Northern Quest Casino opens

Friday, Dec. 29, 2000 | 11:16 a.m.

The casino opened Thursday, delayed two days as the tribe worked to meet state regulations.

"We won't approve opening until all the Ts are crossed and the Is dotted," said Mike Tindall, the state Gambling Commission agent overseeing the process.

One example: When clear plastic boxes for dealers' tips that hang off gaming tables didn't show up Thursday morning, the casino staff had to come up with an alternative for handling the money.

"In this business, the inventory is cash," Tindall said. "We want to make sure the public is protected and the assets of the tribe are protected."

The 53,000-square-foot casino is part of a four-year effort to provide support for the 300-member tribe's social service and education programs.

The casino includes 24 tables of roulette, craps, blackjack and other card games. There is a poker room, a live Keno parlor and 425 video slot machines.

By early afternoon Thursday, more than 1,000 people filled the casino and the phones rang constantly with calls inquiring about the opening.

"I think we were correct in thinking this area could use another entertainment venue," said Tribal Councilman Curt Holmes.

Airway Heights, home to a state prison, is 10 miles west of Spokane.

"I think this is fantastic," said Senior Airman Louis Pak, who came in from nearby Fairchild Air Force Base to play roulette.

"It's cleaner, it's newer, it's got a more open feel. I've been to all the big casinos in the area, and this is the best."