Self-Government is Always MessyThe editorial in The Sun...

Let's face it, the only people beating the drums for casinos are the casino gambling interests and their representatives. They will be the big winners if casinos are legalized in Maryland. The citizens of Maryland and many small business owners will be the big losers. Marylanders should be made aware that casinos erode the quality of life wherever they locate.

As Ocean City Mayor Roland E. "Fish" Powell said in testifying against casino gambling at the July 24 public hearing in Easton . . . when Ocean City had illegal gambling in the 1940s only a handful of families profited while others lost their livelihoods. He said, "I personally witnessed farmers lose $30,000 to the roll of the dice." If illegal gambling can wreak such havoc, just imagine what legalized gambling will do.

This state is already deep enough in legalized gambling as a revenue source. It depends on the Lottery, the third largest source of revenue, to fund the entire range of state services. Many think Maryland has gone too far in its dependence on gambling revenue. I, certainly, think it has gone far enough.

Now and during the 1996 General Assembly session, I will do everything I can to see that the legislature rejects legalized casinos in Maryland. If you believe as I do, I urge you to contact your legislators and the governor's office and inform them of your views.

Edward J. Kasemeyer

Arbutus

The writer is a state delegate representing Legislative District 12, which includes parts of Howard and Baltimore counties.