Thanks to gaming, the Poarch Band of Creek Indians of Alabama have emerged from poverty and depression.
The tribe, which gained recognition in 1984, own three bingo halls. Gaming revenues fund health, education and other services for the long-neglected tribe. The money has also been used to start other tribal businesses, including a metal products manufacturing plant that does work for the federal government. The tribe wants to build an expanded casino and is willing to share revenues with the state. Lawmakers are considering a plan to legalize some forms of electronic gaming at dog tracks, a bill the tribe opposes. Get the Story: