Siletz.Net

Kikumoto resigns from Chinook Winds
Feb 18, 2009 - 09:29:19 PST
Newport New-Times

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians announced recently that the general manager of Chinook Winds Casino Resort is resigning.

Jim Kikumoto tendered his resignation effective March 1. Operations Director Sar Richards will begin serving as interim general manager that day.

“I have truly enjoyed my time working for the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians,” Kikumoto said. “It has been very rewarding, working with the tribal council and specifically, Delores Pigsley and Alfred Bud Lane, who have been so instrumental in providing great leadership. Together we have achieved many accomplishments, creating economic success for the tribe and the community.”

Kikumoto added that with the addition of the hotel and golf course, Chinook Winds Casino Resort has become “the Oregon coast's premiere destination resort.” And with a strong management team in place, “it's the right time for me to move on to pursue other interests, including spending more time with my family,” he said.

Kikumoto, who has been in the gaming industry for 32 years, has been the general manager at Chinook Winds since 2001. In that time, he has served on numerous community action committees and strived to make the casino have a positive impact on the community.

Delores Pigsley, chair of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, said, “We appreciate Jim's contributions to the growth and success of the casino over the last eight years. We will miss him and wish him every success with his future endeavors. “

Pigsley said she expected a smooth transition during this time. “We will continue to ensure that leadership is committed to creating a positive environment for team members and guests. I have every confidence that Sar Richards will continue to pursue our performance objectives and make every effort to execute our key initiatives effectively. “

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians opened Chinook Winds Casino in June of 1995 at 1777 NW 44th Street in Lincoln City. The resort offers 24-hour Las Vegas-style gaming, an 18-hole golf course, headline entertainment, three full service restaurants, secure childcare facility and arcade, and a 227-room ocean front hotel.

For more information visit www.chinookwindscasino.com or call 1-888-CHINOOK (244-6665).

Tribal Council member Lillie Butler told me that Jim Kikumoto resigned as General Manager of the Chinook Winds Casino and Resort yesterday. His last day will be Feburary 28th. Kikumoto has worked for the tribe since January 2001.