Community Focus

Darcy Walcowiak, Executive Director at The Center, joins Community Focus to highlight several upcoming events and opportunities to get involved. She previews their annual plant sale, a fun Bingo & Meat Raffle combo event, and shares details on the unique Snacklebox fundraiser. Walcowiak also puts out the call for nominations for the 2026 Outstanding Senior Volunteer, recognizing those making a meaningful impact in the community.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 for the Minnesota Prevention and Recovery Alliance and Program Coordinator for the BLADE Coalition, joins to discuss the upcoming Drug Take Back Day on April 25th. She shares how the event helps safely dispose of unused medications and reduce the risk of misuse in our communities. Brodhead also previews the Northern MN Recovery Summit, highlighting its role in bringing together resources, education, and support for individuals, families, and professionals working in prevention and recovery across the region.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trevor Pumnea, Executive Director, Northland Arboretum, to talk about the many activities and classes available at the Arboretum. Trevor also did a winter recap and talked about the Arbor Day event at the Northland Arboretum and additional programming available.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 the latest developments on the Highway 371/210 overpass project. Brad expands on other road, new residential and commercial projects planned that will continue Baxter's rapid growth. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brainerd Public Utilities Director Paul Sandy and City Administrator Nick Broyles join to discuss the city's upcoming wastewater treatment facility needs and a new water treatment plant study. Broyles also shares updates on community favorites returning for the season, including the Community Garden, youth fishing clinic, and Movies in the Park.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest Kennedy Niska, Executive Director, Legacy Chorale of Greater MN, joins to preview the April 27th presentation of Alzheimer's Stories from Legacy Chorale of Greater Minnesota. Ahead of the concert, attendees can take part in a resource fair offering information and support for those impacted by Alzheimer's. Kennedy also shares an update on the new choir, Still We Sing, and highlights their upcoming debut performance on April 12th.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, joins us to recap the success of the 2026 Taste of the Lakes event and the impact it continues to have on the community. Shane also highlights Healthy Kids Day coming on April 18th at the Y. Plus, with summer right around the corner, he shares details on seasonal programming and how families can get signed up for youth activities, camps, and more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Joel Clough and Nate Olson, Board Members, Brainerd Sports Boosters join us to talk about the 11th Annual Tapped and Corked happening Saturday, March 18th at the Essentia Health Sports Center. They share how funds raised directly support local student-athletes and activities, how to get tickets, and extend a big thank you to the sponsors and donors who make it all possible.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 Lakes Area United Way joins to recap the Brainerd Elks recent reading events at the Brainerd Public Library, highlighting their impact on local youth and literacy efforts. She also previews the upcoming “Run for the Roses” Kentucky Derby fundraiser on May 2nd, supporting community initiatives. Plus, Hamson shares details on the United Way's plans to bring back the popular Llama Llama Read-O-Rama, continuing to encourage reading and family engagement across the Lakes Area.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, and Shelby Fitch, Lead Advocate, join to highlight Sexual Assault Awareness Month and the vital support available to victims in Crow Wing County. They discuss the range of confidential services offered, from advocacy and crisis support to education and prevention efforts, aimed at helping survivors heal and empowering the community. The pair also preview several upcoming events and fundraisers throughout the month, designed to raise awareness, foster community involvement, and support ongoing services for those affected by sexual violence.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lindsay Riffle, Executive Director of ISP, Paul Drange, Chief Regional Solutions Officer at Sourcewell, and Randy Thompson, educator at Menahga High School, join to highlight the 2026 Innovative Teacher of the Year award. Thompson is announced as this year's recipient of the $2,500 classroom grant and shares how he tailors learning experiences to match his students' individual interests. Drange also discusses Sourcewell's long-standing partnership with ISP in supporting and recognizing outstanding educators through this award.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lori Rubin, Development Director, Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity, RuthAnn Veith, Realtor, J. Hanson Real Estate Group and Danielle Lambke, Star Dancer, talk about the history of Lakes Area Habitat for Humanity and the upcoming fundraiser, Dancing with the Lakes Area Stars. They also discussed the closure of Habitat's Restore.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jon Aga, Associate VP of Advancement, and Sue Bremer, CLC Instructor at Central Lakes College, join Community Focus to talk about the upcoming Hats Off event, along with Empowered '26 and the 5K for Mental Health Awareness. They also preview their April job fair, highlighting opportunities for students, employers, and the community to connect.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 discuss the Land Services team seeking public comment on proposed revisions to the County Land Services Ordinance, along with updates on county parks as we head into the warmer months. Debbie also previews Severe Weather Awareness Week and shares details on upcoming Weather Spotter classes, giving residents a chance to get prepared and stay informed this spring.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shawn Hanson, Executive Director of The Outreach Program, joins us to talk about how their organization is helping provide meals to families locally and across Minnesota. She also shares details on two upcoming ways to give back- the Warrior Day of Service on April 8th and the Run for the Lakes on May 2nd.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Isaiah Moengen, Founder and Executive Director, and Allyson Moengen, Board Secretary, stop by to share details on the upcoming Hero's Banquet happening Friday, April 24th at the NP Center. The event aims to support local first responders and community heroes, with funds going directly to those facing hardship or unexpected need right here in the Lakes Area. Isaiah also highlights the inspiring Return the Favor Fleet mission... giving a retired emergency vehicle a powerful new purpose. Instead of responding to emergencies, it will now travel throughout the community delivering gratitude and recognition to those who serve.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mary Savage, Volunteer Coordinator and Facilities Manager with the Relationship Safety Alliance, along with Steph Charles, Lead Visitation Supervisor at the Alex & Brandon Child Safety Center, stop by to highlight Volunteer Appreciation Week and recognize the impact of those who give their time to support families in the community. They also preview a couple of upcoming fundraisers, including a bake sale next month and a garage sale planned for June. Steph shares details on the next round of Love & Logic classes, as well as an upcoming Family Fun Day at Gregory Park, offering families a chance to connect, learn, and enjoy time together.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mark Persons, Vietnam Veteran, and Webmaster, Brainerd VFW, with Buford Johnson, Vietnam Veteran, to talk about the Vietnam war, and about National Vietnam Veterans Day.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Colleen Dols, Office Manager of the Brainerd Lakes Chamber, and Seanay Berghuis, founder of Talent Development Co, join the conversation to preview the upcoming Success Series. The event is geared toward helping local businesses attract and hire new employees while navigating today's competitive job market. They discuss practical strategies, along with valuable resources available to HR departments to strengthen recruitment efforts, improve retention, and build more effective teams. The conversation also highlights how investing in talent development can drive long-term growth and success for organizations 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.

Guest Brad Pieper, Chair of Local Organizing Committee- Hockey Day Minnesota 2027 previews the once-in-a-lifetime event coming to the Brainerd Lakes Area July 25–30, 2027 at Brainerd International Raceway. He highlighted sponsorship and donor opportunities, the need for volunteers, and teased several community events that will build excitement leading up to Hockey Day.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Crow Wing Energized representatives, Rena Bolt, Community Health Specialist, Essentia Health, and Kelli Johnson, SHIP Health Educator with Crow Wing County, recapping the Community Health Initiatives ReThink Your Drink, One Vegetable, One Community, and the CLC 5K for Mental Health.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ginger Agustinack and Lane Larson, Legendary Women of Brainerd Public Schools Committee Members, talking about the annual Legendary Women Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony of remarkable women, all of whom are graduates of Brainerd High School.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sue Galligan from the Brainerd Lakes Chamber and Ashly Gilson of the Mid Minnesota Builders Association preview the upcoming Brainerd Lakes Home Show and Expo, March 20–21 at the Essentia Health Sports Center. They highlight over 180 vendors, home improvement ideas, live demos, and family-friendly fun, making it a must-attend event for homeowners and anyone looking for inspiration.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Taylor Demuth and Peter Grant stop by to talk about Future Warriors Night coming up March 25th. The event invites incoming kindergarten students and their families to get an early introduction to school by visiting classrooms, meeting teachers and staff, and learning more about what to expect in their first year.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest is Chris Glassman, Member of Aurora LodgeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tony Housey and First Lieutenant Colton Rossow from Camp Ripley Public Affairs stop by to discuss the installation's goals for 2026 and provide a look back at the first 75 days of the year at Camp Ripley. They talk about the increasingly busy training schedule as military units from across the region prepare for upcoming exercises, and also update the public on the installation's planned controlled burns for the year, which are an important part of land management, wildfire prevention, and maintaining the training environment.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kelly Pederson, a Ronald McDonald House Charities mom, joins to share her family's emotional journey as her four-year-old daughter, Lacie, undergoes multiple heart surgeries. Kelly talks about how the Ronald McDonald House has become a vital home-away-from-home, giving their family a place to rest, recharge, and find support while focusing on Lacie's recovery and growing strength each day. She also highlights the difference RMHC makes for families facing medical crises far from home. Through March 17th, local McDonald's owner/operators will donate 25 cents from every Shamrock Shake sold to Ronald McDonald House Charities Upper Midwest, a promotion that raises more than $50,000 annually and helps provide complimentary lodging, meals, and essential support for families traveling to Minnesota and across the Upper Midwest in search of the best care for their children. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest is LeRoy Ailts, Brainerd Plunge CoordinatorSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests are Nick Hiesserer, Dean of Career & Technical Programs and Jon Aga, Associate Vice President of AdvancementSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest Jory Danielson, Administrative Services Director with Crow Wing County, joins to talk about several important updates for residents. He highlights Minnesota Township Day on March 10th, a chance for community members to participate in local township meetings, and reminds voters about upcoming mid-term elections and the importance of staying informed. Jory also discusses a new GIS mapping training opportunity that is open to the public, giving residents a chance to learn how to better access county mapping tools. In addition, Crow Wing County is currently hiring seasonal watercraft inspectors to help protect local lakes from invasive species. He also previews upcoming county road projects and reminds drivers that seasonal load limits will be taking effect soon as spring approaches.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest is Faith Hamson with United Way, sharing info about their "Once Upon a Storytime" at the Brainerd Public Library. Also how to get involved in their Partner Program grants and how local organizations can apply for funding. Faith also explains how community members can get involved through the United Way Vision Council, which helps review grant requests and guide where those dollars go. 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.

Guests Jessy Eide from Moonlite Bay and Jared Griffin, Camp Director at Camp Knutson, stop by to preview the 25th Annual Ice Tee Open at Moonlite Bay. This winter tradition brings the community together for a one-of-a-kind day of golf on the ice, all while supporting the life-changing programs at Camp Knutson. They'll share what makes this milestone 25th year extra special, from the family-friendly atmosphere to the exciting silent auction, raffles, and food and drink specials throughout the day. It's a fun way to embrace winter in the Brainerd Lakes area while making a meaningful impact for kids and families served by Camp Knutson.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Justin Jerve, Board Member of the Brainerd Amateur Hockey Association, stops by to talk about their upcoming “Try Hockey For Free” event happening March 3rd at the Essentia Health Sports Center. Boys and girls ages 4–9 are invited to come out, try on full hockey gear, and get on the ice in a fun, welcoming environment designed especially for beginners. Justin shares what families can expect, how the association helps make hockey accessible for new players, and why this free event is the perfect opportunity to see if hockey might be the right fit for your child.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Patrick Spradlin, Co-Producer, Actor and Founder of Actors Repertory Theater and Cory Johnson, Co-Director and Actress about their upcoming production of "Three Viewings," a 3-person, monologue play that will be performed at the Dryden Theater at Central Lakes College in Brainerd. The guests also talked about the Actors Repertory Theater and how they are different from other theater companies in the lakes area and about the way they donate to area non-profits following each of their productions.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 with the Brainerd Lakes Chamber, joins to preview a busy stretch of networking and community events across the region. She highlights the upcoming Business After Hours at Central Lakes College, a great opportunity for local professionals to connect, followed by Eggs and Issues on Friday, March 6th, where timely topics take center stage. Sue also reminds listeners to mark their calendars for the always popular St. Patrick's Day Parade and Celebration in Crosslake. Plus, she shares details on the Brainerd Lakes Home Show and Expo, happening March 20–21, and previews the next Blue Ox Success Series Workshop, “AI Unpacked and Unfiltered,” designed to help businesses better understand and navigate the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Michelle Gonska, Board President, and Laura Cook, Board Secretary and Show Chair, stop by to preview the 51st Annual Ice Show at the Essentia Health Sport Center. They'll share what audiences can expect from this year's performances, highlight special appearances by guest skater Sonja Hilmer at all three shows, and extend heartfelt thanks to the sponsors who make the event possible. Plus, they'll explain how skaters- young and old- can get involved with the Vacationland Figure Skating Club and become part of this long-standing community tradition.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest is Executive Director, Sarah SmithSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guests Kelli Johnson from Crow Wing County Public Health and Kara Schaefer, Community Health Specialist with Essentia Health, join to discuss the 8th Annual reThink Your Drink Water Challenge, encouraging residents to build healthier hydration habits. They also continue celebrating the carrot as the Vegetable of the Year, sharing simple ways to incorporate it into everyday meals. In addition, the guests preview the 5th Annual 5K for Mental Health Awareness, happening April 25, inviting the community to come together in support of mental health education, awareness, and local resources.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kennedy Niska, Executive Director of the Legacy Chorale of Greater Minnesota, joins to preview this weekend's highly anticipated Disney Spectacular performances. He shares what audiences can expect from this family-friendly celebration filled with iconic Disney favorites, vibrant staging, and talented local voices bringing the magic to life. Kennedy also highlights the upcoming Youth Choral Festival in March, an inspiring opportunity for young singers from across the region to come together, learn, and perform in a collaborative setting designed to foster both musical growth and community connection. Plus, the adult ensemble is hard at work preparing for an exciting collaboration with the National Lutheran Choir, a special partnership that promises a powerful and memorable choral experience for performers and audiences alike.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mallory Goerges, Crosslake Parade Committee Chair, and committee member Alisha Novak join the show to preview the 52nd Annual Crosslake St. Patrick's Day Parade, one of the region's biggest spring celebrations. They discuss the new 1:15 p.m. parade start time, along with returning favorites like the Pot O'Gold Hunt, 5K Clover Dash, and the lively Yardi Pardi festivities happening throughout town. The guests also highlight the parade raffle and Lucky Lanyard promotion, all as the community prepares to welcome thousands of visitors for a full day of Irish-themed fun, tradition, and celebration in Crosslake.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Becca Rugemer, Director of Marketing for IceFest, joins the show to preview this year's highly anticipated winter celebration. She shares details on the massive 714-foot Ice Carousel, how the team successfully brings the engineering feat to life, and whether organizers have their sights set on a future Guinness World Record attempt. Becca also highlights the many family-friendly activities planned throughout the event, from interactive winter attractions to entertainment designed for all ages, making IceFest a can't-miss experience for the entire community.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest is CEO Shane RiffleSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.