GAMING: Allan's defense admirable

I only have three words in response to Chief Allan's article: VERY WELL PUT. I also read the article he responded to, and though it was obviously written by a great person with strong moral beliefs, the attitude came across as "holier than thou" and perhaps "misinformed," as Chief Allan put it.

If there are any morality issues in Indian gaming, then I couldn't care less. It's no concern or business of mine what other people choose to do with their money, whether they take a real gamble with it in today's stock market or invest it wisely in the area casino. Same goes for what the Coeur d'Alene Tribe chooses to do with their profits.

I too have always been in total favor of Indian gaming for reasons besides the ones "echoed" in Chief Allan's words. Over the past 100-plus years, my hardworking class family members have seen others thrive in many industries here, such as real estate, tourism, media, farming and mining. And let's not forget the timber industry that brought my great-grandfathers here during the turn of the 20th century.

Now don't get me wrong. I have the highest admiration for those who can thrive by "working smart." However, if the Coeur d'Alene Tribe members have found a way to thrive through Indian gaming, then MORE POWER TO THEM.

My only regret is that their turn for prosperity has been way long overdue.

My friends all know that I take great pride in being native born here in beautiful North Idaho, and I will continue to do so. However, I'm also humble enough to know that Chief Allan and his people are the "true natives" of this area. I only wish them the best of luck and their continued prosperity.

Keep up the good, hard and "smart" work.

ROBERT MITCHAM

Coeur d'Alene