I am writing in support of Off Track Betting in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I have been a resident of Southside Richmond, Virginia (9th District) for over 39 years and have watched the community experience a decline in retail establishments, restaurants, etc.  After reading in the RTD about the prospect of an OTB facility locating in the vacant K-MART building, I was ecstatic!  The impact that the new establishment will have on our local economy is profound.  Currently, residents who are interested in gambling have to travel out of state, where they contribute to another state's economy by spending their money on lodging, gas, food, and other recreational activities.  With OTB in Virginia, our local economy would be able to reap the benefits of increased tourism, while allowing existing residents to keep their money circulating in their own communities.  This will help improve our schools (through the meals tax), spur further development, and impact other industries.  As OTB thrives, other complimentary businesses will thrive.  I say YES to OTB in Virginia, and look forward to the long-standing vacant Kmart building being transformed from a gun-show site, to a thriving entertainment hub.