The countdown begins today for the grand opening of the new $250 million casino resort owned by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians of California.

Tonight, the tribe will hold a "Celebration of Sovereignty" to dedicate the facility. Tomorrow night, a big bash is planned with musical acts and celebrities.

The tribe is spending $1 million on the festivities in preparation for Friday's official opening. The public will be able to gamble at 100,000-square foot casino, eat at several restaurants, hang out at a couple of clubs and stay at a 27-story hotel.

Get the Story:
Hotel ready for tribal dedication (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 12/8)
Casino bash - big top, big bucks (The Riverside Press-Enterprise 12/8)
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