Gambling Away the Battlefields
Desperate times often call for desperate measures. However, the recent proposal to build a casino bordering the historic Gettysburg, PA battlegrounds shows just how low PA government will go to make a buck.
The state Gaming Control Board is in the process of determining whether to build the proposed casino near the site of the pivotal Civil War battle, and Abraham Lincoln’s historic address. Proponents will argue that a casino there will boost the local economy, yet building a full-blown casino just a half-mile south of where thousands of Union and Confederate soldiers fought and died is not only distasteful, but also an economic blunder. Considering most Pennsylvania casinos draw the majority of gamblers from surrounding communities, a Gettysburg casino merely will divert entertainment and hospitality dollars from other local historic tourist destinations.
It is understandable that local governments are eager to make some extra cash during these hard economic times, but bringing roulette tables and slot machines anywhere near the battlefield would be a mistake of explosive proportions.
