As Rolling Hills Casino celebrates its tenth anniversary this week, local dignitaries and Tribal and community leaders reflect on the accomplishments of the Casino and the impact it has made in Tehama County.
“We established Rolling Hills Casino to develop a strong, diverse economic base for the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians and its surrounding communities,” said John Crosby, Economic Development Director for the Tribe. “Our goal was to fund a wide variety of health care, social services, educational, and cultural programs. We also hoped revenues from the Casino would help us pursue other economic development opportunities,” said Crosby. “We are very proud that we have been able to do that.”
Rolling Hills has donated over $4,321,400 to the community since opening in July 2002. Grants to Saint Elizabeth Hospital helped purchase an ambulance and vital life saving diagnostic equipment. The Tribe purchased a 75-foot aerial ladder truck for the Corning Fire Department and made major contributions to the District Attorneys office, law enforcement agencies, and to the County’s general fund. Numerous other organizations received sizeable grants as well including SERRF, VFW, the Discovery Center, and Northern California Child Development.
“The generosity and vision of the tribal leaders of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians continues to be a catalyst for several collaborative community initiatives,” said Bill Goodwin, Tehama County Chief Administrator. “ A special passion for youth is evident in their formative role in Expect More Tehama and Tehama Reads. The branding effort, which produced the Tehama County Reach Your Peak campaign, could not have been successful without the Tribe’s unwavering and enthusiastic support, including the hosting of key workshops in the impressive convention center at the Rolling Hills Casino. The John Daly Signature golf course and other venues developed over the past ten years have created a resort destination with a significant impact on our local economy.”
“Rolling Hills is an indispensible partner in the education of the children of Tehama County!” said Larry Champion, Tehama County Superintendent of Schools. “In working with Rolling Hills, there is a “whatever it takes” attitude in helping our schools continuously improve in their mission to provide a meaningful educational experience for all students. Rolling Hills has contributed to the leadership and vision necessary to transform our educational system by supporting broad based community partnerships that have led to the formation of the Expect More Tehama and Tehama Reads programs.”
“Rolling Hills has been a major contributor to the vitality of Tehama County, said Kathy Schmitz, Executive Director of the Job Training Center. “From the Expect More Tehama initiative to the campaign to brand Tehama County, the Casino has been at the forefront. They have made an investment in Tehama County and we are reaping the benefits. …today and into the future.
“Rolling Hills Casino has also made a remarkable difference in Tehama County’s job market,” said Schmitz. “They are one of the county’s largest employers and enjoy a solid reputation for how they treat their employees. They bring attractive employment opportunities to Tehama County, and have definitely been a welcome addition to our community.”
Rolling Hills Casino and Resort employs over 500 employees and has a monthly payroll of over $1,000,000. Most of the employees work full time and enjoy health care benefits and 401k options. “The multiplier effect from the payroll alone on the local economy is estimated to be $36 million a year,” said Kate Grissom, Marketing Director for Rolling Hills Casino.
Since it’s establishment in July 31, 2002, Rolling Hills has grown to include the casino, three restaurants, two hotels, an 18-hole golf course, hunting and fishing club, event center, RV Park, Traveler’s Center, arcade, and gas station. “We look forward to accomplishing even more in the next ten years,” said Crosby.
