[twisterfries]

Casinos Comes to Alabama
13 May 2003

WETUMPKA, Alabama – As reported by NBC: "Widespread outcry against gambling in Alabama will not stop the latest efforts to open a casino in the state. Meanwhile, the state's biggest gambling supporter is making an unusual call for help to lawmakers.

"…Casinos are open for business in Alabama and players say the payouts are high. The winnings are even bigger for Alabama's band of Poarch Creek Indians. They run three gaming operations statewide, including one on an Indian reservation in Wetumpka. The tribal chairman says the modular buildings are only a start -- groundbreaking is planned this year for a multimillion-dollar casino on the sacred Indian land. The casino chain, Harrah's, is bankrolling the project to bring upscale gaming to the heart of Alabama.

"[Poarch Creek Indians Chairman Eddie] Tullis expects a casino and riverfront hotel that will feature five restaurants, win thousands of tourists and put the Poarch Creek Indians in competition with gambling resorts in Mississippi.

"…Federal law excludes Indians from gambling limits set by the state because the state and federal government consider Indian reservations separate nations. The same law entitles Indians to tax-free earnings, which raises the stakes in competition with the handful of legalized gambling operations elsewhere in the state.

"Milton McGregor, the outspoken kingpin of gambling at Alabama dog tracks, said he's not opposed to Indian gaming, but he worries their tax-free advantage could put him out of business unless lawmakers let his industry expand.

"…But critics say the tax payout is not that high, and many dismiss McGregor's argument as a veiled effort to turn tracks into casinos…"

[autumn]

Hi, I just joined the forum from Texas. I read the article which I believe was in 2003. Has there been any further development by Harrah's or anyone else as far as bringing casinos to Alabama? I really don't understand why horse racing and dog racing, bingo, etc., are allowed in some states, like Texas for example, but no casinos. Money is still being wagered and alcohol, for the most part, is being served. Gambling in one way or the other boosts the economy. I am not a gambler by any means, but it is enjoyable and good entertainment, providing you know your budget and your limitations.

[DeepBlue]

The benefits to the local economy are to be had, plus there are jobs being created. The only trouble is that there is still public fears over gambling, and a lot of people assume that because casinos are available that people are going to use them, blow their life savings and that will be that.

It's not the way, I guess some people get lucky and others don't - the fact of the matter is it's down to public choice. If people want to gamble, fine, if they don't then don't visit these places.

Although we do know one thing, the real winners are the developers and casino owners.

[autumn]

It is true that public opinion quite often sees casinos as contributing to the possibility of gambling addiction. I agree that it is a matter of choice, whether you go to a casino, bet on the dogs or horse races, or buy lotto and lottery tickets. There is just as serious a problem with some who throw money away (in my opinion) on lotteries and scratch-off tickets here in Texas. However, many see it as a form of entertainment, just as casinos offer entertainment as well. I think that many people are going to gamble on one thing or another...it's something to do.

[DeepBlue]

For me, it's purely entertainment - I haven't (yet!) any urge to go and spend thousands, yet over the years I have probably thrown away £1000 on lottery tickets so perhaps it would have been better spent at the table!

I find it strange that how much opinions vary across states, with some very reluctant to allow casinos, to some that are far more accepting of the idea.

[autumn]

I too have bought a few lottery tickets and scratch-offs, won a few dollars, but the anticipation of winning big is the fun of it! I've also been to casinos, played the slots, and did quite well, but never tried the table games. I think a lot of the disapproval of casinos is based on some people (religious beliefs, which I won't go into here) feeling that gambling is wild and crazy behavior. Of course, going to the store and buying a ticket is different; you're not exposed to alcohol or seedy characters (not my opinion, but a number of people feel this way). No, I haven't spent thousands, haven't had it to spend, but a few dollars for fun.

[crazypete]

spending few dollars is fun but its so much fun to win thousand dollars.I spend it because of entertainment.I dont spend too much in casino than I can afford!

[autumn]

Spending money for entertainment in casinos to me is no different than spending money on eating out three or four times a week, buying tickets to sports events, buying five new cars when you don't need but one, etc...so, whatever money we choose to set aside or spend for entertainment should be our choice. After all, the money is gone whatever you spend it on...and just think, you might come out ahead. No, I don't go to casinos on a regular basis, but when I do, I enjoy it..my entertainment!

[ThomasR]

I agree, to the extent that it's good economically for the state. I don't think that the inhabitants there are going to turn into gambling addicts just because there is a casino there.

The internet does a good enough job of that.

[autumn]

Then too, going to a casino to gamble is going to cost you more than staying at home, for the most part. The transportation cost (fuel), the restaurant or food of some sort, a souvenir, etc., are just part of playing at casinos, especially if you are vacationing, celebrating a special occasion, or whatever. I personally doubt if I would ever enjoy online casinos, however, as much as the real thing...but that's just a personal opinion.

[ThomasR]

That's what they bank on though - vacationers bring a wallet full that they've saved all year then blow it in their restaurants, hotels and casinos!

It is a great experience though.

[autumn]

Another incentive for some are the free beverages in most casinos, at least in the landbased ones. I wonder if this is true, as well, on riverboat casinos? It is amusing too that if you're winning at a casino, the waitress is always right there to serve you. Start losing, and you can't find one around!

[DeepBlue]

Well come on, if you're losing then you haven't got any money to buy drinks with surely? Then again maybe they should be there to help you drown your sorrows/pluck up courage to tell the wife you've just emptied her bank account!

[autumn]

But, in the casinos in the U.S., for the most part, the drinks are free, as long as you're gambling! The waitresses count on tips, the more you're winning, the bigger tip you give them. And so, if you're losing, they might get a quarter vs. a $5 or $20 (when you're really winning)! They have to make a living too, so I have no problem with tipping. If you win a jackpot, there are lots of people running around to serve you, bring you the money, etc..lots of fun!!
By the way, I don't have a wife to worry about.

[DeepBlue]

Hehe, I'm glad to hear that considering your gender! Are the drinks really free? Then again I suppose you get sloppy when you're drunk so it works for the owners!

I doubt very much that the UK casinos they are planning this side of the water will be quite so liberal. You don't get anything free here.