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Jack Pine Brewery: The Heart of Baxter's Craft Scene - Tech Trouble: Why Your Computer Is Still Down

Trivia Question❓

What was the name of the first steam locomotive to enter Brainerd in 1871, assisting in the construction of the river crossing?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Jack Pine Brewery: From Garage Hobby to Baxter's Community Hub

In Baxter, Minnesota, Jack Pine Brewery stands as a vibrant hub for locals, offering more than just craft beer — it brings people together.

Founded in 2013 by Patrick Sundberg, a dedicated brewer with a background in math and physics, the brewery quickly became a cherished gathering spot in the Brainerd Lakes region.

Patrick’s vision filled a void in the local scene, providing fresh, inventive beers and a welcoming taproom with choices ranging from malty to hoppy, light to spicy.

Beyond beer, Jack Pine offers non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, and a family-friendly atmosphere complete with games and a dog-friendly patio.

Regular community events, including the Business After Hours Speed Networking and Entrepreneurs on Tap, foster connections and support local businesses.

Through initiatives like Pints for a Purpose, Jack Pine reinforces its dedication to community, uniting patrons in support of local causes and celebrating the spirit of Baxter.

Tuesday, February 10

Love is on the Board: Valentine's Charcuterie Class | 4:30 PM & 5:30 PM
UpNorth Social in Pequot Lakes hosts guided charcuterie building sessions where you'll learn to create beautiful boards with curated meats, cheeses, and seasonal accompaniments—perfect timing for Valentine's Day.

Sweet Treat BINGO Challenge | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Common Goods invites you on a sweet adventure across multiple local retail locations. Pick up your BINGO card at any participating shop and explore the community while supporting local recovery services.

Business After Hours | 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Join the Brainerd Lakes Chamber at Lakes Tavern for networking and connections with local professionals in a relaxed atmosphere.

Wednesday, February 11

Valentine Sushi Rolling Class | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Executive Chef Matt Annand leads an all-you-can-roll, all-you-can-eat sushi experience at Notch 8 Chowhouse & Eatery in Brainerd. Learn hands-on techniques from one of the area's top chefs.

Initials Game Live | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Test your word skills at Roundhouse Brewery's competitive game night hosted by Tim. Guess the initials from clues and win prizes in this historic railroad building venue.

Old Fashioned Wednesdays | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Sunshine's Summerhouse in Nisswa celebrates the classic cocktail with rotating premium whiskies, tequila, and bourbon variations for those with refined tastes.

Thursday, February 12

Hope on the Slopes | 3:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Mount Ski Gull hosts this can't-miss event featuring mattress racing competitions, live music by AJ Spoff, and high-energy fun. Proceeds benefit Bridges of Hope's crisis intervention services.

Valentine's Wine & Food Pairing | 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Cana Wine Bar presents an exclusive six-course meal by Chef Peter Lowe of Block North, with each course expertly paired with wine. Limited seating makes reservations essential.

Valentine's Party for Littles | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Littles & Lattes Play Cafe in Baxter hosts a morning celebration for young children with crafts, treats, and a Valentine exchange. Pre-registration required.

Friday, February 13

Nisswa Winter Jubilee Kick-Off | 5:00 PM line dancing, 6:00 PM live music
The 54th Annual Nisswa Winter Jubilee begins at the Nisswa American Legion with line dancing lessons followed by live music from Seth Doud, launching a weekend of western-themed winter celebration.

Galentine's Wine & Cheese Under the Stars | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Grand View Lodge offers an astrology-inspired tasting featuring wine and cheese pairings based on the four elements—perfect for groups of friends celebrating together.

The Tin Woodman of OZ | 7:00 PM
Pequot Lakes Community Theater presents this family-friendly production with affordable tickets ($10–$15), offering cultural entertainment for all ages.

Saturday, February 14

Nisswa Winter Jubilee: Parade & Wood Splitting | Parade at Noon, Wood Splitting at 1:00 PM
The Jubilee peaks with snow sculpture judging (9:00 AM), a western-themed Cowboy Showdown parade at noon, and the iconic wood splitting competition. Evening features costume contests and live music by Smiley Road.

Ruttger's Rockin' Ice Bocce Tournament | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Compete in this unique winter sport combining bocce strategy with ice challenges at historic Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort—an active Valentine's Day alternative for teams and families.

Valentine's Day Market | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Shop local artisans and handmade gifts at 724 Laurel Street in downtown Brainerd, supporting the community's micro-economy with unique Valentine's finds.

Sunday, February 15

Nisswa Fire Fishing Tournament | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
The Nisswa Fire Department hosts its annual ice fishing fundraiser on Nisswa Lake, bringing the community together on the ice to support local emergency services.

Sunday Breakfast at Brainerd VFW | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Enjoy a multi-choice breakfast menu for $11 at this monthly community gathering that supports veteran services—a generational tradition for locals.

Ready! Set! Puzzle! | 1:00 PM
Zorbaz on the Lake hosts competitive puzzle teams of two in a fun, low-pressure indoor activity perfect for post-Jubilee relaxation.

Monday, February 16 (Presidents' Day)

Serving Up Support | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Support Lighthouse Beginnings recovery services simply by dining at Pizza Ranch in Baxter on this holiday evening—low-barrier philanthropy for the whole family.

Designer Purse Bingo | 6:00 PM
Baldwin Fire Foundation hosts high-stakes bingo with designer purse prizes at Station 1 Event Center. Tickets sell fast for this popular fundraiser.

Nisswa Lions Meat Raffle | Evening
Ye Old Pickle Factory hosts the weekly Lions Club meat raffle, offering quality meats from local providers while funding community projects.

Many events benefit local fire departments, veteran services, and recovery organizations. Pre-registration recommended for culinary classes and intimate gatherings.

VIDEO OF THE WEEK

Brainerd Wrestling Hard at Work Preparing for Section Play | Lakeland News

VIDEO CREDIT: Lakeland PBS

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

The Minnetonka (Northern Pacific Engine No. 1).

Thanks a bunch for reading Lakes Area Buzz today! If you spotted something handy, go ahead and pass it along to a neighbor or a friend—ya never know, it might make their day too.