Ely Summer Times 2017

Ely Summer Times

© Dawn LaPointe

2017

Contents The Birchbark Canoe Project Blogs of Ely Gallery Guide Homegrown Musical Ely Dining Guide Not Your Usual College So You Came for the Fish Where to Find What You Need Ely Area Maps

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Where to Go, What to See Your Dog’s Name is What?!

A Natural Place Spiritual Gatherings Summer Reading Calendar of Events Wildfire Lessons Marching Through Ely History

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© 2017 Raven Productions, Inc.

The Ely Summer and Winter Times is published twice a year by Raven Productions, Inc. For editorial information or advertising rates, contact us at PO Box 188, Ely, MN 55731, 218-365-3375.

For a subscription within the US, send check or money order for $8.00 or order at our website, www.RavenWords.com. Archived articles from 19962016 can be found on this website.

Printed in USA

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Ely’s Birchbark Canoe Project

Photos © Brad Carlson except as noted hen industry is mentioned in connection with the history of northern Minnesota, logging, mining, and tourism come to mind. But the first industry here was birchbark canoe building. European explorers and the fur trade that followed close behind depended on canoes just as today’s economy depends on planes, trucks, and trains. The lakes and rivers were the transportation byways, and canoes were the only vehicle capable of navigating these waterways with heavy loads.

Anthropologists tell us that every culture that inhabited this area used canoes. Just as we may have different cars for hauling the family around, heading out hunting and fishing, and commuting long distances, Ojibway families had canoes that varied depending on their intended use: a sleek quiet canoe for hunting and a larger more stable one for family travel. When

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fur traders, missionaries, and explorers came, they needed large freight canoes, called North canoes, to carry bigger loads.

Ojibway people living here had the skills, raw materials, and location location location. Saganaga, Basswood, and Lac LaCroix had more traffic then than now, and travelers needed to replace or repair canoes damaged in rapids or worn from hitting rocks and hauling heavy loads of trade goods. And so canoe building became a business along the border route.

When the Ely Folk School (EFS) was looking for an iconic symbol and activity, the birchbark canoe was a natural choice. Although few people today have the skills, and the materials are much harder to find, this centuriesold tradition has an appeal to those curious about Ely’s cultural history and working with their hands. With the help

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of experienced birchbark canoe builder Erik Simula, who is dedicated to seeing this traditional craft live on, the Birchbark Canoe Project became a reality in the summer of 2016.

A core group of students/volunteers met every Tuesday and Wednesday evening at EFS from April through midAugust and completed the 14’ canoe in the photo above. About 50 people were involved more casually, and dozens more stopped to watch as they passed by the building site on the EFS lawn.

The project culminated in a canoe trip to the Lac LaCroix First Nation powwow where the canoe was named “Lac LaCroix” by tribal elders in the Anishinabe custom. With the successful season, participants agreed that the Birchbark Canoe Project should become a continuing part of EFS. An Ojibway long-nose canoe and a North canoe were chosen to be the next ones built, and building began in April.

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This summer on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 5-9 pm, you’re invited to watch, join in for a few minutes or hours of hands-on crafting, or sign up to be part of the project for the season.

For Ojibway, canoe building was a family affair, and this project is also inter-generational with people of all ages taking part. Children are welcome and may go home with a bit of bark as a memento.

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Above: The vertical cut has been made and the bark is loosening easily.

Below: Watap is pulled from the ground, coiled for storage, then peeled and split when it’s needed.

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Gathering materials is the first step in making a birchbark canoe. Bark is the hardest to come by in modern times as logging, insects, and climate change have reduced the number of large, tall, straight trees.

Native people remembered the best trees they saw while hunting, berry picking, or sugaring and were able to return to them when it was time to collect bark. Project volunteers also look out for trees as they are doing other activities in the forests and ask state, federal, and county foresters where logging is planned so they may be able to take the bark from trees that will be cut. It’s preferable to make the canoe only as long as the longest piece of bark, so the trees available may determine the size and design of the canoe.

Taking the bark doesn’t kill the tree if it’s done right. Only a vertical cut is made, so the tree isn’t girdled, which would cut off the flow of sap that brings nutrients from the soil to the tree branches. In keeping with the Ojibway tradition, bark is only taken from a tree that is willing to give it. A test patch will reveal if the bark is thick enough to use for a canoe, and if it is likely to come off easily. Then the cut is made, and the bark is gently loosened and carefully removed.

Spruce root, called watap in Ojibway, is used for stitching and

The Ely Summer Times

lashing. Again care is taken in gathering to protect the trees’ health. Wet spruce forests with sphagnum moss and little underbrush are the best places to gather roots, as it is possible to pull up long pieces of root with minimal disturbance of the rest of the forest floor. To use the root, it is first peeled then split in half to make a smooth piece of cordage rounded on one side and flat on the other.

The third raw material that must be gathered is pitch from a spruce, red pine, or jack pine. This is taken from a tree that has been damaged or lost a branch. The pitch will have hardened around the wound just as blood makes a scab on a cut. The canoe builders began to carry small plastic bags around with them to collect this pitch whenever they came across it because a lot is needed.

The pitch is heated, fat is added (bear

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fat is the best) to make the mixture pliable, and charcoal is stirred in. The resulting gum is used to seal the seams and any holes in the bark so that the canoe won’t leak.

Cedar and ash trees are the final raw materials required. Cedar is used to make ribs, planks, and gunwales that hold the bark in the desired hull shape and give the canoe its strength. Ash or another hardwood is used to make pegs that hold the gunwales together. A straight cedar tree with adequate diameter and few knots is a rare find but critical. By splitting cedar logs into increasingly thin slabs, the tree is rendered into planks just a fraction of an inch thick. These are shaped into the required pieces using a drawknife, shave horse, and crooked knife. The ash is reduced to matchstick size pegs by splitting and carving.

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Most native canoe builders switched to using nails and synthetic caulk once they were available instead of carving pegs and collecting pitch. When canoe building became an industry, efficiency became important; sealant and nails were easier to acquire through trade than to make from scratch. The folk school project opted to use natural materials for the first canoe, but may choose modern alternatives for some boats in the future.

Locating the building area in a breezy spot can reduce the annoyance of biting insects, and shade prevents the materials from drying out too quickly and becoming brittle. The ground surface must be soft enough to pound in stakes that hold the bark in place and help shape the canoe. Archaeologists have found most historic canoe building sites on sandy points along the main travel routes.

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Š Heather Monthei

Mixing pitch, fat, and charcoal to make the gum sealant.

Starting to shape a long piece of cedar into a rib or gunwale

The Ely Summer Times

At EFS a traditional earthen building bed was created on the front lawn.

Participants built a hoop structure to provide shade and protection from wind and rain. Then the bark was laid out and the canoe frame positioned on top of it to create the shape of the bottom of the canoe. The bark was made pliable with hot water, bent into shape, and held in place with stakes and clamps. The inner and outer gunwales sandwiched the top of the bark to hold it in the desired shape with the thwarts creating the width.

Stitching hull bark with watap demands careful crafting. A sloppy job and the bark can tear or loosen causing leaks or worse. A good job and the canoe will hold up for many years with minimal maintenance. An awl is used to make a small hole, and watap is laced through from one side, back from the other, and pulled tight to ensure a secure seam. Hours of labor go into this process, but many people can work on this at the same time, and sharing makes it enjoyable.

Setting up the canoe building shelter at Ely folk School

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Once the stitching was complete and the gunwales secured with pegs and watap lashing, it was time to bend the ribs. Practice makes perfect with this part, so Erik’s experience and skill was important to success. Then students made planks, which line the inside of the canoe perpendicular to the ribs. Many were needed so participants had lots of practice by the time enough planks had been made. Ribs and planks were fitted into the canoe with tapping, bending, pushing, and otherwise convincing the wood to move into its permanent position.

There was a moment, almost suddenly it seemed in spite of months of work, when the project was transformed from a collection of natural materials into a real canoe–beautiful and seaworthy.

But it wasn’t done yet. The gunwales needed to be capped with another long cedar strip to protect the lashing and the seams still had to be sealed. Once this was accomplished the canoe was ready for its maiden voyage.

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The Ely Summer Times

The group of builders gathered at Semers Park and everyone had a chance to paddle the canoe they had helped to make. The pride of the participants and the admiration of others who came to watch was obvious.

Although the canoe was only 14 feet long, a family of four adults was able to paddle it without taking in water. (There wasn’t a lot of freeboard!)

The technology of birchbark canoe building is sophisticated even though based on natural materials. As archaeologist Grant Goltz points out, this belongs to the Ojibway culture. We are merely borrowing it, hoping to preserve it so that it won’t be lost, eager to learn more of the tradition and language from those who still hold the cultural traditions of their native heritage.

© RavenProductions, Inc.

Stitching in the birchbark and lashing on the gunwales.

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Positioning the ribs and planks 11

You are invited to be part of it. Stop in at EFS any Tuesday or Wednesday this summer between 5 and 9 pm to join in or observe. And bring the kids. This may be a historical activity, but it is really all about future generations.

The Birch Bark Canoe Project is made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council, thanks to appropriations from the Minnesota State Legislature’s general and arts and cultural heritage funds. Additional donations in support of the project come from local businesses and individuals.

Š RavenProductions, Inc.

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The Ely Summer Times

Blogs of Ely or, in this case, Winton

All blog text and photos © Sharee Johnson

haree Johnson is an awardwinning silversmith jewelry artist, an excellent cook, and the author of a blog with humor, recipes, and plenty of Ely-area attitude. Sharee lives in Winton, where she designs and crafts one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces from stone and silver, and writes a blog about fishing, food, her work, and random events such as the house raising pictured above. Her craftsmanship has won her “Best of Show” honors at Ely’s Harvest Moon Festival and Grand Marais’ Art Festival. Working with stones from places as near as Biwabik and as distant as remote mountains on other continents, Sharee sets these beauties in creatively composed necklaces, bracelets, rings, and

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earrings. Sharee’s blog is entertaining and full of photos that illustrate her musings. Here are some excerpts:

ABOUT CREATING JEWELRY The first thing that happens is a stone or two will jump up and say, "Make me!

Make me!" I let them out and start tracing their shapes on paper. I hunt through my bins to find any other stones

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The design on paper

that want to play. Once I have the idea in mind and on paper, I have to figure out how everything will connect together. I like making big stones look light and whimsical.

Shaping the bezel

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Happy with the design, I start making bezels to fit the stones. I use fine silver for this part. Fine silver is .999 pure silver. Sterling silver is .925 pure.

That's why you'll see a .925 stamp on sterling silver pieces. Fine silver is a little softer, so it forms around the stones better. After soldering the bezel together, I reshape it around the stone to check the fit.

After it fits right, I solder the bezel to a sterling silver back plate. I fire this part from underneath. The bezel is fine silver, which melts faster than sterling. If you don't know what you're doing, you'll get a big, old melted blob on top. Then you get to start over.

Next I cut away the excess silver around the stone and file it smooth. I do this process for each stone. [The next] part is tricky. Everything has to line up so the back is flat. No wonky tilts or shifts that cause asymmetry. You know I like asymmetry—but it has to be deliberate, not because the soldering didn't work right.

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I throw it in the hot pickle (pickle is a solution that removes all of the flux and gunk that gets on the piece during firing). Even out of the pickle, it's a little rough looking. I do an initial polish of the whole piece. Then I set the stones. This part is a nail-biter, particularly for those long stones. The longer and skinnier a stone is, the more prone it is to fracture.

A final polish and . . . Ta Da!

ABOUT NORTH WOODS LIVING

The back before the pickle

I threw my hands over my ears and started a low humming as I darted back into the liquor store isles away from the cash register. I tried to be inconspicuous by making the humming low and intermittent.

I did have a thought that I probably looked mentally unstable. Or at least drunk. But then I got to thinking that these liquor store employees have surely seen other customers mumbling

The back finished

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around the isles with their index fingers stuck in places. I wasn't in the hard liquor – at least not at first.

A big problem growing up in Wisconsin and then moving to Minnesota is that the Vikings always preempt the Packers on TV. And what's even worse, if the Packers play later than the Vikings, the stupid cable company puts on some other dumb game. I even called and asked them to switch my cable delivery address to Superior, Wisconsin, and send my bill to Minnesota. No go.

I'm not even a sports nut. Or even a sports teeny weeny sesame seed. But if you grow up in Wisconsin, somehow you become a crazed Packer fan. It's in the water, or the cheese.

You see, we went to Bayfield, Wisconsin for a little fall apple getaway.

I taped the Packers vs. Vikings game so we could watch it after we got home on Monday. We shut down our phones and were careful not to turn on the radio.

When we got to Superior, we passed by my favorite cheap liquor store and I decided to run in quick for a case of wine to go with the salmon we caught on

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Lake Superior. I mean a bottle of wine to go with the salmon....

This is in Wisconsin where everyone is frenzied over the Packers. As I approached the cash register I heard someone say, “That was some game last night.” I didn't have time to think, it was like a knee-jerk reaction to stuff my ears and go "la, la, la, la".

It worked. No one talked to me. In fact, they avoided eye contact. I made it back to the truck with wine and no more clue about the game.

Close one.

The Ely Summer Times

GREAT SUMMER RECIPES Homemade Ginger Ale 1 1/2 cups (7oz) chopped peeled ginger 2 cups water 3/4 cup sugar 1 quart chilled seltzer or club soda About 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice Cook ginger in water in a small saucepan at a low simmer, partially covered, 45 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep, covered, 20 minutes.

Strain mixture through a sieve into a bowl, pressing on ginger and then discarding. Return liquid to saucepan and add sugar, then heat over medium heat, stirring, until sugar has dissolved.

Chill syrup in a covered jar until cold.

You could leave out the sugar and sweeten to taste with stevia or another sweetener of your choice.

Mix ginger syrup with seltzer and lime juice. Start with 1/4 cup syrup and 1 1/2 teaspoons lime juice per 3/4 cup seltzer, then adjust to taste. Pour over ice.

Mustard Roasted Fish We eat a lot of fish because we do a lot of fishing.

This is one of the easiest ways to prepare ANY fish! Mustard and fish is a classic combo. Mustard can hold up to stronger tasting fish like trout or salmon.

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4 (8-ounce) fish fillets 1 cup thick Greek-style yogurt (full fat) or sour cream or creme fraiche 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons minced shallots (just use onions if you don't have shallots) 2 teaspoons drained and rinsed capers Salt and pepper Go catch a fish and fillet it. Remove as many bones as you can. If you can't, well, just eat around them.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Place the fish on the parchment paper and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

(You don't have to use parchment paper, it makes clean-up easy, though. If you don't use it, lightly grease your pan first so the fish doesn't stick.)

Combine the yogurt, mustard, shallots, capers, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper in a small bowl. Spoon the sauce evenly over the fish fillets, making sure the fish is completely covered. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes depending on the

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ART

Galleries & Information

Nancy Scheibe, Heidi’s Bird

Art & Soul Gallery 427 E. Sheridan Street The Brandenburg Gallery JimBrandenburg.com Ely Art Walk ElyArtWalk.com Ely Greenstone ElyGreenstone.org Ely Photographic Collaborative Find it on Facebook

thickness of the fish, until it's barely done. The fish will flake apart easily at the thickest part when it's done. Be sure not to overcook it! Serve hot or at room temperature.

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Art & Soul Gallery

Front Porch Coffee & Tea Co. 343 East Sheridan Street Gardner Trust GardnerTrust.org Heidi Pinkerton RootRiverPhotography.com Highstone Glassworks HighstoneGlassworks.com Kess Gallery and Frame Shop 130 East Sheridan Street

Northern Lakes Arts Assn.

ElyArts.org Northwoods Wildlife Gallery 1926 Hwy 169 (Bear Center) Snotty Moose Studio SnottyMooseStudio.com Steve Foss Images SteveFossImages.com Tofte Lake Center TofteLake.com

You can meet Sharee and see–even purchase–her creations at Tuesday Night Farmers and Artists Market when the weather is favorable, and at her booth at the Harvest Moon Festival. Read more of her blog, try out her recipes, and see her jewelry at www.ShareeJohnsonJewelry.com.

The Ely Summer Times

© Steve Hall

Homegrown Musical oot Beer Lady, a book by Bob Cary and now a musical by his daughter, Barb Cary Hall, tells the true story of Dorothy Molter, who lived on Knife Lake offering root beer, first aid, and emergency help to wilderness travelers from the 1930s until 1986. Although Dorothy herself would probably never have taken to the stage, her character is revived in this spirited song-and-dance rendition of life at Isle of Pines, a lovely spot just a little off the portage into Knife Lake.

Songs like “Kwitcherbelliakin” and “Up on the Basswood” complement the script to portray Dorothy’s life at a fish camp in the remote wilderness. The cast, all local talent, includes both a young and a mature Dorothy, family members, the camp owner—Bill, anglers, paddlers, Forest Service staff, and a comedic know-it-all bird-watcher.

Prairie Portage Trio provides all the accompaniment, and a volunteer production staff has created costumes, scenery, and props that transport the audience to a cabin in the woods.

A staged reading last fall helped finetune the production. Community support has been amazing. According to Barb, whenever anything was needed

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people responded “Sure—we’d love to help!” A grant from the Gardner Trust, a super-talented director and other production staff, costume pieces, props, even bottled water for long rehearsals were all forthcoming just by asking.

The musical gives more people the chance to be inspired by Dorothy’s unusual story and it will help support the Dorothy Molter Museum, which houses exhibits in her original cabins, hauled to Ely from Knife Lake. Plans are for the musical to be performed in Ely each summer and perhaps go on short tours in winter to introduce Dorothy to a broader audience and keep her story alive. Performances this summer will be at Washington Auditorium, Aug 3-6.

Ely Dining Guide

The deck at Gator’s

Hours vary through the season, call to check. (Area Code is 218) Price ranges are for a meal. C: children’s menu, V: vegetarian meals, GF Gluten-free options. # is location on the maps, pages 39-42.

Britton’s Cafe Open at 5 am, this is the place to get a breakfast that will fill you up for a full day of fishing, paddling, or chasing the kids around. The best homemade donuts in town and daily fresh baked goods. Lunch specials feature local ethnic fare. Favorite with Ely locals. Open 5am to 2pm. B’fast served all day. 5 E Chapman St, 365-3195 $5-12. C V GF#73

Burntside Lodge Choose the lakeside lounge or the white tablecloth dining room where you can dress casually and watch the sun set over Burntside Lake. A gourmet menu, award-winning wine list, and relaxed pace await at this resort on the Minnesota Historic Register.

Reservations recommended. 2755 Burntside Lodge Road, 365-3894 $16-36. C V GF #3 The Chocolate Moose

Yay! Open for breakfast again this year! A favorite spot for socializing on the deck or indoors with AC. Fresh-squeezed juice and lemonade, delicious buffalo burgers, homemade soups, pies and pastries baked fresh each morning. Wine and beer.

Available for private parties evenings. 101 N Central Ave, 365-6343 $10 & up C V GF #62

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Ely Steak House Steak dinners, walleye, seafood, chicken, and French onion soup prepared to perfection. Prime rib on Fri and Sat. More than 100,000 Bucky Burgers have sold, making it the most popular burger in Ely. Generous servings. A favorite night spot with lots of bar fun including karaoke on Thurs. and Sat. 216 E Sheridan, 365-7412 $12-$40. C V GF#83 The Evergreen Restaurant & Antlers Lounge at Grand Ely Lodge. Great sunset view of Shagawa Lake on the deck. 40-item dinner menu, b’fast and lunch specials, light dinners and appetizers, late night snack menu. Delicious pasta dishes and salads, walleye, and steaks. 400 N Pioneer Rd, 365-6565 $10-26 C V #37

Front Porch Coffee & Tea Co The place for organic coffee, espresso drinks, and fair-trade teas–hot or iced. Also smoothies, wraps, burritos, soup, salads, quiche, and desserts. Use the free WiFi or browse area newspapers. Kids’ area, porch seating. Live music on the deck some Tuesdays 6-8pm, BYO lawn chair. 343 E Sheridan St, 365-BEAN $4-8 C V GF #88

Gator’s Grilled Cheese Emporium Enjoy delicious traditional comfort foods and healthy alternatives indoors by the fireplace or on the sunny deck. Specialty mac’n’cheese, meal-size sandwiches, homemade pizza, salads, soups, and desserts. Beer and wine.

Board games available. Free wifi. 955 E. Sheridan St, 365-7348 $7-16 C V GF #40

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Insula Restaurant In the renovated former Vertin’s building, this popular dining spot serves locally-sourced ingredients in the New American cuisine from breakfast to dinner.

Featured plates daily. Expand your palate or choose old favorites. Casual-dining ambience.

Specialty cocktails, beer, and wine. 145 E. Sheridan St, 365-4855 $9-32 C V GF #82 Northern Grounds

Ely’s newest coffee house in the former VFW building. Open at 6am year-round for fresh roasted coffee, lattés, espresso, teas, and the fanciest pastries and cupcakes in town. Have a lunch of soup and homemade bread. In the evening enjoy your favorite wine or micro-brew with light appetizers. 2 W. Sheridan, 365-6010 $5-7 V GF #64

Organic Roots

Natural Food Market with organic local foods ready to go or enjoy in the intimate lunch setting. Seasonal menu changing daily with vegan options. Flatbreads, soups, salads, sandwiches, and ethnic dishes. Deli counter with wraps, salads, healthy European-style baked goods.

Organic wine and beer. Closed Sundays. 141 E. Chapman St. 365-2799 $ 5–14 V GF # 78

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Grab Something Quick Crapola Dairy Queen FreshPot Coffee Log Cabin Coffee Northland Deli Plum Bun Bakery Red Cabin Custard Subway Zup’s Deli

16 N 1st Ave E 1441 E Sheridan 447 E Sheridan 1340 E Sheridan 1230 E Sheridan 402 E Sheridan 1114 E Sheridan 1520 E Sheridan 303 E Sheridan

Please thank our advertisers for providing this free magazine!

Rock Wood Gourmet burgers, walleye, and hand-cut steaks. Large selection of appetizers. Locally harvested wild rice. Full bar with 19 craft beers on tap, signature cocktails, and daily happy hour. Live music weekly. Reservations accepted, take-out available. Dine in A/C comfort indoors or on the shaded patio. 302 E Sheridan, 365-7772 $9-23. C V GF #89

Sir G’s Delicious pizza and Italian entrees make this one of Ely’s most popular restaurants.

Pasta and specially seasoned meat fillings are made on site for authentic Italian flavor. Save room for cannoli, tiramisu, or spumoni. Ask for their Free Pizza and other discount cards. Wine and beer. Call ahead for faster take-out. 520 E Sheridan, 365-3688 $10-19 C V GF #93

Smitty’s on Snowbank Try something different this summer. Drive out the Fernberg and in on the Snowbank Lake road to this historic resort and enjoy a homestyle dinner with 24-hour reservations. Dinners are a single entrée and include salad, sides, and dessert, vegetarian by request. Beer and wine coolers. 14564 Snow Lodge Rd, 365-6032 $19 V #18

Two Gringos

Looks delicious, doesn’t it?! Taste of Slovenia is a celebration of ethnic food, costume, and music being held in the Catholic church basement August 5th.

You can sample apple strudel, or potica (pronounced Po-TEET-za), dance a polka, and hear the Slovenian language spoken by people who learned it as children. Many Slovenians immigrated to Ely in the early 1900s to escape the poverty and wars in Europe. Their labor supported the growing mining industry in northern Minnesota. A glance at the last names in the Ely phone book will tell you that many of their offspring still live here.

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© Pat Koski

Authentic Tex-Mex food. You choose the ingredients you love from mild to hot and how you want them presented–tacos, burritos, chimichangas, fajitas, or Mexican salad.

Generous servings. Eat indoors, on the patio, or take out. Appetizers and desserts. Cerveza and extensive margarita menu. www.2GringosGrill.com 32 E. Sheridan, 365-8800 $7-16 C V GF #67

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Boathouse Brewpub Ely’s only brewery with burgers and more in family room or bar. Beer in growlers to go and BW containers. Bit TVs for sports. 47 E. Sheridan St., 365-4301 $9-16, C V

Oriental Orchid More than 90 Vietnamese and Chinese menu items for take-out or eat-in.

Weekday lunch specials. Call for faster service. 506 E. Sheridan St, 365-7502 $8-$17 V GF Stony Ridge Ely’s best burgers (50 kinds!) plus stuffed hash browns, ribs, chili, salads, wine and beer.

Bring your appetite - huge servings! Lovely patio. 60 N. Lakeview, 365-6757 $10-22. C V GF

A Taste of Ely Breakfast until 3 and lunch starting at 11. Paninis, burgers, quesadillas, and a variety of salads, coffee drinks, and desserts. 117 N Central 235-9686 $7-13 V GF Winton Road House The Grand Portage Pretzel and homemade artisan pizzas. Full bar, sports on two big TVs, pool table, tiki bar and special events. 252 Main St., Winton, 365-3339 $8-10 Wilderness Woodfire Ely’s own food truck makes pizza in specialty combos or create your own with a big variety of toppings. For dessert - woodfired cookies! 817-422-2856 $15-20 V

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The Ely Summer Times

Did your college classroom look like this?

College Outdoors f your time at college was dominated by long lectures that required major doses of caffeine to keep you attentive, you weren’t in the Vermilion Community College (VCC) Outdoor Leadership program, or any of the other hands-on, get-outside, do-something-real courses of study offered at this unusual place of higher education.

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Photos courtesy of VCC

Consider the Wilderness and Park Management program. Students who complete this 2-year degree program are Class B sawyers (that means they are very competent at using a chain saw) and WFRs (pronounced woofers, stands for Wilderness First Responders, which means if you break your leg or have a heart attack on a remote

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WFR students

expedition, they know how to care for you and get you out to more advanced medical care). They can also fight a wildfire, teach a group of scouts the basics of trail construction, explain to campers how best to protect their food

from bears, and create a cool display about the history of wherever they are working. Among many other skills!

This program has about 12-15 students each year, and they all have great jobs waiting for them after graduation. National and state parks, natural resource departments across the U.S., and non-profit land management agencies are thrilled to get workers that have practiced the skills they need on the job and also have learned the theory and science behind what they are doing.

You don’t need a bluebook to test on chainsaw skills.

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Students in this program spend more than half their class time in hands-on activities. The Ely area is the perfect outdoor classroom with its variety of environments including whitewater and flatwater canoeing and kayaking, hiking and biking trails, cliffs for rock climbing and mountaineering simulation, harsh winter conditions, and hunting and fishing activity. Those pursuits are often what draw students to Vermilion in the first place, and many spend their spare time doing these same activities for fun.

The Outdoor Leadership program is another that takes advantage of the plentiful and varied outdoor classrooms around Ely. These students learn the skills of canoeing, camping, climbing, backpacking, dogsledding, winter

camping, snowshoeing, and more, and add the study of group leadership, safety management, and wilderness first aid. They learn to use the outdoors and recreational activities as teaching tools that can be more effective than Power Points and textbooks for some students.

Although the emphasis is on outdoor education, certification for Backcountry Guide can be earned too. These graduates readily find jobs at schools like Outward Bound and NOLS, and also at camps and outfitting businesses.

The Outdoor Recreation Therapy program adds the component of using these skills to help people recover from physical and mental health issues by participating in challenging activities that help them gain physical strength,

Students in the Water Quality program sample and analyze lakes and streams during all seasons.

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confidence, and insight into their behavior and thought processes.

Graduates from this program may work in clinical settings or at camps for populations with specific therapeutic needs.

VCC’s Law Enforcement (LE) program has long had the respect of state agencies involved in police work and criminal justice. Again, it’s the hands-on practice that helps these students become competent and find work after college. LE students who want a more outdoor-oriented career have the opportunity at VCC to pursue degrees and certificates in Wildland Law Enforcement that allow them to become conservation officers, park rangers, or wilderness emergency medicine specialists.

Future conservation officers

The Natural Resource Management program includes Water Sciences–the study of water quality assessment, monitoring, and watershed science. The technical and scientific requirements demand a bit more traditional classroom and laboratory time, but these students still spend 30-40% of their time in the field. They become proficient at using the many technological tools and computer-based models that prepare them for jobs with industry, water treatment facilities, soil and water agencies, and environmental protection operations.

Students can also learn surveying, study environmental science, and gain practical forestry and wildlife management skills. They can earn a certificate from the North American Association of Wildlife Technicians–a huge asset when applying for a good job, and not offered at many colleges.

One more program offers an array of practical, hands-on, outdoor-oriented courses. Animal Science students in the Fisheries and Wildlife Management program may track wolves with telemetry, visit the DNR fish hatchery, participate in the many wildlife surveys done in the Ely area, and work on habitat improvement projects. Many of these students will go on to get a 4-year degree, but there are also some jobs available with just a 2-year degree, and VCC students have an edge over others because they’ve had so much hands-on practice.

In Fall 2017 there will be a new course of study in this department– Veterinary Technician. Like other certificate programs, this one will focus on practical experience, with on-site surgery, large animal visits, and care of lab animals. Only three Minnesota colleges offer this two-and-a-half-year course, and graduates will be in demand not just at vet clinics, but also in wildlife rehabilitation centers and zoos.

Class sizes in these specialized programs are small, and students get plenty of attention from their teachers The Ely Summer Times

“At the top of your grade” has a special meaning for Outdoor Leadership students. and the professionals in the field who partner with the college programs to ensure that subject matter is up to date and students get a working knowledge of what will be expected of them at their future work places.

Most community colleges in Minnesota are seen as an affordable way to get the first two years of basic coursework completed before heading to a four-year school. Technical colleges provide the practical vocational training for students to enter the work force after two years. Vermilion is a blend of these, offering both an academically superior general education, and the opportunity to get certifications and experience that can provide excellent job opportunities after two to three years.

The teachers at VCC really like their students and get to know them well due to the small class size and the amount of time spent doing hands-on work together. It’s rewarding to them to meet a group of freshmen in their first fall semester and watch them develop their skills and do a significant amount of growing up in their years at Vermilion.

Often these students become alumni 2017

who in turn help out the newer students find internships and jobs. One former Outdoor Leadership student now works in outdoor education in China, and a group of students visits him annually to further their education abroad.

Many of the programs at VCC are unique or one of only a few offered in the state, and even the nation. The LE program with a focus on wildlands is one of those. Only seven programs in the U.S. provide the certification required to be a Park Ranger at the state and federal levels. Two programs in the U.S. offer the wildlife technician certification.

All the degree programs can be completed in two years, but the average student spends closer to three years at Vermilion. Some of the certifications require so many hours of course work that to obtain both the degree and the certificate takes longer than two years.

Most students who choose Vermilion are really choosing Ely as the place they want to be for the first two or three years of their college education. Many come for the specific programs offered.

Another attractive feature is the housing that’s offered. Few other community colleges have any student housing.

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Vermilion’s housing is not the traditional (and sometimes awful) college dorm.

Apartment-style units have a central kitchen and living space and separate bedrooms. The new townhouse-style units will open this fall. Compared to paying rent in a larger city, these accommodations are very affordable.

Non-traditional students are part of

the mix at VCC, too. Losing a job, getting out of the military, or simply desiring a career change brings older learners here. If you are one such person, or if you have family or friends ready to head to college, let them know about VCC. The campus is open for visits throughout the summer by calling the admissions office at 235-2191.

Party time at VCC 30

The Ely Summer Times

© Ely Outfitting Company

So You Came to Fish...

By Chris Williams t’s dusk on a lake near Ely. A loon arrows overhead while the mate yodels from a distant bay, calls echoing between wooded shores.

Wavelets known as a 'walleye chop' slap gently against the side of the boat. Pine perfumes the air, loons provide music, and our mood is one of anticipation.

Dinner tonight will be lightly breaded fish, sizzling hot from a cast iron skillet: so very fresh from clean, cold water.

Yep, life is good.

Anglers travel from across America, indeed from around the globe, to fish the waters surrounding Ely. Public lakes and streams, protected within the Superior National Forest (SNF) and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), offer a halfmillion acres of water for fishing. In these quiet places the clear water lakes, tumbling streams, and grassy bays

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2017

provide habitat for a wide variety of fish.

Are you looking for an all-out struggle with a monstrous northern, do you want to dine on the flaky white perfection of a walleye, or maybe seek fulfillment of a childhood dream—a stringer full of bluegill? Haul your boat, grab a canoe, find a peaceful shoreline—make Ely your destination!

I am not a fisherwoman, although I have been known to wet a line when it is the only fresh meat on a wilderness paddle trip. My husband fishes. I mean, he Fishes with a capital 'F'. It is not a pastime; it is a way of life. Those who fish get it. Those who do not still enjoy that perfect fillet of lake trout.

Common ground for my husband and me, whether on a canoe trip or taking the Lund up the Moose Chain, has been a bit of ignorance. Living here, we have basked in the purity of

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Š Emily Nelson

wilderness. Imagine our surprise when, fishing Triangle Lake with a local guide, I proudly displayed my crawdad (crayfish to you not of southern birth) and he mashed it under the heel of his boot. What? I would have thrown it back (animal lover that I am) out of ignorance. I did not realize that while we were relishing the absolute best fishing hole on the planet, we needed to watch for a few culprits in order to maintain this world-class angling.

Getting back to my story of the nowsquished crayfish, I didn't note anything unusual about it because I am Ohioborn, and so is the rusty crayfish. In that native habitat this critter is not a problem, but in these northern lakes it is. Most organisms in a region have evolved together. Adding a new species impacts the whole system, often negatively for other life in that system.

Ely area waters, fish, plant life, and zooplankton (the tiny life at the bottom of the food chain) have all joined a finely tuned dance, choreographed by the past

Rusty Crayfish 12,000 years since glacial ice left northern Minnesota.

Larger and more aggressive, rusty crayfish displace native crayfish by taking the best shelter, or in some cases through hybridization. The rusty offers a claws-up defense to fish, which then choose to eat the less feisty native species, leaving the rusty to forage undeterred. Rusties have a higher metabolic rate than native crayfish, so they eat more fish eggs and plants from the beds where fish breed and youngsters shelter. They also compete with smaller fish for food.

While there is no way to eliminate this behemoth that is now found in many lakes, we can turn the tables and eat them! Last summer, a booth at the Ely Farmer's Market provided samples of rusty crayfish. Capturing crayfish could

Š Julie HIgnell

Kids enjoy trapping crayfish!

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The Ely Summer Times

be a productive summer project for the kids while adding a delectable appetizer to the family dinner.

At present, these invaders do not infect most waters in the BWCAW. This is good news, and with care we can halt their spread. The rusty crayfish has been introduced outside its native range most commonly as discarded bait from buckets and live wells. Education of the public is the key with these invasives!

Since these creatures are already in many entry point lakes for the wilderness, we must be constantly diligent in disposing of bait and informing others.

Amy Freeman, along with her husband, Dave, spent a year in the wilderness exploring miles of canoe routes and drawing attention to the protection of these waters. Amy notes, "While we were camped on Ensign Lake in the fall, I went down to the shore to fill our pot with water for the morning's coffee. The beam of my headlamp penetrated the shallow clear water, and I was dismayed to see a miniature lobster-like creature with reddish splotches on its sides. There was no

2017

mistaking it—a rusty crayfish was on the move. As I watched it scuttle along the lake bottom I fretted about the impact it was having on this lake and wondered how many BWCAW lakes these invaders had infiltrated."

The rusty crayfish is not the only invasive we need watch for this summer.

The first time you notice your favorite lake has fleas is likely to be when your line jams in an eyelet or your reel is fouled. What looks at a glance like cotton batting with dark spots may actually be a mass of spiny waterfleas.

Introduced from northern Eurasia in ballast from ships, this small predaceous crustacean was first detected in Lake Huron in 1984, and within three years it had been found in all five Great Lakes. It has since spread to inland bodies of water through human activity.

As children, we all learned that big fish eat little fish. The cycle actually begins with plants and creatures not even visible to the naked eye. This zooplankton supports the food chain of the lake and what impacts them soon impacts those mighty lake trout and

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© Emily Nelson

Spiny Waterflea on Burntside

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These Asian natives were first imported for food and as aquarium specimens.

They were introduced into California in the late 1800s for the dinner menu and released into the Niagara River in the 1930s, probably from aquaria. The snails were intentionally stocked in Lake Erie as food for channel catfish in the 1940s. Although today we are more cautious when releasing non-native animals, something as benign looking as a pretty little snail can be introduced without much thought. Once in a lake, this creature forms dense populations which outcompete native species, preys upon fish embryos, and carries a parasite that can kill waterfowl.

I love to garden—way more than I like to fish! But whether you thrill to newly emerging seedlings or hooking your limit of walleye, we all like earthworms,right? Wrong! Sadly, this is one of the best-kept secrets in the invasive species world. In Minnesota, © Sonja Smerud

pike. Spiny waterfleas in an aquatic system eat the tiny creatures and so affect the entire food chain as they compete with small fish for food.

While we cannot eat waterfleas like we do the rusty crayfish, we can halt their spread. The females die outside of water, yet in some instances their eggs do not. Casting into a pristine lake with contaminated gear or portaging a canoe from an infected lake can start an entirely new population.

Spiny waterfleas now infest Vermilion, Burntside, Shagawa, Fall, the Moose chain, and Basswood Lake and River.

Since these are popular lakes and wilderness entry points, boaters and anglers need to be especially vigilant.

Even BWCAW paddlers who aren’t fishing need to check their canoes when portaging between these infested lakes and those so far free of spiny waterfleas.

Neither of the two species discussed thus far can ever be eliminated from a lake! This is where you are of vital importance in protecting our future.

Please utilize resources noted at the end of the article and share the knowledge: with these aquatic invaders, ignorance is most certainly not bliss.

What is the mystery with mystery snails? For me, part of the mystery is why they are sold everywhere for aquarium specimens with rarely a comment on how harmful they can be to North American waters. Unlike rusty crayfish and spiny waterfleas, mystery snails did not arrive here by accident.

Mystery Snail The Ely Summer Times

there is no evidence that worms existed in our soils prior to European settlement. If there were any here in preglacial times, the two-mile-thick ice sheets killed them off. Therefore, our lush and beautiful forests evolved in a wormless world.

The fifteen species of earthworms currently recorded in this state are all imports from Europe and Asia.

Although nearly 100 species are native

to our continent, they are slow to migrate and never made it to Minnesota.

Since our forests became what they are today without worms, they cannot tolerate the impact worms have. Many northern plant species thrive in the loose duff (decaying plant matter) layer and this is precisely what earthworms eat.

Although mature trees may survive a large infestation, ground vegetation and tree seedlings do not.

Photo courtesy of Great Lakes Worm Watch. Learn more at their website or FB page.

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tuned harmony, these rapidly spreading invasives disrupt natural cycles. The plant develops such a mass it can deplete the oxygen in the water, killing fish. It will quickly spread and infest pristine lakes and streams from plant pieces adhering to boats and equipment.

The bad news is there are other significant invasive species to be reckoned with including starry stonewort, zebra mussels, and a virus known as VHS, which sickens fish. The good news is that most of the waters of our national forest and wilderness area are still pristine, supporting intact, wellfunctioning ecosystems. You, your family, and your friends can make a real difference in maintaining this very special place!

There are several ways to help. First, arm yourself with knowledge. There are many avid anglers who would never purposely do anything to endanger the health of this wondrous wild country, yet unintentionally do so from lack of understanding. The Minnesota DNR

Š Donovan Strong

Since earthworms migrate so slowly, here is a place anglers can make a real difference. All common bait worms, and those sold to aid soil composting, are non-native species and harmful to our native woodlands. If you fish with worms, discard unwanted bait in the trash. Although it is not economically feasible to eliminate them from an area, we can certainly slow new introductions.

And again, let other people know. This is especially important for bait sellers and resorts. Many folks who fish would be careful with the bait—if they were only informed. My daughter remembers when she would steal her father's worms to humanely set them free. Armed with knowledge, children can become some of our best protectors.

Animals are not our only aquatic invaders. Non-native plants can also seriously impact the health of our waters and fish. Curly leaf pondweed is a good example. Native to Africa, Australia, and Eurasia, it spreads rapidly and will displace native plant life. Because the life in a lake has evolved in a finely

Boat cleaning station at Ely Chamber of Commerce 36

The Ely Summer Times

Eco Kids at ECR learn about boat cleaning

website is a good place to begin your research. You’ll learn to recognize the invaders as well as discover how you can stop the spread of each species.

Share the site and this article with everyone you know. Secondly, be diligent in maintaining your gear and boat. Boat washing stations in the area, with trained volunteer staff, will clean your boat for free. Numerous places in Ely provide brochures on the details.

Finally, help us spot invaders. The Ely Area Invasives Team (EAIT) is implementing a citizen science monitoring program for invasive species. The AIS Sentry program will utilize volunteers to survey lakes at least once a month during the summer season. By keeping an eye on areas they know well, sentries are well poised to recognize when the health of their lakes is changing. Sentries will be given a field guide and training to aid identification of AIS. Trainings will be held at a few different lakes in the Ely area from June 10 to July 8. If you can participate, email wicolaely@gmail.com.

Get the kids involved. Who at a young age does not like getting wet?!

Checking out critters in the lake may also stimulate your child's natural interest in science and give them more reason to be outdoors.

Š Carrie Ohly-Cusak

Humans are modifying Earth, there is no doubt. Many of the changes cannot be altered, and we must learn to live with them. However, with these aquatic invasive species each of us can make a difference. To quote one volunteer: "We need to know we can do something to prevent or slow the spread of invasive species. And in fact, all of us, individually, are the only ones who can change the trajectory of infestation."

While we cannot eliminate invasives where they already thrive, we can be vigilant and stop the spread. Fish and paddle these beautiful waters while taking the necessary precautions, and our children and grandchildren will continue enjoying this remarkable region of blue waters, towering forests, and delicious fish dinners.

Boat cleaning stations: Ely Chamber of Commerce VanVac Landing, Burntside Lake See www.burntsidelake.org for hours at the above stations.

Y Store, Hwy1 west of Tower Country Store, US 53 in Cook Lil Dog Car Wash, Two Harbors North Shore Car Wash, Grand Marais 2017

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Information, Goods, & Services Home, Cabin, & Beyond

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., 219-365-6264 Full Service Insurance Don Sovil Insurance Agency, Inc. is your local State Farm agent. Insure your cabin or home in the Northwoods. 35 E Chapman St., 218365-5104, www.donsovil.com Banquet, Special Events Center Overlooking White Iron Lake with full kitchen and bar in a resort setting. Perfect for weddings, reunions, and parties. Silver Rapids Lodge, 459 Kawishiwi Trail, 218-365-4877 Ready for Wildfire?

Make the changes needed for your buildings and property to resist a wildfire. Contact the local Fire Adapted Communities Rep at 3650878 for free info and education opportunities.

Ely Freecycle Keep it out of the landfill. Join at http:// groups.yahoo.com/ElyFreeStuff

Rent Almost Anything J&L Hardware has event tents, tables and chairs, carpet cleaners, log splitters, wood chippers, a forklift, mini-excavator, and many other items to rent. Call 218-365-6724

Books & More

Chapman Street Books Quality used books on all subjects. Bring yours in for a discount. Free box out front. Prairie Fire Tobacco has imported and domestic blends. 139 E. Chapman St. 218-365-2212 Raven Productions Ely’s award-winning publisher is at the Tuesday Artists Mart, Blueberry and Harvest Moon Festivals, or online at RavenWords.com. Call for a free catalog. 218-365-3375 Ely Public Library Visitors and summer residents welcome. Many family events this summer-see calendar pg 6.

Public computers and free Wifi. 218-365-5140.

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Health & Safety

First Avenue Massage Christine Kloppenberg, board certified therapist, provides deep tissue massage therapy. To schedule an appointment, call 218504-9039. Beautiful office in renovated James Drug Building.

Safe Ride Enjoying a night out? Get a safe and sober ride home from Ely Safe Ride. Also food delivery and local tours. 218-380-7433

Help for Caregivers Northwoods Partners can give you a break, help with errands, and support you in a caregiving situation. 218-365-8019 Traffic Conditions Detours and weather-related road problems.

Call 511 or go to www.511mn.org.

For the Kids

Camp Voyageur A camp for boys 9-17. Located next to the Boundary Waters. Land and water sports at camp plus wilderness trips canoeing, hiking, and sea kayaking. campvoyageur.com 800-950-7291

Family & Early Childhood Services Help with developmental concerns, behavioral issues, skills for school and life.

Keran Flynn-Kroska, MS LMFT 218-235-8582, kflynn@greaterminnesota.org Ely Recreation Center Basketball court, soccer games, refreshments, indoor games, movie nights, senior exercise, and more. ElyCommunityResource.org for schedule. 1043 Main St. (map pg 40) 365-5254

Pets

Ely Veterinary Clinic Quality care for animals of all sizes at a fraction of big city veterinary prices. Dental 218-care, surgery, and boarding. 365-5911

Find A Pet Contented Critters is a wonderful private non-profit no-kill shelter. Give a rescue animal a home or donate food or money to help.

Contented Critters.org 218-638-2153 The Ely Summer Times

Moose Lake Snowbank 17 Lake

Cloquet Line

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Burntside Lake

Fernberg 7 B 6 4 Winton Garden Lake

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Shagawa Lake

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White Iron Lake

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Fall Lake

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Birch Lake Tomahawk Tr

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To Isabella Lake

13 Babbitt Tomahawk Tr

To Isabella, Lake Superior

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Maps of the Ely Area Airport Alder Inn Aronson Boat Works Bass Lake Trail Bearhead State Park Birch Lake Campground Bois Forte Heritage Ctr Burntside Lodge Camp Van Vac Camp Voyageur Camps du Nord & Widji Embarrass Timber Hall

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12 13 22 5 22 D 22 3 23 10 1 21

Fenske Campgrounds Great Lakes Log Bldg Janisch Realty Kawishiwi Campground Kawishiwi Falls Kell’s Kitchen Koschak Farm LaTourell’s Outfitters Longbranch Nelimark Museum Nordic Home North Outdoor Learning Center

2 20 22 C B 13 4 17 6 21 22 7

River Point Resort St. Louis Co. Transfer Silver Rapids Lodge

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Smitty’s on Snowbank Soudan Mine State Park Tofte Lake Center Vermilion Trap Club Veterans on the Lake Voyageur Outward Bound White Wilderness Wintergreen Dogsledding Women’s Wild Discovery

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Shagawa Lake

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Madison St. Camp St.

See Detailed Downtown Map on Page 42

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Conan St.

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Hospital 31 & Clinic

School White St. M Pattison St.

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James St. 33 Golf Course

Boundary St. Wilson St.

Beacon Hill Hwy 21 to Babbitt

Adventure Inn Children’s Garden Dorothy Molter Museum Ely-Bloomenson Hosp./Clinic Ely Chamber of Commerce Ely Community Pharmacy Ely Golf Club House Ely Greenstone Arts Ely Ice Arena Ely Lodging Ely Northland Market

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41 M 49 31 47 31 33 36 O 42 43

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 Recreation Center Ely Winter Tourism Ely-Winton History Museum Gator’s Emporium Grand Ely Lodge Hidden Valley International Wolf Center Memorial Field Miners Dry Building North American Bear Center Pillow Rocks

P 47 46 40 37 52 51 39 36 30 Q

The Ely Summer Times

14 Ave

12 Ave

43 10 Ave

Harvey St.

Whiteside

6 Ave

Chapman St. 1st E

Central Av

1st W

2nd W

3rd W 30

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Sheridan St.

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Hwy 169 to Tower

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Savoy Rd N Vermilion Community College 46

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Hwy 169 to Winton/Fernberg Trail

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52 Hwy 1 to Airport and North Shore

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Hidden Valley Chalet & Recreation Area

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Please Thank Our Advertisers for this Free Magazine.

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S R&R Transfer Recycling Center Spirit of the Wilderness Studio North Fitness Center Trezona Trail Twin Metals US Customs US Forest Service Visitor Center VCC Theatre Veterinary Clinic Wildwoods Land Co.

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Camp St. 87 61

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The Art Corner Art & Soul Gallery Brandenburg Gallery Britton’s Café Crapola Chapman Street Books Children’s Garden The Chocolate Moose City Hall/Police/Fire East Chapman Properties Ely Community Resource Ely Farmers Market Ely Folk School Ely Public Library Ely Steak House Ely Steam Sauna Ely Timberjay Newspaper Evergreen Cottage

61 94 65 73 75 78 M 62 W 79 80 96 S T 83 X 80 77

First Avenue Massage Front Porch Coffee & Tea Gardner Trust Heavy Metal Gym Incredible Ely Hqtr Insula Restaurant J & L Hardware JD Mills Clothing Joe’s Marine Kekekabic Studios Lakeshore Liquor Mike’s Liquors Northern Grounds Organic Roots Bistro Oriental Orchid The Pebble Spa Piragis Northwoods Co Plum Bun Bakery

79 88 W 74 72 82 76 86 71 76 91 95 64 78 92 85 62 90

Post Office The Pottery Shop Prairie Fire Tobacco Rockwood Senior Center Sir G’s Sisu Yarn Shop State Farm Insurance Steger Mukluks Sustainable Ely Tranquility Wellness Ctr Two Gringos Voltz/Verizon Washington Auditorium Wintergreen Northernwear Zup’s Grocery

V 81 79 89 Y 93 70 73 66 83 60 67 90 X 84 87

Please thank our advertisers for providing this free publication.

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The Ely Summer Times

Š Ely Greenstone

Ely Area Area Attractions Attractions Ely Locations for many of these can be found on the maps on pages 39-42.

Bearhead State Park

235-2520

www.mndnr.gov/bearhead

A gem of a park with terrific hiking trails, remote lakes, naturalist and outdoor skills programs for all ages (free except for a car sticker), free use of fishing gear and binoculars, rental cabins, boat and stand-up paddleboard rental, swimming beach, birding, and a knowledgeable staff.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

365-7600

Bois Forte Heritage Center

www.boisforte.com

Ely is the put-in place for the western and central parts of the BWCAW. 200,000 visitors annually make it the most used wilderness area in the U.S. No charge for day trips, but you do need a permit. Get more information at any Ely outfitter or the U.S. Forest Service station. Stop at Sustainable Ely, 206 E. Sheridan, to learn about the Save the Boundary Waters campaign.

753-6017

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! Open daily 10-6 Memorial Day to Labor Day, then Mon-Sat 1-5 year round. $5, age4-12 and seniors $3, family $15

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Chamber of Commerce

365-6123

800-777-7281 www.ely.org

Information on resorts, outfitters, events, and businesses. 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. Seasonal weekend hours are May 16–Sept 30: Sat 9-4, Sun 10-1; Oct 1-15: Sat 9-3; 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.

Free art and garden activities for kids, adults also welcome. 10-12 M, W, F June 12-Aug 18

Dorothy Molter Museum

365-4451 www.rootbeerlady.com

The "Root Beer Lady" was the last non-indigenous resident of the BWCAW. Her cabins were relocated as a tribute to her unorthodox life. Exhibits include original guest registers, historic photos, root beer-making equipment, and interpretive displays of life on Knife Lake. Ice-cold root beer, nature trails, geocaching, bird watching, pet area. Open daily 10-5, 5/27-9/10, Sat/Sun in Sept, Saturdays in Oct. Adults $6.50, Seniors $6.00, Children 6-17 $4.50, Military and under 6 free.

Ely Folk School

209 E. Sheridan St.

www.elyfolkschool.org

Learn, teach, and share crafts and skills–sewing, baking, paddling, jewelry-making, herbalism, basketry, woodworking, and much more–reflecting north woods culture and tradition. Current schedule is on the website or stop by for a brochure. Birchbark canoe project, Tues & Wed 5-9.

Ely Golf Course

365-5932

www.elymngolfclub.com

Ely Public Library

365-5140

www.elylibrary.org

9-hole, par 36, 3,268 yards. Carts and rental clubs, snack bar. Open May-Sept, snow allowing. On S. Central Ave, top of the hill, right at sign. 7am to dark every day. 9 holes $20, 18 holes $28.

Children’s area, computers and internet, audio books, music, DVDs, VHS tapes. Large regional book section. Summer residents and visitors welcome. See calendar on page 65 and their website for special events, book club selections, and meeting times. M-F 10-6, Sat 8-12.

Ely Recreation Center for kids 365-5254 elycommunityresource.org

Basketball court, pick-up soccer field, indoor games, snack bar, and more. The base for many kids’ activities. Available to rent for private parties by calling 226-5449. Home of the future Ely Wheel Park (see more on Facebook). Open hours and special events calendar at the website.

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The Ely Summer Times

© Kahsha Hyde

Dry Falls on the Bass Lake hiking trail

Ely Steam Sauna

365-2984

127 S. 1st Ave. E.

One of the last public baths in Minnesota, this has public men’s and women’s rooms and private rooms. Friendly and clean. Wed, Sat 4-8 pm. $7 or 5 tickets for $30; 2 towels are included.

Ely Winton History Museum

365-3226

Embarrass Heritage Tours

984-2084

Ely’s cultural heritage, Indian life, archaeology, voyageurs, logging, and mining. Amazing 3D model of mines and homes, now Trezona Trail area. New gift shop with local history books. June-Aug, M-F, Sept-May Tu-F 12-4; $5, Sr 55+ $4, ages 6-15 $3. See pg 65 for History Nights programs.

Visit restored historic farmsteads where hard-working mostly Finnish immigrants created homes and farms from forest and rock. Tours leave from the Visitor Center at Hwy 21 and 135, Thu-Sat at 1 pm or by appt. Memorial weekend-Labor Day. $6, $5 seniors and 12+groups, under 12 free.

Greenstone Arts and Heritage Center

www.elygreenstone.org

Visit the restored Pioneer Mine Shaft House Tues 2-5 or Fri 3-6. The Miners Dry building, once the place miners transitioned to and from their underground jobs, is the site of many arts events and workshops for children and adults. See calendar on page 65 for special events and tours.

Heavy Metal www.HeavyMetalSports.com 365-7765 19 N. 1st Ave E.

Bike or hydro bike rental at Semers Park, gym and fitness classes for all ages, golf cage and putting practice, bootcamp and circuit training, floorball, hockey camps. martial arts. Kids 6 and up 2017

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Hidden Valley Recreation Area

www.elynordic.org

Hidden Valley trails are great for mountain biking, hiking, wildlife sighting, and walking your dog.

X-C ski trails provide good aerobic conditioning. Also a terrific place for birding, with a variety of habitats and many warblers and other songbirds. The chalet is a secluded yet convenient spot to rent for special events–info at the website or 365- 6953. Turn right east of Ely city limits.

Hiking Trails

There are dozens 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.

International Wolf Center 365-HOWL

800-ELY-WOLF www.wolf.org

Observe wolves up close and learn about wolves, their prey, and other canids in the displays.

Check the website for programs for all ages including daily presentations with the new pups starting May 28th. Open daily 9-6 June 12-Aug 13. May 15-June 11 and Aug 14-Oct 15 open Sat 9-5, Sun-Fri 10-5; After Oct 16 Fri 10-5, Sat 9-5, Sun 10-2. $13, Seniors $11, Children 4-12 $7, under 4 free. Free admission the day after your paid admission.

Kawishiwi Falls

A well-developed trail goes to the falls and down to a small beach on Fall Lake. Warm microclimate supports unusual yellow birch forest. View an eagles’ nest across the bay. Great fishing below the falls. Easy access by road or lake. Watch for poison ivy and keep the kids close by.

Lake Vermilion–Soudan Underground Mine State Park 218-300-7005 mndnr.gov/vermilionsoudan

The mine unit features a 1/2-mile descent into the mine shaft and tours of “The Cadillac of mines.” Above-ground exhibits portray the history and geology of the area. The park presents a wide variety of naturalist programs, including an outstanding one on bats. The mine area is open 104, May 27-Sept 30 and the first 3 weekends of Oct. Tours hourly, reduced after Labor Day. 22 miles west of Ely on 169. Mine tours are $12, Age 5-12 $7, under 5 free. No vehicle permits required at mine unit. The Lake Vermilion unit has campgrounds and a water access point opening mid-summer. The day-use picnic shelters and fishing pier are open daily. Please be careful of the continued construction at the park.

The Longbranch in Winton

On Fall Lake, the Longbranch is home to such big events as the Boundary Waters Blues Fest, Watercross, and various fishing contests. It’s a pleasant spot to picnic, swim, and let the kids romp on the playground equipment. Makes a nice break during an Ely-Winton bike ride.

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Listening Point www.listeningpointfoundation.org

Don’t Miss Out!

Find your 2018 calendar at

Blueberry Festival, Harvest Moon, Farmers’ Market & Local Stores

Miners Lake

This retreat for wilderness advocate and author Sigurd Olson has been preserved much as Sig left it at this quiet spot on Burntside Lake. To arrange a visit, contact the website or call 365-8889.

The site of the first iron mines in Ely, this was a shallow open pit mine for just a few years before operations went underground to reach the ore. The lake was created by flooding of the collapsed drifts and shafts. A fishing dock provides angling space for the stocked trout.

Nelimark Museum

984-3503

In Embarrass, Minnesota’s Cold Spot, 28 miles from Ely. Finnish heritage and Embarrass history.

Conversational Finnish Thu 1pm followed by a guided walk on the paved 2.5-mile hike/bike trail to the Pyhala Farm. Homemade bread Fri after 1. Coffee is always on. Sauna exhibit, historic buildings. Lots of fun for kids. Open Jun 1-Oct 1. Thurs-Sat 10-4, Free.

North American Bear Center

365-7879

www.bear.org

Pillow Rock

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

Semers Park 365-3224 x301

© Brad Carlson

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

Ecology Hall features a 660-gallon aquarium, educational touchscreens, and wildlife displays. Cub room for kids, nature trail. Check the website for daily programs. 9am-6pm daily May 26-Sept 10; 10-4 May 1-24 and Sept 11-Oct 29. $13, seniors $11, age 3-12 $7, under 3 free. Group rates 15+.

On Shagawa Lake, this park has a shallow sandy beach and pier, hiking trails around the island, a playground, picnic facilities, and a campfire circle. Bike, hydro-bike, and tandem bike rentals this summer. Pavilion rental for reunions and parties. This is the best spot to watch USFS floatplanes come and go.

Restoration of the park has begun and more is planned. Follow signs from N Central Ave.

Bent willow chair class at Ely Folk School.

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Senior Citizen’s Center

© RavenProductions, Inc.

Vintage snowmobile display at the Dorothy Molter Museum

365-4139

Anyone is welcome for dinner 12 noon MonFri with a 24-hour advance reservation. Just $4.00 for the 60 and up crowd, $7.50 if you’re younger. Pool tables, Bingo Wed at 1pm, card games, puzzles and board games, and lots of good company happy to share stories of Ely’s good old days.

Shopping See maps on page 39-42 for advertiser locations Visitors, don’t miss Chapman Street, one block south of Sheridan Street. Used books, hardware, gifts, yarn, car parts, organic food and restaurant, café, banks, small engine repair, and WELY.

Studio North

365-2493

Sustainable Ely

365-7808

StudioNorthElyMN.com

Ely’s 24-hour gym and dance studio. Exercise classes, most allow walk-ins. Weight machines and free weights, sauna, tanning salon. Insurance discounts. Join for a day, week, or month. Summer dance workshops for kids. See calendar pg 65

SaveTheBoundaryWaters.org

Find information on sulfide mining proposals for Ely and the areas to the south. Maps, displays, educational posters, books, children’s activities, and resources for making comments to political leaders are available. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Open daily 9-5, 206 E. Sheridan Street

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 spots.

Tofte Lake Center

TofteLake.com

Artists on creative retreats and dance or theater company residencies fill the cabins and studio space here each summer. Public performances and weekly yoga classes are open to all. If your creative self needs some special time, consider applying for time here. 2209 Fernberg Road

Trezona Trail

Four miles for biking or hiking within the city limits. Goes through historic mine sites and around Miners Lake. Interpretive signs explain some of Ely’s mining history. Spurs to Int’l Wolf Center, USFS, and VCC. Group bike rides Thurs. at 6pm, 5:30 in fall. Good berry-picking. Dogs welcome.

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Successful Boundary Waters Canoe Trips for Friends and Families ElyOutfittingCompany.com

Vermilion Community College 365-7200 www.vcc.edu

The “Boundary Waters College� offers 2-year degrees in Natural Resources, Outdoor Education, and Business as well as a traditional liberal arts curriculum. Specialized degrees and certifications include Forestry, Wildland Law Enforcement, Watershed Science, Outdoor Leadership, Emergency Medicine, and Outdoor Recreation Therapy. Stop in for a tour when you visit Ely. See article pg 25.

U.S. Forest Service Visitor Center 365-7600

www.recreation.gov

Displays on canoe paddling, local heroes, and north woods animals. BWCAW permits for day use or overnight, info and maps for trails and campgrounds. U.S. Customs. Free nature films for the whole family shown Saturdays and Sundays at 1pm - nice for rainy days. 1393 Hwy 169.

Vermilion Mail Boat 753-4190

www.aronsonboatworks.com

Ride along on the mail delivery route that covers 80 miles of scenic Lake Vermilion and includes 105 water-access only mail boxes. The driver is a knowledgeable local who can give a history lesson and share other information about the lake and its residents. Reservations recommended.

Dress for the weather! Adults $18, Kids 12 and under $10. 9 am Mon-Sat. June 1-Labor Day.

Vermilion Range Trap Club

365-3368

claytargetsonline.com

Join local sports shooters at this shooting range. Trap, skeet, and sporting clays are available at the clubhouse 5 to dark Thursdays and 12-3 pm Sundays. Special events are held through the summer. Visitors and newcomers always welcome. Check their Facebook page for more info.

Veterans on the Lake 365-6900 www.veteransonthelakeresort.com

A non-profit resort for veterans, their families, and friends. Wheelchair accessibility throughout.

There are golf carts and scooters, fishing boats and canoes, horseshoes and tennis, heated swimming pool, and dining room. 25% discount for recently returned veterans.

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, the Ely Greenstone sculpture, band shell, restrooms, scribed-log pavilion, and plenty of space for Frisbee games.

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Naming

By Becca Brin Manlove et naming is an invitation to be creative in our family. We started early. Joe (with a last name like Manlove we chose to be a little more conservative naming our first-born human) wasn’t yet three years old when we gave him the chance to name our first dog. The pup we brought home was—we thought—a golden lab/golden retriever mix. To our dismay, we soon discovered he was a Chesapeake retriever—a very different breed as territorial and stubborn as golden retrievers are friendly.

But to Joe he was Our Dog. He came up with two choices for a name—Dunnel the Tunnel and Sprinder. We chose Sprinder. We found ourselves spelling it a lot, especially to people who wanted to make it into something they’d heard before: Sprinter or Splinter or Spinner.

We brought a puppy into the chaos

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A Collection of North Woods Essays

by Becca Brin Manlove

Order from RavenWords.com or 218-365-3375

Raven Productions, inc 50

of two little kids for a certain purpose.

Celin was a few weeks old and Joe was just over two and a half when I let Joe out to play in the sandbox not twenty feet from the house. I sat down inside the screen door to nurse Celin. After a few minutes, Joe made a sound—not a scream or wild crying-—but distressed. I looked up and between us was a yearling black bear nosing a cracker Joe dropped in the grass. Twenty-eight years later, I can’t tell you whether I laid Celin on the floor or if I held her like a football as I snatched up a broom and charged out the door. I do remember swinging the broom at the butt of that bear, so I’m betting that I laid her down.

My husband, Mike’s, schedule kept him away from home a lot. As a wilderness ranger he went on eight-day trips every two weeks for portage crew and sometimes on 21-day fire-fighting trips, leaving me with the sole responsibility for two little people. We decided we needed a dog to keep bears out of the yard.

Be careful what you ask for is a cliché, but in this case we got yard protection and then some. I took Sprinder to dog training classes that spring. He bared his teeth at the instructor and was immediately hung The Ely Summer Times

from the end of his leash. The instructor told me a duck hunter with a Chesapeake in the back of his pickup has no fear anything will be stolen. They are fierce guard dogs. She also told me a couple who raised Chesapeakes trained this stubborn breed by sitting on the dog, grabbing an ear in each hand, and hissing into the dog’s face, “Listen to me.” A practice I did not adopt.

Sprinder decided it was his job to protect our house. He was a handsome dog, big for a lab but small for a Chesapeake, stocky and strong, with light brown eyes. His fur fell in gentle curls between his ears and all along his back. I doubt many of our friends ever noticed the gentle curls, because when they came to the door they were greeted by a wild, barking, lunging menace.

While he was ours, bears and intruders stayed away, but friends stopped dropping by too.

Not long after Sprinder was gone, we welcomed a black puppy with white spots on two toes and her chest. Her mother was a sled dog husky and the suspected father was a big black lab who lived down the road. Ten-year-old Celin claimed naming rights since her brother named Sprinder.

Contented Critters is a wonderful no-kill shelter with dedicated staff and plenty of animals. Three dogs awaiting homes are pictured here. Many more can be seen at ContentedCritters.org, their Facebook page, or call 218-638-2153 to visit.

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She sat down with pencil and paper and generated a very long list of names, including some other Disney princess names. Finally, she and her brother put their heads together and eliminated all but two: Michelle and Alyssa but spelled “Alisa.” I stepped into the naming negotiations at that point. “Your Aunt Michele has a great sense of humor but I’m not sure she’d appreciate having a dog named after her.” I misread the second name and the pup became Lisa.

Lisa proved to be mostly husky. If we let her off a leash or chain, she tore in circles around the house and us, then ran off into the woods. I decided to try skijoring with her. A friend gave us a harness. We waded through knee-deep snow down to Chapel Lake, Lisa running circles around me. On the lake, I wrestled with getting the right Lisa limbs RAZOR

A great companion, he came when his owner died.

Not good with other dogs or animals, this lab/chow mix is otherwise well behaved, smart, and loves people.

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Matrix the cat through the right openings in the harness. Lisa was patient with my clumsy efforts. She dashed across the lake a few times while I wrapped a large leather belt loosely around my waist and stepped into my skis. I slipped the loop end of her leash around the belt. Lisa came when I called and I clipped her leash to the loop on the harness just in front of her tail. She looked at me with raised eyebrows. I slipped the loops on my ski poles over my mittens onto my wrists. “OK, Girl.” I slid a few inches on one ski. Instantly she understood. She spun around, tucked her little butt like coiling a spring and then exploded forward. The belt snapped hard against my spine and lower ribs—as if I was being sawed in two. I managed to stay upright on my skis for a few feet, but we weren’t on any track. When my ski tip buried itself in the snow, my sprawling face-plant felt like it was the brake on a sled dog team of at least five dogs.

Lisa, a year-old pup, loved this new game of person-tangle. She circled and wove around ski poles, skis, and me.

Finally I caught and unsnapped the leash clip at the back of her harness.

She pounced on me a few times but was too full of joyful energy to stick around.

She burned off across the lake, stitching through the snow like a sewing machine at full throttle. I got up slowly, checking for broken parts while solving the puzzle of skis, poles, limbs, and leash. I walked over to a ski track, called Lisa back, and tried it again. The initial snap was painful, but the ride—tearing along at 2017

literally break-neck speed—nothing better.

Except maybe, agreeing ahead of time on the command for halt—Stop?

Whoa? Perhaps a prayer? Skiers are taught to fall on their butts when possible, but with Lisa’s momentum and a sharp turn looming, I tried to form a snowplow in the poorly tracked trail.

Another face-plant stopped her.

Mike came home with a real skijor belt and lead. The bruises around my waist and ribs recognized the wisdom of the padded belt, the slight give in the lead, and the quick release. Lisa and I went out a few more times, but I had to have fresh powder—crust and icy conditions meant she could reach terminal velocity with no cushion for my failures.

We had another winter with skijors squeezed between favorable conditions and other commitments. Joe and Celin got a few rides in too. I think Lisa enjoyed pulling them more. They were brave and more bounce-able.

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But toward the end of that winter, Lisa became less energetic. On the Monday before Easter, I took her to the Ely Veterinary Clinic. Chip diagnosed blastomycosis, a disease carried in fungus spores. Dogs and humans can get it. Sadly, our veterinarians see it more often than vets in most other places in the country. Chip explained that the disease is stealthy, that Lisa probably picked up the spores in the fall.

Some dogs are susceptible and some aren’t. He said if a local dog is going to get it, they will be young—under three years old. If an older dog gets it, he knows that dog didn’t spend its life in these woods. The disease responds to antibiotics. We started Lisa on a course.

But the antibiotics don’t always win. A week later, we knew that Lisa was blind and failing. We spent that Easter saying good-bye. She wanted to be outside, so we put her bed under her favorite tree and took turns sitting with her. Chip put her down for us the next day.

We lived in a log home. Mice 54

considered it the ideal winter resort— easy access, warm, with plenty of food.

I waged a constant campaign against feeding them. They were challenging guests-- squeezing past the plexiglass lid on the bread drawer and gnawing through surprising thicknesses of wood and plastic. We ran a trapline, but dead companions seemed to serve as a challenge. I suspected a tiny sign in mouse language, “Food to die for— here!” We considered ourselves dog people, but we knew we needed a cat.

Joe named the orange and white kitten Matrix. He thought the word meant fluid, like the movement of cats. This was prior to the movie Matrix.

I decided I was done giving my heart to dogs. Joe and I were content to catch Matrix, the independent cat, in rare cuddly moods. But Celin and Mike weren’t. One spring day at the end of her junior year, Celin asked to borrow the car so she and a couple friends could drive to Virginia to see a movie. She came home with a puppy. She said she didn’t lie—they also went to the movie.

The criminal mastermind knew if her dad had a puppy for one night, any threats of returning it would be empty.

Our son, Joe, my ally in dog PENNY

A 3 y.o. boxer/shepherd mix who came as a stray. Very bright, she has lots of energy but can keep it in check.

Good with kids and other dogs.

Neutered, as are all the adoptees.

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resistance, was in Duluth at the College of St. Scholastica.

I glowered and spoke loudly. “No, no, no. I will not be responsible for this dog,” meaning, I will not fall in love with this one. “You two” meaning Mike and Celin “ will be walking her, feeding her, training her—not me.”

“OK, Beck, OK. We believe you.

Now, maybe one of US could hold her.”

Mike plucked the pup out of my lap.

Patting a sleepy pup’s baby belly is addictive. Both of us took Celin’s bait, hook, line, and puppy.

Of course, Celin claimed naming rights again. First, the little black fuzzball became “Kitty”, which proved too confusing with the cat. Celin came home from an outing with some friends and announced, “Her name is Psychomantis.” She had to repeat it a few times for us before we were sure we’d heard correctly.

Even my lenient pet-naming parenting has limits. “No, no, no. I am not wandering through the woods yelling, ‘Psycho! Psycho!’ Every fisherman within earshot will be dialing 911.”

“Mom, the other choice was ‘Velociraptor’.”

SCOOTIE

Scootie is a 6 y.o. heeler/shihtzu mix who needs an owner who will enforce limits. He loves everyone, but bonds with his owner and tends to become overly protective. Smart and lovable.

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Her official name is still Psychomantis, but we call her Mantis.

We often have to repeat and spell her name for people when they first meet her. She was hiking with Mike when he died on a beautiful spring day. She protected his body fiercely for over 24 hours. She became our hero and our solace.

When Celin went away to college that fall, Mantis and I kept each other company. When Celin moved back to town three years later, she bought her own home with a fenced yard and wanted to take Mantis to live with her.

“No. She’s mine now.”

And she is. Mantis is suddenly almost twelve years old. Our adventures could fill a book. And the creative naming continues. I have granddogs Bisley, Blue, and Indigo and grandcats Rumor and Richard Parker.

A grandrabbit named Bot (after a computer malware whose meme was a rabbit) actually did almost kill Joe—but that’s another story.

55 © Becca Brin Manlove, 2017

Š Laura Kenig This cloud formed in a blue sky while a family was spreading the ashes of a loved one over a favorite wild place. And an eagle flew by.

The Nature of Our Lives he wild places surrounding Ely have boosted the area’s attractiveness so much that spots on ten-best-places lists are almost common. But adventure, clean air and water, and getting away from it all are not the only reasons people value the Ely area. Quiet forest paths, star-laden night skies, lakes stormy or calm, and glowing campfires also soothe the troubled soul; provide perspective, wonder, and beauty in a scary world; and create space for the

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chatter of daily life to slow down, become silent, allow deeper reflections to surface. Time in nature can help grief find a shape and eventually transform into something that can be tolerated.

Wilderness is a place for the dark times, the sad times, the what-does-life-mean times. Many find healing for the broken heart or spirit in nature’s embrace. Here are some poems composed at times of loss and struggle by Ely writers who find comfort in the wild places nearby.

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Poems by Wayne Lewis, Photo by Ken Hupila

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Poem by Joey Kenig, Photo by Ken Hupila

The Ely Summer Times

Poem by Joey Kenig, Photo by Kahsha Hyde

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I pulled on rubber boots and walked the portage.

Leaned into saplings; watched water pour from under an edge of ice, over a rim of rocks into the creek.

Downstream, the flexible bole of a young black ash held me—steeping— in the damp joy of trees and the din of falls.

Will spring always be bittersweet, now— churning promise of water, released and abundant, against dearth of you?

Your spirit freed, I suppose, though I prefer it bound to earth, to life, to me.

Almost the Anniversary

Is it okay for me to answer waterfall’s rush with a smile; to relish stamping strong rubber boots that don’t leak; to taste the snap of a wintergreen leaf against my teeth; to cherish the spiraling star beauty of a pinecone sinking into sugar snow?

Is it alright to feel something beautiful, again--like love-even though you are not standing beside me in your own rubber boots?

Poem by Becca Brin Manlove, Photo by Kahsha Hyde

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Ely Spiritual Gatherings

Berean Baptist Church 2281 Hwy 169 365-5413 Ely Gospel Church 3 E Allaire St 365-5272 915 E Camp St 365-3348 First Lutheran Church LC MS First Presbyterian Church 226 E Harvey St 365-5130 Grace Lutheran Church ELCA 301 E Conan St 365-5605 Ledgerock Comm. Church 1515 E Camp St 365-4890 Oasis Int’l Church Ely Senior Center 235-1151 Call for midweek service times. They are always held, but times vary.

Praise Fellowship Christian 302 E Boundary St 365-6033 St. Anthony’s Catholic Church 231 E Camp St 365-4017 St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

715 S Central Av

365-4914 Meditation Thursday Night Group location varies, call 365-3346 We do not subscribe to any one path for spiritual enlightenment.

United Methodist Church of Ely 305 E Camp St 365-3355

Sun 10:30 Sun 10, Wed 6:30 Sun 11, Thur 7pm Sun 11 Sun 9:30 Sun 9:30 Sun 10 Sun 10 Sat 5 pm, Sun 10 T, Th, F 8am Sun 9:30 Mon 6:30 pm Th 7pm Sun 10

Ely Area 12-Step Meetings AlAnon Catholic Church Basement Rm 4 Sun 8 pm Babbitt Assembly of God Church, 29 Babbitt Rd. Thu 7 pm Alcoholics Anonymous Catholic Church Basement, Room 1 Sun 8 pm Women, Open – Ledgerock Church Mon noon Miracle on Camp St, open – 1st Lutheran Church Mon 7 pm Big Book, Open – Babbitt Woodland Presbyterian Church Tue 7 pm Open – Hospital multi-purpose room (get directions at nurses station) Wed 8 pm Keep It Simple, open – Babbitt Presbyterian Church Thu 7 pm Happy, Joyous, and Free, Open – Presbyterian Church Fri 7 pm Open meeting – Hospital multi-purpose room Sat 7:30 pm Codependents Anonymous Open – Catholic Church Basement Rm 3 (use entry by parsonage) Fri noon 12-Steps for Any Addiction New Ideas for Women, Open – Catholic Basement Rm 3 Thurs 12 noon

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Summer Reading

anoes are intimately connected to the history of North America, and nowhere is that relationship better documented than in this new book.

Much more than a coffee table book, Canoes is a thoroughly-researched study that brings the cultural significance of this craft up to date and includes current construction methods.

Ely builders Jeanne Bourquin, Joe Seliga, and Erik Simula are included.

Marvelously illustrated with much more than pretty photos of canoes, Canoes has plenty of historic photos, posters, maps, diagrams, and art. It’s a perfect gift for any canoe enthusiast, but also a great read for the history buff or paddler.

Need a new idea for your fresh catch? Lake Fish targets Midwest species with chapter titles that include Smelt, Crappie, Perch, and Cisco along with the more common Walleye, Trout, and Bass. Even if you eat fish for every meal you won’t get bored with these flavors. Local ingredients are featured in appetizers such as Sunfish Pot Stickers

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and Perch Flatbread, salads like Walleye Waldorf, and soups like Midwestern Fisherman’s Stew. Main dishes draw on a variety of ethnic inspiration to give you recipes for Crispy Bass and Basil Stir Fry, Sunfish and Kimchi Fried Rice, and Walleye Tacos with Mango Salsa. Even breakfast is covered with Catfish and Bacon Benedict and Ciscos on Toast.

Here is meal inspiration for every day or once-a-summer dinner parties.

One more cookbook because it’s so good we couldn’t leave it out: Savory Sweet helps you capture summer’s flavor for winter’s table. Not your grandmother’s canning book, but she would approve of its practical approach. Fermentation, freezing, and drying are included, and many recipes use less sugar than Grandma’s.

Spices and herbs add extra flavor to old favorites in such recipes as Curried Ketchup with Anise and a blueberry jam with rosemary and pepper. Whether you get your produce from the garden or the farmers market, you’ll make the most of the season’s fare with these preserves.

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If you want just one book to help you raise food in this northern climate, Fresh from the Garden is a good choice. It begins with tons of information on how, where, when, and what to plant and moves to details for each plant from Asparagus to Watermelon. Favoring organic methods, it discusses raised beds and containers, fertilizers and pests, culinary uses and preserving.

Now you need some good stories to go with your lazy summer afternoons.

Dead Man’s Rapids by local author Bill Durbin is a sequel to Blackwater Ben, although you could read this one first.

Bill specializes in young adult books, but they are fun for adults, too, and make great campfire reading with local history lessons wrapped in gripping stories.

Now Ben is working as cook’s helper in a logging camp in 1899 among a colorful gang of men, enduring the harsh life of dangerous rapids, logjams, and life on the river.

You’re Sending Me Where? collects hilarious recollections and touching moments of wisdom gleaned from the Minnesota tradition of packing the kids off to summer camp. The author, a reluctant camper as a child, heads up

the Italian language camp at Concordia each summer, so he tells these stories from experience with pranks that push the limits, parents who are more anxious than their kids, and unexpected health inspector visits.

At the library you can find enough hearty and humorous novels by Minnesota author Lorna Landvik to get addicted. Once in a Blue Moon Lodge is the most recent. Like her other novels set in Minnesota, warm, boisterous characters with quirks as weird as real people, and situations that could be disheartening create a story to make you laugh, cry, and hunger for coffee and gingerbread cookies consumed around a table with your family, or at least the family you wish you had.

Bush planes, sled dogs, and building a remote homestead

This award-winning book makes great trail reading!

2nd Floor Bookstore • RavenWords.com Raven Productions Booth at Blueberry or Harvest Moon 2017

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ElyAlmanac.com

Ely and nearby events Descriptions and photos Updated Daily

Sorted for easy searching

These two picture books portray so much of what the north woods is about for kids. In At the Cabin, the child doesn’t want to leave the city and “my phone, my movies, my computer games.” But “at least I don’t have to make my bed,” as it is a sleeping bag rolled out on the floor of a rustic log cabin. And “Here I can stay up all night long.” After campfires, splashes in the big lake, hikes, wildlife encounters, and family legends, it’s time to go back home. “I do NOT want to go. It has none of the stuff I have here.”

In Sadie Braves the Wilderness Sadie is going on her first BWCA trip after driving “for a hundred hours.”

Wanting to be brave, she expresses how fearful her little brother is of roaring waterfalls, screeching hawks, and bears “at every turn.” But in a big storm, she shows her true courage and comforts him until the rain stops and they can play in “all the new little rivers” at their campsite.

Find your own copies of these books at Piragis’ Upstairs Bookstore or borrow a copy from the Ely Public Library.

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This will be the last year of the Chairish Ely program, so don’t miss your chance to buy one at the auction on August 1st.

VCC - Vermilion Community College • CC - Community Center • OLC - Outdoor Learning Ctr Many events are free. Classes may require pre-registration. For updated information check ElyAlmanac.com and Ely.org, the local papers, and posters around town. Find locations on the maps on pages 39-42. Call phone numbers (area code is 218) for more info or to register. Items in green are programs especially for children and/or teens.

MAY

FIND the ELY FOLK SCHOOL CLASS SCHEDULE at www.ElyFolkSchool.org Find Ely Community Ed classes at www.ElyClasses.org 18, 7pm High School Spring Concert and Art Show, Washington Aud 19, 7pm Studio North Dance Recital Washington Aud 19-20 Ely High School Veterans Memorial Baseball Showcase Memorial Field 20, 8-4pm Ely Citywide Rummage Sale and Crazy Day Sale, 365-6123 All of Ely 20, 10am-4pm Jeremy Hiltbrunner Fishing Contest to benefit CF, 365-4877 Silver Rapids Lodge 20, 2pm Studio North Dance Recital Washington Aud 25-26, 7-4 Wilderness First Aid, American Red Cross, elyclasses.com VCC #109 25, 1:15pm Elementary School Spring Concert Washington Aud 26, 4pm Pinterest Projects, all ages, 365-5140 Ely Public Library 27, 7pm Ely Memorial High School Graduation Washington Aud 28-6/3 Birding in Superior National Forest, Road Scholar, 235-2189 OLC 30, 4:30pm Ely Women’s Golf League Starter Meeting, all welcome, 365-7853 Grand Ely Lodge

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JUNE

1-Aug 31 1, 5-7pm 3-4 3 3, 1-3pm 3, 8am-1pm 3, 9am-4pm 5-9, 9-11am 6 or after 9, 9:30am 9, 7pm 9-11 10, 10am-4pm 10-11 10-11 12, 3pm 12, 6pm 12-14, 9-12 12-16, 9:30-12 12-16, 10-12 13-17 14-23 14, noon 14, 5:30pm 14-17 15, 12-6 15, 5pm 15-16 16, 9:30

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Slovenian Exhibit: Farmers, Miners, Refugees E-W Historical Society “On The Water” Art Exhibition Open House Art & Soul Gallery Wolf Family Rendezvous, ages 6+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center AltaZmeja Golf Tournament & Fishing Contest, 235-2190 Ely Golf Club/Shagawa Lk Ely Garden Club Plant Sale & Pie Social Grace Lutheran Church Babbitt City-Wide Rummage Sale, 827-3254 Babbitt National Sauna Day Celebration, free events Nelimark Museum Embarrass Junior Golf, ages 8-15, 365-5932 Ely Golf Club Register for Summer Reading Program, all ages, prizes, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Margo McCreary's Puppet Wagon, all ages, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Full Moon Concert, Ted Feyder, fullmoonconcerts@gmail.com 2164 Bear Island River Rd Taste of Ely VFW Classic Baseball Tournament Memorial Field Walleye Whamma Fishing Contest, 827-3464 Birch Lake Beach, Babbitt Great American Canoe Festival, lots of paddling-related fun Semers Beach Geocache Adventures In Wolf Range, ages 12+, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Library Book Discussion, for adults, Small Great Things, 365-5140 Ely Public Library First Ely City Band practice, come to join or come Tuesdays after Ely HS Band Room Greenstone Children’s Art Camp, ages 7-12, 235-1912 Miners Dry Vacation Bible School, ages 3-11, free, 340-0862 Berean Baptist Church Dance Fundamentals, all ages, register at 1st class, 365-2493 Studio North Dorothy Molter Women's Canoe Trip, pre-register ElyOutfittingCompany.com BWCAW Log Construction Basics, 365-2126 Great Lakes School of Log Building Art Show for Greenstone Children’s Art Camp Miners Dry Ely-Winton Historical Society Annual Dinner, 365-3226 VCC Theater Lobby Peter Mitchell Fun Days, Carnival and Activities Babbitt Friends of Library Members Book Sale, 365-5140 Ely City Hall Northwoods Partners FundraiserDinner, 365-8019 Grand Ely Lodge Jr. Wolf Biologist Mini-Camp, ages 7+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Annual Treasure Hunt, ages 3-10, 365-5140 Ely Public Library

The Ely Summer Times

Weekly Events

Mon-Fri noon Senior Dinners, register 24-hrs ahead Ely Senior Center Mon 9-11am Pickleball, 5/1-9/29, elyclasses.com High School Pickleball Courts Mon 10am-12pm Gardening, Exploring, and Crafts, all ages, 6/12-8/18 Children’s Garden Mon 1-3pm Afternoon Adventures with ECR–Art, free, 6/6-7/27, 365-5254 TBD Mon 4:30pm Ely Women’s Golf League, 6/5-8/28 Ely Golf Club Mon 5:30-7pm Ely Community Health Center free clinic 40 N. 1st Ave E. Tue 9-11am Working in the Garden, all ages, 6/6-9/26, 365-5607 Whiteside Park Tue 10-11am Tai Ji Quan for seniors, 7/11-9/28, 365-8019 Ely Rec Center Tue 12-1pm Tuesday Group, Speakers, open to all, free Grand Ely Lodge Tue 1-3pm Afternoon Adventures with ECR–STEM, free, 6/6-7/27, 365-5254 TBD Tue 2-5pm Pioneer Mine Shaft House tours, 5/29-9/4 Arts and Heritage Center Tue 2:30pm Camp Kwitcherbeliakin, 6/20-8/15, ages 4-12, 365-4451 Dorothy Molter Museum Tue 3-9pm Tuesday Nite Live - Live Music, 6/20-8/22 Downtown Ely Tue 3:30pm Guided Nature Walk, all ages, 6/20-8/15, 365-4451 Dorothy Molter Museum Tue 5-7pm Open Knitting Night, free, 6/20-8/22, 365-6613 Sisu Yarn Shop Tue 5-7pm Farmers’ Market and Artists’ Market, 5/30-9/26 Whiteside Park Tue 6pm City Band Concerts, 6/27-7/25, canceled for rain Whiteside Park Wed 6-8am Up and Out with the Birds, 5/10-8/16, carpool at Chamber of Commerce Wed 9-11am Adult Pickleball, 5/1-9/29, elyclasses.com High School Pickleball Courts Wed 9am-12pm Nature Hike w/ Ely Field Naturalists, 5/10-8/16 carpool at Chamber of Commerce Wed 10am-12pm Gardening, Exploring, and Crafts, all ages, 6/12-8/18 Children’s Garden Wed 10:30am Memory and Movement, Senior Exercise, 365-8019 Ely Senior Center Wed 1-3pm Afternoon Adventures with ECR–Eco Club, free, 6/6-7/27, 365-5254 TBD Wed 1-3pm ECR Water Project, grades 6-12, free, 6/6-7/27, 365-5254 TBD Wed 1-3pm Senior Bingo, age 55+ Ely Senior Center Wed 6:30-8:30pm Evening Pickleball, 6/7-8/9, elyclasses.com High School Pickleball Courts Wed 8pm Howling Safari (August only) 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Thurs 8:30am Yoga, drop-ins, 6/15-9/14 no 8/10, 218-235-7699 Tofte Lake Center Thurs 10-11am Tai Ji Quan, 7/11-9/28, 365-8019 Ely Rec Center Thurs 10:30am Community Exercise, all welcome, 365-8019 First Lutheran Church Thurs 1-3pm Afternoon Adventures with ECR–Healthy Kids, free, 6/6-7/27, 365-5254 TBD Thur 6pm Group bike rides, 6/1-8/31, 5:30 Sept-Oct, bikeely.com Trezona Trailhead Fri 9-11am Adult Pickleball, 5/1-9/29, elyclasses.com High School Pickleball Courts Fri 9-12pm Watercolor Group, 365-5696 LedgeRock Comm. Church Fri 10am-12pm Gardening, Exploring, and Crafts, all ages, 6/12-8/18 Children’s Garden Fri 10:30-11am Pre-School Story Time, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Fri 3-6pm Pioneer Mine Shaft House tours, 5/29-9/4 Art and Heritage Center Fri 8pm Howling Safari (August only) 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Sat 8-10am Birding at Bear Head, meet at office 5/6-7/29, 235-2520 Bear Head Lake State Park Sat 1pm Nature Films, free, 5/20-9/17 USFS Ranger Station Sat 1-3pm Open Knitting, share projects and conversation, free, 365-6613 Sisu Yarn Shop Sat 7pm What’s for Dinner? 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Sat 9pm to close Karaoke Ely Steak House Sun 1pm Nature Films, free, 5/20-9/17 USFS Ranger Station Sundays Church Services, see Spiritual Gatherings, page 61 Ely Churches Visit wolf.org and bear.org for daily programs for all ages at the Int’l Wolf Center and the Bear Center

For the most up-to-date event information go to www.ElyAlmanac.com or www.ely.org For Ely Folk School class schedule go to www.ElyFolk School.org 2017

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16, 10-6 16, 5-8pm 16, 7pm 17 17, 9-2 17, 7pm 19, 1-3pm 20-24, 9-3 21, 7-9pm 23, 3-9pm 23-25 23-25 24 24, TBD 24-25 25, 11-2 25-30 26, 10:30 27-7/3, 2-4 28, 7pm 28, 7-9pm 30, 4pm 30-7/1

JULY

1, TBD 2, 2pm 3, 5-7pm 3-7 4, 8am 4, 11am-4pm 4, 3pm 4, dusk 5, 7-9pm 6, all day 7-9 7, 7-9pm 7, 2pm 8, 8am-5pm 68

Friends of Library Public Book Sale Ely City Hall Open House, 118 E Chapman, 231-342-2842 Kekekabic Studio The Starfolk Concert, www.TofteLake.com Tofte Lake Center Firewise Demonstrations, 365-0878 TBD Friends of Library Bag of Books Sale, free will donation Ely City Hall Whirled Muse Concert by NLAA VCC Theater Canoeing 101, 218-300-7000 Soudan Underground Mine Bible Camp, K-4th grade, 365-5605 (9-12 Friday) Grace Lutheran Church Ely Field Naturalists Nature Night, 235-8078 VCC CL104 Crapola Fest, 16 N. 1st Ave E., 235-6161 Crapola World Headquarters Finnish Mid-Summer Weekend, crafts, food, music & dancing Ely Folk School DQ Grill and Chill Ely Legion Baseball Classic Memorial Field Firewise Demonstrations, 365-0878 TBD Art Auction, fundraiser for Greenstone Public Art Miners Dry Ely Ham Radio 24-Hour Event Shaft House Parking Lot Dorothy Day, free admission and family activities Dorothy Molter Museum Wonder of Wolves Intergenerational, Road Scholar 235-2189 OLC & Int’l Wolf Ctr Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre Auditions, Jack & the Beanstalk 365-5070 VCC Theater 4th of July Dance Camp & Parade, 365-2493 Studio North Waterfowl of NE MN, free, 235-2520 Bear Head Lake State Park History Night, Brad Sagen, Fur Trade of NE Minnesota VCC CL104 Pinterest Projects, all ages, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Wolves after Dark, ages 12+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Prairie Fire Performance, Jack and the Beanstalk VCC Theater Patriotic Choir Concert Washington Aud "Red, White & Blueberries" Art Exhibition Open House Art & Soul Gallery Scavenger Hunt Week, for kids and families, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Janet Gensler Memorial Run, 4 on the 4th, active.com Trezona Trail Ely 4th of July, kid activities and 1pm parade Whiteside Park City Band Concert Whiteside Park Fireworks (Please donate $ at City Hall) Over Miner’s Lake Ely Field Naturalists Nature Night, 235-8078 VCC CL104 Hat Day, prizes and photos-just wear a hat, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Sir G’s Mid-Summer Legion Baseball Classic Memorial Field Greenstone Art Gala–art, food, and wine (21 and up only) Miners Dry Scavenger Hunt Official Count, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Living with Fire Event, 365-0878, VCC CL104 The Ely Summer Times

8, 7pm 8-9, 10-4 9-14 10, 9:30 10, 3pm 10-14, 10-12 13 13, 7pm 12, 7-9pm 14, 5-8pm 14, 10:30am 15, 6pm 15-16, all day 16-22 16-21 17, 10-12 17, 6pm 17, 7pm 17–20 18, 7-9pm

Full Moon Concert, Joey Kenig & Robin Anders 2164 Bear Island River Rd Ely Greenstone Art Show and Sale, free admission Miners Dry Wonder of Wolves Intergenerational, Road Scholar, 235-2189 OLC & Int’l Wolf Ctr Mad Science of Minnesota, for all ages, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Library Book Discussion, for adults, Ray and Joan, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Fundamentals of Dance, all ages, register at 1st class, 365-2493 Studio North MPR 50th Anniversary Celebration Whiteside Park Chamber Music Concert by Northern Lights Music Festival VCC Theater History Night, Mary Groeninger, Ely's Trees VCC CL104 Open House, 118 E Chapman, 231-342-2842 Kekekabic Studio Kids for Kids Concert by Northern Lights Music Festival Ely Public Library Ely American Legion Alumni Baseball Game Memorial Field Sarah Guy-Levar Watercolor Workshop, 365-3141 Miners Dry Canoe & Hike the BWCAW Road Scholar (Elderhostel), 235-2189 OLC Totus Tuus Vacation Bible School, open to all K-12, 365-4251 Catholic Church Canoeing 101, 218-300-7000 Soudan Underground Mine MPR's Pre-Opera Lecture TBD Eugene Onegin Opera produced by Northern Lights Music Festival Washington Aud Jr. Biologist Summer Camp, ages 7+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Night at the Museum, free admission Dorothy Molter Museum

19, 7-9pm 19, 7pm 19-22, 10-4 21, 1:30-3:30pm 21-22, 7:30pm 22-23 23, 2pm 23-26 23-29 24, 9:30am 26, 7pm 26, 7-9pm 27, 7:30pm 28, 4pm 28-30 28-29, 9-6 28-29, 10-4 29-8/3 2017

Ely Field Naturalists Nature Night, 235-8078 VCC CL104 Opera Scenes by Northern Lights Music Festival VCC Theater Ely Watercolor Club Exhibit and Sale, free admission Miners Dry Princess Tea and Dance Camp, Pre-K to 2nd grade Studio North Driving Miss Daisy, BrownPaperTickets.com or at the door 365-5070 VCC Theater Lilypad Picnic & Festivities, lilypadpicnic.com Whiteside Park, Grand Ely Lodge Driving Miss Daisy, BrownPaperTickets.com or at the door 365-5070 VCC Theater Overnight Dance Camp trip to Brainerd, 365-2493 Studio North Canoe & Hike the BWCAW Road Scholar (Elderhostel), 235-2189 OLC Sunday Worship Service in the Park by Grace Lutheran Whiteside Park Loons of Minnesota, free, 235-2520 Bear Head Lake State Park History Night, Jeffrey Kroll, USFS, Older Than Dirt VCC CL 104 Batty about Bats, 218-300-7000 use back entrance Soudan Underground Mine Pinterest Projects, all ages, 365-5140 Ely Public Library 37th Annual Blueberry Arts Festival Whiteside Park Hockey Boosters Antique & Craft Fair Ely Ice Arena Fine Art & Artisan Fair, (10-5 Sat) Amici’s Event Center Wolf Ethology, ages 18+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center 69

AUGUST

1, 12-6 1, 5-7 2, 7-9pm 1, 7:30pm 2, 7pm 3, 10:30am 3-5, 7pm 4, 7pm 4, 7:30pm 4-5 5 5, 9am 5, 10-12 5, 10-12 5, 10:30-3 6, 2pm 6, 11am-2pm 6-12 7, 5-7pm 7-11, 9-12 7-11, 10am-12 7-8 8, 2:30

Chairish Ely auction at Farmers Market Whiteside Park party National Night Out, progressive dinner, 827-3464 Babbitt Ely Field Naturalists Nature Night, 235-8078 VCC CL104 Batty about Bats, 218-300-7000 use back entrance Soudan Underground Mine Wolves at Our Door, free, 235-2520 Bear Head Lake State Park Trail Center The Ant and the Grasshopper with CLIMB theater, all ages Ely Public Library Root Beer, Lady, the Musical, BrownPaperTickets.com Washington Aud Full Moon Concert, Irene Hartfield 2164 Bear Island River Rd Batty about Bats, 218-300-7000 use back entrance Soudan Underground Mine SleepOver for Middle School Reading Program, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Firewise Demonstrations, 365-0878 TBD Mud Monkey, Kids' Obstacle Course Race Silver Rapids Lodge Ferns & Allies of the North Woods Soudan Underground Mine Breakfast in the Garden, Gardner Trust celebration, 365-5254 Whiteside Park Taste of Slovenia, food, music, and more, 365-5630 Catholic Church Basement Root Beer Lady, the Musical, BrownPaperTickets.com & at door Washington Aud Donuts at Dorothy’s & 'Beers with Bob, free admission Dorothy Molter Museum Canoe & Hike the BWCAW Road Scholar (Elderhostel), 235-2189 OLC "The Winged Ones" Art Exhibition Open House Art & Soul Gallery Vacation Bible School, ages 4-10, 365-3348 First Lutheran Church Fundamentals of Dance, all ages, register at 1st class, 365-2493 Studio North Jr. Wolf Biologist Mini-Camp, ages 7+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Loon Calling Contest, 365-6745 Chocolate Moose Deck

9, 5:30-7pm 9, 7-9pm 9, 7-9pm 10, 5-9pm 11, 10:30am 11, 10-5 11, 5-8pm 11, 7pm 11-12, 6pm-1am 11-12 11-13 11-13 12, 9am-3pm 12

Stuart Pimsler Dance & Theater, Workshop, teen-senior Tofte Lake Center Batty about Bats, 218-300-7000 use back entrance Soudan Underground Mine History Night, Mike Schrage, Wildlife Biologist, Elk in Minnesota VCC CL104 Rotary Auction Fundraiser (not on WELY this year) 365-4841 Grand Ely Lodge Talent Show, all ages, sponsored by Ely Public Library, 365-5140 Ely City Hall Stone Soup Vintage Market, stonesoupevents.net Miners Dry Open House, 118 E Chapman, 231-342-2842 Kekekabic Studio Stuart Pimsler Dance Company performance Tofte Lake Center American Cancer Society Relay for Life Whiteside Park Wolves after Dark, ages 12+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Canoe Country Traditions Weekend featuring Birchbark Canoe Project Ely Folk School Elements of Stonework, 365-2126 Great Lake School of Log Building Stone Soup Vintage Market, stonesoupevents.net Miners Dry Firewise Demonstrations, 365-0878 TBD

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The Ely Summer Times

12, 2pm 12-13, 10am 14, 3pm 16, 7-9pm 16-25 17, 2pm 18-20 19 19, 10-2 19, 8:30pm 21 noon 21, 9am-2pm 23, 1pm

Picnic Operetta, Philemon & Baucis, 827-8102 Northern Delicious CSA 10th Annual Ely Watercross Race, 235-8940 Fall Lake at Longbranch Library Book Discussion, for adults, Big Little Lies, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Ely Field Naturalists Nature Night, 235-8078 VCC CL104 Log Construction Basics, 365-2126 Great Lakes School of Log Building Life Size Games, for families and teens, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Tracking the Pack, ages 13+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center EBCH 60th Birthday: MEGA Body Exhibit Whiteside Park Monarch Butterfly Festival, 218-300-7000 Soudan Underground Mine Night Sky of the Northwoods, 218-300-7000 Soudan Underground Mine Solar Eclipse Party (total solar eclipse is at 1:07 pm), 365-5140 Ely Public Library World Press Journalists Forum, lunch w/ reservation, 365-3141 Miners Dry Patrick Scully performs Leaves of Grass, for adults, 365-5140 Ely Public Library

1st Monday. 5-7pm 2nd Monday, 3pm 3rd Monday, 5:30pm 4th Monday, 10am 3rd Tuesday, 4pm 2nd Wednesday, 7pm 3rd Wednesday 11-6pm 1st Thursday, 5-7pm, 2nd Thursday, 6pm 4th Thursday, 6:30pm 1st Saturday, 8-11am 4th Saturday, 2:30pm 2017

Monthly Events (Open to all, visitors welcome!)

Art Exhibition Open House Art & Soul Gallery Friends of the Library Book Discussion, 365-5140 Ely Public Library Movie Night, stop by to find out what movie Sustainable Ely Memory Care Support Group, 365-8019 Ely Hospital Conf. Rm B Nature Story Hour, ages 4-10 Ely Public Library Ely Field Naturalist meeting, starts in September VCC CL104 Food Shelf Open 15 W. Conan Writers’ Group, any genre, 235-1984 Boathouse Brewpub Ely Garden Club Tours of Area Gardens 365-5607 Ely Flower Seed Heart of the Woods Quilters, 365-4907 LedgeRock Comm. Church Pancake B’fast Timber Hall Embarrass Expeditions, stop in for more info Sustainable Ely 71

Wilderness Paddler Cards NEW!

8 card set $11.95

www.RavenWords.com Raven Productions, Ely • 365-3375

24, 10:30am 25-27 28, 2pm 29, 3pm

Dazzling Dave Yo-Yo Master, sponsored by Ely Public Library Ely City Hall Annual Embarrass Regional Fair Embarrass Timber Hall Golden Gals Golf Day, 365-0835 Ely Golf Club 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program for all registrants Ely Public Library

SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER • NOVEMBER

1-4 2, 9am 2, 7pm 2-3, 4-7pm 2-3 4, 5-7pm 8-10 8, 5pm 9, tbd 10, 4pm 10, 4-7pm 11 13-22 15-17 19, 10am-2pm 22, 6:45pm 23, 7:30 and 8am 23, 9-5 29-10/1 29-10/1 Oct 3, 7pm Oct 6-8 Oct 7 Oct 18-27 Oct 20-21 Oct 28, 8-11pm Oct 29, 2-5pm Nov 1-2 Nov 4-5 Nov 16, 7pm

Foragers’ Weekend, classes and activities for all ages Ely Folk School Labor Day Weekend Trezona Run zapevent.com Trezona Trail Full Moon Concert, Van & the Free Candies 2164 Bear Island River Rd Fest du Nord, concert for families, 365-5677 Camp DuNord Wolf Family Rendezvous, ages 6+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center “Harvest Moon” Art Exhibition Open House Art & Soul Gallery 24th Annual Harvest Moon Festival Whiteside Park Listening Point Foundation Dinner & Silent Auction, 365-8889 Grand Ely Lodge Program with author William Kent Kruger Ely Public Library Conservationists With Common Sense Annual Mtg & Raffle Whiteside Park Community Night Out music, food, fun, 984-3012 Seitaniemi Housebarn Embarrass Youth dance classes start, register ahead, 365-2493 Studio North Log Construction Basics, 365-2126 Great Lakes School of Log Building Wine, Women & Wolves, ages 21+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Celebrate Dance Day, Fall Season Kick-Off for classes, 365-2493 Studio North 5K Glow Run, all ages and abilities, Register at VCC near VCC Ely Marathon and 1/2 marathon www.elymarathon.com Ely Area Chocoholic Frolic, treats and shopping Downtown Ely Wolves and Bears and Eagles, Oh My! , ages 12+, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Fall Knitting Retreat SisuDesigns.org, 365-6613 Camp Widjiwagaan Ely Area Concert Assn concert, Anderson Brothers Jazz Washington Aud Wolf Photography Weekend, ages 18+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Fall Fitness Festival, 365-2493 Studio North Log Construction Basics, 365-2126 Great Lakes School of Log Building Wolves After Dark, ages 12+, wolf.org, 365-HOWL Int’l Wolf Center Middle School Dance and Haunted House, 365-2493 Studio North Halloween Carnival and Hay Rides, all ages Studio North Small Business Conference, Incredible Ely, 218-348-2268 TBD Hunters’ Widows Weekend preserving venison, craft, quiltings Ely Folk School Ely Area Concert Assn concert, Michael Johnson country, pop, folk Washington Aud

Please thank our advertisers for providing you with this free publication.

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The Ely Summer Times

2017

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Ely – Becoming a Fire-Adapted Community

Foss Lake Fire, May 19, 2016 o you know the evacuation plan for your home or business? Have you created defensible space around your home? Do you understand the reasons for prescribed burns? Would you like to visit the Highway 1 fire with the leaders of the initial attack? How about seeing a chipper, a fire engine, logging equipment?

You can do all this and more at the July 8th Living with Wildfire event at Vermilion Community College, (And if you’re reading this after that date, watch for more workshops throughout the year, or call Gloria Erickson with your concerns and questions at 365-0878.)

A full day is planned with 45-minute sessions in the morning that include fire ecology and a history of fire in the Ely area, an explanation of Firewise best

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practices, and ways for land owners to manage their forests for maximum health. During lunch break you can visit with agencies and local contractors and watch equipment demos.

After lunch choose a bus to board for field trips to the Highway 1 fire, an area with a completed prescribed burn, or property where you’ll get practical advice and hands-on lessons in creating defensible space.

This is a family affair, so bring the kids for special games and activities aimed at helping them learn about wildfire without scaring them.

Registration is appreciated by June 23rd (gjerickson@frontiernet.net or 3650878), but don’t stay away if you missed it. Come and help make Ely more Fire Adapted and Firewise.

The Ely Summer Times

1903 City Band

Historic photos courtesy of Ely-Winton Historical Society

Ely City Bands usic has made life better in Ely since the beginning. However rough and tumble the town was, and however difficult the times, music brought pleasure and civility to both performers and their audience. From church choirs to saloon singers, from classic opera to polkas, from welltrained professional musicians to elementary school band beginners, music has been as abundant in Ely as fresh air, and as widespread.

The Ely City Band has been a part of that tradition since 1893. Recently band members have been volunteers, but in the past the city paid performers–up to $6 a concert, and purchased music, instruments, and uniforms.

The 4th of July was a big day for the band a generation or two ago. Patriotic music was demanded at a 5am flag raising. The band marched in the parade and provided accompaniment to diving demonstrations on Shagawa Lake. The City Picnic was enlivened by band tunes and a full evening concert was presented.

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From old photos it appears that many bands were men only, but this early 1900s Scandia Band clearly included women musicians.

There were many other bands, as well as orchestras and choirs, throughout Ely’s history. In the early days bands formed to toot their ethnic heritage. The Ely Sampo Band, the Finnish Temperance Band, the Swede Band, the Ely Scandia Band, and the Slavonian Band were a few of these.

A Winter Concert Series was performed In the 1930s, when the city band was more sophisticatedly dubbed the Ely Municipal Band.

The selections included some difficult classical pieces, and often a talented professional was brought in to sing or play solos. Director Frank DiNino, an immigrant from Italy, had a reputation as a severe taskmaster, sometimes hitting his players with the weighted end of his

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wooden baton, and making them play their part alone in the middle of rehearsal until they got it right. Harsh, but he got results for 22 years.

Also in the 1930s the American Legion sponsored the Dillonaires, a drum and bugle corps that won many state contests.

Members were adults, mostly men. In 1953 another American Legion drum and bugle corps formed with a color guard, made up of high school students.

They also traveled widely and won awards.

At the Historical Society there is a photo of an even younger band called the Teeny Weeny Band, with members that appear to be in their early elementary school years.

The Ely Summer Times

In 1966 the city’s budget was strained and they withdrew funding, so the city band disappeared for a while.

When Northern Lakes Arts Association (NLAA) was formed in 1987, the city band was resurrected with high school music teacher Lyle Klein as the director, and adults again had a place to express their instrumental talents.

In 1991 the Ely Klown Band started up. Musicians with a sense of humor made clown costumes and created popular entertainment for parades and 4th of July performances in the park.

Many musicians were happy to be in both groups.

In recent years there have been between 20 and 35 Ely City Band members joining together each summer to perform five or six concerts in June and July. Most players are full-fledged

adults; many are senior citizens. High school students are mostly too busy with jobs to join, although a few add their considerable talents from time to time.

Today’s band members are a mix of full time Ely area residents, snowbirds who return in time for rehearsals in June, cabin owners from as far away as Ohio, and even some talented visitors who have brought instruments with them and ask to join in for a concert.

NLAA still sponsors the band, finding a leader each summer now that Lyle, after 20 years as city band director, uses his baton to direct choirs instead.

Want to join in with others making music in Ely? The first city band rehearsal is June 12, 6pm, in the high school band room, and you just need to show up. If you can’t make that rehearsal, you may still be able to join.

The Ely Drum and Bugle Corps Anyone know what year this was?

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Call NLAA for more information at 3655070. If you want to sing, there’s the Patriotic Choir.

They rehearse Wednesdays at 5:30 at Grace Lutheran church for a performance July 2nd.

Many choir members get back together in September to prepare for the Holiday

Concert in December. For more choir information call Lyle at 365-4308. To join the Klown Band send a message on their Facebook page. Not feeling musical? Then be part of the audience enjoying all the music in the air in Ely this summer.

Ely’s first city band, 1893 - just 5 years after the city was incorporated.

Photo location is near today’s corner of Central Ave. and Chapman St.

A more recent Ely City Band playing in the pavilion at Whiteside Park.

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The Ely Summer Times