Fighting the ills and unwanted benefit of gambling

With more than an hour of discussion, the SIC approved a resolution and amendment that will contribute $29,000 to fight the ills of legalized gambling in Ind.

For more than an hour, a lively discussion commenced at this year's session. The Rev. Cindy Alte, Roberts Park UMC (Indianapolis), made a passionate plea, "We have a choice now to distance ourselves (from gambling revenue). It would be a far greater cost if we don't stand up now." And that's exactly what happened. Delegates and clergy alike voiced opinions for and against the SIC headquarters building project.

The point of discussion comes from the perception that Build Indiana funds, which come from state gambling revenue, are indirectly benefiting the building project.

Site Committee chair David Steele said, "We don't benefit directly . it would be an enormous cost to seek other land now." It was explained that a land change would delay the project at a substantial cost beyond that approved at last year's annual conference session.

At final count, the report of the Building Task Force was approved, with its plan to direct $14,500 to Gambling Recovery Ministries, a program that provides help to gambling addicts. An additional amendment offered by the Rev. Dick Hamilton of Indianapolis was passed to render an additional $14,500 to fund the fight against legalized gambling in the state of Ind. Matthew Carlisle

Last updated on 01/14/2004

Questions or comments: webmaster@inareaumc.org