Nebraska tribe inaugurates casino

The Ponca Tribe has opened its new Prairie Flower Casino in Carter Lake, which will host 200 slot-style machines.

US.- The Prairie Flower Casino was finally opened by the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska in Carter Lake. The venue, equipped with 200 slot-style gaming machines, is much smaller than neighbouring casinos like Harrah’s Council Bluffs, Ameristar or Horseshoe Casino but still marks a milestone for the tribe.

“I’m excited, overwhelmed. This a great day for our people. We have been able to grow, with eyes to the future. This is a symbol of our resilience,” said Larry Wright Jr., the tribal chairman and added: “In less than a year, we’ve been able to do this. We’re late to the process, but we hope to be one of the best in Indian country.”

The tribe received construction clearance by the National Indian Gaming Commission in November 2017, broke ground in June and finally opened up this week after very fast development work.

Carter Lake Mayor, Ron Cumberledge, said the project “brings new life to a piece of ground that hasn’t seen anything in decades.” The 3,800-resident town has been really supportive of the venue, which won’t have to pay taxes but will voluntarily donate US$775k a year to fund police, emergency and other services.

The 9,500-square-foot venue is part of phase one for the Prairie Flower project, which could expand it to host up to 2,000 slot machines and 50 gaming tables.