Hamiinat THE M AGA ZINE OF THE SAN M ANUEL BAND OF MISSION INDIANS
Summer 2022
C O M P L I M E N TA R Y
SE PT E M BE R 16 , 17 & 18 , 2022 FREE TO THE PUBLIC SANMANUEL-NSN.GOV | 909-425-3450 SOCALPOWWOW.COM
Letter
It has been
a high honor and privilege to serve as Chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians the past two years. During this time, we launched Hamiinat, the magazine of our Tribe. Our vision for Hamiinat is to use this important medium to communicate, to teach and to share information about our people, the Yuhaaviatam Clan of Serrano Indians. We are a proud yet humble people with an important history that involves this entire Inland Empire region and beyond. These pages bring to you the voices and experiences of our people today just as other media told the stories of our ancestors in the distant past. I am most grateful for the opportunity as Chairman to build friendships, business relationships and partnerships that help to improve the quality of life in our communities. We will continue to honor the Serrano way of life by extending Yuhaaviatam traditions of friendship and hospitality to all who live within or visit our vast ancestral lands. Thank you for your friendship and for visiting our homelands.
Former Chairman Ken Ramirez San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 1
Contents
Puyu’houpkcav
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40
60
For the Serrano people, wealth lies in their traditions. Here’s a look at two celebrations that connect the people with their past and bring a richness to their experience.
The new Santos Manuel Student Union at CSUSB offers a place for all students to gather, learn and find community.
Everything you need to protect your skin before and after a day at the pool – and all the accessories to turn heads while you’re there.
CULTURE
10
ON THE HORIZON
San Manuel Band of Mission Indians ensures the success of future generations, and the Tribe as a whole, through the comprehensive internship program.
PHILANTHROPY
ON TREND
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64
Now a quick getaway at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino is easier than ever with Breeze Airways’ new non-stop flights between San Bernardino and San Francisco.
The Pines Modern Steakhouse opens the doors in its new space at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino. Discover high-end, approachable dishes and the relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere at the region’s best steakhouse.
VENTURE
SAVOR
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70
An elder from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians shares childhood memories, her professional journey and how she feels about preparing the youth to protect tribal sovereignty.
Modern fanfare and traditional touches were found throughout the grand opening celebration of the new Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel, a significant achievement decades in the making.
The horticulture department brings beauty in unexpected ways to the shared spaces at Yaamava’. See a few of the inventive designs made from flowers and greens.
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Indian gaming exclusivity has created prosperity for the Indigenous people and the communities near their ancestral lands. Learn why California tribes are now fighting to retain this right.
Meet the woman behind the new Centerfield Plaza at Dodger Stadium and find out how she modernized the space while honoring the past to create a fan-favorite destination.
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PERSPECTIVE
COVER
CELEBRATE
ACTION
HORTICULTURE
72
DISCOVER
Take the next step on your wellness journey at the luxurious Serrano Spa & Salon, where nature-inspired treatments and soothing surroundings deliver a deep sense of peace.
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Setting goals, pursuing passions and chasing dreams, two tribal youths reflect on what they’ve achieved and look forward to what’s to come.
San Manuel and Three Square team up to feed thousands of hungry children and adults in Las Vegas.
A tropical escape awaits you at the new pool at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino. Check in and check out the lush surroundings and curated cocktail menu – starring upscale tropical libations.
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Native American designer Patricia Michaels infuses her tribe’s history and legacy into every piece of haute couture.
From food runner to executive level, this employee shares what it has been like to watch the incredible changes at San Manuel as well as his appreciation for the experience.
Your favorite band is only part of the equation: sound, lighting, seating and sightlines can transform a good experience into an extraordinary one. The new entertainment venue at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino is about to do just that.
SUCCESS
PROFILE
30
STYLE
From bright and bold to cool and muted, these suits and coverups will up your poolside vibe.
GIVING BACK
HELLO
DRINK
WHAT’S NEXT
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LAST BITE
Loved that steak from The Pines Modern Steakhouse? Here’s how you can make it at home.
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DIRECTORY
A quick look at dining, shopping, gaming and nightlife.
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Letter
I am delighted to share our third issue of Hamiinat,
the magazine of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. The title translates to “hello” in the Maara’yam (Serrano Indian) language, and that is just what we want to extend to you – a warm hello. Serrano Indians are indigenous to the San Bernardino Mountains and valleys, as well as the High Desert regions of Southern California. The people of San Manuel are the Yuhaaviatam Clan of Serrano Indians, whose rich culture and history are reflected throughout this wonderful magazine. We are most happy to offer you a glimpse into our Tribe and enterprises. We continue to celebrate the opening of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, an endeavor that was years in the making, and one that will bring jobs, revenue and new experiences to benefit the Inland Empire region for years to come. This huge success would not have been possible without Indian gaming, the story of which is ably presented in our cover story: an in-depth look at the history of tribal compacts with the State of California. We explore how revenues from gaming have not only lifted the Serrano people out of poverty, but also helped communities and people around us in meaningful ways. This important progress has brought new growth and opportunity to our Serrano ancestral lands and the entire state of California. We then look at how the new offerings at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino are bringing beauty and excitement to the Inland Empire in unexpected ways: from intricate seasonal scenes created from local and exotic flowers and the lush pool complex to the soothing luxury spa and stateof-the-art entertainment venue. We also feature exciting swimwear designs from Native American fashion designers whose creativity is sure to inspire for the upcoming summer season. In this issue we also meet changemakers on both ends of the spectrum: one of the seven women leaders who signed the original governing documents of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in 1966, and who helped to create the new constitution for our people, as well as young tribal citizens who have their sights set on a future of great promise and expectation for themselves and the Tribe. We thank you for being our guest and can’t wait to share our many new and exciting offerings as well as our culture with you.
Chairwoman Lynn “Nay” Valbuena San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 3
Hamiinat Summer 2022
BUSINESS COMMITTEE CHAIRWOMAN VICE CHAIRMAN SECRETARY
Lynn Valbuena
Johnny Hernandez, Jr. Audrey Martinez
TREASURER
Latisha Casas
MEMBER AT LARGE MEMBER AT LARGE MEMBER AT LARGE
Ed Duro
Karina Torres Laurena Bolden
CONTRIBUTORS Kyle Anderson
A VERY SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING:
Tina Ramos
Nicole Fields
Peter Arceo
Jared Rapier
Jerry Bowlen
Ryan Sharpe
Aiden Hernandez
Linchul Shin
Anabella Hernandez
Zachary Carleo Lee Clauss
Ken Shoji
Nathan Hernandez
Jacob Coin
Frank Sizemore
Gauge Hernandez
Matthew Smith
Deron Marquez, Ph.D
Christopher Dennis Drew Dixon Tim Evans Andrea Ferguson Joey Gottesman Darcy Gray Tom Hedrick Serena Harper Heather Jackson Alberto Jasso Cathy Knowles Dan Little Chelsea Marek
Sandra Marquez
Missy Stanisz
Moriah Martinez
Rikki Tanenbaum
Nathan Martinez
Kelley Tucky
Jordan Murillo
Shane Upson
Ken Ramirez
Brandi Vega
Hawk Ramos
Daniel Vigil
James Ramos
Oliver Wolf
Shawnee Ramos
California State University of San Bernardino
Claudia Reiley
LA Dodgers Three Square
Tonya Oatman EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR
Ed Duro
Karina Torres
VP TRIBAL BRAND MARKETING TRIBAL BRAND MARKETING PUBLISHER
Jessica Stops Julie Lopez
Peter Gotfredson
CREATIVE DIRECTOR EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Lauren Clulow Jessica Villano
Thank you to the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and the entire tribal community for sharing their stories: past, present and future.
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(puh-mee-ah chah-kee-meev)
OUR HERITAGE Pümia’ čakimiv: what we came with. The phrase describes our heritage, traditions, culture and all the songs, dances and special things our people have passed down over many generations.
In this section we look at the significant ways in which Indian gaming has improved the lives of those in the Tribe, as well as the surrounding community, and explore new initiatives that could threaten this prosperity. We also meet several tribal youths who are embracing bright futures and an elder who has been in service of the Tribe for decades. Finally, we explore traditional gatherings that celebrate the seasons and remind the Serrano people of their history.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 5
Culture
An
Enduring
Culture A look at Yucca Harvest and Yaamava’ Spring Celebration and how they connect the Serrano people with their past. BY RICHARD ARLIN WALKER
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E
ven if it all went away – the hotels and the gaming and the other ventures that fuel the San Manuel Band of Mission Indian’s economic wealth – the
Yuhaaviatam people would still have wealth that has withstood centuries of change and upheaval. The people would still gather, as they will at the
Yucca Harvest and Yaamava’ Spring Celebration, to give thanks for the new season and the life it brings. Other tribes and relatives would still come – from
Morongo, Cabazon and Agua Caliente; from TorresMartinez, Chemehuevi and Fort Mojave; from Pala,
if everything turned different than what it is today,”
We were almost wiped off this earth. To understand that and the importance of retaining our culture and understanding the plant life is so much more of who we are that will outlive anything economical.
the Kumeyaay and other Native Californian tribes –
Ramos said. Even if for some unforeseen reason the affluence from the new economy went away, he said, “You would be able to survive with the plant life, you’d be able to notice the cycles – starting in spring, making your way up to the mountaintop to wait out the heat down in the valley and following the plant life from the yucca blossoms to the pinon nuts to the acorns. All of this is knowledge about who we are culturally.” He added, “I believe there are a few things in life that, once you attain them, no one can take from you: education, your culture and spirituality. Spirituality
to share a meal of rabbit stew, deer chili, boiled yucca
is our songs. It teaches us about that migration, about
blossoms, yucca and meat or egg dishes and yucca
yucca fiber and ate his grandmother’s boiled yucca
following the plant and animal life. The songs we sing,
bread.
blossoms with egg. He later harvested yucca with
the Cahuilla Bird Songs, talk about the migration of
his children and, in the 1990s, developed the Yucca
the people following the plant life and the animals you
be sung, and women would still dance to the beat
Harvest and the Yaamava’ Spring Celebration as part
would see along the way. Not every song is about a
of gourd rattles. Culture bearers would teach the
of the San Manuel’s cultural awareness program.
bird. It’s about the migration following the plant life so
Bird Songs and Bighorn Sheep Songs would still
language and tell of the people’s history, from creation
Both the Yucca Harvest and Inter-Tribal
that your clan can survive.”
to migration and the importance of their homelands.
Celebration as well as the Yaamava’ Celebration
This was the cycle Ramos’ forebears knew: The
The people and their culture would live on.
occur in the spring. Both are powerful events –
yucca plant started to bloom on the valley floor in
times of renewal and reunion, for sure, but also
springtime, providing mildly sweet flowers for food
chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
times to learn about the environment that has
and plant fiber for baskets, cordage, mats and sandals.
and the only Indigenous member of the California
sustained the people since the beginning of time.
As valley temperatures grew warmer, the people
“Part of who we are is our sovereign right to
followed the yucca to higher elevations, where it
State Assembly member James Ramos, a former
Legislature, grew up harvesting yucca, learned to make sandals and other utilitarian items from
understand the plants that grow and how to survive
would still bloom near Running Springs elevation.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 7
Then the people would make their way to the Big Bear valley area, near Baldwin Lake, to harvest the pinion pine nuts. Harvesting would take place mid-August to mid-September, Ramos said. Following the plant life cycle as cooler temperatures came to higher elevations, the people would head down to the valley floor to harvest acorns, which bloom at a lower elevation than the pinion pines, in October and November. “Then you’d come down to the valley floor and wait out the winter,” Ramos said. “And when spring comes, you’d start the whole cycle all over again.” But climate change has interrupted plant cycles. “There are times when it’s spring and it’s dry and plants won’t bloom right away, and then sometimes there are wet seasons and they bloom early,” Ramos said. “The yucca plant follows that so closely that, if there’s water, then we have an abundant crop, but if there’s not, we have to search for it.” A warming climate and the worst drought in a millennium have led to an increase in wildfires that also have affected traditional harvesting areas. “When fire comes, sometimes it helps and sometimes it doesn’t,” Ramos said. “We had a fire come through our area – in Serrano territory, the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains – and we saw an abundance of growth of chia plant. We haven’t seen that much chia in a long time, and we’ve seen other plants grow after the fires came through too. But we’ve also seen infestations of the bark beetle. It used to attack the pine trees, never our pinon pines, and we’re now starting to see some infestation on
8 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
the oak trees that bear the acorns – in the forest. So, climate does certainly affect the plant life.” Development, too, has encroached into traditional harvesting areas. “A long time ago, people would know the areas to harvest because a whipply yucca plant grows seven years before it blooms, and then once it blooms, the plant dies. And so, there are different areas that people would know. Where some plants were barely growing, they’d know that it’d be seven years before those plants would bloom. And they’d know that some others are probably more mature so they’re going to bloom in three years and another crop is blooming now. So we would know which areas to go to, to collect. That type of knowledge is wisdom that we’re still trying to follow, but it’s hard now because of the infrastructure development in our traditional gathering areas.”
Reawakening and Reemergence
The Yuhaaviatam people’s lifeways came under attack before. The people had followed the plant and animal life through six seasons – Yaama’ Müaac, Süü Müaac, Ahounani’ Müaac, Siikwa’ Müaac, Harupkiva’ Müaac and Maarai’t Müaac – since time immemorial. But that was disrupted in 1866, when an anti-Native American militia formed and, in a 32-day battle, reduced the Yuhaaviatam population to fewer than 30. Santos Manuel, namesake of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, led the remaining people to the San Bernardino Valley where they resumed their way of life. The people and the culture endured. And their
inherent right to self-govern was recognized by the
to move out of your winter regime. You can start
federal government in 1891.
moving into spaces where some of the plants that
“We were almost wiped off this earth,” Ramos said.
bloom first are available and animals start to come
“To understand that and the importance of retaining
out of hibernation and start moving around the
our culture and understanding the plant life is so
landscape.
much more of who we are that will outlive anything economical.” Appropriate, then, that Yaamava’ means rebirth – a celebration of the season and the renewal it brings;
She added, “In wintertime, you’re often using a lot of resources that you stored up during fall. Now you can get back into nature and get fresh resources.” Clauss explained that the Spring Celebration has a
and that the Yucca Harvest celebrates a plant that is
family reunion feel to it. Tribal community members
central to Yuhaaviatam culture.
share stories about Creator. Aunties and uncles
Lee Clauss, San Manuel Band of Mission Indian’s
bring homemade dishes for the buffet-style potluck.
Vice President of Cultural and Natural Resources,
Children play traditional games and learn how to
said, “It’s acknowledging that all of the plant life is
make traditional items. And there are Bird Songs
coming back into its greening and you are now able
that tell the story of the Yuhaaviatam people, their connection to the land and all it provides – and all that must be protected. “Our culture is so much more than just the gaming activities of our Tribe,” Ramos said. “It’s important our children learn about the cycle of spring and following the plant life so they can retain that knowledge and share it with their families moving forward.”
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 9
On The Horizon
Preparing
Tomorrow’s Leaders The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians sets its community up for success through the tribal internship program. BY KOLBY KICKING WOMAN
V
aluing its sovereignty, the San
year – fall, spring and summer – giving plenty of
Manuel Band of Mission Indians
opportunities to select a session that best suits the
program, said a favorite aspect was knowing she
looked for ways to safeguard its self-
participants’ schedules as well as a chance to explore
could help shape the program for future participants.
sufficiency and self-government.
each of the programs, if they so choose.
“It was cool being able to give feedback because I
Nicole Fields, one of the first to partake in the
The answer was clear: establish
Currently, youth admitted to the internship
a youth internship program that would empower
program can select from five focuses: Cultural
the next generation with the skills and careers that
Awareness, Financial Empowerment, Tribal Safety,
will not only enrich their lives, but also ensure the
Tribal Sovereignty and the Serrano Language
and the Serrano Language Revitalization Program,
continued success of the Tribe.
Revitalization Program. (Youths 18 or over, can join
both of which were very hands on. And when she
the regular internship program and are not limited to
ended up in a real-life situation, she was able to use the
the five focuses.)
skills she gained through the Tribal Safety Program.
Aside from hands-on experience, participants are being prepared to one day take the reins in tribal government and to make the decisions that will guarantee the well-being of the community. The internship program is divided into two age groups, 14-15 and 16-17, and is offered three times a
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Ed Duro, Tribal Council Member, explained, “It’s
knew my opinion was important and that I could help improve the program for the next people,” she said. Fields has completed internships in Tribal Safety
Out biking last summer, Fields’ companion had a
important to provide our youth with tools to help
bad wreck, but with the internship training under her
them succeed in life and find an interest in whatever
belt, she was able to assist with her friend’s injuries
department they desire.”
immediately. “The whole left side of his body was just
absolutely torn up by the road,” Fields recalled. “So, I
projects for other language learners, both children
applied the tactical medical skills and cleaned up his
and adults, to help keep the Serrano language alive.
wounds before we took him to the hospital.”
Gauge’s younger sister, Annabella, has also taken
and I’m so grateful I have that experience,” Riley said. For youth who aren’t sure if the experience is one they would enjoy, past participants suggest moving
While the program is still relatively new, it has
part in the internship program. “We’re going to help
past their hesitation. “Just do it and don’t be nervous,”
already been a great success. “I think it’s great so
make changes and they’re giving us the resources to
Gauge Hernandez said. “Some people worry it might
many youths are participating in the program; it
do it. This internship is a great opportunity to help
take up too much time, but these skills will help you
helps them expand their knowledge of the different
young people find what they want to do in the future,”
achieve great things in the future.” Annabella followed
departments and develop critical skills,” said Duro.
Annabella said. “And it shows they trust us and believe
up by advising kids to choose something they’re
in us as the future of the Tribe.”
already interested in so they can have fun.
The Serrano Language Revitalization Program is one of the most popular offered by San Manuel
One thing is certain, all the internship program par-
Fields, who is about to graduate high school,
and reflects a big movement throughout Indian
ticipants have loved the experience and encourage oth-
advised potential interns to pick up as many
Country.
ers to take the chance and do it for themselves. Claudia
internships as they can with the time they have.
Riley, who completed the Tribal Sovereignty program,
“You’ll gain so many skills and so much knowledge.
hit a sensitive spot for me. I wanted to learn the whole
described it as her first foray into a real-world job expe-
It even helped me narrow down a lot of options and
language so I can teach it one day,” said 16-year-old
rience. “The fact that I was able to finish the internship
interests and find a career path that I know will be
Gauge Hernandez. He has even started to create
is very important to me. It was a huge accomplishment
fulfilling and lead to a successful future,” she said.
“Knowing that our language was going dormant
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 11
Perspective
Q& A with
Sandra Marquez
From teacher’s aide to Gaming Commissioner, Sandra Marquez shares her journey and offers insight into what she thinks is the key to future prosperity.
What does it mean to be Serrano and a tribal citizen of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians? I feel very proud and strong-willed, as our ancestors were. I think about the ancestors and how they struggled to survive. And I count my blessings. As a child, I knew what it was like to not have the things we have today, but we were happy. We hung in there and we were strong; that’s what perseverance is.
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Did you grow up on the Reservation?
orchards. I was small, but he would have me clear
the BIA to work as secretary of the Education
Yes, I was born in an Indian hospital on the
the ditch so water would flow to the apricot trees.
Department.
Soboba Reservation. We lived on the San Manuel
Such wonderful memories. I know times change,
Reservation next to Tutu, my grandma. When I
new ideas are born and we need to move forward,
What did you do during that time?
was in elementary school, about second or third
but don’t forget the past. Our Tribe’s history must
I started in education but then the government cut
grade, we lived in a house that was located by the
go on to the next generations. Keep the history
the program and the Realty Department director
flood control and the Victoria Gate entrance to the
going. The Tribe must count our blessings and
asked if I would like to work there. I worked with
Reservation. My mom worked for the York family
thank God for allowing us to have what we have.
an administrative law judge researching probate
for many years as their housekeeper. They owned
cases for hearings and working with my boss to
Were there elders you looked up to, people who taught you skills and traditions that you've held on to?
prepare last wills and testaments for the Indian
My grandmother, mom and my Aunt Wee-sha. I
credited courses to learn human resources
remember how they took care of us. I was sickly
procedures, responsibilities, management,
for some reason. My grandma would take me in her
budget and warrant officer training. I received
house. She had her bed in front of the fireplace in
my Warrant Officer Certificate and became
the big room and I'd lay on her bed. I would get ear
the purchasing agent. In my final position, I was
Tell us about the changes to the Reservation.
infections and she would blow smoke in my ear to
promoted to the administrative officer position,
help it drain. I would get sinus headaches and she'd
GS 9; when I left I was a GS 9/3.
I used to skate on the hard dirt roads. Nothing
put hot rocks on my forehead to drain my stuffy
was paved. We had kerosene lamps, no electricity.
nose and she’d boil eucalyptus to help us breathe.
I remember the lamps Tutu used to light. When we
Tutu put hot rocks on my feet to keep me warm.
All these things prepared you to take on bigger roles?
got electricity, it was one old light hanging down.
Mom would follow her mom’s customs and do the
Yes, I learned how to write and implement
We had spring water, which was piped from our
same for us when we were sick.
policies and procedures for departments.
a nursery and they gave me my first job taking care of the plants; the York’s nursery was located close to where the Yaamava’ Resort entrance is now. They gave my dad and mom our second home. About 1956, our parents moved our home onto the Reservation, next to our tribal cemetery; I was in seventh grade.
spring on the hill. Then we had water from Big Bear Water Company for the apricot orchard. The BIA [Bureau of Indian Affairs] provided piping, so we could pipe our water from the spring. There were no homes there, it was all hills and brush. Housing came with the Housing Improvement Program [HIP] from the BIA; later Housing and Urban Development [HUD]. Before we could
What was your favorite thing they used to cook?
population under the jurisdiction of the Southern California BIA. Later, I took extensive college
When San Manuel Bingo’s general manager offered me the role of HR Director, there were no written policies and procedures in place,
My Tutu would cook palilies (fry bread) outside and
so I hired staff and we wrote the policies and
I would sit with her while she cooked the bread.
procedures and developed organizational
While she was cooking, she would speak Cahuilla
structures with the department and
and sing songs. Her fry bread was the best. Aunt
management staff.
Wee-sha could cook all from scratch, no recipes. She made apricot pies, apricot turnovers, big
What role did you take on next?
biscuits and huge tortillas. Mom was a good cook.
Commissioner of the San Manuel Gaming
I loved her fry bread; it was so soft and tasty, yucca
Commission. It was the responsibility of the
blossoms cooked with chopped bacon and eggs,
Gaming Commission to follow the Compact,
You were one of seven women who signed the articles, right?
cactus with eggs rolled in a tortilla…Mom made the
San Manuel Gaming Ordinance, Indian Gaming
best tortillas and fry bread, deer meat with gravy,
Regulatory Act (IGRA) to assure the casino
Yes, seven women signed the Articles of
fried potatoes. They were all good cooks.
was compliant with all federal, state and tribal
receive services, we had to create the Articles of Association. I took part in that. It was approved in 1966.
Association. I typed it on the old typewriter.
Is this one of the things that stands out to you that you’re most proud of?
What are some of the great lessons you've learned? Togetherness, caring, respect and love for each
regulations and any applicable regulations adopted by the National Indian Gaming Commission.
Yes, because we finally had guidelines to follow,
other. You know, we were one big family. We
What is one piece of advice you'd like to pass on to the younger generations?
which were the Articles of Association, and the
were naughty, but we had a good time. From my
Take an active role in the Tribe’s functions.
Tribe could receive services from the BIA. Now we
ancestors, I inherited perseverance, patience and
Learn about tribal government; join the Internship
have the new Constitution, which took five years
caring.
Program; learn about all the committees:
to create.
And you were part of that? Oh yes. The Constitution are guidelines for the tribal citizens to govern the Reservation and
You've had a lot of big, important roles in your career. Let's talk about that. Through my vast training I feel I’m a good role model for the internship program because there's
Investment Board, Education Committee, Cultural Advisory Working Group (CAWG). Learn the Serrano language, learn about bird singing and dancing, learn the old customs and traditions. Get an education – higher education
protect and strengthen our sovereignty.
so much I learned through on-the-job training.
How do you feel when you see the changes to the landscape?
Tell us about your career.
At first it was sad because the tribal citizens
district as a teacher’s aide and was promoted to
When you think about seven generations from now, what do you hope for?
worked in the apricot orchards. I went with my
coordinator in establishing the Title IV A Indian
I hope that our sovereignty is still protected by
Uncle Benza, also my godfather, to help him in the
Education Program. I was then recruited by
those who will come after us.
I began my career with the Fontana School
or vocational.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 13
Cover
14 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
Tribal casinos generate $23 billion of economic activity in California, including nearly 200,000 jobs and $80 million per year to local communities and infrastructure – roads, fire, police, medical, education, parks, healthcare and social services. Today, tribal gaming exclusivity is at risk due to potential encroachment from out-of-state operators. This threatens our ability to give back to our communities and the trusted gaming environment forged through the relationship between tribal governments and the state. This year, California voters could be asked to decide on options to legalize sports wagering. Tribal leaders urge voters to consider what’s at stake and say “NO” to out-of-state operators. Help tribes retain gaming exclusivity so we can bring our state the full benefits of online sports betting, a fair share of new revenue and safe, California-based sports wagering.
FRUITFUL SUNNY
SHADOWS R
By Deron Marquez, Ph.D.
emembering those youthful warm spring days when sunlight washed over the desert and the warm sacred grounds were fruitful with community. The hours spent playing with tribal youths as the desert dirt whirled about for hours, then, the desert shadows started to emerge, and the breeze moved in waves of warm-cool air. Night was starting to reign, sunlight was battling to maintain its shadowy ground, the setting sun passed the horizon and the amber sky glowed, giving way to a sky ruled by constellations. The mountains disappeared and the ripe night arrived.
Across the plaza, groups of adults were starting to clump. Firepits, already ignited as though they were allies of the sun, kept
the plaza inhabitants visible. Voices filled the air and the sound of crackling flames provided fantastic half face shadows of the contestants. Their faces, well advanced in this game of chance, remained expressionless. The fires produced shadows, as the team passed the “bones” back and forth behind a dark blanket being held in place by their teeth. The opposing team had to track the “bones” through rhythmic chanting sways and guess which player possessed them. This was a well-rehearsed ancient practice of gaming that utilized skill, chance and community. As child, I witnessed this game – Peon – in the late 1970s when attending a Fiesta at the Malki Museum grounds on the Morongo Reservation.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 15
D
uring this same time, across
California and the county could not enforce their
educational realm, business development, politics
the country, a different form
statutes because neither prohibited but instead both
across all spheres and mega-developments on
of gambling was taking place.
permitted and regulated these forms of gaming.
reservations. Sovereignty is about performance;
The birth of Indian high-stakes
California appealed to the United States Supreme
acting in a manner that advances, grounded in the
bingo was launched in Florida
Court and in early 1987, the Supreme Court
old while expanding the new sectors that tribal
and Maine. Much like gambling within American
affirmed the lower court’s decision, upholding tribal
governments control. Sovereignty is a non-stagnant
Indian communities, bingo was well known, but the
governmental gaming rights.
concept and needs constant rejuvenation with
rules surrounding Indian high-stakes bingo were
The following year, Congress passed the Indian
each new generation. Gaming, for the first time in
different. Bingo was limited by states and counties
Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), which prescribed
“American Indian” history, has provided the means
for charitable causes; this was not the case in
measures that must be taken by tribes, the federal
to perpetuate actions, horizontal and vertical.
Indian Country. This new form of bingo also offered
government and states for the conduct of tribal
winnings surpassing state’s regulatory limits.
gaming. The IGRA was crafted to address states’
their equal footing within the political landscape.
States were quick to challenge these tribal
concerns and is far from ideal, but through the
For many years, Native Americans had witnessed
government offerings.
years, the three governments were able to find the
their existence being discarded by the United States:
best possible path.
the government broke each of the 368 treaties
In 1979 the Seminole Tribe of Florida opened its doors and introduced gaming to Indian Country,
Because of gaming, tribes have reconstituted
it had with tribal nations; practiced federal- and
however, the gaming path was riddled with many
Sovereign Spandex
challenges. The legal battles commenced in Broward
A truism related to sovereignty: a sovereign
tribal land holdings (primarily through the 1887
County, where locals threatened to arrest anyone
must possess the ability to utilize every fiber of
Allotment Act); and terminated over 100 tribes in
playing Indian bingo. The district and appeals
the meaning. Tribal nations have morphed from
1953, just to name a few atrocities. In 1900, there
courts upheld tribal rights for conducting high-
complete sovereigns into sovereigns possessing
were approximately 200,000 Indians recorded on
stakes bingo given that Florida permits others
fragments of what was once whole.
the U.S. Census. Today, our torch of survival ignites
to conduct such activities under civil laws. This
Through the years, the federal government has
state-sanctioned genocide; took two-thirds of
our proliferation of sovereignty and honors those
legal framing was upheld by other courts across
remodeled tribal nations, where in one moment the
who walked our sacred grounds, fighting to keep
the country, including the Ninth Circuit Court of
high court rules tribes have the right to conduct
our sovereignty intact so future generations could
Appeals in its 1983 Barona decision. Three years
these operations, then Congress curtails that right,
reenergize and advance it.
later, the same question would be back in front of
as it happened with IGRA. Tribal governments
the Ninth Circuit.
across the country had to prepare for the injection of states. But tribal governmental gaming also
Move Over, We’re Driving this Rez Engine
Southern California, sought to close two tribal
afforded tribes the ability to fortify and seek new
With little or no ability to generate revenue like
bingo and card room operations. The Ninth Circuit
framing to advance sovereignty.
traditional governments due to the lack of a
The state and County of Riverside, located in
based its ruling based on its prior Barona decision;
16 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
The creation of new frames included the
taxable land base and with limited federal funding,
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 17
resources were bleak in the late 19th and most of
services such as roads, public infrastructure
agency. Unsurprisingly, service was inadequate.
the 20th centuries. Problematic federal programs
maintenance, fire protection, public safety, courts
In 2005, the average IHS per capita expenditure
came with too many restrictions. It made sense
and other government functions were sovereign steps.
on American Indians was $2,100 compared to a
for tribes to decide economic plans and remove
Simultaneously, social services were strengthened
national average expenditure on healthcare of
paternalistic overreach. Tribes were always capable
by tribal governments. Healthcare was properly
$5,298 (Marquez, 2016). Tribes, through gaming,
of determining their future, as illustrated by tribal
provided, cultural programs properly funded,
opted to acquire their own health insurance,
government gaming operations, which afforded
language revitalization became a staple across many
including vision and dental, and no longer depended
tribes the ability to plan their futures.
reservations and education became attainable.
exclusively on the federal government.
Today, tribal governments have crafted impactful
Recently, healthcare has dominated political
Prior to gaming, tribal languages on smaller
business arms and thus have emerged as powerful
discussions. For American Indians, federal
reservations were disappearing, but with funds,
community partners. Many tribes, especially those
healthcare was implemented as early as 1819 when
tribal governments were able to launch language
with a large land base, have established business
Congress appropriated $10,000 to missionary
programs. At first, the goal was to record the last
zones and partnered with corporations. Others
groups for the purpose of civilizing Indians and
few speakers. Then language preservation projects
have turned to investing off-reservation, seeking
making rudimentary health provisions. In 1849,
transitioned into computer programs, language
alternative economic engines in population centers.
the Bureau of Indian Affairs was transferred
institutes, books, hiring of linguists, keyboards with
While gaming has become the catalyst for creating
to the Department of the Interior (from the War
tribal characters, language classes for adults and
more economic engines, it also provides tribes the
Department) and assumed the role of medical
children and so much more. Language has returned
ability to provide much needed services to tribal
provider. By 1880, the government erected and
to communities, enforcing uniqueness and being
and non-tribal communities.
operated four hospitals and employed 77 physicians
utilized in written form for legal documents as well
(“The Executive Branch and Indian Health Care,”
as everyday use.
Many cannot comprehend that there are communities in the United States that still go without simple living elements. Tribal governments
Deron Marquez, Ph.D., 2016). In 1929, Soboba Indian Hospital opened, but
American Indians are behind the national education average. In 2018-2019, with 90 percent in
with successful gaming operations invested in
20 years later it closed and reliance on non-
public schools, the American Indians and Alaskan
infrastructure needs, providing many households
Indian hospitals became the norm. Finally, in 1955
Natives (AI/AN) graduation rate was 74 percent
with proper living conditions. The ability to provide
Indian Health Services (IHS) became the lead
compared to the national average of 86 percent
18 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
(Public High School Graduation Rates, National
States government and the State of California.
Center for Education Statistics, 2021). The Bureau
Today, the state is dealing with many issues that
campaign season is about to get underway
of Indian Education reported a graduation rate of
require funding, especially with the economy being
with four potential gambling ballot measures
53 percent (Maryville University, Scholarship and
hampered by the pandemic.
in California. With corporations and tribal
College for Native American Students, 2022). The
Coming off two years (and counting) of
On the heels of the Harvard report, the
governments seeking to expand the gaming law,
18-24 age cohort has a 19 percent college enrollment
lockdowns and social alterations brought on by
the sure winner will be media outlets to which
compared to the national average of 41 percent and
COVID-focused policies, tribal gaming operations,
corporations and tribes will be paying millions for
this cohort witnessed a decrease in enrollment from
like so many other operations, were forced to close.
coverage on their desire to enter in or expand the
2016 to 2018. In 2019, less than 1 percent earned
Some tribes were able to provide certain benefits
California market. Of the four proposed measures,
a master’s or doctoral degree (Native American
to their employees, such as salaries and medical
only the tribal-horse track sponsored measure – to
Students in Higher Education, Postsecondary
support, before any congressional relief was
permit only in-person sports wagering at tribal
National Policy Institute, 2021).
contemplated. The federal government enacted the
operations and privately owned horse tracks in four
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act
counties – has qualified, spending over $11 million to
needs run deep. Conversely, tribes with means have
(CARES) of 2020 and the American Rescue Plan
do so. This measure would also permit dice games
altered this path and crafted their own educational
Act (ARP) of 2021. Tribal governments sought to
and roulette at tribal locations.
progress that has seen graduation rates increase in
participate given the amounts of money doled out
high school and college. Tribal youths may attend
to employees, most of them non-Indian, to recoup
cardrooms. As with the qualified measure,
public schools, private schools, tribal government-
some tribal funds.
cardrooms seek in-person, but wish to include
Nationally, improvements are needed, and those
funded schools or home school. Tribal governments
Unhappy with the federal government’s
Another measure is offered by California
online, sports wagering, as well as expand their
have created an educational program that
allocation of funds, Harvard University, along with
card-restricted gambling operations to more games
supplements all avenues of education, thus leading
the University of Arizona, reported that tribes
permitted at tribal operations. A third measure
to high graduation rates across all sectors.
in California unfairly received funds. In their
seeks to maintain tribal government exclusivity by
publication, Harvard classified Indian Country
expanding gambling under the IGRA framing, with
into three sectors: 1. Haves, 2. Have Nots, 3. Have
a mirror state-law alternative available to tribes as
Less (Assessing the U.S. Treasury Department’s
well, and incorporating other tribal governments as
Allocation of Funding for Tribal Governments
partners. Like the first two, the language includes in-
under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021,
person and statewide online wagering. And like the
Harvard University, 2021). The report provided
first measure, roulette and dice games are included.
In 2022, “He Who Demands, Does Not Command” Indian gaming is a tribal government function, authorized by tribal law and conducted by tribal oversight; Indian gaming is not a federal program. Tribal success brings critics from all sectors of America. Challenges to Indian gaming will continue and the remainder of this decade is critical. Gambling has become normalized, no longer taboo. States operate lotteries, permit casinos and now authorize sports wagering, a phenomenon recently cleared by a 2018 Supreme Court ruling. In California, tribes have created an exigent 2022 year for themselves. Unlike the political war to amend the California constitution of the early
the amounts of monies “have” tribes in California
The last initiative, and perhaps the most
received, the dollars per tribal citizen and also per
well-positioned group to end tribal exclusivity
tribal employee. Harvard also published calculated
in California, is sponsored by behemoth online
numbers of tribal populations per tribal community,
corporations. DraftKings is traded on NASDAQ and
information that should only be disclosed by tribal
had, in March 2021, a market capitalization of $28
governments and not by Harvard University’s
billion (DraftKings and the Growing Shift to Sports
reverse engineering scheme. Some “have” tribes
Betting, Yahoo Finance, 2021). In 2020, its revenue
are the ones seeking to place initiatives on the
was nearly $322 million and nearly $1 billion the
2022 ballot and Harvard provided the opposition
following year (DraftKings Q4 and Total 2021
intelligence to use against Indian Country.
Earnings, Gaming Today, 2022).
2000s, today, tribes could be classified as their fellow political activists, seeking approval to simply expand their gaming footprint. The proposed 2022 California constitutional amendments seek to expand the constitution for tribal governmental gaming, cardrooms, horse tracks and publicly traded corporations, thus opening the market and diminishing tribal gaming exclusivity. Perhaps the exclusivity clock is about to strike midnight, but the interesting aspect of the potential market shift is that it is being assisted by tribes. No longer the underdogs, tribes have many sycophantic eyes upon them. For example, at the turn of the millennium, when Proposition 5 and 1A were placed before Californians, tribal governments were seen by non-Indians to be unfairly treated by the United
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 19
Serious about expanding, co-founder and CEO
million 2021. They also feel that North America has
Jason Robins’ company was expected to lose $1.4
the potential to be a $32 billion market, California
billion in 2021, sacrificing the monies to expand
being key in reaching that goal. In the first quarter
into more states (DraftKings’ CEO Robins Looks to
of 2022, launches in Louisiana and Illinois will take
Score His Biggest Jackpot Yet, Bloomberg, 2021).
place, as well as retail sportsbook in Puerto Rico,
FanDuel is 95 percent owned by Flutter, a United
plus online and iGaming in Ontario, Canada. (MGM
Kingdom (UK) based mobile gaming company and
Resorts and Entain Announce BetMGM Business
Bloomberg speculated that FanDuel was valued, as
Update, MGM Resorts International, 2022).
of April 2021, at $25 billion. Flutter, in December
Some experts place the annual gaming revenue
the second, regulated prohibition on publicly traded
2020, paid $4.2 billion to acquire the remaining 37
for both internet and sports wagering in California
corporations (PTC), by requiring all shareholders to
percent of FanDuel. (With Some Obstacles Out Of
near $10 billion and only $600 million for sports
be licensed. The consistent reasoning behind such
The Way, Perhaps 2022 Year For A FanDuel IPO,
wagering conducted at facilities. Two of the four
limits derived from the fear of crime, syndicated or
Online Poker Report, 2021).
initiatives seek to have both in-person and online
individual.
In 2020, FanDuel reported $967 million
gaming avenues and the corporate initiative will
Historical policy concerns, as reported, also
in revenue (Does Boyd Stock Offer An Early
push strongly for the iGaming version. The only
included the expansion of gambling; if publicly
Opportunity Ahead of FanDuel Spin Off?, TREFIS,
qualified measure, thus far, permits in-person
traded corporations owned cardrooms, then they
2021). Flutter trades on the London Stock Exchange
sports wagering only. Three of the four are attached
would seek to expand the scope of gambling. All
and had a capitalization, in March 2021, of $39
to tribal communities and promise to deliver funds
factors considered, the Commission’s conclusion
billion (Sports betting company Flutter considers
for state programs, like homelessness, and to tribal
stated that such limitations on PTC owning
spinning out FanDuel to boost value, CNBC, 2021).
communities. If revenue projections are correct,
cardrooms was “no longer necessary.” It reasoned
Other investors in Flutter include Alphabet (Google),
or even close, and in light of the amount of funds
that PTC are regulated by high standards, multiple
Comcast Ventures, Verizon Ventures and NBC
to amend California’s constitution, and for tribes,
jurisdictions, public oversight and are transparent.
Sports Group, to name a few (CNBC, 2021).
to control the alterations, is it worth the gamble?
For California tribes, those conclusions placed
Once publicly traded corporations are embedded
them in a hypocritical-paradoxical corner: some
betting company based out of the UK worth
in California, will they push for more gambling
tribes entered operational contracts with PTCs,
$18 billion, as of September 2021 (DraftKings make
opportunities? How will tribes proceed without
as noted by the Commission, and yet, some tribes
$20 billion offer for UK sports betting company
exclusivity?
spoke out against them. So, why would today be
BetMGM has a partnership with Entain, a sports
Entain, sources say, CNBC, 2021). DraftKings
In 2002, the Little Hoover Commission was asked,
any different? Today, not only tribal governments, but the
attempted to acquire Entain for $22.4 billion that
by elected leadership, to address limitations placed
same year (CNBC, 2021). BetMGM, trading on the
on cardrooms (Card Clubs in California, A Review
people of the state will be asked to grant full
New York Stock Exchange, expects to post $1.3
of Ownership Limitations, 2002). One limitation was
access to larger-than-life corporations, with no
billion in net revenue in 2022, following a near $850
the exclusion of casino owners in other states, and
attachment to the Golden State. Some Californians favor DraftKings-FanDuel, others favor the other measures. The desire to expand gaming raises concerns for the exclusivity provisions resting in all the tribal-state compacts. Three of the measures open gambling and end the provision. If exclusivity vanishes, tribal governments, including those not engaged in gaming, will experience funding issues. Since tribes provide funding under the current system to tribes and local governments, those dollars will be less. The reign of tribal government gaming will end, and tribes must prepare for the inevitable. New economic engines will be needed. In the summer of 2001, Chairman Daniel Tucker of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association, when discussing legislation addressing commercial gambling, stated that “big corporations will ultimately harm California tribes’ ability to support themselves by introducing widespread gaming into our cities and major communities. For the first time, Wall Street giants would control commercial gaming in this state.” By the end of the year, we all will know if Chairman Tucker was correct.
20 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
$23.2B $200B+ $4B+ $4.6B Economic Impact in the last 10 years
Annual Economic Impact (2018)
Invested in capital projects over the last 5 years
Taxes and Revenue Share
$300M+ 182,000 (2018)
Charitable donations from San Manuel since 2003
Jobs and $11.3B in wages
1987
(2018)
U.S. Supreme Court recognizes tribal sovereignty to regulate gaming
1993
2001
The National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) becomes operational to provide federal regulatory oversight of Indian Gaming
1970-80s Several tribes open bingo parlors
1986
San Manuel Indian Bingo opens
1988
Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) signed
California voters grant tribes the exclusive right to operate Class III casino games by amending the state Constitution with Proposition 1A
1998
California voters reaffirm Tribes’ right to continue gaming with the passage of Proposition 5
2021
Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel opens
2016-2017
2005
San Manuel opens the new San Manuel Casino
San Manuel negotiates new tribal-state compact creating the Community Credit Fund to benefit the tribal and local communities
Financials source: NIGA 2019 Annual Report H A MIIN AT M AGA ZINE | 21
Protect the Promise. Over 20 years ago, voters Over 20 years ago, voters granted our sovereign nations granted our sovereign nations exclusive gaming rights. exclusive gaming rights.
T H AT P R O M I S E H A S : T H AT P R O M I S E H A S : Advanced self--sufficiency, supporting healthcare, education and public safety Advanced self-sufficiency, supporting
healthcare, education and activity public safety Driven billions in economic Driven billions in economic activity Created hundreds of thousands of good jobs Created hundreds of thousands of good jobs
Out-of-state corporations are coming to California with an online Out-of-state are coming to California with an online sports bettingcorporations initiative that would break the promise between us. sports betting initiative that would break the promise between us. IT’S BAD FOR TRIBES, AND ALL CALIFORNIANS. Visit ProtectTribalGaming.com to learn more
IT’S BAD FOR TRIBES, AND ALL CALIFORNIANS. Visit ProtectTribalGaming.com to learn more
Ad paid for by Californians for Tribal Sovereignty and Safe Gaming, sponsored by tribal organizations. Committee major funding from: San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Ad paid for by Californians for Tribal Sovereignty and Safe Band Gaming, sponsored by tribal organizations. Committee major funding from: Rincon of Luiseno Indians San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Funding details at: https://www.fppc.ca.gov/ Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians Funding details at: https://www.fppc.ca.gov/
Moriah MARTINEZ From Educated to Educator
Success
In December 2021, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians tribal citizen Moriah Martinez took the last step in her undergraduate career as she earned a degree in Elementary Education with an emphasis in teaching English as a second language from University of Nevada, Reno. Martinez began her educational journey in 2017, when she joined the Honors College, a decision that afforded her the opportunity to do independent research for credit. Martinez earned academic awards for excellence and completed her honors thesis on the eyewitness testimonies of primary school students under the Nazi regime. While there were challenges along the way – and even a few moments where she considered quitting – Martinez now feels as though a huge weight has been lifted. “There were a few times when I wanted to give up,” she said. “But now I feel like a bird that’s been released from a cage, finally flying over the clouds.” Martinez acknowledges that reaching her goal was a collaborative effort. “I’m abundantly grateful for the tremendous support I received from San Manuel’s Education Department (especially Liz Brierty), from my whole amazing family, especially my mom Deborah, dad Marty, sisters MaryBeth and Mikaela and hardworking grandparents Roy and Beulah Chacon.” She also credits her Lord Jesus and church community at the House of Mercy on the Paiute Reservation for her success. Next up for Martinez is well-earned time with the ones she loves. “I learned that time with my family is where the riches of life are,” she said. Professionally, Moriah plans to research master’s programs and tutor both adults and children. Personally, she looks forward to pursuing passions such as learning languages, including Serrano, and exploring music and writing projects. When asked what she had her sights on in the upcoming years, Martinez explained she wants to continue to support children and adults in their education. “I hope to merge my love of history and diverse languages and my faith with my passion for helping others learn. And who knows, in five years, I may be writing educational books and designing web content in those subjects.”
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 23
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Enjoy an exquisite selection of American-style bistro specialties, 24/7 in-room dining, and complimentary 24/7 shuttle service to Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. www.bearspringshotel.com | 27959 Highland Ave, Highland, CA 92346 | 833-258-4745
Success
Hawk RAMOS Committed to Excellence
Hawk Ramos knew he wanted to play pro football before he even hit double digits. Thanks to the encouragement from his family, and the inspiration from his grandfather, he made a commitment to do his best, both on the field and off. Now the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians citizen shares what he loves about the game and where he sees himself in the coming decade. Q: When did you first know you wanted to play football? After finishing my first season when I was in third grade, I knew I loved football. My favorite thing was spending time with my team. I loved the camaraderie.
Q: Tell us about your grandfather’s influence on your choices thus far. My grandfather influenced my choices with school, my athletic career and the kind of person I want to be. He wanted me to be the best in whatever I did and at everything: a good son, student and athlete.
Q: Do you have your sights set on college-level football? The NFL? I want to play college football. I’m hoping to go to a Division 1 college. My top dream schools are University of Miami, Ohio State and USC. Then I want to go to the NFL.
Q: As of now, what are you most proud of? My biggest accomplishment is making it to State Championship in Fairfield with my team.
Q: What were some of the thoughts running through your head when you helped secure your team’s spot in the State Championship? That I would earn this ring and next time, give even more. As for what’s next, I want another shot at State next year.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 25
Progress
A look at the resilience and determination of the Yuhaaviatam to remain self-sufficient and sovereign.
Photo courtesy of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
From Then to Now Early to Mid-1900s Tribe adapts and adjusts to reservation life. U.S. government continues to dictate what the Tribe can and cannot do.
1975 1966
1880s 1700s-1820s Spanish missionaries and military encounter the Yuhaaviatam (one clan of the Maara’yam), which they call “Serrano” or “highlander.” Many Maara’yam are forced into the mission system as slave labor for Spain.
CREATION
Maara’yam people inhabit the mountains, valleys and deserts of Southern California.
TREATY MAKING
THE NEW DEAL
ASSIMILATION
1934 1850s-1860s American settlers invade Serrano territory. CA governor instructs militias to exterminate Native people. Yuhaaviatam are killed and chased out of their territory.
1891
1866 Raids and bloodshed decimate the Tribe. Kiika’ Santos Manuel makes a decision to courageously bring the remnant of his people from the mountains to safety on the valley floor.
26 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
Articles of Association are adopted by San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
Native American boarding schools are established in the U. S. with the primary objective of “civilizing” or assimilating Native American children and youth into Euro-American culture, while destroying and vilifying Native American culture.
U.S. government passes the Act for Relief of Mission Indians, which recognizes the Tribe as a sovereign nation and establishes the Reservation. The Tribe chooses the name San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
Indian Reorganization Act is enacted by U.S. Congress, aimed at decreasing federal control of American Indian affairs and increasing Indian self-government and responsibility.
A.K. Smiley Public Library, Gerald Smith Collection
Since Time Immemorial
President Ford signs the Indian SelfDetermination and Education Assistance Act, a federal policy of Indian selfdetermination, first declared by President Nixon.
1970 In address to Congress regarding the federal policy of terminating relationships with tribes, President Nixon states, “This policy of forced termination is wrong.” He then outlines a policy of self-determination rather than termination.
2017 Tribe transforms bingo hall into Rockin’ Casino area.
1986 San Manuel Indian Bingo opens.
1987 1978 Indian gaming movement begins with Seminole Tribe of Florida.
California v. Cabazon: U.S. Supreme Court landmark decision affirms right of tribal governments to conduct gaming on their lands.
1990s-2000s Tribe takes an active role in passing Proposition 5 and Proposition 1A.
1998 Proposition 5 is supported by 63 percent of voters in favor of gaming by Indian tribes in California. A lawsuit by a labor union causes the measure to be struck down by California Supreme Court.
2021
2005 New San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino opens.
2019 San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority forms to explore economic growth opportunities.
Residence Inn by Marriott opens in Washington, DC. The project is from the Four Fires intertribal economic partnership, which includes San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
SELF-DETERMINATION
Yaamava’ expansion project opens including gaming spaces, new restaurants, lounges and hotel tower, as well as retail, spa and pool amenities.
STRENGTHENING OUR FUTURE
1988 Indian Gaming Regulatory Act passes, creating statutory framework for Indian gaming.
San Manuel Casino becomes Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel.
2006 San Manuel Band of Mission Indians breaks ground on San Manuel Village in Highland, CA, a mixed-use, off-reservation, commercial development.
1994 San Manuel Indian Bingo adds gaming operations and advances goal of economic selfsufficiency.
2018 Opening of the Autograph Collection, The Draftsman Hotel, in Charlottesville, VA, a joint venture that includes the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
2007 Residence Inn by Marriott opens in Sacramento, CA. The project is from the Three Fires intertribal economic partnership, which includes San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
1980s
2022 San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority opens the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas.
2008
SMBMI seeks new business opportunities to strengthen sovereignty and journey towards self-sufficiency.
Hampton Inn and Suites Hotel opened in Highland, CA, at San Manuel Village, a development of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
2000 Proposition 1A, supported by 65 percent of California voters, changes the state constitution and provides exclusive right to Indian tribes to operate a limited scope of casino-style gaming on Indian lands, in accordance with federal law.
2016 SMBMI acquires sacred lands in San Bernardino Mountains with purchase of Arrowhead Springs Hotel.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 27
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Pamper yourself with a serene soak in our water sanctuary, steam room and spa, all while enjoying hydrotherapy treatments to help soothe your mind, body and soul. Visit yaamava.com/spa to explore the various health journeys available at Serrano Spa.
MUST BE 21 OR OVER TO ENTER. P LEASE GAMBLE RESP ONSIBLY. 1-800-GAMBLER Must be 21 or over to enter. Please gamble responsibly. 1-800-GAMBLER.
Profile
Q: What was the inspiration for Waterlily Designs?
way we pass this down from one generation to the next is through ceremonial clothing.
PM: I was raised with a diverse, traditional,
Q: You’re known for your gorgeous hand-painted garments and unique use of textiles. Can you talk about this process?
educated, well-traveled and culturally collaborative family and my garments and textiles reflect these rich experiences. You’ll also see my love of nature, culture and travel.
PM: Our ceremonies at Taos Pueblo are in
Q: How would you describe your brand’s aesthetic?
the beautiful Rocky Mountains. The vast landscapes and small details are my palette
PM: Modernity in Native American designs.
and silhouette for my textiles, cut, drape
I know my fibers and I’m not afraid to explore
and construction. I start with an image Photo by Jennifer Esperanza
different uses of fabric. I also bring culture and history to design – with clean, subtle aesthetics and unique details.
Q: As a Native American designer, where do you see Native American culture in the fashion world today? PM: There has always been a place on the runway for our ancestors’ work but now we have a chance to share our own narrative: that we are still here – alive and full of pride just as our people before us.
Q: One of my favorite things about Indigenous designers is the way they share their culture and pass on knowledge/storytelling through clothing. How do you approach design through this process? PM: The richness of storytelling comes from being a Taos Pueblo Native. Our language and traditions are orally taught so we have this understanding of where we come from and who we are. All of this has given me a beautiful palette
PAT R I C I A M I C H A E L S
Back to Nature Inspired by her culture and surroundings, Native American designer Patricia Michaels carves out a place in the fashion world with her vision and unmatched use of textiles. By Christie Moeller
for silhouettes, draping, textiles, designs and new fabrications.
Q: How do your designs connect with your culture and tradition? PM: My culture dates back to pre-Columbus, when Taos Pueblo was a main trade center between South America and Canada. My fashion helps bring the truth of my people and other tribes’ sophistication of travel and commerce.
Q: It has never been more important for brands and consumers to embrace sustainability. Tell us why sustainability is so important to First Nations designers and yourself. PM: Our people carry history of who we are and knowledge of the land and life around us. One
Many First Nations fashion designers have brought profound contributions to the industry: from centuries-old weaving techniques and intricate beadwork to storytelling through textile and pattern. Patricia Michaels is one such designer. For more than 20 years, the Taos Pueblo Native – and Project Runway alum – has produced haute couture inspired by the culture, landscape and art of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Hamiinat sat down with Michaels to discuss her designs and where she sees Native designers in the future.
inspired from ceremonies, nature and my clients, then I lay out white silk and paint, felt and bead embellish anywhere from one to seven yards of fabric. I then steam and dye into the fibers and wash, rinse and press. From there I cut, drape and sew.
Q: What are some cultural considerations consumers should be aware of regarding Native-inspired looks? PM: Native regalia has inspired the runway for decades but there is a fine line between a designer being inspired by another culture and copying it directly. There is significant ceremonial meaning behind what we make for our tribal people and if one doesn’t understand these boundaries, they shouldn’t design highly stylized cultural garments.
Q: You’ve talked about Native American style moving forward as new materials and techniques came with the arrival of new people. How are you moving it forward now? PM: The best advice I’ve ever been given is, fashion is about change, keep exploring it. In that spirit, I embrace all opportunities: social media, short films and digital fashion, such as the digital printed fabrics I brought to the uniform industry while working with Cintas. This gives me a platform to stay in the public eye, in boutiques and museum shops. I’ve also competed on the world stage, which brought awareness to the fact that Native designers exist – and will have a voice with our vision. See Michaels’ beautiful use of color, pattern and textiles on page 34 and 38.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 29
Silverthorne Prism Sandal by Minnetonka Moccasin available at minnetonkamoccasin.com Upcycled Vintage Military Flysuit by 4Kinship available at 4kinship.com
30 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
Style
From muted to bold, subtle to stand-out, these pool-ready styles make it easy to welcome sun-drenched days with open arms. Shot at the new pool at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. Photography by Robert John Kley
STYLED BY CHRISTIE MOELLER • STYLE ASSISTANT BY TIFFANY WEEKES • HAIR & MAKEUP BY KRYSTLE RANDALL MODEL PROVIDED BY NEXT MANAGEMENT
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 31
Bikini top by SHAN available at Serrano Spa at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino. Upcycled Vintage Parachute Skirt by 4Kinship available at 4kinship.com.
32 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
Vintage ‘80s Stephen Sprouse Swimsuit available at 4kinship.com. San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Annabella Blanket by Pendleton custom designed by Tribal Youth Annabella Hernandez.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 33
Turquoise Gem Bikini and Dragonfly Jacket by Waterlily Fashion by Patricia Michaels available at waterlilyfashion.com. Beaded Necklace by Aaron Rock available at 1891 Boutique.
34 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
Professor Hellen Milroy One Piece by Liandra Swim available at liandraswim.com.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 35
Mille Miglia 300P Sunglasses by Chopard available at HERS Boutique. Gwen One Piece by Liandra Swim available at liandraswim.com. Indian College Fund Gift of Earth Blanket by Pendleton available at pendleton-usa.com.
36 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
Lakota Pulsar A-Line Dress by Tosa Two Heart available at tosatwoheart.com.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 37
Native Hand Print Bikini by Waterlily Fashion by Patricia Michaels available at waterlilyfashion.com.
38 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
Puyu’houpkcav (poo-yoo-hope-k-chahv)
TOGETHER
Puyu’houpkčav: together. When all are together as one, we accomplish more. We strive each day towards unity of purpose and spirit.
Get a peek behind the scenes of the extraordinary party that heralded the opening of the new Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. Learn about the new Santos Manuel Student Union at CSUSB, a place that offers community for all. Hear from the talented architect that designed the multi-faceted, fun-filled destination within the iconic Dodger Stadium. And get insight from the CEO of a food bank, who is working to end food insecurity in Las Vegas with the help of San Manuel.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 39
Philanthropy
FORCE CHANGE
A
for
Santos Manuel Student Union is big in size, big in heart and big in its breadth of services.
T
he North Santos Manuel Student
conditions of the present,” CSUSB President
Union at California State
Tomás D. Morales told Hamiinat magazine. “The
University, San Bernardino, is
life of Santos Manuel is not only one of the
127,000 square feet of concrete,
brighter threads in the history of the Inland
glass, wood and steel, but there
Empire, it is also physically tied to the land where
is much that its namesake – the 19th century
our university is located. This is why we respect,
Yuhaaviatam leader Santos Manuel – would
honor and publicly acknowledge that our
recognize.
campus is located on the unceded Indigenous
It’s a gathering place in the shadow of
homeland of the Yuhaaviatam First Nation in
mountains that know the Bird Songs and the
San Bernardino.”
footsteps of the Yuhaaviatam people.
Ken Ramirez, then Chairman of San Manuel,
It’s a place of yawa’, the Yuhaaviatam word meaning “to act on one’s beliefs,” that instills
acknowledged the significance of the new multiuse structure, noting that with the expansion,
social values that students
the Santos Manuel Student Union
will carry with them into
stands as one of the largest
their career fields and communities. It’s a place that upholds diversity and inclusion, just as Santos Manuel upheld his people’s right to exist in a changing world. It helps tell the story of the Yuhaaviatam people in certain architectural details,
To move forward into the future, we must acknowledge the histories of the past and the conditions of the present.
building complexes in the Cal State System named after a tribal leader. Ramirez said, “When I see this place so full of life, I feel as if I am in the presence of my great-
Image courtesy of California State University, San Bernardino
BY RICHARD ARLIN WALKER
great-grandfather Santos Manuel… who was first and foremost a
our community about the Indigenous people of
community builder.”
this land and their culture.”
Anthony Roberson, the
The Santos Manuel Student Union opened
university’s Associate Director of
in February after two years and eight months
furnishings, graphics and
Operations, added, “I think about
of construction. The $90 million project was
displays of cultural objects.
where we are – on sovereign
designed by LPA Architects in Irvine and built
And it promotes social justice by its very name. “To move forward into the future, we must acknowledge the histories of the past and the
40 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
land, on Native land. I think it speaks to us as a university when we talk about diversity and
by Hathaway Dinwiddie of Los Angeles. The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
inclusiveness. As a higher education institution,
kickstarted the planning for the student union
we want to make sure we teach our students and
about 20 years ago when it gifted $2 million to
Santos Manuel
CSUSB – $1 million for planning and $1 million
Union and the Recreation and Wellness
for an endowment to support student services.
Center.
“It is the most prominent building on campus
“They’re not just buildings,” Ruiz said.
because it’s in the heart of the campus,”
“Yes, structurally they are buildings, but
Roberson said. “The Santos Manuel Student
what happens within them is so beautiful
pub with outdoor seating, an eight-lane
Union is the living room of the campus. It’s
because people find themselves – they find
bowling alley, restaurants, retail space, dining
a beautiful building and the architecture is
where they belong and who they are and where
and lounge areas and a bookstore.
incredible.”
they want to go.”
Julia Ruiz, Navajo, is Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Santos Manuel Student
The Santos Manuel Student Union takes “social hub” to a new level. On the first level is a
The second level has a conference center with a ballroom, dividable into five rooms, a catering kitchen and an outdoor plaza.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 41
Some 500 students are employed on the first
Literacy Center, Student Career Center,
people, but not necessarily always engage. And
and second floors.
Graduate Student Success Center, Veterans
so, there are a lot of little areas where a student
Success Center, Commuter Lounge, eSports
can sit and study with maybe two or three
services that formerly didn’t exist or were
Arena, meeting rooms, theater and the Office of
people and have their group convene without
located at separate sites on campus. “We initially
the Vice President for Student Affairs.
being a part of the bigger environment. And
The third level features many support
had three major affinity centers before this
First-year students of all ages can get help
then, in some of the bigger places, you’ll have
expansion, but the number of centers that we
navigating the path to a degree, get a job to help pay
outcroppings where you’ll have a seat where a
have now has grown exponentially,” said Jesse
tuition and learn to manage their finances.
student can sit by themselves – they’re alone, in
Felix, Executive Director of the Santos Manuel
A student can access snacks and food and catch a
the community.
Student Union and the Recreation
“I think the one thing that’s really
and Wellness Center. There’s the Adult Reentry Center, Asian Pacific Islander
taken off is our social stairs, which
We have a student union unlike any other. There are opportunities for interaction between
Center, Undocumented Student Success Center, First Peoples’
people from different walks of life... that didn’t exist before.
Center, LatinX Center, Pan
is a place where students can do just that – they have the staircase that overlooks the entire area and they can study, they can work on homework, but yet still be around
African Student Success Center, Queer and
nap between classes on a couch – whatever he or
Transgender Resource Center, Title IX & Gender
she needs so they can concentrate on their studies.
Equity Office and the Women’s Resource Center.
“We call the Santos Manuel Student Union the
other people.” Bringing all of this under one roof was not possible with the original student union building,
living room of the campus,” Felix said. “What’s
now known as Santos Manuel Student Union
Santos Manuel Student Union South, an
really changed in student life is how students
South. At 87,000 square feet, the building was
87,000-square-foot center that served as the
congregate. One of the things on the students’
often crowded. “You couldn’t walk through there
original student union and is connected by
list during the design process was the ability to
at times,” Felix said.
an outdoor plaza to the new student union.
be in public, while also being able to study and
“I love to walk into the new building and see
Roberson said SMSU South houses the Financial
work alone – they wanted to be around other
students there with their cell phones out, taking
More services are available in the adjacent
42 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
pictures and sharing them on social media. We
34 counties in the State of California. They are
have a student union unlike any other. There are
part of an increasingly diversified population in
opportunities for interaction between people
an increasingly diversified regional economy.
Image courtesy of California State University, San Bernardino
from different walks of life, so to speak, that
Housing construction grew 16 percent
didn’t exist before.”
in 2021, according to the California Credit
Leading with love, walking with intention
Union League. “Because of the Inland Empire’s
According to Dr. Paz Oliverez, Vice President
its post-pandemic recovery will outpace
for Student Affairs, 70-80 percent of CSUSB
California and the entire nation,” the association
students are the first in their families to go to
reported on its website. Those sectors include
college; 66 percent are Latino/Latina; 12 percent
e-commerce, wholesale trade, transportation
are White; 5 percent are African American;
and warehousing. Meanwhile, the region’s
5 percent are Asian; and less than 1 percent
population continues to grow – it grew 8.9
are Native American. Some 1,400 students are
percent during the pandemic – as people are
veterans or are active duty or reservists.
drawn by climate, housing availability and
San Manuel Student Union Board Chairwoman Ruiz, a junior at CSUSB majoring
economic structure and composition of jobs across different sectors of the local economy,
career opportunities. The Santos Manuel Student Union, with
in kinesiology and minoring in diversity and
its array of services and support, is helping
social justice, commented on her role. “I believe
students prepare themselves so they can
in our past census there were only about 300
contribute to the region’s vibrancy.
Native American students and that just blows my
“I was just talking to a couple of students who
mind, because we have so many organized tribes
were staffing an event in the student union last
in this area,” Ruiz said. “I think there’s a lot of
night, and they were talking about the kind of
opportunity – and I believe it’s my responsibility
skill sets they developed as employees,” Oliverez
– to ensure that the youth of the tribes know
said. “One of the students is doing work directly
that they have a home here.”
connected to his major and his field of study,
There are four federally recognized tribes
which means he’s building skills to put on his
in San Bernardino County and 11 in Riverside
resume that will make him more competitive in
County. All told, there are 109 Tribal Nations in
the job market after he’s earned his degree.”
The Santos Manuel Student Union, or SMSU, comprises five venues at California State University, San Bernardino.
SMSU NORTH 127,000 square feet Affinity centers, recreational venues, gathering spaces, retail spaces and restaurants, bookstore, conference center.
SMSU SOUTH
87,000 square feet Financial Literacy Center, Student Career Center, Graduate Student Success Center, Veterans Success Center, Commuter Lounge, eSports Arena, meeting rooms, theater, and the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.
SMSU EAST
8,500 square feet A recreation and wellness center with yoga room, massage chairs, group exercise room and multi-purpose classroom.
SMSU AMPHITHEATER 11,000 square feet
RANCHO MIRAGE STUDENT CENTER,
CSUSB’s Palm Desert campus
1,800 square feet
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 43
graduation and its commitment to diversity and
I use my position to make a positive impact not
who are employed on campus during college
She added, “Research shows that students
inclusiveness – also is helping to create forces
only here on campus, but in the region?”
have a much higher success rate when it comes
for social change in the region.
to staying in school and earning their degrees.
Ruiz added, “We’re building a better world
“In everything we do, we lead with love,” said
and a better Inland Empire. Jesse always
So, the fact that a building like this is able to
Felix, who earned undergraduate and graduate
mentions that we lead with love. I always
provide those jobs just continues to contribute to
degrees in logistics and operations management
respond with, ‘And we walk with intention.’”
supporting our students’ success while they’re
at CSUSB and is working on his doctorate in
with us.”
educational leadership with
Oliverez said CSUSB is a transformative force in the region because many students
an emphasis in social justice. “But our social change
who graduate from CSUSB stay in the Inland
model is about getting
Empire.
students to look at who
“Across the Cal State system, you have a lot
they are, to reach students
of campuses where students are coming from
from an anti-deficit lens
all over the place, and they go there and earn
to talk about how amazing
their degrees and then they leave. But in our
they are and what it is they
case, the majority of our students actually stick
bring to campus, and for
around this area, which is wonderful because
them to understand their
it increases the number of people in this region
core values so they can
who have college degrees and it creates a
impact the community in
significant level of upward mobility for our
the future. So, the whole
students and families in this region as well.”
goal of that is: Who am I as
Ruiz and Felix said the Santos Manuel Student Union – its care for students from day one to
44 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
a person, what change do I want to make, and how do
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Venture
Up, Up and Away Breeze Airways makes daily nonstop service between San Bernardino and San Francisco a reality, expanding the horizon for millions.
It was the announcement heard around the world; at least that’s the way it felt for airport’s leaders, the elected officials that sit on the commission, airport staff and business and leisure travelers in the Inland Empire.
Empire and SFO offers easy flight connections with nonstop service to 150 cities across North America and the globe on approximately 50 domestic and international airlines.
Agency, “This new partnership with Breeze Airways
Breeze, launched by JetBlue founder David
the departures entrance to San Bernardino
is the culmination of decades of federal, state,
Neeleman, connects travelers in communities
International Airport’s (SBD) domestic terminal, a
regional and local focus on revitalizing what was
underserved by air service to the U.S. cities they want
representative from Breeze Airways announced
the amazing Norton Air Force Base and is now the
to visit most, by delivering affordable fares, state-of-
daily nonstop service between SBD and San
thriving SBD International Airport. We are here to
the-art technology and its signature Seriously Nice™
Francisco International Airport (SFO), beginning
support our communities, our businesses, partners
service. Breeze will inaugurate the new SBD-SFO
August 4, 2022. It was a moment met with excitement
and new friends for many years to come. Our
nonstops with Embraer E195 aircraft, seating 118
and joy. Residents and businesses throughout the
region’s confidence brought us to this day, and we
passengers with 22 seats offering extra legroom. The
Inland Empire now have more choice in air travel
honor and appreciate our residents now by offering
E195’s two-by-two seating configuration means there
that is closer to home but without the gridlock found
this incredible travel option right here at SBD.”
are no middle seats onboard.
around other Southern California airports. “Breeze Airways’ announcement of daily
Part of the transition to a public-use airport
Breeze Airways’ modern aircraft, friendly
meant building new facilities while rebuilding and
employees and low air fares, along with SBD’s
nonstop service to SFO is a monumental moment
rehabilitating existing infrastructure to support a
convenient and accessible airport will help redefine
for our inland Southern California region and our
wide range of aviation activity. In fact, the airport has
air travel options through the Inland Empire. Flights
communities that have supported the base reuse
maintained a passenger terminal building since 2010,
are on sale now and can be booked by visiting
effort for many years, invigorating the resurgence
serving passengers traveling on charter flights. “SBD
sbdairport.com or directly at FlyBreeze.com.
of true travel options for our residents, businesses
and partners have worked hard
friends and families,” said Frank J. Navarro, SBD’s
to achieve this milestone in our
Commission President and Mayor of the nearby City
airport’s history, and our region
of Colton.
deserves this outcome,” Navarro
Thirty years in the making, this announcement
continued. “We are proud of SBD’s
marks SBD’s first-ever scheduled passenger flights.
current staff who are helping
Offering airline service to the Inland Empire region
us make history, and appreciate
has been a goal since the transition from the former
their efforts to get us ready for
Norton Air Force Base to a now thriving public
scheduled passenger service
airport that supports air cargo, business and general
beginning in August.”
aviation as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul operations. According to Michael Burrows, Chief Executive Officer of SBD and the Inland Valley Development
46 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
San Francisco, the Bay Area and Northern California are in the top-requested domestic destinations from the Inland
Michael J VanGorder Photography
On a sunny morning in early March, just outside
Celebrate
In Grand Style Creativity, history and hard work come together for an epic celebration of the new Yaamava’ Resort & Casino
Hundreds of tribal citizens and guests gathered on a chilly winter evening in Highland, California to welcome a true change in season as Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel opened its doors December 13, 2021. Yaamava’, meaning spring in Serrano, was years in the making and the stunning transformation of the property into a world-class resort called for an unforgettable celebration uniting tribal government, hospitality trendsetters and VIPs.
BY MELINDA SHECKELLS
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 47
T
he ceremony opened with beautiful songs from the San Manuel Bird Singers, putting the audience in a state of contemplative bliss, before San
Manuel Band of Mission Indians then Chairman Ken Ramirez, members of the Business Committee and Yaamava’ Resort & Casino General Manager Peter Arceo spoke. Ramirez shared the history of the land – how it was not part of the Reservation, but instead a dream and vision for what was to come – as well as his personal memories of working for the previous owner. From project approval to groundbreaking to opening, Yaamava’ faced many obstacles, including a global pandemic, in addition to rerouting the California Aqueduct Pipeline and undoubtedly the biggest employment crisis ever faced by businesses. “The highlight of the event for me was members of the Tribe sharing their history and perspective on what this grand opening and expansion meant to them as individuals and as a group of people,” Arceo said. “Hearing the speeches... was very touching and level set everyone in attendance as to what was most important.” On reflection, Arceo said he will never forget the bird singers standing on stage. “I’ve never seen an event with so many of the bird singers before. And the songs they sang were much more than what is traditionally part of team member/casino events,” he explained. “It was quite a sight to see and hear. I’m so happy the Tribe shared that part of their culture with all of us.”
48 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
To cap off the excitement, and in lieu of fireworks, a 3D light show was projected onto the new 17-story hotel tower. The digital content told the story of both
scored with a cool soundtrack. The entire experience lifted the energy of the crowd.” Adding behind-the-scenes intel, Arceo said that
the Tribe and the casino, punctuating the history
while the whole production came off flawlessly, it
and accomplishments of a humble bingo hall, which
was a nailbiter down to the end – with the biggest
debuted 35 years ago, and its transformation into a
variable being the weather. “In the 10 days leading up
hospitality-industry leader.
to the event, we didn’t know if it was going to rain. We
“I loved the creative aspect of working with Bart
had three backup plans based on where we thought
Kresa Studio on the projection mapping. We’re in a
the weather was going to land,” he laughed. “That
fire zone, next to mountains, where using traditional
meant we had to plan more than one grand opening
fireworks is not an option. We had to come up with
celebration and then make the final decision closer to
creative ways to get that wow factor,” Arceo said.
the event. We really didn’t have clarity on which plan
“Teaming up with Bart, who has done events of this
we were going to execute until about four days before
magnitude in the past, was awesome. As was watching
the big event. That was very challenging, but the team
how we transformed the resort tower into a magical
handled it extremely well.”
screen, which took us through a celebratory journey
GRAMMY Award-winning singer Miguel performed for the crowd and, as his setlist came to a close, a light shower began. “After the concert
“The highlight of the event for me was members of the Tribe sharing their history and perspective on what this grand opening and expansion meant to them as individuals and as a group of people.”
was over it began to rain, the timing could not have been more perfect. That was the ‘aha’ moment we all realized we overcame obstacles and could relax,” Arceo reflected. “We were able to get everything done without any major hiccups, literally minutes before it began to rain. It was perfect.” Arceo noted none of this would have happened without the tireless effort of the team members from both San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and Yaamava’ Resort & Casino. “It’s this joint effort that sets the foundation for continued success in the future. It truly took a team of skilled people to pull off something of this magnitude. There were a lot of moving parts,” he said. “The entertainment team worked extremely hard under less-than-ideal conditions and the tribal experiential marketing team helped coordinate and design the layout and logistics. The two teams did a great job working together to create a wonderful, memorable event for everyone.” Now that Yaamava’ has a few months under its belt, Arceo looks ahead to a bright future, one that includes lots of smiles and sunny days. “I’m looking forward to watching the millions of people come to our property to enjoy all the new amenities and services our team has been working hard to put together. I find a lot of reward in seeing happiness in others and watching people smile,” said the hospitality industry veteran. “I love asking ‘How was your stay?’ ‘How was your experience in one of our venues/ restaurants?’ I love to hear the excitement in our guests’ voices and the way their faces light up being a part of this new experience – and of course I love hearing the positive comments about our team,” he said, smiling.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 49
Action
s n a F e h t or F
The celebrated Dodger Stadium debuts its new Centerfield Plaza, an all-encompassing destination filled with things to discover for fans – both young and old. By Matt Jacob
A renowned architect and urban planner, Janet Marie Smith’s fingerprints can be found on multiple iconic Major League Baseball stadiums, from Camden Yards in Baltimore to Fenway Park in Boston. Currently the Executive Vice President of Planning and Development, Smith has overseen Dodger Stadium since 2012. A few years ago, she was tasked designing its new Centerfield Plaza at historic Dodger Stadium. She talked with Hamiinat about what went into creating Dodger Stadium’s “new front door,” her favorite elements of the new plaza and what drew her to our national pastime.
50 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
Photo courtesy of Los Angeles Dodgers
the expansion and improvement projects at historic
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 51
What prompted your initial interest in architecture? My dad was an architect, so that was an influence. But I didn’t give it that much thought. I had to just check a box for a major when I got to Mississippi State, and that seemed to be as good as any. I initially thought I’d major in engineering or
redevelopment of Battery Park City, which is an
Camden Yards in Baltimore was a “throwback” ballpark and it received universal praise from the moment it opened in 1992. It also served as a blueprint for countless new baseball stadiums that followed. As you worked on Camden, did you know it was going to be a home run?
extension of lower Manhattan. While there, I went
I always felt confident that it was going to be a success
Whether it’s designing a new ballpark from scratch like Camden or renovating existing structures like Fenway Park and Dodger Stadium, what informs your design aesthetic?
back to school to get a degree in urban planning, and
and be right for Baltimore. And we really had a secret
This probably sounds kind of weird, but you really
Baltimore was one of the case-study cities that we
weapon under our own roof in Hall of Fame player
have to “listen” to the building, because the building
spent a lot of time discussing. I was impressed with
Frank Robinson, who was the Orioles’ manager at the
will tell you what to do. With Fenway and Dodger
how Baltimore reinvented itself when industry died
time. Frank had played in these older parks, so he was
Stadium, I mostly just tried to have my ear to the
and moved out from downtown. The city managed to
a tremendous resource for us. Having someone like
ground and ask, “What does that building want to
reclaim its waterfront as a place for recreation.
Frank there to champion it gave us a lot of confidence
grow up to be?” That is, how do you take something
that this wasn’t just a Disney-esque, fabricated
that distinctive and build on it?
art, but one seemed too science based, and the other didn’t have as much rigor I would’ve liked. So, I ended up studying architecture. And what I found I enjoyed most were my classes in urban planning – that notion of how cities grew and changed. After graduating from Mississippi State, I moved to New York and got a fantastic job working on the
Maybe 10 years after that, when I learned that the Orioles were building a new stadium in downtown
approach to building a baseball stadium. Rather, it
Baltimore, I thought, “Wow – there goes Baltimore,
was rooted in history, something that was very real.
adding something else that will bring millions of
Now, what I couldn’t have predicted was that it
Camden Yards that really looked to mimic not the architecture but the attitude, and that desire to move into the heart of a city.
So, with Dodger Stadium, it was, “Look, this building is so unique compared with any other in baseball, with these crazy 1960s colors and the
people into the middle of downtown.” So that’s a short
would start this wave of other baseball parks being
folded roof of the pavilions, and the fact it’s carved
version of the trajectory that got me into baseball and
constructed in cities like San Francisco, San Diego,
into the hillside and offers this beautiful view of the
into the architecture that shapes not just the parks
Denver, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Philadelphia — you
downtown skyline in one direction, and Elysian Park
we play in, but the way those buildings relate to our
could go on and on. There was an entire generation
and the San Gabriel Mountains in the other. So how
cities and our hearts.
of ballparks that opened within 10 years or so after
do you build on that?”
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our fans more to do during games – he felt that the
The other thing, of course, was COVID. The
Centerfield Plaza would be the crowning jewel and
Centerfield Plaza was on the drawing board for
the stadium’s new front door.
several years, but we took a pause and worked on
If Stan said it once, he said it a thousand times:
finally did, we knew we’d have to get it done in a single
Stadium. And he was absolutely right. We had done
offseason. We’d have to start in October and finish by
these engineering studies on how long it took our
the end of March the following year.
fans from the time they parked their cars at Dodger
Well, there we were the last week of March 2020,
Stadium until the time they passed through their gate,
racing to get everything done, and then COVID hits.
and it was just painful how long it took to navigate the
So, the entire thing sort of sputtered instead of soared
parking lot.
to the finish line. But while those challenges were
So first, we wanted to make it easier for fans to
daunting, the validation of seeing how fans used the
enter the stadium through the gate that was closest to
new space was worth all the sweat, agony and delays.
them, so we put in these stairs, elevators, escalators
designed as a place to enjoy pregame, postgame and
Speaking of fans, what kind of feedback have you and the organization received since the plaza opened? Are there certain elements that are particularly appealing?
during the game.
Well, it didn’t hurt that the plaza opened right after
and bridges to help them navigate their way through the building. But we also really wanted them to take in this new front door at the Centerfield Plaza, which we
Photos courtesy of Los Angeles Dodgers
other renovations before coming back to it. When we
There’s going to be a new front door to Dodger
What was the biggest challenge you encountered as you went about tackling the centerfield renovation? Stan counseled us early on about synthesizing input from a lot of places…making certain we had,
we won the 2020 World Series, so our displays got to be about the World Series. We built this oversize World Series trophy that’s like six feet high and put it in centerfield, and people lined up to get their pictures taken with it. That was neat. Really, it was just fun to see the joy our fans had
for instance, not just places like the Gold Glove bar
experiencing the entire area. I’m sure some of it had
but also kids' play areas. We wanted this to be a
to do with the fact we were coming out of COVID. We
family event; we wanted everyone to feel like there’s
were all looking to be together again in a place that
something for them. So, balancing all of those things,
felt familiar and had so many memories for so many
while giving the area a compelling look, was very
people. And to be able to celebrate a World Series
much part of our agenda and was a challenge.
championship in this new space was just amazing.
I love that Stan Kasten, our president and CEO, charged me with staying faithful to what the building was. And you need the entire design and construction team to think that way. Because every ballpark is special and unique, which is one thing I just love about baseball. I don’t care how long you’ve worked in this field, when you’re renovating a building like this, you are not the expert – you just aren’t. The fan is the expert. You’re not going to come in and tell them what you think. They’re going to tell you what they think. I do try very hard to not get too far away from the thing that made me fall in love with baseball in the first place. Because if you forget to be a fan, you won’t be able to feel that pulse.
Describe the early process of designing the new Centerfield Plaza at Dodger Stadium. Were you given a lot of autonomy, or was there a specific organizational vision? Stan really championed this project. After the eight years of renovations and additions we had been doing at Dodger Stadium – with the goal being to give
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 53
Were there any “Wait, what about this?!?” components added late in the game? Oh, I’m sure there were. You’re always trying to make a project better every step along the way. But some of those adjustments weren’t architectural. Like when legendary Dodgers manager Tommy Lasorda passed away in January 2021, we asked his family if we could take the things that were in his Dodger Stadium office and put them in the lockers that were on display in centerfield. And they said yes. So, it was touching for our fans to be able to celebrate Tommy by putting those mementos there. What I loved was it was all stuff that came straight out of Tommy’s office. It wasn’t like we went through Tommy’s possessions and picked one from Column A, one from Column B. These were actually Tommy’s things that he lived with every day. And, of course, winning the World Series in 2020 and being able to put the memorabilia – the new World Series ring, the trophy, etc. – in centerfield was an amazing late addition.
It’s probably like asking a parent to choose their favorite child, but what’s your favorite part of the centerfield renovation? I know! I often say that you can’t pick favorites. But in this case, I do have a favorite spot: coming in that new front door and being greeted by that beautiful Jackie Robinson sculpture that Branly Cadet did in 2017 to honor the 70th anniversary of Jackie breaking the color barrier is just amazing. And to have that statue against the backdrop of the sign that reads “Blue Heaven on Earth” – which was what Tommy Lasorda called Dodger Stadium – was particularly poignant after Tommy passed.
What (if anything) is next on the Dodger Stadium redesign front? We had announced we were going to put a sculpture of former Dodger and Hall of Fame alongside Jackie Robinson’s. Because of COVID, we didn’t get to do that in 2020. So, when the All-Star game that was supposed to be played at Dodger Stadium in 2020 got moved to 2022, this also got moved to 2022. The most exciting thing we have coming is the chance to finally unveil the Sandy Koufax sculpture out there on the plaza.
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Photo courtesy of Los Angeles Dodgers
pitcher Sandy Koufax at the new front door
A Home Run BY MARK LANGILL
Dodger Stadium might just be as famous as the team itself. With the opening of the new Centerfield Plaza, a dream destination for fans, Hamiinat checks in with one man who has seen it all. Hear what he has to say about his time with the team and the new fan experience at the storied Dodger Stadium.
D
uring his first season as a Dodger
areas outside the stadium hallways on the Reserved
broadcaster in 1959, Jaime Jarrin often
Level were cultivated into children’s play areas,
made a detour from his normal commuter
along with added space for restaurants and retail.
route to the Los Angeles Coliseum, the team’s
Historical displays included oversized baseballs
temporary home after moving from Brooklyn in 1958.
commemorating Cy Young Award winners, and the
Jarrin visited the construction site at nearby Chavez
Retired Numbers Plaza on the Top Deck, which
Ravine where the first privately financed Major
features a picturesque view of downtown Los
League ballpark since 1923 slowly evolved into a
Angeles. The pavilion areas were reimagined after
grand showplace.
the 2019 season and give fans a chance to “circle”
The 60 anniversary of Dodger Stadium in 2022 th
coincides with Jarrin’s own celebration as he will
the stadium grounds when exploring the ballpark. The Centerfield Plaza at Dodger Stadium is now
retire at the end of the season. Jarrin reflects on
the “front door” to the third-oldest venue in the
his Hall of Fame career with a stadium backdrop of
Majors behind Boston’s Fenway Park (1912) and
expanded exhibits and activities for fans, including
Chicago’s Wrigley Field (1914). Fans are encouraged
this summer’s MLB All-Star Game.
to explore the ballpark’s exhibitions and other
“It’s been a privilege for me to see that ballpark since the first day,” Jarrin said. “There were so many
activities for children. “I always wondered why we didn’t have a main
expectations when Dodger Stadium opened in 1962.
entrance to Dodger Stadium,” Jarrin said. “If you
A new ballpark was the reason the Dodgers moved
look at the pictures of old ballparks like Ebbets Field
to Southern California in the first place. When it was
in Brooklyn or Crosley Field in Cincinnati, those
finally ready, I felt like a kid under a Christmas tree
buildings had a front entrance. (Dodger President)
coming to Opening Day.”
Walter O’Malley wanted fans to have access to the
Jarrin recalls how the original foul territory at
interior of the ballpark based on where you parked.
Dodger Stadium – the area now used for the Baseline
He also designed the stadium with architect Emil
Box and Dugout Club sections in front of the Field
Praeger so there wouldn’t be any columns or pillars,
Level – gave pitchers like Hall of Famers Sandy
allowing fans to watch the game from anywhere in
Koufax and Don Drysdale the advantage on popups
the park without a visual obstruction.”
that didn’t drift into the grandstands. The Dodgers of
This summer, a statue of Koufax is scheduled
the 1960s designed their roster based on their home
to be unveiled in the Centerfield Plaza. It will join
field. Unable to rely on home runs with symmetrical
the other statue by sculptor Branley Cadet, whose
outfield dimensions and heavy night air, manager
artwork of Jackie Robinson sliding into home
Walter Alston’s pennant-contending teams utilized
plate was dedicated in 2017. It will mark the 50th
strong pitching and the speed of All-Star shortstop
anniversary of Koufax’s induction into the Baseball
and stolen-base artist Maury Wills, who swiped a
Hall of Fame. Koufax made his Major League debut
record 104 bases during his National League MVP
on June 24, 1955 at Ebbets Field. On the same day
season in 1962.
of Koufax’s first game, Jarrin emigrated from his
The initial Dodger Stadium experience focused
native Ecuador and arrived in Southern California to
on the field action, along with the traditional ballpark
embark on a broadcasting career with Los Angeles
staples: organ music, a baseball menu of hot dogs
station KWKW.
and peanuts, ice cream, popcorn and sodas. Sellouts
“I think about how fortunate I have been, coming to
became commonplace as the Dodgers won two
work at Dodger Stadium for such a long time,” Jarrin
World Series titles and another pennant during a
said. “It has always been so clean and beautiful, and
four-year span between 1963 and 1966. The Dodgers
I get to walk into the best seat in the ballpark in the
in 1978 became the first MLB team to break the three
press box behind home plate. When Walter O’Malley
million mark in home attendance.
built the stadium, everything he did was done to
The “game experience” gradually shifted after Guggenheim purchased the Dodgers in 2012. The
please the fans. It’s still one of the best ballparks in the world. Nobody would believe it opened in 1962.”
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 55
Giving Back
A
Nourishing
R E L AT ION SH I P San Manuel Band of Mission Indians helps to meet the Las Vegas community’s most pressing need. By Steve Bornfeld
T
hey forged a partnership of the heart that put food into mouths. And it yielded an experience that
That, by the way, was in addition to the whopping $100,000 donation the Tribe had made to Three Square, Southern Nevada’s only food bank and
excitement that was reflected that day was in their countenance, in their joy,” he said. “I like to say that God smiles when you can’t
largest hunger-relief organization. The gift
tell who’s receiving and who’s giving. It was in the
enabled 300,000 meals to be delivered to needy
laughter you could hear on the line as they picked
faces everywhere you looked,” said Brian W.
Southern Nevadans, almost one-sixth of the region’s
up the cereals, the pre-packaged fruit and the
Burton, President and CEO of Three Square Food
residents, all who suffer from food insecurity.
granola bars, picturing a kid opening that and being
feeds the soul.
“There was a panorama of smiles on people’s
Yet it was the volunteer scene, as San Manuel
happy that he had something to eat. It’s part of that
team members from San Manuel showed up as
team members streamed into a “Backpack for Kids”
magic that happens when you come into that space
volunteers last fall.
program, that warmed Burton to his core. “The
at Three Square.”
Bank, recalling the scene the day upwards of 40
Equally magical is the connection it created between the two organizations. As Burton noted, “We immediately bonded with San Manuel leadership and began to talk about mutual goals and how the community could really benefit.” And as Ken Ramirez, then Chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, said when
56 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
the $100,000 gift was bestowed, “It’s important
that really underlined that this was more than an
to our Tribe that we work to impact and change
organizational partnership.
lives of those who are in need and facing economic
“It was so wonderful because we had been kind
“For the Tribe to come in at that level sets it apart in terms of how relevant it is and the change that can happen when you have resources like that coming
challenges.” The donation was given under the
of shut down during the pandemic and had a loss
into a community like ours, where we have so many
Tribe’s Empowering Lives pillar, one of four pillars
of volunteer labor; we had to pay people to do a lot
needs and disparities.”
that guide the Tribe’s philanthropic efforts.
of these activities,” Burton explained. “They were
“Our Tribe is proud of the community
just a timely godsend when they stepped in with all
conversations on other ways the partnerships can
those volunteers.”
bear fruit in Las Vegas. “They clearly indicated that
involvement and support we have provided in Southern California and across Indian country.”
Philanthropy comes naturally and generously
This budding friendship has included productive
we are congruent with their charitable goals and
Our Tribe is proud of the community involvement and support we have provided in Southern California and across Indian country – and we’re humbled and honored to continue this tradition of giving here in Las Vegas. It was a wham-bang start to this friendship, one
to the Southern California San Manuel Band of
values as an organization,” Burton said. “And since we
that equally humbled Burton, who was surprised
Mission Indians, which has given more than $9.3
all had a great experience that day, I know we can look
when the bountiful gesture was made as the
million to educational institutions and charities in
forward to more activities in the future.”
COVID-19 pandemic was impacting the world. “It
Las Vegas since January 2020.
was so reassuring to us that there was a new friend
And it quickly made a sizable footprint in Las
San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA) was created to independently carry out
in town with that desire to help and the capacity
Vegas with its philanthropic values. “Ours is a
the investment in and ownership and management
and resources to do significant things for the
community of two million people. But we have
of gaming and hospitality businesses outside of the
community.”
grown so rapidly over the last 50 years that our
San Manuel Reservation. Looking forward, SMGHA
infrastructure and a lot of our nonprofit sector and
is excited to continue the philanthropic relationship
declared it nothing short of life-changing, it was
our social safety net, our foundational peers, had to
in Las Vegas begun by San Manuel Band of Mission
the helping hands of the San Manuel team members
play catchup with that growth,” Burton pointed out.
Indians.
As beautiful as the donation was, and Burton has
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 57
Hello
Here from the
START From food runner to the executive level, Tom Hedrick shares the upward trajectory of his career and how he feels about working for the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. By Lissa Townsend Rodgers
It’s been 36 years since Tommy Hedrick’s father told him to get a job. “He’d heard the Tribe was opening a bingo hall, so I went down and applied,” Hedrick reminisced.
What does your job as Vice President, Tribal Community Services entail? What are some of the projects you oversee?
What is your favorite part about working at an executive level?
There are three verticals: security, building
was happy and stayed longer. Then to come up
operation and service. In the service vertical,
here – where I see how the money we helped
tribal citizens come to us with an issue, concern
them make is used for philanthropy, for the
or service request and we take care of it. For
advancement of the Tribe, for future generations
instance, one of the big projects we’re working
– it’s very rewarding. In the role I have now, I get
on now is getting generators to tribal elders so
to see it come full circle: my job was focused on
when we lose power out here, they still have
“Every now and then I’ll walk through the casino,
making the money, now I come up here and see
it. We’re also the contact point with the tribal
and I’ll hear someone say, ‘Hey Tommy!’ I think
how that money benefits the whole community.
citizens and the construction crews so everyone
Who the heck is that? And it’s one of the old bingo
knows what’s going on. We’re also working on
players!”
several initiatives, such as events – the last one
The young Hedrick was going into high school when he was hired as a food runner, bringing cheeseburgers and chicken strips to hungry players. Even though he’s now Tom Hedrick, Vice President of Tribal Community Services, those days aren’t totally behind him.
What was your career path from food runner to the executive suite?
was the fall festival, which was a collaboration of tribal and casino departments – and projects
For 35 years my job was to make sure the guest
Are there any particularly memorable events or a special time in your career with San Manuel?
It’s been the best of times and the worst of times. The worst being when we closed our doors
with the youth through the education center.
in 2020 in response to the pandemic. But the was inspiring: they paid us even though the
lot of upheaval during the Prop A and Prop 5
What has the transition from working in the casino to working with the tribal government been like?
battles. Later I was promoted to Director of the
Even though I grew up with many of the tribal
casinos furloughed people. But this Tribe, for the
Manager on Duty department. I’ve moved up
citizens, I hadn’t seen a lot of them for more
35 years I’ve been here, has absolutely treated
every few years because there were always new
than two decades. But they were so welcoming;
us like family. The best of times was when we all
opportunities. I’ve been in on the ground level of
it was like I was never gone. People I grew up
worked together to open those doors again. We
a lot of things, so I take great pride in getting to
with, people who worked in the bingo hall, tribal
were happy to give back to the Tribe that had so
build it.
citizens – they had kids who are now having kids.
generously given to us.
I went from supervisor up to the second man in slots. From there, I learned how to manage the tables. Then back to slots where we saw a
58 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
generosity of the Tribe toward the workforce doors were closed and helped us support our families. They didn’t have to. In fact, all the other
(muh-chish-chk)
FAVORITES Müčisck: your favorite things. A word to acknowledge all those things in life you find yourself drawn toward.
This section explores all the things that brought you to Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel in the first place: the fine dining, hand-crafted cocktails, boutique shops and stunning surroundings – punctuated by the excitement found on the casino floor. We also explore the luxurious spa and new state-of-the-art entertainment venue, set to stage headliners and smaller acts in a space that tops all others in the region.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 59
On Trend
CO OL +
collected Each issue we gather a few fun things that turn heads. This time we’ve set our sights on everything you need to look and feel good before, during and after a day in the sun, all available at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAIME BIONDO
60 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
T he Essen t ials of Summer Rainbow Clutch, Sammie Hat and Juno Bag Fuchsia by Pia Rossini available at 1891 Boutique at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino or piarossini.com. Tune Tag Along Bluetooth Speaker and Glow Up Compact Power Bank by Tech Candy available at Cache & Carry at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino or shoptechcandy.com.
Sunscreen to safely soak up the rays, check. Bluetooth speaker to listen to your chill playlist, check. Mirror to make sure it’s all working – even after a dip in the pool, check. And colorful, woven clutches and totes to carry it all.
Classic Organic Sunscreen Spray, SPF 50 in Guava Mango Scent Sunscreen Spray and Classic Tinted LipLux Lip Balm by Coola available at Helix Pool at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 61
Eyes on t he Prize Squinting against the glare isn’t a great look. But these shades are. Choose from vintage tortoiseshell, sleek gunmetal gray wireframes or uber-trendy shields to protect your eyes – and add the finishing touch to your poolside vibe.
Men’s Active Metal Frame Brown Gradient Lens Sunglasses by Ray-Ban, Men’s Radar EV Path Black Sport Sunglasses, Men’s Tortoise Brown Gradient Sunglasses by Ray-Ban available at HIS Boutique at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino.
62 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
Smart Skincare There’s two parts to getting a beautiful glow: protection and repair. After a day in the sun, show your skin some TLC with gentle exfoliators and hydrating creams and oils.
Naturopathica Lavender & Honey Balancing Mist, BABOR Body Lotion, Naturopathica Body Lotion, Naturopathica Lemongrass Mimosa Body Scrub, BABOR Salt & Sugar Oil Scrub, Naturopathica Lavender Blossom Bath & Body Oil, BABOR Vitamin Ace Body Cream available at Serrano Spa at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 63
Savor
LOW KEY +
Lu urious How The Pines Modern Steakhouse at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel serves up exquisite yet approachable ambiance and food.
Christopher Dennis had an atypical, if not far-fetched, path to his position as Chef de Cuisine at The Pines Modern Steakhouse. He didn’t attend a prestigious culinary school nor was he born into a family of chefs. In fact, his first job handling food was at a Subway. As a teenager, he went from working in a bowling alley to his first restaurant job at Pelican Hill Resort in Orange County, CA. And when the charismatic and approachable Dennis arrived at Yaamava’, he worked his way up – from team dining to food court, to helming the most prestigious restaurant at the resort: The Pines.
By Danny Palumbo | Photography by Jaime Biondo
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T
he steakhouse recently reopened
all, The Pines is like Disneyland for steakhouse
in its new location, a gorgeous
lovers. Everything, from the menu to the décor to
space filled with modern angles,
the food, is meant to make you giddy with joy.
gilded touches and floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening to the casino
Modern steakhouse food is en vogue, and The Pines crew offers an enticing twist to
floor. While some steakhouses come across as
the continental cooking of the ‘80s. Each dish
stuffy or overly posh, the new Pines is cool and
is iconic and recognizable but enhanced to
relaxed, the type of place that encourages you,
transform the food into a newfound decadence
from moment one, to have fun.
that feels playful, and more importantly, natural.
Take a seat in a big Hollywood-style booth and
Take the Baby Iceberg Wedge, here made with
enjoy the intimate atmosphere. The space strikes
Point Reyes blue cheese, shaved red onion,
a balance between dimly lit and vibrant, almost
candied pecan, crispy bacon and house-made
like a metropolitan street at night. Each room has
smoked chili ranch, which is loaded with
its own electric personality; you might even find
aromatics, tang and sweet heat.
yourself wanting to roam the restaurant to see
Chef Dennis confides that he loves ranch, but
what’s tucked away in each corner. This is the
not the bottled stuff. He believes that a good
spot you want to post up for the night – laughing,
ranch should be speckled with herbs and deliver
drinking and indulging in the top-of-the-line fare.
a unique bite. He also loves ranch because it
That’s because The Pines is all about simple
conveys the message that the food at The Pines
and exciting luxury. Fine dining doesn’t quite
isn’t too fancy. Food should blow you away, but
begin to describe the experience. It’s more
still be approachable. And there’s nothing more
Well Paired It’s one thing to understand the subtle nuances of fine whiskey, bourbon and cognac. It’s another to expertly match those spirits with high-end cuisine. But now food-and-drink pairings are as easy as asking a team member at The Pines. Servers and bartenders are ready to help guests select a pour from Collection 86 – one of the most exclusive lists on the West Coast – to enjoy with their favorite proteins, preparations or sauces. Named for the year San Manuel Casino opened, Collection 86 boasts nearly 300 bottles of the finest spirits in existence: rare Scotches and cognacs, world-
While some steakhouses come off as stuffy or overly posh, the new Pines is cool and relaxed, the type of place that encourages you, from moment one, to have fun.
class bourbons, vodkas, tequilas and whiskeys as well as fine wines from throughout the world. While the menu does include some of the most expensive pours around – the Macallan 52 Year whisky goes for $3,100 for
complex than your average, run-of-the-mill
approachable than a humble ranch dressing.
“fancy” restaurant. The Pines is refined, but it
You’ll also discover classics like the Roasted
doesn’t feel forced. The food is gorgeous, but it
Veal Chop, which doesn’t explicitly call itself a
doesn’t take itself too seriously.
veal saltimbocca, but is nonetheless rich with
Navigate the menu and you’ll encounter
sage crema, prosciutto and wild mushroom.
something captivating at every turn. Some of the
This classic Italian dish is reimagined as a more
delights include Millionaire’s Mac & Cheese, an
decadent, continental iteration and is a prime
opulent dish chock full of indulgent ingredients
example of how good chefs elevate food without
such as black truffle, prosciutto, parmigiana
making it unrecognizable.
cream, poached egg and, wait for it, gold leaf.
The Miso Glazed Chilean Sea Bass is another
Then, there’s the fanciful, tableside presentation
dish where Dennis really gets to show off his
of the Smoked Burrata, topped with Sicilian
prowess. The well-orchestrated plate treats the
Trapanese and served with micro basil and
taste buds to a bounty of flavors and textures.
oil-brushed crostini. The burrata is nestled in
The dashi juice is jam-packed with savory flavor
a smoke-filled box, which billows from the case
and the buttery, flaky sea bass comes topped
like a chimney, kissing the cheese with a bit of
with king oyster mushrooms, a tempura-fried
charcoal flavor on its way out. Finally, you’ll find
shiso leaf, peppery wasabi microgreens and
a colorful assortment of ice-cream sandwich
tobiko (a smokier, saltier fish roe), achieving an
macarons presented on a tiered platter, their
impressive complexity of flavor.
taste reminiscent of childhood favorites: caramel apples and those beloved sugary cereals. All in
a 1-ounce taste – the emphasis is not on price, but on exclusivity. “What really defines the list is the rarity,” said Ryan Sharpe, Director of Beverage Operations at Yaamava’. “We have some items that aren’t extremely expensive… but our resort is the only place guests can try them.”
The main reason to visit The Pines though is the steak. It’s one of only 55 restaurants in
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the U.S. that serves Kobe-certified beef, so they’re primed to give you the best. The Wagyu steak is cooked tableside with garlic, cipollini onions, green onions and thinly sliced scored king oyster mushrooms. Savoring a forkful of earthy, buttery king oyster mushrooms with
You’ll find a colorful assortment of ice-cream sandwich macarons presented on a tiered platter, their taste reminiscent of childhood favorites: caramel apples and those beloved sugary cereals.
a slice of fatty Wagyu is a culinary treat to cherish. The intensely flavorful 45-day, dry-aged Snake River Farms New York Strip is up next. The cut is tender and immaculate, red through and through with a thin crisp crust. Chef Dennis serves his steak with two sauces: an herbaceous chimichurri made with Fresno chiles and a house-made sweet-spicy-tangy steak sauce starring his own Worcestershire. The Worcestershire itself is noteworthy – made with anchovies, tamarind and a stampede of other ingredients – because it’s an example of the chef’s unparalleled work ethic. Everything, from the macarons and the pasta to the steak sauce, is homemade and it’s this commitment to excellence that has earned Chef Dennis his spot as captain at The Pines. But the down-to-earth chef said, “I’m lucky that I’ve got such great cooks and chefs. I wouldn’t be where I am without them.” The perfect combination of comfortable luxury and fine dining discovered at The Pines is the culmination of years of teamwork. “I used to do brunch side by side with a lot of these cooks back in the day. Now, we’re collaborating and working together. We’re challenging each other to be the best and I’m glad we can come together as a team,” said Chef Dennis. Everyone at The Pines will agree that the chef has brought an incredible everyman quality to this celebrated dining establishment. Even the back-of-house environment is positive and relaxed, thanks in part to the chef’s nurturing attitude and low-key gritty determination. It’s his humble beginnings, passion for teamwork and eye for delicious, practical invention that make the new Pines Steakhouse a continually special experience. When asked if he ever thinks about his first job at a Subway, Chef Dennis smiled and said, “All the time.” It’s a distant memory, but one that easily measures how far a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence can take you.
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Horticulture
A Living Tableau
Ornamental horticulture uplifts spirits and brings natural beauty to the public spaces at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. By Patricia Kirk
S
oon after Yaamava’s grand opening,
wanted to wow our guests and introduce them to
guests who wandered the resort – from
traditions from around the world,” Bowlen explained.
the lobby and rotunda, through the casino and high limit rooms and into the
Bowlen came to Yaamava’ from Bellagio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, where he had conceptualized
Overlook Bar – discovered more than 30 vibrant
and designed 40 shows over eight years at the
displays of flowers and greenery.
world-renowned Conservatory. And while Bowlen
An abundance of red and gold from anthurium, flowering ginger and mums framed doorways and lined walkways and vibrant displays popped up in various corners throughout the property. The colors, signifying happiness and
loved working at the famous stop on The Strip, he was drawn to Yaamava’ for the opportunity to develop something unique, on a much larger
Bowlen noted that along with the rich colors and textures, the displays include animatronics of native
canvas. With five annual themed shows – varying in length from six to 12 weeks and all inspired by the
animals: bears, coyotes, elk, birds and butterflies. And Bowlen added, “We’ll be bringing more
good fortune, were also found on
seasons and cultural celebrations
concepts to future shows, including water features,
lanterns and ornaments suspended
– Bowlen said, “Each display is
fog, holograms, sound and lighting.”
designed to enhance the beauty of
from branches. An array of tigers – from realistic looking Siberian and Bengals to lacquer and cartoon-style big cats – appeared to lounge, stalk prey or roar in the midst of these
the area using colors and textures that coordinate with interiors and garden Operating in a five- to six-month window in which each show has to be conceptualized,
the Year of the Tiger.
designed and built, it’s all hands on deck
show represented the
specialty and patented flowers chosen for their colors, scents or textures are imported from South
areas.”
arrangements, all heralding “Our Lunar New Year
While most plants and materials used in displays are sourced from local growers and suppliers, some
America, the Netherlands and Hawaii. For guests who want to experience these specialty plants and flowers in their rooms – or even take
for the 84-member horticulture team,
them to their own homes – Bowlen noted that guests
Yaamava’s seasonal décor team, marketing
can buy arrangements through the concierge or at
ways different Asian
staff and vendors. And once a show
Yaamava’ retail outlets. In the future, Bowlen plans
cultures celebrate the
is launched, the plants and floral
for arrangements to be available for sale to guests
holiday,” said Jerry
arrangements receive daily care to
and Yaamava’ clients. Currently, a catalog of floral
Bowlen, Director
maintain the highest standard.
arrangements and balloon clusters is available, or
of Horticulture at Yaamava’. He noted that the displays used elements, textures and
The spring show, launched in March, is themed after spring in California.
custom orders can be arranged. Bowlen has big plans on the horizon to expand
With an Old Route 66 flair, the show
offerings across the enterprise. As for his
focuses on plants and wildlife native
overarching vision, Bowlen said, “We want everyone
colors found in China, Thailand,
to the Golden State, as well as iconic
to feel welcome and to be uplifted by our beautiful
Vietnam, Japan and Korea. “We
elements such as old cars and archways.
displays.”
70 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
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Discover
Down Earth to
The new Serrano Spa & Salon at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel creates an unmatched wellness experience by blending the empowering energy of the earth with top-of-the line service. By Dakota Kim
A
central theme at the newly minted Serrano Spa is a connection to the earth. Here the surrounding desert and golden mountains are on full display through the large windows and from the private terraces. White quartz crystal lamps illuminate the space. Accents in berry mauve, blushing peach and seafoam green remind guests of the local flora. And the wellness journeys – a themed
collection of treatments – are inspired by the natural world. Based on gemstone properties, these journeys range from the Amethyst Journey, which focuses on the heart chakra, to the tranquil Turquoise Journey, honoring the stone regarded by healers to bring protection, good fortune, wisdom and a sense of peace. “The Turquoise Journey is our highest, most luxurious. Using BABOR Sea Creation products and featuring techniques based on water and movement, the experience has a unique flow that makes you feel like you’re at zero gravity,” said Shane Upson, Director of Spa Operations. The journey begins with a hydrating facial and a sea re-mineralizing massage with seaweed body wrap before moving on to a full-body enzyme exfoliation, lymphatic brushing and cocooning cream wrap. The final touch is a BABOR Sea Creation mani-pedi, where scents of rosemary, eucalyptus, apple and lavender cleanse your aura before you head into the world. Upson has long been a champion of wellness for all. “I’ve always been passionate about self care. And now the world has changed when it comes to wellness; it’s at the forefront of everyone’s mind.” More people are now opting for a day at the spa...but some may find the experience intimidating. “We created the journeys to put people at ease and so guests know what to expect; but, of course, they are free to design their own journey if they prefer,” Upson said. The à la carte menu offers massage modalities such as Swedish, Himalayan salt stone or sports therapy massages. Gemstone crystal masks, LED light treatments, skin rejuvenation and wrinkle reduction treatments are also available. Guests can even visit the salon for tandem treatments like a balayage or hair regeneration paired with a Knesko collagen eye mask or aromatherapy. Serrano Spa also offers cutting-edge technology. “We’re ready with the elevated tools to bring ultimate well-being to guests, from facial microcurrents to lift and tighten skin to Hypervolt Hyperice percussion products used by elite athletes in the NBA and NFL,” said Upson.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 73
To create a top-of-the-line experience, Upson personally interviews each team member. The spa has the best estheticians, hairdressers, nail technicians and massage therapists in the industry because they’re extremely specific about what they want: people who can create a truly memorable few hours for the guests. “Today, guests value experiences over things, which is why we see more groups and couples. They want to share something together,” Upson said. As guests wait for their journeys to begin, they can relax in private booths in the tranquility area, pass under the bubbling waterfalls at the Water Sanctuary or head outdoors. Here they’ll find an oasis of calm with features that take advantage of the
Director of Food and Beverage, has selected healthy
meditations, crystal and sound healing and yoga
Inland Empire’s enchanting and healing dry, desert
yet indulgent snacks like passionfruit, coconut
parties. A tea party and shoppable event is also in
weather. The mountain-facing terrace is a reflective
mixed nuts, caramelized walnuts, Marcona almonds,
the works.
space where guests contemplate the striking view
homemade signature granola and pastries.
“The Spa Boutique offers items you can’t
while sipping a revitalizing tea or cocktail. At the
“Linchul and I have the same background and
poolside terrace – awash in a vivid colorscape of
we both embrace creative, outside-the-box thinking
athleisurewear, swimwear, kimonos and candles,
pinks, greens and blues – music with an electro
with events and menus. We work together to create
the boutique carries upscale skincare lines,
lounge poolside vibe plays while guests gather
delicious, rejuvenating dining options for our spa
gemstone jewelry by Chelsea Bond, Karma and Luck
around a large fire pit or on one of the chaise lounges
guests,” Upson said.
gemstone trees and a crystal water bottle collection
or sofas, and cuddle up in a throw blanket by Matouk. For the complete wellness experience, the fitness
Guests will find tinctured teas, curative juice elixirs, kombucha, collagen tonics, elevated waters
get anywhere else,” Upson said. Along with
from VitaJuwel. In the end, Upson’s goal is to provide extra
center will offer sunrise yoga and tai chi along
– with rarely seen thyme and pineapple infusions –
special touches to welcome guests to the Yaamava’
with a fully outfitted gym. Guests can get long and
and even “Bloody Mary” water, steeped with red and
family. “From elevated, beautiful desserts for
lean with a Pilates reformer class in the movement
green peppers, cilantro and celery.
birthdays and little gifts when someone mentions
studio; push muscles to the limit with the TRX
“We combine health with indulgence,” Upson
they love a specific something. We want to be that
bands; or hit the state-of-the-art Precor ellipticals to
said. “And we have the never-say-no mentality.
family away from home,” Upson explained. He’s
sweat out any toxins. The equipment even connects
Today, one guest wanted only herbal tea while
excited to share the crystal gemstone-inspired spa
to guests’ Fitbits and Apple Watches, so they can
another requested milk and cookies.”
journeys and welcome them into the Serrano Spa
sync their workouts. And for those who want more
Serrano Spa has big plans for 2022. In February,
family, where forging warm, healing connections is
of a challenge while getting valuable feedback on
the spa hosted Season of the Heart, celebrating
paramount. “It’s not just about the massages or the
form, a personal trainer is available by appointment.
both Galentine’s Day and couples with a heart-
Water Sanctuary; it’s about the way we make guests
chakra centered menu. And, in the near future, the
feel. We have such a level of intention and joy that
spa will host holistic healing rituals like full-moon
the guests feel it the second they enter.”
Finishing up the experience is the spa’s refreshment station, where Linchul Shin, Yaamava’s
74 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
SUMMERTIME SWEETS
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Drink
Keeping it simple?
Yaamava’ has partnered with several high-end beverage retailers to bring ready-made cocktails and prosecco in cans exclusively to pool guests.
76 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
The Ultimate
summer escape Drop your cares – and your beach towel – and dive into a sun-drenched day of fun, food and drinks at the pool at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. By Jessica Villano
T
here’s something intoxicating happening at the new pool
For those who want to go all in on the tropical vibe, look no
at Yaamava’. And it’s not just the handcrafted cocktails.
further than the drink menu at the poolside Helix Bar. The
Here glistening pools, swaying palms and vibrant music
inspiration for the bar program came from, of all things,
are all part of the thoughtfully curated luxury vibe.
childhood visits to a local Tiki bar. “I wasn’t drinking of course,
Add the amazing Southern California weather and
but my parents used to go to a restaurant called Bahooka,”
poolside options for food and drinks and you have a multi-faceted
explained Assistant Manager of Food and Beverage Dan Vigil.
escape, either for a snack or a full day lounging by the pool – ice-cold
“It was dark, lots of Polynesian-themed decorations. Walls of
cocktail in hand.
aquariums surrounded the booths and all the drinks were big,
“It's truly an elevated experience. Our goal is to exceed our guests’
strong and made with juice. The whole ambiance was fascinating,
expectations by learning what they’re looking for and creating that
and I thought it was the coolest place. This menu is my homage
for them; some people want high energy; others just want to chill,” said
to that feeling of cool.”
Senior Manager Zachary Carleo. “One of my favorite parts about the
Nods to 1950s California cocktail culture and high-end rum-
pool is the amount of time you get with guests. Instead of an hour and
based libations abound, but there is also so much more. In fact,
a half at dinner, at the pool you might get four or five hours to really
it took months of R & D and lots of refining and editing before
connect with them.”
Vigil debuted his menu of tropical drinks. “I set up a cocktail
Two of the offerings that make Yaamava’s pool such a prime
tasting with my directors, managers and Assistant Manager
destination are bottle service, available to cabana guests, and the
for Beverage Joey Gottesman, a career mixologist from Hawaii.
weekend brunch. “This is a one-of-a-kind program in the area and I’m
So, no pressure,” Vigil laughed. The result was a bar menu that
confident it will be one of best brunch programs in the country,” said
perfectly complements the aesthetics and allure of the pool’s
Linchul Shin, Director of Food and Beverage at Yaamava’. “And the live
beautiful environment. Turn the page to see which drinks passed
entertainment revamps the energy for the entire pool deck, providing
the test.
something new and fresh each week.”
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 77
The glamour of the South Seas – as told through rum, coconut and pineapple – came on the scene in the '30s. By the '50s there was a full-blown culture built around the dreamy idea of the South Pacific. Now Yaamava’ is giving us a modern take on those exotic tropical flavors at the poolside Helix Bar.
Lovers
Full summer flavors fill the glass with this beautiful take on a margarita. Milagro Tequila Blanco and Dekuyper Watermelon Liqueur pack a punch while the hibiscus lime sour and Tajin rim weigh in with the sweet, tart and spicy notes.
Faithful ship
Inspired by Don the Beachcomber’s classic Navy Grog, and originally made with four different rums, this drink is built solely on Don Q Anejo Rum. Lillet Blanc adds crisp floral notes and Falernum layers in flavors of ginger, lime, clove and almond. Fresh grapefruit and lime finish the drink. 78 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
Staycation
There’s no tell-tale neon green here, but Melon Ball lovers, this one’s for you. Midori Liqueur and Tanqueray 10 Gin form the foundation and orange, lime and grenadine are layered in for a rainbow effect. Finally, a splash of bubbles is added for a touch of effervescence.
Purple rain
If the muted ombre look doesn’t capture your heart, the Crème de Mure Blackberry Liqueur and Cazadores Reposado Tequila surely will. Sweet and toasty coconut cream give depth of flavor and tart lime balances it all out.
Frozen 1953 mai tai
The granddaddy of Tiki drinks has a hotly disputed origin story – and a recipe that was kept secret for so long people had to try to reverse engineer it – but Yaamava’s take on the tropical favorite is here. Featuring Don Q Anejo Rum, Bols Orange Curacao and Giffard Orgeat, this version adds pineapple to the original orange and is topped with a Kraken Rum float.
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 79
What’s Next
Take
Center Stage BY MELINDA SHECKELLS
A stellar entertainment experience awaits fans at the Inland Empire’s newest venue at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel.
80 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
S
Standing on the stage at Yaamava’ Theater and looking out into the audience of 2,600, the energy of the fans pulsates. The sound from the state-ofthe-art L’Acoustics K2 sound system blankets the room. LED walls produce dazzling visual effects. This scenario – a sold-out crowd, best-in-class audio and customizable space – ticks the box as a dream scenario for any performer, promoter, theater operator and concertgoer, and it is one that Drew Dixon, Vice President of Entertainment at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel can’t wait
If you are lucky enough to snag a suite ticket,
Bringing this theater to life required assembling
to deliver every night at the Inland Empire’s newest
expect plush seating, a drink always in your hand,
an all-star team: Architects Wimberly, Allison, Tong &
entertainment venue.
private restrooms and phone charging capabilities at
Goo – the firm that created the structural design for
the standing-bar area. Within the suite, find closed
Encore Las Vegas; Klai Juba Wald – interior designers
spring, along with exclusive booking partner Live
circuit televisions, which will also do double duty for
of some of Las Vegas’ top hospitality spaces; and
Nation, expect to see the acts that don’t normally come
game-day viewing parties. Unique to this venue are
Auerbach Pollock Friedlander, which perfected the
60 miles east of L.A. The theater hits a sweet spot as
the open suites, with sightlines almost eye-level to the
theatrical systems design and is known for the SFJazz
there aren’t other competitive venues within radius,
performer. Suite catering also is available.
Center, the KÀ Theater at MGM Grand and many
When Yaamava’ Theater opens its doors this
thus giving a wide-open playing field for booking
“You can pre-order your food selections so when
others.
talent. A mix of legacy acts, current chart toppers,
you arrive, the food’s ready to go – we can even do
comedy headliners, multi-date residency acts,
birthday cakes and other amenities to support your
large dressing rooms and an expansive green room
multicultural programming and even sports viewing
special occasion.”
to cater to the needs of top touring acts. Back of the
parties will grace the stage. “Our goal is to book two to three nights ticketed per
Suite guests enter on the second level and will be escorted directly to their VIP suite by a dedicated VIP
Backstage, the amenities are just as top-notch, with
house, there is a video room with broadcast-quality capabilities.
week, and then additional casino events,” said Dixon. He is anticipating the theater to be populated by tribal citizens, casino guests and others who drive to see the show. “We want to book acts who appeal to our players, but with the quality of what we’re looking to produce in this room, we will definitely get drive-in from L.A.” The theater is the final phase of the luxury resort
We have the functionality to create the optimal experience for each artist.
expansion at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel. At fewer than 3,000 seats, it can still be described as intimate with a selection of nine suites and six distinct seating areas, all of which offer different types of
Representative. There are also expansive bars located
service.
at the entries on each level, allowing fast beverage
in the theater,” said Dixon, who also oversees all
service for guests.
casino entertainment, including five bar and lounge
Enter the venue and arrive at the main bar, then follow a U-shape corridor that moves the audience
The magic doesn’t just happen on the stage; the
“Comedy is definitely something we want to book
locations. This means the place is rockin’ and rollin’
into the theater. On the floor, find retractable,
interiors stand out as well with works from artists
configurable seating that gives artists a standing-
such as Colas Moore, whose “Sound Wave” is on Level
room only pit if desired. “We have the functionality
2. Pieces from Dylan Kelly, Jeff Peters, Raul de la Torre
here every single night,” said Dixon. “And we can’t
to create the optimal experience for each artist,”
and Robin Huber hang in the VIP Suites, as well as
wait for this newest venue to take it to a higher level of
explained Dixon.
green room, dressing rooms and lobbies.
excitement.”
365 days a year with live acts and DJs. “As guests know, there’s entertainment going on
HAMIINAT MAGAZINE | 81
Last Bite
C Make the ut You’ve just unwrapped a beautiful cut of meat. Now it’s time to do it justice. Create the five-star steakhouse experience at home with this simple method from the chef at The Pines at Yaamava’.
N E W YO R K S T R I P L O I N 14 oz. dry-aged New York Strip loin 3 tbsp Maldon salt 1 tbsp fresh-cracked black pepper ¼ c. melted unsalted butter Meat thermometer Mesquite wood for fire Light mesquite wood 45 minutes before you want to cook. Generously season steak on both sides with salt and pepper. When wood is red hot and showing ash on the surface, break up large pieces to create a coal bed. (You should be able to hold your hand over it for 3-4 seconds.) If you’re using a gas grill, set to medium-high heat. Cook steak for 2 minutes, rotate 45 degrees and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Flip and repeat. Continue to rotate steak until it reaches an internal temperature of 115-120 for mediumrare. Rest steak for 5 minutes at room temperature, then brush with butter, sprinkle with salt and serve. * Cooking inside? Preheat a cast iron pan on high heat and add 1 tbsp oil. Sear steak for 3 minutes per side then finish in a 450-degree oven.
82 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
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Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel STAY Yaamava’ Resort Immerse yourself and experience our first-class resort. Where traditional meets modern luxurious comfort, Yaamava’ Hotel warmly welcomes guests who seek a place for the Adventurer, Thrillist, and Night Owl. 833-YAAMAVA (922-6282)
DINING Big Mo’ Café Quick Bites Refuel with quick treats and refreshments at Big Mo’ Café – your 24/7 one-stop destination to satisfy those cravings and get you back to your favorite slots and table games. The desserts and pastries are some of the most popular and photographed items on property! 800-359-2464
Chingon Kitchen Casual Dining Authentic Mexican cuisine served up daily at the original George Lopez’s Chingon Kitchen. Create your ultimate flavor combination from our extensive menu of tacos and taquitos, fresh guacamole, frijoles negros, elote (street corn) and more. 909-864-5050
Grove Express Quick Bites The Grove Express offers fresh meals and light bites without the wait. Enjoy prepared breakfast, lunch or a flavorful entrée daily from 8 am-11 pm. Located next to Serrano Vista Café, the outlet is your go-to for all things convenient. 909-864-5050
Hong Bao Kitchen Fine Dining Asian cuisine with a modern twist. Enjoy specialty dishes such as Shanghai Braised Pork or Kung Pao Chicken from our awardwinning culinary team. Pair with wines, spirits and limited cocktails created by our team of award-winning mixologists, including the crowd favorite: Matcha Matcha Cocktail. 800-359-2464
The Pines Modern Steakhouse Fine Dining Enjoy an extensive menu of premium cuts of meat, including Kobe-certified beef and fresh seafood in the exquisite setting of The Pines Modern Steakhouse, all complemented by locally sourced, organic produce. 909-425-4889
Radiance Café Casual Dining Indulge in poolside classics with a California twist on the terrace at Radiance Café, overlooking the tropically landscaped pool. Also home to the hottest, and most extensive, brunch in the region. Rotating themes, live entertainment and the best ingredients make for a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience. 833-YAAMAVA (922-6282)
84 | HAMIINAT MAGAZINE
Directory
Rock & Brews
Tropical Storm Bar
Casual Dining
Whether you’re craving a Hurricane or a Tropical Storm Mojito, a selection from our drink list is like a relaxing beach vacation without leaving the casino. 800-359-2464
Add a bit of rock ‘n’ roll to your Yaamava’ Resort & Casino experience at Rock & Brews Restaurant. Put together your own “playlist” of rockin’ dishes – from appetizers to juicy hand-crafted burgers all while classic and current hits play in the background. 909-425-4838
Serrano Vista Cafe Casual Dining Serrano Vista Café is a welcoming, casual, yet upscale, setting inspired by the citrus groves of Southern California. Visit for classic American comfort food with a California twist, including healthy options 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 800-359-2464
TuTu’s Food Court Quick Bites TuTu’s Food Court has you covered with a wide variety of eats and desserts available to satisfy any craving. 909-864-5050
BARS & LOUNGES ACES First rule of Blackjack: always split your aces. Luckily, you never have to split time between entertainment and value at Aces, where you’ll find the perfect balance of craft beers and crowd favorites on tap. 800-359-2464
BAR BAR BAR Grab a drink or conversation with our friendly barkeeps at BAR BAR BAR, where you’ll find a bevy of cocktails and ice-cold bottled or on-tap brews in a relaxing setting. 800-359-2464
DEUCES Drop into Deuces for ice-cold drinks, your favorite beers on tap and the best in live sports entertainment on the big screen. 800-359-2464
Helix Bar The premier pool destination for handcrafted cocktails ranging from classic Tiki to modern tropical, all starring hand-squeezed juices, exotic fruits and whimsical twists on poolside classics. 833-YAAMAVA (922-6282)
The Overlook Bar Specialty cocktails and a chance to sample something from the exclusive wine and spirits list Collection 86 make The Overlook Bar a destination fit for royalty. Enjoy a glass of private stock wine or a neat pour of the rarest bourbon while taking in views from the balcony. 800-359-2464
Round Up Bar Serving up a large selection of bottled and on-tap brews and an assortment of refreshing cocktails and mixes daily. 800-359-2464
Tukut Lounge Enjoy bar-top video poker or take a seat as you watch themed nightly entertainment. The recently revamped space near the center of the casino on the first floor includes a stage, state-of-the-art sound system and several HD screens. 800-359-2464
GAMING High Limit Slots and Tables VIP Gaming The High Limit Slots and High Limit Tables gaming rooms are a best-in-class experience for players betting higher denominations. The space includes an array of amenities including the option to order from Collection 86, which boasts the finest wines and spirits in the world. 800-359-2464
Lotus 8 Palace VIP Gaming
RETAIL 1891 Boutique High-end designer brands for both men and women – from sunglasses and handbags to suits and dresses – as well as fine jewelry, including designs by Native American artists. 909-863-5756
Create your own luck and find your Zen in our Lotus 8 Palace gaming room. This space creates an East-meets-West vibe with Asian-inspired décor, slot machines and classic casino table games like EZ Baccarat and Buster Blackjack. 800-359-2464
SoCal’s Best Slots
Level up your audio experience or simply replace a phone charger at Cache & Carry, where you’ll find cutting-edge electronics and accessories from the brands you love. 800-359-2464
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Decadence
Table Games & Progressives
Cache & Carry
Enter a sweet escape when you step into the world of Decadence at Yaamava’. With a large assortment of luxury chocolates and candy, Decadence is your destination for sweet-tooth satisfaction or to find a special gift. 909-864-5050
HIS & HERS Boutique Shops Two high-end shops located next to each other on the first floor of the casino. HIS carries men’s apparel, cigars, luxury lifestyle jewelry, sunglasses, watches and wallets. HERS features home décor, art, high-end fragrances, designer bags and more. 800-359-2464
PUUHIA’T Roadrunner Gift Shop Pick up Yaamava’ Resort & Casino logo wear, official sports gear from our professionalteam partners, snacks, cigarettes, cold beverages and more. 909-863-5755
R&B Authentic Merch Shop Add some rockin’ to your shoppin’ with officially licensed rock merchandise, limited-edition photos and much more. 909-425-4814.
SPA Serrano Spa Enjoy the serenity of Serrano Spa during one of the wellness rituals. Offering signature massage, facials, body treatments and nail and hair services that embody Serrano strength and resilience. Begin your wellness journey at Serrano Spa. 833-YAAMAVA (922-6282)
Enjoy Vegas-style table games 24/7 on both levels of the casino such as Blackjack, EZ Baccarat and Pai Gow. Yaamava’ Resort & Casino also features the most table game progressive jackpots in California. 800-359-2464
The Vault Gaming & Provisions VIP Gaming Enter a world of mystery, intrigue and big jackpots at The Vault Gaming and Provisions, the ultimate high limit gaming room located on the second floor of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino. This exclusive room features close to 190 high limit slot machines, eight table games and a bar brimming with top-shelf spirits. 800-359-2464
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4321 West Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89103 Must be 21 or over to enter. Please gamble responsibly. 1-800-522-4700.
Acting on our beliefs
Building a brighter future for all
For generations, our Tribe has answered to Yawa’—the call to act on one’s beliefs. It’s the reason we donated $300M over the last 20 years and why we continue to partner with communities across California. Because when we work together, we all prosper.
Connect with us at www.sanmanuel-nsn.gov