Saracen Casino Resort’s New Hotel: A Monumental Step for Pine Bluff
On a sunny Tuesday morning, Pine Bluff witnessed a significant milestone in its developmental journey as the Quapaw Nation celebrated the "topping out" ceremony for the new hotel at the Saracen Casino Resort. The sight of dozens of dignitaries, local officials, and construction workers gazing skyward to observe the installation of the last steel beam symbolized the community’s hopes and ambitions for a brighter economic future.
A Moment of Pride and Celebration
Wena Supernaw, chair of the Business Committee for the Quapaw Nation, expressed her astonishment and pride as she watched the event unfold. “Who knew steel and concrete could be this pretty?” she exclaimed, encapsulating the feelings of many in attendance. As two workers guided the steel girder into place, they revealed three vibrant flags representing the Quapaw Nation, the state of Arkansas, and the United States, each whipping joyfully in the breeze to the sound of applause and celebration from the crowd.
This ceremony marked the latest in a series of developments underlining a massive investment by the Quapaw Nation, anticipated to reach an impressive $550 million with the combined construction of a hotel with approximately 325 rooms and a 1,600-seat event center.
Community Impact and Economic Boost
The economic implications of this project are profound. As Mayor Shirley Washington and Jefferson County Judge Gerald Robinson addressed the crowd, their enthusiasm was palpable. Washington, initially wary of the casino’s proposal, shared how she shifted her perspective after listening to community feedback about the potential for job creation and tourism. She recognized that the resort could transform Pine Bluff into a destination city, one that would attract businesses and visitors alike.
Robinson also took to the stage, thanking the Quapaw Nation for their commitment and emphasizing the importance of their return to Jefferson County. “The economic boost it has had on the city and county has been enormous,” he stated, highlighting the hundreds of jobs created for residents, which were a key factor in supporting local families.
The Role of Construction Workers
The labor force played a central role in this milestone, and their contributions were duly recognized. Following the ceremony, construction workers were treated to a buffet as a gesture of appreciation for their hard work and dedication. Carlton Saffa, of Saracen, noted that the order of service was intentionally designed to honor these workers who had displayed extraordinary skill and diligence throughout the project.
Cultural Traditions and Blessings
In addition to celebrating the physical construction, the Quapaw Nation incorporated cultural traditions into the ceremony. Joey Giveswater performed a blessing ritual that has roots stretching back hundreds of years, symbolizing a deep connection to the land. As he wafted the smoke from cedar wood brought from their homeland over the site, it underscored the spiritual significance of the land to the Quapaw Nation.
"Two down and one to go," he explained, referring to the necessity of ceremonial blessings for both the hotel and event center, before the upcoming grand opening.
Challenges Overcome
As the celebration progressed, Supernaw reflected on the difficulties faced during the project, including delays resulting from supply chain issues and rising construction costs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, these obstacles led to silver linings, such as improved bond ratings for the casino, enabling them to secure financing at lower rates.
Looking Ahead
The Quapaw Nation, Pine Bluff officials, and the local community have set their sights on November 2025 for the grand opening of the hotel and event center, a date that promises to usher in a new era for the region. As remarked by both Washington and Robinson, this partnership exemplifies the advantages that can arise when communities come together with a shared vision for the future.
Pine Bluff is poised for a transformative journey, with Saracen Casino Resort at its forefront, symbolizing not just a financial investment, but a renewed commitment to the community and the long-awaited return of the Quapaw Nation to their ancestral lands. The excitement felt today is just the beginning as they look forward to celebrating this new chapter in their history.
