MiigWitches Brew is a Native-owned coffee shop on the Fond du Lac reservation, run by Jackson Ripley and his family. Situated on Big Lake Road, the drive-thru kiosk opened in June 2022, offering high-quality coffee in a community-centric environment. The idea started when Jackson’s spouse, Lyz Jaakola, found a blue shed on Facebook Marketplace, which they transformed into their coffee shop. Their goal is to provide the reservation with a convenient and quality coffee option, as the nearest alternatives are gas station coffee or a trip to Cloquet. The shop's name, MiigWitches Brew, is a playful nod to the Ojibwe word “Miigwich,” meaning “thank you.” Their menu features a range of drinks, including their signature maple latte made with locally sourced maple syrup. The shop has gained a following, with customers traveling from various locations to experience their offerings. The family is dedicated to making MiigWitches Brew a lasting presence, aiming to inspire other Native-owned businesses and give back to their community.
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