Wind Creek Casino Celebrates One Year, But Raid Could Be Coming

While other entertainment establishments have closed their doors in Alabama to avoid being raided, Wind Creek Casino in Atmore continues to operate. Not only are they functioning, but they are celebrating the end of their first year of business.

While Governor Robert Riley and his Task Force on Illegal Gambling plot their next attack on the gambling industry in Alabama, Wind Creek goes on proving all that could be right about a casino. The establishment has brought much growth to Atmore, according to longtime Mayor Howard Shell.

"It's created an atmosphere of a destination for Atmore," said Shell, as reported by FOX10, "and certainly put Atmore on the map in more ways then one." Even with that endorsement from Shell, who has been the mayor for twenty years, the Task Force may soon target Wind Creek.

"Once we establish conclusively that these so-called electronic bingo machines are nothing more than slots, and are illegal in the rest of the state," said Task Force Leader John Tyson, "then I would expect for federal Indian regulatory agency to comment what is submissive inside."

While many of the other gaming establishments are privately owned, Wind Creek is owned by the Poarch Creek Indians. Tribal casinos play under a different set of rules than the private facilities, but they also must adhere to gaming laws in the state in which they reside.

On Wednesday the debate heated up between Riley and pro-gambling residents in Alabama. Protesters rallied at the state capital to voice their concerns. Many lawmakers and residents believe that voters should determine whether or not to allow gambling in the state.

February 4, 2010
Posted By April Gardner
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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