Retiring after 21 years of service at Cherokee Casino and Hotel West Siloam Springs, Wanda Rogers is taking lasting memories and friendships with her.
Hired on April 11, 1994, Rogers accepted her first position within the company as a cashier, selling bingo packets.
"It's been great to watch the company evolve through the years," Rogers said. "There was one person working in the vault not long after I was hired. She asked me if I'd be interested in working with her, and I've been in that department since."
Rogers retired as a cage operations shift manager. A Cherokee Nation citizen, she is a resident of Oaks, which is where she was born and raised.
At work, Rogers was known for her work ethic and sense of humor.
"I worked over 18 years with Wanda, and she was always a hard worker," co-worker Robbie Farmer said. "I've seen her more than my own grandmother, and even when we didn't see eye-to-eye, I still respected her dearly. She is a nice, sweet, tough lady and will be dearly missed."
When asked about her time at CNE, Rogers keeps coming back to the people.
"I enjoyed my time here. There are some very good people. A lot of them have been here a long time," Rogers said. "I loved the challenge of my job because there was always something changing within the casino, but many of the people stayed the same."
The retiree was surprised on her last day by her co-workers with a retirement party.
"Thank you, wonderful people," Rogers said. "I have enjoyed all these years with you. I will miss you."
Rogers says she doesn't have any specific plans after retirement, just that she wants to take time to travel with her daughter.
Cherokee Casino and Hotel West Siloam Springs is located off U.S. Highway 412 and U.S. Highway 59 in West Siloam Springs. For more information, visit www.cherokeecasino.com or call (800) 754-4111. All guests must be at least 21 years of age to attend.
General News on 01/06/2016