Valley River announces end-of-year economic impact

by Feb 2, 2016Front Page0 comments

Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel, since opening in September 2015, has paid out over $300 million in game winnings and currently employs 1,050 people.  (SCOTT MCKIE B.P./One Feather)

Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel, since opening in September 2015, has paid out over $300 million in game winnings and currently employs 1,050 people. (SCOTT MCKIE B.P./One Feather)

 

MURPHY –  Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel first opened its doors on Sept. 28, 2015. Crowds formed a line around the building, eager to enter the brand new gaming facility. Traffic on Highway 74 was backed up for miles.

Three months later, the positive effects of opening day are still being felt in Murphy and in the surrounding area.

Lumpy Lambert, Valley River general manager, takes pride when reflecting on the year. “It has been a very exciting first three months at Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel. From the grand opening in September to giving away a million dollars on New Year’s Eve, I am extremely pleased with the results thus far.   I look forward to working with our team as we embark on 2016 with a great deal of optimism and excitement for our business and the benefit we have on the region both directly and indirectly.”

Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel currently employs 1,050 employees and, as of the end of 2015, has paid over $8.9 million in salaries and benefits. Employees also receive comprehensive health and dental coverage, a 401K retirement option, and tuition reimbursement to full time employees.

In addition to its 300 rooms, Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel frequently contracts rooms with area hoteliers. Since its opening, the casino has purchased over 900 room/nights through its reservation service center.

General business-related impacts aside, Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel has been active in community giving since early in 2015. Donations made to western county charities exceeded $30,000. In addition, over 9,000 volunteer hours were donated through the H.E.R.O. (Harrah’s Employees Reaching Out) program.

Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel has seen its share of winners as well. The casino paid out over $300 million in game winnings and prizes to guests. To cap off the year, a guest from North Georgia won $1,000,000 in cash in the 777 Spin to Win a Million giveaway on New Year’s Eve.

  • Harrah’s Cherokee