Governor LePage wants to use casino money earmarked for education to close state’s budget hole
A proposal by Gov. Paul LePage would take $14 million in casino funds earmarked for public schools and move it to the state General Fund to help fill a $112 million budget gap. Democratic lawmakers, including the chairman of the Legislature’s Education and Cultural Affairs Committee, said that would set “a really bad precedent,”
In my opinion, legislature must look at this as a short term fix due to the pending Massachusetts casinos. As an educator, I have been continuously shocked to see this happen. I have witnessed the cut back of funds in education across the northeast, especially in areas of the arts, physical education, other "non-academic" (gosh, I HATE that reference!) programs. Those "temporary"cut finances never seem to return - instead future cuts are made instead of fixing the problem without touching those funds needed for education. Voters approved the Oxford Casino in 2010 under the promise that 46 percent of the profits would help fund public education in Maine. Let's hope the Governor is a man of the state of Maine's word!
HOLLYWOOD CASINO, HOTEL, and RACEWAY
I am still hoping to make a trip down east to see both casinos - unfortunately my plans for the present are not in the cards. (Sorry, I couldn't resist). I am thinking of taking advantage of Hollywood's Hotel packages. They have 148 deluxe rooms and 4 suites. They also have a 15% Advance Purchase Discount when calling ahead. As always, check the website or call for details. Call 1-877-779-7771 to book or to learn more.
A new promotion to start the year is called JACKPOT AWARDS. For every taxable jackpot you hit between January 1 and February 23, you will receive one ballot towards your share of $15,000 in Free Slot Play, PLUS a chance for an additional bonus of $100 in Free Slot Play for any taxable jackpot hit on February 23. Visit Player Services for complete details. Taxable jackpot of $1,200 or greater is needed to qualify.
OXFORD CASINO has 2 new promotions
- $100 in Free Slot Play - If you visit Guest Services, and enter your email address, you could win $100 in Free Slot Play every week for a year!
- BREAK THE BANK - a Million Dollar Scratch off Game. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through March 31st, free scratch tickets are handed out. No purchase is necessary, but again, see Guest Services for details
OXFORD CASINO CONTRIBUTES MORE THAN $25 MILLION TO MAINE ECONOMY IN 2012 Final financial numbers show that Maine's first casino buoyed the state's economy with 429 new jobs and $14.8 million in tax revenue plus millions in new wages and services from Maine vendors. With 2012 closed, the owners and managers of Oxford Casino have estimated the new business's economic impact on the state of Maine to be more than $25 million for the year with over 400 new jobs created. Maine Gambling Control Board's annual report for 2012 revealed that Oxford Casino contributed $14.8 million dollars in tax revenue, the majority of which is earmarked for secondary education. In addition to these tax dollars, Oxford Casino paid millions of dollars in wages for 429 employees, $54,325 in charitable contributions, and $8.9 million for products and services from regional businesses. "I voted for the casino to create jobs and a positive economic impact in Oxford County and the State," said Sen. John Patrick (D-Oxford), "and the casino has proven to be just such a positive force."
Thank You, Sen Patrick. And Thank You, my new Royal Fans of New England Gaming. It's great to see your comments. I will be expanding the comment section soon. Maybe there are some Maine casino patrons who would like to report their findings. In any case, thanks for letting me into your "casinosphere."
That's All for Now!
Binbin
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