Category Archives: Media Relations

Nepal Disaster Relief Supported by River Rock Casino Resort

When the Nepal earthquake hit and killed thousands of people, communities around the world came together and raised funds for those impacted by the tragic event.

At the River Rock Casino Resort, colleagues rallied together and raised $1,300. The donation was made to the Canadian Red Cross and further matched by the Canadian Federal Government bringing the total to $2,600. In addition, support was also provided by donating the River Rock Show Theatre space and equipment, value of $8,000, to the organizers of the Nepal Fundraiser held at the theatre on May 23.

“By donating the River Rock theatre space, equipment and labour hours, we were able to support the efforts of the organizers whose goal was to raise as much money as possible for this important cause,” said Gary Olsen, Director Entertainment, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation.

River Rock Casino Resort Donates $20,000 to Richmond Family Place

Last year, River Rock Casino Resort named Richmond Family Place as the property’s signature charitable partner and this year, as one part of their relationship with the organization, River Rock donated $20,000 to support their programs.

“We are so proud of the relationship we have built with the Richmond Family Place over the last year, because we have seen first-hand how much support they provide to the entire community,” said Roland Monteiro, Executive Director, River Rock Casino Resort.

The donated funds will support key programs that are provided by Richmond Family Place during the Food Bank distribution days. Such programs include the Early Learning program where families attending the food bank can play in a rich learning environment as well as the evening Family Fun Café which provides a light dinner, activities and discussions that include cooking on a budget, food preservation, and gardening in small spaces.

Richmond Family Place was established in 1979 with the purpose of offering support to families in the Richmond community. Today, Richmond Family Place serves over 5,000 families, 300 community meals and over 6,000 parents per year through their programs, educational classes and workshops.

SURREY’S NEW ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION – ELEMENTS CASINO – TO OPEN WINTER 2015

A multi-million dollar redevelopment of Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino

June 24, 2015 – Surrey, BC

Surrey, B.C. (June 24, 2015): As the owner and operator of leading gaming entertainment venues such as River Rock Casino Resort and Hard Rock Casino Vancouver, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation (“GCGC”) is proud to announce the launch of Elements Casino, set to open this winter. Elements Casino will replace the existing Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino located in Surrey, BC, one of the fastest growing cities in Canada.

With the redevelopment, Elements Casino will aspire to be Canada’s all-inclusive, full service gaming entertainment venue that delivers unrivaled personal service, exciting live entertainment options, unsurpassed dining experiences and gaming offerings consisting of casino games and standardbred horse racing.
“This type of multi-million dollar property transformation allows us the opportunity to ensure our guests experience something uniquely special. With our mix of gaming options, entertainment and culinary experiences, I am confident Elements Casino will be the primary entertainment choice for many,” said Michael Kim, Director of Operations, Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino.

Scheduled to open late this year, Elements Casino will feature more than 550 state-of-the-art interactive slot machines along with table games such as baccarat, blackjack, roulette and poker. Guests will be able to enjoy new dining options focused on profiling fresh and modern menu styles all while experiencing live entertainment showcasing local and regional talent. In addition, Elements Casino will continue to offer live standardbred racing six months per year as well as year-round simulcast racing. The 2015 standardbred racing season will commence once again on October 1.

“We look forward to the grand opening of Elements Casino as it will give us an opportunity to elevate, improve and diversify the entertainment experience within the Surrey marketplace, a
region that is currently growing and projected to be the most populated city in Metro Vancouver by 2020,” said Chuck Keeling, Vice President, Stakeholder Relations and Responsible Gaming, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation.

To learn more about Elements Casino, please visit www.ElementsCasino.com.

Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is a Canadian based company that operates gaming, entertainment and hospitality facilities in British Columbia, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Washington State. The Company has 16 gaming properties, which consists of casinos, including one with a four Diamond resort hotel, horse racetrack casinos and community gaming centres. A key element of Great Canadian’s business model is its commitment to social responsibility. PROUD of our people, our business, our community is Great Canadian’s brand that unifies the company’s community, volunteering and social responsibility efforts. Under the PROUD program, Great Canadian annually invests over $2 million in our communities, and in 2014, over 1,200 charitable organizations were supported by Great Canadian. In each Canadian gaming jurisdiction, the majority of gross gaming revenue from gaming facilities goes back directly to provincial governments for the purpose of supporting programs like healthcare, education and social services.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Sonja Mandic
Manager, Media and Responsible Gaming
Great Canadian Gaming Corporation
604-576-9141 / smandic@gcgaming.com

 

Chances Chilliwack Names Chilliwack Bowls of Hope Society as its Signature Charitable Partner

Chilliwack, B.C (June 9, 2015)

On June 3, Chances Chilliwack confirmed its commitment to the Chilliwack Bowls of Hope Society as its chosen signature charitable partner with a donation of $1,000.

“We support many different charitable organizations and community initiatives, but our newly formed partnership with the Bowls of Hope Society will allow us to build a relationship that will overtime provide both financial and non-financial support,” said Chris Lynn, General Manager, Chances Chilliwack.

Since 2005, the Chilliwack Bowls of Hope Society has operated the Feed the Children Program through donations of funds, food and the efforts of offenders and community-based volunteers of the Chilliwack Community Correctional Centre. The program currently provides soup and other hot lunch items to 19 schools within the Chilliwack School District where over 600 children receive more than 10,000 bowls of soup each month.

“We are so thrilled to have Chances Chilliwack support us in this manner and are extremely thankful for all their efforts. Standing behind a grassroots community organization such as the Chilliwack Bowls of Hope Society shows how passionate Chances Chilliwack is about making a difference in their community,” said Cindy Waters, Director of Volunteer Services with the Chilliwack Bowls of Hope Society.

To learn more about Chilliwack Bowls of Hope Society, please visit http://chilliwackbowlsofhope.com/about.html

 

Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is a Canada-based company that operates gaming, entertainment and hospitality facilities in British Columbia, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Washington State. The Company has 16 gaming properties, which consists of casinos, including one with a four Diamond resort hotel, horse racetrack casinos and community gaming centres. A key element of Great Canadian’s business model is its commitment to social responsibility.

PROUD of our people, our business, our community is Great Canadian’s brand that unifies the company’s community, volunteering and social responsibility efforts. Under the PROUD program, Great Canadian annually invests over $2 million in our communities, and in 2014, over 1,200 charitable organizations were supported by Great Canadian. In each Canadian gaming jurisdiction, the majority of gross gaming revenue from gaming facilities goes back directly to provincial governments for the purpose of supporting programs like healthcare, education and social services.

For further information, please contact:

Sonja Mandic
Manager, Media and Responsible Gaming
Great Canadian Gaming Corporation
604.303.6169 or smandic@gcgaming.com

Hard Rock Casino Vancouver to Present the Second Annual Ultimate Car Show and Count’s 77 on July 18

COQUITLAM, B.C. (April 30, 2015)

On July 18, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver will once again partner with one of Canada’s premier custom car companies, 360 Fabrication Inc. of Abbotsford, and host the Second Annual Ultimate Car Show. In addition, the day’s event will be topped off by Count’s 77 evening performance in the theatre.

“Last year’s car show was a tremendous success and we are looking to build an even better experience this year by adding Count’s 77 to the mix. Their signature classic rock sound is a perfect pairing for the Ultimate Car Show that blends rock and roll with the best exotic, classic and muscle cars in Western Canada,” said Raj Mutti, Executive Director, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver.

Rain or shine, the Ultimate Car Show is a free community event that will take place at the Hard Rock Casino parking lot from 2pm until 6pm and will feature over 350 premier, classic and specialty vehicles. The event is open to all wishing to display their collector, specialty exotic or muscle cars. Proceeds from the $20 registration fee will go to support SHARE Family & Community Services Society, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver’s signature charitable partner.

The judging panel will award prizes in eight categories including a $2,500 ‘winner take all’ prize for the Best in Show. Those interested in displaying their exotic, custom or muscle car should call 360 Fabrication at 604-859-3608 to register.

Tickets for Count’s 77 performance go on sale on Friday, May 1, 2015 at 10:00 am and are $29.50 (plus service charges) – General Admission & Reserved Balcony and $24.50 (plus service charges) – Mezzanine. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to HardRockCasinoVancouver.com.

-30-
About 360 Fabrication Inc:
360 Fabrication Inc. is an Abbotsford, BC based collision, audio and custom car company. 360 Fabrication is now Canada’s largest custom car shop, one of the ten largest automotive and marine audio companies and a CARSTAR certified collision repair shop. For more information about 360 Fabrication visit: www.360Fabrication.com

River Rock Casino Resort Gets Recognized by Forbes Magazine

River Rock Casino Resort Gets Recognized by Forbes Magazine

In the recent online edition of the Forbes Magazine (March 2015), River Rock Casino Resort was recognized as one of the eight luxury casinos in North America that offers all the perks of Las Vegas and more.

The feature story provides a glimpse of casino resort offerings and highlights the variety of luxury and splendor that can be found off the Strip.

“We are extremely honoured and proud to be recognized as we strive to deliver exceptional guest experiences every single day. I would also like to recognize our River Rock team because with their rock solid performance we are able to be offer something truly unique,” said Roland Monteiro, Executive Director, River Rock Casino Resort.

To read the full story, please visit:

http://www.forbes.com/

 

Knight Road Legacy Association Receives $291,316 from Chances Chilliwack

Chilliwack, B.C (March 30, 2015): On March 26th, Chances Chilliwack presented the Knight Road Legacy Association with a payment of $291,316. The contribution was issued as a part of the trailing payments agreement which is based on the facilities performance levels for the year. The agreement will be in effect for the next 20 years and this is the third payment received by the Association. Last year, the Association received $262,000.

There are a total of 49 charity organizations that belong to the Knight Road Legacy Association and were the original owners and operators of Chilliwack Bingo. “We always look forward to this time of the year because it allows us to provide financial support to the Knight Road Legacy Association. This is a group of remarkable charities and non-profit organizations that make a difference in the Chilliwack community every single day,” said Chris Lynn, General Manager, Chances Chilliwack.

Members of the Knight Road Legacy Association include:

#147 Airwolf Air Cadets,
1725 Royal Canadian Military Army Cadets,
Alano Club of Chilliwack,
Ann Davis Transition Society,
Big Brothers Big Sisters Upper Fraser Valley,
Chilliwack & District Agricultural Society,
Chilliwack Academy of Music,
Chilliwack Community Arts Council,
Chilliwack Community Band,
Chilliwack Community Services,
Chilliwack District Seniors Resource Society,
Chilliwack Elks Lodge #48 BPOE,
Chilliwack Family YMCA,
Chilliwack Flight Festival Society,
Chilliwack Hospice Society,
Chilliwack Hospital Auxiliary,
Chilliwack Knights of Columbus,
Chilliwack Minor Baseball,
Chilliwack Minor Fastpitch,
Chilliwack Minor Football,
Chilliwack Minor Lacrosse,
Chilliwack Museum & Historical Society,
Cultus Lake Community School,
Cultus Lake-Chilliwack Stingrays Swim Club,
Fraser Valley Brain Injury,
Fraser Valley Junior Football,
Fraser Valley Shriner Club #11,
Greater Vancouver Ski Patrol,
Harrison Festival Society,
Hobby Hill Preschool,
Kiwanis Club of Chilliwack,
Kiwanis Club of Sardis,
Lions Stellar J,
Mount Cheam Lions,
Optimist Club of Chilliwack,
Rotary Club Chilliwack Fraser,
Rotary Club Mt Cheam,
Royal Canadian Legion BR#280,
Royal Canadian Legion BR#4,
Royal Canadian Legion BR#4 LA,
Saint John Ambulance,
Sardis Elementary PAC,
Sardis Fliers Speed Skating,
Soroptimist International of Chilliwack,
Spartan Swim Club, Track & Field,
Vancouver Adapted Music

“Knight Road Legacy Association would like to recognize Chances Chilliwack as a great community and business partner that values the importance of giving back,” said Jerry Wernicke, President of the Knight Road Legacy Association.

Vedder Elementary PAC,
Watson Elementary PAC.

Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is a Canada-based company that operates gaming, entertainment and hospitality facilities in British Columbia, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Washington State. The Company has 17 gaming properties, which consists of ten casinos, including one with a four Diamond resort hotel, four horse racetrack casinos and three community gaming centres. A key element of Great Canadian’s business model is its commitment to social responsibility. PROUD of our people, our business, our community is Great Canadian’s brand that unifies the company’s community, volunteering and social responsibility efforts. Under the PROUD program, Great Canadian annually invests over $2 million in our communities, and in 2014, over 1,200 charitable organizations were supported by Great Canadian. In each Canadian gaming jurisdiction, the majority of gross gaming revenue from gaming facilities goes back directly to provincial governments for the purpose of supporting programs like healthcare, education and social services.

For further information, please contact:

Sonja Mandic
Manager, Media and Responsible Gaming
Great Canadian Gaming Corporation
604.303.1000 or smandic@gcgaming.com

Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino to Undergo a Multi-Million Dollar Renovation

Surrey, B.C (March 23, 2015): Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is proud to announce that Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino, located in the heart of Cloverdale, British Columbia, is set to undergo a multi-million dollar renovation.

The property redevelopment will commence in the spring and is scheduled to be completed by late 2015. The renovation will encompass all elements of the property including the gaming floor, facility layout, dining and entertainment areas as well as exterior changes that will provide more street presence.
“Over the years, Fraser Downs has gone through minor renovations and improvements; however this time around we are focusing on a refresh of the entire facility. With this type of redevelopment, we will be able to offer our guests a unique and exciting gaming and entertainment experience,” said Chuck Keeling, Vice President, Stakeholder Relations and Responsible Gaming, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation.

Fraser Downs will be fully operational during the renovation process and will continue to offer gaming, food and beverage services, and live harness racing. “We look forward to revealing more details regarding the property offerings to our employees and guests in the coming months,” added Keeling.

-30-

Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is a Canada-based company that operates gaming, entertainment and hospitality facilities in British Columbia, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Washington State. The Company has 17 gaming properties, which consists of ten casinos, including one with a four Diamond resort hotel, four horse racetrack casinos and three community gaming centres. A key element of Great Canadian’s business model is its commitment to social responsibility. PROUD of our people, our business, our community is Great Canadian’s brand that unifies the company’s community, volunteering and social responsibility efforts. Under the PROUD program, Great Canadian annually invests over $2 million in our communities, and in 2014, over 1,200 charitable organizations were supported by Great Canadian. In each Canadian gaming jurisdiction, the majority of gross gaming revenue from gaming facilities goes back directly to provincial governments for the purpose of supporting programs like healthcare, education and social services.
For further information, please contact:
Sonja Mandic
Manager, Media and Responsible Gaming
Great Canadian Gaming Corporation
604.303.1000/smandic@gcgaming.com

THE SIXTH ANNUAL HARNESS THE HOPE EVENT HELD AT FRASER DOWNS RACETRACK AND CASINO RAISED OVER $17,000 FOR BREAST CANCER RESEARCH

Surrey, B.C. (January 30, 2015): On January 25, Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino hosted the Sixth Annual Harness the Hope fundraiser and assisted in raising $17,104 for breast cancer research.

The success of the event can be attributed to a number of live and silent auction donations made by community sponsors, the coveted Powder Puff Race and proceeds from the charity blackjack tournament. A total of six female drivers participated in this year’s Powder Puff Race and made their contribution through pledges.

READ MORE

CHUCK KEELING, VICE PRESIDENT STAKEHOLDER RELATIONS AND RESPONSIBLE GAMING, SCHEDULED TO SPEAK AT THE NEW HORIZONS IN RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING CONFERENCE

Richmond, B.C. (February 2, 2015): Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is proud to announce that Chuck Keeling, Vice President Stakeholder Relations and Responsible Gaming, has been provided the opportunity to speak at the annual New Horizons in Responsible Gambling Conference scheduled to take place February 2-4, at the Vancouver Convention Centre.

Keeling’s presentation will focus on exploring the integration and importance of responsible gaming (RG) practices and culture at the casino operator level. In addition, the session will underscore the importance of adopting RG principles and initiatives and how they are key operational elements for gaming properties.

With such a diverse product offering in multiple jurisdictions and over 4,000 employees, Great Canadian seeks to operate its gaming venues in a socially responsible and ethical manner. Keeling will look to define what RG means to a casino operator, demonstrate the importance of RG commitments, and reflect on the challenges and opportunities of RG integration.

Topic: Integration of Responsible Gaming Practices and Culture at Casino Service Provider Level – New Horizons in Responsible Gambling Conference

When: Wednesday, February 4, 2015 – 9 a.m. until 10 a.m.

Where: Vancouver Convention Centre, 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver

*Media are welcome to attend the conference, but must register. Registration is available on the convention level at the entrance to Ballroom A.

New Horizons in Responsible Gambling Conference is organized and hosted by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation. The conference brings together those working in the problem and responsible gambling field as well as the gaming industry for the purpose of sharing insights and best practices. To learn more about the conference schedule or list of speakers, please visit http://horizonsrg.bclc.com/about-the-conference/2015-speakers-and-presenters/conference-speakers.html.

-30-
Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is a Canada-based company that operates gaming, entertainment and hospitality facilities in British Columbia, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Washington State. The Company has 17 gaming properties, which consists of ten casinos, including one with a four Diamond resort hotel, four horse racetrack casinos and three community gaming centres. A key element of Great Canadian’s business model is its commitment to social responsibility. PROUD of our people, our business, our community is Great Canadian’s brand that unifies the company’s community, volunteering and social responsibility efforts. Under the PROUD program, Great Canadian annually invests over $2 million in our communities, and in 2013, over 400 charitable organizations were supported by Great Canadian. In each Canadian gaming jurisdiction, the majority of gross gaming revenue from gaming facilities goes back directly to provincial governments for the purpose of supporting programs like healthcare, education and social services.

For all media inquiries please contact: Sonja Mandic Manager, Media and Responsible Gaming, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation

604.303.1000 smandic@gcgaming.com