Sen. Jehlen Hosts Gambling Debate in Medford

Residents Invited to Forum Thursday, October 15

The following announcement is from State Senator Pat Jehlen:

The debate on expanded gambling in Massachusetts is heating up, with hearings scheduled this month, and a vote likely early next year. One of the first public discussions this session will be held on Thursday, October 15.

Senator Patricia Jehlen invites constituents to a debate on the issue on Thursday October 15 from 7:00 – 9:00 at Century Bank, 400 Mystic Avenue in Medford. The forum will feature speakers representing both sides of the gambling debate.

Senator Sue Tucker represents the City of Lawrence and the towns of Andover, Dracut, and Tewksbury. In 1996, Sen. Tucker organized a statewide coalition against casinos in Massachusetts. Now she is working with business, political, and the religious communities to build a diverse coalition to defeat any proposal for expansion.

Representative Kathi-Anne Reinstein represents Revere, Chelsea and Saugus. She has long been a proponent of expanded gaming, believing that it is an economic growth opportunity not only in her native region, but also throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Senator Tucker and Representative Reinstein will present arguments for and against casinos and other forms of expanded gambling in Massachusetts. Audience members will have an opportunity to ask questions and to express their own opinions. Light refreshments will be served.

A spokesman for Senator Jehlen said that while the senator is opposed to gambling, the event is not about her position and she wants to present a balanced forum.

Century Bank on Mystic Avenue is easily accessible from Somerville and Medford. From Winchester and Woburn, take exit 30 off Route 93.