River Rock Casino News

Making A Postive Impact
River Rock Casino will not only help the Dry Creek Band of Pomo Indians move toward to become a more self-sufficient people, it will also help the surrounding community. It is ironic that a business enterprise that some neighbors didn't want in the area will actually allow the Tribe the ability to make a positive impact on the local community. Being a good neighbor, and more importantly, good people, is what the Dry Creek Tribe portrays. In addition, the Tribe fuels the local economy by attracting more tourists and visitors to the Alexander Valley. Those benefits are already being realized by local merchants. "River Rock Casino has proven to be a good neighbor and business partner" explained Bill Weisel, past owner of the Geyser Smokehouse in Geyserville. "Not only is the casino bringing new visitors into the area, which is helping my business, but they were right there with support when we planned a fundraiser for the Geyserville Firefighters Association. They genuinely want to partner with the community."

Pam Heath from Simi Winery agrees. "River Rock has included us as a partner in some of their advertising, and we look forward to showcasing our product" says Heath. "We're working together hand-in-glove." In addition to increased business, local merchants have also been pleased with the quality of the facility. "It is a very well done project; very classy," adds Jason Farmer, director of sales for Hotel Healdsburg. "We have a good relationship with the casino's management and we're comfortable recommending River Rock Casino to our guests. We're seeing individuals and groups inquiring about our property because they are planning to visit the casino."

Helping The Local Economy
The Tribe is expected to generate an estimated $26 million annually in local wages and pay more than $75 million to its vendors. The Casino is one of the largest employers in the area, employing nearly 800 people, 25 percent of whom are Native American.

Improving Local Schools
The Tribe realizes the importance of a good education for the children of the Alexander Valley. In this time of state budget deficits and cutbacks in education spending, the Tribe is working to help local schools. In June 2003, the Dry Creek Tribe donated $300,000 to the Geyserville School District to help cover a budget deficit. The funds were made possible, in part, through casino profits. Additional funds will be made available on a multi-year basis.