First Nation Gaming Awards 2011

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Gaming Profile - Archives
2011 First Nation Canadian Gaming Award Winners


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First Nations gaming in Canada has become a significant contributor to growth and development in First Nation communities by providing much needed revenue and employment opportunities to all First Nation communities across Canada. First Nation Canadian Gaming Awards were founded to bring much needed recognition to First Nations individuals who have positively influenced the gaming industry and to publically acknowledge the hard work of the best and the brightest members of the First Nations gaming community.

Lifetime Achievement Award
Chief Brian Standingready - Chief, White Bear First Nation, Saskatchewan

Chief Standingready has served as leader of the White Bear First Nation for 24 years. He has been a constant advocate for First Nations gaming in Saskatchewan, assuming notable roles on a number of boards, committees and commissions, and taking on the responsibilities of key advisor in significant gaming negotiations between Saskatchewan First Nations and the provincial government. He played a crucial part in the opening of his First Nation's Bear Claw Casino, and has developed and spearheaded many gaming initiatives and projects within his community; all of which have had profound positive impacts on its economic development. To date, Chief Standingready continues to be an active member on the SIGA Board, and this year he was appointed to the FSIN Gaming Commission.

Leadership Award
Carrie Manitopyes, Muskowekwan Nation - Manager Human Resources, Grey Eagles Casino

Since the Grey Eagles Casino opened its doors in 2007, Carrie has worked tirelessly in her role as the facility'sHuman Resource Manager, setting and overseeing high standards for both herself and her HR team. She is well respected for her ability to lead decisively while treating all employees equally and respectfully. Carrie's 'Learning Circle' sessions have been instrumental in the skill development of Grey Eagles staff, and her role in the partnership between Sonco Gaming and the Tsuu T'ina Nation has helped greatly towards achieving their mutual employment goals. Carrie is, and continues to be, a strong, knowledgeable leader and a great role model for Grey Eagles Casino staff, as well as the Tsuu T'ina Nation in whole.

Employee of the Year
Rod Benson, Ojibway Curve Lake First Nation - EMR Officer, Great Blue Heron Charity Casino

An integral member of Great Blue Heron Charity Casino staff since 2002, Ron is well known for his consistently calm and cool demeanour, sincere attitude, passion for the job, and the professionalism with which he conducts his day to day responsibilities. In his role as a Emergency Management Response Officer, Ron is a natural leader and team player. He also received a Save Award from the Ontario Lottery and Gaming (OLG) Corporation for reviving a patron after a severe heart attack. His expertise and ability to deftly handle emergencies have made him an invaluable member of the Great Blue Heron Charity Casino's Security Team.

Innovation Award
Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority, Health & Wellness Program

Comprehensive benefits, enriching training opportunities, progressive assistance programs and extensive health and safety support services are just a few defining features of the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Association's (SIGA) Health and Wellness Program. Launched in 2004, the program was designed from the ground up to match employees' evolving needs and to reflect the First Nations and SIGA's guiding principals: Tâpwêwin, Pimâcihowin, Miyo-wîcêhtowin, Miskâsowin, and Wîtaskêwin. Since starting, the program has evolved to include a Health and Wellness Coordinator on every casino site, and it continues to innovate the way in which it builds programs based on employee needs.

Community Service Award
Merridy Curtis, Ojibway Nation - Benefits & Compensation Assistant, Great Blue Heron Charity Casino

For over 10 years, Merridy has contributed a great amount of time and support to the Pontypool community. Between her family and her HR position at Great Blue Heron Charity Casino, she has found time to lend her skills, resources and energy to numerous organizations including the Native Women's Resource Centre, Pontypool & Bethany United Church, the Pontypool Community Centre, the Manvers Township Historical Society and many more. In addition to assuming leadership roles and responsibilities within the casino, she regularly organizes popular events such Pontypool's Canada Day celebration, and the annual public skating event on Pontypool pond. Merridy was also instrumental in organizing a parade for Pontypool's 125th Anniversary; the first of its kind in Pontypool for over 30 years.

The First Nation Canadian Gaming Awards are sponsored by Casino Rama, Global Gaming Solutions, and Great Blue Heron Charity Casino

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