Arfa Daily wrote:

Interesting that they have gone over to a computer system from an
electro-mechanical one. I wonder what the theoretical comparisons of
randomness are between them ? It seems to me that a computer generation
system would be a lot easier to fiddle, with very few people needing to be
'in the know' about it.

I worry about that, but then again, it's not 'my' money. I'm just not a
gambler, despite doing a fair amount of work in some of the largest
casinos in the world over the last three years: three or four weeks in
Vegas, three in Uncasville, CT (Mohegan Sun--second largest casino in
the world, and very few outside of the Northeast US have even heard of it).

As far as governments getting involved, I feel a bit
like you on that score. Here in the UK, a fair amount of the takings are
'given away' to good causes. There is no requirement of the type or size or
whatever of the organisation. You just make your application stating what
the money is wanted for, and stating your case for applying as best you can,
and it will be looked at and either accepted, and an amount of money
allocated to you, or rejected. Rejection of a specific application, doesn't
preclude trying again, as many times as you like.

In Tennessee, the money is strictly earmarked for college scholarships,
for which qualification is required...both initially and in order to
renew. That was the bargain the voters made with the Devil when they
approved it on a referendum. AIRC, it took an amendment to the state
constitution. FTR, I voted 'nay'. I always saw it as a tax on the
poor, although one they eagerly pay....

jak
Arfa