Rolling Hills Casino

Imagine the simplest tasks — such as brushing your teeth or speaking — becoming increasingly difficult. What if you had to think about swallowing and blinking, because your brain forgot to do these things automatically?  These are symptoms of a neurological disorder, such as Parkinson’s disease. According to a United Nation’s health report, nearly one in six of the world’s population, suffer from neurological disorders, from Alzheimer and Parkinson disease, strokes, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy to migraine, brain injuries and neuroinfections, with some 6.8 million dying of the maladies each year. Parkinson’s disease alone affects 500,000 people in the United States, with 50,000 new cases diagnosed each year.

This week, Bill Waite from the United Kingdom played at Sevillano Links as part of his personal golf challenge to raise awareness about neurological disorders. He is playing a round of golf at 18 courses in May from British Columbia to Stanford University, sharing his story, giving inspiration to others, and collecting donations for research programs.

Bill is a remarkable man who not only taught mathematics and sports for 32 years, he wrote math textbooks that are used in schools around the world. A brilliant scholar and former athlete, the last thing he expected to develop was a condition that affected his brain and motor skills.

In 2008, after developing “niggling health issues,” Bill was diagnosed with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), and told he only had a two to four years to live.  Faced with a dim future, he decided to live life in the now and went on ten overseas trips, took swimming lessons, and played golf twice a week.  When his health began to improve, he learned he was misdiagnosed and that he actually had Parkinson’s disease. Unlike PSP, Parkinson’s could be treated and controlled with drugs.  With a regime of drugs, Bill’s general health improved.  With improved health came the desire to do something worthwhile with his life, which is why Bill decided to embark on the golf challenge.

The challenge was inspired in part by Bill’s friend and golf partner Derek, who coincidently succumbed to motor neurone disease only four weeks before Bill was diagnosed with PSP.

“People have been so welcoming and supportive on this journey,” said Bill.  Bill returns the welcome with a gracious smile and the willingness to listen and give advice to others based on his experience. At Sevillano Links, several people shared stories of themselves or loved ones who are also afflicted with a neurological disorder such as Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, or Alzheimer’s disease.

“People and their family members often downplay their symptoms as the result of normal aging and do not seek help from a healthcare provider,” said Bill. “Sometimes they don’t seek help because they are afraid of the stigma attached to the diagnosis of something like Parkinson’s or Alzheimers. However, in many cases the individual’s health could improve with proper diagnosis and treatment.  Getting the word out to help others have a better quality of life is why I am doing this.”

There are two local groups providing support for Parkinson’s disease. For information about these support groups, in Redding call 530-229-0878 and in Chico call Harry at 530-343-1907.  For information about Alzheimer’s support programs, call the Alzheimer's Association at 530-895-9661.

To follow Bill’s journey, like his facebook blog 'Parkinson's play Golf'' at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Parkinsons-play-golf-PDpG/325625547489842?ref=ts

This year Rolling Hills Casino and Resort will save enough electricity to power 292 homes. Rolling Hills also put in place a recycling program that reduced 10 tons of garbage from the local landfill. In recognition of these accomplishments, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PGE) recently awarded Rolling Hills Casino and Resort with an Integration Award for its comprehensive resource management programs.

Only five to seven companies get the prestigious PGE award each year,” said Larry Brandon of Pacific Gas & Electric Company. “The award recognizes Rolling Hills Casino and Resort as a leader in energy integration. Rolling Hills has shown great interest in both energy efficiency and demand response over the years and, as stewards of the land, has explored self-generation through solar and wind power.”

“We are committed to doing our part in conserving energy and setting an energy conscious example for others in our community to follow,” said Wayne McIver, Facilities Manager of Rolling Hills Casino, which includes two hotels, three restaurants, Traveler’s Center, and the Sevillano Links Golf Course.

According to McIvor, Rolling Hills was able to significantly conserve energy by replacing heating and air conditioning units and installing a computerized energy management system for monitoring lighting and air conditioning. The Casino also upgraded lighting and the motors used in the kitchen’s walk in coolers and freezers. The fountain has a new energy efficient motor as well. McIver anticipates the total energy savings from all projects will exceed 250 kW and 2,100,000 kWh of annual electric usage in 2012.

Rolling Hills also actively participates in PGEs’ Demand Response Program, reducing electricity use during peak usage times. “When PG&E calls for possible brown outs or when there is a high demand for power by PG&E customers, we switch from PG&E power to our own generators to run the Casino’s facilities.

“On ‘event days’ when temperatures are high throughout California, Rolling Hills is able to shed one megawatt of load, greatly assisting in lightening the load on the grid,” said Brandon.

In addition to energy conservation, Rolling Hills made recycling and waste reduction a priority in in its efforts to be greener and environmentally responsible. “Six months before beginning our recycling program we averaged 18 tons of trash per week,” said McIvor. “We now recycle about ten tons of recyclable products per month that would have gone to our local land fill. These recyclables include plastics, cardboard, shredded paper, aluminum cans, metal scraps, and cooking oils. In addition, we send food scraps to a local hog farmer and landscape cuttings to an employee’s goat herd.”

Cost savings are an added benefit of going green. “We pay an average of $44.80 per ton to haul the trash. By reducing the amount of trash hauled away, we saved $8,602 in six months. In addition, we received $6,498 through recycling. That’s over $15,099 in cost savings in just six months,” boasted McIvor.

“Protecting our environment and natural resources is important to us, and the legacy we leave to our children,” said John Crosby of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, owners of Rolling Hills Casino and Resort. “We are very proud of this award because it reflects our commitment to be environmentally responsible and reduce our carbon footprint.”

Pictured above: Jeff Realander, CFO, Kate Grissom, Marketing Director, Wayne McIvor, Facilities Manager, Larry Brandon, PGE, Gary Poynor, COO.

Rolling Hills Casino employees raised almost $5,500 last weekend for the first Relay for Life Walkathon held in Corning. The Rolling Hills team was among 16 teams and 168 people that participated in the successful event, which raised over $23,000 for the American Cancer Society.

“We had 17 employees on our team, and they each walked at least an hour,” reported Kristine Raimer, who with Dani Guzman co-captained the team.  “Altogether, we walked 408 laps for a total of 102 miles. That’s an average of six miles per person.  Several of our team members walked over 10 miles.”

In addition to walking, volunteers staffed a mardi-gras themed information booth sponsored by the Casino to raise awareness about pancreatic, kidney and childhood cancers. A photo of the booth being set up is below. 

The Relay for Life is a 24-hour event held in cities across the nation to celebrate cancer survivorship and raise money for cancer prevention and early detection education programs, free services for cancer patients, and research grants to fight cancer and find a cure.

Many of the Relay for Life participants are cancer survivors or have lost a family member to cancer.

“Cancer runs in my family and this walkathon means a lot to me,” said Raimer.  “The American Cancer Society gave my entire family a lot of support when my mom was diagnosed with cancer. I saw what my mom had to go through with cancer, and I do this so that hopefully my daughter doesn’t have to go through the same experience.”

One of the Casino’s team members, Joann Hall, is a two-time cancer survivor who carried the survivor flag during the Relay for Life opening lap to honor survivors and their caregivers. She is picture above.

According to Raimer, employee support for Relay for Life wasn’t limited to those who walked. Relay for Life is championed passionately throughout Rolling Hills,” she said proudly. “Employees were very generous with donations and they came out to cheer us on. Their support for this cause means a lot to all of us whose lives have been affected by cancer.”  

April is almost over, but we didn’t want the month to end without giving extra kudos to Rigo, our April Employee of the Month.  Rigo was nominated by fellow employees for his exceptional teamwork, attitude, service, and knowledge.  Here’s what his fellow employees have to say about Rigo:

“Rigo is always smiling and in a good mood.  He always makes an effort to involve people in conversations and make everyone smile.  At the tables, you can hear him laughing with his customers, while making them enjoy being involved in the game.  He rarely makes mistakes in dealing, but when he does, he quickly fixes any problem with his humor and smile — making sure everything is right with the customer.  We look forward to come to work when we know that Rigo is working that day.”

We’re seeing a lot more cowboy hats in town this week: Tell tale signs that this is the week of the Red Bluff Roundup, kicked off with last Saturday’s Chili Cookoff. I don’t know about you, but rodeos always put me in the mood for good meaty chili. Here’s the Rolling Hills Casino recipe for delicious chili that has won many awards over the years. For tips on making it, watch this video featuring our Executive Chef Hobart Vogel.
 
 

Rolling Hills Chipotle Chile

2 ½  lb. lean chuck ground
1 lb. ground sausage
1 lb. cube pork
1 lb. cube prime rib
4  garlicscloves finely chopped
1 cup chopped onions
8 oz tomato puree
3 cups water
3 tablespoons chile powder
2 tablespoons smoke chipotle chopped
2 tablespoons beef base
2 tablespoons cumin
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon oregano leaves
1 teaspoon thyme
2 teaspoons sugar
½ teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon cocoa
½ teaspoon Louisiana hot sauce
1 teaspoon of flour
½ cup of water

Directions:

In a large sauce pan brown all meats drain the fats

Remove meat brown the rest of the items

Add the garlic and cook and stir until tender

Add the all of the meats tomato puree, water, and all dry items except the chile mix well.

Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer cover for about 2 hrs

In a small bowl stir together flour and warm water.

Stir into Chile powder and cook for an additional 20 minutes.

Enjoy your Chile with your best drink. 

Put a magician, comic, and motivational  speaker, together and what do you got? Keith Fields and pure entertainment that will motivate you to laugh.  He and Michael Mancini will be performing, April 6 at Rolling Hills Casino.

One minute Keith is a stand-up comedian, the next a hilarious prop comic, then he smacks you in the face by producing a goldfish bowl from nowhere. Other magicians consider him an inventor of new exciting magic and as many as 1,000 magicians flock to see him lecture at a magic convention.

We can’t fit 1,000 people into Carlino’s Nightclub where Keith will be performing this Saturday night. Therefore, you probably want to get your tickets early to this month’s Comedy Night as they are known to sell out.

For comedy of the right caliber, Michael Mancini will also be performing this Friday night. Presented with the “World’s Funniest Cop” title by Jay Leno, Michael brings humor into all aspects of life including his real life role of police officer.  His performance at this month’s Comedy night promises to be a high energy and action packed show. Put on your seatbelt and hold on, because if he hits the brakes, the airbag will knock you out . . .  

Doors open at 7pm. Show starts at 8:30 pm. Get your tickets at www.ticketforce.com, by phone at (877) 840-0457, or at the Coat Check within the Casino.

This week is National Public Health Week.  Nothing is more important than our health.  We can have all the money in the world, but if our health is poor, so is our quality of life.

“Public Health Week raises awareness about the importance of active living, healthy eating, disease prevention, and mental and emotional well being,” said Amy Gonczeruk, Operations Manager at Rolling Hills Clinic, which is sponsored by the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, owners of Rolling Hills Casino. 

The Tribe’s commitment to community health began long before the establishment of the Rolling Hills Clinic. Over the past ten years, the Tribe has contributed thousands of dollars to local health care facilities to purchase life-saving equipment and an ambulance.   

One area of public health concern that Amy believes doesn't get enough attention is dental care.  “Dental care plays a major role in both a person’s physical and mental health; however, it’s generally not given much attention during National Public Health Week. As we celebrate National Public Health Week, we wanted to raise attention to the importance of dental care including orthodontia."

According to the American Public Health Association of Dentistry, tooth decay is highly preventable, yet it is a common chronic disease in the United States. Evidence shows that decay and other oral diseases may be associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other medical problems.

Dentists have this advice for keeping teeth healthy:

• Brush teeth at least twice a day.
• Replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
• Floss daily.
• Eat a healthy diet and limit between-meal snacks.
• Schedule regular dental checkups.

Orthodontics also has a positive effect on dental care and overall health. Studies show that adolescents who complete orthodontic treatment have fewer oral health-related problems later in life compared to those who have never had orthodontic treatment.

Most patients consider orthodontics for a more attractive smile. However, orthodontics offers other enduring benefits for a patient’s dental and physical health. It can be difficult to brush and floss between teeth that are crowded or overlapping, so orthodontic treatment can help patients do a better job of keeping their mouths clean.  Misaligned teeth can wear unevenly, too, because some teeth may be more stressed or pressured during chewing than others. When an orthodontist straightens the teeth, it also corrects this problem, which can have a negative effect on a patient’s nutrition and diet. In addition to straightening the teeth, orthodontics can also correct problems with the jaw’s alignment. This benefit of orthodontic treatment may help to prevent or alleviate the symptoms of TMJ disorders, which can also lead to headaches and neck pain in addition to jaw discomfort, when the patient gets older.

The physical benefits of orthodontic treatment are evident, but the psychological benefits of orthodontics are also important. Those with straighter teeth generally have more self-confidence and feel more at ease in social situations.  

The clinic offers a no-cost orthodontic for qualifying youth ages 12 through 17 living in the Red Bluff and Corning areas. “It’s an amazing program with a capacity of 22 youth,” said Amy.  The program was made possible by a generous grant from Jim and Veronica Horton.

Those interested in finding out more about the program or needing dental care in general, can call 690-2827 for the Corning Clinic, 740 Solano Street, or 690-2778 for the Red Bluff Clinic, 2540 Sister Mary Columba drive. Rolling Hills Clinic accepts Medicare, Medi-Cal, Denti-Cal, California Healthy Families Program and most private insurance. . To learn more about its services or physicians, please visit www.rhclinic.org.  

Congratulations to Leslie Lohse on being named 2012 Woman of the Year for the 2^nd District. She was honored at a ceremony at the State Capitol on Monday.

"Leslie is a passionate and dedicated citizen who ably serves her revered and historic Nomlaki tribe, her community and her state through her selfless leadership," said Assemblyman Jim Nielsen. "Her energy and abilities have ensured a bright future for generations now and yet to be born in the north state."

Leslie, as Treasurer of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Band of Indians, participated in putting together the Tribe’s purchase of over 2,000 acres near Corning, and was instrumental in bringing about the construction of the 70,000-square-foot Rolling Hills Casino that includes three restaurants. She also played an active role in the tribe's success in bringing about two new hotels next to the casino, the John Daly Signature link-style Sevillano Golf Course, and a private hunting club to the tribal lands. The Tribe recently opened the Rolling Hills Clinic, on in Corning and one in Red Bluff, to provide medical and dental services for the county.

The Health Clinic is especially important to Leslie, who is an active community advocate dedicated to making Tehama County a safer, healthier, and more prosperous community. 

Leslie also serves on the California Native American Heritage Commission, National Indian Health Services Budget Committee, Tehama County Girls, Inc. and as the chairwoman for California Tribal Business Alliance.

Leslie and her husband, Larry, live in Willows. They have two sons, Erik and Kyle, and four grandchildren.

Held every March during Women's History Month, the Woman of the Year ceremony recognizes one woman from each of the 80 Assembly districts. It started in 1987. The 2nd Assembly District is comprised of all or parts of Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yolo counties.

Local favorite, Chad Bushnell returns to Rolling Hills Casino this Saturday night!  The young cowboy from Red Bluff is releasing an album soon, and we expect him to become a huge star after its release.

Bruce Turgon of Foreigner is helping Chad produce the album, which features mostly original songs and a couple of covers. We expect Chad will play a few of those tunes at the Rolling Hills gig.

Chad doesn’t just wear the cowboy hat for style, he is a true country boy who grew up on the rodeo scene. His mom is a barrel racer.  His dad is a Farrier used to ride bulls and bareback horses. Chad himself competes in steer wrestling and team roping.

Chad’s been playing guitar since he was five, and he credits his dad for teaching him how to play.  Chad has performed the enthusiastic crowds at venues and events throughout Northern California and has opened for big name acts including Mark Wills, James Otto (two times), Billy Currington, Joni Morris, Frank Hannon, and the Crist Family

As busy as Chad is making a musical name for himself, he takes education seriously, which we applaud. Chad is a student at Chico State University majoring in Business Marketing. 

Hot Tip: Like his page on Facebook to hear some of his songs. 

Sometimes the best things in life happen by chance — and often just when you start feeling hopeless.

After the 27^th publisher rejected his first manuscript, a dejected Dr. Seuss walked along the sidewalks of New York, planning to burn the book in his apartment incinerator. On Madison Avenue, however, he bumped into a friend who that very morning had started a job as an editor in the Vanguard Press children’s section. Within hours, the men signed a contract, and in 1937 Vanguard Press published “And to Think that I Saw It on Mulberry Street.” 

The artist Wayne Theibauld has a similar story. After rejections by almost every gallery in New York, Wayne lost both hope and confidence.  At the door of Alan Stone’s gallery, he lost his nerve to go in and leaned on the outdoor wall. Alan saw Wayne and beckoned him inside. “I thought the guy was nuts … he had all these paintings of cakes and pies,” recalls Alan. However, Alan gave Wayne a show anyway, which was an immediate sensation.  Even the Museum of Modern Art bought a painting at that show.  One of those early paintings sold at an auction a few years ago for a record price of 1.7 million.

Nothing ever happens if you stay home and do nothing.  Get off the couch and go somewhere, do something.  You never know who you might run into that can change the course of your life for the better.  Who knows that person might be at Rolling Hills Casino right now.