Dear Editor,

In “Slots spread their corruption far beyond the casinos” (Tuesday, Jan. 13), the author makes several irresponsible claims about casinos that have been refuted by countless academic studies on gaming as well as first-hand accounts from people living near casinos.

These accounts show that casinos are responsible, generous neighbors, offering many advantages to communities across the country. They generate billions in tax revenues and provide thousands of good-quality jobs – jobs that wouldn’t otherwise exist. They attract visitors and provide opportunities for surrounding businesses, and they annually contribute millions of charity dollars and thousands of community service hours.

Every eight years, Iowans are asked to vote on a referendum on whether to allow gambling in the state to continue. Time and again, voters overwhelmingly approve the measure.  Biloxi, Miss., mayor A.J. Holloway said, “We’ve been able to improve our quality of life [with the advent of casinos]…” And James Goldman, president of the Harrison County Commission in Indiana, said, “It’s been tremendous for us.”  These are familiar refrains among the hundreds of thousands who have experienced the true realities of casino gambling.

Certainly the author is entitled to her opinion. But your readers deserve the truth, not a barrage of biased accusations.

Sincerely,

Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr.
President and CEO
American Gaming Association