Andrew “Dru” Alejandre, Chairman, Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians

Andrew “Dru” Alejandre, Chairman
Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians

Rolling Hills Casino & Resort – Corning, CA
rollinghillscasino.com / paskenta-nsn.gov

BENEFITS OF GAMING: The success of our gaming operation has allowed our tribe to thrive and continue to bring sustainability to my people today and the many generations to come. As I reflect on where we were and where we are in this moment, we have come a long way to say the least. Thank you to those who have paved the way, laying a foundation that we continue to build on for future growth of our nation. 

Through gaming revenues, we continue to strengthen our government, building a strong team that consistently maintains our government operations while constantly researching for our next economic opportunity outside of our tribal gaming operation. We are fortunate to say that our gaming revenues have provided opportunity and resources for our tribal members, assisting in personal growth and sustainability. We have developed numerous programs within our government that have advanced our tribal membership. Education, healthcare, housing, and transportation are among the many ways we continue to strengthen our people. 

We as a tribe understand how blessed we are to be in a position of rapid economic growth over the years and the fact that it wasn’t long ago, we had nothing. Therefore, it is a value of us to share our success with our community. Our success in the gaming industry has given our tribe many ways to assist in our goals for education through the local school system by providing classroom technology for extra curricular activities and after-school programs that provide tutoring opportunities for students. Regarding health and safety, we have proudly provided everything from fire squad trucks to a new ambulance through partnerships with the local fire department and hospital to ensure the best possible assistance for our community.

GOALS & INITIATIVES: Diversifying our economy is one of the most important actions we can take to make a positive impact on our tribes – a hot topic when our tribal council looks to create longevity for our people. We look at diversification to create sustainability and growth, but also as a way to supplement in areas where we may have setbacks or need capacity to give attention to other enterprises. By diversifying our portfolio, it allows us to do exactly that. We are not constantly relying on one enterprise to do all the heavy lifting, but instead we are planting multiple seeds to be able to pick our fruits from multiple trees. Not only is this important for the sustainability of our tribe, but it brings opportunity to our people. 

I especially think about our younger generations and their futures as we strive for them to prioritize their education and hopefully, one day, come back home to continue to build our great nation in leadership roles. We must have the resources and opportunities for them to do so, and I see building out new businesses within our tribe that will allow it to be a possibility.