"Today in Florida, the doyens of political power are engaged in a debate less metaphysical, but no less silly. To wit, where, how, and under what circumstances should a person be allowed to bet his or her hard earned money.

The debate even includes the linguistic issue of whether betting constitutes "gambling" or "gaming." Those who oppose casinos for Florida call it gambling, while those in the betting industry and their political allies insist on calling it gaming.

Las Vegas-style slot machines, in which gamblers bet against the house, are permitted in pari-mutuel venues in Broward County.

If an agreement between the governor and the Seminole tribe holds up, those Class III slots also will be allowed in casinos on Seminole Indian lands, which heretofore have been restricted to bingo-style slots, in which gamblers compete against each other.

If the agreement doesn't hold up, the federal government will approve Class III slots at tribal casinos anyway. Under the pact with the state, however, gamblers also would be allowed to play blackjack and baccarat in the tribal venues, but not at Broward's pari-mutuel casinos.

The debate has degenerated into nonsense. Casino gambling isn't going away. If people of a county want it, they should have it, with roulette, craps and other games, regardless of whether the casino is owned by the Seminoles or somebody else."

Get the Story:
Kingsley Guy: Debate turning nonsensical (The South Florida Sun-Sentinel 11/27)
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