Olympics offer rare opportunity for Illinois

http://newsblogs.chicagotribune.com/news_opinion_letters/2007/06/olympics_offer_.html

Olympics offer rare opportunity for Illinois

This is in response to the Chicago Tribune article "Habitat pits cranes vs. Games; Small group of activists braces for fight over forest preserve chosen to handle equestrian events if Chicago wins bid for 2016 Olympics" (Page 1, May 25).

With the announcement of Lakewood Forest Preserve's prospect of hosting the equestrian venue for the 2016 Olympics, a small minority of Lake County residents has failed to recognize the importance of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

As a public official, I believe that second chances rarely come around, which is why I propose that our educational agencies, equestrian groups, competition and show participants, and community-based leaders formally recognize the true potential of this first-class Olympic venue for what it truly is: an opportunity to be one of the finest horse show grounds in the world and a vehicle for Lake County to show the world its beauty, charm and culture.

Unlike the small opposition, I wholeheartedly believe that the Lake County Forest Preserve District Board members have been, and will continue to be, good stewards of our open lands.

The current board has always weighed its decisions to acquire land based on protecting our natural resources and allowing the public to benefit from the use of the preserves.

The benefits of the equestrian facility after the 2016 Olympic events are endless.

Programs will be established that will allow a wide range of individuals and groups to take advantage of this magnificent facility.

One such program will be geared solely for our disabled and underprivileged youth, allowing them to experience a unique opportunity: to ride a beautiful creature and feel the power of independence.

After the 2016 Olympics, the Lake County Board will enter into an agreement with a second party to maintain and run the facility. This contract will be very specific as to what will, and what will not, be allowed.

Contrary to what has been said by the opposition, I have been assured by the board that there will never be a clause in the contract that would allow for monster-truck pulls or rock concerts.

It would be in the best interest of northern Lake County, and Illinois as a whole, to openly support the economic and cultural benefits of an Olympic equestrian venue, all of which can be integrated with, and enhanced by, our existing natural resources.

Please don't let a few individuals, fueled by personal agendas, stop an opportunity and legacy that will make Lake County shine with pride for decades to come.

Salvatore J. Saccomanno

Mayor

Village of Wauconda