As reported by the Kootenay News: “June 14 marked a special day for the St.
Eugene Resort, as many came together to celebrate the First Nation partners
assuming operational control for Casino of the Rockies. “According to Dan
Shilling, president of SEM Resort Ltd., the celebration will mark the end of
a remarkably smooth transition process. “SEM Casino Limited Partnership
includes three First Nations: Ktunaxa Nation of Cranbrook, the Samson Cree
Nation of Hobbema, Alberta, and the Rama Mnjikaning First Nation of Rama,
Ontario. The Chiefs of the three groups all expressed their excitement over
the venture and the partnership which as first formed in November of 2004.
It happened when Samson Cree and Rama Mnjikaning purchased equal one-third
shares in the St. Eugene Mission Resort from the Ktunaxa Nation.

“The move now brings resort operations under one umbrella which Shilling
says will provide better tailored packages to customers, more responsiveness
to the tourism marketplace and new growth in programming for the facility.

“.Shilling said he believes the community to have incredible tourism
potential, and they plan to develop and promote packages that will appeal
and attract tourists not only to the resort and casino but the entire
province. He is confident that the management experience in place will
develop and implement strategic planning programs essential to make St.
Eugene Mission Resort a tourism destination for travelers from throughout
Canada and the United States.”