PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, problem gambling is a public safety issue whose actions impact family, friends, and businesses with significant societal and economic costs, affecting more than one million Floridians of all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds in all communities; and

WHEREAS, with each problem gambler directly affecting 8-10 individuals with negative consequences to personal and social relationships of the immediate family to include physical violence and emotional abuse; and

WHEREAS, the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling’s public awareness campaign provides an opportunity to educate the public, policymakers, educators, businesses, mental health, and criminal justice professionals, and others, about the adverse effects of gambling, its social, legal, financial, and emotional impacts, as well as available treatment; and

WHEREAS, problem gambling is treatable for those who seek help, which minimizes the harm to Floridians and to the state as a whole; and

WHEREAS, numerous individuals, professionals, and organizations who are dedicated to assisting families in need can participate in preventing problem gambling by promoting the statewide 24-hour HelpLine, 888-ADMIT-IT, and by making assessments and treatment readily available; and

WHEREAS, the state can also join in the recognition of the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling’s 22nd year in providing diverse services and support for problem gamblers and their families;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jack Brady, Mayor of City of North Lauderdale, Florida, do hereby extend greetings and best wishes to all observing March 7-13, 2010 as

Problem Gambling Awareness Week.

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this 23rd day of February, 2010.

CITY OF NORTH LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA

By ____________________________________

Mayor Jack Brady