Category Archives: Media Relations

Supporting the Richmond Community: An Integral Part of River Rock Casino Resort’s Culture

Richmond, BC (June 4, 2014): Since River Rock Casino Resort became a member of the Richmond community in 2004 it has been an active corporate citizen and has embraced the concept of giving back to the community.

In the spirit of supporting a key local community organization and at the same time celebrating River Rock’s 10th Anniversary, a benefit concert featuring Tom Lavin & the Legendary Powder Blues will be held at the River Rock Show Theatre on June 24th with all proceeds going to Richmond Family Place.

Richmond Family Place is River Rock’s chosen signature charitable partner that supports over 5,000 families in the Richmond community through multiple services, educational classes and workshops. The partnership was born out of River Rock’s desire to build a meaningful relationship with a community organization which is underpinned by more than just financial support.

“Our aim is to engage with our community and support them through employee volunteering endeavours, charitable casino nights, fundraisers and other such initiatives that will allow for their organizations to grow and provide support to those who use their services,” said Chuck Keeling, Vice President, Stakeholder Relations and Responsible Gaming, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation.

Over the years, River Rock has supported numerous charitable and community organizations such as: BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, Richmond Food Bank, Richmond Society for Community Living, Richmond Chinese Community Society, and Volunteer Richmond Information Services through volunteering endeavours, in-kind donations or financial contributions.

From a financial perspective, gaming facilities like River Rock positively impact BC communities and the Province of British Columbia as approximately two thirds of all gaming revenues from these facilities is directed to the provincial government through the BC Lottery Corporation- the Crown Corporation responsible for managing gaming in the province.

In the provincial government’s 2012/13 fiscal year, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, owner and operator of River Rock as well as eight other facilities in the Province, generated approximately $694 million on behalf of the BC Lottery Corporation.

As a host municipality of a gaming facility, the City of Richmond benefits more directly by receiving a share of the net gaming revenue from River Rock. In 2013, the City of Richmond received $17.6 million from gaming revenue generated at River Rock and since the property’s inception, the city has received $113.9 million. These funds have been dedicated to the construction costs of the Richmond Olympic Oval as well as
certain community grants, and future revenue will fund the construction of the new
Minoru Aquatic Centre.

“We could not be more proud of our team and their firm commitment in playing an active role in the Richmond community,” added Keeling.

To learn more about River Rock Casino Resort’s upcoming 10th Anniversary calendar of events, which includes a $150,000 cash draw, diamonds and grand prize Silver Jaguar XF 2.0T giveaway accompanied by diamond themed dining, hotel and entertainment offerings please visit www.diamondcelebration.ca or www.riverrock.com .

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Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is a Canadian based company engaged in 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 hotel resort, four horse racetrack casinos
and three community gaming centres. For more information about Great Canadian
Gaming Corporation, please visit www.greatcanadiancasinos.com/

For further media inquiries please contact:

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

River Rock Casino Resort: An Entertainment Destination That Does Not Stop Evolving

Richmond, BC (May 26, 2014): The vision behind the development of the River Rock Casino Resort was simple – build an exclusive entertainment destination with a wide range of amenities that delivers amazing experiences and would be completely different from the existing gaming venues in British Columbia. Driven by that vision and passion, River Rock is proud to mark its 10th Anniversary during the month of June.

Over the last 10 years River Rock has not stopped growing as it continues to evolve into an internationally-recognized entertainment attraction.

2004:
It all began in June 2004 when the casino opened its doors and featured a modern casino with dining and parking facilities. To prepare for the build, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, owner and operator of River Rock, invested approximately five million dollars in civil engineering upgrades in the immediate area which included extensive road work and the installation of a new railway crossing. In recognition of the River Rock opening, the City of Richmond renamed a nearby street Great Canadian Way, paying tribute to what has become one of Richmond’s key landmarks.

2005:
A year after the casino opened, the property introduced a 222 luxury suite hotel along with a 995 seat state-of-the-art Gala Systems theatre that was the first of its kind in the world. The system allows the theatre to transform into a flat floor concert mode or full theatre seating in under 10 minutes. This functionality has allowed River Rock Show Theatre to host a wide range of performances such as boxing events, comedy and game shows and various gala dinners. In addition to the theatre and hotel, River Rock also added a fully equipped fitness centre, an indoor swimming pool, spa, additional dining outlets and conference space during this time. But the expansion of the resort did not stop there as the team took on the task of dredging the marina and spent nearly one million to make it fully functional.

2007:
With the growing demand for more meeting and conference space, River Rock added the conference centre next to the marina to the list of its amenities offering a dynamic

2008:
With the popularity of River Rock increasing, there was a pressing need for more parking which led to the construction of a second multi-level parkade featuring 1,560 parking spots. In partnership with Translink and Coast Mountain Bus Company, the joint parkade initiative also allowed for the largest Translink Police Station to be located alongside the new rapid transit Canada Line.

2009:
The joint parkade and Bridgeport Skytrain station officially opened in 2009 marking another first for River Rock as the resort was connected to the rapid transit line with the only above-grade pedestrian walkway in Richmond. The attachment to the Canada Line allows River Rock to be widely accessible and connected to the rest of Metro Vancouver with a mere 18 minute ride to downtown Vancouver or seven minute ride to Vancouver’s International Airport. That same year, River Rock unveiled Canada’s first curved escalators in its newly configured lobby, the sophisticated and elegant Curve lounge, intimate and fully serviced theatre suites along with a revitalized buffet, a 260 seat restaurant serving traditionally inspired dishes seven days a week.

2011:
As the property further established itself as an entertainment hot spot, the need for more hotel space was met with a newly built 193 room hotel tower. Simply called The Hotel, this extension of the resort offers travelers a unique blend of serene ambiance and exquisite hospitality.

“We are often asked by our guests and the community what is next for River Rock, as they are accustomed to seeing it continually change. With that said, I expect to see River Rock continue to push the limits and deliver something spectacular in the years to
come,” said Peter Goudron, Senior Vice President, Operations-West, Great Canadian
Gaming Corporation.

To learn more about River Rock Casino Resort’s upcoming 10th Anniversary calendar of events, which includes a $150,000 cash draw, diamonds and grand prize Silver Jaguar XF 2.0T giveaway accompanied by diamond themed dining, hotel and entertainment offerings please visit www.diamondcelebration.ca or www.riverrock.com .

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River Rock Casino Resort is owned and operated by the Great Canadian Gaming Corporation (GCGC), Canada’s largest gaming service and hospitality operator with 17 facilities located throughout BC, Ontario, Nova Scotia and Washington State. Every year, River Rock Casino Resort together with its 1,300 employees provides support to the Richmond community through volunteering services, in-kind donations or financial contributions. Some of the charitable organizations that River Rock has supported are: Richmond Family Place, BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, Richmond Food Bank, Richmond Society for Community Living, Richmond Chinese Community Society, and
Volunteer Richmond Information Services. In 2013, the City of Richmond received $17.6 million from the River Rock Casino Resort in host local government payments and since
River Rock’s inception, the city has received $113.9 million. These funds have been

community grants, and future revenue will fund the construction of the new Minoru
Aquatic Centre.

For further media inquiries please contact: Sonja Mandic
Manager, Media and Responsible Gaming
Great Canadian Gaming Corporation
604.303.1000 smandic@gcgaming.com

Hard Rock Casino Vancouver Welcomes Canucks Alumni for Autograph Session

COQUITLAM, B.C. (May 15, 2014) – In a salute to the Vancouver Canucks of 1970 – our long- awaited National Hockey League expansion franchise – the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver is proud to host a free public autograph session of legendary Canucks players on Monday, May 19 at 2 p.m.

This event will kick-off the 17th annual Vancouver Canucks Alumni Charity Golf Classic at Northview
Golf & Country Club on Tuesday, May 20.

Vancouver Canucks pioneers including original team captain Orland Kurtenbach, former Montreal Canadiens stalwart goaltender Charlie Hodge, 34-goal scorer Rosaire Paiement and first-ever NHL Entry Draft pick Dale Tallon will all be on hand at the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver for a meet-and- greet with Vancouver hockey fans.

In addition to the celebrated cast of 1970 players, other Canucks Alumni members Kirk McLean, Cesare Maniago, Bobby Schmautz, Andre (Super Pest) Boudrias and the most recent member of the Canucks Ring of Honour Pat Quinn will be on hand to celebrate this special gathering of Vancouver’s hockey elite.

“I am thrilled to have these Vancouver hockey legends join us at the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver,” said Executive Director Raj Mutti. “They are such a big part of our hockey heritage in British Columbia.”

The autograph session will be from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Asylum Sound Stage, followed by free performances by the Canadian alternative rock band, Odds, and noted Canadian singer- songwriter, Dallas Smith.

** To attend this event, you must be 19 years of age. **

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About Hard Rock Casino Vancouver:
Hard Rock Casino Vancouver is situated in the thriving City of Coquitlam, British Columbia in Metro
Vancouver and is home to unparalleled entertainment, dining and gaming offerings. With an 80,000 square foot casino floor, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver offers more than 950 interactive slot

machines and popular table games such as blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, pai gow, craps, VIP high limit salons and others. With multiple performance spaces including a state-of-the-art 1,100 seat theatre, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver boasts the best in music, comedy, performance arts as well as local artists making their mark in the entertainment world. To complement the gaming and entertainment experience, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver serves a variety of culinary options and is home to chefs that dish up unique and flavourful fare in a modern atmosphere. Whether looking to indulge in breakfast, small bites before a concert or enjoy the bar scene with a drink in hand, the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver will have something for everyone. For the latest news and events, follow Hard Rock Casino Vancouver on Facebook facebook.com/HardRockCasinoVancouver and Twitter twitter.comHardRockCasinoV.

The Hard Rock Casino Vancouver is owned and operated by Great Canadian Gaming Corporation under license from HRHH IP, LLC (“HRHH”), an affiliate of Brookfield Property Partners. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas is the flagship property owned by an affiliate of HRHH.

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

Time to Reflect as River Rock Casino Resort Prepares to Celebrate its 10th Anniversary!

Richmond, BC (May 14, 2014): River Rock Casino Resort has a lot to be proud of, as the property is getting ready to celebrate its Diamond Anniversary commemorating the opening of a one-of-kind entertainment destination that has forever changed the gaming experience in British Columbia.

During the month of June, River Rock will host a variety of special promotions and giveaways including $150,000 in cash, diamonds and Jaguar XF 2.0T, accompanied by diamond themed dining, hotel and entertainment offerings to celebrate this remarkable occasion.

Over the past 10 years, River Rock Casino Resort has established itself as the premier entertainment destination that delivers amazing experiences and memories, receives international accolades and raises the bar on entertainment and hospitality offerings. Proof of such excellence has resulted in being recognized as the Best Luxury Casino Hotel by the World Luxury Awards organization and having been designated as a AAA Four Diamond resort since 2007.

“I can remember the day when we officially opened our doors and hosted the biggest party of the year. I still feel that energy and excitement every single day throughout the property, even though 10 years have passed,” said Peter Goudron, Senior Vice President, Operations – West, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation.

River Rock Casino Resort has embarked upon a number of developments over the years which have included the addition of three hotel towers totaling 396 hotel rooms, a state-of-the-art 995 seat theatre with private suites, a myriad of restaurants and bar options, 19,000 square feet of adaptable meeting and event space coupled with the installation of Canada’s first, and only, curved escalators in the main lobby of the resort.

One of the key features that makes River Rock Casino Resort so unique is the link and access to the rapid transit Canada Line which was launched in 2009. With this exclusive amenity, River Rock is connected not only to Richmond and Vancouver’s International Airport, but also downtown Vancouver with a mere 18 minute ride.

To learn more about River Rock Casino Resort’s upcoming Diamond Anniversary calendar of events, please visit www.riverrock.com .

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River Rock Casino Resort is owned and operated by the Great Canadian Gaming Corporation (GCGC), Canada’s largest gaming service and hospitality operator with 17 facilities located throughout BC, Ontario, Nova Scotia and Washington State. Every year, River Rock Casino Resort together with its 1,300 employees provides support to the Richmond community through volunteering services, in-kind donations or financial contributions. Some of the charitable organizations that River Rock has supported are: Richmond Family Place, BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, Richmond Food Bank, Richmond Society for Community Living, Richmond Chinese Community Society, and
Volunteer Richmond Information Services. In 2013, the City of Richmond received $17.6 million from the River Rock Casino Resort in host local government payments and since
River Rock’s inception; the city has received $113.9 million. These funds have been dedicated to the construction costs of the Richmond Olympic Oval as well as certain
community grants, and future revenue will fund the construction of the new Minoru
Aquatic Centre.
For further media inquiries please contact: Sonja Mandic
Manager, Media and Responsible Gaming
Great Canadian Gaming Corporation
604.303.1000 smandic@gcgaming.com

Darren MacDonald Welcomes Challenge as Hastings Racecourse General Manager

Vancouver, B.C. (March 20, 2014) – Great Canadian Gaming Corporation is pleased to announce the appointment of Darren MacDonald to the position of General Manager of Hastings Racecourse.

MacDonald, 42, joined the Hastings team as Manager of Gaming Operations in 2007 and over the past four years has been extensively involved in the racing side of the business as Assistant General Manager at Hastings Racecourse.

“Darren has successfully established strong relations with our various stakeholders, including our horsemen’s groups and business partners,” said Darlene Doyle, Executive Director of Operations with Great Canadian Gaming Corporation. “We are confident that he will continue to be an asset to our Hastings Racecourse team and Great Canadian family.”

With the 2014 thoroughbred season opening April 27, MacDonald said his major focus will be on re-connecting with racing fans through various initiatives. “My goal is to see our product succeed at all levels,” he said. “We want to get racing fans more engaged with the sport to continue to build the momentum we’ve worked at establishing the past couple of years.”

The 51-day meet this year runs through to October 13 with four tentative dates reserved for later in October depending upon the success of the summer season. “That is our goal,” MacDonald said, “and it’s a challenge we welcome.”

-30- For further racing information:
Darren MacDonald; dmacdonald@hastingsracecourse.com or 604.216.5234

For further media information:
Chuck Keeling; ckeeling@gcgaming.com or 778.874.4942

Fraser Downs Racetrack & Casino Proud to Host the Western Regional Driving Championship on April 26, 2014

Surrey, B.C (March 18, 2014): At Fraser Downs Racetrack & Casino excitement is building as the venue gets ready to host the Western Regional Driving Championship on April 26, 2014.

“Now that we have finalized our racing schedule and have a defined five year racing plan, the team at Fraser Downs can focus on securing and promoting events such as the Regional Driving Championship in hopes of increasing the profile of our racing season and entertainment offerings,” said Ken Stratton, General Manager, Fraser Downs Racetrack & Casino. The new racing agreement has confirmed 35 race days at Fraser Downs between January and April 2014, with another 36 race days scheduled for the fall.

The Western Regional Driving Championship is one of the four events through which the best Canadian harness drivers are selected based on their driving averages, wins and earnings in relation to their driving circuit as well as the ability to be a representative of Canadian harness racing industry. The top two drivers from the Western Regional division will advance to the National Driving Championship which will be held at the Red Shores Racetrack and Casino in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island on August 26, 2014.

In 2009, Fraser Downs had the honor of hosting the National Driving Championship where Brad Forward, a native of Newfoundland, secured the national title when he brought home Kg Mattattack in 1:55.4 for his second win of the afternoon. Along with one second and two third-place finishes, Forward collected the winning total of 65 points.

Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino is located in the heart of Cloverdale BC and features a wide array of amenities including: Live and simulcast wagering, table games, slot machines and a poker room, numerous dining options, entertainment, meeting and party facilities, free parking, and unsurpassed hospitality. For more details about the Western Regional Driving Championship at Fraser Downs Racetrack and Casino please visit www.fraserdowns.com .

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For further information, please contact:
Sonja Mandic /Manager, Media and Responsible Gaming /Great Canadian Gaming
Corporation/604.303.1000 / smandic@gcgaming.com /

Hard Rock Casino Vancouver Recognizes SHARE Family & Community Services As Its ‘Signature Charitable Partner’

COQUITLAM, B.C. (March 10, 2014) – With the vision to be the headliner in gaming, hospitality, and entertainment, led by passion and innovation, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver has recently activated and put into motion one of its core value principles of caring as the property has recognized SHARE Family & Community Services to be its signature charitable partner.

“At Hard Rock Casino Vancouver, caring is a value that showcases our passion for everything we do, at work, outside of work, and in the community. As a team, we were active in seeking an organization within our community that does an amazing job in making a difference and we believe SHARE has achieved that by supporting individuals and families in the Tri- Cities for over 40
years,” said Raj Mutti, Executive Director for Hard Rock Casino Vancouver. “As our signature charitable partner, we’ll look to develop even further a meaningful relationship with SHARE that
goes beyond just financial considerations. This will be a partnership, not a sponsorship,” Mutti
continued.

SHARE Family & Community Services has a rich history that dates back to 1972 when the journey began with Gertie Grosser, founder of the organization, and her clothing exchange operation run out of her home. Today, the organization is embedded into the fabric of Tri-Cities and focuses on uprooting poverty, promoting social well-being and building inclusive communities.

In 2012-2013, SHARE distributed 19,197 food hampers, provided 592,336 pounds of food, and assisted numerous families and children through their programs with the support of 1,695 volunteers who gave 45,364 hours of service.

“SHARE is excited to be named as the signature charitable partner for the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver. We are particularly excited about the new opportunities to merge great entertainment with fundraising opportunities that bring tremendous benefits to the people we serve in our Tri- Cities community,” said Martin Wyant, Chief Executive Officer SHARE Family & Community Services.

In addition to partnering with SHARE, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver will continue to support many other non-organizations and community groups in the area both financially, through volunteering efforts and random acts of kindness.

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About Hard Rock Casino Vancouver:
Hard Rock Casino Vancouver is situated in the thriving City of Coquitlam, British Columbia in Metro
Vancouver and is home to unparalleled entertainment, dining and gaming offerings. With an 80,000 square foot casino floor, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver offers more than 950 interactive slot machines and popular table games such as blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, pai gow, craps, VIP high limit salons and others. With multiple performance spaces including a state-of-the-art 1,100 seat theatre, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver boasts the best in music, comedy, performance arts as well as local artists making their mark in the entertainment world. To complement the gaming and entertainment experience, Hard Rock Casino Vancouver serves a variety of culinary options and is home to chefs that dish up unique and flavourful fare in a modern atmosphere. Whether looking to indulge in breakfast, small bites before a concert or enjoy the bar scene with a drink in hand, the Hard Rock Casino Vancouver will have something for everyone. For the latest news and events, follow Hard Rock Casino Vancouver on Facebook facebook.com/HardRockCasinoVancouver and Twitter twitter.comHardRockCasinoV.

The Hard Rock Casino Vancouver is owned and operated by Great Canadian Gaming Corporation under license from HRHH IP, LLC (“HRHH”), an affiliate of Brookfield Property Partners. The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas is the flagship property owned by an affiliate of HRHH.

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

River Rock Casino Resort Names Richmond Family Place as its “Signature Charitable Partner”

Richmond, B.C (February 20, 2014): Over the last ten years, River Rock Casino Resort has played an active role in the Richmond community, and most recently has confirmed its commitment by selecting Richmond Family Place as the property’s signature charitable partner.

“It is our goal to build a meaningful relationship with an impactful community organization such as Richmond Family Place. Our decision was made based on recommendations of our
employees who wanted to get involved and give back to the community,” said Jim Wall, General Manager, Casino Operations, River Rock Casino. Financial support to the organization will play a role in the commitment but more importantly, River Rock Casino Resort and Richmond Family Place will strive to build a relationship premised on other opportunities, whether that is volunteering, sharing of services, or other initiatives. Already, a River Rock team member has been appointed to the Board of Richmond Family Place.

“On behalf of the Richmond Family Place Board of Directors, staff and families we are extremely grateful and thrilled to be chosen as the River Rock Casino Resort’s signature charitable partner. We look forward to developing a strong partnership with the River Rock team and ensuring that every child in Richmond reaches their full potential. The financial and voluntary contributions of the River Rock Casino Resort will make an impact in the lives of children and families by allowing us to enhance and increase our important early childhood and family support programing,” said Kim Winchell, Executive Director, Richmond Family Place Society.

Richmond Family Place was established in 1979 with the purpose of offering support to families in the Richmond community. The goal and mission of Richmond Family Place was the same then as it is today – to acknowledge and support parents who are rearing most precious resources – the children of Richmond. Richmond Family Place was the first fully inclusive family focused program in Richmond and today it serves over 5,000 families, 300 community meals and over
6,000 parents per year through their programs, educational classes and workshops.

As River Rock Casino Resort gears up to support Richmond Family Place, the property will continue to stay committed to many other non-profit associations, charities and community groups across the city both financially and through volunteering efforts.
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Sonja Mandic /Manager, Media and Responsible Gaming /Great Canadian Gaming Corporation/
604.303.1000 / smandic@gcgaming.com /

Media Press Releases 2013

Please find the media press releases for 2013 below:

Media Press Releases 2012

Please find the media press releases for 2012 below: