Most of the debate regarding a new casino in Cedar Rapids has centered on economic issues. However, I believe the core issue is the impact of the casino on family values. Almost everyone knows gambling is a vice, not a virtue, and it destroys individuals and families. Todd Dorman’s Feb. 24 column, “Voters need to see dark side of gambling,” highlighted the tragic consequences of a gambling addiction on an attorney and her clients.

Peter E. Nathan, professor of psychology and public health at the University of Iowa, shared his 45 years of experience working with addicts in a Gazette guest column on Feb. 16. Nathan said “casinos do not deliver the financial gains inevitably promised. Instead, they cost the community and its people dearly.”

I encourage all voters who support family values to vote no. I respectfully suggest that Steve Gray and his partners consider investment opportunities that support family values.

Bill Brennan

Cedar Rapids