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Tlingit & Haida celebrates soft opening of Two Coppers Casino5 June 2026(PRESS RELEASE) -- Tlingit & Haida welcomed invited guests, partners, community leaders, and members of the George Family to celebrate the soft opening of Two Coppers Casino, marking a historic milestone in the Tribe’s ongoing efforts to create economic opportunity and strengthen self-determination for future generations. The soft opening ceremony recognized the years of planning, partnership, and perseverance that made the project possible while highlighting the enterprise’s commitment to responsible gaming operations, regulatory compliance, and community investment.Gaming General Manager Janice Hotch emphasized the extensive federal regulatory framework that governs tribal gaming operations and the importance of accountability in maintaining public trust. “Gaming is one of the most highly regulated industries in the country,” said Hotch. “Every aspect of our operation—from licensing and background investigations to financial controls, surveillance, security, machine testing, reporting, and compliance—is governed by strict laws and regulations. These safeguards exist to protect our guests, employees, Tribal citizens, and the integrity of the enterprise.” Hotch noted that gaming employees undergo background checks and meet licensing requirements, gaming equipment is independently tested and certified, surveillance and security systems operate continuously, and financial transactions are subject to strict controls and auditing procedures. “This is not simply about operating a gaming facility,” Hotch said. “It is about earning and maintaining the trust of our Tribal citizens, our partners, our regulators, and every guest who walks through our doors.” We extend our sincere gratitude to the Tlingit & Haida Executive Council for their thoughtful leadership, careful consideration, and steadfast commitment throughout the development of this project. Their diligence in evaluating the opportunity, establishing the governing framework, and approving the operating documents and organizational structure has helped ensure that this enterprise is built on a strong foundation of accountability, transparency, and long-term sustainability. Their vision and guidance have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition in a manner that reflects the values and priorities of Tlingit & Haida and its citizens. During the ceremony, Tlingit & Haida President Richard J. Peterson reflected on the significance of the project and thanked the George Family for their partnership and vision. “Projects like this do not happen overnight,” Peterson said. “They require patience, courage, and a willingness to believe in a future that cannot yet be seen. The George Family believed in that future, and we are grateful for the trust they placed in Tlingit & Haida as we worked together to bring this opportunity to life.” Peterson emphasized that the enterprise represents more than gaming. “For Tlingit & Haida, this enterprise represents opportunity,” Peterson said. “Opportunity for jobs. Opportunity for career advancement. Opportunity for Tribal citizens and residents seeking meaningful employment. Opportunity to generate revenues that can support services, programs, and investments that strengthen our communities for generations to come.” He added that the enterprise reflects the Tribe’s commitment to economic self-determination and creating sustainable resources that support investments in Tribal citizens, culture, language, and future generations. While celebrating the milestone, Peterson noted that success will be measured not only by revenue but by the opportunities created and the lasting impact on Tribal communities. “This soft opening is only the first step,” Peterson said. “Over the coming weeks we will continue welcoming invited guests, learning from the experience, refining our operations, and preparing for our official grand opening on July 1.” Two Coppers Casino is expected to create new employment opportunities, support local economic activity, and generate long-term revenues that help advance Tlingit & Haida’s mission of serving Tribal citizens and strengthening communities throughout Southeast Alaska. As operations begin, Tribal leadership reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, accountability, and regulatory compliance. |