by Allen Cardines, Jr., Hawaii Family Forum, February 16, 2012

There is good news and bad news to report.

THE GOOD NEWS: State House Tourism Committee Deferred HB 2788 (Relating to Gaming)

On Monday, the State House Tourism Committee “deferred” HB 2788. If passed, this bill would grant a twenty-year license for one stand-alone casino in Waikiki not in a hotel. The committee's decision to defer the bill means the casino proposal is likely dead for the session although this, and other bills relating to gambling, can be brought up at any time before the Legislature adjourns May 3.

The high profile lobbyists who support gambling are at the capitol every day encouraging our legislators to bring legalized gambling to Hawaii. Is this the Hawaii you want and envision for our keiki?

Gambling may seem like an attractive an innocent way of stimulating economy in Hawaii by offering job opportunities and a steady source of tax revenue but this idea of legalized gambling also presents many unintended consequences that far outweigh the benefits. That’s why we have to stand united to stop the ongoing, and relentless, efforts of proponents. Hawaii Family Forum will be there every step of the way. (Click here for resources on why legalized gambling is bad for Hawaii!)

Hawaii Family Forum was at the capitol this week to oppose the effort and was featured in a recent news story on Hawaii News Now.

CLICK HERE TO READ STORY IN HAWAII NEWS NOW!

The story quoted the testimony of executive director Allen Cardines, "In general gambling and pornography both have a lot in common, both exploit for profit, exploit human weaknesses, cause deep rooted addiction, ruin marriages and families and destroy children's lives,"...

Your ongoing support and commitment has been making a huge difference in what we're doing to foster the conditions in which individuals, families and communities thrive. It's amazing to see all the accomplishments Hawaii Family Forum has had just in the past several months.

• In government and public policy... including strategic educational leadership meetings!

• Workshops on life, marriage and family...

• And continuing to fight for more protection in religious freedom.

But here is THE BAD NEWS:

Like many non-profits in Hawaii, HFF has taken an economic beating and we are at a crucial point in our history.

On one hand, we are excited about building on the progress we have already made in this community. Looking ahead, we have important efforts on the horizon that could potentially change Hawaii into a State that perpetuates and promotes righteousness in our islands.

On the other hand, it takes financial resources to continue the effort. Since 1997, Hawaii Family Forum has been on the forefront of issues protecting LIFE, FAMILY and RELIGIOUS FREEDOM in Hawaii. Please consider making an immediate secure online gift of $25 or more to Hawaii Family Forum so that we can continue expanding our influence and work.

We think you'll be excited to learn more about what's in store and how you can be involved. Stay tuned!

Sincerely,

Allen Cardines, Jr.

Executive Director