Tough as Granite

Late last night, despite intense lobbying from the gambling industry, New Hampshire voted down a slot bill.

WHAT'S IN A (NICK)NAME? During the gambling debate, it seemed like New Hampshire was looking for a new nickname. No, not Taxahampshire.

Rep. Neal Kurk, R-Weare, said he didn't want the state to become New Jersey North, or Las Vegas East.

D'Allesandro answered that he'd like to think of us as Delaware North. "(That) state has farms and industry, plus successful slot machines operations at three race tracks," he said.

Kurk was among the most outspoken gambling foes.

"Raising taxes in a recession is problematic. But the consequences of this bill, this video-slot-machine bill, are worse," he said.

Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-Exeter, defended the gaming plan. She spoke about someone with a serious gambling addiction. "He gambled in New Hampshire," she said, "by credit card, over the phone, over the Internet."

Hey, Maggie... just because some of your friends are jumping in the lake, does that make it a good idea for YOU to jump in the lake?

I mean, let's see... an individual with a gambling problem gambles on the Internet and phone - and you want to give them another venue - and then tax the bejesus out of it?

Way to wield that leadership position, Maggie.

So let's hear if for New Hampshire - for having the strength and common sense, despite the pressures of a recession, a parade of lobbyists, the inevitability machine, and the Sen. Hassans and D'Allesandro's of the world to give the predatory gambling industry another much needed, long-overdue, kick in the arse with a cold boot.

And by the way... "Delaware North?"

Now that's a slogan to strive for. I mean, definitely better than "The Granite State". Seriously.