The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan formed the Migizi Economic Development Company a few years ago to explore non-gaming revenue opportunities that could help secure the tribe's financial well-being.
The Mt. Pleasant-based company has since developed several properties, says Jennifer Jones.
Jones is the marketing manager for the new
Soaring Eagle Waterpark and Hotel, which opened May 21. With its 243 guest rooms and a 45,000-square-foot indoor waterpark that accommodates up to 850 visitors, the project added 350 permanent jobs to Mt. Pleasant's economy.
And although free shuttle busses transport guests to and from Soaring Eagle Casino, about a mile away, Jones places heavy emphasis on the Soaring Eagle Waterpark and Hotel's family atmosphere.
"We want to be known as a family 'fun-cation' destination and we are designed to be very family-activity oriented," Jones says. "The water park is open to the public with five-hour or full day passes when the hotel isn't filled to capacity, but every overnight hotel guest gets daily free admission to the park."
It can be quite a savings for fun-seeking--yet cost-conscious--families.
"A standard, basic room price for a family of four is $157," Jones says. "It would cost a family of four $140 just for day passes at the waterpark, so we really encourage them to stay for just a few dollars more."
One of the unique experiences at the waterpark is Makwa's Mountain, a natural, harness-free, helmet-free climbing wall that begins--and ends--in a seven-foot-deep surrounding pool.
"This is only one of three water parks in the country with this kind of rock-climbing system," Jones says. "Climbers get to the top and just jump right off into the water."
Among other fun features is the FlowRider, which simulates surfing. The Otter's Run body slide twists sliders through three stories of curves and curls that coil outside the waterpark and winds them back in again. Loon's Loop is a 30-second inner-tube speed slide for the family daredevils, and Biish Falls dumps a 317-gallon splash on unsuspecting little ones several times an hour. It also has a slide that allows Mom or Dad to accompany their small sliders.
A fire pit, putting green and play area are among highlights that draw guests outdoors when they are not splashing inside. The restaurant, Nbakade Dining Room, has a golf course view and serves three meals daily to hotel and outside guests.
And the good news for the local economy doesn't end there. Jones says the waterpark and hotel are not finished offering local jobs yet.
"We're going to keep hiring," she says.
Kelle Barr is a freelance writer who attended Western Michigan University, majoring in journalism. She enjoys gardening, reading, travel, crafting jewelry and spending time with her family.
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