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Stoney Nakoda casino brings new start to tribe

11 June 2008

CALGARY, Alberta -- As reported by the Calgary Herald: "Assisted by two showgirls, the chiefs of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation cut a red ribbon Tuesday to open Alberta's newest casino, hoping it will bring economic and social benefits to a reserve with 80 per cent unemployment.

"'This is a very good day for the Stoney Nakoda Nation and all of its members. This opening marks the start of an important journey toward economic self-reliance,' said Clifford Poucette, chief of the Wesley First Nation, which shares the reserve with two other native groups, the Chiniki and Bearspaw.

"The $65-million resort casino is at the junction of the Trans-Canada and Highway 40, at the turnoff to Kananaskis Country. The chiefs say it will provide employment, housing and social programs to the 4,000 Stoneys who live on the reserve, 55 kilometres west of Calgary, and at two satellite reserves near Longview and Nordegg.

"...With oil and gas reserves that are drying up, members say they faced a bleak future without some form of economic diversification.

"The casino is the first phase of a number of related projects that include a 111-room hotel to open in December, an RV campground that will partially open this summer, and a truck stop and outlet mall..."

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