The physical doors are closed to Detroit Lakes Public Library but the virtual library is open! DL Public Library's head librarian Greta Guck talks about access to the LARL system during the pandemic including the ability to apply for a library card online and begin using it within 24 hours of the application. 

First, Becky Mitchell from Becker County Museum in Detroit Lakes talks about the museum's closure during the COVID-19 pandemic and the addition of popular craft kits and a class to their online store . Also, details about a STEM class addition. Becky says supplies are being assembled with gloves and masks worn and will be shipped or dropped on your doorstep at no charge! Part 2 of Hodge Podge features an update from Becker County Environmental Services Steve Skoog and Sandy Gunderson who share about new hours at the Transfer Station and continuity of the recycling program. 

Today on Hodge Podge, Kelly Blackledge, Tamarac Refuge encouraged people to get outside and soak in the signs of spring. She shared the call of the mystery bird, Red-winged Blackbird.  The males have arrived in lakes country and are displaying their bright red and yellow epaulets or shoulder covert feathers. Learn more about this bird and hear it's call here: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-winged_Blackbird/id  Photo: Red-winged blackbird by Blackledge/USFWS"

District 4B Representative Paul Marquart (DFL-Dilworth) updates listeners on the passage of legislation March 26th to make available $330-million for the State's response to COVID-19.

Lake Park Audubon School Superintendent Dr. Paula Henry's message on the district's distance learning plan from Facebook Live on March 26, 2020

Detroit Lakes students are about to enter into a new chapter of education, distance learning. DLHS counselors Doreen Richter and Sara Pender share some ways for students and parents to cope during the social distancing aspect of distance learning and also some things juniors and seniors need to know to plan ahead for college or a career. 

Detroit Lakes School District joins all Minnesota K-12 schools who begin distance learning as ordered by Governor Tim Walz earlier this week. Detroit Lakes School Superintendent Doug Froke Thursday, March 26th discussed the I.S.D. 22's next steps as they enter into this new chapter, this new normal of educating our kids. 

Becker County's Emergency Manager Craig Fontaine talks about his role in aiding local emergency responders with masks and hand sanitizer. He also shares information on personal safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, the formation of Detroit Lakes Volunteers corps and local websites to turn to for more information on public access to buildings. 

DLHS Activities Director Rob Nielsen talks about high school sports and activities that have been cancelled during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shares the core mission of Detroit Lakes Activities for students to to be "Champions in life". 

Kelley Nowell from the CareerForce center in Detroit Lakes shares information about resources available for those searching for jobs in Becker, Mahnomen and Otter Tail Counties.