What do Special Olympics, Easter Seals and Cystic Fibrosis have in common? They are all using gambling as a way of making money. What used to be seen as a dirty sport for only those who had a problem, is now snaking its way into the mainstream of our society.  Each state has a way of dealing with things differently, some states allow gambling, and some do not. Yet when it comes to charities, it seems that there are no hard and fast rules for what is appropriate and what is not. Between the lure of the casinos and the TV shows that romanticize the idea of gambling, most people believe it to truly be something it is not.  

The Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Native Americans hopes to bring in more bucks, they are laying claim to lands near urban areas so that they can bring in more dough for themselves, and they are not alone. In Gettysburg, PA, a group called Chance Enterprises is trying to desecrate one of America’s oldest and most historic Civil War shrines with a casino as well. They have opened a 3,000 slot machine gaming Mecca only 45 minutes from where the historic battle at Gettysburg took place. 

A law passed in 2004 permits 61,000 slot machines to come into the state, but the slot machines are supposed to be in existing race tracks, so how do you end up with a slot machine casino just outside the area? Needless to say the proposal is receiving much opposition; as it is considered hallow ground. Those against the proposal cannot believe that anyone would even consider such a concept, but it just goes to show you that anything is possible.

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