Wiċoṡkaŋ - Spring 2025

MAGAZINE OF THE SHAKOPEE MDEWAKANTON SIOUX COMMUNITY

CELEBRATING THE STATE OF HOCKEY

THE RETURN OF OUR RELATIVES AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE

Welcome to the spring issue of Wiċos˙kaŋ! The Dakota word Wiċos˙kaŋ possesses multiple meanings, but within this publication we are referring to the actions and efforts of a group of people. We are excited to share more stories about the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) through this quarterly magazine in the months ahead.

Spring is a time of renewal, growth, and new beginnings—a sentiment that resonates deeply within our Community. This spring issue is dedicated to celebrating the SMSC’s rich history, enduring legacy, and the trailblazers who have helped shape our Community. Inside, you’ll find compelling stories that highlight our guiding values and cultural traditions, offering a deeper understanding of what makes the SMSC so unique. Alongside these historical and cultural narratives, we provide updates on our latest projects and initiatives, showcasing the progress and innovation driving our Community forward.

From welcoming our bison relatives back to our homelands to inspiring personal journeys, this issue is a tribute to our past, a reflection of our present, and a vision for our future. Readers will learn about the late SMSC Chairman Stanley Crooks’ induction into the Native American Hall of Fame, the tribe’s new philanthropic campaign aimed at improving Native youth health and fitness called IndigeFit Kids, and Mystic Lake Casino Hotel’s new gaming and entertainment options. These stories are just a glimpse of what this spring issue has to offer.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, entertainment, or fresh perspectives, we hope this issue of Wiċoṡkaŋ inspires you and leaves you with something meaningful to carry forward. We are grateful for the opportunity to share these stories, which reflect our enduring strength, resilience, and commitment to building a brighter future together.

Thank you for being part of this journey to help keep our stories alive and our traditions strong.

CHAIRMAN

COLE W. MILLER VICE-CHAIRWOMAN NATASHA K. HACKER SECRETARY/TREASURER ASHLEY J. CORNFORTH

SMSC BUSINESS COUNCIL

WELCOME TO WIĊOṠKAŊ

This quarterly magazine shares the collaborative efforts, 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 efforts 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 reflect our enduring strength, resilience, and commitment to building a brighter future.

The reintroduction of bison on tribal land is promoting cultural revitalization and helping maintain the prairie ecosystem.

Celebrating the State of Hockey

The tribe’s support of Hockey Day Minnesota 2025 in Shakopee continues a strong, decades-long connection to the game.

Savor sophistication and indulgence with the finest prime beef and seafood at Mystic Steakhouse.

COMMUNITY

12 Good Medicine

The Dakota values honor the past and shape a vision for a life well-lived.

16 Honoring the Legacy and Vision of Stanley Crooks

Unwavering leadership of the longtime Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community chairman continues to be felt years after his passing.

20 Between the Posts

SMSC youth Wesley Vig is quickly rising through the soccer ranks as the last line of defense on the pitch.

26 Beyond the Tipi

Construction of a bark lodge is reviving traditional Dakota lifeways that have been absent for more than 150 years.

34 The Road to Sovereignty

Tracing the history of the Mdewakanton Dakota people in the Minnesota River Valley from precolonization to self-sufficiency.

36 A Library of Experience

SMSC elder Danny Crooks shares the stories that shaped him and offers wisdom for enjoying a fulfilling life.

42 From Storage to Spotlight

Artifacts from the SMSC Collections are sharing Dakota heritage through a partnership with Scott County Historical Society.

VALUES

54 Introducing IndigeFit Kids

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s latest philanthropic campaign seeks to improve the physical and mental health of Native youth.

60 Decades of Dedication

Manager Collections and Archives Javier Avalos reflects on nearly 25 years of working for the tribe.

66 Making Waves

The tribe’s heritage and stewardship practices were on full display while Hoċokata Ṫi hosted the traveling exhibit, We Are Water MN.

78 A Signal of Success

Learn how the SMSC improved safety and traffic flow for its members and its neighbors by leading the funding and construction of a new traffic signal.

LIFESTYLE

82 Celebrate New Beginnings

Rejoice in the renewal of spring with a curated collection of unique, Native-made gifts available from the gift shop at Hoċokata Ṫi.

96 Luck, Logic, and the Game of Baccarat

Experience the thrill of Mystic Lake Casino Hotel’s newest action-packed game.

102 Event Calendar

Save the date for family-friendly cultural events or check out one of Mystic’s world-class entertainment offerings.

BUSINESS COUNCIL

CHAIRMAN

Cole W. Miller

VICE-CHAIRWOMAN

Natasha K. Hacker

SECRETARY/TREASURER

Ashley J. Cornforth

CONTRIBUTORS

Steve Albrecht

Javier Avalos

Janice Bad Moccasin

Megan Bernhardt

Cassy Bryant

Ferin Davis Anderson

Leah Erickson

Debra Flute

Alison Fogarty

AJ Hershey

Richard Milda

Tricia Velure

Libby Novak

Madeleine Rush

Bill Rudnicki

Andy Vig

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING

SMSC MEMBERS AND YOUTH FOR SHARING THEIR STORIES

Sam Crofut

Danny Crooks

Wesley Vig

SPRING 2025

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

Karen SC Hanson

Randy Palmer

Allison Snider

Lydia Velishek

MULTIMEDIA

Jake Miller

Blake Ziemer

BY ERIN E. BELANGER

PHOTOS BY JAKE MILLER

HISTORY OF A SHARED RESILIENCE

The return of the bison is steeped in historical significance. For the Dakota people, bison were central to survival, providing food, medicine, clothing, and tools. The relationship was one of reciprocity, with the Dakota respecting and honoring the bison for their many gifts.

Colonization, however, violently disrupted this exchange of balance and harmony. The near extermination of the bison in the 19th century echoed the displacement and marginalization of Indigenous peoples. The Dakota people were separated from their lands and their traditional way of life, and the bison were pushed to the brink of extinction.

“The story of the bison mirrors the story of Dakota peoples in many ways, and both are resilient,” said former SMSC Chairman Keith B. Anderson. “Our tribe has restored and revitalized its relationship with our plant relatives over the decades, and we now have the knowledge to revitalize our relationship with our relative the bison. Reintroducing bison to our homelands will allow us to bring back traditional ceremonies and food and medicine important to our people.”

REVIVING THE PRAIRIE

The journey to bring the bison home was always a deliberate and collaborative process. The SMSC conducted extensive surveys to understand how reintroducing bison would affect the ecosystem, studying plant life, pollinators, birds, herptiles, small mammals, and insects in the area. Their findings were promising:

the bison prairie provided a refuge for grassland and migrating bird species, contributing to a healthier ecosystem and a holistic understanding of the prairie’s biodiversity.

This ongoing monitoring reflects the SMSC’s commitment to ecological stewardship. Natural Resources staff anticipated the bison would have a transformative effect on the prairie habitat, much as they did historically. “Their grazing patterns create diverse plant structures, which enriches the soil and benefits a wide range of species and promotes the health of the prairie,” stated Ferin Davis Anderson, SMSC manager of natural resources.

The bison’s return is a vital part of the SMSC’s broader mission to restore prairie ecosystems. Over the past 20 years, the tribe has successfully restored more than 1,000 acres of prairie, reviving a landscape that was once a defining feature of Scott County. In North America, prairies are endangered ecosystems, which has contributed to a decline in biodiversity and ecological health. By reintroducing bison, a keystone species, the SMSC is breathing new life into these lands.

CULTURAL REVIVAL

Beyond ecological benefits, the return of the bison is a profound cultural milestone for the Community. Many of the Dakota people’s traditions and ceremonies have been interrupted for generations due to the decimation of the bison population. These ceremonies honor the bison as relatives and are integral to the culture and spiritual practices of the Dakota people, offering opportunities for traditional foods and medicines.

The reintroduction of bison is just one part of the SMSC’s vision for a sustainable future. It reflects a deep respect for the interconnectedness of all life and a commitment to restoring harmony and balance to the land. The tribe’s efforts are a powerful example of how Indigenous knowledge and practices can guide modern conservation.

THE CIRCLE OF RENEWAL

As the bison roam once again, their presence is a powerful symbol. Their homecoming binds traditions, stories, and relationships, a living testament to resilience and renewal. As the herd thrives, so too does the prairie, and with it, the cultural and spiritual traditions of the Dakota people. This initiative honors the past and creates a legacy for future generations—a reminder that the relationship between humans and the natural world is one of mutual care and respect.

“They’re home, and they’re very comfortable,” Crofut said. “The bison are curious animals, gentle giants, and we are grateful they are back.” Crofut added, “We are bison people. And now they need our help. We go out there every day, rain or shine, at dusk and when the sun rises, and we check on them.”

It’s a reminder that in repairing our relationship with the land, we also restore something within ourselves. In the end, the return of the bison is about more than just ecology or heritage—it’s about coming full circle. It’s about recognizing the land, creatures, and people all as relatives, bound together in a shared journey of resilience and renewal.

“The relationship between the Dakota and bison goes back eons—long before the last ice age. Despite their massive size, bison embody a peaceful and spiritual presence. They embody our traditions and way of life; it’s certainly a spiritual thing,” said former SMSC Bison Herd Coordinator, Richard Milda.

"Spirituality isn’t an Indian thing—it’s a human thing.”

FAQ about Bison/Pte at the SMSC

WHAT IS THE WORD FOR BISON IN THE DAKOTA LANGUAGE?

In the Dakota language there are many words associated with bison. For example, ṫaṫaŋka is the general term for the bison species or a male bison. Ṫaṫaŋka mdoka specifically refers to a male bison.

Ṫamdoka is another term for bull. Pte is a female bison and the general term for cow. Pteżicadaŋ is a calf. An older and more traditional term that refers to the bison is ptéḣcaka.

At the SMSC, we refer to our herd as the pteoptaye. Other tribes may have different terms and pronunciations or use different orthographies.

HOW MANY BISON/PTE DO YOU HAVE AT THE SMSC?

Currently, the SMSC has 10 female bison/pte

WHAT IS THE HERD LIKE?

The bison family system is structured in an order of individuals, with a strong matriarchal presence. They take care of each other, often exploring their surroundings with deliberate movements.

HOW WERE THE BISON/PTE CHOSEN?

They came from the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate tribe.

HOW MUCH DO THE BISON/PTE WEIGH?

The herd of female bison, each weigh between 750-800 pounds fully grown.

DO THE BISON HAVE NAMES?

Yes! The bison have been given names by SMSC youth that honor their presence and significance: Little Horn, Makes the People Gather, Bright Star, Big Girl, Brownie, Sam, Caŋṡaṡa (Traditional Tobacco), Caŋte (Heart), Tuwiŋ (Auntie), and Sápa (Black).

HOW DOES THE SMSC CARE FOR THE BISON/PTE?

There are several Natural Resources staff who tend to the bison/pte. Twice daily, the bison/pte are checked on to ensure they are doing well and there is enough running water. The bison/pte are inside a double fence for their protection, and there are multiple cameras to monitor the bison at all times.

WILL THE BISON/PTE STAY IN THE SAME LOCATION YEAR-ROUND?

The pte will stay in the same outdoor enclosure year-round. They do not need to be moved in the winter.

IS THERE A PUBLIC VIEWING AREA FOR THE BISON/PTE?

Currently, the pte are not available for viewing as the SMSC is allowing time for them to acclimate to their new environment W

For centuries, values carry forward the wisdom that has always been. Just as the elements— water, wind, sun, and moon—offer teachings in balance and respect, they guide us to honor life’s essential gifts and to deepen our connection to nature and one another.

From the first light of dawn to the dancing leaves under the moonlight, the Dakota values provide more than guidance—they are the spiritual laws the Dakota people lived by long ago and a source of good medicine that activates the human spirit and strengthens community. These values shape a vision for a life well-lived, rooted in respect, compassion, humility, honesty, wisdom, generosity, and prayer.

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) embodies these guiding principles as an explorative modality, teaching individuals how to live an emotionally, mentally, and spiritually healthy lifestyle. For the SMSC, the Dakota values honor their ancestors while building a purposeful, more resilient future for generations to come.

Steward of Dakota teachings and longtime SMSC employee Janice Bad Moccasin contributes her spiritual and cultural knowledge to those willing to deepen their understanding

and determination to be strong and healthy—that is our cultural strength.”

In Bad Moccasin’s teachings, she emphasizes how the Dakota values are deeply intertwined, how one flows into another, offering a foundation and creating a balance. For her, wóohoda (respect) is a Dakota value that honors the dignity of all beings. She reflects on the humbling process of learning respect, a lesson imparted by her grandfather, who played a pivotal role in shaping her understanding of many of the Dakota values.

“My grandfather raised me, and he exuded wóohoda (respect) in everything he did,” she shared. “A tall Dakota man, his skin red from the sun—I learned from his example. I remember how he taught me to receive water in my hand to drink. Today, I realize he was teaching me to respect the water.”

Bad Moccasin continued to describe her grandfather’s teachings, “His presence was healing. He would quietly roll his tobacco, teaching me the value of wówauŋsidaŋ (caring and compassion) through his gentle, respectful actions, showing me how compassion can truly nurture the spirit.”

Through his quiet strength and unwavering kindness, Bad Moccasin’s grandfather also demonstrated the importance of wówahbadaŋ (humility) and patience. “He never raised his voice or his hand,” Bad Moccasin recalled. “Instead, he led by showing that respect and love are the most powerful tools for teaching.”

As Bad Moccasin continues to honor her grandfather’s teachings, his legacy lives on, a testament to the enduring power of Dakota traditions. "The Dakota values are like the stars. They are the compass that provides direction. They allow me to retrace the footprints of my grandfather and my ancestors, helping me to understand their inherent knowledge," Bad Moccasin explained.

Bad Moccasin describes growing up amongst grandparents and her Ina (mother), all who possessed a quiet, humble nature. “Now, I understand they set an example of being humble as a part of Dakota lifeways,” Bad Moccasin said. “My mother, who appeared quiet, often held a powerful space for her family. When she spoke up, her words resonated with wisdom and touched lives.”

As one value interlocks with another, Bad Moccasin teaches that by grounding ourselves in humility, we create space for wówicaka (honesty and truth), which builds wóksape (wisdom). She explains how we don’t get by without experiencing humility—it requires self-awareness and accountability. How it’s humbling to recognize when we’ve made a mistake; and that we need to pause and revise our actions. “It’s a process of healing, not just for yourself but for those around you,” Bad Moccasin said. “In our journey, it’s our personal transformations that offer the chance to build trust and strong relationships with others. These values teach us to listen, learn, and move forward with grace.”

Reflecting on her own path, Bad Moccasin shares how wóokiya, the value of generosity and helping, has been a guiding principle. Even in moments of personal need or crisis, Bad Moccasin continues her unwavering commitment to support others. “Helping is a merit of generosity. There is reciprocity with the universe. That’s the power of these values. So, don’t be stingy with your

goodness, your time, or your knowledge. If you can help, help,” she emphasized.

Bad Moccasin believes wócekiya, or prayer, is the anchor of spiritual connection, rooted in honesty, humility, and courage. Bad Moccasin describes prayer as being guided by one’s spirit, connecting individuals to their beliefs and actions. “Prayer is the anchor to everything that I believe and follow—everything that helps me in time of need,” she explained. “Spirituality and prayer, with the intention to altar of the heart and mind, can help when we are faced with life’s challenges and emotional events.”

Bad Moccasin explains how in tribal societies and in the circle of life we can find insight and inspiration from practicing and integrating the Dakota values. By embracing the principles of the Dakota people, individuals and communities can grow stronger, deepen connections to their past, fostering a solid foundation for today while also offering wisdom to younger generations. “Our values carry forward our legacy, the legacy of our people and our ancestors—one of strength, love, and harmony,” concluded Bad Moccasin.

As is above, as is below, the Dakota values are sacred gifts from the past that honor the Creator and all living things, helping to guide our actions and to be good relatives to one other, and to protect Mother Earth. “Our values are our helpers—bringing good energy, reactivating our spirit, and renewing our hope,” Bad Moccasin said. W

The

Dakota Values

Wóohoda RESPECT

Wówauŋsidaŋ CARING & COMPASSION

Wówahbadaŋ HUMILITY

Wóksape WISDOM

Wóokiya GENEROSITY & HELPING

Wócekiya PRAYER

Wówicaka HONESTY & TRUTH

Learn

– JANICE BAD MOCCASIN "

THE DAKOTA VALUES ARE LIKE THE STARS. THEY ARE THE COMPASS THAT PROVIDES DIRECTION.”

more about the Dakota values and the Dakota way of life by visiting the public exhibit Mdewakanton: Dwellers of the Spirit Lake at Hoċokata Ṫi.

Honoring the Legacy and Vision of Stanley Crooks

LONGTIME SMSC CHAIRMAN INDUCTED INTO NATIVE AMERICAN HALL OF FAME

BY CHANTRE SMITH

The quiet strength and enduring legacy of Stanley Crooks, the late and revered chairman of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC), reached a new pinnacle with his induction into the Native American Hall of Fame in fall 2024. A leader known for his vision, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the sovereignty and prosperity of Native nations, Chairman Crooks’ inclusion in this esteemed circle honors a lifetime of transformative achievements.

Growing up in the Upper Sioux Community in Granite Falls, Minnesota, he naturally took on a leadership role, with his six brothers looking up to him throughout their childhood. In 1959, he was one of the rst Native American boys to graduate from the local high school.

When he couldn’t a ord to go to college, he joined the U.S. Navy where he served aboard a ship during the Cuban Missile Crisis when tensions were high and the threat of nuclear war imminent. A er receiving an Honorable Discharge in 1962, he returned home and enrolled at Minneapolis Vo-Tech to study dra ing.

In 1970, Crooks moved his family to the SMSC and commuted from the gravel

roads of the reservation to the Whirlpool plant in St. Paul where he worked for 19 years.

During this same time, his father, the late Norman M. Crooks, became the rst chairman of the SMSC and played a pivotal role in securing federal recognition for the tribe in 1969.

Witnessing his father's dedication and leadership deeply in uenced him, instilling a strong sense of purpose and commitment to his Community.

“Stan wanted to honor his father and better our Community,” said former SMSC Chairman Charles R. Vig, who succeeded Chairman Crooks. “I believe Stan wanted to make our Community more self-sustaining like his father and didn’t want our people to su er like our parents and grandparents did.” Inspired by his father’s e orts, Chairman Crooks was determined to continue the work of upli ing and advocating for his people, striving to create lasting improvements for future generations.

Serving as chairman of the SMSC from 1992 until his death in August 2012, Chairman Crooks became a national Native American leader during his 20-year tenure. He was a lifetime member of the National Congress of American Indians and helped establish the Embassy of Tribal Nations in Washington, D.C., the longtime chairman of the Minnesota Indian Gaming Association, and also served as the representative of the Shakopee Mdewakanton to the National Indian Gaming Association.

The National Native American Hall of Fame is located on the campus of the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City. Its mission is to recognize and honor the inspirational achievements of Native Americans in contemporary history. For more information on the National Native American Hall of Fame, visit nativehallo ame.org

Chairman Crooks was one of six inductees in the Native American Hall of Fame’s Class of 2024. He joins ve other esteemed leaders including Franklin Ducheneaux, Julie Kitka, Henrietta Mann, Veronica Homer Murdock (posthumous), and Te Ata, aka Mary Thompson Fisher (posthumous).

During the induction ceremony at the National Native American Hall of Fame in October 2024, a video was played to remember the late Chairman Crooks and his contributions to Indian Country. Through smiles, tears, and laughs, various family members and tribal leaders spoke about his legacy, including current SMSC Chairman Cole W. Miller, former SMSC Chairman Charles R. Vig, Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association Ernie Stevens Jr., Upper Sioux Community Tribal Chairman Kevin Jensvold, brothers Danny Crooks and Michael Crooks, SMSC Tribal Administrator Bill Rudnicki, and former SMSC Legal Counsel Willie Hardacker.

Known for his leadership and his love of his Dakota culture, Chairman Crooks’ induction came as no surprise to his peers. “Everything that he did was on behalf of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community; I think that’s really what made him one of the most important leaders of our time,” said Indian Gaming Association Chairman Stevens Jr. When it comes to being inducted into the Native American Hall of Fame, “He probably would say that there is someone more deserving than him,” said Upper Sioux Community Chairman Jensvold. “Other people would say probably not.”

Chairman Crooks was deeply committed to upli ing his tribe, always prioritizing the well-being of the Community. He strongly believed in encouraging tribal members to live on the reservation and took signi cant steps to make this possible. His e orts included creating more housing, developing recreational parks, enhancing Community services, and even opening a convenience store on the reservation. Driven by a dedication to his people, Chairman Crooks worked tirelessly to improve life on the reservation, ensuring that future generations could live more comfortably and thrive.

With a vast knowledge of Native American treaties and sovereignty, Chairman Crooks helped de ne tribal, state, and federal policies on critical issues ranging from gaming and economic development to partnerships with local communities. “He was so committed to sovereignty,” said Chairman Vig. “He really believed that Indian people needed to have control over their own destinies, tribal self-governance, and tribal self-determination,” added Hardacker. In 1993, Chairman Crooks signed a historic agreement with the city of Prior Lake to provide police, re, and emergency services to the SMSC, which is believed to be the rst of its kind in the nation.

Chairman Crooks especially lived for helping and sharing with others. “It’s part of our culture as Dakota people,” he o en said. “It’s who we are.” In his two decades of leadership, the SMSC provided more than $258 million in philanthropy and more than $396 million in loans to bene t tribes and tribal causes. “As our Community came into success, I know that he felt great responsibility to be generous with all of Indian Country, and he followed through with it,” said Chairman Miller. Undoubtedly, his leadership in tribal philanthropy remains one of the hallmarks of his two decades as one of Indian Country’s most respected leaders.

From his stewardship of the SMSC’s economic success to his tireless advocacy for Indian Country, Chairman Crooks embodied the principles of leadership rooted in tradition and planning seven generations ahead. His in uence extended far beyond his Community, leaving an indelible mark on Native American governance and philanthropy across the nation.

Remembering his brother with a deep sense of pride, Michael Crooks said, “Stanley continued to be an elected leader until the day he died. He was truly a ‘we’ person, not a ‘me’ person—a ‘me’ person wants the limelight, a ‘we’ person thinks about the people that he’s taking care of.”

A er serving for 20 years as chairman of the SMSC Business Council, Chairman Crooks made remarkable strides in improving the standard of living, expanding opportunities, and enhancing programs for SMSC tribal members and across Indian Country. Deeply aware of the many injustices faced by Indigenous peoples, he was driven by a profound desire for change. His induction into the Native American Hall of Fame was not only a recognition of his achievements but also a lasting reminder of his unwavering dedication to advancing tribal nations. W

BETWEEN THE POSTS Wesley Vig

SMSC YOUTH WESLEY VIG SHARES HIS JOURNEY BEHIND THE GLOVES

BY ERIN E. BELANGER

The roars from the crowd are deafening as the stadium erupts with excitement. The pressure is on, the adrenaline is high, and a tied match goes into penalty kicks. The opposing striker prepares. He places the ball and takes two steps back. As tension mounts, every eye is fixed on the solo figure between the posts. The goalie—the last line of defense—stands composed, focused, and confident, a combination of agility, intensity, and responsibility coursing through his veins. In the high-stakes moments of the match, the keeper’s role is both a mental and physical battle, where split-second decisions can mean the difference between victory or defeat.

For a goalkeeper, every save is a calculated risk of his challenger’s strike and every miss is an opportunity for resilience. Reading the opponent's body language, anticipating the trajectory of the ball, and reacting with precision requires unyielding concentration, courage, and preparation. Mistakes are inevitable, but grit defines character. In these moments of intense pressure, goalkeepers don’t just guard the net—they embody the heart and valor of the team, proving that sometimes the most vital contributions come from the one standing alone.

Wesley Vig, a 15-year-old from the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC), is making waves in the world of youth soccer.

As a goalkeeper for Shattuck-St. Mary’s Boys Under-15 Soccer Team, Wesley is part of an elite program that shapes young athletes into future stars. Competing throughout the

United States, the program provides a grueling training and game schedule, alongside the unique academic demands of being a college prep school.

Shattuck-St. Mary’s Boys Soccer Center of Excellence, based in Faribault, Minnesota, is a member of the Major League Soccer youth development platform MLS NEXT. This prestigious program provides athletes with unparalleled training, competition, opportunities, and exposure. The soccer program at Shattuck-St. Mary’s has an impressive track record with 99% of its players advancing to collegiate soccer and alumni that includes two players for the U.S. Men’s National Team, 11 professional players, 13 Youth National Team members, and two Futsal National Team athletes.

Wesley’s journey to this proficient level of play began in his backyard. Inspired by his parents,

"Being a goalie is about more than just making saves. It’s about leading the defense, reading the game, and staying calm and focused in high-pressure moments."

– WESLEY VIG

Andy and Anna Vig—both former soccer captains at Prior Lake High School and college athletes—Wesley grew up immersed in the game, naturally inheriting their love for the sport. “I took a liking to it when I was young,” Wesley explained. “I grew into the game and then my passion for being goalie grew more and more. I really love the position.” His dedication and talent earned him a spot in the US Youth Olympic Development Program, where he joined a pool of players considered for national and international competition.

In 2023, Wesley showcased his skills at the USA Cup in Blaine, Minnesota, where his Prior Lake U14 team went undefeated. Wesley’s rock-solid performance as a goalie allowed only two goals across six games, including a standout win against a team from São Paulo, Brazil. His ability to maintain composure under pressure has set him apart as one of the most promising young players in the region. “I like the pressure—I like knowing I’m the last person that can make a whole lot of difference. I’m the last guy to determine if the score changes or not,” Wesley stated. Wesley’s dedication is evident in his rigorous training routine, where he sharpens his reflexes, agility, and decision-making skills. His mental preparation, from visualizing key plays to listening to pump-up music, underscores his commitment to excellence. “Being a goalie has taught me how to handle pressure and think on my feet,” he reflected. “I just have to keep working. Don’t get your head down and have the memory of a goldfish.”

As Wesley continues to shine on and off the field, his determination, passion, and unflappable fortitude serve as inspiration to his teammates and his community. With a season full of challenges and opportunities ahead, culminating in a final match against Chicago Fire FC, Wesley remains focused and in control. “Being a goalie is about more than just making saves,” Wesley shared. “It’s about leading the defense, reading the game, and staying calm and focused in high-pressure moments.”

For this goalkeeper, every game, every save, and every moment on the field are steps toward a promising future. “Follow your dreams and never stop—never give up, keep fighting,” Wesley expresses. “Have no regrets. Do all that you want to do and let nothing hold you back.”

With this relentless mindset, Wesley approaches every match with determination and focus, ready to seize the moment. As the keeper dives to meet the ball, his gloves firmly make the save, and the crowd surges with thunderous celebration. Game over. That’s a win! And it’s clear: Wesley Vig is just getting started.

Q&A WITH SMSC YOUTH SOCCER GOALIE WESLEY VIG

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT PLAYING AS A GOALKEEPER?

Saving goals and denying shots.

WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE PROFESSIONAL GOALKEEPER, AND WHY?

Tim Howard because of his book The Keeper: A Life of Saving Goals and Achieving Them.

WHAT’S YOUR TYPICAL TRAINING ROUTINE FOR IMPROVING YOUR GOALKEEPING SKILLS?

I practice with other goalies and goalie coaches. I go to extra trainings outside of my regular practices with other teammates and goalies, or sometimes just by myself.

HOW DO YOU PREPARE MENTALLY BEFORE A BIG GAME?

Do the same as I always do—breathing techniques, music, self-talk, and self-confidence.

WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING DRILL YOU’VE EVER DONE, AND HOW DID IT HELP YOU IMPROVE?

One-on-ones because it’s a lot of hitting the ground, contact, and decision making. Also, crossing drills are very complex and require a lot of thought.

CAN YOU DESCRIBE A MOMENT WHEN YOU MADE A CRUCIAL SAVE DURING A GAME? HOW DID IT FEEL?

A ball was shot at me, and I blocked it, but it landed at the feet of their striker who hit it the first time—one time—and I then had to get up and save the rebound. It got the goalie adrenaline up, but I try not to overthink making a save—it’s my job.

HOW DO YOU HANDLE HIGH-PRESSURE SITUATIONS, LIKE PENALTY KICKS?

For me, the pressure doesn’t get to me, I just rely on my self-confidence and not overthinking it.

HAVE YOU EVER MADE A MISTAKE IN A GAME THAT STUCK WITH YOU? HOW DID YOU RECOVER FROM IT?

I have definitely made mistakes, but you have to forget them because thinking about them does no good. Watching film is a good way to adjust or make improvements.

AS A GOALIE, YOU OFTEN HAVE A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE OF THE FIELD. HOW DO YOU COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR TEAMMATES DURING THE GAME?

I usually just talk with my defense about unmarked players and give advice and encouragement when the time is right.

WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT QUALITY IN A TEAM DEFENSE, FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE?

Grit, because it says that they are willing to fight and not dread over mistakes.

HOW DO YOU BUILD TRUST WITH YOUR DEFENDERS?

Through countless hours of training and personal relationships.

WHAT SKILLS ARE YOU CURRENTLY WORKING ON TO IMPROVE YOUR GAME?

Crossing and some side-volleys.

HOW HAS BEING A GOALIE INFLUENCED YOU OUTSIDE OF SOCCER, IN TERMS OF CONFIDENCE OR PROBLEM-SOLVING?

It keeps me calm and cool-headed—also pressure isn’t too bad compared to games.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PRE-GAME PUMP-UP SONG?

You’ll Never Walk Alone (Liverpool FC Anthem).

IF YOU COULD PLAY ANY OTHER POSITION ON THE FIELD, WHICH ONE WOULD IT BE AND WHY?

Center back, I played it before I was a goalie, and I have a lot of knowledge about that position. W

Beyond the Tipi

THE SMSC CONSTRUCTS A BARK LODGE TO REVITALIZE DAKOTA LIFEWAYS

BY JESSE MENDEN PHOTOS BY JAKE MILLER

From the parking lot at Hoċokata Ṫi, visitors may notice a wooden structure standing in the middle of the prairie surrounding the cultural center. Though modest in size against the expansive landscape, it represents another meaningful step to recapture Dakota ways of the past.

In May 2024, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community built a bark lodge, which is the traditional summer home of the Dakota people. While it took three weeks to construct, its presence marks a revival of traditional lifeways that had been absent for more than 150 years.

HISTORY OF BARK LODGES

Before contact with European-Americans, the Dakota people lived with the land and moved seasonally to hunt, harvest, and plant, allowing them to care for their families and each other. While the Dakota people are associated with living in tipis during the long, cold winters, they lived in bark lodges during the summer months.

Made from strips of tree bark attached to long wooden poles, these homes were built in one place while tipis could be moved from camp to camp. They were often grouped along the Minnesota and Mississippi rivers, forming large camps that were active with planting, gathering, and hunting. Throughout the seasonal migrations, the Dakota would return to these villages each spring.

The dwellings were typically built by women. Samuel Pond, a Presbyterian missionary to the Dakota people from 1834-1853, observed the construction process. According to his accounts, the women would set posts on the ground (spacing them 1-2 feet apart) to outline

the home’s foundation. The bark, typically harvested from elm trees, was cut into thin, single strips and attached to the posts. Due to the height of these dwellings, men often helped construct the roof.

A notable feature of bark lodges is the tall scaffold placed at the front of the structure. This scaffold served a variety of purposes, including drying meat, vegetables, and furs.

Bark lodges largely disappeared from the Minnesota landscape around the time of the U.S.-Dakota War in 1862, when most Dakota people were forced from their homelands and traditional ways of life were disrupted.

THE MAKING OF A BARK LODGE

When Hoċokata Ṫi opened in 2019, building a bark lodge was one of many goals to help fulfill the cultural center’s mission of encouraging the practice of traditional Dakota lifeways among tribal members. To help make it happen, the SMSC hired consultants from Great Lakes Lifeways Institute, a nonprofit organization dedicated to revitalizing traditional ways of being. The Institute has led the construction of bark lodge structures for other Dakota communities.

There are no blueprints to build a bark lodge—just Pond’s documentation of the approximate dimensions and the materials that were used—so the design of the structure was largely based on paintings and other historical resources. Despite this, it took just three weeks for the consultants, SMSC tribal members, and staff to build the Shakopee area’s first bark lodge in generations. The process was a little different than what Pond observed in the mid-1800s.

First, the crew used power tools throughout the process, including chainsaws and drills. Another difference—and just as stark—was how the materials were sourced. For the posts and poles, the consultants delivered stripped tamarack trees from northern Wisconsin. Tamarack is a wetland northern pine that is very sturdy and straight, ideal for making the frame for a bark lodge.

The bark, traditionally harvested from American elm trees, made a much longer journey. Historically, the Dakota people preferred elm bark because it was abundant, easy to harvest, and particularly durable for creating the bark lodge’s protective covering. Due to environmental factors, including Dutch elm disease, which

devastated elm tree populations, the tree is now scarce in Minnesota.

Following construction of the tamarack frame during the first week, the crew moved on to applying the bark. A small group made the nine-hour drive to a private forest in northern Indiana, where the bark was stripped over several grueling days

of work. Hauling the bark back to Minnesota also presented a challenge. The bark must remain wet so it remains pliable and can be attached to the lodge’s frame. Once dry, the bark becomes as hard as plywood. So the bark was wetted and wrapped in a tarp and hauled back to Minnesota in the back of an enclosed truck.

Once back in Minnesota, the crew applied the bark to the roof and sides of the lodge. When that process was complete, the final steps of construction included assembling benches for the inside and attaching a large scaffold platform to the front.

The bark lodge serves as a space to practice traditional seasonal lifeways and host ceremonies, teachings, cultural education, and gatherings.

“You can look at bark lodges in a book all day long, but to have the

actual structure in front of you really brings our past to life,” said Andy Vig, who is a tribal member and director of Hoċokata Ṫi. “Now that we have the resources and time to build something like this, we have the chance to reconnect with and practice lifeways that have been absent for so long.”

While the bark lodge is not open to the public, visitors can discover more by exploring a replica that is featured in the Mdewakanton: Dwellers of the Spirit Lake exhibit at Hoċokata Ṫi. W

Watch a timelapse of the SMSC bark lodge construction.

1805

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

Minnesota River Valley for hundreds of years, fishing 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

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. 38 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.

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.

1863

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

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, fitness 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 significant turning point on the tribe’s path toward stability and self-sufficiency. The new economic opportunity allowed for investment in essential services such as infrastructure, health care, and education.

1996

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel opened its first hotel tower.

2008

After 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 fire/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.

2015

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 gift from the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate.

A LIBRARY OF

Experience

Stories from Elder Danny Crooks

INTERVIEW BY TRICIA VELURE

PHOTOS BY JAKE MILLER

Danny Crooks is the fourth of seven sons born to Edith and Norman Crooks, the first Chairman of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community. Danny himself has served as Tribal Chairman and ViceChairman, is highly respected as a veteran paratrooper from the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division, and takes great pride in carrying on the Dakota pipe-making tradition he learned from his father and uncles.

Danny Crooks

WHERE WERE YOU BORN AND RAISED?

I was born in Granite Falls, and we lived just north of the Upper Sioux Reservation. Most of our relatives lived on the Upper Sioux or Lower Sioux reservations at that time. My parents, brothers, and I moved to Mendota in 1959 and then to St. Paul for a few years, before settling near family in this Community in 1966. This Community started to grow, and it was federally recognized in 1969. My dad was elected the first Tribal Chairman, and my mom was the first Secretary/Treasurer.

WHAT SHOULD READERS KNOW ABOUT GROWING UP IN THE 1950S NEAR GRANITE FALLS?

There was no television for us to watch, at least not when I was a young boy. My brothers, cousins, and I spent the majority of our time playing outside, especially down by the Minnesota River. We had kerosene lamps around the house and took milk cans to the golf course—a mile-and-a-half away—to fill them with water from the hand pump. When we finally got running water and electricity at our house, it felt like a luxury. We just turned on the tap and flipped a switch.

WHAT WAS YOUR ROLE IN THE ARMY?

I happened to volunteer at a time when the 82nd Airborne Division was undermanned and being rebuilt. The only way to become a paratrooper was to volunteer, and even then, you had to beat out other people to make the cut. In the Airborne, the training was higher and harder. Only 1 in 10 people who started the training at Fort Benning became a paratrooper.

WHAT PATH DID YOU TAKE AFTER GRADUATING HIGH SCHOOL?

After I graduated from Shakopee High School in 1967, I went to a trade school in Staples, Minnesota, for two years. I was trained in operating heavy equipment. Then I enlisted in the Army. Most of the other newly enlisted guys were younger than I was, so they called me “the old man.” I was 21.

WHAT WAS THE BEST SKILL YOU LEARNED WHILE YOU WERE IN THE ARMY?

I learned to do everything right after jumping out of an airplane! You have a second chance with a reserve shoot, but you don't want to depend on that. I also learned how to be on time and more disciplined. I got a lot of that from

WHAT WAS YOUR CAREER AFTER SERVING IN THE ARMY?

I worked for the Minnesota Department of Transportation for 24 years. It was a good job, and the best part of it was the people I worked with. We looked out for each other at work, especially when we were plowing snow or repairing the freeway. If we saw a motorist driving carelessly, we got on the radio to warn the driver ahead of us. Because of that, we formed a lifelong friendship. To this day, we still get together. We started as a group of 29, and now there are only three of us left .

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE 75 YEARS OLD?

The best part of being 75 is being retired. I can get up when I want, do my hobbies, and just have a good day.

I don't think of myself as 75 years old. My mind is a lot younger than my body, so my mind will tell me, “Let's do this.” But then my body will say, “You’re not going to do that. It’s not smart.”

WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO START A DAY?

I don't like exercising first thing, but I like to exercise in the morning. Once that's over, I feel so much better during the day. I’ve been working out with a personal trainer three days a week for the past 17 years. If it wasn’t for her, I’d probably go to the gym and talk for 45 minutes and get 15 minutes of exercise. I wouldn’t push myself. My trainer is the reason I’ve been accountable for 17 straight years. I also credit my wife with getting me started on my fitness routine and keeping me so proactive on health. Being healthy is all about those daily habits.

YOU AND YOUR WIFE HAVE BEEN MARRIED FOR 50 YEARS. HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE MARRIED FOR 50 YEARS?

Being married is all about taking care of ourselves and each other. It’s as simple as being the best of friends. Marrying my wife was probably the biggest and best decision I’ve ever made.

IF YOU COULD GO BACK TO AGE 20, WHAT WOULD YOU DO DIFFERENTLY?

Other than taking care of my health a lot sooner than I did, I wouldn't do anything different. My life experiences have made me the guy I am today. If I hadn’t made some mistakes, I wouldn’t have learned from them. I might have some disappointments in myself, but I don’t have regrets.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT LIVING IN THIS COMMUNITY?

The best part is being around my family and relatives. It's nice growing old when you can watch your family grow from nearby. I’m happy to see my grandkids and great-grandkids so often. I also like living near Arctic Lake and getting to watch the four seasons.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOBBIES?

Making pipes is a tradition in my family. I learned pipe-making from my dad and my uncles, who would drive down to Pipestone to quarry the stone, bring it home, and sit down together to make their pipes. They never taught me per se; I just picked it up from watching them. By the time I was 10-12, I was watching, and by 14 or 15, I started making my own pipes. Now I'm the only pipe maker left in the family. I get requests from other people, but I mostly do it for my own pleasure. I’ve also started teaching a third cousin to make pipes. He’s mostly learning by watching, the same way that I learned.

My son-in-law got me into silversmithing about a dozen years ago. I sell some pieces, and I make rings and cuffs for veterans, but again, I mostly do it because I enjoy it.

I also love to travel. My wife and I like to go to Grand Marais to relax by Lake Superior, and my son and I go up north for hiking and canoeing and camping. Minnesota has some of the best state parks in the country. And for the past few years, I’ve taken annual whitewater rafting trips with my son. The rapids are pretty aggressive, but as long as I can do it, I'll continue to go

WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE?

Live every day to the fullest, because tomorrow is not assured. Also, respect your elders. I was taught to listen to my grandparents and my elders. They are libraries of knowledge and life experiences. I suppose that means I’m a library now!

DID YOU SPEND A LOT OF TIME WITH YOUR GRANDPARENTS?

I got to spend quite a bit of time with Grandpa Crooks and my mom’s parents, Alex and Lillie Ross. When I was about 10-14 years old, I would pick raspberries with my grandparents during the summer over by Flying Cloud Airport. Grandma would bring a picnic lunch for us, and we’d find a spot to sit in the shade of a tree. Grandpa would open up a can of sardines, Grandma would unwrap her homemade biscuits, and we’d have lunch before we went back out into the raspberry fields. I was the fastest picker, and I ate so many of them that to this day, I won’t eat raspberries.

WHO HAS BEEN MOST INFLUENTIAL IN YOUR LIFE?

My dad taught me three really important things: (1) Work hard. (2) Be punctual. (3) Yes, you can. I used to tell my dad, “I can't do this.” He said, “There is no such word.” Then he would show me how to do it, and I’d try again. I admired him for that.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR NEIGHBORS TO KNOW ABOUT THIS COMMUNITY?

I’m really proud of this Community for retaining our culture and bringing our language back. My parents and all of my grandparents spoke Dakota, but my parents went to school at a time when our language was forbidden. Our parents quit teaching us kids the language because the government was trying to assimilate us. Today, the fact that this Community is bringing the language and culture back shows that we have our priorities straight. Plus, our tribe is donating a lot of money and doing so much good to help other tribes and charities throughout the state. All those things show we’re here, and we're always going to be here. W

From Storage to Spotlight

The SMSC's Artifacts Highlight the Dakota’s Presence in Scott County

BY JESSE MENDEN

PHOTOS BY JAKE MILLER

e Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) Collections consist of more than 11,000 objects, representing a broad range of cultures and spanning centuries of history. e diverse collection includes items such as basketry, pottery, beaded works, regalia, and artwork—each piece o ering a glimpse into the lives, traditions, and values of those who created them. More than 99% of these objects have never been displayed to the public, but that is changing.

As part of the tribe’s continual effort to increase the understanding of Dakota people, the SMSC has loaned objects to the Scott County Historical Society, located in downtown Shakopee, for special exhibits over the past two years. The partnership is helping to tell a more complete story about the enduring presence of Dakota people who have lived in the area since time immemorial.

“We’ve always had this artifact collection, but not really ways to share it outside of our exhibit,” said Javi Avalos, the SMSC’s manager of collections and archives. “A common theme among tribal members is they have a very big desire to not see these things just sit on a shelf forever. They want people to see them. They want people to understand and learn from them. So any way we can facilitate that is considered a success.”

The latest example of this partnership is the historical society's newest presentation, Scott County at Play: Toys, Games, and Exploration 18502000. This interactive display explores how childhood has changed over time, reflecting the county’s growth and changes in its economy.

Just beyond a table with a working Super Nintendo, stands a large display case containing about a dozen objects from the SMSC Collections. Rich with historical significance, the Native objects stand in stark contrast to the modern world represented by the

legendary gaming console from the 1990s, highlighting the exhibit’s broad exploration of the county’s evolution.

The SMSC’s Cultural Resources staff worked closely with the Scott County Historical Society to select objects that tell the story of the Dakota people, past and present. One notable item is a miniature tipi set that the SMSC acquired in 2023, made by Tiffany Baker Ramsey from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. The set includes several items that represent traditional Dakota lifeways, including an intricate cradleboard with an infant doll, a ribbon dress, a stretched animal hide, and a parfleche box.

The display also features two Barbie dolls dressed in handmade regalia that feature Dakota floral designs. By including modern pieces that meld together commercial objects with traditional elements, it helps educate visitors that the Dakota continue to be present in the area. “It’s another way to let people know that the Dakota people are still here, not just in the past,” said Avalos. “That’s why we don’t want to always display 19th century beadwork. We want to have those contemporary objects too that reflect the continuation of those traditional lifeways.”

In late 2023, the SMSC loaned six items to the historical society for an exhibit titled, Women’s Work: Life and Labor in Scott County. This limitedtime exhibit highlighted the lifeways

of women from the late 1880s to the mid-1900s. Most of the artifacts selected were tools that reflect the time before colonization and show how they changed in the 50-year span the exhibit covered. However, one contemporary piece—a handstitched doll made in 2020—was also included, emphasizing the ongoing connection Native people have to traditional ways.

Dakota people have lived on the lands now known as Scott County for thousands of years, making it essential for their story to be represented in the Scott County Historical Society exhibits. “The story of Scott County would be inherently partial or incomplete without that,” said Scott County Historical Society curator of collections Sarah Junod. “I think it is personally and ethically important that the story be told by Dakota people.”

The SMSC developed informational panels for both exhibits. Staff at Hoċokata Ṫi worked closely with tribal members to ensure that Dakota people are leading efforts that discuss their stories, lifeways, and history. This collaborative approach can help break down misconceptions about Native people and help visitors learn in a more authentic way.

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.

Celebrating the State of Hockey

Known colloquially as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” Minnesota bears another nickname that is often proudly exclaimed by its residents—the “State of Hockey.”

Each winter, the two joyful monikers come together for one of the state’s premier events— Hockey Day Minnesota.

Hearkening back to a time when hockey was exclusively played outdoors on frozen lakes and ponds, Hockey Day Minnesota celebrates the game at all levels while spotlighting local communities around the state. In January 2025, the event celebrated its 19th installment by soaring to new and entertaining heights at Valleyfair amusement park in Shakopee.

A major sponsor for Hockey Day Minnesota, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux

Community (SMSC) was proud to support the four-day event, highlighting the camaraderie and competition that make the greater hockey community a beacon of pride for all of Minnesota.

SUPPORTING THE LOCAL HOCKEY COMMUNITY

For many Minnesotans, the State of Hockey title owes its foundation to the region’s reputation for producing talented players and for the strong support teams receive regardless of level and location. In actuality, the area’s ties to hockey delve well beyond the long history of the NHL or any youth association. In fact, European settlers observed Dakota tribes playing a precursor to hockey as early as the 1690s. The name hockey itself is believed to possibly come from the Iroquois word hoghee, which translates to “it hurt.”

HONORING DAKOTA

HERITAGE AT HOCKEY DAY MINNESOTA

BY BRIAN DEUTSCH PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEKS KATANE

While modern hockey’s history and legacy can certainly be debated (aspects of the game can also be traced to Canada and Europe), Indian Country’s connection to hockey remains strong and secure, including here at the SMSC where the tribe has constructed one of the area’s top hockey facilities in Dakotah! Ice Center.

The original ice sheet—which opened alongside Dakotah! Sport and Fitness in 1994—was added to the fitness center project in part as a gift to the local community, serving as Prior Lake’s first covered ice facility while Shakopee’s covered ice facility was at the end of its life. The new indoor arena became the home ice for both Shakopee and Prior Lake high schools for a period. A second sheet of ice

was added to the facility in 2008, and the venue continues to serve as the home ice of the Prior Lake High School teams as well as the Prior Lake/Savage Youth Hockey Association.

“The SMSC has a long-standing tradition of giving back, and we really wanted to create a culture of partnership with both the city of Shakopee and the city of Prior Lake. Building this ice arena really made sense for all of us to come together and fill that need,” SMSC Secretary/ Treasurer Ashley Cornforth said. “This is a small reflection of what we do here at the SMSC, but it’s a great reflection of our Community, and how all of our communities come together.”

HIGHLIGHTING SHAKOPEE

AND THE SMSC AT HOCKEY DAY MINNESOTA

As a major sponsor for Hockey Day Minnesota, the SMSC was visible for all to see in person or on television.

Among the most prominent highlights for the Community was the SMSC-designed commemorative jerseys worn for the event by Shakopee High School. Highlighted with Dakota design elements and language, the jerseys received rave reviews by attendees and online followers and were highlighted as one of two SMSC features on FanDuel Sports Network North’s event coverage.

“Here in Minnesota—in the State of Hockey—I think a lot of people look forward to Hockey Day Minnesota and all the festivities that week,” Chairman Cole W. Miller said. “For them to come out or tune in on TV and see our colors, see our language, and all of those things is really special and brings more awareness.”

When all was said and done, Hockey Day Minnesota 2025 saw more than 15,000 people visit Valleyfair for the four-day festivities—one of the event’s best turnouts in recent years. Fans flocked to Shakopee for more than a dozen organized hockey games on-site while also taking in an unprecedented opportunity to ride several venue attractions in the middle of winter for the first time in the venue’s near 50-year history. As an added bonus,

many left having learned something about Dakota culture and heritage through the SMSC’s presence and contributions to the event.

Said SMSC member and Director of Hoċokata Ṫi Andy Vig, “To showcase our tribal community, our sovereign nation, our Dakota culture and history, and our people, I don’t think it gets any better than that.”

HONORING DAKOTA CULTURE

As proud sponsors of Hockey Day Minnesota 2025 and longtime supporters of local hockey communities, the SMSC was honored when asked to design Shakopee High School’s commemorative jerseys for the event.

The Dakota people have a rich culture and history that has been tied to this region for millennia. When looking at designs, symbols, or art associated with the Dakota, there are many perspectives and interpretations. Today, we often see the use of certain Dakota design elements appear in modern attire and, in this case, athletics. It is vital to be accurate and respectful when expressing Dakota culture in these modern applications.

Collaboratively designed by the SMSC Marketing and Communications Department and the Cultural Resources staff at Hoċokata Ṫi and produced by Gemini Athletic Wear, Shakopee’s Hockey Day Minnesota 2025 jersey incorporates a number of significant Native design elements that strengthen and honor the Dakota people and culture.

The jersey’s chest shield combines the Shakopee Sabers logo with floral elements, the Medicine Wheel, and a Star Quilt pattern that celebrates Dakota culture and heritage.

In the background of the image is a Star Quilt pattern, which represents honor and generosity for the Dakota people. Historically and in modern times, Star Quilts are presented to individuals to mark important life events. The pattern can also be found on the jersey’s numbers and captains’ letters.

Surrounding the chest shield design is a Medicine Wheel, another important symbol for many tribes, including the SMSC. The Medicine Wheel represents the four directions and is a circle, which represents life as well as all of its cycles, events, and natural occurrences. Four distinctive colors (black, red, yellow, white) come together for the Medicine Wheel and those colors are reflected throughout the jersey’s design. Meanwhile, the importance of the directions in Native culture is reflected as an accent piece on the interior patch of the jersey as well as the breezers that accompany it. The four directional cross design represents the four cardinal directions as well as all directions, creating a circle with 360 degrees of awareness. Seven directions are viewed when standing on the earth (four cardinal directions as well as up and down with the final direction being the center of connection)—true balance is present with all seven directions.

The chest shield includes a Dakota language translation of Shakopee Sabers—ṠÁKPE IHMUṪAŊKA. While the Dakota language itself is an important part of the SMSC’s history and heritage, it becomes even more significant given that this year’s Hockey Day Minnesota was hosted in Shakopee, named after Ṡákpe II.

Ṡákpe was one of three Mdewakanton Dakota leaders to share the name, which translates to “number six” in the Dakota language. References to Ṡákpe can also be seen in the six directional crosses located on the uniform’s breezers and the six diamond points on each sleeve of the jersey as well as the accompanying socks. Meanwhile, Ihmuṫaŋka translates to “large feline species,” which includes sabers.

The chest shield also includes a number of floral designs that are very specific to the Dakota and are significant to the plants used for survival. Every plant holds medicinal properties and can help nourish and heal the human body. There are also certain plants and trees that are tied to the

Dakota connection with existence and relationship. The Dakota adorn regalia, outfits, art items, and accessories with floral designs as a reminder of the importance of these plants and their relationship with them.

Finally, the diamond points located on the jersey sleeves and socks represent immature bald eagle tail feathers. Birds are an important part of Dakota culture and the Dakota people’s connection to this earth, universe, and beyond. Birds are their own nations and have their own languages. Eagles are recognized by the Dakota with their unique ability to communicate, translate, and serve as messengers. Eagle feathers are handled with respect and are awarded for great accomplishments or dedication to something important. W

HOCKEY DAY MINNESOTA 2025 RESULTS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22

Girls (JV): Shakopee 4, Brainerd/Little Falls 2

Girls: Rosemount 5, Lakeville North 0

Boys: Rosemount 6, Eastview 3

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23

Girls: Orono 3, Northfield 1

Girls: Eden Prairie 3, Prior Lake 2

Girls: Shakopee 1, Brainerd/Little Falls 1 (OT)

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24

Boys: Delano 5, Orono 1

NCAA Alums: Collegiate Alumni 8, Gopher Alumni 4

Boys: Lakeville South 6, Prior Lake 2

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25

Boys: Eden Prairie 4, Hibbing/Chisholm 3

NCAA Women: Minnesota 3, Bemidji State 1

Boys: Shakopee 5, Maple Grove 1

Boys (JV): Shakopee 4, Maple Grove 3

NHL: Calgary 5, Minnesota 4 (Xcel Energy Center)

INTRODUCING

Empowering Native youth through fitness and wellness

BY MADELEINE RUSH PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAKE MILLER

Historically, Native American people enjoyed good health through a combination of factors deeply rooted in their cultures and lifestyles. Traditional diets, regular physical activity, strong social bonds, and spiritual practices contributed to their overall well-being. The adoption of modern lifestyles has eroded some traditional Native ways of life and increased children’s exposure to unhealthy diets and habits.

Today, too many young people have poor nutrition, lack sufficient sleep, engage in minimal physical activity, and spend excessive time with screens. Consequently, the rates of childhood obesity, chronic diseases, diabetes, substance abuse, and mental health problems are on the rise. Native youth face significantly more health challenges than their non-Native peers. The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) seeks to change this reality through its latest philanthropic campaign.

In January 2025, the tribe announced the launch of IndigeFit Kids, a $6 million, three-year philanthropic campaign to improve the physical fitness and mental wellness of Native youth in Minnesota. SMSC Vice-Chairwoman Natasha K. Hacker and Secretary/Treasurer Ashley J. Cornforth, who will co-chair the campaign for the tribe, announced the effort along with several key strategic partners at the Minneapolis American Indian Center.

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.

Secretary/Treasurer Ashley J. Cornforth

“Good health of Native youth today is fundamental to the vitality of Native communities for generations to come, but health problems are significantly more common among Native American youth than among their peers in the general population,” said Vice-Chairwoman Hacker. “We believe that through a dedicated campaign we can change this reality and close health disparities among young Native Americans in Minnesota by giving them more resources to lead active, healthy lives.”

IndigeFit Kids is a large-scale effort to deploy resources and draw on expertise to improve the physical fitness and wellness of Native youth statewide. This campaign will fund a variety of projects and programs focused on physical fitness and wellness, commissioning research, raising public awareness, supporting efforts to Indigenize athletic programs, and more.

“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 Secretary/Treasurer Cornforth.

Strategic partners in the IndigeFit Kids campaign’s first activities include KABOOM!, the national nonprofit working to end playspace inequity; Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health, one of the nation’s leading academic health organizations focused on the health of Native communities; and the Minnesota Vikings, one of the region’s leaders in promoting fitness and physical activity among youth.

CREATING MORE EQUITABLE PLAYSPACES FOR NATIVE YOUTH Through IndigeFit Kids, the SMSC is providing $1.5 million to KABOOM! over the next three years. The SMSC has commissioned KABOOM! to conduct a first-of-its-kind research project to assess the adequacy of playspaces in Native communities

in Minnesota, both in reservation settings and in urban areas. The SMSC has also committed to fund the building of five new communitydesigned playspaces with KABOOM! in Native communities in Minnesota over the next three years.

“Places to play are the heart and soul of a healthy childhood. We believe that our research assessing the location and quality of playspaces in Native communities will not only provide valuable insights for public officials and community leaders but will also inspire others across the country to prioritize children’s health,” said KABOOM! CEO Lysa Ratliff. “We are grateful to work with the SMSC to develop this groundbreaking regional assessment and build more places for kids to play in Minnesota. This collaboration is a shining example of how communities can unite with joy and purpose to support the well-being of kids and create lasting, positive change everywhere.”

GROUNDBREAKING NEW RESEARCH

IndigeFit Kids is also granting $500,000 to the Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health to conduct a planning study to prepare for an indepth, culturally appropriate research initiative to focus on holistic health among Native youth, with special focus on physical activity and the obstacles and pathways for promoting good health among Native youth. This study over the next two years would represent the essential first step to embarking on the most thorough, wide-ranging study of Native youth fitness and health ever undertaken in Indian Country and would determine the best ways in which it should be conducted.

“We are thrilled to partner with the SMSC on this innovative and critical new campaign. Across Indigenous communities is a shared value to preserve well-being in a holistic sense for future generations,” said Johns Hopkins Center for Indigenous Health Co-Director Dr. Melissa Walls.

“The IndigeFit Kids campaign aligns with these teachings and invests in our children and young people in deeply meaningful ways. Our Center for Indigenous Health is honored to share the tools of Indigenous-led public health research as one aspect of this exciting collaboration.”

NEW ATHLETIC OPPORTUNITIES

To expand team sports and wellness opportunities for Native kids, IndigeFit Kids will partner with the Minnesota Vikings, who are dedicated to advancing the well-being of youth through engaging health and education initiatives.

The present generation of children is the first in history to have a shorter life expectancy than its parents’

generation due to physical inactivity and poor nutrition. The Minnesota Vikings work to create measurable and positive impacts to address this and other problems like educational disparities in the state.

“The Minnesota Vikings are proud to partner with the SMSC on IndigeFit Kids. We have a strong history of partnerships with Minnesota’s Native American community and look forward to promoting expansion of team sports like flag football and wellness opportunities for Native youth as part of this program,” said Lester Bagley, executive vice president of public affairs for the Minnesota Vikings.

Sign up to receive updates about IndigeFit kids and learn more about how you can help support and empower Native Youth through fitness and wellness at indigefitkids.org.

OF DEDICATION

BY JESSE MENDEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAKE MILLER

FOR NEARLY 25 YEARS, JAVI AVALOS HAS WORKED IN VARIOUS ROLES AT THE SHAKOPEE MDEWAKANTON SIOUX COMMUNITY (SMSC), WITNESSING FIRSTHAND ITS REMARKABLE EVOLUTION INTO A THRIVING TRIBAL GOVERNMENT.

As Manager Curator of Collections and Archives within the Cultural Resources Department, Javi plays a pivotal role in documenting the history of the SMSC, as well as the heritage of the Dakota people, through archived materials and artifacts.

The Avalos family name

is well-known among SMSC team members—Javi’s mother, Isabel, has served in multiple roles around the SMSC for more than 30 years, and his father, Javier Sr., spent three decades within the Furnishings Department after retiring in 2020—so it’s clear that Javi has a deep commitment to the SMSC’s mission. Today, his role not only helps connect people to the past but also allows him to shape how future generations learn about and understand the Dakota people.

Javi’s position is just one of the many diverse roles within the Cultural Resources Department, which is primarily based at the SMSC’s cultural center, Hoċokata Ṫi. With a team of cultural interpreters, cultural programmers, language specialists, archivists and curators, the department’s goal is to interpret and encourage traditional Mdewakanton Dakota cultural heritage, language, and history by sustaining this inherent knowledge through exhibitions, preservation, and education.

When did you first start at the SMSC?

I started in 2001 when I was just 14 years old. My initial job was being part of the “Fun Crew” for birthday parties at Playworks and several years later I transferred to work within the classrooms. In 2015 I got a job in the SMSC’s Records Department, which exposed me to the history of the Community. A few years later I became the collections technician at Hoċokata Ṫi and have been there ever since.

What

led

you to pursue a career in the curator field?

I have a bachelor’s degree in history and master’s degree in public history. While I was working in the Records Department, the director of Hoċokata Ṫi heard about my educational background and thought I would be a great fit at the cultural center, so she encouraged me to apply. I am forever grateful because this is a tough field to break into.

What has led you to stay with the SMSC?

In every step of my career, the SMSC has always encouraged me to grow,

no matter my role. I’ve always felt that the Community cares for its employees and wants to see them grow. What’s kept me in this job particularly is you can see the real impact of the work we do.

What do you enjoy about your role?

You can see the impact you’re making and how it helps educate people. I’ve always believed history is a powerful way to teach. In some jobs, you may never see the results of your work, but here, the impact is demonstratable and visible every day.

What do you enjoy about working at the SMSC?

I really like camaraderie. I love all the things we get to experience by collaborating with the different staff and the various roles that are in existence here. I learn so much from departments like Natural Resources or from historical videos created by Marketing. Each team plays a part in preserving the SMSC’s history through their work. One of the best parts of my position is getting to see all of that.

I always say to anybody who is interested in working here, that no matter who you are, the SMSC has a place for you.

What makes you proud to work for the SMSC?

I like the values that the SMSC demonstrates toward my community. I’m a resident of Shakopee and I like working for a local organization. When I go to the library or park, I can see that the SMSC has been part of making my community better. I think that Shakopee is fortunate that the SMSC is here and that they care about making this area better for everybody.

How does your role intersect with the SMSC’s e ort to increase the understanding of Native people?

I get to be a part of many partnerships that are externally facing, whether it be with the Scott County Historical Society, Department of Natural Resources, parks departments all over Minnesota, and other historical societies and museums that are trying to tell history in a way that hasn’t always been done. What’s exciting, right now in this moment, you see a lot of those organizations making a big change and are really trying to involve Indigenous communities in their work. Being a part of this is a humbling experience.

What are some projects you’re working on now?

We are doing a lot with our archives, since it’s very new to our team here. We are digitizing a lot of archival material that the Community has had for many years. We are also working on the follow-up to our first fashion show and are already planning the next one which will happen this fall.

What do you think makes the SMSC a great place to work?

I always say to anybody who is interested in working here, that no matter who you are, the SMSC has a place for you. It has a place where you can use your talents and grow.

In every step of my career, the SMSC has always encouraged me to grow, no matter my role.

Making Waves

BY JESSE MENDEN

The late November evening marked one of the most impactful moments in the history of the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s cultural center. As the DJ’s beats echoed through Hoċokata Ti’s large auditorium, a sold-out crowd of 350 guests watched in awe as models walked down the runway wearing Indigenous styles during the tribe’s rst-ever fashion show.

The night’s theme, “Water Fits All,” paid homage to the We Are Water MN traveling exhibit, which would soon leave the cultural center.

In many ways, it was the perfect partnership. The SMSC is a leader in protecting natural resources. The We Are Water MN exhibit aims to strengthen Minnesotans’ relationships with water and encourages water stewardship.

When Hoċokata Ṫi was awarded the opportunity to host its first-ever traveling exhibit in January 2024, the Cultural Resources Department saw it as more than a display—it was a chance to share the Dakota people’s enduring connection to the earth and cultural lifeways.

PHOTOS BY ALEKS KATANE AND JAKE MILLER

THE SMSC TELLS THE STORY OF DAKOTA VALUES THROUGH TRAVELING EXHIBIT

Over the next 10 months, and with significant support from dozens of tribal members, staff worked tirelessly to prepare for what would become an eight-week whirlwind of visitors and special events. By the time the exhibit finally arrived in early October, the phrase “we are water” had jokingly turned into “we are thirsty” after all the planning and preparation.

CONNECTING COMMUNITIES

We Are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Humanities Center and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, in collaboration with many other state agencies and partners including Minnesota Departments of Health, Natural Resources, and Agriculture, Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources, Minnesota Historical Society, and University of Minnesota Extension.

It was created after voters passed the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment to the Minnesota Constitution in 2008, which increased the state’s sales tax to fund the protection of natural resources and preservation of arts and cultural

heritage. We Are Water MN is currently on its sixth tour, having visited almost 40 sites around the state since it began in 2016.

The exhibit consists of more than a dozen interactive displays designed to inspire visitors to make more informed decisions about water, as well as other issues that are important to them.

“We really hope that the exhibit will allow communities to make better decisions about water and also just better decisions about any other public issues that they might confront,” said Trygve Throntveit, director of strategic partnership at the Minnesota Humanities Center.

“So our goal is really to help people not only learn about water and its importance in their lives and the lives of their neighbors at many levels, both very local and statewide, but also to develop skills that allow them to be better citizens and stewards of the public life that they share together.”

A portion of the exhibit invites people to share their own water stories, and

as the host community, the SMSC was able to contribute its own experiences. About a dozen tribal members recorded water-related memories that were featured on audio panels in the exhibit. In their voice, each individual spoke about why water is important to them. The stories ranged from childhood fishing tales, to expressing what water means to the Dakota people, to elders recalling the days when there was no running water on the reservation.

“The goal of We Are Water is to bring people in communities around the state together so that they can share stories about water and its importance in their lives,” Throntveit said. “Those stories can be about its recreational importance, its life sustaining importance, its spiritual importance, its economic importance. Really any way that people want to reflect on water’s role in their lives.”

Another panel in the exhibit spotlighted some of the initiatives led by the SMSC to protect our most precious resource for future generations. It showcased efforts

things’ that were authentic to the tribe.”

The team partnered with other departments within the SMSC to develop unique events that gave attendees insights into Dakota values and culture while also generating interest in the traveling exhibit and the topics at the heart of its mission.

WATER STEWARDSHIP OPEN HOUSE

During the first event, the SMSC’s Natural Resources Department shared information about its efforts to safeguard our water. It hosted several family-friendly activities, including a water tasting experience, augmented reality sandbox, and craft making.

WATER AND FOOD DISCUSSION

The second event was led by staff from the tribe’s organic farm, Wozupi Tribal Gardens. The presentation covered ecological farming and water conservation practices that the farm utilizes to be a good steward of the earth.

SHAKOPEE RIVERFRONT TOUR

Cultural Resources staff took it

Scan to view a 3D model of the SMSC Strata Column at Hoċokata Ṫi!

outdoors for the next event, leading a guided tour along the banks of the Minnesota River at Memorial Park in Shakopee. Guests learned about the plants, animals, and people that share a connection through the land.

HOĊOKATA ṪI FASHION SHOW

The final and signature event was the fashion show. The elegant evening featured designs from renowned Oceti Ṡakowiŋ (Dakota, Lakota, and Nakota people of the Upper Midwest and Canada) artists Bill Brien, Georgina Drapeau, Marlena Myles, Kayla Lookinghorse, and Jocy and Trae Little Sky. Each artist created a line that featured Native designs and themes, while telling the story of what water means to them.

The success of the highly attended events and the whole two-month experience was made possible through the strong collaboration

between the SMSC and the We Are Water MN team. “I was just so delighted to have found each other,” said Britt Gangeness, Environmental Education and Outreach Unit supervisor at the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. “I think it’s been mutually beneficial, which is the greatest of partnerships. And it’s extended a lot of new connections and possibilities into the future, too.”

Even though the We Are Water MN exhibit has gone, it leaves behind an impactful legacy. Hoċokata Ṫi plans to use the experience to host future exhibits and apply the knowledge they learned to share more about the Dakota people.

“I think we learned we could create partnerships within the SMSC to help bring more attention to the great initiatives happening here,” Avalos said. “So I think we’ll look for ways

we can continue to work within the departments and enterprises here to help us tell that greater Dakota story, that greater Dakota history, and all the things that the SMSC does.”

INDIGENOUS FASHION SHOW MERGES ART, WATER, AND TRADITION

The signature event of the Water MN exhibit was the SMSC’s first-ever fashion show. With Hoċokata Ṫi’s large auditorium bathed in blue and spotlights forming the shape of a tipi, the runway became a celebration of Indigenous fashion, tradition, and Native pride.

The SMSC commissioned six talented Oceti Ṡakowiŋ artists who took a leap of faith to display their visionary designs for the show’s theme—“Water Fits All”—which honored the interconnectedness of all people and the earth. Through each piece of clothing, the artists conveyed what water meant to them using a blend of traditional designs and materials with modern fabrics.

“This is not an established fashion show. This was the first time, and for all they knew, the only time it was ever going to happen. But I think they did it because they believed in having a group of Native people express themselves in that kind of way,” Avalos said.

Renowned fashion designer Kayla Lookinghorse (Hunkpapa Lakota, Dakota) kicked off the show with a couture collection that honored the tipi design, including a standout piece that had graced New York Fashion Week. One of the show’s highlights was a

bold red dress modeled by an SMSC youth, which raised awareness for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women movement. Reflecting on her collection, Lookinghorse said, “For me water is life, and I have a lot of family that have been in involved in activism to stand on their water and

Next, Bill Brien (Lakota, Dakota, Chippewa, Metis) presented a collection of women’s wear adorned with Dakota and Ojibwe floral patterns. His designs symbolized how Native culture flows like a river— ever-evolving and enduring.

Georgina Drapeau (Isanti Dakota) captivated the audience with her collection, featuring both men’s and women’s pieces in shades of blue and vibrant ribbons. Her designs served as a visual tribute to the power of water and our deep connections to one another. A stunning blue dress paired with a “Dakota Matriarch” leather bag was one of her signature pieces, leaving the crowd in awe.

The dynamic duo of Jocy and Trae Little Sky (Dakota, Lakota, Nakoda; Mandan, Hidatsa, Arikara) brought a show-stopping collection of men’s and women’s pieces that ranged from upscale leisurewear

to stunning dresses, including pieces from their Tópa fashion brand. The highlight of their collection was a white long-sleeved dress adorned top to bottom with large elk teeth.

The show concluded with an unforgettable finale by local artist Marlena Myles (Spirit Lake Dakota). Her unique and stunning collection made use of vibrant colors and intricately beaded floral patterns which spoke of tradition, transformation, and inclusivity, reminding those in attendance of a shared responsibility to care for the earth and each other. One memorable piece was men’s black embroidered ensemble accessorized with boxing gloves and gold feathers.

Select original pieces from the show were purchased by the SMSC and have become a part of the artifact collection at Hoċokata Ṫi.

Even though fashion took center stage, Director of Hoċokata Ṫi Andy Vig said the night was about so much more. “I saw it of the audience, and the people that were a part of the show, whether they were in the models, the designers, or the staff who planned it. The amount of excitement, the amount of Native pride, and being able to express that through fashion was a great thing.”

A Signal of Success

BY JONI KOMPERDA

PHOTOS BY JAKE MILLER

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) continues its long-held Dakota tradition of extending a helping hand, this time by significantly enhancing road safety for SMSC members and the wider community. With an eye toward addressing the burgeoning needs of a growing population, the SMSC spearheaded the crucial installation of a new traffic signal at the intersection of Mystic Lake Drive/County Road 83 (CR83) and Tintaocanku/Valley View Road in 2024.

This collaborative project arose from mounting safety concerns stemming from the area's rapid development and the subsequent surge in traffic volume. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, the SMSC stepped forward, not only as a financial contributor but also as a driving force behind the project's execution. "Ensuring the safety and well-being of the people using this intersection is paramount," stated SMSC Operations Administrator Steve Albrecht, "and this project exemplifies our commitment to proactive infrastructure improvements."

The SMSC's investment of $900,000 formed the cornerstone of the initiative, demonstrating their dedication to directly impacting the lives of those who traverse this busy intersection daily. Beyond financial backing, the SMSC took on the pivotal roles of design and construction administration, ensuring the project's efficient and timely completion. This endeavor was not undertaken in isolation. The city of Shakopee, a vital partner, contributed to the project's funding, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of the initiative. Scott County,

leveraging its technical expertise, provided invaluable support throughout the process and will now assume responsibility for the ongoing operation and maintenance of the new signal system.

The benefits of this newly installed traffic signal resonate throughout the region. SMSC members and Scott County residents alike now enjoy safer and more efficient access to CR83, a vital artery connecting homes, businesses, and recreational areas. "This project is a shining example of how partnerships can yield tangible results," emphasized

Albrecht. "The SMSC's leadership and dedication have been instrumental in bringing this safety improvement to fruition." Indeed, the successful completion of the CR83 traffic signal project underscores the SMSC's ability to identify pressing local needs and to lead and efficiently deliver impactful infrastructure solutions. The new signal stands as a beacon of safety and progress, demonstrating the SMSC's unwavering commitment to the well-being of its neighbors and the enduring power of cooperative partnerships. W

Lifestyle

LAKOTA MADE LLC $12

MEGAN BULL BEAR

SICANGU LAKOTA

Celebrate

New Beginnings

BY JESSE MENDEN

PHOTOS BY JAKE MILLER

As the thunder beings return to chase away the winter’s chill, spring awakens with the bloom of flowers and fresh growth. It’s a time to celebrate new

BABY LOVE SALVE

LIGHTNING BOLT

ABALONE EARRINGS

WAMPUM WEAR $75

DAN SIMONDS

MASHANTUCKET PEQUOT

TRIBAL NATION

PAINTED PARFLECHE LIGHTNING

BOLT EARRINGS $120

GEORGINA DRAPEAU

LOWER SIOUX INDIAN

COMMUNITY

BIRCH BARK BIRD HOUSE $32

FRED MCGREGOR

SAULT STE. MARIE TRIBE OF CHIPPEWA

BABY STAR QUILT $165

MARGO SUHR TURTLE MOUNTAIN BAND OF CHIPPEWA INDIANS

ADAM CROOKS

SHAKOPEE MDEWAKANTON SIOUX COMMUNITY

ADAM CROOKS

SHAKOPEE MDEWAKANTON SIOUX COMMUNITY

WAŻUṠTECA ṠA KEYCHAIN $8

WAḢCA MAGNET $8

Featured Artist

Cyndy Milda

Shakopee Mdewakanton

Sioux Community

Cyndy is a talented artist who draws deep inspiration from the artistic legacy of her grandparents. Growing up at the SMSC surrounded by their craftsmanship, she developed a connection to the traditional artforms of beadwork, quilling, and sewing. Cyndy enjoys teaching her artistic skills to others and sharing her knowledge of Dakota lifeways to deepen understanding of Native people. Cyndy is also an award-winning artist, earning first place honors in the diverse art forms category at the 2025 Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair + Market for a beaded professional wrestling belt titled “Matriarchal Resilience.” Her work can be seen at art markets around the region, and a handmade ensemble is currently featured in the Mdewakanton: Dwellers of the Spirit Lake public exhibit at Hoċokata Ṫi. W

SPRINGTIME KITCHEN APRON $60

DENTALIUM, CZECH, AND PINK CONCH NECKLACE $168

RIBBON SKIRT WITH LACE OVERLAY $260

PINK CONCH EARRINGS $95

CONCH HEART EARRINGS $50

DENTALIUM AND CZECH BEADED NECKLACE $170

An Unforgettable Experience:

Savor Every Moment of Your Next Dinner Out at Mystic Steakhouse

BY CHAUNDRA RICH

PARMESAN-CHEDDAR CRUSTED POTATO CHIVE CROQUETTES

Start your meal with an appetizer to share. These hand-rolled, breaded croquettes are filled with creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar, and savory Parmesan, with a hint of fresh chives, offering a perfect balance of rich flavors and delightful crunch in every bite.

PHOTOS BY JAKE MILLER

Beyond the thrilling lights and animation of the casino, located just off the gaming floor near slot machines and winning streaks, is a well-known and highly acclaimed restaurant experience where the perfect blend of ambience and flavor creates the ideal setting for a special evening out. Mystic Steakhouse, located inside Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, brings luxurious foods and a fine dining experience to the center of the premier resort destination, a perfect place of sophistication and indulgence for your next celebratory dinner. Each entrée is prepared with attention to detail and flavor by the

award-winning culinary team, so your dinner is always exceptional, and your drinks are always expertly crafted, allowing you to focus on creating memorable moments together.

So, pull up a chair, grab your favorite person, order a cocktail, and let Mystic Steakhouse transport you to a place where your senses are heightened, and everyday life fades into the background, leaving you in a world of rich flavors, deep comfort, and refined elegance.

MAPLE BOURBON OLD FASHIONED

A smooth bourbon infused with maple, muddled with a twist of orange and a dash of bitters, creating a warm, aromatic experience, perfect for sipping.

ESPRESSO MARTINI

Enjoy this hand-shaken spin on a classic cocktail, which balances rich espresso with a smooth vodka flavor, creating a lively drink with a subtly sweet kick.

DRY-AGED BONE-IN NEW YORK STRIP

This heart cut of fine steak is seasoned and dry-aged to perfection. Cooked to your preference, this savory entrée offers a rich, intense flavor with a tender texture and perfect crust.

ROSEMARY SCENTED SKUNA BAY SALMON

A delicious salmon delicately infused with aromatic rosemary, perfectly seared to highlight its natural richness and buttery texture, with a subtle herbal fragrance that enhances every bite.

A harmonious blend of spice and herbs, this classic game hen is flavorful and tender, surrounded by a corn succotash and potato purée, captivating your taste buds.

PAN-ROASTED ALEPPO PEPPER GAME HEN

Sunday-Thursday, 5-9pm Friday and Saturday, 5-10pm.

Located at Minnesota’s largest casino only 25 minutes from Mall of America, with slots, blackjack, baccarat, bingo, luxury hotel, entertainment, restaurants, bars, and more. W Browse

the menu or make a reservation!

Winner of the OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award 2024

Luck, Logic, and the Game of BACCARAT

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel Opens Stylish New Baccarat Room

BY CHAUNDRA RICH

PHOTOS BY JAKE MILLER

Pull up a chair in the all-new baccarat room at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, where players of all experience levels can encounter a world of elegance and energy, through the clinking of chips, shuffling of cards, and excitement for the game.

Baccarat is a centuries-old game, with little truly known about its true origins. Some believe it to have originated in Italy, before moving into France and gaining popularity among the French nobility, emerging later as a party game during the Victorian era. Baccarat captured the attention of many, as a simple-to-learn game. Guests make a wager on one of two hands, the Player or Banker, betting on which hand will total closest to nine. Many people would find entertainment and intrigue playing the game over the years—in gambling parlors, on ships, at bars, and more, leading to a modern era when it is known as one of the most popular casino games in the world.

In November 2024, Mystic Lake celebrated the grand opening of its new baccarat room, ushering in the age-old game to Mystic’s

growing repertoire with a kick of style. This new room, located just off the Hotel rotunda, next to Mystic Lake’s Minnehaha Café, offers an elevated atmosphere, featuring 12 tables, a noodle bar, and a tea station.

“Now, our guests can experience this ultimate table game in our all-new baccarat room,” said SMSC Gaming Enterprise President and CEO Angela Heikes. “Our team has created a wonderful new experience that we are excited to show off to our guests.”

Several versions of the game can now be played at Mystic Lake, including EZ Baccarat, Five Treasures Baccarat, and Player Reveal/ Squeeze Baccarat, each giving the player a unique set of play actions and rules.

Along with baccarat, Mystic Lake introduced even more gaming opportunities to the main gaming floor of the casino, including several popular card games, often referred to as “carnival games,” like Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em, Mississippi Stud, Three Card Poker, and more.

For those involved, the key goal for the SMSC Gaming Enterprise has always been to build the guest experience by adding and growing great amenities. “This new offering truly enhances the gaming experience at Mystic Lake—it’s something our guests have been looking forward to for a long time,” says SMSC Chairman Cole. W. Miller.

Baccarat is the latest of several exciting additions that Mystic Lake has in the works. Heikes called it an “exciting time at Mystic Lake,” as they unveiled the new Baccarat Room, along with a new Bingo Hall also in November. Additionally, they are gearing up for even more exciting plans this year, including a new dining option, Hop House, coming soon!

“We are laser-focused on creating original and exciting entertainment experiences for our guests,” said SMSC Gaming Enterprise Board of Directors Treasurer Austin Vig.

The SMSC opened its first gaming enterprise in 1982, Little Six Bingo, which later grew to become two casinos, a hotel, multiple dining and recreation options, and much more. This latest gaming installment adds to the

“Anytime we get to o er something new to our guests, it is a reminder of how far we have come in the past 40 years.”

AUSTIN VIG

SMSC GAMING ENTERPRISE BOARD OF DIRECTORS TREASURER

growing list of amenities available at Mystic Lake, as it continues to solidify its reputation as a premier gaming destination. So, whether you are passing through or planning your next getaway, make sure to stop by Mystic Lake, dine in, and play a while.

Ready to Play?

Whether you’re new to the game or need a quick refresher, here’s a guide to playing baccarat!

PLACE A BET

Unlike many other card games, the goal of baccarat is not necessarily to be dealt the winning hand. Instead, the way to win is to bet on the hand (Player’s or Banker’s) that will have a total closest to nine (9). A bet must be placed before the cards are dealt.

PLAYER: A bet that a hand dealt to the player will be higher than opposing hands.

BANKER: A bet that a hand dealt to the banker will be higher than opposing hands.

TIE: A bet that both hands will have the same total.

TWO CARDS DEALT

The dealer will distribute two cards, face up, to both the player and banker. Add the total of each set of cards together.

10, Jack, Queen, King: Zero points 2-9: Worth their face value

Ace: One point

If a total is more than 10, the value of the hand is the second digit—a hand totaling 15 would actually be five.

NATURAL WIN

If the two-card deal totals eight or nine, there is no need for a third card to be dealt. This is considered a natural win.

OPTIONAL THIRD CARD DEALT

In some cases, a third card may be dealt to add to the total of the first two cards:

If a player’s hand totals 0-5, a third card can be dealt. If the banker’s hand totals 0-2, a third card can be dealt. If the banker’s hand totals 3-5, a third card may be dealt, depending on the results of the player’s third card.

CALCULATE THE WINNING HAND

The win goes to the hand with the highest single-digit hand value. In the event of a tie, neither player nor banker wins or loses. W

GET IN ON THE ACTION! SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE.

July 4

Mystic Amphitheater

SMSC and Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

UPCOMING

Events

Dakota Language Bowl

Hoċokata Ṫi Cultural Center

Trivium and Bullet for My Valentine: e Poisoned Ascendancy Tour

Mystic Showroom

Martin Lawrence: Y’all Know What It Is! Tour

Mystic Showroom

APRIL 25, 2025

APRIL 25, 2025

MAY 2-MAY 3, 2025

Ladies Weekend

Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

#IMOMSOHARD: e Flashback Tour

Mystic Showroom

e Australian Pink Floyd Show: Wish You Were Here 50th Anniversary Tour

Mystic Showroom

Riverdance 30: e New Generation

Mystic Showroom

Whiskey Myers: What We Were Born to Do Tour

Mystic Amphitheater

Rock and Rockets

Mystic Amphitheater

MAY 9-MAY 10, 2025

MAY 10, 2025

MAY 16, 2025

MAY 18, 2025

JUNE 13, 2025

JULY 4, 2025

LEARN MORE: View upcoming featured shows and events at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

Enjoy the ultimate sports and live entertainment experience at our newest restaurant, bar and entertainment venue. Coming summer 2025!