
Saturday, November 21, 2026
Real Talk Recovery: Progress in the Northwoods
No judgment. Just progress.
A full day of connection, education, peer support and hope at Lake of the Torches Resort Casino in Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin. Free to attend. Free parking.

Who it’s for
Everyone has a place here
This day is for people currently struggling with addiction, people in early or long-term recovery, loved ones and family members, those who have lost someone to addiction, and professionals and helpers in the field. All are welcome. No judgment. Just progress.
- Currently struggling
- Early or long-term recovery
- Loved ones & family
- Those who have lost someone
- Professionals & helpers
The day
Schedule
Come for one session or stay all day. The Cleansing & Reflection Room is open from arrival until close for anyone who needs a quiet moment.
- 8:00 – 9:00 AM
Arrival, Registration & Coffee
The Cleansing & Reflection Room opens (open all day).
- 9:00 – 9:30 AM
Opening Circle
Youth Drum, remarks from Sen. Jesse James, and Belle introduces the day.
- 9:45 – 10:45 AM
Keynote: Tom Farley
Recovery advocate, author and Community Outreach Director at Recovery.com.
- 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM
Morning Sessions
- When Recovery Meets the Justice System – Ranee Wright
- Starting Recovery: The Addict’s Point of View vs. Family – Stephen, Family Resource Center, plus peers
- Featured Lived Experience Story – Paula Hensel & Justin
- Women’s story shares in the Main Hall
- 12:15 – 1:30 PM
Community Feast & Resource Fair
Share a meal, meet local organizations, and pick up resources.
- 1:45 – 2:45 PM
Real Recovery in the Northwoods Panel
Real conversations with six voices from recovery, public safety, and public service. Meet the panelists below.
- 3:00 – 4:15 PM
Afternoon Sessions
- Stigma of MOUD – Michelle Ruka, CTC
- Youth Open Discussion / Safe Space – Sharon Krause
- Relapse, Resilience & Millimeter Moments – Sarah Bristow
- Main Hall storytelling
- 4:30 – 5:30 PM
Community Art Wall Reveal & Resource Fair
See what the community created together.
- 5:45 – 6:45 PM
Closing Circle
With Belle and Dave Anderson.
- 6:45 – 7:30 PM
Optional Open Mic
Share if you feel called to. Listening is welcome too.
Schedule and session times may be updated as the day approaches.
1:45 PM Panel
Real Recovery in the Northwoods
Progress in the Northwoods – real conversations with the people who live and work in this community.

Michele (Sarkauskas) Micheau
Substance Use Disorder Counselor & Person in Recovery

Dave Anderson
Founder of Famous Dave’s & Recovery Advocate

Jason Joling
Director, Northwoods EMS

Sen. Jesse James
Wisconsin State Senator, Chair of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Committee

Ryan Jensen
Public Safety Professional, Death Investigator

Tom Farley
Recovery Advocate, Author & Community Outreach Director, Recovery.com
Event Host
Belinda “Belle” Morey
Clinical Substance Use Counselor (CSAC) • Author • Person with Lived Experience
Belle is passionate about breaking the stigma and shame around addiction, recovery, and mental health.
Organized with Progress Is Progress Foundation Incorporated.
Connect
Community Feast & Resource Fair
Good food, good people, and real local resources, all in one room.
Community Feast
Break bread together from 12:15 to 1:30 PM. Everyone is welcome at the table, whether you come alone or with family and friends.
Resource Fair
Meet local organizations and helpers during the midday feast (12:15–1:30 PM) and again during the Art Wall Reveal (4:30–5:30 PM). Ask questions, pick up information, and find support close to home.
Plan your visit
Getting There & Lodging
Venue
Lake of the Torches Resort Casino
510 Old Abe Road
Lac du Flambeau, WI 54538
Free parking. In-person event, open to all ages.
Get involved
Want to help?
Volunteers make this day possible. If you can lend a hand before or during the event, we would love to hear from you.
Volunteer / Help FormWith gratitude
Thank you to our community sponsors
This free day is possible because of these businesses and community members who believe in recovery.
Community partners & prize donors
Also thanks to: Studio 57; The Waite Studio / Gallery 517; Swallow Haven Studio (Andrea Fenner).
And a heartfelt thank you to every community supporter who gave.
Interested in sponsoring? Contact Belle at 715-892-5310 or Belle.Morey@progressisprogressllc.com.
Saturday, November 21, 2026 • 8:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Save your seat. It’s free.
No judgment. Just progress.
Lake of the Torches Resort Casino, Lac du Flambeau. All ages welcome. Free parking.
Register Free on EventbriteConnect with Belle
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