CONTENTS
FEATURES
MENTAL HEALTH
34 Let’s Talk About It
By Emilee Mae Struss
Following the tragic loss of several youths in the Brainerd Lakes Area, Smiles for Jake and The Lighthouse formed to reduce stigma, educate about mental illnesses, and start a new conversation.
HOME
44 Capturing the Dual Lake View on Eagle Lake
By Tenlee Lund
Deb O’Brien and Al Carlson share their dream home for entertaining guests on Eagle Lake in Fifty Lakes.
LAKE LIFE
50 Setting Sail on Gull Lake
By Jenny Holmes
A fresh new sailing team enters into an elevated level of commitment with competitions on Gull Lake.
CONSERVATION
54 12-Million Minnesota Acres
By Matt Soberg
Did you know that nearly one-quarter of Minnesota is reserved for public land use? Here we discuss how to conserve, preserve, and ensure that future generations have the privilege of enjoying Lake Country wilderness.
DEPARTMENTS
IN EVERY ISSUE
8 Editor’s Journal
10 Contributors
12 Front Porch | Ready to Ride? A Springtime DIY Tune-Up, Spring Book Recommendations, Freshly Minted
ECHOES OFF THE LAKE
20 Business | Jim Reed, Silversmith
24 Nonprofit | African Children’s Choir
28 Literary | Little Libraries
30 Outdoors | Ducking into Spring
36 Art | A World of Art Hidden in Aitkin
58 Lake of the Month | Gilbert Lake
60 Adventure | 310 Miles in 10 Years
64 Health | All About Kombucha
68 Community | Youth on Stage
70 Chef’s Corner | Homemade Spring Rolls
71 Calendar of Events
74 Lake Country Contests
76 Before You Go