Tortoise Rock Casino prepares for grand opening celebration

At 5pm, there will be a ceremonial ribbon cutting to commemorate the grand opening of Tortoise Rock Casino and guests will be invited inside to begin playing slots and table games and enjoying the new facility. The grand opening celebration will include live entertainment throughout the evening, as well as a special limited edition grand opening commemorative gaming chip that can be purchased.

Tribal Chairman Darrell Mike of the Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians which owns Tortoise Rock Casino, as well as Spotlight 29 Casino in nearby Coachella, says the opening is important for many reasons. "Tortoise Rock Casino is not only a significant milestone for our Tribe, but we are also very happy to bring jobs and add excitement to entire high desert community."

Tortoise Rock Casino is situated against a stunning desert backdrop near the world-famous Joshua Tree National Park and United States Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. Design highlights include features that are both beautiful and eco-friendly, such as drought-tolerant landscaping with high-tech recycling and water-reclamation features.

This new 30,000 square-foot casino will have 490 slot machines, 7 table games including Blackjack, 3-Card Poker and traditional Poker. Tortoise Rock Casino will also have Oasis Grille, along with live music, sports viewing events, and great drinks at Shelly's Lounge. Tortoise Rock Casino will be open to all guests 18 years and older. No one under the age of 18 is allowed in the Casino.

An estimated us$ 1 .4 million went to construction wages alone, with local contractors and crews given preference. Tortoise Rock Casino will also employ more than 100 full and part-time employees.