Quixotic quest on Penghu gambling

Look for an undeveloped part of the country (undeveloped economically, that is) which offers an expanse of open space for the quick construction of an array of spectacular facilities that promise comfort and amusement for tourists with money burning a hole in their pockets.

Then drop the crown jewel plop down in the middle of the picture: a fabulous gambling casino. But, hey, why stop at one? Build two, three, however many you want, what's the harm in it?

So what if patrons, caught up in the buzz of it all, spend themselves into back-breaking dept? They are adults, they know what they're doing, and it's a free world. Forget any talk you've heard of a sickness called gambling addiction. Who can even be sure of what an addiction is, anyway?

Show the tourists how to experience wild excitement by making money as they spend money! It's called gambling, and we know all about its benefits. Gambling is about fun and money, that's all. And the greatest thing about the plan is that the people throwing their Gelt to the wind like this won't even be from Taiwan! They'll be from far away! Why should we care what hens to them?

And as for “us,” well, we're only creating jobs. We run the hotels, supply the restaurants with fresh produce, help land airplanes and carry luggage, pour the liquor and train blackjack dealers. Enough, already. Even a frustrated columnist grows weary of sarcasm.

Dr. Timothy Kelly, a noble Don Quixote bravely battling windmills with other anti-gambling activists, spoke at a press conference in Taipei this week that, sadly, attracted less than its deserved attention in the media.

Dr. Kelly is the executive director of the U.S. Congressional National Gambling Impact Study Commission. He came to Taiwan at the invitation of people concerned about the plebiscite that is scheduled to take place in Penghu on September 26. Residents there will vote on the question of whether Penghu should allow legalized casino gambling on its land.

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