But many in the tribe are convinced there must be a better way.

"I've got a personal problem with casino gaming," says Marc E. Widdiss, a member of the tribe. "Casinos are a pseudo-entertainment form to take your money. If you don't know that, you have no business putting one in your town."

Some Wampanoags suggest that the casino expresses a part of their identity as a tribe, an extension of a phenomenon that has developed in tribes across the country who have incorporated casinos into their culture.

But other Wampanoags don't buy that either.

"Some tribes have a history of gambling throughout their history," says Willard M. Marden III, another Wampanoag. "Whether our tribe was or not is unclear. It's more of a moral issue than a cultural one."

The Region

Other area residents have similarly mixed feelings about the casino, fearing general social decline, but New Bedford municipal leaders remain largely enthusiastic about the plan.

They say that the lack of money--not the love of it--is the root of all evil.

"Violence and crime happen when there's a feeling of despair, there's no hope, there's no opportunity for them," said New Bedford City Councillor David M. Gerwatowski. "If you create an opportunity for them to get jobs, then you'll help the crime here."

But Gerwatowski can sympathize with those who question the wisdom of starting down the casino road.

"I'm not a big fan of gaming." Gerwatowski says. "I've been slow in accepting this."

But voters, like Gerwatowski, seem willing to overlook their qualms about casinos and attempt to walk the line between financial gain and moral loss.

Gov. William F. Weld '66 says New Bedford would be revitalized by the increased economic activity sparked by gambling.