Key Speaker

The Honorable Lauren Underwood

U.S. Representative (IL-14)

Key Topics

  • The travel industry’s economic impact in IL-14 (now IL-10 following the 2020 redistricting process)
  • Brand USA reauthorization (HR.3851/S.2203)
  • Road, rail and airport infrastructure investments
  • The need to delay the REAL ID Act and modernize TSA’s identity verification process.

Discussion Summary

During a roundtable discussion with Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-IL), representatives from Visit Lake County, Six Flags Great America and other local travel businesses and organizations discussed how roller coasters like the Maxx Force could draw rollercoaster enthusiasts from around the country to Gurnee, not only boosting attendance at Six Flags theme park, but also providing additional customers and revenue for other local businesses. In 2018, Six Flags was the largest source of food and beverage tax revenue in Gurnee, IL. The group also advocated for several federal issues, including the Brand USA Extension Act (HR.3851/S.2203), infrastructure investments, and a delay in enforcing the REAL ID Act.

Attendees

  • Randy Ebertowski, General Manager, Gurnee Mills
  • John Krajnak, Director of Marketing & Sales, Six Flags Great America
  • Greg Koeppen, Executive Director, Lake County Farm Bureau
  • Connie Kowal, Recreation & Sports Complex Director, Village of Libertyville
  • Brad Lajoie, General Manager, Lincolnshire Marriott Resort
  • John Maguire, Business & Community Development Mgr., Visit Lake County
  • Judy Martini, District 5, Lake County Board
  • David Motley, Director of Public Relations, City of Waukegan
  • Nadine Miracle, General Manager, Great Wolf Lodge Gurnee
  • Kerston Russell, Trustee, Village of Mundelein
  • Cheryl Ross, Trustee, Village of Gurnee
  • Maureen Riedy, President, Visit Lake County
  • Hank Salemi, Park President, Six Flags Great America
  • Kristina Turner, Director of Administration, Six Flags Great America

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