Brown Deer medallion hunt returns with bigger prize and renewed community spirit

BROWN DEER, Wis. (CBS 58) — The village of Brown Deer is once again inviting residents and visitors to participate in its annual Medallion Hunt, which kicked off Tuesday, May 20. This year, the stakes are higher, with a $2,000 cash prize and a complimentary meal for four at Café Corazón awaiting the lucky finder.

The Medallion Hunt, organized by the Brown Deer Community Foundation, aims to foster community engagement and showcase the village's charm. Tyler Burkart, Brown Deer Village Manager and the creative mind behind the clues, emphasized the event's purpose.

"We felt like there was a huge need; people love these opportunities to get out in the community and do stuff like this. So, it was something that we wanted to try to be able to market our community," said Burkart. 

Participants are encouraged to search public spaces throughout the village for a hidden medallion. Clues to its location will be released every Tuesday and Friday on the village of Brown Deer's official website and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Burkart hinted that the hunt won't be straightforward.

"I’d be very surprised if someone found it with the first clue," said Burkart. "The second clue will come out this Friday, and I think that will help to zero in on a few locations."

Last year's inaugural hunt saw enthusiastic participation, with community members and even their pets joining the search. The medallion was eventually discovered after five clues, hidden cleverly near the fence surrounding Brown Deer's swimming pond. The event not only offered a fun challenge but also highlighted local landmarks and brought neighbors together.

This year's handcrafted medallion, designed by local artist Jean Wells, is hidden on public property and in plain sight. Burkart says no plants or property needs to be disturbed to find the medallion. ensuring accessibility for hunters of all ages and abilities. The hunt will continue until the medallion is found or until all eight clues have been released.

Here's the first clue:

There's a medallion hunt in Brown Deer, Wisconsin. Based on this first clue, imagine yourself as a medallion hunter and tell me where you would search: Guess who’s back with a whole new look! It’s time to get outside and set down that book. Apparently, I’m not the only one with a new style. Brown Deer is emerging with many projects in just one mile.

New apartments, stores, and soon a new park to play in. Brown Deer is bringing it as a place in the North Shore to stay in. I’m leaving Café Corazon and heading north to settle down. Check those public places and look low to win the crown.

For more information and to view the latest clues, visit the village of Brown Deer's official website.