"Slots for Kids"

I find it hard to believe that this newspaper could advocate using the proceeds from predatory gambling to support our children and their education (“Slots for Kids” editorial, February 20, 2011).

Slots machines are the most predatory business in America, often creating addicts within their first use. Studies have shown that it costs more than the revenue it brings in, leaving those citizens who rarely gamble to pay the tab. Each compulsive gambler costs the economy between $14,006 and $22,077 per year. Predatory gambling has brought a wave of addiction. In some states like Wisconsin, addicted gamblers make up 6% of the adult population. (see www.stoppredatorygambling.org)

The Quaboag Valley Against Casinos is opposed to bringing gambling to Massachusetts because of the added costs to both the host community and the surrounding communities including public safety, the infrastructure and education, among many. There is the drain on local business and restaurants as visitors bypass them to go straight to a casino.

Please visit our website: www.palmer.casinofacts.org and scroll down to the satirical video “Slots for Kids.” You will also find there a video of facts about slots and predatory gambling.

EmmaLadd Shepherd, co-President
Quaboag Valley Against Casinos
4 Carpenter Rd.
Monson, MA 01057
413-267-5210



The Republican has long been an outspoken Slot Barn cheerleader, but frankly, this article takes the cake:

Editorial: 'Slots for Kids' would be a sure bet for those debating Massachusetts casinos

Although I don't generally read comments or post, italkaboutyu got it right:

I sprayed my coffee all over the newspaper laughing so hard when I was reading this. Here's Big Jim at a gambler anonymous meeting. "Hi I'm Jim I gambled my life's savings and kids education fund at the local casino, and we're all on welfare now, but they kept telling me it was for a good cause, and some of it was going to my kids." Unbelievable. I truly believe this editor just came out of high school, or he's a former pony-tailed professor.