Gambling promises made, promises broken. It was a novelty in the beginning and now it’s a swarm of locusts eating at our pocketbooks. The basic environment is negative plus debasing and what few jobs created are dead end and demeaning positions. Gambling by its very nature is not a positive business endeavor except to the investors with wallets already fatter than most of ours.

In the last six years, we’ve visited the closest five casinos to sample the culinary fare (can’t recommend Catfish Bend). My main observation has been the casinos are basically a geriatric day care. Yes, the patrons come by the busloads, oxygen tanks, wheelchairs, walkers and canes in tow. The casinos appear to be a legitimized method to take our seniors’ Social Security, home equity and pension.

I suggest the investors re-examine their agenda. Why not promote a more positive and sustainable business image of Iowa by getting back to our roots, agribusiness such as resurrecting our creameries, lockers, textiles, orchards, etc.? Another observation, we don’t need casinos to have great dining destinations.

Rene L. Hanlon

Anamosa