Community Focus

Becky Hale, Event Chairperson for the Brainerd Lakes Area Women of Today, joins Community Focus to talk about the return of the popular Flock Your Friends fundraiser, taking place throughout August and September. Learn how the fundraiser works, how you can surprise friends, family, or coworkers with a flock of pink flamingos, and how the proceeds benefit two local animal rescue organizations: Heartland Animal Rescue Team (HART) in Baxter and Northern Lakes Rescue in Brainerd. Becky also shares how the community can get involved while supporting a great cause.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Wayne Harting, Commander of Brainerd American Legion Post 255, and Billy Lowe, 2nd Vice Commander and Gambling Manager, join to discuss the Brainerd Legion Baseball team's run at the state tournament this weekend and the excitement of Brainerd hosting the state tournament next year. They also invite the community to attend the Benghazi Memorial on August 15 and preview the Labor Day celebration honoring America's 250th Birthday, highlighting opportunities for the community to come together in remembrance and patriotism.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lakers Lions Club members Ken Baalson and Don Smude talk about the 18th Annual Project New Hope/Mike Wilder Golf Tournament. The tournament raises money to send veterans who are returning from battles overseas on a vacation to area resorts with their families as they try to get back to "normal" lives after tours of service. Adittionally, the Lakers Lions Corn Feed - another fundraiser they host each year to support programs like the Lions Eye Bank, Leader Dog Program and the Lion's Diabetes Program.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cindy Myogeto, Director of the Crosslake Chamber of Commerce, joins Community Focus to highlight all the summer fun still ahead in Crosslake! From family favorites like Big Fun Tuesdays and Saturday evening Music in Town Square to the Crosslake Train Club, there's no shortage of activities for residents and visitors alike. Cindy also previews an exciting weekend of events, including Rockin' on Whitefish, the Crosslake Art Show, Camp Knutson's Quilt Auction, the Crosslake Fire Department Pig Roast, and the always-popular Cardboard Boat Races at Moonlite Bay. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ericka Heid, Executive Director of the Cuyuna Lakes Chamber of Commerce, shares what's happening across the Cuyuna Lakes area as the community gears up for a busy late summer season. Ericka previews the Chamber's upcoming Gear Up networking event, highlights all the fun planned for Deerwood Days, looks ahead to The Crusher gravel bike race, and shares the remaining Music in the Park concert dates. If you're looking for ways to connect, celebrate, and enjoy everything the Cuyuna Lakes area has to offer, this episode has all the details.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sarah Smith, Executive Director of Smiles for Jake, is joined by Emma Sheflo and Chloe Czech, co-event coordinators for the upcoming Miles for Smiles event at Forestview next Thursday. They share what's planned for this year's event, including a special Moment of Remembrance and Butterfly Release honoring loved ones lost to suicide. They also discuss the importance of mental health awareness and the availability of on-site mental health professionals for anyone who would like to talk, find support, or learn more about local resources.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cast and crew from Pillsbury Players joins to preview School of Rock, the nonprofit community theater's premier summer musical for 2026. Learn about this high-energy production, what audiences can expect from the show, and how Pillsbury Players continues to enrich, educate, and entertain the Pillager community through live theater. Plus, get all the details on performance dates and showtimes so you can catch this fun-filled musical on stage.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Joey Yow, Director of CLC Performing Arts Center in Brainerd talked about a number of upcoming events including the currently running "Mean Girls" and the upcoming auditions for "Sweeny Todd." Yow invited area youth to participate in this summer's theater camps and also discussed the Cultural Arts Series that continue at CLC for the public to attend.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sue Galligan, Director of Special Events for the Brainerd Lakes Chamber, joins to preview the Chamber Golf Classic coming up August 13. Sue shares how businesses and golfers can still register teams and take advantage of remaining sponsorship opportunities. She also highlights an upcoming WAVE Business After Hours event, looks ahead to the festivities planned for Crosslake Days, and previews the Chamber's next Celebration of Excellence recognizing outstanding businesses and community leaders.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kelly Johnson, SHIP Coordinator with Crow Wing County, and Rena Bolt, Community Health Specialist with Crow Wing Energized, stop by to talk about a busy summer of healthy living initiatives. They preview their upcoming presence at the Crow Wing County Fair, share details on the upcoming "Got Plans?" Save the Date event, and give an update on the popular "Where's the Carrot?" Wednesdays, including some of the fun locations the traveling carrot has visited across the community. Tune in to hear how these programs are encouraging healthier lifestyles while bringing people together throughout Crow Wing County.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Baxter Police Chief Matt Maier and Officer Tim Carroll join to preview Baxter's Night to Unite coming up Tuesday, August 11th at Oscar Kristofferson Park. They'll discuss what families can expect, how the event helps strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community, activities for kids, safety demonstrations, emergency responders, local organizations taking part, and why Night to Unite continues to be one of Baxter's biggest community-building events.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Karla Shepard-Johnson, Andrea Anderson, and Jayley Andresen join us to preview the Great Lakes Academy of Performing Arts' upcoming production of Into the Woods. They'll share what audiences can expect from this beloved musical that intertwines classic fairy tales with unexpected twists, discuss the show's memorable characters and themes, offer a behind-the-scenes look at rehearsals, and explain what makes this production special. They'll also cover performance dates and showtimes, ticket prices, how to purchase tickets, and why this is a must-see production for theater lovers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brainerd Fire Chief Tim Holmes joins to discuss the extensive renovation project underway at Fire Station 1. Holmes explains what prompted the upgrades, the improvements being made to modernize the station, and how firefighters are continuing to respond to emergencies while construction is taking place. He also shares what residents can expect during the renovation process and how the updated station will better serve the Brainerd community for years to come.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Katie Waugh, Wildlife Program Coordinator with Wild and Free Wildlife Rehabilitation, joins us to give an inside look at the wide variety of animals currently being cared for at Wild and Free, the resources it takes to support them, and how the community plays a critical role in their success. Finally, Katie highlights their upcoming raffle fundraiser at Garrison Play Days and a new Silent Auction in August. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shane Riffle, CEO of the Brainerd Family YMCA, stops by to share the latest on a busy summer at the Y. He discusses the continued success of the Summer Meals Program, which has already served more meals than all of last summer, along with updates on the popular Couch to 5K program, youth summer sports, swim lessons, and current membership specials. Shane also explains why the Kids Triathlon has been canceled for this year and looks ahead to what's still to come at the YMCA.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tony Housey, Public Affairs Officer at Camp Ripley, joins to recap the installation's recent 95th Anniversary celebration and discuss the early planning already underway for Camp Ripley's 100th birthday in 2031. Tony shares how the public can help preserve Camp Ripley's rich history by submitting artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that may become part of the centennial celebration.Tony also previews several large military training exercises coming to Camp Ripley in the coming months, explaining what area residents can expect, including an increase in military activity and training-related noise.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Faith Hamson, Marketing Coordinator for the Lakes Area United Way, recaps the success of the Llama Llama Read-O-Rama literacy event and shares a save-the-date for the upcoming Chili Cook-Off, one of the organization's signature community fundraisers.Then, Lynn Fairbanks, Executive Director of Mounted Eagles, explains how grant funding received through the Lakes Area United Way helps provide life-changing therapeutic riding opportunities for participants and highlights several upcoming events and ways the community can get involved.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brainerd Warriors Activities Director Jack Freeman, Brainerd boys hockey head coach Jerr Johnson, and Brainerd/Little Falls girls hockey head coach Tony Couture preview what's ahead and celebrate the incredible hockey community that makes this event so special. Then, on July 18, the complete HDM27 schedule, featuring games from youth hockey through adaptive hockey, college and pro showcasing every level of the sport as we march toward Hockey Day Minnesota 2027See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Captain Adam Fulton and Lieutenant Karla Beierman discuss the recent increase in traffic fatalities across Minnesota and stress the importance of making safe choices behind the wheel as the busy Fourth of July travel weekend approaches. They talk about slowing down, eliminating distractions, always wearing a seatbelt, driving sober, and planning ahead to help keep everyone safe on the road during one of the year's busiest holiday weekends.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jen Chock, Healthcare Career Outreach Specialist at Central Lakes College, and Kathy Cottew, Workforce Development Specialist with Essentia Health, discuss the upcoming Scrubs Camp, happening July 28 and 29 at the Central Lakes College Brainerd campus and St. Joseph's Medical Center. They highlight the hands-on experiences available to students interested in healthcare careers, the opportunity to explore a variety of medical professions, and how the camp helps inspire the next generation of healthcare workers through interactive learning and mentorship.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Aryn and Courtney Kern join to talk about the upcoming Lakes Area Art Show, taking place on July 4. They highlight talented local and regional artists displaying everything from paintings and photography to jewelry, pottery, woodworking, and handcrafted gifts. The Kerns discuss this year's participating artists, the welcoming atmosphere for families, and how the event celebrates creativity while supporting the local arts community.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cory Jay, President of the Merrifield Lions, previews this year's Merrifield Parkfest and Car Show, happening Saturday, July 18. Cory shares everything attendees can look forward to, including a wide variety of classic, custom, muscle, antique, and specialty vehicles, plus a unique remote-control car class that's sure to entertain visitors of all ages. The day also features a beer garden, great food, family-friendly activities, and plenty of community fun. Learn how the Merrifield Lions continue to bring the community together through this popular annual event and why Parkfest has become a summer tradition in the Brainerd Lakes Area.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jory Danielson, Crow Wing County Administrative Services Director, joins to discuss everything voters need to know ahead of the upcoming Primary Election, including important dates, voting options, and how residents can make sure they're prepared before heading to the polls. Jory also shares details on the County's ongoing Coffee Talks, which provide an informal opportunity for residents to meet with county leaders, ask questions, and learn more about local government. The conversation wraps up with a preview of the upcoming Crow Wing County Fair, highlighting what visitors can expect and how the county is preparing for one of the area's biggest annual events.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Executive Director of Brainerd Community Action and Brainerd Mayor Dave Badeaux joins to highlight the busy lineup of community events leading up to Brainerd's Fourth of July celebration. Dave previews everything from family activities to live entertainment and patriotic traditions that make Independence Day in Brainerd a community-wide celebration. He also discusses the importance of supporting local businesses and organizations while showcasing what residents and visitors can expect during one of the area's biggest weekends of the summer.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Talia Brodhead, Community Engagement Coordinator with MN Prevention & Recovery Alliance and BLADE, and Lanaya Tilbury, Director of Programming at Lighthouse Beginnings about the upcoming Northern Minnesota Recovery Summit which will focus on expanding understanding, challenging the stigma and uplifting the belief that everyone in recovery deserves to be seen, heard and supported. It's geared for those in recovery and those that support people in recovery. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kristy Crocker, Lead Veterinary Technician at Brainerd Animal Hospital, and Isabel Glover, Marketing Manager for the Babinski Foundation, join Eric Grant and Tess Taylor to preview this weekend's Pups in the Park at Lum Park. They discuss the fun-filled event for dogs and their owners, including activities, vendors, demonstrations, adoptable pets, and how the event supports local animal welfare efforts. They also share tips for keeping your pets safe and comfortable while enjoying a day at the park and explain how the community can get involved in supporting homeless animals across the Brainerd Lakes Area.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nicole Heinen, Executive Director of the Pequot Lakes Chamber of Commerce, joins us to talk about everything happening during Stars & Stripes Days 2026, including the parade, live entertainment, family activities, fireworks, and all the community fun planned throughout the celebration. Nicole also gives us an early look at Bean Hole Days, coming up next month, and shares details on the events and traditions that make it one of the area's most anticipated summer events. Tune in to hear how Pequot Lakes is gearing up for two of its biggest community celebrations of the year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Taylor Lesmeister, Health Educator with the Crow Wing County Public Health, joins us to discuss the increased presence of ticks and mosquitoes during the summer months. Taylor shares information about common tick- and mosquito-borne illnesses found in Minnesota, symptoms to watch for, and practical steps families can take to reduce their risk. The conversation also covers proper use of repellents, tick checks, protecting children and pets, and what to do if you find a tick attached. It's important seasonal information to help keep you and your family safe while enjoying the outdoors.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Kat Emard and Sarah Fleischacker join us to talk about several upcoming community events. They share details on their upcoming garage sale fundraiser, discuss the bags tournament fundraiser at CC's Bar in July, and explain how community support helps their organization continue its mission. They also preview their Annual Family Fun Day on August 9, highlighting activities, family-friendly entertainment, and ways local residents can get involved. Tune in to learn how you can support these events and enjoy a fun-filled day with the community.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Matt Killian, President of the Brainerd Lakes Chamber, talked about the new Drive 210 campaign that is underway during the reconstruction and improvements being made to Highway 210/Washington Street through Brainerd. Discussion on the importance of continuing to patronize businesses along the 210 corridor during construction and ways listeners can find maps and information regarding the project and detours. They also talked about upcoming 4th of July events in Pequot Lakes including Stars & Stripes Days, Beanhole Days and the next Business After Hours.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Martha Smithson, Early Learning Principal with ISD 181, and Jennifer Lindholm, Early Childhood Programs Secretary, join to discuss registration opportunities for preschool and the district's Voluntary Pre-K program. They highlight the benefits of early childhood education, what families can expect from the programs, and important enrollment information for the upcoming school year. Martha and Jennifer also share details on the many summer opportunities available for area children, including camps, classes, enrichment activities, and family programs designed to keep kids learning, exploring, and having fun throughout the summer months.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mayor Tyler Gardner and Julie Meister, Deputy Clerk and Police Department Administration for the City of Pequot Lakes, join Community Focus to talk about the return of Saturdays Under The Bobber XL. The expanded community celebration takes place on the third Saturday of June, July, and August in downtown Pequot Lakes and features live music, local vendors, family-friendly activities, food, and entertainment for all ages. Tyler and Julie discuss why Pequot should become a summer destination for residents and visitors alike. They also share details on vendor opportunities, community involvement, and what attendees can expect during each monthly event.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brainerd Family YMCA CEO Shane Riffle discusses the summer youth sports programs, membership specials, and the YMCA's continued search for additional staff members to help support expanding programs and community activities throughout the summer.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Jolie Bray, Clinical Manager at Good Samaritan Society - Home Care & Hospice, and Maggie Chapin, Clinical Admission Specialist, discuss the upcoming Hope Takes Flight: Butterfly Memorial on June 18th. They share how this special event provides families and community members an opportunity to honor and remember loved ones through a meaningful butterfly release ceremony. Jolie and Maggie explain the significance of the event, who can participate, how memorial butterflies can be reserved, and the support services offered through hospice care. They also discuss the importance of remembrance, healing, and bringing the community together in celebration of life.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brad Chapulis, Baxter City Administrator, joins to discuss several ongoing projects around the city, including updates on road construction and improvements to local parks. He also talks about how area baseball organizations are making extensive use of Baxter's ballfields throughout the summer weekends. Brad puts out a call for residents interested in serving as election judges for upcoming elections and provides updates on several business developments around the city, noting that projects previously discussed are continuing to move forward into their next phases.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brainerd Public Works Director Paul Sandy and City Administrator Nick Broyles join to discuss the city's construction projects. Broyles also shares updates on a job opening within the city as well as their Dial-A-Ride services.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jennifer Lowe, Director of Foundation and Community Relations for Cuyuna Regional Medical Center Foundation, joins Community Focus to preview the upcoming Community Classic Golf Scramble on June 19. Jennifer discusses how proceeds from the event support the Courage Cabinet, a program that provides financial assistance to local cancer patients facing hardships during treatment. She shares ways businesses and individuals can get involved through sponsorships, donations, and participation in the tournament, while highlighting the impact the program has on families throughout the region.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Paul Preimsberger, Director of Secondary Relations and Narren Brown, Dean of Enrollment Management and Student Success join to talk about fall semester as well as how traditional and non-traditional students can apply for scholarships. They also discuss the increase in PSEO students and a couple dates for information on PSEO for homeschool families.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Debby Erickson, Crow Wing County Administrator joins to provide insight on the response to the Flanders Wildfires from the county perspective. Debby also talks 2026 Primary Election information as well as county road construction and their new community education series at The Center.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Faith Hamson with United Way, sharing info about their United Way Vision Council, revealing the 14 local agencies the United Way will partner with the upcoming fiscal year. Faith also previews the June 27th Lama Lama Read-O-Rama at the Northland Arboretum. Plus, details on their upcoming Pop-Up Pantry later this week.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sharla Fillhouer, President of Nisswa Women's Club and Mary Beth Jones, Fashion Show Committee Chair talk the upcoming Annual Fashion Show hosted by the Nisswa Women's Club on June 18 at Grand View Lodge. They share details about this year's event, including the fashion showcase, luncheon, fundraising efforts, and how proceeds support scholarships and community projects throughout the Brainerd Lakes Area. They also discuss ticket information, volunteer involvement, and the long-standing impact the Nisswa Women's Club has on local communities.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leann Plinske and John Grandin join to talk about the programs offered through Let's Go Fishing, including fishing excursions and nature tours that provide outdoor experiences for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. As Minnesota Master Naturalists, they also discuss the educational aspects of the outings, opportunities for local businesses and organizations to become sponsors, and the ongoing need for volunteers to help make these programs possible throughout the Brainerd Lakes Area.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.