My endorsement of legalizing gambling outright in New York

The legalization of gambling in New York has always been a sticky topic (morality, New Jersey), but New York needs gambling.

Although the state, even Upstate itself, is divided, it's not a luxury for gambling and casinos to come to New York. It's a necessity. Sullivan County, located right near New York City (about 100 miles away, in many places less), has been suffering a serious economic decline since the late 1960s. Signs of it were apparent even about the time Woodstock happened.

There are optimistic signs, like the inchworm return of bungalows as summer co-ops, but the only way Sullivan County will make a true comeback is if gambling is legalized. The Concord and Grossinger's both need to be rebuilt to allow a new generation of New Yorkers to enjoy the beauty of a Catskill summer. Sure, you don't get the palm trees and sandy beaches in the Catskills, but you get comfortable weather and easy access to New York City, if you need to interrupt your vacation briefly. Upstate New York needs the tourist money that casinos provide. And for my downstate friends: don't you want Upstate to be able to stand economically on its own two feet? And casinos also bring other goodies too: entertainment, good dining, and opportunities for business conventions (many of these casinos also have conference rooms). Most importantly, for Republicans who buy into the trickle down theory, legalizing gambling will lead to the restoration of the village downtowns across New York State. In my opinion, legalization is a no-brainer. And you will, no matter what, have gambling addicts.

So, on election day (November 5th), go to the polls and vote yes on legalizing gambling in New York.

ALSO: I have a message to the Hasidics who come to the Catskills: please share, especially when it comes to the road. I don't want to run over anyone.