04/02/2003 - River Rock Casino Opens Full Facility

DRY CREEK RANCHERIA, Calif., April 2 /PRNewswire/ -- River Rock Casino, Sonoma County's newest entertainment destination, is now fully open for guests. In addition to offering visitors a range of gaming options, the "bungalow-style" facility offers a full-service restaurant and lounge, a unique wine bar and an outdoor deck with spectacular views of the Alexander Valley.

"This new entertainment destination will be a positive addition to the local community," said Douglas Searle, General Manager of River Rock Casino. "Our architects have worked very hard to ensure that even this temporary facility is visually inviting and compatible with the existing environment, both in the Alexander Valley and the wine-growing tradition."

Designed by FFKR of Salt Lake City, the new facility includes a wide range of state-of-the-art slot machines; 16 card gaming tables featuring blackjack and poker; a dining room; and a wine room. Group and individual transportation packages are available, and can be arranged by calling 800-254-3423.

The Quail Run Restaurant offers 24-hour menu service, as well as a bountiful buffet for lunch, dinner, midnight and champagne Sunday brunch. The Wine Creek Room, complete with a wood-fired oven and grand piano, will feature local wines from the region and offer light jazz piano nightly. Both areas have access to the Valley Deck, which entices guests with one of the most spectacular views of the Alexander Valley wine region.

River Rock Casino is owned and operated by the Dry Creek Band of Pomo Indians. The facility's design incorporates Native American elements, and features a cultural arts collection focused specifically on traditional and contemporary Pomo art, including historical basketry for which the tribe is famous.

"We believe that River Rock Casino will not only appeal to the local community, but it will increase tourism throughout the area," explains Searle. "By partnering with local wineries and other businesses, we can offer guests a unique Alexander Valley experience that will ultimately benefit the entire community."

Located on the Dry Creek Rancheria reservation in Alexander Valley, the new enterprise will provide funding for infrastructure, health, welfare and educational needs. Historically, gaming on Indian lands has been shown to benefit tribes by creating jobs and generating revenue for Indian communities. The new River Rock Casino will also provide employment for residents of neighboring cities and towns.