There’s gambling, and then there’s gambling

Recently, a friend of mine phoned to see if I wanted to join him and some other friends in a friendly game of Texas Hold'em. My friend wanted me to play in one of those cordial card games that have taken place in homes across the country from practically the beginning of time, but this call did get me thinking.

Now, I’m sure there is a little part in all of us that likes to take a chance now and then, and (dare I say the word?) gamble. But in Florida, and certainly here in Nassau County, gambling is against the law. Having citizens playing games of chance for the potential of winning money is considered illegal, particularly when it is conducted out in the public. Since this is the law, we expect our law enforcement officials to enforce it.

But in spite of the efforts by law enforcement, gambling in Nassau County has thrived. Let’s look at how this can happen.

First, if you are going to gamble for money you need to go where the games are. One would think it would be difficult finding someplace where these games could be found, but it’s pretty easy to spot the buildings where you can put your money down and take your chances. The buildings are located along the main highways in the county. They have large, lighted signs and plenty of room to park. No need to go into any back alleys. No need to know any secret knock. Everything is right out in the open, in plain sight.

There are attendants inside to help you select which game you want to play, answer any questions you might have, and pay you right on the spot should you get lucky and win. In these buildings you are also able to get snacks and drinks to keep up your stamina while trying your luck.

Now there are some people who would argue these games require some degree of skill, and as such should not be considered gambling. However, I think we all know they are just games of chance, and games of chance are gambling, and gambling is against the law.

There is also the moral issue of gambling, and how it leads to compulsive and addictive behavior. We wouldn’t want to think people playing these games are spending their winnings on things like beer and cigarettes. Isn’t it our moral responsibility to make sure our citizens are not falling into this trap?

By now you may be thinking I have been referring to the number of Las Vegas-style adult gaming rooms that have sprung up around the county. You’re wrong. What I was actually referring to is the Florida State Lottery, gambling in plain sight.

State and county officials (along with surrounding county governments) have been investigating adult gaming rooms to determine if they are legal or not. I agree we should enforce the law, and if something is against the law then shouldn’t the law apply to everyone equally?

I’m not sure I can understand the case for shutting down these gaming rooms, while at the same time the state is collecting billions of dollars from lottery gambling. I’m sure it has something to do with the money, but I could be wrong. What do you think?