Indian Gaming > Morongo Nation takes gamble with Vegas approach

November 04, 2005

Morongo Nation takes gamble with Vegas approach

The Morongo Band of Mission Indians in southern California opened a glitzy $250 million casino last December in hopes of recreating the Las Vegas experience closer to home.

The tribe has seen some payoff -- revenues are up by 32 percent, the casino's general manager said. Analysts say the southern California is the fastest growing tribal casino market and has drawn some business away from Vegas.

But the effort hasn't been totally successful. After the crowds drooped off at the high-end clubs and restaurants, the N9NE Group -- which operates hip venues in Vegas -- pulled out of the venture. The tribe and N9NE are now engaged in a court fight.

And another tribe has run into financial problems after opening a $200 million resort shortly after the Morongo casino debuted. The Cabazon Band of Mission Indians had to lay off employees and has some debt issues.

Get the Story:
A Would-Be Las Vegas Rolls the Dice (The New York Times 11/4)
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