Amador County - Even though Indian gaming revenues declined in the Sacramento region in 2008, casino representatives are looking to the future with optimism. According to figures released Wednesday by the National Indian Gaming Commission, tribal gambling revenue nationwide hit $26.7 billion in 2008, but tough economic times have slowed the number of visitor’s to gaming facilities. Sacramento region operations saw revenues of $7.363 billion in 2008, down from a high of $7.8 billion in 2007. Jackson Rancheria CEO Rich Hoffman told TSPN that “the consumer confidence trend continues to become more optimistic.” Keeping abreast of the economic trends at the Rancheria is a good indicator as to how the county as a whole will fare. With approximately 1,700 employees, the Jackson Rancheria is the largest employer in Amador County. The casino is also one of the county’s largest contributors to charity, shelling out hundreds of thousands each year to programs throughout the community. One such program is a promotion of struggling downtown Jackson through print advertising in the Jackson Rancheria Casino Hotel & Conference Center’s monthly magazine, Arrow. Many county events are sponsored by the Rancheria, and many private businesses continue to thrive because of its support. Despite a struggling economy and the recent passing of Rancheria founder and pioneering leader Margaret Dalton, Hoffman says he is looking forward to a bright future. “We continue to appreciate the good will our guests have shown to us,” he said, adding: “We’ve faired better because of that.” Story by Alex Lane This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.