American Indian Chamber of Commerce of California Honors NIGA Chairman

The American Indian Chamber of Commerce of California (The Chamber) conducted “A Community Honoring” of the National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) Chairman, Ernie Stevens, Jr., for his tireless work on behalf of American Indian business inclusion in the gaming industry at our Annual Native American Heritage Month luncheon held in Pasadena, CA.

The Chamber presented Chairman Stevens with Honorary Lifetime Membership in the Chamber and recognized the Chairman for his groundbreaking work in ensuring all sizes of American Indian businesses have access to contracts in the gaming industry before a large crowd of Chamber members and supporters.

“Our American Indian Chamber has grown from a small group of spirited American Indian entrepreneurs, to an American Indian business organization powerhouse, through the partnership and participation of our businesses, tribal enterprises, corporate America and government/ municipal entities. It is essential that we all continue to work to integrate our businesses into all aspects of our Indian Country economy to realize our commonly-held vision of economic self-sufficiency of our people. Chairman Stevens is a leader in this movement and we honor him as such, “ said Chamber President Tracy Stanhoff.

Upon receiving award, NIGA Chairman Ernie Stevens, Jr., said, “I am honored to be with a dynamic group of Native business owners. It is empowering to see Native American business flourish and come together to provide critical jobs and services of the Native communities.”

The highlight of the afternoon event was the presentation of the Warrior Award by the Chamber to Chairman Marshall McKay of the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation. Chairman Stevens then presented Chairman McKay a bolo tie on behalf of the NIGA Member tribes. Stevens also gave special recognition to former Warrior Award recipient and current NIGA Executive Board Secretary, Lynn Valbuena, who was representing the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians at the awards luncheon.

The Chamber looks forward to working with NIGA for many years to come in our efforts to educate, mentor, advocate and support American Indian business growth. Questions, contact Chamber President, Tracy Stanhoff at 714-898- 6364.