 Public Affairs Director, Jon Michaels talks with Brion Schnurr MMC (SS) Ret. and Kent Winter RM@ (SS) of the United States Submarine Veterans, South Dakota "Scorpion Base". The conversation mainly talked about their community work and the new USS South Dakota submarine.

Public Affairs Director, Jon Michaels talks with Brion Schnurr MMC (SS) Ret. and Kent Winter RM@ (SS) of the United States Submarine Veterans, South Dakota "Scorpion Base". The conversation mainly talked about their community work and the new USS South Dakota submarine.

A community issues and answering program that focuses on the city and people of the Sioux Empire.

Jon Michaels' Forum

FORUM WEEK 2,037: United States Submarine Veterans (South Dakota)

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Savannah Waldner, Z8 Director and Josh Brewer, CEO of Lifelight about the 2026 programs.

from their website: Lifelight.org

Why Gen Z?

Generation Z is on track to become the largest living generation in American history. While often labeled as a “post-Christian” generation, we see them differently. They are world changers, making an eternal impact in their world. Z8 is on a mission to awaken these young people as world changers – to win, send, empower, and multiply them for Christ.
A study once said Generation Z has an eight-second attention span. At LifeLight we believe they have an eight-second filter. In a world full of noise, young people are constantly deciding what’s real and what’s worth their time. Z8 is our commitment to meet them in that moment – cutting through the noise with the clear truth of the Gospel. Because when they encounter what’s real, they respond. 

and on Sept. 6

Set against the beauty of downtown Sioux Falls the LifeLight Festival is a dynamic, free event that brings together people of all ages for a powerful celebration of faith, music, and community. Featuring an impressive lineup of Christian music artists, inspiring speakers, and exciting family-friendly entertainment, the festival offers a unique experience filled with uplifting messages and memorable performances. Beyond music, the festival grounds are filled with family-friendly activities, food trucks, and vendors, all designed to create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. LifeLight Festival’s mission is to share the hope and joy of the Gospel, making it a highlight in the region for fellowship and renewal.

Willie Robertson from Duck Dynasty is coming to LifeLight Sioux Falls on September 6th at Nelson Park!!!The beard, the wisdom, the faith, the duck calls — the man who built an empire while putting God first is bringing that real, no-filter energy to our city! If you’ve ever loved the Robertson family, laughed at their stories, or been encouraged by their bold stand for Jesus… this is the day you’ve been waiting for! Get ready for epic music, powerful worship, and a message that’s gonna light a fire in your soul. This free festival is about to be UNFORGETTABLE! Who’s coming with me?! Tag your people, and let’s pack Nelson Park for Willie!

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Savannah Waldner, Z8 Director and Josh Brewer, CEO of Lifelight about the 2026 programs.
from their website: Lifelight.org
Why Gen Z?
Generation Z is on track to become the largest living generation in American history. While often labeled as a &ldquo;post-Christian&rdquo; generation, we see them differently. They are world changers, making an eternal impact in their world. Z8 is on a mission to awaken these young people as world changers &ndash; to win, send, empower, and multiply them for Christ. A study once said Generation Z has an eight-second attention span. At LifeLight we believe they have an eight-second filter. In a world full of noise, young people are constantly deciding what&rsquo;s real and what&rsquo;s worth their time. Z8 is our commitment to meet them in that moment &ndash; cutting through the noise with the clear truth of the Gospel. Because when they encounter what&rsquo;s real, they respond.&nbsp;
and on Sept. 6
Set against the beauty of downtown Sioux Falls the LifeLight Festival is a dynamic, free event that brings together people of all ages for a powerful celebration of faith, music, and community. Featuring an impressive lineup of Christian music artists, inspiring speakers, and exciting family-friendly entertainment, the festival offers a unique experience filled with uplifting messages and memorable performances. Beyond music, the festival grounds are filled with family-friendly activities, food trucks, and vendors, all designed to create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. LifeLight Festival&rsquo;s mission is to share the hope and joy of the Gospel, making it a highlight in the region for fellowship and renewal.
Willie Robertson from Duck Dynasty is coming to LifeLight Sioux Falls on September 6th at Nelson Park!!!The beard, the wisdom, the faith, the duck calls &mdash; the man who built an empire while putting God first is bringing that real, no-filter energy to our city! If you&rsquo;ve ever loved the Robertson family, laughed at their stories, or been encouraged by their bold stand for Jesus&hellip; this is the day you&rsquo;ve been waiting for! Get ready for epic music, powerful worship, and a message that&rsquo;s gonna light a fire in your soul. This free festival is about to be UNFORGETTABLE! Who&rsquo;s coming with me?! Tag your people, and let&rsquo;s pack Nelson Park for Willie!

Lifelight, Z8, Willie Robertson of Duck Dynasty, Downtown Sioux Falls, Sept. 6

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Erin Nosal, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Community Action For Veterans.

from AI:

Community Action for Veterans (CAV) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, dedicated to building communities of care for veterans and military families.  CAV focuses on addressing unique challenges faced by veterans through programs like Operation Chow Line, women veterans' retreats, and a major annual summit.  The organization also runs AmeriCorps-supported initiatives to help veterans transition to civilian life, particularly in education and mental health support. 

from their website:

Women Vets Connect Retreat

Sat, Apr 11

Our Savior's Lutheran Church ELCAA

Wellness Retreat for Women Veterans and Military Partners

Rooted in South Dakota, Built for Veterans

South Dakota is a state defined by its land and its people. From the ranchlands of the west to the farmlands of the east, we know what it means to face distance, weather, and hardship together. Our communities are small, but our commitment to one another is strong. That spirit is the foundation of CAV. 

Contact

Community Action for Veterans

P.O Box 91543

Sioux Falls, SD 57109

605-910-4045

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Erin Nosal, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Community Action For Veterans.
from AI:
Community Action for Veterans (CAV) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in&nbsp;Sioux Falls, South Dakota, dedicated to building communities of care for veterans and military families.&nbsp;&nbsp;CAV focuses on addressing unique challenges faced by veterans through programs like&nbsp;Operation Chow Line,&nbsp;women veterans' retreats, and a major annual summit.&nbsp;&nbsp;The organization also runs AmeriCorps-supported initiatives to help veterans transition to civilian life, particularly in education and mental health support.&nbsp;
from their website:
<a href="https://www.sdvets.org/event-details/women-vetsconnect-retreat">Women Vets Connect Retreat</a>
Sat, Apr 11
Our Savior's Lutheran Church ELCAA
Wellness Retreat for Women Veterans and Military Partners
Rooted in South Dakota, Built for Veterans
South Dakota is a state defined by its land and its people. From the ranchlands of the west to the farmlands of the east, we know what it means to face distance, weather, and hardship together. Our communities are small, but our commitment to one another is strong. That spirit is the foundation of CAV.&nbsp;
Contact
Community Action for Veterans
P.O Box 91543
Sioux Falls, SD 57109
605-910-4045

Erin Nosal..Community Action For Veterans...Retreat for Women Vets...April 11

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Canaries General Manager Duell Higbe and Ali Linder, Director of Marketing and Games Experience.

From Brave AI:

Sioux Falls Canaries

The Sioux Falls Canaries are a professional baseball team based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, competing in the American Association.  They play their home games at The Birdcage, a historic stadium located at 1001 N. West Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, which has been renovated and now serves as a cashless facility.  The team is known for family-friendly events, including mascot appearances, on-field entertainment, and affordable tickets.

Recent highlights include the team's announcement of returning key players for the 2026 season, such as Jabari Henry, Charlie Hasty, and Trevor Achenbach, signaling a strong push for success.  Fans are encouraged to stay updated through the team’s newsletter and app. 

Reviews praise The Birdcage as a top-tier minor league experience—great sightlines, friendly staff, and lively atmosphere—with families enjoying activities like singing the YMCA between innings and enjoying popcorn and cotton candy.  The stadium, originally opened in 1941 and renovated in 2000, holds 4,500 fans and is considered one of the premier sporting events in the region.

From their website:

Duell Higbe enters his 14th season with the Sioux Falls
Canaries and tenth as General Manager, rising through
the organization since joining in 2013 as a stadium
operations intern. A native of Austin, Minnesota, he
earned his bachelor’s degree in Sport Management
(with a minor in Exercise Science) from Mayville State
University.
Since taking the helm in the front office, Higbe has
helped guide the organization through a dramatic
turnaround: under his leadership, the Canaries
achieved three consecutive playoff appearances
(2023–2025) — a first in franchise history. In the 2025
season, he oversaw a club that clinched a playoff berth
for the third straight year and advanced to the
franchise’s first appearance in the Miles Wolff Cup
Final since 2010.
Beyond the wins and milestones, Higbe focuses on
building a culture of consistency, professional
operations, and deep community engagement. Off the
field, he and his team have emphasized enhancing the
fan experience at “The Birdcage",
strengthening local partnerships, and reinforcing the Canaries as a
cornerstone of the Sioux Falls sports landscape.

Ali Linder:
Entering her sixth season with the Sioux Falls Canaries
and fifth as a full-time staff member, Ali Lindner has
continued to take on expanded responsibilities since
joining the organization in 2021 as a game day intern.
A Sioux Falls native, Lindner returned home after
earning her bachelor’s degree in Sports Management
from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, where
she was also a member of the Golden Gophers softball
team and made an appearance in the Women’s College
World Series during her freshman year.
Since joining the Canaries full-time, Lindner has taken
on a key leadership role within the front office,
overseeing marketing, social media, game day
entertainment, and the team’s internship program. Her
focus on fan engagement and in-game experience has
helped elevate the atmosphere at The Birdcage,
creating memorable moments for fans of all ages.
Outside of work, Ali enjoys spending time with family
and friends, traveling, listening to music, and golfing.

Public Affairs Director Jon Michaels (since 1977) talks with Canaries General Manager Duell Higbe and Ali Linder, Director of Marketing and Games Experience.
From Brave AI:
<a href="https://sfcanaries.com/">Sioux Falls Canaries</a>
The&nbsp;Sioux Falls Canaries&nbsp;are&nbsp;a professional baseball team based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, competing in the&nbsp;American Association.&nbsp;&nbsp;They play their home games at&nbsp;The Birdcage, a historic stadium located at&nbsp;1001 N. West Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57104, which has been renovated and now serves as a cashless facility.&nbsp;&nbsp;The team is known for family-friendly events, including mascot appearances, on-field entertainment, and affordable tickets.
Recent highlights&nbsp;include the team's announcement of returning key players for the&nbsp;2026 season, such as&nbsp;Jabari Henry,&nbsp;Charlie Hasty, and&nbsp;Trevor Achenbach, signaling a strong push for success.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fans are encouraged to stay updated through the team&rsquo;s newsletter and app.&nbsp;
Reviews praise&nbsp;The Birdcage&nbsp;as a top-tier minor league experience&mdash;great sightlines, friendly staff, and lively atmosphere&mdash;with families enjoying activities like singing the YMCA between innings and enjoying popcorn and cotton candy.&nbsp;&nbsp;The stadium, originally opened in 1941 and renovated in 2000, holds 4,500 fans and is considered one of the premier sporting events in the region.
From their website:
Duell Higbe enters his 14th season with the Sioux Falls Canaries and tenth as General Manager, rising through the organization since joining in 2013 as a stadium operations intern. A native of Austin, Minnesota, he earned his bachelor&rsquo;s degree in Sport Management (with a minor in Exercise Science) from Mayville State University. Since taking the helm in the front office, Higbe has helped guide the organization through a dramatic turnaround: under his leadership, the Canaries achieved three consecutive playoff appearances (2023&ndash;2025) &mdash; a first in franchise history. In the 2025 season, he oversaw a club that clinched a playoff berth for the third straight year and advanced to the franchise&rsquo;s first appearance in the Miles Wolff Cup Final since 2010. Beyond the wins and milestones, Higbe focuses on building a culture of consistency, professional operations, and deep community engagement. Off the field, he and his team have emphasized enhancing the fan experience at &ldquo;The Birdcage", strengthening local&nbsp;partnerships, and reinforcing the Canaries as a cornerstone of the Sioux Falls sports landscape.
Ali Linder: Entering her sixth season with the Sioux Falls Canaries and fifth as a full-time staff member, Ali Lindner has continued to take on expanded responsibilities since joining the organization in 2021 as a game day intern. A Sioux Falls native, Lindner returned home after earning her bachelor&rsquo;s degree in Sports Management from the University of Minnesota &ndash; Twin Cities, where she was also a member of the Golden Gophers softball team and made an appearance in the Women&rsquo;s College World Series during her freshman year. Since joining the Canaries full-time, Lindner has taken on a key leadership role within the front office, overseeing marketing, social media, game day entertainment, and the team&rsquo;s internship program. Her focus on fan engagement and in-game experience has helped elevate the atmosphere at The Birdcage, creating memorable moments for fans of all ages. Outside of work, Ali enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, listening to music, and golfing.

FORUM WEEK 2,037: United States Submarine Veterans (South Dakota)

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