An Oct. 10 grand opening signaled the completion of the Wind Creek Casino takeover of the Bethlehem casino from Sands. Poarch tribal chairwoman Stephanie Bryan said it was a “celebration of a vision that has become a reality” of the $1.3 billion purchase, that included re-branding the facility over several months.

It was a festive affair, as celebrity chefs Emeril Lagasse and Buddy Valastro circulated among guests posing for photos.

It had tribal dancers performing an ‘honor dance,’ included a fireworks display, and had 10 area nonprofits sharing in the bounty of an online competition that ended with VIA receiving the announced award of $25,000, and the surprise announcement that the remaining nine would each receive a $10,000 donation.

In response to area elected officials who welcomed Wind creek representatives, Bryan stated that Wind Creek was committed to bringing additional employment opportunities, strengthening the existing business community, and working within the Bethlehem community to help others.