2020-AITC-Program

American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association 22nd Annual American Indian Tourism Conference September 14-18, 2020 One Country, Many Nations How Native-led cultural tourism efforts are paving the way for economic recovery in Native nations #OneCountryManyNations, #AITC2020



Table of Contents Welcome ........................................................................................................................................... 1 CEO/President’s Message ......................................................................................................... 1 AITC Sponsors, Exhibitors & Vendors ................................................................................................ 2 AITC Mask Artwork ........................................................................................................................... 3 AITC Exhibitors & Artisans ................................................................................................................ 3 AITC Schedule-at-a-Glance ................................................................................................................ 5 Keynote Speakers .............................................................................................................................. 7 Conference Agenda..................................................................................................................... 9–24 Monday, September 14............................................................................................................. 9 Tuesday, September 15 .......................................................................................................... 13 Wednesday, September 16 ..................................................................................................... 17 Thursday, September 17 ......................................................................................................... 21 Friday, September 18............................................................................................................... 23

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS Guw’áadz hauba hanu OFFICERS On behalf of the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association, Inc. (AIANTA) Board of Directors and staff, Emerson Vallo, (Pueblo of Acoma), we welcome you to our 22nd Annual American Indian Board President Tourism Conference (AITC). We especially offer a warm Rachel Moreno, (Tlingit), Vice President thank you to all those who have supported this year’s James Surveyor, (Hopi/Cheyenne- AITC, including our partners and sponsors, without Arapaho), Secretary whom this conference would not be possible. Lora Ann Chaisson, (United Houma AIANTA is proud to host the only national conference Nation), Treasurer dedicated to travel and tourism in Indian Country. This year AIANTA made the decision to host AITC on ALASKA REGION a new online platform, and thanks to NATIVE Act funding, the conference is offered at no cost to attendees. Rachel Moreno (Tlingit) We are honored to feature an all-star lineup of keynote speakers including some of Mario Fulmer (Tlingit) the top Native American women leaders in the country, such as U.S. Representative Deb Haaland (D-NM); Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan; President of EASTERN REGION the National Congress of American Indians Fawn Sharp; Walker River Paiute Tribe Chairwoman Amber Torres; Lead Cultural Trainer for the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Lora Ann Chaisson (United Houma Nation) Association, Hi’ilani Shibata and AIANTA CEO, Sherry L. Rupert. Darrell Waldron (Seaconke Wampanoag/ We urge all attendees to maximize their attendance by connecting with sponsors and Narragansett) exhibitors, asking questions of our panelists, and networking with fellow hospitality professionals during the Zoom Happy Hours and on the AITC Conference App MIDWEST REGION (powered by Whova). Dáwáa’é and welcome to the American Indian Tourism Conference 2020. Crystal Holtz (Oneida Nation of Wisconsin) Emerson Vallo (Pueblo of Acoma) Kirby Metoxen (Oneida Nation of AIANTA Board President Wisconsin) Greetings everyone and welcome to the 22nd Annual PACIFIC REGION American Indian Tourism Conference (AITC). This year’s theme “One Country, Many Nations” focuses on how Jamie SiJohn (Spokane Tribe of Indians) native-led cultural tourism efforts are paving the way for Hi’ilani Shibata (Native Hawaiian) economic recovery in native nations. Although this year’s challenges heavily impacted Indian Country and Cultural PLAINS REGION Heritage Tourism, we are a strong people and together we will get past these challenges as we have for thousands Jason Morsette (Mandan Hidatsa Arikara of years. Nation) Despite tight budgets and limited resources and Travis Owens (Cherokee Nation) uncertainty as to when visitors will be welcome to return to tribal lands, Indian Country tourism marketers must SOUTHWEST REGION find a way to stay connected with their key audiences and keep them informed on what opportunities currently Emerson Vallo (Pueblo of Acoma) are and aren’t available to them. Safety is of course the main priority, and visitors need James Surveyor (Hopi/Cheyenne- to be aware of what steps are being taken in order to assure that their health is of Arapaho) utmost importance. The tourism and travel industry is a powerful economic driver. In 2019, it generated AT-LARGE DIRECTORS more than $1.87 trillion in economic impact, supported 9.2 million American jobs, accounted for nearly 2.8 percent of the entire U.S. GDP, and continues to be the Linda Cooley (Yurok Tribe) nation’s seventh-largest private sector employer and the country’s largest small Camille Ferguson (Sitka Tribe of Alaska) business employer. AITC, the only tourism conference dedicated to Indian Country tourism, provides tribal STAFF tourism marketers the tools they need to grow and sustain their cultural tourism efforts. We look confidently toward 2021 and a bright future for tourism throughout Indian Sherry L. Rupert (Paiute/Washoe), Chief Country. Executive Officer Boneedwa, Hannah Peterson, Program Development Sherry L. Rupert Director Chief Executive Officer, AIANTA Ariel Richardson (Walker River Paiute), Office Manager #AITC2020 | Page 1 Bianca Mitchell (Pueblo of Acoma), Education Manager Sherrie L. Bowman (Pueblo of Laguna), Education Support Specialist Monica Poling, Marketing & Public Relations Manager Gail E. Chehak (Klamath), Membership & Outreach Coordinator Bruce Rettig, Travel Writer/Photographer Lorraine Gala Lewis (Laguna/Taos/Hopi), Research and Data Specialist Amy Meak (Navajo), Data Research Specialist

Thank you AITC Sponsors, Exhibitors, and Vendors! OPAL ONYX AMETHYST FRIEND OF AIANTA EXHIBITORS & ARTISANS #AITC2020 | Page 2

EXHIBITORS Indian Pueblo Cultural Center ARTISANS 106 Group Native American Tourism of Wisconsin (NATOW) Bluedot Beadwork Amaktoolik Studios Native American Travel Moonhawk Art Big Fire Law & Policy Group LLC Solimar International Prudy Correa Caesars Entertainment AITC Mask Artwork We’d like to extend a big thank you to First American Art Magazine’s virtual art exhibition, Masked Heroes: Facial Coverings by Native Artists and all the Native artists who allowed us to use their mask artwork for this year’s campaign. Through Masked Heroes, we want to celebrate the resilience of Indigenous peoples and help share the beauty that Native artists have created in the face of our shared crisis. For the complete story behind each mask please visit www.aianta.org/masks. Lily Hope Brenda L. Mahan Shayai Lucero (Tlingit) (Koyukon Athabascan) (Acoma/Laguna) Chilkat Protector Spring Breath of Life Howard La Fortune Anita Fields Bill Mendoza (Tsawout First Nation) (Osage/Muscogee) (Oglala Lakota/Sicangu Lakota) Bear Snout All My Heroes Wear Ribbon Work Dentalium and Quilled Mask #AITC2020 | Page 3

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AITC Schedule-At-a-Glance Date 10 a.m. MST 11 a.m. MST 12 p.m. MST 1 p.m. MST 2 p.m. MST 3 p.m. MST Zoom Happy Hour Mon., Sept. 14 Welcome & Opening Breakout Session Networking Break Breakout Session Regional Meetings General Session (Block 1) (Block 2) Zoom Happy Hour Keynote: Protecting Our Nations / Leading Through Change Tue., Sept. 15 CEO & Breakout Session Networking Break Breakout Session Breakout Session President’s Report (Block 3) (Block 4) (Block 5) Sherry L. Rupert Emerson Vallo Wed., Sept. 16 Keynote: Breakout Session Networking Break Breakout Session Breakout Session Industry Awards & NATIVE Act (Block 6) (Block 7) (Block 8) Video Presentation & Job Development Thurs., Sept. 17 Keynote: Breakout Session Networking Break Breakout Session Breakout Session Zoom Happy Hour Facing & Overcoming Crisis (Block 9) (Block 10) (Block 11) Fri., Sept. 18 Keynote: Breakout Session Networking Break Breakout Session Closing Keynote: Closing Building Alliances for (Block 12) (Block 13) The Heart Speaks Ceremonies a Better Future Please Register for all Plenary, Breakout and Networking Sessions Please note that you will only be able to attend the webinar sessions that you register for in advance. To register for each session, follow these instructions. 1. On the AITC Conference App (powered by Whova), please go to Agenda page. 2. Pick the session(s) you want to register for and click “View Session” button. 3. Click “View Live Stream” button. 4. Register for that session by entering your name, phone, and email. 5. Click ‘’Register” button. 6. You will receive an email confirming your registration for each session. We recommend that you register for all sessions. You can view live presentations during the conference dates or view them later at your convenience. Late registrations may experience some delays.. You can view live presentations during the conference or view them later on-demand through October 14, 2020. All conference times are listed in Mountain Standard Time (New Mexico) time. Should you have any issues signing up for the individual sessions, please email: [email protected] #AITC2020 | Page 5

NevadaIndianTerritory.com Preparing for the Future of Tourism in a Post-COVID-19 World #WearAMask #BeAGoodRelative #AITC2020 | Page 6

Keynote Speakers Congresswoman Deb Haaland, U.S. House of Representatives Speaker bio: U.S. Representative Deb Haaland (D-NM) a member of the Laguna Pueblo and one of the first Native American women elected to serve in Congress, will discuss how the Native American Tourism Improving Visitor Experience (NATIVE) Act has the potential to grow jobs in Indian Country. Building tribal inclusion and funding for tourism through agencies such as the Administration for Native Americans (ANA), the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) supports tribal tourism growth and access to technical assistance and training. Congresswoman Haaland will also discuss the potential of tourism to help perpetuate cultural practices alongside the creation of jobs in the short term as we recover from COVID-19 challenges and in the longer term as visitors are drawn to the unique, authentic experiences that can only be experienced within American Indian Nations, Alaska Native Villages and Native Hawaiian communities. Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, State of Minnesota Peggy Flanagan is a mom, an advocate, a member of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe, and Minnesota’s 50th Lieutenant Governor. Her career is built on standing up for children, working families, communities of color and Indigenous communities, and Minnesotans who have historically been underserved and underrepresented. As a former State Representative, School Board Member, non-profit leader, and community advocate, she now brings her experiences of building coalitions and advocating for children and families to the Lieutenant Governor’s Office as she works in partnership with Governor Walz to build One Minnesota. Fawn Sharp, President, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) Fawn Sharp, (Quinault Indian Nation), received her Juris Doctorate from the University of Washington School of Law. She holds an advanced certificate in International Human Rights Law from Oxford University, and attended Gonzaga University where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice. She is now serving her fifth term as President of the Quinault Indian Nation (2006-present); and also serves as the President of the Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians (2011-2017); President for the National Congress of American Indians (2016-2017); We are Still In, Leaders Circle member (2018-present). President Sharp was selected by United States Secretary of the Interior Kenneth Salazar to chair the Secretarial Commission on Trust Administration and Reform (2011-2013). She is also a member of the Board of Trustees for Grays Harbor College in Aberdeen, Washington.President Sharp resides on the Quinault Indian Reservation with her three sons, Daniel, Alijah, Jonas, and daughter, Chiara. Amber Torres, Chairwoman, Walker River Paiute Tribe Amber Torres, is a tribal citizen of the Walker River Paiute Tribe in Schurz, Nevada. Elected to serve on the Walker River Tribal Council in 2010, she held the role of Tribal Chairwoman since 2016. She worked for the Walker River Tribal Health Clinic in Purchased Referred Care for thirteen years prior to this. She has three daughters: Kylie, Elizabella and Brynn. She currently represents Nevada tribes by serving on the Nevada Executive Board of the Inter-Tribal Council, Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona Steering Committee, National Indian Health Board, Tribal Leaders Diabetes Committee for IHS/SDPI, Tribal Interior Budget Council for BIA, IHS Director’s Workgroup on Improving Purchase Referred Care, Native Farm Bill Coalition, Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), Chairman of the USDA Tribal Leaders Consultation Workgroup, a Co-Chair for Indian Health Service National Budget Formulation Committee, and the National Congress of American Indians Executive Board. Hi’ilani Shibata, Lead Cultural Trainer, Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association The lead cultural trainer of the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association, Hi’ilani Shibata has been sharing the essence of ALOHA with those who work in the visitor industry of Hawai’i for over 20 years. An educator, cultural consultant, practitioner of lomilomi, healing through the manipulation of the body, Hi’ilani understands the importance of taking care of the place and the native culture as the foundation of the healthy hospitality industry. As one of the AIANTA Pacific Region board members, she would like to encourage those in the Pacific Region to uplift their culture through authentic sharing with visitors as the travel industry is a vehicle to peace around the world. #AITC2020 | Page 7

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2020 AITC Agenda Monday September 14 10–10:55 a.m. Welcome to the American Indian Tourism Conference Welcome to AITC Sherry L. Rupert, CEO, AIANTA; Emerson Vallo, President, AIANTA Board of Directors Welcome to the 2020 American Indian Tourism Conference, “One Country, Many Nations.” For more than 20 years, the American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association has been proud to host AITC, the only national conference dedicated to travel and tourism in Indian Country. Please make sure to download the official 2020 AITC app and enjoy this year’s conference! Protecting Our Nations / Leading through Change Keynote Speaker: Amber Torres, Chairwoman, Walker River Paiute Tribe Tribal officials are often faced with tough decisions especially during times of crisis. They must weigh doing what’s right with the longer-term potential for deep economic losses. Despite significant pushback, Walker River Paiute Tribe Chairwoman Amber Torres made an early decision to close the reservation to all non-residents, even off-reservation tribal members. The decision has kept COVID-19 numbers to a minimum among the Walker River Paiute people, but it also effectively shut down Weber Reservoir, a popular attraction with visitors. “People did not respect our decision as a sovereign nation to close the reservation, especially the Weber Reservoir. They wanted to get into our ancestral homelands as if it is their right to fish and use our resources for recreation, when ultimately it is a privilege,” said Torres. In this session, Torres addresses AITC delegates on the importance of planning ahead and the best approach to take when making life-saving and potentially unpopular decisions. 11–11:55 a.m. Breakout Session 1 Session 1a: Building a Regional Tribal Tourism Alliance Suzette Brewer, Executive Director, Native American Tourism of Wisconsin (NATOW) Geri Hongeva, President, Arizona American Indian Tourism Association Sherry L. Rupert, CEO, AIANTA (moderator) Lack of budget and staff resources can be detrimental to creating an effective marketing plan, especially in times of crisis. A strategic approach to destination marketing, especially one that brings together partners under one collaborative umbrella, ensures a wider reach for all stakeholders. Geri Hongeva, President of the Arizona American Indian Tourism Association (AAITA) and Suzette Brewer, Executive Director of NATOW, share the benefits of developing a regional marketing program. Session 1b: Responding to the Active Shooter Regis Pino, Safety Services Representative, AMERIND When it comes to planning for the worst, preparation is key. Regis Pino, the Safety Services Representative for AMERIND presents the National Safety Council’s module on how to recognize and react to an active shooter situation, including active shooter statistics, the definition of an active shooter, how to recognize the signs of an active shooter and what to do when confronted with an active shooter. #AITC2020 | Page 9

12–12:55 p.m. Networking Break: Intro to AITC 1–1:55 p.m. Meet the AIANTA team and also learn more about this week’s schedule, including our Networking Breaks, Zoom Happy Hour events, entertainment scheduled for the conference, and how to win fun prizes throughout the conference. Having trouble getting full functionality through your AITC Conference App? Bring your tech questions as well and we’ll help you get up and running. Breakout Session 2 Session 2a: Blending Cultural Heritage with Outdoor Adventure Linda Cooley, Deputy Director, Yurok Economic Development For the Yurok people, the California condor (prey-go-neesh) has been spiritually tied to Yurok ceremonies since the beginning of time. But it has been more than a century since condors have inhabited the Northern California tribe’s ancestral lands. In 2008, the Tribe created the Yurok Tribe Wildlife Program (YTWP) to determine if Yurok Ancestral Territory could provide a suitable habitat for a reintroduced population of the endangered California condor. Now an official release program into Redwood National Park is planned for later this year. Linda Cooley, Deputy Director of the Yurok Economic Development Corporation will explain how the Yurok community worked with the National Park Service and other federal partners to blend the Tribe’s relationship to the land, codified the Yurok Constitution, into a cultural heritage program open to visitors and residents alike. CHEROKEE ADVENTURE AWA I T S CHEROKEE NATIONAL HISTORY MUSEUM Ta h l e q u a h , O K #AITC2020 | Page 10

Session 2b: Resilience Planning: Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Seleni Matus, Executive Director, International Institute of Tourism Studies, The George Washington University Anna Barrera, Research Scholar, International Institute of Tourism Studies, The George Washington University Talia Salem, Principal, The Urban Nomad This session will share practical guidance that tourism destinations and businesses in Indian Country can take to plan their reopening, attract and inspire confidence among travelers and manage through this unprecedented global pandemic. Learn best practices and lessons related to resilience planning and leadership, product innovation and communications. 2–2:55 p.m. Regional Breakout Session Join members of the AIANTA Board of Directors and nearby colleagues to discuss issues and challenges facing your region. 3:00 p.m. Input gathered at these sessions will help AIANTA advise decision makers in supporting tribal tourism development and growth, and determine how to best deliver training and other resources. Moderators: Alaska Region: Rachel Moreno, Mario Fulmer (AIANTA Board Representatives, Alaska Region) Eastern Region: Linda Cooley (AIANTA Board Representative, At-Large) Midwest Region: Crystal Holtz, Kirby Metoxen (AIANTA Board Representatives, Midwest Region) Pacific Region: Jamie Sijohn, Hi’ilani Shibata (AIANTA Board Representatives, Pacific Region) Plains Region: Travis Owens (AIANTA Board Representatives, Plains Region) Southwest Region: Emerson R. Vallo, James Surveyor (AIANTA Board Representatives, Southwest Region) Zoom Happy Hour: Meet and Greet Unwind, grab your favorite virtual beverage and say hello to your fellow AITC delegates in a post-conference recap of the day’s events. EXPLOREONEIDA.COM 920-496-5647 800-236-2214 #AITC2020 | Page 11

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Tuesday September 15 10–10:55 a.m. General Session: CEO & President’s Report Sherry L. Rupert, CEO, AIANTA Emerson Vallo, Board President, AIANTA AIANTA CEO Sherry L. Rupert and Board President Emerson Vallo present highlights of AIANTA’s activities during FY2019 and FY2020 and share tips on how indigenous communities can join AIANTA in marketing Indian Country tourism. 11–11:55 a.m. Breakout Session 3 Session 3a: The Basics of Grant Writing Anne Ketz, CEO & Services Director, 106 Group Gail E. Chehak, Membership & Outreach Coordinator, AIANTA Successful grant writing involves so much more than simply filling out a form. In this session, learn how grant applications are reviewed and scored, and what practical steps are needed for navigating the grant writing process. Presenters will offer guidance on how to develop strong 12–12:55 p.m. writing skills that can increase the chances of a successful grant application. Also learn how to present a clear scope and vision of how your desired grant fits in with your organization’s broader program and how to find funding sources that are a good organizational fit. The presentation concludes with relevant case studies and best practices to increase the chances of grant funding success. Session 3b: Tribal Tourism Development through Native Design: How Indigenous Architectural Design Invites and Engages Visitors Naomi Torres, Superintendent, Juan Bautista de Anza Historic Trail, National Park Service Johnpaul Jones, Partner, Jones and Jones While much has been written about European expansion into Western North America, far less has been chronicled about the Native American communities that continuously inhabited California and Arizona long before the route became known as the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail. Naomi Torres, Superintendent for the Anza National Historic Trail will share the unique partnership project underway with AIANTA which will result in educational webinars for tribes, a print/online guidebook reflecting past and present-day tribal attractions at key spots along the trail, and a first-of-its kind map, that will translate key locations along the trail back in the original native languages. Guest speaker Johnpaul Jones (Oklahoma Choctaw/Cherokee), Architect and Founding Partner of Jones & Jones will share his indigenous design approach and philosophy to building Native Values into modern design. This session will explore past and current projects that exemplify Native Values in design ranging from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian on the Mall in Washington, D.C. to the Santa Ynez Chumash Cultural Center and Museum. Networking Break: Meet the Artisans Join fellow AITC delegates in watching lively local performances and artisan demonstrations and enjoy more networking opportunities. #AITC2020 | Page 13

1–1:55 p.m. Breakout Session 4 Session 4a: Expanding Your Culinary Tourism Footprint Chef Crystal Whapepah, Chef & Owner, Wahpepah’s Kitchen The important discussions around food sovereignty for tribal communities have led to an emergence of a brand new culinary scene. This is an emerging market segment for tribes interested in expanding tourism revenues as culinary tourism is a particularly important market segment with travelers. The World Food Travel Association estimates visitors spend up to 25 percent of their entire travel budget on food. These travelers are not interested in the same old menus, they are looking for exciting new options, with many interested in locally produced foods. The new Native-owned restaurants cropping up across the country feature exciting new menus, many with few commonalities, except that their roots are grounded in Native traditions. Join Chef Crystal Wahpepah, the first-ever Native American Indigenous Chef to be featured on Food Network’s Chopped television show. Her catering menus are informed by her Kickapoo heritage and include such Native menu items as bison, venison, squash and corn with recipes passed on through the generations. During this session, Chef Crystal discusses the emergence of this exciting new culinary scene and how tribes interested in tourism are well served by developing their own unique culinary offerings. This unreal moment brought to you by White Mesa Arch, Navajo Nation, AZ. From Indian Country adventures and cultural traditions to wellness and culinary offerings, it’s all waiting to be discovered in unreal Arizona. Arizona promises a memorable American Indian Tourism Conference experience at the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort in 2021. Learn more about Tribal Destinations at VisitArizona.com. #AITC2020 | Page 14

Session 4b: Possibilities Through Partnerships: How NPS & USFS Support Community Tourism Donny Leadbetter, Tourism Program Manager, National Park Service Toby Bloom, Manager of Tourism and Interpretation, U.S. Forest Service 2–2:55 p.m. Identifying, developing, conserving and preparing your tourism assets for visitor experiences are fundamental steps in the development of a tourism economy. Cultural heritage and natural resources can be critical components of a destination’s tourism portfolio, and the U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service manage several programs that can be tapped to cultivate cultural and natural assets. Join this session to learn about technical assistance and funding programs available from the agencies as well as examples of community-park and 3:00 p.m. community-forest collaboration. Breakout Session 5 Session 5a: The One-Page Marketing Plan Monica Poling, Marketing & Public Relations Manager, AIANTA A good marketing plan can provide clarity about an organization’s priorities and ultimately lead to increased visitation, expanded relationships and new business. So why do so many companies skip building these road maps to success? Building a one-page marketing plan will provide your organization with the building blocks it needs, while keeping you focused on only the most important goals. Who is your audience, what do they want, what do you need, and how does that all come together? Join Monica Poling, Marketing & Public Relations Manager for AIANTA, as she walks you through basic steps in building your own plan. Session 5b: Importance of Data Collection Speakers: Alan P. Meister, Ph.D., CEO & Principal Economist, Meister Economic Consulting Mike Meczka, President, Meczka Marketing Research and Consulting, Inc. Tribes that strategically collect data across all their customer segments—not just their casinos—can realize multiple benefits, ranging from improved operational and financial performance, increased media exposure, stronger funding proposals and increased support from federal and regional partners. Furthermore, data allow Tribes to develop and monitor a better understanding of their various customer segments and their preferences in order to ensure that the tribe is providing what their customers value and want. During this session, Dr. Alan Meister, CEO & Principal Economist of Meister Economic Consulting, who has consulted for many Native American Tribes and the National Indian Gaming Commission, will address the importance, benefits, and challenges of collecting data on Indian Country tourism. Meister is joined by Michael Meczka, President of MM/R/C Consulting, who has been researching the hospitality industry for more than 35 years. Zoom Happy Hour: Meet Ricardo Cate MCartoonist Ricardo Caté describes Indian humor as the result of “us living in a dominant culture, and the funny part is that we so often fall short of fitting in.” His cartoon column, Without Reservations, is a popular daily dose in the Santa Fe New Mexican. Actor Wes Studi says, “Caté’s cartoons serve to remind us there is always a different point of view, or laughing at every day scenes of home life where Indian kids act just like their brethren of different races. Without Reservations is always thought-provoking whether it makes you laugh, smirk, or just enjoy the diversity of thought to be found in Indian Country.” Ricardo Caté has been drawing the daily cartoon for the Santa Fe New Mexican since 2006. His wry and often poignant humor pokes fun at both the white man and the Indian. Ricardo follows the ways of his Kewa Pueblo heritage and teaches on the reservation. He has three children and lives in the Santo Domingo Pueblo, New Mexico. #AITC2020 | Page 15

C h O C taw C Ou n t ry. C Om B e av e r s B e n d s tat e P a r k , O k J.Latka Verlag GmbH, Laubacher Str. 17, 14197 Berlin. Foto: Christian Heeb. AMERICAAMERICA 2/2020 März/APRIL 31.Jahrgang 12163 ISSN 0939-3382 D A 6.50 A A 7.00 L A 7,60 CHF 12.00 BETTER DAYS ARE JUST AMERICA 2/20 AROUND THE CORNER JOURNAL Proud member of AIANTA TIEAFERMSÜDEEN RICASPECIAL AMERICA 3/20 AMERICA 3/2020 Sept./Okt./NOVEMBER 31. Jahrgang 12163 ISSN 0939-3382 D A 6.50 A A 7.00 L A 7,60 CHF 12.00 H SÜDSTAATEN H ARIZONA H TEXAS H LIEBLINGSPLÄTZE H KALIFORNIEN H CITY BREAKS H KARIBIK DCeInTvYer+BBRroEoAklyKnS TEXAS WILD&SPECIAL JOURNAL ARIZONAKANADAWEITCFALNOYROIDNSAWSTIN. PTEERTEIN DEN6/2019 November/DEZEMBER 3a0.uJafhrWganag ss1e2r1w63 eISgSNe0n939-3382 AMESERHNSIUCCHTSAORTE30GEBURTSTJAOGSU-ERXNTRAA L H WINTER CANYONS H KANADA SPECIAL H MICHIGAN H FLORIDA H LIEBLINGSPLÄTZE H TIEFER SÜDEN D A 6.50 A A 7.00 L A 7,60 CHF 12.00 AMERICA AMERICA 6/19 Jahre AMERICA LiedbelirnLgesspelrätze Texas DER PROFISSPECIAL Kalifornien H Karibik H Great Women   Roadtrip Tiefer Süden 3SYein0acresWRCWJiOnOEAtCeLLMrLKOiNnIAREEdISSAeKSnDAO H TEXAS H COLORADO H COWBOY POETRY H SKI ROCKIES H COLUMBIA RIVER H LAS VEGAS H JAMAIKA BAeLacAhBlifeAiMn MAic/hKigEanNHTGUreCatKWYo/mMenI SSISSIPPI H Foodie Trail    VHeogta7s’ AMERICA Journal – the German language magazine Native Americans H Cowboy Poetry H X-mas Shopping about travel & lifestyle in North America. Since 1990. americajournal.de #AITWCe2ltE0rfa2h0ren|_AIPANaTgAe_8x15Z6oll.indd 1 01.09.20 14:00

Wednesday September 16 10–10:55 a.m. Keynote Session: NATIVE Act and Job Development in Indian Country Congresswoman Deb Haaland, U.S. House of Representatives U.S. Congresswoman Haaland (Laguna Pueblo), representative from New Mexico’s first congressional district, will discuss how the Native American Tourism Improving Visitor Experience (NATIVE) Act has the potential to grow jobs in Indian Country. Building tribal inclusion and funding for tourism through agencies such as the Administration for Native Americans (ANA), the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) supports tribal tourism growth and access to technical assistance and training. Congresswoman Haaland will also discuss the potential of tourism to help perpetuate cultural practices alongside the creation of jobs in the short term as we recover from COVID-19 restrictions and in the longer term as visitors are drawn to the authentic experiences within American Indian Nations, Alaska Native Villages and Native Hawaiian communities. 11–11:55 a.m. Breakout Session 6 Session 6a: Securing Funding for Your Tribal Tourism Project Rick MacLeod Farley, Principal Consultant, MacLeod Farley & Associates Rick MacLeod Farley presents clear, practical and proven “real-world” tactics and steps that can be used to secure funding for community tribal tourism projects. Learn how to successfully plan your project, secure funding and proceed with successful implementation. The presentation, inspired by the ‘Group of Seven’ project financing tactics “from the field,” such as creating phases, telling your story, imagery and visuals, dealing with curve balls, moving past dead ends, persistence, as well as new emerging opportunities (and successes) with tribal communities and parks. Session 6b: More than Words and Pictures: Bringing Your Tourism Story to Life Speakers: Dan Wiley, Senior Manager, Integrated Resources Stewardship, Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, National Park Service Chris Seek, CEO, Solimar International Bruce Rettig, Travel Writer/Photographer, AIANTA Before travelers form a deep connection with a destination, they must first tap into powerful, personal emotions. This is why the “been there, done that” experience rarely leads to glowing social media hashtags. For travel marketers, building a loyal fan base starts with taking full stock of the distinctive tourism assets available to travelers. Then, tourism pros must tap into the “uniqueness” of each asset by carefully crafting a marketing message that utilizes engaging storytelling and vivid imagery. Sites of interest, key attractions and tribal enterprises can be examined through the lens of geotourism, which sustains or enhances the geographic character of a place, its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage and the well-being of its residents. In this webinar, participants will first learn how to conduct their own asset inventory, and then receive valuable tips on crafting an effective promotional message. #AITC2020 | Page 17

12–12:55 p.m. Networking Break : AIANTA’s Hospitality Scholarship Program Learn more about AIANTA’s Hospitality Scholarship Program and meet some of the recipients of these scholarships, and learn what these successful students are up to post- graduation. AIANTA team members will also share details on how indigenous students in your communities can apply for these semi-annual scholarships. 1–1:55 p.m. Breakout Session 7 Session 7a: Planning for the Return of the International Visitor—Will You be Ready? Julie Heizer, Deputy Director, US Dept. of Commerce, National Travel and Tourism Office Industry & Analysis | International Trade Administration Sharon Calcote, Louisiana Byways Director, Louisiana Office of Tourism Tony Lyle, Vice President, Tourism Development, Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority Lisa Weigt, Principal, Destinations by Design Learn how tourism organizations are addressing marketing and promotion activities during this pause in international inbound traffic due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Panelists will discuss creative ideas to maximize marketing efforts and also best practices and lessons learned to help tribal tourism professionals avoid those pitfalls in their own work. Do you recognize the transformative power of tourism? With a Master of Sustainable Tourism you receive a comprehensive online education with a focus on the environmental, economic, and social aspects of tourism. “ASU’s MST program equipped me with the “I am learning how my business vision can skills and experience to transition into a career contribute to cultural preservation, economic in tourism development within the hospitality growth and ecosystem conservation, through sector.” my education in the MST program.” – Kate Garner, MST alumna – Ben Rupert, MST student scrd.asu.edu #AITC2020 | Page 18

Session 7b: Stories around Food: Blending Agriculture and Tourism Janie Simms Hipp, CEO, Native American Agriculture Fund Steve Larese, Travel Writer/Consultant, AIANTA 2–2:55 p.m. The United States is home to nearly 80,000 indigenous farmers, who generate some $3.5 billion in agricultural sales. As Americans become increasingly confused about the origins of their food, many are seeking solutions that involve locally or organically grown and raised products. At the intersection of these two demographics is agritourism, which provides farmers and ranchers with additional revenue streams as they demonstrate their traditional growing and harvesting techniques to an audience hungry for more information. Join Janie Simms Hipp, CEO of the Native American Agriculture Fund and Steve Larese, Award Winning 3–3:55 p.m. writer as they discuss how farmers can use this interest in food sovereignty to develop their own agritourism programs. Breakout Session 8 Session 8a: Understanding the Tourism Distribution System Chris Pilley, Owner/Contract Manager, Rocky Mountain Holiday Tours Marketing directly to visitors is just the first step in developing new economic revenue streams. Tourism marketers can also expand their scope by focusing on indirect tourism sales, which target third-party buyers such as retail travel agents, online travel information sites, inbound tour operators and wholesalers. Although these indirect sales may involve varying commissions and buying structures, they also offer far greater rewards in terms of reach and volume. Session 8b: The Brownfield Resources for Heritage Tourism in Indian Country Eugene Goldfarb, Adjunct Associate Professor Scott Nightingale, Co-Director; Kansas State Tribal TAB Program Brownfields are underutilized properties complicated by the actual/potential presence of hazardous substances. Redevelopment and reuse of properties supports local communities and job growth, utilizes existing infrastructure and improves the environment. The EPA supported KSU Tribal TAB program provides free tech assistance to move this complicated process along. Heritage tourism and brownfields are a good fit and can provide incentives to restore and reuse tribal lands as well as preserve Native American traditions and culture, and the revenue stream to support a community. Restoring, reusing and/or redeveloping underutilized properties better serves the community and brings additional resources. TAB is looking for ways to present the tourist and visitation options when assisting tribes and exploring how to facilitate the connection between Heritage Tourism and Brownfields-Tribal Response Programs. Enough Good People Industry Awards The Best of Indian Country Tourism AIANTA recognizes leading tribal tourism enterprises and individuals in three categories: Destination of the Year, Best Cultural Heritage Experience and Excellence in Customer Service. In addition to the Industry Awards, AIANTA, led by an expert panel of tourism industry professionals, also awards the Industry Professional Award to individuals who have made a significant impact on tribal tourism and/or who have helped AIANTA achieve its mission. These awardees represent tourism entities that foster a greater understanding and appreciation of authentic culture, history, heritage and/or the arts. #AITC2020 | Page 19

PROUD HOST OF THE 2021 AIANTA CONFERENCE #AITC2020 | Page 20

Thursday September 17 10–10:55 a.m. Keynote Session: Facing and Overcoming Crisis Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, State of Minnesota If 2020 has taught us anything, it is that crises can and do occur with little warning. Frequently these unexpected life events produce devastating economic effects that last for years if not decades. The State of Minnesota is no exception. During this session, Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan, a citizen of the White Earth Nation of Ojibwe, addresses crisis planning and how tourism entities can better prepare for the worst by having a plan in place before a crisis happens. 11–11:55 a.m. Breakout Session 9 Session 9a: Marketing & Messaging Tribal Tourism in the Year of COVID-19 Camille Ferguson, AIANTA At-Large Board Member; Economic Development Director, Sitka Tribe of Alaska Jamie Sijohn, AIANTA Board Member, Pacific Region Learn how to stretch limited funding resources by employing creative marketing techniques. This session will include a discussion on how to share your voice, how to bring consumer confidence to your tourism destination and other unique challenges brought by COVID-19. Session 9b: Driving Traffic to Tribal Campgrounds and RV Parks Gayle Skunkcap, Jr., Campground Administrator, Blackfeet Manpower One Stop Center Blackfeet Nation operates a number of campgrounds and RV parks conveniently located near the entrances of Glacier National Park. The Nation has successfully partnered with many big organizations and hosted many large-scale events on the campgrounds, including the annual Glacier National Park Half Marathon, Native Speaks, Vacation Races, R.V Trekking USA, Annual Veterans Powwow and Good Sam Status. 12–12:55 p.m. Networking Break: Agritourism and American Indian Foods Gail Chehak, Membership & Outreach, AIANTA; Steve Larese, Travel Writer, Photographer for AIANTA’s agritourism program; Latashia Redhouse, Program Director, American Indian Foods; Courtney Fischer, Assistant Director, American Indian Foods Network with agritourism professionals and Native food producers to discuss agritourism trends and opportunities. Open to anyone working in agritourism, culinary arts and Native foods production or anyone interested in exploring agritourism opportunities. 1–1:55 p.m. Breakout Session 10 Session 10a: Developing A Business Case in Support of Cultural Tourism Infrastructure Anne Ketz, CEO & Services Director, 106 Group Gail McDonald, Development Manager, Akwesasne Heritage Center #AITC2020 | Page 21

Within the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Cultural Tourism program, proposed development of a new Akwesasne Heritage Complex was a key initiative. The Complex will be the heart of the tourism program, visitor experience, and community heritage and cultural programming. Developing a Business Case is an important step to support tribal decision making. 2–2:55 p.m. The Business Case for the Tribe’s development of the Heritage Center will include cost benefit analysis, risk analysis, review of marketing analysis and strategies, roles and responsibilities and proposed governance, recommendations & next steps. This critical document will articulate and justify any major capital expense in a tourism development program. This session will share insights into how to prepare a business case for capital development that is honest, justifiable and understandable by all members of the community. 3:00 p.m. Session 10b: Photography & Marketing Larry Burton, Professional Photographer Bruce Rettig, Travel Writer/Photographer, AIANTA (moderator) Professional photographer Larry Burton uses his experience as a tour guide and photographer to help tribes build photo libraries for marketing their attractions and landscapes. In this session Larry will present ideas for collecting and using images to create more compelling websites. He will also share tips for capturing high quality, high resolution wildlife and landscape images. Breakout Session 11 Session 11a: The NATIVE Act and Cultural Tourism Development Commissioner Jeannie Hovland, Administration for Native Americans Cynthia Ptak, Economic Development Representative, Economic Development Administration Explore Section 5 of the NATIVE Act, which mandates designated federal agencies and those agencies with a tourism function, utilize their grant programs to support the efforts of tribes and tribal organizations to grow the benefits of cultural tourism. Representatives from both the Administration for Native Americans and from the Economic Development Administration will discuss funding opportunities that are available to tribes interested in strengthening their cultural heritage and tourism programming. Session 11b: Strengthening Sustainable Tourism Development via Visitor “First Impressions” C. Andrew Northrop, Statewide Sustainable Tourism Educator, Michigan State University Have you ever wondered what your community and tourism assets look like through the eyes of first-time visitors? Have you ever wondered if capturing visitor “first impressions” might be the catalyst needed to spawn leaders, strengthen community vitality and initiate sustainable tourism development? Michigan State University Extension’s First Impressions Tourism Assessment (FIT) is a comprehensive tourism assessment conducted over a 24 hour period unannounced by a team of first-time visitors to a host community. This comprehensive, 13- part assessment helps communities learn about their strengths and weaknesses through the eyes of first-time visitors by capturing and sharing their first-impressions. Zoom Happy Hour: Music Performances Connect with fellow AITC delegates in a post-conference recap of the day’s events and enjoy a video from The Levi Platero Band and the Native Roots/Innastate “Water is Life” music video. #AITC2020 | Page 22

Friday September 18 10–10:55 a.m. Keynote Session: Building Alliances for a Better Future Fawn Sharp, President, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) As the aftereffects of COVID-19 cause economies to shrink and human resources to disappear, the eventual return of visitor traffic is one proven path to economic recovery. Although tribal tourism marketers understand the urgency of creating a thoughtful tourism messaging campaign, they are also finding their budgets significantly cut as those monies are directed to other, more pressing social service needs. By teaming together with regional or other partners, tourism marketers can find valuable insights on how to extend visibility with potential visitors. In her keynote speech, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) President Fawn Sharp discusses the importance of alliances when it comes to aligning knowledge and maximizing resources. 11–11:55 a.m. Breakout Session 12 Session 12a: Three Steps to Creating a Great Brand Ric Militi, CEO/Executive Creative Director, InnoVision Marketing Group Alanna Markey, Vice-President/Client Services & Brand Strategy, InnoVision Marketing Group More than just your name and logo, your company brand is every image that’s conjured up in consumer minds when they think about your company. It’s your story, but its also how your customers tell their own stories about your product. During this session, panelists discuss the three steps to consider when launching your company, what they each mean, and how to achieve them to become a great brand. Session 12b: How to Tradeshow Kainoa Daines, Director of Culture & Product Development, Hawai’i Visitors & Convention Bureau Dawn Melvin, Tribal Tourism Relations Manager, Arizona Office of Tourism Whether or not your community is planning an immediate tourism outreach or taking a wait- and-see approach, your visitor marketing outreach will likely eventually include showcasing your destination at a tourism trade show. Attending a targeted tradeshow can drive brand awareness and bring visitors, tour operators, media and other potential partners to your cultural heritage destination. But a successful trade show strategy involves much more than just showing up and hoping for the best. Join industry experts Mr. Kainoa Daines, Director of Culture & Product Development for the Hawai’i Visitors & Convention Bureau and Ms. Dawn Melvin, Tribal Tourism Relations Manager, for the Arizona Office of Tourism, as they share insider tips for trade show success. 12–1 p.m. Networking Break: AITC Wrap Up Join the AIANTA team in an AITC review session. What worked, what didn’t? Tell us what sessions you’d like to see next year and also take this time to complete the surveys for the sessions you attended. #AITC2020 | Page 23

1–1:55 p.m. Breakout Session 13 Session 13a: Casino & Culture Travis Owens, Director, Cultural Tourism and Community Relations, Cherokee Nation Businesses Laura Stensgar, CEO, Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort During the COVID-19 pandemic, tribal gaming establishments reported a collective loss of nearly 300,000 jobs and a total economic hit of $4.4 billion, leaving tribal communities struggling to adapt to those losses. As casinos begin to re-open to the public, they are facing a new normal that includes face masks, temperature taking and monitored entryways. But they also have an opportunity to redefine how they are marketing to visitors. In this session, Travis Owens, who oversees cultural tourism development and community relations for Cherokee Nation Business and Laura Stensgar, CEO of the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort discuss their tribes’ commitment to incorporating culture and heritage throughout the tourism experience. Session 13b: How to Rebound Digital Marketing After COVID-19 Peter Ross, Co-Founder, 829 Studios Many businesses have been negatively impacted by the global pandemic COVID-19. But how can these businesses fight back? In this session, we will go over consumer behavior, trends in e-commerce (specifically to food retailers), and how branding can affect search visibility. Utilizing keywords in your ad’s content messaging, in SEO and SEM, can increase the chance for consumers to find your business and eventually, convert. Session Takeaways: • How consumers will interact with digital marketing in a post-COVID-19 world • E-commerce data trends • Best practices to implement in SEO/SEM to maintain a presence onlinee 2–3 p.m. Closing Keynote The Heart Speaks--The Meaning of Aloha 3 p.m. Hi’ilani Shibata, Lead Cultural Trainer, Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association Although similar values exist in all cultures, the Spirit of Aloha is a term that has become synonymous with the Hawai’ian culture. These values have been transferred through ancestral knowledge and are further brought to life by each individual’s unique cultural and heritage experiences. The first in AIANTA’s new The Heart Speaks series, The Meaning of Aloha will feature Hi’ilani Shibata, AIANTA Board Member for the Pacific Region and Lead Cultural Trainer for the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association, who will demonstrate how every tribal tourism individual can uplift their culture and bring a little aloha into their own programming through authentic sharing with visitors. . Closing Ceremonies As AIANTA concludes its first virtual AITC, join us for a post-conference wrap up, including Native performances and a door prize giveaway. #AITC2020 | Page 24

Coming January 2021! Inspiration, Ideas and Itineraries Claim Your Free Listing Now Who can join? All federally and state-recognized Discover Native America, one unforgettable experience at a time. tribes and Native Hawaiians American Indian, AIANTA’s premier destination website—NativeAmerica.travel—connects Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian-owned, travelers to the distinctive American Indian, Alaska Native and Native tourism-related business Hawaiian destinations in the United States and is the leading travel • Lodging, restaurants, attractions resource for visitors seeking authentic, indigenous tourism experiences. • Museums, cultural centers, galleries • Cultural performances, annual festivals and other events • Outdoor adventure, historical sites • Adventure tours with indigenous guides • And so much more . . . To join now, visit www.nativeamerica.travel/guests/news or contact [email protected] for more information. Coming January 2021! More information at www.aianta.org/cultural-heritage-certificate #AITC2020 | Page 25

Thank you! We look forward to seeing you in 2021. All conference sessions will be available on-demand through October 14, 2020 in the AITC Conference App. “All My Heroes Wear Ribbon Work” Face mask created by Anita Fields (Osage/Muscogee) IG:: @nativefields Taffeta ribbons, thread, yarn, beads, brass bells, metal sequins, plastic pill pouch, photo images printed on silk, and embroidery thread. Techniques include snip-and-turn ribbonwork techniques, sewing, and four-ply braiding with beads. #AITC2020 | Page 26