The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Indians is banking on a casino to create new opportunities for the Michigan tribe.

Nearly half of the adult members of the tribe are unemployed. But some are now finding work on the Pine Creek Reservation with the construction of the FireKeepers Casino.

"I thank the Creator for the jobs," Bill Osborn, who was out of work until construction started in May, told The Battle Creek Enquirer. "I think the opportunities in the future are going to be immense."

The $300 million, 236,000 square-foot casino is set to open in the summer of 2009. With $100 million in annual revenue, the tribe plans to improve governmental programs and services for its 850 members.

The tribe has already built housing to lure more people back to the reservation. Only about 35 people live there right now.

In related news, the tribe is offering a $250 reward for information about the theft of copper wiring from from the casino construction site.

Get the Story:
Tribe: Profits will provide programs for members (The Battle Creek Enquirer 8/17)
Casino will bring change (The Battle Creek Enquirer 8/17)
Neighbors differ on FireKeepers (The Battle Creek Enquirer 8/17)
Tribe reports copper theft at casino (The Battle Creek Enquirer 8/16)