Editor:
Re: Can’t find the crime, Murphy’s Law, July 26
First of all, big congratulations on the award for best community newspaper in Canada. As an avid reader of the Optimist, I am very happy. As a resident of a smaller community, I feel very fortunate to have a paper that covers our local government affairs, local stories, children’s sports, etc.
On another topic, I have to disagree with the editorial by Ted Murphy after his visits to some Alberta casinos. The fact he didn’t “see” any crimes being committed isn’t exactly surprising given money launderers do not announce to the crowd what they’re doing.
Also, Alberta is not Metro Vancouver, and I don’t mean that as a compliment to Vancouver. The Lower Mainland is a gateway to and from Asia, and the majority of the money launderers, drug dealers, loan sharks, etc. who use Vancouver area casinos for nefarious purposes do seem to be from Asia.
I agree that most people at a casino aren’t there for criminal purposes. It doesn’t appeal to me but I understand many people enjoy a bit of gambling. The fact is that Lower Mainland casinos are a hub for criminals and their activities.
Many residents voiced and wrote their opposition to a casino coming to Ladner because of all the documented crime, but mayor and council seemed to be won over by the Gateway and BCLC reps and their promises of money.
I don’t think it will be the end of the world but I certainly don’t see it as positive addition to our community.
M. Cheney
