WE LOVE Big Lake

Hello Big Lake! I’m Derek Holman, a teacher and coach in Big Lake. My family and I have been in this community for 24 years and I have been teaching in Big Lake for 23…

Hi, I’m Lori Ostendorf and I have been a teacher in Big Lake for 26 years. I’m originally from Wyoming and received my college education in Montana. I’m a wife, mom, and very proud grandma…

Hello! As we move into 2023, I decided I would re-introduce myself with some new interview questions. I’m Liz Fagen – your host of The Faces of Big Lake. I am beyond honored to get…

Hi! I’m Anna Hazzard and I am the Media Assistant at Liberty Elementary. My family and I have lived in Big Lake for 16 years and my two boys attend our Big Lake schools. I…

Heller! My name is Leo Van Valkenburg. A lot of people know me by my nickname, Bubba. My mom gave me this nickname when I was just a baby. I am 10 years old. I…

Hi, my name is Jaxon Ages. Jax for short. I am currently in 11th grade and have lived in Big Lake my entire life. My mom, a previous Face of Big Lake, was also raised…

Hi, I’m Tina Peterson. Thank you for selecting me as a Face of Big Lake! My husband and I grew up in Big Lake and have also raised our family here. I work as the…

Hi, I’m Jeff Zierdt with Lupulin Brewing Company. I have been brewing beer since 2008 and opened Lupulin in 2015. I have lived in the area for about 17 years and enjoy time with my…

Hello! Thank you for the nomination. My name is Brian Blackman and I am a proud Big Lake resident. I grew up in Crystal, MN with my parents and sister, Brenda. I attended Bemidji State…

Hi! I’m Paul Knier and love being a part of The Faces of Big Lake project. My wife and I have lived in Big Lake for 28 years and have raised all 5 of our…