One of the best things about Manitoba?

What is that expression?  Lucky in cards, unlucky in love.  Something like that.  Well, I definitely hit the jackpot in the love department.  So, I guess I can't expect luck in cards.  But, that doesn't stop me from trying.  When it comes to gambling, I don't have any moral high ground to lecture anyone.

However, as a social justice warrior, I know that gambling contributes to societal problems.  Addiction, regardless of the substance or the behavior, is devastating in its effects.  As a society, we have tried not to promote activities that can be harmful to us.  Decades ago, tobacco companies were banned from advertising because of this.  When that wasn't enough of a deterrent, cigarette packages were required to put graphic warnings about the effects of tobacco.  The City of Winnipeg passed a by-law last year that no smoking was allowed in public places.  Who knows if this is stopping usage of the products, however, no one can say that government is encouraging use. 

We also know that gambling is potentially unhealthy.  Go to a casino and you will see mandatory information everywhere about problem gambling and where to go for help. 

Another thing that we know is that Manitoba is a great province.  What are some of the great things about Manitoba?  Several things come to my mind.  The celebration of the Forks as a meeting place and a reminder that we are on treaty land.  All of Manitoba's small town festivals.  All of our lakes and waterways provide recreation and relaxation.  The friendly people.  Canada's heart beats.  The unique characteristics of being in the middle of the country and not being land locked.  On and on. 

What doesn't come to mind when I think of the one of the great things about Manitoba is the ability to buy a lottery ticket anywhere online.  Yet, PlayNow.com has an ad which tells me that one of the great things about Manitoba is the ability to buy a lottery ticket or engage in other gambling anywhere in the province. 

How demeaning to the citizens of Manitoba.  We have nothing better to do but to sit in isolation gambling online?  That is what makes us great?  Give me a break.  Again, I have nothing against gambling, responsibly , but in addition to all the great things about Manitoba, we also have problems.  We need to dialogue more and become more active in our communities as opposed to gambling in solitaire.  An organization that is tied to government should not be promoting gambling. 

It is wonderful that Manitobans have the choice to gamble whenever and wherever they chose, however, our Province and its citizens should not be insulted by claiming that it is one of the "great things" about Manitoba. 

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