In response to the Collegian editorial ("State taking chance by relying on funds from slot machines for budget, tax relief," July 6), Pennsylvania is no longer the strong industrial state that it used to be.

According to the Keystone Research Center, an estimated 106,142 manufacturing jobs disappeared from 1994 to 2000. That number is even greater today.

The slot machine bill was something that was sorely needed in Pennsylvania.

Take my hometown, Erie, for example.

In 2002, International Paper closed its Erie plant after being a local fixture for over 104 years. This move was demoralizing to the local economy and the displaced employees. But the move was understandable -- the machines were old and the plant was stagnant; it was inefficient to keep the plant open.

However, even more devastating was the fact that 213 acres of prime lakefront property would be blighted by the abandoned property.

Enter MTR Gaming Group. MTR decided that the IP site would be perfect venue for a new racetrack, with the contingency that slot machines would be used.

With the passing of the bill on July 5, the racetrack took a giant step toward reality. New, decent paying jobs will be available in Erie.

Many regions in the state will benefit from the new slot bill and the results will strengthen the state's economy. Millions upon millions of dollars will pour into the state and provide long overdue tax relief.

Pennsylvania needs develop into new markets instead of reminiscing of the industrial past. Gov. Rendell and the state representatives took a giant step for the future of Pennsylvania.

It was a necessary "crap shoot," and I am satisfied that the state has taken this action for our future.