The National Indian Gaming Association bestowed its Chairman’s Leadership Award October 21 to The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi and FireKeepers Casino Hotel.
NIGA Chairman Ernie Stevens and staff took a tour which included the Fire Hub restaurant and Kendall Street Pantry in Battle Creek, according to WOTV.
The Fire Hub gives 80 percent of its profits to local charities, and the adjacent Pantry partners with the South Michigan Food Bank. Mike McFarlen, FireKeepers vice president of food and beverage, supervises both locations.
“I will always remember what you’ve done with this old fire station,” Stevens said. “On the right, we go to one of the neatest restaurants I’ve ever been in, and on the left we go to a place where people can get the help they need. These are the things that make the world turn for us, and mean a great deal to me personally.”
Tribal Council Chairperson Jamie Stuck said the award speaks volumes about doing things for good reasons. “I appreciate that it focuses on the wellness and success of the tribe as a whole, instead of an individual.”
Stevens’ also acknowledged that Forbes named FireKeepers among the top ten best employers in Michigan.
“We are proud of this recognition of our work as an employer of choice,” casino CEO Kathy George said. “It’s a clear indication of how we treat our team members and a validation of their dedication to providing every patron with a rewarding experience at FireKeepers.”
The NIGA award also recognized the tribe’s work with the Native American Heritage Fund, which supports positive Native relationships and imagery.
