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Lake Resources
Fall in the upper Midwest is often seen as a time to pack away the summer toys and take in the delights that come with the change of seasons. Taking the kids apple picking or a romantic fall colors getaway takes the place of time spent on the water. However, one of the most over looked opportunities is fall fishing.
As the lakes cool down in October they begin to turn over, bringing many of the monster fish out of their deep ... More
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With a gray mustache and a Wilford Brimley smile, Mark Novotny’s warmth comes through and you instantly find yourself looking for a table at which you can converse over a hot cup of coffee and a bowl of Quaker oatmeal. His wife, Beth, has a similarly pleasing nature. Together they are one of the most hospitable couples in the entire resort industry.
Every year Hyde-A-Way Bay Resort encourages Birch Lake to come alive and wake from its ... More
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If the ideal family vacation includes visiting an island, why not experience the scenic surprise of an island in northern Wisconsin. Minocqua, known as the “Island City”, is a charming small town located in the Northeast section of the state. Connected to land by only a bridge, trestle and isthmus, the downtown has a quaint and old world distinction, yet much of the town’s land remains untouched wilderness. According ... More
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Owning a cabin at the lake is truly a satisfying feeling. How does Fractional Real Estate maximize your enjoyment and satisfaction?
After saving, shopping and sacrificing for many years to buy your cabin at the lake – don’t you think you deserve something really special? Fractional Real Estate assures that you will get something really special.
How is this so?
Consider for a moment two different cabin owners, each who spent ... More
Clash of Forest and Prairie
In 1795, fifty Ojibwe warriors traveled southwest from the forests around Leech Lake, presumably in search of new hunting grounds, and possibly of glory too. On the shores of a good-sized lake, they met a large band of Sioux. Thirty Ojibwe fell in the ensuing battle, and ever afterwards, the water was known as “West Battle Lake.”
Geographically, the area around Battle Lake mirrors that ancient ... More
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THE HOME ADDRESS OF THE MISSISSIPPIThe Mississippi river is without a doubt, one of the five greatest rivers in the world, and arguably, along with the Nile and Amazon, one of the top three in terms of length, volume and significance. It runs for two thousand, five hundred miles, and drains two thirds of the land in the lower forty-eight states. Its waters have shaped agriculture, history and politics for thousands of years. Trade routes, ... More
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Introduction
The purpose of this paper is to provide an individual searching for lakeshore with the ability to decipher property value, based on quantified and qualified research of recent lakeshore sales.
This paper analyzes a collection of over 250 different vacant lakeshore recent sales in Northern Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin. The majority of this data was obtained by personal inspection, which was done between January 1999 ... More
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Many of us dream of owning a lake home or a piece of lakeshore. There is a certain sense of freedom in knowing that you have a place to escape the stresses and the worries of ordinary life. A place where you can go and indulge yourself and do whatever you like to do, whether it be fishing, water skiing, or just enjoying watching the sun disappear behind the horizon. There is also a certain sense of security knowing that you have ... More
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Christmas Eve, 1940, Uncle Sam called my father, Dr. L.G. Idstrom, to report for duty in the U.S. Army. His final orders came on November 1, 1941, Fort Snelling. We moved back to Minneapolis, and on December 3, 1941, my brother, John, was born four days before Pearl Harbor! I finished third grade in Minneapolis even though Dad was transferred to Camp Crowder, Missouri.
In May, we were on the move again, this time to Neosho, Missouri, ... More
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Newlyweds basking in the glow of love together experiencing all the newness of being first married, by yourselves, having your own place, thinking about the future, dreaming about the adventures you may have together... reminiscing about how you started dating, the first introduction by your sister, the spark and then the conversation goes…
Did you go to camp?
Yeah, I went to some Bible camp over in Wisconsin, called Wapo when I was ... More
True North If you talk to someone from Fergus Falls or Brainerd they might be slightly offended if you refer to their home as “Northern Minnesota.” They have a point. Geographically speaking, a lot of what we call “Up North” is merely on the northern edge of central Minnesota. But you will find no such modesty when speaking to folks from Bemidji. They truly are in Northern Minnesota, and they know it. Call ... More
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Look at the presidential seal, currency, and numerous other national monuments and you will notice eagles as a prominent feature symbolizing the freedom we associate with our country. It has also become a symbol of environmental success since its continental U.S. population has recovered from a low of 400 nesting individuals to a current nesting population of over 10,000 pairs.
Bald eagles utilize forested habitat ... More
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Where southern prairie meets the northern forest, and receding glaciers once carved their way through the granite landscape, Alexandria is a scenic & recreational paradise. Just off I-94, the county seat for Douglas County lies almost exactly halfway between the Twin Cities and Fargo, and provides convenient access to business, work and commerce. The Alexandria Lakes Area offers the best of all worlds: unlimited access to the ... More
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If you live in the state of Minnesota, you have probably enjoyed the cabin experience. The cabin experience is synonymous with family, whether rustic or grandiose; it is a treasured gathering place and a common thread, binding multiple family generations. Cabin succession planning is the art of passing ownership of the family cabin down to the next generation. I call it an "art" because a successful cabin succession plan involves the ... More
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A certain percentage of lake shore properties in Minnesota and northern Wisconsin are essentially family legacies, handed down from generation to generation. These cabins and lots are not only set in beautiful and peaceful places – they also have years (even sometimes many decades), of precious family memories attached to them. In such cases, the lakeshore dream is not only about owning your own up-north vacation. It is about ... More
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Many of us think when winter comes to the northern states, we can only hibernate and slowly begin to dream of our vacations for next summer. Actually, there are many all-season vacation spots within a short driving distance that can provide a fun filled vacation for the entire family. From water parks and snowmobiling trails to bear, moose and wolves, from ice fishing to bird watching, from sleigh rides to dog mushing – it’s all ... More
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Ron Schara is a writer and television personality, including host of Minnesota Bound, who has been sharing stories with readers and viewers for four decades. He brings to life the joys of living the outdoors through nature watching, fishing, hunting, camping and the like. Ron’s introduction and knowledge of the outdoors began as a boy growing up in a small town, Postville, located in the rugged northeast corner of Iowa. Ron has been ... More
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The forests and woodlands of the Upper Midwest will soon explode into a vast and breathtaking myriad of color. Whether traveling north, south, east or west you will be amazed at the brilliant hues that have been created by nature’s paintbrush. Be sure to take a few days to relax and enjoy the majesty of the forests as well as the beauty of our lakes and rivers.
Following the Mississippi Nature has provided the perfect tour guide ... More
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Visualize
“If you are going to dream, dream big.” When it comes to making choices for your home, the advice to dreaming “big” is priority. Most of us start out with rather humble beginnings, out on our own, purchasing our first home. As the years progress, a dream for the future evolves around careers and children, during which time we put the plans for our dream into action. Taking shape in many different ways, each person’s ... More
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Close To Nature
Denise Siemens spent her childhood near Ely, Minnesota, and still
returns there on a regular basis.
"One of the best kept secrets of Ely is the local sauna, The Ely
Steam Bath, on Chapman
street," she says. "My
dad, who is now seventy-two, still goes down there twice a week to sit and
sweat.” The rooms are not co-ed,
and Denise quotes her father as saying, “In the bullpen, the only thing ... More
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Back in the old days, when Cumberland was near the end of
the rail line, they used to say that it was the stop for “Cumberland, Hayward,
Hurley and Hell.” To put it nicely, Cumberland was a rough town. The roughest
of the bunch was a saloon keeper named Paulson. When the city fathers brought
in a Marshall from St. Paul to clean things up, the lawman's first act was to
challenge Paulson to fist fight. Paulson agreed to leave town if ... More
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Jason Davis, an award winning broadcast journalist, has been informing and captivating viewers since he first started in television news in 1964. As host of KSTP’s “On the Road,” Jason shares positive stories about interesting people and fun destinations. Jason was born in London, England and lives with his wife of 40 years in the Wisconsin countryside, he is the father of four grown children, and has six (soon to be seven) ... More
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In 1922, Ralph Samuelson from Minnesota thought that Skiing could also be done in water. His first few attempts were unsuccessful. He used barrel staves and tried being pulled by a boat. When this did not work, he used Snow Skis, all to no avail. At this point, he decided to make his own pair of skis that would enable him to effectively ski on water. He managed to make skis out of two 8x9 inch boards in which he attached leather straps to ... More
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Learning to water ski successfully depends on two things; what you do while you’re in the water, and while you rising out of it. Unfortunately, it isn’t as simple as strapping on two skis and hammering down the throttle. But if you can follow a few tips listed below, I can assure you that you’ll spend more time out of the water, than in it.
Starting Position Guidelines:
Sit in a chair The chair position is the ... More
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Modern waterski and wakeboard boats offer more performance, quality and ease of use than ever before. Like the ski boats of years past they provide the utmost in wake quality by putting out soft and flat slalom wakes for waterskiers and large rampy wakes for wakeboarders and wakesurfers. However, modern ski boats have evolved into so much more. They provide more room, smoother rides and many other amenities never before thought possible. With ... More
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There are very few areas in the nation that can compare with the beauty of northeastern Minnesota’s breathtaking scenery and clear, calming lakes. Located in the heart of this natural wonderland at Biwabik, Minn., is Giants Ridge, a top quality golf and ski resort. In fact, Golf magazine has rated Giants Ridge as a Premier Resort for 2010! Densely wooded hills, glassy, clear lakes and rolling, scenic golf courses all blend together to ... More
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Families today have more options than ever before. Although, most families are limited by time, what they choose to do with that time is a buffet of movies, museums, picnics, parks, classes, vacations, and so much more. With all of these options, why should families choose camp?
Camp is an experiential education like no other. Children and youth learn life lessons like independence, leadership, and self-confidence in an environment ... More
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A stable of Minnesota organizations is succeeding at introducing young people to golf, which is making the world a better place one golfer, and caddie, at a time.
It wasn’t all that long ago when many kids and teenagers didn’t have access to the game of golf. About the only kids who had a chance to play were those lucky enough to be members at a country club, or those who had a parent or adult to introduce them to the ... More
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Most camps offer a general program of outdoor activities of hiking, swimming,
sports and games, arts and crafts, and nature awareness. Some camps have
special emphasis on programs such as horseback riding, water sports, music, or
adventure challenge activities. While camps provide facilities and services for
a broad range of children, youth, and adults, some camps provide services to
special groups: There are programs for seniors, ... More
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We
know it’ll happen. The walleye season opener in May signals the time for warm
weather and everything bites. That is, if we can fire up the outboard.
Boat
problems do occur; most are self-inflicted. The cause for these break-downs (or
not starting or not running smoothly) was explained by Pete Johnston, service
manager at Bay Lake Marine. He said, “At least 90 percent of the problems are
caused by ... More
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I understand that Fractional
Real Estate is real estate subdivided by time, how is it different from a
timeshare?
Fractional Real Estate is
found throughout the United States and the world. In Minnesota, Fractional Real
Estate is governed by the Subdivided Lands Act – even though it is real estate subdivided by Time.
Whenever the word “Time” and
“Real Estate” appear in the same sentence, the ... More
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There’s a reason it’s called the “Brainerd Lakes Area”, not just Brainerd. It’s our heritage. Brainerd will forever be rooted in history books as a major center of ideas, tackle and tactics that propelled the fishing industry forward.
Nick Adams, long-time head of Lindy Little Joe fishing tackle said, “This area virtually became the epicenter of innovative fishing tactics.” Dr. Roland Kehr, former board member of ... More
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Unique summer experience even more valuable in this summer’s down economy
It’s common knowledge that summer camps are a place where children can have the time of their lives, but it’s not just the kids who stand to benefit. This summer, 1.2 million young adults across the country have joined the ranks of camp counselors and staff and are developing a pretty impressive – and wide-ranging – set of skills, ... More
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You are considering a summer camp, but how to choose? There’s a camp that is ideally suited for every child, providing a summer of growth and fun whether your child attends a day or overnight camp, a specialized or traditional camp. With a little help from the camp professionals at the American Camp Association, here’s some sound advice that helps parents sort through the choices and benefits that camp delivers. As spring approaches, ... More
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218-568-5648
www.hopkinswellness.com
One of the answers might be the sun. In the summer we are out boating, fishing, gardening, or just enjoying the sun. Our skin is exposed to a good amount of sun. During the winter in Minnesota, even if we are outside, we are all bundled up and our skin gets very little sun. Without sun, our bodies do not make Vitamin D. And, while we all know that Vitamin D is crucial for our bones, what ... More
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He's an enigma, in a good sort of way! The owner of Land & Cabins in Hinckley, Minnesota, is an outdoorsman who would rather disappear into the deep woods with a backpack than be surrounded by people in a city. And yet he is one of those people who is extremely well-known, well-liked, and has “friends everywhere”. Get to know Brian Weidendorf, and you’ll quickly appreciate why. He’s friendly, good-natured, and ... More
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Just minutes from downtown Alexandria, Minnesota, the Arrowwood Resort & Conference Center is located on beautiful Lake Darling, and offers an incredible array of resort amenities right outside your doorstep. In a setting of natural splendor, featuring the Big Splash indoor water park and new luxury townhomes, and voted “Best 2004 Lakeshore Resort” by MN Meetings & Events Magazine, Arrowwood is your ideal choice for a ... More
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There is no such thing as 100 percent safe ice, but before venturing out on a frozen lake or pond, here are a few things to keep in mind courtesy of the Minnesota DNR website:
Check for known thin ice areas with a local resort or bait shop.Test the thickness yourself using an ice chisel, ice auger or even a cordless 1/4 inch drill with a long bit.
Refrain from driving on ice whenever possible.If you must drive a vehicle, be prepared to ... More
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One of my favorite places to visit in northern Minnesota is the Iron Range and one of my favorite towns on “the range” is Biwabik. Often, people would ask me where I was going and I’d say,
“Biwabik,”
“Where?” They would say, with a quizzical look.
“Biwabik.”
“Bi-what?”
“Biwabik,”
“Where’s that?”
“About 10 miles east of Virginia.”
“Ooohhh.”
I had ... More
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It’s November 7, 2009 in Wadena, MN at 4:30am. I just woke up and I’m getting my gear on. My dad and I are driving to a relative’s farm. When we get to Jim’s we get a warm welcome from their short and stocky yellow-lab named Peanut. We got our backpacks on and took our cold rifles out of the cases. We met up with the others and said a prayer and discussed what stand to take. We got the central stand. We started to walk into the cold, ... More
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1st Place
We purchased, along with our son and his family, two small cabins that had been part of a resort. We had been out of the cabin scene for several years and decided to get back into it, more for our grand children and all the wonderful memories that would come. Our cabins are small and cozy, but our cabin gets used not only buy us, but our daughter/husband/three children and a big yellow lab. To say space is at a minimum would ... More
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When I think about our family I think we have always loved being close to water… We have always had Lakeshore Dreams…
My parents Chris and Thora Eriksen both imigrated from the little European country of Denmark, A peninsula surrounded on 3 sides by water. My father’s family farm bordered on the North Sea and has been held by family members since the 1600’s. It is a lovely place, with green fields that reach down to the ... More
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Fathering is the toughest, most heartbreaking job in the world. Yet, at the same time, it is the most uplifting, exciting and rewarding job ever designed. I love my kids, as I am sure all fathers do, and I’ve managed to learn a few lessons along the way. Even as I look ahead, I know that the learning will not end here.
Lesson #1:
God gives us kids so we can get a glimpse of just how much He loves us
When I used to watch parents ... More
I have often wondered if a person can write objectively when they
are emotionally entranced by the subject of their writing. I mean when you
really love something, how do you think critically? I believe that the answer
lies in the fact that until you became acquainted with it, you didn’t love it.
I
have yet to talk to a person, and I have the good fortune of talking to many,
who has not loved Mark Harlow’s work. In fact, I can say ... More
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There is an area in Minnesota
where you can go to access an abundance of quality lakes for swimming, fishing,
and boating. Biking and walking trails abound in the area. Lodging is readily
available there, along with all the modern conveniences desired by even the
least outdoorsy person. Things to do, both outdoors and in, are plentiful.
The place of which we speak, is
of course, the Twin Cities Metropolitan area. If you live within ... More
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Only in Minnesota can a
person find themselves bundled in a sweatshirt and rain jacket, coming in from
the lake with numb fingers and toes during the fourth of July. And only in Minnesota will you see the
spirit of a sportsman who finds joy in that kind of weather during the fourth
of July, because “It brings out the big fish!” In a part of the country where
it can be 80 degrees one day and 40 the next, you need to be ready ... More
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As I sat down to write
this article, I found myself drifting toward more contemplative and reflective
thoughts rather than the usual more technically-oriented subject matter. Maybe
it was because my family is leaving next week to our favorite sanctuary – the
North Shore of Lake Superior. So, this month I wanted to use this space to talk
about those special natural places that are special to us – our sanctuaries.
For me, there have ... More
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I want to encourage you all to invest time, effort, and finances in to what’s most
important. The main reason we promote Lakeshore properties and experiences is
because we ardently believe in its ability to promote healing and restoration
within families. To illustrate this point I want to tell you a little bit about
what my family has been experiencing.
My Dad
is dying. In truth we all are. I’m not trying to be morbid, it’s ... More
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When
Fredrick Weyerhauser moved his family to the shores of Lake Nebagamon in the
1890s, money grew on trees. More precisely, for the Lumber Baron, trees meant
money and there were plenty of them in Northern Wisconsin then. Weyerhauser’s
empire was already well established. Even so, he apparently felt that this
area, with its abundant pines and the nine-hundred and fifty acre lake nestled
in the hills near the southern coast of ... More
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You may know someone who has restored a prairie or tried to with limited success. Perhaps you have done it yourself or had it done by a professional. In any case, chances are you have seen a restored native prairie, heard about them, or seen pictures in a magazine, book or other publication.
Prairies are becoming more and more popular for many reasons. The most obvious, to most people, is that they are beautiful when ... More
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Making
the most of your investment: Information
on forest-related programs for northern lakeshore property owners
Northern
Wisconsin property owners, particularly those whose lots include stands of
trees, play an integral role in nurturing the state’s forest resource. Those
trees help to provide clean water and clean air, erosion control, wildlife
habitat, and sanctuaries for hundreds of species of rare plants and animals ... More
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Jim Morgan is
basically related to Walker Lake by marriage. For four generations, his wife’s family has been either
living on the lake, or vacationing there, with some of them doing both. Walker
is just one of the one thousand or so lakes in Otter Tail county, but to the
Morgan family, it is home, and home away from home. So, when Morgan heard that
a big developer was bidding on a chunk of land on the western shoreline, ... More
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The Pretty
Town That Began With An Ugly Name
Park
Falls began as a small river village, originally called Muskellunge Falls. The
official story says that the town fathers were inspired by the park-like
atmosphere of the large pines near the falls, and changed the name to Park
Falls. It is also possible that a passing Ojibwe Indian pointed out that “Muskellunge”
means “ugly pike,” which isn’t a great name for a ... More
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1. Know
what you and your family love most about your land.
What’s your vision for the
future of your land? Do you want more wildlife, more big trees, a quiet refuge,
ski trails, a source of income, or something else? All of the above? Developing
a vision for the future of your land is an important step. This vision needs to
be based in reality, both in terms of local ecology and also your family’s
long-term interest in owning ... More
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It is said that “A man’s home is his castle”. Whether there
is a moat around it or not, when it comes to your home, you want the best; the
best craftsmanship, the best view, the best workspace, the best, the best, the
best. But who defines the best? Simply put, you do. Keith Waters and Associates has been designing and building
homes for well over twenty years, and they couldn’t agree more. There is only
one way to ... More
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Roseville, MN (March 29, 2009)
A new study reveals that almost all Twin Cities homes have not suffered the double-digit declines in median home prices often reported. Traditional homes, those not in foreclosure, represent 95 percent of the homes in the Metropolitan Area and show a median sales price decline of just 3.9 percent.
“Home prices in the Twin Cities area are either up, down or stable in the Twin Cities, ... More
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Last month, we talked about whether or not your project would benefit from hiring a professional wetland consultant. Assuming that you have decided you need such expertise on your project, the next step is to go about identifying and hiring one. So which one is right for you and how do you even begin the process of finding a wetland consultant?
There are several sources that you can utilize to find a consultant. Resources include: the ... More
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A Place to Explore
Fergus Falls was
named by Joe Whitford, who was employed by a man named James Fergus to find a
place for a new community in West-Central Minnesota. Finding a waterfall on the
Otter Tail river, Whitford staked out the town in 1857 and named it in honor of
his employer. It seems that Fergus never even visited the place, and in 1870
the town site was sold to one George B. Wright for about a ... More
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Last
July, my husband asked me to reserve some time to take a trip to Crosslake, MN.
He was going to be touring some homes and wanted me to be with. I never know
quite what I’m getting myself into when my husband wants to take me on a “tour”,
as I don’t always have the same vision that he does, but what an experience I
had! I vaguely remember the moment that I walked in the front door. However,
once I was inside, what I saw ... More
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Minnesota’s
lakeshore property owners face a significant challenge to their right to the
use and enjoyment of their lakeshore. Most owners are currently unaware of
proposals to discard “ excess” dock sections, boatlifts, and potentially,
watercraft.
As required by the
legislature, the Minnesota D.N.R. is proposing revised regulations governing
the placement of “private structures” in the public waters. Although ... More
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Spring is here in full
force and its time to use the beautiful, bug-free weather while it lasts! I’m
sure we won’t have many weekends before the mosquitoes appear and if you are
like me, your motivation for gardening is at its peak right now! The following list
has simple, easy to do tips. Each item should take half an hour or less to do,
that is, depending on the size of your yard! Try to keep your plantings simple
and it will ... More
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Toe-riffic!
Diane Dryden
of the Shell Lake Chamber of Commerce says that you can stand in Shell Lake up
to your neck, look down, and count the hairs on your toes. She doesn't say why
you would want to count your toe hair while up to your neck in water, but her
point is, in a region that is already rich in pristine natural lakes, Shell
Lake is the clearest and cleanest of them all.
In
terms of water clarity and purity, Dryden ... More
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All
Aboard!
Like
many towns in Northwest Wisconsin, railroad was once the lifeline of Spooner.
The Omaha line had its hub here. The commercial trains are all gone now, but
making lemons into lemonade, Spooner now boasts a fine railroad museum, and
also runs the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad. The Great Northern is a trip
into history aboard a restored historical train. The locomotive was built in 1940. There is also a ... More
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With so many
diets on the market why do so many people still struggle with leading a healthy
lifestyle and weight problems? I believe it is because the weakness with most
weight loss programs is that they only focus on eating healthy.
A healthy lifestyle depends on a number of factors:
stress
diet
weight
exercise
hereditary factors
If we only
focus on what we eat, our weight usually see-saws because ... More
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Not Quaint, but what you need
One of the things everyone loves about resort towns is that
they are often small and unique, and they offer many quaint shopping
experiences. But sometimes when you are on vacation, you need things that don’t
qualify as “quaint.” Stitches, for example, should not be quaint, but rather,
professional. A hammer is another non-quaint item. A week’s worth of groceries
can really add up at “quaint” ... More
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If I had a dollar for every time a client asked us to
determine where the wetlands were on a piece of property after they bought it...well, I wouldn’t
be rich but I’d certainly be better off. It happens every day – that dream lot
comes up for sale and gets snatched up. It is only later, when the building
process is initiated, that nasty problems like restrictive wetland rules that
could kill the dream are discovered. ... More
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We asked LakeshoreDreams.com founder Eric Canfield to offer his top three predictions concerning what we will see in the lakeshore industry in the coming years. The following was his reply:
#1 The Reasons for Buying will Change.
With the current economic downturn and the disintegration of the family, Fathering will continue to be seen as a greater need to the benefit of society as a whole.
Some interesting stats;
Children ... More
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Where’s The Beef?
If you are looking for
someplace with world-class freshwater fishing; a place where you can enjoy fine
dining, unique shopping and terrific lodging; a place where you can also watch
fully grown men dressed up in a cow-suits, carving roast beef – then Minocqua,
Wisconsin is the destination for you.
The town of Minocqua, along
with neighboring Woodruff and Arbor Vitae, is situated in one of the most ... More
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It seems almost
impossible that some people reading this have never been to Minnesota’s “North
Shore,” and yet, sad experience tells me this is true. Living in the Twin
Cities and never visiting the North Shore is like living in Rapid City and
never seeing Mount Rushmore; or living in Baltimore and never going to DC; or
living in Denver and never spending any time in the mountains. People do it, I’m
sure, but ... More
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For the past decade or so, we’ve
been surveying members who move from their primary residence to Wisconsin. In
all cases, these past members (who are now voting citizens of Wisconsin) are
offered life-time Honorary Membership—the vast majority accept the offer. In
turn, we ask them from time to time to influence their local legislators on our
behalf. The ten-point Move-to-Wisconsin survey focuses on how content they are
with ... More
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Mike
Larson can hear the sound of stress draining away from a person. It's not that
he's a psychic. It's just that,
after twenty years on Minnesota’s North Shore, he has a keen eye for the signs. "They walk up to the check-in desk, and it’s like I can see the world lifting
off their shoulders," says the Lutsen-based real estate broker. "They get here
and look around, and you can see the light come on. They know they can ... More
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Lake Superior's Home Town
If
you consider it from a certain perspective, Ashland, Wisconsin, has a very
cosmopolitan and international past. Four different European countries have
laid claim to Ashland and the land around her: Spain, France, England and the
United States. In addition, eight Native American nations have lived in the
area.
When
Columbus sailed the ocean blue, the Ojibwe tribe thrived on Superior's blue
shores. In ... More
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A
Perfect Storm
Bayfield
Wisconsin is one of those places that seems to transport you to a different
place and time. It's about a four
hour jaunt from the Twin Cities, but when you get there, you'll feel as if
you've somehow traveled twelve-hundred miles, to a fishing village in Coastal
Massachusetts. Only in Bayfield,
the people are friendlier, and they don't have funny, east-coast accents. Also, there is there is ... More
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The City of Munising is
located along Michigan’s beautiful Lake Superior and the Pictured Rocks
National Lakeshore. Attractions, year-round activities, near-by Grand Island,
restaurants, shopping, and services are all located within this hospitable
community. Munising is surrounded
by water and water related activities. It is surely one of the most incredible
places to live in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Lake ... More
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Curtis Michigan is surroundedby the three beautiful Manistique Lakes - the largest lake complex in the UpperPeninsula! Large groups, families, and couples will enjoy ourwaterfront village atmosphere. We have everything in one area to fulfill all ofyour residential and vacation home needs! Lodging, restaurants, lounges /taverns, recreational rental facilities, 3 area golf courses, greatentertainment, the Erickson Art Center, gift shops, ... More
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It is a strange thing. Many people desire to own property in a beautiful place but a lot of them don’t like the words “developer” or “development.” There seems to be a contradiction between the natural beauty of the wilderness and the necessity of building on it in order to live there. For most of his career, Phil Taylor has been working to help address that problem. In fact, in 2005, Taylor changed the name of his company to ... More
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As you drive north of
Brainerd on Highway 371 and take a right on County Road 107, you may want to
keep going straight ahead on Wilderness Road. If you do, you will quickly feel
like you’ve stepped back a few years into a more relaxed time. You’ll start
driving much slower as you look to your right and left at the towering old
-growth forest. Then you’ll notice that the road continues to get darker, and
as you look skyward ... More
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All markets have ups and downs, and the real estate market is no exception. When activity slows in real estate, asking prices come down, and that’s what we’ve been seeing in the last few months. The good news is that buyers are responding. They are calling us, coming up to view properties, and purchasing that lake home or cabin they’ve been dreaming about. Buyers are finding value.
Living through a real estate market in transition is ... More
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Off to the Races
If you are looking for the world capital of turtle racing, you definitely want to visit Longville, Minnesota. They’ve got your turtles, and they are darn proud of it. If NASCAR started down in the South, it is only fitting that turtle racing starts up North. The thing is, the weekly Longville turtle races are about more than just the excitement of seeing small, kind-of-ugly reptiles battle across the finish line in ... More
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The Name
that Didn’t Work
The village
of Walker, Minnesota, was founded on the shores of Leech Lake on March 10,
1896, shortly after the railroad came from Brainerd. It was named in honor of
lumber baron, Thomas B. Walker. The idea was that Mr. Walker would be so
overwhelmed with gratitude that he would build a sawmill there and make it the
next big town of the North. The ploy didn’t work. Rumor has it that Walker did
not ... More
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Dear Lakeshore Enthusiast,
It is a warm and beautiful Sunday afternoon here at Ten Mile Lake as I am relaxing on the deck with my wife, Alissa, at her family's cabin. Our children, Lacey (14), Jackson (13) and Lily (5) are enveloped in the cabin atmosphere. While writing this column to you, our youngest, Lily, is jumping off the end of the dock over and over again. Jackson is swimming out to the diving raft and Lacey is next to me ... More
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There's
a story about a pastor who developed an overwhelming passion for golf. He
became very good at it, and he loved to boast of his drives, chips and
putts. As time passed, his love of
the game grew into an obsession. He could talk longer about his game than he
could preach. Eventually, he lost all perspective, and one Sunday he told his
parishioners that he was sick, and instead of preaching, he went golfing. One
of ... More
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When Sherman and Mae Kavanaugh purchased a small Minnesota family resort in 1969, their goal was to provide a high-quality, special place to get away. They ended up creating a family tradition of excellence that shows in everything they do – immaculate vacation lodging, world-class recreation, excellent service, and warm inviting hospitality.
Located on beautiful Sylvan Lake in Brainerd’s renowned Pine Beach Area, Kavanaugh’s ... More
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Tucked away in northern Wisconsin, just a stone throw from the Minnesota border, the Village of Siren is a hidden treasure cherished by those who live there.
Only ninety minutes from the Twin Cities, Siren is one of those perfect places to plan a romantic getaway. The serene beauty creates memories that last a lifetime. There’s plenty to do, and the people are wonderful. Visitors remark time and again that the people in Siren are ... More
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The City That Became a Town
In the heart of Ojibwe territory, the Brainerd area was first discovered by Europeans in 1805. Renowned explorer, Zebulon Pike, stopped there on Christmas Day while searching for the headwaters of the Mississippi River.
In 1870, the Northern Pacific Railroad built its Mississippi River crossing just a few miles upstream from the confluence with the Crow Wing River. "The Crossing" became a city in 1873. Northern ... More
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Minnesota/Wisconsin- Land and Cabins, LLC, one of the leading providers of recreational real estate services, announced June 16, 2008, that Cabela’s (NYSE: CAB) Trophy Properties has selected Land and Cabins, LLC as the exclusive brokerage to market recreational properties in eastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.
Land and Cabins, LLC has over 26 years of experience in woodland and lakeshore properties in Minnesota and Wisconsin. ... More
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Saint Paul, Minn. - The fishing season is upon us and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Department of Natural Resources are once again partnering with retailers and others to offer 20 lead tackle exchanges across the state this summer. The annual exchange events offer anglers a chance to try the growing variety of lead-free fishing tackle.
Lead, one of the top 25 toxic chemical pollutants in Minnesota, is found in ... More
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Back in the summer of 2003, my wife and I started to aggressively look for a lake property. We were told that what we were looking for would be impossible to find, but I had been to too many PMA (Positive Mental Attitude) Seminars and read too many Zig Ziglar books to be deterred. And really, how hard should it be to find a private lake with quality water, firm shoreline, and five hundred acres of good hunting land?
My dream was born out ... More
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Beauty & Business
Take a boat tour on the waters of the world's largest open pit mine, eat garlic cheese bread at the Pizza Hut that invented it, and watch a paper coating machine that broke a world speed record, coating nearly a mile of paper a minute. Where? Grand Rapids!
The county seat of Itasca County, Minnesota, has been a favorite vacation destination for over a hundred years. The area’s one thousand fishing ... More
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For generations, many rural Minnesotans have burned their own garbage on-site; usually in a burn barrel. It was free, convenient, and easy to do. The problem is, burning your garbage is far more harmful to your health, our health, and the environment than previously thought. Whether it’s done in a traditional burn barrel, wood stove, fire-pit, or at the cabin… if you’re burning garbage, you’re making poison.
Fifty to a ... More
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Preserving Nature
It's easy for a company to say it protects the land and preserves places for you to enjoy. It is much more challenging to not only accomplish this, but also to be the leader in designing environmentally responsible lake escapes. Legacy Land Group does both.
Legacy Land Group is earnest, almost obsessive, about its mission to create the finest affordable lakeshore getaways while protecting the land's natural beauty. They do ... More
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Ever seen a sunfish with sunglasses, swept the ice in a bonspiel, swayed to the rhythm and colors of a Native American pow-wow, or camped out for a weekend of country music? Welcome to Detroit Lakes, county seat of Becker County, where you can enjoy a sense of fun and community all year round!
Detroit Lakes is a water wonderland about forty minutes east of Fargo on Highway 10. As the name implies, it definitely is lake country! ... More
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Phosphorus is a nutrient required by all organisms for the basic processes of life. A natural element found in rocks, soils and organic material, phosphorus clings tightly to soil particles and is used by plants, so its concentration in clean lakes and streams is generally very low. However, phosphorus is used extensively in many dishwashing detergents and other household and industrial chemicals, so it can be found in higher concentrations ... More
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Deep in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, Hayward is one of those places
where you plan things like a dream wedding, a gorgeous honeymoon, or the
ultimate family vacation! Loggers come here from New Zealand to compete. Tough
guy, Al Capone, used it as his own personal retreat. In the Hayward Area they’ve
got it all - gorgeous natural settings, pleasant weather, world class
restaurants and caterers, a thriving ... More
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Humble Beginnings
“I don’t think the cows would mind being closer to the water!” In that moment of simple Norwegian stubbornness, Olaf Treland set a family standard of preserving what was truly important. Four generations later, what began as a simple saw mill on a cattle farm, has now grown into the four separate luxury resort properties that make up Treeland Resorts.
Great-grandpa Olaf came from Norway with his ... More
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The year was 1966, the scene, the National Snowmobiling Championships - Detroit Lakes, the end of day one of racing. On the sidelines sat young Jack Chivers, one could not have missed him at six foot seven and 250 lbs but they may have missed what he was thinking. Basically a change of his life plans was taking place that very moment inside his head. Before that moment, Jack Chivers – by the way you pronounce the ‘CH’ and ... More
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There are two legends in Wisconsin, the famous hero of Herculean proportion, the mighty Vince Lombardi, only to possibly be eclipsed by Saint Favre whom recently laid down his sword for what he claims is the last time. Yes, our friends in Wisconsin love their football, if there was ever an example to be used for the words "die hard" it would be e.g. Packer Fans. Packer fans love the whole football experience from swilling the bad beer, to the ... More
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Geographers have identified a location just a few miles from the town of Rugby, North Dakota, as the absolute center of North America.
Minnesota could be considered the most central state in North America, perhaps not mathematically but from a climate, arts, sports, and overall geography “things to do and see” perspective. Most know Minnesota by the ubiquitous "Land of Ten Thousand Lakes" but many don't even think of the three other ... More
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In an excerpt from Explore La Crosse, current mayor Mark Johnsrud sums things up eloquently on:
"Welcome to La Crosse ... a historic, vibrant city of over 50,000
people, nestled between the bluffs and the Mississippi River.
La Crosse has much to offer. A historic downtown with a flair for
the old but sprinkled with the new. New development has changed
the skyline of our growing city. We are creating jobs and also
enhancing our selection ... More
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Great fishing awaits you in many lakes in Northeastern WI or in the great Lake Michigan. You haven't salmon fished until you spend several sleepless nights in Algoma WI. The little sleep you do get is dream filled with visions of down riggers, big salmon, and fog and then when you are awake you are having so much fun you don't know if you are dreaming. Big fun.
For Lakeshoredreams.com, the counties grouped in Northeastern WI ... More
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Amazing fishing is to be found in the shallow prairie lakes of Southwestern, MN.
According to Gary Holmgren, here are his top lakes for the area:
Okabena Lake - Worthington MN
Okabena lake covers 785 acres and has a shoreline length of five miles. The lake is located within Worthington city limits, and the majority of the surrounding shoreline is developed.
Loon Lake - Jackson MN
Loon Lake is a 700 acre lake near the Iowa border. ... More
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The Southeastern portion of Minnesota is historic bluff country, traveling south from Red Wing, MN, to Lake City MN you will see these beautiful bluffs as you gaze upon Lake Pepin.
Background Information on Lake Pepin:
The widest part of the Mississippi is Lake Pepin. Twenty miles long, more than two miles wide and 10,500 years old, Lake Pepin was formed by the Chippewa River.
Lake Pepin is located between Bay City, WI and Red Wing, MM on ... More
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Whether canoeing the scenic Kickapoo River, or biking the Elroy Sparta Bike trail, Southwestern WI is family oriented. There is so much to do here.
Vernon County has many winding road such as the Great River Road. Another fun thing to do here is navigating the Mississippi by houseboat, fishing in Timber Coulee, exploring Wildcat State Park or visiting the Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center, and eagle watching ... More
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In Eastern WI, there are lakes, camping, hiking, backpacking, whitewater, skiing, and good snowboarding opportunites.
Eastern WI is perfect for the outdoors person. Here are some of the best fishing lakes in the areas from the six counties listed below:
Jetzers Lake (Howards Grove area)
Kellings Lakes (Dundee area)
Lake Ellen (Cascade area) ... More
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One of the places you hear often about in this South Central Region of WI are the Wisconsin Dells. What are the they? Summed up best by the official wisdells.com website:
"Wisconsin Dells has been in the tourism business for 150 years. There are three things that bring over three million visitors to the Dells each year – heart-pounding fun, waterparks and incredible natural resources.
Let's start with the fun – meaning hundreds ... More
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Real estate investors are getting more and more savvy. The best investors know they can sell a property and avoid taxes simply by trading for other like-kind property through Section 1031 of the IRS Code. Furthermore, our IRS explains “Like-Kind” Exchanges, in words only a tax accountant could love.
Like-Kind Exchanges - Real Estate Tax Tips
Generally, if you exchange business or investment property solely for business or investment ... More
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Have you ever looked at a shampoo bottle where it says, lather, rinse, repeat, but the directions never tell you when to stop? If you are a cabin owner your life may be a little bit like that shampoo bottle. Monday through Friday you work really hard at your job and somehow, someone during the week manages to get groceries, mow the lawn, and pay the bills. Friday, you repack some of those groceries and head Up North, arrive at the ... More
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The last few years, we all have been saying and hearing, "Where is the snow?...Where is the snow?" and this year Winter snow has returned. Now, you may ask, "What's SNOW?" or perhaps, "Where is the best snow?" Let's find out some answers to those questions.
But first, let’s look at a few FAQs on SNOW (for you non-IT nerds, FAQ stands for “Frequently Asked Questions”):
“What is SNOW?”
According to the Princeton ... More
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The fact that it is currently a buyers market does not apply to the residential home market only, for there are great values in the lakeshore or recreational property market right now as well. However, whether buying or selling it pays for the consumer to be well informed. Lakeshore Dreams.com, the premier Internet resource for lakeshore and recreational properties in Minnesota and Wisconsin, is sponsoring a Lakeshore Summit ... More
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It has often been said that one cannot make good decisions if they have bad or unreliable information. No where is this more true than in the buying and selling of lakeshore property. Prospective buyers have grown more wary, and real estate professionals less confident, as usable lakeshore property within commuting distance of larger metropolitan areas has become more difficult to find and its value has increased. Lakeshore and ... More
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Every home comes with a story. And all homeowners have a tale or two, as well. But it’s not every day that homeowners actually make the home’s story. A romantic Vergas couple with a penchant for preserving their personal histories has created and re-created their own legend in the voyage that has become their home.
While preparing to retire from years of work as a civil engineer and a ... More
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Have you ever dreamed of living on a lake, but couldn’t envision how to make everything else in life work if you were living in a more remote location. There are all of the kid’s activities, the thought of a long and difficult commute to work each day, medical considerations, or any of the other obstacles that life brings our way. Added to these is the frustration that comes with spending most weekends locked ... More
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As one who grew up in a larger metropolitan area, I also had the good fortune to belong to a family that owned a lake place on Cross Lake. Cross lake is a beautiful lake on the Whitefish chain of lakes near Brainerd, MN. I have wonderful memories of summers at the lake and of all those times spent with family enjoying life together. Especially memorable are the excursions to the dam near the public campground and times of canoeing with my dad ... More
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Over the last 20 years it has become increasingly difficult to find good lakeshore property at an affordable price, and prime lakeshore opportunities are rarer still. Private parties, developers and investors have all recognized that the purchasing of lakeshore property is a good investment that pays dividends well beyond a generous financial return. This recognition has led to a scarcity of premium lakeshore opportunities.
However, there is ... More
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I grew up in Kansas, where the summers were hot and muggy. As kids we played in the rivers to stay cool but usually by late August they would be a deep rust color from the surrounding clay. They also had a strong odor to them, making them very unpleasant to swim in. So it was an extremely pleasant surprise when our family moved to Minnesota and I got to experience the fresh clear water of Minnesota lakes at age 13. The contrast was both stark ... More
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When it became essential to add more storage space at the cabin, the Dahlstrom family decided to not just build a garage but to build out the area above the garage as well. And what began as a simple, and rather ordinary, building project, soon became a delightful journey through family memories and an exploration of their Swedish heritage. Their property, which is located on Ten Mile Lake near Hackensack, MN, has been in the ... More
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Water Toys: Boats, Docks, and Jet Skis, Oh my: Preparing to Buy a Boat, Dock, or Personal Watercraft
While many people prepare, plan and save for securing the dream of life on a lake, many overlook the importance of preparing for the financial demands and upkeep once cabin ownership is secured.
That’s why it’s important to keep one eye on the prize – buying a cabin or lake home – and another on the reward – being able to purchase a boat or pontoon, new dock or boat lifts, or other “toys” such as a personal watercraft or ATV ... More
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Eagle River, WI is the seat of Vilas County, and is a water and nature lover’s delight! Only 23 miles from the Michigan border, it’s adjacent to the lower 10 lakes of the 28 Eagle River-Three Lakes chain of lakes. It’s surrounded by two major forests, the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest to the west, and the Nicolet to the east, both containing abundant wild life, including; black bear, white tailed deer, red fox, and ... More
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PARK RAPIDS — Standing in the great room of her log home on Elbow Lake near Itasca State Park, Kay Miede can’t help but be pleased. Kay and husband Rick, of Andover, are seeing the final touches completed on their Golden Eagle Log Home, built by Best Properties, Inc.
“This home is the culmination of years of planning,” Kay says. “Now we’re at the point where we can enjoy it.”
The Miedes developed several different floor plans ... More
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When your cabin is located out-of-state, getting that cozy “home away from home” feeling may take some additional effort. After all - you’re a tourist and an absentee landowner. But don’t forget you’re also a taxpaying seasonal resident and your concerns deserve to be heard. That’s why thousands of Wisconsin cabin owners have brought their issues and voices together through the Wisconsin Seasonal Residents Association (WiSRA) ... More
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Ice melting off the lake and budding plants means spring is on its way and cabin owners have lots of necessary chores before the real fun can begin.
Steve Butts and his family usually spend Memorial Day weekend on Big Round Lake in Hayward, Wisconsin at their cabin. “To be honest, I don’t have many emotional feelings about spring and the cabin,” laughs Steve. “For some people it might be a new awakening, yet for me it’s making ... More
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Shortly after its purchase from the local Indian Tribe in 1831, Lake Geneva was named by its surveyor for his home town in New York State. Lake Geneva with its 5,500 acre spring fed lake, Geneva Lake, quickly began its still thriving tourist career, and a popular place for lakeside vacation homes. With the sparkling clean lake and beaches and verdant rolling landscape, it was, and still is, an idyllic getaway place.
Since the Illinois ... More
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LakeshoreDreams.com would like to congratulate Wally and Sheila Jaszkowski on winning the Old Town Penobscot Canoe drawing that was held at the Chicago and Minnesota Lake Home and Cabin Shows last month. LakeshoreDreams.com president Eric Canfield and Editor Al Josef delivered the canoe to their home in Bristol, WI.
“This is so exciting,” said Sheila, when she saw their new 16 foot red canoe that came from Cabela’s. “We’ve ... More
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Door County, the 'Thumb of Wisconsin', is a peninsula that juts eighty miles out into Lake Michigan and is one of the loveliest areas not only in the Mid-West, but in the entire U.S. It has attracted people from all over, with its artistic and cultural atmosphere, its seafaring industries and pleasures, and the charming small towns and rustic atmospheres
Here, along with gorgeous country vistas and a cornucopia of outdoor and sports ... More
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Building or buying a lake home or cabin will always be an expensive task. Between the cost of land, building materials, permits fees, and labor, a person can expect to spend several hundreds of thousands of dollars easily. If the cost of routine maintenance and upkeep is added, the cost can climb to amounts that even the most diligent of savers might have difficulty reaching. But there is an old financial adage that goes, “Don't work for ... More
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According to the National Association of Realtor’s (NAR) annual Investment and Vacation Home Buyers Survey the typical vacation-home buyer in 2006 was 44 years old and had a median household income of $102,200.
No matter what your age or income though, it’s never too early or late to consider fulfilling your dream of owning a cabin or lake property. For many the biggest obstacle to buying a vacation home is pretty simple - money – as ... More
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From the highway, Sturgeon Lake may not look like much. Countless many have passed this small community off of I-35 on their way to Lake Superior, Lake Vermilion or the other traditional lakeshore hotspots further north. But what they may not know is that they don’t have to drive that far to experience the beauty and charm of Northern Minnesota. From grand majestic lakes to quiet, out of the way hideaways, they can have it all, right ... More
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In this second article of our three-part series detailing log homes, the focus is on the details: the nuts and bolts, so to speak, of building a log home. From choosing the type of log to deciding which walls are drywalled, the basics behind the wood are explored.
First things first: your budget
The first step in basic research is to determine what you can afford and the average cost per square foot for custom homes in the region where you ... More
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Consider this. Within the next ten years, thousands of baby boomers will be at or nearing retirement. Many will be looking for a nice quiet place by the lake, but many may find that having a lake home might be more trouble than it’s worth. Having to do maintenance, repairs, and upkeep can easily sap the fun out of any weekend on the lake. Vacations up at the cabin are supposed to be about relaxing, not about doing yard work. How can you ... More
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Drahosh Northwoods—Long Lake—Grand Marais, MN—Map
Drahosh Northwoods, a planned development will be 48 lots on 146 acres on the east side of Long Lake in Crow Wing County. A total of 20 of those lots will be fronting the lake. The EAW was approved by the board and an EIS was not declared by the board.
Lake Acreage: 3,856
Ave. Depth: 438 ft
Max Depth: 109 ft
Fish: Walleye, Northern pike, Blue gill, Largemouth Bass
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After months or even years of searching, you’ve finally found the perfect site on a serene lake among dense pines. It’s time to build the lake home or cabin of your dreams, and the hardest part is over. Or is it?
The search for the right designer and builder for your lake home or cabin should take as much time as the search for the right location. And when you’re building that second or vacation home, having the luxury of time can make ... More
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Twin Island Estates – Big McDonald Lake – Perham, MN – Map
19 Single family residential homes to be erected in Edna Township along Big McDonald Lake and Archie Lake in Otter Tail County.
Update: A motion to deny the preliminary plat for the following reasons: 1) Roads need to be brought into compliance. 2)Current road doesn’t extend to southern property line. 3) A need for above ground wetland access to lake. 4) Lot lines need to be ... More
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Lakeshore homes, like the mansion “cottages” in Newport, Rhode Island, were grand affairs at the turn of the 20th century. In Wisconsin, Chicago’s rich and famous built huge summer lake houses around Lake Geneva. In other areas in the Midwest, lake cottages were really cottages, smaller and casual, more humble. Now, whatever their size, upscale vacation lake houses are being constructed all across Wisconsin.
The award winning building ... More
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American pioneers were driven by an unquenchable thirst to explore the new and unknown: to be free. To find that special place in the new world that would support them and their families. A place that they could — through honest labor — make their very own and pass along to their children.
Today’s pioneers are those who still want to go out into the world and make their mark, leaving something of themselves for those who follow. They ... More
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Instead of worrying about how to afford a lakefront home or cabin, consider making your cabin or lakefront home your primary residence. Think it can’t be done? Consider these factors before making a decision.
When Stan and Marcia Kulbitski decided to move from their St. Paul Park home to their newly purchased lake home on Lake Wapogasset in Amery, Wisconsin in the mid 1990’s, they knew there would be a trade-off.
They were giving up ... More
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After all the time and money you spent into building or remodeling your lake home, the last thing anyone wants to hear is that something wasn’t done correctly. You are well within your legal rights to take the ones responsible to court and attempt to get it fixed that way. But how successful would be?
According to a study conducted by NERA, an economic consulting firm based out of White Plains, NY, litigation rarely secures a timely ... More
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34 acre Rezone—Mississippi River—Center Township—Map
Crow Wing County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this development on March 22, 2007.
A zoning change from greenspace and agricultural to rural residential 5 was granted for 34 acres along the Mississippi river in Crow Wing County. A preliminary plat is to follow.
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Wood Crest—Upper Whitefish Lake—Crosslake, MN—Map
Crow Wing County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this development on March 22, 2007.
10 lot development on the western shore of Upper Whitefish Lake in Crow Wing County. Development covers 74.17 acres.
Acreage: 7370
Max Depth: 138 ft
Fish: Bluegill, Yellow Perch, Sunfish, Bullhead
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200 acre Rezone—Upper Cullen Lake—Breezy Point, MN—Map
Crow Wing County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this development on March 22, 2007.
A zoning change from green space and agricultural to shoreland residential 2 was granted for 200 acres along the north shore of Upper Cullen Lake in Crow Wing County.
Lake Acreage: 435
Max Depth: 45 ft.
Fish: Bluegill, Northern Pike
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When pioneers settled this country their first homes were predominately log cabins, which were generally small one or two room buildings. Today, it’s a whole new story.
Cabins can be as large as upscale houses made of conventional building materials, and equipped with all of the amenities of any high end modern home. Logs are excellent materials for recreational homes. They blend well into woods, or lakeside settings, so that the general ... More
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Twin Island Estates – Big McDonald Lake – Perham, MN – Map
Otter Tail County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this development on March 19th, 2007.
19 Single family residential homes to be erected in Edna Township along Big McDonald Lake and Archie Lake in Otter Tail County.
Lake Acreage: 935
Max Depth: 46 ft.
Fish: Walleye, Northern Pike, Largemouth bass, Bluegill
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28 acre parcel rezoned—Pelican Lake—Breezy Point, MN—Map
Crow Wing Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this zoning change on March 8th, 2007. A zoning change from green space to shoreline residential 2 has been requested for a 28.35 acre parcel located on the eastern shore of Pelican Lake in St. Louis County.
This proposal was tabled so that the claimant could provide better documentation concerning the road access to the ... More
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24 acres rezoned—Pelican Lake—Breezy Point—Map
Crow Wing County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this zoning change on March 8th, 2007
A zoning change from buffer to agricultural land has been requested for a 24.2 acre area just off the southern edge of Pelican Lake in St. Louis County. It is a wooded area with varied topography and appears to meet all the requirements for agricultural zoning districts.
Lake ... More
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40 Acres Rezoned—Mallard Lake—Lake Hubert, MN—Map
A zoning change from green space to agricultural was requested for 40 acres along the south shore of Mallard Lake in Crow Wing County. Request is in support of an upcoming plat survey
Minnesota DNR lake survey unavailable.
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Thomas Beach—Pelican Lake—Breezy Point, MN—Map
Crow Wing County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for a zoning change on March 8th, 2007.
A zoning change from buffer to agricultural was requested for 24.2 acres of land along the southern tip of Pelican Lake in Crow Wing County. Request is in support of an upcoming plat survey.
Lake Acreage: 8253
Max Depth: 104 ft.
Fish: Bluegill, Yellow Perch, Rock Bass
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Heritage Acres—Shirt Lake—Deerwood, MN—Map
Crow Wing Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this development on March 8th, 2007.
7 lots on 15 acres off the south east edge of Shirt Lake in Crow Wing.
Lake Acreage: 224
Max Depth: 38 ft.
Fish: Bluegill, Yellow bullhead
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Zoning Change for 40 acre development—Mallard Lake—Backus, MN—Map
St. Louis County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this zoning change on March 8th, 2007.
A zoning change from green space to agricultural land has been requested for 40 acres on the south shore of Mallard Lake. It is wooded with a large wetland associated with Mallard Lake in St. Louis County. Density might prove an issue here because if the change is ... More
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Visiting the Northwoods of Wisconsin is a treat everyone should experience. Expansive forests and glacial lakes provide an unforgettable vacation or a permanent change of lifestyle. A great choice for summer or winter activities includes the crystalline waters of the Lake Minocqua chain. The five popular lakes provide 5600 acres of sporting thrills and remote relaxation wrapped into one liquid package. Tourists enjoy the attraction of the ... More
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Visiting the Northwoods of Wisconsin is a treat everyone should experience. Expansive forests and glacial lakes provide an unforgettable vacation or a permanent change of lifestyle. A great choice for summer or winter activities includes the crystalline waters of the Lake Minocqua chain. The five popular lakes provide 5600 acres of sporting thrills and remote relaxation wrapped into one liquid package. Tourists enjoy the attraction of the ... More
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Gathering Shores—Sylvan and Tamarack Lakes—Backus, MN—Map
Cass County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this development on Feb. 27th, 2007.
Gathering Shores will be a 7 lot development built on a 38 acre parcel located between Sylvan and Tamarack Lake in Cass County. Four lots will have frontage on Sylvan while the remaining three will be on Tamarack. The lot sizes range between is 1 and 5 acres with frontages ranging from ... More
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Located about 15 miles north of Brainerd, the community of Nisswa serves as a gateway to Minnesota’s fabulous lake country. All year long, residents of this charming city revel in the experience of living their dreams amidst the lakes and forests of the northland. The winter season is no exception.
Seemingly all 1,953 residents of Nisswa turned out Feb. 16-18 for the 35th Annual Nisswa Jubilee, a celebration of life in northern Minnesota ... More
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It’s your lakeshore property, right? Shouldn’t you be able to clear weeds when you want?
Lakeshore property owners are pushing for legislation in Minnesota that would give lakeshore owners greater freedom to remove vegetation clogging open water and fouling swimming.
The proposed legislation would require the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to grant permits for clearing vegetation in many cases.
The DNR’s permit-granting ... More
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Drahosh Northwoods—Long Lake—Grand Marais, MN—Map
Crow Wing County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this development on Feb 22nd, 2007.
Drahosh Northwoods, a planned development will be 50 lots on 146 acres on the east side of Long Lake in Crow Wing County. A total of 20 of those lots will be fronting the lake. Action has been delayed because of an impending EAW evaluation.
Lake Acreage: 3,856
Max Depth: 109 ft
Fish: ... More
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Surfside Resort—Lake Superior—Grand Marais, MN—Map
Cook County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this development on Feb. 21st, 2007.
A conditional use permit was recommended for a planned unit development at the former Surfside Resort in Cook County . The development will feature a maximum of 26 town homes with ¼ shore units. The upper half of one unit will be a single family dwelling while the lower units will be ... More
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2 lot development—Big Elbow Lake—Waubun, MN—Map
Becker County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this development on Feb. 20th, 2007.
Located on Buck’s Trail, in the Eagle View Township, this development consists of 2 lots located in an agricultural zone in Becker County. The lots are 6.7 and 9.4 acres in size. The owner, Mr. Rodger Geddes, intends build a personal residence on the property.
The commission was ... More
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2 lot development—Boot Lake—Two Inlets, MN—Map
Becker County Planning and Zoning recommended approval for this development on Feb. 20th, 2007.
A request to rezone from agricultural to residential was made to permit this two lot development to be built in Becker County. The build site will include two tracts of land, one 4.31 acres and the other 41,450 sq. ft. There is a pre existing cabin on the current lot and will need to be moved ... More
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In the lakeshore market, if you don’t have a spare quarter million dollars for a starter cabin, then you’ve been relegated to renting one. But Mark Weber, a partner at Lakeshore Ventures, has a vision. It includes fun loving kids in water wings and practical thinking couples walking hand-in-hand along their shoreline at sunset.
Weber purchased Cokato Lake RV Resort in Cokato, Minnesota two years ago and has been testing a new business ... More
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Cedar Beach—Shagawa Lake—Morse, MN—Map
St. Louis County Planning and Zoning recommend approval for this development on Feb. 8, 2007.
Cedar Beach, a former lake cabin resort, it is to be converted into a 5 lot development on Shagwa Lake in St. Louis County. Three of the lake lots will have lakeshore access while the remaining two lots are to be zoned for septic purposes. The northern half of the property is undeveloped while the ... More
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Sunshine Beach—Eagle’s Nest 3—Soudan, MN—Map
St. Louis County Planning and Zoning board recommended approval for this development on Feb. 8, 2007.
Sunshine Beach is a proposed 3 lot development located on the southern edge of Eagle’s Nest Lake in the Eagle’s Nest Township, St. Louis County. The three proposed lakeshore lots are fairly similar in size and dimension, ranging from 1-2 acres with lake frontage between 207 and ... More
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Those who are disabled face different challenges when buying a cabin or lake property, but by following these tips below they can enjoy the benefits of life on the lake.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau over 49.7 million Americans live with disabilities every day. According to the Minnesota Disability Data Table from the 2004 American Community Survey, an estimated 566,000 people in Minnesota have a disability, or 12.2 percent of ... More
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Like the people who enjoy them, Minnesota’s lakes are plentiful and diverse, ranging from the sterile, rock bottom lakes of the Arrowhead to the naturally fertile and shallow basins of the southwest prairie regions. Depending on what you want to do with your lake home, it would be wise to familiarize yourself with these different classifications to ensure that the lake you build next to suits your needs.
The Minnesota Department of ... More
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4 Lot Development--Girl Lake—Longville, MN—Map
The Cass County Planning and Zoning Committee recommended that this development be approved on Jan. 25th, 2007.
The development is located ½ mile south of the corporate limits of Longville in Cass County. The lakeside property contains approximately 20 acres along with a 3-4 acre bay on Girl Lake, measuring 1,320ft east to west and 630ft from north to south.
Lake Acreage: ... More
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This year marks the 25th anniversary of the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon. In Duluth, it’s become a staple winter event. The Beargrease’s nearly 400-mile course, grueling terrain and high standards, makes it the longest and one of the most prestigious races in the lower 48 states. It is also a prequalifier for the Iditarod.
Weather near the lake is unpredictable, and this year is no exception. Due to lack of snow, the race has been ... More
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A college professor of mine taught that doing the lawful thing doesn’t always mean doing the just thing. Now before somebody brands me as a revolutionary and calls the feds, I’d like to point out a boundary issue in St. Louis County that I think illustrates my point fairly well.
A Short Survey History Lesson
Back in the days of Lewis and Clark, government surveyors were sent to map the land, using existing features and landmarks to ... More
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A college professor of mine taught that doing the lawful thing doesn’t always mean doing the just thing. Now before somebody brands me as a revolutionary and calls the feds, I’d like to point out a boundary issue in St. Louis County that I think illustrates my point fairly well.
A Short Survey History Lesson
Back in the days of Lewis and Clark, government surveyors were sent to map the land, using existing features and landmarks to ... More
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People who live in the lakes region of Minnesota year round appreciate the area’s beauty no matter what the season. That’s why several thousand hearty Minnesotans visit Breezy Point Resort in early January every year. They come to celebrate winter in the form of Ice Fest, an annual event that is a cooperative effort between Breezy Point and the Brainerd Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.
This year’s event was held Friday and Saturday, ... More
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One of the most stressful things any young family can do (besides getting the all relatives together for Christmas dinner) is buying a home especially if it’s their first one. But with careful planning, diligent research, and plenty of patience, most families are able to find the home that best fits their personal and financial needs. The same goes for finding a lake home. By crunching your numbers, defining what you want, and ... More
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East Loon Lake Heights—East Loon and Sybil Lakes—Vergas, MN—Map
This development was recommended for approval by the Ottertail County Planning and Zoning Commission on Jan. 10th, 2007.
4 single family residential lake lots sharing frontage with both East Loon Lake and Sybil Lake in Ottertail County.
Lake Name: East Loon Lake
Acreage: 1,048
Max Depth: 105
Fish: Bluegill, Sunfish, Northern Pike
Lake Name: Sybil ... More
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Oakwood Shores--Silver Lake—Frazee, MN—Map
This development was recommend for approval by the Ottertail County Planning and Zoning Commission on Jan 10, 2007.
19 Single Family Home Lots have been approved for building along side Silver Lake in Ottertail County.
Lake Acreage: 383
Max Depth: 65 ft.
Fish: Nothern Pike, Walleye, Bluegill
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With our recent stretch of below freezing temperatures, there is no denying that the snow will soon be upon us.. Nothing compares to the chill in the air, the sound of snow crunching under heel, and a cup of steaming hot cider after coming in from a long day outside. And for a guy who finds winter time to be the right time for fun and adventure, I couldn’t have picked a better place to move to than Minnesota.
When the temperature dips ... More
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Welcome to the new LakeshoreDreams.com, the online magazine that will help you make your dream of owning lakefront property a reality. Winter may be upon us, but as everyone else settles in and braces for the cold, LakeshoreDreams.com is rolling out a new look and new services to better serve you.
Since 1995, it has been our mission to provide owners and potential buyers with the vital information they need to get the most enjoyment out of ... More
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Raised in Eveleth, Angelo Poaletti has been helping clients find their ideal home for the past 15+ years. Before turning to real estate, Angelo worked as a banker for 22 years specializing in real estate loans, commercial lending, and appraisals. Naturally, the transition into real estate business seemed the next logical step. He earned his license in 1991 and has sold many different kinds of property ranging from single family homes to ... More
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Bill Hansen Realty first opened its doors in 1977 under the direction of Bill Hansen, Sr. Its mission was simple: to provide outstanding real estate service to their clients and it has done so for the past 29 years. Today, the tradition of excellence continues with the next generation of Hansens at the helm, Bill, Jr., and his wife Laura.
A native of Longville, Minnesota, Bill Hansen, Jr. became very familiar with the lakes area as a ... More
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Bill Hansen Realty first opened its doors in 1977 under the direction of Bill Hansen, Sr. Its mission was simple, to provide outstanding real estate service to their clients and it has done so for the past 29 years. Today, the tradition of excellence continues with the next generation of Hansens at the helm, Bill, Jr., and his wife Laura.
A native of Longville, Minnesota, Bill Hansen, Jr. became very familiar with the lakes area as a ... More
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A life long native and resident of Detroit Lakes, Dave Schiller has been a real estate broker for the past 35 years. He got his start helping manage Lake Development Company, a family owned land company since age 21. He also operated Schiller Insurance Company, a large independent insurance agency, until 1996.
He received his broker's license at age 22 and founded Schiller Realty in 1981. While successful, he found that he couldn't devote ... More
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Jen Hanson started in the real estate business not as an agent, but as a member of a construction firm. While there she honed her people skills, interacting with clients and assessing their needs on a daily basis. Those skills would later prove invaluable when she embarked on her career as a real estate agent.
She earned her license in 1997 and has been listing and selling homes in the Otter Tail County lakes area for the past eight years. ... More
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Randy Fischer began his real estate career in 1982, serving the Alexandria area. In 1984, he co-founded Counselor Realty, Inc. in Alexandria and has become one of the most prolific agents in the area. To date, he has completed more than 1500 closed unit sales worth over $200,000,000.00.
According to Randy, his success springs from his understanding of the values, needs, and issues the people of Alexandria and the surrounding ... More
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Jeff Hway's Minnesota adventure began almost 30 years ago. As a young man, this native Chicagoan made the move north to start a resort and outfitter business out by Moose Lake, about 20 minutes outside his present home of Ely. He ran his business for 20 years all the while gaining a special knowledge and appreciation of the lakes and the land around him. After he sold his business in 1997, it seemed natural to him that he moved into real ... More
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Raised in Eveleth, Angelo Poaletti has been helping clients find their ideal home for the past 15+ years. Before turning to real estate, Angelo worked as a banker for 22 years specializing in real estate loans, commercial lending, and appraisals. Naturally, the transition into real estate business seemed the next logical step. He earned his license in 1991 and has sold many different kinds of property ranging from single family homes to ... More
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Mike Larson has been a driving force behind the development of the tourism, lodging and the real estate industry in the Lutsen and overall Cook County areas. In his 20 career, he has accomplished much for his community, spear heading some major developments and serving on some very influential boards and committees.
In 1992, Mike built the Mountain Inn at Lutsen - a contemporary 30 Room Inn located at Lutsen Mountains. Afterwards, Mike ... More
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Tom Schaffer is a broker and the owner of the Johnson and Johnson Land Co. Before going into real estate, Tom started in sales, negotiating sales contracts for Honeywell. After leaving Honeywell, he decided on a little change of scenery, moving back to Turtle Lake, Wisconsin to enjoy a little of the country life. But Tom didn't slow down; instead he went into real estate, first joining Carlson Evergreen in 1979, and then joining Johnson and ... More
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Tom Schaffer is a broker and the owner of the Johnson and Johnson Land Co. Before going into real estate, Tom started in sales, negotiating sales contracts for Honeywell. After leaving Honeywell, he decided on a little change of scenery, moving back to Turtle Lake, Wisconsin to enjoy a little of the country life. But Tom didn't slow down; instead he went into real estate, first joining Carlson Evergreen in 1979, and then joining ... More
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Scott McKinney of McKinney Realty has been serving the people of the Hayward/Cable area for the past 10 years. Scott was kind enough to take a few moments out of his busy schedule to talk with LakeshoreDreams.com to answer a few questions.
LD:
How did you get started in the real estate business?
McKinney: My father stated this brokerage 31 years ago. When I was 27, I was living in Twin Cities, working at a job that I ... More
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John Beale is a lakeshore specialist. He and his father operate Sandstone Shoreline Properties, a company that specializes in locating prime Wisconsin lakefront real estate for their clients. With 3 years of experience with lakefront property, John is the go to guy to whether you're looking to build a log cabin on one of Wisconsin's premiere lakes, or a secluded vacation home to get away from it all with your family and ... More
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There are 226 permanent residents of Tofte Township. Yet there are thousands who visit annually, envious at the lives these residents lead in and around what is arguably the most geographically beautiful location in all of Minnesota.
Located 78 miles northeast of Duluth, Tofte is a destination noteworthy for all there is to do near the town. Tofte isn't designed to reward sedentary folk; it's geared toward those who want to make a break ... More
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The famous Minnesota North Shore runs along the famous waters of Lake Superior, the largest, deepest, and coldest of the great lakes. Superior along with the neighboring waters of Charming, Caribou Lake and Devil's Track Lake, make up some of the finest fishing and watersports areas in all of Minnesota.
Lake Superior is the world's largest freshwater lake covering 31,820 square miles and reaching an amazing depth of 1,302 feet. Historically, ... More
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Ely has been described as an outdoorsman's paradise. Whether you're an angler, adventurer, or just a weekend warrior, you'll be sure to find something to set your spirits soaring in this stretch of Minnesota North Country. Camping is the way to go if you want to appreciate the rugged beauty of this area. Pitch a tent or rent a rustic lakeside cabin and soak in the view.
Burntside Lake is located nine miles west of Ely, near the western edge ... More
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Rumors of gold that had prospectors scouring the Lake Vermilion area in the 1860s, but it was the discovery of iron ore to which Tower and Soudan owe their existence.
The deposits they found were rich and plentiful, leading to the establishment of the Soudan Mine in 1884, from which more than 15.5 million tons of iron ore were removed during its operation.
The city of Soudan grew up around the mine. Nearby a town site was surveyed to serve ... More
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Grand Marais--The Gateway to the Great Outdoors
Minnesota's North Shore is one of the most scenic destinations in all of the United States. Travel up Highway 61 northeast of Duluth and you will be amazed at the great sites along Lake Superior. Travel about 180 miles up Highway 61 and you will come to Grand Marais, a town of about 1,500 that offers a true outdoors experience.
You can spend a day visiting downtown Grand Marais, checking out ... More
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In the 1940's, Lake Vermillion earned the unique distinction of being named one of the top ten most scenic lakes in America by the National Geographic Society. Today, this lake known for its trophy muskie and brilliant red sunsets still holds the imagination of the outdoorsmen, artists, and writers that gaze across its magnificent waters.
With its 40,000 acres of water, 365 islands, and 1,200 miles of shoreline, Lake Vermillion offers some ... More
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Located in Itasca County, adjacent to the Mississippi River and her headwaters, is the city of Grand Rapids. Its nearly 8,000 residents live near fantastic woodlands and almost 1,000 lakes and ponds, which accounts for its popularity as a vacation destination. The city is the region's shopping center and has a long history of hospitality dating back to just past Minnesota's founding in the late 1850s.
The first European settlers and ... More
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The Township of Marcell, located 28 miles north of Grand Rapids, is noted for its resorts, wilderness, and water. Located in Itasca County, 200 miles north of Minneapolis and 100 miles northwest of Duluth, Marcell's economy is deeply tied to tourism and the lakes and forests that surround this hamlet.
Except for Highway 38 and a few small privately owned parcels of land, the Chippewa National Forest and a cacophony of nearby lakes, ponds, ... More
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Named after the nearby rapids of the Mississippi River, this former logging town was once the northernmost point for practical steamboat travel during the late 1800's. Today, the Blandin Paper Mill dam tames those rapids, but not the spirit of this small town.
No matter where you're staying in Grand Rapids, you're only a short trip away from something fun and exciting. Many lakes surround the region including Bowstring Lake, Deer ... More
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Stillwater: The Birthplace of Minnesota
Nestled comfortably on the banks of the St. Croix River, the town of Stillwater (population 16,000) offers small town charm with access to big city amenities to its visitors.
Located about 20 miles east of downtown St. Paul and only minute away from the Wisconsin border, Stillwater offers breathtaking views overlooking the St. Croix River and a downtown district with many unique shops, stores and ... More
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Terry Mattson, president of Visit Duluth, calls Duluth a cosmopolitan center on the edge of a vast, unspoiled wilderness. "Perched on the rugged cliffs of the world's largest freshwater lake, Duluth's got soul."
People in Duluth often refer to the "lake effect," meaning proximity to Lake Superior makes it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
But, the lake affects everything. It defines Duluth's landscape. On one side is the lake ... More
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Tofte, MN
There are 226 permanent residents of Tofte Township. Yet there are thousands who visit annually, envious at the lives these residents lead in and around what is arguably the most geographically beautiful location in all of Minnesota.
Located 78 miles northeast of Duluth, Tofte is a destination noteworthy for all there is to do near the town. Tofte isn't designed to reward sedentary folk; it's geared toward those who want to make ... More
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A few thousands years ago a glacier sheet measuring 20 miles long and 5 miles wide melted and created a lake named Glacier Lake Aitkin. This massive glacier lake has long since dried up, but it has left an indelible impression on what is now known and Aitkin County. Not only did it lay the foundation for the Mississippi River drainage system, but it also left behind a system of smaller lakes and rivers that has shaped the destiny of the area ... More
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While this town may claim to be the "Turtle Racing Capital of the World," don't think that it's all this city has to offer. Longville, Minnesota has been a popular vacation destination for several years now.
Surrounded by lakes and forests, this city offers a diversity of activities all year round. Some of the best boating, hiking, and fishing spots can be found in this area during the summer and fall, while ice fishing, cross country ... More
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You'll be able to find a little bit of everything in this charming town. The winter months provide quality cross country skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and any number of activities to keep the winter enthusiast occupied. Summers can be spent down by its many lakes boating, fishing, or just relaxing on the beach. However, if you are looking for some fun away from the water, Park Rapids will not disappoint.
Why not catch the Northland ... More
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The village of Walker was founded on March 10, 1896, shortly after the railroad came from Brainerd to Walker. Cass County was one ten counties created out to the Minnesota Territory on May 1, 1851. The county was named after Governor Lewis Cass, of the Michigan Territory. Cass along with Schoolcraft, led the famous expedition of 40 men to discover the true source of the Mississippi River in 1820.
The annual Eelpout Festival calls this city ... More
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According to Ojibwe legend, Leech lake, Ten Mile, and Winnibigoshish, were formed when an Indian princess drove a magical obsidian spear into a rock, bringing water and life to the once dry and barren region. Today, there is no denying that the Leech Lake region has lost none of its magical beauty and charm.
Leech Lake is the third largest lake in Minnesota that lies entirely within the state's borders. Covering 112,000 surface acres, this ... More
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Crow Wing County was named for the Crow Wing River, a somewhat erroneous translation of the original Ojibwe word, Kagiwigwan which means Raven or Raven's Feather. According to the native inhabitance, the bend of the river as it emptied into the nearby Mississippi resembled that of a raven's wing.
The first European settlers entered the region during the Christmas season of 1805. Lt. Zebulon Montgomery Pike (later of Pike's Peak fame) was ... More
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Breezy Point, MN--Green Trees, Blue Water, Great People
Located along the northern shores of Big Pelican Lake, Breezy Point has historically been a popular "up north" vacation destination. The area first began gaining popularity in the 1920s when Wilfred Hamilton Fawcett, the magazine publishing mogul popularly known as Capt. Billy, built the Breezy Point Resort in 1921. This impressive resort boasted a magnificent lodge built out of Norway ... More
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The Pine River Dam completed in 1886 was the boom that started the Crosslake area and its sole industry, logging. The chain of lakes was created in order to move the heavy beams from place to place, before that the lakes were not interconnected.
The logging camp at Cross Lake had eating and sleeping accommodations for 1,400 men. The camp included large stables, office buildings, a blacksmith shop, a small roundhouse, and warehouses. ... More
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Visitors to the lakes region of central Minnesota, particularly those from Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area, describe generically describe their excursion as "going up north." Travelers typically experience a sense of "up northness" as they pass beyond Brainerd and approach the picturesque city of Nisswa.
Leaving the corn, alfalfa and potato fields behind as they near Nisswa, travelers enter a world of crystalline lakes and lofty ... More
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Formally known as Sibley and Frogtown, Pequot Lake is seemingly named for the Pequot Indian tribe who, strangely, existed in eastern Connecticut never inhabited the region. Some attribute the strange name choice to a variation of a Chippewa word for arrow, while others point to a native American woman named O-Pequot who helped the early settlers by allowing them to use her dugout as a school and church.
This city offers idyllic conditions ... More
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Nestled in the heart of northeastern Minnesota Lake country, the Brainerd Lake Area is ideal for anyone looking to get away from it all. With over 465 lakes in the region and over 520 holes of golf to play, it's no surprise that the Brainerd Lake Area is Minnesota's #1 resort destination.
Gull Lake, one of the more popular lakes in the region, is located a few miles northwest of Brainerd. The largest lake in a chain of 7 (Gull, Upper Gull, ... More
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Located on the banks of the St. Croix River, the city of St. Croix Falls stands as the "gateway" between the upper and lower halves of this historic river valley.
Founded in 1837, St. Croix Falls stood as a hub for all the traders and the trappers as they transported their goods up and down the river valley. The famous French Canadian Voyagers would often pass through St. Croix as they traveled through the river valley trading furs and dry ... More
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When it comes to summer fun, Wayzata is the place to be. With music, fairs, an annual founders day celebration and even steamboat rides, Wayzata is the real deal.
The name Wayzata (pronounced Wise-etta) comes from the American Sioux word Waziyata. "Waziya" was their god of the North, a giant who blew the cold winds from his mouth. With the suffix "ta" added, the name meant "North Shore." In 1852, two pioneer families settled on the present ... More
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White Bear Lake--Big City Lake, Small Town Lifestyle
If you want a great lake lifestyle and experience while staying close to Metro roots, then White Bear Lake is a great place to be.
Called The City of Lakes and Legends, White Bear Lake was incorporated more than 125 years ago and is located on the northeast edge of Minneapolis and St. Paul, close to the hustle and bustle of the city, yet serene enough to make you feel like you are away ... More
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Chippewa County was established in 1848 as one of the original 28 counties of Wisconsin that covered the entire Chippewa Valley. The name "Chippewa" comes from the Indian word "Ojibwa".
The recognized father of Chippewa County is Jean Brunet who came north from Prairie du Chien in 1828. Brunet built the first dam in Chippewa Falls in 1836 and later built the dam at Little Falls, now Holcombe. While others became rich in worldly goods, Brunet ... More
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Located in Adams County, Lake Petenwell is dubbed the best kept secret in all of Wisconsin. Located one and a half hours northwest of Madison, Lake Petenwell is the 2nd largest lake in the state at a whopping 23,000 acres. On most days the waters here are calm and perfect for those who want to take out their canoe, kayak, or spend some time and relax with the family on a pontoon boat. But if it's speed you crave, Petenwell is deep enough for ... More
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"Easy to find. Hard to leave," that's what the locals say about their slice of Minnesota paradise. Formed by receding glaciers over 20,000 years ago, the Alexandria Lakes Region has breathtaking natural beauty with its lakes, forests, and rolling hillsides.
The city itself has had a storied history growing from an early pioneer settlement, to a civil war era outpost, to the bustling town that stands there today. Some historians even believe ... More
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The Alexandria area has a wealth of events and things to do during the summer, but for theater lovers there's no better place to go than Theatre L'Homme Dieu.
Theatre L'Homme Dieu on Lake L'Homme Dieu is a nonprofit professional summer theatre operated since 1961 by St. Cloud State University in partnership with a group of Alexandria citizens. It has two goals: To produce excellent professional theater and to provide a valuable experience ... More
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Fergus Falls began in 1857 when Joe Whitford was sent by his employer, James Fergus, to find a site for a new community. Along the way he encountered an Indian family who told him where there was a big falls. After finding the rapids, Whitford staked out a town site and named it Fergus Falls in honor of his employer.
Today, Fergus Falls has grown into a thriving multi-ethnic community. 13,471 now call Fergus Falls home. More than 40 percent ... More
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When you think of rural lake charm, you think of Perham.
Nestled in the northeast corner of Otter Tail County, Perham is a four seasons recreational paradise with hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails and 1,100 of Minnesota's 10,000 lakes.
Founded more than 125 years ago, Perham is named after Josiah Perham, the first president of the Northern Pacific Railroad. The railroad arrived in Otter Tail County in 1871. A mercantile store was ... More
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Whoever dubbed Minnesota "The Land of a Thousand Lakes" must have been from the Otter Tail Region. Boasting over 1048 lakes within its borders, Otter Tail County has more lakes than any other county in the entire United States. Many have dubbed this area as "The Vacationland for All Seasons" because of its combination of scenic beauty, historical attractions, and recreational facilities that can be enjoyed by families all year round.
Located ... More
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Sure, summer visitors enjoy Detroit Lakes and the 412 nearby lakes. They enjoy the nearby state parks and the bird watching along the migratory flight line.
But Detroit Lakes has something most other communities lack: A huge music festival.
Each August for 25 years, country music lovers have gathered at the Soo Pass Ranch outside Detroit Lakes for the WE Fest, a weekend of great country music featuring some of the country's top ... More
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Situated in the heart of Becker County, the Detroit Lakes region is one of the most diverse and exciting regions in all of Minnesota. Nowhere else in this great state will you be able to find all the Minnesota state symbols: the loon, pink and white lady slippers, wild rice, Norway pines, blueberries, and the majestic eagle.
With over 400 lakes and encompassing eleven communities, Becker County and the Detroit Lakes region offers abundant ... More
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First City on the Mississippi. Home of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. Curling Capital, USA. Bemidji is known for many things, the least of which being an ideal place for families to enjoy some time resting and relaxing. It was named in 1993, 1995 and 2002 as "One of the 100 Best Small Towns in America."
Bemidji is an Ojibwe word, "Bay-may-ji-ga-maug" meaning "lake with cross waters" referring to the Mississippi River which crosses Lake ... More
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Minocqua, located in the northwest corner of Oneida County, was organized and obtained Township status on March 13, 1889. Minocqua has an approximate year-round population of 4,821, and is the largest township in the northern half of the country. Minocqua's major industry is tourism and the population nearly quadruples in the summer months. The name Minocqua is said to be derived from the Chippewa Indian word "Ninocqua," meaning "noon-day ... More
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Minocqua, located in the northwest corner of Oneida County, was organized and obtained Township status on March 13, 1889. Minocqua has an approximate year-round population of 4,821, and is the largest township in the northern half of the country. Minocqua's major industry is tourism and the population nearly quadruples in the summer months. The name Minocqua is said to be derived from the Chippewa Indian word "Ninocqua," meaning "noon-day ... More
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Minneapolis, the City of Lakes, is home to a number of attractions that you wouldn't want to pass up. This jewel of the lakes offers the best in entertainment including sports, fine dining, music, and some of the best theatre in these United States. Explore and learn about the city's history on one of its historic walking tours or bike across one of her historic stone arch bridges. And don't forget the time honored favorite winter activity, ... More
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Spicer and New London
Located on the shores of Green Lake, Spicer and its next door neighbor, New London ideal country retreats. Kandiyohi County boasts over 100 lakes, most of them around these two towns. So naturally, Spicer is home to over a dozen top-notch lakeside resorts and a healthy selection of campgrounds. Visitors are also located near the beautiful Glacier Ridge Trail, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding ... More
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This county, established in 1858, bears the Dakota name or one or several of its lakes meaning "where the buffalo fish come." During the spawning months of May and June, these impressive specimens leave the large rivers where they live most of the year and mass migrate to the lakes at the heads of the small streams. One particular species, the ictobus cyprinella, often can weigh in at 30 to 40 pounds!
Victor E. Lawson, county historian, ... More
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The first settlers came to our area in 1856, followed by the railroad in 1869. Willmar was named for Leon Willmar, a Flemish land agent for the St. Paul and Pacific Railroad.
Willmar is the home of the Kandiyohi County Fair. Held each August, this celebration offers a little something for everyone, from baking to flowers, livestock to antique tractors. The kids will love the rides and you'll enjoy all the food, music, and entertainment ... More
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A few miles east of St. Croix Falls one can find the Village of Turtle Lake. With over 250 named lakes nestle amid the rolling hills and woodlands, one finds themselves right in the middle of what the Wisconsin Northwoods has to offer. These forests of pine, maple, oak, and birch are homes to a wide variety of wildlife including bear, fox, deer, loons, herons, wild turkey, and the always majestic bald eagle.
Originally the area was ... More
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Clear waters, lush woodlands, and storied histories await those visit here.
Just 20 minutes east of the St. Paul/Minneapolis metro area is Hudson, WI. This rapidly growing community is a great introduction to the region combining the natural beauty of the St. Croix River Valley with a friendly and progressive small town community. You can play golf, explore the shops, or just relax at one of their historic bed and breakfasts before heading ... More
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As all roads lead to Rome, anyone headed to the Northwoods of Wisconsin will be passing through Spooner. In matter of fact, they'll be right in the middle of it all. With over 900 lakes in the area, who could resist dropping a line or taking a swim in the beautiful waters of Spooner Lake, Red Cedar Lake, or the Minong Flowage. Spooner's central location to the waters and its easy access to the many of the trails and parks in the area make it ... More
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As all roads lead to Rome, anyone headed to the Northwoods of Wisconsin will be passing through Spooner. With over 900 lakes in the area, who could resist dropping a line or taking a swim in the beautiful waters of Spooner, Red Cedar, or the Minong Flowage. Take a relaxing hike along one of the many trails that weave through the area, or tear down them in a snow mobile.
Spooner Lake is located approximately 2 miles east of Spooner, ... More
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Cable's story begins in 1659 when French explorers, Radisson and Grosellier hired Native American guides to take them across Lake Superior and into the head of Chequamegon Bay. Although primarily interested in opening trading relations with the local Indians, these early explorers often wrote home describing the beauty of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests.
Their exploration of what is now Bayfield County proved to be quite ... More
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The Superior South Shore of Wisconsin shares a rich maritime history with its close neighbor to the north, Duluth Minnesota. While it is the smaller of the two Twin Port cities, it doesn't lack any of the charm or appeal that keep people coming back for more. The city of Superior offers breathtaking views of the lake, unique attractions and events, and easy access to the over 431 lakes scattered found throughout Douglas County.
One great ... More
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Bunyan buffs will know that this town is the home of Lucette Diana Kensack, Paul's girlfriend and eventual wife. They celebrate this union during the Paul and Lucette Wedding Anniversary Celebration held in June. The carnival like atmosphere includes arts and crafts, remote controlled airplane demonstrations and a canoe race.
Music lovers will enjoy Sweetheart Days in July, Lucette's very own rock 'n' roll festival, and fans of wood carving ... More
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