The past year at the SMSC was filled with powerful accomplishments and countless opportunities to come together as a Community. From the gatherings and events that united us, to the growth of our enterprises—and preparation to launch new ones—to initiatives that reinforced our commitment as a good neighbor, employer, and steward of the earth, 2024 was undeniably a year to remember.
Thank you to everyone who took an active role in the Community over the past year — your passion, leadership, and unwavering commitment continue to propel the SMSC forward, shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
Join us as we take a look back at some of the SMSC’s highlights from 2024!
View more Year in Review images on page 4.
Construction of the SMSC’s bark lodge took place in May of 2024 near Hoċokata Ṫi.
The SMSC Wacipi celebrated a record number of dancers in 2024.
Tribal Administrator Bill Rudnicki and Community Member Kristina Zander were among the many who braved the icy waters at the 2024 Polar Plunge in Prior Lake.
The Community celebrated the fall season at the Wozupi Harvest Party in October.
A Message From Business Council
Happy New Year! We hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday season. This time of year encourages us to reflect on our blessings and thoughtfully assess the progress we have achieved together as a Community. We invite you to check out this month’s feature article for some of the SMSC’s most memorable moments in 2024.
As we move into 2025, we remain committed to preserving our sovereignty and fostering greater opportunities for the tribe, both within our Community and across Indian Country. From new enterprises to major land acquisitions, this year will reflect our focus on growth, innovation, and community engagement.
Please be sure to join us for the General Council Meeting on January 14. There are several important matters to discuss and vote on, and your participation is essential to ensuring business is conducted efficiently. Community Members will also receive a Dakotah! Sport and Fitness 30th anniversary bag at the meeting. We hope to see you there!
If you haven’t picked up your holiday gift yet, be sure to stop by the Business Council offices this month. Please note that the Community Center will be closed on January 20 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day).
In closing, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to our Community Members for their engagement, participation, and commitment to the betterment of our Community. Our Community Members have played a major role in all of the good happening at the SMSC. We hope you will continue to find ways to give thanks and make a difference in our Community and beyond.
Thank you for your continued support. Together, we’re building momentum for an even brighter 2025.
Ṗiuŋdapi (We are thankful).
January 14 | 10am
February 18 | 10am
Upcoming Events
January 29 | 2-5pm & January 30 | 10am-Noon, 2-5pm
Baby Moccasin Workshop
Hoċokata Ṫi Cultural Activity Room
Learn to make baby-sized moccasins with instruction from Program Specialist Raine Cloud. The workshop is beginner-friendly, but more advanced projects will also be available. Contact Raine Cloud at raine.cloud@shakopeedakota.org or 952.233.9156 for more information.
January 4 | 7:30am
The Winter Bird Count
Playworks LINK Event Center
The Winter Bird Count is an early-winter bird census, where volunteers count birds within a 15-mile radius. The data helps to understand the well-being of bird populations. No birding experience is necessary. Contact Natural Resources Manager Ferin Davis Anderson at 952.463.6185 or ferindavis.anderson@shakopeedakota.org.
January 8, 15, 22, and 29 | 4-6pm
Dakota Language Family Nights
Hoċokata Ṫi Dining Room
Learn the basics of the Dakota language in a casual and fun setting. As an added treat, attendees can enjoy a meal each week before class.
January 22-25
Hockey Day Minnesota Valleyfair
The SMSC is sponsoring this year’s four-day celebration of hockey in the state of Minnesota. Hosted at Valleyfair, the festivities include outdoor hockey games and fun winter activities. Be on the lookout for more updates and opportunities as the event nears.
January 25 | 1pm
YLC Movie: Paddington in Peru
Marcus Southbridge Crossing Cinema
This private screening includes pizza, drinks, snacks, and popcorn. Please RSVP with the number of guests to David Pickit at 952.836.9672 or dpickit3@gmail.com by January 10.
January 28 | 10am
Mystic Next Informational Open House
Hoċokata Ṫi
Learn more about the proposed Mystic Next project, including amenity additions and modifications.
January 24
ORF Christmas Tree Drop-Off Ends
February 7-8
SMSC Winter Wacipi
recurring events important dates
Shred Day
Second Wednesday | 6am-3pm | Community Center
Tiwahe Breakfast
First Thursday | 9am | Hoċokata Ṫi
Collections Open House
First Friday | 2-4pm | Hoċokata Ṫi
Dakota Language Table
Mondays and Wednesdays | Noon-2pm | Hoċokata Ṫi
Craft Circle
Wednesdays | 2-5pm | Cultural Activity Room
Maka Open Studio
Wednesdays | 2-5pm | Cultural Activity Room
YLC Meeting
First and Third Tuesday | 6pm | Youth Tipi
Nature Walk
Third Friday | 9am and 2pm | Hoċokata Ṫi
Check out cm.shakopeedakota.org for a full lineup of exciting events happening this month across the SMSC.
On behalf of the House of Representatives, U.S. Rep. Angie Craig presented a recognition award to former Chairman Keith B. Anderson at the SMSC in late February.
Community Member and Fire Marshal Dominique Brewer performed a kitchen safety demonstration during Fire Prevention Week.
Community Members helped break ground on the new LaunchPad Golf location.
Community Members gathered for a photo during the SMSC’s fall golf events at The Meadows at Mystic Lake.
Business Council members and tribal council members from the Lower Sioux Indian Community, Prairie Island Indian Community, and Upper Sioux Community came together for the groundblessing of the Healing Center.
The Community’s veterans were recognized at a special luncheon held in their honor in November.
The SMSC’s current Business Council took oaths of office before beginning their terms on January 31, 2024.
The SMSC hosted the 20th annual Women Empowering Women for Indigenous Nations conference with a theme of “Women Leadership: Strength, Values, and Power.”
The Community celebrated the fall season at the Wozupi Harvest Party in October. Gamers gathered at Hoċokata Ṫi for the popular YLC Video Game Tournament in February.
After a successful
After weeks of practice, Community Youth displayed Mdewakanton Dakota culture to friends and family during Young Native Pride in the spring of 2024.
The SMSC hosted its first fashion show in November as part of the We Are Water MN exhibit at Hoċokata Ṫi.
debut in 2023, the Dakota Language Bowl returned to Hoċokata Ṫi with 28 teams participating in the friendly competition.
Members of Stanley Crooks’ family traveled to Oklahoma City to support his induction into the National Native American Hall of Fame.
In October, the Mystic Bingo Hall celebrated a Grand Reopening after moving to a new location within Mystic Lake Casino Hotel.
Community Members, Tribal Operations team members, and invited guests recognized the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives in May.
In mid-June, Community Youth enjoyed three days of learning and fun at Mdoketu Culture Camp.
Education held an open house in October to showcase its newly remodeled space.
The Community Mother’s Day event was a joyous celebration filled with fun activities and heartfelt moments.
Lights and Sirens Lead Santa to the SMSC
Ona chilly night in December, Santa Claus gave his reindeer and sleigh the night off in favor of a firetruck escort from Mdewakanton Public Safety (MPS) as he toured the Community for the annual Santa on a Firetruck event.
During seven stops around the SMSC, Santa took time to visit with Community families, pose for photos, hear Christmas wishes, and spread holiday cheer.
Thank you to everyone who braved the cold to come out and see Santa, and thank you to everyone at MPS for organizing one of the SMSC’s favorite holiday events!
Visit the Community Member website or scan the QR code to see the full photo gallery from Santa on a Firetruck.
Gear Up for Culture Camp on February 17
Mark your calendar for February 17, when Hoċokata Ṫi is set to host the annual Waniyetu Culture Camp. Community Youth and their families are invited to a fun day of indoor and outdoor activities, which will include practicing traditional Dakota lifeways, learning through cultural teachings, playing games, and more. Preregistration is required—sign up today through the QR code in this article or by visiting cm.shakopeedakota.org.
All Community Youth who attend will receive a Waniyetu Culture Camp sweatshirt, winter hat, and gloves. Contact Cultural Resources Program Specialist Raine Cloud at raine.cloud@shakopeedakota.org or 952.233.9156 with any questions.
Scan the QR code or visit cm.shakopeedakota.org to register.
Make Your Own Baby Moccasins
Community Members and invited guests are encouraged to participate in a Baby Moccasin Workshop, Hokṡiyopa haŋpikceka kiċicaġapi kte (They will make baby moccasins for them), on January 29 and 30 at Hoċokata Ṫi. The class will be led by the new Cultural Resources Program Specialist, Raine Cloud.
This workshop is beginner-friendly (participants will receive premade kits), but more advanced projects will be available for experienced artists. The workshop will take place in the cultural activity room on January 29 from 2-5pm and January 30 from 10am-noon and 2-5pm—choose the time that works best for you! Contact Raine Cloud at 952.233.9156 or raine.cloud@shakopeedakota.org with any questions.
Team members from Mdewakanton Public Safety pause for a photo before heading out for the Santa on a Firetruck event.
Join the Youth Leadership Council for Family-Friendly Fun in Early 2025
The SMSC’s Youth Leadership Council (YLC) is excited to invite you to two exciting events in January and February to help bring families together for a fun and entertaining start to the new year!
January 25 | 1pm Paddington in Peru
Marcus Southbridge Crossing Cinema
This heartwarming movie adventure will include pizza, a drink, a snack, and popcorn for all attendees. Seating is limited, so don’t wait— RSVP by January 10 to Community Member David Pickit (952.836.9672 or dpickit3@gmail.com) to secure your spot!
February 15 | 11am-4pm Video Game Tournament Place of Gathering | Hoċokata Ṫi
Test your skills in tournaments for Super Smash Bros. and Mario Kart, with food and prizes making the day even more special. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a first-timer, all skill levels are welcome. Adults are encouraged to join the fun alongside their kids for a day of friendly competition. If you have any questions about this event, please contact David Pickit for more information.
Don’t miss these fantastic opportunities to connect and create lasting memories with the Community. We hope to see you there!
Celebrating the State of Hockey
For the first time in its 19-year history, Hockey Day Minnesota will be hosted in Shakopee later this month, and the SMSC will be part of the festivities after partnering to sponsor the event.
The four-day celebration of hockey across the state of Minnesota will be held at Valleyfair this year, and the action culminates with the official Hockey Day Minnesota on Saturday,
January 25. In addition to a number of outdoor hockey games, the event will include live concerts, unique activities, and more.
Additional details for Hockey Day Minnesota can be found at hockeydaymn.com , and updates and opportunities for Community Members will be shared when available via the Community Member website and weekly message.
January 22–25 Hockey Day Minnesota Valleyfair | Shakopee
The Community Member App just got a major upgrade! Available now on the App Store and Google Play, the latest version is packed with exciting new features designed to enhance your connection to the Community.
With the redesigned events calendar, you can view and search upcoming events by day, week, or month. Save events directly to your phone’s calendar with a single tap, ensuring you never miss out. Bookmark your favorite articles for quick access, and explore interactive maps to navigate the Community with ease.
Need contact information? The comprehensive SMSC directory puts department and enterprise details at your fingertips. Plus, you can browse real-time property listings or relive Community memories through media galleries of past events.
Updating is simple! Scan the QR code above to install or update the app. After updating, you’ll log in just once, and you’re set to enjoy all the new features.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on the new Community Member App. Tap ‘Feedback’ under the ‘More’ page to share your experience. Your input helps us make the app even better!
Upgrade your connection to the Community— download the Community Member App today!
Community Youth Parker W. smiles for the camera during Education’s holiday gathering in December.
Community Youth Skyla K. enjoys holiday fun during an Education party at Hoċokata Ṫi.
Santa Claus visits the SMSC thanks to an escort from MPS last month.
Members of the Brewer family pose with Santa Clause during the December MPS event.
Community Youth Aurora B. enjoys a warm drink during Education’s holiday festivities at Hoċokata Ṫi.
Chairman Cole W. Miller and former Chairman Charlie Vig present Tribal Chief Financial Officer Joe Dean with a Star Quilt in recognition of his upcoming retirement.
Congratulations to the staff at Hoċokata Ṫi for winning this year’s Tribal Operations Ugly Sweater Contest.
Chairman Cole W. Miller accepts a check from Congresswoman Angie Craig that will provide funding for clean energy planning and deployment.
Secretary/Treasurer Ashley J. Cornforth thanks the assembled team members for their efforts throughout the year during the Tribal Operations Holiday Party.
Community Member Selena Mendolia participates in the #SMSCgives Every Meal event last month at Mystic Lake Center.
Community Youth Pearl Q. and Student Support Teacher Jackson Miller pose for a photo during Education’s holiday party.
Updates from Playworks
January 4
The Playworks Atrium is open for Community families the first Saturday of the month from 11am-3pm. While there will be a Playworks manager on-site, parents, caregivers, and adults (18 years or older) are required to supervise the children at all times. Outside food and beverages are allowed, however, alcoholic beverages are not permitted.
January 6-10
“Let’s Celebrate Playworks Week.” As Playworks celebrates its birthday all week long, students and staff are encouraged to participate in themed dress-up days and special activities.
January 9
Playworks 30th birthday!
Conscious Discipline Reminder
The present moment is where you find joy. If your life is missing joy, you are missing the moment.
Need childcare?
Enroll your child at Playworks. Full- and part-time care is available and there is still time to sign up for before- and after-school care and school break days! Contact Director of Playworks Amy Donaldson at 952.496.6801 or amy.donaldson@playworksfun.com to find out more.
#SMSCgives December Update
In December, the tribe embraced the value of wóokiya (generosity and helping), embodying the true spirit of the holiday season. Participants of #SMSCgives packed food boxes for the Every Meal organization, which offers food boxes to local students to take home during school breaks and weekends. Participants packed 3,333 meals, helping to feed local school youth who may be facing food insecurity.
Community Members and team members helped craft fleece blankets and holiday cards for local organizations. Together, 90 blankets and 413 cards were created and distributed to local children, families, and elders.
Additionally, the annual #SMSCgives Toy Drive donated thousands of toys, books, rollerblades, puzzles, and more to several local organizations including, Mi Casa, Families and Individuals Sharing Hope (FISH), Ain Dah Yung Center, CAP Agency, Open Arms Native Missions, and Baby Space at Little Earth.
Get Ready for Tax Season with Wipfli
It’s never too soon to start tax preparation—start getting your information in order today for a smooth, efficient filing process. To help you prepare, Community Members can take advantage of tax filing assistance from Wipfli, a top 20 national advisory and accounting firm. Representatives from Wipfli will be available in the coming months to answer questions, provide guidance, and help you navigate the tax filing process every step of the way.
More details will be available in the coming weeks—appointment dates and times are being finalized. Stay tuned for more information in next month’s newsletter and on the Community Member website.
Community Youth Khaos J. enjoys the Celebrate the Season event at Playworks.
In December, Playworks hosted a new event for Educare families.
Community Youth Tate K. celebrates with snow indoors in the Playworks LINK Event Center.
In December, #SMSCgives participants packed 3,333 meals for local youth through the nonprofit organization Every Meal.
Be Safe During Outdoor Winter Activities
The winter months offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun and excitement, especially for children looking to spend time playing in the snow. But snow, ice, and cold also bring significant health and safety hazards with them.
Be sure you and your loved ones make safety a top priority this winter by following these winter safety tips.
Stay inside. During snowstorms, blowing snow and cold can make it hard to see and easy to get lost — even close to home. Wait until the storm is gone to go outside.
Dress right. When going out to play after a storm, dress in snowsuits or layers of clothing, waterproof coat and boots, mittens or gloves, and a hat. Avoid cotton clothing or socks as they soak up water and offer little warmth.
Wear a hat. Body heat is lost through the head, so always wear a hat or hood. Cover your ears, too. They are easily subject to frostbite.
Wear gloves. Mittens are even better because fingers maintain warmth when they touch each other.
Warm up. Go inside often for warm-up breaks. Long periods of exposure to severe cold and wind increase the risk of frostbite or hypothermia. If you start to shiver a lot or get very tired, or if skin turns numb or pale on your nose, fingers, toes, or earlobes, go inside right away and tell an adult.
Stay near adults. Always play near home or where there are adults nearby who can help you. Even familiar places can look different in winter, so don’t get lost.
Stay away from streets and snowplows. Plows can’t slow down or turn quickly, and the snow and salt they throw is dirty and can hurt you. Cars may be sliding; they could hit you if you’re in the street.
Stay away from frozen water. Unless a lake or pond has been checked by an adult for thickness and safety, stay off the ice.
SMSC
ESTATE
COMMUNITY
MEMBER
HOMES FOR SALE
Moving? Check out the Community Member and SMSC homes for sale listings. To view the currently available properties, visit cm.shakopeedakota.org or scan the QR code.
For questions or assistance: REALTY SPECIALIST ARCHELLE KING-MINER
612.283.4644
archelle.king-miner@shakopeedakota.org
Construction Updates
COMMUNITY MEMBER
HOMES FOR SALE
Below is a list of updates for active construction projects around the Community as we head into the winter months.
Well 15 Project
Crews are continuing work on the well house interior, including small utility work.
Launchpad Golf
Moving? Check out the Community Member and SMSC homes for sale listings. To view the currently available properties, visit cm.shakopeedakota.org or scan the QR code.
The majority of utilities have been completed for the site, and the majority of work taking place going forward will be on the building.
Storage Facility
Construction has stopped for the winter months, and activity will be quiet until February/March when materials arrive.
For questions or assistance: REALTY SPECIALIST ARCHELLE KING-MINER
Inyan Ceyaka Otonwe (ICO) – Phase Two
The street will stay graveled until the spring when paving is scheduled. Small utility installs will wait until spring also.
612.283.4644
archelle.king-miner@shakopeedakota.org
Our Home Equity Loan can unlock cash for home improvements, automobiles, college education, vacations, debt consolidation, or just about anything! With a low-interest home equity loan from South Metro Federal Credit Union, you can make your dreams a
When the Snow Fades, The Meadows Awaits
MEADOWS JUNIOR GOLFERS
Get your junior golfer aligned with the fundamentals of golf! For juniors with little to no prior instruction, our Monday-Friday camps focus on technique, golf etiquette, and fun, perfect for ages 6-12. Registration for June, July, and August sessions opens February 1!
Your premier golf experience begins at The Meadows at Mystic Lake
FREQUENT PLAYER CARDS
Book tee times three weeks in advance (a whole week before the general public), enjoy a reduced rate ($95 + tax), and 20% off clothing and 10% off clubs at The Meadows Golf Shop. Or purchase a Premium Frequent Player Card for ALL the savings and amenities of the standard card, PLUS four One-Round Coupons for yourself or to share.
10-ROUND VALUE PACKS
Save up to 30% on 10 rounds of golf with locked-in rates unaffected by dynamic pricing. Purchase for yourself or to share. Packs are transferrable, making the perfect opportunity for smaller group outings or split the rounds up for unique gifts or prizes for golf enthusiasts.
