On Nov. 4, the casino referendum was defeated. I think the reason being is that if another casino were to be erected in southern Maine, Hollywood Slots at Bangor would suffer due to the migration of patrons to the new facility, therefore, taking business back to southern Maine.

Southern Mainers, instead of going to Connecticut, why not come to Bangor?

We have many fine restaurants, gift shops, a cinema, countless malls, etc.

For years, northern and eastern Maine’s business life has been somewhat stagnant. Hollywood Slots has provided us with a considerable tax base with which to cultivate and stimulate economic growth and boost employment opportunities for the residents in this area. Hollywood Slots is a slot arcade, not a full-blown casino.

As for gambling addicts, if you’re an alcoholic, you’re not going to the local pub. The same goes for betting parlors.

For the segment of society that disapproves of gambling, that is your right and your choice. However, others who enjoy it responsibly should have the right to go and bet a few bucks and enjoy themselves.

As for the “bad element” that the naysayers speak of, it would matter whether a betting parlor were here or not. There is good and bad in all segments of society.

Casinos don’t cause bad elements in society – people do!

Brent Sutherland

Bucksport