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Maine Groups Press Towards Polling Day

MAINE – As reported by the Portland Press Herald: "Campaigns for and against legalized casino gambling in Maine featured big names and key announcements Tuesday, one week before voters go to the polls.

"The anti-casino campaign sponsored a mothers' rally in Portland's Payson Park that featured Olympic marathoner and gold medalist Joan Benoit Samuelson. Mary Herman, whose husband is former governor Angus King, also spoke against the referendum, Question 3 on Tuesday's ballot. The campaign in favor of allowing the Passamaquoddy Tribe and Penobscot Nation to open a casino announced a tribal pledge to buy at least $100 million worth of Maine goods and services, should the project get built.

"…At the heart of each event was the referendum question asking if voters want to allow the two Maine tribes to open a casino if part of the revenue is used by the state for education aid and municipal revenue sharing.

"Voting yes would enact the Maine Tribal Gaming Act. A provision in the act that allows minors to play bazaar games at the casino resort has come under fire in TV ads and at a Casinos No! rally Tuesday.

"…Campaign manager Erin Lehane said the tribes would not have a separate arcade area, and that the tribes merely want to hold a carnival on the grounds.

"Edie Leary of Casinos No!, said the tribal gaming act allows more than a carnival.

"…The pro-casino group Think About It stressed economic opportunities at its press conference, held at the Portland Business Center.

"Lehane said the tribes pledged to commit more than $100 million for Maine goods and services if the casino resort is built. She said the tribes would give preference to Maine-owned companies when obtaining services, even if the same services or products were available for less out of state…"

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