I was very happy to read, recently, that Rick Bennett and Rep. Jim Hamper have spoken out against the proposed casino in Oxford County. I also congratulate the Paris selectmen who refused to support it.

Yes, jobs are needed in the area, but does anyone need one so badly that they don’t care how it affects others?

I encourage officials in Oxford to search for good, wholesome companies to provide those jobs.

I have heard that the crime rate goes up in other places where gambling is permitted. Who will the victims be? Maybe someone I love?

Gambling can be very addictive. Even though people are told to play responsibly, there will be those in this economically depressed area who will try to multiply the little they have. Individuals and families will suffer. Who will meet their needs? Town taxpayers and Maine citizens?

I know people who have gone to other casinos with $100 and lost it all. That could probably have been put to better use, paying part of the rent/mortgage, buying food, or putting clothing on someone’s back.

I urge Oxford officials to research those and other negative effects of gambling.

Don’t believe everything Olympia Gaming says.

Dorothy Tibbetts, Oxford