Letter to the Editor: Something to think about before you cast your vote on the MandatoryReferendum Vote

Please think about this before you vote on the sale of alcohol at casinos off the Reservation. In the past at several meetings with the Red Lake Chairman, I have heard our people asking “where is our payment.” With a “no" vote, you are throwing your payment money out the window, along with the money that can help the Reservation. You are letting other people rake in money that could help you. Why not collect money that will be freely given to the Reservation. Other businesses gain from these types of transactions and these transactions in off-the-Reservation casinos could benefit the Red Lake Band. After much thought and prayer, I believe that voting “yes” is still respectful to our Chiefs because it pertains to off-the-Reservation casinos and is beneficial to our people. As I said before, this is just something to think about before casting your vote. Thank you.

Bette M. Bailey