Last month, staff from the Shawnee Tribe Gaming Commission (STGC) traveled from Guymon, OK to Alpine, CA for one of the first in-person Indian gaming conferences since the COVID-19 pandemic. Hosted by the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC), the National Training Conference at Viejas Casino included sessions on compliance, report writing, background investigations, responding to cybersecurity incidents and more. STGC Deputy Director Lisa Gipson; LASO, Compliance Officer & Licensing Agent Marla Gonzales; and Licensing Agent Elvia Hernandez all attended.
“Gaming is a highly regulated industry, and it’s imperative that our commission staff has every tool they need to continue ensuring Golden Mesa Casino remains compliant and that the Tribe’s assets are protected,” said Chief Ben Barnes.
STGC staff met with the Viejas Resort’s Gaming Commission staff to tour their facilities, in addition to participating in the conference’s networking opportunities with other regulators, NIGC staff and training personnel from across the country.
“Training has a direct impact on our organization’s productivity and performance,” said Elvia Hernandez. “It gives us a better understanding of our responsibilities and provides us the knowledge and skills we need to do our jobs.”
Did you know that the average US Citizen throws away an average of 70 lbs. of clothing annually? The fashion industry is a major contributor to global pollution, generating about 10% of annual CO₂ emissions. Reusing, donating, or recycling clothing helps reduce its environmental impact. Clean Out Your Closet—Responsibly Finished cleaning out your closet and […]
Hello! My name is Jenean Perryman, and I’m so grateful to join the Shawnee Tribe as the Education Outreach and Special Projects Director. I’m honored to be part of this community and appreciate the opportunity to work alongside tribal youth, families, and our education partners. I am a citizen of the Choctaw Nation – Halito […]
The Shawnee Tribe’s Behavioral Health Program is providing information in February for Dating Violence Awareness Month. This is a time dedicated to raising awareness about a serious issue that impacts people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Dating violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used to gain power and control over a partner in […]
On December 24, 2025, The Oklahoman published Chief Ben Barnes’ op-ed on important priorities for the state in 2026. As Oklahoma prepares for an election year and the 250th anniversary of the United States, this is a fitting moment to reflect on who we are as a state and what kind of future we want […]
The Housing Department is moving! Housing is now located at 1525 A St NE, Miami OK 74354. Directly behind (East) of the Sonic Restaurant. * As with the previous location (at the Headquarters building) please press the button to be let inside. DOWNLOAD directions to the new location from the headquarters building.
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Tire recycling (or rubber recycling) is the process of collecting worn-out tires and reprocessing them into useful materials instead of letting them take up space in landfills. Because tires are durable and don’t break down easily, recycling them protects the environment, reduces fire risks, and eliminates potential mosquito-breeding sites in improperly disposed tire piles. Common […]
For many people, the holiday season brings connection, celebration, and routine changes. But for survivors of domestic violence or past trauma, this time of year can also bring unexpected emotional challenges. Increased stress, family expectations, and sensory triggers can intensify anxiety, depression, and symptoms of PTSD. Holiday environments can activate the brain’s trauma pathways. Sensory […]