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LAS VEGAS, NV – November 20, 2009 – The National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) hosted a keynote panel at the Global Gaming Expo highlighting key issues of federal legislation and recent developments in federal Indian policy. Ernie Stevens, Jr., Chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association, told the audience of gaming industry professionals from all over the world in his keynote address, pointing out that “Indian country plays a vital part of the overall gaming industry.  We are excited because Indian country has been a major part of the success of G2E.  From day one of the planning stages of this global gaming convention, Indian country has been consulted, and we continue to part of their success.”

The Indian Gaming keynote, "On the Record - Tribal Gaming Issues and Answers," focused on the new generation of tribal government leadership throughout Indian country. The session was a "Meet the Press" style presentation, moderated by Chairman Stevens.  Panelists included: Kevin Leecy, Tribal Chairman, Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, MN, Mark A. Macarro, Chairman, Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians, CA, Stuart Paisano, Councilman, Pueblo of Sandia Tribe, NM, Mark Van Norman, Executive Director, National Indian Gaming Association, and George Skibine, Acting Chairman, National Indian Gaming Association. The question and answer segment moderated by Roger Gros, Publisher of Global Gaming Business magazine.

A special introduction by Gay Kingman, long time communications specialist for Indian gaming, provided a rich glimpse into the history of NIGA and the work of the Indian gaming pioneers. She highlighted the humble beginnings of the National Indian Gaming Association, and the challenges of working with past administrations.

In his keynote address, Chairman Stevens said, "The Indian gaming industry is one of the most regulated, industries in the world.  We continue to be one of the most structured, disciplined and hard working industries.”

Stevens continued, “I am proud of the progressive success of tribal government gaming.  We continue to move forward, because it is our number one priority to strengthen our communities and provide vital services to our members and further with the creation of 600,000 jobs in our industry, we are helping make America a better place.”
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G2E takes place annually at the Las Vegas Convention Center. G2E 2009 was held November 17-19. The G2E industry trade show and conference draws more than 30,000 gaming industry professionals to Las Vegas from all over the world.  Industry professionals have opportunities to explore and discuss the latest innovations and future direction of the global gaming community.  With tribal gaming a major economic development for most of the tribes throughout Indian Country, G2E offered tribal gaming industry leaders insight to the latest tools and resources available to remain competitive in the worldwide gaming community.