January’s Citizen of the Month is an individual that continually works to promote understanding, acceptance and cooperation among various cultures. As Mayor of Rapid City, I am pleased to present this Citizen of the Month award to Bryan Brewer.

For the past twenty-seven years, the Lakota Nation Invitational has grown from eight basketball teams to thirty-two teams including boys and girls basketball in addition to all the other hand games, art show, wrestling tournament, knowledge and language bowls. Bryan was instrumental in starting this outstanding athletic event and after an absence of a few years has been the driving force for the past twenty plus years.

The LNI has grown to one of the largest cultural events in the nation in addition to having a tremendous economic impact to our community. Civic Center Manager Brian Maliske who works closely with Bryan says that “he is an absolute pleasure to work with. He plans events months ahead of time, coordinates the programs and is always professional and polite. Bryan Brewer is known as someone who rarely dwells on what went wrong but rather what went right and how to make things better in the future.” Those who know Bryan say that he is always concerned for the experience the kids will have and how it can help make a positive influence in their lives. For Bryan, it is always about the kids and making sure they gain experiences that will help them make the right decisions in their life.

Bryan was honored recently with a write up in the December 22 issue of Sports Illustrated, showcasing just how important the LNI and Bryan Brewer are to our community. We honor Bryan for his commitment, enthusiasm and vision that have made the Lakota Nation Invitational such an outstanding athletic and cultural event. While the tournament is a volunteer event, Bryan’s leadership and dedication is the guiding force that helps bring two cultures together to promote understanding of each other.

Bryan and his wife Carla have four children and reside in Pine Ridge, South Dakota.