“It’s been an unbelievable relationship and we’re here to say ‘thank you,’” said Hall. Stone.Īrizona Diamondbacks President & CEO Derrick Hall spoke on behalf of the casino’s partnership with Dbacks. “This is a great time to reflect,” said Lt. Robert Stone also agreed that the luncheon was a moment to be thankful for all the hard work over the years. The luncheon was a time for recalling the early days of Gila River casinos and to give thanks for all the partners and stakeholders, many of whom were in attendance. “What a long way we’ve come in 25 years,” said Gov. “It was an opportunity, and we took it,” said former lieutenant governor Cecil Antone. By the end of 1997, Gila River Hotels & Casinos added the original Wild Horse Pass and Vee Quiva to their list of properties. “Twenty-five years means something to each and every one of us,” said Manuel who outlined a history of gaming in the Community in his remarks while recognizing the many groups and individuals who contributed to the early and sustained success of Gila River Hotels & Casinos. “Our tribal leaders were true visionaries,” said Manuel.įormer governor, and current Community Council representative, Thomas White signed the gaming compact in 1993 with the state of Arizona and after Lone Butte opened, the Sprung followed a year later. The gaming enterprise marked the milestone with the 25th Anniversary Celebration Luncheon for its corporate partners as well as GRIC dignitaries to celebrate a quarter century in gaming. Manuel was a slot attendant back then and the property was the original Lone Butte Casino.įast forward to June 2019, Gila River Hotels & Casinos currently operates three properties with hotels, dining, and entertainment to go along with slots, table games and poker.

freeways, the Gila River Indian Community opened their first casino in June of 1994 with 272 slots and about 250 employees. Simpson led authorities on a surreal chase through Los Angeles.īut away from baseball front offices, and L.A.

Major League Baseball players went on strike and a white Ford Bronco carrying O.J. When Kenneth Manuel, CEO of Gila River Hotels & Casinos, took the stage at Wild Horse Pass’ Acacia Ballroom for a special luncheon on June 21, he brought up some significant things that took place in 1994.

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