Участник:The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi and FireKeepers Executive Team hosted the grand opening event and ribbon cutting today, capped off by a tight rope walk by Nik Wallenda
World renowned daredevil of the legendary performing family, the Great Wallendas. Wallenda’s walk was dramatic yet symbolic, as it signified progress and forward movement for FireKeepers as he moved from FireKeepers’ first hotel tower to the new tower, a span of more than 400 feet, at nearly 200 feet above ground.
The new eight-story hotel was designed by JCJ Architecture, of Hartford Conn., and constructed by Clark Construction Co. of Lansing, Mich., in alignment with FireKeepers’ existing high standards of excellence, as the current hotel has been designated a AAA Four Diamond award winner for the past six consecutive years. The new hotel rooms feature upscale, built-in décor, along with the latest in guest service technology.
“Our focus from day one was to design a second hotel tower with the upscale, vibrant, yet fun and friendly approach which has made our first tower such a big success,” stated Kathy George, CEO of FireKeepers Casino Hotel. “Our Get Your Vegas On brand is on display throughout the new design, and now paired with our Team’s great guest service, your experience at FireKeepers will truly be unmatched!”
The welcoming 39,000 square foot main level delivers a vibrant new Lobby Bar and front desk while increasing the focus on seven main pillars which represent the Seven Grandfather Teachings of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi: Love, Respect, Bravery, Truth, Honesty, Humility, and Wisdom.
“We’ve been fortunate to have enjoyed many great days since, and even before, the 2009 opening of FireKeepers Casino,” stated NHBP Tribal Council Chairperson, Jamie Stuck. “This day marks a major step forward in our history and we look to the future with excitement and anticipation for the new opportunities ahead of us.”
FireKeepers signature restaurant, Nibi, one of Michigan’s finest dining experiences, has relocated to the new wing, with seating for approximately 125, and an interior that retains a focus on the tribal namesake, water, plus a new aqua-fire feature. Nibi also features expanded wine storage and presentation, as well as a private dining area for up to 20, perfect for special parties or small business meetings.
An exterior focal point added during the expansion is a 20-foot statue weighing more than 3,600 pounds, in the middle of a 15-foot pool of water and fountains. Titled the “Good Life”, the sculpture symbolizes those who live by the Seven Grandfather Teachings, who will enjoy the Good Life. The seven arms of the sculpture representing each those teachings.
The hotel added convenience for guests, by placing another Gapi coffee and sweets location to the main lobby. Gapi, the Potawatomi word for coffee, serves up coffee, snacks and suites daily from 7 am – 11 pm.
The project also provides a dramatically larger and more luxurious High Limit gaming area for slots and table games delivering 50 percent more slot machines, including a blend of new games and longtime favorites, plus ten table games. The room also features a new bar and Aurora Lounge, a restaurant exclusively for upgraded Red Hot Rewards Club Members. The High Limit area opened to the public on Friday, Aug. 13, with a little help from Wallenda.