The spring calendar is filling up quickly as we look ahead to upcoming events. The campus pow-wows are already underway and our very own Memorial Day gathering is less than five weeks away. As cultural and graduation ceremonies are being planned, current celebrations and recognitions have not gone unrecognized.

This year, Earth Day is observed on Monday, April 22 2013 and gives way to activities that promote, enrich, and educate folks about the wonders of our natural world. Most importantly, it reminds all of us to slow down a bit and appreciate the Creator’s work, even on those gray and rainy days our particular spring is not short of.

The tourism season usually runs from Memorial weekend until Labor Day weekend, which gives us another chance to showcase our best quality, Ho-Chunk Hospitality at all of our sites which includes our Whitetail Crossing Stores as well. I would like to personally recognize our employees that work hard each tourism season from front-line employees who I feel one of the most significant contributors to the financial success of the Nation and good public image. In addition, everywhere from middle to the top management shows support for their employees by providing them with tools to be successful in their job duties.

Each employee plays a key role in the overall success of their team effort and the overall tourism season. As you may know or not know my young adult life was spent dealing blackjack and I often wondered if all the “big cheeses” knew how important my work and the work of my coworkers were to their job. For all of our employees, I could confidently assure you that our Nation’s officials know and appreciate everything you do each day. Thank you.

Even with winter hanging around a bit longer than usual, I'm already hearing about upcoming sporting events and of course, the always anticipated fishing season. Let’s have a safe and wonderful spring, full of activity and family and for you students whether graduating this year or not, finish strong! Pinagigiwi.