Happenings around the Perham area, April 3-13

The Perham Focus accepts community calendar items for publication online and in our Thursday print edition, space permitting. Submissions must be made at least a week in advance of the event date, in writing, to either editor@perhamfocus.com or vgerdes@dlnewspapers.com.

Each submission must include the date, time and location of event, whether it is recurring or a one-time happening, and where to go for more information (phone, email and/or website). Also include whether the event is free or paid admission, and how much it costs when applicable.

M State Job Fair: Minnesota State Community and Technical College in Detroit Lakes will host a Job Fair from 2-5:30 p.m. in the conference center. Businesses can register for participation through Thursday, March 27, by contacting the Chamber of Commerce at 218-847-9202 or filling out the form at the website, visitdetroitlakes.com/event/job-fair-april-3 to reserve their spot. Questions? Call Kelley or Rita at 218-846-7377 or 1-800-492-4810. This event is open to the public.

Nosy Neighbor Tour-Disgruntled Brewing: Join Elevate at Disgruntled Brewing, 735 NE 2nd St., Perham, for a "Nosy Neighbor" tour from 3:30-4:30 p.m. and explore the world of craft beer. Learn about the brewery's diverse range of beers, discover the brewing process, see their facility, and savor two 5 oz. samples. Stick around for Happy Hour to unwind and enjoy their finest brews with new and old friends. Must be of legal drinking age (i.e., 21 and above) to participate. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required for planning purposes. Please sign up online at elevateotc.org/events or call 218-347-1974 to reserve your spot.

Beginner Pickleball: Come to the Perham Area Community Center from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and dive into the world of pickleball with some beginner lessons hosted by the PACC and Elevate. Other players will teach participants the basics so they can jump right into the action. All supplies will be provided. First session is free; sign up at elevateotc.org/events to reserve your spot.

Easter Egg Extravaganza: The Perham Area Community Center will host an Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt from 4:30-6:30 p.m., with the Easter Bunny himself stopping by to visit from 4:30-5:30 p.m. and an Easter Egg Dive scheduled from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Cost is $6 per child. All are welcome.

Operation Trailhead Telethon: Catfish Larry and the Ladypants will host an old-fashioned telethon benefiting Operation Trailhead from 7-8 p.m. This event, which will be streamed via Facebook Live, will feature performances, local celebrities, music, and some good old-fashioned fun.

St. Henry's Fish Fry: St. Henry's School in Perham will host a Lenten fish fry from 5-7 p.m. in the school gymnasium. Cost is $15 for adults, $7 for children ages 6-12, and free for preschoolers age 5 and under. You can dine at St. Henry's or order a takeout meal by calling 218-346-4240 between 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. (meals should be picked up at the church that evening). Menu includes fish, baked potato, vegetable, coleslaw, French bread, bars and a drink. All are welcome.

Detroit Lakes Craft Beer Tour: Area residents age 21 and up can come enjoy unlimited 2-ounce samples of beer, hard cider and malt beverages at the Detroit Lakes Craft Beer Tour, taking place from 5-9 p.m. at Kent Freeman Arena in Detroit Lakes. The first hour is for VIP ticket holders only; the rest of the time is open to all. Tickets can be purchased online at craftbeertours.com. Cost is $30 general admission or $50 VIP (which includes a sampling mug, specialty beer samples and lots of tour swag).

Ham Bingo: Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Frazee will host an afternoon of Ham Bingo from 1-3 p.m. Ten games will be played, with cost for all games set at $25 for 3 cards; $20 for 2 cards; or $10 for 1 card. One ham will be given to the winner of each game; consolation prizes will be given for multiple bingos in the same game. Last game is blackout, with the grand prize being supplies for a ham dinner. Proceeds will go to support special projects at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. All ages welcome for this family-friendly event.

NYM Tea Party: The Friends of the New York Mills Public Library will host a tea party at the library, starting at noon. The menu will include assorted finger sandwiches, scones, a variety of desserts, lemonade, and a choice of tea, all for $25 per person. Reservations must be made no later than Friday, March 28, and limited seating is available, so call 218-385-2436 to reserve your spot as soon as possible.

Springo Bingo: The Dent Community Club will host a Springo Bingo fundraiser at the Dent Community Center from 12-3 p.m., with a meal featuring Sloppy Joes to kick things off at noon, for a free will offering, and bingo starting at 1 p.m. Cost is $10 per packet, which includes cards for 10 games of bingo (additional game cards may be purchased for $1 each). Daubers will be available for $1 each, though you can also bring your own. Come for the meal, for bingo, or both. All ages welcome; this is a family-friendly event.

Acton Children's Business Fair: The Perham Area Community Center will host an Acton Children's Business Fair, with businesses created and launched by children, from 2-4 p.m. Come experience young minds showing their marketing, selling and other business skills. All area kids from age 6-14 (grades K-8) are eligible to apply for a booth; the $5 booth fee will be collected at the event. Sign up online at childrensbusinessfair.org/rootsandwings to reserve a spot for your young entrepreneur. Attendance at the fair is free and open to the public. Hosted by the Roots and Wings Forest School, in partnership with the Perham Area Chamber of Commerce.

Square Dancing: Join the Lakes Country Twirlers for a square dance in the Detroit Lakes IOOF Hall, 118 West Holmes St., from 2-4 p.m. Caller is Bill VanGergen. Cost for the dance is $5 per person. Call 218-849-9317 for more information. All are welcome.

WOYC Kickoff Party: The Early Childhood wing at Frazee Elementary School will host a kickoff party for local Week of the Young Child festivities from 5-7 p.m. There will be a petting zoo and lots of indoor and outdoor activities. Open to the public.

Foot Care Clinic: Perham Living will host a foot care clinic from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with services provided by Polished Beauty & Wellness Spa in the salon. Appointments will cover nail trimming and filing, as well as filing of calluses. Cost is $30; contact Christina at 218-371-8888 or polishedspa18@gmail.com to book your 20-minute foot care appointment.

Elevating Histories: All are welcome to come to the Perham Area Community Center at 12:15 p.m. for "Elevating Histories," an opportunity for adults to learn how to preserve their personal life stories for future generations. Participants will receive thoughtful prompts and questions that encourage them to reflect on their life experiences, memories, and lessons learned. There is a one-time fee of $5 when you join your first session, and pre-registration is requested. Sign up online at elevateotc.org/events or call Amanda Kohler at 218-347-1974 to reserve your spot.

Detroit Lakes Shrine Circus: The Shrine Circus returns to Kent Freeman Arena for its 29th year in Detroit Lakes, with shows planned for 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 each, for school age children through adults. Children age five and under are admitted free of charge. Tickets are available for advance purchase at Central Market in Detroit Lakes until the day of the show; they will go on sale at the door one hour before the start of each show.

Coffee Talk-Memory Cafe: Join Elevate at the Perham Area Community Center for a casual "coffee talk" and learn about Elevate's new Memory Cafe, a welcoming space for individuals and care partners to connect, share experiences and gain valuable insights into dementia and memory care. Free and open to the community, though an RSVP is requested if planning to attend. Sign up online at elevateotc.org/events to reserve your spot.

Nosy Neighbor Tour-The Backyard and J & L Nutrition: Get ready for an exciting behind-the-scenes tour as you explore their four incredible facilities: J&L Offices and the Backyard Store, the Backyard Boarding facility, the Playcare & dog training facility, and the J&L seed warehouse. Each stop offers a unique glimpse into their diverse services, from pet grooming and dog daycare to custom feed rations and specialized seed mixes for farmers. There is no cost to participate in the tour, but space is limited, sop registration is required. Sign up online at elevateotc.org/events or call 218-347-1974 to reserve your spot.

Art for Lunch: Join artist Cheryl Bannes at the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center for a fun art activity over the noon hour (12-1 p.m.). This month, participants will learn how to "Paint Like Grandma Moses." Cost is $10 per persno, which includes instruction and materials. Feel free to bring your own lunch; the Cultural Center staff will supply a complimentary beverage to enjoy. Call 218-385-3339 or go to the website at kulcher.org for more information.

Nosy Neighbor Tour-Maple Lane Syrup: Join Elevate at Maple Lane Syrup, 29463 460th St., Vergas, for a "Nosy Neighbor" tour from 1-3 p.m. and learn about the process of making maple syrup. Take a walk through the woods, get a look at the syrup-making equipment, and enjoy a free sample of their product. Please dress for the weather, and wear comfortable walking shoes. there is no cost to attend, but a registration is required for planning purposes. Please sign up online at elevateotc.org/events or call 218-347-1974 to reserve your spot.

Chamber Choice Awards: The Perham Area Chamber of Commerce will present its annual Chamber Choice Awards at a banquet taking place from 5:30-9 p.m. at The Cactus in Perham. There will be a social hour at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m., and awards presentation at 7:15 p.m. Six awards will be presented, including those for leadership, hall of fame, humanitarian of the year, volunteer of the year, Best in Business and Small Town Spirit. The public is invited. Purchase your ticket online at perham.com/choiceawards, email chamber@perhamcc.com or call 218-346-7710 to reserve your seat.

Vault & Vine Fundraiser: A "Vault and Vine" fundraiser for Perham's Vault Gymnastics and Youth Fitness will take place at Spanky's Stone Hearth, 34785 County Road 4, Frazee, starting at 6 p.m. This event will include a four-course wine and food pairing dinner, plus raffles for a variety of adventure packages, including tickets to Minnesota Vikings football and Twins baseball games as well as the sold-out show "Grease" at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre in Shakopee, which features Perham native Sam Stoll as Danny. All proceeds directly benefit the youth fitness programs at the Vault, which are designed for kids from 18 months to 18 years of age. Tickets are $100 per person; you must be age 21 or above for admittance. To purchase tickets, visit perhamvault.com or call Nate Chesley at 970-630-6929.

Caleigh in Concert: The New York Mills Regional Cultural Center is excited to welcome Caleigh, a Minnesota-based trio known for their vibrant fusion of world folk, Celtic, bluegrass, and American Old-Time music, for a special Irish Concert at 7:30 p.m. (postponed from March 15). This event is part of the Center’s 2025 Winter/Spring Concert Series and is open to all music lovers. Pay what you can, support what you love! No tickets required, but please RSVP if you plan to attend by signing up online at kulcher.org or calling 218-385-3339. The evening will feature a cash bar and light refreshments. All are welcome.

Vergas Maple Syrup Festival: The community of Vergas will host its annual Maple Syrup Festival from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a pancake feed at the Event Center from 7:30-11:30 a.m., Saps Running 5K Fun Run/Walk starting at 9 a.m. in front of the Summers Design Center (registration opens at 8:30 a.m.); horse-drawn wagon rides by Farm 41 from 9 a.m.-noon, starting and ending at the Vergas Methodist Church; Maple Syrup Producers Contest at the Summers Design Center from 8-10 a.m., with winners announced at 11 a.m.; a maple syrup presentation by Camp Aquila's Stu Peterson at Billy's Bar and Grill at 10 a.m.; and live maple syrup-making demonstrations and activities at Maplewood State Park from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Vergas businesses and restaurants will also be offering a variety of specials throughout the day.

MDHA Fundraiser Banquet: The Salty Pickle Bar and Grill in Perham will host the 34th annual fundraiser banquet for the East Otter Tail chapter of the Minnesota Deer Hunter's Association, starting at 5 p.m. with a social hour. Dinner will follow at 6:30 p.m., and there will also be both live and silent auctions, games, door prizes, raffle drawings and more. A total of 34-plus guns and many other nice prizes will be given away. Tickets are $50 (includes $35 MDHA membership) and may be purchased from any board member as well as at Gene's Sport Shop or the Salty Pickle. You can also send an email to eastottertail@mndeerhunters.com to reserve your seat, or for more information.

Frazee Fire Department Fundraiser: The Frazee Fire Department will be hosting its 17th Annual Fireman's Relief Association Fundraiser from 5-9 p.m. at the Frazee Event Center. Events will include both live and silent auctions, food and beverages for sale, and games and drawings throughout the evening. Open to the public.

NYM Trivia Night: The Friends of the New York Mills Library are hosting a night of trivia competition at Mills Liquor, 26 W. Centennial 84 Drive, New York Mills, starting at 7 p.m. Cost is $20 per team, with a maximum of four people per team. The competition is limited to 12 teams, so advance registration is required. Go to the library and pay the registration fee (cash or check only) before April 12 to reserve your team's spot. Teams will compete for fun, prizes and bragging rights. Spectators welcome. Call the NYM Public Library at 218-385-2436 for more information.

"He's Alive" Lenten Cantata: Singers from area communities are joining forces to present a Lenten Cantata, "He's Alive! A Celebration of the Living Lord," at 3 p.m. in Trinity Lutheran Chur ch, 424 E. Gilman St., New York Mills. A second performance will take place at St. Henry's Catholic Church in Perham at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 16. All are welcome.

Life-Size Candy Land: The Preschool Academy of Detroit Lakes is sponsoring a "Life-Size Candy Land" at the Frazee Event Center on April 4-6. Hours are 4-7 p.m. on Friday, April 4; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, April 5; and noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 6. This is part of local Week of the Young Child festivities. There is no set cost to attend, but a free will donation of $10 per child is suggested. Open to the public.

Hee Haw Harmony: The Heart O’ Lakes Harmony Men's A Capella Chorus will present their 2025 spring concert, "Hee Haw Harmony: Korn and Kords," in three separate performances this Thursday through Saturday, April 3-5. Shows will take place on Thursday, April 3 at The Center for the Arts in Fergus Falls; on Friday, April 4 at the Historic Holmes Theatre in Detroit Lakes; and on Saturday, April 5 at the Pelican Rapids High School’s Performing Arts Center. All shows start at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for students and free for kids under age 5. They may be purchased at Victor Lundeen's in Fergus Falls, the Holmes Theater Box Office in Detroit Lakes (as well as by phone at 218-844-7469 and online at dlccc.org/holmes-theatre), and at Larry’s Supermarket in Pelican Rapids.

Lenten Fish Fry: The Knights of Columbus will be sponsoring Lenten Fish Fry dinners from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, April 4 at Holy Rosary Church Parish Center in Detroit Lakes, and on Friday, April 11 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frazee. Menu includes fried fish, potatoes, coleslaw, baked beans, bun and dessert. Open to the public.

"Interwoven" Textile Art Gallery: This Saturday, April 5 is the last day to catch the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center's latest gallery exhibit, “Interwoven,” a textile art show featuring the art of four talented regional women fiber artists. Featured artists include Kristen Anderson, Elise Olson, Kristi Swee Kuder and Mary Jo Wentz. Open viewing hours are Thursday, 10 a.m.-7p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit kulcher.org for more information or call the Cultural Center at 218-385-3339 with any questions.

Musical Munchkins: Detroit Lakes Early Childhood Family Education and the Merry Melody Music Academy are co-hosting a special music immersion and exploration activity for young children called "Musical Munchkins," on Tuesday, April 8 from 5:45-7 p.m. at the Lincoln Education Center, 204 East Willow St., Detroit Lakes; and again from 9-11 a.m. Friday, April 11 at Frazee-Vergas Elementary School on West Hickory Avenue in Frazsee. This is part of the lakes area community's Week of the Young Child festivities. All are welcome.

The Gathering: Perham's 26th annual fish decoy show, The Gathering, which features not just fish and duck decoys but also a variety of other sports collectibles and art, national carving contests and more, will take place on April 11-13 at the Perham Area Community Center. This family-style show costs $20 per adult admission on Friday, April 11, or $10 per adult on both Saturday and Sunday, April 12-13. Kids will always be admitted free of charge. Hours are 12-4 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sunday. Visit perhamshow.com for more detailed information or to register online.

LBRA Home Show: The Lake Region Builders Association will present their annual Home Show at Detroit Lakes' Kent Freeman Arena on Friday and Saturday, April 11-12. Hours are 4-8 p.m. on Friday, April 11 and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. on Saturday, April 12. In addition tl dozens of vendors, there will be free family games, prize drawings, a silent auction and concessions from Mt. Tabor Masonic Lodge. Admission is $5 per person for adults and free for kids under age 18 (must be accompanied by an adult). A portion of the proceeds will be given to the Becker County Food Pantry in Detroit Lakes and Bridge Community Pantry in Perham. All are welcome.

Cribbage Players Wanted: The Richville Community Center will host open cribbage play on Thursdays from 1-3 p.m. Both new and experienced players are welcome. Can play two-hand, three-hand and four-hand. Cost is $2 per person; there will be prize money. The community center is located at 100 Grove St. SW in Richville. Call Carolyn at 218-758-2162 if interested in joining, or for more information.

Tuesday Tunes: The Corner Collective Bistro in Frazee is hosting weekly jam sessions with local musicians Damian Anderson and Kyler Hanson every Tuesday from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Whether you like to sing, play an instrument, or would like to learn, come hang out with these musicians as they rock the Corner Collective stage. The bistro is located in the upper level of the CornerStone Youth and Community Center at 192 W. Birch Ave., Frazee. All are welcome.

Elevating Voices Memory Loss Chorus: Rehearsals for the new season of the Elevating Voices Memory Loss Chorus will take place every Tuesday from April 8-May 13 (no rehearsals May 6) at 1 p.m. in Crosspoint Alliance Church, 600 NE 8th St., Perham. This is a unique choral experience created for those living with memory loss, volunteers, and/or care partners. The chorus will perform live for the public on Tuesday, May 20. Call Katie Murdock at 218-347-1974 for more information.

Grieving with Grace Support Group: Are you struggling with the passing of a loved one? Do you feel you need support to work through your grief? You are not alone. Join the open Grieving with Grace support group on the third Thursday of every month for a 2 p.m. meeting inside the Elevate conference room at 318 SW 6th Ave., Perham. Contact Knute Nelson Hospice at 320-759-4935 or trisha.zimmerman@knutenelson.org for more information.

Free Blood Pressure Checks: Elevate is sponsoring free blood pressure checks at the Perham Area Community Center on Wednesdays from 9-11 a.m. Open to the public. No registration needed.

Roller Skating: Come to the Perham Area Community Center every Friday from 6-8:30 p.m. and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. for some roller skating fun. Admission is $6 per person. You may bring your own skates or choose from the selection on hand. Call 218-346-9844 for more information.

Sensory Swim: The Perham Area Community Center will host a Sensory Swim session on the second Saturday of every month from 10-11 a.m. in the Center's therapy pool. This session is for all children with special needs, including those with autism, neurodivergency and sensory sensitivities. There is no cost for Center members; non-members will pay the daily PACC admission rate.

Karaoke Night: The Salty Pickle Bar and Grill at 43974 390th St., Perham, will host karaoke every Friday from 8 p.m. to midnight. Open to the public.

Free Bowling: The Cactus in Perham offers free bowling with meal purchase every Wednesday, starting at 3 p.m. and continuing until closing time.

Friday Nights at the Silver Moon: The Silver Moon in Perham hosts meat raffles and horse racing every Friday starting at 5:30 p.m. Happy hour is from 4-6 p.m. and they will also serve a prime rib dinner starting at 5 p.m.

Office Prayer Group: Love INC will host an office prayer group every other Wednesday, starting at 9 a.m., in its Perham offices at 235 W. Main St. (inside the radio station). Open to all who are interested in being a "representative for prayer" in the community.

Free Blood Pressure Checks: Elevate offers free blood pressure checks at the Perham Area Community Center every Wednesday from 9-11 a.m. No appointment is necessary; just walk in and let us help you keep your heart in check. Call Katie Murdock at 218-347-1974 for more information.

Elevate Walking Club: Come to the Perham Area Community Center on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. and join the Elevate Walking Club, which aims to get people of all ages out for some exercise in a warm, safe and sociable environment during the winter months, or outdoors at other times of the year, as weather permits. The first two walks are offered free of charge, but those who continue to participate are asked to join the PACC or Silver Sneakers. Participants can walk at their own pace. Please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, and bring along a water bottle to stay hydrated. Call 218-346-7710 for more information, or to sign up.

Kids' Open Gym: Perham's Vault gymnastics facility offers open gym sessions every Saturday from 9-10:30 a.m., for kids age 18 and under. Kids under the age of 6 must be accompanied by a parent to participate. Cost is $10 per child. Though these sessions are open to all kids, preregistration is required for admission; please sign up via the Parent Portal at perhamvault.com to reserve your child's spot.

After School at the PACC: The Perham Area Community Center offers an after-school program every Monday-Friday for kids ages 9-12. Cost is free to PACC members, or $5 per day for guests. Parents must sign their child up for the program prior to attendance; kids will receive a red card for their daily check-in. Call 218-346-7222 for more information.

Sit-n-Stitch: A weekly gathering of fiber artists takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. every Thursday at the New York Mills Public Library. Free and open to all who are interested in learning about fiber arts, or enhancing their knowledge. All ages and experience levels welcome. This group is hosted by the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center. Call 218-385-3339 for more information.

Brew Trivia: Teams of 6 people or less are invited to come to Brew Ales and Eats, 124 E. Main St., Perham, from 3-6 p.m. every Sunday for some fun trivia competition. Prizes will be awarded after every round, and there will be football games playing on TV in the background.

Lakeside Tap Trivia Night: Lakeside Tap in Perham will host Trivia Night every Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. Unlimited team size; phones not allowed. Call 218-346-9473 for more information.

Zorbaz Trivia Mafia: Zorbaz on Little Pine Lake will be hosting a Trivia Mafia competition every Thursday night from 7-9 p.m. Learn more at triviamafia.com/zorbaz.

Poker at the Pickle: Every Thursday is Poker Night at the Salty Pickle Bar and Grill in Perham (43974 390th St.), starting at 7 p.m. Texas Hold 'Em is the game; free to play. Visit freepokernetwork.com for more information.

Reading Buddies Needed: Kinship is looking for volunteers to help Heart of the Lakes Elementary School kindergarten students with their reading skills. Volunteers will meet with their "reading buddy" at the school every other Wednesday for 30-60 minutes between the hours of 9 a.m.-1 p.m. To volunteer, or for more information, contact Kinship at 218-457-3019.

Grief Share Support Group: A Grief Share support group for those living with the loss of a loved one will take place on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon, Sept. 12-Dec. 5 at New Creation Lutheran Church in Perham. Register online at griefshare.org/findagroup or contact Jennifer Howey, 218-346-7203 or garden@newcreationperham.org for more information.

Library Storytimes: The Perham Area Public Library hosts Preschool Storytime every Tuesday, and Storytime with Becky on Thursdays, all starting at 10:15 a.m. Visit perhamlibrary.org or call 218-346-4892 for more information.

Baby and Toddler Storytime: The Fergus Falls Public Library will host storytime for babies and toddlers on both Tuesday and Wednesday, April 11-12, from 9:30 to 10 a.m. Talk, sing, read, and play together in a format perfect for little ones! Help develop your child’s early literacy skills through songs, stories, nursery rhymes, and fun movement activities. Each session includes interactive playtime. Registration is not required.

Trivia Night: Thousand Lakes Brewing Co. in Parkers Prairie will host a Trivia Night every Thursday, with happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. and trivia rounds starting at 6 p.m. Prizes will be awarded to the top two teams. Zorbaz on Little Pine Lake will also be hosting a "Drink and Know Things" Trivia Night every Thursday from 7-9 p.m. Both events are open to the public.

Baby Bin: Come look through the baby bin at Crosspoint Alliance Church, 600 8th St. NE, Perham, on the first Tuesday of every month from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All WIC participants receive one pack of diapers and wet wipes. Everyone may look through our children's clothing, sizes 0-10.

Quilting: The Calvary Cut-Ups quilting group meets from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursdays at Calvary Lutheran Church in Perham. Questions? Contact Brenda Halvorson at 320-493-0802.

Food Pantries: The Bridge Pantry in Perham is open Tuesday mornings, 8 a.m. to noon, as well as from 3-5 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month. Ruby's Pantry will be at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Perham on the fourth Saturday of every month, starting at 8 a.m.

Community Meal: Perham's New Creation Church welcomes the community to come enjoy a community meal from 5-6 p.m. every Wednesday. Cost is a free-will offering.

Fishermen's Lunch: Calvary Lutheran Church will host a fishermen's lunch on the first Thursday of every month, starting at noon. All men in the community are invited; no bible study, no business meeting, just lunch and good fun.

Celebrate Recovery: Every Tuesday night at Calvary Lutheran Church in Perham, Celebrate Recovery will meet for food and fellowship at 5 p.m., followed by a large group session and open share groups from 5:30-8 p.m. No cost to attend; childcare is available. Visit calvaryperham.com/recovery for more information.

Open AA Meeting: The Perham Solutions Alcoholics Anonymous group will host an open meeting at 43452 County Highway 34, Perham, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7 p.m., and Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. For more information on meetings and times, call 877-833-2327.

Narcotics Anonymous: The Perham Alano Club, 43452 County Highway 34, Perham, will host Narcotics Anonymous meetings on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 7 p.m.

Widows Support Group: A widows support group meets at 5 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at St. Henry's in Perham.

Live Wires: A fun group of "olders," the Live Wires meet for potluck and connection time every third Wednesday of the month at Crosspoint Alliance Church in Perham, starting at 11:30 a.m.

Bingo: Tuesdays, 6 p.m., Thumper Pond, Ottertail, and 6 p.m. at the New York Mills VFW, as well as "Bizingo" at Lakeside Tap in Perham, every Tuesday starting at 6:30 p.m.; Wednesdays, 7-10 p.m., Salty Pickle Bar and Grill in Perham; Saturdays, 2-5 p.m. at Big Pine Lodge, Perham, as well as 1 p.m. every Saturday at the New York Mills VFW; Sundays at 3 p.m., at both Billy's Corner Bar and Grill in Vergas, and the Salty Pickle in Perham (the latter also includes a prime rib meat raffle).

Tuesday Trivia Night: Billy's Corner Bar & Grill in Vergas will be offering Trivia Night every Tuesday at 7 p.m. Open to the public.

Perham Networking Opportunity: The Nest in Perham will host a one-hour free business networking opportunity on the first Wednesday of every month, starting at 8:15 a.m. Personal introductions, sharing of upcoming events and projects, and a focus presentation. Coffee will be provided by the focus topic presenter.

Mah Jongg at Calvary Lutheran: Men and women are welcome to play Mah Jongg at Perham's Calvary Lutheran Church on Thursdays at 12:30 p.m. in the library. No prior experience necessary, as experienced players will teach the game to newcomers.

Transfer Station Hours: The Otter Tail County Solid Waste Department has announced that it has switched over to the winter hours schedule for the solid waste transfer stations in Pelican Rapids and Fergus Falls, from now through the end of March. The Pelican Rapids transfer station will be open from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday, as well as from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. The Fergus Falls transfer station will be open from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. every Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to noon on the first Saturday of each month. Both stations will resume summer operating hours on April 1, 2025.

Mobile Vet Center Hours: Otter Tail County now offers Mobile Veteran's Center services to county veterans, from 1:30-3 p.m. on the third Tuesday of every month. Service locations within the county will vary each month, so veterans are encouraged to subscribe to Otter Tail County’s Notification Center for emails with the latest updates on Mobile Vet Center locations at ottertailcounty.gov/notification-center and check "Veteran Services News." The Mobile Vet Center will provide the same comprehensive services available at the Fargo and Grand Forks locations, now making them accessible to veterans in rural areas who face challenges with transportation. Services include, but are not limited to, various types of counseling for individuals and families, substance abuse assessment and referral, screening and referral for medical issues, benefits explanation and referral as well as outreach and education. Veterans who feel they may need services or wish to see if they qualify are encouraged to contact the Fargo Vet Center at 701-237-0942, the Fergus Falls Veterans Service office at 218-998-8605, or the New York Mills VSO office at 218-385-5540.

Compiled by Vicki Gerdes for the Perham Focus.