A new event center geared toward the Cedar Creek Lake’s Hispanic community will be opening soon in Gun Barrel City.

Although the event center will be available to all for corporate events, wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, reunions and anniversary and holiday parties, it will be especially used for Quinceaneras, which is a celebration of a girl’s 15th birthday in Latin American countries, according to owner Cecil Saucedo, who will operate the new facility along with his wife Rafaela.

“This birthday is celebrated differently from any other, as it marks the transition from childhood to young womanhood.) for the local community,” Saucedo said. “This event center will also be used for community gatherings and organization events.”

The banquet hall, which formerly was a drive-through convenience store for alcoholic beverages before being closed for several years, is at 2205 W. Main St. The phone number is 903-340-7179.

The Gun Barrel City Economic Development Corporation to the Saucedos for Project Safari in the amount of $60,000. The Saucedos also operate Cochran’s Cafeteria in Gun Barrel City.

“We are happy and excited to support this local business as it continues to grow within our community,, said Steven Schiff, president of the Gun Barrel City Economic Development Corporation, in a statement. “We have a board of directors who are very business friendly and aggressive towards supporting both current and new businesses when appropriate. With the addition of this event center, this brings another new element that will entice new businesses to come to Gun Barrel City.”

For more information relating to Safari Enterprises, L.L.C. and other businesses located in Gun Barrel City, or to bring your new business to Gun Barrel City, please call 903-887-1899, or visit the Gun Barrel City Economic Development Corporation at www.gunbarrelcity.net/EDC.