Celebrate National Poetry Month with Minnesota’s Poet Laureate, Gwen Westerman, at the Dakota Lodge! Join us for an inspiring afternoon as Gwen shares her personal story, reads from her powerful and heartfelt poems, and reflects on the creative journey behind her acclaimed book. Gwen beautifully captures the landscape, history, and spirit of Minnesota life. Don’t miss this special opportunity to meet our state’s leading voice for poetry and be inspired by the ways language and storytelling connect us all. In partnership with the Minnesota Humanities Center. Refreshments will be provided.

Calling all future engineers! It’s time to develop your critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration skills through engineering disciplines. Jump into an exciting new school year with all-new lessons! Whether you're a new or returning student, the Engineering For Kids Jr. Engineering/STEM Club offers hands-on, engaging activities each week to spark curiosity and creativity. Students will explore engineering concepts while developing essential 21st-century skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork—building confidence to tackle challenges in and out of the classroom. Spring Session: Order may vary: Aerospace Engineering Boomerang It’s all about the return flight! Students explore the science of lift and spin before crafting and testing their own paper boomerang. Mechanical Engineering Bouncy Ball Bounce into chemistry! Students learn about polymers by mixing and molding their own bouncy ball. Mechanical Engineering Mini Trampoline Spring into action! Students explore elasticity and energy transfer as they build and test a mini trampoline. Civil Engineering Bird's Self-Propelled Boat Make a splash with engineering! Students learn about buoyancy and propulsion, then create a boat that moves on its own. Mechanical Engineering Straw Grabber Grab, lift, and move like a pro! Students investigate simple machines, then build a straw-based grabber to pick up small objects. Electrical Engineering Constellation Projector Light up the night sky! Students learn about circuits and astronomy while creating a projector that displays constellations on the wall or ceiling.

Let’s crack the case about the newest animal in town! Come learn songs and dances and put on a musical! Everyone will learn how to put together a professional show from start to finish. Learn how to properly speak your lines, block a scene, develop your character and much more! All that is needed are comfortable clothing and shoes. Friends and family are invited to a special performance beginning the final 30 minutes of the final class. Taught by Mayer Arts

Join us on the last Monday of each month, a special time for men to visit and share their insights. Discuss various topics in an engaging environment. Take this opportunity to connect with new folks and contribute your thoughts. Even if you don’t usually ‘get involved’, your participation and insights will be appreciated. Facilitator: Rob Meyer