PHOENIX – The San Carlos Apache tribe is laying off workers at its Apache Gold Casino Resort east of Globe and taking other steps to deal with falling revenue.

Cutbacks include eliminating keno games and closing the adjacent golf course; 45 workers were laid off.

Tribal Chairman Wendsler Nosie, Sr., calls the layoffs unfortunate but a “necessary interim step” as the economy worsens.

Arizona Indian Gaming Association executive director Sheila Morago says casinos around the state have responded to the slowdown by cutting travel, not filling open positions and reducing hours.

But she says Wednesday’s actions by the Apache tribe are the first major layoffs at the state’s 23 Indian casinos. Combined revenue dropped 16 percent in the fourth quarter of 2008.

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