Ken Keating and Jim Severson formed a lifelong friendship at the age of five while growing up in the Chicago suburb of Villa Park. Following their college graduation, they launched their first business venture by owning and operating E.L. Krackers, a restaurant and bar in Charleston, Illinois, which remains the location of their corporate office.

In addition to their hotel development projects, Ken and Jim have strategically acquired rental and condominium properties across Illinois, Florida, and Wisconsin. Through decades of collaboration, they have built an impressive real estate portfolio while maintaining a strong and enduring professional partnership and frienship.