Eastern Cherokee casino could face competition for alcohol

Wednesday, October 12, 2011  

Alcohol sales are legal at the casino owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians but the North Carolina tribe could face competition if sales are allowed in Jackson County.

Ray Bradley Jr., a tribal member who runs a business, is supporting a ballot measure that would allow sales throughout the county. He believes it will generate more business both on and off the reservation.

But Noel Blakely, another tribal member with a business, opposes it. He says liquor sales will hurt the Cherokee people.

“I am a businessman and I would like to see that money stay in our community, but I see the damage it does,” Blakely told The Smoky Mountain News.

The measure is on the May 2012 ballot.

Get the Story:
Alcohol vote could bring booze to Cherokee’s doorstep (The Smoky Mountain News 10/12)