LAKE LEAF DISPENSARY NOW OPEN IN ISLE
By Vivian LaMoore, Inaajimowin Editor
Lake Leaf Dispensary celebrated the grand opening of its third retail location on Friday, October 3, 2025. The new dispensary, located in District la at 810 Highway 47 South in Isle, Minn., marks a major milestone for the Mille Lacs Band and Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures (MLCV).
Mille Lacs Band Elected Officials, members of the MLCV Executive Team, Lake Leaf leadership and employees, community members, and guests gathered for the celebration. The opening of the Isle dispensary represents a significant expansion for Lake Leaf, MLCV, and the Mille Lacs Band. By increasing retail access, Lake Leaf is positioning itself as a key player in Minnesota's emerging cannabis market while creating jobs and generating economic impact for the Mille Lacs tribal economy.
Chief Executive Virgil Wind called it a proud moment for the Band. "We are continuing a new chapter in our journey toward self-determination, economic strength, and community well-being," Wind said. "Lake Leaf has proven to be not only a strong brand but also a powerful vision."
District || Representative Wendy Merrill, who has been a key advocate for the Band's cannabis business initiative since its inception, shared her pride in seeing the project's success. "It brings me so much pride to stand here today for this incredible milestone for our community," Merrill said. "We knew that if we were going to move forward, we were going to do it together. We wouldn't be here without the voices, the support, and the belief in the vision."
Merrill expressed gratitude to the many individuals who helped bring the vision to life, including former Commissioner of Corporate Affairs Joe Nayquonabe, who she credited for "getting us to this moment." She also acknowledged the dedicated team who developed the Band's strong cannabis ordinances — Hannah Valentro, Zach Atherton-Ely, and Aarik Robertson - ensuring that the tribal framework closely aligns with Minnesota state laws to maintain product safety and customer satisfaction.
Merrill also recognized the staff of Lake Leaf Cultivation, the Department of Cannabis Regulation's Becky Houle, and members of the Cannabis Board for their dedication and teamwork. Lake Leaf Cultivation now operates three dispensaries — in Onamia, Hinckley, and Isle.
"Lake Leaf is where value meets opportunity," said Chief Executive Wind. "It's more than cannabis — it's about building careers and investing in our communities."
The Mille Lacs Band has approached the cannabis industry thoughtfully and responsibly - ensuring operations are legal, safe, and people-centered.
Merrill emphasized the broader community impact of the Band's efforts.
"Every single transaction fuels something more — children's education, community healthcare, language and Elder programs, housing, culture, and community service — all while creating jobs and keeping revenue circulating here at home," she said.
The grand opening in Isle, Merrill added, represents more than a business expansion.
"It's not just the opening of one dispensary," she said. "It's the opening of a new chapter in the story of the Mille Lacs Band's resilience, leadership, and innovation."
Celebrating the grand opening of the Lake Leaf Dispensary now open in Isle, MN. Cutting the ribbon is District II Representative Wendy Merrill flanked by Julie Ziegler-Dunkley, MLCV Board member, Dan Klapel, Cannabis Board member, Jennifer Gahbow, MLCV Board member, Chief Executive Virgil Wind and on the right are Becky Houle, Cannabis Regulatory Authority, and Eric Robertson.
