The Charging Horse Casino in Lame Deer, Montana. Photo from Montana Office of Tourism
Acting Gaming Manager appointed at Northern Cheyenne
By Clara Caufield
Native Sun News Correspondent LAME DEER, Mont. –– Vernon Small, tribal member has been appointed acting Gaming Manager for the Charging Horse Casino located at Lame Deer, Mont. on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation. The Tribal Gaming Commission appointed Small on April 27 to serve until the position is advertised, interviews are held and background checks completed a process that could take some time. Small will most likely be a candidate for the permanent position. Small formerly served on the Tribal Council from 2010 – 14, representing the Lame Deer District, during that time serving on the Tribal Gaming Commission, the last two years as Chairman. “Then I had the opportunity to learn federal and tribal laws and regulations governing the Casino operations,” he said. “But, I still have to get a handle on the day-to-day operations. Fortunately, we have some very capable and experienced staff on board.” Small was reviewing Casino personnel policies and procedures just before being interviewed, explaining that the gaming operation has its own internal policies and procedures, separate from the tribal government. Casino operations are guided by the Tribal Gaming Commission, nominated by the Tribal President and confirmed by the Tribal Council. Current Gaming Commissioners include Merlin Sioux, Lame Deer Tribal Council member; Sheldon King, Busby District Council member: Jennifer Redfox Spang, Birney District; Barbara Clubfoot, Muddy District and James Bement, Sr, Ashland District. Citing personnel confidentiality, Gaming Commission members decline to comment on the recent termination of Lori Limberhand, long term Gaming Manager.
The Charging Horse Casino features gaming machines, bingo and a cafe.
Small explained that the Gaming Commission must approve any proposed changes to the gaming operation, including the Casino Café, one of two reservation eateries, closed last year and then re-opened on a take-out basis, an issue of considerable interest to the community which has few other dining options. He and other management staff will be preparing recommendations for the Commission. Small welcomes community input and recommendations on how to improve Charging Horse operations, recently the subject of several complaints. “I will have an open door policy, be out on the floor, not just holed up in the office, to hear what our gaming customers have to say,” he said. “Our most important obligation is to the gaming customers. We want to make sure that they have a positive and enjoyable experience while at Charging Horse.” When asked about the amount and use of monthly Casino dividends paid to the Tribe, also of significant community interest, Small deferred to the Gaming Commission and Tribal Council. “Once we make that payment, it is entirely up to the Tribe on how those funds are used,” he commented. (Clara Caufield can be reached at acheyennevoice@gmail.com) Related Stories:
Native Sun News: Northern Cheyenne Tribe fires casino manager (4/24) Copyright permission Native Sun News
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