The Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino in Coarsegold, California. Photo © Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians
Rival factions of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians will be in federal court today as the tribe's casino remains closed yet another day. Two factions led by Reggie Lewis and Nancy Ayala have joined forces in a bid to reopen the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino. They are bringing their supporters to the federal courthouse in Fresno for the hearing this afternoon. “Every day that the resort is shut down, revenue is being lost,” said Reggie Lewis, who serves as co-chair for the united group. “We are working hard to bring jobs back to our loyal employees and business to the local economy,” said Nancy Ayala, the other co-chair. The united factions were running the casino until last Thursday. That's when they clashed with another group led by Tex McDonald, whose supporters reportedly used stun guns or other weapons to take control. The closure led to the evacuation of hundreds of patrons and employees that same night. Guests were locked out of their hotel rooms for hours and people who showed up with reservations weren't allowed inside. The next day, a federal judge ordered the casino to remain closed at the request of the state of California. The National Indian Gaming Commission issued a notice of violation and a temporary closure order on Friday as well. Get the Story:
Tribe Factions Battle for Control of Casino Near Yosemite (KQED 10/15)
Chukchansi factions head to federal court on possible casino reopening (The Fresbno Bee 10/14)
Legal teams prepare for Chukchansi casino court hearing (KFSN 10/14)
Fight Over Chukchansi Has Deep Roots, Casino Still Closed (KVPR 10/14)
Chukchansi casino closure could last for months (The Fresno Bee 10/14)
Casino Still Closed, New Lawsuit blames the Federal Government For Mess (KMPH 10/14)
Chukchansi Casino shutdown and power struggle continue (KSFN 10/13)
Chukchansi feud has many worried about ripple effect (KSFN 10/13) An Opinion:
EDITORIAL: BIA, National Indian Gaming Commission allowed Chukchansi crisis to get out of control (The Sacramento Bee 10/13)
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Chukchansi Tribe's casino still closed
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