01-21-2009, 08:45 AM
The issue of putting slot machines in fancy hotels is idiotic because if you're going to do something, you should do it right and that means full-blown casinos. The Big Island is much like a third world country in which the people speak English and use American money, and we could use every break the federal government allows. One thought that comes to mind is based on the "Indian Reservation" model on the mainland. I don't know where these "Native Hawaiian Lands" are, but I do know that a casino somewhere in the middle of Saddle Road would be a moneymaker. Tourists could take special busses and locals from both sides of the island would have easy access. They spend money to fly to Las Vegas, and staying here would benefit the local economy. Gambling, like drugs, is a horrible addiction for many and the issue should be addressed accordingly.