Grand Opening of Black Oak Casino Resort Expansion
Leaders from the Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians, including Tribal Chairman Kevin Day, gathered with the community to commemorate the grand opening of the $70 million expansion of the Black Oak Casino Resort Hotel. Day highlighted the efforts of previous tribal elders in establishing the foundation for the casino’s success.
During his speech before a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring multiple tribal elders and family members, Day urged everyone to remember the challenges faced in the past. He expressed gratitude towards Moorefield Construction, their subcontractors, and various tribal entities for their support in realizing this vision.
Day reflected on the tribe’s journey, including the initial debt of $116,000 owed to the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the collaborative efforts with various governmental bodies to achieve success. He emphasized the sacrifices made by those who believed in the tribe’s vision.
The newly completed expansion introduces 48 suites and a lobby that connects the hotel directly to the casino, enhancing the overall value of the resort complex. This expansion has resulted in the casino resort becoming a significant employer in the area, providing around 700 jobs across various facilities.
Day paid tribute to the elders who paved the way for the tribe’s progress and underscored the importance of community unity. He remarked on the transformation from the initial 22,000-square-foot building to the present-day resort, celebrating the tribe’s continued growth and development.
Tribal elder Dennis Hendricks echoed Day’s sentiments, noting that careful planning and support from the tribal council have contributed to the economic success of the Black Oak Casino Resort. He anticipated that the new facility would create more job opportunities for the community.
Jason Czito, the general manager of Black Oak Casino Resort, shared his history with the tribe and the casino’s extensive entertainment options, including gaming, dining, and recreational facilities. The hotel now features luxury accommodations, a fitness center, and a water play area for children, further enhancing the resort experience.
