Editor:
I am writing in support of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation's planned bingo and government center to be located just south of my business, The Bait Shop, 4778 East U.S. 30, Shabbona.
The community of Shabbona is based on Indian traditions, with the town, the state park, the school district and the village streets all bearing Native American names and honoring the ancestors of the Prairie Band.
I encourage the DeKalb County Board to vote yes to a wonderful opportunity being offered the community of Shabbona.
It was decided more than 35 years ago that the community of Shabbona would be a recreational community with the construction and development of Shabbona Lake State Park. The community opens its doors to more than 400,000 visitors a year who help make Shabbona a vibrant community.
Now we have a second opportunity to welcome another major recreational development to our community - this one run by ancestors of those who were here before us. Thank you, Prairie Band, for offering to improve our community, and thank you, county board, for assisting them in their endeavors.
I am also the current president of the Shabbona Lake Sportsman Club. The club has been a protector of the state park since the club's inception in 1982. As president of the club, I see nothing but positive benefits from the Prairie Band becoming an active business partner in our community. The effect on the state park will be nothing but positive.
We are very fortunate that the Prairie Band is willing to invest millions of dollars in our community. That will mean jobs, lower taxes to longtime residents, and business for our local stores.
EDDIE VALENZUELA
Shabbona
Comments