Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman – San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

Lynn Valbuena, Chairwoman
San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

Highland, CA
yaamava.com / palms.com / sanmanuel-nsn.gov

Our tribal government and community remain committed to long-term resilience and sustainability as we employ development strategies that reflect our customs and traditions while ensuring continued success for generations to come. Our primary focus in the year ahead will be to protect our inherent tribal sovereignty, our tribal gaming rights, and our exclusive right for Class III gaming in California, which form the social and economic foundation of our San Manuel community.

Our flagship property, Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel, continues to break new ground, earning over 60 prestigious awards in 2024, including the coveted AAA Five Diamond rating. It was also recognized by Newsweek and USA Today10Best as a top Native American casino. Meanwhile, Palms Casino Resort received accolades as the Best Casino in Las Vegas, further solidifying our status as a leader in the industry.

These accomplishments reflect the strength of our strategic approach. The leadership teams at both Yaamava’ and Palms are focused on driving long-term growth through personalized management and operational excellence, ensuring that each property continues to thrive in its own unique way.

In 2025, the San Manuel Entertainment Authority (SMEA) will continue to work closely with leadership at Yaamava’ to innovate and elevate the guest experience. Yaamava’ Theater is set to host over 100 world-class shows with award-winning entertainers this year. Additionally, construction is already underway for an exciting new dining and entertainment experience. Expanding our spa and wellness offerings, we’ve partnered with luxury brands like Valmont, known for its premier skincare products.

Meanwhile, in Las Vegas, Palms Casino Resort will enhance its iconic appeal, with a focus on unique promotions and gaming experiences.

Hamiinat, our tribe’s self-published lifestyle magazine, serves as a vital platform for sharing Serrano and other Native cultures, supporting Native artists, and engaging with visitors. Each guest receives a complimentary copy, furthering our mission to connect our traditions with the broader world and contribute to our community’s growth.

By remaining true to our values while embracing innovation, we are poised for continued success and long-term
sustainability.