Cherokees "Top Off" Casino Hotel

The Cherokee Casino Resort at I-44 and 193^rd East Avenue reached new heights on Wednesday. The uppermost beam in the casino's 19-story luxury hotel was lifted into place. The new addition will make Cherokee Casino the largest gaming resort in Oklahoma.

Before it was hoisted into the air, the beam was signed then adorned with an evergreen tree and flags.

The purpose of the "topping off" ceremony was to thank all of the workers and wish them safety as they complete the project.

"It's a dream come true for me and all of our employees to have this kind of success and have this kind of economic impact in northeast Oklahoma, said Cherokee Nation Enterprises C.E.O David Stewart. "We're going to hire 500 people as a result of this and in this economic time there's a lot to be said for that."

The project was first started in 2007.  This 150-million dollar expansion is expected to open in fall 2009.

The 230-thousand square foot facility will feature a spa, fine dining and more than 200 rooms and suites. There will also be a 2500 seat event center and Toby Keith's famous restaurant, "I Love This Bar and Grill."

One interesting note about the 450-foot crane used to lift the beam into place - it came all the way from Germany and it took 30-semi trucks to get it to Catoosa.

Click here to watch a related, Web Exclusive story about the crane operator and listen to an extended interview with Cherokee Nation Chief Chad Smith.