Just as the major restaurant associations vehemently argue against state and local bans on smoking, the Kaw Nation heard warnings that a smoke-free casino would be a bust. But the decision for the policy was not an easy one. It will draw patrons because of its smoke-free status. The Southwind casino opened this year and the tribe knows it is unique. Most of the casinos have smoke-free areas on the property, but only one casino, the Kaw Nation’s Southwind casino, is completely smoke-free. Gaming is the second largest industry in the state, with annual revenues of about $3.5 Billion. There are 94 casinos in Oklahoma owned by 33 tribes. It read: “The only smoke-free casino in Oklahoma.” I wondered how it was possible for a rather sparsely populated locale could support what seemed like dozens of casinos. Billboard after billboard promoted one or more casinos in the State. They didn’t advertise restaurants, gas stations, insurance firms or country stores. As I drove heading north through the Sooner country, billboards line I-35. My summer road trip took me through the scenic State of Oklahoma.
