Pittsburg State University - Kanza Yearbook (Pittsburg, KS)

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Lottery at Last N ovember 12, 1937. The day began with people gathered in long lines near convenience stores and gas stations. 8efore the sun had set on them, Kansas had become the thirty-fourth state to have a lottery, Inspired by a modified version of the Isley Brothers’ hit “Shout”, Kansas residents were urged by commercials and newspaper ads to spend one dollar for a four by two inch ticket, which, if you beat the 1 -in-180,000 odds, would let you win five thousand dollars instantly. Even if that didn’t happen, there was still a chance to win the smaller prizes ranging from 2 to 10 dollars--or at least a free ticket. Beginning with the first game, called “Up and Away, and conti- nuing with the Match 3” lottery, Kansas Lottery officials were opti- mistic about the money-raising potential of the games, predicting sales of over 72 million dollars for both drawings. The money from ticket sales would first pay for the start-up costs of the lottery, then go into economic development projects around the state. The lottery opening began around the state with a kick-off party in selected cities, including Pittsburg. During the openings, free tickets were distributed while local businessmen and public officials told the crowds about the positive effects of lottery income for the state. At the opening in Memorial Auditorium, officials emphasized the benefits to the city and to PSU in particular. What they didn’t talk about, however, included some of the criticisms and the controversy surrounding the lottery since its introduction in the Legislature one year ago. Even before it was introduced, groups opposed to it spoke out. Conservative politicians in Topeka were worried about the creation of the lottery itself. Concerned that passage of the bill would lead to acceptance of other controversial proposals such as liquor-by-the-drink and pari-mutual betting, many wondered if the lottery was really necessary. Those in favor of the lottery in turn cited the loss of money out of the state to Missouri, where Kansas residents had been play- ing the lottery for over two years. Continued to page 14 Antone Dobrauc, Pittsburg, takes advantage of free lottery tickets which promoted the new multi-state Lotto America game. The free tickets were intended to introduce Kansas tottery players to the new Lotto game tickets. A Ragan Todd Ross Rheums, Frontenac resident, leeds a completed Lotto America game ticket into the computer which, in turn imprints a separate ticket with the numbers picked. Busines- ses reported heavy turn-outs for the free Lotto America intro- ductory tickets. A Ragan Todd Several area merchants wasted no time in attracting woutd be lottery players. Many all-night merchants began sell- ing tickets as soon as legally possible. A Ragan Todd V J Lottery A 13

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(---------------------------- Jenna Gilkerson, Dodge City junior, was one of several midnight would be lottery winners at a local filling station. Many students and area residents stayed up to be among the first to try the Kansas Lottery. ▲ Ragan Todd 12 A Lottery

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 Continued from page 13 A greater issue was made of the potential profits from the games, which would support a state budget that was sliding into the red. The lottery passed, but more criticisms arose. Religious groups opposed the lottery on moral grounds, considering the games a form of legalized gambling. State welfare officials were concerned about the effect of the games on welfare payments and other aid. As the games progressed, private citizens became critical of the lottery systems, in particular the lack of high-dollar prizes and the method used to send in losing tickets for another chance. People complained that merchants who sold the tickets were taking advantage of it by collecting tickets left by disgruntled players and sending them in. In spite of these criticisms, however, the majority of Kansas residents seem to be satisfied with the lottery, which expanded to include an interstate game and a televised match-play game in 1988. On campus, though, the opinions are varied. Some students like the lottery, but are critical of parts of it. Said Kieth Swaney, Chanute senior, I wish they would have more high- dollar prizes.” A few wondered what would happen if they did win the money: Since I’m not eighteen, I'd prob- ably win and not be able to collect it,” said Becky Jack, Girard fresh- man, wbistfully. Still others reflected on the positive effects of the games. Remarked Bill Thomas, Dearing senior, It’s a good way to support the state and possibly get back money you pay for income tax.” Try telling that to the one disgruntled student who, refusing to comment on the lottery, gave a very good reason why: I didn’t win anything, so I stopped play- ing.” A Rick Steffens Kansas Lottery Coming soon. 14 A Lottery