Billy Dec, a Chicago restaurant (Rockit Ranch Bar & Grill, Sunda) and nightclub (The Underground) owner, describes Chicago as the best city for the 2016 Olympic Games due to its “beautiful lake, parks and architecture, full of life with amazing restaurants, theatre, museums, shopping, but it is really about the people… Chicago is an all-inclusive melting pot of people from all around the world who are loving, enthusiastic, supportive, culturally diverse and celebratory, who also happen to be the biggest entertainment and sporting fans.” Billy's involvement with the Olympic Committee has helped bring some star power to the bid as well. He counts David Schwimmer (Friends), Jeremy Piven (Entourage), Sophia Bush (One Tree Hill), and Zach Braff (Scrubs) as close friends and all of them have thrown their support behind Chicago. In addition, Chicago has heavyweight supporters like Oprah Winfrey and President Obama, a long-time Chicago resident himself.

Ultimately, Chicago hosting the 2016 games would increase awareness of Chicago and all the offerings this city has to offer. The Olympics would have a tremendously positive impact on Chicago and the Untied States as a whole. Tourism would be greater before, during, and after the games with Chicago being put in the spotlight. Increased tourism creates a demand for greater infrastructure such as more hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Building these sites creates more jobs and money within the local community. Increased tourism also means people spending more money in the city. Money spent locally often benefits the local community. The Olympics would also leave Chicago with structures after the games that can be used to promote health among youth. Obesity among children is on the rise and with the games held locally people could refocus on health and fitness. Also, the Chicago 2016 Olympic Committee “has signed an agreement with representatives from more than 75 community groups that sets procurement targets of 30 percent for minority and disability-owned businesses and 10 percent for women-owned businesses. In addition, Chicago-based foundations created the 2016 Fund for Chicago Neighborhoods, committing up to $10 million. These funds will be used for workforce training and community development efforts in neighborhoods near the proposed venues.”

The final decision of whether Chicago will get to hold the Olympics will be announced on October 2nd. Billy is confident that despite the tough competition Chicago will win the bid. "When young people from all over the country find out that this is an American effort, in addition, to a Chicago effort - all will get behind it - and that enthusiasm will be felt all around the world. We will be the obvious choice as the city that wants to do the best job the most!"

Go Chicago 2016! For more information and to get involved head over to www.Chicago2016.com or www.aChicagoThing.com and follow Billy Dec on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/billydec

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