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Sycuan Casino
By Jan Fisher

Sycuan Casino…Let The Dream Begin

This slogan came to fruition today with the opening of Sycuan's new, 168,000 square foot casino. "This is the culmination of a 17-year journey that began with the opening of our bingo hall in 1983, and the beginning of a new journey that will continue for decades to come" stated Tribal Chairwoman Georgia Tucker.

Daniel Tucker

The opening ceremony included traditional tribal songs and speeches by various tribal leaders. Vice Chairman Daniel Tucker reflected, "This is a proud day for us. Three years ago we were worried about whether we could keep the doors open. Today, we have one of the most beautiful casinos in the country." He went on to add, "This is the fulfillment of a dream for Sycuan. It is also a foundation for the fulfillment of many more dreams in the future."

Anthony Pico

Other tribal leaders were on hand to provide support for their communities. Anthony Pico gave a short welcome with an inspirational theme. He spoke of the importance of brotherhood within their factions and offered wishes of good luck for the opening. Another of the tribal elders offered a prayer to the higher powers, which was well received by those in attendance.

From the moment I entered the expanded property, I was amazed by the beauty of the stunning waterfall that greeted each visitor. Nestled between the escalators, the lush, tropical scene was truly spectacular. The theme of the state-of-the art facility is an oasis with rich colors and elegant décor.

Tropical Entry View

The new Sycuan Casino offers 1800 gaming machines, 17 poker tables, thirty 21 tables, 18 Asian game tables, a 1,360 seat bingo hall, and a 260 seat off track betting area. Restaurant choices include Pearls of the Sea (Asian/sushi bar), Wachena Falls Café (American cuisine), Paipa's Oasis (world-class buffet), Sunset Deli (open 24 hours a day for deli food), and the Bingo Snack Bar (pizza, burgers, and Mexican specialties.) Currently under development are both a Broadway-style theater and banquet and meeting areas.

Sycuan employs more than 1,500 employees, making it one of the largest employers in East San Diego County. Casino revenues are used to fund tribal government activities including the police and fire departments, medical and dental clinic, day care center, Sycuan Learning Center, and DQ University. In addition, the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation donates more than $3 million a year to community charitable organizations.

Now, here is the poker room news! The air, heat, and cooling systems are designed to maximize customer comfort. The air-filtration system replaces the air within the casino every 20 minutes. TV screens are abundant and there is lots of space between the tables. The adjustable players' chairs are a welcome addition for the customers. Indirect lighting is provided helping to eliminate shadows. A state-of-the-art electronic sign-up board will be in operation soon. The cardroom will have a unique tracking system where players can earn credits that are worth 50 cents per hour. The dealer handles the tracking at the table when a player enters or exits the game.

Sycuan Poker Room

There are many promotions being offered including daily tournaments, a $1,500 freeroll on Sundays to qualified players, and drawings five days a week for cash prizes. The game menu includes limit hold'em ($3-$6 up to $20-$40), Omaha/8 ($3-$6 up to $15-30), and seven-card stud/8 ($1-3 or $1-$3-$6). Complimentary coffee, soft drinks, and juice are available 24 hours a day.

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