Cowlitz Triben has opened its $510 Million Casino property in north Clark county. The casino would be known as ilani resort and casino. This new property will be a growth engine for the entire region.
Speaking to the opening ceremony a spiritual leader of the tribes Tanna Engdahl, said that “we rose out if the ashes”, come and sign with us. She said that ‘Ilani’ means “sing” in the Cowlitz language.
Several thousand people were at the La Center-area venue by noon, while thouwsands of cards were on the road and they were looking to be a part of this great opening ceremony. The traffic was jammed on Northbound Interstate 5.
According to estimated details at least 4.5 million visitors will annually visit the place; however there were a few hundred people available at the opening ceremony of this casino at 10 a.m.
David Barnett, the main instrumental of acquiring the 152 acres of land from the deferral government said at the moment that “I know you guys are very curious to enterto the property but please give me 90 seconds’, I have waited for this day for over 18 years and now the time has come.
Barnett further said that 4,075 tribal members will now have better education, better health care and housing benefits.
Bill Iyall, the Tribal chairman also addressed the gathered crowd. He said that now we are here to stay. The Cowlitz casino resort will help us to remain and sustain our tribe on our land.
After the opening ceremony people were buying for their choice of goods for there. Iyall was very happy because of this moment was taking place. He said that “it’s a relief”, a huge relief. “What a load off our shoulders to finally open the doors (in spite of ) every road block, every delay.”