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Join Powerful Community Conversation on Mental Health
Join others watching the film ANGST, a documentary that aims to break the stigma around mental health and spark honest conversations about anxiety in our youth and families. This inspiring film helps us understand that while some anxiety is normal, it’s important to recognize when it becomes too much—and that you are not alone. With personal stories, expert insights, and practical tips, ANGST encourages us to notice the signs, speak up, and reach out for help.
ANGST: A Community Conversation and Learning Experience
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
6:30 – 8:30 PM
NLS Performing Arts Center 101 4th Ave SW, New London
Film runs approx. 50 minutes, followed by a panel discussion
Open to anyone ages 10 and up
Registration recommended but not required
Questions? Contact Michelle Kiefer at michelle.kiefer@centracare.com Let’s come together to learn, support one another, and show our youth that anxiety is 100% treatable
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WORKPLACE SAFETY BY DESIGN
Presented by Vinna Human Resources, Blue Ethos Specialized Training , and the Kandiyohi County Sheriff's Office
Learn de-escalation techniques, active threat survival training, and conflict resolution strategies to help keep your workplace safe and prepared.
Tuesday, April 29 | 9:00 AM
Kandiyohi County Health & Human Services, Willmar, MN (Free parking available on the west side)
$100 for first registrant | $75 each additional from the same company
Coffee, water & light snacks provided
Register now: https://buff.ly/U9ZyJRh
Questions? Call 320-295-7474
Scan the QR code on the flyer to learn more!Read moreRead less
This week's business highlight is
Smilin' D Arena & Events
, lying in the the heart of Colfax Township, just outside Belgrade in Kandiyohi County. Smilin’ D Arena is a premier, state-of-the-art, climate-controlled facility that brings Western tradition to life
. Whether you're a rider, a fan, or just love a good community gathering, this arena offers a welcoming space for all. Originally built in the spring of 2024 by owners David and Jessica Reigstad as a place for their families to enjoy the sport and spirit of Western riding, Smilin’ D has quickly grown into a hub for community connection
and excitement
. From high-energy events like bull riding and pit bike races, to classic Western competitions like cattle
sorting and ranch sorting leagues, there’s always something happening in the arena. It’s also home to community favorites like the Wild Henke Showdown Kids Fun Day, Ranch Rodeos & musical concerts! With an ever growing schedule & platform to accommodate an ever-expanding request list, booking your company's professional team-building events as well as hosting your weddings/receptions
at the arena are on the horizon! Mark your calendars for Thursday, April 24th for the final night of the Greatest Showman Colt Starting Competition
which will end in the auctioning off of all 5 horses
!
Smilin' D Arena & Events is more than just a venue – it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and shared passion. You can find them @Smilin' D Arena & Events on Facebook, at smilindarena.com, by calling 320-295-6472 and at 131 255th Ave. NE, BelgradeRead moreRead less
What’s Driving Agriculture Now? Find out at the Partners in Ag Innovation Conference — June 17, 2025 in Willmar, MN! Kick off the day with ag broadcaster Mike Pearson as he unpacks the forces reshaping ag in 2025 — from trade policy shifts to crop price trends and the future of the Farm Bill.
Insight. Strategy. Connections.
Free to qualified ag professionals
MinnWest Technology Campus
Register now: buff.ly/fT1N3tNRead moreRead less
Celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd & Sustainability with Us!
Earth Day isy is a time for action, learning, and community! Join us at these exciting events throughout West Central Minnesota to explore local solutions, connect with nature, and take steps toward a healthier planet.
April 12 | Earth Day at Prairie Woods *TODAY* | 12 pm - 4 pm
Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center, Spicer, MN
Science Museum of Minnesota presentations, rock climbing, prairie walks, kids’ activities & more! FREE for all ages! https://buff.ly/57ewl5C
April 24 | Earth Day in Action: Local Solutions for a Resilient Future | 2 pm - 5 pm
Long Beach Community Hub, Long Beach, MN
Learn about climate solutions & sustainability efforts. Register now!
https://buff.ly/xxbh8UJ
April 26 | Healthy Earth, Healthy Kids Day | 10 am - 2 pm
Willmar Civic Center, Willmar, MN sponsored by the Kandiyohi County Area Family YMCA and League of Women Voters of the Willmar Area
A family-friendly event connecting kids with nature & healthy living! Sign up today!
https://buff.ly/LFghEgf
May 17 | Ride and Drive Event – Electric Cars | 11 am - 3 pm
St. James Middle and High School
See electric vehicles and learn about clean transportation! No registration needed—just show up!
May 24 | Fruit Production Workshop | 1 pm - 3 pm
Prairie Ally Outdoor Center, Luverne, MN
Learn hands-on techniques for growing fruit successfully in Minnesota! Register now!
https://buff.ly/yjQOCoi
Whether you’re exploring nature, learning about sustainability, or taking action for a greener future or looking to learn, there’s an event for everyone!
Mark your calendars
Thank you University of Minnesota Extension Southwest Regional Sustainable Development Partnership for sharing these events
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GET YOUR TAXES DONE FOR FREE!
Last year, United Way of West Central Minnesota and United Community Action Partnership Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program helped local individuals and families claim over $6 million in tax refunds with 2,700+ returns filed — and we’re ready to help YOU next!
Certified volunteer preparers
FREE tax filing for eligible individuals
In-person & virtual options available
Year-round service across SW Minnesota
Call to book: 507-476-9283
Or schedule online: https://buff.ly/64rvNRcRead moreRead less
Stay in the Loop with KCED!
Our KCED Quarterly Newsletter is the best way to stay updated on local projects, business news, and community stories. Sign up today so you never miss an issue!
Correction Notice: We’ve made an update to the Winter 2024 edition regarding the Raymond Area Museum . Get the full corrected story here: https://buff.ly/h7ZRqS8
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