NATIONAL GAMBLING IMPACT STUDY COMMISSION

CHAIRMAN JAMES: Victoria Barnett.

MS. BARNETT: My name is Victoria and I would like to thank the Commission for the opportunity to speak today. I have been in the gaming industry for six and a half years and it has been just wonderful. The financial aspect as well as the benefit aspect has put me ahead in my life. Before the gaming industry, I was in inventory control and the pay just wasn't enough. So I decided to see what the casino business had to offer.

I then became a cocktail waitress and was very impressed with the benefits and the money to be made. Now in my life I am currently engaged and building my first home. I would not be at this point in my life without the casino industry. I can financially plan my future and other things that I have always wanted.

I know most people think a lot of negative things about the gaming industry but really need to realize the true facts. For example, when some people are overweight, they take control of their lives and lose the weight. When some people have a drinking problem with alcohol, they take control and go to AA. When some people have a gambling problem, they need to take control and go to Gamblers Anonymous. Take control of your own life and don't blame it on the gaming industry. It's not the food's fault, it's not he alcohol's fault, and it's not the casino's fault. It's you as an individual. You are in control of your own life. Please remember, no one is in control of your life and the things you have and want but you. Everyone is responsible for their own actions. Thank you.

CHAIRMAN JAMES: Thank you.