Wiċoṡkaŋ - Issue 4

MAGAZINE OF THE SHAKOPEE MDEWAKANTON SIOUX COMMUNITY

This quarterly magazine shares the collaborative e orts, collective achievements, and captivating stories of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community. The Dakota word Wiċoṡkaŋ carries multiple meanings, but in the context of this publication it refers to the actions and e orts of a group of people. Each edition of this magazine highlights the contributions of those who come together in our shared purpose— to be a good neighbor, good employer, and good steward of the earth. We are grateful for the opportunity to share these stories, which re ect our enduring strength, resilience, and commitment to building a brighter future. WELCOME TO WIĊOṠKAŊ

How a youth pottery program is helping younger generations connect with the earth.

How the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s NativeGreen initiative promotes environmental sustainability and land stewardship.

The SMSC o cially li s o with LaunchPad Golf The Meadows—the

COMMUNITY

8 Voices of SMSC Leadership: Part II

Exploring the growth and transformation that shaped the SMSC in the 21st century.

18 Solo Ascent

SMSC member Makala Ross reflects on her journey to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.

26 Not Afraid

Stories and advice from SMSC elder Patrick Welch.

32 Wacipi: Evolution of Regalia

A deep dive into the personal art of making powwow regalia.

38 The Road to Sovereignty

Tracing the history of the Mdewakanton Dakota people in the Minnesota River Valley.

42 Shaping the Future

Youth pottery program maintains the tribe’s connection to the earth.

50 Woven into the Landscape

Dakota names and their eternal mark on Minnesota maps.

VALUES

60 Inspiring Futures Through Education

How the SMSC empowers Native communities.

66 Team Member Q&A

A conversation with Ole Olmanson, the tribe’s longtime water resource manager.

72 Caring for Grandmother Earth

A glimpse at the SMSC’s leadership in environmental sustainability and stewardship.

78 Making an #SMSCgives Di erence

How the tribe helps local families through its food distribution program.

82 E ciency in Action

A new era for climate control at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel.

88 Build Your Future at the SMSC

Exploring the tribe’s ongoing commitment to being a top-tier employer.

LIFESTYLE

96 Ready for Lifto

The SMSC’s newest enterprise—LaunchPad Golf

The Meadows—expands the tribe’s golf and dining o erings.

106 The Place That Started It All

Marking 40 years of growth, gaming, and community at Little Six Casino.

110 Voices of Our People

Celebrate the power of Native stories with these book recommendations from Hoċokata Ṫi.

112 Introducing Hop House

Mystic Lake’s newest spot for sports, live music, and flavor.

116 Mystic’s Signature Banana Bread

Try this delightful anytime treat from Mystic Lake’s Bakery Department.

On the cover: Replica cordage-wrapped paddle and pin roller resting on textured tiles that reflect traditional Upper Midwest pottery patterns.

BUSINESS COUNCIL

CHAIRMAN

Cole W. Miller

VICE-CHAIRWOMAN

Natasha K. Hacker

SECRETARY/TREASURER

Ashley J. Cornforth

CONTRIBUTORS

Javi Avalos

Andrew Basil

Cassy Bryant

Amy Donaldson

Joe Fieck

Dea Goldy

Angela Heikes

Jason Hughes

Dan Morgan

Kellyn Miller

Ole Olmanson

Bill Rudnicki

Kelsey Scares e Hawk

Erik Sneed

Jennifer Stevens

Tricia Velure

Andy Vig

Gaming Enterprise Marketing

Mystic Bakery

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

LEADERSHIP

Danny Olsen

Amber Chesney

Mike Christenson

Kelsey Hagen

Aleks Katane

COMMUNICATIONS

Erin E. Belanger

Brian Deutsch

Joni Komperda

Jesse Menden

Chaundra Rich Chantre Smith

DESIGN

Jaclyn Ficek

Randy Palmer

Allison Snider

Lydia Velishek

MULTIMEDIA

Aleks Katane

Jake Miller

Blake Ziemer

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING SMSC MEMBERS AND YOUTH FOR SHARING THEIR STORIES

Keith B. Anderson

Rebecca Crooks-Stratton

Makala Ross

Charles R. Vig

Lori Watso

Patrick Welch

VOICES of SMSC LEADERSHIP

Part II: GROWTH and TRANSFORMATION in the 21ST CENTURY

This is the second installment in a multipart series exploring key moments that shaped the modern-day Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community.

BY CHANTRE SMITH

Determined to build a stronger future, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) was experiencing steady growth and prosperity at the turn of the 21st century. Infrastructure improvements began positively impacting the quality of life on the reservation as the tribe continued to make investments in housing, education, health care, land, and cultural preservation.

We wanted to manage the growth of the tribe and prepare for the future by focusing on community development, economic diversification, and self-sufficiency,” recalled former SMSC Business Council Member Keith B. Anderson.

NEW ENTERPRISES, PARTNERSHIPS, AND IMPROVEMENTS DURING THIS TIME INCLUDED:

2000: Mystic Lake Casino Hotel second hotel tower

2000: Dakotah Meadows Mini Storage

2000: Playworks LINK Event Center

2002: Mdewakanton Public Safety

2005: Mystic Lake Casino Hotel third hotel tower

2005: The Meadows at Mystic Lake

2006: Water Reclamation Facility

2007: Mystic Showroom

2007: Little Six Casino grand reopening

2010: Wozupi Tribal Gardens

2010: Mazopiya natural food market

2011: SMSC Organics Recycling Facility

2015: JW Marriott Hotel at Mall of America

2018: Mystic Lake Center

2019: Hoċokata Ṫi

INVESTING in the FUTURE

Economic growth became a powerful tool to advance the tribe’s goals of strengthening its sovereignty and securing long lasting self-su ciency. “Every time we opened a new facility or service, it wasn’t just about the business itself,” explained former SMSC Business Council Member Charles R. Vig. “It was about strengthening our sovereignty and ensuring our community had the tools to thrive.”

With a strong foundation in place, the SMSC focused on strategic investments in its enterprises—particularly in gaming—that would generate the resources needed to sustain the tribe’s growth and expand opportunities for members. Mystic Lake Casino Hotel quickly evolved into a premier Midwest destination. New restaurants, event spaces, hotel towers, and recreational amenities expanded the resort’s appeal, drawing additional visitors from across the region.

“These projects gave us the foundation to diversify and strengthen our economy,” re ected Anderson. “Every addition was an investment in stability, not only for our members at the time, but for the generations to come.”

The SMSC carried that same spirit of growth into a wide range of new projects that reshaped the reservation and bene ted the region. “Preparing the tribe for the next seven generations by making investments outside of gaming was crucial,” stated Vig.

Other enterprises began to form in the vicinity of the casinos, including Dakotah Meadows Mini Storage, which opened in 2000. While it served the public as a practical storage business, the facility also became an important space for the SMSC’s own archival collections to help to preserve the tribe’s history.

That same year, the Playworks LINK Event Center opened as a 9,000-square-foot, full-service banquet facility. With capacity for up to 300 guests, the center met an immediate need for larger meeting spaces as tribal membership grew. Before long, the General Council— the governing body of the SMSC—began meeting there to conduct o cial tribal business, underscoring its importance as both a social and civic hub.

To add to the SMSC’s growing list of enterprises, the tribe purchased the local Lone Pine Country Club in February 2002 and, over the next few years, completely transformed the aged links into a beautiful and challenging golf course. In August 2005, the new course opened as The Meadows at Mystic Lake.

In tune with being a good steward of the Earth, the SMSC also continued to diversify by investing in environmentally sound infrastructure and sustainability projects. “The tribe had many green initiatives that we were working on at the time,” explained Anderson. “We made it our mission to continue these projects as a way of living out our responsibility to care for the land and provide for our people.”

Projects included creating the Water Reclamation Facility to treat wastewater for reuse in irrigation, investing in renewable energy such as solar and wind, and opening an organics recycling facility to reduce the volume of waste ending up in land lls and repurposing it into nutrient-rich soil amendments for farming, gardening, and landscaping.

Furthermore, the tribe used its growing economic strength to create and provide numerous education, health, and social service programs for SMSC members, sta , and Native Americans living in Scott County. In 2007, the SMSC opened several clinics on the reservation, including a pharmacy, a wellness center containing a physical therapy and chiropractic clinic, a vision clinic, and an on-site urgent care clinic. These new services not only helped to serve the tribal members but also reinforced the tribe’s values of being a good neighbor and a good employer.

As improved health services came to life, the tribe also worked to increase access to nutritious foods

and provide better health initiatives for the SMSC and other Native communities. Passionate about nutritious food and a long-term advocate for community health education, former SMSC Business Council Member Lori Watso helped spearhead several initiatives to help improve the tribe’s nutritional health, including the launch of Wozupi Tribal Gardens and Mazopiya food market in 2010. “We wanted to provide health and wellness services for our members, ensuring they have access to high-quality care and food,” explained Watso.

Wozupi Tribal Gardens, the SMSC’s organic garden, was initially planted in the spring of 2010 to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to the community using environmentally sustainable practices. Conveniently located on the reservation, Wozupi served tribal members, provided education on healthy foods and eating, and helped bring food sovereignty to the reservation. In addition to standard fruits and vegetables, traditional Dakota medicines and foods were also planted in the garden.

Mazopiya, a full-service natural food market, featured a large variety of organic items, dairy products, frozen foods, and health and wellness products, including fresh produce grown at Wozupi Tribal Gardens. “It was important for us to keep our food healthy and our environment clean,” said Watso, underscoring the priorities that guided the tribe’s food sovereignty e orts.

COLLABORATION with OTHER GOVERNMENTS

As the tribe’s population and investments grew, so did its space needs. “We were growing, and we needed to buy our land back,” explained Vig.

“Placing our land into trust was going to provide the best protection for the future,” he added. Trust status gives tribes governing authority over its holdings, protecting the land for future generations, and allowing more members to return to the reservation and build a home.

In addition to addressing the housing needs, the SMSC purchased land to help improve roadways, provide better access to its enterprises, and to streamline tra c to and from the reservation. This led to joint projects and partnerships with the surrounding governments to help reconstruct county roads that overlapped.

“Land acquisition opened the door to greater collaboration with neighboring cities, the county, and the state,” said Anderson. “It didn’t always happen right away—sometimes it took years—but cooperation was key to putting the land into trust.”

A prime example of this commitment to collaboration— and the positive bene ts that result—is the Scott County Association for Leadership and E ciency (SCALE). Developed in 2003, SCALE is an award-winning local government collaboration between the SMSC, Scott County, and the cities, schools, and townships within Scott County. SCALE welcomes entities as equal and voluntary partners, giving each the opportunity to have a seat at the table and work together to serve the region’s growing population more e ciently and e ectively. In 2014, SCALE was awarded the prestigious Honoring Native Nations award from Harvard University’s John. F Kennedy School of Government.

With an increase in local government agreements and strengthened relationships over the years, SCALE was a testament to the success that can come from intergovernmental collaboration. The tribe continued to look for opportunities to collaborate with other governments and work closely on major, pertinent issues. In 2012, the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, and the SMSC partnered to reacquire the 2,300-acre parcel in the Black Hills of South Dakota, known as Pe’ Sla.

This allowed the Oceti Ṡakowiŋ, or the Seven Council Fires, to begin the process of restoration and reclaim the land that was unlawfully taken in the 1800s. A er ve years of working to protect Pe’ Sla, the land was o cially put into trust by the Bureau of Indian A airs in 2017, preserving it as a sacred site of the Great Sioux Nation.

continued. “We all had to maintain a strong and mutually bene cial intergovernmental relationship to create a safe community,” Anderson shared on the importance of working together.

“Every addition was an investment in stability, not only for our members at the time, but for the generations to come.”

– FORMER SMSC BUSINESS

COUNCIL MEMBER

MEMBER KEITH B. ANDERSON

“For the Dakota, Lakota, and Nakota people, Pe’ Sla is one of our most sacred sites. It was a center of life for our ancestors and will remain important to our descendants,” said Anderson. “Exercising our inherent sovereignty to protect this site in the Black Hills has been one of the most signi cant achievements for our people in modern times. It will help preserve our way of life for our future generations.”

Back home on the reservation, collaboration between the tribe and other governments

The SMSC began participating in and helping lead regular Minnesota Tribal-State Relations trainings. Since its inception in 2012 by a Minnesota executive order, thousands of state agency employees have participated in the training, where they learn about the 11 tribal governments located in Minnesota. The successful training model even inspired the SMSC, Scott County, and the cities of Prior Lake and Shakopee to come together for their own Tribal-City Relations Training in 2018.

Building on the state trainings, all 11 Minnesota tribes gathered together with legislators at the Minnesota State Capitol for the rst-ever Sovereignty Day in 2019. This historic event was coordinated at the legislature by then Speaker of the House Melissa Hortman. The day highlighted the importance of sovereignty, and the challenges tribes continue to face, along with their hopes for the future.

“It was a historic day and a ashpoint for the state of Minnesota,” stated former SMSC Business Council Member Rebecca Crooks-Stratton. “The goal was to get the Senate and the House to understand tribal sovereignty and to make consultation more meaningful.”

The power of collaboration also enabled a historic achievement with the 2018 federal Farm Bill. The SMSC played a leading role to give Native Americans and tribal governments a strong, united voice to advocate for their interests in the bill. The Farm Bill is enacted by Congress about every ve years and funds everything from nutrition and agricultural programs to forestry and rural development.

Partnering with the Intertribal Agriculture Council, National Congress of American Indians, and the Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative, the SMSC launched the Native Farm Bill Coalition, an advocacy e ort with more than 170 member tribes and allied groups. The resulting 2018 Farm Bill was signed into law with a record-setting 63 separate provisions that bene t Indian Country, helping put tribes’ food sovereignty on a more secure footing.

BUILDING BRIDGES through EDUCATION

For decades, the tribe’s desire to accurately tell their story and get tribal members more involved was top of mind for Business Council.

“We needed to focus on educating our membership and our youth and building a better, more-informed community,” explained Vig. “We wanted our members to have a voice and to help make decisions for the betterment of the tribe.” This led to the creation of internal tribal member work groups. Formed in 2012, the purpose of these work groups was to bridge the gap between inspiration and action and develop strategic goals and ideas to help the Business Council and General Council make more informed decisions.

This also involved educating the public on the issues impacting Indian Country. “Relationship-building and educating the public were my main priorities while I was in o ce,” Vig recalled. “When I rst started my term, Chairman Stanley Crooks would send me to Washington, D.C. It was all about educating, whether it's Congress or the president of the

2000-2019

KEITH B. ANDERSON

FREEDOM BREWER

GLYNN A. CROOKS

STANLEY R. CROOKS

REBECCA CROOKS-STRATTON

SUSAN TOTENHAGEN (BREWER)

CHARLES R. VIG

LORI WATSO

United States or our state o cials like the mayor, governors, and legislators. It was important for us to be seen and heard to advocate for our people.”

In 2015, the SMSC launched Seeds of Native Health, a $11 million campaign to build greater awareness of Native dietary health disparities and support policy change at the tribal, state, and federal levels of government. It involved partnering and supporting other organizations and tribes to li up their grassroots work on healthy food and nutrition options to improve the health of Native communities.

With years of advocacy experience behind her, former SMSC Business Council Member Watso played a leading role in the formation of Seeds of Native Health. “I knew there was a need for health education in Native communities,” stated Watso. “I had worked across Indian Country to

identify best practices and how to apply these to our communities back home. With my background in nursing, I was excited to help lead this charge.”

The campaign’s work in three main focus areas (grantmaking, advocacy, and research) made signi cant contributions to the cause of improving Native American nutrition across the country. Seeds of Native Health has also led to many partnerships and initiatives supporting health, nutrition, and wellness.

It also inspired the tribe’s next campaign, Understand Native Minnesota. Launched in 2019, this was a ve-year strategic initiative and philanthropic campaign to improve the Native American narrative in Minnesota schools. It was another avenue to educate about not only the SMSC but the 10 other sovereign tribal nations of Minnesota.

“It was important to have a seat at the table and include the voices of the tribes when making policies for our education system,” said Crooks-Stratton, who led the campaign during her time as Secretary/Treasurer.

Understand Native Minnesota funded millions of dollars in grants to support new K-12 programming, free educator development trainings, and groundbreaking resources to support educators.

Another milestone during this period was the completion of Hoċokata Ṫi, the tribe’s 84,000-squarefoot cultural center, in 2019. A er ve years of development and construction—and many more years of dreaming and brainstorming—SMSC members nally had a permanent gathering space to meet, teach, celebrate, and preserve traditional Mdewakanton Dakota culture, heritage, and language.

Decades in the making, this space provided a permanent meeting space for the tribe a er using temporary spaces for the cultural center and General Council meetings. It also included an exhibit open to the public to enhance the understanding of the Mdewakanton Dakota people and their history.

“We talked about building a cultural center and museum for our artifacts for decades,” said Vig. “We had our large artifacts collection in our storage facility for nearly 20 years. Seeing this building come to fruition was a community-driven initiative that was created in part due to our community member work groups.”

In many ways, the building is a physical testament of the SMSC’s forward-thinking philosophy and the remarkable progress the tribe has achieved in a few

short decades. “Above all, I look forward to sharing this remarkable space and all the possibilities and opportunities it houses with our children, and our children’s children,” Crooks-Stratton expressed. “To be able to provide them with a space to learn, grow, and connect with each other and their heritage is invaluable.”

CONTINUING a STRONG LEGACY

The progress achieved through the early 2000s and 2010s re ects the collective e ort of past and present leaders, working together to strengthen sovereignty, invest in the next generation, and keep Dakota values at the heart of decision-making.

“It was a collective e ort between the General Council and the Business Council to get to where we are today,” stated Vig. “I look forward to our current leaders continuing to position the youth to be ready to lead this tribe in the future.”

Today, the SMSC stands as a testament to what can be accomplished by exercising its tribal sovereignty through shared vision and long-term thinking. Looking forward, there’s tremendous opportunity for the tribe in the years ahead—from continued investments, creating new tribal enterprises, and expanding services for tribal members.

“I hope that our future generations of leaders will continue to build on our savings accounts and diversify economic development,” Anderson re ected. “The more we can think 20 years ahead, we can really do some incredible things to secure the future of the next generation and ensure that we can provide basic level services for generations to come,” added Crooks-Stratton.

As part II of this story closes, the stage is set for the next chapter—one marked by navigating a global pandemic, reimagining operations, and emerging stronger than ever. A new generation of tribal leaders is now stepping forward to guide the path ahead—a journey that will be explored in the third and nal installment of Voices of SMSC Leadership in an upcoming issue of Wiċoṡkaŋ W

SoloAscent

SMSC Member Makala Ross’ Journey to the Top of Mount Kilimanjaro— and Beyond

BY ERIN E. BELANGER

Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life—and travel—leaves marks on you.

– Anthony Bourdain

Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) member Makala Ross stood at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, the African sun casting a warm glow over the vast landscape before her. At 28, she has already lived a life rich in experiences, shaped by her upbringing on the SMSC reservation, a career as a registered nurse at Fairview Southdale Hospital, and her adventurous spirit inherited from her father, SMSC member Vincent Ross.

Makala had never done anything like this before, her inner voice knowing that this would be a challenging

adventure, mentally, physically, and spiritually. She checked the laces on her hiking boots and secured her pack. Makala carried with her the love and support of her mother, Pamala Ross, who was waiting back home, eager to hear all about the daring quest ahead.

As she stepped onto the trail, Makala felt a surge of excitement mixed with a hint of apprehension. She was joined by a group of solo travelers, women whom she had never met before. Together, they would be on this mountain for a week, no showers, and their only possessions were the essentials that were carried in their backpacks. Each hiker was lled with purpose, fortitude, and their own reasons for embarking on the journey.

Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano located in Tanzania. It has three volcanic cones and is the highest single free-standing mountain in the world at 19,341 feet above sea level. With the rst steps onto the mountain trail, Makala re ected on the recent heartbreaks that led her here. Just over four years ago, Makala’s father, the person who had instilled her love for exploration and travel, lost his battle with brain cancer. Soon a erward, while Makala was still grieving, her marriage came to an

end. This trip to Tanzania to hike for ve days up—and two days down— the largest mountain in Africa, would prove to herself that she was resilient and that she could conquer anything.

“Every morning would be wet with dew, but the air was cold and dry,” Makala explained. “During the climb, there are four di erent climates. You start out in the rainforest, which is wet. Next, the hike becomes a rocky desert, then you’re on dry plains, then the snowy peak. It’s surreal.”

I kept thinking ‘where am I?’ Some people never get to see anything like this their entire life.

–SMSC MEMBER MAKALA ROSS

You’ll never get to know anybody like you get to know yourself when you travel alone.

–SMSC MEMBER MAKALA ROSS

Take chances.

Travel is a way to see what the world has to o er. Learn from your experiences and come back home and share the tales.

–SMSC MEMBER MAKALA ROSS

The second day, Makala found herself above the clouds. Camaraderie with her tentmate and fellow female climbers came naturally. Makala also appreciated the help from the Tanzanian tour guides who accompanied them and reminisced on how they would sing along the way. Together, the group climbed with strength and determination, nding solace in the majestic beauty surrounding them. “We all took care of each other. We shared a common goal—it’s a lot of trust. Trust in others and in yourself,” she said.

As the days wore on and the group climbed higher, the air grew thinner, and the challenges became more daunting. Being confronted by memories of her marriage, Makala obtained clarity and forgiveness with the help of her father’s spirit who hiked alongside her, and the loving support she felt from her mother carried her step-by-step up the mountain. With each footfall, she le behind the pain of her past and embraced the possibility of a brighter future. “I realized that my divorce helped me be more adventurous and that I can do things by myself,” said Makala.

The higher the group climbed, the more grueling the hike became. The threat of altitude sickness took hold. Makala admitted, “There were a few moments I thought to myself, ‘I might die’.” But she pushed forward, not letting dizziness, nausea, or lack of equilibrium derail her journey— instead it fueled the sense of purpose and a determination to conquer the snowcapped peak high above the clouds. “Thank goodness for ca eine and electrolytes,” Makala joked. “And the other girls were fun. We helped each other to keep going.”

The evening before they would reach the top of the mountain, it was explained that the group would leave camp at midnight and hike through the night. Everyone relaxed before packing up, preparing for the dark eight-hour hike. They would reach the summit at dawn.

When daylight broke, they reached the peak. Makala recalls the overwhelming and breathtaking sight before her as she witnessed bricks of glaciers glistening in the morning light. Makala smiles, “It was a scene right out of a movie. I kept thinking ‘where am I?’ Some people never get to see anything like this their entire life. It was this moment of pure euphoria.”

Makala felt a sense of gratitude wash over her as she made her way down the mountain—for the experiences lived, the lessons learned, the heartbreaks and sorrows endured, and for the new friendships, all helping her become a self-reliant and stronger person. Makala knew that her journey was far from over because now she could travel anywhere— alone, nothing and no one could stop her. “You’ll never get to know anybody like you get to know yourself when you travel alone,” she said.

Makala’s journey of self-discovery had only begun at Mount Kilimanjaro. Since then, she has chased the northern lights in Lapland, trekked through the jungles of Uganda and locked eyes with a 400-pound gorilla, sailed through the icy waters of Antarctica on a scienti c expedition, and followed the sacred steps of the Inca Trail to the mountaintop of Machu Picchu.

Everywhere she has traveled has o ered something unique, healing her spirit, widening her perspective, and strengthening her belief that our best journeys are about people, culture, and connection. “Being a nurse and a traveler really aren’t that di erent,” she re ected. “Both require compassion, curiosity, and an open heart. It’s about learning how to care for people, wherever you are.”

Her nursing instincts travel with her around the globe—tending to

blisters on a glacier, checking vitals on ships, and sharing tea and quiet conversation in a mountain village. Whether in scrubs or hiking boots, she continued to connect, to care, and to learn.

Now back home, Makala hopes her story will encourage others to say yes to the unknown. Whether it’s climbing a mountain, stepping onto a new path, or simply seeing the world from a di erent perspective, she believes that travel—like healing—can change everything and it starts with a single brave step. “Take chances,” she said. “Travel is a way to see what the world has to o er. Learn from your experiences and come back home and share the tales.” W

Not Afraid:

STORIES FROM ELDER

Patrick Welch

orn in 1941 in Redwood Falls, Minnesota, Patrick Welch grew up on and around the Lower Sioux Indian Reservation until age 12, when his family moved to the Twin Cities for better work opportunities. Pat witnessed his parents’ generation being prohibited from talking and living as Dakota people. He followed the American path of high school to military to college to career and children. But since he moved his family to the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community in 1970, he has found more and more ways to live out his Dakota values.

INTERVIEW BY TRICIA VELURE

PHOTOS BY JAKE MILLER

Where

were you born and raised?

I was the rstborn child of Clarence and Violet Welch and the rst in my mother’s family to be born in a hospital. Her family farmed on the Lower Sioux Indian Reservation near Morton, and my father’s family lived about a block away from us in an area called “The Hill.” That’s where the Indians around Redwood Falls lived. I don’t think I knew the word “reservation” as a child. As a girl, my mother had gone to Indian boarding school. She was forced to speak English, even though Dakota was her native language. If she was caught speaking Dakota, she could’ve been beaten.

Being outwardly Indian was unpopular, even dangerous, so most of the time, my parents raised us kids as though we were white. They wanted us to have a better life than what Indians were allowed to have at that time. That’s one of the main reasons we moved to the Twin Cities when I was 12 years old— to have more job opportunities and a better life. Being a person of color was more accepted there.

What

was your first

experience in the Dakota culture?

I was probably seven or eight years old when I went to my rst powwow. That’s when I really felt I was Indian. That was the word used at that time–not American Indian, not Native American, not Dakota. At powwows, we could be proud of being Indian.

I also beaded moccasins. My mother taught me. Our dad’s brother lived nearby us in the Twin Cities, and he’d call and ask, “Anyone want to watch TV tonight?” That was family code for beading; he bribed us with his television. We didn’t have one yet. So, we’d go to Uncle Mandy’s house to do beadwork and watch TV. Berman Buckskin, which was a leathergoods company in Minneapolis, would ship moccasins to us and Uncle Mandy in a big box. We beaded them, put the moccasins back in the box, and sent them with my dad to drop o in Minneapolis. That’s one of the ways our family earned money in the 1950s and ‘60s.

Clarence and Violet Welch with children Barry, Brenda, and Patrick before Clarence left to serve in the Army during World War II. Four more children followed after the war.

Besides no television, what about your childhood home would your grandchildren find inconceivable today?

When we lived in Redwood Falls, we never had running water. We had an outhouse about 20 feet from our house, and what made our outhouse interesting was that it was made of bricks and mortar. Dad was a stonemason, and he built that outhouse from the ground up. It was a very nice outhouse, but my grandkids would probably disagree.

What values did your parents instill in you?

The rst: Respect your elders. The second: Always dress well. My mom sewed and ironed our clothes, and my dad preached to us to wear the best clothes we could a ord and keep them neat. He taught us to polish our shoes, because shoes were the last thing people would see as we walked out the door. If we wanted good jobs, if we wanted to succeed, we needed to dress well.

What did you learn from your grandparents?

I knew all four of my grandparents and my greatgrandfather, Sam Jones. I think we learned a lot about respect for our elders by spending so much time with them. Grandpa Jones was my mom’s grandfather, and he only spoke Dakota. My siblings and cousins and I grew up listening to him tell stories and learning from his gestures. That’s how we came to understand some of the Dakota language, even though we couldn’t speak it.

What path did you take after high school?

I thought I would go to college, but I thought I needed to get away, so I decided to go into the Army instead. I started in the infantry, and then I became a stenographer—taking shorthand and typing for o cers and a chaplain. Finally, I was the motor pool sergeant at Lincoln Air Force Base, where I handled the entire eet of jeeps and trucks. This was

during the Cold War against the Soviet Union, and Lincoln housed Nike missiles, which were ground-based, anti-aircra missiles. I wasn’t scared of being there, but a lot of us worried that we would have to go to Cuba or ght the Soviets somewhere else.

Did you ever go to college, as you had originally planned?

I should have stuck with my rst plan and gone to college right a er high school. The bene t of being in the military, though, was getting the GI Bill to pay for college. I started pursuing a history degree at the University of Nebraska while I was still in the Army. A er I came home to Minnesota, I was already married and had two sons. We had three daughters a er that. I went to college on and o , but it was too much to handle alongside a young family and a career. Looking back, I wish I’d nished my degree.

What was your career?

I started a job at Honeywell practically the day a er I got home from the Army. I worked there for ve years. A er trying a few other jobs, I went to work for Baxter Hospital Supplies for the next 25 years. I spent a lot of time in the car, driving from the Community to work in Plymouth. I might not choose that path if I had it to do over again, but I have no regrets.

When did you move to this Community?

We started building our house in 1969, as the Community was getting its federal recognition, and we moved before the kids started the school year in 1970. There was widespread poverty here at that time, but everyone worked together. I remember Skip Crooks operating a bulldozer to clear brush and make space for our house. My dad, brothers, and I helped other families clear their lots and build their houses.

What was the best part of living here in the early years?

My parents moved here shortly a er we did, so my ve kids grew up around their grandparents. My mother was the rst person in our family to serve in tribal government. She was Vice-Chairwoman and Secretary/Treasurer in the late 1970s and 1980.

What is the best part of living in this Community today?

The Dakota language is coming back to our tribe. When I think of how my mom used to speak Dakota with her family around the kitchen table, and they’d be laughing and enjoying themselves, I can only imagine how excited they would be that Dakota people don’t have to hide their language in the kitchen anymore. Today, we can speak it in public. The more we teach our kids the language and speak it together socially, the healthier our culture will be.

Do you speak Dakota?

I wish I did, but I only know scattered words. I do have a Dakota name, though. My Dakota name is Wokokipe Śni yedo, which translates to “Not Afraid.” I’m proud of that name, and I hope I’m living up to it.

What do you want younger people to know about aging?

I’m 84 years old, and I have Parkinson’s disease. I want everyone to know: You don’t die of Parkinson’s disease; you live with it. Since I was diagnosed, I’ve changed my focus to my health and made changes to my house to keep me living at home for the rest of my life. Some days, I can barely move. I miss dancing, bowling, and playing golf. But other days, I go out for dinner. I even traveled to Alaska this past summer. I won’t let this disease stop me. I intend to enjoy my life.

What is your advice to younger people?

Focus on your family. You start and nish work every day. You put in your days, and eventually you nish out your career. But your kids are there forever. W

Patrick’s Army portrait, taken during basic training in 1960 at Fort Ord, California.

THE EVOLUTION OF

BY BRIAN DEUTSCH

(or wacipi in the Dakota language), the beauty of a wacipi is never more apparent than in the regalia worn by dancers as they compete inside the arena.

At the SMSC Wacipi, more than a thousand dancers come together every August to celebrate and honor Native culture. And just like each individual dancer, every piece of regalia has its own story and evolution.

Blending historical and modern attire, a dancer’s regalia is a form of self-expression for each individual that combines tradition and personal preferences. While tailored to match a respective dance category and o en varying from region to region and tribe to tribe, each piece can represent a dancer’s life, their interests or passions, and their families and communities.

A SYMBOL OF FAMILY AND COMMUNITY

The art of making regalia stands as its own tradition as pieces require signi cant e ort to complete, while the process itself is never o cially completed or perfected. Skill, knowledge, and patience are required while multiple individuals may contribute to the pieces depending on specialization, from sewing to leatherwork to intricate beadwork.

In addition to the extensive e ort that goes into regalia making, pieces traditionally hold signi cance within families—with regalia o en being made or gi ed from loved ones and designed to be passed down for generations either as a complete out t or as individual pieces.

Obtaining a full wardrobe of regalia can take many years and many forms for dancers. And even then, the work is not done as dancers will continue to adjust their pieces, add additional components, and make repairs due to wear and tear over the years.

Between the intricate demands of regalia making and the signi cant familial connections of each piece,

regalia is o en seen as a cherished possession for dancers and their families—sharing their own stories as well as the stories of their communities and ancestors.

A LIVING ART FORM

Seen as a respectful and meaningful expression to honor and practice Native traditions, regalia making has evolved over the years and now may incorporate a blend of traditional and modern elements.

Historically, regalia has served as a visual communication for Native tribes, conveying many levels of information including the history of an individual, their family, and their tribe. The designs of regalia were important parts of these histories as various materials, patterns, and adornments were signi cant and speci c to di erent regions and tribes. Regalia continued to evolve over the years and began to incorporate “modern” elements such as glass beads, which were rst introduced by European fur traders in the early 19th century and quickly became a recognizable component in regalia that continues today. Another “modern” component is possibly the

most notable piece of regalia—the jingle dress. Lined with rows of metal cones, traditionally made from rolled up snu can lids, jingle dresses create an unforgettable sight and melody that echoes throughout the arena.

While Native American dancing and ceremonies were banned in the Religious Crimes Code of 1833, powwows and regalia making reemerged in the middle of the 20th century and have continued to evolve over time and incorporate modern adornments while respecting traditional concepts.

REGALIA ETIQUETTE

Most powwows, including the SMSC Wacipi, encourage families, friends, and neighbors to learn about and experience Native culture. However, it is important to remember there are many sacred aspects to these events, including a dancer’s regalia. With respect to the signi cance of regalia, remember the following rules of etiquette.

Regalia is a term used for describing traditional dance attire. Regalia should not be referred to as a “costume.”

Regalia should never be touched without permission. And while it is often acceptable to take photos or videos while a dancer is inside the arena (with several exceptions), please ask permission to do so outside the arena.

Eagle feathers are sacred in Native culture and often used in regalia. If an eagle feather (or any piece of regalia) falls o a dancer, do not pick it up or take a picture of it. Instead, make sure the dancer or an event leader is aware of the issue.

REGALIA ETIQUETTE

DANCE

A HISTORY OF REGALIA AND DANCE STYLES

At modern contest powwows such as the SMSC Wacipi, judges evaluate a dancer’s performance based on three criteria: knowledge and skill of the specific moves of the category; ability to keep time with the drum; and regalia. Contests are usually separated based on dance styles and age of dancers.

HISTORY

Men’s Traditional

Men’s Grass

Warriors and hunters danced out the story of their battles or hunting endeavors when they returned.

Traditionally performed after moving camp, to help prepare the earth in a good way for the people.

REGALIA

May carry shields, weapons, sta s, or sticks, and possibly wear a bustle.

Long, flowing fringe of yarn or ribbons to represent grass. A yoke, breechcloth, a roach or wapeṡa (wah-pe-sha), fringed anklets, ankle bells, and beadwork.

STYLE

Northern and Southern styles are distinct from each other, with a di erent competition for each.

The movements of the dancer represent the flow of the prairie grass in the wind. Dancers shake and sway, while their feet perform a variety of slides, hops, and other moves.

Men’s Fancy

Originated in Oklahoma at the beginning of the 20th century and sparked contest dancing.

Men’s Chicken

Tiny Tots

One of the oldest styles of dance, originating from the Blackfeet.

Bright and colorful, with two bustles, a roach with feathers that are kept rocking, arm bustles, angora anklets, and bells.

Clothing featuring smaller, old-fashioned bustles—often made with pheasant feathers—as well as ankle bells and bell drops.

A dance for children ages five and younger that encourages younger generations to embrace Native American culture and tradition.

Styles vary and are often made by the dancer or with a parent, older sibling, or relative. Regalia may also be passed down from relatives.

Consists of the standard double-step, with fancy footwork, acrobatics, speed, and showmanship on high display.

Dancers imitate the prairie chicken mating dance. Any style may be performed in this category.

DANCE

Women’s Traditional

HISTORY

A dance exemplifying elegance, grace, dignity, and modesty.

REGALIA

Buckskin or cloth dresses and a breastplate, carrying a shawl, a fan often made with eagle feathers, and a bag. A belt is often worn, with an attached knife sheath, awl carrier, and strike light bag.

STYLE

Northern dancers often dance in place with the fringe of their dress and shawl swaying to the beat. Southern dancers move gracefully around the circle with their fringe swaying back and forth.

Women’s Jingle Dress

Originated with the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) as a ceremonial dance.

Women’s Fancy Shawl

Elders

A relatively new dance from when women switched over from blankets to shawls.

Dresses have rows of tin jingles made of snu can lids. Dancers carry fans or bags, and wear eagle plumes on their heads.

Open to men and women dancers ages 70 and over.

Colorful, calf-length dresses or skirts are worn, with bright shawls and beadwork.

In traditional jingle dress movements, the feet were barely raised above the ground, but modern dance steps have become more intricate.

A very athletic dance, with competitors moving around the circle quickly to the beat of the music, spinning and using fancy footwork.

Styles vary according to personal preference.

Any style may be performed in this category.

1805

U.S. Army Lt. Zebulon Pike negotiated a treaty with the Mdewakanton, ceding land at the con uence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers for the construction of a military fort.

Minnesota River Valley for hundreds of years, shing from rivers and hunting game on the prairies and in the river valley woodlands.

1837

In the Treaty of 1837, Mdewakanton leaders sold approximately 5 million acres of land east of the Mississippi River to the U.S. government for the promise of annuity payments and other services.

1825

The U.S. government arranged the Prairie du Chien Treaty, setting boundaries of tribal land between many tribes. As a result of the boundaries, the Dakota people were forced to become more permanently settled in the Minnesota River Valley.

1858

The Mdewakanton and Wahpekute ceded their land on the north side of the Minnesota River in

1862

1886-1891

The U.S. government purchased land for the Mdewakanton, including parcels in the Prior Lake area.

1851

Two treaties—Traverse des Sioux and Mendota—resulted in several Dakota bands ceding their rights to all their lands, over 30 million acres, in the Minnesota Territory and Iowa in exchange for money and a permanent reservation on the Minnesota River.

Several Dakota warriors attempted to restore tribal unity by requesting tribes to join them in an uprising against the United States, beginning the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862. Thirty-eight Dakota are hanged for their participation in the war. Almost three years later, Dakota leaders Ṡákpedaŋ and Medicine Bottle were hung at Fort Snelling for their involvement.

1863

A er the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862, almost all of the Mdewakanton were forcibly removed from Minnesota. Congress abrogated all treaties with the Dakota.

1880S

A small number of Mdewakanton were allowed to stay in Minnesota, and the U.S. Congress appropriated money throughout the 1880s to provide them with land.

1969

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community formally became a federally recognized Indian tribe, pursuant to the Indian Reorganization Act.

MID 1990S

The SMSC opened several new enterprises, including an RV park, tness center, convenience store, and day care facility.

1991

A tribal-state compact was signed between the SMSC and the state of Minnesota, authorizing Class III gaming.

1992

1989

A gaming compact between the SMSC and the state of Minnesota was approved by the Secretary of the Interior.

Mystic Lake Casino opened, marking a signi cant turning point on the tribe’s path toward stability and self-su ciency. The new economic opportunity allowed for investment in essential services such as infrastructure, health care, and education.

1996

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel opened its rst hotel tower.

2007

A er years of operating in its original structure, Little Six Casino moved into a brandnew building on the original location of Little Six Bingo.

2002

Mdewakanton Public Safety was created to provide re/rescue and medical services for the Community.

1982

Little Six Bingo Palace opened, creating a new source of economic opportunity for the tribe.

2011

The SMSC built an organics composting facility, further supporting the Dakota tradition of caring for the earth.

2019

Hoċokata Ṫi, the SMSC’s cultural center, celebrated its grand opening.

The SMSC launched Understand Native Minnesota, a philanthropic campaign to improve the Native American narrative in Minnesota schools.

Learn more about the SMSC's history.

2018

Mystic Lake Center opened, featuring a new nine-story hotel tower and a 70,000-square-foot meeting and event center.

The Native Farm Bill Coalition—a joint project of the SMSC’s Seeds of Native Health campaign—worked diligently to advocate for the 2018 Farm Bill and advance Indian Country’s interests to improve Native American nutrition.

2023

The SMSC reintroduced a pteoptaye (bison herd) on tribal lands, a gi from the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate.

Shaping the

Youth Po ery Program Maintains the Tribe’s Connection to the Earth

When most people picture Indigenous pottery, their minds o en go straight to the Southwest—desert landscapes and bold patterns on iconic clay vessels. Frequently overlooked is the fact that the art form of pottery has deep roots right here in the Upper Midwest.

Ceramics became widespread in what is now known as Minnesota around 2,500 years ago, before European contact. Thanks to the region’s rich deposits of clay, Indigenous people naturally incorporated it into daily life. In fact, clay was so prevalent that Dakota tribes named several places a er it, including Bde Mak a Ska (White Earth Lake) in Minneapolis, Mde Maya Ṫo (The Blue Bank Lake) in Prior Lake, and Mak aṫo (GreenishBlue Earth), now called Mankato.

BY JESSE MENDEN

PHOTOS BY ALEKS KATANE, JAKE MILLER, GABBY STRATTON, BLAKE ZIEMER

Traditionally, clay was most o en used to make pots for storing food, cooking food, transporting goods, and holding water. But a er contact with Europeans, the use of handmade pottery declined. Metal kettles— e ective and durable cooking vessels— gained popularity among northern tribes during the fur trade era. The use of pots also declined as government relocation policies disrupted traditional ways of life.

Despite this, many Dakota tribes have kept the art of pottery alive. Perhaps the most well-known is the work of the Lower Sioux Indian Community. “They have done a really great job of keeping pottery going through the generations,” said Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) tribal member and Director of Hoċokata Ṫi Andy Vig. “And here, we’re trying to bring it back.”

CONNECTING TO THE PAST THROUGH POTTERY

Since receiving federal recognition in 1969, the SMSC has kept pottery alive as part of its cultural revitalization e orts through various programs, classes, and workshops for tribal members.

In the summer of 2025, the SMSC took a unique approach to maintain this connection to the earth by launching a special pottery program for tribal youth. Led by the tribe’s Cultural

Resources Department, four high school students from the SMSC and one college intern took part in a series of hands-on classes over the span of three months, where they learned why pottery was important to the Dakota people and the step-by-step process to make pots using traditional techniques.

The course was taught by Jennifer Stevens, an Oneida and Oglala Lakota artist and classically trained opera singer who has studied Indigenous pottery across the United States for nearly three decades. Stevens learned the art of pottery under the apprenticeship of acclaimed Oneida artist Rose Kerstetter and regularly interacts with archaeologists, anthropologists, and other experts to learn about Indigenous pottery.

But this class was more than just making pots. It was a window into how the students’ Dakota ancestors lived. “The reason why I feel that revitalization is so important is because if we’re trying to bring back our culture and understand our history, pottery used to be the center of our world,” Stevens said. “We used pottery for cooking food, for storing food, for processing food, and food was our life sustenance.”

Before the students could begin diving into how to make traditional pottery, they were given an assignment: research the di erent pottery types found in the Upper Midwest.

Using reference materials and shards of pottery in the SMSC Collections, the students were able to compare historically prominent styles and choose which one they wanted to base their work on.

Through this research, and eventually making their own vessels, the students learned not only technique—but also how their ancestors lived, worked, and survived.

“I was able to make things in the same way my ancestors did,” re ected one of the program’s participants, capturing the heart of the experience.

“I feel connected to the Dakota ways,” added another student, expressing how the hands-on experience became a bridge to traditions of the past.

DAKOTA POTTERY STYLES

Archaeologists and cultural historians have identi ed several Dakota pottery traditions in the Upper Midwest. Some notable examples are Sandy Lake, Ogechie, Black Duck, Oneota, and Kathio. These names were given by archeologists, but for the Indigenous people who created them, each style re ects the di erent materials, designs, and clay that was a part of the pottery tradition.

Dakota pottery is typically characterized by a round, globular body with a constricted neck and

The reason why I feel that revitalization is so important is because if we’re trying to bring back our culture and understand our history, po ery used to be the center of our world. We used po ery for cooking food, for storing food, for processing food, and food was our life sustenance.

—JENNIFER STEVENS

ared rim. The surface of the bases and bodies were smooth, burnished, or textured. The textures were o en created using paddles wrapped with cordage made from natural materials such as the inner bark of basswood, or bers from dogbane or stinging nettle, which were hand-twisted into small ropes. This technique produced a variety of textured and decorative surfaces.

Common design elements in Dakota pottery include incised lines, cordimpressed patterns, check stamping, tool-traced motifs, and occasionally smoothed or burnished nishes. These surface treatments not only re ect artistic expression but also the cultural identity and resourcefulness of the Dakota people.

THE MAKING OF TRADITIONAL POTTERY

One thing that Stevens emphasized is that making pottery using traditional methods is not easy—but it’s deeply rewarding. Throughout the summer program, she worked to keep students engaged by making the process as hands-on and meaningful as possible, while also sprinkling in a few modern tactics.

It began with clay processing. Freshly harvested clay can’t be used straight from the ground—it must be free from debris, organic matter, and sediment. Students tried two techniques: mixing clay with water and letting the particles settle, and a dry method using screens. Once cleaned and dried, the clay was mixed with temper—crushed rock, freshwater shells, and pottery shards were traditionally used—to strengthen it and prevent cracking.

The students then learned how to create corded paddles to make the hallmark textured surface patterns of Northern Plains pottery. With the traditional basswood, dogbane, and stinging nettle unavailable in the immediate area, students instead harvested cottonwood bers and made their own cordage— each cra ing about eight feet by hand.

Next came shaping. The students formed their vessels by hand using a at paddle, carefully molding the base, neck, and rim based on the style they chose. Then, using their corded paddles, they pressed in traditional patterns, just as their ancestors once did.

For this program, the pots were nished using a modern approach: they were placed in a kiln and ashred to create the distinctive burn marks typically found on traditionally red pottery. Without kilns, traditional potters used open-pit res—a process that was both skillful and delicate. The re would be built in a shallow pit, and the pots placed around the edges to slowly acclimate to the heat. As they hardened, the pots were gradually moved closer to the ames. A dull ring when tapped meant the clay was ready for the re’s center, where it would reach its nal temperature. A glowing red color signaled that the pot was fully red.

Depending on the mineral content of the clay and the heat intensity, the nished pots turned shades of deep red, with a black char from the smoke and ames.

To celebrate the program’s conclusion, SMSC sta , tribal members, and students’ families gathered for a special ceremony. The event began with a prayer and song, o ering

gratitude to the earth and to the ancestors who came before. This was followed by an educational presentation from Stevens and the students, where they shared what they had learned and created. The celebration concluded with a traditional meal featuring corn soup and other ancestral foods— demonstrating the connection between food and pottery.

CONTINUING THE TRADITION

Today, the completed pots are on display at Hoċokata Ṫi—the tribe’s cultural center—in a new exhibit space dedicated to youth-created work. Each pot is accompanied by a placard which describes their experience, translated into the Dakota language.

For the students, the class was a reconnection to tradition and their relatives. For the tribe, it’s a visual reminder that the culture is alive and being passed on.

“More people are learning pottery and are more interested than ever,” Stevens said. “It’s blooming—and it’s really a beautiful resurgence that we’re being gi ed back our culture.” W

EXPERIENCE

DAKOTA POTTERY

It’s rare to see complete clay pots from the pre-contact era—only fragments usually remain. But sometimes, these pieces can be carefully reassembled, offering a rare glimpse into how the original maker might have experienced their work. To see a reassembled

Dakota pot from the Red Wing, Minnesota area, visit the Mdewakanton:

Dwellers of the Spirit Lake public exhibit at Hoċokata Ti.

Woven into the

Many towns and landmarks across Minnesota carry names that are rooted in Dakota Language, a reflection of the deep and lasting presence of the Dakota people in this region. They are more than geographic labels—they are living reminders of a culture that has shaped what is now known as Minnesota and the Minnesota River Valley for generations. Today, the Dakota people continue to influence environmental stewardship, cultural revitalization, and community leadership, reinforcing their enduring relationship with this land and its future.

Learn more about the Minnesota towns and landmarks and how they are rooted in the history and culture of the Dakota.

BY CHAUNDRA RICH

BY ALEKS KATANE

PHOTOS

Mdewaka tu wa Mdewakanton:

“Dwellers of Spirit Lake” in Dakota.

Mnihaha | Minnehaha

Sound of Rushing or Falling Waters

Mni means water in Dakota, and haha refers to the sound water makes when it falls. For the Dakota, the falls were a sacred gathering place believed to be home to a powerful water spirit. It was a place of peace, where people could come together in harmony. The site later gained wider recognition when Henry Wadsworth Longfellow featured it in his epic poem “The Song of Hiawatha,” though the cultural meaning to the Dakota long preceded that portrayal.

Mni Ia Tá ka | Minnetonka | Great or Large Water

Known across many Minnesota locations, Mni is the Dakota word for water, with Tá ka meaning large or great. This name describes the vast area of Lake Minnetonka, reflecting the deep connection Dakota people have to the land and water, honoring the lake for its size, spiritual significance, and cultural importance.

Wak̇oniya | Waconia Fountain or Spring of Water

This name represents the Dakota word for the natural features located on presentday Coney Island in the middle of the lake.

Ca hasa Paha | Chanhassen

The Hills with Whiteish Bark Trees

Named for a Dakota word referencing the local maple trees, the area holds significance for Native communities— past and present—for the trees’ sap, which has long been harvested each spring to make syrup.

Sákpe | Shakopee

Six

The Dakota leader, Sákpe, received his name a er his wife gave birth to sextuplets. Sákpe’s community was centered at Tinta Otunwe, or prairie village, located along the Minnesota River—a place that served as the home, gathering site, and heart of the Dakota people in this region.

Winu na | Winona

Firstborn Daughter

Rooted in the history of birth order naming in Dakota families, the name Winona is traditionally understood to mean “firstborn daughter.”

Caske | Chaska

Firstborn Son

This name comes from a traditional Dakota title o en given to the firstborn son, in honor of Sákpe’s first son, carrying forward the legacy and importance of his family within the region.

Mak̇ato | Mankato

Blue Earth

The name Mankato is thought to reference the bluegreen clay found along the nearby banks of the Blue Earth River, which connects to the Minnesota River. Mankato is also widely known as the location of the largest mass execution in United States history where the hanging of 38 Dakota men took place a er the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862.

Owota na | Owatonna

Straight River

Owatonna is named a er what early Dakota tribes are believed to have called the large river that runs through Steele County.

MnÍsota

Minnesota: “Milky, white, or clear water” in Dakota.

Waziyata | Wayzata

To the North

Named for the northern spirit who dwells in the north and sends winds sweeping down over the people, the city draws its name from the pine trees that cover the surrounding landscape. It is located on the northern shore of Lake Minnetonka, where the forest meets the water.

Mde Maya To | Prior Lake

The Blue Bank Lake

Now named for Charles Prior, a former resident of the town, the Dakota called the local lake Mde Maya To, which describes the blueish green clay found on the slopes of the lake.

And many more…

Wapaha Sa | Wabasha

Mdóte | Mendota

Anu ka | Anoka

Named for the Dakota Leader Istahba | Sleepy Eye

Mni Waste | Minnewashta W

Learn more about Dakota history and words by visiting the Mdewakanton: Dwellers of the Spirit Lake exhibit at Hoċokata Ṫi or learn more about Dakota history online at hocokatati.org.

Join an organization with endless possibilities—we offer a wide range of roles across departments, experience levels, and career paths. Whether you're just getting started or looking to take the next big step, there's a place for you here.

shakopeedakota.org/careers

Values

Exploring the many ways in which the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community strives to be a good neighbor, good employer, and good steward of the earth.

INSPIRING FUTURES THROUGH EDUCATION

HOW THE SMSC EMPOWERS NATIVE COMMUNITIES

BY JONI KOMPERDA

PHOTOS BY ALEKS KATANE

Education is at the corner of progress and cultural preservation. This is especially true within Indigenous communities, where historical and systemic barriers— such as underfunded schools, limited access to culturally relevant curricula, and intergenerational trauma—have contributed to persistent educational disparities. The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC)—a federally recognized, sovereign Dakota tribal government—highlights this belief through its Education Department and philanthropic programs and grants.

By investing in high-quality, culturally grounded education, the SMSC ensures Native students are not forced to choose between academic achievement and their cultural identity. Instead, education becomes a tool to strengthen traditional values, language, and heritage— empowering students to thrive in both Native and non-Native spaces. With a commitment to its members and Native people across Indian Country, the SMSC is creating a future where educational success and cultural heritage go hand in hand.

NURTURING SUCCESS WITHIN THE SMSC

With a focus on supporting its members through education, the SMSC is dedicated to helping their youth learn and grow from their very rst school days all the way through college and beyond. The tribe believes a strong education helps people succeed and contribute in a good way to their community. The SMSC shows this deep commitment through its Education Department, which has grown over the decades to include a team of caring teachers, experienced tutors, and enthusiastic counselors who are focused on giving students all the help they need. This includes important a er-school

programs (like homework help and social engagement activities), detailed advice for planning their postsecondary journey, hands-on opportunities to learn by doing, and specialized guidance for students who need a little extra support.

Dan Morgan—the SMSC’s director of education—described the tribe’s approach, “We provide educational support tailored to the unique needs of each SMSC student, and our team is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and reach their full potential. Our programs are unique—they support

academic success and overall wellbeing throughout a student’s whole life. If students need help with things like managing homework, staying organized and motivated, or designing and planning their academic journey, we’re here to help them do that.” This internal focus ensures members have access to quality educational resources, supporting their personal growth and preparing them to become future leaders. The goal is to encourage members to invest their knowledge and skills back into the SMSC, strengthening the tribal nation from within.

EXPANDING EDUCATIONAL HORIZONS THROUGH PHILANTHROPY

Beyond direct support for its members, the SMSC strives for the Dakota tradition of wóokiya (generosity and helping) through signi cant philanthropic investments in education for Native students across the United States. The tribe understands many Native students face unique challenges in accessing higher education, and its contributions aim to ease this burden.

An example of this commitment is the SMSC Endowed Scholarship at the University of Minnesota. Established with a $2.5 million gi from the SMSC, the program uses university matching funds to create a meaningful endowment, providing nancial assistance to quali ed American Indian students. Since it began in 2009, this program has supported hundreds of Native American students from tribal nations across the country in

obtaining their undergraduate and graduate degrees. These scholarships are designed to recruit talented Native students and make sure they stay engaged, with eligibility based on academic performance and nancial need. It has a broad impact, enabling Native youth to overcome nancial barriers and focus on their academic journeys, allowing them to become leaders within their own tribal communities.

The SMSC has also gi ed millions of dollars to the American Indian College Fund, a leading national organization working to improve Native American access to higher education through scholarship support. This partnership supports a variety of academic and support programs to increase the number of Native Americans with college degrees and ensure students have the tools to succeed in their careers.

Additionally, the tribe has awarded numerous grants to many organizations focused on Native youth and education. These include, but are not limited to:

• Support for the Cheyenne River Youth Project, which provides innovative youth programming and family services.

• Funding for the Educare Winnebago Program in Nebraska, which aims to provide young children on the Winnebago Reservation with essential school readiness skills and incorporates the Ho-Chunk language to build cultural awareness.

• Grants to initiatives like One in the Spirit and the Division of Indian Work to provide winter coats and other essential resources to Native students in need.

• Support for the Nawayee Center School, an alternative urban high school focusing on Native American youth who have experienced obstacles in traditional school systems.

• Funding for organizations like Catching the Dream in Albuquerque, New Mexico, which provides scholarships and works to improve Native American schools, boasting a significantly higher graduation rate for Native students.

These investments increase educational equity and success for Native youth across various stages of their academic journeys.

SHAPING THE NARRATIVE IN EDUCATION AND PROMOTING WELLNESS

To enhance the educational landscape for Native Americans, the SMSC consistently engages in broader initiatives. The tribe’s Understand Native Minnesota campaign—a $5 million commitment from 2020-2024— was dedicated to adding greater understanding of Native American history, culture, and contemporary tribal governments into Minnesota’s education system. As part of this campaign, the SMSC hosted several popular and successful Educator Academies, where speakers covered Native topics and education, helping hundreds of educators of all backgrounds bring that back to their classrooms. The project sought to correct misconceptions and promote a more accurate and respectful narrative of Indigenous peoples. The campaign provided millions of dollars of grants to support curriculum and programming from organizations like Wakaŋ Tipi Awaŋyaŋkapi, Minnesota Historical Society, Minnesota Humanities Center, Science Museum of Minnesota, Bell Museum, Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, and several others.

There exists an inherent link between education and overall well-being. The SMSC’s IndigeFit Kids campaign, a $6 million, three-year philanthropic initiative launched in January 2025, focuses on improving the physical tness and mental wellness of Native youth in Minnesota. This campaign funds a variety of projects and programs, commissions research, raises public awareness, and supports e orts to Indigenize athletic programs.

“There are many long-standing environmental factors and social determinants of health that impact the overall health and wellness of Native youth, but by focusing on physical activity, good nutrition and healthy habits, we can create brighter futures for Native kids and communities,” said SMSC Secretary/Treasurer Ashley J. Cornforth.

EDUCATION AS AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE

High-quality education can transform lives, which the SMSC understands deeply. By investing in programs for its members while o ering philanthropic support to Native students and educational initiatives nationwide, the SMSC is creating a future where Native communities are upli ed through knowledge and leadership. The SMSC works to provide access to education where there otherwise may not be any, and it supports generations of Native youth who are equipped to thrive, lead, and contribute to their communities.

Kellyn Miller, the SMSC’s manager of education, said, “There’s a deep desire here to grow students into happy, healthy people who can nd their passion in life. It’s apparent in the mission of everyone I interact with at the SMSC.” The goal is clear: to bring education full circle to Native communities, ensuring those who bene t from these opportunities are inspired to invest their talents and leadership back into the collective future of Native individuals. W

A STEWARD OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE Ole Olmanson,

BY ERIN E. BELANGER

PHOTOS BY ALEKS KATANE

When it comes to protecting and educating about natural resources, few Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) team members have contributed as creatively and profoundly as Ole Olmanson. As manager of water resources, Ole blends innovative tools, wide-ranging expertise, and a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, turning the SMSC’s mission of being a good steward of the earth into action.

From navigating underground storm sewers, monitoring wind energy, sampling water quality in lakes and streams, and leading the SMSC’s annual weeklong celebration of honoring Uŋci Mak a (Grandmother Earth), Ole’s work is woven into the fabric of the SMSC’s sustainability e orts.

As soon as Ole joined the SMSC’s Natural Resources Department in December 2006 as a water resource scientist, he found more than a job—he found a place where his passion for protecting the environment aligned perfectly with the tribe’s environmental values and long-term goals. “It’s really great to have supportive leadership and colleagues in a natural resources role,” explained Ole. “The SMSC is forward-thinking and willing to be an early adopter in protecting and improving our resources.”

Armed with a master’s degree in water resources science and a lifelong curiosity about the natural world, Ole has spent nearly two decades advancing

groundwater management, sustainability, and the protection of lands and waterways. From building renewable energy projects to implementing cuttingedge water monitoring systems, Ole’s work re ects both scienti c rigor and care for the community.

“I’m a scientist rst and foremost. I like to look at questions and see solutions—whether it’s scienti c or engineering,” Ole shared. “I’m not an inventor, but I look for di erent ways to custom-tailor solutions that t the tribe’s needs while saving money along the way.”

Ole’s work is a powerful example of how innovation, stewardship, and cultural values come together at the SMSC. His dedication to protecting natural resources—both seen and unseen—helps ensure a healthier environment for today and for generations to come.

"I’m a scientist first and foremost. I like to look at questions and see solutions—whether it’s scientific or engineering.”

When did you start at the SMSC, and what drew you to the role?

I started in December 2006 as a water resource technician. The position t well with my background and education, and the SMSC’s values aligned with my own commitment to protecting resources.

What are you most passionate about in your career?

Well, beyond data collection and eldwork, I’m passionate about sharing knowledge with others. Whether guiding tours, participating in Earth Day events, or showing how everyday choices impact water quality, I see education as essential to stewardship. There’s a real interest from cities, environmental organizations, universities, and other agencies to see what the SMSC is working on.

The SMSC does a good job at being a leader in water—and I think that is recognized locally and with consultants and local agencies.

How does your role intersect with the tribe’s environmental initiatives and values?

I’ve been fortunate to be able to work directly on implementing and advancing many of the SMSC’s initiatives. This includes the restoration of Arctic Lake, conducting research on our green roofs, investigating invasive species on SMSC lakes, sitting in on green energy sessions, and working on streambank stabilization projects, to name a few.

What changes or improvements have you seen in the environment since you started?

Lake clarity has de nitely improved over the years thanks to a variety of management practices both in and around the lake. Things like restoring farmland back to native prairie, reducing nutrient inputs, and removing invasive carp have really helped. Getting buy-in from other departments has also contributed—water so ener removal, reverse osmosis treatment, and road salt reduction have also done a lot for water quality. It’s also been cool to see a parcel of land go from row crop to prairie to a bison (pte) pasture.

What changes or improvements have you seen in the Natural Resources Department?

In the department, it’s been great to see so many talented scientists get hired and contribute their skills to the team. The addition of having top drone technology at our disposal for aerial photos and video has really helped us see things like invasive species or wild rice abundance from a new perspective.

What kind of projects are you currently working on?

There are a few notable projects that I’m excited about. First, I’m working on a multiyear grant to help address the hypoxia zone in the Gulf of Mexico. A hypoxia zone, also known as a dead zone, is an area with low to no oxygen that can kill sh and marine life. So far, through a variety of local water quality projects, we are identifying nutrient sources and invasive populations that can degrade water quality, including assessing Arctic Lake for an alum treatment to sequester legacy nutrients.

I’m building a private wireless sensor network to allow real-time data collection, not only for water quality, but for weather, soil moisture, and so much more. These are things that can o er bene ts across various SMSC departments and enterprises.

I’m also working to design and install a solar power source for the bison (pte) so that in the winter the drinking water doesn’t freeze over.

And nally, I’ve been involved with groundwater from the beginning of my career, and at the SMSC, we’re currently updating our Well Head Protection plan that helps us manage our drinking water resources for future generations.

A

What is the biggest challenge in your role?

Winter is never long enough. We spend the time between ice out and freeze up collecting data and implementing many of our projects and then retreat to the o ce in the winter months to analyze our ndings and write reports— but every year it seems like April comes around so fast and it’s time to get back outside and back in the eld.

Is there a particular project or achievement you're most proud of?

Surpassing the 20-year mark for collection of SMSC weather data. Long-term datasets are important to ongoing evaluation of our preservation and improvement e orts.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

For me, it’s seeing tangible results, including clearer water in SMSC lakes, the return of native plant species, and lands transformed from cropland into thriving prairies and bison pastures. I’ve been here a long time, and I enjoy it here. We’ve built a great team. It’s rewarding to be surrounded by experts and to have the resources we need to do meaningful, interesting work.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in this field?

Eliminate or reduce household winter salt use. One teaspoon of salt contaminates ve gallons of water and there is no good way to remove salt once it is in the environment. W Q A

Water resources is a very broad eld. I’d recommend taking some opportunities to get exposure to those areas that you’re not familiar with. Join a professional society, attend a conference, or look for a certi cation you can work toward. Groundwater is very important and o en overlooked.

What’s one thing you would recommend for anyone who wanted to help take better care and make an impact on our waterways?

"I’ve been here a long time, and I enjoy it here. We’ve built a great team. It’s rewarding to be surrounded by experts and to have the resources we need to do meaningful, interesting work."

From restoring prairies, forests, and wetlands to protecting waterways and welcoming native plants and wildlife back to tribal lands, NativeGreen reflects the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC)’s overarching commitment of being a good steward of the earth. This environmental stewardship program focuses on protecting the environment through recycling and waste reduction, sustainable infrastructure, efficient water use, and land restoration across the tribal nation and the broader community.

With the next seven generations in mind, the SMSC is taking bold steps to protect Uŋcí Mak a, Grandmother Earth by weaving traditional values with modern solutions to meet the environmental challenges of today. NativeGreen launched in 2017, and since then the SMSC has focused on fostering a healthy community, thriving environment, and resilient local economy through conservation, stewardship, and self-su ciency.

As a leader in environmental sustainability and stewardship, the SMSC’s NativeGreen initiatives reach into every corner of the community, focusing on recycling and waste reduction, clean energy, water conservation, restoring habitat, reducing carbon footprint, and working toward carbon neutrality.

These e orts are making a real di erence as the tribe has diverted more than 150 tons of organic waste from land lls and reduced groundwater use by over 35 million gallons every year.

With a sustainability plan in place, the SMSC has set an ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2035. This commitment is made possible by a collaboration between SMSC tribal members, the Gaming Enterprise, and Tribal Operations, ensuring that every part of the SMSC is working toward a healthier, more sustainable future.

From composting and recycling programs to clean energy investments and award-winning water treatment e orts, NativeGreen demonstrates the SMSC as an environmental leader. The tribe is dedicated to living in balance with nature while inspiring others to take meaningful action in their own communities.

Looking to the future, the SMSC continues to walk the path of stewardship and sustainability, honoring ancestors and protecting Grandmother Earth for future generations. Explore the infographics and discover the many ways the SMSC is making real change—for today and for tomorrow.

Caring for GRANDMOTHER

Earth

A GLIMPSE AT THE SMSC’S LEADERSHIP IN ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AND STEWARDSHIP

BY ERIN E. BELANGER

OUR LAND

STEWARDS 10 ACRES

OF ORGANIC CROPLAND, PASTURE, ORCHARDS, AND POLLINATOR HABITAT

PRODUCES 15,000 POUNDS

OF ORGANIC PRODUCE ON 1¼ ACRE OF NO - TILL GARDENS

HARVESTS 5,000 POUNDS

OF FRUIT FROM A SMALL ORCHARD, WHILE NATIVE SHRUBS PROVIDE BERRIES AND TRADITIONAL MEDICINES FOR THE COMMUNITY

DELIVERS 1,500 BOXES

OF DIVERSE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES AND 15,000 PASTURE - RAISED EGGS TO TRIBAL MEMBERS EVERY YEAR

SINCE 2019, THE NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT...

25,000 8,300 1,500 native trees native shrubs native grasses and flowers PLANTED HOURS REMOVING INVASIVE SPECIES 100+ SPENT

SAVED

274 ash trees by treating for Emerald Ash Borer, an invasive insect

RESTORED

511 acres of prairie

REINTRODUCED 10 female and 1 male bison on restored prairie

CONDUCTED PRESCRIBED BURNS BENEFITING MORE THAN 1,000 ACRES

MONITORING WATER RESOURCES FOR 25 YEARS

CURRENTLY MONITOR

6 4 2 2

streams lakes wetlands springs

IMPROVED WATER CLARITY IN PIKE LAKE EAST

TO MEET STATE CLARITY STANDARDS FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2014 COMPLETED 7,986 476 SITES SINCE 2016 EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL INSPECTIONS AT

Building AND Energy

RECOVERED MORE THAN 3,000 POUNDS OF REFRIGERANTS THROUGH THE HYDRONICS PLANT. LEARN MORE ON PAGE 82.

SINCE 2018, THE SMSC ...

REDUCED CO2 EMISSIONS BY REDUCED NATURAL GAS USE (THERMS) BY

REDUCED ELECTRICITY USE (KWH) BY 8.2%

MATCHED 100% OF ELECTRICITY NEEDS WITH WIND FARMS IN THE DAKOTAS

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

OPENED DAKOTA PRAIRIE COMPOSTING IN 2025, THE LARGEST ORGANICS COMPOSTING FACILITY IN THE MIDWEST

DIVERTED MORE THAN OF PUMPKINS ANNUALLY THROUGH THE FREE FALL PUMPKIN RECYCLING PROGRAM 14,000 POUNDS

COMPOSTED MORE THAN

EACH JANUARY 300 CHRISTMAS TREES

COMPOSTED 75,558 TONS OF ORGANIC WASTE IN 2024, INCLUDING:

17,862 TONS 15,194 TONS 31,925 TONS 10,577 TONS OF WOOD WASTE OF FOOD WASTE OF YARD WASTE OF OTHER ORGANIC WASTE

how we move

INSTALLED LEVEL 2 EV CHARGERS ACROSS THE SMSC: CHARGEPOINT: 19 CHARGERS | 38 PLUGS - INS TESLA: 12 CHARGERS | 12 PLUG - INS

31 CHARGERS | 50 PLUG - INS

JOINED THE EV SMART NATIVE NATIONS PROGRAM, SUPPORTING NATIVE COMMUNITIES WITH EV READINESS PLANNING ELECTRIC VEHICLES IN THE SMSC'S FLEET 6

From composting and recycling programs to habitat conservation and clean energy efforts, NativeGreen reflects the SMSC’s commitment to living in balance with nature while inspiring others to take meaningful action. Together, we are walking the path toward a more sustainable, healthier future for all. W

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE NATIVEGREEN MISSION AT SMSCNATIVEGREEN.ORG TODAY!

BEING

A GOOD NEIGHBOR, ONE FOOD BOX AT A TIME

BY ERIN E. BELANGER

BY ALEKS KATANE

Not knowing where your next meal will come from brings a constant, heavy worry. It sits with you all day, weighing on every decision. Going to bed hungry, lying awake with an aching stomach and a mind full of anxiety, wondering how you’ll find the strength to get through tomorrow—this is a reality that too many Minnesotans are facing.

PHOTOS

On a crisp, sunshine- lled morning, dozens of volunteers in bright red T-shirts stamped with “#SMSCgives” in bold white letters begin their shi , sorting produce, stacking boxes, and preparing to hand out 20,000 pounds of food to more than 700 families. Every food distribution is di erent, but the team has the process down. Their laughter blends with the steady rhythm of their work as they pack fresh produce, bread, and pantry staples into boxes, ready to nourish families in the surrounding community.

By a ernoon, the cars begin to line up, and one by one, families are greeted with waves and warm smiles. Some volunteers direct tra c while others load boxes into trunks with practiced care. It’s more than just a line of cars—it’s a circle of neighbors helping neighbors, each box passed along with the Dakota value of wóokiya generosity and helping.

At the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC), events like the #SMSCgives Free Food Distribution embody what it means to be a good neighbor by providing the local community with free groceries. In partnership with the CAP Agency and Second Harvest Heartland, these events provide nutritious food while also reducing food waste and strengthening community ties.

The #SMSCgives Food Distribution program began out of necessity. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought uncertainty, sickness, separation, con nement, layo s, and more. The tribe recognized the hardships many families faced in the area and wanted to help, o ering hope, promise, and food—a basic need that was quickly becoming harder to a ord and with many production lines shut down, harder to source. With only essential workers allowed to report to work on-site, the food distribution was an opportunity for the SMSC to support members of the local community who were facing hardship, rising grocery and gas costs, and food insecurity.

By partnering with the CAP Agency, a nonpro t that serves Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties, and Second Harvest Heartland, a hunger-relief organization,

the SMSC found a way to bridge the gap between those in need of assistance and food that was quickly approaching sell-by date.

Together, the e orts of the three organizations became a lifeline for many families living in or around Scott County. “We started the SMSCgives Food Distributions at the beginning of COVID-19 because we knew there was a food shortage. Families weren’t working, and our community was struggling,” said Amy Donaldson, director of Playworks and former #SMSCgives Committee chair. “Sometimes you just don’t realize how great that need is—but there is always a need. That’s the power of #SMSCgives—it does so much good for those who need it, and we’re here to provide it.”

Being hungry might be more common than you think. The Minnesota Hunger survey conducted in 2025 by Second Harvest Heartland found that 1 in 5 Minnesotans face food insecurity. The nonpro t The

87 counties in the state. Every Meal, an organization with a mission to ll the food gaps for children when they are not in school, states that more than “300,000 children in Minnesota live with food insecurity.”

Fortunately, the SMSC o ers team members an opportunity to make a di erence and actively participate in #SMSCgives e orts. With each team member receiving 16 hours of paid outreach hours annually, they can easily contribute directly to the wellbeing of the surrounding community.

“Every distribution event is a team e ort,” explains Kelsey Scares The Hawk, SMSC charitable giving specialist. “This program has grown expeditiously. We work side by side to sort, pack, and distribute thousands of pounds of groceries so local families can have food on their tables. For me, it’s about helping families get quality fruits, vegetables, and proteins they may not otherwise be able to a ord.”

Over the years, the #SMSCgives Food

Andrew Basil, longtime event captain and senior manager of SMSC food services. “They build relationships between our team members and the community. I enjoy doing it and look forward to every event because it’s challenging and its rewarding. It’s a sure re way to make a real impact. We can make someone’s day, or even their week, a little easier—and that matters.”

With every food distribution event, the SMSC rea rms its commitment to wóokiya—demonstrating that generosity and helping others are not just principles for the tribe, but practices that unite and build a stronger community.

“It’s great that we do the food distributions here. It’s about being kind and judgment-free, and showing up to help, because we don’t know what others are going through,” explained Donaldson. “Seeing our community come together to help one another is powerful, and it’s an honor to be part of an organization that

1,404

1,695

1,353

1,035

1,202

1,254

EFFICIENCY

IN ACTION

A NEW ERA FOR CLIMATE CONTROL AT MYSTIC LAKE CASINO HOTEL

BY CHAUNDRA RICH

BY ALEKS KATANE

As part of a broader commitment to sustainability, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) recently took on a major upgrade to its heating and cooling systems. With aging rooftop units nearing the end of their useful life, the team at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel evaluated several options and ultimately invested in a hydronic heating and cooling system—an approach that aligns with the SMSC’s environmental goals, while improving efficiency and comfort. The decision was a move toward reducing the facility’s carbon footprint, eliminating thousands of pounds of harmful refrigerants, and achieving measurable utility savings.

PHOTOS

A er several decades of use, the existing heating and cooling system at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel was no longer meeting the facility’s growing demand for reliable climate control and needed an upgrade. That’s when the Gaming Enterprise’s dedicated Project Services and Engineering teams stepped in, o ering up an innovative solution that would keep up with the need for stable climate control within the building, but also align with the SMSC’s broader goal of environmental sustainability.

The team considered two choices: replacing the roo op units or completely overhauling the system in favor of hydronics, a water-based system which circulates hot and cold water through a section of pipes to control temperature. While keeping the overall goal of sustainability in mind, they carefully evaluated both, making sure to consider the long-term economic impact of each option.

Although not new to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) world, hydronics systems have grown in popularity for their e ciency and consistency. These systems use heated or chilled water as a medium to carry thermal energy through a closed loop of pipes connected to various heat exchangers, such as coils, then redistributed with fans, valves, and ductwork. This allows for precise temperature control throughout a building, maintaining

comfort while relying on a single, centralized system.

“We needed a system that wouldn’t just work today, but would still perform in 30 years,” said Gaming Enterprise Engineering Manager Jason Hughes.

One potential justi cation for the investment in the hydronics system was that many of the existing roo op units were due for replacement anyway. With the new system, there are fewer short-term equipment replacement costs, with a longer lifespan than the previous HVAC system.

The plan for switching to hydronics was further reinforced with the national import ban of R-22, a common hydrocarbon refrigerant used in air conditioners, in early 2020 for their harmful impact on the ozone layer. While the team was already moving away from harmful refrigerants, the regulation gave them an even greater nudge to eliminate the use of the product on roo op units that relied on them.

“We thought it was a good time to look at how the building operates and how we can improve existing systems while also looking ahead,” said Gaming Enterprise Director of Property and Facilities Erik Sneed. And that’s where the hydronics project was solidi ed in

the plans, with Sneed calling it a “giant reinvestment project in infrastructure.”

The hydronics project would require several major upgrades: expanding the existing central plant building with new chillers, boilers, pumps, and major electrical infrastructure, reinforcement of existing building structural components, new piping infrastructure to and across the roof, and other steps to ensure the system remains operational with a comfortable indoor climate, without any full-system shutdowns.

“This is the largest infrastructure project we’ve ever undertaken while keeping the building open and operational,” said Hughes.

A major challenge was how to carry out such a large-scale renovation in a facility that operates 24 hours a day. The project team carefully phased the work, closing o sections of the building as needed to avoid major disruptions for guests.

The project team worked with many groups throughout the planning and construction, including extensive research done with the SMSC Public Works Department to ensure the water usage the system would require was available. They worked together to test the water quality a er use in the system, as well, to ensure the water could still be processed.

"It’s a true investment in the future—a long-term solution built to last, not just to patch."

Erik Sneed, Gaming Enterprise Director of Property and Facilities

“We had a lot of help and coordination e orts from other teams throughout the process,” said Gaming Enterprise Project Manager Joe Fieck, referencing how the project went smoothly thanks to all those in the Gaming Enterprise and Tribal Operations who helped to support the project demands. “There were some pretty impressive steps taken to keep the building functionally operational while these installations were occurring.”

In October 2024, the system was connected to the rst area that it would serve, the gaming oor, and the bene ts were clear. The system ran quieter, with fewer disruptions, and it was much easier to control temperature and humidity throughout the large building. Plus, for the team that was diligently working to maintain the system, it proved to be much easier and safer than the previous system, with substantially less equipment to move across the roof.

The project plans even put a focus on ensuring that when system maintenance was needed, other backup pumps and equipment were available to keep the whole system functioning and controlled. So, tasks like replacing lters don’t require a drop in guest comfort.

“We’re fortunate to have such a solid group of people maintaining the system,” Sneed said. “They’re constantly monitoring the system and, if there are any challenges, there’s an immediate response.”

The SMSC has always held a long-term vision for sustainability, guided by the principle of thinking seven generations ahead. The hydronics project re ects that commitment, achieving a reduction of about 10% in electrical use and 15% in natural gas use since the new system started. Most notably, it reduced the enterprise’s refrigerant use by about 6,000 pounds—a major step in shrinking their carbon footprint.

Reducing environmental impact while maintaining guest comfort is important to the SMSC, and this project remains a great example of how a system can work to do both.

While the hydronics project marks a major milestone, the team continues to innovate with upcoming enhancements focused on elevating the guest experience at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel.

By investing in innovative, sustainable infrastructure, the SMSC is not only reducing its environmental impact but also enhancing comfort and reliability for visitors and sta alike. This project stands as a powerful example of how vision, collaboration, and commitment can come together to build a healthier, more resilient future. W

Build Your Future at the SMSC

AN ONGOING COMMITMENT TO BEING A DESTINATION EMPLOYER

BY CHAUNDRA RICH

PHOTOS BY ALEKS KATANE, BLAKE ZIEMER, AND JAKE MILLER

Across every department and role, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) is dedicated to cultivating meaningful careers and growing opportunities that strengthen both team members and the local community. As the largest employer in Scott County, the SMSC hosts over 4,000 positions throughout gaming operations, publicfacing enterprises, government programs, and departments. Every role contributes to a shared mission of creating exceptional experiences, fostering professional growth, and supporting daily life.

While the SMSC is perhaps best known for Mystic Lake Casino Hotel and Little Six Casino, the Tribal Operations side plays a vital role in maintaining wellness programs, protecting lands, and supporting enterprises and departments that embody a commitment to being a good neighbor and a good steward of the earth.

In every position, SMSC team members make a meaningful impact. Whether they’ve been part of the SMSC for months or decades, team members consistently describe a deep sense of belonging, purpose, and pride in contributing to a community that values collaboration, balance, and personal growth. This shared commitment to service, innovation, and growth de nes the SMSC as a place where careers ourish, personal ful llment is nurtured, and cultural traditions are celebrated daily.

From behind the scenes to front and center, every role at the SMSC contributes to a living story of collaboration and growth. From hospitality to nursing, retail to public safety, and everything in between, team members have opportunities to grow, achieve personal goals, and support the tribe’s value of being a good employer, good neighbor, and good steward of the earth. If you’re ready to contribute to the cause while building your future, visit shakopeedakota.org/careers to explore open positions today!

THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT THE SMSC!

Here’s a snapshot of the different departmental positions with the SMSC

25 VITAL DEPARTMENTS

Destination Employer - 6 pages

Internships

WHY WORK HERE? WHY WORK

Kick-start your career with an internship at the SMSC! Students are invited to apply for 10-week summer internship opportunities where they can build real-word experience through hands-on learning, connecting, and fun.

of SMSC interns recommend the SMSC for an internship program.

“The SMSC Internship program has truly been above and beyond what I anticipated! Not only have I gotten an inside look at a business process, but I have also been able to make real contributions to new and active projects.”

-Former SMSC Intern

Giving Back on the Clock

SMSC team members are offered unique opportunities to take part and volunteer their time in many charitable activities throughout the year. Team members plan, organize, and execute events using up to 16 paid outreach hours the SMSC sets aside for team members who want to make a difference.

PAID OUTREACH OPPORTUNITIES FOR SMSC TEAM MEMBERS:

Free food distributions

Blanket and card-making crafting events

Pet food and supply drives

Blood donations

School supply giveaways

More reasons to find your career at the SMSC!

SMSC WACIPI

Many departments and enterprises play a vital role in the tribe’s largest event of the year, the SMSC Wacipi. Team members help to bring this large-scale and culturally rich three-day event to life, ensuring visitors and dancers have an amazing experience!

DINING OPPORTUNITIES

Aside from the many delicious restaurants throughout the casinos, the SMSC also offers a team member dining room where workers have access to numerous discounted food options to keep them fueled and focused each day.

ENTERTAINMENT

Even when you’re not working, you’re still a valued member of the SMSC experience. Stop by to enjoy savings on live shows, restaurants, recreational offerings, and more!

OPPORTUNITY TO GROW

At the SMSC, team members can grow across a variety of positions, departments, and promotions. Many of those who have worked with the SMSC for a long time, have found inspiration throughout different roles, advancing in their positions and earning valuable knowledge on the functions of each job.

TOOLS TO THRIVE

Discounted fuel, dining options, transportation services, and more are available to SMSC team members to ensure everyone has the tools they need to be their best self.

YOUR HEALTH IS IMPORTANT

Whether it’s your family’s well-child visit, shortterm counseling needs, prescriptions, eye care, or injury care, the SMSC, combined with its premium health insurance offerings and care facilities, has everything you need to prioritize your family’s health and wellness.

GET SAVING

Between competitive weekly pay and a generous employer 401(k) savings match, the SMSC helps you take your future in your hands. It’s why many team members view the SMSC as not just a place to work, but one day, retire! W

DECADES OF DEDICATION!

Average tenure of SMSC team members is

7.5 years

3,800+ SMSC employees

22% of team members have been with the SMSC for 10+ years

The longest current tenure (as of 2025) is

38 years

READY FOR

THE SMSC’S NEWEST ENTERPRISE—LAUNCHPAD GOLF THE MEADOWS— EXPANDS THE TRIBE’S GOLF AND DINING OFFERINGS.

FOR LIFTOFF

BY BRIAN DEUTSCH

PHOTOS PRODUCED BY JAKE MILLER

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s (SMSC) entertainment o erings soared to new heights in the fall of 2025 with the opening of LaunchPad Golf The Meadows—the Twin Cities’ latest golf entertainment venue.

The new enterprise pairs perfectly with the tribe’s award-winning public golf course—The Meadows at Mystic Lake—to create a year-round golf entertainment haven, catering to the region’s hunger and passion for options outside the traditional golf season and experience.

“We’re excited to expand beyond The Meadows at Mystic Lake golf course and welcome golfers of all abilities to enjoy year-round, top-ofthe-line entertainment at LaunchPad Golf The Meadows,” said SMSC Chairman Cole W. Miller. “Building on our legacy of creating premier golf destinations, the grand opening of this unique venue is exciting not just for our tribe, but for the region.”

Nestled next to Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake, Minnesota, LaunchPad Golf The Meadows o ers an entertaining experience for all ages and abilities. The venue's 40 climate-controlled suites situate the enterprise as the perfect destination for golf enthusiasts looking to work

on their game throughout the year while also providing a vibrant social atmosphere to gather with friends, enjoy a night out, or host corporate or celebratory events. The enterprise also bolsters the SMSC’s abundant dining opportunities with a menu full of exciting food and drink o erings.

The new venture is a partnership between the SMSC and LaunchPad Golf, a Canadian company with two existing locations that are also paired alongside renowned golf courses. LaunchPad Golf The Meadows is the company’s rst expansion into the United States market.

To mark the occasion, the SMSC provided invited guests with an exclusive sneak peek at LaunchPad Golf The Meadows' grand opening event a day before opening doors to the public on October 4, 2025. Attendees were treated to an early look at the fun, food, and air that LaunchPad Golf is known for, in addition to an immersive drone show to celebrate the latest chapter in the tribe’s economic expansion and to thank those who have made it possible.

“A big thank you to our tribal members—none of this is possible without their support,” Chairman Miller said during the grand opening event. “Thank you for trusting us with this project. It’s been a long time coming, and it’s been a lot of work but it’s absolutely worth it.”

PLAY. PRACTICE. PERFORM.

Utilizing Inrange technology in its golf suites, LaunchPad Golf is dedicated to evolving your experience by combining the best technology in the industry with a complete restaurant service. Whether you’re picking up a club for the rst time, or are a seasoned professional, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

LAUNCHPAD GOLF'S VARIETY OF INRANGE GAME MODES OFFER:

• Radar-based ball tracking technology from swing to nish, to better track your shot and performance.

• Immersive multiplayer games for your crew’s night out.

• Leaderboards for those with the need to scratch that competitive itch.

• Solo-focused practice modes complete with performance data to work on your swing.

• Access to world-class courses to play in the comfort of your suite.

Take a spin around LaunchPad Golf The Meadows by scanning the QR code to watch an exclusive drone experience.

LaunchPad Golf’s exciting atmosphere carries far beyond the gameplay in each suite. The enterprise is the perfect location for any and all social or corporate outings. Whether you’re planning a birthday bash, a date night, or your company holiday party, LaunchPad Golf can provide the perfect setting for your group.

Meanwhile, a carefully cra ed food and drink menu showcases ingredients from local artisanal farms and will have guests eagerly anticipating their next visit. From atbreads, burgers, and shareables to signature drinks, LaunchPad Golf The Meadows really does have something for everyone. W

Come see what all the fun is about at LaunchPad Golf The Meadows. Book your suite and check out our food and beverage o erings at LAUNCHPADGOLF.COM

HAVE A BITE

ENJOY A NIGHT OUT

GRAB A DRINK

STARTED IT ALL THE THAT

Marking 40 Years of Growth, Gaming, and Community

BY BRIAN DEUTSCH

“When my father suggested the Community build a bingo hall, even I sco ed at the idea,” the late former Chairman Stanley R. Crooks said in 2007. “Some members doubted that anyone would be willing to nancially invest in the idea, and even if we found investors, people wouldn’t want to drive to a rural location on dirt roads to play bingo virtually located in the middle of a eld.”

“[Little Six Casino] has significance to our Community, as the birthplace of a new life for our people.”

-Stanley R. Crooks Late former SMSC Chairman

But the gamble investment paid o , and Little Six Bingo Palace opened as a smashing success in 1982. Gaming was truly an overnight success for the SMSC, drawing people from all over the state and signi cantly improving the tribe’s economic prospects. Life on the reservation began to change dramatically, and the tribe’s future was starting to look promising. Early bingo hall pro ts were used to add necessary enhancements to the

reservation, paving roads leading to the reservation, and building a new community center with exhibit display areas, a day care center, medical and dental o ces, and a restaurant.

In addition to providing economic stability for the SMSC, the tribe’s casinos employed thousands of individuals and became Scott County’s largest employer. The introduction of gaming enabled the tribe to become one of the leading philanthropic organizations in the region and throughout Indian Country.

Within a few years, the popularity of Little Six Bingo Palace outgrew its initial space. A timeline of expansion ensued, including a pair of new facilities and culminating in the current version of Little Six Casino, built in 2007 right where the original bingo hall once stood.

“We wanted to provide Little Six Casino guests with a better gaming experience,” former Chairman Stanley R. Crooks said at the time of the facility’s last relocation. “We’re just moving the operation back to its original site, a place which has signi cance to our Community, as the birthplace of a new life for our people.”

And while the SMSC has since added numerous additional enterprises, including the construction of Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in 1992, Little Six Casino will always have an important place in the tribe’s history and legacy.

“Norman Crooks had a dream of self-su ciency for the Community,” the late former Vice-Chairman Glynn Crooks said. “(The Gaming Enterprise and Little Six Casino) gave people here jobs. This is historically a great place, the place that started it all.” W

1982

OCTOBER 16

The SMSC opens Li le Six Bingo Palace. The new 1,300-seat bingo hall o ers exciting amenities including $10,000 jackpots, a snack bar, six large scoreboards, and TV monitors.

During the early days of Indian Gaming, the tribe’s original bingo hall consisted of 13 trailers pieced together; this was only ever intended to be a temporary structure.

1984

JULY 22-24

Following the success of the original bingo hall, the SMSC hosts a grand opening for the newly expanded bingo hall.

1988 OCTOBER 17

The passing of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act establishes the basis for tribes to negotiate compacts with the state of Minnesota to o er blackjack and video slots. Li le Six Bingo rebrands as Li le Six Casino.

2007 DECEMBER 14

A er less than a year of construction, the current version of Li le Six Casino opens to the public at 12:01am, on the exact site where the SMSC rst introduced high-stakes bingo and Indian Gaming to Minnesota back in October 1982.

2022 OCTOBER 16

The SMSC Gaming Enterprise celebrates 40 years of operations with a full slate of summer festivities including Rock and Rockets, The Great Midwest Rib Fest, and more. The celebration includes successful runs of four decades for Li le Six Casino and three decades for Mystic Lake Casino Hotel.

VOICES PEOPLE of Our

FROM ORAL TRADITIONS TO GRAPHIC STORYTELLING, the following books celebrate the power of Native voices. Whether you’re looking to introduce a young reader to Indigenous perspectives or deepen your own understanding, these six carefully selected books—written by Dakota and other Native authors— o er powerful reflections on culture, identity, history, and resilience. Visit the gift shop at Hoċokata Ṫi to pick up one of these sta picks—or explore the store’s full selection of Indigenous titles for all ages. W

"A CHILD OF THE INDIAN RACE" A STORY OF RETURN

BY SANDY WHITE HAWK

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES’ HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES: A GRAPHIC INTERPRETATION

ADAPTED BY PAUL PEART-SMITH

A powerful memoir from a Sicangu Lakota adoptee, this book traces Sandy White Hawk’s journey of reclaiming her identity after being removed from her community as part of the Indian Adoption Project. Her story is deeply personal, illuminating the impact of cultural erasure—and the strength it takes to return home.

“In the Wabléniča Ceremony, we can stand in the circle, open that part of our heart, and let the medicine of smoke from the sage, the sound of the drum, and the song go into that dark place and begin healing.”

This graphic novel adaptation of Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz’s landmark work brings history to life in a bold, visual format. It offers a look at the founding of the U.S. from an Indigenous perspective— accessible for students, educators, and lifelong learners alike.

“The Indigenous self-determination and sovereignty movement is not only TRANSFORMING Indigenous communities and nations but also, inevitably, the UNITED STATES.”

TAKU WADAKA HE? (WHAT DO YOU SEE?)

BY JOANNE ZACHARIAS

Authored by a member of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, this delightful bilingual book introduces Dakota language and observation skills through beautiful illustrations and simple questions. Designed for young learners and their families, it’s a wonderful tool for Dakota language revitalization and cultural connection.

“My granddaughter, I see you and me, and we are all related!”

VOICES FROM PEJUHUTAZIZI: DAKOTA STORIES AND STORYTELLERS

BY TERESA PETERSON AND WALTER LABATTE JR.

Rooted in the land and language of the Dakota people, this book preserves and honors generations of storytelling. Teresa Peterson and Walter LaBatte Jr. offer traditional stories, personal memories, and reflections that connect the past to the present. It’s a celebration of Pejuhutazizi K’api (the homelands of the Dakota Nation) and the people who continue to call it home.

“Stories impart the values of a community, reminding us how to live and be with each other.”

THE SEED KEEPER: A NOVEL

BY DIANE WILSON

This novel tells the story of Rosalie Iron Wing, a Dakota woman reconnecting with her roots through the seeds passed down by her ancestors. Spanning generations, the novel explores themes of loss, reclamation, and the power of cultural memory.

“Everywhere I looked, I saw how seeds were holding the world together. They planted forests, covered meadows with wildflowers, sprouted in the cracks of sidewalks, or lay dormant until the long-awaited moment came, signaled by fire or rain or warmth.”

NOTABLE NATIVE PEOPLE: 50 INDIGENOUS LEADERS, DREAMERS, AND CHANGEMAKERS FROM PAST AND PRESENT

BY ADRIENNE KEENE

Perfect for both youth and adults, this vibrant collection highlights the lives and legacies of Indigenous changemakers—from historical figures to modern trailblazers. With bold illustrations and accessible storytelling, it’s a celebration of Native excellence, leadership, and joy.

“We have—and have always had—leaders across all sectors, from science, art, and activism to education, fashion, politics, and beyond.”

The sound of cheering fans and guitar riffs is echoing through Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, and it’s coming from Hop House, one of the Twin Cities’ newest sports bars and live music destinations.

Located within Minnesota’s largest Casino, this high-energy venue is more than just a place to grab a cold beer and a tasty burger—it’s an all-access pass to top-tier dra s, all-star avors, and wall-to-wall screens of game-day action. But beyond the buzz of the crowd and the avor-packed menu, Hop House, which opened in early August 2025, represents something even more meaningful to the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC). It’s part of a broader e ort to evolve

the guest experience and ensure Mystic Lake Casino Hotel remains a top destination for entertainment in the region. From updated amenities to bold new concepts, each addition re ects a commitment to innovation and excellence.

“Hop House is a testament to our ongoing commitment to refreshing amenities and enhancing the experiences at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel,” said Todd Brooks, chairman of the SMSC Gaming Enterprise Board of Directors.

PHOTOS BY ALEKS KATANE AND MYSTIC MARKETING

“ ”

We are confident this will become the best place in the Twin Cities to watch live sports—and a premier destination for live music and entertainment for years to come.

-Angela Heikes President and CEO of SMSC Gaming Enterprise

But it’s not just the screens that light up the room, Hop House showcases live music every Friday and Saturday night from 10pm to 1am. Guests can enjoy the show while they dine, with a rotating lineup of genres that hit all the right notes.

From the moment you walk through the doors, the vibe is undeniable. With three massive video walls, including a curved 42-foot-wide sports viewing centerpiece, every seat is the best seat in the house. Even the VIP rooms are screen-loaded, each with a trio of 75-inch TVs perfect for latenight hangouts with the squad or private game-day parties.

“Hop House is now the largest bar and restaurant at Mystic Lake,” said President and CEO of SMSC Gaming Enterprise Angela Heikes. “With space for over 450 guests, you’ll never miss a moment of the action from any seat.”

This new space is built for enjoying the game-day action. Whether you’re into crisp, clean lagers or citrusy pale ales, there’s always something on tap beer fans can cheer for. The tap lineup includes 24 dra options, from bold national picks to a rotating cast of local legends. Look for collaborations with Minnesota standouts like Li Bridge and even a custom cider from Loon Juice.

In perfect pairing with sports viewing, guests can push their taste buds to the limit with the Minnesota-themed wing challenge and nd out just how much heat they can handle. Hop House turns up the avor with heat levels that range from Minnesota Nice, think mild Tru e Parmesan, to fullblown U -Da, featuring daring combos like Mango Habanero and Angry Glaze.

“We’re proud to add Hop House to the evolution of amenities at Mystic Lake,” said Heikes, highlighting the exceptional guest experience that can be found throughout the casino, restaurant, and hotel at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel.

At Hop House, there’s no cover for payper-view events, happy hour deals are from 3-5pm, and the late-night menu will keep the energy going until the lights dim.

Hop House takes the stage, turns up the volume, and rede nes what it means to eat, drink, and watch the game. Its opening marks a new, exciting venue for guests of Mystic Lake Casino Hotel and signals a bold step toward continuing to create a thriving atmosphere for all. W

Take a Peek at the Appetizing Menu!

Stop by Hop House for a delicious lineup of appetizers, burgers, mains, game-day favorites, and more! Here’s a few popular picks, to help get you hungry for your next Hop House visit.

Hop House Wings

Choose your favorite: boneless or flats and drummies, a side of ranch or blue cheese, and a selection of over 20 sauces and rubs—these wings bring the heat, and the harmony.

The Pound of Pain Burger

One pound. No mercy. This Angus beef burger is topped with bacon jam, caramelized onions, truffle sauce, and blue cheese, on a master brioche bun. This burger takes time but is worth the wait.

Korean BBQ Pork Banh Mi

Thin sliced marinated pork and pork belly on a crusty baguette, topped with pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, onion, cilantro, jalapeños, and gochujang aioli.

The Cookie Crowd Pleaser

A rockin’ duo of a chocolate chip cookie and ice cream, topped with caramel sauce, chocolate pop rocks, and sea salt. Great for 2-3 people to share!

Jackpot Juice

This custom cider collaboration with Loon Juice, made especially for Hop House, features strawberry, lavender, and vanilla flavors.

MONDAY-THURSDAY 2pm-Midnight

FRIDAY 2pm-2am

SATURDAY 11am-2am

SUNDAY 11am-Midnight

Hop House Hours

A Sweet Start Morning TO YOUR

Try This Delightful Creation From the Recipe Book of Mystic Lake’s Bakery Department

MYSTIC LAKE CASINO HOTEL’S BEST KEPT SECRET IS OUT.

Located inside the premier resort destination, Mystic’s bustling Bakery Department supplies an array of cakes, pies, cookies, rolls, and other baked treats for special events o ered within the facility, like weddings, seminars, and more. You can also nd bakery o erings throughout the property at outlets like Caribou Co ee. Among the many creations made by the bakery, one stands out for its popularity among guests, prompting the experienced bakers to share the exclusive recipe, loved (and requested) by many. Mystic Lake’s banana bread is perfectly moist and tender, rich in avor, and balanced in sweetness, making it an excellent treat, breakfast option, or party favorite. If you’ve been looking to add a dose of warm nostalgia to your baking game, this simple recipe is sure to impress. W

Banana Bread

INGREDIENTS

☐ 5 medium ripe bananas

☐ 2¼ cups sugar

☐ 2 teaspoons salt

☐ 1 cup vegetable oil

☐ 1⁄2 cup sour cream

☐ 3 large eggs

☐ 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

☐ 4 tablespoons poppy seeds

☐ 3 cups all-purpose flour

☐ 1⁄2 cup buttermilk

☐ 2 teaspoons baking soda

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.

2. In an electric mixing bowl with paddle attachment, mash the bananas at a low speed.

3. Add sugar, salt, oil, sour cream, eggs, vanilla, and poppy seeds, continuing on a low mixing speed for approximately two minutes.

4. Slowly add flour and mix for one more minute.

5. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk and baking soda together, before slowly adding into the mixture and mixing in well. Be careful not to overmix and make sure to use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

6. Spray two loaf pans with cooking spray, then add four cups of batter to each pan.

7. Place the loaves on a cookie sheet and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes.

8. Once fully baked, the bread should appear darker in color. Test that the bread is cooked through by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center, ensuring that it comes out clean when removed. Place the bread on a cooling rack and let rest for one hour before removing from the pans and slicing. Optional: Serve with honey butter. Enjoy!

LEGENDARY NIGHTS

Enjoy the ultimate sports and live entertainment experience at our newest restaurant, bar and entertainment venue.