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Arizona Indian Gaming Association
AIGA Members
AIGA EXPO

Agenda​

Agenda
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
AIGA Expo Welcome Reception | Ak-Chin Circle Entertainment Center

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Meet the Arizona Candidates Forum
Hosted by ATGG

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

AIGA Expo Authentically Authum Welcome Reception

7:30 PM – 9:30 PM

AIGA Expo Night Glow Bowling
(Harrah’s Ak-Chin Entertainment Center)

Wednesday, October 16, 2024
AIGA Expo Day 1 | Harrah’s Ak-Chin Hotel & Casino

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM

Invite Only: Tribal Leaders Breakfast with event Sponsors and AIGA Associate Members (Oak & Fork Restaurant)

Continental Breakfast for Attendees (Room: B1)

9:00 AM – 10:15 AM

Opening General Session (Room: B1)

  • Emcee: Teresa Choyguha
  • Cultural Presentation
  • Posting of Colors: American Legion Post 133 – Maricopa, AZ
  • Blessing: Gabriel Lopez, Councilmember, Ak-Chin Indian Community
  • National Anthem: Ak-Chin Community Language Program
  • Welcome: Judy Ferreira, Executive Director, Arizona Indian Gaming Association
  • Opening Remarks: Sherry Cordova, Chainwoman, Cocopah Indian Tribe and Arizonans for Tribal Government Gaming (ATGG)
  • Indian Gaming Association Update: Ernie Stevens, Jr., Chairman
  • National Indian Gaming Commission Update: Jeannie Hovland,
    Vice Chair, and Francisco Olea, Region Director

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM

Break

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Breakout Sessions 1

  • Sports Betting to iGaming: Navigating the Future in Indian Gaming (Room: B3)
    This one-hour seminar will explore the evolving landscape of sports betting and its natural progression toward iGaming within Indian gaming operations. As Tribal nations continue to expand their gaming portfolios, understanding the opportunities and challenges of this transition is crucial. The panel will feature a legal perspective of current trends in sports betting, the legal regulatory environment, and how these developments pave the way for the integration of iGaming. Topics will include the legal considerations tribes must navigate when expanding into
    iGaming, including potential federal review of any tribal-state
    compact amendment.

Moderator:
• Bradley Bledsoe Downes, Attorney, Bledsoe Downes, PC
Panel:
• Scott Crowell, Attorney, Crowell Law Office
• Stephen Hart, Partner, Lewis Roca
• Paula Hart, Director, Office of Indian Gaming – Indian Affairs, U.S. Department of the Interior

Breakout Sessions 1 (cont.)

  • The Impact of Tribal Gaming on Our Communities (Room: B4)
    The impact of Tribal Gaming is evident in communities across the U.S., from Tribal lands to neighboring towns and cities, and even at the state level. Its influence can be seen through increased employment, more robust governance, enhanced services, expanded economic development opportunities, and expansion of community engagement and educational touch points. This session will explore how Tribal Gaming has shaped and continues to benefit communities, from municipalities to service organizations.

Moderator:
• Kim Secakuku, Tribal Operations Officer, The Hopi Tribe
Panel:
• Alicia Mitchell, Director of Tribal and Government Relations, American Indian Science & Engineering Society (AISES)
• Jason Bezozo, Vice President of Government Relations, Banner Health
• Guy Labine, President & CEO, Arizona Science Center
• James Klas, Founder and Principle, KlasRobinson Q.E.D., Inc.

Breakout Sessions 1 (cont.)

  • Creating a Line of Defense: Protecting Tribal Gaming Operations (Room: B5)
    Join us for an insightful session where we will explore the multifaceted challenges facing tribal gaming operations today. This session will address critical issues such as cybersecurity threats and human trafficking. Cybersecurity Strategies: Understand the current cybersecurity landscape and learn best practices to safeguard gaming systems and sensitive data. An expert will share real-world case studies of successful defenses and proactive measures to enhance security protocols. Human Trafficking Awareness: Dive into the urgent issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) and its intersection with gaming operations. We will discuss strategies for prevention, awareness training, and collaboration with law enforcement to create a safer environment for all patrons.

    Moderator:
    • Jolene Noline, ATGRA Chair, San Carlos Apache Tribal Gaming Office
    Panel:
    • Bill Burtch, Bulletproof
    • Jeannie Hovland, Vice Chair, National Indian Gaming Commission

  • Training Session – Pt. 1: Tribal Background Investigations and Licensing (Pt. 1 of 2) (Room: M1/M2)
    This course will review all the requirements of NIGC’s 556, Background Investigations for Key and Primary Management Officials and Part 558, Gaming Licenses for Key Employees and Primary Management Officials. The two-session course will cover the full background investigation through licensing submission requirements.

    Trainers:
    • Francisco Olea, Region Director, National Indian Gaming Commission
    • Delores Thomas, Compliance Officer, National Indian Gaming Commission

11:45 AM – 1:00 PM

AIGA Expo Luncheon (Room: B1)

  • State of Arizona Featured Speakers:
    Jackie Johnson, Director, Arizona Department of Gaming

1:15 PM – 2:30 PM

Special Session (Room: B1)

  • Voices of Leadership: Reflecting on Tribal Gaming’s Legacy and Future
    This session will provide unique insights from leaders who played pivotal roles in the growth of opportunities for Tribes as Tribal Gaming became a transformative force. These distinguished leaders will share stories from the early days of Tribal Gaming,
    reflecting on the rise of job creation, economic benefits, and the challenges of navigating uncharted territory. Their perspectives on the legacy of this industry and the promising future it holds for Tribal communities will be the focus of this session.

    Moderator:
    • Chairman Robert Miguel, Ak-Chin Indian Community, and Arizona Indian Gaming Association

    Panelists:
    • George Rivera, Former Governer, Pueblo of Pojoaque
    • Levi Esquerra, Former Chair and current Councilmember, Chemehuevi Indian Tribe
    • David Bean, Former Chairman, Puyallup Tribe of Indians / Vice Chair, Indian Gaming Association (IGA)

Training Session – Pt. 2 (Room: M1/M2)

  • Tribal Background Investigations and Licensing (Pt. 2 of 2)
    This course will review all the requirements of NIGC’s 556, Background Investigations for Key and Primary Management
    Officials and Part 558, Gaming Licenses for Key Employees and Primary Management Officials. The two-session course will cover the full background investigation through licensing submission requirements.

    Trainers:
    • Francisco Olea, Region Director, National Indian Gaming Commission
    • Delores Thomas, Compliance Officer, National Indian Gaming Commission

2:30 PM – 4:30 PM

Boost Your Networking Circle: It’s Time to Connect! (Foyer)
Get to know attendees & visit with exhibitors!

5:30 PM – 8:30 PM

2024 AIGA Expo Chefs Challenge (Oak & Fork Restaurant)
The 2024 AIGA EXPO Chefs Challenge will feature another culinary battle among Arizona’s premier casino and resort chefs. This year’s theme is “Native Flavors: Arizona Is Your Pantry.” In this exciting challenge, two prestigious awards are up for grabs: the People’s Choice and Best of Show!

Thursday, October 17, 2024
AIGA Expo Day 2 | Harrah’s Ak-Chin Hotel & Casino

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM

Breakfast (Room: B1)

8:30 AM – 10:00 AM

General Session (Room: B1)

  • Blessing
  • Remarks: Judy Ferreira, Executive Director, AIGA
  • Tribal Leaders Discussion: Our Voice Matters
    This discussion will bring together prominent Tribal leaders for a meaningful exchange on the critical issues surrounding Tribal Gaming and the power of a unified Tribal voice in elections, business, and shaping the future of Arizona. Their insights will explore how Tribal leadership influences key decisions and drives positive change for both Tribal communities and the state.

    Moderator:
    • Jaime Molera, Partner, Molera Alvarez
    Panelists:
    • Stephen R. Lewis, Governor, Gila River Indian Community
    • Kasey Velasquez, Chairman, White Mountain Apache Tribe
    • Jordan D. Joaquin, President, Quechan Indian Tribe
    • Rolando Flores, Councilman, Pascua Yaqui Tribe

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM

Break

10:15 AM – 11:15 AM

Breakout Sessions 2

  • Broadband Impact on Economic Development on Tribal Lands (Room: B3)
    Broadband connectivity has become essential to the daily lives of Tribal Nations, impacting everything from education to economic growth. In this session, you’ll hear from industry experts, as they share their story—the challenges faced, successes achieved, and future goals for meeting the connectivity needs of their Nation. In addition, this discussion will explore the critical role broadband plays in economic
    development, including Tribal Gaming operations, and the
    importance of coordinated efforts to keep these economic
    engines running across the state.


    Moderator:
    • Adam Geisler, President & COO, Tribal Ready
    Panelists:
    • Shirley Ortiz, CEO, San Carlos Apache Telecommunications Utility, Inc.
    • Wayne Sekaquaptewa, General Manager, Hopi Telecommunications, Inc.
    • Sandip Bhowmick, Vice President of Infrastructure and State Broadband Director, Arizona Commerce Authority

Breakout Sessions 2 (cont.)

  • E4 – Energy, Efficiency, Evolution, and Effectiveness:
    Advancing Tribal Gaming with Renewable Energy Solutions
    (Room: B4)
    As the gaming industry evolves, so too must its energy strategies. This seminar explores the concept of “E4” – energy, efficiency, evolution, and effectiveness – to highlight how tribal gaming operations can benefit from transitioning to alternative, renewable, and sustainable energy sources. Attendees will learn about cutting-edge technologies and practical applications that reduce costs, improve operational efficiency, and support environmental sustainability. Experts will discuss real-world examples of how tribal casinos and communities have adopted renewable energy solutions like solar, wind, and geothermal power. The seminar will also cover financial incentives, government grants, and long-term savings potential, offering insights into how these changes can attract eco-conscious patrons while aligning with tribal values of stewardship and selfreliance. Join us to discover how energy transformation can be a catalyst for growth, sustainability, and community empowerment in tribal gaming.

    Moderator:
    • Rex Barlett, Sr. Associate, Policy & Government Affairs, Molera Alvarez
    Panelists:
    • Tom Sahhar, General Manager, Empire CAT
    • April Stovall, Director of Surveillance & Facilities, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Hotel & Casino
    • Joseph deGraft-Johnson, Sr. Project Manager, Salt River Project (SRP)

Breakout Sessions 2 (cont.)

  • Strengthening Tribal Enterprises through Cross-border Collaboration (Room: B5)
    Opportunities for Tribal Nations to expand their economic development potential extend beyond Tribal reservations, crossing state and national borders. In this session, experts in Tribal Gaming, Tourism, and Native American Economic Development, along with leaders from neighboring Mexico and Canada, will discuss current efforts to collaborate and build partnerships that enhance Tribal enterprises. This conversation will explore how cross-border cooperation can drive economic growth and create new opportunities for Tribal communities.

    Moderator:
    • Jason Coochwytewa, CEO, Urias Communications
    Panelists:
    • Lisa Urias, CEO, Arizona Office of Tourism
    • Jesus Rodriguez Davalos, Founding Partner, RDA Consulting
    • Jerome Pischella, Consul & Trade Commissioner, Consulate General of Canada
    • JoAn Begay Notah, Export Project Director, National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED)

11:30 AM – 1:30 PM

AIGA Expo Closing Luncheon ( Room: B1)

  • Presentation: Tribal Voting Analysis: 2025 & Beyond
    What was once a right denied to Tribal Peoples has now become one of the most powerful voices in Arizona—the Tribal Vote. This presentation will trace the remarkable growth of voter engagement within Tribal communities, from overcoming historic barriers to voting, to becoming a significant force in state and local elections. We’ll explore how Tribal advocacy and leadership have increased voter turnout, amplified the collective voice of Tribal Nations, and shaped key political decisions in Arizona. This session will also highlight the ongoing efforts to protect voting rights and ensure that the Tribal Vote continues to drive meaningful change for future generations.

    Presenters:
    • Mike Noble, CEO & Founder, Noble Predictive Insights
    • Jaime Molera, Partner, Molera Alvarez

2024 AIGA Expo Closing Remarks

  • Robert Miguel, Chairman, Ak-Chin Indian Community, and Arizona Indian Gaming Association (AIGA)

About AIGA

Arizona Indian Gaming Association represents nine tribes representing Indian People living on reservations in Arizona. While four tribes are located near urban areas, most tribal lands are located in rural areas of Arizona.

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