What's Up, Ely?: Recent Episodes
Host Lace Squier
The What’s up, Ely? Podcast is a podcast that provides an inside scoop on upcoming Ely, Minnesota area happenings for locals and visitors alike. With an abundance of opportunities for social engagement and adventure, how is one to know where to start? Let us help! New episodes of the What's Up Ely Podcast will air twice a month. Each episode will feature upcoming events, notable area happenings, and conversations with area residents.
Listen in on the final What’s Up Ely Podcast conversation. Host Lacey Squier and producer Brett Ross reflect on three glorious years of WUE-pod. They’ll discuss the origins of the What’s Up Ely Podcast, what this project has meant to them, personally, why it’s coming to an end, and what comes next.
Share your perspective! We’d love to hear your thoughts about the What’s Up Ely Podcast. Please take this quick survey today.
Show Notes
What’s Up Ely Podcast Listener Feedback Survey
Visit Ely Adventure Guides
What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
Explore Minnesota
Forest North Podcast
Join Lacey in conversation with her friend and neighbor Pastor Kay Carter.
Show Notes
Ely's United Methodist Church
List of Ely-area churches on page 63 of the Ely Winter Times: https://www.ravenwordspress.com/ely-times/
Visit Ely Adventure Guides
What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
Explore Minnesota
Forest North Podcast
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with friends and neighbors Steve & Ann Schon.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: podcasts@visitelymn.org
- Visit Ely Adventure Guides
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Explore Minnesota
- Forest North Podcast
- Tuesday Group
Join Lacey in conversation with her friend and neighbor Johannah Scarlet. Joh is the creative force behind Sacred Saturdaze Outpost, through which she offers mystical musings on the seasonal wheel of the year, insights about the zodiac, the power of tarot, and the infinitely customizable nature of spirituality. Joh is also a freelance commercial & film producer, promoting Minnesota’s film incentives to bring directors and films to northern MN. She shepherds projects from prep through to completion, and believes in the magic of visual storytelling.
Show Notes
End of the Road Yoga Event Page: https://endoftheroad.yoga/event-schedule/.
Tarot & Astrology Readings: www.sacredsaturdaze.com
Substack & Sacred Daze Podcast: https://substack.com/@sacredsaturdaze
Commercial & Film: www.johannahscarlet.com
Tim Mattimore Photography: www.ghostlandscapes.com
UMFO: https://uppermidwestfilmtv.org/
and happy to share this email address for folks to submit locations: johannah.film@sacredsaturdaze.com
And if you were going to list a bunch of local churches, I wanted to share a few of my favorite spiritual practitioners:
Joh’s favorite spiritual witch pactitioners:
Pam Grossman - Historian & Witch - https://www.pamgrossman.com/
Amanda Yates Garcia - Writer & Witch - https://oracleoflosangeles.com/
Jessica Laynadoo - Astrologer & Psychic Medium - https://www.lovelanyadoo.com/
Lindsay Mack - Tarot Practitioner - https://www.lindsaymack.com/
General What’s Up Ely Podcast links:
Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: podcasts@visitelymn.org
Visit Ely Adventure Guides
What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
Explore Minnesota
Forest North Podcast
What’s Up Ely is a podcast that celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene. It also just so happens to be a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest. There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely!
This episode is a December 2025 Ely area event round up featuring special guest Johannah Scarlet.
- EMAIL LACEY – podcasts@visitelymn.org
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- Reflections Dance Company Winter Showcase: Fire!
- Ely Community Center
- Give to the Max Day
- NLAA Presents: A Christmas Carol tickets
- Ely’s Historic State Theater
- Ely Folk School classes & events
- Ely Folk School Introduction to Rosmaling
- Ely Folk School Felt Folk Ornaments
- Ely Folk School Festival Holiday Door Decoration
- Ely Folk School Scandinavian Holiday Ornaments
- Ely Folk School Norwegian Lefse class
- Ely Folk School Swedish Holiday Traditions & Saint Lucia Choir
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Winter Festival
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with Anna Heil, Program Director at the Ely Folk School. Anna Heil is the Program Director at the Ely Folk School, where she works with instructors, volunteers, and students to build community and provide culturally relevant learning experiences to our area. Although Anna was born and raised in Southern California, she has lived in the Ely area for about a decade now and has built a full life of close friendships, outdoor recreation, and community involvement. The through line through her last ten years have remained her passion for experiential education and her enthusiasm for learning and adventure. When not at the Ely Folk School, Anna can be found romping in the woods with her puppy, jumping in various bodies of water, and of course, listening to podcasts.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: podcasts@visitelymn.org
- Visit Ely Adventure Guides
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Ely Folk School Spring Rolls Masterclass
- NLAA Presents: A Christmas Carol tickets
- Ely Folk School Beaded Globe Ornaments
- Ely Folk School Introduction to Rosmaling
- Ely Folk School Felt Folk Ornaments
- Ely Folk School Festival Holiday Door Decoration
- Ely Folk School Norwegian Lefse class
- Ely Folk School Swedish Holiday Traditions & Saint Lucia Choir
- Explore Minnesota
- Forest North Podcast
- Explore Minnesota More
What’s Up Ely is a podcast that celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – Ely is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene. It also just so happens to be a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest. There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely!
This episode is a November-December 2025 Ely area event round up featuring special guest Anna Heil.
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- Ely Community Center
- Ely’s Historic State Theater
- SAGE Foundation
- Ely Folk School classes & events
- Ely for Ely website
- Register for the Ely for Ely Workshop
- Music from Earth: Russ Kaplan & The Pale Blue Dot tickets
- Tofte Lake Center Presents: Echoes from the Lake, an evening of music & readings at Icehouse Minneapolis
- Tofte Lake Center
- Ely Summer/Winter Times subscription
- NLAA Presents: A Christmas Carol tickets
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Winter Festival
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with Randolph Briley, Deputy Director of Outdoor Recreation for Explore Minnesota. Randolph leads Minnesota’s Outdoor Recreation Partnership.
The Outdoor Recreation Industry Partnership (ORIP) is an inter-agency collaboration between Explore Minnesota, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, The Department of Employment and Economic Development and Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation. The Partnership was formed in spring of 2023 as a direct result of recommendations made by both the Minnesota Outdoor Recreation Task Force and the Governor’s Council on Economic Expansion.
This inter-agency collaboration recently published Minnesota’s first-ever comprehensive outdoor recreation industry economic impact report, titled Minnesota's "Untamed Dividend". The report is full of stats and stories that demonstrate the value of the industry in our state.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: podcasts@visitelymn.org
- Visit Ely Adventure Guides
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Explore Minnesota
- Forest North Podcast
- Minnesota’s Outdoor Recreation Industry Partnership
- Minnesota’s Untamed Dividend: Outdoor Recreation Fueling Our Economy
- Explore Minnesota More
What’s Up Ely **is a podcast that celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – Ely is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene. It also just so happens to be a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest.
There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely!**
This episode is a late fall 2025 event round up.
- Quick PSA: EMAIL ME – podcasts@visitelymn.org
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- Ely Community Center
- Ely’s Historic State Theater
- SAGE Foundation
- Ely Folk School classes & events
- Ely for Ely website
- Register for the Ely for Ely Workshop
- Music from Earth: Russ Kaplan & The Pale Blue Dot tickets
- Tofte Lake Center Presents: Echoes from the Lake, an evening of music & readings at Icehouse Minneapolis
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with Heather Magee, founder and owner of Five Pines Candle Company.
Show Notes
Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: podcasts@visitelymn.org
- Visit Ely Adventure Guides
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Explore Minnesota
- Forest North Podcast
- Five Pines Candle Company
Five Pines Blog: How to Get the Most Out of Your Candles
What’s Up Ely **is a podcast that celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – Ely is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene. It also just so happens to be a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest.
There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely!**
This episode is an October-November 2025 event round up featuring our friend and neighbor Ryan Stewart, the Family Resource Facilitator for Ely Community Resource.
- Quick PSA: EMAIL ME – podcasts@visitelymn.org
- THANK YOU RYAN!!
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- BEAMs Musicians’ Symposium
- Stony River Music
- Silver Rapids Lodge & The Lazy Loon Restaurant
- Ely Folk School classes & events
- Pizza for Pups – Contented Critters Fundraiser
- Ely’s Got Talent
- Ely for Ely website
- Register for the Ely for Ely Workshop
- Music from Earth: Russ Kaplan & The Pale Blue Dot tickets
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Winter Festival
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with Matt Mikkelsen. Matt is a sound recordist, audio engineer, and documentary filmmaker based in Duluth, Minnesota. He has worked as a sound designer, director, and producer on several award winning documentaries, but has also devoted much of his professional career to observing, recording, researching, and preserving natural soundscapes.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: podcasts@visitelymn.org
- Visit Ely Adventure Guides
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Explore Minnesota
- Forest North Podcast
- Quiet Parks International
- Spruce Tone
What’s Up Ely **is a podcast that celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – Ely is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene. It also just so happens to be a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest.
There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely!**
This episode is an updated fall 2025 event round up featuring our friend and neighbor Ian Francis Lah.
- Quick PSA: EMAIL ME – podcasts@visitelymn.org
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- The Meadows Fall Equinox Tie-Dye Party
- Stony River Music
- Silver Rapids Lodge & The Lazy Loon Restaurant
- Rachel Kilgour in concert at Ethel’s Acres
- Ely Folk School classes & events
- Ely Folk School Wild Rice Camp
- NLAA 40th Anniversary Gala
- Pizza for Pups – Contented Critters Fundraiser
- Evening of Slovenian Film
- Ely’s Got Talent
- Oktoberfest Fundraiser
- Ben Winchester – Ely for Ely Keynote Speaker
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Winter Festival
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with Stephanie Hansen, the author of the True North Cabin Cookbooks (volumes one and two), and host of “Taste Buds with Stephanie” on Fox. Stephanie is the host of her own podcast called “Dishing with Stephanie’s Dish”, a weekly contributor to “The Jason Show” and she’s a long-time Ely area seasonal resident.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: podcasts@visitelymn.org
- Visit Ely Adventure Guides
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Explore Minnesota
- Forest North Podcast
Stephanie Hansen
https://stephaniesdish.substack.com
Recipes www.StephaniesDish.com
Emmy-Winning Host of “Taste Buds With Stephanie”
Author “True North Cabin Cookbook”
Radio host @WeeklyDish @makersofmn Podcast
Dishing with Stephanies Dish Podcast
Contributor @JasonShowTV - @Fox9
What’s Up Ely **is a podcast that celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – Ely is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene. It also just so happens to be a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest.
There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely!**
This episode is a September and October event round up wherein we offer a list of upcoming events that visitors and residents alike might consider attending. This time around, we are joined by Kelsey Lee of Potluck Kitchenware and Jess Kulik of Boundary Waters Connect.
- Quick PSA: EMAIL ME – podcasts@visitelymn.org
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- True North Cabin Cookbook book signing at Piragis Northwoods Co.
- Ely for Ely
- Launching a New Chapter: Retirement (an Ely Folk School class)
- Ely Folk School Community Barn Dance
- Northern Lights Glow Run 5K
- Ely Marathon
- Rachel Kilgour in concert at Ethel’s Acres
- NLAA 40th Anniversary Gala
- Evening of Slovenian Film
- Ely’s Got Talent –
- Forest North Podcast
- Listening Point Foundation Annual Northwoods Dinner
- Ely Cultural Alliance Toast to the Season
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with her friends and neighbors Karl Kubiak and Kelly Chick. Karl is the band director and Kelly is the art teacher for Ely’s independent school district number 696. We’ll discuss why arts education is essential to student success, what makes rural arts education unique, and more.
Karl teaches 3-12 general music and band at the Ely Public Schools. Additionally, he performs with many regional orchestras and as a full time member with the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra, serves as the board president for Northern Lakes Arts Association and as board secretary for the Northeast Minnesota Band Directors Association, and teaches at the University of Wisconsin-Superior as their bassoon instructor.
Kelly teaches K-12 art in the Ely Public Schools. Teaching a wide range of ages and art mediums is what Kelly enjoys the most about teaching art in Ely. Outside of the classroom she enjoys spending time outdoors, especially riding bikes.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: podcasts@visitelymn.org
- Visit Ely Adventure Guides
- WUE-Pod Ep 15: Bar-Trivia-for-a-Cause, Ely City Band, & August Event Run Down
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Explore Minnesota
- Forest North Podcast
What’s Up Ely celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – Ely is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene. It also just so happens to be a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest.
There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely! With an abundance of opportunities for social engagement and adventure, how is one to know where to start? Let us help!
This episode features Karl Kubiak who joins us for a round up of events happening in or around Ely, Minnesota this summer, with an emphasis on events in August and September, 2025.
- Quick PSA: EMAIL ME – podcasts@visitelymn.org
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- Brainstorm Bakery Live Music Events
- History You Can Taste: Rootbeer Making
- Reflections Dance Company website
- Ely for Ely
- Ultimate Kids Adventure Night
- Pop Rocks at the Ely Watercross 20th Anniversary Celebration
- Pickup Truck Opera at Whiteside Park
- Heritage Fest – August 16
- Northern Lights Glow Run 5K
- Ely Marathon
- Fest du Nord
- Forest North Podcast
- The Trade Post with Trader Craig is BACK!
- Monday–Friday, 9-10am on WELY
- 1450 AM • 103.9 FM • WELY.fm or stream it on the Civic Media app!
- Got something to sell? Text or call 218-365-4444 or email info@wely.fm
- Listening Point Foundation Annual Northwoods Dinner
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with her friend and neighbor, Emily Roose. Emily is our local business advisor with Entrepreneur Fund, as known as E-Fund. E-Fund has two priorities: support entrepreneurs to start and grow small businesses that would create steady incomes for themselves and others, and to renew the entrepreneurial culture in the region. Emily also happens to be an Ely City Councilor AND a fellow dance party enthusiast.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: podcasts@visitelymn.org
- Visit Ely Adventure Guides
- WUE-Pod International Mosquito Museum - Episode 54
- Owl Forest Farm
- Semer’s Park Pavilion
- Aaron Brown Star Tribune Editorial Columnist Tuesday Group presentation
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Explore Minnesota
- Forest North Podcast
What’s Up Ely **celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – Ely is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene. It also just so happens to be a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest.
There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely! With an abundance of opportunities for social engagement and adventure, how is one to know where to start? Let us help!**
This episode features Emily Roose, who joins us for a round up of events happening in or around Ely, Minnesota this summer, with an emphasis on events in late July and August, 2025.
- Quick PSA: EMAIL ME – podcasts@visitelymn.org
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- The Sectionals
- Sister Act – NLAA Musical
- Brainstorm Bakery Live Music Events
- EFS Wet Felted Sauna Hat (morning class)
- EFS Wet Felted Sauna Hat (afternoon class)
- History You Can Taste: Rootbeer Making
- Reflections Dance Company website
- Ely for Ely
- WUE-Pod Reflections Dance Company, Molly Olson, & More – Episode 1
- WUE-Pod Looking Ahead to Blueberries, Blueberry Pie, & Blueberry Art Festival in Ely – Episode 10
- WUE-Pod Tofte Lake Center, Liz Engelman, & More – Episode 12
- Motherhood Walk and Talk – Questions? Call Paula 218-606-3082
- Ely Pickleball Club
- Plastic People film – July 30
- Heritage Fest – August 16
- Fest du Nord
- Raven Words Press Reflections on Ricing
- Raven Words Press When Rice is a Verb
- Forest North Podcast
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with Jordyn Stocks, the manager of the Piragis Northwoods Company bookstore, which recently moved to the ground level on the corner of Sheridan and Central in downtown Ely.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: whatsup@ely.org
- Visit Ely Adventure Guides
- Piragis Bookstore
- Ely Public Library
- Ely Community Resource
- Art, Culture, & Awe in Ely – Episode 5
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Explore Minnesota
- Forest North Podcast
This episode features a round up of events happening in or around Ely, Minnesota this summer, with an emphasis on events in July and August.
What’s Up Ely celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest. In addition to being a gateway to great outdoors, Ely is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene.
There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely! With an abundance of opportunities for social engagement and adventure, how is one to know where to start? Let us help!
- Quick PSA: EMAIL ME – podcasts@visitelymn.org
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- Reflections Dance Company, Molly Olson, & More – Episode 1
- Looking Ahead to Blueberries, Blueberry Pie, & Blueberry Art Festival in Ely – Episode 10
- Tofte Lake Center, Liz Engelman, & More – Episode 12
- Indigenous Drumming in Whiteside Park – July 11
- Nature Writing with Listening Point Foundation
- Sister Act – NLAA Musical
- Brainstorm Bakery Live Music Events
- Pickleball Tournament - July 19
- Motherhood Walk and Talk – Questions? Call Paula 218-606-3082
- Ely Pickleball Club
- Plastic People film – July 30
- Heritage Fest – August 16
- Forest North Podcast
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with Frank Ivancich and Tom Coombe. They’ll be discussing Ely’s strong tradition of baseball excellence. This conversation is happening in the midst of an exciting season, and in anticipation of Ely hosting the 2025 Division II Senior State Baseball Tournament that will take place July 30 through August 2.
Tom is the athletic director at Ely’s Memorial High School, the head baseball coach for Minnesota North Vermilion Iron Hawks, as well as the team manager for Ely’s Legion team.
Frank is the head coach of the Ely Timberwolves baseball team, and assistant Legion Coach, and a leader of the Ely Baseball Association, which runs the entire summer program, as well as the Junior High program.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: whatsup@ely.org
- Visit Ely Adventure Guides
- Ely Legion Baseball
- Ely Little League
- Minnesota North - Vermilion Iron Hawks baseball
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Explore Minnesota
- Forest North Podcast
This episode features a round up of events happening in or around Ely, Minnesota this summer, with an emphasis on events in June.
What’s Up Ely **celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest. In addition to being a gateway to great outdoors, Ely is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene.
There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely! With an abundance of opportunities for social engagement and adventure, how is one to know where to start? Let us help!**
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- Ely Dog Park Fundraiser
- Motherhood Walk and Talk – Questions? Call Paula 218-606-3082
- Volunteer for Sister Act
- VEMA
- Fifth Annual Iron Range Juneteenth Community Celebration
- Northwoods Summer Fun Run (& Jump into the Lake!!)
- WELY live stream
- Summer Solstice Power Word & Wood Burning Class
- Awaken Your Purpose
- Ely Wellness Collaborative
- Ely Pride Instagram
- Fourth of July in Ely
- Forest North Podcast
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with Bert Kuizenga, an actor, reality TV show host, travel show host, and artist from The Netherlands. Bert, his wife Astrid, and a Dutch cameraman named Mourtis are in Ely as part of a trip to Minnesota in collaboration with Explore Minnesota Tourism. To that end, we also have with us here today Jen Schak, the Global Marketing Manager for Explore MN.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey with your ideas and feedback: whatsup@ely.org
- Visit Ely Adventure Guides
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Explore Minnesota
- Ron Reizen (Dutch Travel Program)
- Forest North Podcast
This episode features a round up of events happening in or around Ely, Minnesota this summer, with an emphasis on events in June.
What’s Up Ely **celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest. In addition to being a gateway to great outdoors, Ely is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene.
There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely! With an abundance of opportunities for social engagement and adventure, how is one to know where to start? Let us help!**
Quick PSA: EMAIL ME – podcasts@visitelymn.org
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- National Trails Day Hike
- Ely Folk School 10th Birthday Celebrations (June 5-8)
- Ely Dog Park Fundraiser
- ArtisticEly Arts in Action Workshop: Felted Landscapes
- Motherhood Walk and Talk – Questions? Call Paula 218-606-3082
- Holding Space: A Director’s Reflections on Next to Normal
- Volunteer for Next to Normal
- Volunteer for Sister Act
- VEMA
- Fifth Annual Iron Range Juneteenth Community Celebration
- Northwoods Summer Fun Run (& Jump into the Lake!!)
- WELY live stream
- Summer Solstice Power Word & Wood Burning Class
- Forest North Podcast
- Hidden Valley Hammer MTB Race Series
- Team Borealis
- Fourth of July in Ely
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with Rachel Hedlund, the Northern Education Coordinator for Friends of the Boundary Waters. Rachel’s work includes collaborating with other organizations to guide Boundary Water Canoe Area Wilderness excursions for youth.
From the first time Rachel put a canoe on her shoulders, she knew she would spend the rest of her life connected to the outdoors. She spent five years guiding at Camp Menogyn and worked ten years for the Voyageur Outward Bound School. Rachel has led 50-day canoe trips in the Arctic, and has been a part of some rad adventures, such as paddling from International Falls to Lake Superior in 99 hours, and racing in the Yukon River Quest in 2016.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey whatsup@ely.org
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- No Boundaries to the Boundary Waters
- Forest North Podcast
What’s Up Ely **celebrates the spirit of Ely, Minnesota – a small town on the edge of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and surrounded by the Superior National Forest. In addition to being a gateway to great outdoors, Ely is a vibrant community with a rich history and a dynamic arts and cultural scene.
There is truly always something fun to and someone fascinating to meet in Ely! With an abundance of opportunities for social engagement and adventure, how is one to know where to start? Let us help!**
This episode features a round up of events happening in or around Ely, Minnesota in May 2025.
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- What's Up Ely Podcast with Abby Dare
- Mother’s Day Tea Party
- Norwegian Lefse class
- Spring Edibles class
- Youth Carrot Cake class
- History Happy Hour podcast
- Hidden Valley Hammer MTB Race Series
- Thor Leseman Musician
- Glass on Glass Mosaic class at The Art Corner
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with Kelsey Cooke, a historian and the executive director of the Ely-Winton Historical Society. Kelsey also serves as a mine interpreter for the Soudan Underground Mine.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey whatsup@ely.org
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Ely-Winton Historical Society
- Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park
- Ely Echo Introducing Kelsey Cooke
- Forest North Podcast
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with our Ely, Minnesota friends and neighbors Chris Glazer and Tad Drechsler, the team behind Boundary Waters Catering, a new venture in town. Together Chris and Tad have over 45 years of experience in the food service industry, including cooking, bartending, large scale catering events, and French fine dining. Chris Glazer is the founder and owner of Boundary Waters Catering. He credits his Ma with his passion for food. Tad Drechsler is the executive chef of Boundary Waters Catering. He’s been working in professional kitchens for over 20 years. He particularly enjoys using local and seasonal ingredients.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey whatsup@ely.org
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- https://boundarywaterscatering.com/
- Forest North Podcast
The What’s Up Ely Podcast is growing and evolving! We are expanding to produce four episodes per month, with two dedicated solely to rounding up a selection of Ely-area events, and two episodes dedicated to Ely-area-inspired inquiry and conversation.
The What’s Up Ely Podcast is brought to you by Visit Ely, the Ely Area Tourism Bureau. This episode is an April & May 2025 event round up, featuring special guest Megan Wind.
Megan Wind is a multidisciplinary creative with a background in dance, design, and creative problem solving. In her previous life, she was a professional tap dancer. Since moving to Ely in 2023, she has actively contributed to the region’s arts community, blending her passion for the performing arts with a decade of experience in nonprofit communications. She currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Northern Lakes Arts Association and is a teacher and choreographer with Reflections Dance Company. Megan is dedicated to fostering the arts in Northeastern Minnesota as a powerful tool for community connection, tourism, and economic vitality.
- EMAIL ME – whatsup@ely.org
Show Notes Links
- Ely Adventure Guides
- Dancing with the Ely Stars
- Empowering Young Minds Through Creative Expression (NLAA Blog)
- We Are Water Exhibit in Ely
- Ely Wellness Collaborative
- Ely Wellness Collaborative April Gathering
- Rudy's Annual Spring Wheeler Ride
- Hand Pie Demonstration (Live Online)
- 100+ Women Who Care Ely MN
- Mother’s Day Tea Party
- History Happy Hour podcast
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with our Ely, Minnesota friend and neighbor Michelle Moore. Michelle is the owner of Functional Fitness, a 24-hour gym located in the new Ely-Area Community Hub building. Functional Fitness offers a variety of classes (including spin!), personal trainers, a juice bar, AND…. fun themed parties?! Michelle will be hosting a Studio 54 themed dance party on behalf of Functional Fitness in the Lookout Lounge of the Boathouse Brewpub on Saturday, April 26. Lacey and Michelle will discuss all this, and more.
Show Notes
- Email Lacey whatsup@ely.org
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
The What’s Up Ely Podcast is growing and evolving! We are expanding to produce four episodes per month, with two dedicated solely to rounding up a selection of Ely-area events, and two episodes dedicated to Ely-area-inspired inquiry and conversation.
The What’s Up Ely Podcast is brought to you by Visit Ely, the Ely Area Tourism Bureau. This episode is an April 2025 Ely-area event round up featuring host Lacey, producer Brett, and special guests Emily and Teague.
- EMAIL ME – whatsup@ely.org
Show Notes Links
- Minnesota Versus Irish Goodbyes with Special Guests Teague & Cormac
- Ely Adventure Guides
- NLAA Presents Matilda: The Musical
- WUE-Pod: Ely Film Festival with Jacob White & Nina Wray
- International Wolf Center
- History Happy Hour podcast
- Hand Pie Demonstration (Live Online)
- The Secret to Making Friends as an Adult
- 100+ Women Who Care Ely MN
- La Serva Padrona – A comic opera presented by Steve Solkela
- Babbitt ATV & Snowmobile Club
- Functional Fitness
In this episode listeners will join Lacey in conversation with our Ely, Minnesota friend and neighbor Dale Beers. If you’ve ever enjoyed a glass of wine at Northern Grounds on the corner of Central and Sheridan Street in Ely, Minnesota, you’ve likely interacted with our Dale. He is a former suit wearing city-slicker and chef who traded in the fast life for a pair of skis and a fishing pole. In his pseudo-retirement, Dale has made a name for himself as our local winemonger. Not only does he offer trustworthy advice from behind the bar, he’s also often the brains behind Northern Grounds’ wine tasting events.
Show Notes:
- Email Lacey whatsup@ely.org
- Wine Tasting Events at Northern Grounds
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
The What’s Up Ely Podcast is growing and evolving! We are expanding to produce four episodes per month, with two dedicated solely to rounding up a selection of Ely-area events, and two episodes dedicated to Ely-area-inspired inquiry and conversation.
The What’s Up Ely Podcast is brought to you by Visit Ely, the Ely Area Tourism Bureau. This episode is a late March and early April 2025 Ely-area event round up featuring host Lacey Squier and producer Brett Ross.
Show Notes Links
- Ely Community Resource
- Wine Tasting Events at Northern Grounds
- NLAA Presents Matilda: The Musical
- Meal Prepping Dinner... with Wine!
- Writing With Your Child for Your Child
- Ely Public LIbrary calendar of events
- History Happy Hour podcast
- Hand Pie Demonstration (Live Online)
- American Sign Language for Beginners
- 100+ Women Who Care Ely MN
- La Serva Padrona – A comic opera presented by Steve Solkela
Join Lacey in conversation with Dominick Olivanti and Holly Bachschneider of Arrowhead Transit. Arrowhead Transit is the primary provider of public transportation in the Arrowhead Region of Minnesota. Dominick and Holly give us an inside scoop on what’s up in Hibbing and the Quad Cities as well.
Show Notes:
- Email Lacey whatsup@ely.org
- Seasonal Ely Adventure Guides (Forthcoming: Ely-Area Arts & Cultural Adventure Guide)
- Arrowhead Transit
- Arrowhead Transit Travel Training
- Hello, Range!
- Iron Range Events
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
The What’s Up Ely Podcast is growing and evolving! We are expanding to produce four episodes per month, with two dedicated solely to rounding up a selection of Ely-area events, and two episodes dedicated to Ely-area-inspired inquiry and conversation.
This episode is an early March 2025 Ely-area event round up featuring host Lacey Squier and producer Brett Ross.
Show Notes Links
- Ely-Area New Resident Social
- Ely Film Festival
- What’s Up Ely Podcast Convo about Film Production in Ely (1:20:38)
- Wine Tasting Events at Northern Grounds
- History Happy Hour: Saint Urho’s Day
- St. Urho’s Day Pancake Breakfast in Finland MN
- St. Urho’s Day Mojakka Lunch in Finland, MN
- La Serva Padrona – A comic opera presented by Steve Solkela
- Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference
- NLAA Presents Matilda: The Musical
- Ely Braver Angels Alliance
EMAIL ME – whatsup@ely.org
In this episode Lacey will have a conversation with Sean and Jill Leary. Sean and Jill are the founders of Adaptive Wilderness Within Reach, and owners of North of North Resort on Birch Lake. Adaptive Wilderness Within Reach is a nonprofit organization that brings adaptive outdoor recreation within reach for people living with permanent physical disabilities. They work to remove physical and community preparedness obstacles to inclusive wilderness experiences. They are on a mission to make the great outdoors accessible for all. As such, they developed the North of North Resort cabins according to the principles of universal design so that they are accessible to people of all abilities.
Lacey, Sean, and Jill will discuss what they love about the wilderness, what compelled them to choose the Ely area for their entrepreneurial spirit, and more.
**Show Notes:
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also a vibrant community with a dynamic schedule of events that are open to tourists. There is truly always something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.**
- Email Lacey whatsup@ely.org
- Get the Ely Winter Adventure Guide
- Adaptive Wilderness Within Reach
- North of North Resort
- Cast Outdoors
- Ely Film Festival (March 13-16, 2025)
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Public Library Calendar of Events
Lacey and Brett take this episode on the road to Happy Days Learning Center in the newly renovated Ely-Area Community Foundation Hub. Listeners will be in conversation with director Kathleen Floberg, as well as a handful of very special guests – some of the children who attend Happy Days Learning Center.
Show Notes:
Ely, Minnesota is home to a vibrant community with a dynamic schedule of events that are open to tourists. There is truly always something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.
- Email Lacey with questions, comments, and recommendations at whatsup@ely.org
- Happy Days Learning Center
- Dorothy Molter Museum Plaid Tie Fundraising Dinner
- Wines of Bordeaux France – Wine Tasting with Dale Beers
- Ely Film Festival (March 13-16, 2025)
- Restorative Yoga & Reiki Event
- Hello Neighbor – Programs & Services for New Ely- Area Residents
- WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Ely Music Connection Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Public Library Calendar of Events
This episode listeners hear from Aaron Kania, the District Ranger for the Kawishiwi District of the Superior National Forest. Ranger Kania will share the details of a comment period for the proposed Fernberg Project. Next we’ll have a conversation about the upcoming Ely Film Festival with festival director and coordinator, Jacob White and Nina Wray, respectively. The 3rd annual Ely Film Festival is scheduled for March 12-16, 2025.
And, of course, this episode includes an event round up. There’s always something to do in Ely!
Time Stamps
(1:16) Aaron Kania
(23:17) Jacob White and Nina Wray
(1:17:54) Event Roundup
Show Notes
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also a vibrant community with a dynamic schedule of events that are open to tourists. There is truly always something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.
- Email Lacey whatsup@ely.org
- Get the Ely Winter Adventure Guide
- The Fernberg Project press release
- Ely Film Festival (March 13-16, 2025)
- Purchase your 3rd Annual Ely Film Festival pass(es)
- Volunteer to be a homestay host for visiting filmmakers
- Moon Dog Studio
- Salty Dog Band
- Great Nordic Shakespeare Festival (January 10 - February 2, 2025)
- Ely Winter Festival (February 6-16, 2025)
- Great Nordic Beardfest (February 7-8, 2025)
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Public Library Calendar of Events
On this episode of the What’s Up Ely Podcast, listeners will join host Lacey Squier in conversation with her friend and neighbor (and returning guest!) Tim Barton. Tim is an Outfitting Manager at Piragis Northwoods Company, and he specializes in winter. He also happens to be an excellent conversationalist and radio nerd (which is to say he studied radio broadcasting in college). You may recall meeting Tim Barton on episode one of the What’s Up Ely Podcast. He was also a guest on episode 25. Lacey and Tim will discuss winter recreation, winter recreation rentals and guided trips, and who knows what else!
**And, of course, this episode includes an event round up. There’s always something to do in Ely!
Show Notes:
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also a vibrant community with a dynamic schedule of events that are open to tourists. There is truly always something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.**
If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event via email to tourism@ely.org with the subject line “Event for What’s Up Ely Podcast Promotion.”
- Winter: Things to Do in Ely
- Get the Ely Winter Adventure Guide
- What’s Up Ely Podcast Ep. 1
- What’s Up Ely Podcast Ep. 25
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- Lacey, Eric, & Wendell Winter Camping Video
- Art with a Point
- Purchase your 3rd Annual Ely Film Festival pass(es)
- Reflections Dance Company class registration
- Salty Dog Band
- Northern Grounds Wine Tasting Registration
- Great Nordic Shakespeare Festival (January 10 - February 2, 2025)
- Ely Dark Sky Festival (January 10-11, 2025)
- History Happy Hour in Ely
- Ely Winter Festival (February 6-16, 2025)
- Great Nordic Beardfest (February 7-8, 2025)
- Ely Film Festival (March 13-16, 2025)
- Ely for Ely Playlist
On this episode of the What’s Up Ely Podcast, listeners will join host Lacey Squier in conversation with Bill Erzar, a born-and-raised Elyite. Bill is the grandson of a Slovenian immigrant who arrived in Ely in 1909 and worked underground for 45 years. Bill himself worked in local mines for over 30 years, and now serves as a volunteer tour guide at the Pioneer Mine. Bill and Lacey will reminisce about Bill’s family history in Ely, as well as Christmas traditions past and present.
And, of course, this episode includes an event round up. There’s always something to do in Ely!
Show Notes
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also a vibrant community with a dynamic schedule of events that are open to tourists. There is truly always something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.
If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event via email to tourism@ely.org with the subject line “Event for What’s Up Ely Podcast Promotion.”
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- Purchase your 3rd Annual Ely Film Festival pass(es)
- New Years Eve with Ian & Friends
- Call of the Wild Poetry Podcast
- Animal Tracking in the Snow Registration
- Northern Grounds Wine Tasting Registration
- Great Nordic Shakespeare Festival (January 10 - February 2, 2025)
- Ely Dark Sky Festival (January 10-11, 2025)
- History Happy Hour in Ely
- Ely Winter Festival (February 6-16, 2025)
- Great Nordic Beardfest (February 7-8, 2025)
- Ely Film Festival (March 13-16, 2025)
- Ely for Ely Playlist
- Ely Public Library Calendar of Events
On this episode of the What’s Up Ely Podcast, listeners will join host Lacey Squier in conversation with Scott Stowell, author of Back Road Grace.
Back Road Grace is a collection of essays, memoirs and short fiction about the culture, Wilderness treasures, and the character of the inhabitants in northeastern Minnesota. Scott and Lacey’s conversation is inspired by the spirit of Scott’s writing – it elicits thought and laughter, and educates listeners about year-round life in our northern climate, and the moxie it takes to thrive here.
And, of course, this episode includes an event round up. There’s always something to do in Ely! Show Notes
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also a vibrant community with a dynamic schedule of events that are open to tourists. There is truly always something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.
If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event via email to tourism@ely.org with the subject line “Event for What’s Up Ely Podcast Promotion.”
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- Tuesday Group featuring Scott Stowell
- Scott Stowell Back Road Grace
- Sheridan Street Delicatessen holiday desserts: Call 218-504-4036 or email sheridanstreetdeli@gmail.com to place an order
- NLAA Call of the Wild Poetry Night
- Well Being Development Recovery Residence
- Reflections Dance Company Winter Showcase: Water 2.0
- Prospector ATV Club
- Prospector ATV Club Christmas Party RSVP: mbanovetz2009@yahoo.com or (218) 235-9969
- Elf: The Musical Tickets
- New Year's Eve with Ian and Friends
- Great Nordic Shakespeare Festival (January 10 - February 2, 2025)
- Ely Dark Sky Festival (January 10-11, 2025)
- Ely Winter Festival (February 6-16, 2025)
- Ely Film Festival (March 13-16, 2025)
- Ely for Ely Playlist
- Ely Public Library Calendar of Events
Abby Dare is the owner of The Meadows Gallery & Studios on Sheridan Street. She also serves on the Parks and Recreation Board for the City of Ely. Through all of her endeavors she is committed to fostering meaningful relationships, making the world a better place, and having fun along the way.
Join Abby and Lacey in conversation as they discuss how Abby came to be an Elyite, Abby’s journey to becoming an artist and opening an art gallery and studios, and Abby’s journey to performing comedy on the big stage. They also dig into the value of defining a personal mission statement, and make a case for attending City Council meetings (the imperviousness of gravel being more exciting than it might seem at first glance!). All this and more…
And, of course, Brett and Lacey do an event round up, because, as you know, there’s always something to do in Ely!
**Show Notes
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also a vibrant community with a dynamic schedule of events that are open to tourists. There is truly always something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.**
If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event via email to tourism@ely.org with the subject line “Event for What’s Up Ely Podcast Promotion.”
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- The Meadows
- Abby Dare website
- Meet an Elyite: Abby Dare
- City of Ely Commissions, Committees, and Boards
- Brooke Pasmick in Concert (NLAA Concert Series)
- Ely Folk School Thanksgiving Potlucks
- Grand Ely Lodge Thanksgiving Buffet: Call 218-365-6875 to make a reservation
- Sheridan Street Delicatessen holiday desserts: Call 218-504-4036 or email sheridanstreetdeli@gmail.com to place an order
- Ely Public Library Calendar of Events
- Well Being Development Recovery Residence
- Give MN
- NLAA Old Hollywood Soirée
- Apply for a 2025 Tofte Lake Center artist residency
- Great Nordic Shakespeare Festival (January 10 - February 2, 2025)
- Ely Dark Sky Festival (January 10-11, 2025)
- Ely Winter Festival (February 6-16, 2025)
- Ely Film Festival (March 13-16, 2025)
- Ely for Ely Playlist
While walking 70 miles through the BWCAW on the Kekekabic and Border Route Trails, Ozzie Reif had the opportunity to test the gear he made from natural materials. Along the way he learned a lot about this gear and spent a significant amount of time thinking about how he and other humans interact with our outdoor spaces.
Listen in on the conversation about what went well, what he learned, and what went poorly!
And, of course, this episode includes a round up of upcoming events in Ely, Minnesota, because – as you know – there’s always something to do in Ely! Show Notes
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also a vibrant community with a dynamic schedule of events that are open to tourists. There is truly always something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.
If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event via email to tourism@ely.org with the subject line “Event for What’s Up Ely Podcast Promotion.”
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Mitten Project
- North Country Trail Association
- Tuesday Group: Update from Ely Northwoods Chapter of the North Country Trail Association
- Fire in the Village Event featuring Annie Humprhey and David Huckfelt (with bonus fashion show)
- Creative Kids Sew: Holiday Gifts
- NLAA Presents: Brooke Pasmick in Concert
- Apply for a 2025 Tofte Lake Center artist residency
- Great Nordic Shakespeare Festival (January 10 - February 2, 2025)
- Ely Dark Sky Festival (January 10-11, 2025)
- Ely Winter Festival (February 6-16, 2025)
- Ely Film Festival (March 13-16, 2025)
- Ely for Ely Playlist
Join the conversation as Lacey chats with her new friend and regional neighbor, Bridgit Maruska. Bridgit is the Parks, Trails, & Recreation Director at the City of Chisholm. Her work involves fostering vibrant recreational environments and public spaces to increase community participation and volunteer mobilization. Specifically, Bridgit is here to tell us all about the Redhead Mountain Bike Park adjacent to the MN Discovery Center.
Lastly, this episode includes a round up of upcoming events in Ely, Minnesota, because – as you know – there’s always something to do in Ely! Show Notes:
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also a vibrant community with an engaging schedule of events that are open to tourists. There is truly alway is something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.
If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event via email to tourism@ely.org with the subject line “Event for What’s Up Ely Podcast Promotion.”
- Visit Ely Autumn Adventure Guide
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- Redhead Mountain Bike Park
- Reclaimed Film
- Minescapes, Pete Kero Tuesday Group presentation
- Minnesota Discovery Center
- Hello Range!
- 30 West Bike Shop
- Functional Fitness
- Ely’s 100+ Women Who Care
- Ely's Alliance for Braver Angels
- Something to Stand For trailer
- NLAA’s Ely’s Got Talent
- NLAA’s Call of the Wild Poetry Podcast
- November Call of the Wild Poetry Night
- Game Night
- Ely Folk School Meat Raffle at Zaverl’s
- Great Nordic Shakespeare Festival (January 10 - February 2, 2025)
- Ely Dark Sky Festival (January 10-11, 2025)
- Ely Winter Festival (February 6-16, 2025)
- Ely Film Festival (March 13-16, 2025)
Join the conversation as Lacey chats with her friend and neighbor, Sarah Vogl. Sarah is a relatively new Elyite who made the journey from South St. Paul to Ely, from suburban cubicle to self-employment in the woods. She is also actively learning about the art of homesteading (so y’all can expect to hear mention of gardening and chickens!). And no introduction to Sarah would be complete without mention of her enthusiasm for all things creativity, art, and Halloween! Sarah also happens to be a graphic design professional who creates content for your favorite destination marketing organization – Visit Ely.
Lastly, this episode includes a round up of upcoming events in Ely, Minnesota, because – as you know – there’s always something to do in Ely!
Show Notes
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also home to a vibrant community and an engaging schedule of events that are open to tourists. There is truly alway is something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.
If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event to the Ely.org Events page via this event submission form. Email us at tourism@ely.org with questions or comments.
- Visit Ely Autumn Adventure Guide
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Dark Sky Festival (January 10-11, 2025)
- Ely Winter Festival (February 6-16, 2025)
- Travis Novitsky
- Reflections Dance Company Fall Schedule
- Reflections Dance Company Fall 2024 Registration
- 2024 Sociologists of MN Annual Conference
- Ely Folk School October Story Circle
- The Sectionals in Concert at the State Theater
- Ely Folk School Root Medicine Class
- NLAA’s Ely’s Got Talent
- Ely's Alliance for Braver Angels
Join the conversation as Lacey chats with a new friend, Buddy Huffaker, the Executive Director of the Aldo Leopold Foundation. They’ll be chatting about Aldo Leopold’s land ethic, made famous via his book A Sand County Almanac. This conversation is taking place in anticipation of a series of events in Ely in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the publication of the book, as well as the 60th anniversary of the establishing of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness via the Wilderness Act of 1964.
And, of course, this episode includes a round up of upcoming events in Ely, Minnesota. Special guest Ian Lah of the Northern Lakes Arts Association will join Brett in the studio to give us the round up, because – as you know – there’s always something to do in Ely!
Show Notes
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also home to a vibrant community and an engaging schedule of events that are open to tourists. There is truly alway is something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.
If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event to the Ely.org Events page via this event submission form. Email us at tourism@ely.org with questions or comments.
- Visit Ely Autumn Adventure Guide
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- USFS Press Release for Two-day Event on the 'Past, Present and Future of the BWCAW' and 'Evolving Land Ethics' to be held in Ely, MN
- Aldo Leopold Foundation
- Portageland Music Festival
- Ely Folk School Meal Prep for Absolute Beginners
- Symposium: A Celebration of Land Ethics & Conservation
- Gardner Humanities Trust Grants
- Register for the Northern Lights 5K Color Glow Run
- Ely Marathon
- Beaver Tales: Stories from the Wilderness
- Vermilion Campus Community Day: To reserve a table please call or email Louise Chase at:
- 218-235-2100 or Louise.chase@minnesotanorth.edu
- Northspan Equity Summit
- Live Music at the State Theater
- Ely's Alliance for Braver Angels
Join the conversation as Lacey chats with her friends and neighbors, Kes Ebbs and Lou Wiggin. Kes and Lou are affiliated with the SAGE Foundation, an Ely-based nonprofit that aims to uplift First-Gen and BIPOC education by offering mentorship, community, and a range of resources to Minnesota North Vermilion Campus students. Additional discussion topics include the allure of the Wilderness, love of trees, fine dining in Ely, and more.
And, of course, this episode includes a round up of upcoming events in Ely, Minnesota. There’s always something to do in Ely!
Show Notes
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also home to a vibrant, dynamic community. There is always something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.
If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event to the Ely.org Events page via this event submission form. Email us at tourism@ely.org with questions or comments.
- Get the essential guide Ely Spring & Summer Guide
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Forest North Podcast
- Why We Live Here: Kes Ebbs
- SAGE Foundation
- Sage Foundation Tuesday Group presentation
- Portageland Music Festival
- Ely Folk School
- USFS Press Release for Two-day Event on the 'Past, Present and Future of the BWCAW' and 'Evolving Land Ethics' to be held in Ely, MN
- Evolving Land Ethic: Aldo Leopold Foundation Event at Ely’s Historic State Theater
- Register for the Northern Lights 5K Color Glow Run
- Ely Marathon
- Live Music at the State Theater
- Ely's Alliance for Braver Angels
- Ely Area Community Foundation
Join the conversation as Lacey chats with her friends and neighbors, Tom Moore and Susan Polege. Tom and Susan are members of Ely’s Rotary Club which is hosting a Casino Night at the Miners Dry House on Friday, August 16. Discussion topics include the importance of community engagement and volunteerism, supporting youth activities, and international cooperation.
And, of course, this episode includes a round up of upcoming events in Ely, Minnesota. There’s always something to do in Ely!
Show Notes:
Ely, Minnesota is not merely a gateway to the pristine Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. It’s also home to a vibrant, dynamic community. There is always something fun to do in town! We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details.
If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event to the Ely.org Events page via this event submission form. Email us at tourism@ely.org with questions or comments.
- Ely Rotary Club
- Get the essential guide Ely Spring & Summer Guide
- Forest North Podcast
- Live Music at the State Theater
- Reflections Dance Company Constant Changes Tickets
- Ely Watercross Association
- Ely Folk School Kraftskiva Crayfish Boil
- Ely Folk School soap making class
- Ely's Alliance for Braver Angels
- Ely Area Community Foundation
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friends and neighbors, Nick Wognum & Johnnie Hyde.
Nick Wognum is the owner and editor of the Ely Echo, Ely’s newspaper of record. Johnnie is the owner of Raven Words Press, which publishes the Ely Summer and Winter Times. In 2023 Nick and Johnnie collaborated to establish an Ely Alliance of Braver Angels, a local chapter of a national nonprofit that seeks to bridge partisan division. They currently serve as our chapter’s co-chairs.
And, of course, this episode includes a round up of upcoming events in Ely, Minnesota. There’s always something to do in Ely!
Time Stamps:
(1:20) Braver Angels
(52:10) Event Roundup
**Show Notes:
There is ALWAYS something going on. We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details. If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event to the Ely.org Events page via this event submission form*. Email us at* tourism@ely.org with questions or comments.**
- Get the essential guide Ely Spring & Summer Guide
- What’s Up Ely Facebook Group
- Ely's Alliance for Braver Angels
- Ely-Area New Neighbor Hike
- Vermilion Foundation Pickleball Tournament registration form
- Ely Art & Soul Gallery & Gift House
- Arts in the Park
- BYOK (Bring Your Own Kayak) Sunset Paddle
- Ely’s Blueberry Art Festival
- Ely Area Community Foundation
- RSVP to the North Country Trail Association Potluck Picnic
- RSVP to Beach Volleyball Tournament
- Tofte Lake Center
- Northern Lakes Arts Association
- Portage North Paddling Film Festival
- Ely Folk School
- Forest North Podcast
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friend and neighbor, Freja Alioth. Freja is the executive director of Listening Point Foundation, “where introspection and conservation meet.” The Listening Point Foundation is a non-profit dedicated to preserving the physical land known as Listening Point, and advancing Sigurd Olson’s wilderness philosophy.
And, of course, this episode includes a round up of events happening in Ely, Minnesota in June and July, 2024. There’s always something going on in Ely!
Time Stamps:
( 1:16) Freja
( 44:35) Roundup Show Notes:There is ALWAYS something going on. We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details. If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event to the Ely.org Events page via this event submission form. Email us at tourism@ely.org with questions or comments.
- Listening Point Foundation
- Sigurd Olson’s Listening Point Video
- Get the essential guide Ely Spring & Summer Guide
- Northern Lakes Arts Association
- Portage North Paddling Film Festival
- Ely Folk School
- Ely All Class Reunion
- Friends of the BW Semers Beach Cookout
- Ely Community Ed Classes
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Senior Center
- Ely Public Library
**Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friends and neighbors, Ian Francis Lah and Molly Hill Fuller of the Northern Lakes Arts Association, often affectionately referred to as NLAA. They’ll talk about how the arts are TRANSFORMATIVE, and about the robust summer schedule of arts and cultural programming in Ely – including but not limited to multiple musical productions, a music festival, weekly Arts in the Park programming in coordination with the Farmers Markets, several youth arts camps, AND MORE. Y’all are gonna want to grab your calendars and get ready to take notes!
Time Stamps:
(01:24) Event Roundup
(27:04) Ian Francis Lah and Molly Hill Fuller
Show Notes:**
There is ALWAYS something going on. We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details. If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event to the Ely.org Events page via this event submission form. Email us at tourism@ely.org with questions or comments.
- Northern Lakes Arts Association
- Cattail Supermarket – An Ely Folk School Class
- Ely Folk School
- Trans Joy Fest
- VEMA
- Get the essential guide Ely Spring & Summer Guide
- Tools for Living with Fire
- Hidden Valley Hammer
- Hidden Valley Hammer MTN Bike Race Registration
- Ely Golf Club
- Ely Community Ed Classes
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Senior Center
- Ely Public Library
**Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friends and neighbors, Rob Wilmunen and Ammie Peterson, members of the Ely Events Committee which is responsible for several of the flagship events celebrating the Fourth of July in Ely. They’ll discuss Ely’s famous Fourth of July parade, as well as one of our favorite new traditions – Rock the Park.. And, of course, listeners should get their calendars ready for an upcoming event round up!
Show Notes
There is ALWAYS something going on. We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details. If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event to the Ely.org Events page via this event submission form*. Email us at* tourism@ely.org with questions or comments.**
- Ely’s Fourth of July
- Get the essential guide Ely Spring & Summer Guide
- Tuesday Group Recording: USFS Beaver Plane Program
- Ely Garden Club info, email kfarion@earthlink.net
- Healthy Aging Expo
- Lake Vermilion Cultural Center Midsummer Fundraiser
- Ely Golf Club
- Ely Community Ed Classes
- Hidden Valley Hammer
- Hidden Valley Hammer MTN Bike Race Registration
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Folk School
- Ely Senior Center
- Ely Public Library
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friends and neighbors, Nick Laurant and Maddie Wilson, the co-owners and chefs at The Chocolate Moose on Sheridan Street in Ely. They’ll discuss their new summer season menus and other updates at “The Moose.” She’ll also have a quick chat with special guest, David Wigdahl, who stopped in to tell her and Brett about a special event in honor of Memorial Day. And, of course, listeners should get their calendars ready for an upcoming event round up!
Time Stamps:
(00:02:07) Chocolate Moose
(01:05:38) Event Roundup
(01:23:39) David Wigdahl - Ely's Historic State Theater Show Notes:
There is ALWAYS something going on. We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details. If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event to the Ely.org Events page via this event submission form. Email us at tourism@ely.org with questions or comments.
- TheChocolateMooseEly.com
- Get the essential guide Ely Spring & Summer Guide
- https://elymn.alleyarealty.com/
- Reflections Dance Company Spring Showcase
- Mothers Day Tea Party Event Registration
- Northern Grounds Mothers Day Event
- Lake Vermilion Cultural Center Midsummer Fundraiser
- Ely Golf Club
- Ely Community Ed Classes
- EHST Argylle Film
- EHST Civil War Film
- Hidden Valley Hammer
- Hidden Valley Hammer MTN Bike Race Registration
- Youth bike season coaching: teamborealismn@gmail.com
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely Folk School
- Ely.org Event List
- Ely Senior Center
- Ely Public Library
**Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friend and neighbor Robyn Bertelsen. Robyn and Lacey talk about tourism – both Ely tourism and their experiences as tourists elsewhere. They also discuss the upcoming Northern Lights ClubHouse Mothers Day Tea Party – and more!! And, of course, this episode features an upcoming event round-up.
Show Notes:
There is ALWAYS something going on. We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details. If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event to the Ely.org Events page via this event submission form*. Email us at* tourism@ely.org with questions or comments.
* Get the essential guide Ely Spring & Summer Guide
* Mothers Day Tea Party Event Registration
* Ely Community Ed Classes
* EHST Argylle Film
* EHST Civil War Film
* Tuesday Group
* EFS Pasty Volunteer Form
* Hidden Valley Hammer
* Hidden Valley Hammer MTN Bike Race Registration
* OgiveNoise X ELSKA // "On the Shoulders of Giants" Album Release
* Forest North Podcast
* Ely Folk School
* Ely.org Event List
* Ely Senior Center
* Ely Public Library**
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friend and neighbor, Teague. Teague is a new Elyite who will share with us his first impressions of life in Ely, Minnesota.
And, of course, this episode features an upcoming event round-up!
There is ALWAYS something going on. We encourage listeners to consult the resources below for additional details. If you’d like to have your event featured on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a great place to start is by submitting your event to the Ely.org Events page via this event submission form.
Tuesday Group
* Ely Bike & Kicksled Fix a Flat Workshops
* Celebrate Ely Networking Dinner
* Nature Writing for Women at EFS
* History Happy Hour on YouTube
* Hot Club of Duluth tickets
* Ely All Class Reunion
* ECR’s Celebration of Artful Living: Live Auction Fundraiser
* Dancing with the Ely Stars Tickets
* Forest North Podcast
* Ely's Historic State Theater
* Ely Folk School
* Digital Copy of Ely Winter Times
* Minnesota North Vermilion Campus Website
* Ely.org Event List
* Ely Senior Center
* Ely Public Library
* Ely Public Schools Community Ed*
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friend and neighbor, Pam Turnbull, who born-and-raised Elyites may know as Pam Loe. Pam is the President of the Ely-Winton Historical Society, which is not to be confused with the Ely Heritage Preservation Commission – of which she is also co-chair. Pam is a member of the Ely Educational Foundation, a co-chair of the upcoming All Class Reunion Committee, and vice-chair of the administrative council, AND a trustee member of the Ely United Methodist Church. It’s safe to say that Pam and Lacey will have much to discuss…
**And, of course, this episode features an upcoming event round-up!
(1:07:03) Event Roundup**
- Sign up for Pasty Fellowship: Call (218)-365-3355
- Ely All Class Reunion
- Ely Historic Walking Tour Site
- Ely-Winton Historical Society
- Fiddler on the Roof Tickets
- Creative Kids Sew Class Registration
- Playing Workshop with Artist Dafne Caruso
- ECR’s Celebration of Artful Living: Live Auction Fundraiser
- Dancing with the Ely Stars Tickets
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely's Historic State Theater
- Ely Folk School
- Digital Copy of Ely Winter Times
- Minnesota North Vermilion Campus Website
- Ely.org Event List
- Ely Senior Center
- Ely Public Library
- Ely Public Schools Community Ed
In honor of Saint Urho's Day on March 16, we are sharing a special edition episode of the What's Up Ely Podcast. This audio is pulled from a recent History Happy Hour program about the holiday. History Happy Hour is a monthly presentation on Ely aea history in the time it takes to drink a pint. These half hour long events are hosted by our friend and neighbor, Jess Edberg, and are generally scheduled for the third Wednesday of the month at 5:00pm at the Lookout Lounge of the Boathouse Brewpub. Follow Ely's History Happy Hour on Facebook to stay up to date on the details of upcoming events.
Dedicated listeners to the What's Up Ely Podcast will recognize Jess Edberg, as she has been featured on the podcast when discussing The Rootbeer Lady, Dorothy Molter. Jess Edberg is the Executive Director of the Dorothy Molter Museum, as well as a local history aficionado.
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friends and neighbors Andrea Strom, Giselle, and Krista. They’ll talk about the upcoming Northern Lakes Arts Association production of Fiddler on the Roof, as well as some other events that may or may not involve a fiddle, as well as the many **things that Ian has up his sleeves for 2024 on behalf of the Northern Lakes Arts Association. And, of course, we do an upcoming event round-up!
Time Stamps:
(**1:08)Andrea Strom
(36:26) Event Roundup
(51:10) International Wolf Center
Episode Links:
NLAA Fiddler on the Roof Tickets
Mural Listening Session RSVP
Let’s Paint at the Hideaway Bar Tickets
Ely Folk School
Northern Lights Clubhouse
Finland MN Historical Society
Forest North Podcast
Ely's Historic State Theater
Ely Folk School
Digital Copy of Ely Winter Times
Minnesota North Vermilion Campus Website
Ely.org Event List
Ely Senior Center
Ely Public Library
Ely Public Schools Community Ed
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friend and neighbor Ian Lah. They’ll talk about the upcoming Northern Lakes Arts Association production of Fiddler on the Roof, as well as some other events that may or may not involve a fiddle, as well as the many **things that Ian has up his sleeves for 2024 on behalf of the Northern Lakes Arts Association. And, of course, we do an upcoming event round-up!
Episode Links:**
- Northern Lakes Arts Association
- https://www.northernlakesarts.org/tickets/fiddler-on-the-roof
- NLAA Art Shows – Featured Artists
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely's Historic State Theater
- Ely Folk School
- Digital Copy of Ely Winter Times
- Minnesota North Vermilion Campus Website
- Ely.org Event List
- Ely Senior Center
- Ely Public Library
- Ely Public Schools Community Ed
- End of the Road Yoga
- Functional Fitness
- Studio North
**Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friends and neighbors Jessica Anderson Ojala and Parker Loew. Lacey and Jessica will talk about Ely’s local community college, Minnesota North’s Vermilion Campus. Then Lacey and Parker chat about noteworthy news stories. And, of course, we do an upcoming event round-up!
Show Notes:**
- Minnesota North Vermilion Campus
- Ely Echo
- Meet New Elyites, March 2023 Recording
- Forest North Podcast
- End of the Road Yoga
- Functional Fitness
- Studio North
- Chip carving class registration form
- Garden planning class
- Tower Cafe Valentine’s Dinner
- Think Pink Northern Grounds Valentine’s Day special
- Exploring Red Blends Wine Tasting at Northern Grounds
- Reflections Dance Company Spring '24 Registration
- www.TEDxSilverLake.com
- Ely's Historic State Theater
- Ely Folk School
- Digital Copy of Ely Winter Times
- Minnesota North Vermilion Campus Website
- Ely.org Event List
- Ely Senior Center
- Ely Public Library
- Ely Public Schools Community Ed
**Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friends and neighbors Todd Crego and Tim Barton. Lacey and Todd will talk about two long-standing and beloved Ely institutions: Ely’s Historic State Theater and Ely Steam Sauna. Tim Barton is back to chat about winter recreation and Ely’s Winter Festival. And, of course, we do an upcoming event round-up!
Time Stamps:
(**1:06) Todd Crego
(27:09) Tim Barton
Episode Links:
- Forest North Podcast
- Ely's Historic State Theater
- EHST: Save Your Seat! (Custom seat plaques)
- Ely Steam Sauna
- Frozen: The Musical in Ely
- TEDxSilverLake
- Scandinavian Ice Candle Lantern Making Class
- Northern Lakes Concert: Zack Baltich featuring Alec Osthoff
- Dorothy Molter Plaid-Tie Dinner Fundraiser
- Tower Cafe
- Ely Folk School
- Digital Copy of Ely Winter Times
- Minnesota North Vermilion Campus Website
- Ely.org Event List
- Ely Senior Center
- Ely Public Library
- Ely Public Schools Community Ed
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friends and neighbors Billie & Mike Rouse, who tell us all about an especially exciting upcoming event: Frozen The Musical, a live production that will take place in the Washington Auditorium of Ely’s Memorial High School the weekend of January 19-21. Lacey will also chat with film director Marius Anderson, whose film 40 Below: The Toughest Race in the World **will be featured at the Ely Film Festival in February. And, of course, Lacey and Brett will do an upcoming event round-up!
Time Stamps:
(**1:28) Billie and Mike Rouse
(35:27) Marius Anderson
(1:02:32) Event Roundup
Episode Links:
- Frozen: The Musical in Ely
- 40 Below Trailer
- Marius Anderson | London Road Films
- Ely Folk School
- Digital Copy of Ely Winter Times
- Minnesota North Vermilion Campus Website
- Ely's Historic State Theater
- Cecilia Rolando website
- Ely.org Event List
- Ely Senior Center
- Ely Public Library
- Ely Public Schools Community Ed
- Registration for Winter '24 Reflections Dance Company classes
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friend and neighbor Sunshine Gardner. They’ll be talking about cross country skiing in the Ely-area, as well the Ely Youth Ski League. Sunshine is the founder and lead educator at the Ely Adventure School which facilitates preschool, child care, and summer camps where children learn and play almost exclusively outside. **And, of course, Lacey, Sunshine, and Brett will present an upcoming event round-up!
Episode Links:**
EYSL Sign up
Hidden Valley Ski pass
Sherpa's Website
Ely Adventure School
Ely Folk School
Digital Copy of Ely Winter Times
Cecilia Rolando website
Ely.org Event List
Ely's Historic State Theater
Ely Senior Center
Ely Public Library
Ely Public Schools Community Ed
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friend and neighbor Lucy Soderstrom. They’ll be talking about the upcoming Anishinaabe Storytelling program hosted by the Ely Folk School, looking ahead to other Ely-area goings on, and reflecting on what they’re grateful for in the context of their Ely lives. And, of course, they’ll be presenting a December event round-up!
- Lucy Instagram Account
- Ely Folk School
- Lucy's Cranberry Picking Blog
- Ely Times (Raven Words Press)
- Ely Youth Ski League Sign up
- Hidden Valley Ski pass
- Sherpa's Website
- Ely Adventure School
- Ely Events
- Ely's Historic State Theater
- Ely Senior Center
- Ely Public Library
- Ely Community Education
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friend and neighbor, Lexy Fenske. Lexy will tell us about her extensive experience snowmobiling in the area, as well as what it’s like to raise two kids among the trees. Next, we’ll hear from Aaron Kania, the United States Forest Service Kawishiwi District Ranger. Aaron will tell us about how to harvest your own Christmas tree from within the Superior National Forest, and will provide us with some hot-off-the-press news. And, of course, we’ll do an upcoming event round up!
(1:39) Lexy Fenske
(39:34) Aaron Kania
(1:12:29) Event Roundup
Links:
Lexy Fenske
Ely Snowmobiling
Ely Igloo Snowmobile Club
Superior National Forest
Ely Winter Times
Ely Adventure School
Shop Local!
Ely Art Walk
Ely Folk School
Ely Events
Ely's Historic State Theater
Ely Senior Center
Ely Public Library
Ely Commuity Education
**Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friend and neighbor, Peter Schurke, who is an arctic skipper during the summer months, and a dog sled guide in the winter. Peter will tell us of his Nordic sailing adventures and discuss how those experiences inform his work as the owner of a dog sledding business. Peter will also talk about the regular public game nights he hosts, as well as an upcoming concert featuring local musicians that he is coordinating.
(1:31:42) November Event Roundup
(1:56:35) Give to the Max Day*Give to the MaxWintergereen Dogsled LodgeEly Art Walk* Ely Turkey Trot*Northern Lakes Arts AssociationEly Folk Schoolhttps://www.ely.org/events/Ely State TheaterEly Senior CenterEly Public Library*Ely Community Education
Listen in on Lacey’s conversation with her friends and neighbors, Abby Sirek and Emily Roose, both of whom are involved with the planning and execution of Ely’s bi-annual 100+ Women Who Care event. 100+ Ely Women Who Care is a women’s giving circle committed to helping the Ely area thrive by pooling small individual donations to collectively give a large sum to a local charity. Abby and Emily are each highly involved in the Ely community; tune into the full conversation to learn more (and for an event round up!).100+ Ely Women Who CareEly Community Ed.Ely State TheaterEly Folk SchoolEly EventsNorthern Lakes Arts AssociationEly Senior CenterEly Public Library
Join Lacey in conversation with Molly Olson, whom you may remember from our pilot episode which originally aired on January 11, 2023. Molly will tell us all about an upcoming Northern Lakes Arts Association fundraiser inspired by the popular reality competition show on Fox called The Masked Singer.Ely State TheaterEly Community Health CenterEly Folk SchoolNew Resident Social RSVPEly Public Libraryhttps://www.ely.org/events/Ely TimesNorthern Lakes Arts AssociationEly Senior Center
**Join Lacey in conversation with Tove Conway, a new Elyite who recently published her first children’s book, Northern Sights. They’ll discuss what it’s like to be new to town, as well as the upcoming New Resident Social event scheduled for October 12. They’ll also chat about Tove’s experience as a PhD student studying literature, and much more. We’ll also hear from Hudson Kingston, the 2023 Ely Marathon first place finisher. This episode includes an October event round up, so grab your calendars and writing utensils!
(00:01:10) Hudson Kingston
(00:36:03) Tove Conway*Reflections Dance Co Registration linkEly's Historic State TheaterEly Community Health CenterEly Folk SchoolNew Resident Social RSVPEly Public LibraryEly.org Events PageEly Times*Northern Lakes Arts Association
Join Lacey in conversation with Barbara Cary Hall as they discuss a local production called Root Beer Lady – The Musical, which is based on the book Root Beer Lady by Bob Cary, Barb’s father. The musical offers a window into the life of Dorothy Molter, who we’ve discussed previously on our podcast. Barb is the musical’s producer, playwright, and musical director. Listeners who are not familiar Bob Cary will get a real treat in hearing about the local legend from Barb herself!
https://movies.elystatetheater.org/movie/root-beer-lady-musical
https://movies.elystatetheater.org/movie/keith-secola
http://www.elycommunityhealth.org/
https://elyfolkschool.org/
http://www.elylibrary.org/calendar.html
https://listeningpointfoundation-bloom.kindful.com/e/northwoods-dinner-2023
https://www.ely.org/events/
https://movies.elystatetheater.org/
https://www.ravenwordspress.com/ely-times/
https://www.northernlakesarts.org/programs
Join Lacey in conversation with Karl Kubiak as they discuss the discuss Ely area orchestras and bands, as well as Ely’s new, monthly Bar-Trivia-for-a-Cause program. Karl is the Band Director for Ely’s public school and the Ely City Band. And, don’t worry, we do an event round-up, too!
https://www.ely.k12.mn.us/
http://www.elylibrary.org/calendar.html
https://www.ely.org/events/
https://elyfolkschool.org/
https://movies.elystatetheater.org/
https://www.ravenwordspress.com/ely-times/
https://www.northernlakesarts.org/programs
Join Lacey in conversation with Bill Teft and Mac Leaf as they discuss Ely’s free, weekly ecological field trips which are facilitated by the Ely Field Naturalists. Bill Teft is a retired Minnesota North Vermilion Campus professor, and Mac recently graduated from Vermilion with a degree in Wilderness & Parks Management. Next we’ll hear from Ian Lah, who will give us an update on the Broadway in the Boundary Waters season. And, don’t worry, we do an event round-up, too!
https://www.ely.org/events/
https://www.ravenwordspress.com/ely-times/
https://www.northernlakesarts.org/programs
https://elyfolkschool.org/
https://movies.elystatetheater.org/
https://www.ely.mn.us/
https://www.northernlightsmusic.org/
This episode begins with an upcoming event round-up featuring Brett Ross. Next, Lacey has a conversation with Eva Sebesta and Kristen Switajewski of the Ely Chamber of Commerce. Eva and Kristen give us the inside scoop about the 42nd annual Blueberry Art Festival which will take place July 28-30.
(25:05) Eva and Kristen
- https://www.ely.org/events/annual-events-and-festivals/blueberry-art-festival/
- https://www.ely.org/events/
- https://www.ravenwordspress.com/ely-times/
- https://www.northernlakesarts.org/programs
- https://elyfolkschool.org/
- https://movies.elystatetheater.org/
- https://www.ely.mn.us/
- https://www.northernlightsmusic.org/
Join Lacey as she and Brett Ross do a rundown of upcoming Ely-area events. Next, Lacey chats with Liz Engelman, the founder and director of the Tofte Lake Center, a creative retreat center outside of Ely. Lastly, Lacey and her friend Deanna reminisce about and look forward to upcoming summer adventures on the water and beyond.
(1:34) Liz Engelman
(57:10) Deanna Tupy
Grab your calendar and pen to take notes during our quick June event rundown, then settle in for a great conversation between host Lacey and her guest Cindy Smyka, the Executive Director of the Ely Tourism Bureau.
Join Lacey as she learns all about blueberries in eager anticipation of blueberry season in the north woods. Specifically, we hear from Larry & Sue Smith who tell us all about the Ely Kiwanis Club blueberry pie sales that take place as part of the Ely Chamber of Commerce Blueberry/Art Festival. We’ll also learn about the role of blueberries in Ojibwe community and culture thanks to the insights of our guest Ryan Bajan, a tribally endorsed Ojibwe Language and Culture Instructor. Lastly, we’ll hear from photographer Chris Ellerbroek about the joys of blueberry picking with kids, as well as an exciting Ely Tourism Bureau media project.
Chapters:
(1:34) Larry and Sue Smith
(41:46) Ryan Bajan
(1:17:33) Chis Ellerbroek
Join Lacey as she learns about local seasonal restaurant, The Chocolate Moose, and its seasonal, rotating-cuisine supper club program. We’ll also learn about the joys of open-water fishing with two avid anglers in honor of fishing opener.
- https://www.thechocolatemooseely.com/
- https://www.youtube.com/@therealfarwater
- elyphotography.com
Chapters:
(01:11) Nick Laurent
(49:38) Taylor Ham & Eric Glasson
Join host Lacey as she learns about the Northern Lights Club House with program director Robyn Bertelsen. The Northern Lights Club House is a community of adults working together to live their best lives; it is a program of Wellbeing Development. Next, we hear from Chris Clemens, Treasurer of the Ely Folk School, who tells us all about the beloved Ely Folk School Spring Bonfire. Lastly, film producer Erin Miller tells us about the project she’s currently working on in Ely.
(01:20) Robyn Bertelsen
(48:52) Chris Clemens
(01:20:38) Erin Mae Miller
Northern Lights Clubhouse
Join host Lacey as she explores the world of mountain biking, with the Hidden Valley Hammer Bike Race Series coming up in May and June. She also chats with new resident Carly Wogen about the experience of moving to Ely, and they discuss the upcoming New Resident Social.
elynordic.org
(1:24) Sarah and Mark Sponholz
(59:45) Carly Wogen
Episode 6 features United States Forest Service Kawishiwi District Ranger Aaron Kania, and local Slovenian honey walnut potica legend Mary Louise Icenhour
https://sfec.cfans.umn.edu/events/pagami-fire-2023
Pagami Fire - YouTube
(1:28) Aaron Kania
(54:16) Mary Louise Icenhour
Ian Lah, Executive Creative Director of the Northern Lakes Arts Association.
Lucy Soderstrom, Director of the Ely Folk School.
Northern Lakes Arts Association
Ely Folk School
Dacher Keltner — The Thrilling New Science of Awe
The Power of Wonder by Monica C. Parker
This week on the What’s Up Ely Podcast, a conversation with Wendy Lindsay who coordinates the Ely Marathon, my friend, Maddie, who will tell us about what she gets up to on a typical weekend in town, and we'll reminisce about how much FUN we had at the End of the Road Film Festival, when I'm joined by independent filmmakers and musicians, Jillian Speece and Nathaniel Hoff of The Bergamot.
Episode 3 of our What’s Up, Ely Podcast: All things WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race!
Lacey sits down with race Director Ellen Cashman and Musher Megan Olson for their perspectives on this thrilling and timeless Ely event.
Listen on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Ely.org, and more.
The WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race takes place on Sunday, February 26th, 2023.
Join host Lacey Squier as she has conversations with her neighbors about all things Ely, MN! In this episode, she chats with Jacob White of the End of the Road Film Festival, Jess Edberg of the Dorothy Molter Museum, Karina Herrera of the Ely ArtWalk, and Julie Hignell of the Ely Community Resource Spaghetti Feed.
Listen on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts and Ely.org.
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The first episode of the What's Up, Ely Podcast features guest Shauna Vega, talking about the Ely Winter Festival. Molly Olson discusses the Reflections Dance Company, and Tim Barton gives the inside scoop on BWCAW permit day 2023 and more!