"The state and national economy remains depressing. Folks are rightfully concerned about getting or keeping a job, and making ends meet as wages remain stagnant and prices rise. Many are fearful of what looms on the economic horizon.

Yet there was a bright beacon of hope shining Wednesday in Eastern Oregon, thanks to the Wildhorse Resort and Casino and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

The beacon was the groundbreaking ceremony for Wildhorse's $45 million expansion.

The original casino and resort is an amazing story - 16 years ago, the site was a field. Today, there's a premier destination for tourists - Wildhorse Resort and Casino, as well as other diverse attractions, including the region's top golf course, Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, Arrowhead Plaza and much more.

Without a doubt, our economy and that of the people of the Umatilla, Cayuse and Walla Walla tribes would seriously decline if it were not for the vision of tribal leaders in taking that brave step in 1994.

On a philanthropic level, the success of the resort and casino has translated into significant contributions through the Wildhorse Foundation. It recently gave more than $147,000 to community groups - and that was just for the second quarter of this year."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Wildhorse Resort takes a brave step into the future (The East Oregonian 8/29)