The Talking Stick Resort Salt River Grand Ballroom was transformed into an old Western saloon from the cowboy days as Casino Arizona hosted its annual team appreciation awards ceremony on February 3. 

Each year, executive staff, management and directors recognize casino staff for their hard work all year with the awards ceremony. This year, awards were given out in the following categories for the 2024 year:

• Safety Committee Award
• Life Saver of the Year Award
• Recognition Committee Excellence Award
• Supervisor of the Year Award
• Team Member of the year Award
• Enrolled Community Member of the Year Award 

With the theme “Denim and Diamonds,” the event was star-studded, with many staff showing off their finest denims and cowboy/girl hats. Ramon Martinez, Casino Arizona director of public relations, served as emcee of the event. 

During the guest speaker introductions, Martinez happily introduced a dear friend he grew up with in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Vice-President Ricardo Leonard. “We went to school together. We used to hang out when my dad had his hay business,” said Martinez, smiling. “This gentleman would come over to come help us load the trucks. Then we used to get on our horses and go to a place called Evergreen.”

Leonard then made his way to the lectern, shaking hands with Martinez before delivering the welcoming address. He read a prepared speech written by SRPMIC President Martin Harvier.

“In a small, close-knit community like ours, every contribution matters. We are deeply grateful to the positive care and excellence you all bring to your roles. Thank you for all you do, truly it makes a difference,” said Leonard. 

Following his remarks, Brian Garza, chairman of the board for the Salt River Community Gaming Enterprises, echoed similar remarks and added that this year’s “Denim and Diamonds” Western theme was a personal favorite. “I love, love, love this event. I love this Western theme,” he said, sporting his own 10-gallon cowboy hat and a smile. “You all really do make Casino Arizona the premiere destination and employer for our Community and the Valley. Thank you so much and congratulations.”

The Lifesavers of the Year award went to Jesus Torres (Security Officer-EMT), Claudia Mendez (Security Officer), Chad Goodyear (Security Officer), and Andrew Cutter (Security Officer). The four staff members saved a woman’s life after she was found not breathing in late November. 

“They administered lifesaving care to the woman and acted swiftly as Salt River police, fire, and paramedics shortly arrived,” said General Manager Trenni Martinez, joined on stage by General Manager Christian Geier. “We were told that had it not been for the quick action of our response team, there would’ve been a much different ending.” 

The Recognition Committee Excellence Award went to Claudia Carrillo, Human Resources generalist. Later, Anthony Morales, warehouse supervisor, received the award for the Supervisor of the Year. “We all did it together, not just me,” said Morales during his brief acceptance speech. 

Gabrielle McNally, coordinator IV for Events-Catering Resort Sales, received the award for Team Member of the Year.

The last and final award of the night was Enrolled Community Member of the Year. This year’s nominees were Kamilah Gonzalez, Abalino Garza, Cynthia Flores and Tessa Lewis. 

“She is pretty much known by everyone at TSR,” started Casino Arizona Chief Hospitality Officer Braxton Myers as he began leaving clues regarding who won. “She completely got behind the new direction of a new leadership and she did an amazing job.”

Moments later, Myers revealed Flores as this year’s winner and she received a standing ovation by her colleagues and members of the SRPMIC Council, who were also in attendance. 

After receiving her award, Flores immediately hoisted it up in the air as she was overcome with joy. Returning to her seat, Flores was showered with hugs and applause. 

As the event neared its end, John Dinius, president and CEO, voiced his appreciation to all staff and made it a point to highlight the support they receive from Council. 

“This is now my second year with the gaming enterprise, and I can tell you that in my 33 years, I’ve never experienced the level of support that we have from tribal leadership. Thank you for everything you do for our entire organization.”

With the tip of his hat, Dinius exited the stage the cowboy way as emcee Martinez opened the dance floor up and invited all to dance the night away. 

OAN Interview: Enrolled Community Member of the Year Award Winner at the 2024 Casino Arizona Awards:

Cynthia Flores, Retail Supervisor

1. What was the first thought that came to your mind when you heard you won the award? 

I felt very thankful and blessed. Very blessed. 

2. What’s your favorite aspect of working for Casino Arizona? 

All the knowledge I have learned from the beginning. My manager at that time, Cheryl Fulwilder, started showing me the ropes of retail – the back of the house and all the different parts. It made me stronger as a leader and as a supervisor. I am thankful for all of them and their trust in me. 

3. How do you stay motivated at work?

A lot of people ask me that because I’ve been in retail so long and didn’t switch to slots or change to the cage. For the longest time, I was buying the jewelry and merchandise for the gift shop. I loved that part of the job. Over the years I’ve had so many employees who worked for me, and a lot of them have gone on to work in finance and other areas. That keeps me motivated. Now that I have a new manager, we’re involved in some exciting things. 

4. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Who gave you the advice?

When my father passed away, my former manager, Michael Pieterick, was there for me. His advice was, “Just keep moving, you’ll figure it out. You’re not alone doing this. I want you to learn and get the knowledge.” 

5. What advice would you give to someone starting at the casino?

We have two tribal members that have just started. I told them both, “This is a great opportunity here, take advantage of it. Take advantage of the opportunities the casino offers.” They deserve it as tribal members. It’s a lot of fun. 

6. Anything else you’d like to share with the Community and our readers?

When I was asked to write the bio for the Casino Awards, it made me think a lot about where I’ve been and what’s happened to me. I’m very thankful. I’m thankful for the tribe. My mom passed away when I was young, she enrolled me and was there for me, even though I didn’t grow up out here. I am very thankful for the opportunity the tribe has given me. 

Thank you to my family, friends and especially my daughter, Jasmine Cruz. 

As the winner of the 2024 Enrolled Community Member of the Year Award, Flores received a monetary gift, a custom plaque and additional accolades from Casino Arizona executive management and staff for her achievement.