Cedar Rapids needs positive options, not casino gambling

Thank you for the letter printed in The Gazette from Kurt Rogahn giving a personal example of how gambling had a devastating effect in his family. Cedar Rapids needs wholesome, family oriented activities to help offset all the negative pull against us, and a gambling casino in our midst is not the answer.

Years ago, I was a member of the "No Dice" committee that met for an extended time to probe into this issue. The overwhelming conclusion was that having a casino in our city was not a positive form of entertainment, and we were extremely relieved when it was voted down. Anyone who truly looks into this issue would, if they were honest, agree with Kurt's statement that "the house always wins." Some may come away with a jackpot, but that just increases their desire for trying again and putting more money into the establishment.

How much better it is to have positive activities planned to build up people and bring families together! If people want to travel to other locations to gamble, that is their decision, but I would encourage those who value positive, uplifting alternative forms of entertainment to vote no on this issue in November.

Coral Dye

Cedar Rapids