As a resident for 36 years of the Jackson Park Highlands, a community within South Shore, I wholeheartedly support the construction of the Obama Presidential Center.

It will provide a long-awaited economic boost needed for our area, as well as for Chicago.

It will inspire our youth, provide resources for the public, and honor and preserve the legacy of our nation’s first African American president.

In no way will the Presidential Center adversely affect Jackson Park. Its impact, on the contrary, will be only positive. It will even improve traffic on Cornell Drive, which has been a problem.

Why, at this stage, are various individuals and rganizations still opposed to Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park? Where were they during the decades when Jackson Park was neglected and left to deteriorate with an outdated field house?

Russell Pike, Jackson Park Highlands

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Hold everyone accountable when paying taxes

If Chicago is to resolve its financial problems, we must demand that corporations and the wealthy pay their fair share in taxes.

Why should the middle-class and poor carry the burden of another property tax increase while corporations evade paying their share? It is time they are held accountable.

Ann Gutierrez, Tinley Park

Illinois’ gaming expansion presents growth opportunities

Gaming expansion in Illinois has created a unique opportunity to bring much needed investment into the state, create new jobs and fuel the governor’s capital plan to rebuild Illinois.

As the Illinois Gaming Board has mandated, there must be a greater effort to ensure the full participation of minorities, women, veterans, persons with disabilities and other underserved communities.

In addition to following the casino ownership requirements by law, there should be early-stage efforts to develop the necessary workforce. The new jobs will go only to those who are trained and have the skills.

There also should be an early effort to ensure diversity among the suppliers of goods and services to the gaming industry.

The big jackpot will be a gaming industry in Illinois that meets diversity goals, is financially successful and fairly generates revenue for the state.

Rudy Pamintuan, River North