b'MEMBER SPOTLIGHTA New Anchor for ChicagosSouthlandSince opening in November 2024,premier entertainment destination Wind Creek Chicago Southland haswith a combined commitment to established itself as a transformativethe people at the heart of Chicagos presence in Chicagos southSouthland. suburban region. This nearly $530For us, this project was never million development was builtabout building just a casino, by Wind Creek Hospitality, thePinkston said. Its about investing in gaming and resort enterprise for thethis area and bringing lasting value only federally recognized tribe inthrough opportunity, tourism, jobs, Alabama, the Poarch Creek Indians.and a destination the community can Brent Pinkston A true integrated resort destination,call their own.Chief Operating Officer the property combines a state-of-the- This investment began long Wind Creek Hospitality art casino, full-service luxury hotelbefore opening day. In 2022, Wind and spa, fine dining in partnershipCreek announced a multi-year with Fabio Viviani Hospitality Group,partnership with the Chicago entertainment, and so much more.Bullsan early commitment At the helm of this multi- that underscored the companys million-dollar investment is Brentintentions to millions of fans well Pinkston, Wind Creek Hospitalitysahead of welcoming the propertys Chief Operating Officer. An Illinoisfirst Guests. native, Pinkston has emphasizedI grew up a Chicago sports the companys goals of delivering akid, Pinkston remarked. When you partner with the Bulls, youre talking about generations of fans who live and breathe this team. For us, it was the perfect way to tap into that energy, build excitement ahead of opening, and instantly connect with the people (and fandom) who love this area as much as we do.From the outset, Wind Creek has prioritized this type of connection with real-world opportunity. Since opening, the resort has generated more than 1,100 jobs across gaming and hospitality 10ILLINOIS BUSINESS LEADER'