Vote "no" on Question 2. Don't allow a casino in Oxford County.

A casino may look like easy money, but we cannot afford this gamble. Harrington, Del., allowed a casino to be built based on the same promises we are hearing: Jobs for people, tax and tourism income for the town.

Thefts, violent crime, drug problems and prostitution became rampant overnight.

Taxes increased because they needed much more police protection. Many of the promised jobs were in construction.

Workers were brought in from big companies in big cities.

The others were low paying: Parking attendants, cocktail waitresses, cleaning staff, etc.

In short, the once peaceful town was ruined and the people were unhappily stuck with the crime and misery they had brought upon themselves. No respectable people could live there and feel safe and enjoy life. I hope this doesn't happen in Maine.

Some think a casino will bring in beneficial tourism. Most casinos are positioned slightly out of town, away from other businesses. They prefer to keep people spending on site. They undercut area restaurants, campgrounds and entertainment so people spend their money gambling -- maximizing their profits. Local businesses actually may find their volume decrease.

Casinos are destructive and dangerous.

Maine has so much to offer -- good local options. Don't fall for the "easy money" prattle. All that glitters is not gold. Vote "no" on Question 2. Make sure your friends and neighbors understand this issue.

Eileen McGuire

Farmington