Indian Gaming Update - October 2012

OCTOBER 2012 | Volume 3, Issue 15

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Indian Gaming Leaves Its Mark On The G2E Conference In Las Vegas

Brian Gamache, Larry Ruvo, Frank Fahrenkopf, Patti Hart, and Ernie Stevens, Jr. at G2E.

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Chairman Stevens Sits Down with Evander Holyfield to Discuss Youth Initiatives

Chairman Stevens does a friendly stand off with Boxing Champion Evander Holyfield.

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John Kieffer Award recognizes Seminole leaders and closes NIGA’s Most Well Attended Mid-Year Conference To Date Joel M. Frank Sr. and Tony Sanchez Jr. are honored at the NIGA Mid-Year Conference.

Member of KISS with top leadership from the world gaming industry and Chairman Stevens were invited to cut the ribbon on the G2E Stage Floor.

Indian Gaming Leaves Its Mark On The G2E Conference In Las Vegas over 24,000 attend vegas tradeshow The American Gaming Association held their Global Gaming Exposition in Las Vegas October 1st through 4th. Indian Gaming was well represented in the audience and on the stage with Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr., participating in the opening ribbon cutting ceremony.

To open the show, AGA President Frank Fahrenkopf brought Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of KISS to cut the ribbon. The stage was also represented by many of the CEO’s from major gaming companies including Patti Hart, CEO of International Gaming Technology, a longtime supporter of NIGA and Indian Gaming.

Remarking on the involvement of Indian Country in one of the largest gaming shows in the world, Chairman Stevens stated: “I am delighted to see Indian Country come out in full-force to one of the largest gaming shows in the world. Our industry is well represented

this week and our tribal gaming facilities continue to make their mark on the gaming industry worldwide.

“Our large presence reminds the US Commercial market that there is another aspect to gaming that can be captured outside the dollars and cents of the mainstream gaming companies.

“Indian Country’s purpose here is to take our message of reservation economic development and Tribal sovereignty to the gaming profession at large.

The Indian Gaming success stories will be recounted many times over this week and can only add to this event.”

Reed Exhibitions is the official planner for the Global Gaming Expo (G2E). Held since 2001, the show is attended annually by over 30,000 industry professionals from around the world.

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photos from the 2012 global gaming expo

Former NFL tight end Byron Chamberlain, who played for the Denver Broncos, Minnesota Vikings.

American Gaming Association President and CEO Frank Fahrenkopf with Chairman Stevens.

George Rivera, Governor of the Pueblo of Pojoaque.

Valerie Redhorse gives a presentation at G2E.

Chairman Stevens squares off with Evander Holyfield during G2E.

Chairman Stevens with Ron Harris, CEO of Rocket Gaming Systems, NIGA Executive Director Jason Giles, and Vice President of Native American Relations Gerald L. Danforth.

Seminole President Sanchez, James Maida, Dr. Spilde and NIGA Executive Director Giles.

SDSU Seniors in the tribal gaming major; Mark Fojas, Janine Dublada and Jherie Erdelyi.

check out more photos on our facebook page!

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NIGA Honors Tribal Leaders and Indian Gaming Advocates At The Global Gaming Expo highlighted award is for sycuan institute

Sycuan Institute at the San Diego State University receive their award at the NIGA Reception.

At the Global Gaming Expo, National Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr. invited friends of Indian gaming to a special reception at the NIGA Tribal Leader’s Lounge on the trade show floor.

Chairman of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation Danny Tucker gave the opening remarks.

Industry leaders packed the lounge as the Chairman recognized many who are making impressive contributions in Indian gaming.

“We are thrilled to have so many modern warriors represented here at the Global Gaming Expo. These leaders have demonstrated remarkable dedication to their communities and to the continuance of Indian gaming as a viable way to improve the lives of our people and their neighboring communities,” Chairman Stevens said in a statement.

“Take Dr. Spilde for instance. In a partnership with the Sycuan Institute at the San Diego State University, they will release a national impact study on tribal government gaming to evaluate the second decade of social and economic change on and near Indian reservations,” Chairman Stevens remarked. “Gaming

has had a tremendous impact on our communities and it is great to know that the Sycuan Institute is ushering in a new generation of young leaders through this project.”

Awardees were presented with statues during the Chairman’s Reception on Tuesday, October 2, 2012 in the Sands Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Of those recognized were Chairman Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation Danny Tucker, San Diego State University Professor Dr. Kate Spilde, Seminole Tribe of Florida President Tony Sanchez Jr., Pauma Band of Luiseno Indians Councilwoman Bennae Calac, Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe Council Member Michelle Stanley, Tribal Financial Advisors Chairman Rick Hill, Idaho State Representative Candidate Paulette Jordan, Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Chairman Charles Vig and George Rivera, Governor of the Pueblo of Pojoaque.

For more information about the Sycuan Institute on Tribal Government Gaming or the tribal gaming major, please see www.sdsu.edu/htm

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Chairman Stevens Sits Down with Evander Holyfield to Discuss Youth Initiatives FORMER BOXERS SHARE STORIES AND MUTUAL COMMITMENT TO THEIR COMMUNITIES.

World Heavyweight Champion shares a laugh with Chairman Stevens.

At the Global Gaming Expo, National Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr. had the opportunity to sit down with World Heavyweight Champion, Evander Holyfield and share their boxing histories and their mutual dedication to improving the lives of their communities’ youth. They also had the opportunitiy to enjoy some spitfire pork boosted with the Arkansas taste of Holyfield’s “Real Deal” BBQ Sauce.

They discussed and shared their valuable experience as young aspiring fighters in the Boys and Girls Club in their respective communities and now both being members of the Boys and Girls Club of America Hall of Fame.

“It was a great opportunity to sit down with Evander Holyfield and witness his passion to make sure young people become healthy, successful and productive adults. The heart of this five-time heavy-

weight-boxing champion is obvious,” Chairman Stevens remarked. “I think we both understand that when the gloves come off, the ability to build winners in our community’s youth has more of a positive impact than what we have accomplished in the ring.”

The Association has led the Spirit of Sovereignty Foundation by providing academic collegiate scholarships to American Indian students since 2000 through a partnership with the American Indian College Fund and has a personal partnership with the Boys and Girls Club in Indian Country.

The Holyfield Foundation’s goal is to positively impact communities while empowering our youth with effective tools that will enable them to realize success academically, physically and spiritually.

Both the Spirt of Sovereignty and the Holyfield Foundation are committed to strengthening their community’s youth.

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Planning for the March 2013 Annual Tradeshow and Convention is Underway.

Convention will bring renewed focus and energy on the industry Planning is well underway for Indian Gaming 2013, NIGA’s Annual Tradeshow and Convention. NIGA is well on its way to make it one of the most entertaining and successful events in the gaming industry. Taking place at the beautiful Phoenix Convention Center, Indian Gaming 2013 will feature several new and exciting options for attendees.

“2013 is going to be a very special year for Indian Country. NIGA’s Tradeshow and Convention will occur on the heels of the Presidential election, typically a time of major change for Congress and the Nation, ” Chairman Stevens said. “We are excited that Phoenix will be the venue to bring renewed focus and energy on our industry. We enjoy the local gaming facilities in all directions found throughout Arizona.”

Indian Gaming 2013 will begin on Sunday, March 24th and run through March 27th. Over just four days, NIGA will seek to accomplish many goals. Attendees can obtain their annual certification and training through NIGA’s Seminar Institute.

Tribal gaming commissioners and regulators can choose from over 100 seminars on gaming issues ranging from social media to gaming regulatory compliance.

Legislative and Regulatory issues will be discussed at our NIGA Membership meetings and we can expect the Internet gaming issue to remain a hot topic going into 2013. All of these issues and more will be covered at our conference seminars and the Annual Tribal Leaders’ Membership Meeting.

While business is a priority, Indian Gaming 2013 several events to add some fun in the Phoenix sun!

This year, the Gila River Gaming Enterprises will kick-off Indian Gaming 2013 by hosting the Chairman’s Welcome Reception, at the beautiful Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino. Not only is this a great event full of networking and socializing but attendees will experience world-class entertainment brought to you by Gila River Gaming Enterprises.

Fort McDowell’s We-Ko-Pa Golf Club will be the host site of one of our golf tournaments.

The Phoenix Convention Center has 900,000 square feet of meeting and exhibition space.

For those that are fitness minded, we are teaming up with the NABI Foundation to co-sponsor the 4th Annual Chasing the Sun 7K 10K & Health Fair open to all NIGA attendees. And for folks that prefer to do their walking on a golf course, Indian Gaming 2013 has three golf tournaments to choose from all located on championship courses owned by local Arizona Tribes.

NIGA will have several fun and exciting events on our show floor, including the “Grand Prize” cash drawing on the last day of the show. All registered attendees are eligible for the opportunity to win. NIGA has added an “attendee sweepstakes” where participants can earn more cash prize drawing entries and increase their chances of winning the grand prize of $25,000. (More details to follow).

We can’t wait to see you on the Tradeshow Floor for this first time drawing.

These are just a few of the exciting events coming to Indian Gaming 2013. Be sure to keep an eye out for the Entertainment line-up and other Tradeshow Floor giveaways. Please visit our website at www.indiangaming.org for all the latest updates. We look forward to seeing you in beautiful Phoenix, Arizona this March!

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NIGA Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr. introduces Julius Erving at the Mid-Year Sovereignty Awards Banquet.

John Kieffer Award recognizes Seminole leaders and closes NIGA’s Most Well Attended Mid-Year Conference To Date INTERNET GAMING, HONORING SEMINOLE HISTORY ARE TOPICS The National Indian Gaming Association, honored Seminole Tribe of Florida President Tony Sanchez Jr. and tribal member Joel M. Frank Sr. at the 14th Annual Sovereignty Awards Banquet on Tuesday with their prestigious John Kieffer Award during the MidYear Conference.

The award recognizes a selfless dedication to advancing the lives of Indian peoples socially and economically, building self-sufficiency through gaming enterprises, and being an advocate for Indian self- determination.

Through President Tony Sanchez Jr.’s leadership, the Seminole Tribe of Florida Inc, has developed new business holdings within their community and strengthened the Seminole Tribe’s business presence by significantly engaging in the diverse Florida marketplace.

Joel M. Frank, Sr., also a member of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, has dedicated four decades to the furtherance of economic prosperity and the protection of stable governments for American

Indians through his participation in organizations such as the National Indian Gaming Association, the United South & Eastern Tribes, the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development, AMERIND Risk Management Corporation, the Florida Governor’s Council on Indian Affairs, and the North American Indigenous Games Council and the Indigenous Language Institute. In 1990, he accepted an appointment to serve on the newly formed National Indian Gaming Commission as their first commissioner.

Mr. Frank has earned a reputation for integrity as an advocate and spokesman for Indigenous Peoples worldwide.

Greg Abrahamson, a NIGA Member-at-Large, presented the awards to Tony Sanchez Jr. and Joel Frank Sr,, took a moment to share Kieffer’s life and commitment to NIGA and Indian economic development and why these individuals are honored with an award with his namesake.

NIGA Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr. said at the

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Basketball Legend Julius Erving addresses the attendees at the Awards Banquet.

Joel M. Frank Sr. is honored with the John Kieffer Award presented by Greg Abrahamson and Chairman Stevens. .

Tony Sanchez Jr. is honored with the John Kieffer Award presented by Greg Abrahamson, Chairman Stevens and Director Giles.

Seminole Chairman was also honored at the Mid Year Conference with the Chairman’s Leadership Award..

Erin Bailey and Josie Raphealito of the Center on Native American Youth give an update.

banquet, “We honor two great leaders from the Seminole Tribe of Florida who have devoted their lives to improving the well being of their people, their community and Indian country. The historical impact of the Seminole Tribe’s pursuit of economic selfsufficiently has already set a high standard regarding the preservation of tribal sovereignty. President Sanchez and Joel Frank’s determination of carrying on this tradition, has inspired many beyond their Tribe and the state of Florida. They have increased jobs, opportunities and given back a sense of pride to their people, and we thank them for their devoted service.”

NIGA Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr., also honored Seminole Chairman James Billie on the last day of one of the most successful NIGA Mid-Year Conferences ever.

In presenting the Chairman’s Leadership award to Chairman Billie, Stevens told the crowd, “Indian country is a strong benefactor of the leadership of the Seminole tribe of Florida. Chairman Billie has dedicated his life to working for the Seminole community. It’s great to be here and to share in this legacy as we present him this leadership award. The Seminole tribe is a very important examples of positive economic development and growth in Indian country.”

At the conference, Stevens reminded the member tribes; “The purpose of this conference is not just get together, but it is to move Indian country forward. We have so many leaders here that have made a commitment to preserve and defend our sovereignty and rights for generations to come. I respect that commitment.”

“We are facing new challenges today, and by coming together at such a historical place such as Seminole, we understand that when we work together, we can accomplish much for our people,” Stevens added.

Some of these challenges were discussed in depth during the NIGA Executive Board meeting held during the Tribal leaders membership meeting.

Chairman Stevens also announced NIGA’s partnership with Rock the Vote, led by Jaynie Parrish.

Stevens said, “No question, Indian people and the folks we interact with through business and employment are a tremendous voting influence. It is not out of our reach to dramatically impact any election, from local, municipal and State elections, all the way to the President of the United States.”

In addition, acclaimed filmmaker Chris Eyre, of Smoke Signals and Skins fame, presented his latest project at the Chairman’s Luncheon. In collaboration with Native American Public Telecommunications (NAPT), Eyre will produce “Growing Native,” a seven-part series focusing on reclaiming traditional knowledge and food ways to address critical issues of health and wellness, the environment, and human rights.

This year, more than 500 Indian gaming professionals and tribal leadership from around the United States gathered at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino for the NIGA Mid-Year Conference.

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Chairman Stevens along with Senate Committee on Indian Affairs staff enjoy a tour given by the Mohegan Tribal Council lead by Chairman Bruce Bozman.

Chairman Stevens Addresses Tribal Leaders At USET’s Annual Meeting Meeting takes place at Mohegan sun Chairman Stevens addressed the 26 member Tribes of the United South and Eastern Tribes, Inc. (USET) organization at their annual meeting in Uncasville, Connecticut. Chairman Stevens spoke before the tribal membership and provided a national indian gaming update on issues confronting Indian Country. Chairman Stevens stated: “Our top issues this year and next will be fixing the Carcieri decision and continuing to remain vigilant about internet gaming.”

Chairman Stevens was joined by Loretta Tuell, Majority Staff Director and Chief Counsel and Denise Desiderio, Senior Counsel from Senate Committee on Indian Affairs with the Mohegan Tribal Council and were given with a tour of the Mohegan Tribal Government facility.

USET Attendees were also given an up date on the National Register Program guidance for identifying, evaluating, and documenting properties that are historically significant as Traditional Cultural Properties and/or Native American Landscapes.

During the USET Meeting, the Mohegan Tribe also

sponsored a Just Move It! walk for USET Attendees at Fort Shantok, the Tribe’s ancestral grounds on the banks of the Thames River in Uncasville.

“I am always energized after attending a USET meeting,” Chairman Stevens said.

“The dedicated passion to today’s issues were felt everyday, and I’m glad I was their to participate and give an update from our industry.”

On the agenda, USET discussed; Culture and Heritage, Social Services, Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, Transportation, Education, Tribal Administration, Health, Tribal Emergency Services, Housing, Tribal Justice, Natural Resources and, Veterans Affairs.

Today, United South and Eastern Tribes, Inc. is a non-profit, inter-tribal organization that collectively represents its member Tribes at the regional and national level. USET has grown to include twentyfive federally recognized Tribes, operating through various workgroups and committees and providing a forum for the exchange of ideas and information amongst Tribes, agencies and governments.

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