Wildersmith on the Gunflint
Contributor(s):
Fred Smith
Fred Smith, a native Iowan re-located to the wilderness of border country at the end of the century, has been writing of happenings in the upper Gunflint territory for going on eight years, first with the local paper, and since December 2008 for WTIP North Shore Community Radio. Fred feels life in the woods is extraordinary, and finds reporting on it to both a reading and listening audience a pleasurable challenge. Since retirement as a high school athletic administrator from Ankeny High School, Ankeny Iowa in 1999, the pace of Fred's life has become less hectic but nevertheless, remains busy in new ways with many volunteer activities along the Trail. Listen at your convenience by subscribing to a podcast.
Arts, cultural and history features on WTIP are made possible in part by funding from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Check out other programs and features funded in part with support from the Heritage Fund.
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Wildersmith January 27
Fred Smith-With our northwoods January fading fast, the month got a little brittle last week. Typically, the third stanza of month one is the coldest of the season and it was no exception so far this year.
Wildersmith January 20
Fred Smith-Winter in the north woods, mellow as it has been, is already a month old and whizzing by fast.
Wildersmith Jan. 13
Fred Smith-Winter on a yo-yo, yes! Another northwoods meltdown slipped in on the territory just when we thought “Mr. Cold and Blustery” had things under control.
Wildersmith January 6
Fred Smith-Gunflint territory is headed off into a new year and the month of the full “wolf great spirit moon” (Gich Manidoo).We folks cherish this special place and sure hope the essence of our Janu
Wildersmith December 30
Fred Smith-Just like old-time cowboy hero, Gene Autry used to sing, “I’m back in the saddle again.” It’s great to be at home sweet home in Gunflint Country after a fine time with family a
Wildersmith, December 9
-As our northland Christmas season progresses, “all is calm and all is bright.”
Wildersmith December 2
Fred Smith-After a Thanksgiving run to Iowa for a family visit, the Smiths are back in the woods. One thing for which I continue to be thankful is that “wonder dog” from over on Hungry Jack Lake.
Wildersmith November 18
Fred Smith-Quiet is the catchword in border country as we pass the halfway point of month 11.
Wildersmith November 11
Fred Smith-The season that north country folk anticipate at this time of year continues AWOE (absent without explanation).
Wildersmith November 4
Fred Smith-The 20th anniversary of the northland’s great Halloween snowstorm was celebrated quietly with no repeat.
