... as usual when it comes to government officials telling people what they can and cannot do.

>> The chips for the Christian Holiday's you cite I think mostly have
>> symbols on them which are recognized not some much as religous symbols.

Which was sort of the point of my tongue-in-cheek introduction. HOWEVER, you cannot have a CHRISTMAS or EASTER chip, in particular, without Christian religious connotations -- I don't care what symbol you use.

>> I don't think I've seen a chip with a crucifix or a nativity scene.

Nor have I, to the best of my recollection.

>> When I ask Christians about many of the symbols which we see on chips,
>> such as a Christmas Tree, Easter Bunny, or Our modern version of Santa,
>> they usually ascribe little actual religious value to them. Thus there
>> is little concern about most Christians being offended by the chips.

Nevertheless, it is difficult to imagine Christian fundamentalists and/or the more conservative elements of the Christian religions not being offended by the use of any reference to Christmas or Easter on gambling implements.

>> On the other hand Gaming (which I am guessing probably has 0 or few Jews
>> on staff in decision making capacities) is probably worried about Jews
>> being offended by having their religious sysmbols placed on gambling chips.

No matter how you characterize it, it seems that Judaism is being treated differently than Christianity -- maybe "reverse" anti-Semitism. I still find it offensive (and I'm not even Jewish). Patronizing, at least.

In general, whether some individuals might or might not be offended by what goes on a chip should have no bearing on whether it gets approved or not. Anyone who disapproves need not use the chip. Just more of the same old "I know better than you what's good for you" governmental nonsense.

----- jim o\-S