Council member Al Forsman served as acting mayor in the absence of mayor Heidi Omerza. Council member Adam Bisbee was also absent.

The council adopted a recommendation from the Ely Utilities Commission to resolve a water metering discrepancy at the joint maintenance facility with St. Louis County.

The metering issue dates back to 2007 when the facility was constructed with a water meter that measured usage in gallons. This was in contrast to the city’s system, which measures flow rate in cubic feet.

Clerk-treasurer Harold Langowski said this led to a large discrepancy, as there are 7.48 gallons to the cubic foot. The county currently invoices Ely for the city’s percentage of water use in the buildings, meaning there is an amount Ely owes to the county.

St. Louis County noticed the problem within the last year and proposes that the city-owned land on which the salt building and sand dome sit be transferred to county ownership to clear up the discrepancy.

“It’s unfortunate, but it is a rather large sum if we were to make that correction,” Langowski said.

Langowski said the usage wouldn’t change, and the City of Ely would continue to use their portions of the land.

“It’s land that’s already encumbered with all these uses, but the county is contemplating their future needs in the next 20 years and maybe putting some other facility or structures on that property,” Langowski said.

The proposal will next go to the projects committee for review. A land sale would require an ordinance.

The new metering system will not impact the city’s budget, as utility rates are adjusted each year to incorporate changes in utility customers and revenue.

The council discussed changes to the storage container ordinance. The planning and zoning commission’s suggested alterations would allow storage containers to stand with a building permit during times of construction, or not to exceed 30 days in temporary use.

Forsman expressed opposition to the idea that a container could only stand for 30 days without a building permit. He would prefer to change the allowed time length to one year through an administrative permit.

Council member Emily Roose said there would still be a process to obtain a city zoning or building permit if the ordinance changes are adopted, allowing storage container use.

“With the building permit, you would be allowed to keep it there as a permanent structure,” Forsman said. “I’m saying we could have a one-year temporary administrative permit to have it.”

A motion to pass the changes failed 2-3, with “no” votes from Forsman, Campbell and Debeltz. The council then voted to table the decision until the next meeting, with only Roose voting against the tabling.

“I think we can still come to a decision tonight, whether that’s calling for a study session or not,” Roose said.

The council voted unanimously to send a letter to Sen. Grant Hauschild to support the City of Slayton’s request to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (MN PUC) to hear Slayton’s testimony regarding the purchase of utility infrastructure from Xcel Energy.

Both Ely and Slayton are members of the Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association (MMUA), Langowski said.

Slayton is a town of approximately 2,000 in Minnesota’s southwestern corner. Slayton officials hope to take ownership of an Xcel Energy facility within their municipal boundaries.

The state PUC proposed that Slayton would be required to pay 11.6 cents per kilowatt hour for lost revenue, rather than the three cents per kilowatt hour that the state’s PUC has required in previous cases.

Langowski said the move is unprecedented, and Slayton could not or was not able to testify at the state PUC hearing regarding the issue.

Langowski said the issue is pertinent to Ely, as the city considered purchasing Lake Country Power territory within municipal boundaries several years back. The city could not take on the lost revenue expense at the time.

“We feel local energy, local municipal power is the best option, the best opportunity for citizens to participate and know what their utility is doing, and to work with the utility and elected officials when rates are considered,” Langowski said.

In other business, the council:

• Denied a variance application for an accessory structure at 202 West Camp Street, citing a finding the structure would “change the essential character of the locality.”

• Approved a contract change order reducing the Miners Lake boat landing project bid by $36,840.

• Voted to post a bidding notice for a dump truck for the Prospectors ATV Club.

• Adopted a resolution to increase the benefit level for firefighters vested in the statewide volunteer firefighter plan.

• Approved the facility use agreement with the Ely Pickleball Club for the Semer’s Park pickleball courts.

That number certainly has special meaning to Greg Northrup, who has been at Fortune Bay since day one and still loves his job.

Yes, there have been challenges over the years, but the 64-year-old, who serves as Fortune Bay’s shipping and receiving manager, has no regrets when talking about a job that has given him much to be thankful for.

“If it wasn’t for Fortune Bay, I don’t know where I’d be,” said Northrup, who moved to Ely in the early 1980s but couldn’t find stable work due to the economy.

“I don’t think I would have ever stayed in the area if I didn’t start working here. It has given me a lot of opportunities that I am thankful for to this day.”

The same can be said for general manager Elizabeth Deegan, who began her Fortune Bay career in 1996 but left for school before returning to the Bay in 2004.

“Fortune Bay has been a huge part of my life. I pretty much grew up here,” said Deegan. “I’ve worked with some people for a very long time, and I’ve watched people come and go, move into different positions, raise their families and grow up right alongside me. I’ve been here for so long; it has become more than just a job.”

Deegan said Fortune Bay’s team members are what really make the company successful and, for the most part, a model that works well in both good times and bad.

“As coworkers, we spend a lot of time together, and just like any family, we don’t always agree on everything, but when something happens, people step up for each other,” said Deegan, who has worked in a variety of positions over the years, including restaurant hostess, director of gaming, and now the general manager. “I’ve seen that so many times over the years. I think that is what makes Fortune Bay special. It’s a family feeling here, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Director of finance Brad Anderson agreed.

“The biggest thing that sticks out to me is the number of great people I’ve gotten the chance to work with over the years,” said Anderson, who started as a cage cashier in 1996 and continued to work as a vault clerk and accounting until he finished his college degree.

“Whenever we’ve been hit with adversity the team has really come together and picked each other up.”

Deegan said that with a company the size of Fortune Bay, there are always many moving parts coming together.

She added that Fortune Bay’s team does its best to ensure guests enjoy their visit, whether it’s to the casino, dining outlets, Northstar Bar, golf course, RV Park, marina, conference center or resort.

“There are so many little things happening every day that make a difference,” said Deegan. “At the end of the day, people can go to a lot of places. We want them to choose Fortune Bay, and I truly believe our employees are the biggest reason they come back.”

Deegan said she would be remiss not to pay tribute to Fortune Bay’s long-time guests, who have made the property their home away from home. She’s proud of the close connections formed and looks forward to further fostering those relationships.

“They’ve supported us through the good times but also stuck with us through the challenging times,” said Deegan. “That continued support means a lot to all of us. Sometimes when you work here every day, I think it’s easy to forget just how many people have chosen to make Fortune Bay part of their lives too.”

Northrup said he has enjoyed a front-row seat to Fortune Bay’s growth since he got his start working in the concession stand near the old bingo hall, before moving on to other jobs within the company and finally settling into the shipping and receiving department in 1996.

However, it was more than just the property’s expansion that resonated with Northrup.

“I have met so many wonderful people working here,” said Northrup, whose daughter eventually followed in his footsteps and joined the Fortune Bay team. “I always remember the hugs Gloria (Love) would give to a team member when they were feeling down or having a bad day. That hug was all it took.”

Fortune Bay has evolved since its inception in 1986 as a high-stakes bingo hall, adding slots and blackjack in 1991, followed by a 114-room resort in 1996.

Those additions were followed by the building of a restaurant, bar, marina, RV park, and the Bois Forte Heritage Museum, which sits less than a half mile from the resort.

This was followed by the decision to create a worldclass golf course known as The Wilderness at Fortune Bay in 2004. The championship course immediately became a big hit, making Fortune Bay a destination for golfers from across the tri-states and beyond. It continues to be recognized as one of the top courses in the state, which is what leaders envisioned when the concept was born.

To meet the growing demand of businesses bringing conferences to the Lake Vermilion area, not to mention accommodating play-andstay packages for golfers, anglers, and snowmobilers, 58 premium rooms were added in 2007.

Most recently, Fortune Bay changed its dining offerings by introducing the Aki Bistro and Mino Grill, both of which are in their infancy and gaining traction with guests looking for a new dining option with a northwoods feel.

The additional amenities not only created a boon for area construction companies and vendors, but they also meant even more job creation for the area. The goal has always been to provide job opportunities for band members while also creating additional funding for the wide array of programming the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa offers.

During the peak season, Fortune Bay’s employment numbers hover around 340. Of that number, roughly 24% are Bois Forte Band members, descendants, or other tribal members.

“We are proud to have such an economic impact on the communities we serve,” said Fortune Bay director of public relations Brian K. Anderson. “We have employees who live, work, and play in towns and cities across the Iron Range and beyond. They pay taxes, support small businesses and help schools by enrolling their children in the area schools.”

Anderson said Fortune Bay strives to make a difference through community support and appreciates the opportunity to work with local chambers and non-profits, while also cultivating strong relationships with vendors locally, regionally and statewide.

He added that Fortune Bay also prides itself on its support for local and regional fundraisers that foster strong relationships with the likes of the Never Surrender ALS snowmobile ride, the Fun Run snowmobile ride, Safelite Walleye Classics, Take a Kid Fishing and the Take a Vet Fishing events as well.

“Hosting these events also shines the spotlight on the Lake Vermilion area and all that it offers,” said Anderson, who also serves as vice president of the LVRA. “We are a strong supporter of the Lake Vermilion Resort Association and are proud to continue that relationship, which allowed us to play host to two very successful Governor Fishing Openers in 2005 and 2015.”

As October unfolds, Deegan and the rest of the Fortune Bay team will certainly be spending time thanking guests for their support over the years. There are plenty of great anniversary events scheduled, but Deegan said the big one will be the ever- popular guest appreciation event, which takes place in the Woodlands Ballroom on Oct. 13.

“We wouldn’t be where we are today without our loyal guests and our surrounding communities,” said Deegan of the event, which will include fun and games, plus a walleye and chicken dinner.

Horned larks and Lapland longspurs appeared in migration along with large numbers of American robins and common grackles. They will move on but must feed to sustain their October travels south. A high school student enrolled in an Environmental Science class discovered a bird on the water while bicycling the trail between Ely and Eagles Nest. He brought a sketch of the bird to class and had identified it as a pied-billed grebe that may be on a stopover on the way to a wintering location.

This month invites walking or biking to any natural area in or out of town. A destination like Semers Park in early morning this week was perfect to explore one public Ely place with history, lake, shoreline and islands.

Morning sun lights the water, seaplane base, park buildings built in the 1940s, an angler working the bays, and islands bridged to the mainland. Gulls work the area in search of food, and a building displayed some graffiti and surrounding colorful woodbine and its fruit.

Thinking ahead to Sunday, Oct. 11 and the Big Sit

A plan exists for another day at Shagawa Lake.

This will be the annual bird count that will take place at the public boat access on the south shore of the lake. It will run all day, with the Ely Field Naturalists setting up at the landing from sunrise to sunset.

The weather forecast looks promising for International Migratory Bird Day to engage anyone who wants to drop in for a short or long participation in this very social activity at this time in autumn.

Bring whatever you need to be comfortable sitting, standing, exploring, and tallying all the birds see from this shoreline, surrounded by Sandy Point to the east and open lake, islands, and shorelines to the west and north. There is usually a lot going on at this boat landing in October, on the lake and in and around the parking lot area.

Spotting scopes and binoculars will be provided. Bird feeders and field guides will be displayed and used for attracting and identifying birds and any plants or animals seen during the day. Feel free to bring snacks or beverages and come and go as desired. All ages are welcome.

You can call 218-235-8078 for more information.

Funds will support upgrades to Ely’s emergency services facilities. The city aims to construct a new fire apparatus building and an ambulance garage for the Ely Area Ambulance Joint Powers Board.

The project’s description states that these facilities will “improve the safety, efficiency and functionality of fire and ambulance operations and help ensure reliable emergency response for residents, businesses and visitors.”

The project description stated the new facilities will accomplish these goals by addressing critical space needs and strengthening infrastructure for local emergency services. Ely clerk-treasurer Harold Langowski said project plans have been in the works for over a decade, particularly for the ambulance upgrades.

Langowski hopes to begin construction this fall, with work continuing throughout summer 2027 and wrapping up in approximately one year.

Fire trucks and equipment that cannot currently fit into the Ely’s century-old city hall will find a home in the new fire building, which will be approximately 360 square feet and find a home adjacent to the existing impound lot at 50 West White Street.

The impound lot will be removed during construction.

The new ambulance garage will supplement renovations within the existing facility, also included in the project, and will be placed near the current garage on Central Avenue.

The project could also open up the public works garage site at 50 West White Street for a potential housing development when fire equipment is relocated to the new fire facility, allowing the garage to be removed.

“That facility doesn’t have long for this life,” Langowski said. “Systems are shot, the roof is shot, and the building needs to be removed. In the meantime, we’ve been using it for storage.”

Langowski called the public works garage site “prime property” for a future housing development, particularly for market rate, single-family or condo housing.

“It’s a very large tract of land once you remove the garage that’s sitting right in the middle of it,” Langowski said.

Facility construction will also be supported by a $1.3 million worth of USDA Rural Development funds and $733,000 from the City of Ely, according to an overview provided in the IRRRB meeting agenda packet.

Board members met in Eveleth to review over $14.7 million in projects. Approved funding will go into effect for fiscal year 2027.

Ely’s $650,000 is the second largest award among a pool of $2.7 million allotted to public works projects across the Taconite Assistance Area, behind Hibbing’s $1.5 million allotment for Central Range Public Works Facility upgrades.

The city applied for $698,900 from the IRRRB, Langowski said, which will leave the city approximately $83,400 short in ambulance funding.

The city will schedule a Joint Powers Ambulance Board meeting to determine whether or not to seek additional funding or slightly reduce the project’s scope.

“We’re very happy to see that $650,000 come in, even though it’s a little shorter than what we asked for,” Langowski said. “It’s excellent news.”

CO Brent Ihnen (Ely #2) spent his time this week focusing on big and small game hunting activity. Officer Ihnen also patrolled for fishermen and watercraft operators. Additional time was spent checking ATV and OHM riders.

CO Thomas Wahlstrom (Grand Marais) spent the week checking small game hunters. ATV traffic was monitored and followed up with hunting complaints. The officer also focused on lake trout anglers before the season closed.

CO Hudson Ledeen (Hovland) spent the week patrolling forest roads and trails for hunting activity. Most grouse hunters continue to express their frustrations over their hunting success. It’s worth noting that hunters with low success are staying on the roads and not getting out walking trails or hitting forest clearings for birds. Hunters are reminded that trespassing will be enforced and it’s the hunters responsibility to know where they are and where they are shooting. CO Anthony Bermel (Babbitt) worked a variety of hunting enforcement this week. Enforcement action was taken for no PFDs while duck hunting and for a shotgun capable of holding more than three shells. Deer baiting complaints are coming in. Limited success was observed for hunters this week.

COMeganFranzen(Silver Bay) spent the week primarily monitoring ATV and small game hunting activity. Temperatures dropped slightly throughout the week with occasional rain, but conditions brought decent grouse hunting over the weekend. Fall colors brought significant tourism up the shore, and the local trails received heavy traffic over the weekend CO Trent Anderson (Tofte) worked grouse hunting, ATV, and angling activity for the week. Equipment maintenance was conducted during the seasonal shift. Grouse hunting remains slow for the majority of hunters checked.

District 5 - Eveleth area CO Paul Kennedy (International Falls #1) monitored small game and ATV activity this week. He returned several calls about various license and hunting related questions. Kennedy spent time following up on a few cases reported in the area. Problem beaver permits were issued as well. CO John Slatinski IV (Ray) Angling and small game hunting are the popular activities as the season progresses. Anglers are reporting success as the fish return to favorite cooler water haunts. Severalgroupsarecombining activities and spending the morning hunting and the evening in the boat. CO Slatinski monitored the close of the sturgeon harvest season with less than expected people fishing the Rainy River. Waterfowl hunters are reporting some ducks and geese but expect the traditional lull to creep in. Commercial inspections were conducted.

CO Troy Fondie (Orr) reports monitoring area forest roads. Grouse hunting remains poor with few birds and many comments about the lack of birds. ATV activity was checked. Fall fishing continues with mixed reports. Duck hunting remains scarce with few hunters and fewer birds.

CO Sean Cannon (Cook) reports activity continues to increase as we get farther into fall. Many people were contacted out checking out fall colors, ATV riding and grouse hunting. Grouse numbers are down, with not many birds being seen. Time was also spent checking waterfowl hunters and anglers. COAaronLarson(Tower) worked primarily angling and hunting enforcement. He spent time checking grouse hunter who were finding better success now that leaves and underbrush are starting to clear out. He also spent time investigating a waterfowl hunting violation.

Led by Gabby Anderson, who set a pool record in the 500 freestyle and was part of three first-place relays, the host Hunters beat the Nighthawks 104-71 in dual meet action at Duluth’s Lincoln Park School.

The teams split victories in the meet’s first six events, but the Hunters swept the rest to score the convincing win.

NRE’s Lucy Luthens won the 100 freestyle while teammate Evelyn Moran won the 50 freestyle and Lindsay Israel was first in the 100 butterfly.

Israel combined with Ivy Ohlhauser to give NRE a one-two finish.

The event was largely dominated by the Hunters from there, with Anderson cruising in the 500 - winning in 5:28.18 to set the new pool standard.

NRE scored as follows:

• 200 medley relay - 3. Raegan Borchert, Luthens, Israel, Moran, 2:21.53;

•200 freestyle - 2. Jorden Borchert, 2:29.97; 4. Cora Brekke, 2:58.69;

• 200 individual medley 2. Johnson, 3:07.41; 5. Ruby Ice, 3:15.78;

• 50 freestyle - 1. Moran, 29.37; 4. Moon Vetos-Keen, 35.63;

• 100 butterfly - 1. Israel, 1:16.4; 2. Ohlhauser, 1:31.37;

• 100 freestyle - 1. Luthens, 1:03.52; 3. Moran, 1:06.26; 5. J. Borchert, 1:08.67;

• 500 freestyle - 4. Freking, 7:21.50; 5. Brekke, 8:02.22;

• 200 freestyle relay - 2. Israel, Moran, J. Borchert, R. Borchert, 2:02.45; 3. Ice, Olivia Johnson, Freking, Ohlhauser, 2:13.88;

• 100 backstroke - 2. R. Borchert, 1:27.94; 3. Vetos- Keen, 1:28.09;

•100 breaststroke - 2. Luthens, 1:25.14; 3. M. Johnson, 1:28.67; 5. Macy Coombe, 1:50.14;

• 400 freestyle relay - 2. J. Borchert, Israel, R. Borchert, Luthens, 4:40.51; 3. Ohlhauser, Freking, Ice, O. Johnson, 5:05.47.

The Nighthawks also competed at last Saturday’s Lumberjack Log Jam in Cloquet, finishing fifth among five teams but showing considerable progress as well.

“We had a great meet,” said NRE head coach Cheri DeBeltz. “For the middle of the season the amount of the lifetime best or season best swims is really uncommon.”

Luthens came home with a team-best third-place finish in the 100 freestyle, with a time of 1:02.86.

Other top-10 finishes for NRE included:

• 200 medley relay - 5. R. Borchert, Luthens, Israel, Moran, 2:18.19; 6. Vetos- Keen, M. Johnson, Ohlhauser, Freking, 2:26.94;

• 200 freestyle - 7. J. Borchert, 2:25.91;

• 50 freestyle - 10. Ice, 32.62;

• 100 butterfly - 5. Israel, 1:19.59;

• 100 freestyle - 9. Moran, 1:05.83;

• 500 freestyle - 7. Ohlhasuer, 6:54.48;

• 200 freestyle relay - 4. Moran, J. Borchert, Israel, R. Borchert, 1:57.95; 7. Ohlhauser, Freking, M. Johnson, O. Johnson, 2:10.02;

• 100 backstroke - 9. Vetos- Keen, 1:28.63; 10. R. Borchert, 1:29.31;

• 100 breaststroke - 4. Luthens, 1:24.38; 7. M. Johnson, 1:28.56;

• 400 freestyle relay - 5. R. Borchert, J. Borchert, Moran, Luthens, 4:32.13.

Thirty teams from around the state met at the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area with over 1,000 sixth through 12th grade mountain bike racers.

The Ely riders felt right at home on one of the more technical courses of the season while they navigated single track trails appropriately named Bobsled and Haul Road.

The junior high boys were met with rain on Saturday, making the conditions a little more challenging.

Riders tested the limits of their tires in the mud while the taconite slurry flinging off wheels limited visibility.

Borealis results: Seventh grade D2 - 3.75 miles - James Townsend 2nd 19:03, Sawyer Kannas 24th 20:48, Porter Franciskovich 47th 24:24, and Gordon Smith 48th 24:2.4 Eighth grade D2 Boys 3.75 miles - Mason Lee 74th 25:00.

The rain cleared on Sunday for some exciting high school races.

Freshman girls - 7.5 miles - Beck Sponholz 9th 37:28 Freshman boys D2 - 7.5 miles - Max Ice 76th 45:59 JV2 girls - 7.5 miles - Addison Kannas 2nd 37:29, Siiri Nelson 19th 42:31 JV2 boys D2 - 7.5 miles Gabe Hinkhouse 54th 41:01 Varsity boys - 15 miles - George Sponholz 37th 1:07:56 Borealis qualifiers will race at the Oct. 10-11 Minnesota Cycling Association State Championships at Redhead Mountain Bike Park in Chisholm.

“Racing at Redhead is always fun because it’s a great venue and a short drive for us compared to all the other courses we race throughout the year,” said Coach Mark Sponholz.

“It’s especially exciting this year because it’s the state championship, so we’ll see over 80 teams from throughout the state coming to compete. The Cuyuna and Redhead courses suit our riders well. They’re rocky courses with some technical sections, similar to conditions we ride everyday at Hidden Valley.”

The coach said state feels extra special this year.

“Mountain biking is unique as a high school sport in Minnesota because athletes have to qualify into the top levels through their performance over several years. Only about 100 boys in the entire state have qualified into the top varsity level so we’re excited to have our first rider ever (George Sponholz) racing at that level.”

The state championship race venue and spectator parking are at the St. Louis County Fairgrounds in Chisholm.

Saturday, Oct 10: 10:30 a.m. Seventh grade D2 Boys: James Townsend, Sawyer Kannas, Porter Franciskovich 1 p.m. 9th grade girls: B e ck Sp o n h ol z, Ava Wohnsen Sunday, Oct 11: 8:30 a.m. JV2 girls: Addison Kannas, Siiri Nelson 3 p.m. Varsity boys: George Sponholz

The Timberwolves not only competed, but thrived at Saturday’s Swain Invitational in Duluth.

With two of the top-11 individual finishers, the Ely boys were second in a 22-team field in the Skyline Invitational at the event held at Enger Park Golf Course.

The Ely girls were 10th in their division on a day in which both teams were matched up with some of the best in Minnesota - at one of the largest regular season events in the state.

Ely junior Blake Houde was fifth overall in 17:11.2, while teammate Wyatt Devine was six spots back in 11th in 17:30.9. That was in a field of 166 runners.

The Wolves secured their second-place showing with depth, as senior Oliver Hohenstein took 29th in 18:29.6, and Grady Anderson followed (18:33.9).

Mason Kurnava was 40th (18:47.9) with Oren Solum in 43rd (18:52.1) and Aksel Skustad 55th (19:09.7).

“It was the best times for Mason, Grady and Oren this year and much better times for all who ran this race last year,” said Ely Head Coach Jayne Dusich. “This year also it was cooler and cloudy while lasts year was hot and sunny.”

Ely finished second behind Proctor but ahead of the rest of the field in the Skyline division.

Among the girls, the Wolves secured a 10th-place finish while senior Molly Brophy took 23rd out of 151 runners. Her time was 21:22.5.

“Molly had a side ache the whole time that slowed her down but her time was not bad,” said Dusich.

Next up for the Wolves was Mattie Lindsay (21:44.2) in 32nd, with Ely eighth grader Katy Brophy taking 58th (22:43.9), followed by Isabella Macho (85th, 23:40.3) and Payson Kundinger (87th, 23:52.60 Rounding out the Ely girls varsity lineup were Lillie O’Neill (115th, 25:09.9) and Moxie Lindsay (122nd, 25:37.7).

“While Katie and Lillie had their best times of the year and better than last year, the rest also ran better than last year,” said Dusich.

In junior varsity action, Ely’s Grant Chittum took home a medal by placing 10th in the boys race in 19:14.2.

The Wolves’ Liam Kurnava (19:49.5) was 28th.

E m o r y Ho h e n st ei n and Trynn Weisinger also notched season-best times in the boys JV race.

The Wolves hosted more than 200 runners from around the area Thursday, at their lone home meet of the season.

Next up is the Iron Range Conference championships on Tuesday, at Hoyt Lakes, with Section 7A competition slated for the end of the month.

In the span of six days, Ely scored three consecutive sweeps and ran its record to an impressive 15-4 for the fall.

The Wolves used their potent array of weapons to sweep South Ridge 25-14, 25-18, 25-10 during their “Dig Pink” cancer awareness night at the Memorial Gymnasium.

Ely also swept Northeast Range and Nashwauk-Keewatin on the road, solidifying its spot among the area’s top teams as the regular season moves into the final two weeks.

The Wolves travel to Aurora today to take part in the Mesabi East Touranment, and home contests on Oct. 13 (Mt. Iron-Buhl) and Oct. 20 (Rock Ridge) are set in advance of the Section 7A playoffs, which begin at home sites Oct. 26.

It’s almost certain that the Wolves will be seeded either first or second in the north half of 7A, with rival Chisholm to take the other spot.

C h ishol m b eat t he Wolves in a five-set thriller in mid-September and the teams could be on a collision course for a high-stakes postseason rematch.

The Wolves continue to gather momentum as the playoffs approach.

Senior setter Gretta Lowe distributed the ball against South Ridge, and Ely used a variety of hitters to dispose of the Panthers.

Lowe finished with a match-high 32 set assists, and five Ely hitters had at least four kills.

Senior Lydia Shultz led with nine and Audrey Kallberg followed with four as the Wolves dominated and were never threatened.

South Ridge stayed within single digits in the middle set, but the outcome never seemed to be in doubt as Ely rolled.

Charlotte Hegman contributed seven kills to the Ely attack while Violet Udovich was next with five and Amelia Penke finished with four.

Lowe had six digs and Shultz finished with five, and Ely was effective at the serving line with 11 aces over the course of the matchup.

Shultz and Kallberg delivered three each.

• The Wolves had a slight hiccup in the second set of Monday night’s game at Northeast Range, but otherwise the contest wasn’t much of one.

Ely swept 25-14, 25-17, 25-5, but the pesky Nighthawks got out to a 9-2 lead in the second set.

Things changed after an Ely time out and the Wolves outscored the Nighthawks 23-8 for the remainder of the set and by a whopping 48-13 for the rest of the evening.

Kallberg reached double digits with 11 kills, with Udovich (seven), Penke (seven), Shultz (five), Hegman (three) and Kylee Zobitz (two) next in line.

Lowe had a big night, finishing with 32 set assists and nine digs.

• Kallberg dominated at the net in an Oct. 1 game at Nashwauk.

The Wolves downed the Nashwauk-Keewatin Spartans 25-11, 25-13, 25-13, with Kallberg hammering home 15 kills and Udovich adding another 10.

Hegman notched eight kills, Shultz contributed another seven and Penke wound up with five.

Lowe added to her assist total with 38 for the evening.

Since their inception, the Business Energy Retrofit (BER) and Downtown Building Rehabilitation (DBR) programs have awarded more than 1,000 grants across the Taconite Assistance Area, representing approximately $18.75 million in IRRR program funding. The totals include the latest round of awards in August 2026.

IRRR created and funds both programs with revenue from taxes paid by Minnesota’s mining industry, and AEOA administers the grants. BER grants help businesses make energy-efficient improvements, while DBR grants help business owners finance code-compliant construction and remodeling projects.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our region. Their owners represent the very best of northeastern Minnesota through their hard work, ingenuity and commitment to their communities,” said IRRR Commissioner Ida Rukavina. “Our partnership with AEOA turns mining tax revenue into practical support that helps these businesses improve their buildings and invest in their future. This milestone shows what we can accomplish together. When our small businesses thrive, our entire region moves forward.”

“Reaching more than 1,000 grants reflects the strength of this partnership and the commitment of business owners throughout the region,” said AEOA Executive Director Mark Page. “AEOA has the opportunity to work directly with businesses as they identify improvements, navigate the grant process and move projects forward. With funding from IRRR, these programs give business owners practical tools to reinvest in their properties, reduce costs and strengthen their communities.”

The event highlighted the Maco Theater, W.A. Fisher and Virginia Plastics as examples of how that support helps local business owners improve their properties and invest in their operations.

During the celebration, IRRR and AEOA representatives presented a framed certificate to Hannah Gowan and Allison Martinson, the mother-daughter team that owns the Maco Theater. Their BER project was selected to commemorate the combined program milestone.

Built in the 1920s, the historic Art Deco theater in downtown Virginia was recently renovated into a community gathering and event space. A BER grant is supporting the theater’s conversion from the city’s steam heating system, including the installation of two new natural gas furnaces and thermostats and the addition of cooling to the theater’s main assembly area and entrance. “When you take on a building like the Maco Theater, there are always improvements you want to make and projects you need to tackle,” said Martinson. “This grant is helping make our steam conversion possible. Having this kind of support makes a real difference for local owners who are investing in older buildings and in downtown Virginia.”

W.A. Fisher received a BER grant to support a steam conversion to natural gas, interior lighting upgrades, new air conditioning and heating elements and the purchase of a commercial paper cutter. Jeff Leese, president and owner of W.A. Fisher, said the grant helped reduce business overhead, allowing him to direct more resources toward his workforce and business growth.

Virginia Plastics, owned by Jim Zerban, is a polyethylene film manufacturer that has operated in the region for more than 40 years. The company operates around the clock and supplies plastic film products to the mining, steel, chemical, automotive, industrial, medical and consumer industries. Two BER grants supported the purchase of new plastic extrusion equipment, doubling production rates, cutting electricity consumption in half and eliminating the use of cooling water. A BER grant also supported the purchase of a new gas-powered forklift, providing reliable, modern equipment to receive raw materials and ship finished products. These investments have helped restore profitability, while revenue growth has contributed to a 100% increase in jobs over the past seven years.

Speakers included IRRR Commissioner Ida Rukavina; AEOA Executive Director Mark Page; Sen. Rob Farnsworth; Sen. Grant Hauschild; Rep. Cal Warwas; Virginia Mayor Larry Cuffe Jr.; Maco Theater owners Allison Martinson and Hannah Gowan; Jeff Leese, president and owner of W.A. Fisher; and Jim Zerban, president and owner of Virginia Plastics.

Those who have family histories on the Vermilion Range carry stories and knowledge that add and connect and can feed more into this taste of the area’s richness. And those who have physically or virtually visited this region over the years may want to explore and share the depths of human history and how that presence has engaged and evolved with this landscape.

With 50 years of history living in Ely, including years guiding in Soudan at the mine and 33 years teaching at Vermilion Community College, I’ve learned to be a sponge, always wanting to know more. Ely-Winton Historical Society, with Reed Petersen as the author, created and published this book. Along with other local historical groups across the Arrowhead and St. Louis County Historical Society, local history is valued, collected, and shared with anyone who wants to learn more.

Indigenous cultures lived on the land before Minnesota became a state and this country established its boundaries. This region was known for its resources and attracted fur traders who harvested and sold them. Other resources were sought, and settlements developed like a wave as the United States explored and built on its claims to land and resources.

Mining ore, logging timber, hunting, and fishing led to land claims, homesteads, and towns and cities established within state and county jurisdictions. On the Vermilion Range, the Soudan Iron Mine led to the development of Tower, first with the arrival of railroads and then roads, with automobiles coming later.

Railroads proceeded east to Ely iron mines and then on to Winton for timber harvesting, sawmills, further mining development, businesses, and communities. Indigenous, immigrants and growing populations served and attracted into cultures drawn from people of various backgrounds and their connections to these northern forests, lakes, wetlands and small towns.

The Ely-Winton Historical Society has scheduled its annual meeting Oct. 22 at Grand Ely Lodge on Shagawa Lake across from the headframe and buildings on the site of the former Pioneer Mine in Ely. Hopefully, historical society members and people from across the Vermilion Range and beyond will attend to hear Reed’s presentation of his experience researching and writing this book about a town he grew up in.

Register to ensure that you are accommodated. Bring your interest in supporting the Ely-Winton Historical Society and other efforts to preserve, contribute, learn, and understand this area’s rich history.

Like a forest of trees or a watershed of rivers and lakes, human history here has grown out like roots and roads to and from places: Soudan, Tower, Ely, Winton, Bois Forte, International Falls, Isabella, Section 30, Babbitt, Forest Center, Eagles Nest Lakes, Embarrass, Lake Vermilion, White Iron Chain, Morris Township, Fall Lake Township and more.

This book and others are like the seeds that, story after story, connect people, places, events, and landmarks that can be learned from to not repeat or recreate the past but build a better future.

Let’s celebrate our location at the heart and center of the continent, with watersheds leading out in all directions from here. From a rural population of inhabitants fed by well-recognized values and strong, supportive cultures, people of varied backgrounds can band together as a model of environmental resiliency.

Goetzman said the project is substantially completed, with the paving of the turn lane off Kawishiwi Trail still needing to be done.

Christoph Ender asked about the temporary placement of barrels blocking the old entrance to Sunset Road. He wanted to know if there would be something to replace the barrels.

Goetzman said there are no plans for a guardrail, but maybe a berm and as vegetation grows it will deter driving off the road.

Ed Seliskar asked about signage for Sunset Road. Signs have been ordered.

Goetzman said there were additional costs added to the project due to changes in construction. The additional engineering costs are the township’s responsibility, not part of the LRIP funding. Goetzman has started looking at roads for an LRIP application for the 2026 funding cycle. He said the first mile of the Garden Lake Road may be a suitable candidate. Applications are due the end of November.

Clerk Cheri DeBeltz said the IRRRB road improvement funding looks like the completion date has to be done by December 2027. As to the community center update, they are waiting for more information.

DeBeltz is leaving her position as township clerk. She will place an ad in the Ely Echo for the township clerk position, listing the qualifications required.

Cindy Smyka, Fall Lake’s representative on the Ely Area Lodging Tax Board, said the lodging social in September at Veterans on the Lake had seven Fall Lake property owners and six others at the gathering.

She said there were a number of conditions identified as priorities in finding a direction to move forward. The major concern was the accusation of misuse of lodging tax. Smyka contacted 22 Fall Lake business owners who have concerns about how the lodging tax is used. Three conditions were listed that will be addressed in another article.

Commissioner Joe Baltich said there is difficulty in finding Fall Lake information about VRBO rentals. Smyka said it was important to get Granicus to track the rentals in Fall Lake Township. She said she is considering another social gathering at Veterans on the Lake.

Baltich said he was working with the Forest Service on the towboat issue, and he was happy to report that Fall Lake Township has a permanent Lake County staff for snowplowing.

In supervisor reports, Hudson Kingston said he would like to attend a training program offered through RAMS by Northspan on funding and a session on using AI. He will see about attending the November session if it isn’t filled. There is another session scheduled for May.

Supervisor Roger Murawski said he still needs to contact an electrician to change the outside spotlight.

Supervisor Craig Seliskar said the transfer site was doing well, and the brush pile had been pushed up.

Seliskar said St. Louis County didn’t have salt/sand to sell to the township. The time frame was missed to get salt/sand from the City of Ely, whom Lake County goes through.

Seliskar talked to Lake County Highway Engineer Jason DiPiazza, and the township can get salt from them. The township would have to purchase sand and mix it with the salt to make 80 yards of salt/sand.

Seliskar said the Cloquet Line lift is in progress, and the USDA is addressing the beaver issue on the Cloquet Line.

There was discussion about sending another letter to Lake County regarding the Locust Lake and Ernie Road alignment due to Silver Rapids using the road during their construction. It would make the road safer.

Grading of township roads is in progress to improve the roads for the winter.

In correspondence:

• A letter was received from Northwoods Partners celebrating the 25th year of making Caring Connections in the Fall Lake community, and thanked the township for their support. The board approved giving them $500.

• Received info on the Ely-Winton Historical Society Annual meeting Oct. 22, 5 p.m. at Grand Ely Lodge.

• Received info on the 2026 Breakfast for Heroes from Lake County set for Monday, Oct. 26 at Superior Shores Resort. The board approved $250 to sponsor the event.

• A thank you for support was received from the Ely Little League Board.

• RAMS Annual Dinner will be on Dec. 3 at the Iron Trail Motors Event Center.

• Also from RAMS was a notice of nominations for RAMS Board of Directors with a form of nominees.

• The Minnesota Association of Townships will have its annual conference: The Changing Landscape of Township Government, Dec. 10-12 at Grand View Lodge in Nisswa.

• A request for support for a special use permit for the Triangle Trail Association was received. The board will refer them to Lake County.

• A request for the abandonment of a road from Elena Bohman will be informed a petition is required.

• The next Morse/Fall Lake Fire meeting will be held at the Fall Lake Town Hall on Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 6 p.m.

• The general election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3 with polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• The next regular township meeting will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 6 p.m.

The afternoons that have been trying to climb and reach up to 70 -- following the examples of those ever- reaching cucumber vines have been very enjoyable. The 4:30-5 o’clock time slot seems to be the magic moment when autumn really makes itself known. It is then when the need for a flannel or a fleece sweatshirt becomes real. Like many of you, I feel that I’m behind schedule this year, what with the wildfires and all the general summer and life chaos. I’ve got autumn chores to do. Fixing, replacing, painting, and we’re still mowing.

I walked to the hardware store and got a universal mower blade. Then watched a YouTube video and took to the garage to find the right tools and a piece of firewood to hold the old blade in place while I loosened the bolt holding it in place.

Too many instances of running over solid rubber near indestructible dog balls (in my defense, the kind he loves are green) in the backyard finally bent my old blade until all it would accomplish was a brown circle of torn up dirt. This replacement was the beginning of my homeowner checkboxes successfully checked.

I dug out my chop saw, bought two by fours and two by sixes and two by twos and a new storm door. I’ve removed the old one and we cut and painted new replacement steps for the front and replaced the brickmold on the back to attach the new storm door to.

I taught Jen how to measure twice and then probably again before you cut, how to square things up and how to choose and use the correct type of JB Weld to shore up decaying wood. Dad would be proud.

She’s been busy painting all of the new parts and pieces and prepping and painting some of the support structure underneath that needs help too. Time is the thing we lack, not ambition or desire or skill. There’s the choice that needs to be made. Enjoy the time and relax or fix the stuff and enjoy the sense of accomplishment and then relax. So far, there’s still enough time to do what needs to be done. Relax!

I don’t expect any of this to be all that insightful. I have plenty of other much more interesting things I could be spending my time with. And I do spend time with them. I wonder, though, as the seasons change so dramatically between summer and winter we don’t lose ourselves in the business of autumn.

Whether literally or figuratively we are all hunting for something. We’ve worked harder than usual as we always do here in Ely through the summer months and now we turn again toward our preferred quarry.

As part of those quests, I personally find in the back of my mind and sometimes the forefront, what I’m ultimately seeking to capture. Or who, I guess.

More often than not, I find God has been seeking after me, versus the other way around. I learn this as prayers are answered. I learn this as afternoons reach new highs, I learn this as a cat or dog sits on my lap and we enjoy the bees that are still enjoying the sunflower heads and the pinks, yellows, oranges, whites and purples in the flower beds. I learn this after the smell of tomato vines and Thai Basil lingers on my fingertips. I learn this after months of waiting for calls from people who want to sell antiques when the phone finally does ring and I get to look through interesting old items and I find something really cool.

I learn this when everyone in the family is home again (this coming weekend) and time and temperature and seasons and chores and responsibilities and dreams slip like sand through my fingers. Reality and real time meld into one and for a moment everything, including change, makes a little more sense. Then, He’s got my attention. The hunt goes on.

Ely Works went live this spring. By the time it was ready, most of Ely’s summer hiring was done, and the wildfires slowed what was left. Outfitters had their crews. Resorts had their cleaners. We built the door after everyone had already walked through.

Most businesses make the same mistake from the other side. They figure out how to hire on the day they need someone. A guide quits in July. A cook walks out the week before a holiday weekend. Now you’re writing a help-wanted post at 10 p.m., taping a sign to the door, and asking around on Facebook, hoping the right person scrolls past.

That’s the scramble. It usually ends with hiring whoever’s available instead of whoever’s right.

Ely Works was built to end the scramble, and it does more than post a listing. Every application lands in one dashboard with the cover letter and resume attached. You move each person along as you go: under review, interview scheduled, offer extended, hired, or not selected. No more digging through emails and texts to remember who you called back.

Job seekers get the same help on their end. They build one free profile with their resume and the kind of work they want, from seasonal to full-time. They can bookmark jobs, apply in a few clicks, and turn on alerts for new matches and interview invitations. When an employer updates the status of their application, they get notified. Nobody is left wondering where they stand.

Winter hiring is starting now: holiday help in the shops, staff for snowmobile season, front desks at the lodges that stay open. Ely Works has six jobs posted, from a school to an outfitter, and 23 local employers have accounts.

Setting up costs nothing. A company account is free, it lists you in the site’s directory of local employers, and approval usually comes back the same day. You only pay while you’re hiring, and you can pause your account between seasons.

This week: go to elyworks.com, click “Companies” at the top, then “Create Company Account.” Fill in your profile with a short description of your business and a link to your website or Facebook page.

Then pick the one job you’re most likely to need to fill in the next six months. Write it up in Ely Works (the work, the hours, the pay) and save it as a draft.

When that job opens up, choose a plan and publish it. You’re hiring in ten minutes instead of a week.

If you’d rather not touch a computer, the Echo sells a package that sets it all up for you and pairs your listing with an ad in this paper.

Full disclosure: Ely Works is a joint venture between my business and The Ely Echo.

Richard Stuart builds websites and revenue systems for owner-operated businesses from his home in Ely. Have a question you’d like answered in a future column? Send it to ibuild@richardstuart. me. If something’s quietly costing you customers, let’s talk: richardstuart. me.

On Nov. 3, or sooner if you vote early, Minnesota voters can weigh in on the permanent school trust fund amendment on the statewide ballot.

Simply put, voters have the option to approve an amendment that would bring an additional $33 per student to every school district in Minnesota - without raising taxes a dime.

One can get lost in the weeds on the logistics, but the long and short of it is the amendment would allow Minnesota schools to tap into a slightly larger share of the interest on the vast Minnesota school trust fund.

Established in 1858, the Permanent School Fund has grown significantly over the long term, increasing from $675 million in 2010 to $2.3 billion in fiscal year 2025.

The amendment would raise that payout rate to 4.5% of the fund’s three-year rolling average value, up from the 2.5% currently distributed to districts. Organizers say that if the amendment had been in place last year, schools would have received $101 per student — a $33 increase in funding for each pupil.

These are monies set aside for schools and can only be used for schools and as it is named, the fund provides a permanent source of income for schools - be they in Ely or Elysian, Warroad or Worthington, Bloomington or Babbitt.

If approved, the net impact for the Ely School District would be an additional $16,910.19 per year, with Ely’s allocation going from $34,932.82 annually to $51,843.01.

While just a pittance in an annual budget that exceeds $8 million, it’s additional money nonetheless and in current financial times, any additional money is welcome.

Other regional schools with larger enrollments will reap even more benefit if the amendment passes.

You can go to St. Paul and find legislators arguing and disagreeing about anything.

Yet increasing the school fund payout earned bipartisan support, including unanimous approval from the typically divided State House.

If you can get Democrats and Republicans to agree on something, that’s a pretty solid start right there.

Approval won’t solve the Ely schools’ budget woes, and local voters can also pump even more dollars into the district by approving a levy referendum tied to the passage of legislation on seasonal recreational properties. That too will raise more money without impacting local taxes.

We’ll make the case for that another day, but voters have an easy choice to make when it comes to the constitutional amendment.

A yes vote is a no-brainer and an easy choice when sorting through the usual political nonsense and rhetoric.

“It’s been years in the making,” Beatty said. “I’m feeling all the emotions. I’m super excited, a little nervous, just everything.”

Beatty grew up on a farm in Lakeville but relocated to Alaska to commit to dog mushing. She currently resides in Talkeetna.

“It reminds me so much of Ely,” Beatty said. “I think that’s why I love it so much. Everyone is super friendly, super happy. All the mushers, we’re all here because we love dogs and we want to run (them).”

She first began to learn the ropes with her dogs on the Gunflint Trail and at her family’s cabin north of Ely on Moose Lake.

Beatty said some of her favorite memories growing up involved running dogs out of Ely, which “really got me hooked,” she said. Her family still has dogs at Jake Hway’s Chilly Dog Tours.

“I’ve always had a strong connection to animals, and sled dogs specifically,” Beatty said. “As a gymnast and college athlete, seeing that teamwork and a driven animal was impressive to me.”

Several Ely-area mushers fostered many of Beatty’s early experiences in the sport, including ice fishing excursions with the dogs. Beatty additionally recalls winter camping trips into the Boundary Waters via dog sled.

“The Ely mushing community has been super supportive,” Beatty said. “I know I can pick up the phone and call them and ask them a question.”

“If it wasn’t for Ely, I don’t know if I would even be here,” Beatty said of her dog mushing career.

The Iditarod’s 2027 roster currently features 24 mushers, with registration slated to close on Nov. 30. Mushers will take off from Willow, Alaska, into the wilderness the first weekend in March. The first team to reach Nome takes the top prize.

“It’s kind of like the Olympics for dog mushing,” Beatty said. “You’re going over and through a lot of Alaska’s most difficult terrain.”

Mushers and their 16 dogs complete the race entirely without outside assistance, which does not include help from race volunteers, other mushers or race officials like veterinarians.

Mushers must qualify for the Iditarod by finishing two races of at least 300 miles and one race of at least 150 miles in advance.

“It’s a lot like climbing a big mountain. You have to really prepare for it and get the dogs ready,” Beatty said.

Beatty’s dog team is about a month into training for the race, she said, now that temperatures are dropping. Dogs train with four-wheelers in autumn before the snow falls. As weather gets colder, the team adds distance.

“These (dogs) are true athletes. They impress me every day,” Beatty said. “They love to run. They love to work together.”

Most of her 19 dogs grew up in Minnesota and have run Ely’s trails.

“If I can help these dogs do what they love as easily as possible, that’s the greatest gift,” Beatty said.

Beatty would like to extend a shoutout to several local businesses who will be supporting her 2027 Iditarod run, including Wintergreen, Paddle Inn, Arrowhead Outdoors, Chilly Dogs, the Grand Ely Lodge, Three Jewels Pottery and Ely Mercantile Co.

The Ely Weavers and Fiber Artists Group meets on Monday, Oct. 12, at the Grand Ely Lodge at 11:30 a.m. Krista Woerheide from the Wolf Center will discuss the wolf undercoat project that allows folks to spin this fiber for benefit of the Center. All are welcome to join.

At the Ely Public Library on Monday, Oct. 12 at 3 p.m. the program will be Friends of the Library Bookclub – for adults. Title for discussion this month is The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams.

The Ely Chapter of the League of Minnesota Poets, ‘ Northern Pines Poets,’ will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, Oct. 12, at 3 p.m., at Carbonation Ely, 229 E. Sheridan Street. Members of the chapter are invited to attend, as well as other poets, and any individuals interested in listening to poetry or reading their favorite poets’ work.

The Ely Palestine Solidarity Group will meet on Tuesday, Oct. 13 at 6 p.m. the Hub with a presentation from organizers with Boycott is Free Speech campaign that aims to repeal Minnesota’s anti-boycott laws.

At the Ely Public Library on Wednesday, October 14 at 1 p.m. the program will be Get Crafty: Book Page Pumpkins – for adults and teens age 16 and older. Get ready to craft with Tricia and make a decorative book page pumpkin. With an old book and a few basic craft supplies, you can make a beautiful pumpkin that can match any fall decor. Registration is required and this program is for adults and older teens.

At the Ely Public Library on Thursday, Oct. 15 at noon the program will be Deadly Knits – for adults. Knit-along (or crochet) while listening to and discuss a true crime podcast. Registration not required.

At the Ely Public Library on Friday, Oct. 16 at 1 p.m. the program will be Library Scientists: Forensic Science Blood and Fibers geared toward elementary ages. This program is geared toward older elementary kids but all are welcome. Please pre-register.

The Ely Stone Stash will be Oct. 16 at 9 a.m. The possession limit is one, catch-n-release on all the rest. Trading is acceptable. This is a free, fine art event. Artists include Joe Baltich, Patty Shusta and Connie Edwards. Over 150 rocks will be stashed on public property and at 9 a.m. on Oct. 16, clues will be posted online.

The Mesabi Symphony Orchestra Season of Mastery begins with Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra virtuoso violinist Erin Aldridge joining the orchestra to perform Johannes Brahms’ iconic Violin Concerto. Rock Ridge Performing Arts Center on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 18 at 2 p.m. in Mitchell Auditorium at the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth. Tickets available at www. mesabisymphonyorchestra.org

Golden Ladle Soup Contest: Taste, vote, and help crown Ely’s Best Soup on Tuesday, Oct. 27 at the Ely Community Center. Local restaurants will compete for the 2026 Golden Ladle, with soup samples, bread from Brainstorm, and brownies from Ely Community Resource included with admission. 5 p.m. reserved seating through the Ely Folk School. 6:30 p.m. open seating. Admission: $10 adults, $5 kids ages 6–12, free under five, $20 family maximum. Guests who purchase a handmade pottery bowl at the event receive free admission. Voting closes at 7:30 p.m., with the winner announced by 8 p.m.

Prospector ATV Club members filled the Duluth board room with people wearing orange hats to support the permit.

St. Louis County land director Jason Meyer explained the issue to the board. He said the current permit had expired after five years and that Prospector ATV Club had asked to have it renewed.

The trail connects two county roads, Bear Head State Park Road and Trygg Road. The short cut-across trail uses a section of former state highway managed by the county.

Meyer said Eagles Nest Township had voiced opposition to the permit.

“The two parties have met but an alternative route hasn’t been agreed upon,” said Meyer.

He said the board would consider a resolution to approve another five-year permit for the cut-across trail and ask the DNR to update its feasibility analysis on allowing ATV use on the Taconite Trail, which would largely bypass the county roads in the township.

Several township members have opposed ATV use on the Taconite Trail because they may hear them through the woods at their homes.

Deputy County Administrator Julie Marinucci explained the new Pyrite OHV Campground is adjacent to the township.

She said alternate routes proposed to the north cross through sensitive areas and would require multiple highway crossings and create safety concerns.

Speakers included Eagles Nest resident Rob Matson, who spoke in favor of the cut-across trail, saying, “Allowing the existing trail will allow activity to continue and ample opportunity to investigate the Taconite Trail.”

He said Eagles Nest Township is not an island but part of a connected system and asked that ti look to build bridges with adjacent townships instead of being a roadblock.

Eagles Nest resident Steve Groteboer, the head of the club’s signage committee, said the cut-across trail could still be used without the permit but the signs would have to come down.

“If the signs come down, it will be pandemonium in Eagles Nest,” said Groteboer. “You will have ATVs going willy-nilly trying to figure out how to get through Eagle’s Nest.

“Reality is, everybody’s going to be trying to get through Eagles Nest, no matter what we do, they’re going to be coming through because these roads are open.

“I sincerely hope you give some consideration to keeping this little quarter-mile artery open, and let’s get the Taconite open. That is absolutely the low-hanging fruit on this thing. The Taconite is perfect and it’s already there. End of story.”

William Messerich of Eagles Nest spoke in favor of the trail and said he works with ATVers and non-profits to do rides to benefit veterans.

He said the Eagles Nest board has held secret meetings.

“Eagles Nest doesn’t follow the rules they just do what they want,” said Messerich “They hired a consultant to stop UTVs period using my taxpayer dollars.”

He said the trail helps businesses in Ely and Tower.

Eagles Nest resident Wren Graham opposed the trail, saying she was concerned about the safety of people using the roads and the township’s quietude.

She said the roads are crowded with dogs and runners and that there are no retail businesses in Eagles Nest.

Graham said she opposed using the Taconite Trail due to Bear Head State Park which she said has 85 places to stay compared to 24 at the new ATV campground.

Eagles Nest supervisor Jackie Monahan-Jounek said her issue is the roads the ATVs are allowed to drive on run through a residential neighborhood.

“There are clustered large neighborhoods,” said Monahan- Jounek She said ATVs are very annoying and “we just happen to sit between some communities, and the path of least resistance is at our expense.”

She said the trail can be moved but houses can’t be moved.

Eagles Nest resident Michele Yeadon said, “We value the quiet and solitude but we also enjoy our ATVs and the trail is vital to connect Ely and Tower together.”

She said a different route would be more ideal but until that is achieved the cutacross trail is needed.

Ron Potter, who lives just outside the township, is the trail administrator for the Prospector ATV Club.

He said Eagles Nest chose not to participate in the trail planning process in 2013.

“At that time, Eagles Nest did not agree to be part of the process,” said Potter. “We had two sets of public meetings in Babbitt, Ely and Tower, at none of those meetings did I see someone from Eagles Nest Township there.

“In 2019, the township formed the committee to look at the ATVs but as Mike (Banovetz) had mentioned, that was more to stop the effort. So that didn’t matter.

“And then the following year, they invited me out of the committee to look at other options. And that was a very wet season. Bugs were horrendous, but I spent three months of my life out there, south and around from the woods, trying to find options that they wanted us to look at.

But when it came to the town board, they didn’t even consider any options. I’m done working from the township, so I’m trying to find a solution, but I would certainly help the county if they wanted to work on something.

Township resident Bob Larson said he came back to the area after 22 years in the service, retiring as a disabled veteran.

He said the BWCA rule changes required he and his wife to find other recreation options which include riding ATVs.

“If they open the Taconite Trail that would eliminate all the knobby treaded tires that ATVs have,” said Larson.

Duane Gustafson, age 82, said he has had property in the township since before the road went all the way in.

He said it doesn’t make sense for ATVs to drive 4.5 miles of blacktop to get to the cut-across trail when the Taconite Trail could be used.

“Somebody’s got to come to their right senses here,” said Gustafson.

Mike Banovetz of Winton said he has attended numerous Eagles Nest Township meetings and found people there to be hostile toward ATVers.

“It’s more like a mob scene,” said Banovetz.

Commissioner Paul Mc-Donald pointed out at one time the Taconite option was acceptable to the town board.

No one filed for two town board positions in the November election.

He talked about an expansion of the clearing along the Echo trail as well as the amount of logging in the Superior National Forest.

Stroberg said the Forest Service oversaw 35,000 acres of treatment on the Superior National Forest including selling 56 million board feet of timber.

“We were able to achieve our target on that,” said Stroberg. He added that 1.8 million trees were planted this year.

The Forest Service has signed agreement with the Nature Conservancy to collaborate on wildfire reduction program.

Of the $10 million available, the Forest Service agreement with the Nature Conservancy is for $6.5 million.

“This includes work on the Echo Trail,” said Stroberg He said the Forest Service is also working with St. Louis County with timber sales where there are common goals. There is also an agreement with DNR.

“And 15% of our target is with them,” said Stroberg He also reviewed the first in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area this year due to lightning strikes.

“We end up burning about 66,000 acres in the Boundary Waters, the vast majority of that is in St. Louis County,” said Stroberg.

He thanked St. Louis County Sheriff Gordon Ramsay for help with evacuations due to fire behavior.

“We’re trying to learn from this because it’s a matter of when not if this will happen again,” said Stroberg.

During the fire season, the Forest Service put a contingency line along portions of the Echo Trail about 100 feet off the road to keep the fire from crossing the road.

Stroberg said one million board feet of timber came out of those cuts.

“The log deck on Moose Loop is pretty impressive,” said Stroberg.

“We’re going to go over, actually, we go 300 feet off, both sides of (the Echo Trail) in the coming years,” said Stroberg.

He also explained that the agency is still working on changes to the BWCA permit system and cancellations.

The system would change from currently getting 100 percent of the fee back for cancellations up to three days prior.

The new proposal would be if you cancel up 28 days in advance get 50% refund, cancel between three and 28 days and get 25% and if within three days no refund.

“This should help people cancel their permits so we can get more people into the woods,” said Stroberg.

The cancellation policy will take effect early in 2027.

Stroberg said the Forest Service is looking to a do a plan amendment, a major undertaking.

“We’re supposed to update every 15 years but that never happens,” said Stroberg.

The forest plan was last updated in 2004 but it didn’t change the BWCA plan from 1998.

“Obviously there are some things that need updating,” said Stroberg. “We’re hoping to get a plan amendment done by 2030, it’s a multi-year process.”

Stroberg said the amount of monies that come to county governments through the Thye-Blatnik Act passed in 1948 will be updated as well.

The appraisal of the federal land values are updated every 10 years and were last done in 2018.

Stroberg said the Forest Service is still trying to acquire 82,000 acres of state school trust lands in the BWCA.

“We’ve been working with the state DNR for decades now to get state lands acquired and we still have steps we have to go through,” said Stroberg.

That includes the state attorney general filing condemnation actions on those lands.

“Weve been waiting for 10 months for the state to do that I’ve been told it’s going to happen any day and then it’s going to take about a year to do that.”

He said the Forest Service is reviewing the titles to those lands.

“Several members up in community of Ely pushing to get (the land swap) done and across the finish line,” said Stroberg.

Range Association of Municipalities and Schools executive director Paul Peltier explained the positive impact the change would have in St. Louis County.

“This would be an increase in unrestricted funds, meaning the school district can use those funds however they wish, they can use it for pencils, people, buses, whatever, it’s up to them,” said Peltier.

He said Minnesota public school students are trust fund babies based on land granted to the state when it was formed. At one point those lands generated funds from around the state, now it’s only in northeast Minnesota.

The fund has a balance of $2.3 billion and in the last 10 years the state has earned eight percent per year through investments. He said 92% of trust lands are in 10 northern Minnesota counties. Even wetlands in Koochiching County generate revenue from wetland banks.

Of the $2.3 billion, $1.3 billion is from capital gains and $1 billion is from income off of natural resource management, of which 80% is from mineral leasing and royalty revenue which is taconite and iron ore mining.

The change on the ballot would allow for distributions from school districts to come from the $1.3 billion in capital gains as well.

Peltier said a task force was set up in 2024 and met for 18 months to look at how permanent school funds are run. Only 2.5% is distribut- ed in Minnesota, an outlier among the other 49 states where the standard is between four and five percent.

“Right now about $64 million is the amount that is sent statewide to school districts,” said Peltier.

“The task force recommended a couple of things to the legislature when asked, and they recommended a three-year rolling average, a 4.5% distribution percentage of market value.

“And as a result, the funding would almost double in distributions of public schools and charters.”

He explained that the state has been averaging eight percent on investments. Based on that 4.5% would be distributed and 3.5% would be reinvested.

Peltier said if the amendment were approved, the impact to schools would be substantial.

“What would it mean for us? It would bring an additional $831,408 in the school districts in St. Louis County on an annualized basis,” said Peltier.

The Ely school district would go from $34,932.82 to $51,843.01, an increase of $16,910.19. For 2142, the jump is from $126,595.41 to $187.877.40. The amount is $33 per student statewide.

“It’s important to note that this amendment does not raise taxes, it does not affect individual income or property taxes,” said Peltier.

I start going over things, probably with the nice weather, pull the dock first, maybe even this afternoon. I’m almost positive we don’t need to cut a single stick of firewood, check the chimney, fire extinguisher, etc. I am running a few minutes late; my previous meeting is running over.

Sitting on the edge of the road, not one, but a pair of spruce grouse. I slow from my slow driving, roll down the truck window, they could care less as I take a photo, they must be in as big a hurry today as me.

And then, the turn, slight up hill on a two-track grassy lane. It’s like putting on wool socks; the lane has a magic all its own. Cedars so dark, birches so white, totally denuded of leaves, and here mid-trail, a lone ruffed grouse. I stop; its head comes up, he starts strutting; off into the boreal it goes. I shift back into drive myself; it feels great, finally getting here.

--The trout whisperer

My goal for the cookbook was to create a celebration of the local cuisine, and to hopefully reunite some readers with recipes similar to what their grandparents may have made.

You may also see some familiar faces and names, as I wanted to include as many of our region’s talented cooks as I could. Iron Range cuisine is a reflection of our heritage, and I didn’t feel right to take credit for all that our ancestors brought to the table.

The book includes a variety of ethnic recipes, local ingredients, and dishes of my own creation.

Aside from the standard pasties, pigs in a blanket (sarma), porketta, potica, and pulla recipes, there are also a few Native recipes, a section on BWCA cooking, and a run through of how to heat sausages in the sauna. I tried to give mentions to as many local food and beverage sellers as I could, as a way to let readers know what this area has to offer, and to help the businesses advertise their products.

I want to give a special thanks to the staff of The Ely Echo and The NewBabbittWeeklyNews for giving me the opportunity to share recipes with the public, which then gave me the experience needed to pitch my manuscript to the Minnesota Historical Society.

I would also like to thank everyone who has shared or expressed interest in sharing recipes in my columnandcookbook.Duetospace limitations, I was unable to feature all of the contributors recipes, but I hope to include more in future cookbooks.

The book is already on stands at Piragis Northwoods Company, and will also be at the Dorothy Molter Museum. For online purchases, the Minnesota Historical Society website is available. There will be upcoming book signings and events, but I will update about those later on. I do, however, wish to invite anyone interested to attend an event at the Minnesota History Center on November 15th, which can be found on the events page at mnhs. org. As a thanks to my readers, I am offering a 20% discount with the code NORTHLAND20. I hope to see you soon.

On Monday, the state-ranked Ely Timberwolves came to Babbitt and pulled off a 25-14, 25-17 and 25-5 win.

The Wolves had a slight hiccup in the second set of Monday night’s game at Northeast Range, but otherwise the contest wasn’t much of one.

Ely swept, but the pesky Nighthawks got out to a 9-2 lead in the second set.

Things changed after an Ely time out and the Wolves outscored the Nighthawks 23-8 for the remainder of the set and by a whopping 48-13 for the rest of the evening.

The Lady Nighthawks traveled to Northland/Hill City on Thursday and then will participate in an allday tournament at Mesabi East on Saturday.

On Oct. 1, NER lost to North Woods at home.

“We came out with a bang ready to play. They played hard and lost the first set 25-27, then from there we slipped and kind of fell apart and couldn’t get an offense going.

Lost 16-25, then 14-25,” said head coach Misty Roseth. “We had a great serving night and Kaydence and Peyson Roseth each had five kills.

The council tabled a discussion about industrial park lots on Conservation Club Road.

IRRRB representatives previously visited the site and seemed in favor of the location, said clerk-treasurer Kirsten Traut. Discussions halted after members of the public expressed concern about the area’s proximity to the Conservation Club at a hearing held by the planning commission.

The council may send the topic back to the planning commission to determine other potential areas better suited for industrial development.

“We really need to have an industrial area,” said mayor Andrea Zupancich.

City attorney Joel Lewicki drafted a preliminary purchase agreement between Rich Evenstad and the City of Babbitt, regarding Evenstad’s interest in the old mining roadbed behind Cherry Circle.

Evenstad expressed dissatisfaction at the preliminary price per acre. He said the proposed cost represents the original price he had offered to pay for an entire property on the road, including several usable lots.

“Twenty-four hundred per acre is a pretty high price for a piece of land that nobody wants,” Evenstad said.

Evenstad requested the city survey the land before he agrees to purchase the property.

Evenstad plans to present the council with an offer prior to the next regular council meeting. Evenstad said he would be willing to offer fair market value for the land.

Evenstad plans to develop five or six three-acre parcels on the road.

“There is going to be a lifetime of taxes being collected from houses that I’m going to have built back there,” Evenstad said. “That’s something to be thought about for the sale price. There will be money coming in for a long time for the city.”

Richard Mullvain, heart attack program manager at Essentia Health, awarded the city an AED for a lifesaving cardiac arrest call thattheBabbittandElyAmbulance Departments responded to earlier in the year.

A man experienced a cardiac event and immediately received bystander CPR from his son. Responders resuscitated the patient before he received an airlift to Duluth. The man survived with a good cognitive outcome.

“It’s really an amazing story,” Mullvain said. “Within 10 days he was out the door and doing quite well.”

Essentia Health chose to gift the AED to Babbitt to recognize “the good work you do in a large, rural, limited-resource area,” Mullvain said.

Assistant ambulance director Rebekah Littler recognized Kathy Littler, Marty Vagle and Michael Jenkins as the responders on the call.

“Their dedication, compassion, empathy and willingness to show up every time that pager goes off, I couldn’t appreciate more,” Rebekah Littler said. “I know we’re not a career service, but we have the most dedicated people on our service.”

“Our community is forever better because you guys exist,” Rebekah Littler added.

Rebekah Littler will work with the police department to determine a location in Babbitt to place the AED.

The council accepted ambulance supervisor Emily Jaeger’s sixmonth leave of absence.

Rebekah Littler will temporarily move up into the interim director role and Michael Jenkins will assume a position as interim assistant director.

The interim positions will be posted and applicants will be interviewed in November. Those selected for hiring will assume their roles on Jan. 1, 2027.

Rebekah Littler encouraged the council to take EMS feedback into account throughout the hiring process to ensure the team remains cohesive throughout the position shifts.

“Right now I feel like our team has really good communications and I just want that continuity to continue as we move through this process,” Littler said.

Council member Joe White made a recommendation to refer Jonathan Shenett’s police chief application and Douglas Kremer’s application to the full-time officer position to the safety committee for review.

White and Traut confirmed they would attend a meeting with Conservation Club representatives on Thursday, Oct. 8 to discuss how the organization may be impacted by upcoming West Babbitt construction.

In other business, the council:

• Hired Landyn Saltzman as arena casual laborer.

• Authorized ambulance repairs to be completed by Premier Specialty Vehicles.

• Cancelled the council meeting on Nov. 3, 2026 due to Election Day.

• Approved the city’s purchase of one additional cell phone for the police department.

• Approved $4,000 improvements to the Community Center, including fresh paint, new locks and cleaning materials.

Saturday, Oct. 10 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friends of the Babbitt Library Harvest Festival in the Municipal Gym. Stop in, enjoy some lunch, and do some shopping At the Babbitt Public Library on Wednesday, Oct. 14 at 1 p.m. the program will be “ Writing in Haiku.” Grow your skills in this writing workshop. Writer’s will learn the structure and form of haiku, its origins in Japanese literature, and how Sandra connects this writing practice to MM Northwoods. Writers will use words and art to create their own haiku masterpiece to take home. This program is one hour long, and suited for adults, teens, and children ages 10 and up. This project is funded with money from MN Art’s and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Designer Handbag Bingo for ALS will be held Saturday, Oct. 17, at 1 p.m. at Tavern in the Bay on Lake Vermilion. Registration begins at noon with 10 bingo games for $50. Advance registration recommended. Call or text Travis at 218-780-8944 to reserve your spot. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate. This event is organized by Full Throttle Fundraising with proceeds benefiting Never Surrender Inc through the 2027 Black Woods Blizzard Tour.

Babbitt Lions Club would like to notify the people of Babbitt that anyone in need of medical equipment, walkers, crutches, wheelchairs, hospital beds and much more. The club does loan out such equipment to Babbitt citizens and will take it back when done with it. There is never a charge for this service. For more information call John Fitzpatrick at 218-827-3566.

The city Recreation Department is sponsoring some “ Howl-O-Ween Fun” on Sunday, Oct. 25 at 1 p.m. at the outdoor rink/dog park. Capture fun moments with your pet at a photo booth to remember the day. Dress up in your best Howl-O-Ween costimes alongside your pet and join the parade to show off your costumes in the contest for all to enjoy. Trophies and dog treats will be available.

The Babbitt veterans resale room will be accepting gently used items Saturday, Oct. 10 and Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to noon in the back of the Municipal Building in Babbitt at 71 South Drive. Come check out vintage items for sale. Resale room has lots of holiday decorations.

Northeast Range in Babbitt swimming pool is open from 4-6 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Check out St. Louis Community Ed Resource for more details or to get your pass.

Stay Active and Independent for Life (S.A.I.L.) sessions will start up on Jan. 6 with a 9 a.m. and a 10:15 a.m. session each Tuesday and Thursday for 12 weeks. This exercise program is free, and designed for

Municipal Gym. Stop in, enjoy some lunch, and do some shopping!

Come support the Friends of the Babbitt Library and enjoy a fun day of food, crafts, and shopping!

Monday, Oct. 12 Closed for Columbus Day. Wednesday, Oct. 14 at 10:30 a.m. – Preschool Story Time Wednesday, Oct. 14 at 1 p.m. – Writing in Haiku. Grow your skills in this writing workshop. Writer’s will learn the structure and form of haiku, its origins in Japanese literature, and how Sandra connects this writing practice to MM Northwoods. Writers will use words and art to create their own haiku masterpiece to take home. This program is one hour long, and suited for adults, teens, and children ages 10 and up. This project is funded with money from MN Art’s and Cultural Heritage Fund.

New Arrivals

Adult Fiction: “Billy & Jane” by Michael Frederick “Writer In’ by Michael Frederick “Wrong Mail” by Jon Mills DVD: Landman Season 2

Throughout the years, Negley has provided hundreds of volunteer hours of equipment and his work crew from Negley Properties to assist the course in completing much needed projects that they otherwise would have had to hire out. His volunteer participation has saved the BGA thousands of dollars that has enabled the course to keep operating at a high level.

He is also serving as a consultant on a committee that is working on a project to build a much needed new clubhouse. Negley is only the 11th individual to be honored with a life membership in the 63 year history of the course. The first life membership was presented in 1969 to Dr. Donald Haase, followed by Ed Furness, Ernie Pinela, Bucky Backman, Merle Rauvola, Sula Nuorala, Walt Vojacek, Merle Vandervest, Jim Lassi and Joan Youngman.

The Babbitt Golf Association wishes to offer a sincere thanks to Don Negley for all he has done for the course.

For the first time since 2020, high school football will be played in Babbitt as the Ely/Northeast Range Timberwolves take on the East Central Eagles.

The game is slated for 6 p.m. Wednesday, at Babbitt’s Joe Boffa Field.

Since 2021, Northeast Range has not fielded its own football team and has had a cooperative agreement with Ely.

During that timeframe, all home games have been played in Ely, but efforts have ramped up to play a game in Babbitt - given the number of Northeast Range athletes on the team.

John Vukmanich, principal at Northeast Range, stepped up on several fronts to bring a game to Babbitt - including organizing and coordinating some upkeep to bring the dormant field back to life.

School officials have also tested the lights and scoreboard to make sure everything is working and plans for Wednesday’s game have come together over the course of the last several weeks.

Northeast Range is going all out - with the school band set to perform before and during the game.

Concessions will be provided as well by the Ely TD Club and organizers are hoping for good weather as the Wolves host the Eagles.

The last time the field was used extensively was during the COVID-shortened 2020 season, when the Nighthawks hosted three varsity games in Babbitt.

Other than Pony League youth football, the field has been quiet ever since but Wednesday’s game could bring new life to the facility.

Given the cooperative agreement and participation by Northeast Range athletes in football, the Babbitt Bowl may be an annual staple on the Timberwolves’ scheduled.

Admission for Wednesday’s game is $7 for adults, and $5 for students, and season-long Ely athletic passes will be honored at the contest.

Given the limited bleacher seating, spectators are also welcome to bring lawn chairs or other portable chairs for the game.

• The Wolves fell to 0-5 last week as Class A powerhouse Deer River dominated in a 60-0 rout.

The Warriors seemed to score in every way possible in the first half, building a 54-0 lead by halftime.

Deer River returned a punt for a touchdown, blocked a punt for a touchdown and returned an interception for a touchdown during the opening half.

Ely also botched a punt attempt that resulted in another easy Warrior score.

On offense, the Wolves were unable to get anything going, and the final quarter was played in running time.

• After Wednesday’s game, the Wolves finish with an Oct. 21 tilt at Braham and open Section 7AA playoff action on Tuesday Oct. 27, on the road.