Wyoming school officials apologize for casino-branded gifts

RIVERTON, Wyo. – Wyoming school officials are apologizing for cocktail glasses and playing cards branded with a casino’s name handed out to students during an event to teach students about local American Indian tribes’ cultures.

The Ranger reports that the gifts were provided by the Wind River Hotel and Casino in Riverton.

School officials say a small museum housed within the casino arranged for several Arapaho storytellers to attend the event. Museum manager Irene Lawson says students also had a choice of many items as a gift following the storytelling, including puzzles, maps, rubber ducks and backpacks.

Some parents of Fremont County School District 25 grade-school students worried that the playing cards and glasses with the casino’s logo encouraged gambling.

School officials say they will begin reviewing any gifts for students before events.