Who Owns Winstar Casino?
Updated: August 15, 2023
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Winstar Casino, a sprawling entertainment destination that embodies the glitz and glamour of the gaming world, stands as a captivating testament to the allure of chance and fortune. Nestled in the heart of Oklahoma, this grand establishment has carved out a reputation as one of the largest and most renowned casinos in the United States. While it beckons visitors with promises of opulence and excitement, a natural curiosity arises: who is the mastermind behind this extravagant empire?
At the helm of Winstar Casino’s operations is the Chickasaw Nation, a Native American tribe with a rich history and a deep-rooted connection to the land on which the casino stands. The Chickasaw Nation, renowned for its resilience and cultural heritage, has seamlessly blended tradition with innovation by venturing into the world of gaming and entertainment. The ownership of Winstar Casino reflects the Chickasaw Nation’s steadfast commitment to economic diversification and community development.
Steering the ship for the Chickasaw Nation is a dedicated leadership team that is focused on creating an unparalleled experience for casino-goers and guests. By meticulously curating an array of gaming options, world-class dining establishments, top-tier entertainment venues, and luxurious accommodations, the Chickasaw Nation has transformed Winstar Casino into a multifaceted haven of entertainment that caters to a diverse array of preferences and interests.
The ownership of Winstar Casino is not solely defined by its financial success, but by its profound impact on the community and the broader region. Through the revenue generated from its operations, the Chickasaw Nation has been able to reinvest in vital community programs, healthcare initiatives, educational endeavors, and cultural preservation efforts. Winstar Casino, therefore, serves as a beacon of prosperity, both for its owners and the wider community it serves.
In this exploration of the ownership of Winstar Casino, we delve into the captivating tale of the Chickasaw Nation’s visionary approach to gaming, entertainment, and community advancement. As the pages unfold, a vivid portrait emerges—one where tradition and modernity coalesce to create a captivating narrative that extends far beyond the dazzling lights and ringing slot machines.
What is Winstar Casino?

Winstar Casino is a prominent and expansive casino resort located in Thackerville, Oklahoma, near the Texas-Oklahoma border in the United States. It is one of the largest and most well-known casino complexes in the country, offering a comprehensive entertainment experience that includes a vast gaming floor, various dining options, entertainment venues, and luxury accommodations.
The casino is owned and operated by the Chickasaw Nation, a Native American tribe with a strong presence in the region. Winstar Casino has gained a reputation as a premier gambling destination, drawing visitors from across the nation and beyond who are looking for a mix of casino excitement, entertainment, and hospitality.
Key features of Winstar Casino include:
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Gaming: The casino boasts an extensive gaming floor with a wide array of slot machines, table games, bingo, and other electronic gaming options. It is known for offering a diverse range of gaming experiences to cater to different preferences and interests.
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Dining: Winstar Casino offers a variety of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Guests can enjoy a range of cuisines and dining atmospheres to suit their tastes.
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Entertainment: The casino complex features entertainment venues that host concerts, live performances, and other events featuring both local and internationally acclaimed artists. These venues contribute to the vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene of the resort.
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Accommodations: Winstar Casino provides luxurious hotel accommodations, allowing visitors to stay on-site and enjoy a complete resort experience. The resort offers a range of room types and amenities to accommodate different preferences and budgets.
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Shopping: The resort includes shopping opportunities, with a variety of stores offering everything from fashion and accessories to gifts and souvenirs.
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Spa and Wellness: For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Winstar Casino offers spa and wellness facilities where guests can indulge in various treatments and therapies.
Winstar Casino’s immense size and comprehensive offerings make it a popular destination for individuals seeking a well-rounded and thrilling casino experience. Its affiliation with the Chickasaw Nation underscores a commitment to community development and economic growth while offering visitors a chance to enjoy entertainment, gaming, and hospitality in one captivating Zocation.
The Founding and Early Days of Winstar Casino
The founding and early days of Winstar Casino mark a remarkable journey from a modest bingo hall to a sprawling entertainment complex that has become a premier gambling destination in the United States. The story of Winstar Casino is a testament to the vision, determination, and ingenuity of the Chickasaw Nation, the Native American tribe that owns and operates the casino.
Winstar Casino traces its roots back to the 1990s when the Chickasaw Nation, led by its forward-thinking leadership, recognized the potential of gaming and entertainment as a means to economic diversification and community development. In 1992, the tribe opened a bingo hall on its tribal land near Thackerville, Oklahoma. This initial venture marked the tribe’s first step into the gaming industry.
As the popularity of the bingo hall grew, the Chickasaw Nation saw an opportunity to expand and create a more comprehensive entertainment experience. Over the years, the tribe gradually transformed the bingo hall into a full-fledged casino resort. The casino was strategically located near the border of Texas, attracting visitors from both Oklahoma and its neighboring state, where casino gambling was more restricted at the time.
The Chickasaw Nation’s commitment to quality and excellence was evident in every phase of development. The tribe invested in expanding the gaming floor, adding more slot machines, table games, and electronic gaming options. They also introduced a variety of dining establishments to cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors had a wide range of culinary experiences to choose from.
As the casino’s reputation grew, so did its offerings. Entertainment venues were introduced, hosting concerts, live performances, and other events that added a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere to the resort. The Chickasaw Nation’s dedication to creating a complete entertainment experience led to the addition of luxury accommodations, spa facilities, shopping opportunities, and more, making Winstar Casino a true destination resort.
The early days of Winstar Casino were characterized by innovation, adaptability, and a commitment to providing visitors with an unparalleled experience. The casino’s success not only generated revenue for the Chickasaw Nation but also supported various community programs, healthcare initiatives, and educational projects. This demonstrated the tribe’s holistic approach to growth and development, where the benefits of their ventures extended beyond the casino walls.
Changing Hands: Ownership Transitions Over the Years
Since its inception, Winstar Casino has experienced a series of ownership transitions that have played a significant role in shaping its growth and development. These changes in ownership have been instrumental in transforming the casino from its early days as a bingo hall into the expansive and renowned entertainment complex it is today.
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Chickasaw Nation’s Ownership: Winstar Casino was established and is currently owned by the Chickasaw Nation, a Native American tribe with a deep connection to the region. The Chickasaw Nation’s visionary leadership recognized the potential of gaming and entertainment as a means of economic diversification and community enhancement. Their ownership has been marked by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and community development.
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Expansion and Transformation: As Winstar Casino evolved from a bingo hall to a full-fledged casino resort, the Chickasaw Nation’s ownership oversaw significant expansions and renovations. The casino’s gaming offerings were diversified and expanded, entertainment venues were introduced, and luxury accommodations and dining establishments were added. These developments not only enhanced the visitor experience but also positioned the casino as a premier destination for entertainment and gaming.
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Continuity and Stewardship: The Chickasaw Nation’s consistent ownership and stewardship have provided a sense of continuity and stability to Winstar Casino. This continuity has allowed the casino to build a strong brand identity, establish lasting relationships with customers, and invest in long-term community initiatives.
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Innovation and Adaptation: Ownership transitions within the Chickasaw Nation itself have also led to innovative shifts in the casino’s offerings. New generations of tribal leadership have brought fresh perspectives and ideas, resulting in the introduction of new technologies, entertainment concepts, and amenities that keep Winstar Casino relevant and appealing to changing audience preferences.
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Regional Impact: The ownership of Winstar Casino by the Chickasaw Nation has had a positive regional impact, contributing to local and state economies through job creation, tourism, and revenue generation. The casino’s success has enabled the Chickasaw Nation to support numerous community programs, educational initiatives, and healthcare services, demonstrating a commitment to holistic development.
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Community Engagement: Ownership transitions have been characterized by the Chickasaw Nation’s engagement with the surrounding community. The tribe’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing modern entertainment has fostered a sense of pride and cooperation among local residents.
Winstar Casino’s ownership transitions over the years have been marked by the Chickasaw Nation’s unwavering commitment to innovation, community development, and creating an exceptional entertainment experience. Through various stages of expansion, transformation, and continuity, the casino has emerged as a shining example of how strategic ownership and visionary leadership can elevate a gaming establishment into a multifaceted resort that transcends mere entertainment and becomes a cornerstone of both the tribal community and the broader region.
The Role of the Chickasaw Nation
The Chickasaw Nation plays a pivotal and multifaceted role in the operation, success, and impact of Winstar Casino. As the owner and operator of the casino, the Chickasaw Nation’s involvement goes far beyond the realm of gaming, extending into community development, cultural preservation, economic growth, and more. Here are some key aspects of the Chickasaw Nation’s role in relation to Winstar Casino:
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Ownership and Management: The Chickasaw Nation’s primary role is as the owner and operator of Winstar Casino. This includes making strategic decisions related to casino operations, expansion, development, and customer experiences. The tribe’s ownership ensures a vested interest in the casino’s success and long-term sustainability.
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Economic Diversification: The Chickasaw Nation’s investment in Winstar Casino is part of a broader strategy of economic diversification. By entering the gaming and entertainment industry, the tribe seeks to generate revenue that can be reinvested into other community programs and initiatives, reducing dependency on traditional income sources.
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Community Development: The revenues generated by Winstar Casino play a significant role in supporting various community development projects within the Chickasaw Nation’s jurisdiction. These projects encompass areas such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, housing, and social services. The casino’s success directly contributes to the well-being and advancement of tribal members and local communities.
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Cultural Preservation: The Chickasaw Nation is committed to preserving and celebrating its rich cultural heritage. Winstar Casino provides a platform to showcase Chickasaw art, traditions, and history, ensuring that visitors have the opportunity to engage with and learn about Native American culture.
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Employment and Training: Winstar Casino creates a substantial number of jobs for both tribal members and non-members. The casino’s workforce benefits from training, skill development, and employment opportunities, fostering economic empowerment and self-sufficiency among tribal members.
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Tourism and Promotion: The Chickasaw Nation promotes tourism to the region through the casino, attracting visitors from different parts of the country and beyond. This influx of visitors has a positive impact on local businesses, hospitality services, and the broader tourism industry.
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Sustainable Growth: The Chickasaw Nation’s ownership of Winstar Casino reflects a commitment to sustainable growth. The tribe’s long-term approach to development ensures that the casino’s success benefits current and future generations, with responsible management practices that prioritize environmental stewardship and ethical conduct.
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Engagement and Collaboration: The Chickasaw Nation actively engages with the local and regional community, fostering collaboration and partnerships that contribute to the overall well-being of the area. This approach creates a sense of shared responsibility and mutual benefit.
The Chickasaw Nation’s role in relation to Winstar Casino is multi-dimensional. It encompasses ownership, economic development, cultural preservation, community support, and responsible stewardship. The tribe’s dedication to enhancing the lives of its members, promoting cultural awareness, and fostering positive relationships underscores the broader significance of Winstar Casino beyond its role as a premier gaming and entertainment destination.
Winstar Casino’s Remarkable Features
Winstar Casino is renowned for its remarkable features, which combine to create a captivating and immersive entertainment experience. From its expansive gaming floor to its diverse dining options and world-class entertainment venues, Winstar Casino offers a range of attractions that set it apart as a premier destination. Here are some of its most notable and remarkable features:
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Vast Gaming Floor: Winstar Casino boasts one of the largest gaming floors in the United States, featuring a diverse array of slot machines, electronic gaming options, and table games. The sheer variety and quantity of gaming choices ensure that visitors can find something to suit their preferences and levels of excitement.
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Thematic Gaming Plazas: The casino’s gaming floor is divided into themed plazas, each offering a unique and immersive atmosphere. From the glitz and glamour of the Beijing Gaming Plaza to the vibrant energy of the London Gaming Plaza, these themed sections add an element of excitement and exploration to the gaming experience.
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Global Cuisine: Winstar Casino is home to a wide range of dining options that cater to various tastes and preferences. From fine dining to casual eateries, visitors can indulge in global cuisine, from Italian and Mexican to Asian and American classics.
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Entertainment Venues: The casino features multiple entertainment venues that host live performances, concerts, comedy shows, and other events. The Global Event Center is a standout feature, attracting top-tier artists and entertainers from around the world, making it a hub of cultural enrichment and excitement.
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Luxury Accommodations: Winstar Casino offers luxurious hotel accommodations, providing visitors with a comfortable and convenient place to stay. The accommodations range from stylish rooms to spacious suites, ensuring a restful and enjoyable stay.
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Shopping: The resort includes various retail shops and boutiques where guests can shop for a variety of items, including clothing, accessories, and unique gifts. This adds a touch of retail therapy and leisure to the overall experience.
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Spa and Wellness: The on-site spa and wellness facilities provide an opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can indulge in a range of treatments and therapies, allowing them to unwind and pamper themselves.
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Cultural Exhibits: Winstar Casino incorporates cultural elements and exhibits that celebrate the heritage of the Chickasaw Nation and Native American culture. These exhibits offer visitors a chance to learn about the history, traditions, and contributions of the tribe.
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Community Impact: Beyond its entertainment offerings, Winstar Casino’s remarkable feature is its positive impact on the local community and the broader region. The casino’s revenue supports various community programs, education initiatives, healthcare services, and infrastructure projects, contributing to the overall well-being and development of the area.
Winstar Casino’s remarkable features go beyond its gaming offerings to encompass a rich tapestry of entertainment, culture, hospitality, and community engagement. Its diverse and immersive attractions create a well-rounded experience that caters to a wide range of interests and preferences, making it a destination that captivates visitors and leaves a lasting impression.
Entertainment Extravaganza: Shows and Performances
Winstar Casino is renowned for its entertainment extravaganza, offering a dazzling array of shows and performances that cater to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. The casino’s commitment to providing world-class entertainment has made it a sought-after destination for those seeking thrilling live experiences. From internationally acclaimed artists to captivating live acts, Winstar Casino’s entertainment offerings create an unforgettable and immersive atmosphere. Here are some of the highlights of the casino’s entertainment extravaganza:
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Global Event Center: The crown jewel of Winstar Casino’s entertainment scene, the Global Event Center is a state-of-the-art venue that hosts an impressive lineup of concerts, performances, and live events. Its expansive seating capacity and top-notch acoustics ensure an exceptional experience for attendees. The center has welcomed a diverse range of artists from various genres, including music icons, comedians, and other world-renowned entertainers.
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Concerts and Music Performances: Winstar Casino regularly hosts concerts featuring a wide range of musical genres, including pop, rock, country, R&B, and more. The casino’s commitment to bringing both established and emerging artists to its stages ensures that visitors can enjoy live music that resonates with their musical tastes.
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Comedy Shows: Laughter fills the air at Winstar Casino’s comedy shows, where renowned comedians take the stage to deliver side-splitting performances. These shows provide a lighthearted and entertaining experience for guests looking to unwind and enjoy a night of laughter.
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Magic and Illusion: Magicians and illusionists often grace the stages of Winstar Casino, captivating audiences with mind-bending tricks and captivating displays of magic. These performances add an element of wonder and intrigue to the casino’s entertainment offerings.
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Theater Productions: The casino occasionally hosts theatrical productions and live theater performances, showcasing the talent and creativity of actors and performers. These productions bring a touch of drama and storytelling to the casino’s entertainment lineup.
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Diverse Cultural Performances: Winstar Casino celebrates cultural diversity by featuring performances that showcase various cultural traditions, dances, and music styles. This adds a global dimension to the entertainment extravaganza, allowing visitors to experience different cultural expressions.
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Special Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Winstar Casino hosts special events and festivals that feature live music, entertainment, and themed celebrations. These events provide a unique and festive atmosphere that adds to the overall entertainment experience.
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Intimate Venues: In addition to the Global Event Center, Winstar Casino offers smaller, more intimate venues where guests can enjoy live music, DJs, and other performances in a more relaxed setting.
The entertainment extravaganza at Winstar Casino goes beyond gaming to offer a dynamic and captivating experience for visitors of all ages. Whether guests are seeking a night of music, laughter, magic, or cultural immersion, the casino’s diverse and high-quality entertainment lineup ensures that every visit is filled with excitement, wonder, and memories that last a lifetime.
The Casino’s Global Reputation
Winstar Casino has earned a global reputation as a premier gaming and entertainment destination, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its opulent offerings, world-class amenities, and diverse attractions. Its reputation has been built upon a combination of factors that contribute to its widespread recognition and allure:
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Size and Scope: Winstar Casino’s distinction as one of the largest casino complexes in the world has contributed significantly to its global reputation. Its expansive gaming floor, luxurious accommodations, multiple dining options, and entertainment venues create a one-of-a-kind experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
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Top-Tier Entertainment: The Global Event Center’s reputation as a venue for hosting internationally acclaimed artists, musicians, comedians, and performers has elevated Winstar Casino’s standing on the global entertainment stage. The center’s ability to attract high-profile acts and provide an exceptional viewing experience has contributed to the casino’s worldwide acclaim.
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Diverse Attractions: The casino’s diverse range of attractions, including themed gaming plazas, cultural exhibits, shopping boutiques, and spa facilities, appeals to a wide spectrum of interests and preferences. This diversity adds to the allure of the casino as a multifaceted entertainment destination.
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Hospitality Excellence: Winstar Casino’s commitment to providing exceptional hospitality, luxurious accommodations, and top-notch customer service has played a significant role in its global reputation. Guests from around the world have come to expect a high level of comfort and personalized attention during their visits.
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Cultural Enrichment: The Chickasaw Nation’s emphasis on cultural preservation and celebration has garnered attention and appreciation on a global scale. The incorporation of cultural exhibits, traditional elements, and Native American heritage adds depth and authenticity to the overall casino experience.
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Strategic Location: Winstar Casino’s proximity to major cities and the border between Oklahoma and Texas has contributed to its accessibility and popularity. Its convenient location has attracted visitors from both states and beyond, further enhancing its global reach.
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Community Impact: The casino’s role as a positive force in the local community and the broader region has garnered positive attention and admiration. The Chickasaw Nation’s commitment to community development, educational initiatives, and healthcare services through casino revenues has positioned Winstar Casino as a model for responsible and sustainable gaming.
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Positive Reviews and Word of Mouth: Positive reviews from visitors, media coverage, and word-of-mouth recommendations have contributed to Winstar Casino’s global reputation. Satisfied guests often share their experiences, further enhancing the casino’s standing in the global entertainment and gaming industry.
Winstar Casino’s global reputation is a result of its extraordinary offerings, top-tier entertainment, cultural authenticity, and positive impact on both visitors and the community. Its ability to provide a world-class experience that caters to a diverse range of interests has solidified its status as a must-visit destination for individuals seeking a captivating and unforgettable entertainment experience on a global scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the Chickasaw Nation is involved in various business ventures, including other casinos, hotels, restaurants, cultural centers, and healthcare facilities, all of which contribute to the tribe’s economic growth and community well-being.
The Chickasaw Nation’s involvement with Winstar Casino dates back to its establishment as a bingo hall in the early 1990s. Since then, the casino has undergone significant expansions and transformations under the tribe’s ownership.
The Chickasaw Nation’s ownership of Winstar Casino has a positive impact on the local community by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and contributing to community development through revenue generated from casino operations.
The Chickasaw Nation is the primary owner of Winstar Casino. The tribe oversees the casino’s operations, management, and development.
Winstar Casino is owned and operated by the Chickasaw Nation, a Native American tribe based in Oklahoma.
The Chickasaw Nation ventured into the gaming and entertainment industry as part of its economic diversification strategy. Owning a casino like Winstar has allowed the tribe to generate revenue to support community programs, healthcare, education, and other initiatives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Winstar Casino, a prominent and renowned entertainment destination, is owned and operated by the Chickasaw Nation, a Native American tribe with a rich history and a commitment to community development. The Chickasaw Nation’s ownership of Winstar Casino goes beyond gaming, encompassing a holistic approach that combines economic diversification, cultural preservation, and a dedication to enhancing the well-being of both tribal members and the local community.
Since its establishment, the Chickasaw Nation has played a pivotal role in shaping Winstar Casino’s evolution from a bingo hall to a sprawling casino resort. The tribe’s visionary leadership recognized the potential of the gaming and entertainment industry as a means to generate revenue that could be reinvested into critical community programs, healthcare initiatives, education, and cultural preservation.
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