NLAA Receives the 2025 Jackpine Bob Cary Community Spirit Award

The Ely Chamber of Commerce has named the Northern Lakes Arts Association (NLAA) the recipient of the 2025 Jackpine Bob Cary Community Spirit Award. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals and organizations that selflessly dedicate their time and talents to enhance Ely's community spirit. Under the leadership of Executive Artistic Director Ian Francis Lah, NLAA has redefined what it means to be a community-centered arts organization in the Northwoods. They are not just entertaining; they are engaging, educating, and transforming lives.

“It is so exciting to see the work that NLAA has been doing over the past three years being recognized by our community,” said Lah. “We believe our greatest gift to the community is our creativity. We want to provide opportunities for everyone to experience the awe and wonder of the arts. Receiving this award, just as we begin planning our 40th anniversary season, is an exhilarating way to start.”

Honoring the Legacy of Jackpine Bob Cary

Few names are as deeply woven into Ely’s identity as Bob Cary, affectionately known as "Jackpine." He was a prolific writer, talented artist, radio personality, cross-country ski enthusiast, and a lifelong ambassador for Ely and the stunning Boundary Waters. His columns, illustrations, and storytelling brought people closer to the heart of Ely. He combined sharp wit with warmth, celebrating the region's rugged beauty and strong community spirit.

The award celebrating his legacy honors the same spirit. It recognizes dedication to community, a sense of place, and a commitment to share it with others. This award is not given every year; it is only presented when a group or individual embodies Cary’s joyful, generous legacy. In 2025, NLAA truly rose to that occasion.

The Arts as a Catalyst for Community and Tourism

Founded in 1986, NLAA has been a cultural cornerstone in Ely for nearly four decades. In recent years, its impact has deepened significantly, making it a vital force for both the arts and the community's economic vitality.

Under Ian Lah’s leadership, NLAA has introduced new pricing models that make the arts more accessible. They now offer theater education for both youth and adults, new partnerships, and a fresh commitment to creative placemaking. Their programming now includes musicals, concerts, workshops, visual arts, and immersive community events, all while keeping the arts deeply connected to the people and landscape of Ely.

One of NLAA’s most noteworthy achievements in recent years was launching the Great Nordic Shakespeare Festival in January 2025. This festival not only attracted new visitors during the coldest months of the year, but it also brought Shakespeare to life in local classrooms.

“The best part of the Shakespeare Festival wasn’t what the public saw,” said Lah. “It was what the students experienced. During the festival, we visited five regional schools, including Ely and Vermilion Country School. Watching these kids become enraptured by Shakespeare filled our actors with so much joy, especially since many were unsure if modern youth would appreciate it. But they did. And it was pure magic.”

A teacher from one of the participating schools later reflected, “Some of our students have never seen live theater before, much less Shakespeare. They were so engaged — they laughed, leaned in, and asked questions. The festival opened a door to a wonderful world they didn’t know they could love.” These moments remind us that the arts are not a luxury; they are a gateway to curiosity, empathy, and self-confidence for young people still discovering their identities.

Through initiatives like these, NLAA has positioned Ely not just as a wilderness destination but as a growing arts and cultural hub in northern Minnesota.

Looking Ahead: A New Chapter as NLAA Prepares to Turn 40

As NLAA gears up to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2026, this award serves as a significant moment of reflection and anticipation. The organization is not yet disclosing specific programming details, but its vision is clear: the future of NLAA will focus on connection, inclusion, and creative sustainability.

“We envision NLAA as an economic resource that benefits the town. Our aim is to attract new residents to make Ely their home and create a welcoming space where everyone can experience the arts,” said Lah. “Through the arts, we can foster a more compassionate, knowledgeable society — a society that cares about one another and our planet.”

NLAA’s anniversary season will honor the past while actively shaping Ely's future through creativity, inclusivity, and courage.

A Community that Believes in the Arts

For NLAA, receiving the Jackpine Bob Cary Award is not just about leadership or programming; it symbolizes community collaboration. The success of the arts in Ely relies on the efforts of volunteers, donors, artists, teachers, families, and supporters who unite to make this shared vision a reality.

“While we are so grateful for the support from Ely and all our sponsors and donors, we look forward to continuing this important work,” Lah added. “We are committed to leading our community through our actions, words, and energy devoted to our cause.”

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the NLAA Board of Directors, our dedicated production teams, volunteers, and community collaborators. Special thanks go to the teachers, small business owners, and families who make the arts a part of daily life in Ely. Thank you for believing in the power of story, for your commitment, and for helping us continually build something beautiful together.

For more information about NLAA’s programming and upcoming events — or to support their work — visit *www.northernlakesarts.org