On June 28th, 2008, Reverend John Edgar, the chairman of the United Methodist Anti-Gambling Task Force commented that Governor Ted Strickland has deviated from his pledge to his fellow Methodist that he will not pushed for a new lottery game. Governor Strickland, who is an ordained Methodist minister, commented that he did not violate his pledge with his support for the game of keno. Strickland decided to support the game to supplement the expected budget deficit.
The game of keno is scheduled to start on August 1st, 2008. Keith Dailey, the governor's spokesperson commented that the Ohio Lottery Commission is managed by the state, sanctioned by the state voters and has a colorful history of featuring brand new casino games. He said that Governor Strickland believe that keno is just a brand new game. Dailey added that offering keno is just a way to raise additional profits that will benefit the schools in the area.
Dailey commented that the problem between Governor Strickland and Reverend John Edgar is just misconception on how the game of keno is played and Governor Strickland is still generally opposed on gaming expansion in Ohio. The issue came as Reverend Edgar and other know gaming critics mount their latest move to fight the gaming issue that will be place in the November 4th, 2008 Ohio ballot.
The main proposal calls for modifying the state constitution to allow a $600 million casino facility and resort in Dayton-area city of Wilmington in Clinton County. Organizers of MyOhioNow.com are currently collecting signatures and discussing the casinos benefits in Southwest Ohio.
[20-07]
John M. Thorpe
