PEOPLE

The Southeast Missourian asked people how they felt about riverboat gambling coming to Cape Girardeau.

Debbi Goodier said, "I will be voting against riverboat gambling. I am concerned about the effects it will have on families and where the money will go. I am concerned about the safety of my two little girls and the type of people that will come to town with riverboat gambling.

Billy Duncan said, "I think the issue of riverboat gambling is a touch and go situation. It is hard to say if it would help or hinder the local economy. It could be a helpful attraction for tourists who might shop in town while they are here. But personally I don't really care."

Sue Wagner said, "It would be the best thing for Cape Girardeau. It would help boost the economy, bring revenue to the city and provide a source of entertainment for the people who choose to go there. People will have to use self-control but that is true with other things also."

Steve Wellman said, "When riverboat gambling came to Port Madison, Iowa, it was really great. It built up a part of the city down by the river that was run down. But then they left and went to Biloxi because they weren't making enough money. That was one of their options."

Joel Rollins said, "I would vote yes for riverboat gambling in Cape Girardeau for the simple reason it would help boost the local commerce in the downtown area. I personally probably would not use it, but for the ones that would go to the casino, it would be good entertainment."

Robert Pilsner said, "It is not going to affect me either way because I am not a gambler. But if other people want to gamble that is up to them. It's no different than bingo and the lottery. If people really want to do something they will find a place to go and do it."