Opinion

Opinion: Supporters of expanded gaming trying to play Florida

Monday, November 28, 2011

"Poker players look for "tells," unconscious actions - blinking faster, sitting straighter - that can reveal whether someone is bluffing or has a good hand. Spot the "tell," and you may know what a player is holding.

Appropriately, there also is a "tell" when it comes to politicians and gambling. Those who oppose gambling or expanded gambling call it what is - "gambling." Those who favor more gambling call it "gaming."

Why? To evoke a classier image. Think of a black-tie-dressed James Bond playing high-stakes baccarat in Monte Carlo, a glass of Bollinger nearby. Don't think of T-shirt-wearing retirees pumping Social Security payments into slot machines, full ashtrays nearby.

"Gambling" can sound like a social problem. "Gaming" can sound like a night of glamour."

Get the Story:
Randy Schultz: Gambling supporters trying to game Floridians (The Palm Beach Post 11/26)

More Opinions:
Sen. Ellyn Bogdanoff and Rep. Eric Fresen: On casino resorts bill, sponsors set the record straight (The Miami Herald 11/26)
Michael Peltier: Gambling on deck this week (The Naples Daily News 11/28)