Letter: Don’t rip Vegas for social woes

Monday, March 19, 2001 | 9:32 a.m.

Al DiCicco's recent letter about Las Vegas not being a healthy place for families is an affront to all the decent families that call Las Vegas home. In addition, his complaints, while valid, have not been proven to have been caused by Las Vegas. His logic is faulty, and let me be the one to point out the problems in his argument.

Animal abuse, crime and dysfunctional families are a national problem. If it were solely the fault of Las Vegas and its casinos, then explain two things to me. No. 1: Why on earth would anybody actually stay here? And No. 2: Why is there animal abuse and senseless crime in other cities? Ever hear of the Columbine tragedy, Mr. DiCicco? No casinos to blame there. So what can we blame? I believe it starts in the home.

I propose a radical concept! Parents who actually discipline their kids, and not expect the schools, police and society at large to do the deed.

Respect for the other beings who share our planet must be taught from a young age, and parents should shoulder the responsibility and privileges of raising the kids they choose to have.

I love Las Vegas, was born here and raised by parents who worked on the Strip. My fondest memories include the Stardust, the Sahara and the Dunes. I resent anyone who tries to slam this city: I know too many fine people who have chosen to raise their families here. And for all those people who want to blame Vegas for all the evil in the world today, I say leave.

And you will find that all the things you dislike about Vegas exist in other cities also.

LYRIA HALL

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