I’m opposed to the racetrack/casino being promoted by the Greater Tucumcari Economic Development Corp., the City Council and Quay County commissioners, who apparently view the racino as a regional economic panacea.

As a minister of Christ, I primarily oppose gambling on moral as well as practical grounds. I believe it to be a sickness that has infected our country and many parts of the world.   

This issue is not just about showcasing prime horse flesh, trainers and riders. The racino also means slot machines and liquor. Most importantly, lives are involved. 

Gambling is an affront to God in that its practice violates the 10th commandment and causes people to divert their trust in him to provide for their needs, and to go and seek wealth beyond honorable labor, which is a blessing from the Lord. 

Gambling seeks to accumulate wealth for the few at the expense of the many, and the toll extends much deeper than the pockets of those who participate. 

Families are wrecked every day. Children suffer, bills don’t get paid and crime increases in the wake of gambling establishments. 

Have our city fathers considered the perceived economic boon  will not compensate for the increased costs of law enforcement and crime to the community? Yes, people will steal to support their weaknesses. 

Will this really be a driver to economic recovery? My concern is who is at the wheel and what direction will we be taken? 

Edmund Burke said “the only thing necessary for the triumph (of evil) is for good men to do nothing.” 

I hope and pray that all who fear God and care about their children, grandchildren and the future of this region will voice their opposition to a racino in Tucumcari.
 
Rev. David P. McAfee
Tucumcari