A sophisticated new courthouse in which judges can lock down a courtroom with the push of a button. More than 1,000 new homes. Almost 2,000 new jobs.

These are just some of the things that make up a rising tide of prosperity in the Gila River Indian Community since its first casino opened 12 years ago.

Since then, the reservation south of Chandler and Ahwatukee Foothills has begun to transform from an isolated, dusty reserve to a tourist attraction, cultural center, resort hot spot and a growing political powerhouse for more than 15,000 residents.