Founded in 1996 by the Santee Sioux Nation of Nebraska, the Ohiya Casino is the state’s very first casino in its history. That foundation has not been had without its shared of legal battles that have been taken all the way up to the Supreme Court.

And today, over 20 years later, the casino is still wrestling with its next greatest challenge: COVID-19.

“The mission and purpose of the Santee Sioux Nation’s casino is to provide employment,” said Thelma Thomas, general manager for the Ohiya Casino in Niobrara, and one of its founding members.

Even though businesses are slowly opening back up as directed health measures begin to relax, the Ohiya Casino is remaining closed.

“Over half the workforce went to unemployment,” Thomas said. “The employees and our guests, their health and safety is first and foremost

As of May 27th, Knox County has a reported total of 25 COVID-19 cases, and tribal Council leaders and Santee Sioux health officials are choosing a temporary closure for its most prolific employer in the region, rather than risking an epidemic amongst its staff.

"However, a plan is in place for a four-step open-up that will be very slow," Thomas said.

Reduced hours, lower occupancy, copious amounts of sanitizer, and only making every other gaming machine available for use are just a few of the ways the casino is preparing for a cautious opening. There is also a totally hands-free temperature taker that everyone will need to pass to gain entry.

“Anyone who would have a temperature of 100.04 would not be allowed entrance into the casino,” Thomas said.

The Santee Sioux nation wants to get their biggest employer back in business when the time allows. Not just for revenue, but also to maintain the livelihoods of their fellow tribe members.

“To recall these employees, we want to be fairly certain they will have employment,” Thomas said.