Prairie Band Casino & Resort, owned by the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation in Mayetta, KS, hosted the inaugural Class 2 Gathering (C2G) conference on May 6-8, 2024. The conference was a success with many Class II slot and bingo operators, manufacturers, and gaming commissioners visiting from over 20 states.
“A year ago, we had a vision to host a Class II gaming conference that would include operators, regulators, and suppliers from across the country,” said Chris Garrow, Director of Gaming for Prairie Band Casino & Resort. “I am proud of the Prairie Band Casino & Resort team for their hard work and dedication to making this vision a reality.”
On Monday, May 6, the opening ceremony began with a performance from the Royal Valley Native American Singers and Dancers. The group is composed of young people from kindergarten to twelfth grade. In addition, the Little Soldiers Drum group, comprised of tribal members, performed alongside the dancers.
On Tuesday, May 7, the presentation of colors was made by the WE-TA-SE American Legion Post 410. Joe Mitchell, Prairie Band Potawatomi Gaming Commissioner, led the group in prayer in his native language. Other notable members of the Prairie Band Tribe in attendance included Gaming Commissioners Joseph “Chago” Hale Jr. and Rey Kitchkumme; Tribal Council members William Evans, Lorrie Melchior, Wade Pahmahmie, Zach Pahmahmie, and Tony Wahweotten, Jr.; and Board Directors Corey Mzhickteno and Jona Rupnicki.
Tuesday’s education agenda had several general sessions and breakout sessions focused on panel discussions of tribal workforce development, regulatory updates, and data and gaming analysis from Brooke Fuimara, Co-Founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer of OPTX.
“I have been more impressed with this conference than I have with many others regarding Class II,” said Erik Isner from Sycuan Casino. “I believe it has started a real conversation regarding bingo play, cross play, and the theoretical spend of a bingo player. This conference has a real chance to grow and impact many Class II gaming establishments from all over.”
During lunch, attendees were also joined by Dan Schrementi, President of Gaming for Incredible Technologies, who provided an overview of Class II bingo rules and slot methodology in the creation of regulatory approved games.
On Wednesday, additional sessions included topics on loyalty programs, resiliency, and the expansion of Everi in Class II products with the purchase of Video King by Tim Richards, Executive Vice President of Strategy and Digital Gaming for Everi. Nick Ippolito, CEO of Casino Player Development gave insight into the player development world and knowledge about player worth and frequency. Closing remarks were by Bill Marsh, Prairie Band Casino & Resort General Manager.
“Overall, the conference was a wonderful experience,” said Marsh. “We gained a lot of insight into what other properties have done successfully and had the opportunity to see new avenues to market to our players.”
Prairie Band hosted an evening event for all attendees to network at the Topgolf Swing Suite and newly opened outdoor pool. Attendees enjoyed a closest-to-the-pin competition for prizes, food truck, and DJ. During the final evening, Aries Technology showcased its Coin Pusher and The Claw machines by inviting all attendees to play these games on the casino floor, and each attendee had a chance to win prizes. Exhibitors were present for attendees to visit during breaks, before and after sessions, and during evening events throughout the conference.
Video King and Planet Bingo held user workshops on Thursday for attendees to learn directly from the vendors about products and services. “This conference was well thought out and excellent,” said Pam Rathbone from Chesapeake Amusements. “I learned a lot of new ideas to take back to my property and I’m excited.”
C2G brought together casino and gaming professionals, vendors, and experts in the field of Class II casino gaming from the traditional bingo hall experience to the slot floor. The conference combined education paths, showcased current innovations, plus had engaging events for attendees.
Mark your calendars for the next Class 2 Gathering hosted by Prairie Band Casino & Resort to be held June 2-4, 2025. For more information, visit www.class2gathering.com.
