LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: EARTHQUAKES, GAMBLING AND THANKS: GAMBLING PROPONENT EXPLAINS HIS VIEWS ON LADY LUCK LETTER

To the Editor:

I am writing to clarify my viewpoint concerning the two companies which have applied for a gaming license in Cape Girardeau, Mo. Let me begin by saying I am now and always have been in favor of riverboat gaming, due to its positive economic impact.

After the first election I became very involved with the YES GROUP, due to the fact that I was extremely upset that the issue had failed. Through this I was able to meet many local people who had pulled together for a second attempt. Also, I was introduced to Bill Boyd and other members of the Boyd Group. It was a pleasure to meet such a group of individuals who were determined to get this issue passed for the betterment of Cape Girardeau and would help in any possible way. They were there from the start and always open to ideas and suggestions. It is my opinion that the Boyd Group had the best and most realistic plan for the City of Cape Girardeau, therefore I support the Boyd Groups' plan.

However, on Thursday, January 13, 1994, I was called by Sandy LaRouche, a representative of Lady Luck Gaming, and asked if Lady Luck would receive the bid from the City of Cape Girardeau would I be interested in being on an advisory board. My response was that the Boyd Group was my preference and the group I felt was best for Cape Girardeau, but if they did not receive the bid I would be willing to help whomever did, as I see this as good opportunity to serve my community. I was told my name would be included in their proposal, but was not told it would be on the cover page. This I did not OK or approve of and this should not be taken as an endorsement. I have found others on this board who share this same feeling.

I would like to thank Lady Luck for the opportunity to serve on this board. However, this has put me in somewhat of an awkward position, as personally I stand more to gain with the proposal from Lady Luck Gaming due to the fact my family business is three blocks west of their boat site, which would keep Morgan Oak Street a high traffic area even after the new bridge is completed, but I feel the best proposal for the City of Cape Girardeau, would be that of the Boyd Group.

I hope this clarifies how I stand on this issue. I will continue to support the Boyd Group's effort to receive the bid, however; I will serve on the advisory board or in any position Lady Luck Gaming would see fit if they receive the bid.

JOHN A. HEUER

Cape Girardeau