JUNEAU, AK – The Central Council of the Tlingit & Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska welcomed invited guests, partners, community leaders, and members of the George Family to a soft opening ceremony for Two Coppers Casino, marking a historic milestone in the tribe’s pursuit of economic opportunity and self-determination.
Gaming General Manager Janice Hotch highlighted the federal regulatory framework governing the operation and the importance of public trust.
“Gaming is one of the most highly regulated industries in the country,” said Hotch. “Every aspect of our operation – from licensing and background investigations to financial controls, surveillance, security, machine testing, reporting, and compliance – is governed by strict laws and regulations. These safeguards exist to protect our guests, employees, tribal citizens, and the integrity of the enterprise.”
“This is not simply about operating a gaming facility,” she added. “It is about earning and maintaining the trust of our tribal citizens, our partners, our regulators, and every guest who walks through our doors.”
President Richard J. Peterson acknowledged the George Family’s partnership and described the enterprise as central to the tribe’s vision for economic self-determination.
“Projects like this do not happen overnight,” said Peterson. “They require patience, courage, and a willingness to believe in a future that cannot yet be seen. The George Family believed in that future, and we are grateful for the trust they placed in Tlingit & Haida as we worked together to bring this opportunity to life.”
“For Tlingit & Haida, this enterprise represents opportunity,” Peterson continued. “Opportunity for jobs. Opportunity for career advancement. Opportunity for tribal citizens and residents seeking meaningful employment. Opportunity to generate revenues that can support services, programs, and investments that strengthen our communities for generations to come.”
The casino is expected to generate employment, support local economic activity, and produce revenues that advance the tribe’s mission across Southeast Alaska. The official grand opening is scheduled for July 1.
