Ho-Chunk Gaming in Wittenberg will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5 p.m. Thursday as a “soft opening” of its new gaming floor area.
The expanded gaming floor includes more slot machines, a non-smoking gaming area, high-limits area and renovation of the bar.
“As we move toward our goal of expansion, we will continue to create a friendly atmosphere through great customer service and continual relations with current and future businesses,” said LeAnthony Pecore, senior manager of public relations. “No other casino in Wisconsin can say ‘Experience the Difference’ the way we do.”
Ho-Chunk Gaming in Wittenberg is one of three Ho-Chunk Nation casinos slated for major renovations and expansion as part of a $153 million project dubbed “Project Forward.”
The other casinos scheduled for improvements are in Wisconsin Dells and Black River Falls.
The Wittenberg project includes a a new 86-room hotel, 84-seat restaurant and bar, non-smoking casino area and high-limit area. The plans included an additional 272 slot machines and 10 new table games.
“You have spoken, we have listened and now we are acting — a commitment to the community in providing a great entertainment experience,” Pecore said.
Project Forward includes gaming floor expansions with additional slots, new hotels, new restaurants and bars, smoke-free gaming areas along with major cosmetic enhancements.
As a result of the expansions, 100 new jobs will be created that will add to the existing 3,400-employee Ho-Chunk Nation workforce.
The ribbon-cutting program will include dignitaries from the Ho-Chunk Nation who will review the facility’s growth from one building with 500 slots to its present state.
The Lake Delton Singers will present opening and closing songs in traditional Ho-Chunk style.
Guests will be provided complimentary appetizers from 4-7 p.m. while supplies last. Musician Chad DeMeuse, who grew up in Burlington, will perform at 8 p.m.
In recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg has partnered with Susan G. Komen of Wisconsin and K-tech Charities Inc. for a fundraiser in October. The casino has a limited quantity of charm bracelets available and will donate $10 for every bracelet redeemed through the gaming point system.