Scratch Off For HIV

Illinois broke new ground this week by unveiling the “Red Ribbon Cash” lottery ticket. All net proceeds from the tickets sales go toward HIV/AIDS prevention and awareness. Governor Rod R. Blagojevich unveiled the game by pulling on some federalist heart strings: With so many Illinoisans afflicted with this terrible disease we must continue to create opportunities that raise awareness and to fund prevention and treatment options.” And if that means feeding people’s gambling addictions, then so be it. [PageOneQ]