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    This entertainment complex would alleviate that in spades, as the idea presented seemingly would appeal to everyone. And yes, it does include gambling. Let’s list what people have to do in Cedar Rapids: go to bars, go to plays, go to expensive movies, or go to Planet X (big whoop, it appeals to kids mainly). No casinos, nothing close to the writer’s suggestion.

    I’m sure we’ll hear from the opposition that casinos are bad because they promote gambling and could hurt gambling addicts. Why is it that the majority of adults in Cedar Rapids are continually penalized by the minority of adults who can’t control their urges? Are we responsible for other adults? I don’t think so. I don’t want that responsibility, and it’s not my fault if they can’t stop themselves.

    I also expect opponents to claim that crime will increase. You would think that bored people are more likely to commit crime. I seriously doubt that people are going to agree with the gambling aspect, considering the overblown controversy caused by TouchPlay machines. If you oppose the machines and gambling in Cedar Rapids in general, then I expect that you understand why Cedar Rapids is losing population and tourism.

Chandra Jordan
Cedar Rapids