Black and light
Chinook Winds Casino Resort celebrates 27th birthday in style
Chinook Winds Casino Resort, owned and operated by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, celebrates 27 years in business this year. The fun-filled anniversary weekend, Thursday, June 23, through Saturday, June 25, includes fireworks, a headline show performed live by country music legend Clint Black, anniversary cupcakes and a special drop of 27 floats by the Float Fairies to commemorate the occasion.
The massive fireworks display is back for Saturday night, starting at approximately 10 pm. Grab a cupcake or two Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 1 to 3 pm while supplies last.
Black is performing both Thursday and Friday night, kicking off the return of live entertainment after two years.
A country music traditionalist from Texas, Black was one of the artists that created the mass-market popularity of country music in the ’90s. Born in New Jersey but raised in Houston, he tore up the country charts when he debuted in 1989 — his first four singles hit number one, and his first 24 all reached the Top Ten. A fine guitarist and producer as well, he had great success collaborating with artists including Roy Rogers, Martina McBride, Wynonna and Alison Krauss.
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In 1995, after intense planning and three years of negotiation at the local, state and federal level, the Siletz Tribe opened a 10,000 square foot temporary facility known affectionately as “The Tent,” with only 250 slots, 12 card tables and a small deli. Chinook Winds faced anti-Indian and anti-casino protests. Opposition soon dissipated when the casino proved not only to be a major economic asset to the local community without the predicted evils but a valued partner that enhanced Lincoln City’s quality of life. Just over one year later, the grand opening of Chinook Winds Casino Resort took place.
The aesthetics at the casino incorporate the beauty of nature with the symbols and traditions of the Tribe. Huge boulders harvested from tribal land are the foundation for an indoor waterfall flowing into a pond designed to resemble Euchre Creek, an important cultural site. Painted on the exterior of the building is a design that pays tribute to traditional basket weaving techniques. Salmon decorate both interior and exterior areas as a salute to a fish that has an important role in the history of the Tribe.
The Siletz Tribe is proud of its contributions through employment, monetary donations and cooperative measures to the Siletz community, Lincoln County and the state of Oregon. The Tribe has honored its tradition of sharing within the community by distributing more than $12 million through the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund and other tribal resources.
The Clint Black shows start at 8 pm. Tickets range from $55 to $85. Chinook Winds Casino Resort is located at 1777 NW 44th Street in Lincoln City. For more information, go to chinookwindscasino.com or call 888-CHINOOK or 541-996-5825.