by Fred Jackson
(AgapePress) – A report says there has been a dramatic growth in gambling addiction among the nation’s seniors. And while some groups are taking steps to try to help, many casinos see the trend as just another opportunity to make money.
The Washington Post reports that in California, where the elderly population is expected to double in the next two decades, counselors on problem gambling are touring the many retirement communities with films and lectures on gambling addiction.
In the east, where, for example, buses unload thousands of retirees every day in Atlantic City, groups are going to churches and other civic gatherings to tell the children of elderly gamblers about the dangers that betting poses for their parents. As well, last month in Florida, specialists in problem gambling came from across the country for a strategy session devoted to curbing elderly gambling.
All these campaigns are designed to help seniors face a major opponent — the casinos themselves. As The Post report notes, many are trying harder than ever to attract retirees. For example, some are dispatching buses to senior centers and trailer parks, and timing their free-ride offers to coincide with the arrival of monthly social security checks. Other casino enticements include midday entertainment to suit elderly tastes, as well discounts for food, drinks or lodging.
(This update courtesy of Agape Press.)
Our Nation’s Future Rests in Our Faith in God
by Edward H. Curtis
Colonel, USAF Retired
(AgapePress) – The close association that exists between loyalty to country and loyalty to God in our American way of life is the result of neither accident nor coincidence. Rather, it is a pattern that was closely woven throughout the cornerstone documents upon which our nation is founded. For example, when we pledge allegiance, it is to “one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
In that light, when we pledge allegiance, let us remember that we are pledging our priceless heritage of yesterday and our hope for tomorrow.
Patriotism or love of country is not a way of life that exists only for adults. Our youth of today are not the first generation who have gone through an age of trauma and distrust of their elders. Their attitude will change as they take on the responsibilities of adulthood and based on past history, they will be glad they have changed. For every irrational and irresponsible young person in our society today there are hundreds of patriotic, responsible, committed youth who are working for a better America.
What more fitting legacy can we pass to our youth than the motivation to love God, and to love America? We all want to maintain a society in which men govern themselves and are free to progress as far as their ability and initiative can carry them.
The future of America rests with our faith in God and a new dedication to the principles which have preserved us as a nation with all our faults and errors. No other nation has built on so noble a foundation or followed so faithfully such splendid ideals. God help us to keep it that way.
