Celebrating Progress: The Topping Out Ceremony at Saracen Casino Resort
On a bright Tuesday morning, the sky was filled with anticipation as dozens of dignitaries and construction workers gathered in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to mark a significant milestone in the development of the Saracen Casino Resort. The ceremony celebrated the completion of a critical phase in the construction of the resort’s new 13-story hotel, which is set to complement the existing event center and casino.
A Moment of Pride and Celebration
Wena Supernaw, chair of the Business Committee for the Quapaw Nation, expressed her excitement upon witnessing the final steel girder being hoisted into place by two massive cranes. "Who knew steel and concrete could be this pretty?" Supernaw exclaimed, unable to hide her joy. As the last piece of steel was secured, the atmosphere shifted from anticipation to celebration. Workers unfurled three flags—representing the Quapaw Nation, the state of Arkansas, and the United States—adding a symbolic touch to the occasion. The crowd’s applause filled the air, a testament to the significance of the day.
The “topping out” ceremony built upon a similar event held in March, when a steel beam was signed by attendees to commemorate the event center. Featuring around 325 rooms, with half of them designed as suites, the new hotel and event center will encompass approximately 465,000 square feet. The Quapaw Nation’s overarching investment in the casino resort is estimated to be about $550 million.
Economic and Community Impact
The local leaders, including Pine Bluff Mayor Shirley Washington and Jefferson County Judge Gerald Robinson, emphasized the economic boost that the casino resort has brought to the area. Mayor Washington initially held reservations about the casino; however, her outlook shifted as she considered the city’s economic landscape. "This would empower us to become just that—a destination city," Washington stated, reflecting on how the project could transform Pine Bluff into a coveted tourist and commercial hub.
Judge Robinson echoed her sentiments, thanking the Quapaw Nation for their commitment to the community. He praised the employment opportunities created by the construction, noting that hundreds of workers from Jefferson County and surrounding areas have benefited from the project. "Today is a great day… The economic boost it has had on the city and county has been enormous," Robinson remarked.
Honoring Tradition and Community
During the ceremony, appreciation flowed not only for the construction workers but also for the rich ancestral heritage of the Quapaw Nation. Supernaw took a moment to recognize the significance of returning to their ancestral land, emphasizing, "We’ve been gone for 200 years. It’s good to be back. Pine Bluff is so important to us."
As the celebration continued, workers were treated to a lavish buffet as a token of gratitude for their hard work and dedication. Carlton Saffa from Saracen highlighted the importance of honoring those who made the construction possible.
Blessings for the Future
Before the festivities concluded, Joey Giveswater, a tribal member, led a traditional blessing ceremony. Holding an eagle’s wing over cedar wood smoke, he performed a ritual that has been passed down for generations, symbolizing purification and goodwill for the project. "Two down and one to go," he remarked, referring to the upcoming grand opening.
The sense of unity and shared purpose underscored the event, as leaders and community members recognized the collaborative effort required to bring the Saracen Casino Resort to fruition. With the expected grand opening scheduled for November 2025, this project stands as a testament to the resilience and hope of the Quapaw Nation and the Pine Bluff community.
Conclusion
The topping out ceremony for the Saracen Casino Resort is not just a celebration of steel and concrete; it embodies a vision for economic growth, cultural heritage, and community revitalization. With the combined efforts of the Quapaw Nation, local leaders, and the skilled construction workforce, Pine Bluff is poised to transform into a vibrant destination, revitalizing the local economy and fostering a sense of pride among its residents. The journey has just begun, and excitement lingers in the air as stakeholders anticipate the grand opening and look forward to a promising future.
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