PassportTo celebrate this significant milestone, we are excited to share our history with you. Take a look back at the memories and stories that shaped public television in Northern Minnesota.
Take A Look Back At Our History
Forty-five years ago a vision took root in northern Minnesota: to bring educational, entertaining, and enriching public television programming to our communities. Today, Lakeland PBS proudly celebrates over four decades of fulfilling that mission. Since our first broadcast, we have been a cornerstone of local storytelling, a window to the world, and a trusted resource for news and information. Join us as we commemorate 45 years of dedicated service, looking back at the moments that shaped us and forward to a future filled with continued connection and inspiration.
Hear From Past & Present Employees Sharing Important Memories That Shaped Our Station
The History of Public Television In Northern Minnesota
It took a dedicated group of passionate individuals a decade to bring public television to northern Minnesota. Their tireless commitment created what is now known as Lakeland PBS. Take a deeper look into the creation and support that brought Lakeland PBS to life
Favorite Memories, Shows, and Milestones
The Legacy of John Yourd
John Yourd was one of the founders of Lakeland PBS and worked tirelessly for over ten years to bring public television to northern Minnesota throughout the 70’s. His dream was realized when KAWE channel 9 went on the air in June of 1980 serving northern Minnesota. John was also instrumental in helping bring KAWB channel 22 to the Brainerd lakes area in 1988. John was not only generous with his time, but also with his treasure. John and his wife Dana donated their lake home to Lakeland PBS shortly before John passed away in 1999. John had terminal cancer at the time and John and Dana set up a charitable gift annuity so that Dana would be taken care of with a fixed quarterly payment for life from the proceeds of the funds they donated. John and Dana’s past contribution to Lakeland PBS is still helping Lakeland PBS to this day through our endowment fund.
Call Letters With Culture
During our stations inception, community members were invited to help select our stations call letters.
Call letters are used to identify and differentiate broadcast stations across the country by the FCC.
However KAWE, Lakeland PBS's call letters, holds an even deeper meaning than just an identification tag.
Derived from Ojibwemowin, the word "kawe" or "akawe" means "first in a sequence" or "top priority" - truly a fitting representation of our stations commitment or top priority to serving the people of our broadcast communities across northern Minnesota.
This winning call letter suggestion was submitted by Earl Nyholm, a Bemidji State University professor and Ojibwe language expert.
Who We Are Today
While many things may have changed about our station over the years there is one thing that will always remain the same.
Lakeland PBS is here to share your stories. To reflect the history, talents, and conversations that affect our communities, and continue to be a trusted source of news and information.
Thank you for your loyal viewership and unwavering support!
Where to Watch
Coverage Map
If you would like to pick up Lakeland PBS over the air, check our coverage map below to see if you are in our area. We are channel 22 in the Brainerd area and channel 9 for the rest of northern Minnesota. If you’re viewing on Dish Network or on DirecTV, we are on channel 22.
Find information on how to stream your favorite PBS Show on your SmartTv or Tablet.
When to Watch
Check out our broadcasting schedule and download our most recent edition of Highlights.
Explore Our Broadcast Area
