Community Focus

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 2027

See 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.