I was deeply concerned to see the article in the March 23 Steamboat Today about the exploration of a project to build a casino on land adjacent to Yampa Valley Regional Airport and that local Olympian Johnny Spillane was directly involved. Most residents desire to see a greater diversification of the economy in the Yampa Valley, but a casino — and the sleaze that would accompany such a project — in no way would offer the kind of diversity we desire or need.

A casino and everything that is associated with licensed gambling is on the opposite end of the spectrum of what makes this valley attractive to its residents and visitors. I would rather not attract the gambling crowd to this valley. Let them use the gambling facilities that already exist in Colorado. I would advise Johnny and his four business associates not to waste time or money on a project that will get a resounding thumbs down by the communities in this valley. The last time such a project was explored, 70 percent of the voters in Hayden were opposed to it.

Read the writing on the wall, Johnny, and don’t soil your wonderful reputation by participating in such a sick venture that ultimately will be shot down by your own admirers.

Paul Hebert

Steamboat Springs