Happenings around the Perham area, April 10-20

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.

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 person, 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 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.

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," from 9-11 a.m. at Frazee-Vergas Elementary School on West Hickory Avenue in Frazee. Events will take place in the early childhood activity room and Room 103. This is part of the lakes area community's Week of the Young Child festivities. All are welcome.

Lenten Fish Fry Dinner: The Frazee Knights of Columbus are sponsoring their final fish fry dinner of the Lenten season at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frazee from 5-7 p.m. The menu will include fried fish, scalloped potatoes, French fries, green beans, coleslaw, bread and ice cream as well as a beverage. Cost is $15 for adults, $10 for youth ages 6-12 and free for all kids age 5 and under. Proceeds will benefit the Becker County Food Pantry as well as Frazee-area youth scholarships. All are welcome.

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.

Ladies Day Out: The Perham Center for the Arts, located at 101 NE 5th St., will host a "Ladies Day Out" spring vendor show from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (running concurrently with The Gathering decoy show at the PACC). Free admission; all are welcome. Call 218-346-2787 for more information.

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 prize drawings throughout the evening. Open to the public.

Frazee's Got Talent: The CornerStone Youth and Community Center in Frazee will host a Frazee's Got Talent competition from 1-5 p.m. in the Corner Collective Bistro, located on the upper level of the youth center at 300 2nd St. New, Frazee. Youth and adult categories will be evaluated separately by the judging panel. All talents welcome, from music and dance to theater, jokes, juggling, etc. To sign up, scan the QR code located on the event posters around town, or on the Corner Collective's Facebook event page.

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.

Decades Night: The Silver Moon in Perham will host an evening of music from the 80s, 90s, 2000s and today, starting at 8 p.m. Come dressed in your finest attire from your favorite music decade and get a free drink! There will also be cash prizes awarded to the top three "best-dressed" vote-getters.

Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience: The Historic Holmes Theatre in Detroit Lakes will host two-time Grammy award winning, 8th generation Louisiana Creole Terrance Simien for a 7:30 p.m. show combining Zydeco music, Creole culture and Louisiana history. A "Bayou Bash" will be held in the ballroom across the hall from the main theater starting at 6:15 p.m., with food and beverages available for purchase. Show tickets are $27 for adults, $12 per students, and may be purchased in person at the Holmes Box Office, 806 Summit Ave. (doors will open two hours prior to the performance) as well online at dlccc.org/holmes-theatre or by phone at 218-844-7469.

Palm Sunday Pancake Breakfast: St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Perham will host a Palm Sunday pancake feed at 500 6th Ave. SW, Perham, with pancakes and sausage served from 7:30 a.m. until the start of the Palm Sunday service at 9 a.m., and resuming after the morning worship service has concluded. Proceeds will benefit the church youth group members who will be attending the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering, July 19-25 in New Orleans.

Frazee Easter Egg Hunt: Miss Frazee and Miss Frazee Teen 2024 will host an Easter Egg Hunt at the Frazee Lions Park starting at 1 p.m. This event is free and open to kids of all ages. No registration required; just show up and have fun!

Masters Watch Party: Lakeside Tap in Perham will be hosting a "watch party" for The Masters golf tournament from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., with a limited menu including both barbecue pulled pork and pimento & cheese pepperoni pizza varieties, a pizza buffet for just $13, Georgia peach milkshakes, Azalea cocktails and more available for purchase. Open to the public.

Pictures with the Easter Bunny: Prairiegrass Home Decor and Gifts is joining forces with the Perham Area Chamber of Commerce to offer free pictures with the Easter Bunny from 1-2:30 p.m. at Prairiegrass, 132 1st Ave. S., Perham. All are welcome to "hop on over" for a photo and Easter treat.

Ham Bingo: St. Henry's Catholic Church of Perham will host a session of Ham Bingo from 2:30-4 p.m. in the church fellowship hall. Cost is $20 for 20 games (additional game boards will be available for purchase), with concessions sold separately. Tickets are available at the parish office, or at the door on the day of the event. Email ncacc.yg@gmail.com 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 Church, 424 E. Gilman St., New York Mills. All are welcome.

Books, Music and Movement: The Lake Agassiz Regional Library LINK site in Frazee (305 N. Lake St.) will host an early literacy program called "Books, Music and Movement" from 10:30-11 a.m. This free program is billed as a shared introduction to books and rhythm for children and their caregivers. Though the program is geared for youth ages 3-6, younger children are welcome to attend, with help from a caregiver. The interactive 30-minute programs will introduce youth and their caregivers to books, music, movement and play. No cost to attend, and no advance registration is required.

Perham High School Spring Band Concert: The PHS Band and Jazz Band will perform their spring concert in the PHS Hive starting at 7 p.m. The concert will also be live-streamed via Perham Schools 549 Media on YouTube. Open to the public.

Old-Time Variety Dance: Eric's Dance Band will provide the music for an Old-Time Variety Dance, taking place from 1-4 p.m. at the Frazee Event Center. All are welcome; admission is $7 per person.

Tech With Teens: Join Elevate at the Perham Area Community Center for a fun 1:30 p.m. class where you can learn all about Apple/Android phones, tablets and smartwatches, laptops and other modern electronic devices with some local, tech-savvy teens from the Perham High School Interact group. Bring your questions and get personalized support in a relaxed and friendly environment. No registration required.

Continental Divide Mixer: Join Elevate for their monthly mixer at Continental Divide Brew Pub in New York Mills from 4:30-6 p.m. The pub is open just for this special event, and there will be pizza, sandwiches and plenty of brews on tap. No cost to register, but an RSVP is requested for planning purposes. Sign up online at elevateotc.org/events or call Katie Murdock at 218-347-1974 to reserve your spot.

Coffee Talk with Tri-State Diving: Join Gary "Seal" Thompson of Tri-State Diving at the Perham Area Community Center for an 11 a.m. coffee talk about Thompson's Detroit Lakes-based business. In more than 35 years of diving experience, Thompson has completed over 4,000 dives, both recreational and commercial, and has recovered everything from ATVs and snowmobiles to semi trucks and excavators, working in lakes, rivers, storm sewers, and even sewage lagoons, for and with a variety of clients. He will share some of his fascinating stories about underwater recoveries. Free and open to the public.

"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 6:30 p.m. in St. Henry's Catholic Church, 234 2nd Ave. SW, Perham. All are welcome.

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.

Family Easter Egg Hunt: North Pines Market in Perham will host an Easter egg hunt for kids and parents at the Arvig softball fields, starting at noon with a visit from the Easter Bunny. The parents' egg hunt starts at 12:30 p.m., with the kids to follow at 1 p.m. Groupings for the kids' hunt include ages 0-2, 3-6, 7-9, and 10-plus. No cost to attend, but please bring your own baskets to participate.

Familhy Easter Fun at the Silver Moon: The Silver Moon in Perham will host family-themed Easter fun including a scavenger hunt, coloring pages, photo ops, and some food and drink specials (kids eat free!) from 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. (prior to the Adult Easter Egg Hunt-see below).

Music Video Bingo: The Frazee-Vergas VFW at 120 W. Main, Frazee, will host a night of music video bingo, with sessions starting at 7 p.m., 9 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. No cost to play, no purchases required, and prizes will be given for every round. Karaoke will follow the last round of music video bingo. All are welcome.

Adult Easter Egg Hunt: The Silver Moon in Perham will host an Adult Easter Egg Hunt from 8:30-11:30 p.m., with live music by Jeff Oakland, drink specials, and of course, the hunt — eggs will be filled with cash, drink tokens, merchandise and more. Find the "mystery egg" and win big!

HAPPY EASTER!

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.

Monarch Women's Conference: Northwoods Life Church of Perham will host the 2025 Monarch Women's Conference, "Audacious Faith," on Friday and Saturday, April 11-12. Cost is $45, which includes admission and Friday night snacks as well as a light breakfast and full lunch on Saturday. Sign up online at northwoodslife.ccbchurch.com/goto/events to reserve your spot.

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.

Tempters, Inc. Easter Drama: Community Alliance and Christian Fellowship churches in Detroit Lakes have teamed up to present the Easter drama, "Tempters Inc.," in two free performances at George Simson Auditorium, inside the Detroit Lakes Middle School, this Friday, April 11 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Arpil 12 at 2 p.m. Go to the website at temptersinc.com for more information.

Sushi 101: Elevate will host two sessions of "Sushi 101," from 6-8 p.m. on both Monday and Tuesday, April 14-15, in the conference room at 318 6th Ave. SW, Perham. In this explratory class, participants will receive hands-on instruction in the art of sushi making, as they create two delicious sushi rolls from scratch. No experience necessary — just bring your appetite for fun. Cost is $75, which includes all supplies and instruction. Sign up online at elevateotc.org/events or call Katie Murdock at 218-347-1974 to reserve your spot.

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.

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.