BELLINGHAM, Wash.-- The Lummi Indian Nation has opened its
$20 million Silver Reef Casino after making every effort to ensure this
second operation will be a success.

The tribe's first casino closed in 1997 after losing $2 million. This time, the
Lummi have enlisted the aid of a professional management company and
moved the operation closer to Interstate 5.

The Merit Management Group of Chicago will get 18 percent of the
casino's net proceeds under a five-year management agreement, which
includes a two-year renewal clause. Merit and Wells Fargo bank financed
the project.

The tribe plans to use the casino proceeds for social, health, education
and economic development projects, Chairman Darrell Hillaire said.

Tuesday was the casino's VIP opening with its public opening set for
Wednesday.