By Rodney Haas | Maricopa Montior
It’s been nearly 30 years since Native American gaming came to Arizona and 25 years since Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino opened its doors.
During that time, gaming in Arizona has evolved from what Abbie Fink, spokeswoman for Harrah’s Ak-Chin, recalled when Wild Horse Pass was operating out of a tent to a full-scale Las Vegas-type resort.
“Vegas-style gaming and entertainment has come to Arizona, there’s no question,” Fink said. “What does the customer want to see? Why do some go to Vegas? Well, some go for games, some go for entertainment, dining. Well, that’s no different here and now with expansion and renovation, bringing things like this and the opportunity to bring in a different client or customer into the hotel.