I have read almost every article for and against the casino in Sanford. I believe voters want what’s good for Maine and the workers of Maine. We have been losing jobs at an alarming rate in this state. Taxes are too high and nobody seems to have an answer for this.

It seems to me that we have representatives who have come out against the casino and what it won’t do for Maine. From what I have been reading the casino will not be built on Indian land, therefore it will be subject to all Maine laws. If our Legislature is really concerned about money from this venture to help with education, taxes and scholarships, they should go the extra mile to help bring jobs to Maine and make sure any agreement signed is fair. Since the governor has stood firm against the casino, maybe he should come out and instruct state government and the people of Maine to work with the Las Vegas firm to find out if this will be a sustainable proposition.

We all have heard about how much of our money is going to go to Las Vegas. How much do you think is already going to Foxwoods, Mohegan Sun and Atlantic City? It might surprise you to know how many bus tours, flights and other means are out there. People are taking their money from this state to gamble elsewhere, so this is already a loss.

We have a group that goes three to four times a year to gamble. We would just as soon leave our money in our state.

I have heard all the concerns of people going broke and many other scenarios from gambling. We like to take our vacations at casinos. The last I knew, we make our money and still have control over the way we spend it. If I were to take a hunting or fishing trip, which is also an addiction, I would not expect to bring money home. If I’m lucky I might have a few fish or a deer.

An article I read the other day used scare tactics and came up with the worst scenarios. Crime may be up in that area, but look at the increasing crime rate in Hancock County. Drugs are running rampant. The few people we have to fight against drug invasion are being cut by the state.

I don’t think Mainers are having a problem thinking for themselves, we are quite intelligent. The article also stated that we are losers. Well, I don’t think of myself as a loser and I take offense to the statement – I even win sometimes – but no matter what, it’s my money and my vacation and I have fun.

Aren’t Megabucks, lottery tickets, bingo and horse racing considered gambling? Maybe we should just outlaw the whole thing.

My vote is yes on the casino. Maybe some of your votes should be no at re-election time.

Charles Farley Sr. lives in Franklin.