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General manager Bill Davis said by phone, "I don't think there's going to be a huge crowd at 7 a.m. But some people may want to be the first in line and we're going to open."

When the casino opens, not all 2,000 slot machines will work, but only buffets and 24-hour coffee shops will open at first. Hotels and other restaurants must remain open until Thanksgiving.

About a month after the "soft" opening, a grand opening ceremony will be held for the entire project. About 15,000 people will be able to attend the grand opening ceremony on Dec. 10, according to police and fire officials.

Before the grand opening, closed-door invitations include Tonight Show host Jay Leno and musician Carlos Santana; another night will feature concerts by R&B stars Beyoncé and Destiny's Child; and "Access Hollywood" Nancy Odell

Local officials are making plans for traffic jams and potential emergencies. Casino officials say new roadworks and California Highway Patrol commanding traffic during and after openings could handle the volume of cars and trucks, if necessary.

About two million visitors are expected to visit each year.

Over the past two months, there have been several meetings involving the Riverside County Fire Department, the California Highway Patrol, the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, tribal police and fire officials, and casino representatives.

"They're working on a plan to deal with traffic and police phone and medical emergencies," said Dale Hutchinson, director of the Oak Glen Division of the Riverside County Fire Department.

The December Grand Open takes place during the busy Christmas shopping season for nearby outlet malls, a situation that can cause traffic problems. The mall and the casino use the same highway to run lamps and off-lamps."

"We need to be prepared to increase the likelihood of traffic growth by approaching special events," Hutchinson said.

California Highway Patrol officials could not be reached Wednesday.

Officials said the casino would be 148,000 square feet, the largest gaming floor west of Las Vegas, once fully opened.

Tribal casinos have 75 game tables, offering private and luxury spaces with blackjack to California-style craft, 2,000 slot machines, 14 table poker rooms and table games, slots and VIP lounge areas.

Described as a destination resort, the new Morongo Casino is the tallest building in the inland area at 27 stories high. It includes 272 hotel rooms with 32 suites and six luxury casinos. The casino can be used as a vacation spot, business meeting, or corporate retreat. Boardroom seats can accommodate up to 12 people, and each casino includes internet access and audio-visual services.