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Indiana Residents Anticipate Changes

FRENCH LICK, Indiana – As reported by the Associated Press: "Some in southern Indiana's Orange County see a panacea to prosperity, others a Pandora's box that has just been opened.

"Folks in and around Larry Bird's hometown, however, now agree on one thing -- casino gambling is coming and change will come with it.

"…The gambling question was settled Tuesday, when residents of the economically depressed county voted nearly 2-to-1 in favor of a casino.

"…It could be several months before the Indiana Gaming Commission chooses an operator and construction begins.

"…Most gambling proponents and opponents agree a casino will bring more jobs to the county, which for several years now has had one of the state's highest unemployment rates. Some backers have promised 2,000 new jobs in the county, but some opponents say it will be closer to 400.

"State Rep. Jerry Denbo, a Democrat from French Lick who spent years fighting for casino rights in the General Assembly, said the area could become the `garden of the Midwest,' much like it was decades ago when gambling flourished here.

"Some say any economic lift will be welcome.

"…Marty Meyer and Sue Self of French Lick, who were at the bar playing a no-stakes game of cards, said they will also welcome a casino. They weren't concerned about opponents' predictions of more crime…"

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