A Letter from the Publisher

Vol. 1, Issue 42 May 7, 2014

Shekóli. According to the latest available statistics, the In- vation and hardship thanks to restrictions placed on the dian gaming industry in the United States continued to ability of our governments to raise revenue. grow through 2012, with revenues increasing 2 percent from the previous year for a total of more than $28.1 bil- While growth and expansion continues, there is one lion. It was the third straight year of growth since 2009, area where we see undeniable shrinkage. In this week’s when there was a one-percent drop—the only year rev- issue, the article “Fatter Wallets/Skinnier Kids” presents enues ever declined since the Indian Gaming Regula- the findings of a study recently published in the Journal tory Act in 1988 marked the official start of the industry. of the American Medical Association. Researchers from Non-gaming revenue generated by native casinos also various medical schools gathered data on Indian kids increased, up three percent from 2011 and topping out in California, and found a marked decrease in obesity at $3.4 billion collectively. Growth and expansion are at among children whose tribal nations owned a casino. the heart of many articles in this special print edition of Most important, the research indicated that the reduc- This Week From Indian Country Today, published for distribution tion in weight was seen shortly after the casino opened, and was at the National Indian Gaming Association’s Indian Gaming 2014 long-lasting. While the study of body mass index of the children Tradeshow and Convention in San Diego. It carries news of growth of tribal citizens of casino-owning nations doesn’t demonstrate a of casino floors and construction of new hotel spaces; plans for a causal link per se, the investigators surmise that the reason for the grand shopping mall and more recognition for an award-winning drop in obesity can be attributed to growth of economic resources golf course. for the nations and its members. It doesn’t take a scientist to see that rising out of poverty has health benefits, but it is reassuring to If 2013 is any guide, then growth in revenue will mean more native know that, for our children, the positive benefits of leaving poverty philanthropic giving in 2014. Last year, the Shakopee Mdewakan- behind can be immediate and undeniable. ton Sioux Community, which owns and operates the Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, topped the list of Indian nations that generously give NΛ ki� wa, to other nations and their surrounding communities by dispersing $10 million in grants to native causes, governments and foundations. All of these signs point to the decades-old fact that native gaming is a key economic engine and capital-raising mechanism for our nations, which were forced to struggle for years with depri- Ray Halbritter

Table of Contents 2 commentary 12 tradew inds classifieds

3 News 13 web, events, letters 7 Inside A Housing Holdup 15 cartoon, news alerts 9 a Double Victory in Beantown 16 upcoming Pow wows 11 11 week in Photos 17 the big picture

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 2 commentary

A Question of Ownership destroy the collective property powers of tribal nations, were dismal economic fail- ICTMN contributor Duane Champagne lectivities cannot be sold on the market. ures for the tribal nations. The failures considers the argument that Indians For thousands of years, tribal commu- were so devastating that scholars often sug- could have more effectively protected land nities have done quite well within their gest that the primary purpose of allotment under U.S. law if they owned it in fee own property rights systems. But they of- and termination policies was not fostering simple rather than under trust: ten have not done well under American tribal economic development, but rather The difficulty with the argument that private ownership land rights systems. the dismantling of tribal nations and the private property rights would be bet- The most telling historical examples are transfer of Indian land to U.S. citizens. ter for Indians is its assumptions about both the various allotment acts and the Many Indian allotments today are Indian people. Most Indian community termination acts. Under both policies, largely rented out to non-Indian busi- members prefer collective ownership of Indians were compelled to sell collective nessmen and farmers, who economi- land. The land is held collectively, but land, and take land that was distributed cally benefit more than Indian allotment subgroups like families, clans, villages, or as private fee simple, or land that would holders. Indian nations, who have differ- other groupings according to local tradi- eventually turn into fee simple. ent understandings of community, land, tions, are managers and users of specific In general, the allotment acts and termi- spirituality, and future goals, will prob- segments of land. Unlike land in fee sim- nation acts, designed to make the transi- ably do better within their own property ple, the land assignments for tribal col- tion to private property, and to explicitly rights systems. http://bit.ly/QRJXnE 0

Legal Cannabis on the Rez people how to grow cannabis in an envi- ronmentally friendly way. He expressed Biologist and judge Ruth Hopkins (Sisse- of the pot grown in northern California dismay that some people were not ir- ton Wahpeton & Mdewakanton Dakota, leaves the state and is sold elsewhere. I rigating their plants properly, draining Hunkpapa Lakota) recently visited two questioned how so much could be ille- water sources during a drought, and tribal marijuana growers in California gally grown; he mentioned that his tribe illegally disposing of waste. He con- to ask what they thought of legalizing the had no law enforcement. cluded that full legalization was needed plant for medicinal purposes: The next grower I talked to was a throughout the United States to ensure The first individual I spoke with had staunch environmentalist. He was pro- that the process was regulated, and to been growing marijuana for decades. He legalization because he saw regulation as stabilize the market. We also discussed said that as a recovering alcoholic and a way to weed out most negatives associ- how tribes may be able to tax marijuana meth addict, he was kept from relapsing ated with the production and selling of they sell, and how that promotes tribal by smoking marijuana. As a dealer, he cannabis. He was actively lobbying his sovereignty. expressed concern about cannabis legal- tribal council to legalize cannabis so the There’s no mistaking that legaliza- ization. He said that seven years before, tribe could have its own nursery. Besides tion proponents are gaining ground. It’s a pound went for $35,000. Currently, it providing the Tribe with new revenue, time for tribes to have a serious discus- costs around $1,200. The market is flood- which he assured me would be greater sion about where they stand on the issue. ed. For that reason, he explained, much than gaming profits, he sought to teach http://bit.ly/1keoo9m 0

A Torch That Needs Passing economic, and political power the U.S. government touts as the highest good ac- Sara Marie Ortiz, an Acoma Pueblo tween the haves and the have-nots is real. tually is, to Native Nations and all. True writer, scholar, poet, public speaker and “Fancy Indians” abound in my realm. leaders share this knowledge. Native education specialist, bemoans So too do powerful and visionary ones Leaders of the people, in this infinitely the gap between old entrenched Native who know they are. But they don’t wear complex human moment, have their leadership interests who are unwilling to their status like an Armani suit, and they work cut out for them, no doubt. Let surrender their power at the expense of a don’t tout it as scepter or armistice, as none of us rest on our laurels or light too younger, less complacent generation that though they are innocent or righteous. many fires without thinking deeply about is now ready to assume its rightful place: They don’t tout it as though they are truly what our endgame actually is. I see leaders grown fat on the mar- gatekeepers or saviors or the voice of our All of this is really to say, I’m look- row of the dispossessed and unwilling Nations, and they don’t wave it around ing forward to being elders with you all. to admit it, lest they lose their perceived just so they can have something to talk We’ll do the math when we get there, power. And the dispossessed, the poor, about at this gala or that one. yes? Kuutra tsa tse mah sru taie qui yah the uneducated, in the city? They are our True leaders know how finite this hu- (“Your life you are carrying”). http://bit. powerful majority. The great divide be- man moment is, how finite the social, ly/R7vLa2 0

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 3 Indian Country Today

Reparations Comment Sparks Ire After Bill for Indian Tuition Dies By SIMON MOYA SMITH A bill in Colorado that would have provided prospective Open enrollment is over Native American college students with in-state tuition died on April 29 in the Senate Appropriations Committee. but you can still sign up! Hours after the bill was defeated, State Sen. Mary Hodge As an American Indian or Alaska Native you can still sign (D) told ICTMN that the potential cost of the bill was too up for health insurance. Here is what you need to know: great and that there was an issue of “reparations.” “I don’t know how long we can make reparations [to Na- • Members of a federally recognized tribe and tive Americans] or how far we’d have to go back,” she said. Alaska Native shareholders can enroll after the “I guess my point is we can’t fix what we did.” open enrollment period ends. You can enroll House Bill 1124, sponsored by State Rep. Joseph Salazar, anytime and change plans once a month. was designed to provide a Native American of a federally recognized tribe with resident status when applying to a • If you applied for an exemption from the shared responsibility payment, you can still sign up. state-supported institution if the student’s tribe had “his- You are still eligible to apply for the Marketplace, torical ties” to what is now Colorado territory. “Often due Medicaid, or CHIP. to circumstances beyond their control, many American In- dian tribes and members of American Indian tribes have Find out if you and your family qualify for free been forced to relocate across state lines, far from their or low-cost coverage, Medicaid, or CHIP. historical home places,” the bill reads. Contact your local Indian health program, “Those people are already gone,” Hodge said. “At what visit www.healthcare.gov/tribal, or call point do we say ‘We’re sorry’ and move on? And I don’t 1-800-318-2596 (TTY: 1-855-889-4325). know if we’re there yet.” Salazar told ICTMN that he is “absolutely baffled” by Hodge’s comments. “This isn’t reparations,” Salazar said. “This is recognizing that something has to be done in the state of Colorado to encourage Native youth to come here to get a higher education.” But Hodge estimated that the state’s “cash-strapped” col- leges and universities would suffer a loss of upwards of $5.3 million in tuition monies if the bill passed. “I’m looking for money in the couch cushions,” she said. “Five million isn’t a huge hit, but it’s a hit.” http://bit.ly/1hXjhaR 0

Hunting Structure Under Lake Huron Testifies to Ancestors’ Sophistication University of Michigan archaeologists berley Ridge, under 121 feet of water, season for caribou, but the orientation have discovered a complex array of about 35 miles southeast of what is now of this hunting drive shows it would stone lanes and V-shaped structures Alpena, Michigan, on what was once a have only been effective if the animals on an underwater ridge in Lake Hu- dry land corridor connecting northeast were moving in a northwesterly direc- ron, marking the most elaborate hunt- Michigan to southern Ontario. tion, which the release says they would ing structure found to date under the “Constructed on level limestone bed- have done during spring migration Great Lakes. An article detailing the rock, the stone lane is comprised of two from modern-day Ontario. 9,000-year-old caribou driving lane parallel lines of stones leading toward a And the hunting was good. “I’m appeared in Proceedings of the National cul-de-sac formed by the natural cobble imagining seas of animals going Academy of Sciences. pavement,” said Michigan News. “Three through there,” John O’Shea, the Emer- The lane is 26 feet wide, 98 feet long circular hunting blinds are built into the son F. Greenman Professor of Anthro- and ends in a natural cul-de-sac; it also stone lines, with additional stone align- pological Archaeology at the University has hunting blinds—structures meant ments that may have served as blinds of Michigan and lead author of the ar- to conceal hunters—built along it. It and obstructions for corralling caribou.” ticle, told CTV News London. http:// was discovered on the Alpena-Am- Autumn was the preferable hunting bit.ly/1hhvIPv 0

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 4 Indian Country Today

South Dakota Senator Tim Johnson Visits Cheyenne River Not a Youth Project By SUZETTE BREWER Subscriber? The Cheyenne River Youth Project (CRYP) welcomed Sen. Tim Johnson (D-South Da- kota) on April 24 for a tour of its youth organization, which started in an abandoned bar 25 years ago and has grown into a 30,000 square-foot facility that today serves hun- Get your own dreds of families throughout the reservation. This Week From Indian Country Today “Senator Johnson has been a champion for the youth of the Cheyenne River community,” says Julie Garreau, CRYP’s founder and eNewsletter! executive director. “He was instrumental in assisting CRYP in obtaining congressional funding to support the construction of the teen center. He has always supported our efforts in providing services and activities to our kids and we deeply appreciate all of his efforts on behalf of our organization over the y e ar s .” The tour was followed by a luncheon at the new Keya Cafe & Coffee Shop, which CRYP launched in January. The cafe uses locally sourced produce from CRYP’s own Winyan Toka Win (“Leading Lady”) garden. The organic, non-GMO garden is managed by youth interns from the Cheyenne River community during the growing season and Farmer’s Market. Other guests were Elsie Meeks, state director of USDA Development for the State of South Dakota, along with her colleagues, Clark Guthmiller, Christine Sorenson, and other community members. Founded in 1988, the Cheyenne River Youth Project is dedicated to providing the youth of the Cheyenne River reservation with access to a vibrant and secure future through a variety of culturally sensitive and enduring programs, projects and facilities, ensuring strong, self-sufficient families and communities. Today, CRYP provides a wide variety of programs and SUBSCRIBE NOW services to the community, covering nearly 3 million acres in South Dakota. http://bit. ly/1iHBQ2K 0

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 5 Indian Country Today

Fish & Wildlife Service Minneapolis Replaces brother of the late American Indian Awards $5.8 Million for Columbus Day With Movement Activist Russell Means, told Species Preservation Indigenous Peoples Day MPR News. “To say Columbus discov- By the unanimous decision of its mayor ered America is one of the first lies we’re The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and city Council, Minneapolis will now told in public education. It’s only right has allocated $5.8 million to help the recognize Indigenous Peoples Day in- that we begin to document the contri- survival of three animal species. The stead of Columbus Day on the second butions of Indian people to the history money will be distributed to 17 proj- Monday of October. “This act recog- of the state of Minnesota, starting with ects in 15 states and territories through nizes and celebrates the Native people the biggest myth of all: Columbus dis- the Cooperative Recovery Initiative, who still live on this land and will foster covered America. This is just a real... which focuses on the most at-risk spe- stronger relationships moving forward,” recognition of our contributions.” cies living on or near national wildlife Mayor Betsy Hodges told KMSP-TV. “I Minneapolis joins states like Alaska, refuges. The species are the black-foot- am grateful to the community for or- Hawaii, Oregon and South Dakota, ed ferret, the razorback sucker and the ganizing to make this a reality and am which do not celebrate Columbus Day Wyoming toad. honored to sign this resolution, some- at all. In 2002, President Hugo Chavez Under the program, the Colorado– thing I promised last summer I would.” of Venezuela declared October 12 to be Rocky Mountain Arsenal National The idea of Indigenous Peoples Day the Day of Indigenous Resistance, Ni- Wildlife Refuge will receive funding was first proposed in 1977 by a delega- caragua adopted the same a few years for recovery of the black-footed ferret tion of Native nations attending a Unit- later. In 2011, Aymara President Evo (Mustela nigripes). This entails prepared Nations-sponsored International Morales of Bolivia declared the occa- ing the refuge for the reintroduction of Conference on Discrimination Against sion Decolonization Day; in Argentina the ferrets in the future, with the goal Indigenous Populations in the Ameri- it is called Respect for Cultural Diversity of creating a self-sustaining popula- cas, held in Geneva. Day. In Ecuador, the holiday has been tion. Preventing outbreaks of plague in “We had been edited out of existence designated Intercultural Day since 2011. the prairie dog, the ferret’s main prey, in the public school system,” Bill Means, http://bit.ly/1nOvALR is key, since the Wildlife Service said 0 the disease has been known to wipe out entire prairie dog colonies. The refuge is working to eliminate fleas to stop the Foxwoods Catskills on schedule to receive a final envi- spread of the disease and will to moni- Resort Casino To Open ronmental impact statement prior to tor the prairie dog population. Headquarters in Liberty, the Gaming Commission awards as The razorback sucker is another ani- New York required by state law. mal that will benefit from the funds. In On April 23, just a few hours after “Liberty is a prime location for a Colorado and Utah, the Quray Nation- submitting the required $1 million world-class casino and resort,” said al Wildlife Refuge is receiving money application fee to the New York Liberty Town Supervisor Charlie Bar- to help in recovery of the fish species State Gaming Commission for a buti. “The planned development will Xyrauchen texanus by improving nurs- destination resort gaming license, be a much needed economic boost to ery habitat. The project will improve Foxwoods Catskills Resort Casino, the town.” and expand the floodplain wetland LLC announced the opening of The staff at the local office will -coor habitat in Johnson Bottoms on Ouray their new local headquarters in Lib- dinate a petition drive with petitions National Wildlife Refuge in Utah, the erty, New York. located in key locations in Liberty, USFWS said. The team also launched its local where local residents can express sup- Finally, the Wyoming toad, which “We Support Foxwoods” initiative port for the project. The local office the Wildlife Service once classified as to solicit letters of recommendation will serve as the base of operations for “extinct in the wild,” will receive some from officials, and petition signatures Foxwoods Resort Casino, Muss De- help from funding being awarded to from residents endorsing the proj- velopment, the architects, construc- the Wyoming–Saratoga National Fish ect. In addition to the $1 million fee, tion team and consultants working Hatchery. The grants will go toward demonstrating support is a necessary on the project, and will also be able managing vegetation, treating fungal part of the Request for Applications to provide local residents and visitors infections in wild toads and take oth- process. with information about the project er measures to promote survivorship. Foxwoods Catskills Resort Casino and serve as a point of contact. The The long-term goal is to make several is expected to present a draft envi- more than 100-year-old Muss Devel- self-sustaining populations of the toad ronmental impact statement to the opment is the largest development take, the Wildlife Service said. http://bit. state planning board before the end company in New York City’s five bor- ly/1rxYiAX 0 of May, which will keep the project oughs. http://bit.ly/1j9ZNV1 0

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 6 Indian Country Today

Groundbreaking will ambassador for a year. the Northwest to assist in the Fallen Law On New Cherokee She succeeds Kansas Begaye extraction of tar-like bitumen Enforcement Venue from Waterflow, New Mexico. from the Albert oil sands of Officers Honored Will replace existing Megan Leary, 23, of Napai- Canada. The magazine’s March Poignant ceremony Oklahoma facility mute, Alaska, was named first 18 online story “Another Oil- in New Mexico runner-up and Danielle Ta’ Sand Challenge: Transport- Tribal and city officials of the Sheena Finn, 23, of Bismarck, ing Equipment” discusses The 23rd Annual Indian Coun- greater Sequoyah County, North Dakota, was named the struggle of the Nez Perce try Law Enforcement Officers Oklahoma region gathered second runner-up. http:// bit. Reservation, “which had been Memorial Service took place on on April 29 to break ground ly/1kmph1c 0 sitting on the legal sidelines” May 1 at the Bureau of Indian on the new Cherokee Casino as the battle unfolded along Police Academy in Artesia, New Roland to replace the existing Sherman Alexie scenic Highway 12 as loads Mexico to honor officers who facility. The upgraded gaming Book Gets Idaho grew from “logging trucks, to have given their lives in the line destination will offer an addi- Reprieve freight haulers, then hazardous of duty. Two officers were added tional 100 jobs. The nearly $80 Grassroots movement materials,’” Nez Perce Tribal this year. They are Alaska State million gaming facility will also restores volume Council Silas Whitman said. Trooper and Village Public Safety feature more entertainment As the article recounts, the Officer Thomas O. Madole, who options and amenities, as well The 2007 National Book Nez Perce began blocking the succumbed on March 19, 2013, a six-story, resort-style hotel. Award-winning volume The highway in August. http://bit. to bullet wounds while handling The new 170,000-square-foot Absolutely True Diary of a ly/1hTLVhx 0 an altercation in the community facility will offer 850 electronic Part-Time Indian, by noted of Manokotak; and Sgt. Robert games, table games and a pri- Native author Sherman Alex- Grant For ‘Talking W. Baron, of the Sandoval Coun- vate High Limit poker room. ie, which was recently taken Circle’ Treatment ty, New Mexico, Sheriff’s Office, Guests can choose from two off the reading list of Moun- Emphasis on drug who on December 6, 2013 suc- dining options, a grab-and-go tain View High School in Me- abuse prevention cumbed to injuries sustained the café and Las Vegas-style buffet. ridian, Idaho, has been given a previous day after being struck by Along with the expanded gam- new lease on life. Some Merid- Florida Atlantic Univeristy a vehicle on Interstate 25 near the ing options, guests can enjoy a ian parents had challenged the Professor John Lowe, Chero- Pueblo of San Felipe. http://bit. cocktail and live music at the book’s use of language discus- kee, was recently awarded a ly/1miiMAF 0 entertainment venue. The new sion of sexuality and ostensi- $2.9 million grant, funded hotel will feature 120 rooms, bly anti-Christian viewpoint. by the National Institutes of ‘Chief Red Wing along with convention space But students at the University Health, to conduct and evalu- Day’ In Minnesota to host conferences, special of Washington raised money ate an after-school substance A rebuke to events, weddings and trade through GoFundMe.com to abuse prevention interven- Columbus Day shows. http://bit.ly/1iIsYPE 0 purchase 350 copies of the tion. Lowe’s “Intertribal Talk- book, which were distributed ing Circle for the Prevention The city council of Red Wing, Taylor Thomas Is for free to Meridian students of Substance Abuse in Native Minnesota voted celebrate Chief Miss Indian World on World Book Night, April Youth” is a five-year research Red Wing Day instead of Colum- Crowned at 23. Alexie’s publisher, Little, project targeting sixth grade bus Day on the second Monday Gathering of Nations Brown, has donated another Native American youth in in October, in a vote taken on 350 copies to the effort.http:// three tribal communities: April 28. Even though the move Taylor Thomas, 21, was bit.ly/1hebA0x 0 the Ojibwe/Chippewa in to celebrate Chief Red Wing to crowned Miss Indian World Minnesota; the Choctaw in promote education about the on April 26 at the 31st Annual New Yorker Oklahoma; and the Lumbee area’s earliest inhabitants is a Gathering of Nations pow Magazine Chronicles in North Carolina. The goal symbolic one, since the city does wow at the University of New Mega-Loads is to evaluate the use of the not have the authority to change a Mexico in Albuquerque. The Draws attention to Talking Circle to increase Na- federal holiday, advocates believe Idaho State University student ongoing concern tive American youth cultural it is an important one. “There is a member of the Shoshone identity while decreasing are a lot of things we do that are Bannock tribe, and was cho- The New Yorker magazine substance use. The study also symbolic,” Council president Lisa sen out of 23 Native American recently spotlighted the at- will train tribal personnel Bayley told TwinCities.com. “And women who competed in trib- tempts of Native communities throughout the three regions we do it because symbols matter.” al knowledge, dancing ability, and local activists to head off on how to implement the Red Wing is named after a chief public speaking and person- so-called mega-loads—those Talking Circle intervention as who was called Hupahuduta, ality assessment. Thomas will monolithic hunks of equip- a more permanent program. which means “a swan’s wing dyed also serve as a cultural good- ment being trucked across http://bit.ly/1hf2qRt 0 in red.” http://bit.ly/1fJUHjc 0

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 7 Indian Country Today Inside A Housing Holdup

Delays dog a widely popular act by rob capriccioso

Bottom Line: Reauthorization of the Committee, Jon Tester (D-Montana), tive Americans in Congress. Days later, Native American Housing Assistance and supports Cantwell’s legislation, and he Pearce introduced his legislation with Self Determination Act (NAHASDA)— has vowed to strengthen it if the op- Cole as a co-sponsor. a bipartisan piece of legislation that is portunity arises. As it stands, the bill is Young’s office says his bill is not meant widely popular with tribes and legisla- widely expected to be able to pass the to compete with Pearce’s. “Congressman tors—was supposed to pass Congress last upper chamber by unanimous consent, Young’s bipartisan bill is part of an over- year. And then it didn’t. as it did when last reauthorized in 2008. arching, coordinated strategy to navigate Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D- the complicated political dynamic sur- “You don’t know how many times I Nevada) has not said when he plans to rounding the NAHASDA reauthoriza- stood in front of hundreds of people move the bill. tion process and secure final passage saying we were getting close to hav- of legislation down the road,” said ing a bill introduced in the House,” Young spokesman Matt Shuckerow. said Shawn Pensoneau, a govern- “Congressman Young believes his mental affairs specialist with the bill, part of a dual approach along- National American Indian Hous- side Congressman Pearce’s bill, pro- ing Council (NAIHC), in regard to vides the necessary legislative tools the reauthorization of the Native for achieving the overall goal of NA- American Housing Assistance and HASDA reauthorization.” Self Determination Act. “I said that For the most part the Pearce/ month after month, based on what Young bills are the same. But Young’s our congressional contacts were tell- advances previous congressional ing us—but at a point I kind of got authorization for Native Hawaiian embarrassed. I just couldn’t say it housing programs. These provisions any m ore .” concern Pearce, according to sources The law, first passed by Congress Rep. Don Young R-Alaska; Rep. Steve Pearce R-NM familiar with his deliberation on this in 1996, provides nearly $700 mil- matter, because he thinks they can- lion per year in discretionary formula In comparison, there have been more not ultimately make it through the House block grants to eligible tribal housing au- complications and debate on the House Financial Services Committee, which thorities for the building and maintaining side—although, ironically, the two pieces oversees the Department of Housing of reservation houses. It officially expired of legislation now being seriously consid- and Urban Development (HUD). Still, September 30. But Congress, realizing its ered in the lower chamber are perceived money would not be taken away from utility to American Indian citizens, con- by tribal housing advocates as somewhat tribes in the lower 48 states or in Alaska tinued funding it while reauthorization stronger for tribes than Cantwell’s offering. under Young’s Native Hawaiian plan if it talks have slowly proceeded. “Maybe the wait has been worth it,” were to become law. And it could still be said Pensoneau, who takes pride in the authorized separately if it could not pass What’s the Hold Up? number of calls, meetings, and strategy muster from within his bill. Key legislators on Capitol Hill, including sessions his organization has led on this Pearce’s bill also includes support for a former chair of the Senate Committee issue. “But it has been frustrating.” Department of Defense-inspired demon- on Indian Affairs Maria Cantwell (D- stration project, which would help tribes Washington), gave their blessings later A House Divided have greater ability to partner with pri- into 2013 than tribal advocates would One House division was on display in vate industry on housing matters. “It’s have liked, with Cantwell getting her bill early March when Steve Pearce (R-New aimed at getting private investment into passed through her own committee in Mexico) floated a draft reauthorization tribal communities using housing as the December, nearly three months after the bill only to be followed days later by the tool,” said Paul Moorehead, an Indian law had already expired. The Senate Bank- introduction of a NAHASDA bill by Rep. affairs lawyer with Powers Pyles Sutter ing Committee could have then asked for Don Young (R-Alaska), chairman of the & Vervill who represents NAIHC, at a oversight, given its jurisdiction over this Subcommittee on Indian and Alaska February meeting of the organization re- matter. But the time for the committee to Native Affairs. Young’s bill included bi- garding a draft of the provision he had ges (2) do so expired in mid-March. partisan support and a nod from Rep. seen by that time.

The new chair of the Indian Affairs Tom Cole (R-Oklahoma), one of two Na- Young’s bill, meanwhile, includes lan- AP Im a

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 8 Indian Country Today guage related to tribally determined “If it was so easy to spend that much, draw down its money, and HUD officials wages for work on all NAHASDA-related as some people think, then it would have had been seeking authorization from projects and access to a drug elimination been done a long time ago,” Aneva Yazzie, Congress to take back unexpended Na- program, which were not included in CEO of the Navajo Housing Authority, vajo funds after three years. Pearce’s legislation. was quoted as saying in a recent newslet- Henriquez, according to sources famil- In contrast to Cantwell’s bill, both ter issued by the organization. “It’s diffi- iar with the meeting, asked what HUD House bills allow tribes to have greater cult because we have to go through layers could be doing better to help the tribe control over their housing block grants in of bureaucracy and approvals, all the way to spend its money. Shelly, according to some respects, and they both streamline down to inspections, land withdraw- sources, was displeased with the ques- for tribes the federal government’s en- als, environmental clearances, and then tion, and he made his displeasure ver- vironmental review standards involving comply with the meticulous procure- bally known to Henriquez, who, in turn, NAHASDA. These provisions have been ment process. Our sheer size in program responded by yelling at him. fervently supported by NAIHC, but fed- implementation is makes housing chal- HUD officials have not responded for eral agencies have expressed some mis- lenges unique to Navajo.” requests for comment on the encounter. givings toward relinquishing their power. Yazzie told Indian Country Today Me- But one person who attended the meeting dia Network that it is “not fair or just” for said it was “one of the most uncomfort- The Hidden Division the federal government to be so focused able situations” they had ever seen hap- Notably, a major division in House think- on Navajo’s unexpended funds. “It is pen between a tribal and federal official. ing on reauthorization has not been in- well known and seen throughout Native After the meeting, the Navajo Nation is- cluded in the Young/Pearce bills to date. American communities that a lack of ad- sued more press releases indicating they But legislative staffers say they still expect equate housing exists and development have a new plan to spend more of the the issue to be addressed as the bill pro- takes longer on Indian reservations than unused funds, but HUD has since ques- gresses, perhaps via an amendment. off reservations,” she said, pointing to tioned about $60 million in spending Some House members, including Jeb HUD and GAO findings that back up her under the tribe’s plan, saying it does not Hensarling (R-Texas), chairman of Fi- claim. There has also been turmoil within conform to the law. nancial Services Committee, strongly the Navajo Housing Authority regarding As a result of the confrontational Nava- believe that any reauthorization should staffing issues, which has been dealt with, jo-HUD meeting, legislative staffers and address what they see as a current prob- according to statements from the tribe. tribal housing advocates say they would lem under NAHASDA—that a relatively Not wanting to single out one tribe, Fi- not be surprised to see a legislator insert small number of tribes have been able to nancial Services Committee staffers came language regarding unexpended housing carry over a large amount of unexpended up with a plan last year that would allow funds into one of the pending House bills funds year-to-year granted to them un- Congress to put limits on the amounts of as the legislative process progresses. der the law unexpended funds for all tribes and that Yazzie cautioned that such a maneuver The Navajo Nation has received special would require past unexpended funds to could be bad for everyone. “Congressio- attention from both Congress and from be returned to the federal government. nal action to address unexpended funds the Obama administration because as of Tribal advocates did not like that plan, may have unintended consequences that July 2013 it had carried over nearly $500 because they feared it could harm In- will negatively impact all tribes, includ- million in unexpended NAHASDA funds dian country as a whole in unforeseen ing those who do not have unexpended dating from as far back as 1998, accord- ways in the future. “We had to work with funds,” she said. ing to a March 2014 Government Ac- Mr. Pearce and other members of the countability Office (GAO) report. There committee to tone back that language,” Wait And See are other tribes with long-term unex- Pensoneau said. “We are happy with the Despite that possibility, there are now pended funds, but none nearly as large current language.” three strong, real bills on the table, which as the Navajos’. is a whole lot more than Pensoneau had The tribe counters that it receives a A Growing Conflict last year when he was telling tribal hous- substantial amount of money under the While Pearce and Young did not include ing officials that they were close. He and program because it has many citizens any language in their bills focusing on tribal housing advocates nationwide with great housing needs, and it has unexpended funds—nor did Cantwell— eagerly await a hearing to be scheduled blamed HUD for the tribe’s inability to the issue has not gone away. Rather, it before the Financial Services Committee. more quickly spend the money. Navajo came to a head during a February meet- “It’s hard to estimate when it will all get leaders have also highlighted a multi-year ing between Navajo Nation President passed,” Pensoneau says. “I am confident, spend-down plan, while noting the tribe’s Ben Shelly and HUD’s Assistant Secretary though, that all our hard work will pay off unique infrastructure needs to federal of- for Public and Indian Housing Sandra by the end of the year.” ficials. They have hired Mellor Willie, for- Brooks Henriquez. Before the meeting, If it does not, the work would have to mer executive director of NAIHC, to help the Navajo Nation issued a press release begin all over again in the new Congress address this issue. blaming HUD for the tribe’s inability to in 2015. http://bit.ly/1m1r4bx 0

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 9 Indian Country Today A Double Victory in Beantown The story of the Narragansett Indian who won the Boston Marathon—twice by john christian hopkins Bottom Line: April’s running of the Bos- exceptional mason, and many of his works pic marathoner. Tarzan finished 13th in ton Marathon, a year after its devastating still stand today. In 1931, 16-year-old Tar- the 1935 marathon, running barefoot. It bombing, offers the author an occasion to zan returned, and Salimeno took the boy wasn’t a gimmick; Tarzan was often short revisit the long-ago twin triumphs of his to The Arctic, an area around Warwick, of money and couldn’t afford shoes. My late great-uncle, the quixotic Ellison “Tar- R.I., where Tarzan handily topped the field mother, Tarzan’s niece, once told me of ar- zan” Brown, in that legendary race. in his first race, a 10-mile event. riving in Boston to cheer Tarzan on, only Tarzan entered the arena at a time to discover he had no shoes. She bought I knew my Great-Uncle Tarzan—or him a pair before the race started. thought I did. We were used to most In 1936, Tarzan would take his adults ignoring us, unless we got too place in the pantheon of Boston Mar- loud or rambunctious. But Uncle athon legends. The race started out Tarzan always had time for the kids. innocently enough. The official press He told jokes and tall tales, he paid car, as usual, followed a group of run- attention to us. Then, on an August ners thought to be leading the pack. day of 1975, I looked around at all At the five-mile checkpoint an offi- the people who had come to his fu- cial timer asked the media represen- neral. Even the governor had come. I tatives what they were doing. When listened to the stories people told, and they told him they were following the I was amazed to realize that I had not leaders, the timekeeper was shocked: known Uncle Tarzan, at all. “That Indian from Rhode Island went Uncle Tarzan, of the Narragansett through here five minutes ago!” Tribe, was one of only two Native Americans to win the Boston Mara- The Legend of thon—and he was the only one to Heartbreak Hill have done so twice. Ellison ‘Tarzan’ Brown crosses the finish line in the 43rd He ran “like a bat out of hell,” for- He was born Ellison Myers Brown Boston Marathon in downtown Boston, Massachusetts, mer Boston Globe sports editor Jer- on Sept. 12, 1913, the fifth of eight on April 19, 1939. Brown finished the 26 miles, 385 ry Nason said. The press car sped children. His Narragansett name was yards in 2 hours, 28 minutes and 51.8 seconds, breaking up and caught the Indian, and for Deerfoot, and he lived up to it at an the marathon world record. It was the second of his two 21 miles he burned up the course marathon victories. early age. One day in 1926 another record. But then he slowed his pace. noted Narragansett runner, Horatio Tarzan’s unorthodox racing style “Bunk” Stanton, was doing his training, when foot racing was one of the more was to run as fast as he could, for as long running from Westerly to a ball field in popular sports in America. My aunt said as he could. The wild style would cause Shannock, some 20 miles distant. Arriving that Tarzan—her uncle—got his famous the local press to dub him “Chief Crazy there, Stanton told his manager, Thomas nickname from his Johnny Weissmuller Horse.” Tarzan did not pace himself, “Tippy” Salimeno, about “some young imitation and from leaping from tree to saying later in life that his career ended kid” who had followed him all the way. tree faster than most people could run. In before he ever knew how to run a race or About 10 minutes later a 12-year-old boy 1933, Tarzan was finally ready to test his even train properly. He dreamed about jogged onto the ball field. He told Salime- skills against the best long distance run- his races before they were run and in his no his name was Ellison Brown. Salimeno ners in the world by entering his first Bos- dreams he always lost. That spurred him told Brown to come back when he was 16, ton Marathon. to run harder. and he’d manage his career. Begun in 1897, the Boston Marathon He had built up a huge lead in 1936 and Tarzan dropped out of school to learn is the oldest continuously run marathon then slowed, jogging along head down. ges stone masonry beside his father. Tarzan, in the world, and was often used as an He might have lost the race except for an like many Narragansett men, became an elimination race to select the U.S. Olym- ill-advised display of sportsmanship that AP I ma

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 10 Indian Country Today turned the race into legend—and gave a Return to Rhode Island second Boston Marathon, becoming the name to the most treacherous hill along Tarzan returned to Rhode Island after the first person to complete the longer course the course. With his own furious run, de- 1936 Olympics. The reckless champion, in under two and a half hours. And he fending marathon champ Johnny A. Kel- used to adulation, found himself the ob- won a spot on the 1940 Olympics, to be ley caught up with Tarzan at the foot of the ject of scorn. Critics emerged everywhere, held in Amsterdam. This was probably the hills that had defeated many a runner. Na- disappointed that Tarzan had given up year that Providence Journal writers had son said that as he passed Tarzan, Kelley and quit the biggest race of his life. Tarzan in mind when the headline of his eulogy reached him and patted him on the butt rebutted them by winning two full-length stated, “Forty years ago he was, perhaps, “as if to say ‘nice run, pal’.” marathons on consecutive days later that the greatest long distance runner in the Tarzan’s head came up. He had no idea year. First he won the New York Cham- w or l d .” anyone else was near him. The Indian lit pionship at Port Chester. Then he hitch- out “as if someone had stuck a pin in his hiked through the night to Manchester, The Race No Man Can Win ass,” according to Nason. That hill was New Hampshire, where he arrived just Tarzan was looking forward to redeem- christened Heartbreak Hill. before race time. There he drank orange ing himself in the 1940 Olympics. But the The original Boston Marathon, called soda pop for breakfast and then went out contests were cancelled because of World the “short course,” was 24 ½ miles, but and won. War II. His career was winding down now, the distance had been increased to its cur- Everyone was praising Tarzan now, as Tarzan’s dash through life was slowly rent 26 miles, 385 yards in 1926. Tarzan from seven-time Boston Marathon win- losing its lead to Father Time’s unrelent- became the youngest to win the longer ner Clarence DeMar to Olympic cham- ing pace. But his legend was established. distance. pion Paavo Nurmi. Now that he had shut With his racing career over, life became his critics up, Tarzan decided to retire. It a struggle for Tarzan. He lost his house Tarzan and The Fuhrer was only shortly before the 1937 Boston in Westerly and moved to King’s Factory With his surprising victory in Boston, race that he changed his mind. He showed Road, in Charlestown, where his shack Tarzan Brown earned a spot on the 1936 up without any preparation and finished was constructed by nailing boards up to U.S. Olympic team. He was going to Ber- 37th. In 1938, he didn’t even finish. About four trees he found in a square. His family lin, where Adolf Hitler hoped to prove halfway through the race the press car was bathed in a nearby brook, at a spot Tar- the superiority of the Aryan race. But watching the four leaders running close zan had widened by hand. There was no Tarzan’s gold was taken away before he together. “They were looking good, Tarzan electricity. He took on odd jobs to provide could earn it. looked the best,” Nason said. Suddenly, for his family—woodcutter, coal deliverer, What happened? One story says that unpredictable as ever, Tarzan veered from stonemason and handyman. on the ship to Berlin he was imitating the the course and leaped off a bridge into the When he was running, people couldn’t awkward style of the British long distance lake below. do enough for him, he complained. But af- walkers and pulled a muscle. Another Then, in 1939, Tarzan began to take ter he stopped he couldn’t even get a hair- claimed that Tarzan had taken a hot bath running seriously again. The year began cut in Westerly, Tarzan lamented. People before the race, thinking it would help in Cranston, Rhode Island, when, in a 10- would pay a “tree expert” $75 to remove him relax, and it tired him more quickly. mile race, Tarzan’s time of 50:15 equaled a tree from their yard, but Tarzan said he Jerry Nason believed Tarzan was bothered the record set by Nurmi. It was only the was lucky if they’d pay him $20. “I won by a hernia. My father told me that Tar- beginning. Tarzan broke the record for the 1,000 trophies, but sooner or later they all zan told him years later that he had gotten Syracuse (New York) Marathon and won turn black,” he said. He sold or given away into a fight with “some of Hitler’s brown- both the 15- and 20-kilometer National most of his trophies over the years. shirts” and was thrown in jail, where he Championships. Tarzan competed in 25 His last race took place in 1954. A was warned he had better not win the races in 1939, having the best time in 20 young sailor doubted the old man’s story marathon. of them. Only three times did he fail to about once being a great runner and bet Most of the reports about various in- crack the top 10. five dollars he could beat Tarzan. After juries lose luster when the race itself is Then came the 1939 Boston Marathon. years of winning trophies and laurels, Tar- considered. Tarzan—in his typical style— It was a chilly April day, with constant zan took home five dollars in his last race. burst out in front, leading the Olympic drizzle. But the only thunder was in the He ran it in old work boots. field for the first 13 miles. At 18 miles he stride of Tarzan Brown. Unlike 1936, In 1975, Tarzan was at The Wreck bar slowed but was still a close second. Then when he burst out at full speed, Tar- in Misquamicut, Rhode Island, with some he sat on the grass to catch his breath zan paced himself, running evenly and other Narragansett tribal members. Some when a spectator approached him to see smoothly. This time there was no drama of the Indians got into an argument with if he was all right. At that point one of the on Heartbreak Hill. “I just set a pace to- a 26-year-old Connecticut man. In the official’s cars came by and immediately day that would carry me along faster than parking lot the man jumped in his van disqualified Tarzan for receiving aid. I figured anyone else could run that dis- and sped off, running over Tarzan Brown. “I know in my heart I could have won tance,” Tarzan explained. The race was over. http://bit. that race,” Tarzan said later. With a time of 2:28:51 Tarzan won his ly/1rQ3H8o 0

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 11 Indian Country Today

Taylor Thomas, Shoshone Bannock, was crowned Miss Indian World at The black-footed ferret is one of several species now protected by funds the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow on April 26. allocated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. S ) mkun ( US FW a mkun mberly T ges (2); Fl i ckr/ Ki mberly Frank Waln, a rising force in Native American hip-hop, helped conclude Navajo golfing legend, philanthropist, health advocate and sports com-

the Earth Day protests in Washington, D.C. on April 26. mentator Notah Begay III is recovering from a recent heart attack. AP Im a

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 12 Indian Country Today tradewinds classifieds 12

U.H.O. MANAGEMENT AS AGENT FOR 1712 & 1715 H.D.F.C., INC., Riverdale Osborne Towers, 1690 LONGFELLOW AVE., BRONX, NY 10460, ANNOUNCES IT IS a 525 unit building which includes NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR A WAIT LIST FOR unites designated for the disabled, ONE (1), TWO (2) AND THREE (3) BEDROOM APARTMENTS. located at 420 Watkins Street., APPLICANTS WILL BE REQUIRED TO MEET INCOME Brooklyn, NY 11212, is available for AND ADDITIONAL SELECTION CRITERIA. SINGLE & LOOKING? renting to those with limited income. APPLICATIONS MUST BE REQUESTED BY MAIL ONLY FROM: TRY DATECATCHER Qualifications will be based on the U.H.O. MANAGEMENT HUD Section 8 income guidelines. GENERAL POST OFFICE Articles, advice and Request an application by phone, by P.O. BOX 8177 NEW YORK, NY 10116 services partnered writing or in person during office hours at: PLEASE INCLUDE A SELF-ADDRESSED STAMP ENVELOPE WITH YOUR REQUEST. with and powered by Riverdale Osborne Towers COMPLETED APPLICATIONS MUST BE RETURNED BY REGULAR MAIL ONLY TO A Management Office DIFFERENT POST OFFICE BOX NUMBER THAT WILL BE LISTED ON THE 420 Watkins Street APPLICATION AND MUST BE POSTMARKED BY: Brooklyn NY 11212 JUNE 06, 2014 (718) 346-4500 SECTION 8 RENT BASED ON ANNUAL INCOME NOT TO EXCEED: Office hours are Monday thru 1 PERSON $47,000 Friday 9AM to 5PM. 2 PERSON $53,700 Completed applications must be sent 3 PERSON $60,400 by regular mail, not registered or 4 PERSON $67,100 certified mail. 5 PERSON $72,500 The deadline date to submit an application 6 PERSON $77,850 is May 9, 2014, any applications received 7 PERSON $83,250 after the deadline date will not be processed until all applications received by 8 PERSON $88,600 Visit the deadline are processed. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com/ datecatcher

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 13 Indian Country Today Headlines from the Web MORE OFFERS MADE TO INDIAN TRIBES’ NEW NEGOTIATING DEPARTING SWAIA STAFFERS LAUNCH MAKAH LANDOWNERS IN POWER COSTS UTILITIES NEW MARKET FOR NATIVE ARTISTS PROPERTY BUYBACK PLAN http://on.wsj.com/1pPHWIe http://bit.ly/1kiP47v http://bit.ly/PRDU1m TRIBAL TAKEOVER: CAYUGA UNITY SENECA GAMING EXECUTIVE SAYS GOVERNOR’S DAUGHTER COUNCIL MOVES AGAINST HALFTOWN $1.7 MILLION MARKETING TARGET OUTRAGES NATIVE AMERICANS http://bit.ly/1ftZtl7 FOR BUFFALO CASINO WILL BE MET WITH PERFORMANCE http://bit.ly/R4kk2R http://bit.ly/1u5Ld5O

Upcoming Events for all federal and tribal contract and grant personnel who are directly or in- Fathers: Keep Families Location: American Indian College, directly responsible for the design, op- Together May 8 Phoenix, Arizona eration and management of programs This is the third of four regional semi- that are contractible under Public Law nars sponsored by the Native American Annual Medicine Ways 93-638 (the Indian Self-Determination Fatherhood & Families Association and Conference May 10 and Education Assistance Act of 1975), designed to encourage and promote re- The theme of this year’s conference, as amended. The webinar is being con- sponsible fatherhood and the strengthen- “Transformation of Native Women: Con- ducted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs ing of families. Among the seminar topics tinuing Tradition in the Modern World,” Division of Self-Determination Services. are “Fatherhood is Sacred,” “Strengthen- expects to present broad yet specific his- Contact: Central Office West, (505) 414- ing Relationships,” “Addressing Fam- tories and accounts of Native women in 0272 ily Violence” and “Grandparents Raising the U.S. and create further interest and Grandchildren”. inspiration for unearthing the roles of National Indian Gaming Location: Sheraton at the Falls, Niagara women in home communities and how Association Tradeshow and Falls, New York they have and have continued to change. Convention May 11-14 The conference has been hosted for over The Indian gaming industry’s premier Native Women’s three decades by the Native American annual event will feature workshops, Conference May 8-10 Student Association and Native Ameri- certifications among various levels, re- “Redeemed!” is the theme of the 12th an- can Student Programs at the University gional caucuses, a chairman’s leadership nual conference sponsored by the Native of California-Riverside. Admission is free award luncheon, the Wendell Chino American Fellowship of the Assemblies and open to the public. Humanitarian Award, Native American of God, which includes sessions devoted Location: University of California-River- arts and crafts booths, and the opportu- to “A Biblical View on Human Traffick- side, Riverside, California nity to participate in one of three Na- ing,” “Celebration of Redemption,” “Liv- tional Indian Gaming Association golf ing a Redeemed Life,” “God’s Rest in Public Law 93-638 tournaments. Redemption,” “A Redemptive Miracle,” Training May 13-14 Location: San Diego Convention Center, and “Celebrate Me & Scrapbooking.” This two-day webinar is recommended San Diego, California letters to the editor legedly keeps the skull, elbow bone, The news about stolen Tlinglit objects Re your article about the recent Yale and silver stirrups and bridle of Geron- that remain in the Peabody Natural University conference devoted to the imo—robbed from his grave in 1918 History Museum at Yale University repatriation of ransacked Tlingit objects by Prescott Bush (father of President saddens my heart. These are sacred ob- currently in possession of the universi- George H.W. Bush and grandfather of jects to me, because of the hands that ty’s Peabody Natural History Museum President George W. Bush)—hidden in made them. From them we can learn (April 26): their headquarters (“The Tomb”). and teach respect to others. But they I find it ironic that this panel would — Mark Adkins are stolen—and what does that teach? convene on the campus of Yale, where Greenwood, Mississippi — Ronna Sommers the secret society Skull and Bones al- Fordland, Missouri Let us know what you think. To have your letter to the editor considered for publication, please email us at [email protected]

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 14 Indian Country Today tradewinds classifieds 14

Omaha Nation Public Schools in Macy, NE is seeking applications from qualified candidates with Nebraska Teaching Certification for the following positions: 1) Head Start Teacher, must have Early Childhood endorsement 2) Secondary Industrial Technology, grades 7-12 3) K-12 Assistant Principal/Instructional Coach, must know APL STANDING ROCK/FORT YATES COMMUNITY SCHOOL 4) Possible 5th grade teacher 2014/2015 SCHOOL YEAR Omaha Nation is a Nebraska public school district of Job Announcements 385 K-12 students 30 miles south of South Sioux The Standing Rock Community School and the Fort Yates Public School City. We have a very competitive salary schedule District #4 operate under a Joint Powers Agreement between the Fort and great benefits. Our school is making gains with Yates Public School District #4 and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. school improvement and we seek dynamic people (Elementary K-5, Middle School 5-8, and High School 9-12) who want to help move our school system forward. Standing Rock Fort Yates Public Contact Superintendent Tom Carlstrom with letter of Community School School Dist. #4 application, resume and credentials at: ELEMENTARY MIDDLE SCHOOL [email protected] or mail to Omaha Nation Public Kindergarten Teacher Science Teacher Schools, PO Box 280, Macy, NE 68039 Elementary Teacher Reading Coach Computer Teacher Guidance Counselor Paraprofessional HIGH SCHOOL English Teacher Not a Subscriber? Business Teacher Math Teacher Get your own Science Teacher Reading Intervention Teacher This Week From Indian Country Today Librarian Woods Instructor eNewsletter! OTHER Campus Computer Technician Head Cook

OPENING DATE: April 25, 2014 CLOSING DATE: Until Filled Request Applications at: Standing Rock/Fort Yates Community School 9189 Hwy 24 Fort Yates, North Dakota 58538 Or call Katherine Bailey at 701-854-2142 Email Address: [email protected] Visit our website: www.fort-yates.k12.nd.us All persons selected for employment must submit to a background check and drug testing. SUBSCRIBE NOW We are an equal opportunity employer.

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 15 Indian Country Today

TOP NEWS ALERTS From IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com

MORATORIUM ON DRY Cobell settlement; the depart- and we do need to have that leaders have encouraged their CREEK DISENROLLMENTS ment is using the money to happen, you can’t get around members to open bank accounts The Dry Creek Rancheria band buy fractionated interests from it,” chief tribal communica- with the money, and local bank of Pomo Indians in the North landowners, and then return tions officer Arvina Martin told officials have made extra ef- Bay, California area has an- the land to tribes. “The pur- WKBT. BNSF Railway, which forts to facilitate the process. nounced a 10-year moratorium pose of this session is to gather has proposed the four-mile on disenrollments of tribal input from tribes in order for line, said that it would “reach NEW LEADER FOR members. Over the past few the Department to continue out” to the Ho-Chunk and “fol- CHOCTAW NATION years, the tribe has been disen- to refine its land consolidation low up on their concerns.” Gary Batton, former assistant rolling dozens of its members. process,” the Federal Regis- chief of the Choctaw Nation But following news reports that ter announced. The session TWO TRIBES RECEIVING of Oklahoma, was sworn in as spotlighted the procedures, will take place at the Federal SETTLEMENT CHECKS chief on April 28. He succeeds and in advance of the opening Building in Portland, Oregon. Members of the Northern Arapa- Greg Pyle, who led the tribe of the tribe’s casino, the tribe ho and Eastern Shoshone tribes for 17 years. Batton had been determined that no members HO-CHUNK NATION are receiving settlement checks assistant chief since 2007; would be disenrolled unless they OPPOSES RAIL LINE stemming from a joint lawsuit before that, he held positions had been convicted of a crime. The Ho-Chunk Nation legislature the two tribes filed regarding oil that included deputy director has passed a resolution that op- and gas leases on the Wind Riv- of the Choctaw Nation Housing LISTENING SESSION ON poses a railroad expansion in er Indian Reservation dating to Authority and executive direc- LAND BUY-BACK PROGRAM La Crosse, Wisconsin, that the the 1970s. Approximately 9,700 tor of health. “My theme is do The Interior Department will tribe says would pass through Northern Arapaho members what is best for Choctaws,” he hold a listening session on sacred tribal sites, in addition received checks of $6,300 last told the hundreds who attended May 29 on the Land Buy-Back to raising health and safety week, and this week some 4,200 the swearing-in ceremony. “We Program for Tribal Nations, in concerns. “This process does Eastern Shoshone were due to are a family. We are a tribe. connection with the $3.4 billion require a lot of consultation receive checks of $13,200. Tribal We are not a corporation.”

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 16 Indian Country Today UPCOMING POW WOWS

39th Annual Edisto 34th Annual Tuscarora Nation 9th Annual Noxen’s Natchez-Kusso Pow Wow of North Carolina Pow Wow Mothers Day Pow Wow 5/9/14 – 5/10/14 5/9/14 – 5/10/14 Date Four Holes Indian Organization Tuscarora Nation Tribal Grounds 5/10/14 – 5/11/14 Community Center 288 Tuscarora Nation Road Noxen Fire Company Grounds 1125 Ridge Road Maxton, NC 3493 Stull Road Ridgeville, SC 910-844-2036 Noxen, PA 843-871-2128 [email protected] 570-947-2097 TuscaroraNationNC.com EdistoNatchez-KussoTribe.com/38th-annual- [email protected] natchez-kusso-powwow/ Chi-Tock-Non Kote-U-Pu 46th Annual Comanche 5/10/14 – 5/11/14 Mount Airy Veterans Pow Wow Little Ponies Pow Wow Mariposa County Fairgrounds 5/9/14 – 5/11/14 5/10/14 Mariposa, CA Veteran’s Memorial Park Comanche County Fairgrounds 209-742-2244 920 South Sheridan Road 691 West Lebanon Street VisitMariposa.net/powwow Mt. Airy, NC Lawton, OK 580-583-5279 336-749-0593 25th Annual Cherokee [email protected] TheVMF.org County Indian Festival & Facebook.com/comanche.ponies Mother’s Day Powwow 4th Annual Seminole Okalee 5/10/14 – 5/11/14 25th Annual Cherokee Indian Village Pow Wow Rolling Thunder Enterprises County Indian Festival and 5/9/14 – 5/11/14 1200 Marietta Highway Mother’s Day Pow Wow Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Canton, GA 5/10/14 – 5/11/14 5716 Seminole Way 770-735-6275 Boling Park Hollywood, FL [email protected] 1200 Marietta Highway 954-797-5582 Canton, GA [email protected] Institute of American 770-735-6275 SemTribe.com Indian Arts Pow Wow [email protected] 5/10/14 RThunder.com 46th Annual University of 83 Avan Nu Po Road Oregon Mother’s Day Pow Wow Santa Fe, NM 22nd Everett Comumity 505-424-2339 5/9/14 – 5/11/14 College Hibulb [email protected] Matthew Knight Arena http://www.iaia.edu/calendar/2013-iaia-pow- Traditional Pow Wow 1776 East 13th Avenue wow/ 5/10/14 Eugene, OR Everett Community College 503-206-2886 Everett, WA 33rd Annual Ben Calf Robe [email protected] or 425-388-9281 [email protected] Traditional Pow Wow https://www.facebook.com/uonasu 5/10/14 Commonwealth Community 20th Annual Native Recreation Centre American Arts Festival and 43rd Annual Stanford Pow Wow 11000 Stadium Road, Edmonton, Alberta Mothers Day Pow Wow 5/9/14 – 5/11/14 United States Minor Outlying Islands 5/10/14 – 5/11/14 Stanford University Rhonda Metallic Riverside Park Stanford, CA 780-944-2000 Grants Pass, OR 650-723-4078 [email protected] 541-531-6104 [email protected] Facebook.com/BenCalfRobeAnnualTradition- [email protected] PoWwow.Stanford.edu alPowWow NativeArtsFestival.WordPress.com

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 7, 2014 1 Indian Country Today

Jim Thorpe, seen here practicing at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, will be remembered at his third annual namesake Native American Games, to be held June 8-14 in Shawnee, Oklahoma. c al So iety tori onian-Cumberland County H i s Smith s onian-Cumberland County

IndianCountryTodayMediaTheNetwork.com July 10,Big 2013 Picture NIGA2014 CONVENTION SPECIALANNUAL ISSUE ASK ERNIE TANGLED WEB NIGA CHAIRMAN TRIBAL GROUP TALKS TAXES AND EXPLORES DREADED “R” WORD INTERNET GAMING

LET THE BIG WHEEL INDIAN GAMING SPIN: CONTINUES TO GROW PLUS

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THE MOHEGAN SUN BETS ON HOOPS (AND NETS)

SAN CARLOS APACHE NATION TAKES ON BIG RENOVATION

www.IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014

A LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Shekóli. According to the latest available statistics, the ship thanks to restrictions placed on the ability of our Indian gaming industry in the United States continued governments to raise revenue. to grow through 2012, with revenues increasing two percent from the previous year for a total of more than While growth and expansion continues, there is one $28.1 billion. It was the third straight year of area where we see undeniable shrinkage. In growth since 2009, when there was a one-per- this week’s issue, the article, “Fatter Wal- cent drop—the only year revenues declined lets/Skinnier Kids” presents the findings of a since the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act in study recently published in the Journal of the 1988 marked the official start of the indus- American Medical Association. Researchers try. Non-gaming revenue generated by native from various medical schools gathered data casinos also increased, up three percent from on Indian kids in California, and found a 2011 and topping out at $3.4 billion, collec- marked decrease in obesity among children tively. Growth and expansion are at the heart whose tribal nations owned a casino. Most of many articles in this special print edition important, the research indicated that the re- of This Week From Indian Country Today, duction in weight was seen shortly after the published for distribution at the National casino opened, and was long-lasting. While Indian Gaming Association’s Indian Gaming the study of body mass index of the children 2014 Tradeshow and Convention in San Di- of tribal citizens of casino-owning nations ego. It carries news of growth of casino floors doesn’t demonstrate a causal link per se, the and construction of new hotel spaces; plans investigators surmise that the reason for the for a grand shopping mall and more recognition for an drop in obesity can be attributed to growth of economic award-winning golf course. resources for the nations and its members. It doesn’t take a scientist to see that rising out of poverty has health If 2013 is any guide, growth in revenue will mean more benefits, but it is reassuring to know that, for our chil- native philanthropic giving in 2014. Last year, the Sha- dren, the positive benefits of leaving poverty behind can kopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, which owns be immediate and undeniable. and operates the Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, topped the list of Indian nations that generously give to other na- NΛ ki� wa, tions and their surrounding communities by dispersing $10 million in grants to native causes, governments and foundations. All of these signs point to the decades-old fact that native gaming is a key economic engine and capital-raising mechanism for our nations, which were forced to struggle for years with deprivation and hard- Ray Halbritter CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS 1 LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER 4 COMMENTARY 10 THE STRUGGLE CONTINUES 13 KEY THOUGHTS FROM KEYBANK 14 THE NEVER-ENDING WONDER OF IT ALL 18 IT’S YOUR SPINIVERSARY! 22 INTERNET TRIBAL GAMING GROUP TESTS THE WATERS 10 26 A CLASS II AND CLASS III ACT 28 HEARTS AND DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH 30 FATTER WALLETS = SKINNIER KIDS 32 VENUE WISHES UPON THE STARS 33 IS THE FIX FINALLY IN? 34 DOUBLING DOWN 36 REACH FOR THE APACHE SKY 38 THE BINGO MALL 39 TEE FOR TWO—OR FOUR 40 DRESSED TO IMPRESS 14 42 TORTOISE ROCK READY TO ROLL 44 HIGHWAY 69 REVISITED 45 PLAY AND STAY 46 A SECOND CHANCE AT A FIRST CHANCE 47 CEO ROULETTE 48 THE BIG PICTURE

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Cover: inkstock; NIGA. TOC: Indian Gaming Weekly; AP Images/ e Norwich Bulletin/Aaron Flaum; Facebook/Pechanga Resort And Casino; Turning Stone Casino Resort 39

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014

4 Commentary

ward, I am prepared to return to the hectic pace of being an Indian law attorney and My Year of ‘Exiled an advisor on the difficult policy issues facing Indian country. My goal—to simply use my voice, along with my new insight Enlightenment’ and my existing expertise – to advance the vision of Chief Joseph that “men of my race…live as other men live…free to travel, by loretta a. tuell free to stop, free to work…free to think and talk.” My Nez Perce name is other aspects of who I am and what I want Yet, given the current political environ- Sik-no-wit-Tats which to do as a Native American woman living ment, I believe it is critical that all the means “Good Speaker,” in a global village. This would be my time “collective voices” within Indian country which was given to me by to grow—a rare opportunity to gain great- are joined together in unity. My vision, to my tribal elders as a nod er insight and gather wisdom wherever I strengthen tribal sovereignty; to protect that I am to be a “voice” could find it. I just had to watch, listen and and grow our homelands and resources; to for our people. True to learn. Today, as I reflect on this past year, safeguard our Native identity, culture and my name, the Creator has I ask myself: What have I learned? and tradition; and to advance the well-being of blessed me, guiding my path to be a Native What should I do next? our children, elders and Tribal leaders. To American lawyer practicing in the field of What have I learned? There is an old that end, I offer two insights for strategic Indian law and policy. For more than 20 saying “travel broadens your mind”. Dur- advocacy success: years, I have worked to become a guiding ing this past year, my mind expanded as —Use the Legislative Record. Why start voice on indigenous issues here in Wash- I explored the rich and vibrant cultures over. Advocates should utilize the vast In- ington, D.C.—working alongside other of other countries. Challenging my own dian Affairs legislative record to achieve to- Native lawyers in the Congress, the Ad- boundaries and perceptions, I traveled to day’s goals. For example, during the 112th ministration and the private sector. This is India, Turkey, Mexico, Hong Kong and Congress, Chairman Akaka created a dy- my life’s passion. Dubai. Most auspicious was my pilgrim- namic record on a host of priorities, like During the 112th Congress, I served as age to India. Along with 40 million other the Carcieri fix, federal recognition and staff director and chief counsel on the Sen- people, I bathed at the sacred confluence Internet gaming. The facts, figures, and ate Committee on Indian Affairs for Sen. (sangam) of the three holy rivers: the impacts developed from written and oral Daniel Akaka (D-Hawaii), the first Native Ganga, the Yamuna and the invisible spiri- testimony at hearings, mark-ups and filed Hawaiian to serve as Chairman. For me, tual river, the Saraswati during the Hindu reports are strategic weapons to be used as the Committee epitomizes the power- celebration known as the Maha Kumbha catalysts for action. My insight—don’t re- ful role of Congress over Indian issues. I Mela—Great (maha) Festival (mela) of invent the wheel, but try to strengthen the seized the opportunity to make a differ- the Pot (kumbh). It is said, the act of bath- existing record to propel forward move- ence, moving quickly to engage Native ing at the site will cleanse the karma (ac- ment. Keep in mind, few bills are intro- leaders, teachers, elders, youth—anyone tions) not only of those who bathe, but it duced, passed and signed into law during with a “voice” to share their views in the also liberates seven generations back and one session of Congress. Instead, just like Committee’s 44 hearings, 17 roundtables forward. For me, my spirit was at peace as our ancestors we must persist and perse- and listening sessions. Our priorities— I dipped three times into the cool waters. vere, our survival depends on it. secure our tribal homelands, protect our Truly, it was a once in a lifetime experience, —Build Non-partisan Support. “To- natural resources, preserve our cultural as the particular alignment of sun, moon day’s enemies can be tomorrow’s friends” identity, advance human and religious and planets for this great (maha) will not goes the adage. The current political cli- rights, expand tribal self-governance, ad- repeat for another 144 years. mate underscores the need to build non- dress taxation issues and strengthen self-re- Each country I visited brought “ex- partisan support in Indian affairs. It is not liance in Indian gaming. The trade-off for iled enlightenment.” Around the globe, self-evident to Democrats, Republicans my public service—the ethical rules of the I slowed down from the fast paced D.C. and Independents that they have a con- U.S. Senate prohibit any advocacy contact lifestyle and opened my mind to learn stitutional duty and a trust responsibility with any Senator or their staff for one full about different religions, languages and to Native Americans. My insight—build year after leaving my position. True to life’s foods. Highlights of my travels include, non-partisan support with mutual re- ironies, my ban officially ended on April the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey; the spect and education. Don’t let ignorance Fool’s Day. indigenous artists in Mexico; the larg- be an excuse. 0 Rather than feel shunned by my one- est bronze Buddha in the world in Hong year ban, I embraced it, and became em- Kong; and the tallest building in the world Loretta A Tuell, Nez Perce, is president powered by it. I opted for a sabbatical of in Dubai. of iNative Consulting, a strategic plan- sorts, to use my time in “exile” to explore What should I do next? Moving for- ning and government relations firm.

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014

6 Commentary Is Your Casino Truly a Place for Everyone? by ann zenor

It’s always very interest- evaluation of the marketplace, and the features and amenities that inevitably ing to see how people result pushed casinos to diversify the bring families to their resorts. The re- react when I tell them amenities they provided to broaden sponsible thing to do is be prepared my company provides their appeal as “destination resorts.” for the needs of the new guest base. hourly childcare in re- With more families being attracted to Such is the case with childcare. If sorts, spas and casinos. the “new casino,” a proactive response proactive measures are not in place Their expression is at becomes necessary not only for busi- for families (and options are limited) first quizzical, followed ness reasons—ethically it’s the right that’s when children are left unsuper- by an incredulous tilt of the head and thing to do. Bottom line, you simply vised in hotel rooms and cars, or left then chased by a set of pointed ques- can’t build a hotel, add luxury swim- wandering a gaming property alone. tions. “What? Childcare in a casino? ming pools, lazy rivers, water parks, This is where moral obligation comes How does that work? Aren’t you just bowling alleys, movie theaters and into play. If childcare is readily avail- enabling gamblers?” concert venues, and then ignore the able, people will do the right thing— The answer I have is they just need casino simple. ownership to give them At Kids Quest and Cy- that opportunity. ber Quest we exist so that Parents love their children and will Parents love their chil- children can have their dren and will travel with own fun while vacation- travel with them in tow, but there them in tow, but there ing at casino-based resorts. will always be a need to Our concept creates a spend time apart, in order space for kids to play hap- will always be a need to spend time to reconnect with their pily and safely while their spouse, partner or friends. parents explore and enjoy apart, in order to reconnect with Most adults need just a few all our host properties have hours away to be on their to offer. The world has their spouse, partner or friends. own, or to feel like a couple changed. Casinos are no again, and to restore them- longer just about gaming. selves so they can be better Casinos have evolved. In fact, a recent fact that your property will attract parents; well-rested, intellectually stim- study reported that non-gaming ameni- families with children. ulated and spiritually revived parents. ties have surpassed slots and table games There have always been ethical To that end, I will admit that at as a source of revenue for many casino- challenges with bringing little ones Kids Quest we are indeed enablers. resort properties. People don’t go to into a gaming-based environment— We enable adults to enjoy much- casinos to just roll dice or push buttons and nowhere is it more thoughtfully needed free time, we enable children on a slot machine—they can now in- debated than within tribally owned to partake in play time, and ultimately dulge in world-class dining, a massage casino board rooms and council meet- we enable our business partners to say or facial, a round of golf, a movie, a few ings. Respecting the family is the very they have fully addressed the needs of games of bowling, or a concert—in core of the Native American culture, their guests and promoted responsible fact, they may even pull out their credit never a subject to be taken lightly. gaming practices. 0 cards for some great retail shopping as Gaming has proven to be a very suc- well. Casinos are fast becoming enter- cessful venture for the various Bands, Ann Zenor serves in a variety of capac- tainment centers offering the very best Nations and Tribes in this country. ities for The Learning Tree, including leisure options for entire regions—a In fact, tribally owned casinos are de- new business development, business community hub hosting activities for a signed to rival the finest properties communication, facility design, ac- wide variety of clientele. in the world, and with that progres- tivities and curriculum research, and The economy necessitated a re- sive thinking they too have included employee training.

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014

8 Commentary Take It Into Account

Don’t treat tribes that give self-determination awards as federal entities by corrine wilson & bruce bleakman

A recent Indian Coun- ing, accounting and financial reporting —American Institute of Certified try Today Media Net- within the existing accounting and au- Public Accountants (AICPA) work column by Don diting standards. Doing so will improve —International Accounting Stan- Lake and Jerry Noonan the usefulness and understandability of dards Board (IASB) titled, “Tribes Move to financial statements so they better meet These organizations establish the stan- Form and Independent the needs of interested users. dards, guidelines, principles, frameworks Tribal Accounting Stan- Management, governing bodies and and other requirements to produce use- dards Board” addressed auditors of all types of entities—com- ful, effective financial information to issues facing tribes re- mercial businesses, non-profit orga- creditors, investors, grantors, owners, lated to accounting, nizations and federal, tribal, state and governing bodies, citizens and others. financial reporting and auditing. The piece states that information contained in the finan- Treating tribal organizations that cial statements of tribes “...for all practical purposes is worthless to administer self-determination awards as any interested user...and understandable only by the preparing CPA firm.” It also: federal entities is inconsistent with tribal —recommends that tribes move away from organization-wide audits specified sovereignty and self-governance by Statement No. 34 of the Governmen- tal Accounting Standards Board; —asserts that entities created by local governments—face an increasingly Each standards-setting organization has tribes to administer tribal self-determi- complex web of laws, regulations, au- established procedures for soliciting and nation awards should follow standards thoritative pronouncements and non-au- considering input from interested par- issued by the Federal Standards Adviso- thoritative guidance. Many organizations ties, including tribes. ry Board (FASAB) as part of the Federal are responsible for establishing account- As Mr. Lake and Mr. Noonan point government; ing, financial reporting and auditing re- out in their article, the unique circum- —recommends establishment of an quirements, including the following: stances and needs of tribes are still often independent Tribal Accounting Stan- —Financial Accounting Foundation misunderstood and/or not considered, dards Board. (FAF) resulting in standards and requirements We agree the existing standards do —Governmental Accounting Stan- not well-suited to tribes and their en- not always consider the many important dards Board (GASB) terprises. A prime example is the most differences between tribes and other —Financial Accounting Standards recent revision to the federal require- governmental entities. However, treat- Board (FASB) ments applicable to recipients of fed- ing tribal organizations that administer —United States Federal government eral awards. On December 26, 2014 the self-determination awards as federal enti- —Federal Accounting Standards Ad- Federal Register published an update ties is inconsistent with tribal sovereignty visory Board (FASAB) to OMB’s Uniform Administrative Re- and self-governance and it would not im- —General Accountability Office quirements, Cost Principles, and Audit prove auditing, accounting and financial (GAO) Requirements for Recipients of Federal reporting by tribes. Instead, tribes and —Office of Management and Budget Awards. The updated OMB rule reiter- organizations that advocate for tribes, (OMB) ates the Single Audit Act Amendments such as the Native American Finance Of- —Securities and Exchange Commis- of 1996, which require that Single Audit ficers Association and the National Indi- sion (SEC) Reporting Packages, including report- an Gaming Association, should redouble —National Indian Gaming Commis- ing entity financial statements, be made their efforts to effect changes in audit- sion (NIGC) available for public inspection. Previous-

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Commentary 9 ly, tribes were responsible for allowing Would a Tribal Accounting Standard NAFOA provides input to the Fed- public inspections, and only summary Board benefit tribes? We aren’t con- eral OMB and other regulatory au- information (not including financial vinced. The process requires significant thorities on existing regulations and statements) was available through the resources. For example, the Financial Ac- proposed changes. Federal Single Audit Clearinghouse counting Foundation, the Governmen- We believe all concerned tribal fi- website. As originally proposed, the new tal Accounting Standards Board and the nancial professionals should join with OMB rules would have required publi- Financial Accounting Standards Board NAFOA to uphold and strengthen trib- cation of tribal financial statements on collectively spend over $50 million an- al sovereignty by addressing the ongoing the Clearinghouse website. Because of nually, mostly devoted to the account- and future complex accounting, financial tribes’ objections, as well as the Native ing standards-setting function. While it reporting and auditing standards and American Financial Officers Association may sound appealing to create a Tribal other financial and business strategies.. (NAFOA) and others, the final rule al- Accounting Standards Board, tribal re- Tribes are sovereign, independent lows tribes to opt out of having their sources can be deployed much more ef- nations that govern and manage their financial statements published on the fectively within the existing structure to affairs and control their resources. As Clearinghouse website. improve reporting by tribes for its mem- part of their fiduciary responsibility, it The tribal exemption from website bers and other financial stakeholders. is essential that tribes have appropri- publication is a small victory for tribes, For many years, the Native American ate accounting, financial reporting and but more work remains to be done. Finance Officers Association (NAFOA), auditing standards so they can better For example, a tribal exemption must a tribal organization, has focused on convey financial and compliance in- be pursued from the Single Audit Act technical accounting and financial re- formation to their constituents and requirement that fi- stakeholders.. nancial statements be Audits of all tribal made available for pub- resources help demon- lic inspection. In many Audits of all tribal resources help strate a tribes’s fiduciary instances, much of the duty to its membership, content in financial demonstrate a tribe’s fiduciary duty to assist with assessing statements is sensitive financial condition, business, operational its membership (and) assist with business results and and governance infor- compliance with tribal mation; it is private and assessing financial condition laws and/or grantor confidential to tribes. regulations. Audits also This sensitive content provide a financial pic- is not related to the administration or porting standards applicable to tribes. ture of the use of tribal resources and expenditure of federal awards, and it is NAFOA has provided education and play a key role in assisting tribal gov- inappropriate to be made available for advocated for tribes in the accounting ernance and its membership, and the public inspection. standards setting process, as demonstrat- strengthening of tribes for future gen- Until the requirement for public in- ed by the following: erations. 0 spection can be changed, some tribes Since 2000, a Native American CPA have minimized adverse consequences has represented NAFOA Governmental Corrine Wilson, CPA, Principal with by designing organizational units and Accounting Standards Board Advisory REDW LLC, a CPA and consult- financial reporting structures that iso- Council. ing firm with offices in Phoenix and late activities involving expenditure or NAFOA has published accounting Albuquerque that works extensively administration of federal awards. To and financial reporting guides for tribes with tribes. She is a member of the Fort comply with federal audit requirements, and tribal gaming. McDermitt Paiute-Shoshone tribes, they prepare separate audited financial In partnership with the American has been a board member of NAFOA, statements of only these applicable orga- Indian Policy Institute at Arizona State and was NAFOA’s GASAC represen- nizational units to include in the Single University, NAFOA developed and tative 2000-2006. She has more than Audit Reporting Package. Those separate conducts training and certification 25 years of experience as a Tribal CFO financial statements are not entity-wide programs specific to tribes and tribal and in auditing and consulting for financial statements, but they comply gaming. The programs cover the sov- tribes. Bruce Bleakman, CPA, is an with relevant GASB and AICPA stan- ereign, legal, regulatory, accounting and REDW Principal (retired) with exten- dards and meet the requirements of the financial management of tribes, includ- sive experience serving tribes and their Federal Single Audit Act and related reg- ing federal awards. enterprises. He has served on GASB ulations. This protects the confidentiality NAFOA provided tribal input to the and AICPA task forces, and served as of tribal financial information that is not AICPA in the development of their the project lead for NAFOA’s account- involved with federal awards. Gaming Guide. ing publications.

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 10 Indian Country Today

Ernie L. Stevens Jr., with Adam Beach, Ben Nighthorse Campbell and Billy Mills, says that the tradeshow represents a $26 billion industry. The Struggle Continues

Ernie Stevens on Internet gaming, taxation, Carcieri Navy Yard. The tradeshow and conven- and two r-words as NIGA Convention approaches tion begin in earnest the next day with general membership meetings, regional caucuses, special award presentations, by gale courey toensing training sessions, workshops, cultural events, luncheons, receptions and more. here’s a clock on the National In- industry’s premier event, which usually A full schedule of events is available on dian Gaming Association web- draws upwards of 5,000 attendees from the website IndianGaming.org. site that’s counting down the almost a dozen countries. Internet gaming, a clean Carcieri fix Tdays to the Indian Gaming 2014 Trade- The first day of the convention— and taxation are unresolved issues car- show & Convention, which as I write Sunday, May 11—will be filled with ried over from previous years, Stevens this, is 37 days, nine hours, 15 minutes fundraising golf tournaments at nearby said. Sevens was re-elected by acclima- and five seconds away—sorry, make that Indian-owned golf courses, topped by tion last year and is serving his seventh four seconds... National Indian Gaming Association two-year term as NIGA’s chairman and (2) kly ee

The Indian Gaming 2014 Tradeshow (NIGA) Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr.’s national spokesman. W

& Convention will take place at the San Chairman’s Welcoming Reception. The “With the Internet gaming issue, we ing m Diego Convention Center May 11-14. reception will take place again this year have to be on guard because you never a G

This year will mark the 29th year of the on an aircraft carrier-turned-museum – know what people will do. We want ian d n gathering known as the Indian Gaming the USS Midway Museum in San Diego’s to be ready,” Stevens said. He pointed I

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014

12 Indian Country Today to 2006, when the Unlawful Internet sovereignty and ensure a strong Indian “Racism is a strong word that people Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) Country voice in future decision-making use to hide behind. If I call somebody a was “dropped” into the legislative mix at the U.S. Department of Treasury,” Ste- racist that’s their out because if I drop and passed into law. UIGEA was an anti- vens said. the r-word that’s something to hide be- Internet gaming bill, but since then the And then there’s Carcieri v. Sala- hind. Something as strong as that only debate both in and out of Congress has zar—the devastating U.S.Supreme empowers them,” Stevens said. focused on legalizing Internet gaming. Court ruling that limited the Depart- So, do you thinks it’s something be- “NIGA’s priority is yond racism? ICTMN to make sure that any asked. proposals protect tribal “No, I think they sovereignty and existing think it is… I think they tribal government rights can convince people and tribal-state com- that it’s something else pacts. Any Internet leg- when it’s really trying islation must meet the to stop Native progress, principles that NIGA not giving tribes their member tribes adopted,” rightful status as agreed Stevens said. to by treaties and the According to the United States Consti- principles, any legisla- tution – sovereignty, tion must assure that: all that stuff, they don’t sovereign Indian tribes want to stand by any have the right to oper- of that. But they don’t ate, regulate, tax and li- want it to be called rac- cense Internet gaming; ism because they just Internet gaming must don’t want to do it, They be available wherever it’s NIGA’s Internet gaming subcommittee meeting at Mystic Lake Casino Resort just don’t want commu- not prohibited; Indian nities to have the neces- gaming revenues are not taxable; state ment of the Interior’s ability to take sities, have a nice school, have a hospital. compacts and the Indian Gaming Regu- land into trust for tribes not under They just don’t want that,” Stevens said. latory Act (IGRA) must be respected federal jurisdiction in 1934. “And the other thing to hide behind is and not opened for amendments; and February marked the fifth anniversary the fact that a few tribes have got a lot of Internet gaming must provide economic of the high court’s ruling, but Congress resources so their governments can meet benefits for Indian country. has not been able to pass a bill to “fix” their capital needs and per capita pay- NIGA is supporting passage of the it by clarifying that the Interior Depart- ments so they try to make that small mi- Tribal General Welfare nority with resources the Exclusion Act, a bill norm of Indian coun- that would stop the In- try and then say Indian ternal Revenue Service “With the Internet gaming issue, we country doesn’t need the from imposing federal resources that are obli- income taxes on ben- gations under the trea- efits tribal members re- have to be on guard because you never ties and Constitution. ceive from a wide range But we do, we know of tribal government know what people will do.” the statistics are way on programs and services, the other side in Indian such as education schol- country when it comes arships, funds to attend and participate ment has the authority to take land into to need, jobs, employment, health and in cultural events, housing benefits, be- trust for all federally recognized tribes. so on. We continue to struggle -- even reavement stipends, and many others. “As right as the passage of a clean Car- the tribe that aren’t federally recognized.” In addition, it will put an end to IRS cieri fix is and as appropriate as it is, we’ve Where does Stevens stand on the agents showing up unannounced on still got to fight for it. It’s so unfortunate other r-word—the name of the Wash- reservations to conduct audits of tribal that we have to be involved in this kind of ington Redskins football team? governments’ expenditures that have fight in this day and time,” Stevens said. “Adamantly opposed,” he said. not been and never should be subject Do you think racism is preventing the “Shocked and dismayed that we’re to taxation. “The Tribal General Wel- Carcieri fix from happening? ICTMN still fighting this battle in this day and fare Exclusion Act will strengthen tribal asked. time.” 0

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 13 Key Thoughts From KeyBank: Economic Development Plans Must Diversify to Sustainably Meet Community Needs

Many nations throughout Indian Tribal leadership can create an integrated economic devel- Country benefit from single sources of opment strategy that is tailored to the priorities of their tribe revenue that help to mitigate pressing and their people by empowering tribal members to become community challenges. To have lasting part of the solution and identifying immutable challenges and significant change, Indian Coun- and unique resources with economic potential. 0 try is striving to create communities that develop core infrastructure (stable The information and recommendations contained here have government, health, education, and em- been compiled from sources believed to be reliable and represent ployment) and go beyond basic commu- the best current opinion on the subject. No warranty, express Mike Lettig nity services. or implied by KeyBank, is made as to the absolute correctness The problem is better community ser- or sufficiency of the information contained. This is meant as vices require sustainable revenue. Revenue (other than grant general information only, particular situations may require and contracts) is limited by the kinds of businesses that can additional actions. be developed and attracted to Indian Country. A solution might be an economic growth plan that in- KeyBank is member FDIC. corporates infrastructure development into each step of the ongoing services development. Proposed business ventures should include plans to improve community infrastructure. For guidance, Indian Country leaders could take a look at how corporations build business models to recruit top talent by reinforcing the connection between the community quality of life and employment opportunities. The following are examples of Indian Country integrated economic development: • Southern Ute Indian Tribe, the largest employer in La Plata County CO, creates and operates new businesses off and on the reservation in a wide range of industries. The tribe’s Southern Ute Permanent Fund has Triple A rating and assets spread out over 14 states and the Gulf of Mexico. The Southern Ute Community Action Program offers a range of community services such as child and family development, public transit and job training. • The Pullayup Tribe of Indians in the Pacific Northwest has an economic development arm, Marine View Ventures, Inc., that boosts land assets and creates jobs. MVV manages assets including commercial real estate, industrial/port real estate, marinas, gas stations and billboards. Given tribal differences, it is not appropriate to mandate specific steps in developing an integrated economic development plan. That said, there are at least two characteristics all tribes share. All tribes cope with challenges such as the responsibility for self-governance and protection of sovereignty. Just as importantly, all tribes have unique resources that cannot be duplicated, and as such have tremendous value.

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 14 Indian Country Today

Rodney Butler, front left; Scott Butera, front right, and tribal council members acknowledge employees during Foxwoods’s 20th anniversary

federal law to allow long term leases on Indian land to encourage investors, and The Never-ending most recently, it fought a tax issue lawsuit that it won in federal district court

only to be reversed in an appeals court. o in s

Today, with casino earnings down a

Wonder of It All C

and regional competition increasing, rt Mashantucket Pequot Chairman Rod- The iconic Foxwoods Resort Casino: past, ney Butler talked to Indian Country To- present & future day Media Network about Foxwoods’

past, present and future. Reso oxwoods

interview by gale courey toensing um; F

a Is the golden age of Indian gaming Fl n

over? o

he Mashantucket Pequot Tribal billion-plus a year in revenue, Foxwoods There are only so many people with so ar /A

Nation’s Foxwoods Resort Ca- has poured more than $3.7 billion into many hours, and so first movers like tin sino is iconic in the world of In- state coffers since opening. Along the Mashantucket and Mohegan had an

Tdian gaming. Beginning as a high-stakes way, the Nation has fought some major advantage in the late 80s with bingo h Bulle ic bingo operation in 1986, it evolved legal battles and forged new paths for and in the 90s with gaming. We had w seven years later into the biggest, Indian country. Among other things, it an untapped market with tremendous r wealthiest, glitziest gaming facility in was the first to deal with labor disputes potential. As time passes and more the country. The Nation’s rags-to-riches under the National Labor Relations Act competition comes into the market you ges/The No story was reflected in an early marketing and the first to face enormous debt and don’t necessarily see growth overall, you a slogan: The wonder of it all. Earning a restructuring. It successfully changed a just see the spreading of the pie to the AP Im

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 15

other facilities. In the last five years with Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York and Pennsylvania, the overall gaming market’s grown less than 10 percent yet the number of facilities has grown ten- fold. I think the overall market will still grow, but as far as Mashantucket goes, our peak earning days for the single property are most likely behind us.

So what’s ahead? But that doesn’t mean our overall earnings potential isn’t there in the future and we will continue to focus on growth – we’re just not going to see that growth come out of the New England gaming market.

But it’s still okay? Yeah, it’s still a good business. You don’t Rendering of Tanger Outlets at Foxwoods, featuring upscale brands and designer retailers realize how exceptional it was until those times are gone, but when you sit there who have never had and probably Report shows an increase in revenues back and say ‘We still have a billion dol- will never have this opportunity. of 2 percent to $27.1 billion for 2012. lar market here’—that’s not bad! And And Indian gaming is now 43 per- it could be worse—there are tribes out The new Casino City Indian Gaming cent of the casino industry in the U.S. s in o C a Reso rt um; Foxwoods ar o n Fl a w ic h Bulle tin /A ges/The No r AP Im a

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 16 Indian Country Today

tucket and our citizens – our college graduation rates are through the roof by any statistics, our employment statistics are continually growing, and the quality of life is exceptional because of those reinvestments so those were the good investments. But we also made some poor decisions on distributions and on investments that were completely unrelated to gaming and outside of our understanding, so we got burned on a lot of those investments.

What are your new investments? We opened up a gas station last November which was instantly one of the most successful in the country from a volume perspective. All of our patrons drive in The Mashantucket Pequots recently broke ground for a new $115 million Tanger Outlet mall at Foxwoods. so they need to get gas and it’s a perfect connection. What do you think of that? the casino market but I put out a cau- So we’re looking at other amenities The overall U.S. gaming market includ- tionary tale: Let’s celebrate it, but let’s that correlate with driving and gaming lottery and race tracks was $92 bil- realize that we don’t want to see that ing markets and one of the biggest is lion in 2007 and it recovered back to peak at 43 percent and keep the party retail -- a national pastime. People love $92 billion by 2012 after substantial going as we’re down to 30 percent and to shop. We have a lot of people visit- decline, even after all the new product 20 percent. We have to truly reinvest in ing here. Why not give them what they in the market. If you look at casino gam- our facilities, reinvest in our properties want? And we were fortunate enough ing only, the US market was $64 billion and make sure that we’re being very fis- to partner with one of the best outlet developers in the country— Tanger Outlets. It will open in May 2015 in 300,000 “We need to reinvest our current earnings square feet and feature more than 80 leading brand

name upscale fashion outlet n se wisely to preserve our economic independence discount stores. n Je

for future generations.” Dana How does the partnership / y

with Tanger work? Da We set up a leasing structure.

in 2007 and now $65 billion in 2012. cally responsible as well with those earn- Seven years ago we were instrumental in ges/The Same point, essentially flat revenue with ings. getting the first long term [Indian] land a a lot of new product in the market mak- lease law passed. Previously, 25 years was g; AP Im in ing every dollar of revenue that much Were you not fiscally responsible ear- the cap on leases to non-Natives, which s more competitive. This is why we need lier? Is that what caused the need to wasn’t enough time for a third party in- n

to reinvest our current earnings wisely restructure $2.3 billion of debt? vestor to get a return on his investment. ey Toe to preserve our economic independence I don’t think we were as fiscally respon- We were successful in getting that ex- r

for future generations. It’s absolutely in- sible as we could have been. We made tended to 75 years. That was a specific le Cou credible that Indian gaming is 43% of incredible investments in Mashan- law for Mashantucket but it was a frame- Ga

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 17

“First Roll” at High Rollers Luxury Lanes & Lounge work that was later use to extend it for all of Indian country.

Talk about your online gaming site. Foxplay is our online gaming initiative. We wanted to do two things: get our site here at Foxwoods up and running and go out and sell that service to other Indian and commercial gaming companies interested in getting into online gaming. We’ve seen an incredible amount of interest. We’ve had north of 20,000 active accounts signed up, close to 200,000 visits to the site and here’s the interesting thing -- it’s actually for free play yet people buy online credits to play the game. So we’ve done a substantial amount of sales -- not in the millions but to the tune of several hundred thousand in online credits. So not only does it make a bit of money but the tremendous marketing value and data collection that you can get from the players that you can integrate into the resort is second to none. We think everybody should be in the same position of getting your presence online established now in play for free as quickly as possible and work out all the bugs so that when real money gaming comes, you’re ready to go, you just flip the switch.

What are the rewards and challenges of being the largest, most successful Indian casino? We’re facing many of these issues because of our success. It Je n se Dana y/ says we were and have been and continue to be successful and there’s a tremendous reward in that. And being able to break

ges/The Da the mold—at first, you’re thinking how to make it better here at Mashantucket, but knowing that once you break through it sets the pace for the rest of the nations – that’s extremely rewarding. The challenge is when you’re facing something that’s pioneering, nobody’s ever been there before so there’s really no reference point. So we do a lot of analysis here, a lot of legal work and just gut- and brain-storming and try to find simple approaches as we go through the unchartered n s in g; AP Im a r ey Toe Ga le Cou waters. 0

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 18 Indian Country Today

The Desert Diamond Casino & Hotel in Tucson, which opened in late 2007, was the first casino/hotel facility in southern Arizona. It’s Your Spiniversary!

It’s party time as Tohono O’Odham celebrates three decades of gaming and progress by lee allen (5) t c i r t

he month of April is officially s party time among the 28,000 Di er i

members of the Tohono av TO’odham Nation scattered across some an X 4,500 square miles of reservation land S

in southern Arizona. dham o

While planning is underway to cel- O’ o ebrate the centennial establishment n o h of the reservation, there’s another o milestone to be feted first. Party hats esy T esy t

have been ordered in celebration of ur o the tribe’s 30th anniversary of Desert Today’s Desert Diamond Casino in Tucson started as a bingo hall in an oblong tent in 1984. c

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 19

Diamond Casinos & Entertainment. Festivities kick off on April 4 with a performance by the Doobie Brothers at the Sahuarita location. The economic climate significantly changed for these dwellers of the So- noran Desert in 1984 when the tribe opened Papago Bingo Hall in Tuscon. The Nation quickly recognized the prospect of greater revenue generation and signed its first Indian gaming compact, turning its small bingo operation into the Desert Diamond Casino. Six years later, the tribe opened a satellite casino in Why, Arizona, followed by the Sahuarita gaming house in 2001. In 2007, the tribe’s original Tuscon-based casino was replaced with a new gaming facility, as well as a hotel, convention center and entertainment arena. The tribe has a fourth venture on the drawing table, the multi-million dollar West Valley Resort slated for Tohono-owned acreage in the Phoenix Valley. The Tuscon casino offers more than 1,000 slots, poker, live blackjack, high-stakes bingo and keno. t r i c (5) i er Di s an Xav o h n O’ dham S esy T t esy o ur c

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 20 Indian Country Today

The Desert Diamond Sahuarita site, located along Interstate 19, halfway between Tucson and the Nogales border with Mexico

Desert Diamond’s three existing fa- son hotel venue opened in 2007, then of giveaways. cilities currently employ more than General Manager Henry Childs told Current and long-time Tribal Chair- 1,300 workers, making the casino op- Indian Country Today Media Net- man Dr. Ned Norris, Jr., functioned as eration one of the region’s largest em- work: “You need to think strategically, director of community relations at Des- ployers, ranking alongside military, proceed with your business plan, and ert Diamond during the time of the big governmental, manufacturing and market aggressively.” They have done change and was one of the principals tourist industry efforts. When salaries, all that, particularly on the gaming and involved in the creation and perpetua- subcontractors and services are com- entertainment fronts, and now every- tion of this success story. bined, it’s estimated the tribe’s gaming one gets to celebrate the benefits in the In his casino days, Dr. Norris was operations inject over $25 million into form of month-long festivities that in- responsible for discovering staff talent southern Arizona’s economy annually, clude more than a million dollars worth to move the mission forward. Appar- a respectable per- ently he had a centage of the knack for finding $1.8 billion gen- the right folks, erated in 2012 by “Not only have we provided the tribe and the because a num- Arizona Indian- ber of employees owned casinos, southern Arizona community with jobs and who started in according to the bingo tent the just-released have been with Casino City’s economic development, we’ve resinvested in the Tohono gam- Indian Gaming ing industry op- Industry Report. all our employees.” eration since its When the Tuc- inception.

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 21

Chief Operating Of- and bingo manager Jesus ficer Libby Francisco just Contreras takes top honors. celebrated her 19th an- “I started when it was high- niversary and says the job stakes bingo with over 1,400 still provides it’s fair share people in the hall. It was of challenges as well as re- crazy,” he says. “Now it’s a wards, giving her the true different kind of crazy with sense of accomplishment. bingo, Keno, slots, poker “I love my job and being and blackjack. I went there part of the many transi- thinking it was going to be a tions, growth and success,” part-time job, but it turned she told ICTMN. out to be my lifelong career. Reflecting on the tribe’s I’ve been blessed, because it economic evolution over was the right choice.” three decades, Francisco said, Recognizing that a 30th “The difference is like night The original bingo tent that became Desert Diamond Casino anniversary comes only and day, and we continue to once, the Nation has pulled grow and take new steps.” Arizona community with jobs and eco- out all stops throughout the month Another Ned Norris hire was Treena nomic development, we’ve reinvested with April 17 being the key date as it Parvello, who now counts 15 years on in all our employees.” In her case, the coincides with the official start of mod- the job. “I’ve been able to see the evo- Tribe paid for Parvello to earn her ern gaming for the tribe. A Million lution of positive change, the growth, MBA and now she says she’s “happily Dollar Diamond Spiniversary will con- maturity and sophistication as we’ve paying back my dues” in a job which clude with end-of-the-month drawings overcome obstacles. Not only have we gives her that opportunity. for lucky winners at each of the three provided the tribe and the southern When it comes to longevity, keno casino properties. 0

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 22 Indian Country Today

Home page for Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians’ free online play site, Lake of Torches

a major role in organizing the TIGA

endeavor over the past year. “Imme- . C

diate: A networked virtual currency .L.L. Internet Tribal P play platform where tribes will not tzen tzen

have to share their player databases, a Gaming Group yet can benefit from shared costs and K

attract online players into their casi- anji & nos. Short-term: Development of class K (2); Tests the Waters II real-money games (poker, slot-like s

bingo and traditional bingo) where ndian TIGA will take bets from the collec- I by rob capriccioso tive gaming eligible Indian lands of our hippewa hippewa

member tribes. Long-term: Better abil- C new tribal Internet gaming con- include the Inter Tribal Gaming Asso- ity to lobby and compete in statewide, sortium is steadily taking shape ciation (ITOGA), founded by several national and international online gam- as part of growing movement already successful California, Michi- ing markets.” of such efforts that are sure to capture gan, and Oklahoma gaming tribes, Rather than making an immediate Lake Superior

A f the attention of federal regulators and, and Great Luck LLC, championed by large cash profit, TIGA organizers and o

probably, the courts. the Alturas Indian Rancheria Tribe of want to establish a coalition of tribes B The effort, called the Tribal Internet northern California. pursuing the like-minded interest of Gaming Alliance (TIGA), is pursuing “We have immediate, short-term, shaping federal Internet gaming policy. ambeau ambeau what organizers say is the most con- and long-term goals,” says Jeffrey Nel- With signals coming frequently from l servative approach of a recent batch son, a lawyer with the Indian affairs legislators in Congress indicating they of tribal online gaming pioneers that firm Kanji & Katzen who has played want to tinker in this field, TIGA or- du F Lac

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 23

to date may be especially interested in joining TIGA, Nelson says, for the relatively safe leverage it provides in getting involved in this field without much legal risk at zero cost to join. As opposed to ITOGA and Great Luck, TIGA does not plan or even want to take wagers from places that are not in its reservation-based network, which currently includes two tribes, the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Tribe and the Bad River Band Chippewa Tribe. Six council representatives from the two tribes have elected Duane Chapman from Lac du Flambeau as the TIGA Interim Chairman—an interim title TIGA’s Jeffrey Nelson of Kanji & Katzen because the group does not yet have Duane Chapman, TIGA interim chairman the three tribes necessary in TIGA’s ganizers think the right approach is treaty to make its business committee gaming eligible Indian lands of its to have a foot in the water, while not formally operational. member tribes,” Nelson says, noting rocking the boat. “Geofencing technology is robust that geofencing refers to different types Small tribes that have not been able enough to allow TIGA to take real- of technology where platform opera- to establish major gaming enterprises money bets only from the collective tors can verify the physical location C . .L.L. atzen P atzen anji & K I ndian s (2); K B and o f Lake Superior C hippewa du F l ambeau Lac

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 24 Indian Country Today

Rep. Jason Chaffetz, R-Utah, left, and Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., introduced legislation that would overturn licensed online gaming in states. of the customer, whether that person an online gaming field that is ripe for chances than TIGA. is sitting at a desktop or on a mobile development right now. Lee Helper, an organizer with Great device; some examples are GPS, cell Nelson responds that TIGA is op- Luck, explains that the class II games phone signal triangulation and ISP erating under the current parameters his venture offers are available to “any- identification. “With that comes the of federal law, while also preparing to one anywhere” and “do not have to be ability to fence certain areas where help shape and compete in any new on Indian lands.” Great Luck organizers you either will not take bets, or con- legislative initiatives. think they are legally sound in offering versely where you will only take bets,” “If there are any legal challenges, this service because their online gaming he adds. “So TIGA can have a database I would expect to win them,” Nelson servers are located on sovereign Indian of gaming eligible Indian lands of its says. “We are offering a way for tribes lands, and the games they offer are all collective member tribes, and [it can] to get involved and get ahead of the web browser accessed and electronically take bets only from customers who are competition without jeopardizing any- enabled. physically present within those areas.” body’s gaming license or future ability ITOGA, meanwhile, has built itself TIGA also has some international to get a gaming license in other juris- up based largely on the four tribal safe . ideas brewing. Letters of support for dictions.” harbor provisions of the 2006 Unlaw- C the alliance have already come in from Nelson says that it was important to ful Internet Gambling Enforcement the Isle of Man and the Kahnawake tribal organizers that tribes in TIGA Act (UIGA). Like Great Luck, ITOGA

Gaming Commission in Canada, also be able to participate in other In- depends on Internet servers based on LL Luck, reat which means that tribes in TIGA ternet gaming activities, and they may Indian reservations, and for a while it G could have avenues of performing gam- belong to groups like ITOGA and ette; intended to it go farther by accepting wa- s o ing within these nations in the future. Great Luck as well. gers as loan transactions through tribal- R ob

Some tribal Internet gaming entre- Like TIGA, ITOGA and Great owned payday lending operations. But as R ; preneurs and even tribal leaders have Luck organizers believe they are oper- scrutiny of the tribal payday lending field s mage questioned why TIGA is choosing a ating within the parameters of the law, has increased, ITOGA decided to shelve I

long-term approach to taking part in yet they are admittedly taking more that plan, according to a November ar- AP

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 25

over the Internet – and the UIGA provides a path for doing so – it is worth being aggressive here. Still, some Congress members appear unhappy with the early Internet gaming efforts of both tribes and commercial entities. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R- Utah) recently introduced bipartisan legislation that would reestablish the 2006-11 federal interpretation of the 1961 Wire Act. Under that interpretation, licensed online gambling in states including New Jersey, Nevada, and Dela- ware would become illegal. Joe Valandra, CEO of Great Luck, said in a press release that tribal jurisdiction over class II Rob Rosette, a lawyer for ITOGA games could be “severely compromised” Joe Valandra, CEO of Great Luck, LLC as well if the bill were passed. ticle in the Washington Post. In light of such hurdles, Nelson says members. Rob Rosette, a lawyer for ITOGA, TIGA members are happily taking the “Tribes are being careful and doing has made the case that since the federal safe road, yet he notes that it has taken their due diligence,” Nelson says. “[I]n government has not explicitly said that longer than he expected to get three Indian country, if something seems too tribes cannot operate class II gaming tribes to sign on as founding treaty good to be true, it probably is.” 0 C . reat Luck, LL Luck, s ette; G reat s ; R ob o AP I mage

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 26 Indian Country Today A Class II and Class III Act

Indian Gaming Topped $28.1 Billion in 2012 by gale courey toensing

he Indian gaming industry much more. (4 percent in 2007).” across the country continued to Calendar year 2012 was the third In addition to the 2 percent increase grow in 2012 with a 2 percent straight year of growth since 2009, from $27.5 billion in 2011 to $28.1 bil- Tincrease in revenue to more than $28.1 when Indian gaming revenue dropped lion in 2012 gaming revenue, Indian billion, according to Casino City’s In- by one percent—the only revenue de- casinos generated approximately $3.4 dian Gaming Industry Report. cline the industry has experienced since billion in non-gaming revenue, reflect- The comprehensive annual gaming it was launched by the Indian Gaming ing nearly 3 percent growth over 2011. report by Alan Meister, an economist Regulatory Act in 1988. This was the second consecutive year of with Nathan Associates Inc., provides The industry was moving in the right non-gaming revenue growth for Indian 2012 statistics for the nation and by direction, Meister said, “However, gaming. state on gaming and non-gaming rev- amidst a slow-growth economy, Indian Indian gaming grew at a slower pace enue; Class II vs. Class III gaming; gaming grew at a slower pace than it than commercial gaming, Meister said. number of facilities, tribes, gaming ma- did in calendar year 2011 (3.4 percent). Commercial casino revenue grew by 4 chines, and tables; and revenue sharing Indian gaming’s 2012 growth rate was percent from $28.4 billion to $29.4 bil- with state and local governments, and also below its prerecession growth rate lion, while the racetrack casinos—called ss re P y it no C si y Ca s e t (2); Cour t epor R ry ry st Indu g n i an Gam i 2014 Ind 2014 s y’ it no C si a from Ca t ed on da s a b o, o, i ud t h S g Lú

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 27

racinos—grew 8 percent. “In fact, it has California, Oklahoma, Washington, been 18 years since the commercial casi- Florida and Connecticut—accounted no segment had a higher annual growth for 60 percent of the nation’s gaming rate than Indian gaming. The faster 2012 revenue. The top 10 states, which also growth rate for the commercial casino include Arizona, Michigan, Minnesota, and racino segments was largely driven Wisconsin and New York, generated 86 by the introduction of casinos in new or percent of total gaming revenue. expanding jurisdictions,” Meister said. Indian gaming facilities, including Despite the disparity in growth, In- non-gaming operations, directly and dian gaming generated approximately indirectly generated approximately $91 43 percent of all U.S. casino gaming rev- billion in output, 679,000 jobs, $30 bil- enue, while commercial casinos gener- lion in wages, and $9 billion in taxes ated approximately 45 percent of casino and revenue-sharing payments to fed- gaming revenue, and racinos generated eral, state and local governments. the other 12 percent. Looking to the future, Meister pre- Indian gaming in 2012 included 468 dicted that Indian gaming is likely to ex- tribal casinos operated by 243 tribes in perience only modest growth, while the 28 states. California had 68 Indian casi- economy grows at a slow pace. “How- nos in 2012, the same as in the previous ever, as the economy improves over two years, and had the highest revenue, time, it will lead to higher disposable $6.96 billion, an increase of 0.8 percent. The 2014 edition by Alan Meister personal income, consumer confidence Oklahoma, the nation’s No. 2 Indian and spending on casino gambling. In gaming market, collected $3.7 billion California and Oklahoma generated any case, performance is likely to con- in 2012—an increase of 6.6 percent— 38 percent of the overall Indian gaming tinue to vary widely across Indian gam- from 118 large and small casinos. revenue in the U.S. The top five states— ing facilities, tribes and states.” 0 si no C it y P re ss y Ca t e s t (2); Cour ry R epor ry Ind i an Gam n g Indu st si no C it y’ s 2014 a from Ca t s ed on da o, b a t ud i o, g h S Lú

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 28 Indian Country Today

In 2002, the Quechan Tribe added a Mediterranean-themed destination across the state border in the California desert: Quechan Casino Resort. Hearts and Diamonds In the Rough

Quechan Tribe’s Casinos that straddles the lower Colorado Riv- full-service restaurant. er, just north of the Mexican border, Thanks to the area’s warm winter tem- Draw Gamers Across t houses two bustling gaming houses— peratures, the casino capitalizes on the esor Borders Paradise Casino in Yuma, Arizona, and cold weather tourism trade, additionally R

Quechan Casino Resort in Winterhav- aided by Interstate 8, which several mil- sino by lee allen en, California. lion cars traverse annually on their way a n C a

It’s been 20 years since the Quechan to and from Phoenix and San Diego. h f you walk out of the Quechan Tribe of the Ft. Yuma Indian Reserva- To accommodate growing consumer c Tribe’s Arizona casino, the Califor- tion entered the field of gaming with demand, the tribe debuted Quechan sino; Que

nia state line is only 18 inches away, their 300-seat bingo hall. In 1996, the Casino Resort on the other side of the a so it made business sense to have a ca- tribe expanded operations, opening Par- state line in 2002, just six minutes from

I ise C sino in both states. adise Casino, which initially offered 475 Yuma, where they could offer table ad r a Today the 45,000-acre reservation slots, live poker, keno and bingo, and a games under California State law. P

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 29

Hot summers and relatively warm winters draw visitors to Paradise Casino in Yuma, Arizona.

“It was an economic boom time and gamers showed up left and right.”

The newest addition was deemed a reel slot machines, video reel slots, Keno “Mediterranean Oasis in the Desert” by and video poker machines and double- YumaSun.com, with the Casino City deck Blackjack. Times describing it as “a transformation Two restaurants are available to feed of sand-covered hills into a new $200 hungry gamers—Sidewinders Grill and million casino-resort.” Ironwood Steakhouse—and 166 guest Tribal member Charles Montague Sr., rooms (including eight 800-square-foot general manager of Paradise Casinos, suites) await exhausted gamers and oth- says: “It was a wise move to put two ca- er consumers who partake in the resort’s sinos close together, because, initially, other entertainment options. Arizona didn’t have any table games, The 20,000-square-foot Pipa Event but California did. It was an economic Center is one of the area’s largest ven- boom time and gamers showed up left ues for entertainment, special events and right.” and meetings with a full-size stage and t Quechan Casino Resort’s nearly seating for 2,300. Paradise Casino on 3,000-square-foot gaming space houses Quechan Drive in Yuma keeps its 500

sino R esor 1,000 gaming machines and two-dozen new and classic slot machines humming table and poker games, open 24/7. Ta- by continuing to add new floor games. ble games include six-deck and double- Despite a drop in gaming participa- deck Blackjack, Pai Gow and Three tion during the recession, the casinos Card Poker, while eight live poker have contributed to the tribe’s economic sino; Que c h a n C tables deal Texas Hold‘em and Omaha vitality. “Looking at both properties, Hi-Low splits. High-rollers are awarded our trips are up over last year at Quechan VIP treatment in the region’s only high- Casino Resort and substantially up at the a r ad ise C P limit room with multi-denomination Paradise facility,” says Montague. 0

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 30 Indian Country Today Fatter Wallets = Skinnier Kids

Casinos associated with lower obesity rates by tanya lee

ew research shows that open- hood obesity. The finding is extremely dren and adults, and because being ing a new tribal casino, or important, according to researchers, overweight or obese in childhood has expanding an existing one, is because obesity is a significant prob- impacts that can eventually become Nassociated with a reduction in child- lem among American Indian chil- life-threatening.

A recent John Hopkins study reveals that casinos reduce poverty and waistlines—particularly among American Indian/Alaska Native youth. (2) THINKSTOCK

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 31

The research does not prove a causal relationship between casino development and fewer overweight/obese kids, but it does strongly suggest that such a relationship exists. Johns Hopkins’ Department of International Health’s Jessica C. Jones-Smith, lead investigator for the project, says, “This is a strong study that is not as methodologically rigorous as a ran- domized control trial but that offers better evidence towards causality than most other observational designs.” The research also shows that the reduction in overweight/ obese children associated with casino development appears to

The risk of being an overweight/ obese American Indian/Alaska Native child dropped 0.19 percent per new slot machine. Researchers found that areas with casinos are linked to higher incomes.

be long-lasting. “In this time period of 2001 to 2012, different existing casino increased families’ and communities’ economic tribes opened their casinos at different times, and we did look resources and that in turn led to a decrease in the risk of chil- at whether the time that you opened the casino had any impact dren being overweight or obese. 0 on our estimate of the casino’s impact on obesity,” Jones-Smith says. “It didn’t, so it looks like throughout this time whenever you opened the casino you still experienced a decrease in the risk for obesity.” Thus, a tribe that opened a casino in the early 2000s showed the same reduction in overweight/obese children as one that opened a casino five or six years later. Researchers looked at 117 California school districts that encompassed tribal lands, based on information from the U.S. Census Bureau. Of those school districts, “57 gained or expanded a casino, 24 had a preexisting casino but did not expand, and 36 never had a casino.” Then they looked at body- mass index (BMI) for the children in those districts based on information supplied by the California Department of Educa- tion. Forty-eight percent of the BMI measurements for children whose parents identified the child’s race as American Indian or Alaska Native were classified as overweight/obese. In school districts that encompassed tribal lands where a new casino had been built or an existing casino expanded between the years 2001 and 2012, the risk of being an overweight/obese American Indian/Alaska Native child dropped 0.19 percent per new slot machine. Since there were on average 13 new slots per capita, the total reduction in the risk of being overweight or obese averaged 2.47 percent. Each new slot represented a per capita increase in annual income of $541 and a decrease in the number of people living in poverty. For the average of 13 new slots per capita, this would mean a 7.8-percent reduction in the number of people living in poverty. The investigators concluded that the most plausible explana-

THINKSTOCK (2) THINKSTOCK tion for their findings is that opening a new or expanding an

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 32 Indian Country Today

fans the best of many things—a world- class facility, a great destination and Venue Wishes committed management. According to the Hartford Courant, the deal includes the conference’s op- Upon the Stars tion to host the NCAA Division I tournament at Mohegan Sun next year as well. The Mohegan Sun Arena is the place to watch NCAA The AAC was playing its inaugural women’s basketball tournament after being created out of a realignment of the Big East and other by mark fogarty conferences. Besides UConn and Louis- ville, the ten-team league includes Rut- gers, the University of South Florida, Southern Methodist University, the University of Houston, the University of Cincinnati, the University of Central Florida, the University of Memphis, and Temple University. All 10 teams played in the single-elimination tournament. Shoni Schimmel made the go-ahead basket for Louisville in the most exciting game of the tournament, the quar- terfinal match with the University of South Florida. Jude Schimmel put the game out of reach with two foul shots just a few seconds later, and the Cardi- nals won 60-56. Shoni Schimmel led all Louisville scorers with 17 points. The younger Schimmel sister is not a starter for the Cardinals but was a crowd favorite, with the Louisville band leading spectators in serenading her with the chorus of the Beatles’ “Hey Jude” after each basket. Shoni Schimmel had 15 points and WNBA stars Tina Charles and Maya Moore during the 2013 All-Star game at Mohegan Sun. Jude 6 in Louisville’s trouncing of the University of Houston in their quar- he Mohegan Sun Arena recently it played host to the WNBA All Star terfinal game, as the Cardinals won increased its presence in wom- game. the game by 45 points. But Louisville, en’s basketball as the casino fa- At the time the deal was announced seeded number 2 in the tournament and Tcility hosted the first American Athletic last year, Mohegan Tribal Gaming Au- number 3 in the nation, couldn’t stop Conference tournament in February. thority chief executive Mitchell Etess the top team in the conference and in American Indian basketball celebri- credited the casino’s collaboration with women’s college basketball, the Univer- ties Shoni and Jude Schimmel provided the Sun for the Mohegan Sun Arena sity of Connecticut. some of the fireworks for the newly cre- scoring the opportunity to host the Big This year’s undefeated Huskies squad, ated league’s first finals. The sisters, from East women’s basketball tournament touted as one of the best teams ever to the Umatilla reservation in Oregon, (which later morphed into the Ameri- play college women’s basketball, rolled played three games at the Uncasville, can Athletic Conference, or AAC). over the Cardinals by 20 points in front Connecticut, facility for the Louisville “This is what bringing the Connecticut of a large contingent of in-state fans, Cardinals, who lost the championship Sun here has done for us, it has made us despite Shoni Schimmel’s 20-point ef- game to the University of Connecticut. a true entertainment company, not just fort. More than 8,000 fans attended The 10,000-seat Mohegan Sun is the a gaming or hotel company,” Etess said. the championship game at Mohegan home court of the Mohegan-owned AAC Commissioner Mike Aresco Sun, and more than 7,500 attended the s ge

Connecticut Sun of the Women’s Na- agreed with Etess. “Mohegan Sun Arena thrilling semifinal against the Univer- ma tional Basketball Association. In 2013 offers our student-athletes, coaches and sity of South Florida. 0 AP I

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 33

Is the Fix Finally In? “Maybe not 566 federally acknowl- edged tribes, but overwhelmingly, Sena- Senator Jon Tester introduces a clean Carcieri fix tor, we support a clean Carcieri fix,” Noka told Tester. “We are ready to stand side-by- by rob capriccioso a tribe’s trust land acquisition, and Big side with you.” Lagoon Rancheria v. California, where the Sens. Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), Mark en. Jon Tester (D-Montana), chair- Ninth Circuit essentially ruled that there Begich (D- Arkansas), Tom Udall (D- man of the Senate of the Commit- is no time limit on challenging a tribe’s sta- New Mexico), Heidi Heitkamp (D-North tee on Indian Affairs (SCIA) since tus or its trust land acquisitions.” Dakota), Patty Murray (D-Washington), Smid-February, has introduced a pro-trib- Tester noted at a March 12 gathering Martin Heinrich (D-New Mexico) and al legislative solution to the controversial of the National Congress of American John Walsh (D-Montana) have signed on 2009 Supreme Court Carcieri v. Salazar Indians (NCAI) in Washington, D.C. as co-sponsors to Tester’s bill. decision that limited the Department that problems for tribes stemming from Bipartisan clean Carcieri bills have al- of the Interior’s ability to take land into Carcieri have been ongoing for five years ready been introduced in the House this trust for tribes not under federal jurisdic- and counting. “While I believe a clean fix session of Congress, and a clean Carcieri tion in 1934. is a solution, many of my colleagues in the fix passed the House in a previous session Tester’s bill, introduced April 1, reaf- Senate don’t agree,” Tester cautioned at of Congress. The Senate has not moved a firms the Secretary of the Interior’s au- NCAI. “Even Indian country is divided Carcieri bill. thority to take land into trust for all tribes, on the issue. I can tell you that I plan to in- Tester’s legislation stands in contrast regardless of when they were recognized troduce a clean fix, but it must come with to draft legislation floated by Sen. Maria by the federal government. His legislation the support and pledge of Indian country Cantwell (D-Washington) late last year does not exclude any tribes on issues like to come together on this issue and engage before she exited the SCIA chairman- off-reservation gaming or location, as past in meaningful dialogue. ship. Her legislation called for a fix that Carcieri legislation considered in the Sen- “At the end of the day, we need the would exclude the Narragansett Tribe of ate has done. votes to pass the legislation,” Tester added. Rhode Island, and it made modifications “I know that there are a number of to federal rules that would make gam- my colleagues who have an interest in ing impossible or more difficult for this legislation and would like to see some tribes. Many tribes and Indian changes to this bill,” Tester said on the Many tribes and Indian organizations have argued that land- Senate floor. “I want to let you know into-trust policy should not be tied that I stand ready to work with each of organizations have argued that to gaming policy, as they are distinct you to craft a bill that the Senate can issues. enact and that will end this problem of land-into-trust policy should Cantwell’s legislation was not draft- two classes of tribes forever.” not be tied to gaming policy. ed with wide consultation from tribal Tester sought to introduce a clean leaders, as opposed to Tester’s, which fix quickly into his tenure leading is said to have wide-ranging tribal SCIA, Senate aides said, because he support. believes this is an issue causing economic “When we look at the map of the nation, Retired Sen. Daniel Akaka (D- uncertainty and costly litigation for many we need to know where we stand on the Hawaii) pushed for passage of a clean tribes, as well as for the U.S. government. issue. And when we look at the Senate, we Carcieri fix when he led SCIA before “This decision has had a significant -im need to know how we reach sixty votes. Cantwell, but that effort was stalled by pact on tribes in every part of this country, So let’s be realistic. We will not receive the legislators including Sen. Dianne Fein- whether it is the Poarch Band of Creek In- full support of my Democratic colleagues, stein who would only support a legis- dians, which is facing spurious litigation so the question becomes how we bargain lative compromise that tied limits on over its status as a tribe; the Samish Tribe with Republican leaders to make mean- off-reservation gaming for some tribes to of Washington, which has been waiting ingful inroads to solve this issue.” Carcieri legislation. Some tribal lobbyists four years for a Carcieri determination; or Randy Noka, a councilman and ambas- who want to limit casino competition for the Little Shell Tribe of my home State of sador with the Narragansett Indian Tribe, their clients have worked with Feinstein Montana, who could be affected by this told Tester at the NCAI meeting that to develop Carcieri compromises that in ruling if they are granted federal recog- while Indian country may not be 100 per- effect create two classes of tribes. nition, as they should be,” Tester said in cent supportive of a clean fix, he believes Interior in March issued a legal opin- his introduction of the bill. “Moreover, there is overwhelming tribal support for ion that has allowed it to continue taking the Carcieri decision has spawned more one. He noted at the time that over 30 Na- lands into trust for tribes no matter their harmful litigation, including Salazar v. tive organizations that represent hundreds dates of federal acknowledgement, but the Patchak, where the Supreme Court ruled of Indian tribes had signed letters of sup- opinion could be ignored by future presi- that individuals have six years to challenge port for a clean fix. dential administrations. 0

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 34 Indian Country Today

In January, Pechanga Resort & Casino unveiled the multimillion-dollar renovation of its hotel lobby, which features “water chandeliers.” Doubling Down

T he high-ticket renovation of Pechanga Resort & Casino expected to improve economy by lynn armitage Tuna sashimi at Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar

rnest White Eyes has been dealt White Eyes considers himself one of he said. a very good hand. The 52-year- the lucky ones. It took four months and 30,000 man asino (3) asino

old Oglala Lakota native, who “I was hoping to work in a bigger op- hours to complete, but the multimil- C hasE worked in gaming for nearly 20 eration, and this is one of the biggest lion-dollar renovation (exact cost is t and years, recently moved to Southern casinos in California right now,” said undisclosed) of the Pechanga Resort r California with his wife and 2-year- White Eyes, who was hired as a dual- & Casino is expected to have a posi- old son. After an extensive search for rate dealer (a floor supervisor and a tive economic impact on the Temecula casino work, he was one of about 100 blackjack dealer). He is especially grate- region, most famous for its wines, for people recently hired at the newly ful that he doesn’t have to pool his tips, many years to come. renovated Pechanga Resort & Casino as was the policy in other casinos where Dr. Manfred Keil, an economist and in Temecula. In a state with unemploy- he worked. “I’m very happy. It’s more associate professor at Claremont McK- ment still hovering around 8.5 percent, money down here and better benefits,” enna College, estimates that the wages Reso Facebook/Pechanga

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 35

and purchases of more than 350 construction workers, as well as the nearly 100 new, permanent positions created within the resort, will result in a much-needed $20 million pumped back into the local economy. “Pechanga is one of the most popular destinations we have in the region,” said Kimberly Adams, founding president of the Temecula Valley Convention and Visi- tors Bureau. According to bureau statistics, travel spending in Temecula amounted to $625.3 million in 2012—much of it from visitors to Pechanga. “I think when people get here, they have no idea that it is the largest casino in Califor- nia,” said Adams. One Pechanga spokesper- son said the casino floor is even larger than any in Las Vegas. What’s more, Adams said the renovation was something the local community was really looking forward to. “Just to be able to Officials cut the ribbon to unveil the new lobby replete with responsibly sourced marble. have something new and fresh, and to in- spire a new kind of traveler…people who travel for the newest so I make it fun for them.” luxuries…is exciting for us to see.” Entertaining is in White Eyes’ blood. He said his great-great- Some of the highlights of the renovation include a grandfather, Jacob White Eyes, was the Native interpreter for 22,000-square-foot lobby decked in Italian marble, mahogany Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show and traveled all over the United and brushed brass, two new restaurants—Umi Sushi & Oyster States, Great Britain and Europe with the production. 0 Bar and Blends Coffee & Wine Bar—as well as upgrades to Blazing Noodles and Pechanga Café. There are also plans in the works to renovate the rooftop nightclub, Eagle’s Nest. Re- sort officials stressed that ecological touches were used wherever possible, in alignment with tribal values. “We set out to renew and transform the lobby and restaurants into a focal point for guests to come into our grand entrance and say, ‘Wow!’’’ said Patrick Murphy, president of the Pechanga Development Corporation, in a press release issued by the resort. That’s precisely the reaction that White Eyes had. “It’s beautiful, really classy. When I first walked in, I thought, ‘Wow! It’s fantastic!’ I have never seen a casino like this.” Specifically, the Native blackjack dealer appreciates all the tribal touches. “There are great oak trees all over the casino, and they have eagle-feather lights—and lights made out of baskets! … It’s very oriented to the Pechanga tribe, and the other casinos in the area don’t look as tribal as this.” Pechanga Resort & Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. It officially opened in June of 2002, and according to its website, has been the primary asino (3) t and C asino source of funding for many high-cost improvements and social services on the reservation. White Eyes, who grew up on the Pine Ridge Indian reservation in South Dakota, believes that the Pechanga renovation has really hit its mark. “The hotel is full every night, especially on the weekends.” And he believes it’s his job to keep these guests coming back. “The people who come to play on my

Facebook/Pechanga Reso r Facebook/Pechanga table, even though they lose, they are there to be entertained,

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 36 Indian Country Today

Apache Sky is slated for the southwestern portion of the reservation, about a 45-mile drive from Apache Gold Casino Resort (pictured above). Reach for the Apache Sky

S an Carlos Apache Nation plans for $10 million sort, five minutes east of Globe in Gila renovation and a second casino County, Arizona. In addition to gaming, the casino offers a 146-room Best Western Hotel, an 18-hole champion- by lee allen ship golf course Apache Stronghold, a cabaret with live entertainment, and a t’s no wonder that a primary eco- making it a big and small game hunting 60-space RV park. nomic focus for the San Carlos destination. But the San Carlos Apache Tribe esort Apache Nation is recreation and The tribe’s unspoiled lakes and remains one of the poorest Native R

Iwildlife. The tribe’s Arizona-based, streams, offering Native species like American communities in the country, sino 3,000-square-mile reservation, which Apache Trout, attract anglers, and the according to the 2010 U.S. Census. For a encompasses seven biotic regions rang- tribe’s waters also allow for year-round the estimated 10,000 reservation resi- ing from desert to forest, teems with recreational pursuits like whitewater dents, the median household income he Gold C c some of the largest antler-bearing elk rafting, kayaking and canoeing. is $26,915 (compared to $51,310 for a in the world, as well as deer, big horn Twenty years ago, the tribe expanded the rest of the State of Arizona). Forty sheep, javelina, antelope, black bear, its business offerings with its first gam- percent of all households have incomes mountain lion, wild turkey and more, ing enterprise, Apache Gold Casino Re- of less than $20,000, and less than half Ap Courtesy

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 37

of the youth population was categorized draw more visitors from the Tucson and Phoenix metropoli- as being employed. A sound economic tan areas who might extend their stay. Although the casino base is important for any locale, but es- itself will be on sovereign land, Pinal County will also reap pecially so within this tribal community ancillary benefits because of its presence. dominated by young people—nearly 40 “We’ve not yet done an economic study because everything percent of the current population is un- is currently a moving target and it would only be a guesstimate der age 18. at this point, but we know the County will end up generating The tribe hopes its next endeavor money from this ambitious project,” said Kanavel. will change their economic climate. “We see this as an economic benefit to the tribe and the The tribe is gearing up to open its sec- community of Dudleyville,” says Pinal County Supervisor Pete ond gaming facility, Apache Sky Ca- Rios, a long-time supporter of gaming on Indian lands. sino. Plans call for it to be built some “Under our compact with the state, our tribe is allocated 50 miles away from the first site, along two such gaming facilities and we’re pleased the Board of Su- a sparsely populated stretch of High- pervisors has given their enthusiastic support of our second way 77 (Milepost 127). The roadway is location,” says Terry Rambler, chairman of the San Carlos known as the Copper Corridor because Apache Tribe. it runs through small mining com- While hiring preference will be given to tribal members— munities. While travelers can spot the including temporary construction work to permanent staff po- glowing casino signs from the highway, sitions, “we anticipate a good number of hires will come from it will be reachable via a half-mile-long off-reservation, perhaps half the new employees or more, be- access road. cause of the home-to-work travel distance involved for many On the drawing boards since 2007, Apaches currently living in San Carlos,” Kanavel says. the concept of a second casino was As time passes, the trip to work may be shortened. “I can’t shelved some five to six years ago when speak for the tribe,” says Murrey, “but I believe they intend to the country’s economy began to tank. ultimately build a community in the area to help support those A recent feasibility study indicated the tribal members who might want to work at Apache Sky.” 0 current outlook is more promising. “It’s time,” says Gary Murrey, CEO and general manager of Apache Gold and the planned Apache Sky. “We need to generate dollars to pay for infrastructure, social programs, and health efforts on the reservation. The sooner we can bring long-term economic stability to the tribe, the better.” Even as a $10 million renovation is underway at the Apache Gold property, phase one construction on the 230- acre Apache Sky location just outside the village of Dud- leyville should be completed by April of 2015. The gaming facility will open its doors with some 500 slot machines, about a dozen table games, six poker tables, a restaurant, and a lounge. This part of an overall ambitious development project is anticipated to cost between $25-$30 million. It’s anticipated there will be a couple hundred construction jobs to put the pieces together and ultimately as many as 500-600 living wage jobs to revitalize the community once the build- ers are done. Depending on how well the casino performs, phase two

sino R esort could include a 150-room hotel and possible additional features such as a conference center, multiple restaurants and entertainment options, like a bowling alley or a theater. “Phase two might be five years down the road,” Murrey says. he Gold C a ac Currently hotel rooms in the area are minimal to non-ex- istent, and it’s hard to keep visitors overnight. Tim Kanavel of the Pinal County Economic Development says the casino

Courtesy Ap Courtesy (with hotel) development plans could change all that and

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 38 Indian Country Today

The new hall will accommodate 400 players three times a day to the Outlets which will also spur more business for the shops, eateries and other entertainment venues in the Outlets which is directly across the street from the Ca- sino and hotel. A long line of players —many who arrived half a day before the ribbon cutting—was energizing for the Viejas Tribal Council Members who supported this idea. “It was an honor to see friends, supporters and business partners from the county of San Diego, Imperial Valley and other counties as well,” Scheid said. “The tentacles that come out from an enterprise like this have benefits that Viejas Bingo incorporates many of the features, amenities and conveniences that guests requested, Kelley said. go both ways in the community financially and otherwise.” Viejas Bingo will award $45,000 in April and a chance to win one of two The Bingo Mall new FIAT 500s. However, the tribal decision to relocate was also about satisfying the players. Viejas Tribe brings gaming to a shopping center “We responded to guests’ request: more room, a snack bar, and no smoke by diana saenger to walk through before getting to their seats,” said Viejas Tribal Chairman Anthony Pico. “In aboriginal times he Viejas Band of Kumeyaay In- key revenue for casinos,” said Robert quests services were very important to dians selected a highly trafficked Scheid, vice president of community us, and my elders told us when other area for its new bingo hall—the and public relations. “We relocated tribes would come through we would TViejas Outlets. It is believed to be Cali- Anna’s Linens in the Outlets to a better make sure they had a place to stay, rest fornia’s first bingo hall in a shopping location and their spot became the new and get provisions before moving on. center. dedicated bingo hall.” That’s why we continue those tradi- Bingo has a long history at Viejas. The hall has a 6,000-square-foot tions; it’s part of our genetics. We’re Starting in 1977 it’s been moved several bingo floor with 400 seats, dedicated grateful for all who keep coming back, S T

times to provide room for the growing smoking and non-smoking areas, a because in our hearts we really enjoy E TL number of players. It was during refur- snack bar and valet parking. Players being of service.” U O bishing the casino after completing the can use traditional paper sheets and Chris Kelley, General Manager of the S JA first hotel and prepping for the second, daubers, or portable handheld elec- Viejas Casino & Resort, added, “We are E that the new plan for bingo was derived. tronic bingo tablets and flat-screen committed to bringing the best casino esy VI esy “We wanted the best use for the ca- monitors that allow them to play up resort experience to San Diego today, t sino floor space and to add more slots— to 500 bingo games at a time. tomorrow and for years to come.” 0 COur

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 39

Tee for Two—or Four Turning Stone golf courses honored as some of the best

he Turning Stone Casino Resort in Central New York is home to three world-class golf courses— Atunyote, Kaluhyat and Shenendoah—and each ofT them was recently awarded one of maga- Golfweek zine’s most prestigious awards. The courses were listed in Golfweek’s Best Casino Courses of 2013, and the Association of Golf Merchan- disers (AGM) selected Turning Stone’s Shenendoah Golf Club as one of the nation’s top golf shops. This is the seventh consecutive year Turning Stone’s three courses made Golfweek’s exclusive list. “We are thrilled that our courses and shop have received these recognitions for excellence,” said CEO of Oneida Na- The Tom Fazio-designed Atunyote golf course at Turning Stone Resort tion Enterprises Ray Halbritter in a press release. “As anyone who has played our courses can tell you, the York Area. quality of the golf at Turning Stone is truly second to none Turning Stone’s Skaná Spa was recently named to the and we will continue to make Turning Stone a top desti- Best Casino Hotel Spas and Best Spas for Golf in SpaFinder nation for golfers from across the country and around the Wellness Readers’ Choice Awards. world.” For more information and reservations, call 315-361-7711 The Shenendoah Golf Club received an additional honor, or 800-771-7711. Visit the web site at TurningStone.com. 0 the 2014 AGM Platinum Award. The club was recognized as one of the “best of the best.” AGM honorees are judged on new ideas, creativity, adaptability and best practices. Shenendoah and the other honorees will be feted on the main stage at the PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Flor- ida, on January 22, 2014. Turning Stone’s courses have held several major, pro-golf events, including the PGA Tour’s B.C. Open and Turning Stone Resort Cham- pionship, and PGA Professional National Championship, and have hosted some of the sport’s biggest names, including Tiger Woods, Dustin John- son and Rickie Fowler. And each year, the Na- tion’s Atunyote Golf s Club hosts the annual mage I Notah Begay III with Tiger Woods Notah Begay III Foun- P A

; dation Challenge char- t

or ity event, which Woods won in 2009. s e

R If you’re not a golfer, there are plenty of other ways to en- ino joy Turning Stone’s 3,400-acre complex,which offers world- s class dining, accommodations and entertainment options.

one Ca Turning Stone recently expanded with a new $25 million, t multi-venue entertainment complex called Exit 33. Last month, the resort’s TS Steakhouse was honored in

Turning S OpenTable’s top 10 Best Ambiance Restaurants in the New

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 40 Indian Country Today

The beautiful exterior of Graton Resort & Casino, located in Rohnert Park among the rolling hills of Northern California’s wine country. Dressed to Impress

T he Graton Resort & Casino opens big “We have nearly a billion-dollar debt to pay off.” by lynn armitage Inside the casino, once you looked past the serpentine lines of people wait- ’m so excited!” shouted Eileen much about after nearly a year and a ing for bathrooms, food, alcohol and Braden of Napa, fast-walking from half of construction. their reward cards, it could be the Hap- the parking lot to the entrance of “I heard we broke all major casino piest Place on Earth—for adults—with Ithe Graton Resort & Casino in Rohnert records as far as openings and intake,” 3,000 slot machines, 144 table games, Park, California, last November. “This is said Greg Sarris, tribal chairman of an 18-table poker room, three fully- so close to home–now I don’t have to go the 1,300-member Federated Indians stocked bars and 13 restaurants. Visu- to Tahoe or Reno anymore.” of Graton Rancheria who won federal ally, the designers hit the jackpot. The Like Braden, they came from all over recognition for his tribe in 2000. casino literally glitters from 361 chan- Northern California and from as far Record crowds were good news for deliers and decorative accents in glass, away as Asia–skilled gamblers, ama- Graton tribal members, who, Sarris marble, mother-of-pearl and stainless teur fortune seekers and regular folks said, will start receiving per capita pay- steel. hoping to get lucky at the new $800 ments after the first quarter. “But they Graton is surely dressed to impress, million casino they had heard so are not going to be significant,” he said. hoping to capture a piece of an already (3) & Casino R esort Graton

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 41

Let the games begin: Spin the wheel, roll the dice or play your hand at 3,000 slots, 144 table games, and limit and no-limit live poker games.

dense gaming market of more than 60 about getting a new color TV. “Our job ment benefits. “We will be the largest Native-owned casinos in California. as Indian people in this tribe is not to employer in Sonoma County with a $60 Sarris is particularly interested in woo- repeat the paradigm of greed in business million a year payroll,” he said. ing the Bay Area and wine country that has put the world in the condition A 300-room “elegant” hotel and spa crowds with award-win- with a sun atrium are ning chefs and top local also in the works, Sarris wines. shared. But what he is “There is plenty, plenty most proud of is a proj- of money to go around,” ect that will give back— said Sarris when asked an organic farm that will about elbowing aside the be built on some remain- competition. The Press ing acres next to the ca- Democrat reports that sino. “We will employ the casino will generate undocumented folks and about $533 million with- low-risk prisoners and in two years in a North- pay them living wages, ern California market then sell the vegetables at shared by 20 casinos. cost to low-income fami- Surrounding commu- lies so they can enjoy the nities are poised to ben- kinds of vegetables that efit from gaming profits, Sky, the casino’s center bar positioned beneath a magnificent skylight rich folks get to eat from too. According to The Whole Foods.” Los Angeles Times, the tribe will pay that it is in today, but to use this oppor- Graton Resort & Casino is managed about $9 million a year to Sonoma tunity to build a home, a safe home for by Station Casinos of Las Vegas. The County for 20 years, and $251 million all of us, once again.” 1,300-member tribe of Federated In- esort & Casino (3) & Casino esort R to Rohnert Park over 20 years for public Sarris has ensured that every one of his dians of Graton Rancheria is made up safety, education and other services. 2,000 employees, including part-timers, of Coastal Miwok and Southern Pomo

Graton Graton But the tribal chairman insists it’s not receive full medical, dental and retire- Indians. 0

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 42 Indian Country Today

Chairman Darrell Mike, City of Twentynine Palms Mayor Dan Mintz and Courtney Andrade-Gonzalez cut the ribbon at the grand opening. Tortoise Rock Ready to Roll

Tortoise Rock Casino in Twentynine Palms celebrates its grand opening

fter 10 months of construc- The boutique casino is located in Marine Corps Air Ground Combat tion, the eagerly awaited the quaint Mojave Desert enclave of Center. 30,000-square-foot Tortoise Twentynine Palms, California, just The kick-off event featured musi- RockA Casino, owned and operated outside Palm Springs and nestled be- cians Bobby Furgo and Rojer Arnold, no (3) by the Twenty-Nine Palms Band of tween Joshua Tree National Park and while sporting events were broadcast si

Mission Indians, debuted on March one of the country’s largest military on several televisions. k Ca 31. Following a private reception and training facilities, the United States Mike said the new gaming establish- c e Ro ribbon cutting, a capacity crowd of is o

1,201 people at one time tried their rt

luck on the 490 slot machines, seven R/To table games and live poker. The casino features beautiful and eco-friendly designs, E “Let’s toast the future of this community and what lies ahead,” said such as drought-tolerant landscaping with high-tech Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission recycling and water-reclamation features. Indians Chairman Darrell Mike, re- MILL ebook/CHRIS c ported the Hi-Desert Star. Fa

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 43

Tortoise Rock Casino is open to anyone 18 and older and aims to attract people from the nearby Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center.

ment is significant for many reasons. “Tortoise Rock Casino is not only a significant milestone for our Tribe, but we are also very happy to bring jobs and add excitement to entire high desert community,” he said. Tortoise Rock Casino features beautiful and eco-friendly designs, such as drought-tolerant landscaping with high-tech recycling and water- reclamation features. Tortoise Rock Casino will offer quick bites at an af-

si no (3) fordable price at Oasis Grille, along with live music, sports viewing events and beverages at Shelly’s Lounge. An estimated $1.4 million went to o is e Ro c k Ca construction wages alone, with local contractors and crews given preference. Tortoise Rock Casino will employ more than 100 full and part-time employees. The tribe also owns Spotlight 29 Casino in nearby Coachella. rt MILL E R/To c ebook/CHRIS 0

Fa Most of Tortoise Rock’s 16o full- and part-time employees received training at Spotlight 29.

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 44 Indian Country Today Highway 69 Revisited

A flash new casino resort is coming to Arizona by lee allen

he worst-kept gaming secret site will offer 50,000 square feet of ca- among Arizona’s tiny Yavapai- sino space and up to 80 hotel rooms. Prescott Indian Tribe has been “At this point, we don’t know what Tconfirmed: There’s a new resort-style we’ll call it or what the design will look destination casino on the drawing like,” he said. “We’re planning a strate- boards. gic focus group for tribal member input The 1,400-acre reservation in central and we have the summer to determine Yavapai County, Arizona, is adjacent those details. The next milestone will be to Prescott, which is already home an architect’s rendering expected in late to two facilities: Bucky’s Casino and June. The tribe has long wanted a more Yavapai Casino. The former adjoins the modern hotel destination to replace the 160-guest-room Prescott Resort and aging Bucky’s and Yavapai casinos; and Conference Center situated on “Top of with other tribes building “resort-style” the Rock” of Prescott, Arizona’s “Mile properties, they felt the time for them High City.” The resort offers stunning to build was now.” views of the town and the nation’s larg- According to a Yavapai College Re- est continuous forest of gional Economic Devel- Ponderosa pines. Free opment Center study, “Gold Rush” express the new casino will be shuttle buses run daily an economic boon for Bucky’s Casino in Prescott, Arizona from Phoenix, located the growing Prescott less than 100 miles Valley. “For this proj- tribe allows for 566 slot machines and southeast of Prescott. ect, it worked out to 90 card tables. The existing Bucky’s Other tribal enterpris- an $80 million impact Casino has 309 slots, 11 poker tables es include a 250-acre to the region over the and half a dozen blackjack tables, while shopping center, Fron- next 18-24 months,” Yavapai Casino offers 244 slots. Early tier Village, featuring said Marcum. That fig- information indicates the operations of a large collection of ure reflects direct and the two, current facilities will be con- national brands, and indirect benefits of the solidated in some fashion, temporarily, Sundog Business Park, Richard Marcum project cost as well as and Marcum has been quoted as saying located just two min- related increased spend- that once the new hotel is open some- utes from Prescott and housing more ing in the local economy. time in 2016, the two older casinos will than a dozen industrial office business- The 99-year-old Leo A. Daly archi- close. es. Of the approximately 150 enrolled tecture, engineering and interior design “Jobwise, there will be an offset,” said members of the Yavapai-Prescott tribe, firm will lead construction and devel- Marcum. “There will be some down- 115 live on the reservation. opment of the project. sizing through attrition during the The tribe’s newest endeavor is slated The destination hotel and gaming consolidation phase with job increases for a 12-acre site along the main high- facility is intended to attract new cus- expected on the hotel-side of the new way, Arizona 69, at the intersection of tomers from outside the region, in ad- casino. Overall we expect little or no the Yavpe Connector. The tribe antici- dition to local gamers. The new casino job loss and only small employment ge pates a late 2016 opening. will feature several restaurants serving gains, perhaps 20 to 30 employees.” a A formal press conference made the a variety of cuisines, a central bar, and The modernization of the resort is ex- rumors official on Saturday, April 5. flexible event space to accommodate a pected to generate more revenue. “We Tribal General Manager Rich Marcum variety of entertainment events. estimate, conservatively, that casino rry & Teddy P & Teddy rry has confirmed the basics with Indian According to the Arizona Depart- revenues will increase between 10-15 La Country Today Media Network: the ment of Gaming, the state’s gaming percent over current volume,” Marcum as-yet-unnamed lodging and gaming compact with the Yavapai-Prescott said. 0 Flickr/

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 45

45 miles from the Ca- nadian border. “We’re expecting to get a large pool from Canada, as we do now,” Finley says. “We expect some will stay longer and spend more of their disposable income as we’ll have a hotel.” Omak Casino Re- sort will also be the first destination resort in Okanogan County and is expected to be an economic boon to the region as it will attract conferences. The casino portion will be twice the size of the tribes’ Mill Bay Ca- sino located on a trust parcel near Lake Chel- an. It will also replace Rendering of Omak Casino Resort, which would serve as a conference center and cater to the Canadian clientele the tribes’ Okanogan Bingo Casino. The new casino is expected to largely employ tribal members, Finley adds. Play and Stay Taylor-Woodstone Construction will oversee development; the Bloomington, Colville Tribes plan first hotel with casino Minnesota-based company has worked with a number of tribes on other casino by jack mcneel projects, plus the huge Palazzo Casino Resort in Las Vegas, among others. his will be our first hotel,” says two lounges and two restaurants. It will The Colville Tribal Federal Corpo- Mike Finley, chairman of the create about 200 jobs in both the casino ration is fully financing the project. Colville Business Council. The and hotel.” “They’re the sole signer on the loan, and TConfederated Colville Tribes own three The casino/hotel will be located on it’s the first loan the Colville Tribe has small casinos but no hotels. Surface reservation property south of Omak, not had to guarantee. The tribes’ com- preparation and some excavation for Washington. The population is quite mitment to business development cer- the site of the new Omak Casino Re- low there, but the location is only about tainly has exhibited itself over the past sort will begin about April 15, so cars few years.” can reach the location and people can This area is rich in cultural history. attend the groundbreaking, which is Five years ago, ground was being broken projected for early May. The anticipated “We expect some for a $24 million casino near Omak, but opening is about 12 months later. when artifacts and human remains were Randy Williams is Director of Cor- will stay longer and discovered, the project was immedi- porate Gaming for the tribes and he ately shut down. “We ordered a full ar- outlined details of the complex. “It’s cheological excavation be done in that a $43 million project. It includes a spend more of their area,” Finley says. “It turned out to be ed Colville Tribes ed Colville t 57,000-square-foot casino and an 80- the oldest recorded archeological site room hotel. The hotel will be between a disposable income as on the reservation.” That location will three- and four-star hotel, so it’s upscale remain undeveloped; this new hotel/ and will be nice. We’ll have 500 ma- we’ll have a hotel.” casino complex is a larger version of the

The Confedera chines in this casino plus table games, derailed plan. 0

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 46 Indian Country Today A Second Chance At a First Chance

Kaw Nation Gets 21 Acres in Trust for Gaming by gale courey toensing

he Interior Department has ap- tion and both the local town and Kay Washburn: Site acquisition to boost economy proved an application to take County strongly supported the acquisi- 21 acres of land into trust for tion of the site into trust status. maining 176,000 in trust for sale to the Tgaming purposes for the Kaw Nation of The Kaw, or Kansa, people’s territory highest bidder. By then the government Oklahoma. The Kaw are known as the originally covered around 20 million was already talking about removing the People of the South Wind. acres of the northern half of what be- Kaw from Kansas altogether. Assistant Secretary-Indian Affairs came known as Kansas. The Nation ced- That happened in 1872, when the fed- Kevin Washburn announced the deci- ed more than 18 million acres in a treaty eral government passed an act removing sion in a media release March 10. “The with the federal government in 1825 the Kaw Nation to Oklahoma, where it Kaw Project will provide significant op- following the admission of Missouri to bought land for a reservation that was portunities for economic development statehood in 1821, the opening of the carved out of the existing Osage reserva- for the Kaw Nation, and will provide Santa Fe Trail that same year, and espe- tion. But in the 1970s, the Kaw reserva- a means for the Tribe to improve the cially the need to establish reservations tion was flooded by the Army Corps of governmental services it provides to its for the emigrant Shawnee, Delaware Engineers for the creation of the Kaw members,” Washburn said. “The acquisi- and Kickapoo nations. In exchange, Dam and Reservoir on the Arkansas tion of the site in trust is necessary to the Kaws were awarded a $3,500 an- River. As a result, the Kaw Nation no support these efforts.” nuity for 20 years, a quantity of cattle, longer has land on its former reserva- The 21-acre parcel is located in Kay hogs and domestic fowl, a government tion. This fact distinguishes the Kaw County, an area that includes the Na- blacksmith and agricultural instructor, Nation from other tribes in Oklahoma, tion’s headquarters. The Nation plans and schools to be funded from earlier Washburn said. to construct and operate a small casino Kaw land sales in the Kansas City area, The Kaw Nation’s home is now in Kay facility on the site, which also hosts the according to the Nation’s website. County. The gaming site is only 21 miles Tribe’s travel plaza that provides refu- The 1825 treaty worked no better from the boundaries of the Nation’s for- eling to interstate traffic and will con- than the other 500-plus treaties the fed- mer reservation and is near the Nation’s tinue to operate on the site. Kaw owns eral government made with American key governmental sites and population and operates the South Wind Casino Indian tribes that were broken, changed center at Newkirk. “The Kaw Nation in Newkirk, Oklahoma, and another or nullified when it served the govern- has strong ties to the region,” Washburn South Wind Casino in Kaw City, Okla- ment’s interests. For the Kaw, the next said. “The Nation seeks to restore a trib- homa. several decades were marked by more al land base in a region it has historically The Interior Department took the pressure to give up land for white settlers inhabited.” land into trust under the 1934 Indian and the building of the railroad during Guy Monroe, the chair of the Kaw Reorganization Act, which authorizes the push west. Decimated by poverty, Nation, said in a press release dated the Secretary to acquire trust land for smallpox and other diseases, the Nation March 11 that Washburn’s decision Indian tribes and individuals. Last year, entered another treaty that forced the “has been the result of a long and ardu- Washburn approved the Nation’s pro- sale of its remaining 2 million-acre res- ous collaborative process between the posed gaming facility plan under the ervation to the government for just over citizens of Braman and Kay County, the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, finding 10 cents an acre. The Nation got some State of Oklahoma and Kaw Nation. that the gaming facility would be in the money and a 256,000-acre reservation We anticipate that the Kaw Nation’s best interest of the Kaw Nation and its in exchange, but by 1859 another shady Braman Casino project will provide a members and would not be detrimen- treaty reduced the Nation’s land hold- solid economic boost to Kay County A tal to the surrounding community. On ings to 80,000 acres of the poorest land and the Kaw Nation which will result CI r/S May 23, 2013, Governor Mary Fallin of broken into 40-acre family allotments. in long term economic expansion in k

Oklahoma concurred in this determina- The federal government held the re- northern Kay County.” 0 Flic

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com May 11, 2014 Indian Country Today 47

destination]. You can never rest on your laurels, but I come in with a firm foundation: a product that’s fantastic, and a staff that’s enthusiastic. Now I get an opportunity to re-focus on the Tucson marketplace, where we want to be the entertainment venue.” In addition to generating tribal revenue, the Pascua Yaqui enterprises are major players in Southern Arizona’s economy. Figures for 2012, according to Casino City’s Indian Gaming In- dustry Report by Alan Meister, show Indian casino revenue exceeded $28.1 billion dollars, while Arizona’s 22 casinos brought in $1.8 billion, about a 3 percent increase from 2011. “We’re a critical component in the health of the state’s gaming industry, Casino del Sol is the only resort in Arizona to receive four stars from the 2014 Forbes Travel Guide. one of the top six multiple-facility met- ro tribal organizations,” says Burns, list- ing the other tribes as Gila River, Fort McDowell, Salt River, Ak-Chin, and Tohono O’odham. “The Big Boys in CEO Roulette Phoenix get the largest chunk, the lion’s share of the gaming market in the state, Casino Del Sol had some turnover at the top, but but with more than 1,300 employees seems to settling into a winning formula [60 to 65 percent of which are tribal hires], we have a large and positive impact on the local community and are a by lee allen major player in the economic impact of Indian gaming in Arizona.” he game of musical chairs at Ca- ent direction was made, council asked There are a lot of moving parts to sino Del Sol has slowed down if I would wear two hats and be an in- this well-oiled machine, lots of enter- since fall 2013, when Chief Fi- terim decision-maker in the absence of prises that live loosely under that resort’s Tnancial Officer Jim Burns accepted the a CEO,” says Burns. “We’ll see which di- gleaming copper dome—the resort, spa added responsibility of interim chief rection they want to go from here. I’ve and conference center; Sol Casinos and executive officer of the always been one who Casino of the Sun; an entertainment gaming resort, including asked only for an oppor- amphitheater, and a brand-new Sewailo its spa, conference cen- tunity to prove myself.” golf course—with Burns moving to tie ter and amphitheater. Burns has previous them all together to maximize synergy. In Fall 2011, un- tribal experience as for- Many of his accomplishments over der the aegis of then- mer CFO for the Salt recent months have centered around CEO Wendell Long, a River Pima-Maricopa the new golf course, which is now home $130-million resort/ca- Indian Community and to the University of Arizona men’s and sino expansion project their Casino Arizona, women’s golf teams, as well as launching was completed. Long and as general business a new marketing theme: “More Fun Un- subsequently accepted manager for the San der the Sun.” a casino CEO position Carlos Apache Tribe. It’s anticipated the tribal council may in Michigan, paving the James Burns, interim CEO “A good base was built consider removing the ‘interim CEO’ way for Pascua Yaqui under the leadership of designation for Burns in favor of a more tribal member Alex Amador to assume Wendell Long and his team before we permanent title. “If council is interested the command position, though the hit some bumps in the road. Now it’s in the direction I’d like to take the or- Tribal council suspended him within up to me to improve a property with ganization,” he says. “I’d be honored, ino Del Sol (2)

s 100 days. already great credentials [Forbes Four- humbled, and excited to take on that

Ca “When the decision to go in a differ- Star Resort and AAA Four-Diamond task.” 0

May 11, 2014 This Week From Indian Country Today 1 Indian Country Today SpA esort and esort R orse Pass orse Pass H heraton Wild heraton S oore/Courtesy oore/Courtesy M Jim

Chandler, Arizona’s gorgeous Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa is owned and operated by the Gila River Indian Community.

The Big Picture

IndianCountryTodayMediaNetwork.com July 10, 2013