Member Voice
Three Rivers Casino
article by JENNIFER RICHARDSON | RICHARDSON MEDIA
Poised amid a backdrop of towering trees and whispers of coastal air in Florence, Three Rivers Casino Resort is a place where patrons can try their luck at candy-colored slot machines, play a nail-biting round of Blackjack or sip a chilled beverage from Pacific Cold Bar & Cocktails.
After years of serving as the Central Oregon Coast’s leading entertainment destination, Three Rivers is officially celebrating its 20th birthday. The team at Three Rivers has not only provided exciting concerts, gaming opportunities and dining experiences but has also stood as a pillar of economic growth and community well-being for two decades.
With this anniversary, Three Rivers Casino Resort is celebrating many exciting upgrades, from unveiling a new fitness center to adding a brand-new gift shop while enhancing culinary creations designed to delight guests.
“Having been at Three Rivers since the very beginning, I am thrilled that we are reaching such a significant achievement,” said Rich Colton, Director of Marketing at Three Rivers Casino. “I am filled with joy for what we have been able to do for the Tribes and all the surrounding communities.”
Founded and operated by the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians, Three Rivers has been a sizable employer and provider of entertainment since opening its doors as a casino-only facility in 2004. After much public acclaim, in 2007, Three Rivers expanded its facility into a full-service resort, including an adjoining hotel.
Since its inception, Three Rivers has prioritized providing a quality work environment for its employees. It serves as a fount of vital resources and employment opportunities for both tribal and non-tribal individuals residing in the community. Furthermore, Three Rivers is committed to ongoing philanthropic efforts, supporting local initiatives and charitable causes.
Three Rivers has created a safe, inviting environment for its team members. Fifteen employees who joined the Three Rivers staff in 2004 are still employed by Three Rivers 20 years later.
“Three Rivers Casino is very welcoming and rewarding. Everyone is given the opportunity to grow,” said Jesse Gardner, Director of Facilities. “My responsibilities have empowered me to become a better person and director daily.”
Teresa Spangler, Director of Guest Services and member of the Confederated Tribes, mirrors Gardner’s sentiments, having been on staff since Three Rivers opened its doors. “I feel like I have lifelong friends that are like family; this includes team members and guests. Our goal is to create an environment you want to work in, and we have a lot of different areas for our team members to find their passion,” Spangler said.
To celebrate its anniversary, Three Rivers patrons and team members donned their best suit jackets and flappers and embraced the spirit of the Roaring ’20s. The event showcased the illustrious culture of Three Rivers and its continuous goal to host memorable events for all who walk through its doors.
“The event was absolutely incredible,” said Gardner. “I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate Three Rivers’ 20th birthday.”
The new gift shop will offer items from local artists and memorable souvenirs so that visitors can take a piece of Three Rivers home with them.
“It’s important for us to collaborate with our local artists because we’re a huge part of this community, and we all have the same mission, and that’s to make sure the travel and hospitality in our area grows and succeeds,” said Tami Clark, Director of Hotel Operations.
Another notable addition to Three Rivers is the launch of a fitness center, which will allow guests to maintain their workout routines using state-of-the-art equipment.
“Many of our guests like to go on hikes, as they are very healthy and active. We wanted to ensure we had an amenity that accommodated their desire to maintain their at-home fitness routines while staying at Three Rivers,” said Robin James, Executive Casino Host.
Additionally, the Beachside Bistro, a new dining concept, will merge with Burger 101 and Mamma Mia to create a hybrid of popular culinary destinations. The Beachside Bistro’s new menu and invigorating atmosphere promise to exemplify Three Rivers’ dedication to offering quality food options for guests.
While Three Rivers remains tireless in its efforts to evolve continuously and improve the guest experience, it is more than just a hotspot for entertainment. Over the past two decades, the Three Rivers Foundation has awarded grants to nonprofits throughout the state. Millions of dollars have gone to causes in healthcare, education, food security and law enforcement.
Through its charitable efforts, Three Rivers continues to ensure that the needs of its community are being met, improving the quality of life for residents throughout the region.
“It makes my heart feel good to see all of the stuff these organizations are doing,” said Doug Barrett, Council Member. “Whether it be the food banks, helping the youth through their struggles, whatever the money goes for is pretty awesome.”
As the Three Rivers team turns its gaze toward the future, its founding core values remain as strong as they were 20 years ago, emphasizing cultural preservation, community enrichment and economic expansion. Three Rivers’ 20th anniversary is a testament to its employees’ hard work and dedication, guest patronage and ongoing commitment to giving back to the state it calls home.
Congratulations to Andy Tidball, Rich Colton, Judy Jones, Jesse Gardner, Teresa Spangler, Debbie Miller, Sherry Meyer, Cliff Lupton, Jim Wilson, James Rensing, Mike Bones, Rob Bebee, Nelson Devera, Michael MacDuffee and Linda Fithian for their 20 years of significant contributions and enthusiasm at Three Rivers.