They came out of curiosity and worked alongside me to learn about casting art. They were extremely helpful to me and I learned as much from them. We had a lot of fun together.”

While the gallery will be closing Feb. 1, Last Chance Fabricating will continue to be an important part of the arts culture along the North Shore: a place to celebrate the need for creativity and the good that can come from taking the final chance.

For more information on Last Chance Fabricating, visit lastchancefab.com. —Rae Poynter

Caribou Moved

WAWA—In January, the Ontario government used a helicopter to capture woodland caribou from Lake Superior’s Michipicoten Island, where they are being wiped out by wolves. Eight females and one male were moved to the Slate Islands, which have long supported caribou. Wolf predation had reduced the Slate Island population to about four bull caribou. Wolves are now absent from the archipelago. It is hoped the released caribou will breed and repopulate the islands.

Good Times Await

North of the Border

Don’t miss the chilling mystery, The River, showing at the Magnus Theatre Feb. 1-17. On a moonless night in August, a man brings his new girlfriend to his remote family cabin. Be she’s not the only woman he has brought here—or the last. Tickets can be purchased online. magnustheatre.com

Head to Definitely Superior Art Gallery for the Stories of Truth 2.0 poetry night, held at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 2. The event is hosted by the Racialized Young Professionals Network and features local poets Jana-Rae Yerxa, Ardelle Sagutcheway, and out of town guests Shadiya Aidid and Nasim Asgari. There will be an open mic to end the event. Tickets are $10, paid in cash at the door or purchased through Eventbrite. definitelysuperior.com

The Thunder Bay Community Auditorium will host multiple events throughout the month, starting with CCMA award winner Brett Kissel on Feb. 2. Other shows include Gobsmacked on Feb. 10; Gord Bamford Feb. 14; Abbamania Feb. 15; the Fly Fishing Film Tour Feb. 17; Mini Pop Kids Feb. 19; and The Debaters Live Feb. 26. And don’t miss Serena Ryder’s Utopia World Tour, held at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 27.

Betty Carpick’s Birds of the Bay project continues into February, with two more maker sessions held Feb. 4 and Feb. 11; from 1-3 p.m. at the Baggage Building Arts Centre. Carpick’s project invites people of all ages and abilities to share their relationships with the birds that reside in Thunder Bay. Six fibre arts bird sculptures will be made by tying, weaving, and stitching on wire armatures. The completed sculptures will be displayed at Marina Park on Feb. 19 during SnowDay There will also be a drop-in unveiling on Feb. 18 from 2-4 p.m. at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery Confederation College Campus. All sessions and activities are free. facebook.com/birdsofthebayproject

The ninth annual Thunderwolves Indoor Marathon will take place Sunday, Feb. 11, held by Children’s Centre Foundation Thunder Bay, in partnership with Lakehead University. Held at the Lakehead University hanger, this year’s event features a full marathon, half marathon, 10km run and walk, and a mar-

athon relay for ages 12 and older. The full marathon is a 211-lap race, which will start at 8 a.m. There will also be a kids fun run; free for all children ages one to 10. Proceeds from the event remain local, supporting children’s mental health education and prevention initiatives through Children’s Centre Foundation. Registration required. thunderwolves.ca/indoormarathon

SnowDay, held Monday, Feb. 19, is a free celebration of all things winter that takes place annually on Family Day at Marina Park. There will be activities and entertainment for all ages, including snow sculptures, ice skating, fat tire biking, learning to make bannock over a fire, snow carving and more. Warming activities and craft demonstrations will take place inside at the Baggage Building Arts Centre and Mariner’s Hall, featuring music performances and buskers. Be sure to cast your vote for Best Chili at the Chili Cook-Off, a fundraiser in support of the Regional Food Distribution Association. There will also be local food and drinks, including hot chocolate. thunderbay.ca/snowday

The Northwestern Fur Trappers Annual Convention will be held Feb. 23-24 at the CLE Heritage Building. There will be a wild fur fashion show, fur handling demonstrations and competitions, live and silent auctions, raffles, and exhibits. The convention will be held from 11 a.m.5 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free; open to the public. There will also be a smorgasbord, dance and silent auction from 6:30 p.m.-1 a.m. at the Slovak Legion. Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for kids under the age of 10. fwfta.ca

winter birding 101

Local birding experts share tips for attracting and observing our feathered friends

by kelsey roseth

as we endure winter’s bitter winds and harsh cold snaps, many of our feathered friends have long since abandoned us for a warmer season down south. Birds that remain experience the season by our sides, and there’s something uplifting about their presence. That’s what makes winter birdwatching so special—we get a glimpse of their exceptional survival instincts and can celebrate their successes.

Bohemian waxwings are a winter visitor on the North Shore. | MICHAEL FURTMAN

The great gray owl can be found in the Northern Wilds all year long. | EARL ORF

Sky-Blue Waters, Bears and Beer

HAMM’S

BEER ADVERTISING ON THE GUNFLINT TRAIL

BY CHUCK VIREN

The Gunflint Trail near Grand Marais has long been renowned for its rugged, pine-filled forests and pristine lakes. People travel the world over to hunt, to fish, or to paddle the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. The unique characteristics of this landscape have long been known to advertisers as well.

The best known and most extensive advertising campaigns were created on behalf of Hamm’s Beer of St. Paul. Their slogan, “From the land of sky-blue waters” is etched in memory of Minnesotans who have spent several decades on this earth. While most of these ads featured cartoons of the Hamm’s Bear set to the beat of tomtoms, others featured live photography.

Beginning in the 1950s, Hamm’s began using print ads and calendars with carefully orchestrated photographs of the lakes and streams near the end of the Gunflint Trail. And in 1973, Hamm’s television commercials featured Sasha the bear and his bearded trainer, Earl Hammond, traveling along Seagull and Saganaga lakes.

Throughout those years, one man was an integral part of all these ads. Rolf Skrien, former owner of Way of the Wilderness Lodge at the end of the Gunflint Trail, served as location scout, or finder, as he puts it, for all these ads. Remember that iconic image of the man fishing in

the red canoe atop the blue water, beneath the blue skies, next to a rocky shoreline? That’s Rolf in the canoe. He also guided the crew to that spot.

By the time the Hamm’s beer advertisers came calling in the 1950s, Rolf had extensive experience as a guide and location scout. It all started in 1946, shortly after Rolf was discharged from the Coast

Guard after World War II. He and three Coast Guard buddies set off on a late April canoe trip from Saganaga Lake. With poor maps and not much experience, they headed north. After they hit French Lake, they turned west without a clear idea of where they were or how they would return. They had brought pistols and supplemented their rations with grouse they shot along the way. Near the western edge of the Quetico Provincial Park, after not having seen anybody for about a week, they encountered some native people who told them how to get to Ely. From there they re-supplied themselves and returned via Knife Lake.

Upon their return, Russel Blankenburg, who owned End of the Trail Lodge, asked

if any of them could stay and guide for the fishing opener. “That whole trip really got into me,” said Rolf; he realized that, “this is the life for me.” So Rolf talked one of his buddies into staying for a few more days. After the opener, Russel asked Rolf to stay on and guide. Having no real prospects at home, Rolf agreed. He never left.

Later, nature photographer Les Blacklock began using him as a location guide for his calendar shots. By the time the Hamm’s Beer people called, Rolf was their obvious choice as a location scout. He brought them to Seagull Creek. They wanted a guy fishing in the photo, so Rolf floated strategically in the red canoe. In order to give the appearance of success, Rolf tied a

Rolf holding a photo of himself in the red canoe. | CHUCK VIREN

Rolf with Earl and Sasha the bear. | STUART SKRIEN

rock to the end of his line, a trick he had used before. Then they waited. And waited. Hamm’s was promoting their slogan, “from the land of sky blue waters,” and so they wanted a shot with clear blue skies that reflected on the water. However, the clouds were moving pretty fast that day, so the opportunity to film a cloudless sky never came. Then it started to get late; they took the picture anyway. In the photo there are mostly blue skies overhead, but many white clouds appear in the background. Rolf said the photographer feared the picture would never sell. Years later, Rolf was in a bar in Duluth and overheard a man claiming that the photos were shot in California. Rolf refrained from setting the record straight.

In 1973, Rolf’s services as a finder were called upon when the New York advertising agency of Dancer Fitzgerald Sample, Inc. brought animal trainer Earl Hammond and his Kodiak bear Sasha to Chik-Wauk Lodge to shoot a series of ads, mostly

during two weeks in late September. Suddenly Rolf was not just location scout but assistant animal trainer. Earl used marshmallows to reinforce Sasha’s behavior, and Rolf was assigned to go ahead of the bear and leave a marshmallow every 10 feet or so along the path they wanted the bear to follow. Sasha had an acute sense of smell, and the trick worked well. That is until Rolf ran out of marshmallows. They were atop the Palisades on Seagull Lake when Sasha came up to him looking for a handout, and suddenly Rolf was worried. Sasha was well trained but was still a wild animal and unpredictable. Sasha didn’t hold a grudge, though, and Rolf emerged unscathed.

One of the commercials featured Sasha riding in the front of a canoe with Earl in the stern handling an outboard motor. The stern was load ed with rocks and sand to provide a counterbalance to Sasha’s bulk. Sasha, however, repeatedly wanted to dip his paw into the water as they motored along, and Earl could never break him of the habit. For tunately, he never fell from the canoe or had it capsize.

There was only one incident with Sasha where things got a bit out of control. The crew had taken a break for lunch. The bear had been chained to a log while they ate, and Sasha, who evidently did not like being excluded from their party, picked up the log and began swinging it around. Earl however knew just how to handle him, and after he was fed, he immediately settled down.

As Earl and his bear were

about to leave for their farm in Pennsylvania, Ralph Griffis, owner of Chik-Wauk Lodge, asked for a photo of Rolf with the bear. Rolf began to run down to Sasha when Earl waved for him to slow down. Running toward a 340 pound bear is not exactly a good idea, as they might perceive that as a threat. As Rolf walked slowly into position for the photo, Sasha took Rolf’s hand into his mouth. Evidently Earl had trained him to do this, but Rolf

was understandably nervous. If one looks closely at the photo, they can see that Rolf’s smile is perhaps a bit more strained than it otherwise might have been.

Advertisers sell dreams and emotions. Our land of sky blue waters offers the promise of crisp, clean air, warm sun on our faces, and wilderness adventure. For over 60 years, advertisers have come here to capitalize on that promise. None have been more successful than Minnesota’s own Hamm’s Beer.

Rolf and Gail Skrien at their cabin on Seagull Lake. | ROLF SKRIEN

Rolf in the iconic red canoe. | ROLF SKRIEN

Sasha cools off during a break. | CHIK-WAUK

[ABOVE] Earl and Sasha at Chik-Wauk. | CHIK-WAUK

[LEFT] Photo op with Earl. | CHIK-WAUK

By Breana Roy

Frozen Photographers

Recently, the North Shore experienced a streak of bitter cold weather—and I’m sure there’s more to come—with the daytime highs remaining below zero and dropping beyond 20 below at night. If you’re someone who doesn’t tolerate the cold well, like me, then it can make for a long day, or days, cooped up inside. But those brave enough to venture outdoors captured images of the ice and snow with their cameras, reminding us that despite the bitter cold, the North Shore is a wonderful, beautiful place, all year long.

Claire Dronen recently shared this photo, titled “Sisters,” in the Facebook group North Shore Tribe. | CLAIRE DRONEN

Paul Sundberg took this photo of the Grand Marais lighthouse through the icicles. | PAUL SUNDBERG

This Lake Superior photo, titled “Ice Eggs at Hollow Rock,” was taken by Grand Portage photographer Travis Novitsky. | TRAVIS NOVITSKY

Sandra Updyke captured a cold, blustery day on Lake Superior in Hovland, titled “Wind and Waves.” | SANDRA UPDYKE

This stunning Lake Superior sunrise photo, titled “Golden Clarity,” was taken near McQuade Harbor outside of Two Harbors by Matthew Pastick. | MATTHEW PASTICK

Photo by Aric Fishman

around noon. Lunch is included by Carmody 61. For more info, call (218) 834-5612 or email scrappinklink@lakenet.com.

Join the annual FXR Sled for Eternity Snowmobile Ride in support of Adult and Teen Challenge in Thunder Bay. Held on Saturday, Feb. 17 in Kakabeka Falls, the ride starts and ends at the Kakabeka Falls Legion. Registration is from 8:30-10 a.m. and includes ride participation, meals and a chance at various prizes. The grand prize is a 2017 Polaris Switchback Pro-S. teenchallenge.mb.ca/sledtbay

Also on Feb. 17 is the annual Finland Vintage Snowmobile Run, sponsored by the Finland Snowmobile/ATV Club and local businesses. The ride will start at 10 a.m. at the Wildhurst Lodge and Campground. There will be outdoor music, food and beverages, various vintage run awards, and a raffle. All sleds are welcome. To learn more, find the Finland Snowmobile/ ATV Club on Facebook.

The 20th annual Fish Lake Classic Snowmobile Challenge will be held Feb. 17, too. The ride will start at 11 a.m. at Blue Max Resort on Fish Lake in Duluth. This fun run requires no registration fees and there are no prizes. Simply enjoy a day on the lake snowmobiling, socializing and making memories. facebook.com/ fishlakeclassicchallenge

The Lutsen Trailbreakers Snowmobile Club is hosting its 3rd annual Vintage Snowmobile Ride and Show in Lutsen on Saturday, Feb. 24. Bring your vintage sleds and enjoy a 20 mile poker run on the trails, with a prize for the best hand. Other prizes include best of class, best of show for antique and vintage, loudest pipes, best vintage clothing, oldest and youngest rider to complete the ride, most impressive trail-side repair, and more. Registration is from 10-11:30 a.m. at Cascade Lodge; $10 per sled. The ride begins at noon. cascadelodgemn.com

CANDLELIGHT SNOWSHOE, SKI OR HIKE

Bundle up for a candlelight snowshoe, ski, skate or hike at one of the various locations, happening throughout the month of February.

The first Candlelight Snowshoe and Hike is at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park near Two Harbors on Saturday, Feb. 3. Held from 6-8:30 p.m., this self-guided hike is roughly a two-mile round trip, suitable for all ages. Begin at the Trail Center and follow the glowing luminaries to Day Hill. A bonfire and marshmallows await visitors partway through the trail. Afterwards, enjoy a hot beverage and snack at the Trail Center. mndnr.gov/splitrocklighthouse

The Ely Nordic Ski Club will also hold a Candlelight Ski on Feb. 3, from 6-8 p.m. Held in Ely, there will be warmth and socializing in the Hidden Valley Chalet, an open fire ring, and candlelit trails for both kids and adults. elynordic.org

SnowDay in Thunder Bay will be held Feb. 19. See page 15 for more info. | EPICA PICTURES

The Hartley Nature Center in Duluth will hold the 12th annual Candlelight Ski, Skate, Snowshoe and Fat Bike on Saturday, Feb. 10 from 4-7 p.m. Fun seekers will have a chance to join naturalists-led hikes, ski a luminary-lined Hartley cross country trail, try out fat tire biking or kicksledding, enjoy a light dinner from Black Woods Catering, ice skate on Hartley Pond, enjoy Bent Paddle beer tasting and have warm drinks and dessert in the yurt. This is a family-friendly event; pre-registration encouraged. hartleynature.org

Head to the Oberg Mountain parking lot near Tofte for the Candlelit Ski and Snowshoe on Saturday, Feb. 17. Held from 6-8 p.m., the Oberg Mountain Trailhead will be lit with luminaries for this fun, family-friendly event, created by ski enthusiasts, area resorts, and members of the Sugarbush Trail Association. sugarbushtrail.org

Gooseberry Falls State Park near Two Harbors will also hold a Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe and Hike on Saturday, Feb. 17, from 6-8:30 p.m. Begin at the Visitor Center and follow the glowing luminaries along the trail. A bonfire and marshmallows await visitors at Lady Slipper Amphitheater and hot beverages and snacks are available at the Visitors Center. mndnr.gov

WINTER FROLIC

Feb. 9-10 The annual Two Harbors Winter Frolic includes events the whole family will enjoy, including a medallion hunt, a photo scavenger hunt, snow sculptures, curling, sledding and skating. Friday night events include the restaurant chili cookoff, the community curling challenge, and the city vs county exhibition curling challenge. Saturday is also jam-packed with events, starting with a pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon. There will also be a bonfire with free s’mores, a bean bag tournament, mattress races at the sliding hill, fat bike demos, live music, a broomball tournament, fireman’s kids races, and more. Pre-registration needed for most events. twoharborswinterfrolic.com

Held in Washburn, Wisc., Bike Across the Bay will take place Sunday, Feb. 18. | SUBMITTED

Feb. 9-10. | SUBMITTED

HYGGE FESTIVAL

Feb. 9-15 Cook County will celebrate the second annual Hygge Festival, held Feb. 9-15. Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is the Danish ritual of embracing life’s simple pleasures; feeling relaxed, cozy and surrounded by the warmth of family, friends and community. This year’s activities include daily fat bike demos at Fireweed Bike Coop, snowshoe tours with Lake Superior Trading Post, drop-in felting and knitting lessons at Voyageur Brewing, and spoon carving demonstrations at the North House Folk School. On Friday, Feb. 9, Drury Lane Books will host the Sawtooth Elementary Many Tiny Lights Fundraiser at 6 p.m., followed by a bonfire and music by SVEA Singers at 6:30 p.m. Other hygge inspired activities include stargazing, dogsledding and cross-country skiing. There will also be a Cook County Fireplace Tour held all month long. visitcookcounty. com/calendar

SNOWARAMA FOR EASTER SEALS KIDS

Feb. 10, Saturday Once again, the Thunder Bay Snowarama for Easter Seals Kids will head south of the border to Grand Portage for the 15th annual Snowarama fundraiser. Over the past 15 years, the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino Snowarama has raised over $410,000 for children and youth with physical disabilities in our community. There is a minimum pledge of $100 to ride. Registration begins at 7 a.m. and the poker run begins at 10 a.m. All Snowarama participants will enjoy a complimentary dinner and awards ceremony at 5 p.m. on Saturday, followed by live music by Tempted Fate at 9 p.m. There will also be a bonfire and prizes throughout the weekend. snowarama.org

NORTHERN FIBERS RETREAT

Feb. 14-18 The Northern Fibers Retreat, hosted by the North House Folk School, the Grand Marais Art Colony, and the Northwoods Fiber Guild, celebrates all styles of fiber art. This year’s retreat features seminars, community gatherings and coursework from new guest artisans. The featured instructor is Robbie LaFleur, an expert in Scandinavian textiles. He will give a presentation “From Virgins to Spaceships: A visual journey through Nor-

See live duck racing daily at the Duluth Great Outdoors shows Feb. 14-18. | SUBMITTED

wegian tapestry,” on Feb. 17. Courses include fibers for kids, knitting socks, twig and net hanging baskets, needle felting for repair or embellishment, bookbinding, bead embroidery, making penny rugs, caring for your heirloom textiles, and more. Programs will be held at the North House Folk School and the Grand Marais Art Colony. northhouse.org & grandmaraisartcolony.org

NORTHLAND OUTDOORS DEER CLASSIC & THE BOAT, SPORTS, TRAVEL & RV SHOW

Feb. 14-18 The great outdoors is headed indoors for the 52nd annual Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel and RV Show, and the Northland Outdoors Duluth Deer Classic; two expos in one. This family-friendly event will feature a variety of fishing and hunting seminars, vendors, workshops, and manufacturers on hand demonstrating and showing off their newest products. There will also be live duck racing daily, a live deer display, a Ducks Unlimited treasure hunt for ages 17 and younger, a world class bull elk taxidermy display, Mac and the Big Cheese ultimate outdoor cooking show, live trout fishing, the Pheasants Forever youth village, face painting for kids, and more. One ticket gives you admission to both expos, located at the Duluth DECC. minnesotasportshow.com

VOYAGEUR

WINTER CARNIVAL

Feb. 17-19 Enjoy a weekend full of winter fun for the whole family at Fort William Historical Park’s Voyageur Winter Carnival in Thunder Bay. There will be a giant snow maze, tubing and sliding hills, skating, horse-drawn wagon rides, snow graffiti, winter golf, snowshoeing, curling, carnival games and contests, live indoor and outdoor entertainment, and more. Watch the snowmobile stunt show, featuring X Games and Red Bull competitors Fred Rasmussen and Brody John Wilson as they perform amazing stunts over the Kaministiquia River. You can also fire a historic musket with the Canadian Corps of Voyageurs. The festival will be held from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. fwhp.ca

BIKE ACROSS THE BAY

Feb. 18, Sunday Ride on the awesome expanse of Lake Superior ice with the Bike Across the Bay event in Washburn, Wisc., hosted by the North Coast Cycling Association. Enjoy the incredible shoreline scenery, stunning rock formations, and discover the brownstone ice caves, cracks and crevices. The ride will be approximately 10k (one lap) and 20k (2 laps) and start at 10 a.m. on the Washburn shoreline. Male and female categories for studded and non-studded; first place winners will be awarded for each category in each distance. An awards ceremony will be held after the ride. Registration required. northcoastcycling.com

NIPIGON ICE FEST

March 2-4

Ontario’s longest running, premiere ice climbing festival features ice climbing clinics for beginner to advanced levels and a women’s only clinic. There will also be guided snowshoe treks, a game night and a gear swap and raffle. After a day of climbing or snowshoeing, warm up at the Legion Hall and get inspired with presentations by outdoor adventurers and climbing enthusiasts, starting at 7 p.m. Food and drinks will also be available. Event registration is required. facebook. com/nipigonicefest

SLEEPING GIANT LOPPET

March 3, Saturday Held in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park in Thunder Bay, the Sleeping Giant Loppet is a mass participation ski festival that offers fun for the whole family and challenges competitive athletes. It features multiple events with distances for skiers of all levels and abilities. The 8km mini-loppet is perfect for families, children and rookies. If you’re ready to increase your distance, than try the 20km Marie Louise Lake loop. The popular 35km is a relaxed event that takes place on the Burma Trail. For the ultimate challenge, register for the 50km Classic, Skate or Skiathlon distance. Following the races will be a party and awards ceremony at Sleeping Giant Brewery from 6:30-10 p.m., featuring brewery tours, food from Pinetree Catering, and a separate children’s area with a movie and kids menu available. Race registration required. sleepinggiantloppet.ca

The Two Harbors Winter Frolic will take place

Late Night Lord of the Rings

7 p.m. Ely Public Library, elylibrary.org

Feb. 16-18

Art ‘Round Town Fundraiser: A Collectors Art Sale (reception Feb. 16 at 5:30 p.m.) Johnson Heritage Post, Grand Marais, amershon@boreal.org

Love Letters 7 p.m. (2 p.m. Feb. 18)

Lyric Center for the Arts, Virginia MN, lyriccenterforthearts.blogspot.com Feb. 16-19

Winterfest Terrace Bay, Ontario, facebook.com/yourterracebay

Feb. 17, Saturday

Sled for Eternity: Kakabeka Falls Ride 8:30 a.m. Kakabeka Falls Legion, teenchallenge.mb.ca/sledtbay

Vision 2018: An Event to Help Women Design & Live Their Best Life 8:30 a.m. The Boat Club, Duluth, sarahvandermeiden.com

Ridge Riders Hungry Jack Drag Races

10 a.m. Hungry Jack Lake, Gunflint Trail, cookcountysnowmobileclub.com

Vintage Snowmobile Run 10 a.m. Wildhurst Lodge & Campground, Finland, Finland Snowmobile/ ATV Club on Facebook

Fish Lake Classic Snowmobile Challenge 11 a.m. Blue Max Resort on Fish Lake, Duluth, facebook.com/ fishlakeclassicchallenge

Core Values Snowboarding Tour 2 p.m. Spirit Mountain, Duluth, spiritmt.com

Youth Ski League Pasta Feed

5:30 p.m. 1st Congregational Church, Grand Marais, pincushiontrails.org

Fly Fishing Film Tour 6 p.m. Thunder Bay

Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Candlelit Ski & Snowshoe

6 p.m. Oberg Mountain Trailhead, Tofte, sugarbushtrail.org

Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe & Hike

6 p.m. Gooseberry Falls State Park, Two Harbors, mndnr.gov

Neebing Stampede Party 9 p.m. Neebing Roadhouse, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/theneebing

SplinterTones 9:30 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Feb. 17-19

Voyageur Winter Carnival Fort William Historical Park, Thunder Bay, fwhp.ca Feb. 18, Sunday

Pincushion Mountain Winter Festival

10 a.m. Pincushion Mountain, Grand Marais, pincushiontrails.org

Bike Across the Bay 10 a.m. Washburn, WI, northcoastcycling.com

Birds of the Bay Drop-In Unveiling

2 p.m. Thunder Bay Art Gallery, facebook. com/birdsofthebayproject

Bug Dope 7 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Jim & Michele Miller 7 p.m. Skyport Lodge, Grand Marais, skyportlodge.com

Live Classical Music 8 p.m. Bluefin Grille, Tofte, bluefinbay.com

Feb. 19, Monday

President’s Day

Family SnowDay on the Waterfront Marina Park, Thunder Bay, visitthunderbay.ca/snowday

Tapiola Family Ski Day Noon, Tapiola Sports Park, Thunder Bay, thefinlandia.com

Mini Pop Kids 2 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Feb. 19-20

Open Skating 11 a.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais (218) 387-3015

Feb. 19-21

Energy Design Conference & Expo Duluth DECC, duluthenergydesign.com

Feb. 20, Tuesday

Vintage Aprons with Mary Lulari 10:30 a.m. Ely Public Library, elylibrary.org

Artist Talk: Swinging the Compass with Danny Saathoff 5:30 p.m. Grand Marais

Art Colony, grandmaraisartcolony.org

Chance on Tap: Poetry Reading & Book Release with Kathleen Roberts

6 p.m. Tweed Museum of Art, Duluth, d.umn.edu/tma

Open Mic 7 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Feb. 20-25

Schreiber Winter Carnival Schreiber, Ontario, schreiber.ca/visiting/annual-events

Feb. 21, Wednesday

Community Conversation: Our Arts Economy with Amy Demmer Noon, Grand Marais Art Colony, grandmaraisartcolony.org

Nerd Nite 7 p.m. Sleeping Giant Brewing Company, Thunder Bay, sciencenorth.com/thunderbay

Feb. 22, Thursday

Garden Talks: Planning Your Garden 6 p.m. Fairlawn Mansion, Superior, superiorpublicmuseums.org

Joe Paulik Band 8 p.m. Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

DJ Beavstar 9 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Feb. 22-25

Boat Show 10:30 a.m. CLE Coliseum, Thunder Bay, cle.on.ca

Feb. 22-March 3

Death of a Salesman 7:30 p.m. The Underground, Duluth, duluthplayhouse.org

Feb. 23, Friday

Library Scientist: STEM at the Library

3:30 p.m. Ely Public Library, elylibrary.org

Beer Lover’s Dinner 6:30 p.m.

Lutsen Resort, lutsenresort.com/dining

Plucked Up String Band 8 p.m. Wunderbar Eatery & Glampground, Grand Marais, facebook.com/wunderbarmn

Feb. 23-24

Northwestern Fur Trappers Convention & Trade Show CLE Heritage, Thunder Bay, facebook.com/northwestfurtrappers

Thunderheads Trio 8:30 p.m.

Gun Flint Tavern, Grand Marais, gunflinttavern.com

Feb. 23-March 4

Annual Winter Carnival Nipigon, Ontario, nipigon.net/events

Feb. 24, Saturday

Proctor Classic Snowmobile Challenge 9 a.m. Spirit Mountain, Duluth, spiritmt.com

Lutsen Trailbreakers Vintage Snowmobile Ride & Show 10 a.m.

Cascade Lodge, Lutsen, cascadelodgemn.com

Gunflint Lake Cabin Fever Festival

10 a.m. Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters, Gunflint Trail, gunflint.com

Science Carnival 1 p.m.

Victoria Mall, Thunder Bay, sciencenorth.com/thunderbay

Consortium Aurora Borealis Concert: Celebrating the Flute 8 p.m. St. Paul’s United Church, Thunder Bay, consortiumauroraborealis.org

Viva Knievel 9:30 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Feb. 24-25

WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race Ely, wolftrackclassic.com

Feb. 25, Sunday

Thunder Bay Field Naturalists Annual Dinner Meeting 4:30 p.m.

Current River Community Centre, Thunder Bay, tbfn.net

Feb. 26, Monday

The Debaters Live 8 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Feb. 27, Tuesday

Open Mic 7 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Serena Ryder: Utopia World Tour

7:30 p.m. Thunder Bay Community Auditorium, tbca.com

Feb. 28, Wednesday

Great Lakes Monoski Madness Spirit Mountain, Duluth, spiritmt.com

Cribbage Tournament 5 p.m. Voyageur Brewing, Grand Marais, voyageurbrewing.com

Feb. 28-March 3

Cambrian Players presents William Shakespeare’s Hamlet 7:30 p.m.

First-Wesley United Church, Thunder Bay, cambrianplayers.ca

March 2-4

Nipigon Ice Fest Nipigon, Ontario, facebook.com/nipigonicefest

March 3, Saturday

Duluth Women’s Expo 9 a.m. Duluth DECC, duluthwomensexpo.com

Sleeping Giant Loppet 9:30 a.m.

Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Thunder Bay, sleepinggiantloppet.ca

WEEKLY EVENTS

Mondays

Open Mic Night 6 p.m. Grandma Rays, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

Live Music by the Fireplace 8 p.m.

Bluefin Grille, Tofte, bluefinbay.com

Songwriter Series 8 p.m.

Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Tuesdays

Live Music 6 p.m. Poplar River Pub at Lutsen Resort, Lutsen, lutsenresort.com

Tuesday Trivia 7 p.m. Grandma Ray’s, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

Songwriter Series 8 p.m.

Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Wednesdays

Country Market 3:30 p.m.

CLE Dove Building, Thunder Bay, thunderbaycountrymarket.com

Open Skating 3:30 p.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais (218) 387-3015

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

Live Music with Boyd “Bump” Blomberg 5:30 p.m. Skyport Lodge, Grand Marais, skyportlodge.com

Winter Series Presentations 6 p.m.

(3:30 p.m. Feb. 7) Grand Marais Public Library grandmaraislibrary.org

Songwriter Series 8 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Lutsen, lutsen.com

Thursdays

Live Music 4 p.m. Moguls Grille at Caribou Highlands, Lutsen, caribouhighlands.com

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

Live Music 6 p.m. Poplar River Pub at Lutsen Resort, lutsenresort.com

Fridays

Preschool Storytime 10:30 a.m. Ely Public Library, elylibrary.org

Open Skating Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais (218) 387-3015

Live Music Grandma Ray’s, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

Live Music 4 p.m. Voyageur Brewing, Grand Marais, voyageurbrewing.com

Friday Night Reels 6 p.m. Grand Marais

Public Library, grandmaraislibrary.org

Live Music 7 p.m.

Castle Danger Brewery, Two Harbors, castledangerbrewery.com

Live Music 7 p.m. Cascade Restaurant, Lutsen, cascadelodgemn.com

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

Timmy Haus 9 p.m. Papa Charlie’s, Luten, lutsen.com

Saturdays

Country Market 8 a.m. CLE Dove Building, Thunder Bay, thunderbaycountrymarket.com

Open Skating 11 a.m. Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais (218) 387-3015

NCAA Free Winter Fat Bike Rides 11 a.m. Bayfield, WI, murph007swat@gmail.com

Open Knitting 1 p.m. Sisu Designs Yarn Shop, Ely, sisudesigns.org

Free: Tour the North House Campus 2 p.m. North House Folk School, Grand Marais, northhouse.org

Live Music 3 p.m. North Shore Winery, Lutsen, northshorewinery.us

Live Music 7 p.m. Lutsen Resort, lutsenresort.com

Live Music 7 p.m. Cascade Restaurant, Lutsen, cascadelodgemn.com

Live Music 8 p.m. Wunderbar Eatery & Glampground, Grand Marais, facebook. com/wunderbarmn

Live Music 8 p.m. Grandma Ray’s, Grand Marais (218) 387-2974

Sundays

Live Music 10 a.m.

Moguls Grille at Caribou Highlands, Lutsen, caribouhighlands.com

Live Music & Brunch 11 a.m. Wunderbar Eatery & Glampground, Grand Marais, facebook.com/wunderbarmn

Open Skating 1 p.m.

Cook County Community Center, Grand Marais (218) 387-30

Country Inn & Suites Duluth North 4257 Haines Road, Duluth, MN 55811 (218) 740-4500

15% off Any Room Type

Valid November 1, 2017 through May 31, 2018 Some restrictions apply. Not valid with other discounts, promotions, groups, holidays or special events. Advance reservations required. Country Inn & Suites Duluth North location only.

In February, ChocoLitts (207 Park Avenue, Thunder Bay) is open Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The shop will be open Tuesday, Feb. 13 for last minute Valentine’s Day shoppers.

In Grand Marais, another entrepreneur is making delicious things with chocolate. Chelsea Pusc is the brains and arms behind the Gunflint Mercantile, whipping up fudge, truffles, and much more. After coming to the area to work for Voyageur Canoe Outfitters, Pusc purchased the Gunflint Mercantile seven years ago this February. She has brought her passion for creating and ideas to the business. She is always testing new flavors, so stop in and “you just might get to be a taste tester,” said Pusc.

Known for its fudge, the Gunflint Mercantile offers some popular varieties including maple bacon and dark chocolate sea salt caramel. The base fudge recipe is an old recipe from the Patton family up the Gunflint Trail. For ingredients, Pusc goes closer to her childhood home, sourcing her sugar from the Renville, Minn. beet sugar factory, where she grew up. Butter comes from Wisconsin, bringing Minnesota and Wisconsin together in the most delicious way.

This February, you’ll want to stop in the shop or check out the Gunflint Mercantile’s website.

“One of my favorite holidays is Valentine’s Day, so I have a few things up my sleeve,” said Pusc.

Boxes of truffles are a great option for a more quintessential Valentine’s gift, featuring her large, handmade truffles. Each batch is made from scratch and stirred by hand. If you are looking to really cover your bases, Chelsea partners with Grand Marais florist, Terra Bella Floral, to have a fudge kabob delivered with your flower order. Other Valentine’s Day specials will be posted on the Gunflint Mercantile’s Facebook page. If your Valentine is not a fan of sweets, her wild rice and mushroom soup mix is another customer favorite.

The Gunflint Mercantile (12 First Avenue West, Grand Marais) is open Thursday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in February. It will also be open every day the week

of Valentine’s Day. For more information on orders, visit: gunflintmercantile.com

In Canal Park Duluth, a small shop tucked inside the DeWitt-Seitz Marketplace has a presence much larger than its square footage. For 30 years, Hepzibah’s Sweet Shoppe has been fulfilling customers’ dreams of chocolates, fudge, licorice, and other imported sweets. Having grown up on the North Shore, I have fond childhood memories stopping in for a special treat and one day look forward to sharing the tradition with my daughter.

The name may seem a bit unusual to some, but Hepzibah goes back to the start of Duluth. The shop is named after Hepzibah J. Merritt, a woman who helped establish the first settlement in the Oneota Territory, which is now West Duluth. A mother to eight boys, her sons discovered the world’s largest iron range, the Mesabi Iron Range, creating Duluth’s place in history. With the shop located across from the shipping canal in Canal Park, it is quite fitting. Hepzibah’s sells one of a kind chocolate ore boats, connecting to both its location and historical name.

If a sweet ore boat won’t tickle your sweetie, award winning truffles and imported chocolate and treats from Europe might fit the bill. “We have Austrian black forest cherry chocolates, Reber Schwarzwälder Kirsch, which also make the chocolate Mozarts,” said shop manager, John Ryde-Crane. Imported from Holland, they also have Droste Pastilles with bittersweet and dark chocolate, among many other imported Valentine chocolates. Two of the favorite truffles are the Minnesota moose, dark chocolate with dark chocolate ganache, and Baileys Irish cream, Baileys in milk chocolate ganache. They have a large selection of candy as well, for the non-chocolate fan—I love the red licorice wheels.

Hepzibah’s Sweet Shoppe (394 S. Lake Ave, Ste 104, Duluth) is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (call if you’ll be stopping by on a Sunday evening to ensure they are open: 218-722-5049).

The Gunflint Mercantile in Grand Marais will offer boxes of truffles for Valentine’s Day. | GUNFLINT MERCANTILE

A pair of Superior Street Irish IPAs

Looking for common ground between Duluth’s two Irish brew pubs on a recent weekend, I settled on their IPAs.

It had been a while since I had Carmody Irish Pub and Brewing’s Scanlan IPA. It poured hazy off the tap with very little head.

Scanlan IPA is malty and a little bitter, with a decent amount of grapefruit-tinged hoppiness. It seemed pretty close to the 6.3 percent alcohol by volume that was scribbled in chalk, among only a handful of Carmody-brewed options. Carmody-brewed beers are available for growler fills, asides from buying it on tap at the pub in downtown Duluth and at Two Harbors’ Carmody 61.

If only I had been to Carmody’s the night before when Trampled by Turtles’ mandolinist Erik Berry was on stage—I would have likely stuck around for another beer. Instead, I headed down Superior Street to Duluth’s other Irish brew pub, Dubh Linn.

There I was greeted to a fairly extensive list of offerings from head brewer Seth Maxim, who happened to be around, and shared a light, nearly session-style pale ale that had not yet been released.

But it was Celtic Equinox IPA that was on tap among a two-column list, which also included a double IPA. Celtic Equinox poured with less haziness and with more

By Javier Serna

carbonation. It had a creamier mouth-feel, and the Equinox hops burst with the tropical, fruity flavors that have been a big part of the rise in popularity that pale beers have enjoyed in recent years. Maxim said the beer is also brewed with Chinook hops.

The IPA, which clocked in at 6.0 percent ABV, didn’t seem lighter than Scanlan, and had a bit of a malty and sweet aftertaste.

Because Dubh Linn’s brewing system is so small, and Maxim was trying to keep at least eight different beers on tap, the brew pub’s beers are not available for growler fills. You’ll have to head down to Superior Street to try them.

BELGIAN OR BUST: Sleeping Giant Brewing Company recently held what was billed as Thunder Bay’s first Belgian-only beer event, Biere Belge, in late January.

It was an interesting concept for an event, which showcased a Belgian trippel, Belgian wit, Belgian pale ale and a Belgian dubbel.

STARTING TO SOUR: Upstart Superior brewer Earth Rider Brewery announced re -

cently that co-lead brewery Allyson Rolph is working on a sour beer, Allouez amber ale, which is expected to have some of the funk that fans of the style look for.

It’s expected to take about nine months to finish the beer in wood barrels.

Dubh Linn in Duluth offers the Celtic Equinox IPA. | JAVIER SERNA

Quiz! Take the

Which products and services can you find at Northern Wilds? (answers below)

 Printing, faxes and scans.

 Best-selling local books.

 Chinese food take-out.

 Banners.

 Vinyl lettering.

 Advice for the lovelorn.

 The North Shore’s favorite magazine! We

Make Your Own Truffles

By Rose Arrowsmith DeCoux

Treat yourself this Valentine’s Day with these decadent—and deceptively easy to make—chocolate truffles.

A peaty, smokey whiskey like Laphroaig adds depth to the chocolate, and salt balances the caramel’s sweetness.

Salted Caramel-Toffee Whiskey Truffles

ƒ 11 oz dark chocolate (60% cacao or higher), finely chopped

ƒ 8 tablespoons heavy cream

ƒ 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (recipe below)

ƒ 1/4 cup whiskey

ƒ 1/2 cup chopped toffee pieces, such as Heath, optional

ƒ 1/3 cup cocoa powder for rolling

ƒ Additional chocolate, melted, for drizzling

ƒ Kosher salt for sprinkling DIRECTIONS

Prepare caramel and set aside. Measure out a half cup for the truffles, and refrigerate the remainder.

Bring an inch of water to a simmer in a pot. Place a heatproof bowl, preferably glass, on top to create a double boiler. Be sure the bowl is not touching the water.

Add chopped chocolate and cream to the bowl. Let sit for three minutes, then whisk until smooth.

Remove from heat and whisk in caramel and whiskey. Fold in toffee pieces, if desired.

Pour into a casserole dish or pie plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate about three hours until firm enough to scoop.

Using a melon baller or small spoons, scoop one-inch balls of chocolate onto a cookie sheet. Round truffles by rolling between your palms, chilling them in the freezer at any point if they become too

soft to manage. Finish by rolling truffles in cocoa powder. If desired, drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt and toffee.

Store in fridge or freezer. Makes approximately 36 truffles.

Easy Microwave Caramel

ƒ 6 tablespoons butter

ƒ 1/3 cup brown sugar

ƒ 3 tablespoons honey

ƒ 3 tablespoons corn syrup, light or dark

ƒ 3 tablespoons cream

ƒ 1/4-1/2 teaspoon salt

ƒ 1/4 teaspoon vanilla

Microwave all ingredients (except salt and vanilla) in a large bowl, preferably glass, for two minutes. Whisk. Microwave for two more minutes. Whisk in salt and vanilla. Caramel will thicken as it cools.

Gotaproject? Give us a call!

Truffles are easy to make and easy to customize.

ROSE ARROWSMITH DECOUX

The Strength to Stand Back Up

By Amy Schmidt

If it were possible to control life’s circumstances or, better yet, if we lived in a perfect world, this article would not be worth reading (or writing, for that matter). But, seeing as life’s circumstances are sometimes uncontrollable and the world is far from perfect, discussing a concept termed resilience seems prudent if not critical.

Resilience, by way of definition, is “the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats or significant sources of stress.” These sources of stress can be as varied as the humans that experience them and can range from inconvenient to life-threatening. From car trouble to a natural disaster and everything in between, your reaction to the hardship is paramount. Our default is to react to stressful circumstances with strong emotions, emotions that, if left unchecked, can flood out any sense of hope at overcoming the adversity. This is where resiliency, or the ability to ‘bounce back’, becomes necessary.

Fortunately, unlike eye color or body type, resilience is not a trait you either have or do not have. Rather, it is learned and

involves behaviors, thoughts and actions that anyone can develop. Think of it more like whistling or being able to roll your R’s. Does it come more naturally to some people? Yes. Can anyone, if dedicated, gain the ability? Absolutely.

So, if it’s a learned trait, how does a person, or a community, become resilient? Scour the internet, and you will find no shortage of advice, tips, strategies and pamphlets on the matter. Because everyone learns differently, take the time to research and to consider what approach to resiliency might best fit with your personality. As a jumping off point though, here is a fly-over view of the American Psychological Association’s 10 steps to fostering resilience.

10 steps fosteringtoresilience

1. Stay connected. Relationships are important, whether familial, faithbased or neighborly.

2. Avoid seeing crises as insurmountable problems.

3. Accept that change is a part of living.

4. Move toward your goals. Instead of focusing on tasks that seem unachievable, ask yourself what small thing you can accomplish.

5. Take decisive actions. Don’t react passively to a tough situation but rather move toward resolution with concrete actions.

6. Look for opportunities for selfdiscovery or growth during hardship.

7. Nurture a positive view of yourself. In other words, be confident in your ability to get through it.

8. Keep things in perspective. Avoid blowing the event out of proportion by keeping your eye on the big picture.

9. Maintain a hopeful outlook. Every tunnel has an end and, as the saying goes, there’s light.

10. Take care of yourself. Sleep plenty, exercise regularly and eat well.

While not an exact formula, some variation of these steps will result in more resiliency.

The key is to identify ways that are likely to work well for you and practice them. Practice when it’s easy, when the stakes are low and the stressful situation is fairly minimal. Encourage those around you to practice resiliency, too. Parents, model resiliency for your children. Employers, model it for your employees and community leaders, for your community. We are always better together and this is no exception.

Consider this quote from Nelson Mandela: “Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.” As individuals, as families, as communities, let’s work toward resiliency—because the world is not and never will be perfect.

Sleeping

March

2018

Lappe

March 10 – 17, 2018

The Devil’s Wedding Ring

By Vidar Sundstøl University of Minnesota Press, $25.95

After his friend’s mysterious disappearance, private investigator Max Fjellanger returns to his native Norway, determined to learn the truth. However, he is plunged into a dark world, filled with ancient superstitions, religious cults and sinister forces, all revolved around a 13th-century church and connected to Midsummer Eve, which is fast approaching. Award-winning author Vidar Sundstøl is known for his Minnesota crime trilogy, The Land of Dreams, Only the Dead and The Ravens —Breana Roy

Hugging this Rock Poems of Earth & Sky, Love & War

By Eric Chandler Middle West Press LLC, $9.99

Award-winning writer Eric Chandler is no stranger to regular readers of Northern Wilds, because he is a frequent contributor of stories to this publication. He is also a poet. This collection of his poetry reflects his rich and varied life, from a former F-16 fighter pilot, to a husband and father, to an avid outdoor enthusiast. Chandler has a way of provoking a thought or a smile that poetry readers will enjoy.—Shawn Perich

The Hidden Life of Trees

What They Feel, How They Communicate

By Peter Wohlleben Greystone Books

Ever wonder about the life of a tree? This international bestseller by German forester and author Peter Wohlleben has been changing how people think about trees. Drawing on scientific discoveries, he describes how trees in the forest are part of a social network, a community, and describes how “trees are like human families” living with their children. Trees also assist neighbouring trees; share nutrients with the sick or struggling; warn each other of impending danger; and have different ways of talking and communicating with each other using smell and electrical signals.

“And who knows, perhaps one day the language of trees will be deciphered” writes the author in the closing chapter. “Until then, when you take your next walk in the forest, give free rein to your imagination—in many cases, what you imagine is not so far removed from reality, after all!”

—Elle Andra-Warner

WHY GO: Being completely inside the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and a bit off of the beaten path, Partridge Lake remains a solid option for catching lots of lake trout, mainly in the winter or spring. You’ll likely have the lake to yourself.

ACCESS: ABWCAW entry permit is required to visit Partridge Lake. One way of accessing Partridge is via Entry Point No. 59 (South Lake Trail/Partridge Lake). The South Lake Trail is basically an old road bed, and snowmobilers are known to use the trail almost all of the way to Partridge, stopping at the BWCAW boundary and hiking the rest of the way in, according to David Seaton of Hungry Jack Canoe Outfitters. Partridge is about two miles on the South Lake Trail from the Gunflint Trail.

Otherwise, according to Voyageur Map No. 9, Partridge is a 173-rod portage from Duncan Lake, and Seaton said the portage is every bit of 173 rods, if not more. Seaton noted a beaver pond that can be a pain navigating around during the soft-water months can be walked across in the winter.

VITALS: Partridge is a 118 acres, according to the Minnesota DNR’s Lakefinder website, with a maximum depth of 80 feet, and a mean depth of 35 feet. It had an average water clarity of 15 feet during the most recent DNR fisheries survey in July of 2013. It’s entirely inside Cook County.

SPECIES PRESENT: Lake trout, green

sunfish and white sucker.

GOOD FISHING: Because there is little for forage in the lake (no dwarf cisco) beyond bugs, the lake is not known for producing large lake trout and its potential to do so is limited. It is known for putting out lots of smaller lake trout.

“It can be a really good lake,” Seaton noted. “Not everyone that goes in there does well. If whatever the gods do that make fish bite happens, it can be a pretty cool place.”

Seaton noted that the lake was hit hard by the infamous 1999 blowdown, though the trails to the lake are still lined with some pretty tall trees.

“It’s at the top of the hill and it got clipped off,” Seaton said. “If people want to go somewhere quiet, it’s always quiet there.”

During the winter, Patridge lakers can roam freely about the lake, uninhibited by low oxygen levels and then have better access to the lake’s population of green sunfish, which were not sampled at sizes exceeding 5 inches in 2013.

CLIMATE CHANGE:

Steve Persons, DNR’s Grand Marais area fisheries supervisor, said that the mean weight in the last

PARTRIDGE LAKE

survey was the second highest ever recorded for the lake. That might not mean that the fish are actually getting bigger, but more likely means there is less reproduction in the lake, and that could be because of climate change, Persons said.

There were several year classes present in the lake, during the recent survey, but it was observed that Partridge lakers grow slower than in similar lakes in the area (an average of 15.1 inches by the end of their sixth year, compared to 17.7 inches for similar lakes).

Basically, with warmer, longer summers, that might be making the lake less hospitable for lake trout, which need cool, deep, highly oxygenated lakes to thrive. It probably doesn’t help that Partridge is fed by tannin-stained bogs, which keeps the lake darker than clearer lakes. Those darker waters absorb more heat, and longer periods of lake stratification are probably reducing oxygen levels in the

View our complete collection of Fishing Hole Maps online at: northernwilds.com /fishingholemaps

deeps of the lake, squeezing their comfort zone.

INTERESTING GENETICS: Partridge, Persons noted, is part of the Lake Superior watershed, unlike many of the waters inside the BWCAW, which flow to the Rainy River watershed. The lake trout in Partridge, researchers have found, have genetics that are more similar to the lakers in Lake Superior.

“You would not be able to tell them apart by looking at them,” Persons said, noting that Partridge’s lakers tend to be dark, bronze-colored, with very orange flesh.

CAMPING: There are three campsites on Partridge Lakes, each with latrines. All three are on the south-facing shore of the lake. The Border Route Trail is accessible via the South Lake Trail and a relatively short trail from the easternmost campsite .—Javier Serna

Wild Traditions

Celestial Navigation: A Lost Art of Finding Our Way

By Julia Prinselaar

We are all navigators. To find our way from one place to another, we often look for landmarks or use maps when we are traveling through unfamiliar places. In today’s world of hand-held computers, navigating has never been easier. With a few effortless taps on our smart phones, mapping tools can give us the fastest route to our destination, all in a matter of seconds.

Unlike the civilizations that came before us, and especially since Global Positioning System (GPS) development in recent decades, we no longer need to rely on our senses to give us clues to where we are in the world—the position of the stars, the Sun and other planets. While it’s been a major boon to personal travel and industry, our over-reliance on GPS has made natural navigational skills all but vanish.

“Celestial navigation is what first let ancient peoples on earth begin to travel. They realized, when they first recognized constellations, that when they started getting further away from home, the stars would rise in [correlation] to a certain time. As people got more advanced, they understood why that happened, and from there they could start figuring out where they were,” says Brendon Roy, president of the Thunder Bay Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. Established in the 1980s, the local chapter currently has about 50 members and is dedicated to promoting sciences and astronomy, and exposing people to the night sky.

According to Andrew K. Johnston and co-authors of the book, Time and Navigation, the Untold Story of Getting Here to There, mod -

ern voyagers suggest that early Polynesian navigators sailed from island to island observing the sun and stars, wind and waves, and the behaviour of birds and fish. The Greeks, Phoenicians, and Romans sailed the Mediterranean Sea for centuries by observing the same indicators.

With the publication of Claudius Ptolemy’s Geography, written in the second century and translated into Latin in 1409-10, the world was mapped with longitude and latitude coordinates, and propelled early explorers into a more accurate means of getting around. Mariners relied heavily on clocks and angle-measuring instruments like the quadrant, the astrolabe, and later the sextant to plot their location on a trackless sea, aligning the stars in the sky to find their own place on Earth.

“In the 1800s, a good time piece was worth its weight in gold,” says Roy. Explorers who could find their way around the world were, in effect, able to discover new land, and establish colonies that helped to expand the great empires throughout history.

“Astronomers were heavily employed during most of the British Empire’s history, because they were the only ones who could get the ships from Point A to Point B. An astronomer on a ship in the old days— even today—if he knew his math and had a good time piece, he could get you down to within a few hundred meters of where you were supposed to be...It had huge impacts, and history today still shows how significant the British Empire is.”

The entire world is set to Universal Time from the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London, UK. It’s the location of the Prime Meridian, an imaginary line that divides the Earth into eastern and western hemispheres. By the late 1800s, more than twothirds of all ships used it as the reference meridian on their charts and maps.

“The history is tied into our present day really tightly,” says Roy. “And it’s kind of funny when you start seeing how it all comes together. So if you look on a map over the years of where observatories are built or what ports had observatories,

you’ll find that the British built an observatory at every one of their major ports— there’s one built in Halifax, there’s one in Cape Cod, throughout East Asia for the trading companies. And the reason that they built them was not so much for scientific advancements, but for finding the positions of the stars to update their tables.”

In our corner of the world, British explorer David Thompson mapped nearly two million square miles of North America using celestial navigation, including Northwestern Ontario. Sources say he was nicknamed “Koo-Koo-Sint,” or “the Stargazer” by some indigenous peoples.

Fast forward to recent decades, and the popularity of satellite positioning outshines navigation by the stars. Or does it?

Recognizing the vulnerabilities that come with modern technologies, the U.S. military is going back to basics—or, at least, reintroducing them to their training modules. Since 2015, its Naval Academy has resumed training officers in the lost art of celestial navigation. In what was once the national standard, this training was eventually phased out in the 2000s with the advent of GPS technology that simplified and improved the ability to find a ship’s position at sea.

“We went away from celestial navigation because computers are great,” Lt. Cmdr. Ryan Rogers, the deputy chairman of the academy’s Department of Seamanship and Navigation, told the Maryland-based Capital Gazette in a 2015 report. “The problem is, there’s no backup.”

Threats to technological infrastructure could disrupt these systems or knock them out entirely, through a deliberate attack, space debris, or even a strong Earth-directed solar storm, according to a 2016 article published in Sky and Telescope Magazine

Even though the training is a small portion of the curriculum for naval students, using a sextant and the stars has worked for seafarers for centuries, and places less reliance on a method that cannot be hacked. It’s a start to improving resilience.

And from our doorsteps, it doesn’t hurt to look up once in awhile and gaze at the night sky in search of Polaris, or the North Star, one of the most important celestial markers in natural navigation. A GPS might be a useful tool to tell us literally where we are on this planet, but tuning in to the natural world will surely offer us the ever-so important sense of our belonging.

Thunderbirds: Powerful Spirits of the Sky Strange Tales

By Elle AndraWarner

According to the Ojibwe lore, the legendary mystical giant birds known as thunderbirds (Animikii) once called the top of Thunder Bay’s Mount McKay their home. Located on the Fort William First Nation and known as Animiki-waajiw in Anishinaabe, the towering 1,000-foot mountain—a sacred site to the Ojibwe—looks over the city and Lake Superior. But the mountain welcomes visitors. At the 500-foot level, there’s a scenic lookout and skywalk boardwalk that delivers an amazing panoramic view stretching out into the horizon, and there’s a hiking trail to the mountain top where the thunderbirds once lived.

The thunderbirds are supernatural, powerful Manitous (spirits), and can create rain, wind and violent thunderstorms with their wings and eyes. There’s a story set back in the 1880s on Minnesota Point in Duluth about an Ojibwe mother telling her son that the thunder was the animikig [thunderbirds] striking their wings against the hills, and the lightning was the flashing of animikig’s eyes. And in the book Norval Morrisseau (National Gallery of Canada 2006), author Greg A. Hill describes thunderbirds as:

“Gigantic birds who protect the Anishnabek [Ojibway]. They have the ability to cause thunderstorms. They make thunder by heating their brilliantly coloured wings and light the skies with their lightning bolts that shoot from their eyes. They are said to take their storms south in the autumn and return with them in the spring.”

There’s also stories about thunderbirds and violent thunderstorms at Thunder Cape, located at the ‘toe’ of the Sleeping Giant Peninsula. And credit goes to the thunderbirds for the name of the largest city on Lake Superior. In the book Thunderbirds: America’s Living Legendary Great Birds, the City of Thunder Bay, Ontario is said to be named after a translation of Animike Wekwed, “Thunder Bird Bay.”

While regional variations differ somewhat in the details surrounding thunderbirds, in the Ojibwe version the thunderbird was created by Nanabozho—a spirit in Anishinaabe creation storytelling—to fight underwater creatures and to protect humans against evil spirits. They arrived in spring and headed south in the fall. As ‘spirits of the sky realm,’ thunderbirds were believed to be links between the spirit and physical world; they are revered and considered sacred.

The thunderbird is found in Indigenous

cultures throughout North America. For example, on the Atlantic East Coast there are stories of winged creatures nesting on high cliffs and scooping up moose and caribou to feed its young. On the Pacific West Coast there’s accounts of thunderbirds flying out on the ocean, picking up a whale with its talons and bringing it inland to eat. Thunderbird tales were known continent-wide, from the peoples of the Navaho, Cheyenne, Comanche, and Cherokee to places like New Mexico, Vancouver Island, Queen Charlotte Islands, Texas, California, Alaska and Mexico.

Closer to our Northern Wilds region, Wisconsin’s Thunder Lake is supposedly named for the legendary thunderbird, and a high rock in Michigan’s Thunder Bay at Alpena was said to be home to the thunder-

birds. In northern Wisconsin, the Menominee have stories about thunderbirds living on a great mountain that floats in the sky and the state’s Thunder Mountain was frequented as a nesting place by thunderbirds. And in North Dakota, a thunderbird supposedly built a nest using sticks and brush at Devils Nest.

Did you know there was a connection between thunderbirds and the game of lacrosse? In his book, Living with Animals: Ojibwe Spirit Powers, author Michael Pomedli writes the game of lacrosse was a “mimic war game believed to have been given to the men by the thunderbirds manidog [spirit], whose property it was considered to be.” Michael noted that the person who called the game had the thunderbird as his guardian spirit; dreams influenced how the game

| WIKIMEDIA

[ABOVE] Thunderbird petroglyphs were found at Twin Bluffs, WI. | WIKIMEDIA

was played. “Ojibwe believe that because lacrosse has celestial origins, it is ruled by cosmic forces and not merely by chance.”

Thunderbird images are found carved on totem poles, on rock art, pictographs, and represented in the paintings created by world-renowned Anishinaabe artists like Thunder Bay’s late Roy Thomas and Beardmore-born Norval “Copper Thunderbird” Morrisseau. In Pomedli’s book, he writes, “Because of their importance as protectors, thunderbirds were displayed in designs available to the public.” The image has been reproduced on paintings, bags, shoulder pouches, jewellry, tattoos, etc.

A beautiful sculpture of a thunderbird “Animikii (….Flies the Thunder)” by artist Anne Allardyce is on view at the boardwalk end of the Kaministquia River Heritage Park. Installed in 1992 as one of the city’s first commissioned public art piece, the stainless steel silver-winged thunderbird is 7-metres (22 feet) high and 3.5-metres wide (12 feet) set on a stone base. A bilingual Ojibwe-English text is engraved in black granite slab.

The sculpture of a thunderbird in flight, “Animikii (…Flies the Thunder)” by Anne Allardyce was installed in 1992 in Thunder Bay. | CITY OF THUNDER BAY

[TOP] Two thunderbirds in quillwork are depicted on an Ojibway shoulder pouch from Boston Museum Collection, Harvard University.

northern sky

FEBRUARY 2018

By Deane Morrison, MN STARWATCH

With a new moon on the 15th, February’s darkest skies come in mid-month.

Use the moonless evenings to enjoy the bright winter constellations, which dominate the southern sky after nightfall. Grab a star chart and look low in the south for lovely Sirius, the brightest of stars. It radiates from Canis Major, the big dog, and can be imagined as a jewel in the dog’s collar. Sirius—also known as the Dog Star—owes its status to its proximity; not quite nine light-years away, it’s one of our closest neighbors. Above Sirius and east of Orion is bright Procyon, in Canis Minor, the little dog. Procyon is another of our neighbors, only about 11.5 light-years away.

In the morning sky, Saturn is low but climbing in the southeast. The ringed planet is chasing Scorpius, with Antares, its bright red heart; Mars, which glides over Antares in mid-month; and Jupiter, the beacon just northwest of Scorpius. Antares’ name means rival of Mars, so now is a great time to compare the red planet to its stellar competitor.

About four times every century, February gets no full moon, and 2018 is one of those years. Only February can lack a phase of the moon, because it’s the sole month shorter than the time it takes the moon to cycle between, say, one full moon and the next, which is 29.5 days. And when February lacks a full moon, January and March are almost certain to get two apiece, as they do this year.

But February always has Groundhog Day, an astronomically based holiday. It’s one of four “cross-quarter days” celebrated by the ancient Celts midway between a solstice and an equinox. It was believed that if the day was sunny it augured continued cold and winter, but cloudy, shadowless days presaged spring rains. The Celts called the day Imbolc, meaning lamb’s milk, because it fell at the start of lambing season.

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

Winter Wonderlands Along the North Shore! Fun Times Skiing, Skjoring, Biking, Snowmobiling!

WATERFALLS ON LAKE SUPERIOR, WALK TO GRAND MARAIS! Stunning home in a Wilderness Setting with Incredible Lakeshore, a combination of Ledgerock and pebble beach! Awake in the morning to the sounds of the Waterfall cascading in to Lake Superior just outside your bedroom window! This striking home is move in ready, main level living with a sweet master bedroom and bath. Lower level walk out area for your friends and family to enjoy! Two plus car garage, with an awesome Man Cave with views of Lake Superior! Gorgeous Landscape, Gorgeous Lake Superior Home. A Must See, including the Little House! MLS#6026723 $799,900

RUGGED ELEGANCE ON LAKE SUPERIOR! LUTSEN’S CASCADE BEACH RD LOCATION

200 ft of level access shoreline and a helluva great home! Spectacular Fireplace, Remodeled KitchenIncredible! Master Suite with a bathroom to LOVE. Recently renovated and updated, this home is Move In Ready for your Family to Enjoy!

MLS#6029989 $799,000

ROMANTIC LOG CABIN ON LAKE

MULFINGER HOME ON LAKE SUPERIOR! Wilderness Wonderland on Stonegate, Gorgeous home with incredible quality and design. Lake Superior is one with this Home! Gourmet Kitchen, Warm and Welcoming great room with Basalt Stone fireplace and huge hearth. Really a Must See home! MLS#6028622 $745,000

NEW! MARVELOUS LAKE SUPERIOR COTTAGE ON CROFTVILLE ROAD IN GRAND MARAIS! Small Footprint, Open Concept! The deck is almost at Water’s Edge, this Cottage was Just renovated and it’s adorable. Perfect Romantic Getaway, completely renovated and Turnkey (less some sentimental items the seller wishes to keep!) Summer Cottage on the Big Lake! MLS#TBA $275,000

and Nice gas Stove makes this a comfy and welcoming Cabin! MLS#6026595 $240,000

SUPERIOR! Enjoy your space while your guest live it up in the Carriage house! Stunning Lake Superior Shoreline, you’ll LOVE the updated interior and warmth of this cabin! MLS#6030729 $399,900 REDUCED!

COMFORTABLE LIVING ON LAKE SUPERIOR! Sprawling ranch living with walk out living space! Nice Lake Views, level access to the shoreline. Updated and Move In Ready Condition, Call today! MLS#6032557 $399,000

DESIGN AND ELEGANCE ON DEERYARD LAKE, LUTSEN. Lindal Cedar Home, dramatic stone fireplace set amongst posts & beams of Douglas Fir. Designer kitchen, sunroom, secluded master bedroom and bath with soaker tub. Wood fired oven, Timberframe Sauna, Woodshop and a large garage. End of the Road 4.48 acres, 175’ of frontage, adjacent public land buffers and beckons.

AT LUTSEN RESORT! Enjoy all that the historic Lutsen Lodge offers…a sandy beach, a cool River, Swimming pool, spa, FABULOUS dining…but enjoy it in STYLE at the Cliffhouse overlooking the historic lodge. Newer construction, Big views, Contemporary Design. Total Comfort. Nice rental income to offset expenses. MLS#6021422 $399,000 REDUCED!

Winter Wonderlands Along the North Shore! Fun Times Skiing, Skjoring, Biking, Snowmobiling!

Winter Wonderlands Along the North Shore! Fun Times Skiing, Skjoring, Biking, Snowmobiling!

Maple Leaf Lane off Hwy 1 near Finland. It’s a quiet getaway cabin, rustic living. Super hunting spot, man cave cabin! MLS# 6030497 $59,900

Whitetail Ridge Overlooking Lake Superior! Just off Highway 1, Enjoy Sprawling Lake and Ridgeline views and Rugged Terrain! Yr Round Access, Electric. MLS# 6024856 $110,000

30 acres Wilderness, Borders lands next to Little Manitou River!

MLS#2309327 $129,000

Rock Road in Silver Bay area! Great build site with creek frontage! MLS#2308638 $45,000 REDUCED!

Lakeshore on Ninemile Lake at the Village, common water and septic, build ready, borderscommon land! MLS#2309096 $39,000 REDUCED!

Marks Drive Build Ready parcel in Silver Bay. City Utilities, Super location for a nice family home! Great neighborhood MLS#6031871 $22,000

10 Ac Parcels of Maples! Rolling Terrain of Mature Maples to a Sweet Building site Perched Over a Mixed Boreal Forest. Year Round Access and Electric at Road!

MLS#2024250 $49,900 REDUCED!

DRAMATIC Mountain Top Views, Rolling Hills, Maple Forests fading in to Spruce and Pine and year round access. FROM $70,000 MLS#2090628

87 High Ridge Dr-Lot 3 Sugarloaf Retreats! Driveway in, cleared build site, just plan your North Shore home to take advantage of the Awesome Ridgeline Views! MLS#6030129 $59,000

Sawbill Trail Tofte Lake Superior Views, Mature Spruce forest with driveway and well in place! MLS#6030129 $99,900

LeVeaux Mountain, Super Views and Wildlife Ponds!

MLS#2220050 $69,000

Just Up the Sawbill Trail Grab your little piece of the Northwoods, rolling terrain and small community feel with year round access, great build sites!

MLS#2070509 Prices from $24,900!!

Wowser Lake Superior views on Overlook Tr!

MLS#2296509 $79,900

Maples with lots of Elbow Room, Year Round access and nice location between Cross River in Schroeder and Finland!

MLS#6028422 $59,000

Holy Smokes! End of the Road bordering County land, Tofte. HUGE value with 2 lots sold for the price of one!

MLS#6028792 $49,900 PENDING!

1046 Cramer Rd-Schroeder-40 ac with creek and tons of Maples! OMG it’s a beautiful parcel with high elevations and ravine like creek. Driveway is in! MLS#6028837 $98,000

BIG TIME VIEWS of Lake Superior-Tofte, Excellent value at Johannes Toftey

MLS#6029322 $68,500

Overlook at LeVeaux Mountain-Tofte!

Serene Woodsy setting with Lake Views!

MLS#6029324 $49,000

Maples Galore, Acreage! Schroeder Location with Yr Round Access and Electric!

MLS#6029593 $99,000

Nice large parcel #19 at Sugarloaf Retreats, Boreal Forest land with yr rd access/electric.

MLS#6031140 $44,400

LeVeaux Creek Runs Through this Sweet Build Site, minutes to Lutsen Ski Resort! Lake Views! MLS#6031876 $65,000

QUIET CONTEMPLATION ON LAKE

SUPERIOR IN LUTSEN! Creek runs along East Border, with 200+ ft waterfront. Excellent Views, Wilderness Setting. MLS#6028455 $269,900 REDUCED!

Lutsen Mountains! MLS#6032772 $499,900

LUTSEN LAKE SUPERIOR CASCADE

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

SWEET PARCEL ON SWALLOW

LAKE in Isabella area! 220 ft of shoreline, 2.5 ac!

MLS#2300576 $64,900

OVER 400 FT OF ACCESSIBLE

SHORELINE with beach on Lake Superior, Lutsen’s Rollins Creek Road! MLS#6031579 $499,900

KAYAKERS GETAWAY ON TOM LAKE!

Sloping Wilderness Shoreline, Water Access Only!

MLS#6032237 $124,900

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

MLS#2272174 $49,900

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

MLS#6023412 $35,000

Woodland Foothills Build Ready lots, Shared Water & Community Septic from MLS#2309328+ FROM $39,000

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

MLS#2312987 $119,000

Over 8 ac of Wilderness on Turnagain Trail in Lutsen!

MLS#2216560 $45,000

Prime Build Site(s) just off theCaribou at Jonvick Creek!

MLS#2240533 $49,000

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

MLS#2174799 From $54,900 - $77,500

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

MLS#2080599 $137,500

Maple Leaf Trail at Jonvick, Maples Galore! Nice elevated build site. Yr Round access, electric.

MLS#6024972 $49,000

Ridgetop Views Overlooking Caribou Lake! Tuck your home in to the Maple hillside in Lutsen, year round access. Super Location!

MLS#6028429 $56,500

END OF THE ROAD SPECTACULAR

280 ft of cliff shoreline with unobstructed Views across Lake Superior! Little Marais area, Build ready, driveway already in place! MLS#2313255 $235,000 REDUCED!

400 FT OF STUNNING LAKE SUPERIOR

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

MLS#2313305 $440,000

PIKE LAKE SHORELINE, PRIME rocky s horeline, dropping off to nice depth! Awesome mixed boreal forest, high ground for build site. South facing, year round access, electric. Build your dream home, ask for Lot 6 Willard Lane!

MLS#6031145 $199,900

LOVELY DEERYARD LAKE PARCEL! Lutsen’s Secret Treasure, Deeryard is a peaceful respite from the busy life outside the Northwoods. Maple hillside cascades in to the clear waters!

MLS#6027527 $189,900

Tait Lake area, Legend Trail parcel bordering USFS lands with views of Wills and Williams Lake!

MLS#6028619 $67,500

Wilderness Lutsen location at Tait Lake- backlot with Driveway in place! Yr Round and Electric

MLS#6029115 $37,500

Ridgetop 5+ ac in Lutsen, Ski Hill and Lake Superior Views! Fab Location, Boreal Forest with Maples! MLS#603266 $49,900

Ski Hill Road lands, Boreal Lane is your Key To Mountain Top Living! 5 ac lots from MLS#6029557+ $59,000 TO $99,000

20 Acres near Pike Lake, minutes to the new Boat Landing! Driveway is in place, nice shed. Panoramic Wilderness!

MLS#6028569 $69,000

Grand Marais Meadows on County Rd 7, Gorgeous Setting, Super location!

MLS#6029849+ $65,000

NEW! 60 Ac East of Grand Marais with the Superior Hiking Trail thru leading to Lake Superior Beach!

MLS#6031588 $89,900 SOLD!

NEW! Two Awesome City Lots, Great East 5th Street location. MLS#6031883 $54,900, MLS #6031882 $59,900

LAKESHORE 10+ ACRES BORDERING SUPERIOR NATIONAL FOREST! in Lutsen, year round access with

MLS#6023288 $99,900

STUNNING LAKE SUPERIOR VIEWS.

Immaculate and beautifully furnished 4 bdrm, 3 bath Lake Superior home. Very little maintenance with smaller association benefits! All major rooms with stunning lake views. Master suite and laundry on main level. MLS# 6028321

$565,000

FOUR SEASONS GUEST HOUSE. Family compound or short-term rentals-you choose. Endless views, solidly built, rear parcel with lake views, new septic, and location, location, location! MLS# 6030289 $515,000

LAKE SUPERIOR HOME SITE. Great Lake Superior lot with an excellent site for walkout. Surveyed and level open location for your new home. This 1.07 acre parcel has a very neat, private cove and a 447' of meandering ledge rock shoreline. MLS# 6027506 $299,000

LAKE SUPERIOR, BIG BAY, BIG VIEWS. Dense spruce forest, moss covered boulders and privacy make this a classic Lake Superior lot. 200' shoreline with partial driveway in place, shared road maintenance, power and Broadband. Easy access from Hwy 61, yet private and secluded feeling. MLS# 6029039 $199,900

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

SECLUSION AND SERENITY IN MAPLE

PANORAMIC LAKE SUPERIOR. Gorgeous 10 acres with panoramic views on Lake Superior. 545 feet of beautiful sand/gravel beach with a stream running through the property. Located only 1.5 miles from Gooseberry State Park. Septic hook up is at the road. MLS# 6031490 $399,000

CLASSIC CABIN ON CLEARWATER LAKE. Comfortable, well maintained 2 bdrm, 1 bath cabin cared for by the same family for over 60 years. 205 feet of shoreline on much sought after Clearwater lake with direct access to the BWCA. MLS# 6032657 $259,000

RARE GUNFLINT LAKE PARCEL. Exceptional lot with 344' of waterfront features unreal views and privacy. Use the slope of this lot to your advantage when considering what style to build. Power and broadband available. Borders public land! MLS# 6027298 $225,000

NEW! DEVIL TRACK LAKE HOME AND CABIN. Incredibly well-built 4 bdrm Devil Track Lake home on a premier lot. Included is the main home along with a lovely guest cabin, all just a short distance from the water's edge. Nice 3 car garage, woodburning Carlton Peak stone fireplace, updated mechanicals (furnace, water heater, air exchanger), and lakeside deck. Potential for rental income (vacation rental or longterm). MLS# 6032678 $344,900

FOREST. Immaculate, Mulfinger designed 2 bdrm, 2 bath home situated perfectly into the terrain with rock outcroppings and stunning views through the tree tops. Deep woods privacy, beautiful features and 220' lake shore. MLS# 6032538 $359,900 CABIN WITH BWCAW VIEW ON MCFARLAND. This super 2 bdrm cabin has great views of the Palisades and the west end of McFarland Lake. Just a stone’s throw from the BWCAW! Comes furnished including pontoon boat, fishing boats, canoe, dock, and two Onan generators. MLS# 6029644 $199,000

HOMES & CABINS

GUNFLINT TRAIL ES-

CAPE Tucked away overlooking Gunflint Lake are 9 acres of dense forest with a stream. Two small but functional cabins are remodeled and ready for you to move in. Great log sauna. Adjoins federal land - walk to the BWCAW. Public landing nearby. MLS# 6031608 $129,900

MARKET, DELI, LIQUOR STORE – HOVLAND. A bustling business in a beautiful rural community on the North Shore. Bakery, deli, pizza, convenience store, and liquor store under one roof. Large seating area & outdoor patio. Expansion/home site possible! MLS# 6023742 $329,900

small cabins could be rented, and there's room for many more...or other possibilities. Large 2-car garage plus two sheds. MLS# 6026089 $284,900

PRIME RETAIL DOWNTOWN GRAND

MARAIS. Main traffic location in the heart of down town. Located on Wisconsin St between Blue Water Cafe and Sivertson Gallery, with 25 ft street frontage and over 2300 sq ft each. Build up for a lake view –lots of possibilities!

MLS# 6029930, 6029951 $150,000 each

PRIME COMMERCIAL LOTS IN LUTSEN.Two acre-sized lots with Highway 61 frontage-road access and great visibility in downtown Lutsen. Nice creek borders the east property line, nice mature forest. Great location for a small gallery, retail or restaurant. A residential lot is available adjoining to the north.

• MLS# 6027064 $99,900

• MLS# 6030056 $89,900

LARGE TRACT WITH CREEK. This 319 acre parcel has ponds & creek frontage on the Flute Reed River. Has been in DNR management program. Great for hunting or homesteading. Access is by unimproved easement from the Camp 20 Road, near county maintenance. The land may be split - take your pick of "40's"! MLS# 6027384 $258,000

LARGE ACREAGE WITH WATER FEATURES. The headwaters of Irish Creek! Quality 160+ acres, 5 parcels sold grouped or separately. Many great features incl. old growth white pine, ponds, camping and building areas. MLS# 6030177 $149,500

SUGARBUSH, BEAVER, TROUT. Remote 80 acres ,10 miles from Grand Marais with easy access. Surrounded by public land. 700’ of Durfee Creek frontage. MLS# 6024638 $149,000

TWENTY ACRES – GREAT LOCATION. Great larger parcel near Grand Marais with road in to the “top” of the property. Lake views, maple and mixed forest, small creek. County road access with power and broadband close by, borders public land on three sides. MLS# 6030517 $112,000

WOODS, WATER & SECLUSION.Three 40 acre lots with 600 to 1000 ft frontage on Mons Creek. Also includes deeded access to Lost Lake. Private and secluded. MLS# 6021356 $59,900 or MLS# 6021357 $69,900 or MLS# 6021358 $74,900.

NICE HOME SITE NEAR GRAND MARAIS. Nice elevation and views from this 6.75 acre lot off of County Rd 6 just minutes from town. Frontage on Little Devil Track River, with lowland and highlands. Nice forest and privacy for your home or cabin in the woods. MLS# 6031740 $54,900

FLUTE REED RIVER HOME SITES. These two heavily wooded parcels have the seclusion of 11-13 acres and about 330' frontage each on the trout stream Flute Reed River. Access is easy from frontage on a county road. Power and broadband are available. These lots are the perfect place for a retreat property or a year-round home. MLS# 6030884, 6030885 $49,900 each

500’ ON MOHNS CREEK. Mixed topography of beautiful rolling land with many great build sites on 25 acres. Old growth cedar, spruce, pine and birch. Abuts state land. MLS# 6029353 $39,000

100+ ACRES NEAR GRAND MARAIS. Great location for a home or recreational property just minutes from Grand Marais. Rolling land with creek, borders thousands of acres of federal and state lands. Great investment and subdivision project. Power at road. Seller willing to subdivide MLS# 6032474 $277,900

ACREAGE ADJOINS WILDERNESS - LAKE ACCESS. This 42 acre parcel includes 400 feet of shoreline on McFarland Lake. Building sites are located across the road on the hillside with potential lake views. Rugged property with high topography and old growth cedar and pine. Easy access to the BWCAW and Border Route Hiking Trail. MLS# 6024602 $179,000

INCREASINGLY RARE, LARGE RECREATIONAL PARCEL. 190 arces fully surveyed. The perfect retreat. Has a rich variety of trees, ponds, high and low lands, some meadow land and wetlands. MLS# 6029820 $150,000

BIG LAND NEAR LAKE SUPERIOR. Four 80 acre parcels located south of Schroeder off Highway 61 with shared access and approved septic sites. Mix of trees, gradual elevation, nice build sites and lake view.

MLS# 6027841, 6027843, 6027844, 6027845 $139,900 each

FANTASTIC FIVE MILE ROCK. Great 7 acre property abuts Highway 61 at Five Mile Rock. Beautiful views of Lake Superior. Excellent build site and a 30 x 40 Morton building. Ready for your dreams! MLS# 6030238 $120,000 PROVEN GREAT HUNTING AREA - 80 ACRES. Prime hunting land in Schroeder. Rolling land with great wildlife habitat incl. stream, beaver dam with large pond, and a good mixture of trees and low vegetation. Older 2 bdrm cabin in a beautiful park like setting overlooking large beaver pond. MLS# 6032712 $115,000

LARGE ACREAGE NEAR TOM LAKE. 128 acres with good road access and an easy walk to the Tom Lake boat landing. Year-round road, power is possible here. The 3 forties may be split - take your pick. MLS# 6027383 $111,000

HUGE POND-HUGE PRIVACY. Large 45+ acre wooded parcel located across from Tom Lake. Huge pond/lake in the very center of the acreage MLS# 6029352 $99,000

LAND NEAR WILSON LAKE. A special piece of the Northwoods – 16 acres with deeded access to Wilson Lake! USA-owned forest is your backyard. Driveway, electric, and a small bunkhouse/shed are in place. MLS# 6028685 $80,000

LARGE LAND, MAPLES, LAKE ACCESS. This 67 acre parcel has high maple ridges, a pond, and an easement to walk to Tom Lake. Good seasonal road access, many nice building sites. A perfect escape property in an area with many trails to ride and forest to explore. MLS# 6030705 $69,900

LARGE LAND, POND, LAKE RIGHTS. Densely wooded 60 acre parcel with beaver ponds and access to Lost Lake. Good seasonal road access, many great building sites and southerly exposure. Lots of elbow room, privacy, and miles of forest roads to explore. MLS# 6029025 $64,900

GREAT LOCATION, QUALITY FOREST, BUILD HERE. These 10-acre parcels have a mature and mixed forest, southerly exposure, easy county road frontage and just minutes from Grand Marais. MLS# 6023274 $64,900, MLS# 6023275 $62,900, MLS# 6023276 $64,900

MAPLE HILL - HOME SITE. Heavily wooded 6.45 acre parcel with great privacy, county rd frontage, power and phone. MLS# 6023465 $64,500

RUSTICATE, RECREATE, RELAX. Hovland hideaway – 43 acres with new driveway to “base camp” with a nice camper trailer and shed. Trails have been cut throughout the property which adjoins State land. MLS# 2313223 $59,900

WOODED HOME SITE This 5+ acre parcel is only 1.5 miles from Grand Marais and ready for your country home. Mixed forest, with forest service land in the back for exploring or hunting. A driveway and culvert are already in place. MLS# 6026053 $55,000

STONE'S THROW LAKE SUPERIOR. This heavily wooded, private 2+ acre building site sits just across the highway from Lake Superior's shore with a view of the big lake. You can walk the beach or have a bonfire on the State shoreline. MLS# 6029899 $52,900

RUSTIC WOODED WONDERLAND. Beautiful 40 acres of maple forest with small rustic cabin bordering Judge Magney State Park. Enjoy the peaceful solitude of Aide Lake, rimmed by an open cedar grove just a short hike from the cabin into the park. MLS# 6025235 $52,000

PERFECT 5 ACRE HOME SITE. This private and secluded build site is just waiting for your custom plans! Only five miles from town with five acres of great woods bordering public land on two sides. MLS# 6028922 $51,500

30 ACRES - PANORAMIC VIEWS. Rare mountain top property with a 180 degree view of distant Lake Superior and the ridge to the north. Many trails in place with food plots for wildlife. MLS# 6020274 $49,500

BUILDING SITE OVERLOOKING MCFARLAND. This pine studded 7 acre property has easy walking access to the county beach on McFarland Lake. Nice elevated build site with easy county road access. MLS# 6024601 $43,000

WOODED ACREAGE – GM. Private 20 acre lot with hiking and ski trails, and abundant wildlife. A high building site offers seasonal views of Lake Superior. MLS# 2313173 $35,000

5 ACRES NEAR CARIBOU LAKE. Gorgeous corner lot with colorful maples and majestic cedars. Plenty of privacy. Close to hiking trails and the Caribou Lake boat landing. Year round access with power! MLS# 2279179 $35,000 LAND FOR ESCAPE AND RECREATION. Remote yet accessible 20 acres near Judge Magney State Park. Good mix of trees, high building site, some distant Lake Superior views. MLS# 6025397 $34,900

GREAT LOCATION HOME SITE. Wooded home or cabin site near Devil Track Lake. The 1.72 acre lot has nice trees and maybe a view of the lake from a second story. The boat landing is

Homes & Cabins

Land

W Hwy 61 Great location and development opportunities right off Hwy 61! 7.1A, zoned commercial and R-1. Additional R-1 acreage available.

MLS 2170380 $149,900

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

MLS 6024552 $39,900

Coyote Ridge Three 5A, private, beautifully wooded parcels close to town. Babbling, gurgling creek for your boundary.

MLS 6021224

$45,000 - $65,000

25+A close to Grand Marais; healthy mix of trees with a very gently rolling topography. Approximately 800’ frontage on the Fall River.

MLS 6030910 $89,900

Rosebush Hill Lane Nicely wooded 5.40A with shared driveway only minutes from town. Identified septic sites and fully surveyed! Approx. 430’ of creek frontage. OWNER will consider a Contract for Deed!

MLS 6030911 $49,900

5.72A of nicely wooded land with gently rolling topography AND approx. 500’ frontage on the Rosebush Tributaries. OWNER will consider a Contract for Deed!

MLS 6030899 $39,900

78 Squint Lake Rd 5A surrounded on 2 sides by government land. Convenient mid-trail location.

MLS 6020283 $59,900

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

MLS 6023743 $39,900

Broadway Ave Wonderful location, oversize lot is open to many opportunities for development and use.

MLS 6031909 $48,000

Co Rd 67 2.24A, year round access, directly abuts State Land to the east. Fully surveyed and well-built private driveway. MLS 6029973 $39,900

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

MLS 6029678 $18,400 SOLD

County Rd 7

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

MLS 6028579 $58,000

Super private piece of land with 6.83A that directly abuts Federal land. There is a seasonal camper on the property that is perfect if you are only using a few times a year.

MLS 6031424 $59,900

Silver Fox Rd

Peaceful and quiet 5A close to town with easements onto Federal Land.

MLS 6025690 $25,900

County Rd 48

2 lots 5-7A, 5+ and 7+A lots at a great country location just minutes from town. Recreation trails close by.

MLS 6030629 $45,000 - $47,500

Wildwood Acres

5 parcels in Wildwood Acres! .9A to 1.85A. Nicely wooded and private. Residential neighborhood.

MLS 6031563 $20,000 - $35,000

Boulder Point Rd

3.55A in Lutsen off the Ski Hill Rd. Abuts State Scenic and Natural area providing hundreds of acres of untouched land.

MLS 6031787 $59,900

2965 E Hwy 61

Conveniently located near public access to Lake Superior, Kadunce Wayside, Kadunce River, Superior Hiking Trail and more.

MLS 6031864 $15,900 SOLD

Victory Lane

20A with great building sites overlook a beautiful beaver pond and some great building sites overlooking the pond.

MLS 6032536 $25,000

E County Rd 14

Private 5A piece of property out of town yet close enough for school and work. The road is in place and great building sites whether it’s a year round home or a getaway cabin.

MLS 6032716 $37,500 PENDING

Grand Marais Condo Located

Inland Lake Homes

Inland Lake Lots

Chester Lake

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

MLS 2158160 $52,500

.94A with 291’ of shore. Healthy mix of huge white pines, cedars & balsams. Cleared building site, electricity, phone & broadband available.

MLS 6028705 $169,900

Large Acreage

200A Camp 12 Rd - $159,900

Over 200A of land, much of it abutting State and Federal land giving you access to thousands of acres!

MLS 6028671

170A+ Camp 20 Rd - $149,900

Heavily forested land that has been replanted with many beautiful pine trees. Rolling topography with many building sites and hiking trails. Features a gravel pit on the northwest corner and a small wildlife pond to the south. State land to the south.

MLS 6022459

110A W Highway 61 - $649,900

Nicely wooded land with varied elevations on the Highway 61 corridor. Year round access via Highway 61 and County Road 7. Many development options with multiple zoning: Far-3, R-1 and commercial.

MLS 2164180

43A County Road 7 - $299,900

Nicely wooded with excellent development potential. Close to hospital and all the amenities of Grand Marais.. Multiple zoning (R1 & Far 3), survey and wetlands delineation completed in 2007. Electric at road.

MLS 2170711

CATCHLIGHT CATCHLIGHT

Boreal owl

It was snowing lightly when the tiny boreal owl popped out of the aspen forest to begin hunting along a rural North Shore back road. A 10-inch tall, five ounce bundle of intensity, it flit from perch to perch, pausing to listen for dinner—a mouse or vole—beneath the snow. I managed to get a handful of images before its hunt took it out of sight onto private land. Seeing a boreal owl is a rare treat. Although northeastern Minnesota is within the southern edge of their breeding range, it takes an irruption (a movement south) of more northerly cousins to increase the odds of actually stumbling across one. When you do, they are often asleep, for they hunt primarily during twilight hours. I count myself fortunate to have caught up with this owl when it was alert and eyes wide open. —Michael Furtman