Community Focus

Katie Waugh, Wild & Free Wildlife Program Coordinator, joins to recap another busy summer at the nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation center in Garrison. Katie also shares updates on new outdoor enclosures, the more than 2,200 hours volunteers contributed this summer and opportunities to get involved. Plus, she previews upcoming events at Ripple River Gallery on September 19 and Oktoberfest at Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort October 16–17, and shares some of the unique donations the center can use right now as its animals prepare for fall and winter.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Kim Lynch, Interim President of Central Lakes College, and Paul Priemesberger, Director of Secondary Relations, join to talk about the start of the fall semester and how things are going as students settle back into life at CLC. They also remind anyone considering a new career path, returning to school or taking the next step in their education that it's never too early to apply and enroll for the Spring 2027 semester. Plus, Dr. Lynch introduces herself to the Lakes Area, shares a look at her career in education and discusses what attracted her to Central Lakes College and the opportunity to serve the CLC community.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Crow Wing County Veterans Service Officer Erik Flowers joins to discuss the many services available to local veterans and their families. Erik explains how the Veterans Service Office provides free, accredited assistance with VA disability claims and appeals, healthcare enrollment, burial and survivor benefits, military records, financial assistance and more. He also shares why veterans shouldn't assume they're ineligible for benefits and warns about “claims sharks” and predatory companies charging veterans for services they can receive for free.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 with the Lakes Area United Way, joins to recap the success of this year's Stuff-A-Bus school supply drive and the impact the community's generosity will have on local students. Faith also previews September's Hunger Action Food Drive and how you can help support local families facing food insecurity. Plus, businesses, nonprofits and restaurants are encouraged to mark their calendars for Wednesday, October 14 for the always-popular Lakes Area United Way Chili Cook-Off!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Patrick Spradlin and Beth Selinger, Co-Founders of Actors Repertory Theater, chat about their upcoming performance of "Lend Me A Tenor" that will be performed at Chalberg Theater in Brainerd. They talked about the content of the show and also about the theater company and how it donates back to the community. This show will help support cancer patients through The Pink Ribbon Cupboard.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brenda Conley, Interim Walk Manager for the 2026 Walk to End Alzheimer's, joins to preview this year's walk, happening Saturday, September 26 at Forestview Middle School in Baxter. Brenda talks about the continued need for walkers, teams and volunteers, how people can get involved, and why community support is so important in the fight to end Alzheimer's. She also shares what participants can expect on walk day and how every step helps support Alzheimer's care, research and awareness.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kevin Denny, Director of Development for Brainerd Catholic Churches, visits about the upcoming Run for the Son Faithful 5K/10K Walk/Run - a community event and fundraiser for a number of charities in the area. The charities are chosen by those participating. They also talked about the Speaker Series coming to the Gichi-ziibi Center for the Arts in November that will feature Tik Tok star Tanner Kalina. He will be giving a speech for area youth entitled "Heart of the Matter" geared to uplift and provide support for "screenagers" who may be struggling with tragedies recently happening in their lives.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lt. Carla Beierman & Lt. Lance Turcotte with the Minnesota State Patrol visit about the success of the B.I.R. Event over the weekend and how there were no major incidents with traffic during that event. After that, they talked extensively about the upcoming school year traffic. With new drivers, new roundabouts/roadways and the use of electric scooters, drivers need to pay EXTRA attention when driving this fall during morning and afternoon hours. They discussed school bus stop-arm laws and also about car seat rules for smaller children. The two also invited listeners to visit them at the Minnesota State Fair during MN State Patrol day.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Heather Stanley with the Regional Local Advisory Council joins Community Focus to discuss what Regional LAC is all about and the role it plays in supporting individuals and families throughout the area. Heather highlights some of the resources, advocacy and assistance available through the council and shares details about a free, family-friendly event happening this Thursday from 12-3 at the Northland Arboretum.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jessica Gangl, Executive Director of the Brainerd Public Schools Foundation, and Cohen Gangl, an 8th grader at Forestview Middle School, join to talk about BPSF's mission and goals for the upcoming school year. Jessica shares how funding is still available for Brainerd Public Schools educators and provides an update on the Warrior Store and the support it provides throughout the district. They also preview several upcoming BPSF events, including Cocktails for a Cause, Bingo at the Brainerd American Legion and the BIG EVENT, coming up February 19th, 2027.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Taylor Lesmeister, Public Health Educator with Crow Wing County, joins to talk about radon and why it's an important health concern for Minnesota homeowners. Taylor explains what radon is, where it comes from, how it can enter our homes and why long-term exposure can pose serious health risks. She also walks through how easy it is to test your home for radon, what the results mean and what steps homeowners can take if elevated levels are detected. Crow Wing County currently offers free radon test kits to area residents.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jack Wawro, Tournament Director, and Jen Lowe, Director of the CRMC Foundation, join Community Focus to preview next week's CRMC Championship at Cragun's Legacy Courses. They discuss the tournament, the field of golfers coming to the Brainerd Lakes Area, what fans can expect throughout the week, and the impact the event has on the community. Jen also highlights CRMC's involvement in the championship and how the tournament helps support the CRMC Foundation and its mission.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, Brainerd Lakes Chamber about a number of upcoming Brainerd Chamber events. She highlighted the Blue Ox Leadership Experience and that there were only 10 seats left to fill for the 2026/2027 Class, which begins in September. They also talked about Business After Hours events in August and September, WAVE Young Professionals events and the upcoming Celebration of Excellence awards recognizing the "best of the best" in businesses in the Brainerd area for the 2026 year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chip Rankin, Superintendent of Brainerd Public Schools, joins to discuss what has been a trying first couple of months on the job and how the district is working to support students, families and staff. Rankin highlights resources available to parents and students and talks about ways the community can get involved in supporting local schools. He's also spearheading a new “Warriors for Warriors” group, bringing together Brainerd alumni who want to help meet needs throughout the district. Rankin also encourages community members who have a little extra time to consider volunteering in one of the district's buildings.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brittany Goerges, Program Coordinator for the Crow Wing Master Gardener Program with the University of Minnesota Extension, visits about what a Master Gardener is and does. Brittany encouraged listeners to attend the group's largest fundraising Plant Sale coming to the area and explained how to become a Master Gardener in the future. She explained the different benefits of becoming a Master Gardener and the requirements it takes to become and stay qualified as a Master Gardener.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, Brainerd Family YMCA talks about current youth happenings at the YMCA. They talked about fall programs for kids and adults. They also discussed sport events and registration deadlines, fall membership rates and the upcoming Coats for Kids drive.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Heidi Fairchild, Executive Director of Sexual Assault Services; Brittany Bottem, Advocate and Event Coordinator; and Curt Pribnow, Criminal Justice Instructor at Central Lakes College, SAS board member and board co-chair, preview the Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event happening Saturday at the Northland Arboretum. They discuss what participants can expect at the event, the message behind Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, and how the fundraiser supports the work Sexual Assault Services provides throughout the area. They also talk about the importance of raising awareness, involving men in the conversation, and supporting survivors in our communities.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Baxter City Administrator Brad Chapulis joins Community Focus to discuss the latest happenings around the City of Baxter. Brad recaps the primary election, provides an update on the city's budget process, and talks about the progress of several road construction projects currently underway. He also shares updates on business developments and moves around Baxter, including Chick-fil-A, the VA building, Panera Bread and more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cindy Westberg, Criminal Justice Advocate, and Linai Epps, Advocate at the Louise Seliski Shelter, discuss the programs and services offered by Relationship Safety Alliance, their ongoing goals, and the various support groups that meet throughout the month. Linai also recaps the recent bean bag tournament at CC's Bar and previews this weekend's Family Fun Day at Gregory Park.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Erich Heppner, Dean of Staples Campuses, Central Lakes College, visits about the upcoming Fall Semester and the opening of enrollment. Erich then discussed the top programs that were offered at the Staples campuses - the programs that CLC Staples is most well-known for. He encouraged lakes area businesses to partner with CLC when looking to hire in the Brainerd and surrounding areas. He also invited community members to come to the campus to tour, to walk and to dine because the campus is open to all - not just enrolled students, faculty and staff.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, is joined by Finance Director Nancy Malecha and Business Analyst Matthew Donley to discuss the County's Popular Annual Financial Report, a look ahead at the five-year budget forecast, and what residents need to know about the upcoming Primary Election.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 with Lakes Area United Way, joins Community Focus to talk about the annual Stuff A Bus school supply drive in partnership with Hubbard Radio. Faith shares how the community can help local students start the school year with the supplies they need, explains where donations can be dropped off, and reveals the theme for the 2026 Lakes Area United Way Chili Cook-Off. She also invites everyone to save the date for this year's event on October 14 at the Northern Pacific Center.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jarod Griffin, Camp Director, Camp Knutson and Volunteer Brenda Peterson talking about the 40th annual Quilt Auction to raise money for Camp Knutson.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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.