“Not only is Class III gaming in Indiana historic and an important milestone for the Pokagon Band and our Four Winds Casinos, but the expansion of Four Winds South Bend will create numerous economic benefits with the State of Indiana and the City of South Bend,” Chairman Wesaw said.įor National Indian Gaming Association Chairman Stevens, the day was more significant than when the casino opened with a Class II license. “The expansion and gaming upgrade will help the facility become an economic driver not just for the region, but for the state.” Indiana Governor Eric J. I have never been prouder as a member of one of those sovereignties,” Holcomb said. We dotted every ‘i’ and crossed every ‘t.’ That is how we arrived where we are today. The constant communication back and forth. The tribal leaders at the meeting were willing to sit down with Gov. After he became governor, Holcomb spotted a few Pokagon leaders in an audience at an event and sent an aide over to them to see if they would be willing to talk, according to a former Pokagon Band official. Holcomb was the right person, Wesaw said. “I knew the right time would come –– along with the right people –– who would be in office and at the table.” Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians Tribal Council Chairman Matthew Wesaw. I was not one of the nonbelievers,” Chairman Wesaw said. “There were many who did not believe we could negotiate a gaming compact with Indiana. Want more Native News? Get the free daily newsletter today. Holcomb became governor and was open for discussions with the tribe. After Pence became vice president of the United States, Gov. The tribe moved forward and opened the casino as a Class II facility with limited the type of electronic gaming machines and allowed no gaming tables. During former vice president Mike Pence’s time as governor of Indiana, he would not even enter into negotiations with the tribe to operate a Class III license. Stevens, Jr.Īll three spoke of the historic significance of the casino obtaining Class III gaming through the state compact. Holcomb and National Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernest L.

The excitement was shared by Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians Tribal Council Chairman Matthew Wesaw, who also serves as CEO of the tribe’s gaming authority, along with Indiana Governor Eric J.

There was excitement in the air on Thursday morning as the Four Winds South Bend casino unveiled its Class III gaming after a compact was signed between the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians Gaming Authority and the State of Indiana.

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