The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians recently named Michael Schrader general manager at its Little River Casino Resort in Manistee, Mich., which will celebrate its 25th anniversary in July. Little River Band of Ottawa Indians Ogema Larry Romanelli said Schrader “has a strong background in the casino resort industry and was at one time, a team member of the resort.”
Schrader brings to his new position more than 20 years of Native American casino and resort experience, as well as business management, security and surveillance and compliance. Schrader also served eight years in the U.S. Navy.
“I am excited to be back at Little River Casino Resort. I feel I have come full circle with my return and am quite grateful the Ogema has entrusted me with this crucial endeavor. I am lucky to have walked into an organization with a solid and knowledgeable executive team and the friendliest team members in the world. I have great expectations we will continue to uphold a high commitment to excellence, growth, and success,” Schrader said.
The tribe opened the casino on July 21, 1999 as a temporary venue, with just 600 slot machines. Today it offers more than 1,100 slot and video poker machines plus dozens of table games. The casino moved from its temporary location in 2002. The resort now features a 292-room hotel and a 95-space RV park, as well as indoor and outdoor pools, restaurants, a spa and 1,600-seat event venue.
