NativeCare’s Arrival in West St. Paul

On a sunny and unseasonably warm Thursday afternoon in March, history was being made in West St. Paul.

As we approached NativeCare WSP, there was an unmistakable sense of energy in the air. People greeted one another with hugs, conversations layered with excitement, and a shared awareness that this was more than just an opening. This was a meaningful milestone.

From the moment we stepped through the doors, the intentionality of the space was immediately clear. A beautifully crafted birch reception desk anchored the entrance, while sunlight poured through expansive windows, casting a soft, golden warmth across the room.

A Space Designed with Care

Inside, the atmosphere felt both elevated and welcoming. The use of birch throughout the dispensary carried a quiet elegance, with display cabinets thoughtfully placed. Each detail contributed to a cohesive environment that felt grounded in identity and care.

Guests moved through the space with curiosity and appreciation, pausing to take it all in, exchanging thoughts, and connecting with one another.

We were greeted warmly and handed a NativeCare welcome bag, a gesture that immediately set the tone for the experience: generous, thoughtful, and community-centered.

Voices Behind the Vision

As the room gradually settled, Kari Taylor, CEO of NativeCare, stepped forward to speak. Her presence was both grounded and compelling, humble yet clearly driven by vision and purpose. She shared words of gratitude, acknowledging the many hands and hearts that contributed to bringing the dispensary to life. There was a sincerity in her tone that resonated throughout the room.

Following her remarks, Darrell G. Seki Sr. addressed the crowd, speaking to the significance of this moment for the Red Lake Nation. His words carried weight, reflecting not only progress, but sovereignty, self-determination, and the importance of building opportunities that serve the community for generations to come.

The Ribbon and What It Meant

Guests were then invited outside for the ribbon-cutting ceremony. In a moment that felt both celebratory and symbolic, Samuel R. Strong had the honor of cutting the ribbon, officially opening the doors to the public.

Chairman Seki added a lighthearted moment, sharing that he intended to be the first customer, a comment that drew smiles and laughter from the crowd.

Throughout the gathering, a number of familiar and important figures were present, including Melanie Franks, Tribal Liaison from the Office of Cannabis Management, and Thomas Barrett, known to many as Thomas X. Their presence tied the moment back to earlier milestones and the growing cultural momentum around NativeCare.

Tommy and Natalie also had the opportunity to reconnect with Jordan Fallis, who has served as a key liaison between Canna Connect and Red Lake Nation, helping bridge communication and collaboration along the way.

Behind the Scenes

After the ceremony, we regrouped inside, continuing to take in everything we had just experienced. The energy had shifted into a steady hum, with people exploring, learning, and continuing conversations that reflected both curiosity and pride.

We had the opportunity to connect with members of the NativeCare team, including Jordan, and spent time discussing the broader vision behind the dispensary, what it represents today, and what it has the potential to become for the Red Lake Nation and surrounding communities.

One of the most memorable moments of the day came when Kari, with a knowing smile, offered to show us behind the scenes. We gratefully accepted.

Stepping into the backroom, it was immediately clear that the same level of intention carried through every aspect of the operation. We were able to see NativeCare’s craft-grown flower up close, its quality unmistakable. The structure, aroma, and freshness spoke to a deep commitment to cultivation excellence. This was not just a product; it was care, expertise, and pride made tangible.

We were also given a look at the transport side of the operation, including an armored vehicle designed with safety and compliance at the forefront. Every detail reflected a commitment to operating at the highest standard, not just meeting expectations, but exceeding them.

More Than a Dispensary

Before leaving, we took a moment to personally thank Kari and congratulate her on this remarkable achievement. What stood out most was not just the beauty of the space or the quality of the product, but the deeper meaning behind it all.

NativeCare is more than a dispensary. It represents vision, sovereignty, and a continued investment in the future of the Red Lake Nation.

It was an honor to be present for such an important moment, and to witness firsthand the care, intention, and leadership that brought it to life.

What Stayed With Us

Walking away from the space, the feeling did not fade.

There was excitement, but it was not loud or scattered. It carried a sense of recognition. People spoke and moved like they understood what it took to reach that moment.

It felt like arriving at something impactful.

NativeCare has always been more than a store. Through its model and its mission, it reflects something built by the people and for the people. What unfolded in West St. Paul was not just the opening of another location. It was the continuation of that purpose in a new place.

For those present, it was more than something to attend.

It was something to witness.

And for us at Canna Connect, it was an honor to stand in that moment and see the result of that labor take shape.

Learn About NativeCare

Follow NativeCare:

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Join the Cannaverse for Minnesota cannabis updates, events, and community spotlights delivered weekly.