The Wa She Shu Casino near Garnerville, Nevada. Photo from Washoe Tribe
The Washoe Tribe has joined the Indian gaming industry with the help of a more experienced partner. The Wa She Shu Casino officially opened for business on Thursday. The facility -- located at the tribe's travel plaza near Garnerville, Nevada -- is the result of a unique partnership with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians from Alabama. 'The partnership between our tribe and the Poarch Band of Creek Indians of Alabama is the first of its kind," Washoe Chairman Neil Mortimer said in a press release. "The Washoe Tribe is excited to partner with the Poarch Band of Creek Indians and we are looking forward to increasing the gaming and dining experience in the Carson Valley for both residents and visitors." The 13,500 square-foot facility features a 4,600 square-foot gaming floor with 130 electronic gaming machines. A bar and restaurant will seat 80 guests. There's also room for a potential expansion. "It wasn't so long ago that we were building our first gaming facility in hopes that it would provide a brighter future for our people," Poarch Creek Stephanie Bryan said. "We believe that it is part of our obligation, as Indian people, to support others in their efforts to achieve financial security. We are thrilled that we can play a role in making sure that the Washoe Tribe can use its land to better the lives of their tribal members." The Wa She Shu Travel Plaza opened in March and is also part of the Washoe-Poarch Creek partnership. According to a document prepared for the Washoe tribal council, the business has seen nearly $24.4 million in fuel, food, tobacco and other purchases. Related Stories:
Washoe Tribe set to open casino with Poarch Creeks in summer (03/17)
Washoe Tribe and Poarch Creeks start work on casino project (11/04)
Washoe Tribe partners with Poarch Creeks for gaming project (05/12)
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