The online website of elmontcivic.com has been upgraded during the past year. It is not fully integrated, with posts and news information. Its blogging style also been added to finally include comments from viewers. This blog will no longer be updated.
I encourage everyone to simply visit www.elmontcivic.com from now on.
Thank you.
Showing posts with label community. Show all posts
Showing posts with label community. Show all posts
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Monday, December 15, 2008
Schools Need More Information
Advising the public, especially the school districts about heroin arrests and the like, is vital to the security and safety of school personnel and the children that attend the public schools. At this present time, there is no way of knowing if personnel from after-school programs could be a risk, not only due to their presence but also increase trafficking. We are all aware that children are unfortunately targets. The Civic Board, had approach this idea for some time, and hope that it would have been expanded to a complete background check to school board members.It is our hopes that the wording of the bill would be accommodated to meet the needs of both caucuses to ensure the safety of school personnel and most importantly the children of our public schools.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
On This Veterans Day: Perhaps All is not Forgotten
There are major holidays that we celebrate during the month of November. November 4th we had perhaps the greatest historical, if not memorable election in our life times. Whether the candidates of your choice won or not, it was clear that people were proud to vote. As President Elect Barrack Obama stated in his acceptance speech: "If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time, who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer."
Anything is possible if we work united. Elmont for some time has been on the heels of a great renaissance. Multiple plans for revitalization, and we are glad that Governor Paterson is taking the initiative to listen to all viable plans for revitalization. Let us not forget that revitalization does not mean condemnation, destruction or even necessarily creating new elements in the community. Revitalization involves reviving a neglected part of a community, or to give new life or greater recognition.
It was the year 1998, when the community was completely united with civic associations, the ECCC, the Elmont Chamber of Commerce, and County officials to “focus on the west side of town and beautify the area around the Belmont Race Track.” The community stated, “we would like to see an equestrian museum go up on that side of town, and perhaps a few souvenir shops."
Ten years has past and what has been accomplished? The community and its youth having to “clean-up” the mess created by others. If anything is to come out of this, is the unity of frustration and disappointment that the lack of, or misguided revitalization projects had occurred. This clearly stated in multiple letters from resides expressing
If we really want to see an example of successful revitalization, all we have to do is examine Harlem. We have to explore ideas for people to want to come. Building a hotel is not a solution for bringing people. As evident with near by hotels such as the Courtesy Hotel and the Garden City Hotel they give more headaches than good. What positives would a hotel do in the middle of a residential zone area? What type of jobs would it attract? What types of people would it bring?
Ultimately, it is the residents of the Locustwood Estates area (Locustwood / Gotham / Belmont) of Elmont who has to face the burden. We once had a beautiful park, worldwide known as the finest track and training facility in the world.
We cannot be close-minded. We have to explore all possible options that are available to us. We have to listen to local input, professional input and input from outsiders. Ultimately, if we want people to come and improve the local economy we have to listen to what people from outside the community wants. We do not necessarily have to agree. Just like 20 years ago, there was a plan from individuals from New Jersey to build a hotel and the community disapproved it. For so many years, Elmont has been the source of economic assistance to the State, County and Town. It is time that financial benefits be return to Elmont and the surrounding communities.
Ultimately, if we really want to see true renaissance in our downtown, we have to explore all options and analyze its pro and cons. For example, where will people park their cars for the big races if the parking lot is gone? How would a parking garage affect the aesthetics of the Park, and the surrounding residential homes?
In this day of energy conservation, it must be noted that during the 70s a united plan with Nassau County, the city of New York and NYRA was established to create Belmont Park as a Metropolitan Mass Transit Transportation Hub. With Belmont Park’s access to busing, and trains (and subway), the parking lots serves as unique car-pooling center. The plan in the 1970s was to have express trains between Belmont and Penn Station.
Let us not forget that August Belmont was the pioneer who invested and funded the New York City Subway system. Often, the original Belmont Park Station was nicknamed the Penn Station of Long Island. A major transportation hub, would serve economic wonders to the surrounding businesses, promote energy conservation and help revitalize a lost element of Belmont Park’s past success. It also serves as an alternative to the Third Track that would affect negatively to our neighbors.
On November 11, we celebrate another holiday and that is Veterans Day. As we continue to reflect on Belmont Park, let us not forget that August Belmont himself at the age of 65 volunteered and served in the arms services. While fighting in WWI, his wife named their new colt, Man O’War. That horse later became one of the greatest horses of the twentieth century and one that “galvanized the slumping sport of horse racing and became a national hero.” A horse named in honor of a service man and the founder of the greatest thoroughbred track in America.
He was not alone, and is one of many forgotten veterans. As we reflect on Veterans Day we must take the time to give thanks and credit to all those who serve today and in the past. We must thank the living veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to United States national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served not only those who died have sacrificed and done their duty. We as a community must thank them for protecting our liberties and bringing a sense of honor in being Americans. Some came home, some never did. Some live in our memories, some in our tears.
It is my hopes and inspiration that Belmont Park would become revitalized and beautiful once again. Just as the area of Locustwood Estates was created for WWI veterans, it would bring me great privilege and pride in my community to see the day that the Park be finally dedicated to the men and women who served our country so proud. Some of us have not forgotten 9/11 either, as Belmont Park served as the first sporting event in New York after that great tragedy. Belmont Park is more than just horses, or the trees of which it symbolize. It is about pride of being an American.
Belmont Park’s image and legacy, and ultimately that of Elmont, Bellerose, Floral Park and South Floral Park alike, will depend on the actions and decisions that this generation do. It is my firm belief that forgetting one’s past ultimately leads to a forgotten future.
Anything is possible if we work united. Elmont for some time has been on the heels of a great renaissance. Multiple plans for revitalization, and we are glad that Governor Paterson is taking the initiative to listen to all viable plans for revitalization. Let us not forget that revitalization does not mean condemnation, destruction or even necessarily creating new elements in the community. Revitalization involves reviving a neglected part of a community, or to give new life or greater recognition.
It was the year 1998, when the community was completely united with civic associations, the ECCC, the Elmont Chamber of Commerce, and County officials to “focus on the west side of town and beautify the area around the Belmont Race Track.” The community stated, “we would like to see an equestrian museum go up on that side of town, and perhaps a few souvenir shops."
Ten years has past and what has been accomplished? The community and its youth having to “clean-up” the mess created by others. If anything is to come out of this, is the unity of frustration and disappointment that the lack of, or misguided revitalization projects had occurred. This clearly stated in multiple letters from resides expressing
If we really want to see an example of successful revitalization, all we have to do is examine Harlem. We have to explore ideas for people to want to come. Building a hotel is not a solution for bringing people. As evident with near by hotels such as the Courtesy Hotel and the Garden City Hotel they give more headaches than good. What positives would a hotel do in the middle of a residential zone area? What type of jobs would it attract? What types of people would it bring?
Ultimately, it is the residents of the Locustwood Estates area (Locustwood / Gotham / Belmont) of Elmont who has to face the burden. We once had a beautiful park, worldwide known as the finest track and training facility in the world.
We cannot be close-minded. We have to explore all possible options that are available to us. We have to listen to local input, professional input and input from outsiders. Ultimately, if we want people to come and improve the local economy we have to listen to what people from outside the community wants. We do not necessarily have to agree. Just like 20 years ago, there was a plan from individuals from New Jersey to build a hotel and the community disapproved it. For so many years, Elmont has been the source of economic assistance to the State, County and Town. It is time that financial benefits be return to Elmont and the surrounding communities.
Ultimately, if we really want to see true renaissance in our downtown, we have to explore all options and analyze its pro and cons. For example, where will people park their cars for the big races if the parking lot is gone? How would a parking garage affect the aesthetics of the Park, and the surrounding residential homes?
In this day of energy conservation, it must be noted that during the 70s a united plan with Nassau County, the city of New York and NYRA was established to create Belmont Park as a Metropolitan Mass Transit Transportation Hub. With Belmont Park’s access to busing, and trains (and subway), the parking lots serves as unique car-pooling center. The plan in the 1970s was to have express trains between Belmont and Penn Station.
Let us not forget that August Belmont was the pioneer who invested and funded the New York City Subway system. Often, the original Belmont Park Station was nicknamed the Penn Station of Long Island. A major transportation hub, would serve economic wonders to the surrounding businesses, promote energy conservation and help revitalize a lost element of Belmont Park’s past success. It also serves as an alternative to the Third Track that would affect negatively to our neighbors.
On November 11, we celebrate another holiday and that is Veterans Day. As we continue to reflect on Belmont Park, let us not forget that August Belmont himself at the age of 65 volunteered and served in the arms services. While fighting in WWI, his wife named their new colt, Man O’War. That horse later became one of the greatest horses of the twentieth century and one that “galvanized the slumping sport of horse racing and became a national hero.” A horse named in honor of a service man and the founder of the greatest thoroughbred track in America.
He was not alone, and is one of many forgotten veterans. As we reflect on Veterans Day we must take the time to give thanks and credit to all those who serve today and in the past. We must thank the living veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to United States national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served not only those who died have sacrificed and done their duty. We as a community must thank them for protecting our liberties and bringing a sense of honor in being Americans. Some came home, some never did. Some live in our memories, some in our tears.
It is my hopes and inspiration that Belmont Park would become revitalized and beautiful once again. Just as the area of Locustwood Estates was created for WWI veterans, it would bring me great privilege and pride in my community to see the day that the Park be finally dedicated to the men and women who served our country so proud. Some of us have not forgotten 9/11 either, as Belmont Park served as the first sporting event in New York after that great tragedy. Belmont Park is more than just horses, or the trees of which it symbolize. It is about pride of being an American.
Belmont Park’s image and legacy, and ultimately that of Elmont, Bellerose, Floral Park and South Floral Park alike, will depend on the actions and decisions that this generation do. It is my firm belief that forgetting one’s past ultimately leads to a forgotten future.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
No taxation by exploitation
"Using predatory slot machines to take hundreds of millions of dollars from the elderly, the desperate and those with addictive disorders as the preferred way to fund government completely contradicts the message of both candidates [for president]," wrote Les Bernal, executive director of StopPredatoryGambling.org. "We are a nation of strong families and communities…not a collection of selfish individuals who prey on the weaknesses of our neighbors for profit."Here's more from Bernal:"Why don’t the owners and promoters of slots, including public officials, often use slots? Because they know it is a near total waste of their money. They know the odds of winning are truly near impossible and they also know the way a person advances in America is by working hard, saving money and investing over the long-term."The truth is slots are government’s version of sub prime lending, best described as predatory gambling. AIG and Lehman Brothers executives were all part of what’s been called casino capitalism – using predatory practices and financial gimmicks to promote an illusion of free money, all at the expense of unsuspecting Americans."Among many well-intentioned people who presently advocate for slots, there is a complete lack of understanding about the design, technology and marketing behind the machines. If they did understand how predatory the machines are, there is no question that most would strongly oppose them. "Every feature of the machine -- the mathematical structure, visual graphics, sound dynamics, seating and screen ergonomics -- is geared, in the language of the predatory gambling trade, to get gamblers to 'play to extinction,' which means until their money is gone. "MIT Professor Natasha Schull has called the machines a 'high-tech version of loaded dice.' For those unfamiliar with the term, using loaded dice is cheating."One of America’s most sacred founding principles was: 'No taxation without representation.' It’s time the principle of 'No taxation by exploitation' was added right beneath it."
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Texas GOP: Firm Stand Against VLTs
from: http://www.texasgop.org/site/PageServer?pagename=library_gambling
THE GAMBLING INDUSTRY’S ULTIMATE CON GAME
The Gambling Industry desires to expand gambling in Texas by introducing video slot machines (also referred to as “VLTs”) as well as casino gambling, and some of our legislators’ have said that they want to turn Texas into the “next Las Vegas.” Below are a few facts about the consequences of such a con game and why the Republican Party of Texas’ Platform states its opposition to the expansion of gambling in our State.
DESTROYS LIVES
Addictive
Video slot machines are the “crack cocaine” of gambling because of their addictive nature. People become addicted more quickly, lose more money more quickly, while buying into false promises of winning.
In 2002, the Rhode Island Gambling Treatment Program identified video slots as “the most addictive form of gambling in history.”
Addiction cycle is much shorter – about 1 year to become addicted.
30-50% of revenue from VLTs is generated from compulsive gamblers.
80% of casino revenue is from addictive slot machines.
In 1994, South Dakota closed all video slot machines for 3 months – the number of gamblers treated per month dropped by 93.5%.
Deceptive – Con Game
Game makers intentionally design games to be addictive with their speed of play and the games’ hypnotizing effect. Advertising is false and misleading in giving the perception that skill is somehow involved.
Game designers intentionally use psychological behavioral techniques to stimulate increased gambling.
U.S. Patent for computerized slot machines states, “It is important to make a machine that is perceived to present greater chances of payoff than it actually has.”
Combination of deceptive disclosure of odds of winning and games designed for players to have many near misses entices people to gamble more.
Illusion of success encourages even lucid player to behave compulsively – marked loss of control in even ordinary players.
3 of every 5 players interviewed in a recent study had a significant degree of impaired control when playing video slot machines
Ravages Families
Gambling ravages families, and children pay the price.
Results in increased divorce, separation, domestic violence, child neglect, and child abuse.
Incidents of child abuse, domestic violence and neglect increase by as much as 50 % among pathological gamblers.
Divorce rates among pathological gamblers (most often addicted by VLTs) are almost 3 times as high as those of non-gamblers. Millions of adults cite a spouse’s gambling problem as a significant factor in their divorces.
The National Gambling Impact Study Commission reported: “Children of compulsive gamblers are often prone to suffer abuse, as well as neglect, as a result of parental problem or pathological gambling.” VLT addicted parents are more likely to have children who are pathological gamblers.
Increased Suicides - Suicide rates among addicted gamblers are 30 % higher than in the general population.
Increased Illness - As gambling increases, so does illness including cardiovascular problems, anxiety, depression, cognitive disorders, chronic or severe headaches, and stress-related sickness.
Targets Victims
Slot machines are being designed to prey upon the young, women, seniors, and minorities.
Gambling is fastest growing addiction among U.S. teens, women, and senior citizens.
Pathological gambling for youth and young adults is growing at twice the rate for adults.
Poorest and least educated participants spend largest percentage of their income on gambling.
Texas experts estimate that video slot machines will cost poor Texans as much as a $1000 a year on top of the $1,000 they are already losing on the lottery.
One researcher noted that it is hard to lose thousands of dollars in one night in the lottery but not uncommon if playing video slot machines.
WRECKS THE ECONOMY
Gambling venues devastate the economy for both gamblers and non-gamblers:
Studies show that VLTs cost states $3 in social costs for every $1 of revenue generated.
Without including costs related to suicides and abused dollars, estimates of costs to taxpayers range from $13,000 - $52,000 a year per addicted gambler.
Compulsive gamblers cost the U.S. economy about $80 billion annually - $10 billion more than that spent to combat drug abuse.
The poor provide 90% of gambling revenue.
Gambling is a regressive, invisible tax paid directly by the poor and vulnerable, but indirectly by all taxpayers who must shoulder the burden for the subsequent social costs.
Skyrocketing Crime
Sept. 2004 research showed casinos hiked violent crime 13%.
Everywhere video slot machines have been legalized, crime rates have skyrocketed, including aggravated assault, rape, robbery, larceny, burglary, auto theft, embezzlement, and fraud.
1st 3 years of gambling in Atlantic City, New Jersey went from 50th in nation in per capita crime to 1st in the nation.
This results in:
Increased Need for Enforcement – police, fire, EMS, lighting, and other crime prevention costs.
Increased Overload of Court System.
Increased Overload of Prison System.
Increased Bankruptcies
Costs include lawsuits and legal costs as well as bill collection costs.
Bankruptcy rates in counties with state sponsored gambling are 18 % higher than in counties that have no gambling.
Increased Business & Employment Losses
Businesses suffer lost productivity, lost work time, unemployment related employer costs from employees who become addicted.
Cannibalizes other industries – restaurants, clothing stores, theaters, and other retail shops suffer in direct proportion to the gambling industry’s success. Thus, it changes the economic base and character of local communities.
Fully half of the small businesses in Atlantic City closed in the first years of legalized gambling there.
Riverboat gambling in Natchez, MS gutted the local business community.
Increased Government Social Services
Need to create or increase government social services such as gambling addiction treatment/therapy costs.
Resulting increase in unemployment, welfare, food stamps, Medicaid, and other social services drain local resources as well as state and federal taxpayer programs.
Increased Government Regulatory Expenses
Requires expansion of regulatory agencies, infrastructure, and government salaries.
Increased Dollars Abused
Diverts resources acquired from family, friends, employers under false pretenses away from family needs.
UNDERMINES AMERICAN VALUES
Unprincipled
It discourages hard work and saving.
State sponsored gambling – specifically video slot machines – promote a government sponsored message to citizens that getting ahead in life is a result of blind luck not education, hard work and initiative.
Building our government budgets on games of chance bolstered by deceptive state sponsored advertising campaigns sends a negative anti-work message to citizens and undermines the goals of personal achievement and individual contributions to our communities.
Breeds Corruption
Convenient front for organized crime to launder money from other activities such as drugs and prostitution.
Political corruption is rampant in states receiving revenue from casinos.
Does not stem illegal gambling, but rather creates a shadow industry.
State sanctioned advertising forces taxpayers to prop up this corruption.
LESSONS LEARNED
Poor Tax Policy
Not neutral.
Regressive.
Invisible – not transparent.
Allows legislators to shuffle money around that would have been used for education.
Promises are always larger than the actual return.
States Gambled and Lost
Governor of Nevada said “the lesson from the last 20 years is clear; our revenue system is broken because it has relied on regressive and unstable [gambling] taxes.”
Even the Mayor of Las Vegas wants VLTs removed from neighborhoods outside the strip to prevent the creation of more gambling addicts.
Even the casino-industry in Nevada only provides the state with a third of its revenue, much less than promised.
Every state that uses gambling as a revenue source has a budget deficit – most notably Nevada and New Jersey.
In 1999 Louisiana voted to unplug almost 5,000 VLTs.
Louisiana leaders say that most of the revenue from gambling in the state is immediately taken out of the state and sent to franchise owners in New Jersey.
South Dakota, the first state to house video slot machines in 1989 still had an estimated $54 million budget deficit for 2004 and an estimated $17 million deficit projected for 2005 (Center on Budget & Policy Priorities).
Former South Dakota Governor Bill Janklow called VLTs “the biggest mistake the state ever made.”
Former Nebraska Governor and current United States Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns reported that he would be, “hard-pressed to think that gambling benefits outweigh the detriments.”
In South Carolina, lawmakers abandoned plans to institute VLTs when “the huge social costs in the form of addiction and financial hardship” failed to produce any real economic benefit.
New York reports that it has earned only half of what it was projected to earn from VLTs at its race tracks.
Historical odds predict that areas that embrace VLTs make a relatively quick slide to full-blown casino gambling.
Texas
Gambling Industry promised $99.2 million ($98 revenue + $1.2 million for Commission) in 1987 when legislation to allow race tracks first passed. The first track opened in 1990. Revenues peaked at $5 million and have been declining since that time.
The Gambling Industry has repeatedly asked the Texas Legislature for changes characterized as vital to the survival of the industry only to insist that more is needed.
Public debt – After claiming that Texas would make millions, the industry asked the State to forgive $10.5 million in public debt in 1993, only 3 years after the first track opened.
Now the declining racing industry wants taxpayers to bail them out again.
VLTs provide 80 % of the revenues at race tracks and casinos. VLTs are propping up a declining gaming industry. Texans should not subsidize a failing industry.
State sponsored gambling may be a tax on the ignorant – but it is a tax that the state encourages through massive gambling advertising. The cost of that advertising is not reflected in the public balance sheet on gambling.
A Risky Bet but a Sure Fall
In 1999, the National Gambling Impact Study Commission Called for a Moratorium on Gambling Expansion.
The experience of states that have legalized slots and casinos reveals that the much hyped revenue is a mirage that never fully materializes.
Relying on the pathological behavior of VLT consumers to keep state revenue steady is a gamble in itself. Texas cannot wager the education and future of our children by counting on revenue that is predictably undeniable.
We are the Party of strong families and personal responsibility. We believe in government that is accountable to the people. Governments should protect and serve not abuse and enslave.
THE GAMBLING INDUSTRY’S ULTIMATE CON GAME
The Gambling Industry desires to expand gambling in Texas by introducing video slot machines (also referred to as “VLTs”) as well as casino gambling, and some of our legislators’ have said that they want to turn Texas into the “next Las Vegas.” Below are a few facts about the consequences of such a con game and why the Republican Party of Texas’ Platform states its opposition to the expansion of gambling in our State.
DESTROYS LIVES
Addictive
Video slot machines are the “crack cocaine” of gambling because of their addictive nature. People become addicted more quickly, lose more money more quickly, while buying into false promises of winning.
In 2002, the Rhode Island Gambling Treatment Program identified video slots as “the most addictive form of gambling in history.”
Addiction cycle is much shorter – about 1 year to become addicted.
30-50% of revenue from VLTs is generated from compulsive gamblers.
80% of casino revenue is from addictive slot machines.
In 1994, South Dakota closed all video slot machines for 3 months – the number of gamblers treated per month dropped by 93.5%.
Deceptive – Con Game
Game makers intentionally design games to be addictive with their speed of play and the games’ hypnotizing effect. Advertising is false and misleading in giving the perception that skill is somehow involved.
Game designers intentionally use psychological behavioral techniques to stimulate increased gambling.
U.S. Patent for computerized slot machines states, “It is important to make a machine that is perceived to present greater chances of payoff than it actually has.”
Combination of deceptive disclosure of odds of winning and games designed for players to have many near misses entices people to gamble more.
Illusion of success encourages even lucid player to behave compulsively – marked loss of control in even ordinary players.
3 of every 5 players interviewed in a recent study had a significant degree of impaired control when playing video slot machines
Ravages Families
Gambling ravages families, and children pay the price.
Results in increased divorce, separation, domestic violence, child neglect, and child abuse.
Incidents of child abuse, domestic violence and neglect increase by as much as 50 % among pathological gamblers.
Divorce rates among pathological gamblers (most often addicted by VLTs) are almost 3 times as high as those of non-gamblers. Millions of adults cite a spouse’s gambling problem as a significant factor in their divorces.
The National Gambling Impact Study Commission reported: “Children of compulsive gamblers are often prone to suffer abuse, as well as neglect, as a result of parental problem or pathological gambling.” VLT addicted parents are more likely to have children who are pathological gamblers.
Increased Suicides - Suicide rates among addicted gamblers are 30 % higher than in the general population.
Increased Illness - As gambling increases, so does illness including cardiovascular problems, anxiety, depression, cognitive disorders, chronic or severe headaches, and stress-related sickness.
Targets Victims
Slot machines are being designed to prey upon the young, women, seniors, and minorities.
Gambling is fastest growing addiction among U.S. teens, women, and senior citizens.
Pathological gambling for youth and young adults is growing at twice the rate for adults.
Poorest and least educated participants spend largest percentage of their income on gambling.
Texas experts estimate that video slot machines will cost poor Texans as much as a $1000 a year on top of the $1,000 they are already losing on the lottery.
One researcher noted that it is hard to lose thousands of dollars in one night in the lottery but not uncommon if playing video slot machines.
WRECKS THE ECONOMY
Gambling venues devastate the economy for both gamblers and non-gamblers:
Studies show that VLTs cost states $3 in social costs for every $1 of revenue generated.
Without including costs related to suicides and abused dollars, estimates of costs to taxpayers range from $13,000 - $52,000 a year per addicted gambler.
Compulsive gamblers cost the U.S. economy about $80 billion annually - $10 billion more than that spent to combat drug abuse.
The poor provide 90% of gambling revenue.
Gambling is a regressive, invisible tax paid directly by the poor and vulnerable, but indirectly by all taxpayers who must shoulder the burden for the subsequent social costs.
Skyrocketing Crime
Sept. 2004 research showed casinos hiked violent crime 13%.
Everywhere video slot machines have been legalized, crime rates have skyrocketed, including aggravated assault, rape, robbery, larceny, burglary, auto theft, embezzlement, and fraud.
1st 3 years of gambling in Atlantic City, New Jersey went from 50th in nation in per capita crime to 1st in the nation.
This results in:
Increased Need for Enforcement – police, fire, EMS, lighting, and other crime prevention costs.
Increased Overload of Court System.
Increased Overload of Prison System.
Increased Bankruptcies
Costs include lawsuits and legal costs as well as bill collection costs.
Bankruptcy rates in counties with state sponsored gambling are 18 % higher than in counties that have no gambling.
Increased Business & Employment Losses
Businesses suffer lost productivity, lost work time, unemployment related employer costs from employees who become addicted.
Cannibalizes other industries – restaurants, clothing stores, theaters, and other retail shops suffer in direct proportion to the gambling industry’s success. Thus, it changes the economic base and character of local communities.
Fully half of the small businesses in Atlantic City closed in the first years of legalized gambling there.
Riverboat gambling in Natchez, MS gutted the local business community.
Increased Government Social Services
Need to create or increase government social services such as gambling addiction treatment/therapy costs.
Resulting increase in unemployment, welfare, food stamps, Medicaid, and other social services drain local resources as well as state and federal taxpayer programs.
Increased Government Regulatory Expenses
Requires expansion of regulatory agencies, infrastructure, and government salaries.
Increased Dollars Abused
Diverts resources acquired from family, friends, employers under false pretenses away from family needs.
UNDERMINES AMERICAN VALUES
Unprincipled
It discourages hard work and saving.
State sponsored gambling – specifically video slot machines – promote a government sponsored message to citizens that getting ahead in life is a result of blind luck not education, hard work and initiative.
Building our government budgets on games of chance bolstered by deceptive state sponsored advertising campaigns sends a negative anti-work message to citizens and undermines the goals of personal achievement and individual contributions to our communities.
Breeds Corruption
Convenient front for organized crime to launder money from other activities such as drugs and prostitution.
Political corruption is rampant in states receiving revenue from casinos.
Does not stem illegal gambling, but rather creates a shadow industry.
State sanctioned advertising forces taxpayers to prop up this corruption.
LESSONS LEARNED
Poor Tax Policy
Not neutral.
Regressive.
Invisible – not transparent.
Allows legislators to shuffle money around that would have been used for education.
Promises are always larger than the actual return.
States Gambled and Lost
Governor of Nevada said “the lesson from the last 20 years is clear; our revenue system is broken because it has relied on regressive and unstable [gambling] taxes.”
Even the Mayor of Las Vegas wants VLTs removed from neighborhoods outside the strip to prevent the creation of more gambling addicts.
Even the casino-industry in Nevada only provides the state with a third of its revenue, much less than promised.
Every state that uses gambling as a revenue source has a budget deficit – most notably Nevada and New Jersey.
In 1999 Louisiana voted to unplug almost 5,000 VLTs.
Louisiana leaders say that most of the revenue from gambling in the state is immediately taken out of the state and sent to franchise owners in New Jersey.
South Dakota, the first state to house video slot machines in 1989 still had an estimated $54 million budget deficit for 2004 and an estimated $17 million deficit projected for 2005 (Center on Budget & Policy Priorities).
Former South Dakota Governor Bill Janklow called VLTs “the biggest mistake the state ever made.”
Former Nebraska Governor and current United States Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns reported that he would be, “hard-pressed to think that gambling benefits outweigh the detriments.”
In South Carolina, lawmakers abandoned plans to institute VLTs when “the huge social costs in the form of addiction and financial hardship” failed to produce any real economic benefit.
New York reports that it has earned only half of what it was projected to earn from VLTs at its race tracks.
Historical odds predict that areas that embrace VLTs make a relatively quick slide to full-blown casino gambling.
Texas
Gambling Industry promised $99.2 million ($98 revenue + $1.2 million for Commission) in 1987 when legislation to allow race tracks first passed. The first track opened in 1990. Revenues peaked at $5 million and have been declining since that time.
The Gambling Industry has repeatedly asked the Texas Legislature for changes characterized as vital to the survival of the industry only to insist that more is needed.
Public debt – After claiming that Texas would make millions, the industry asked the State to forgive $10.5 million in public debt in 1993, only 3 years after the first track opened.
Now the declining racing industry wants taxpayers to bail them out again.
VLTs provide 80 % of the revenues at race tracks and casinos. VLTs are propping up a declining gaming industry. Texans should not subsidize a failing industry.
State sponsored gambling may be a tax on the ignorant – but it is a tax that the state encourages through massive gambling advertising. The cost of that advertising is not reflected in the public balance sheet on gambling.
A Risky Bet but a Sure Fall
In 1999, the National Gambling Impact Study Commission Called for a Moratorium on Gambling Expansion.
The experience of states that have legalized slots and casinos reveals that the much hyped revenue is a mirage that never fully materializes.
Relying on the pathological behavior of VLT consumers to keep state revenue steady is a gamble in itself. Texas cannot wager the education and future of our children by counting on revenue that is predictably undeniable.
We are the Party of strong families and personal responsibility. We believe in government that is accountable to the people. Governments should protect and serve not abuse and enslave.
Ministers Against VLTs
"The church has a responsibility to help bring morals to the area and help bring people out of certain lifestyles," said Bishop James M. Briscoe, pastor of Free Gospel Church of Bryans Road in Indian Head. "Gambling is something we don't need in the community." Proponents say that legalizing slots would help produce badly needed revenue for education and other programs in a state facing serious budget problems. Ministers have been an important part of the anti-slots effort, said Bridgett Frey, a spokeswoman for Marylanders United Against Slots. The group provides brochures describing arguments against slots to ministers and other community leaders, and the material "flies out the door," she said. Marylanders United lists more than 30 religious leaders among its roughly 150-member steering committee, including Briscoe, treasurer of the Charles ministers alliance. "People are so jaded by Annapolis at this point that politicians are a difficult group to trust," Frey said. "But when your pastor looks at you and says this is the wrong decision for the state, we think that's a very powerful message." Members of the ministers alliance said that moral and religious beliefs prompted them to oppose the legalization of slot machines. Many cite Scriptural prohibitions against gambling, including a passage from Proverbs that says, "An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning; but the end thereof shall not be blessed." Pastor Willie R. Hunt, who leads New Community Church of God in Christ in Waldorf, said he has seen the harm that gambling can cause families. He said he has counseled people who have lost their homes and watched personal relationships deteriorate. Briscoe, a lifelong Maryland resident and longtime pastor in Prince George's and Charles counties, said he remembers watching people put money into slot machines for hours during the 1950s, when they were legal. The machines prey on lower-income people hoping to get rich quickly, he said, and they contribute to the moral degradation of the community.
Ohio Pols Against VLTs
Toledo Mayor Carty Finkbeiner and Ohio Racing Commissioner Jerry Chabler yesterday urged people to vote against a constitutional amendment for a single gambling casino in the Cincinnati area.Issue 6 on the statewide ballot asks voters to amend the Ohio Constitution to allow a casino resort off I-71 in Clinton County.The mayor said the issue does nothing for northwest Ohio; Mr. Chabler said it would threaten existing jobs at Ohio's racetracks.MyOhioNow.com, the group sponsoring the casino initiative, claims the proposal will yield 5,000 new jobs and generate a 30 percent gross-receipts tax that would be distributed to all Ohio counties.While the amendment would subject the casino to a tax of up to 30 percent on its gross receipts, if another casino is built in Ohio, the Clinton County casino's maximum tax rate of 30 percent would be reduced to 25 percent, or to the taxation level of the future casino if that rate is lower.It is unclear whether a Native American casino would be considered not taxable - meaning that the Clinton County's casino tax rate would remain at 30 percent - or if its tax rate would be considered zero, a recent analysis found.U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown and George Voinovich and Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland also oppose Issue 6.
Hidden Costs of Gambling (PA)
In the last year, the number of calls to the Pennsylvania Council on Compulsive Gambling has jumped 39 percent to 1,250 a month. Those numbers will likely continue to climb as more slots parlors open and more people get hooked. The New Jersey Council on Compulsive Gambling estimates that 20 percent of the customers in Atlantic City are problem gamblers. One study found that each compulsive gambler costs the economy between $14,000 and $22,000, which comes to $280 to $440 for every citizen.Nevada - where Las Vegas is the casino capital - often ranks at or near the top among states in suicide rates, crime, divorce, individual bankruptcies, gambling addiction and high school dropouts. Look for many of these same problems to increase in Pennsylvania as slots gambling spreads.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Cellular Phone Tower
The civic has contacted the Town of Hempstead regarding the unacceptable, and disrespectful condition of the property in front of the Cellular Phone Tower, located on 443 Hempstead Turnpike. (Picture shown)We had been informed Town Councilman Ed Ambrosino to do the necessary cleaning and visual improvement as promised. His assistant informed us that they have contacted the appropriate agency in an attempt to resolve this issue.
When the tower was first installed, with much hesitation, and extensive criticism from the Civic, and local community members, we were promised that the property will have extensive and beautiful landscaping. As everyone can see, that is not the case.
Several weeks and months had past and the property has not improved. In fact, you can see it degrading.
This matter may require a more direct communication with the Town of Hempstead to resolve this visible eye sore in the community.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Belmont Stakes
The week of the Belmont Stakes, starting on May 31at, has the potential of having a long lasing positive influence on the community. As long as NYRA puts family and community first, success will spill over to the neighboring businesses and be a positive component to the surrounding communities. Additionally it is important that enforcement of current laws and regulations take place to serve as an opportunity for revitalization.
Not every community has the opportunity to be on national television and the whole world watching. Individuals from across the country and world will be attendance, and participate in watching the “Sport of Kings,” at the most famous track in American horseracing. Elmont has the unique benefit of hosting the Belmont Stakes since 1905.
On June 7 regardless of how financially successful the day or week is. It helps to remind us, of what Historic Belmont Park really represents. Belmont Park by its design and accessibility is the peoples’ track. Whether or not you enjoy horseracing, there is the potential of history in the making. It is a day that helps us to remember passion of a sport, culture that existed on the Hempstead Plains since the 1600s and the history of champions.
I hope that once again, Elmont will be in the history book as we celebrate another Triple Crown winner.
Not every community has the opportunity to be on national television and the whole world watching. Individuals from across the country and world will be attendance, and participate in watching the “Sport of Kings,” at the most famous track in American horseracing. Elmont has the unique benefit of hosting the Belmont Stakes since 1905.
On June 7 regardless of how financially successful the day or week is. It helps to remind us, of what Historic Belmont Park really represents. Belmont Park by its design and accessibility is the peoples’ track. Whether or not you enjoy horseracing, there is the potential of history in the making. It is a day that helps us to remember passion of a sport, culture that existed on the Hempstead Plains since the 1600s and the history of champions.
I hope that once again, Elmont will be in the history book as we celebrate another Triple Crown winner.
Saturday, May 3, 2008
LI School District Warns About Gambling
The Three Village School District in Suffolk County, had sent out a notice to parents warning about gambling. Article can be viewed here: http://www.threevillages.com/Articles-i-2008-05-01-71471.113114_School_warns_parents_on_dangers_of_teen_gambling.html
The mailing produced by Three Village listed several common types of gambling, including lottery tickets and raffles, but also noted newer gambling outlets, including Internet gambling sites and gambling machines at restaurants. "It is important for parents to be aware of the different types of gambling available in today's society, reasons teens give for gambling, and the warning signs that your child might be addicted to gambling, a problem sometimes referred to as the 'hidden illness,'" the publication noted.
Study found that in the Three Village District, 70% of children from ages 10 to 17 had gambled. With a national rate of 4 to 7% of gamblers becoming problem gamblers, the issue is staggering.
It only will get worse, if more gambling opportunities become available. We must be proactive in this issue, before children lives and communities get destroyed.
The mailing produced by Three Village listed several common types of gambling, including lottery tickets and raffles, but also noted newer gambling outlets, including Internet gambling sites and gambling machines at restaurants. "It is important for parents to be aware of the different types of gambling available in today's society, reasons teens give for gambling, and the warning signs that your child might be addicted to gambling, a problem sometimes referred to as the 'hidden illness,'" the publication noted.
Study found that in the Three Village District, 70% of children from ages 10 to 17 had gambled. With a national rate of 4 to 7% of gamblers becoming problem gamblers, the issue is staggering.
It only will get worse, if more gambling opportunities become available. We must be proactive in this issue, before children lives and communities get destroyed.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Hayward: There are better options than VLTs
Strike a big win for Belmont Park, and its surrounding communities, as Charles Hayward openly expressed his hesitation with VLTs. Instead, he hopes to market Belmont Park, as an elite sporting location. Now we are talking about revitalization.
From the Sports Business Journal (April 28, 2008):http://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/article/58847Aqueduct Race Track in New York is slated to get more traditional slot machines in 2009, but New York Racing Association President and CEO Charles Hayward said he doesn’t expect many of the future slots customers to “cross over” and start betting the races.Four years ago, the largest crowd in New York horse racing history turned out to watch the Belmont Stakes, where Smarty Jones came up short in a bid for the Triple Crown. Instead, Hayward is targeting group sales efforts on Wall Street firms and law firms to find people who like things that are intellectually challenging. “You can’t take someone who is not predisposed to analysis and all the things that go into handicapping (and make them a fan). If people don’t like that, they are not going to be a horse player.”But, Hayward added, “If you get a good fan … that is a fan for life because there is no better game than betting on horses.”
From the Sports Business Journal (April 28, 2008):http://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/article/58847Aqueduct Race Track in New York is slated to get more traditional slot machines in 2009, but New York Racing Association President and CEO Charles Hayward said he doesn’t expect many of the future slots customers to “cross over” and start betting the races.Four years ago, the largest crowd in New York horse racing history turned out to watch the Belmont Stakes, where Smarty Jones came up short in a bid for the Triple Crown. Instead, Hayward is targeting group sales efforts on Wall Street firms and law firms to find people who like things that are intellectually challenging. “You can’t take someone who is not predisposed to analysis and all the things that go into handicapping (and make them a fan). If people don’t like that, they are not going to be a horse player.”But, Hayward added, “If you get a good fan … that is a fan for life because there is no better game than betting on horses.”
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Voicing Out Choice
The issue of VLTs, is something that must trigger debate as it should question ones values and ethics. What everyone agrees upon is that compulsive gambling is dangerous.
VLTs offer the most addictive form of gambling, and thus which creates the largest number of compulsive gamblers.
Visiting http://cagnyinf.org/ or http://www.ncalg.org/, you could see statistics, documents, reports that all state the obvious, expansion of gambling hurts communities.
Visiting http://www.nhptv.org/productions/theater.asp?streamdata=http://media.nhptv.org:8080/ramgen/outlook/nho04202008a.rm
offers an excellent documentary as to why states should oppose VLTs.
"Gambling is a very poor source of economic development. There is no evidence whatsoever that those states that have large sources of gambling revenues are better financially, or any better off in terms of what services they are offering and delivering. "
- Rhode Island Governor Donald Cariceri [R]
Elmont isn't a community in the middle of a dessert, or with a waterfront, or with a mountain landscape in the middle, it is surrounded by middle class, single family residential homes.
There is a difference that is obvious to see.
Fortunately, we have a choice. We do not need to have VLTs at Belmont. That is what many are not aware about. Belmont Park, is a world class racetrack, that offers the opportunity for many to invest in its development, and most importantly its recovery to becoming the finest race course in the world. Many are willing, however our voices need to be heard.
A museum and a cultural center that offer enriching concerts overseeing beautiful Belmont Park, a highlight to one of America's oldest sport, and a collection of history and triumph, at the Championship Course, that is Belmont.
We encourage everyone to voice out for choice, and sign our online petition.
http://www.petitiononline.com/novlts/petition.html
VLTs offer the most addictive form of gambling, and thus which creates the largest number of compulsive gamblers.
Visiting http://cagnyinf.org/ or http://www.ncalg.org/, you could see statistics, documents, reports that all state the obvious, expansion of gambling hurts communities.
Visiting http://www.nhptv.org/productions/theater.asp?streamdata=http://media.nhptv.org:8080/ramgen/outlook/nho04202008a.rm
offers an excellent documentary as to why states should oppose VLTs.
"Gambling is a very poor source of economic development. There is no evidence whatsoever that those states that have large sources of gambling revenues are better financially, or any better off in terms of what services they are offering and delivering. "
- Rhode Island Governor Donald Cariceri [R]
Elmont isn't a community in the middle of a dessert, or with a waterfront, or with a mountain landscape in the middle, it is surrounded by middle class, single family residential homes.
There is a difference that is obvious to see.
Fortunately, we have a choice. We do not need to have VLTs at Belmont. That is what many are not aware about. Belmont Park, is a world class racetrack, that offers the opportunity for many to invest in its development, and most importantly its recovery to becoming the finest race course in the world. Many are willing, however our voices need to be heard.
A museum and a cultural center that offer enriching concerts overseeing beautiful Belmont Park, a highlight to one of America's oldest sport, and a collection of history and triumph, at the Championship Course, that is Belmont.
We encourage everyone to voice out for choice, and sign our online petition.
http://www.petitiononline.com/novlts/petition.html
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Other States Saying No to Slots
In the last few years, several states (11 of them) had referendums voted no to the expansion of gambling in their states. The most prominent being California, and New Jersey.
The latest state to fight against gambling is Maryland.
An interesting article came out a couple day ago, and can be read here:
http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2008/04_17-21/GOV
Since 2001, New York State had legalized the expansion of gambling in the State with VLTs, despite the State Constitution clearly defining gambling as prohibited. However, the court system accepted it, since it was an artificial form of gambling through a virtual computer generated chance.
What many do not notice is, in that the same law that legalized VLTs in New York, strictly prohibits the addition of VLTs at Saratoga and Belmont Park.
The residents of Maryland has a point. VLTs are just the beginning. As we already are seeing, revenues are by far not reaching expectations, and revenue that were going to fund education, are going back for advertisements, and further expansion of gambling. As already seen in other states, VLTs locations are working on becoming full fledged casinos, and what will happen after that?
Spread the word, and join the hundreds of people who have voiced against the expansion of gambling at Belmont Park. Together, we can work together to protect the integrity and morality of Elmont, as well as the State of New York.
The latest state to fight against gambling is Maryland.
An interesting article came out a couple day ago, and can be read here:
http://www.hometownannapolis.com/cgi-bin/read/2008/04_17-21/GOV
Since 2001, New York State had legalized the expansion of gambling in the State with VLTs, despite the State Constitution clearly defining gambling as prohibited. However, the court system accepted it, since it was an artificial form of gambling through a virtual computer generated chance.
What many do not notice is, in that the same law that legalized VLTs in New York, strictly prohibits the addition of VLTs at Saratoga and Belmont Park.
The residents of Maryland has a point. VLTs are just the beginning. As we already are seeing, revenues are by far not reaching expectations, and revenue that were going to fund education, are going back for advertisements, and further expansion of gambling. As already seen in other states, VLTs locations are working on becoming full fledged casinos, and what will happen after that?
Spread the word, and join the hundreds of people who have voiced against the expansion of gambling at Belmont Park. Together, we can work together to protect the integrity and morality of Elmont, as well as the State of New York.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
February 21st Next Meeting
Our next Civic meeting will take place on February 21st as it serves as a perfect forum to discuss about issues pertaining to our community in order to ensure the best for our families, neighbors and friends. The Locustwood / Gotham Civic Association represents over 1,500 homes at the north-western corner of our great community of Elmont and all business from the Queens Border to Elmont Road on Hempstead Turnpike. In the spirits of our former “Long Island” President Theodore Roosevelt, the Civic has always “speak softly but carried a big stick.” It is our opinion that actions speak louder than words. Standing the test of time, the Civic has always worked hard to protect and maintain the highest level of community standards and working to maintain the social, economic and civic status of the community. As our community grew and the individuals who call Elmont home changed, many has forgotten or are not aware of one of the oldest civic association. It is up to all of us to continue for future generations to protect what we call a suburban community.
The Civic understands that we all have busy schedules to keep. It is often hard to find that free time to volunteer for the community. However, there are times it is necessary to help preserve the quality of life of our neighborhood. Keeping true to our by-laws, we shall always remain non-partisan, non-sectarian, non-profit and perhaps more important during these times: non-political. It is important for everyone to be informed, and to work together to resolve the issues that affects our families, neighbors and friends. Together we can make Elmont the best place to live anywhere. Do not always depend and expect everything from others. Paraphrasing another former and great President, John F. Kennedy: Ask not what your community can do for you, but ask what you can do for your community.
We expect to see greater involvement and participation in the months ahead. Attending our next meeting on February 21st at 7:30 P.M. at the Elmont Public Library is the first step in being proactive in our community. Bring your family, neighbors and friends. United, we stand to protect the voice of the people, the true sense of democracy,
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Will Closing OTB's be good for Elmont?
The New York City Off Track Betting Corporation will cease operations June 16 unless state officials provide regulatory relief before then, according to a January 16 report to the OTB’s board of directors.
Officials with some OTB’s, including NYCOTB, say the talks in Albany over the Thoroughbred franchise should also include resolution of long-standing competition problems between the tracks and off-track betting corporations.
Trimming OTB could result in greater benefits to the area tracks with increase attendance and betting. With $1Billion last year betted at NYCOTB, that money could potentially be spent at Aqueduct and Belmont. With a greater system of cost management through consolidation and a better system of profit sharing, the move might result in a benefit to NYRA, the surrounding communities and greater revenue to the State.
Leonard O. Allen, president of District Council 37’s Local 2021, which represents most of the employees who would be laid off, said he believed OTB appeared to have little choice but to close if the state does not make changes.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Revitalization of Elmont's Down Town
Working with the Town of Hempstead, the Locustwood / Gotham Civic Association helped petition a Restore New York Grant to revitalize our down town area. $100 million were awarded to various projects across the state through competitive grants. Despite this large figure, three quarters went to needed funding of upstate projects, that left the Long Island area with a total of $7 million.
Fortunately, for the residents of Elmont, the Restore New York with the works of the civic and the Town of Hempstead helped secure $2.5 million for the Argo Theatre / Down Town Project. We hope to continue working hard with the Town to secure a brighter future and securing the essence of our suburban residential community.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
VLTs Do Not Bring Sustainable Development
Elmont Coalition for Sustainable Development
Goals
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Facilitate Community Revitalization by working with professional visioning, community development and architectural/engineering agencies/corporations to develop a safe, fun, and environmentally healthy place to live, work, and shop for all of our citizens.
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Identify and re-develop dilapidated structures within the community.
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Identify and develop green spaces
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Improve Hempstead Turnpike by working with the DOT to improve the Turnpike, which is on the State Department of Transportation’s Calendar for major renovation in 2008?. This includes but is not limited to repaving, traffic lights, bulb-outs, medians, turning lanes and sidewalks.
Work with Town Council Representatives to introduce legislation that informs the DOT that our community has a Elmont Coalition for Community Revitalization and that we are developing a land use plan.
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Develop a Land Use Plan.
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Pursue the idea of burying or moving to the outer perimeters electric, cable and phone wires.
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Foster Economic Development and the future potential of the Elmont district as a business friendly community.
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Create a Business Improvement District (BID)
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Create a business incubator environment including the possibility of a specially designed WiFi network.
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Work collaboratively with the Town and County to market the advantages of the Empire Zone designation to attract businesses to Elmont.
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Create “downtown” areas along major corridors in Elmont. The location of these areas specific to Hempstead Turnpike will be determined by the results of the visioning process.
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Build a Process for the Development of the Youth of Our Community by addressing the specific needs of young children and teenagers, and by fostering partnerships with specific organizations throughout the district to help meet these needs.
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Create recreational opportunities for youth as determined by visioning plan.
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Encourage the creation of teen services offered by the schools, youth organization (GYO) and library working in partnership.
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Encourage local business to address the recreational and workforce development needs of youth.
Develop a Range of Housing Options and look for places to build affordable housing particularly to support younger workers.
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Identify funding options for the implementation of community development projects.
Opposition Voices of VLTs Rising.
The voices of those who oppose the VLTs at Belmont Park are rising.
January 2, 2007, Floral Park mayor Phil Guarnieri in his monthly message found at: http://www.fpvillage.org/ clearly shares the same sentiments of the "western" Elmont civic association.
Here are some quotes to highlight:
"Saratoga Racetrack, however, would be conspicuously exempt from VLT's and racinos because, as one observer put it, Saratoga is a gem that needs no polishing."
Unlike how our "Eastern" Elmont civic member noticed, Saratoga racetrack held by NYRA will not have VLTs thanks to Senatorial leadership.
"At the public hearing, I expressed deep reservations about state sponsored gambling in general and the proposed expansion of gambling at Belmont Park in particular. I do not see an Atlantic City environment as a blueprint for economic success of revitalization."
VLTs goes against everything we're working hard for improving. It goes against the basic objectives of the Sustainable Long Island Project. VLTs will become a disaster for revitalization of the community.
"As for those who think that the expansion of gambling at Belmont is the shortest route to an economic renaissance in western Nassau, I think they will be sadly disillusioned."
We agree.
As the forces in support of VLTs may seem inevitable, even the strongest forces will fall to the will and for the good of the people.
January 2, 2007, Floral Park mayor Phil Guarnieri in his monthly message found at: http://www.fpvillage.org/ clearly shares the same sentiments of the "western" Elmont civic association.
Here are some quotes to highlight:
"Saratoga Racetrack, however, would be conspicuously exempt from VLT's and racinos because, as one observer put it, Saratoga is a gem that needs no polishing."
Unlike how our "Eastern" Elmont civic member noticed, Saratoga racetrack held by NYRA will not have VLTs thanks to Senatorial leadership.
"At the public hearing, I expressed deep reservations about state sponsored gambling in general and the proposed expansion of gambling at Belmont Park in particular. I do not see an Atlantic City environment as a blueprint for economic success of revitalization."
VLTs goes against everything we're working hard for improving. It goes against the basic objectives of the Sustainable Long Island Project. VLTs will become a disaster for revitalization of the community.
"As for those who think that the expansion of gambling at Belmont is the shortest route to an economic renaissance in western Nassau, I think they will be sadly disillusioned."
We agree.
As the forces in support of VLTs may seem inevitable, even the strongest forces will fall to the will and for the good of the people.
Friday, December 28, 2007
NYRA Gets Extension: Thoughts
NYRA been a bad neighbor. NYRA hasn't helped the surrounding stores and businesses. NYRA doesn't care about Elmont. These are the words of our locally elected representatives in Albany.
What can we say about their oversight on NYRA?
Probably the same things.
Truth is, NYRA isn't the typical bad neighbor; but one that got lazy because no one bothered to watch them. Their hands got caught in the cookie jar, and they vouch for change; and perhaps it is for the better. They've been there for over 50 years. In the early 1900s, that plot of land was up for sale. The mostly rural setting was worried, that another large plot of land (600 acres at the time), would be sold to add another cemetery in the community.
Fortunately, the likes of Belmont and Morgan, bought the land, back then known as the Oatlands. There was a Tudor-Gothic Mansion surrounded by "ancient trees" and where the Turf and Field Club remained till 1956.
1903, in part to immigrants (from Italy, Poland and Ireland) helped to build Belmont Park. Many of these immigrants later stayed and helped formed the first suburbia, and Elmont. So from its commencement in 1905 to 1965, it was the Westchester Racing Association that owned the property, led by Belmont II.
It was in 1965, that New York State, decided in order to provide a competitive and controlled (and the best) racing in America, a single entity should control the four major racing tracks in New York. Thus the Greater Racing Association of New York was formed. They purchased the shares and deeds of the 4 tracks. One year later, they become known as its current name, New York Racing Association (NYRA).
By 1966, NYRA was in full flight, and "modernizing" the tracks at Belmont and Aqueduct. The historic mansion was demolished, and big giant "ancient trees" were cleared to make way. However, the "old tree" remained, giving us a glimmer as to what this land was once before.
Thanks to NYRA, we were able to witness, the glorious racing of Secretariat, the tragic end of Ruffian, Seabiscuit cross the country in train to race, the record of the largest attendance at a sporting event, and the honor of hosting the first sporting event in the US, after the tragedy of 9-11.
With its history, lore and glamor, from the place where US Air Mail first took flight, where the Wright Brothers held their International Air Flight Competition, to where the French King sought asylum from political persecution. It is a place, where others would be jealous of what it means.
The 600 acres once known as the Oatlands, and now Belmont Park, is no longer 600 acres. Its Southwest corner, converted to a city park, its northwest corner, converted to an Elementary School, its Southeastern corner, converted to a small police hub, and its western corner having the Cross Island Expressway, and a train station. Nevertheless, it remains being 430 acres, give or take.
Belmont history and lore has been forgotten. Forgotten by even the politicians who swore to seek out what is best for our community. When approached with the idea of adding a museum, to attract visitors, restore and reunite the community; we got the rude response, "when are we going to be done speaking." Needless to say, this came from the same individual who said, "Who's going to pay for the traffic light," in regard to a dangerous place on Hempstead Turnpike where numerous accidents and fatalities had occurred.
However, VLTs took a higher priority. Where did these same individuals sought to gain support for them? By visiting a local elementary school. Let me ask you this. How would feel if your state elected official visited the elementary school of your child, and talked to them how VLTs (in simpler terms gambling) will help their education. This is extremely sad, and in one word: tragic.
Tragic in that, they can convince individuals that gambling money is the only way to help Elmont. It is tragic to see, the hard work of Italian, Irish and Polish workers to build the best Racing Track in America, be shortchanged and demoralized into a VLT parlor.
Todays residents of our great community, will suffer tremendously. Let's don't forget that less than 6% of the money spent on VLTs actually go to education. Simply think, of all the potential lives that are risk, the individuals and families who are ruined. I am concerned for the welfare of the children of the community. I am aware of what VLTs had done to that poor baby who died in her mothers car in South Carolina, because she had to go and gamble on VLTs. I am aware of likes of what happen in Kentucky, West Virginia, New Brunswick, Rhode Island, Quebec, Alberta, and others (just naming a few from news reports and studies) where children are affected, unable to get supplies for school, become addicted themselves and are unable to live a normal life cause of what VLTs had done to their families and community. These are the harsh reality, and the deep cutting price and long lasting affect VLTs have.
Let us bring back what Belmont Park was. Bring back the Turf and Field Mansion. Make into a museum, a community center. Have a place to hold concerts, community events and make it friendly, and family oriented place. The community wants an improvement at Belmont. not its destruction. We only hope that the media will not remain one sided by only listening to individuals who live across town, or in farther away communities, but take into account the opinions and sentiments of people that actually live around Belmont Park.
What can we say about their oversight on NYRA?
Probably the same things.
Truth is, NYRA isn't the typical bad neighbor; but one that got lazy because no one bothered to watch them. Their hands got caught in the cookie jar, and they vouch for change; and perhaps it is for the better. They've been there for over 50 years. In the early 1900s, that plot of land was up for sale. The mostly rural setting was worried, that another large plot of land (600 acres at the time), would be sold to add another cemetery in the community.
Fortunately, the likes of Belmont and Morgan, bought the land, back then known as the Oatlands. There was a Tudor-Gothic Mansion surrounded by "ancient trees" and where the Turf and Field Club remained till 1956.
1903, in part to immigrants (from Italy, Poland and Ireland) helped to build Belmont Park. Many of these immigrants later stayed and helped formed the first suburbia, and Elmont. So from its commencement in 1905 to 1965, it was the Westchester Racing Association that owned the property, led by Belmont II.
It was in 1965, that New York State, decided in order to provide a competitive and controlled (and the best) racing in America, a single entity should control the four major racing tracks in New York. Thus the Greater Racing Association of New York was formed. They purchased the shares and deeds of the 4 tracks. One year later, they become known as its current name, New York Racing Association (NYRA).
By 1966, NYRA was in full flight, and "modernizing" the tracks at Belmont and Aqueduct. The historic mansion was demolished, and big giant "ancient trees" were cleared to make way. However, the "old tree" remained, giving us a glimmer as to what this land was once before.
Thanks to NYRA, we were able to witness, the glorious racing of Secretariat, the tragic end of Ruffian, Seabiscuit cross the country in train to race, the record of the largest attendance at a sporting event, and the honor of hosting the first sporting event in the US, after the tragedy of 9-11.
With its history, lore and glamor, from the place where US Air Mail first took flight, where the Wright Brothers held their International Air Flight Competition, to where the French King sought asylum from political persecution. It is a place, where others would be jealous of what it means.
The 600 acres once known as the Oatlands, and now Belmont Park, is no longer 600 acres. Its Southwest corner, converted to a city park, its northwest corner, converted to an Elementary School, its Southeastern corner, converted to a small police hub, and its western corner having the Cross Island Expressway, and a train station. Nevertheless, it remains being 430 acres, give or take.
Belmont history and lore has been forgotten. Forgotten by even the politicians who swore to seek out what is best for our community. When approached with the idea of adding a museum, to attract visitors, restore and reunite the community; we got the rude response, "when are we going to be done speaking." Needless to say, this came from the same individual who said, "Who's going to pay for the traffic light," in regard to a dangerous place on Hempstead Turnpike where numerous accidents and fatalities had occurred.
However, VLTs took a higher priority. Where did these same individuals sought to gain support for them? By visiting a local elementary school. Let me ask you this. How would feel if your state elected official visited the elementary school of your child, and talked to them how VLTs (in simpler terms gambling) will help their education. This is extremely sad, and in one word: tragic.
Tragic in that, they can convince individuals that gambling money is the only way to help Elmont. It is tragic to see, the hard work of Italian, Irish and Polish workers to build the best Racing Track in America, be shortchanged and demoralized into a VLT parlor.
Todays residents of our great community, will suffer tremendously. Let's don't forget that less than 6% of the money spent on VLTs actually go to education. Simply think, of all the potential lives that are risk, the individuals and families who are ruined. I am concerned for the welfare of the children of the community. I am aware of what VLTs had done to that poor baby who died in her mothers car in South Carolina, because she had to go and gamble on VLTs. I am aware of likes of what happen in Kentucky, West Virginia, New Brunswick, Rhode Island, Quebec, Alberta, and others (just naming a few from news reports and studies) where children are affected, unable to get supplies for school, become addicted themselves and are unable to live a normal life cause of what VLTs had done to their families and community. These are the harsh reality, and the deep cutting price and long lasting affect VLTs have.
Let us bring back what Belmont Park was. Bring back the Turf and Field Mansion. Make into a museum, a community center. Have a place to hold concerts, community events and make it friendly, and family oriented place. The community wants an improvement at Belmont. not its destruction. We only hope that the media will not remain one sided by only listening to individuals who live across town, or in farther away communities, but take into account the opinions and sentiments of people that actually live around Belmont Park.
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