"Harvesting chips is indeed taking something without permission."

Not always. I have been asked by pit bosses who know I collect chips if I would like some roulettes and I have been sold outright roulettes just for the asking. Then there are those who know and don't care I harvest.

Stealing is a little harsh of a word. When I buy into a roulette game I am giving them money for those chips. Kind of an IOU. I just let them hold my money a little longer than they may like to.

I think taking milk boxes and shopping carts a little more of a crime.

Barry