Indianz.Com > Indian Gaming > California 2011 Headlines

ARCHIVE: 2012 | 2011 | 2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007

Editorial: Off-reservation casino needs community support (12/15)

"We respect the sovereignty of American Indian lands. But we also believe tribes should respect the wishes and policies of local residents. One such conflict is playing out in Joshua Tree, where the Twenty-Nine Palms...

Shingle Springs Band in state court with old casino partner (12/12)

The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians of California could owe millions of dollars to its former gaming partner. The tribe and Sharp Image opened a facility in 1996 but it closed a year later....

Letter: Enterprise Rancheria casino means jobs for county (12/12)

"Finally, after nine years of trying to build a casino that will bring thousands of jobs to Yuba County, the Maidu Tribe can see some light at the end of the tunnel. However, certain forces...

Forum draws supporters of Enterprise Rancheria casino plan (12/08)

Supporters of the Enterprise Rancheria casino rivaled opponents at a forum hosted by Stand Up For California! on Wednesday night. The group only invited opponents to speak. But about half of the 150 people in...

Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake spending $29.7M on casino (12/08)

The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake in California is spending $29.7 million on its casino, The Santa Rosa Press-Democrat. The building for the 33,000-square-foot Running Creek Casino will cost $8.9 million. The fixtures, including 349...

Lawmakers favor Enterprise Rancheria off-reservation casino (12/07)

Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) and Rep. Tom McClintock (R-California) support the Enterprise Rancheria off-reservation casino. Garamendi's district, if he is re-elected, will include the proposed casino. He says the project will generate jobs. McClintock, who...

Investigation at North Fork Rancheria tied to gaming proposal (12/07)

The North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians of California says a federal investigation is "apparently" centered on the tribe's gaming agreement with Station Casinos. The tribe is proposing an off-reservation casino about 40 miles from...

Dry Creek Rancheria announces deal for $200M in gaming debt (12/06)

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians of California announced an agreement to restructure about $200 million in gaming debt. The debt was due November 1 but the tribe's creditors agreed not to pursue...

Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake set to open casino next year (12/02)

The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake in California expects to open its casino in spring or early summer of 2012, The Lake County News reports. Construction of the Running Creek Casino began in August. The...

Group's leader again exaggerates gaming plans in California (12/01)

The leader of Stand Up For California! says most of the 137 land-into-trust applications in California involve gaming but her record on the issue is spotty. Cheryl Schmit often claims tribes are looking casinos even...

Enterprise Rancheria casino deal signed almost 10 years ago (12/01)

The Enterprise Rancheria. signed a memorandum of understanding for its casino in Yuba County almost a decade ago. The county approved the deal in December 2002. The Bureau of Indian Affairs didn't approve the casino...

Forum scheduled to oppose Enterprise Rancheria casino plans (11/22)

Stand Up For California! is hosting a forum next month to discuss opposition to the Enterprise Rancheria. The tribe is headquartered in Butte County. Its gaming site is in Yuba County, about 36 miles from...

Opinion: Gabrielino-Tongva Tribe still dreaming about casino (11/22)

"With Indian Casinos virtually surrounding Los Angeles County, one might ask: why are there no Indian Casinos in Los Angeles County? The short answer is, there are no Indian Reservations in Los Angeles County upon...

Robert Smith: Address tribal concerns about Internet gaming (11/21)

"California is the home to 107 federally recognized Indian tribes, and the authorization of intrastate online gaming is a policy issue that has generated some disagreement among some of us in Indian country. But the...

Sen. Feinstein against Twentynine Palms off-reservation casino (11/17)

Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-California) is opposing another off-reservation casino. The Twentynine Palms Band of Mission Indians wants to build a casino in Joshua Tree. But Feinstein said the site is too close to Joshua Tree...

Chukchansi Tribe fails to make payment on casino-related debt (11/17)

The Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians in California has defaulted on its gaming-related debt. The Chukchansi Economic Development Authority announced yesterday that it failed to make an interest payment that was due on November...

Dry Creek Rancheria reports an increase in casino revenue (11/15)

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians of California reported an increase in gaming revenue. The River Rock Casino took in $31.3 million in the last quarter. That's up nearly 4 percent from the...

Credit ratings lowered for Dry Creek Rancheria gaming debt (11/10)

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians of California has reached a deal restructure $200 million in gaming debt but that hasn't stopped its credit ratings from being lowered. Moody’s Investors Service and Standard...

Mississippi Choctaws reach deal to restructure gaming debt (11/10)

The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians has reached a deal to restructure its gaming debt. An $80.8 million loan that was due this month has been extended, Chief Phyliss J. Anderson announced. The new...

Opinion: Chumash Tribe makes casino workers sign petition (11/10)

"The community is a buzz with the latest regarding “Camp 4” – the 1,400 acres in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley owned by the Chumash Casino tribe (Santa Ynez Band of Mission Indians)....

California governor still weighing off-reservation casino bid (11/07)

California Gov. Jerry Brown (D) has until next September to make a decision on an off-reservation casino for the Enterprise Rancheria. The Bureau of Indian Affairs approved the casino but Brown has veto authority under...

Dry Creek Rancheria reaches deal for $200M in casino debt (11/03)

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians of California reached a deal to restructure $200 million in casino debt. The tribe faced a November 1 deadline to pay the debt. But creditors agreed not...

Opinion: Greed and gaming spur disenrollments in California (11/02)

"It is one of those strange twists of fate that has been proven over and over in history: The conquered people eventually take on the worst characteristics of those who conquered them. It has manifested...

Opinion: Dry Creek Rancheria faces gaming debt deadline (11/01)

"The Santa Rosa (CA) Press Democrat published a story last week about the casino located in Sonoma County's Alexander Valley that was startling to most readers: the Dry Creek Pomo Tribe's River Rock Casino has...

NIGA chair offers tribal perspective on Internet gambling (10/26)

National Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernest Stevens Jr. testified about Internet gambling at a hearing in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday. Stevens said tribes are concerned about impacts to the $28 billion Indian gaming industry. He...

Dry Creek Rancheria in rush to pay off $200M casino debt (10/21)

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians of California faces a November 1 deadline on $200 million in casino debt. The tribe is trying to raise $205 million before the deadline. Analysts said the...

City supports Enterprise Rancheria off-reservation casino (10/20)

The city council in Marysville, California, voted 4-1 to send a letter in support of the Enterprise Rancheria off-reservation casino. The city already entered into a memorandum of understanding with the tribe. The letter says...

California tribes with casinos oppose new plans for casinos (10/19)

Gaming tribes are urging California Gov. Jerry Brown (D) reject two new casinos in the state. Brown has veto authority over the casinos sought by the Enterprise Rancheria and the North Fork Rancheria of Mono...

Twentynine Palms Band sees opposition to casino proposal (10/19)

The Twentynine Palms Band of Mission Indians saw significant opposition to its off-reservation casino proposal at a meeting in Joshua Tree, The Hi-Desert Star reports. The tribe hosted an informational session with the community on...

Santa Ysabel Band reports theft of cash from small casino (10/19)

Authorities are investigating the theft of cash from the casino owned by the Santa Ysabel Band of Mission Indians in California. Exact figures weren't reported. But one law enforcement source told The San Diego...

Carl Artman: Scotts Valley Band deserves a shot at casino (10/18)

"I recently read an editorial in the Contra Costa Times (California) regarding the fee-to-trust application of the Scotts Valley Band of Pomo Indians. I am concerned about the editorial board’s characterization of the Scotts Valley...

Tribes in California preparing for legal Internet poker games (10/18)

Tribes in California are promoting three Internet poker sites in anticipation of legal Internet gambling. The Cabazon Band of Mission Indians was the first to the punch in June 2010, The Palm Springs Desert Sun...

Enterprise Rancheria rejects off reservation label for casino bid (10/17)

The Enterprise Rancheria is not seeking an "off-reservation" casino, Chairwoman Glenda Nelson tells Indian Country Today. The tribe is headquartered in Butte County. Plans call for a casino in Yuba County, about 36 miles from...

APRN: Sealaska not worried about loss of land for gaming site (10/17)

"Sealaska has lost some its California casino land to foreclosure. But the regional Native corporation says it won’t hinder the project. Sealaska has been working for several years to build a hundred-million-dollar-plus hotel and casino...

Cloverdale Rancheria loses a part of casino site in foreclosure (10/13)

The Cloverdale Rancheria of California has lost a portion of its proposed gaming site to foreclosure. Sealaska, an Alaska Native regional corporation, agreed to buy two acres of the original reservation for $1.3 million. But...

Sen. Feinstein objects to Enterprise Rancheria casino project (10/13)

Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-California) is urging Gov. Jerry Brown (D) to reject an off-reservation casino for the Enterprise Rancheria. The tribe is seeking a two-part determination to build a casino about 36 miles from the...

Opinion: Rincon Band negotiating a new 'treaty' for its casino (10/13)

"The nation now has many states, counties, cities, reservations and casinos. For the most part, casinos are owned by Indians, which is what Native Americans used to be called. Because the tribes have grown very...

Rincon Band strikes gaming revenue agreement with county (10/12)

The Rincon Band of Mission Indians will share gaming revenues directly with San Diego County, California, under an agreement approved on Wednesday. The tribe is negotiating a new Class III gaming compact with Gov. Jerry...

Rincon Band looks to send casino revenue straight to county (10/11)

As part of a new Class III gaming compact, the Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians wants to share casino revenue directly with San Diego County, California. "Our position was always that the funds should be...

California tribes entice patrons with 'free' Internet gambling (10/11)

Tribes in California aren't waiting for the state to legalize Internet gambling -- they have launched their own websites to entice patrons and sway opinion on the controversial subject. The California Online Poker Association, a...

Opinion: Chumash Tribe benefits the community with its casino (10/06)

"The Chumash are the biggest donors to charities in Santa Barbara County in general and the Valley in particular. Earlier this year, the Chumash Foundation announced $148,000 in grants to a variety of nonprofits. Since...

California governor negotiates compact with Graton Rancheria (10/05)

California Gov. Jerry Brown (D) is reportedly negotiating a Class III gaming compact with the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria. Neither side will confirm the status of the talks but apparently they've been ongoing. The...

California governor extends moratorium on card clubs to 2020 (09/30)

California Gov. Jerry Brown (D) signed into law a bill that extends a moratorium on new card clubs to 2020. The original law had a moratorium on 2015. Existing card clubs said they were happy...

Howard Stutz: Tribal gaming revenues on the decline in California (09/28)

"Revenue reports are tough to come by from Indian casinos and their tribal governments, which are sovereign nations and not publicly traded companies. Southern California economist Alan Meister puts together an annual and comprehensive financial...

Twentynine Palms Band to discuss off-reservation casino plans (09/27)

The Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians will discuss plans for an off-reservation casino in Joshua Tree, California. In January 2008, the tribe announced plans for a casino and RV park on its reservation. But...

Column: Illegal immigrant took a gamble going to tribal casino (09/26)

"A curious thing happened to a woman on her way to a North County casino two weeks ago. Out for a night of gambling, she somehow ended up in the custody of the U.S. Border...

Opinion: An update on Internet gaming in California and beyond (09/22)

"CALIFORNIA – The California Assembly is back in session for the next several weeks, but Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg has just announced that there will be no action on any of the various...

Bo Mazzetti: How Schwarzenegger violated tribal sovereignty (09/22)

"States and governors just can’t seem to control themselves; they cannot keep their hands out of tribal pockets. The concept that tribal governments have rights and financial needs has eluded them for so long they...

Group trapped in elevator at Jackson Rancheria casino for hours (09/20)

A group of patrons is upset after being trapped in an elevator at the casino owned by the Jackson Rancheria in California. Six people were trapped inside on Sunday night for more than two hours....

Travel: Sycuan Band sets the hospitality bar high with casino (09/15)

"Uninvited, under-dressed, but not unwelcome. That's how I found myself enjoying a beautiful garden wedding at California's Sycuan Resort earlier this year. A guest of the San Diego-area golf and tennis resort, I had been...

California Tribal Business Alliance objects to gaming decisions (09/15)

The California Tribal Business Alliance says other tribes should not seek casinos on land away from existing reservations. The Enterprise Rancheria and the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians won approval from the Obama administration...

Viejas Band celebrates 20th birthday of casino with free lunch (09/14)

The Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians in California celebrated the 20th anniversary of its casino on Tuesday. The Viejas Casino opened on September 13, 1991. The tribe served lunch to about 5,000 as a way...

Big Valley Rancheria considers opening small gaming facility (09/13)

The Big Valley Band of Pomo Indians in California might open a small casino at a property that just went into escrow. The tribe's offer on the Ferndale Resort and Marina was recently accepted. If...

Opinion: Good luck with off-reservation casinos in California (09/12)

"Yes, it really has been nine years since the proponents of Yuba County casino showed up at a Board of Supervisors meeting on July 2, 2002, and announced their intentions. It was quite an odd...

Rincon Band generates $253M economic impact from gaming (09/09)

The Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians said its gaming facility contributed $253 million in economic activity in San Diego County, California. The tribe hired Beacon Economics to study the Harrah's Rincon Casino and Resort. In...

Big Sandy Rancheria in court over disputed casino agreement (09/09)

The Big Sandy Rancheria of Western Mono Indians in California is seeking to cancel its gaming agreement. The tribe partnered with Brownstone LLC, a subsidiary of American Vantage, to build a casino with 2,000 slot...

Gaming decisions meet opposition from other California tribes (09/08)

The Obama administration brought good news to two California tribes last week but their casino plans are stirring controversy at home. Assistant Secretary Larry Echo Hawk approved land-into-trust applications for the Enterprise Rancheria and the...

Opinion: Some California tribes left behind in push for gaming (09/05)

"It's pretty easy to judge people you don't know, it's much harder to get to know them. Prejudging people publicly is easy these days. Read a news story on the Internet and feel free to...

Echo Hawk issues casino decisions for three tribes in California (09/02)

The Obama administration brought good news and bad news for three California tribes seeking to build casinos. Assistant Secretary Larry Echo Hawk approved land-into-trust applications for the Enterprise Rancheria and the North Fork Rancheria of...

Totally Gaming: Interview with Victor Rocha of Pechanga.net (08/31)

"Q: What was your very first job and can you remember how much you got paid? A: My first job was pushing broom at a local military airbase in San Bernardino, CA. It was a...

Opinion: Unnecessary delay on Internet gaming in California (08/30)

"On August 22, 2011, California State Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg sent a letter announcing that the bills to legalize intra-state Internet poker would not be voted on this year. The letter was also...

Chemehuevi Tribe revives off-reservation casino bid in Barstow (08/25)

It looks like the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indians is getting some competition for an off-reservation casino in Barstow, California. The Chemehuevi Tribe is reviving plans for a casino in the city....

Bill to legalize Internet poker in California dead amid opposition (08/23)

A bill to legalize Internet poker in California is being declared dead. The California Online Poker Association, a coalition led by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, supported Senate Bill 40. But other politically-connected tribes,...

Public Radio: Tribes in California split over Internet poker in state (08/22)

"Some Native American tribes and card rooms are going all-in on a measure that would let them set up poker websites. But many other tribes say they're being left out. This is one political issue...

Bo Mazzetti: Rincon Band negotiating new Class III gaming compact (08/19)

"Currently, we have an immediate opportunity to improve roads, public safety, fire and other government services in San Diego County at no cost to taxpayers. This can be achieved by redirecting revenue sharing dollars generated...

Gaming: Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation brings games to casino floor (08/18)

"The landscape of the gaming floor is changing at Cache Creek Casino Resort with the introduction of two table games from Shuffle Master and new progressive jackpots. The Shuffle Master games, Blackjack Switch and Dealer...

Editorial: There's no rush to legalize Internet poker in California (08/18)

"The push to legalize Internet gambling in California is a special-interest debate, with no public interest at stake. Legislators should insist that the state find answers to the many questions that surround the idea before...

California tribes lobby lawmakers on Internet gambling measure (08/17)

California tribes are stepping up their lobbying campaigns on Internet gaming. The California Online Poker Association, a coalition led by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, supports Senate Bill 40, to legalize Internet poker. The...

Dry Creek Rancheria reports four percent drop in gaming revenue (08/17)

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians of California reported a four percent drop in gaming revenue in the last quarter. Net revenue at the River Rock Casino was $31.2 million. That's down from...

Appeals court dismisses lawsuit for Soboba Band casino contract (08/17)

The Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians did not waive sovereign immunity in a contract with a casino vendor, a California appeals court ruled. The tribe entered into a contract with California Parking Services for valet...

Judge bars California from releasing tribe's gaming funds to IRS (08/12)

A federal judge has barred the California Gambling Control Commission from releasing gaming funds held in trust for the Alturas Indian Rancheria. Without the tribe's consent, the state voted to release the funds to the...

Pinoleville Pomo Nation planning for casino with new compact (08/10)

The Pinoleville Pomo Nation of California is still in the planning stages for a casino on its reservation. But one hurdle has been cleared. The tribe signed a new Class III gaming compact with Gov....

Dry Creek Rancheria pays $9M for easement on road to casino (08/10)

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians of California has agreed to pay $9 million for an easement that's needed to build a road to its casino. The new road will provide emergency access...

Pinoleville Pomo Nation reaches gaming compact with governor (08/09)

The Pinoleville Pomo Nation signed a Class III gaming compact with California Gov. Jerry Brown (D). The deal allows up to 900 slot machines. The tribe will share 15 percent of the net win from...

Residents withdraw opposition to Sycuan Band casino liquor bid (08/08)

Neighbors of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation will no longer fight the tribe's liquor license. The state Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control approved an interim license for the Sycuan Casino back in 2009....

First fatality linked to liquor sales at Dry Creek Rancheria casino (08/05)

A woman who was drinking at the casino owned by the Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians of California died last month in a single car accident. Amporn Ta, 39, had a blood alcohol...

San Manuel chair to discuss Los Coyotes off-reservation casino (08/05)

James Ramos, the chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, plans to meet with leaders of the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indians to discuss off-reservation gaming. Ramos and his tribe...

Editorial: Reject an off-reservation casino for Los Coyotes Band (08/05)

"California voters never approved building tribal casinos at whatever site might get the most business. Tribes should confine gambling operations to reservations, not search for more lucrative locations. The governor and Legislature should reject a...

Editorial: Gaming money behind Graton Rancheria's 'donation' (08/04)

"Enter the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, who have agreed to donate $500,000 to support a long-term plan for Tolay Lake Regional Park. County park officials say the tribe's donation, combined with $300,000 from the...

Opinion: Barstow jumps back into off-reservation casino game (08/03)

"With the announcement last week that Interior is going to conduct public hearings on long-stalled casino development in Barstow, California, the City is once again a prominent player in the next round of gaming in...

Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake to start work on casino in fall (08/03)

The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake in California will start work on a casino in September, Chairwoman Sherry Treppa said. Construction on the tent-like Running Creek Casino is expected to finish in early 2012. “We’re...

Los Coyotes Band not worried about off-reservation gaming bill (08/02)

The Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indians of California isn't worried about S.1424, a bill to restrict off-reservation gaming. The tribe is pursuing a casino in Barstow, more than 100 miles from the...

Twentynine Palms reportedly considers new location for casino (08/01)

The Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians in California is reportedly considering a new location for a casino. In January 2008, the tribe announced plans for a casino and RV park on its reservation....

BIA authorizes Class III gaming compact for Habematolel Pomo (08/01)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs approved a Class III gaming compact for the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake in California. The tribe plans to open the Running Creek Casino on an 11-acre site. The facility...

Auburn Community appeals to older crowd with casino shows (07/29)

The United Auburn Indian Community of California is catering to an older crowd with its casino concert lineup. With artists like Chicago, The Doobie Brothers and Daryl Hall & John Oates, the tribe wants to...

Big turnout for hearing on Los Coyotes off-reservation casino (07/29)

About 400 people attended a public hearing on Wednesday to discuss an off-reservation casino for the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indians of California. More than 45 people spoke at the hearing and...

Jackson Rancheria eliminates 10 percent of casino workforce (07/29)

The Jackson Rancheria of California has laid off 150 workers at its casino. The tribe reduced the workforce at Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel by a little over 10 percent, The Sacramento Bee reported. That...

Opinion: Chumash Tribe could use new land for another casino (07/29)

"About two weeks ago, a coalition of citizen groups did a red-alert email blast to update Santa Ynez Valley residents and neighbors regarding the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash casino tribe’s efforts to put their...

BIA hosts public hearing on Los Coyotes off-reservation casino (07/28)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs held a public hearing on Wednesday to discuss an off-reservation casino for the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indians of California. The tribe wants to build a casino...

Court dismisses lawsuit over bed bugs at Barona Band's casino (07/22)

A California couple waited too long to file a lawsuit over an alleged bed bug infestation at the casino owned by the Barona Band of Mission Indians, a state appeals court ruled. Robert and Gloria...

Illegal coin pushers showing up at locations throughout California (07/21)

Illegal "coin pushers" are showing up throughout California, The Valley Voice Newspaper reports. Law enforcement authorities are finding the machines in convenience stores, smoke shops and other locations all over the state. They are marketed...

Vincent Armenta: Chumash Tribe is responsible with casino liquor (07/21)

"When the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors met on July 5, one of the items on their agenda was to discuss withdrawing their protest of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians’ application for...

Los Coyotes Band lobbies governor on off-reservation casino plan (07/20)

The Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indians has been meeting with staff for California Gov. Jerry Brown (D) in hopes of gaining support for an off-reservation casino. The tribe plans to build the...

Column: Chumash Tribe doesn't deserve liquor license at casino (07/15)

"The recent 3-2 decision by the Board of Supervisors to allow expansion of alcohol sales at the Chumash Casino and Resort in Santa Ynez was stunning. Remember, casino tribes do not pay taxes like other...

Officer says fears about liquor at Dry Creek casino unrealized (07/14)

Liquor sales at the casino owned by the Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians haven't led to an increase in drunken driving accidents, according to the California Highway Patrol. Local officials were worried about...

Tribes in California divided on bills to authorize Internet gaming (07/13)

Tribes are divided over efforts to legalize Internet poker in California. The California Online Poker Association, a coalition led by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, supports SB 40. But the Agua Caliente Band of...

Lytton Band turns to NLRB for aid in dispute with casino union (07/12)

Most tribes don't want the National Labor Relations Board in their business but the Lytton Band of Pomo Indians of California is taking a different approach. The tribe asked the NLRB for help with a...

BIA sets public hearing on Los Coyotes off-reservation casino (07/11)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs will hold a public hearing on the July 27 to discuss an off-reservation casino for the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeno Indians in California. The tribe wants to...

KQED: California tribes reconsider revenue-sharing in compacts (07/08)

"As legislators ratified a new state budget last week, it's doubtful that many of them considered the dangers to that budget posed by the final legal smackdown of California's attempt to get a cut of...

Editorial: Hold Chumash Tribe casino to same standard as others (07/07)

"Big businesses have big impacts on the communities in which they operate — a fact that has become abundantly clear to Santa Ynez Valley residents. Around here, as businesses and impacts go, they don’t come...

County withdraws opposition to Chumash casino liquor license (07/06)

The board of supervisors in Santa Barbara County, California, withdrew its opposition to a liquor license at the casino owned by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. The tribe agreed to 18 conditions that...

Pala Band still willing to share revenues under a new casino deal (07/06)

The Pala Band of Mission Indians wants to renegotiate its Class III gaming compact but is still willing to share revenues with the state of California, Chairman Robert Smith said. The tribe signed a compact...

County weighs stance on Chumash Tribe casino liquor license (06/29)

The board of supervisors in Santa Barbara County, California, might reconsider its position on the liquor license at the casino owned by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. The board voted 3-2 in June...

Pala Band seeks to renegotiate gaming compact with governor (06/28)

The Pala Band of Mission Indians will ask the state of California to renegotiate its Class III gaming compact, an attorney said. The tribe was the first to sign a new deal when former governor...

Editorial: Decision makes California play fair with tribal casinos (06/28)

"Not long after he took office in 2003, former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger offered Indian tribes a deal his administration believed was a win for both sides: They could add hundreds of slot machines to their...

Supreme Court won't hear Rincon Band gaming compact case (06/27)

The U.S. Supreme Court today rejected a petition in Brown v. Rincon Band of Luiseno Mission Indians, a gaming compact case. The justices declined the petition without comment in today's order list. The move is...

Sycuan Band expects to complete $27M casino upgrade in fall (06/22)

The Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation is spending $27 million to upgrade its casino. Work at the Sycuan Casino started late last year, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported. The tribe expects to finish the...

Former manager of Picayune Rancheria convicted of stealing (06/22)

Jeff Livingston, the former general manager of the casino owned by the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians in California, was found guilty of stealing from the tribe. Livingston, 51, was convicted on six counts...

Habematolel Pomo awaits BIA approval of Class III compact (06/14)

The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake is waiting on the Bureau of Indian Affairs to approve its new Class III gaming compact. The tribe negotiated the deal after the BIA rejected an earlier version. The...

Agua Caliente Band to spend $2.1M on renovations at casino (06/09)

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians will spend $2.1 million to renovate its casino in Palm Springs, California. Work on the hotel at the Spa Resort Casino will start July 5. Rooms and corridors...

Vincent Armenta: Santa Ynez Band shares gaming revenue (06/09)

"When the Special Distribution Fund (SDF) was established with the tribal compacts in 1999, it was designed in part to reimburse local governments impacted by tribal casinos. And it has certainly done that. Last week,...

Elk Valley Rancheria warns investors about former partner (06/06)

The Elk Valley Rancheria of California issued a warning to the public about one of its former partners The tribe loaned $480,000 to R. Shawn Ellis for a casino resort in Las Vegas. The plans...

Editorial: Obama's short-sighted view on gaming compacts (06/06)

"The Obama administration has sided with a California Indian tribe in a case with significant ramifications for the future of tribe-owned casinos and the state's authority to oversee those operations. It's a shortsighted stand that...

Union 'never heard of' gaming watchdog group in California (06/03)

Many in Indian Country have heard of a gaming watchdog group called Stand Up For Calfornia! but one of the largest unions in the U.S. has caused confusion with an effort called Stand Up for...

Elk Valley Rancheria seeks money from ex-casino partner (06/01)

The Elk Valley Rancheria of California is trying to recover more than $1 million from its former gaming partner. The tribe was working with R. Shawn Ellis, whose companies have declared bankruptcy. The tribe says...

Rep. Bono Mack open to bill to legalize Internet gaming (05/31)

Rep. Mary Bono Mack (R-California) is open to sponsoring a bill to legalize Internet gaming but a spokesperson said no decisions have been made. Bono Mack chairs the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade. Her...

Sycuan Band announces members of gaming commission (05/25)

The Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation in California announced four new members of its gaming commission. Queenette Pettiford was named the new chairwoman. She's been serving on the commission for 12 years. “It has...

DOJ submits brief to Supreme Court in Rincon gaming case (05/25)

The Department of Justice is urging the U.S. Supreme Court to reject Brown v. Rincon Band of Luiseno Mission Indians, a gaming compact case. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that former governor Arnold...

Dry Creek Rancheria makes changes to gaming agreement (05/25)

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians and Sonoma County, California, agreed to changes in the tribe's gaming agreement. The tribe agreed to maintain restrictions on the sale of liquor at the River Rock...

California Assembly backs Habematolel Pomo compact bill (05/25)

The California Assembly voted 69-0 to pass AB 1020, a bill that ratifies a Class III gaming compact for the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake. The tribe reached the deal with Gov. Gov. Jerry Brown...

Two men charged with using fake debit cards at Pechanga (05/24)

Two men have been charged with using stolen debit card numbers to rack up wins at the casino owned by the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians in California. Hung D. Nguyen, 32, and Eric Hoang,...

Rincon Band compact case still pending at Supreme Court (05/23)

The state of California is still waiting to hear whether the U.S. Supreme Court will hear its appeal of a compact case involving the Rincon Band of Mission Indians. The tribe sued when former governor...

California tribes seek to draw music lovers to their casinos (05/20)

Two northern California tribes are becoming more competitive in the concert market with new venues at their casinos. The United Auburn Indian Community opened an outdoor venue at the Thunder Valley Casino Resort last summer....

Dry Creek Rancheria seeks changes in gaming agreement (05/19)

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians wants to change its gaming agreement with Sonoma County, California. The tribe signed an agreement with the county in 2008. It requires the tribe to pay $75...

Mooretown Rancheria supports off-reservation gaming bill (05/16)

The Mooretown Rancheria of Maidu Indians in California supports S.771, the Tribal Gaming Eligibility Act. The bill will stop "reservation shopping," according to the tribe. "We have a unique perspective on this issue because out-of-state...

Shingle Springs Band failing to see mininum profit at casino (05/12)

The Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians of California is racking up more debt at the Red Hawk Casino. The tribe owes $66 million to Lakes Entertainment Inc. But the casino has been doing so...

BIA told two California tribes to expect approval of casinos (05/11)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs "privately" told two tribes to expect approval for their casino projects, The Contra Costa Times reports. The paper said the Guidiville Band of Pomo Indians and the Scotts Valley Band...

Sheriff who was denied gaming funds questions tribal police (05/10)

The sheriff who was denied a share of gaming revenues says he won't be held "hostage" by the Robinson Rancheria of California. Lake County Sheriff Frank Rivero refuses to cross-deputize the tribe's officers. He says...

Buena Vista Rancheria casino in limbo amid court challenge (05/09)

The Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians has been trying to open a casino for more than 10 years and it looks like the tribe will be waiting even long as a lawsuit plays out...

Lytton Band opposes Sen. Feinstein bill to limit casino rights (05/09)

The Lytton Band of Pomo Indians is once again fighting efforts to restrict its gaming rights. The tribe opened the San Pablo Lytton Casino on land that was placed in trust by an act of...

Opinion: California's opportunity to legalize Internet gaming (05/09)

"The Bee's editorial board said that the legalization of the Internet gambling was inevitable but "there are many unanswered questions, and no need to rush." In fact, many questions have been answered. And, this issue...

County that won't deputize tribal officers denied casino funds (05/06)

A sheriff who refuses to cross-deputize tribal police officers won't get a share of Indian gaming revenues in Lake County, California. Lake County Sheriff's Office sought nearly $450,000 in casino funds. But the Indian Gaming...

DC Circuit revives lawsuit over Buena Vista Rancheria casino (05/06)

The D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals today revived a lawsuit that challenges the casino plans of the Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians of California. The tribe entered into a Class III gaming compact with...

Sen. Feinstein introduces bill to restrict Lytton Band's casino (05/06)

Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-California) introduced S.872, a bill to restrict the gaming rights of the Lytton Band of Pomo Indians, on Tuesday. The bill bars the tribe from expanding the "exterior physical measurements" of the...

City apologizes to Pechanga Band for suing over gaming deal (05/06)

The city of Temecula, California, apologized to the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians for taking the tribe to court over a gaming deal. Mayor Ron Roberts personally delivered a letter to the tribe to mend...

Pechanga Band dedicates $4M to address impact of casino (05/03)

The Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians will direct $4.5 million to the city of Temecula, California, to address the impacts of its casino. The city will use $4 million for interchange improvements near the Pechanga...

Manchester Band opens casino with help from other tribes (05/02)

The Manchester Band of Pomo Indians in California has opened its first casino. The 10,000-square-foot Garcia River Casino features 200 slot machines. It opened April 16 with the help of two other tribes, whom Chairman...

Column: Abuse of earmarks paved a path for Lytton casino (04/28)

"A classic example of an earlier abuse of this process is the enactment of a bill entitled the “Omnibus Indian Advancement Act” enacted in 2000. Congressman Miller, representing that area of Contra Costa County where...

Unemployed man wins $1M at Santa Ysabel Band casino (04/27)

An unemployed man won a $1 million jackpot at the casino owned by the Santa Ysabel Band of Mission Indians in California. The man hit the jackpot at the Santa Ysabel Casino on April 20....

BIA still reviewing Soboba Band casino land-into-trust bid (04/19)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs plans to hold another public meeting on land-into-trust application submitted by the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians. The tribe wants 535 acres placed in trust. The existing Soboba Casino will...

Editorial: Pechanga Band's moral obligation in casino deal (04/18)

"What happens now in Temecula's battle with the Pechanga Indians over the tribe's refusal to abide by the spirit of a contract it signed with the city? Of course, it should be noted that the...

Judge dismisses lawsuit on Pechanga Band casino agreement (04/12)

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit against the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians in California. The city of Temecula sued to enforce a gaming agreement with the tribe. But Judge Dale S. Fischer said...

Editorial: Keep pressure to prevent urban casinos in California (04/08)

"In a surprise move, the Richmond City Council voted 5-2 early Wednesday to stop the Point Molate casino project, which would have included a casino, hotel, convention center, ferry terminal parks and housing. What's next:...

Column: Internet gambling is coming to California soon enough (04/06)

"California voters long ago unleashed the gambling genie, approving the lottery in 1984 and Indian casinos in 2000. But get ready for more. In time, all manner of wagering will become legal over the Internet....

Opinion: Internet gambling will bring big revenues to California (04/04)

"In the time it takes you to read this sentence, several hundred thousand people in the United States will have played a hand of poker. They are not gathered around green felt tables in casinos...

Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake expects approval of compact (04/01)

The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake of California expects the Bureau of Indian Affairs will approve its new Class III gaming compact. The tribe started work on the $28 million Running Creek Casino after...

Agua Caliente Band makes another round of lay-offs at casin (04/01)

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians of California has made another round of lay-offs at one of its casinos. The tribe cut an unspecified number of employees at the Spa Resort Casino. This is...

Dry Creek Rancheria reports 7.2 percent dip in casino revenue (03/31)

The Dry Creek Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians of California reported a 7.2 percent drop in revenue at the River Rock Casino in the last quarter of 2010. The tribe took in $29.1 million during...

Lakes Entertainment takes a big hit on Shingle Springs casino (03/31)

Lakes Entertainment Inc. is taking a big hit on the casino it manages for the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians of California. The $530 million Red Hawk Casino opened in December 2008. But the...

Tribal revenues fund problem gambling program in California (03/29)

Tribal casinos are funding the state of California's $4 million problem gambling program. Tribes that signed compacts in 1999 contribute a portion of their revenues to the Indian Gaming Special Distribution Fund. Some of the...

California tribes study economic impact of gaming, businesses (03/24)

California tribes have commissioned a study to determine the economic impact of their casinos and their businesses. The California Nations Indian Gaming Association, the Tribal Alliance of Sovereign Indian Nations and the California Association of...

Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake negotiates new gaming deal (03/24)

The Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake negotiated a new Class III gaming compact with California Gov. Jerry Brown (D). The deal replaces one the tribe signed during the Schwarzenegger administration. The Bureau of Indian Affairs...

California doesn't want to be a party in Pechanga gaming case (03/17)

The state of California says it shouldn't be a party in a gaming lawsuit against the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. The state says the Class III gaming compact requires the state and the tribe...

More tribes in California back bill to legalize Internet poker games (03/14)

The California Online Poker Association, a group representing 29 tribes, and the California Nations Indian Gaming Association, which represents 28 tribes, are supporting SB 40, a bill to legalize Internet poker games. COPA, a coalition...

City paves way for a final decision on Guidiville Band casino plan (03/10)

The city council in Richmond, California, has paved the way for a final decision on a casino for the Guidiville Band of Pomo Indians. The council voted 4-1 to certify the environmental impact statement and...

Opinion: California tribes push to legalize Internet poker games (03/09)

"Because of its huge potential market, California is in an unparalleled position. It could legalize intrastate online poker and be assured that there would be enough players — and enough players who would play for...

Guidiville Band closer to winning city approval for gaming report (03/09)

The city council in Richmond, California, is poised to approve a casino report for the Guidiville Band of Pomo Indians, The San Francisco Chronicle reports. The council held public hearings to discuss the environmental impact...

Tribal gaming revenues fell in California for second year in a row (03/03)

Tribal gaming revenues in California fell 5.3 percent in 2009, according to the new Indian Gaming Industry Report. Tribes took in $6.9 billion in 2009, down from $7.3 billion in 2008 and $7.8 billion in...

BIA rejects Class III gaming compact for Pinoleville Pomo Nation (03/02)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has rejected a Class III gaming compact submitted by the Pinoleville Pomo Nation of California. The compact authorized up to 900 slot machines for the tribe. In exchange, the tribe...

City council holds public hearing on Guidiville Band casino plan (02/25)

The city council in Richmond, California, held a public hearing this week as it decides the fate of a casino for the Guidiville Band of Pomo Indians. City leaders will vote whether to accept a...

California Nations Indian Gaming Association backs Internet bill (02/24)

The California Nations Indian Gaming Association has endorsed Senate Bill 40, a bill to legalize Internet gaming in the state. Tribal leaders debated the issue at CNIGA's annual conference last week. Some said it was...

Editorial: County rightly worried about Mishewal Wappo casino (02/22)

"Earlier this month, a contingent of Napa Valley politicians and business people traveled to Washington, D.C. to lobby for legislation to further protect our region against development. Specifically, against the potential development that recognition of...