Support From the Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce

Dear Chairman Schmadeke and Board Members,

As members of the Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce – an organization that advocates for more than 144,000 Black-owned businesses from all across Illinois – we are proud to submit this letter of support for Wind Creek Hospitality, and its application to bring a casino to the south suburban communities of East Hazel Crest and Homewood.

Wind Creek’s prime location will be one that will maximize revenue and draw significant out-of-state visitors. Right off of I-80, it is the best location in the south suburbs for a casino. In its application, Wind Creek makes strong commitments to hire locally, and use local vendors as well as veteran, women and minority owned vendors.

In addition, Wind Creek’s proposal ensures that the entire south suburban region will benefit from the casino. In addition to gaming revenue, they commit to making significant contributions to the larger south suburban community through the creation of the Southland Public Benefit Fund. The Fund will provide scholarships for disadvantaged students and provide health services throughout the south suburban region. They will begin distributing funds in the first year of the casino’s operations, with a goal of distributing $1 million annually beginning in the sixth year. 

Wind Creek’s track record of success, including firm commitments to the region, to a diverse employee base and to utilizing local veteran, women and minority-owned businesses – make them the perfect applicant for the south suburban communities.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Larry D. Ivory
President/CEO