Jan. 2, 2002
Dear Citizen and Kentucky Baptist:
On behalf of the Committee on Public Affairs, I want to make you aware of a very important issue that will be facing our Kentucky General Assembly when it convenes on Jan. 8. You may have read about the budget shortfall our Commonwealth is facing. This in itself is a serious problem but we on the Committee on Public Affairs are concerned that our legislators will be very tempted to compound this problem by greatly expanding gambling in an effort to make up the shortfall. It is a classic example of seeking a quick and easy solution for a complex problem that will in the long term do much more damage than good. Pro-gambling forces are already lining up to push this "quick fix" solution through the General Assembly. These forces are extremely well organized and well financed.
For this reason it is vital for Kentucky Baptists to speak out very clearly to our legislators now. They need to hear your opinion about expanding gambling. Timing is very crucial. The General Assembly convenes Jan. 8 and we need to speak to our elected officials before gambling interests begin pouring in money to sway them and the public.
The task for us is really very simple.
We must encourage hundreds of citizens to write personal letters
to Kentucky legislators about this issue and do it now.
We are asking you to network with other association, church and community leaders by doing just two things:
1) Set up a time when you and a group of others will write one or more letters to the governor and your state legislators. For example, if you are a pastor you might encourage individuals to bring stationery and envelopes to a Wednesday night prayer service and allow them time to write their letters as a group. You might have other ideas for getting folks together to write as well. Click here to learn who your Legislators are.
2) Pass this information along to anyone else you know who will help. This should be a concern for all Kentuckians. I encourage you to make personal phone calls to encourage participation and to share this information in your bulletins or newsletters.
Please help us with this urgent task. This is a very crucial time in the life of our state. We can make a difference but only if we take initiative!
A brother in Christ,
Dr. Floyd Paris
Chairman, Committee on Public Affairs
