PAUMA VALLEY, Calif., July 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Pauma Band of Luiseno Indians -- To express their commitment to responsible gambling, the Pauma Band of Luiseno Indians has voluntarily obtained full certification in Problem Gambling Awareness for Casino Pauma employees from the California Council on Problem Gambling.

"This is a big accomplishment," said Casino Pauma Director of Compliance Teresa Olivo. "Casino Pauma takes problem gambling very seriously. As a gaming establishment, we have a responsibility to take care of not only our patrons and employees but also their families."

More than 300 Casino employees have been trained to identify and report signs of problem gambling among themselves and patrons to Casino directors, supervisors and managers. The Casino has designated trained "Ambassadors" to determine if and when it is appropriate to approach a problem gambler for a discussion. In addition, ATM stickers, brochures, signs and posters have been placed throughout the casino to encourage problem gamblers to seek help via a confidential hotline (1-800-GAMBLER).

Signs of problem gambling include lying, being unable to stop, neglecting family, friends and/or work and continually borrowing money. Common statements of problem gamblers include, "I can't believe I lost my savings," "My spouse will leave me if I tell him/her the truth" and "I used to win all of the time but now I have a string of bad luck."

About the California Council on Problem Gambling
The California Council on Problem Gambling (CCPG) is a non-profit organization, founded in 1986, dedicated to assisting problem gamblers and their families by promoting awareness, education, research, prevention and treatment for problem gambling. CCPG is one of 35 state affiliates of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). For more information, visit www.calproblemgambling.org.

About the Pauma Band of Luiseno Indians
The Pauma Band of Luiseno Indians is a federally recognized Tribal government located in the Pauma Valley of Southern California. The Pauma Band is one of seven Bands of the Luiseno people located in San Diego and Riverside counties. Pauma produces Hass avocados, Valencia oranges and lemons, and is engaged in the protection and reforestation of their Tribal lands. The Pauma Tribe owns and operates Casino Pauma, providing employment to the Tribal Members and the surrounding communities. Its revenues enhance the Tribal Government's ability to meet the essential needs of the membership. For more information about the Pauma Tribe, visit www.pauma-nsn.gov