With the loss of so many jobs in just the past few years, the argument of the quality of life here in Maine has been rendered mute. The proposed casino is becoming more and more acceptable in this “from away” Mainer’s eyes. We should step back for a moment and view this issue untainted by rose-colored glasses.

The service sector has been accepted as the future of work for many Americans. Whether we clean carpets or spin roulette wheels makes little difference for those of us without a job. Just because a casino is built here does not mean every single one of us must blaze a trail to the front doors of the neighborhood gambling hall.

For those of us looking for work and unable to find it, please accept this as an alternative to soup kitchen lines. It may sound drastic to be reduced to someone pandering to gamblers, but going to bed hungry at night is equally hard to swallow being “from away.”

Michael Boom, Lewiston

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