“Vote yes on Nov. 15”; “Vote no on Nov. 15.”
These signs are steadily appearing throughout the city, advertising people’s personal opinions on the lottery issue in Tennessee.
The issue has received a lot of publicity, and, as the voting date looms closer, people are establishing definite stances on the issue.
Students at The University of Memphis are vocal about a state lottery, and it seems like most students will be voting “yes.”
“I’m for it,” said Dan Haire, a 21-year-old journalism major. “I think it’s a good source of revenue for the state.”
Jason Bowers, a 25-year-old history major, agrees with Haire.
“It just logically makes sense,” Bowers said. “I’m for it because the lottery system is part of society and all major cities have them; it’s basically free money.”
Bowers said he did not know any students that planned to vote “no” but emphasized campus surroundings as an explanation.
“People here (at The U of M) are tired of tuition being raised and our facilities not being up to par,” Bowers said. “It is something that we as students need to mobilize on.”
Bowers also commented on the organizations that will be voting no.
“I understand that people don’t want it, but they haven’t offered a solution,” Bowers said. “What do we do to combat the horrible problem of education funding?”
Some students do express apprehension about where the money will actually be going though.
“I think a lottery has good potential, but I can see the government taking the money and using it elsewhere,” said Jennifer Durham, a 22-year-old Spanish major.
“It’s hard to say yes or no until you know what the government will do,” Durham said. “Personally, I’m for it though, because education needs financial help.”
Dr. Kenneth Holland, chair of the political science department, is also in favor of the lottery. He believes Tennessee should be taking measures to keep the gambling money within their own revenue sources.
“I’m in favor of it,” Holland said. “Already people are gambling in Tunica County and West Memphis and buying lottery tickets in Kentucky.”
Holland also said the lottery will bring more scholarship opportunities, greatly benefiting the higher education system.
Junior finance major Michael Donahoe is angered by religious organizations that claim a lottery will bring depraved behavior with it.
“There are already 37 other states that have lotteries, and I don’t think that their morality is in any grave danger because of it,” Donahoe said. “Memphis already has the second highest murder rate in the country. Could a lottery really make things any worse?”
Students are opinionated on the issue, but Julie Meals emphasized the importance of students taking action.
“Students always complain but are notorious for not doing anything to help themselves,” said Meals, a 22-year-old leisure management major.
“Everybody needs to make a conscious effort to put Nov. 15 on their calendars and make sure to find some time to get to the polls.
“This is our opportunity to be heard and we need to take advantage of it.”
