The Deadwood Gaming Association, a non-profit organization representing South Dakota’s commercial casinos’ interests, has appointed George Milos as executive director.
The DGA was founded in 1990 and represents the interests of the state’s commercial gaming industry in front of the South Dakota Commission on Gaming, the legislature, and the Deadwood City Commission. Milos, who replaces Mike Rodman, will also become the director of Business Improvement District 8 (BID 8), an agency that raises money through hotel occupancy taxes to develop and promote Deadwood’s tourism.
“George has developed a deep love for Deadwood, the gaming industry and the visitor industry through his time at the Chamber and in private commercial businesses. With his public and private business experience, he will be a welcome addition to our DGA and BID 8 efforts. We look forward to his leadership in taking our organization to new levels of engagement and growth,” said Caleb Arceneaux, DGA president.
A longtime Deadwood resident, Milos served as director of events for Deadwood Mountain Grand. He also served 13 years at the Deadwood Chamber & Visitors Bureau, of which seven were spent as a director.
“I am incredibly excited and humbled at the opportunity to represent an industry that provides so many good-paying jobs with great benefits and has been a part of Deadwood’s fabric since the 1800s,” Milos said. “I look forward to working with the industry, creating and cultivating events, and being a part of Deadwood’s future. I’m ready to get to work.”
Milos will be expected to keep Deadwood’s momentum this year, as the appointment comes on the back of record performance. In 2023, Deadwood’s gaming revenue was up 18 percent, and sports wagering handle was up 50 percent compared to the previous year.
