As part of 89Q’s annual “89 Days of Summer” celebration, the station hosted two unforgettable evenings of worship, joy, and community with CCM artist Leanna Crawford. Held in Wisconsin Rapids and Wausau, the free concerts drew over 4000 people—nearly 1,000 in Wisconsin Rapids and more than 3000 in Wausau—uniting hearts in praise and encouragement.

“These concerts are our way of saying thank you to our listeners,” said General Manager Coy Sawyer. “Without their ongoing support, we wouldn’t be on the air bringing great music and hope to central Wisconsin.”

The atmosphere at both events was filled with joy, connection, and powerful testimonies. From Leanna walking into the crowd in Wisconsin Rapids—hugging children, snapping selfies, and singing shoulder to shoulder with fans—to the powerful moment her father Mark Crawford shared about his own personal story about “Aunt Maurine” and her influence on him ahead of his conversion to Christ. Of course, Leanna’s Aunt Maurine was the inspiration behind her chart-topping single Still Waters, the concerts went beyond entertainment. They were deeply moving experiences for all in attendance.

Listeners expressed their overwhelming gratitude. “We’ve hosted a lot of amazing artists over the years,” Sawyer added, “but something about these two nights felt especially meaningful. The connection was real and powerful.”

But the impact didn’t stop at the music. The events also supported global outreach efforts through Foundation for Hope in Africa, funding clean water wells and school buildings for children in Zimbabwe as well as a couple local missions, Hannah Center and TransAct Hope.

These summer concerts also served as a joyful run-up to 89Q’s flagship annual event: Hope in the Park. Drawing crowds of 6,000 to 8,000 each year, this free community concert has become a beloved tradition in the Wausau-Stevens Point market. This year’s featured artist is Anne Wilson, performing on Sunday, August 24th, where the station invites attendees to participate in a food drive benefiting local pantries. Non-perishable donations are encouraged, and Thrivent Financial will contribute $3 per person donating (up to $3,000) to support ongoing pantry needs through the end of the year.

“The Gospel is both free and powerful,” said Sawyer. “And as much as we are able, we want our events to reflect that—offered freely, impacting lives powerfully, and glorifying God.”

(picture – Leanna Crawford receives her 89Q Artist of the Year Award from Operations Manager Ryan Bair)