Ely Summer Times 2025

© Laura Schultze @lauramngirl

Ely Summer Times

2025

Contents Kekekabic Glass Arts in Ely Wildlife Encounters Ely’s Healers Ely Dining Guide Recipes for a Crowd Ely Updates Spiritual Gatherings

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The Ely Summer and Winter Times is published twice a year by Raven Words Press. Online issue with links at RavenWordsPress.com. For editorial information or advertising rates, contact us at PO Box 188, Ely, MN

A Tribute to Ely Photographers What’s in the Water?

One Honored Treaty Becca’s Boots Summer Reading Where to Go, What to Do Ely Area Calendar Ely Area Maps

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Kekekabic Glass W

ilderness draws people to the Ely area to play, work, live, heal, and explore–both literally and metaphorically.

A job that requires being outdoors most days, a lakeshore cabin surrounded by pines, a view of sky and forest from almost everywhere–these can inspire a life-changing decision to pull up roots and transplant a familiar life to a fresh location. Sometimes that’s impulsive, and sometimes years of planning precede the move.

For Rosemary and John, the big move followed ten years of knowing they wanted to leave Michigan. After several trips to the Boundary Waters, they began volunteering for the U.S. Forest Service Kawishiwi District in 2006 and liked it so much they returned each summer to work just for fun.

They had met at Shadetree Studio in Petoskey, Michigan, where John worked as a glass cutter and Rosemary assembled glass work.

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They learned as they worked, perfecting their skill at museum-quality glass restoration while they also crafted their relationship into a romance.

Their reputation as skilled restoration specialists brought work at churches, museums, and stately mansions in Detroit. They became wellknown in the small world of glass restoration and were offered work farther afield. A large Tiffany window at the University of Michigan was a threeyear project that allowed them to work winters and spend summers

volunteering for the Forest Service.

Situated two stories up on a stone building, the work required several scaffolding layers high above the floor.

Tiffany windows, for those unfamiliar with this craft and its famous artists, are those designed and made by Louis Tiffany, the son of the founder of the prestigious jewelry company. The name also applies to windows and lamps made from the special glass that Tiffany Glass Studio developed to create the precise color, opalescence, and translucency desired by the artist. In one

U of MI Tiffany window

John and Rosemary working at Faith Chapel

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The Ely Summer Times

of the windows John and Rosemary restored, there were four layers of different colored glass in many of the pieces. This creates a challenge for restoration as the original glass must be reused. A special glue can repair cracks in the hands of a skilled worker.

There are two ways to create a

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stained glass piece. For a more detailed design with small pieces, the method developed by Louis Tiffany is preferred.

Each piece is wrapped in copper tape that resembles a narrow piece of foil.

Then iron or tin solder is added to both sides to hold the pieces in place. This is John’s and Rosemary’s specialty. For a less complex design, a lead H-shaped channel is used to secure the glass.

A complex project on Jekyll Island in Georgia had to be done on site. The Faith Chapel Tiffany window restoration required John and Rosemary to live there for a month, working in a makeshift shop set up just for their work space. They worked long hours every day to completely restore the seven separate panels with thousands of individual pieces of glass.

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Meanwhile, a move to Ely was becoming more appealing. With the complex, long-lasting, and well-paying jobs coming their way, they could see a path to living here and traveling as needed for work. So in 2016, they became permanent Ely residents.

The former Ely Miner building was an ideal space for a street-side showroom, back-room workshop, and upstairs living space–and was for sale in a foreclosure deal that made it affordable. Although they needed to commute to Georgia for work until that

project was completed, Rosemary and John found work in Ely as well. John’s carpentry skills were valuable in helping to restore the Ely State Theater.

Rosemary taught stained glass craft first at the Folk School and later in their Chapman Street showroom. They worked together on custom orders for stained glass in new homes being built in the Ely area. John did carpentry and restoration at the former Music Outfitters building and the J D Mills store conversion to Firefly Vintage and realty offices.

Custom doors for Fall Lake residence 8

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Fortune smiled on the Lake Vermilion Cultural Center when their board decided to convert St. Mary’s Episcopal Church to a community center. John and Rosemary brought hope that the 17 strikingly beautiful stained glass windows, cracked and disintegrating after years of neglect, could be restored. Bringing in specialists from Chicago or even farther away would have been prohibitively

expensive. As it was, the organization needed to hold many fundraisers and solicit donations to restore the church and its windows. The work took five years, and now these windows are a treasure that Tower and the Lake Vermilion community take pride in.

In an afternoon with Rosemary, students can learn more about stained glass creations than they knew there was to learn–and end up with a sun

One of the 17 windows in Tower 2025

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catcher they made themselves. Because her workshop space is small, Rosemary favors one-on-one lessons, but can accommodate two students if desired.

She can instruct both beginner and advanced levels. Usually the class is divided into four 3-hour sessions. The students choose their own pattern and glass, creating a larger piece.

John and Rosemary still prioritize time outdoors in summer, so they don’t keep their shop open on a 9-5 schedule.

They are often out of town to work on custom jobs, visit family back in Michigan, or take the canoe trips they still enjoy. Visitors can drop in if the shop is open. To make an appointment to see the shop, place a custom order, or set up lessons, text or call 218-342-2842 or message Kekekabic Studio on Facebook. Like most of Ely’s exceptionally talented artists, John and Rosemary are friendly, easy to talk to, and happy to share their skills.

The angel wings on this section of the Tiffany window in the Faith Chapel had several layers of glass, including a custom white opalescent layer that was specially made at the Tiffany Glass Company.

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The Ely Summer Times

ORGANIZATIONS The Art Corner 301 W Sheridan Street Ely Art Walk ElyArtWalk.org Ely Photographic Collaborative Find it on Facebook Ely Folk School 209 E Sheridan Street Gardner Humanities Trust GardnerTrust.org Northern Lakes Arts Assn.

NorthernLakesArts.org Tofte Lake Center TofteLake.org

ELY ARTS

WALLS & SHELVES Art & Soul Gallery 427 E Sheridan Street Brainstorm Bakery 402 E Sheridan Street The Brandenburg Gallery 11 E Sheridan Street Ely Historic State Theater 238 E Sheridan Street Fernberg Art Gallery 2267 Fernberg Road Firefly Vintage 230 E Sheridan Street Gallery Ali 6 E Sheridan Street

ARTISTS’ WEBSITES Consie Powell ConsiePowell.com

Kekekabic Studio 118 E Chapman Street

Chris Koivisto Ceramics ElyArt.com Eric Sherman Photography EricShermanImages.com

The Meadows 15 E Sheridan Street

Dafne Caruso Arts DafneCaruso.com Larry Ricker Photography LHRimages.com

Mealey’s Gift Shop 124 N Central Avenue

Nancy Scheibe Nancy Scheibe.com

Ornamental Hermit Studio 132 N 1st Avenue E, by appt Mugs by Three Jewels Pottery

Three Jewels Pottery 206 E Sheridan Street

Critter Capers Photos and Story by Ken Hupila

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was changing memory cards in my trail cams one day last summer. I drove my 4-wheeler out to my deer stand and walked to one camera about 60 yards to the east. After putting a fresh card in, I decided to look at some red pine seedlings I planted a couple of years ago. Wading into a patch of waisthigh raspberry brambles I was startled by a big grey form jumping up – literally at my feet! It was an adult wolf, and I had stepped directly on his backside!

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To say I was startled would be an understatement. How could I have gotten so close to such a wily animal? In retrospect, I realized that he felt he was safe from discovery in the thick foliage.

When I entered the berry patch I caught him by surprise. I’ve spent almost 70 years wandering through the forest and backcountry. There have been too many encounters to remember. Some I was looking for. A few, like this one, were unexpected. Let me tell you about a few memorable ones.

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Wolves are supposed to be crafty, unapproachable creatures. Yet over the years I’ve been within 20 feet of them at least six times. Twice, out of curiosity, they approached me. Twice they were going about their business and failed to notice I was in their path. And one time a wolf needed to get to some destination down the Echo Trail, and I was in the way. He walked up to within a few feet, stopped to look at me, and then made a small detour to go around. They might be crafty but at times they can be inattentive or downright uncaring of a face-to-face meeting.

Camping in the Boundary Waters, I have had many experiences with bears:

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meeting them on portages, having them in camp, finding one in a den. My most memorable experience involved cutting firewood with a chainsaw on my back forty. I had dropped a tree and was walking along its length to remove the branches. Halfway along, some movement caught my attention. There was a medium-size bear sitting and watching me from less than twenty feet away. I was puzzled and walked towards it, revving my saw to make some extra noise. It got up and sauntered away. I went back to work and less than a minute later the bear returned and again sat down next to me. Spooked, I gave up cutting and left to have coffee and return

The Ely Summer Times

later in the day. I didn’t see him again.

Moose are majestic creatures. It’s always a thrill to see them in the wild.

The big bulls can be aggressive in the fall as they enter their breeding season.

I had one challenge my truck as I drove down Highway 1. Often I’ve lured in a bull moose by calling out like a lovesick cow or a rival bull. One fall a Forest Service employee told me they had seen a moose the previous day along one of the back roads. I got up very early, drove to the spot they had mentioned, walked back into the woods and waited.

After 45 minutes I hadn’t seen anything, so decided to call out a bull grunt.

Immediately to my right a young bull charged into the opening I where I stood.

He stopped mere yards away, looked at me, and must have decided that I was no threat to his harem. Soon he ambled away.

Lynx are relatively uncommon in northeast Minnesota, but more have been showing up over the last decade.

Lynx are exotic and interesting. They

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are also very tolerant of humans.

Whether they are curious – as cats are supposed to be – or just don’t see us as a threat might explain why they will let you approach within a few feet before they turn and melt back into the forest.

Animals can be unpredictable, so I wouldn’t push this attribute too far.

As I was making breakfast at camp near Upper Basswood Falls one summer, a movement along the Canadian shoreline caught my eye.

There was a red dot that moved along the water’s edge for about 100 feet, then changed direction and moved back to where I first saw it. Back and forth it went for several minutes. I was too far away to see what it was or why it was acting like that. I had to find out, so I jumped into my canoe to investigate. To my surprise, I found two mink engaged in a game of tag! Someone had lost the red plastic cup from a thermos bottle and the critters had found it. One would pick it up and run along the shoreline until the other would chase him and

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swat his tail. The first would drop it and the other would pick it up and go in the other direction until he was “tagged.” I watched for a full ten minutes before I returned to my coffee. They were still at it when I got back to camp.

Fox can be aloof and standoffish, or they can be downright playful. Late one November during our first snowfall, I took off with my camera on the Forest Service backroads to see what I could find. Down one straight stretch I could

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see a fox approaching me from several hundred yards away. I stopped my truck and got out, leaning against my left front fender, hoping she would continue towards me. Continue she did. Right up to my fender and then looked up at me!

She trotted around the far side of my vehicle and stopped just a few feet behind it. I walked to the back of the truck, and she began to play in the new snow. She rolled over, lay on her belly, stuck her nose down deep and tossed the soft white stuff into the air. Then she sat up and walked towards me and went for another roll in the snow. She was enjoying herself. I ran out of room on my memory cards and found no reason to detain her any longer. Opening my driver side door, I saw her peek around the bumper one more time and head back down the road.

On a solo canoe trip from Beaverhouse Lake to Mudro one summer, I was portaging from Argo down to Crooked Lake with a pack on

The Ely Summer Times

my back and a canoe on my shoulders.

About halfway along, a scratching noise caught my ear. I lifted the front of the canoe high and quickly glanced to my left. A pine marten was circling a tree at eye level with me. On one of his trips around the trunk, he stopped and we stared at each other for 30 seconds before he climbed up and out of sight.

For a moment, it was like we were communicating – connecting his world with mine.

I love owls. We are fortunate to be in an area where some live and many migrate through. Walking along an opening at the edge of a swamp late one winter, I suddenly felt as if I was being

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watched. I soon spotted a great gray owl peeking at me from around the back side of a birch tree. We kept eye contact for a few seconds, then he swooped

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OUTBOARD REPAIR

Joe’s Marine and Repair. Evinrude sales and service. Mechanics on duty Monday through Saturday. Our show room is full of boating accessories for “Fun on the Water.” 25 W. Chapman St., 218-365-6264

down and landed at my feet! His head swiveled around and within a moment he took off with a vole in his talons! I must have stirred up the forest floor a bit and he took full advantage of it!

Spring mating rituals cause critters to act in unusual ways. I’ve been fortunate enough to observe ruffed grouse drumming and sharptails and prairie chickens sparing with others on their leks, and to be chased across a small opening in a balsam thicket by a spruce grouse. There was a female nearby and there was no way he was going to let me get into his action! He would fly up to a lower branch and spread his tail feathers like a turkey, then drop to the ground, ruffle up his neck feathers, drop his wing tips into the duff, and charge me until I gave up ground. His lady friend must have been special because my daunting size didn’t dissuade him at all.

Late in the winter and early spring I check out nest cavities in trees that I’ve watched over the years. Sometimes there will be owls residing there.

Sometimes ducks. On occasion even some pileated woodpeckers. By “tickling” the bottom of the tree (scratching the bark with a stick), I’ve found all kinds of things peeking out to check me over. One of my favorite critters to see are flying squirrels. Since 18

they are nocturnal, I rarely see these cute little mammals. Having one stare down at me from a cavity is a thrill.

I was fishing in “third current” on Crooked Lake one October. We’d had a good day catching numerous walleyes and a few big pike. The south side of the narrows had a rock wall that rose a few feet from the water’s edge. A disturbance at its base drew our attention and we paddled over to see what was happening. After a couple of minutes, a school of minnows shot out of the water like flying fish, struck the wall and fell stunned on the surface. A dozen smallmouth bass immediately started to slurp the motionless minnows.

After a few minutes, it happened again!

These bass were herding the baitfish into the wall and then filling their bellies with the resulting chaos.

One November while I was deer hunting, a ruckus in the treetops alerted me to some action. The fuss turned out to be a northern shrike chasing a chickadee. Two things amazed me.

First, I’d never heard sounds coming

The Ely Summer Times

from a chickadee like I did that morning.

The twittering, tweeting, and screaming were unreal. Second, the action reminded me of a dogfight between two fighter planes in WWII. The twisting, turning, and changes of direction seemed to defy the laws of physics.

After a couple of minutes, the chickadee escaped with a low pass through some thick underbrush and the shrike lit on a branch to wait for his next opportunity.

I was guiding just west of U.S. Point on Basswood. Early the second morning I was awakened by what sounded like a baseball bat striking the bottom of one of the canoes. Who would be doing that– and why? After a couple more metallic thumps, I had to find out. Were my clients losing their marbles? Was a disgruntled canoeist trying to drive us from this campsite? Was sasquatch on the loose and signaling his brethren to come destroy us? Well, none of the above. After sneaking around the edge of camp and stealthily putting myself lakeside of the canoes, I saw – a beaver!

During the night he had come on shore near where we were camping and had gnawed off a sizable piece of alder brush. In attempting to bring it to the 2025

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water's edge, the top of the branch caught between two other clumps of alder. As the beaver pulled his prize, the standing alder provided enough resistance to dislodge the stick from his mouth. As it bounced back, it struck the side of the canoe with a healthy “thunk!”. Mystery solved.

Otters can provide hours of entertainment while in the backcountry.

I watched one on Hula Lake dive under the surface and come up with several small fish. She lay on her back in the middle of the lake, and listened to “crunch, crunch, crunch” as she devoured her delicacy. Once I sat and watched one dive through a hole in the ice on the Island River and come up with crawdad after crawdad for another

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gourmet meal. Having a family of young otters surround my canoe and look like they’re playing a game of “whack-amole" always gives me a chuckle.

Every once in a while, I’ve come across something that may be a once in a lifetime experience. Looking for orchids along a portage into Trapper’s Lake, a movement in the tall grass in front of me caught my attention. It was a leucistic porcupine. I had never seen one before. Never have since. It’s one of those experiences I’ve had that comes to mind often.

By getting into the forest frequently, keeping your eyes open, and understanding animal behavior, you too can be fortunate enough to have your own catalog of Critter Capers.

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© Becky Adams

Health for Body, Mind, & Spirit

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estern medicine is great at diagnosis, trauma, emergency medicine, and necessary surgery. It has a less impressive record for treating chronic disease, puzzling symptoms, and stress-related maladies.

Of course, you wouldn’t go to a massage therapist for an appendectomy. But what about that troublesome twinge in your back that just won’t give up? Did your toddler wake up crabby and restless for no apparent reason? Are you constantly feeling stressed out over some relationship difficulty or from listening to the news? There are more than 20 practitioners in Ely ready to help you on your path to healing using a variety of modalities not generally offered by

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Western medicine.

A word about vocabulary. Often referred to as “alternative medicine,” these modalities are largely based in healing practices that are traditional in Chinese and other Eastern cultures as well as Native American and other indigenous groups. Allopathic and natural, or Western and Eastern are terms sometimes used to distinguish between these different approaches to health. Holistic is another common term. Generally non-Western medicine defines healing as restoring a patient to a full state of physical and mental health without need for further treatment. This article uses “complementary,” to imply that the practices can be used together for maximum benefit.

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Ely is fortunate to have its own community-based hospital, 24-hour access to emergency care, and a clinic with physicians who are local residents and really care about their patients. El also offers an array of also complementary health services as extensive as you’d expect to find in a large city. The healers who offer these treatments are well-educated, certified, and experienced. Massage techniques, nutrition counseling, chiropractic care, energy balancing, baths and saunas, meditation groups, herbalism instruction, acupuncture and acupressure, and a variety of spa offerings can contribute to your wellbeing on many levels and enhance or

136 N. 1st Ave. E. • 612-602-3660 22

sometimes replace the preventive and restorative health treatment you get at clinics and hospitals. Right here in Ely! And much less expensive than in a big city.

53 counties in rural Minnesota no longer have hospitals with labor and delivery units, and clinics and hospitals offering prenatal and postpartum care are also dwindling in rural areas. Ely’s nearest obstetric facility is 45 miles away in Virginia. Midwife Rosa is a great example of collaboration between the modern medical system and more traditional methods. Rosa collaborates with area hospitals and primary care physicians to ensure healthy births without a mad dash to the ER. She has occasionally had to talk a panicky partner through helping a mother give birth in a vehicle en route to a hospital, but these situations did not have the benefit of developing a birth plan with Rosa. Having attended more than 3,000 births out of hospitals, she has the experience to know when a home birth can be managed safely and when there is need for a higher level of care.

Collaborative referral also exists between Ely’s two licensed chiropractors and local physicians. Rob and Andrea are available for adjustments and advice whether you’re dropping in for one post-portaging treatment or setting up a plan to reduce your sciatic pain for the rest of your life.

Andrea, owner of Healthy Families Chiropractic, especially likes working with kids, from colicky infants to teens

Rosa watches as new parents greet their baby The Ely Summer Times

with sport injuries. Keeping the body in balance so it can move through its natural self-healing process is the goal for her work with patients. More than just pain relief, chiropractic treatment is about reorganizing or repatterning the nervous system to prevent injury and maintain good brain-body connection.

Andrea has just moved her clinic to a new location that is comfortable, has good energy, is more spacious, and has better ground-level access. She recently added nutritional response testing to her professional skills.

Massaahhhge. Ely has lovely spas and studios for massage, and some therapists make house (and cabin) calls. Let go, relax, wish it could last for hours. That’s a lovely Swedish massage, primarily aimed at relaxation and a sense of well-being. But it’s not just fluff; it really is healthful. Farther along the pressure continuum is deep-tissue massage, which is a bit less soothing but may have longer lasting effects to relax some of those tension trouble spots.

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Myofascial release presses deeper into tissue to relieve painful tension in stiff, tight muscles and the thin layer of fascia that surrounds them. Trigger point therapy treats muscle pain in a specific small area with brief applications of strong pressure that can be uncomfortable but effective. The therapist presses on small knots in the tissue localized at the problem point or felt some distance away as referred pain. Trigger point work can be part of a more general massage.

Cranio-sacral massage is a gentle manipulation of the skull and spine that Sue describes as “sleep on steroids.”

Used to address sleep dysfunction, migraines and other headaches, neck and shoulder pain, TMJ, and even some digestive and mood disorders, this therapy is thought to restore the flow of cerebral spinal fluid.

A session is usually an hour or so and is done with the patient clothed, although practitioners may use it within another massage technique.

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Jessie thought she’d only be able to obtain part time work when she came to Ely eight years ago. She struggled through the pandemic years and now has full time work at her massage studio in town as well as offering personal training, health coaching, and other wellness strategies for women. She is one of the massage therapists who provides services at area resorts.

Carly at Functional Fitness says “Sports massage isn’t you lying down with soft music and zoning out. You are actively involved while I assist stretches and movements to mobilize joints and activate muscles.” As Ely’s only certified Correction Exercise Specialist, she helps people prepare for and recover from surgery, address old injuries, and correct imbalance. “If you have pain that nobody else has been able to treat successfully, I might be able

to help.” Combining body work with nutrition counseling (NOT specifically weight loss), she has helped many clients in her 10 years of practice. “If you don’t feel results in four sessions, then I’m not doing my job well,” she says. But that’s a rare occurrence.

Cupping and guasha are available at Functional Fitness from Michelle, Earth Elements from Sara F., and Jessie Brooks Massage. “Massage is pushing down on the muscles to increase blood flow,” they explain. “Cupping is pulling up to bring the blood to the surface so the body can detoxify it and improve blood flow and oxygenation.” In cupping, a vacuum is created either by applying a cup and suctioning out the air or by heating the cup so that a vacuum is created as it cools. This can be especially effective on the back for lung issues and to relieve inflammation

Jessie Brooks Massage treatment area 24

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and soft lighting. Sara Fetyko is the owner and acupuncturist at Earth Elements Acupuncture and Sarah M. provides acupuncture at the Pebble Spa. Acupuncture has proved especially effective for veterans with PTSD and other issues. Sara F. offers therapy through the VAs community care program through the Ely Veteran’s Clinic.

Complementary treatments range from entirely physical, such as PT and © Kahsha Hyde

and improve immunity. Guasha or scraping uses a stone or glass tool with a smooth rounded edge to go deeper into the tissue during or after cupping.

Other forms of hands-on body work use the meridians, or energy channels, in the body to address issues from headaches to nausea to bronchitis– really any organ dysfunction. Life energy, chi or qi in Eastern languages, flows freely through these channels in a healthy body. Physical or emotional trauma and everyday stressors such as anxiety, pollution, and unhealthy food create blockages to the flow that can result in unpleasant physical symptoms.

Shiatsu massage and acupressure use body positions and painless pressure on energy points along the meridians to achieve relaxation, clear the flow of energy, and assist the body in its natural healing process. They are perfect for those who want to avoid any discomfort, remain clothed, and still achieve more direct healing than Swedish massage. Treatment takes up to an hour for one session, and often several sessions are needed to achieve the maximum results. Betty and Jessie offer these treatments.

Acupuncture uses points along the same meridians, inserting very thin needles to stimulate energy flow and release endorphins and other chemicals that reduce pain and enhance healing.

Most people choose acupuncture for relief from some malady or pain, but are also likely to experience better sleep and improved overall wellbeing and mental health. Usually two to three sessions will result in considerable improvement, but many clients choose to continue monthly maintenance. Being stuck with lots of needles may sound terrifying to the uninitiated, but this is seldom uncomfortable. Sometimes one needle in an especially needy area will produce a brief tingle, and occasionally there might be some sensation in one or two spots during the whole 20-to 30-minute session. But usually acupuncture is a relaxing experience with calm music 2025

Cupping and guasha at Functional Fitness 25

© Kahsha Hyde

regular massage, to entirely energybased. Some of this becomes a bit “WooWoo” for those skeptical of something they can’t examine with their five senses. But many people suffering from sickness and pain have found relief from energy modalities even if they were skeptics to begin with. So, “don’t knock it till you’ve tried it.”

Carol offers private sessions blending Physical Therapy, yoga, and energy work aimed at holistic healing.

She brings a life coaching element with Quantum Human Design. Private sessions are at her home, and during

Acupuncture needles applied by Sara Fetyko 26

summers she offers yoga class on the dock and paddleboard.

“It’s all energy,” says Sarah M., who has had effective sessions treating patients long-distance using acupuncture through mind connection.

This is hard to believe, but also hard to dismiss when research has shown that a person can have relief and unexpected healing from prayer or Reiki that is sent their way by people on the other side of the country.

Cameo offers Reiki in a soothing, comfortable room at Étoile du Nord (former Kat’s Liquor building). Reiki is a Japanese method of creating positive energy to support anyone in crisis or just struggling with life. The person need not be in the room, but perhaps the treatment is more powerful or the connection with the healer has other benefits with in-person sessions.

Sound healing is one of the techniques that harnesses unseen energy, but in this case the energy is heard. Nancy and April use bowls that are specially crafted with lead crystal, gems, and infused energy to create tones in specific frequencies that provide healing. All matter, including human cells, vibrates at a frequency. In people, diseased cells have an unhealthy frequency. By spending time in healing tones, the cells and the brain become recalibrated to a healthy state.

The sound healer uses bowls, drums, The Ely Summer Times

©Shelley Frederickson

and perhaps also vocalization to create balance within the physical and emotional systems. (This is, no doubt, an oversimplification.)

When Nancy’s friend was receiving chemo treatment for throat cancer, they were told that healing from the side effects would take at least three months.

She applied sound healing regularly, and within one month he had amazed the medical staff by progressing to a wellhealed state. Nancy offers inexpensive group sessions at End of the Road Yoga.

April and Nancy can bring sound healing to clients’ homes or hospital rooms.

Nancy, April, and Jaime provide intuitive guidance as well. As children, they realized they had a sensitivity to energy that was unusual, but they didn’t become able to embrace this as a talent to help others find their spiritual path until well into adulthood. Now they offer sessions for clients who sense a need to get onto the course their lives are meant to take, but feel stuck and unable to make that connection themselves.

Within one or two meetings, clients often find a resolution and are able to move forward mentally and emotionally in a way that feels satisfying and deeply meaningful.

Time in the woods has measurable health benefits.

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Meditation is an activity of the mind that has proven benefits for the body, lowering blood pressure and reducing stress hormones. It’s simple, requires no equipment or cost, and can be done at the place and time you choose. But it can be hard to develop a daily practice that fits into a busy life. Shelley is a meditation instructor who can help with that. She offers instruction and sessions in individual and group meditation, star and forest bathing, and meditative journaling. With Shelley, meditation doesn’t have to involve sitting quietly in a position only advanced yoga students can attain. Instead, it can be time in nature, which itself is healing. Breathing techniques also help achieve deeper meditation states. Even one deep slow breath can relieve momentary stress.

Ely has several environmental healing opportunities. Easy access to the natural world is certainly one of them, but there are more. Saunas (please pronounce the first syllable to rhyme with now) have long kept Finnish 27

people healthy and well-socialized. One research study that sought to prove these benefits was set up in Finland and began looking for participants who saunaed regularly and a control group who seldom or never saunaed. The researchers had to modify their study when they were unable to find Finns who didn’t take saunas. A confounding feature of the objective was that saunas are also a very social time, so it couldn’t be determined whether the benefits found were due to the physical or the social experience. The conclusion was that saunas impart significant health benefits.

Here in Ely we have one of the last public baths in the U.S. The Ely Steam Sauna has offered hot space, deep cleansing, and casual social interaction (nudity is optional but common in the separate men’s and women’s rooms) several nights a week for more than 100 years. For a more cosmopolitan experience, Evergreen Cottage and The Pebble Spa offer infra-red saunas, which claim to reduce inflammation and improve the immune system. They offer a variety of other healthful experiences including aromatherapy baths,

detoxification treatments, and cosmetic services. Étoile du Nord provides full manicures and pedicures with non-toxic product that can heal and strengthen nails. Sometimes looking good has healing power all on its own.

Jaime and Carol offer Quantum Human Design programs that provide a foundation for considering what gives meaning to an individual’s life. These are deep questions that delve into individuality, strengths, shadow sides, sense of purpose, and much more. It’s a helpful method for searching the path forward for anyone at a life crossroads or needing a non-religious boost to their spiritual connection.

Our modern food system often leads to imbalances in nutrition. With 30 years of experience, Sonja is an expert at

Jaime’s herbal facial class 28

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assessing those and suggesting corrections. Evergreen Cottage has Ely’s only natural pharmacy with hundreds of supplements, homeopathic remedies, and natural cosmetic products. Carly offers nutritional counseling especially for athletes at Functional Fitness.

To help clients discover which therapist and modality may be a good fit, many practitioners offer a free or low-cost session to answer questions and explain the fine points of their treatments.

All the therapists interviewed for this article are clients of some of the others, often trading sessions.

To further enhance this connection, Jaime and April created the Ely Wellness Collaborative where the many practitioners can share their extensive knowledge and skills. meet monthly at the Hidden Valley Chalet to share a colorful whole food meal and connect with others who are interested in holistic health as clients or practitioners. All are welcome. Check the website for dates.

They hope to create an online directory for the many Ely area healers. You can

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find more information at their website, ElyWellnessCollaborative.com.

There is so much more to say on this topic–nutrition, aromatherapy, red-light therapy, crystals, tapping, homeopathy, baths and soaks. This article could easily be twice as long to cover all the healing practices available in Ely. Visiting the places listed on the next page can provide more information on additional natural health resources.

Why are there so many complementary health practitioners in Ely? That became a mystery as this article developed and found more and more healers who moved here in the past decade or returned after long absences. Someone said there is energy here like in Sedona, AZ, a community known for attracting natural health practitioners. “A magnetism” some said, and “It’s the water.” From one lone yoga teacher 30 years ago to dozens of complementary therapists today, Ely has given these healers a place to flourish and they have given the Ely community resources for a healthier, better life.

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DIRECTORY OF ELY NATURAL HEALTH SERVICES CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Andrea Kannas HealthyFamiliesChiro.com 224 E. Harvey 218-290-4644 Dr. Rob Mattson Adjustments, Sports Medicine 247 E. Chapman 218-365-4111 THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE - All do Swedish and Deep Tissue Dave Hunsche Customized massage 24 W. Chapman 218-235-1665 Sue Larson Cranio-Sacral, Herbalist 515 Main St, Tower 612-978-4535 Jessie Brooks Shiatsu, Women’s Health Coach 41 E. Chapman 612-889-2889 Sonja Jewell Nutrition, Advanced Assessment 146 E. Chapman 218-365-2288 Laura Schultze Reflexology, Pre-natal 33 E. Chapman 218-343-4835 ACUPUNCTURE AND OTHER BODY AND ENERGY WORK Carol Magie PT, Yoga, Human Design Use website ElevateWithCarol.com Carly Curtiss Corrective Exercise, Sports Functional Fitness 218-206-6655 Sarah Murn Acupuncture, Cupping Pebble Spa 218-365-0809 Michelle Moore Cupping and Guasha Functional Fitness 218-206-6655 Betty Firth Acupressure, Ortho-Bionomy Call for appointment 218-365-7578 Sara Fetyko Acupuncture,Cupping, Guasha Earth Elements 612-207-3660 Rosa Oesterreich Midwife, Herbalist MidwifeRosa.com or call 651-329-2319 ENERGY HEALING Nancy Scheibe Sound Healing, Intuitive Guide Text for appointment 218-235-8124 April Roy Sound Healing, Intuitive Guide Email for appt AprilAnnRoy@gmail.com Cameo Gillson Reiki, Chakra Balance Earth Elements bearnaked.cameo@gmail Shelley Frederickson Meditation Instruction See website MeadowlarkMeditation.com Jaime Brennan Human Design, Intuitive Guide TranquilityByJaime.com 218-208-3677 PLACES Earth Elements See Facebook 136 N. 1st Ave. E. 612-607-3660 Ely Steam Bath See Facebook 127 S. 1st Ave E. 218-365-2984 End of the Road Yoga EndoftheRoad.yoga 18 E. Sheridan 218-235-7294 Étoile du Nord 1221 E. Sheridan 218-235-4342 Evergreen Cottage elywellness.com 146 E. Chapman 218-365-2288 Functional Fitness functionalfitnessely.com The Hub, 760 Miners Dr. 218-206-6655 The Pebble Spa pebblespaco.com 229 E. Sheridan 218-365-0809 Most practitioners will provide information by phone or a free or low-cost introductory meeting so clients can learn about their therapeutic offerings and feel whether there is a good match. Prices range from $25-200. Insurance may cover some services. Free will donations at some events.

30 The Ely Summer Times

Ely Dining Guide Call (Area Code is 218) or check websites or FB pages for menus. Price ranges are for a meal.

C: children’s menu, V: vegetarian meals, # is location on the maps, page 86.

Boundary Waters Catering Imagine coming back to your cabin after a full day of fishing. While you enjoy a glass of wine, a 4-course gourmet meal is arranged in your kitchen. Enjoy the appetizers, then dish up and gather around the table. Dessert is ready too.

From large parties to an intimate meal. Or pick up wraps, salads, bowls, or box lunches to go. 141 E. Chapman, 994-2882, $15-25, V #78

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Brainstorm Bakery Did you have a crappy morning? If not yet, stop on in and add some healthy fiber to your diet with locally made granola, yogurt parfaits, smoothies, fairtrade coffee, and fresh-baked treats.

Homemade bread and energy bars for the trail. Granola for gifts in pun-filled packaging, bumper stickers and T-shirts too. 402 E. Sheridan, 235-6161 $5-9 V #89

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Burntside Lodge Elegant meals with a lake view in a whitetablecloth dining room. The food is fresh, seasonal, and made from scratch in house, even the ice cream. The wine list is unsurpassed. Reservations advised. Limited small-table seating in the lounge. Dinner Thurs-Mon, 5-8. 2755 Burntside Lodge Rd. 365-3894, $16-58, C V #23

Evergreen Restaurant & Antlers Lounge at Grand Ely Lodge. Sunset view of Shagawa Lake on the deck for drinks or dining. Extensive dinner menu, b’fast and lunch specials, light dinners and appetizers. Pasta specialties, salads, walleye, and steaks. Open 365 days a year. 400 N Pioneer Rd, 365-6875 for reservations and take-out. $10-31 C V #37 32

Dairy Queen

What’s a summer evening without an ice cream treat?! Ely’s DQ has a huge variety of Blizzard flavors, delicious meals to eat in or take out, a drive-through for convenient service, kids meals, and ice cream cakes custom made for special occasions or available ready-made in the freezer. 1441 E. Sheridan, 365-5101 $9- C V #46

Frisky Otter Italian specialties for hungry diners, salmon and walleye, steaks grilled to perfection.

Breakfast Thursday-Sunday. A variety of martinis unlike anywhere else. Eat outside and watch the town go by, or enjoy AC indoors.

Live music some nights. Big TVs for sports. Full bar. Open year round! 302 E Sheridan, 2356266 $10-50. C V #87 The Ely Summer Times

Gators Grilled Cheese Emporium Comfort foods and healthy alternatives, full breakfast menu. Grilled sandwiches that are healthy and satisfying with plenty of veggies.

Burgers, homemade soups, and salads. Little Free Library outside. Dog-friendly sunny deck tables, shady side lawn, or cozy fireplace seating. Ask about homemade pasties. 955 E. Sheridan St, 365-7348 $7-18. C V #39

Northern Grounds Popular coffee and wine bar with light food, snacks, and fresh housemade muffin, scones, and other treats. Charcuterie, quiche, soup, and assorted fine cheeses, cold cuts, olives, and more to eat in or take home. Largest wine selection in Ely. Cocktails on tap.

2 W. Sheridan St. V #63

Insula

This popular dining spot serves many locally-sourced and organic ingredients in the New American cuisine. Daily featured pasta special, market catch, and butcher’s cut. Order dessert first in case they run out.

Casual-dining ambience. Specialty cocktails, beer, and wine. Open Tues-Sat.145 E. Sheridan St, 365-4855 $9-32 C V #82

Sheridan Street Deli

Earliest coffee in town at 5 am. Wholesome thoughtfully prepared b’fast served early.

Brown bag lunches for folks on the go..

Everything is made from scratch. Soup, salads, baked goods. Meeting room. Seating on the porch or indoors. Catering. Open until 3pm.

343 E Sheridan St, 504-4036 $8-15 C V #88

Please thank our advertisers for providing this free magazine.

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Subway Healthy fast food conveniently located next to the grocery store. Breakfast, subs, wraps, protein bowls, and all the drinks, chips, and treats to go with it. Catering makes it easy to provide big lunches for big families and parties. 1520 E. Sheridan St.. 365-2699 $7-16

Wilderness Woodfire Pizza Extra flavorful fresh-from-the-fire pizza whole or by the slice. Build your own from their extensive list of toppings and sauces or choose a specialty like the Moose. Call or see Facebook for current location. Farmers Market on Tuesdays. Very friendly folks! They cater too. $7+ V 235-8752

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The Ely Summer Times

Ely’s Bars Peanuts, Pizza, & More Dee’s Bar - 17 E. Sheridan Antlers Lounge- 400 N. Pioneer Kwazy Wabbit - 11 N. Central Samz Place - 1203 Old Winton Rd. Silver Rapids Lodge - 450 Kawishiwi Tr. Zaverl’s Bar - 509 E. Sheridan

The Boathouse Ely’s only brewery. Full bar. Duck wings, burgers, walleye, Cuban sandwiches. Beer in growlers and BW containers. 47 E Sheridan St., 365-4301 $11-17, C V Britton’s Cafe A favorite spot with locals and those about to spend the day working (or fishing) hard. Catering with home cooked food. Take out. 5 E. Chapman St., 365-3195 $9-18, C V

Domino’s Ely’s late-night option. Pizza and much more. Open 10am until late 7 days a week.

Find coupons there and at Dominos.com. 32 E Sheridan St, 235-6262 $6-26 V The Happy Wanderer Open every day, Pizza, pasties, polish. New Taco Truck on the highway or for catering. On the best fall color drive. 10502 Hwy 1, 404-3312 $7-16 Lazy Loon At Silver Rapids Lodge. Deck overlooking White Iron. Sandwiches, wraps, smashburgers. Full bar. Live music to end of Sept. 459 Kawishiwi Tr. 365-4877 $16-18 C V

Oriental Orchid More than 100 Vietnamese and Chinese menu items. Weekday lunch specials and dinner combinations. Call for faster service. 506 E. Sheridan St, 365-7502 $9-$21 V

Stony Ridge Café 50 gourmet burgers, hearty b’fasts till 11. New flavors in wings!

Walleye, stuffed hashbrowns, full bar. Overlooking Shagawa. 60 N. Lakeview, 235-9441 $13-40 C V

Zup’s Deli Fresh sushi daily, fried chicken, pasties, and plenty of side dishes. Daily specials

include meals you’d find in Ely homes with Grandmas doing the cooking. 1500 Sheridan $6-9 V

Last Minute News - New Food Spots

Ely will have its very own Hot Dog Cart this summer–just like New York City, but a much nicer environment. There will also be a Taco Truck. Watch for them in the parks and on the streets.

Hungry? or Have Plenty? Visit Ely Area Food Shelf

Open 3rd Wednesday 11-5 and following Saturday 8-11 (call for emergency) ElyAreaFoodShelf.com • 218-235-8527 • 15 W. Conan St.

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Flexible Recipes

A

n elderly Ely man who had hunted and fished all his life was recuperating in a Duluth hospital.

“How’s it goin’?”a friend asked.

“Oh, it’s fine,” he replied. “I’ve got everything I need. Except the food’s not so good. The people making the meals here ought to go to deer camp and learn how to cook.”

It’s true that whether the deer camp group is a family or a bunch of guys, the food is plentiful, hearty, and delicious.

No low-calorie fare for hunters who will be outside all day, possibly with the

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exertion of tracking a deer and then dragging it home. Breakfast starts with bacon, eggs, pancakes, and fried potatoes plus donuts or some other pastry. Dinner is likely to be a pot of something bubbling hot, rolls with plenty of butter, and a rich dessert of some sort. It’s the pot’s ingredients that those hospital cooks should learn about. Of course sometimes it’s spareribs or burgers, but often it’s a soup recipe brought from the kitchens of old-time Finns or Slovenians when they immigrated to northern Minnesota to

The Ely Summer Times

work as loggers and miners. These folks knew how to fill their larders with venison, fish, and garden vegetables.

In case you’re just beginning your deer camp tradition and don’t have a heritage that has handed down traditional recipes, here are some ideas to get you started. Both these soups are more like stews–thick and hearty. The ladle might nearly stand up in the pot.

Then you can always add water if a couple lost hunters bang on the door at dinnertime. Of course, you don’t need to be at hunting camp to enjoy a big pot of meat and vegetables. Once autumn puts a chill in the air, these stews will be a popular meal until spring chases the chill away.

Another thing about these hearty foods is that there is no real recipe. A

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few cookbooks might include a recipe and you can find detailed instructions on the internet. But these are foods designed to take advantage of what you have on hand. Was the rutabaga crop better than the turnips this year? Is there a 2-pound bag of carrots in the bottom of your crisper drawer that you forgot about? Did you net lots of fish or did your grocery store have a special on ocean perch or cod? Are you making this for a bunch of hunters, a big tailgate party, or just a few folks coming over for dinner? Adjust your ingredients based on your favorite flavors and the quantities based on what you have, what’s on sale, and how many people you’re feeding.

These recipes can work well with special diets, too. Need high protein or

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low carb? Use a higher proportion of meat or fish. Keto? Use jerusalem artichokes instead of potatoes and more celery and cabbage and less corn and peas. The soup recipes are gluten-free.

BOOYAH The word “booyah” can refer to either the food or the party at which it is served. “Come on over to our booyah this Saturday,” is an invitation no one would want to turn down. It’s likely to include friends and family, a big pot hung over an outdoors fire, and side dishes brought potluck-style by the party-goers. No doubt there will be plenty of brews too. The word can even be a verb, as in “Let’s booyah this weekend.”

This meat-laden stew has a richness in flavor that develops from plenty of

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meat and long cooking times. It starts with beef of some sort, usually short ribs or chuck roast with the bone in. Oxtails can also be used. (In case you’re not a chef, these are not actually from an ox.

They are cows’ tails and are rich in collagen with a strong beef flavor, giving the booyah extra texture.) Chicken thighs come next, with the bone and skin. These two basic meats can be

The Ely Summer Times

supplemented with pork in the form of stew meat, brisket, or even sausage.

Use about equal amounts of beef and chicken, and less pork if you’re including it.

Another option for meat would be to use up any of last year’s game meat still in your freezer. Deer, moose, grouse, pheasant, and duck could all be tasty if cooked slowly to ensure tenderness.

Adding a tablespoon or two of vinegar can also tenderize a tough cut.

Heat oil in a pot and brown the beef slowly until it’s well browned on all sides. Remove it and do the same with the chicken. Then brown the pork if you’re using it. Put all the meat back in the pot and add water or stock to more than cover it, plus salt and pepper to taste. Add a few whole cloves of garlic and some bay leaves. Simmer on low for about two hours. Remove the bones and chicken skin, and shred or cut the meat into bite-size pieces. Remove the garlic and bay leaves. (Or you could chop the garlic and put it back in the pot.)

Add raw vegetables–probably potatoes, onion, carrots, cabbage, and celery at a minimum plus turnips or rutabaga, peas, corn, green beans, and tomatoes as you wish. Add any herbs you like – rosemary, parsley, basil are good ones. Simmer until the firm vegetables are soft, about half an hour. If using frozen or canned vegetables, add them later so they don’t turn to mush. A little Worcestershire and/or soy sauce can add flavor too.

In Ely, booyah is common in deer camp. One online source suggests you can tell when it’s ready to serve by assessing the chefs’ degree of inebriation, since it is traditional for them to drink beer from start to finish.

At camp, the cooks either come in early from hunting or more likely cook the meat the night before, then finish up with the vegetables on the evening it will be served. Like most soups, sitting refrigerated for a day or two can improve the flavor. Leftovers, if there are any, freeze well.

KALAMOJAKKA Finnish for fish stew, this is a milkbased broth filled with fish, potatoes, onions, and seasoning. A mojakka can also be made with meat and vegetables, a sort of Finnish version of booyah using whatever meat is on hand. In the

© EWHS

This deer camp crew will have venison in their Booyah

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© Kahsha Hyde

tradition of resourceful immigrants, this soup can include whatever is plentiful.

Thus, a common northern Minnesota ingredient is wild rice. Here’s a recipe that is richer and thicker than the original soup served in Finland, but perfect for warming up after a chilly day outdoors.

Half-fill a large pot with water and add some salt. Put a tablespoon of pickling spice in a cheesecloth sachet or large tea infuser and add it to the pot.

Cut up 3 pounds of white-flesh fish into 2-3 inch chunks.(Catch pike, whitefish,

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or burbot locally or purchase cod, ocean perch, or tilapia at the grocery store.)

Bring the water to a boil and add the fish. Simmer until the flesh is opaque, about 10-15 minutes. Remove the fish and add about 3 pounds of red-skinned potatoes (with the skin on) cut into bitesize pieces, one chopped medium onion, a stick of butter, and ½ cup of hand-parched, Minnesota-harvested wild rice. (The dark commercial kind will take longer to cook and doesn’t taste as good, so if you must use it, cook it ahead and add it after the potatoes have softened. Or you can skip it. There isn’t native wild rice in Finland.) Simmer until the potatoes are barely firm. Add the fish back in and simmer a few more minutes. Remove the spice bundle.

Reduce the heat and stir in one can of cream of mushroom soup (optional), and one can of evaporated milk plus Kalamojakka ingredients

The Ely Summer Times

PANUKAKKU whole milk to create the desired thickness. Heat, but don’t allow to boil.

Serve with a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley if you like.

Cool quickly when you’re done serving. The soup will keep well in the refrigerator for several days. It can be frozen, but may not look as appealing when thawed. Although white fish is traditionally used for kalamojakka, it would be delicious with salmon or trout if you like a “fishy” flavor.

Fresh from the oven, panukakku is a moonscape 2025

Hi! Looking forward to dinner with you.

We’ll be on our way in a few minutes.

“What?! Tonight?! I thought it was next week!!”

Needing to prepare dinner for a group unexpectedly is a challenge. No time to go to the store, and Dominos isn’t adequate for these friends who barbecued steak when you went to their house for dinner. What’s in the fridge?

Just some basics–eggs, milk, some maple syrup and strawberry jam way in the back, a few moldy unidentifiable leftovers. Aargh! What to do?

Those ingredients (minus the leftovers) are just waiting to become a fancy ethnic dish that is nutritious and filling. Simply Google “pannukakku.” Or keep reading and save this recipe for such emergencies, a special brunch, or a potluck.

The ingredient quantities can vary widely. Online recipes called for as few as 3 eggs and as many as 8, from 2 tablespoons of sugar to 1/2 cup, from 3/4 cup of flour to 1 1/2 cups. So don’t worry if you don’t have quite the amount of anything his recipe suggests.

Experiment to see how you prefer preparing this meal.

Put a stick of butter (1/2 cup) in a 9”x13” pan and place it in the oven.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees, removing the pan once the butter has melted, which can happen faster than you might think, so be careful not to burn it. Swish the butter around so it 41

covers the bottom surface and corners.

While the oven heats, beat 4-6 eggs (depending on their size and if the price is reasonable this week) in a bowl. Mix in 1 cup of flour, 2 cups of milk, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla. Stir until well blended, but it doesn’t have to be perfectly smooth. Pour the egg mixture into the pan with the melted butter. The butter will surround the doughy mixture–so much easier than greasing a pan! Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges puff up and turn golden brown.

Your pannukakku will deflate once it comes out of the oven, but don’t worry.

Unlike a soufflé, it’s supposed to. This is what creates the chewy edge and the custardy center. Let it stand a couple minutes to firm up before serving.

Toppings for this can be any fruit or syrup, but in northern Minnesota, maple syrup is a favorite. Before baking, you could sprinkle on nutmeg, cinnamon, or sugar. Once out of the oven, powdered sugar can make a pretty presentation.

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Or make it fancy with whole berries.

Baking in a glass dish adds to the spectacular presentation.

Your favorite spices can be added to the egg mixture before baking.

Cardamom is a traditional Finnish touch.

A little lemon zest can provide a fresh zip. Almond flour can be used for a gluten-free version.

Leftovers can be refrigerated for days, but this is too delicious to allow them to join the other moldy packages, so eat up!

If you’re intimidated by the idea of fixing a meal for a crowd, relax and know you can’t mess these up. You’ll provide your family and guests with a nutritious, satisfying meal and make it look effortless (except maybe for the meat in the booyah, but the wine you consume as you cook it will help you not care what anyone thinks). Have fun, try your own variations, and say a little thank you to the immigrants who kept these recipes alive for all to enjoy.

The Ely Summer Times

What’s New in Ely? I

f you are one of the hundreds of people living and playing in the Ely area without cell service or other means of communication, this news is going to delight you. WELY is coming back at last! And they are going to bring back not just the Emergency and Personal Message program, but other popular local shows like the Saturday morning Polka Show and Trader Craig’s buy and sell show. (Yes, with the very same Craig Loughery as host!) And of course, baseball games.

After a variety of sales deals that fell through, the best possible resolution has happened. Civic Media, a Wisconsinbased public benefit corporation has invested the significant amount of

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resources needed to upgrade the technology and get WELY back on the air with AM (1450) and FM (94.5) stations. First on the air in 1954, WELY survived until 2022 with two off-the-air periods in the 1980s and again in 1995 for financial problems. Famed journalist Charles Kuralt, who loved to visit Ely, purchased the station and made local historian and story-teller (usually both at once) Mike Hillman the studio manager. Several iterations followed until the last owners, Zoe Communications, could no longer sustain the station.

With local programming and community service as both their mission and a requirement of their business

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status as a PBC, Civic Media will focus their staffing and shows on the needs and desires of Ely citizens and visitors.

Some former employees have expressed an interest in being involved, so you may hear familiar voices once WELY is back on the air in June. The company owns 24 stations with similar

This brand new antenna was required for WELY 44

goals in Wisconsin, so they have the experience and expertise to ensure WELY stays on the air for decades.

What will return and what will be new? Maybe the well-loved “Let’s Go Fishing” show that broadcast from Fisherman’s Headquarter (now Ely Folk School) will get a comeback. New is an app that will let Ely enthusiasts listen from anywhere. WELY will also have social media platforms to connect with listeners near and far. You can share your ideas by calling 354-4444 or visiting the office at 25 N. 1st Avenue.

Be sure to tune in and hear a uniquely local bit of Americana–small town radio.

The trailhead on the west end of town will see a final phase of CONSTRUCTION with parking lot paving and landscaping early this summer. At last visitors and locals can use the restrooms, find maps and information about Ely attractions and businesses, and park their vehicles while they head out on foot, by bike, in ATVs, and on snowmobiles. Progress is The Ely Summer Times

happening on the old Community Center’s conversion to a boutique hotel, with removal of hazardous materials on the interior to make way for a three million dollar renovation. Ely’s train depot is on its way to becoming an event center with restaurant, brewery, and spacious deck and stage area.

Removal of a significant amount of contaminants from the soil has begun.

And speaking of construction, here are some DETOURS to be aware of: HARVEY STREET will be closed from Central Avenue to 9th Avenue– just past Whiteside Park and the baseball fields–until October 11th for new storm sewers, sidewalks, and resurfacing.

Intersections at Central, 4th, and 8th Avenues will be open.

HIGHWAY 2 will have a long detour you may want to avoid if you are headed to Two Harbors and the North Shore.

Replacing culverts and resurfacing the road from the Greenwood Lake public access to the Big Pines will improve areas damaged by flooding two years ago. Work is planned to begin early July and end late September. A complete closure of up to six weeks has been permitted, with one-lane delays expected at other times.

One more Ely building will have a utilitarian look converted to FINE ART this summer. Check out the Senior

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Center wall by the parking lot. You can watch an artist at work until mid-July when completion is planned.

A new Tour Ely brochure highlights historic homes, mining and logging sites, and other local points of interest. QR codes on window decals at each site link to more information online, making it easy to learn as you walk, bike, or drive through town. This project was created through collaboration of the Heritage Preservation Commission, Ely-Winton Historical Society, Ely Chamber of Commerce, and Ely Area Tourism Bureau. Brochures are available in town.

Were you wondering why there were goats at the beginning of this article?

Now here’s the really fun news. There is a FARM with horses, goats, chickens, ducks, pigs and more including a barn that will be an event site for community

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dances, other events, even potentially weddings. AS a start, there is a community contra barn dance June 8th 6-8PM to celebrate the Ely Folk School‘s 10th anniversary.

The old Robich farm, as Ely folks who have been here a while know it, has been taken over by a lively young family intent on contributing fun and food to the Ely community. Ethel’s Acres and Stables is named after a beloved dog. Currently the farm offers horse boarding, both indoor and pasture. Individual riding

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lessons are available. Eggs from pastured chickens and ducks are for sale. The farm is growing dreams that are well-fertilized by all the possibilities the 96-acre property offers. Goat milk and cheese will be offered as the goat herd grows. Dog agility classes will be offered this summer. Developing trails for horseback riding, fixing up an old farmhouse to be a rustic but elegant B&B, community garden space, a pizza oven for community events; these are all ideas that have sprouted. The biggest dream of the moment? A deep winter greenhouse that could grow produce year round. If you want to buy eggs, arrange horse boarding, or introduce your kids to horseback riding with a half-hour lesson, contact EthelAcresStables@gmail.com or call 651-329-2319.

The Ely Summer Times

Spiritual Gatherings Churches Berean Baptist Church 2281 Hwy 169 Ely Gospel Church 3 E Allaire St First Lutheran Church LC MS 915 E Camp St First Presbyterian Church 226 E Harvey St Grace Lutheran Church ELCA 301 E Conan St Ledgerock Comm. Church 1515 E Camp St Kingdom Hall Jehovahs Witness 2263 Hwy 21 New Life Church 102 Main St, Winton Oasis Int’l Church 10 W Pattison Praise Fellowship Christian Ely Senior Center St. Anthony’s Catholic Church 231 E Camp St Babbitt, Sun and Wed 8am St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 715 S Central Av United Methodist Church of Ely 305 E Camp St

365-5413, baptistchurchely.com Sun 10:30 235-1142 Sunday School 9, Worship 10 365-3348 Sun 10:30, Bible Study 12 365-5130 Sun 11 365-5605 Sun 9:30 365-4890 Sun 9:30, Fellowship 10:30 504-4003 Sun 10 309-303-3475 Sun 9:30 235-1151 Sun 10 235-9541 Sun 10 365-4017 Sat 5 pm, Sun 10 T 5pm, Th, F 8am 409-6870 Sun 9:30 365-3355 Bible Study Tues 8am, Sun 10

Ely Area 12-Step & Recovery Meetings Recovery - For those dealing with any addiction in friends or family Sober Squad Talking Circle – The Hub, Well-Being Thurs, 6:30pm AlAnon Ely Willingness AFG – 1st Lutheran Church Wed 7pm Alcoholics Anonymous Women’s Open – Ledgerock Church Mon noon Miracle on Camp St, open – 1st Lutheran Church Mon 7pm Primary Purpose Men’s Group - 1st Presbyterian Ely Tues 7pm Babbitt Tues Night Group, open – Tue 7pm Ely Wed Night Group, open – 1st Lutheran Church Wed 7:30pm Lake Vermilion 12X12, open Thu 6:30pm Immanuel Lutheran Church, Tower Babbitt Back2Basics, open – Woodland Presb Church, Babbitt Thu 7pm Happy, Joyous, and Free – First Presbyterian Church Fri 7pm Ely Saturday Group, open – 1st Lutheran Church Sat 7:30pm

Donate • Adopt • Volunteer

ContentedCrittersMN.com 2025

Abandoning an animal is a CRIME in MN. Please REACH OUT if you need help!

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A Tribute to Jim and John

J

im Brandenburg created an Ely home designed by architects to reflect and include a Northwoods ambience featuring Judd Creek, which ran through his property. John Ratzloff created an Ely home that was mostly a tent with few amenities on the shore of Picketts Lake. Jim’s studio was as elaborate as befit a National Geographic photographer who was pursued by Nikon to test their newest technologies.

John’s studio was mostly in his car, until

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age forced him to move indoors at Grahek apartments, where he devoted much of the space to his computer and printer. Their material situations were their greatest differences.

Both men were generous with their talents, passionate about the subjects they photographed, and most at peace when they were in wild places. Each had two children and also grandchildren.

They loved their families deeply even through times when their relationships

The Ely Summer Times

were rocky. Sadly, both died this past winter within a few months of one another, leaving a legacy of images well-known far beyond this community.

John’s collection of portraits of White Earth residents is showing at the Minnesota Capitol through September of this year following a year-long display on Concourse C at MSP. Jim’s photos are displayed at the Brandenburg Gallery both in Ely and in his home town of Luverne and have graced many issues of National Geographic.

Both men published books of their photographs. John created books that pay tribute to White Earth Reservation, the Steger Center, Outward Bound, and the Ely Folk School, used as fund raisers, as well as others that he was proud of. Jim’s early titles led the way in creating a more scientific understanding 2025

of wolves, defusing the myth of a cruel predator and helping to popularize its endangered species status.

John’s passion for justice brought him to White Earth reservation where he captured not just the images of the people, but much of their wisdom as well. He also photographed the graffiti art that followed the murder of George Floyd. Jim’s passion for wilderness preservation led him around the globe, capturing images of both rare and commonplace wildlife and habitat. The Ely area Northwoods and Minnesota prairies were favorite subjects.

These artists will long be missed by their friends and fans. Their photos will be treasured as convictions that the world and its beings are fascinating, and that we need to pay attention and protect what we value.

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Graffiti in Minneapolis, June 2020

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The Ely Summer Times

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My Psychiatrist

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© Lake Co. SWCD

Want Walleye? Avoid Hitchhikers

by Liz Anderson

P

icture this: you’re at your favorite fishing spot, there’s a nice breeze blowing, there hasn’t been a single mosquito all day, and now that it’s time to pack it in, you reel in your line to discover…a gelatinous glob of alien-like “fleas??” You just may have come across the invasive spiny waterflea.

Spiny waterfleas are tiny zooplankton (“drifting animal”) that hail from Europe and Asia. Unlike our native zooplankton, their long, barbed tails made of silica (essentially glass), make them difficult for young fish to eat. Spiny waterfleas can be found in a number of the Ely area and popular BWCAW lakes, including Burntside, Shagawa, Basswood, Crooked, LaCroix, Fall, Newton, and Snowbank. It’s likely they

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were introduced by recreational fishing and boating gear.

So, what’s the big deal with this tiny invader? Beyond the nuisance of getting them caught on your fishing line, research by the Minnesota Aquatic Invasive Species Research Center (MAISRC) has found that first-year walleye in lakes with spiny waterfleas are 12% smaller than first-year walleye in uninvaded lakes. And that’s a problem because smaller first-year walleye can lead to smaller and fewer walleyes surviving to the next age class.

Once a lake has spiny waterfleas, there is no known way to manage them, but for all those lakes without spiny waterfleas, prevention works!

Minnesotans are pretty well versed on what to do with their motorized

The Ely Summer Times

© Lake Co. SWCD

watercraft to prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS): clean off any aquatic plants, animals, and mud, and drain any devices that could contain lake water. Leave the drain plug out while transporting. But we’re in canoe country; what are the risks with canoes and kayaks?

We usually think of non-motorized travel in wilderness areas such as the BWCAW as being low-risk for spread of AIS, and that is largely true. However, surveys in Quetico Provincial Park found lakes with spiny waterfleas that were upstream of infested waters, suggesting human assisted introductions rather than a natural spread by currents.

Do you fish while you are canoeing?

Check and wipe down fishing lines for snagged spiny waterfleas. Research by MAISRC found that of all water-related

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equipment, fishing lines and downriggers are the most likely to collect spiny waterfleas.

Do you use live bait? While crossing a portage, drain your bait water on land far enough away from shore that it doesn’t runoff into the lake or river you came from. Then refill your bait bucket with water from where you are launching.

Check your boots! Spiny waterfleas produce eggs that can be carried in mud. Do what you can to scrape or rinse mud from your boots before walking the portage. Don’t forget anchors! If you use anchors, make sure they are well rinsed before transporting them to a new lake.

More information at stopspiny.org and mnlakesandrivers.org/abc. Ely’s outfitters and bait shops have cards with information on AIS. It’s up to YOU to keep them in check and save walleye populations for the next generation. And while you’re at it, get rid of your lead tackle.

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© MN DOT

A Treaty for Today

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ong long ago, the leaders of the people who resided here traveled to an island in a freshwater ocean to the east. They were inspired to do whatever they could to ensure that their people would be able to feed and clothe themselves. Struggles with newcomers who didn’t look like them or share their way of life were bringing violence and hardships to their land. They journeyed to meet with the leaders of these invaders in hopes of reaching an agreement to bring peace and stability back to their lives.

At the meeting it became clear that the negotiations wouldn’t be on equal footing. They were going to have to concede ownership of millions of acres of their land to the others–a concept they didn’t completely understand since land ownership wasn’t part of their way

of life. But they did understand the need to ensure their people would be able to survive the way they always had through hunting and fishing, harvesting berries and maple sugar, making shelter and clothing from natural materials, preparing medicines from plants, and managing the land and lakes so that these resources would be available for their children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. And so they were able to reserve the right to maintain their life ways through their relationship to the plants and animals so essential to their survival, and to care for the land and water so that there would always be an abundance of life-sustaining materials.

In exchange, the U.S. government agreed to provide a significant amount of money and material support to the native communities, most of which was

There are good pamphlets at the U.S. Forest Service 56

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never received. What did reach the people was unfamiliar and poor quality food, useless construction materials, and agricultural supplies to encourage farming that was never going to do well in the soils of this region.

If you own property in the Arrowhead region, your ability to do so legally began with this agreement, the Treaty of 1854, signed in LaPointe Wisconsin on September 30, 1854 and ratified by the U.S. Congress. This legal transaction opened up the area to settling, mining, and logging. In the U.S Constitution, treaties are recognized as “the supreme law of the land,” which means they override state and local laws. Most treaties with indigenous peoples were not honored by the U.S. for more than a few years, but that was not because of any legality permitting non-compliance. It had more to do with power, greed, and the natives’ inability to enforce the agreements. But through judicial cases in the late 1900s, the

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rights reserved for the Ojibwe regarding hunting, fishing, and gathering have been upheld and today are an important part of preserving the heritage and culture of the area’s Ojibwe people.

Within a few years of the treaty signing, the U.S. adopted a policy aimed at removing and assimilating indigenous people. The horrors of the boarding school era and the land grab and displacement of natives to reservations followed. But the 1854 treaty remained a viable, though forgotten, legal document. In the 1970s, when native activism was on the rise, some Ojibwe band members decided to exercise their rights. Years of controversy ensued in Minnesota and Wisconsin with especially vitriolic polarization around spear fishing walleye in spring. Several court cases are what finally revived the treaty rights, finding in favor of Ojibwe people who had shot moose off of reservation lands, netted and speared walleye, and camped without paying for

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a permit on federal land–all of which were allowed for tribal members under the reserved treaty rights.

To ensure that these rights were understood by both native and nonnative people, to protect and enhance the resources needed and deserved by the Ojibwe people, and to preserve their cultural heritage, the 1854 Treaty Authority was created. The Fond du Lac Band also maintains and exercises treaty rights in the 1854 Ceded Territory, but is not part of the Authority. The Authority partners with federal agencies such as the Forest Service, state agencies such as the DNR, local agencies, other bands, private businesses, and others who have an interest in resource use and protection in the Arrowhead region. They advocate for maintenance of wild rice waters, a

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recent topic of controversy due to resistance of mining entities to uphold the standards of water quality downstream from their activities. They do research to assess and improve wildlife populations, land and water affected by invasive species, and adaptation to climate change. They involve young people by offering trips in the BWCAW that emphasize Ojibwe history and culture, holding outdoor career camps to encourage teens to consider a good job in that field, taking youth on field trips to learn traditional Ojibwe hunting and fishing skills, and presenting workshops around such traditional crafts as birchbark canoe building, basketry, and beading.

The Authority collaborates with the Bands and the DNR to establish the regulations that apply to those

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© Ryan Bajan

The next generation tapping maple trees exercising their treaty rights off reservation. The Authority hires and trains conservation officers, who enforce the limits and other regulations established by collaboration between the tribes, the DNR, and the Authority.

These COs can also enforce state regulations, and DNR COs can enforce 1854 regulations. Surveys and other assessments by the Authority biologists inform the limits set for fishing, hunting, and trapping, and through collaboration also contribute to decisions about state limits. All those who harvest wild rice in the area depend on the Authority’s evaluation of the rice beds to know when the rice is ripe and which lakes have the best conditions.

For millenia before 1854 the indigenous residents of this area lived off the land and no one questioned their right to hunt, fish, and gather all they needed. The Treaty of 1854 reserved those rights. They didn’t give the native people special rights; just kept the rights 2025

The 1854 ceded land, dark areas are reservations 59

non-native Americans can do their part by becoming responsible for learning about the way of life, the history and culture, the rights and values of their native neighbors. The Ojibwe are a part of our community today, not a historic relic. For the Ely area, a good place to start learning is the Bois Fort Heritage Center and Cultural Museum on the Vermilion reservation near Tower, 1854TreatyAuthority.com, and the Anishinaabe programs at the Ely Folk School. Be a good neighbor and enjoy the rich heritage and different way of life of another nation so nearby.

Learning about netting fish on Lake Vermilion

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© Ryan Bajan

they already had. The Treaty was between two sovereign nations, the same as more recent treaties such as those after the world wars. In modern practice, the rights have become limited to use on public land. Band members and their immediate family can also camp on public lands like state parks and Forest Service campgrounds without paying fees, although they must still obtain permits like anyone else. As the U.S. government strives for reconciliation with the indigenous people, who are a separate sovereign nation but share much of the same land,

The Ely Summer Times

Becca’s Boots

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e were two strong, happy women, both named Rebecca, beginning a challenging sevenday canoe trip. Kawishiwi, an Anishinaabe word, is translated as “River Full of Beaver Houses.” I’ve been

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told there is another meaning that is closer to “a place where the spirits laugh.” When my first step into the South Kawishiwi River let me know my old Muk boots leaked, the second meaning seemed more apt. I’d chosen

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to wear these boots because they were the Arctic version—with fleece lining to keep my feet warm. The bottoms were rubber and the tops neoprene. What I didn’t realize was that neoprene ages poorly. My favorite winter boots were twelve years old and had been worn hard. Our seven-day canoe trip was in the first week of May. While most of the ice had melted a week before, nighttime temps were still dropping below freezing. I wasn’t plunging through ice with each step, but I was wading in ice water.

An artists’ idea of Tapio

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My husband blamed Tapio, Finnish god of the woods, whenever things went wrong. He credited Tapio with a wry sense of humor. Perhaps the Kawishiwi River Spirit shared the same sense of humor. And when a predicament makes the gods laugh, we laugh too.

Grudgingly at first, but later, the trouble adds smiles to our stories.

At our first campsite, Rebecca tried her best to re-seal my boots with an art sealant and flowery duct tape. But the upper half of the boots were now waterlogged old neoprene. Luckily, she carried extra plastic grocery bags which she was using inside in her unlined rubber boots. The bags were a barrier between my feet and the icy waters. In other words, I had warmish wet feet the rest of the trip. The fleece linings I’d coveted didn’t work as I had hoped.

Rather than gathering warmth, they sucked up water. And so, I carried the Kawishiwi River along with me, too.

Beautiful water crashing along between sharp rocks and rolling quietly in wide spaces carried the sweet smell of life and springtime. But trapped in my boots with sweaty feet, wool socks, and plastic bags, its aroma rivaled a well-used outhouse in July.

The route we’d set for ourselves was ambitious. Heavily laden with a castiron Dutch oven, multiple layers of clothing, pre-cooked food, and coldweather gear, we made three trips across each portage. A fall under heavy The Ely Summer Times

Days 3 and 4 were hard days.

Although we paddled through beauty, these waters held so many emotional stories for me. My husband had worked the Lakes One through Insula on a Forest Service portage crew for years.

We did one work trip together through what he called The Crazy Chain because so many novices chose that route. Mike survived the 1999 blowdown on the portage into Kiana. Rebecca and I were also traveling the western most edge of the 2011 Pagami Creek Fire. I served as an Information Officer during that fire.

We traveled past a place where my coworkers had deployed fire shelters during it. The burned area sprouted with regrowth and memories. Rebecca listened with kindness as I shared stories about that difficult time.

Finally, we left the Kawishiwi River behind. Did the River make a sucking © Jack Cook

loads could break a limb. Rivers were still swollen with snow melt. A capsized canoe could be life threatening. In the wilderness, we knew rescue wasn’t close and wasn’t likely to be swift. But at rest beside churning rapids or grand expanses of island-studded lakes, what did we talk about? Not danger! We marveled at our granddaughters: ages three years, two years, and an infant of one month. We told the stories of their births, chuckled at our toddlers’ interpretations of life, dreamed aloud about bringing them along with us some day.

In northeastern Minnesota, outside and within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, the Kawishiwi River weaves the land together. Although all one watershed, different branches are dubbed North, South, and just plain Kawishiwi. Like tree roots and family trees, where one ends or blends into another is hard to say. On our maps, just when we had paddled through a series of lakes and thought we’d left the river behind, there was a wide channel labeled Kawishiwi River again. Like roots and families, it gathers both nutrients and detritus along its length and spills them forward.

The Kawishiwi River

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sound at our boots as we left it? Were the spirits laughing? The land tilted and even short portages made our leg muscles burn.

I was spent both physically and emotionally when we ended our day’s travel in a small lake. The first campsite

Corned beef and cabbage for dinner

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we saw was high, its sharp cliffs lit by late sunlight. The site was two stories up on a promontory that was ten stories high. We landed the canoe on a narrow ledge, barely wide enough for the boat.

The narrow trail to the fire grate and tent site was steep. Climbing up with our forty-pound packs, we had to use our hands as well as our feet. Rebecca carried the worst load up first. I followed with another pack.

We both slept well that night. In my dreams, Tapio and the River Spirit threw their arms across each other’s shoulders. They held each other up as they laughed, watching me tap dance across a rock-studded, root-woven portage in soggy, stinky boots.

The next morning, I freshened my wool socks and other laundry with a cold water beating. Hanging them on cedar branches to dry, a roar startled me. Did a float plane drop down into this little lake? Rebecca was out on the cliff edge. “Wow! Did you see that?” In only a few steps I was beside her.

“No, but I heard it. What was it?”

“A waterspout! A big one!” The wind witch, having dropped her water dress, spun in front of us. We grabbed packs and tossed them into the tent to weigh it down, then prepared to crawl into it ourselves. But the witch, like a teasing auntie, ruffled our hair and the newly sprung birch leaves across the narrows, then smoothed the lake’s surface before she became invisible again.

Rebecca said the spout had sprung up suddenly, an instant tornado of water and wind, three canoe lengths wide at the base and taller than the sixty-yearold jackpine on the shore behind it. We felt chilled, imagining ourselves in our canoe in the vortex. Grateful that hadn’t been what happened.

Until the spout, we’d treated the day as a layover, eating a leisurely breakfast, doing laundry, leaving the tent set up and our gear unpacked, planning to write and draw much of the time. But the The Ely Summer Times

sunny day—the warmest we had so far—was suddenly suspect. We pulled out our maps and counted portages and paddle miles. Nope. We couldn’t stay without leaving unrealistically long days ahead.

We packed up and carried our belongings along the narrow ledge and down the steep trail to the tiny landing.

When our canoe was loaded and we rode the water’s surface again, we studied the steep sides of the T-shaped lake and imagined a hot, dry wind spilling into three narrow canyons above the winter-chilled lake. No wonder it spun itself wild with water. But we didn’t paddle with fear of being caught up in another water spout. Although it was late in the afternoon, we picked up our paddles feeling refreshed and happy.

The dramatic craggy islands in Kekekabic amazed me. In my 19 years of issuing permits for the Boundary Waters, I’d tapped its blue outline on maps many times, going over potential 2025

routes with campers. I knew it was a popular fishing lake, but its real-life beauty delighted me.

The next day we did eight portages into Ogishkamuncie Lake. On one of those portages I slipped and fell.

Frustrated with my squelchy clumsy boots, I yanked them off, stuffed my plastic bags and socks inside one, and switched to water shoes. Without socks and bags, wading the ends of portages to unload and load the canoe was invigorating. Somewhere along the way I lost a sock. Someone will find a gross wad of stinky wool sock on a portage.

Mea culpa! I hope their garbage bag is already aromatic with rotting things.

On our last day we portaged into Seagull Lake. Due to wind direction we chose to paddle north along the eastern side. The plan was to meet our support team—Rebecca’s daughter and a friend—at the Trails End Campground where Rebecca had reserved sites for the weekend. We got lost among the 65

islands. I got hungry, cold—partly because of my feet in damp water shoes instead of leaky boots and soggy wool socks. Plus, I needed to pee. In other words, I was Hangry, hypothermic, and hypo bladder stressed. But did I say I needed to pullover for a few minutes?

No. Instead I got cranky and distrusted Rebecca’s navigation. We paddled a long confusing shoreline at least twice.

In the end we shot through a turbulent narrows. I believed I wouldn’t be able to paddle back up that current if we were wrong. But then, there was Rebecca’s daughter on a shoreline inside a lovely cove.

Our friendship deepened and grew roots during this trip. I didn't want my crabbiness in the last few hours to taint our relationship. A dash to an outhouse, an extra layer of clothes, and food and hot drinks from our support team cleared my energy so that I could apologize. The other three women brushed away my regret with gentle laughter. We all knew the hazards of neglecting self-care.

That afternoon, Rebecca and I found showers and a clothes washer but there was no help for my fetid boots. I tossed them into the campground dumpster.

Maybe the smell discouraged even a dumpster-diving bear.

Whenever Rebecca and I take that canoe trip with our granddaughters, my boots will pass a wade test first.

And I suspect we'll still find a few places "where the spirits laugh."

Article and photos © Becca Brin Manlove Becca’s blog, Love with Roots, reflects her gratitude for grandkids, wilderness, friends, and life in general. Her book Hauling Water tells stories of her life in the north woods with humor and heartfelt grace.

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The Ely Summer Times

Books for Summer and Beyond It’s no surprise that Robin Wall Kimmerer’s new book has themes of abundance, gratitude, community, and reciprocity. What is surprising is how much wisdom she can pack into a tiny book. Much like the berry itself, The Serviceberry is full of flavor, color, and a seed that promises new life–new perspectives on our ways of taking and giving, buying and selling, consuming and being consumed. This is a perfect gift for a graduate, for a couple beginning a life together, for new parents, or for anyone finding their way in the world today. Read it, incorporate it into your life, and give it away.

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There is not a question about beaver you might have that wouldn’t be answered in this book. From anatomy to behavior to history to indigenous stories, every topic is thoroughly covered. But it’s not stuffy, scholarly, dull reading. Rather it’s as entertaining as it is informative, with deep philosophical musings and laugh-out-loud moments.

Meet the beaver believers. Get to know some remarkable beaver individuals. Learn how anthropologists, historians, biologists, environmental engineers, and others view beavers’ contribution to the human world. It’s a dam good book.

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Chapman Street Books

Quality used books on all subjects. Bring yours in for a discount. Big free box.

Home to Prairie Fire Tobacco, with imported and domestic blends.

139 E. Chapman St. 218-365-2212 The subtitle of Chasing Wildflowers says it all. Plan on an adventure with this book in tow as you search out-of-theway spots seeking rare native plants.

When you’re tired, just sit down and read about the authors’ exciting times as they waded rivers, clambered along cliffs, and trudged through ditches to investigate unusual places to seek wildflowers. There is also good advice here forand create native habitats on their land or public land nearby.

Two brave, intelligent, articulate mothers authored two important books. Core Samples exposes the machinations of science research and politics from the point of view of someone who dearly wants to make the world a better place and knows how that could be done. From frozen lakes in Minnesota to the floor of the Senate, she does the best she can to learn what would work and influence policy makers to arrive at sensible decisions–often while struggling with lactation challenges and other aspects of motherhood. If you only read one book this summer, make it this one. It’s a great read laced with lots of humor.

Theory of Water is a radical notion of how this miraculous element creates community.

Enjoy Canoe Country all year with The Boundary Waters Calendar!

© Steve Piragis

© J Hyde

© Layne Kennedy

$15.95 at your favorite stores, by mail, phone, or online + $6.50 per shipping address. MN delivery add 6.875% tax.

PO Box 188, Ely, MN 55731 • 218-365-3375 • www.RavenWordsPress.com 68

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From an indigenous standpoint, the author shows how water can transform the pain of colonialism and bring forward relationship to the land as a power for peace and healing.

Creature Needs is a collection of writings that blends current scientific research with creative literary exploration of why and how species other than humans are necessary to our world, and what we can do about the enormous threat to their–and our own– basic needs for survival.

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If what you’re really looking for is a novel you don’t want to put down, here is one by local author Russ Vanderboom. North Star Resort is an epic story of one family’s life on a resort in a fictional Ely. The story is full of strong women, good-looking men, and above average children with complicated messy lives just like reality but portrayed in story-telling style with humor and deep affection for the characters.

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When the animal people need a leader, they decide to have a race to determine the best one for the job. A long, thoughtful, and beautiful book with a lesson about the limits of physical force and the benefits of cooperation.

Turtle Tug of War is a counting book filled with Boundary Waters delights–paddling one canoe, camping under six big pines, catching four walleye, and one surprise ending. A good book for youngsters who’ve enjoyed their first (or tenth) trip and want to remember the fun when they get back home.

A typical whiny kid starts his first canoe trip with the “Do we have to?” attitude. After a few mishaps and the realization that he can have a good time as he learns some skills, he reaches the “Can I come back next year?” frame of mind by the end of the trip. Funny and practical, this will amuse the adults and provide kids with some helpful instructions for being safe and comfortable out there.

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All these books are available through the Ely Public Library and at the new bookstore in the old Chocolate Moose.

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Semers Park Beach

Ely Area Attractions Locations for many of these can be found on the maps, page 86.

Area code is 218 unless noted.

ATV Trails

ProspectorATVClub.org

Info and maps at the Chamber and gas stations. Group rides, fundraisers, and volunteer opportunities. New trailhead center at Ely’s west entrance on Hwy 169.

Bearhead State Park

235-2520 www.mndnr.gov/bearhead

A gem of a park with terrific hiking trails, remote lakes, rental cabins, camping, boat and standup paddleboard rental, swimming beach, birding, and a knowledgeable staff. MN State Park vehicle permit required, available for this and all state parks at the office.

Bois Forte Heritage Center 753-6017 BoisForteHeritageCenter.com At the Bois Forte reservation on Lake Vermilion near Tower, the displays portray Ojibwe life past and present, indoors and out. One of the best things to do on a rainy day! While youre there, have a delicious meal at one of the resort’s restaurants. Open Mon-Fri 9-5. Free for band members, $6 other tribal members, kids age 4-12, and seniors, $20 family, $3 veterans.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

recreation.gov

Ely is the put-in place for the western and central parts of the BWCAW. Permits are always required, but are unlimited for day trips. Overnight permits are needed May-September. Reserved and same-day permits must be picked up at an outfitter. Get more information at the U.S. Forest Service station and at Friends of the BW and Save the BW - see map pg 87.

Chamber of Commerce

365-6123

800-777-7281 Ely.org

Information on resorts, outfitters, events, and businesses. Coupons for discounts at Ely stores. State and area maps. Located in a log bunkhouse originally built on Basswood Lake in 1938. 1600 E. Sheridan St. Open M-F 9-5, Sat 10-4 May 28-Sept 30. M-F 10-4 Oct-May. Closed holidays.

Children’s Garden

365-5254

Pattison and 3rd Ave. W.

Children and adults welcome anytime to explore the green bean teepee, tomato house, pumpkin patches, strawberry lane, raised vegetable beds, the rain barrel, butterfly and perennial gardens.

Art and garden activities for kids through Ely Community Resource. Call for times and to register.

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Day Care

HappyDaysEly.Com

ElyAdventureSchool.org

Day care is available both on a short term and long term basis. Ely Adventure School is an outdoors-based pre-school, after-school, and summer camp option. Happy Days at the Hub takes children ages six weeks through pre-school. Both provide high quality education time with professional teachers. See websites for details.

Dark Skies The BWCAW is an official Dark Sky Sanctuary. Although the city and counties have a ways to go to decrease light pollution, most out-of-town locations are excellent for star gazing, viewing the northern lights, night photography, and contemplating our place in the universe. Our long winter nights are an especially good time to take advantage of the dark, so come back.

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Dorothy Molter Museum

365-4451 RootBeerLady.com

The "Root Beer Lady" was the last legal non-indigenous resident of the BWCAW. Three of her cabins were relocated to Ely as a tribute to her unorthodox life. Exhibits cover BWCA history, root beer making, travel to Knife Lake, and guest registers. Ice-cold root beer, nature trails, bird watching, pet area, and other visitor services. $7 adults, discounts for kids, seniors. Members and military free. Summer 10-5 daily; Fall 10-4, Fri-Sun 9/3-30, Fri-Sat Oct.

Downtown History Walking Tour

https://theclio.com/tour/2160

Visit 35 historic locations on this 10-block walking tour. Learn about the history of each former boarding house, dry goods store, saloon, and other establishments from the late 1800s to the 1960s. Use the QR code on page 1 to link to a site that leads you along while describing Ely’s history. For a more personal tour, join the volunteer guides who will walk with you to 20 of the sites in 6 blocks and answer your questions about Ely’s storied past. Meet at City Hall on Tuesdays 4pm or Saturdays 9am, July 5-Aug 5.

Ely Arts & Heritage Center 365-3578 ElyArtsandHeritageCenter.org The Pioneer Mine Museum and the Miners Dry building are where miners transitioned to and from their underground jobs. Learn about Ely’s iron mining heritage on their free tours. See equipment, clothing, and lots of photos of Ely miners. Memorial thru Labor Day, Tues 2-5, Fri 36, any time the green jeep is parked there, or by appointment. 401 Pioneer Rd.

Ely Community Center (former Senior Center)

235-6141

Not just for seniors, everyone welcome. A place to socialize, play Bingo, smear, bridge, ping-pong, and more. Community dances, Braver Angels gatherings, craft fairs, and a variety of health programs are held here. Event rental is available from $100. Due to the name transition, calendar events still say Senior Center. There will be a celebration of the change in August. 27 S. 1st Ave.E.

Ely Folk School

235-0138 209 E. Sheridan St. ElyFolkSchool.org

Learn a new skill or teach one you know. Take classes in blacksmithing, ceramics, baking, fiber arts, painting, birding, foraging, and much more both online and in-person. Stop by or see website for a class schedule, community dances, and other events. Bring a project or start one at Makers Morning on Thursdays at 9:30. See Calendar on pg 78 for some details.

Ely Golf Course

365-5932

golf@ElymnGolfClub.com

9-hole, par 36, 3,268 yards. Carts and rental clubs, snack bar. Open May-Sept, snow allowing. On S. Central Ave, right at sign. 7am to 7pm July and August. 9 holes $24, 18 holes $32.

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Ely Public Library

365-5140 ElyLibrary.org

Children’s area, computers, audio books, music, DVDs. Large regional book section. Summer residents and visitors welcome. Pick up monthly craft and game kits. Monthly book club for teens and adults. Pre-school story time Fridays at 10:30am. Mon-Fri 9-6:30. See Calendar pg. 78 for activities for all ages. Free wifi in the parking lot.

Ely Recreation Center

365-5254

ElyCommunityResource.org

Ely Wheel Park, basketball court, pickleball, pick-up soccer in the hockey rink, skateboarding. Friday Game Night.

The base for many kids’ activities. Available to rent for private parties by calling the City of Ely at 365-3224 x1.

Call or go to www.ely.mn.us/reccenter for current hours and activities open to all. 1034 E. Main St. (see map pg 86; “Main” is not a good description of this location.) See website for more info on programs.

Ely State theater 235-6300 ElyStateTheater.org 238 E. Sheridan Two theaters with classical movies, new releases, and live events. Popcorn, snacks, beer, wine, and cocktails at the concession stand, which is not restricted to movie-goers. Enjoy refreshments whenever they’re open. $7 a ticket (except live events). This is the home of the blazingly successful Ely Film Festival. Watch for the fourth one in March 2026 and occasional special films at other times.

Ely Steam Sauna

365-2984

127 S.1st Ave. E.

Warm up and get a deep cleaning here. Public men’s and women’s rooms and private rooms. Friendly and clean, an Ely social scene. Towels included. Wed, Fri, Sat 4-5:30 or 6-7:30, Fri 8-9:30 $11-16, kids $5.

Ely Winton History Museum 365-3226 College Fine Arts Building Ely’s cultural heritage, Indian life, archaeology, voyageurs, logging, and mining. Amazing 3D model of mines and homes, today’s Trezona Trail area. Book shop features local history titles. Summer hours Tu-Sat, noon to 4pm. Free admission, but please consider donating or becoming a member. See FB page for more info.

Hidden Valley ElyNordic.org Hidden Valley Nordic ski trails and 9 miles of single track bike trails are great for summer and fall hiking, Fat biking, trail running, wildlife sighting, and birding—no dogs please. The chalet is a secluded yet convenient spot to rent for special events–info at the website.

You could make or buy a sauna hat at the Ely Folk School and wear it to the Ely Steam Bath!

Thanks to Kendra Kauppi for submitting this photo in the Chamber photo contest!

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CAMP VOYAGEUR

A camp for boys 10-18 with water and land sports plus wilderness canoe trips. Guided trips for girls. Located at the edge of the Boundary Waters. 800-950-7291, www.campvoyageur.com

Kawishiwi Falls 444 Fernberg Rd A 1.5 mile round-trip trail goes to the falls and down to a small beach on Fall Lake. Warm micro-climate supports an unusual yellow birch forest. Eagles’ nest across the bay. Great fishing below the falls. Access by road or lake.

Watch for poison ivy and keep the kids close.

Hiking Trails There are hundreds of places to hike near Ely whether you want to stretch your legs, get aerobic, exercise the dog, or make an expedition of several days. The Bass Lake Trail is one of the most popular with a waterfall, great views, swimming, fishing, and berry picking. Ask for trail maps at the USFS Visitor Center. The Koschak Farm is close to Ely, offers great birding, and isn’t so much a trail as a spot to poke around with kids or dogs and see what you can discover. See map pg 86 for some locations.

International Wolf Center 365-4695 Wolf.org Enjoy a close encounter with a wolf pack as they play, eat, nap, and tussle.Visit the display to learn about canids of all kinds, wolf behavior, research, and more. Daily programs for all ages. Open 95 until Oct 20. 10-5 Fri Sat, 10-2 Sun. $18, Seniors 60+ and veterans $16, Child age 4-12 $12, members and kids under 4 free. Free online programs and an always-on webcam.

Lake Vermilion State Park

218-300-7000 MNDNR.gov/LakeVermilion

32 campsites with electricity, 3 group campsites, 2 water-access campsites, 8 year-round camper cabins and a rustic island cabin rental. The day-use picnic shelters and fishing pier are open daily.

Listening Point

ListeningPointFoundation.org

365-5889

Take a guided tour of Sigurd Olson's historic cabin on Burntside Lake. Guided tours on Tues, Thurs, and Sat 10 AM and 2 PM. Register on the website. $8 with discount for senior, military, and children.

Tours of the family home and writing shack Wed 1-5 and Fri 10-5 in Ely, no registration needed, but call for the address. Tours available through September.

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The Ely Summer Times

Miners Lake The site of Ely’s first iron mines, this was a shallow open pit mine for a few years in the 1880s before operations went underground. The lake was created by flooding of collapsed drifts and shafts. Two fishing docks; one is wheelchair accessible. Stocked trout.

MN North College, Vermilion Campus

235-2100

The “Boundary Waters College” offers a traditional liberal arts curriculum and specialized degrees and certifications in Natural Resources, Outdoor Education,Vet Tech, Forestry, Wildland Law Enforcement, Watershed Science, Emergency Medicine, and more. The Fine Arts Theater is the site of many performances and concerts. Stop in for a free tour.

Nelimark Finnish Homestead Museum 984-3012 SisuHeritage.org In Embarrass, Minnesota’s Cold Spot, 28 miles from Ely and worth the drive. Finnish heritage and Embarrass history. Sauna exhibit, historic building9/1, Thur, Fri, Sat 10-4

North American Bear Center

365-7879

bear.org

Observe resident black bears as they play, eat, rest, and wander through their natural habitat.

Northwoods Ecology Hall features more than 60 exhibits with wildlife displays and easy-to-use touchscreens. Cub room for kids, nature trail. 9am-6pm daily May23-Aug 31; 10am-4pm daily Sept 1-Oct 26. Open year-round for groups; call for arrangements. $18, seniors & military $17, age 3-12 $11, under 3 free.

Pillow Rock

1200 block of Main Street, north side

© Mesabi Trail

You’ve heard of bed rock. Well, here’s the pillow, made of Ely Greenstone. Follow the historic site signs at 13th Avenue to see this 2.7 billion-year-old geologic formation.

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77

Semers Park

365-3224 x1 for rental

On Shagawa Lake, this park has a sandy beach and pier, playground, picnic facilities, restrooms, a campfire circle, hiking trails and islands, timberframe pavilion for rain shelter. Indoor event space for rental for reunions and parties. Follow signs from N. Central Ave.

Shopping See maps on page 86 for advertiser locations. Visitors, don’t miss Chapman Street, one block south of Sheridan Street. Used books, hardware, kitchenware, gifts, massage, yarn, car parts, packs, bulk food, deli, café, banks, small engine repair, and more.

Soudan Mine State Park

218-300-7000 dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks...

Tours daily, with hopes to have repairs from flooding completed so that underground tours can start again. Surface tours are a great way to learn the history of this mind and why it was called “The Cadillac of Mines.’ Hiking trails and picnic spots. Daily10-4 May 25-Oct 20, $15, age 5-12 $13, under 5 free. 22 miles west of Ely on 169. No vehicle permits required in the parking lot.

Swimming Spots Semers Park in Ely; Forest Service campgrounds at Fenske Lake, Fall Lake, and Kawishiwi; Dry Falls on the Bass Lake Trail; Fall Lake at the bottom of Kawishiwi Falls (watch for poison ivy), the Longbranch in Winton. There are no lifeguards. Good biking to most of these places.

Art Camp at Miners Dry Ely Art & Heritage Center 78

The Ely Summer Times

Tofte Lake Center

TofteLake.com

Artists on creative retreats and residencies fill the cabins and studio space here each summer.

Public programs in the calendar, pg 78. If you need creative space in a northwoods setting, check out the website and plan an artist residency here. Some scholarships available. 2209 Fernberg Rd

Trezona Trail Four miles around Miners Lake for biking or hiking within the city limits. Some interpretive signs at historic mine sites. Spurs to Int’l Wolf Center, USFS, and the college. Picnic shelter near the parking lot over looks the lake. Leashed dogs welcome, but clean up after them!

U.S. Forest Service Visitor Center 365-7600

Recreation.gov

Find informative brochures, maps, and kids activities here, and browse the displays on wildlife, fire, wilderness history, and more. No permit pick-up this year. 8-4:30 daily 1393 Hwy 169.

Vermilion Range Trap Club

343-2697

Join local sports shooters at this shooting range. Trap and skeet are available at the clubhouse 4 to dusk Wednesdays and 11-4 pm Sundays. Special events are held through the summer. Visitors and newcomers always welcome. Check the Facebook page for more info and updates.

Whiteside Park Located in the middle of town, this is the site of many summer events including Blueberry Festival, Harvest Moon, and Farmers and Artists Market. Playground, gardens, band shell, restrooms, scribed-log pavilion, bronze statues, and plenty of space for Frisbee games.

2025

79

Hammer Bike Races at Hidden Valley

Ely Area Calendar Summer 2025 For up-to-date event information go to www.ely.org, check posters, the local papers, and the Ely Shopper. “What’s Up Ely MN” FB page is a great source for current info whether it’s a lost dog or a big concert. Visit wolf.org and bear.org for daily programs for all ages at the Int’l Wolf Center and the Bear Center. Other websites to check are NorthernLakesArts.org (NLAA), ElyFolkSchool.org for class schedule, and ElyClasses.com for pickleball and classes. Find locations on the maps, page 87; church addresses on page 45. Activities are open to the public; registration may be required.

Use contact info or search websites for registration or more details. Area code is 218 unless noted. VMN = Vermilion Campus, MN North College. Pay What You Can ticket prices are usually the 2nd Thursday of NLAA shows; check website for others. Childfocused activities are in GREEN

MAY The Hub “We Are Water” interactive and informative. Don’t miss it! Take the kids!

Now-6/16 Ely Public Library Accidental Ensemble Concert 21,3:30 Media Center, Ely Schools 5 Keys to Fearless Retirement, ElyClasses.com 21, 5:30 NS 11 HeartSaver CPR, elyclasses.com 23, 8-12 NS 11 23, 12:30-4:30 HeartSaver First Aid, elyclasses.com Hidden Valley Hammer Bike Races, register starts at 5pm, family event 23, 6pm Vermilion Theater Listening Point Suite Concert, original works by Jack Schabert 23, 6pm Dorothy Molter Museum Summer Season Opening, rootbeerlady.com 24, 10-5 Ely Folk School Youth Carrot Cake Baking, register 235-0138 24, 1pm Hidden Valley Chalet Ely Wellness Collaborative Annual Gathering, all welcome 27, 6pm Vermilion Theater Wood ‘N’ Wind concert, NLAA 27, 7pm Media Center, Ely Schools Estate Planning w/ Kelly Klun, elyclasses.com, free 28, 5:30pm NS 111, VMN 29-30, 7:30-4:30 Wilderness First Aid, register at ElyClasses.com Hidden Valley Hammer Bike Races, register starts at 5pm, family event 30, 6pm Washington Aud Ely Memorial High School Graduation 30, 7pm The Art Corner Glass on Glass Mosaic workshop, 365-2263 31-6/1 Hubacheck Research Ctr Beginner Chainsaw Class, register 365-0878, 31-6/1, 8-4 Ely Folk School Beginner Sewing, make a blouse, register 235-0138 31, 9 am Hubacheck Research Ctr 31, 5-6:30pm Art of Pile Building, learn to safely stack and burn brush 80

The Ely Summer Times

JUNE 1-30 1-30 2 2-6, 9-nooon 2-5, 1-5pm 3 or after 3-5, 9am-12 5, noon 5, 4pm 5, 5pm 6, 2pm 6, 5:30-7 6, 6pm 7, 9-4 7, 8am 7, 10-12 7, 6-8pm 8, 6-8pm 9-13, 9:30 9, 3pm 9, 6-8:30pm 10, TBA 10-13, TBA 11, 6:30 2025

NLAA June Art Show, Kristen Anderson The Hub June Art Show, All About Monarchs by Kelly Godfrey Art & Soul Gallery Reflections Summer Dance classes begin, register northernlakesarts.org Vacation Bible School, age 4-5th grade, 365-4890 Ledgerock Church Greenstone Art Workshops, grades 6-12 NLAA, 235-9937 Miners Dry Register for Summer Reading Program, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Greenstone Art Camp, grades 1-6 NLAA, 235-9937 Miners Dry Art Show for Children’s Art Camp, all welcome, free Miners Dry Jigsaw Puzzle Swap, bring some, take some Ely Public Library Makers After Hours, 10th Birthday Celebration of Crafting Ely Folk School Yoyo Day, tips and tricks, register 365-5140 Ely Public Library Paddle the Birchbark Canoes made at Ely Folk School Semers Park Hammer Bike Races, registration starts at 5pm, family event Hidden Valley National Sauna Day tour, games, music, food Nelimark Museum Altameja Fishing Contest & Golf Tournament 715-329-0051 Shagawa Lake & Ely Golf Club Creativity for the Non-Creative, register 235-0138 Ely Folk School 10th Birthday Party Potluck Ely Folk School Community Contra Barn Dance, no experience necessary Ethel’s Acres Barn & Stable Kids Art Experience, register theartcorner.net The Art Corner Friends of the Library Book Club, Adults, Empress of the Nile Ely Public Library First City Band Rehearsal, all welcome, rehearsals M, T till 7/1 Ely School Band room Emergency Preparedness for Ely Area, elyminnesota.com/elyclimate TBA Ely Golf Club Youth Lessons, ages 8-14, elymngolfclub.com, 365-5932 Ely Golf Course Braver Angels Ely Alliance, “Is Ely Dog-Friendly?” see FB page for details Ely Senior Ctr 81

JUNE continued 12-13, 8am Junior Wolf Biologist Mini-Camp, ages 7-12, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Ely Public Works 12, 10-2 Household Hazardous Waste Collection, stlouiscountymn.gov 12 3:30 Brodini Comedy Magic Show, all ages Ely Public Library 13, noon Deadly Knits, knitting and listen to true crime, adults Ely Public Library 13, 6pm Hammer Bike Races, register starts at 5pm, family event Hidden Valley 14, 8am Walleye Whamma Fishing Contest, 827-3464 Birch Lake Beach, Babbitt 14, 10am Polish Delight Golf Tournament, 365-5932 Ely Golf Club 17, 11am Pre-school Games, bring an adult Ely Public Library 17-29, 7 & 2pm Next to Normal, details and tickets at NorthernLakesArts.org Vermilion Theater 18, 1-3pm Make Custom Greeting Cards, register 235-0138 Ely Folk Scho & 18, 5 pm Ely-Winton Historical Society History Night & meeting, Winton Stories Winton CC 19, 10am Blueberry Ball Golf Tournament, 365-5932 Ely Golf Club 20, TBA Fun Active Day, competitions, details to come Functional Fitness 20-22 Peter Mitchell Fun Days, Carnival and Activities Babbitt 20 & 21, 1pm All About Monarchs with naturalist Bill Tefft and artists Art & Soul Gallery 20, 2pm Library Scientists, Germs, kids grades 2-4 Ely Public Library 20, 6:30 Community Night Paddle, Friends of BW Cedar Lake Access 21, 9am Kids Fishing Derby, ages 5-11, register by 6/13, 365-6123 Veterans on the Lake 21, noon Wolf Family Rendezvous, all ages, wolf.org, 365-HOWL International Wolf Ctr 22-7/5,9-12 NLAA Youth Theater Camp, ages 8-18 (off 7/4) Vermilion Theater 23, 4-7pm Ely Pride Celebration, all welcome Semers Park 24, 10:30 Preschooler Move and Groove Ely Public Library 25, 3:30 Plants, Pants, and Papermaking w/ Grace Klein, all ages Ely Public Library 26, 2pm Get Crafty, Kindness Rocks, all ages register 365-5104 Ely Public Library 26, 10-4 EWHS Antique Car Show and Accession Sale, 365-3226 Ely Winton History Museum 26, 5pm Northwoods Partners Fundraiser Dinner, Magic of Movies, 365-8019 Miners Dry 27, 6pm Ely Wellness Collaborative Annual Gathering, all welcome Hidden Valley Chalet 28, 12-5pm Make Pine Needle Hair Clips, register 235-0138 Ely Folk School 29, 11am-2pm Dorothy Day: Preserving a Legacy, free entry all day Dorothy Molter Museum 30- 7/1, 8 am Junior Wolf Biologist Mini-Camp, register at wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Yoga and Fitness Functional Fitness End of the Road Yoga Ely Pickleball Club See websites Raven’s Wing Yoga for schedules.

Walk-ins Studio North welcome.

Tofte Lake Center

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The Ely Summer Times

Monthly Events (Open to all, visitors welcome!)

All month Take and Make Craft Kits Ely Public Library All month Games to take Ely Public Library 2nd Monday, 3pm Friends of the Library book discussion Ely Public Library 2nd Tuesday, 4pm Ely Climate Group, discussion and more Ely Field Naturalists Resource Ctr 3rd Tuesday, 1pm Ladies of Kalevala, all welcome Ely Senior Ctr 3rd Tuesdays, 2pm Tasty Tuesday, nutritious food on a budget, register 302-1778 The Hub 3rd Tuesday, 5:30pm Sound Healing, all welcome End of the Road Yoga 1st Wednesdays Wellness Wednesday, BP checks and other activities, 11-noon Senior Ctr 1st Wednesday, 11:30 Potluck before Bingo, $5 or bring a dish to share Ely Senior Center 2nd Wednesday, 6pm Cancer Support Group, 365-4927 Ely Senior Ctr 3rd Wednesday 11-5pm Food Shelf Open, 235-8527 15 W. Conan 3rd Wednesday, 5-5;30 History Happy Hour with Jess Edberg Oct-May The Boathouse upstairs 1st Thursday, 6:00pm Ely Area Writers’ Group, any genre, 235-1984 Ely Folk School 3rd Thursday, 6pm Herbal Club, deep dive into one herb w/ instruction Ely Folk School 3rd Tuesday, 11am Caregiver Support Group, 365-8019 The Hub 1st Saturday, 8-11am Pancake Breakfast, Oct-May Timber Hall, Embarrass Saturday after 3rd Monday 8-11 Food Shelf Open, 235-8527 15 W. Conan Last Saturday, 9-11 Coffee and Cards with Evelyn The Hub 1st Sunday, 4-5pm Ely Palestine Solidarity Group, see FB page Grand Ely Lodge Seriously, we need you to thank our advertisers! They invest is this magazine to give you these stories and information for free. Many don’t need more business, but still they support us. They will continue if they realize it’s appreciated - so a big THANK YOU lets them know.

2025

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Weekly Events Visit wolf.org and bear.org for daily programs for all ages at the Int’l Wolf Center and the Bear Center.

Most locations are on the maps, page 86; church addresses are on page 45. 218 area code Activities are open to the public; registration may be required. Child-focused activities are in GREEN Mon, Wed, Fri Mon, 10am Mon 4pm sharp Mon 6pm Tues 9am Tue 12-1pm Tues 1-2:30 Tue 2-5pm Tues 4pm Tues 4:30 Tue 5-7pm Tues 5:30-9 Tues 6pm Wed 10:30 Wed 11:30 Wed 2-4pm Wed 3 pm Wed 4pm Thur 8:30 am Thur 9:30am Thur noon Thur 10:30am Thur 5 pm Thur 5:30-7pm Thur 6 pm Fri 10:30am Fri 3-6pm Fri 4 pm Fri 5:30pm Sat 10 am Sat 10 am Sat 7pm Sat 8pm Sun 11am M, W , Th

Indoor Walking, 10-11am Starts in September Senior Center Women’s Coffee and Conversation The Hub Ely Women’s Golf League, Starts 6/2, 365-5932 Ely Golf Club Smear Tournament, all are welcome, Starts in September Ely Senior Center Chair Yoga, all welcome The Hub Tuesday Group Speakers elytuesdaygroup@gmail.com Zoom or Grand Ely Lodge Make Root Beer w/ Dorothy Molter Museum, 6/26-8/28, 235-0138 Ely Folk School Pioneer Mine Shaft House tours, Memorial-Labor Day Arts and Heritage Center Guided History Walking Tour, 7/5-8/5 Meet at City Hall Singer-songwriter series 7/8 thru 8/12 Brainstorm Bakery Farmers Market and Arts in the Park, 6/3-9/30 Whiteside Park Tiki Tuesday, local music, 6/18-8/20 Tiki Deck across from Mealey’s Ely City Band Concert 7/4,7/8, 7/22 & 7/29 Whiteside Park Band Shell Men’s Memories & Movement group, 365-8019 Ely Senior Center Bingo and Potluck, all welcome Ely Senior Center Board Games, ages 5 and up, through August except 6/25 and 8/13 Ely Public Library Senior Men’s Golf League, 365-5932 Ely Golf Course Trap shooting until dusk, 343-2697 Vermilion Range Trap Club Yoga, 6/12 to 9/11, beautiful setting in the woods Tofte Lake Center Makers Mornings, crafts and community, free Ely Folk School Mah Jong, all welcome, 404-6915 Ely Senior Center Community Exercise for seniors, free 365-8019 First Lutheran Church Commercial Men’s Golf League, register 365-5932 Ely Golf Course Ely Community Health Center free clinic, no appt needed 33 E. Chapman St. Live Music, variety of performers Brainstorm Bakery Pre-School Story Time, except 7/4, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Pioneer Mine Shaft House tours, Memorial Day-Labor Day Arts and Heritage Ctr Couples Golf League, 365-5932 Ely Golf Course Hammer Mountain Bike Race Series, ElyNordic.com, 5/30-6/20 Hidden Valley Guided History Walking Tour, 7/5-8/5 Meet at City Hall Live Music, variety of performers Brainstorm Bakery What’s for Dinner? register at 365-4695 Int’l Wolf Center Howling Safari (Aug-Oct) age 6+, 365-HOWL, wolf.org Int’l Wolf Center Trap shooting until mid-afternoon, 343-2697 Vermilion Range Trap Club Discount Dental Clinic, appt required, 365-5678 Ely Comm Health Ctr

See church services in Spiritual Gatherings, page 45.

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The Ely Summer Times

JULY 1-31 July Art Show, Touched by Leather by Pamela Davis Art & Soul Gallery 1-31 NLAA Art Show, John Ratzloff The Hub 1, 2pm Anti-Boredom Month with Jessie, grade 4-Adult, register Ely Public Library 2, 5pm Cookout, free food, games and music, friends-bwca.org Semers Park 3, 4-6pm Boundary Waters Connect BBQ, free food & drink Chapman St Commons 4, 10am Flag Raising and Patriotic Program Veteran’s Memorial 4, 8am 4 on the 4th, 4-Mile Run & Walk supporting Ely Track Club, 235-3956 Trezona Trailhead 4, 11am-4pm City of Ely 4th of July Celebration, kids activities & 1pm parade Whiteside Park 4, 6pm Ely City Band Concert, BYO chair, 1st of 137th season!

Whiteside Park Band Shell 4, dusk Fireworks (Please send donations to PO Box 231, Ely 55731) Over Miner’s Lake 5, 1-3pm Open House, with refreshments Art & Soul Gallery 5, 4-11pm Rock the Park, live music and fun, 365-6123 Whiteside Park 5, 2 and 6pm Theater Camp performance, 13 Vermilion Theater 8, 6pm Ely City Band Concert, BYO chair Whiteside Park Band Shell 13, 2pm Crafts: Awkward Art, age 8-13, register 365-5140 Ely Public Library 14, 3pm Friends of the Library Book Club, adults Remarkably Bright Creatures Ely Public Library 14-18 Reflections Dance Co. Workshop, ages 9-adult, register 410-9457 Semers Park Pavilion 16, 9-3 Nature Writing Workshop, register235-0138 Ely Folk School & Listening Point 16-20, 10-5 Water Color Club Show and Sale, all local artists Miners Dry 17, 2pm Library Scientists, Bridges, grades 4-6, register 365-5140 Ely Public Library 17-18, 8 am Junior Wolf Biologist Mini-Camp, register at wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center 17-27, 7 and 2pm Sister Act, details and tickets at NorthernLakesArts.org Vermilion Theater 18, 2pm Preschool Beach Party games and stories, indoors Ely Public Library 18, 7pm Reflections Dance Workshop performance Tofte Lake Center 19, 11am Kids for Kids Concert by Northern Lakes Music Fest, all ages Ely Public Library 22, 2pm Library Jeopardy, ages 10-adult Ely Public Library 22, 6pm Ely City Band Concert, BYO chair Whiteside Park Band Shell 23, 5pm Braver Angels Ely Alliance Social, see FB page for details SamZ Bar 21-8/2, 9-12 Stars of the North theater workshop, ages 8-18, register NLAA Vermilion Theater 28, 12pm Get Crafty - Paint By Number, adults, register 365-5140 Ely Public Library 25-27 44th Annual Blueberry Arts Festival Whiteside Park 26, 9:30 am Make a Wet Felted Sauna Hat, register 235-0138 Ely Folk School 25, 6pm Ely Wellness Collaborative Annual Gathering, all welcome Hidden Valley Chalet 25-26, 9-5 Blueberry Bazaar, indoor vendors & senior cafe, 365-4139 Ely Senior Center 27, 11-2 Donuts with Dorothy, free entry all day Dorothy Molter Museum 27, 6pm Mattson Family Singers Concert Apostolic Church, Embarrass 29, 10:30 Preschooler Move and Groove, with adult Ely Public Library 29, 6pm Ely City Band Concert, BYO chair Whiteside Park Band Shell 31, 3:30 Science Museum Dinosaur Program, for kids but all welcome Ely Public Library

ELY FIELD NATURALISTS

If you want to head out on field trips to a variety of habitats to look for birds and other wildlife, orchids, mushrooms, lichens, and much more, join the free outings led by naturalists that this group offers. They also have a resource center with an extensive natural history library, free posters, and gear to borrow, You can find upcoming events and join (not required) to receive emails at groups.google.com/g/elyfieldnaturalists 2025

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zloff

AUGUST 1-31 2, 1-3pm 2, 12-5 4, 9 am 13, 7pm 7, 3:30 8, 2pm 8-9, 7pm 9, 9 am 9-10, 11am 10, 2pm 11, 3pm 12, 6:30 13, 3:30 14, 12pm 15-17 15-16 16-17, noon 16, 1pm 17, 11-2 17, 5 pm 16, 11-9 16, 10am 16-17, noon 19, 11:30 21, 11am 22-24 25, 2 pm 26, 10:30 28, 10-2 29, 6pm 30-31, 2-7pm

August Art Show, Beyond the Birch, Steve Sutter Art & Soul Gallery Open House Art & Soul Gallery A Day at the Lake, workshops, BBQ, music Tofte Lake Ctr Senior Men’s Golf Tournament, 365-5932 Ely Golf Club Mixed Precipitation Pickup Truck Opera, Mozart’s King Idomeneo Whiteside Park Egg Drop, school age and adults, weather dependent, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Perler Bead crafts, ages 5-adult, register 365-5140 Ely Public Library Water 2.0, dance program by Reflections Dance Co. Vermilion Theater Wildlife Career Day, ages 12+, register at wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center 20th Annual Ely Watercross Race, 235-8940 Fall Lake at Longbranch VermilionTheater Water 2.0, dance show by Reflections Dance Co. Friends of the Library Book Club: Book TBA Ely Public Library Braver Angels Ely Alliance, all welcome, see FB page for details Ely Senior Ctr Will Sings Songs, all ages Ely Public Library Save the Monarchs (butterflies not kings), older teens-adults Ely Public Library Team Penning and Ranch Sorting (kind of a rodeo), Free Embarrass Fairgrounds Middle School Reading Sleepover, grades 6-9, ask for prereqs Ely Public Library Wolf Family Rendezvous, ages 6+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Ctr Beading on Deer Hide and Scratchboard demonstrations Art & Soul Gallery Supporters Appreciation Day, free entry all day Dorothy Molter Museum Polka Party, sponsored by Slovenian Union of America Ely Senior Center Ely Heritage Festival, music, food, mine tours, history walks FREE Pioneer Mine Big Cup Tournament, oversized cups, golf@elymngolfclub.com Ely Golf Course Wolf Family Rendezvous, ages 6+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Ctr Crafty Tie Dye, all ages, register 365-5140 Ely Public Library Graduation for 1000 books before Kindergarten Ely Public Library Annual Embarrass Regional Fair, opens 2pm Fri. Embarrass Fairgrounds Golden Girls Golf Tournament, 365-5932 Ely Golf Club Preschooler Move and Groove, with adult Ely Public Library Household Hazardous Waste Collection, stlouiscountymn.gov Northwoods Transfer Ely Wellness Collaborative Annual Gathering, all welcome Hidden Valley Chalet Fest DuNord, concert and music for families, info@dunord.org Camp duNord

Do you struggle to find ways to have respectful conversations with family, friends, and neighbors with whom you disagree? Braver Angels can help.

The Ely Alliance holds monthly gatherings to discuss controversial topics at both local and national levels. Find more info on the FB page and come to the social event at Samz Bar on July 23rd. BraverAngels.org.

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The Ely Summer Times

SEPTEMBER 2 First day of school, grades 1-12, 365-6166 Ely Public Schools 5-7 30th Annual Harvest Moon Festival Whiteside Park 5pm Wolves after Dark, overnight ages 12+, pre-register, wolf.org Int’l Wolf Center 5-7, 4pm Women & Wolves Weekend, ages 21+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center 12, 5pm Listening Point Fundraiser, reservations listeningpointfoundation.org Grand Ely Lodge 6, 9 am Soup Cup Golf Tournament, 365-5932 Ely Golf Club 7, 4pm Community Night Out, music and food, 984-3012 Seitaniemi Homestead Embarrass 8 Studio North – Fall dance classes begin, studionorthelymn.com Studio North 13, 10am Nature’s Imprint, workshop with Rachel Pace, register NLAA Vermilion Theater 18, 6:30 Braver Angels Ely Alliance, all welcome, see FB page for details Ely Senior Ctr 19-20 Dorothy Molter Beer (and Root Beer) Garden fundraiser Whiteside Park 19 7pm 5K Northern Lights Glow Run, all ages and abilities Whiteside Park 20, 7:30 and 8am Ely Marathon and Highland Bank half marathon, elymarathon.com Ely Area 20, 8:45am Dorothy’s Root Beer Kids Marathon, kids run 25 miles before race day Ely Area 20, 5 pm Community Dinner, everyone welcome Ledgerock Church 24 Gardner Trust fall grant applications due, 365-2639 GardnerTrust

OCTOBER, NOVEMBER Oct 1, 5-7pm New Residents Social, everyone welcome TBA Oct 4-5, 9am Wolf Photography Weekend, wolf.org, 365 HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Oct 4, 10-4 Jake Forsman Memorial Car Show & Burnout Competition City Hall area Oct 6 Dance classes start for Reflections Dance Company, register Various locations Oct 7-10 Make a Gourd Banjo, register 235-0138 Ely Folk School Oct 18-19 noon Wolf Family Rendezvous, ages 6+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Ctr Oct 20, 5 pm Community Dinner, everyone welcome Ledgerock Church Oct 31, TBD Trunk or Treat, Halloween fun for all ages Whiteside Park Nov 1, 9am Holiday Bazaar Crafts and Bake Sale United Methodist Church Nov 4-7, 6-9pm Make Beaver Musher Mittens, register235-0138 Ely Folk School Nov 8-9, 9am Make a Viking Birka Hat, Sat 9-5, Sun 9-2, register 235-0138 Ely Folk School Nov 15, 5 pm Community Dinner, everyone welcome Ledgerock Ch Nov 27 Thanksgiving Potluck, all welcome, two servings 11am and 4pm Ely Folk School 2025

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Maps of the Ely Area Downtown Area

Camp St.

62

88 95 94

73 56 86

87

70

57 75 72 78 58 74 71 79 76 77

92 Central Av.

3rd Av W

82 83 84 85

60

99

89

Chapman St.

80 98

Sheridan St. 96

81 3rd Av E

61 63

69

Whiteside Park

65 66 64 67 68

Harvey St. 90

91

97 Conan St.

School

Memorial Field

59

93

Art & Soul Gallery Blue Loon Boundary Waters Catering Boundary Waters Connect Brainstorm Bakery Brandenburg Gallery Chapman Street Books Chapman St. Commons Children’s Garden City Hall/Police/Fire Ely Area Credit Union Ely Area Food Shelf Ely Bike & Kicksled Ely Comm Resource Ely Farmers Market Ely Field Ntr Resource Ely Flower & Seed Ely Folk School Ely Free Clinic Ely State Theater 88

94 70 78 75 89 67 78 72 93 81 92 60 65 90 96 71 59 84 74 86

Ely Outfitting Co. Ely Public Library Ely Realty Ely Steam Sauna Ely Surplus Store Evergreen Cottage Firefly Vintage Friends of the BW Frisky Otter Gracie’s Plant Works Historic Walking Tour Insula Restaurant Jessie Brooks Massage Joe’s Marine Kekekabic Studios Kelly Klun Law Mayhem Mending Mealey’s Gift & Sauna MN Canoe Museum NAPA

89 80 79 91 65 77 56 70 87 61 81 82 74 62 76 58 87 66 84 74

Northern Grounds The Pebble Spa Piragis Northwoods Co Piragis Bookstore Post Office Prairie Fire Tobacco Save the BW Senior Center Sheridan St. Deli Sisu Yarn Shop State Farm Insurance Steger Mukluks Sweet Fern Soap Three Jewels Pottery Tranquility by Jaime Washington Auditorium WELY Wintergreen Women’s Wild Discovery

63 85 64 64 98 78 75 99 88 62 74 68 64 73 69 97 57 83 95

The Ely Summer Times

17

Cloquet Line

25

1

Moose Lake

Echo Tr

16

Fall Lake

2

Burntside Lake 24

4

Rt 88

5

Shagawa Lake

Lake One Garden Lake

Winton

Ely

White Iron Lake

3

8 22 To Tower, Soudan, Virginia Hwy 21

Fernberg Tr

7

6

23

Hwy 169

Snowbank Lake

Farm Lake 10 South Kawishiwi

9 Hwy 1

15 Bald Eagle Lake

12 14 11 Bear Island Lake

Hwy 1 To Isabella Lake

Birch Lake Tomahawk Tr To Isabella, Lake 20 Superior

Hwy 21 Babbitt 13 To 21 Embarrass

Airport Alder Place Bass Lake Trail Bearhead State Park Big Lake Lodge Bois Forte Heritage Ctr Burntside Lodge Camps du Nord & Widji Camp Northern Lights Camp VanVac Camp Voyageur Docks on Wheels

2025

Tomahawk Tr

12 13 2 22 25 22 23 1 11 24 10 8

Ely Adventure School 6 Embarrass Timber Hall 21 Janisch Realty 22 Kawishiwi Falls 6 Koschak Farm 4 Lake Vermilion State Pk 22 Lamppa Manufacturing 22 LaTourell’s Outfitters 17 Longbranch 5 North American Bear Ctr 3 Nelimark Museum 21 Outdoor Learning Center 7

River Point Resort 14 Soudan Mine State Park 22 Timberjay Newspaper 22 Tofte Lake Center 16 Vermilion Trap Club 5 Vermillion Roofing 22 Veterans on the Lake 7 Voyageur Outward Bound15 White Wilderness 20 Wintergreen Lodge 9

89

Burntside Beauty & Seclusion

OFFERED AT $845,000 DETAILS 1 BED/1 BATH 800 SF 38.75 ACRES 1,703 FT SHORELINE

Burntside Lake handscribed log home in private bay at end of pristine granite fjord. Set on acres of park-like forest w/walking trails, surrounded on 3 sides by Fed forests at edge of BWCA. Custom built home w/cedar shake roof & wrap-around deck. Open great rm w/wood burning 昀repl & wall of windows showcasing majestic panoramic views. Drilled well, septic, elec, dock.

As close as it gets to living in the Boundary Waters!

www.JanischRealty.com

Public Landing

Shagawa Lake

Pioneer Rd

37 36 55

30

Semer’s Park

Miners Lake r. er’s D

r St. Chandle W.Shagawa Rd.

Public Landing 55

33 Washington St.

Min

55 34

35

42

Main St.

Madison St. Camp St. 39

1st E

Central Av

41 12 Ave

10 Ave

40 8 Ave

6 Ave

1st W

Whiteside

Sheridan St. Chapman St.

2nd W

Hwy 169 to Tower

3rd W

See Detailed Downtown Area Map on Page 70

Harvey St. Conan St. School

Hospital & Clinic

White St.

31

Pattison St.

Ice Arena

James St. Boundary St. Wilson St.

Golf Course

Hwy 21 to Babbitt

Beacon Hill

American Family Insurance 41 Arrowhead Outdoors 52 Dairy Queen 46 Dan’s Garage 40 Dorothy Molter Museum 49 Ely-Bloomenson Hosp/Clinic 31 Ely Chamber of Commerce 47 Ely Community Pharmacy 31 Ely Arts & Heritage Center 36 Ely Nordic Ski & Bike 53 Ely Recreation Center 42 92

Reach thousands of Ely visitors, residents, and cabin owners with your ad in The Ely Summer & Winter Times. ads@ravenwords.com 218-365-3375

Ely-Winton History Museum 46 Etoile du Nord Nail Salon 41 Functional Fitness 33 Gators Grilled Cheese 39 Grand Ely Lodge 37 The Hub 33 International Wolf Center 51 Miners Dry Building 36 Northwoods Partners 33 Pillow Rock 43 Public Works Garage 56 The Ely Summer Times

43

Pioneer Rd

55 55

Savoy Rd Hwy 88

43

55

44

MN North Vermilion College 57

17 Ave

45

46

50 47

52

Cemetery

54

Hwy 169 to Winton/Fernberg Trail

Sheridan St. 49

15 Ave

48 14 Ave

51 Hi

dd

en

Kawishiwi Tr Va l

ley

56

Rd

.

Hwy 1 to Airport and North Shore

.

53 Hidden Valley Chalet & Recreation Area

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R&R Transfer 44 Raven’s Wing B&B 30 Recycling Center 54 Studio North Fitness Center 45 Subway 48 Trezona Trail 55 US Forest Service Center 50 MN North Vermilion Theatre 57 Veterinary Clinic 35 Zup’s Grocery 48 2025

93

JANISCH REALTY is a small, local company who has worked diligently to become a WATERFRONT MARKET LEADER 12 YEARS IN A ROW! Local Professional Expertise | Global Network Unrivaled Personal Service | Ethics Committee Member FOR BUYERS: • Reliable Competent Advice • Knowledge of the area • Insight into market trends • Pro昀cient in construc琀on techniques • Exper琀se in real estate nego琀a琀ons

FOR SELLERS: • Unparalleled Exposure • Access to our global network of poten琀al buyers • Aggressive marke琀ng • Professional & aerial photography, online 3D virtual tours • Use of cu ng edge technology

We listen to our clients and make 昀nding the right property a straight-forward, transparent experience.

We serve as trusted advisors from the lis琀ng and marke琀ng stage through the nego琀a琀ng and closing process.

It would be an honor to have the opportunity to work with you!

Give us a call or send us an email and let’s get started TODAY!