Jay Bookman

By AJC/DNC Management

January 22, 2009 7:15 AM | Link to this

Agreed.

Put it out on Lake Allatoona.

We’ll take the tax revenue.

~~~~~

One must wonder, but if the new president is such Superman, why does he need so much help with his image from those in the drive by media?

Will there ever come a day when actions speak louder than words?

{{{{In watching the inauguration of Obama, I had the overwhelming feeling that our country has finally grown up.-Urinal/Kult of baraKKK Vent}}}}

You must have missed the part where the kult showed their dignity and respect by mocking the outgoing president at the Capital Building dais, and then trashed the Washington Mall, leaving behind them a mountain of garbage for Other People to clean up.

Grown ups?

Can you say third world?

By DB, Gwinnettian

January 22, 2009 7:35 AM | Link to this

“Casino gambling sucks”

Shouda been the headline. Or maybe “funding Hope through casino gambling sucks,” even though that wasn’t the point, really, of your column, although I suspect you’d agree with that too.

Otherwise, another good ‘un, Jay. Thanks.

By Billy

January 22, 2009 8:10 AM | Link to this

I love how right-wing nutbags throw a KKK reference into a black man’s name…

By GOP is gone

January 22, 2009 8:13 AM | Link to this

I do not personally have a problem with the casino addition. I view it as a voluntary tax, similar to the lottery, which brings in large amount of cash. Come on Georgians, do you really want your Homestead Exemption repealed? For non-addictive personalities there should not be a problem, just show restraint. I have played the lottery from time to time and always looked at it as supporting my child’s college fund. Since I have smart kids I have received a great return on my investment, free College tuition, and I thank Zell Miller with every Dean’s list notification I get in the mail.

By DB, Gwinnettian

January 22, 2009 8:22 AM | Link to this

Billy @ 8.10me too.

If the AJC ever finds it in their heart to turn this into an actual forum where people are registered and can reply directly to posts, you could do worse than the B’more Sun’s, wherein this bit of hilarity was posted and roundly ridiculed. Does “Lightbringer” remind you of anyone here? Quote follows:

“Well, we finally did it. We elected a Muslin President. An insult to the 43 Christian Men who came before. Whether or not you liked past Presidents, you have to admire the fact that they were all Christian. Not a Jew, not a Muslin, not an atheist. America is a CHRISTIAN NATION. Anything else is just downright insulting. If America still exists in 4 years, I have no doubt in my mind that Sarah Palin will defeat Joe Biden, and become President (I say Joe Biden because I expect that Obama will be impeached, resign, or assassinated by then), restoring good Christian faith to the White House/Oval Office.

“Never again will we elect a Muslin man to lead the greatest country for Christians. I have some ideas about how we can prevent this, but some have told me they are too radical. I disagree. I already firmly believe that everybody in the world is born as a Christian, but later in life choose to abandon it or pursue another “faith.” Although I hate large amounts of government intervention, I think a law should be created that makes it official: every American is born a Christian. Of course, later in life you can be allowed to convert to any “faith” or “religion” that you want, so there’s really no difference in that regard. However, it will have to be recorded, so it will be on public record, so everyone can see exactly when and at what age you decided to abandon Christ. If this law existed, Obama would have been born Christian (assuming he was really born in Hawaii, like he says) and would have to convert to Islam later in life. Real Islamic terrorists in the middle east probably wouldn’t want to associate with a Christian man, so his Christianity would keep Obama away from these terrorists he pals around with.

“I hope someday the government sees things my way, I really think it will work. Right now, people are all too PC, it’s sickening. Of course, I’m sure this could be modified/fleshed out a little, but I’ll let Washington worry about that. As long as the basic premise survives. It’s not like it’s preventing people from practicing their religion of choice, they just have to convert to it publicly. If they really wanted to be born Jewish or Muslin, they should have been born in some other country.”

By Bud Wiser

January 22, 2009 8:28 AM | Link to this

Downtown gambling is a good idea. It should localize the crime areas to very specific points, allowing the police to set up temporary holding cells and detention centers.

Gambling is a voluntary tax, as is the lottery, smoking, and alcohol. Why make the losers in life travel to North Carolina, Alabama or elsewhere to spend their hard earned entitlement money. Put a casino-type operation next to welfare dispensing offices, and you’d never be able to get in on a Friday. Let’s keep the money here in Georgia!

By DB, Gwinnettian

January 22, 2009 8:38 AM | Link to this

Hi Bud! As long as you’re bringing urban planning into the mix, how’s your prediction that ““Two weeks in the White House and the whole neighborhood will look like Cascade Road” looking now?

GOP is gone @ 8.13, interesting take and I’ve leaned that way myself. I figure if the only way you could get Georgians to fund scholarships was by a poor-tax (which, let’s face facts, is what a lottery amounts to) it was a necessary evil. and part of me recognizes that if funding ever becomes really problematic, there will likely be sufficient support for scholarships that we’ll just get the dough from general revenue in the future, as we should’ve done all along.

Question for you, since you’re brimming with sweetness and light about a man I find difficult to tolerate post-2004: since I figure you were around here at the time, how much influence did Zell really bring to bear to get Clinton elected, do you think, back in the day? What are your recollections?

By BDAtlanta

January 22, 2009 8:43 AM | Link to this

Good article by the dumb NY governor who got caught calling on the extremely hot call girl.

America’s Fear of Competition How cronyism and rent-seeking replaced “creative destruction.”

(http://www.slate.com/id/2209396/)

By Andy the Welcher

January 22, 2009 9:28 AM | Link to this

Andy + gambling = Welching

So I think it’s a bad idea because we’d end up with bunches of Andys downtown…

Andy’s a Welcher

By Andy the Welcher

January 22, 2009 9:34 AM | Link to this

I guess the Corporal likes to keep up with the Baltimore Op-Ed pages too…

Andy’s a Welcher

ew

By Davo

January 22, 2009 9:38 AM | Link to this

So let me get this straight…I can fritter away my money on video poker in downtown Atlanta any night of the week but God forbid the state allow me to buy beer on Sunday?

It’s obscene that the state should have say in either of these pursuits. What is apparent is that some of our ‘civic leaders’ are grasping at straws. Gambling brings a host of other issues with it…increased crime being chief among them.

By JAY BOOKMAN

January 22, 2009 9:40 AM | Link to this

I think it has been established that Andy is a welcher.

Let’s move on, shall we?

By Bosch

January 22, 2009 9:43 AM | Link to this

I’m kind of on the fence about this.

One, yes, it would bring in lots of money - money that goes to other states. I don’t think gambling is a short term fix for the state. Some casinos have been around for years and still going strong, and they are a good convention booster.

But, on the other hand, there is, as Jay mentioned, the ethos involved, and usually I’m really not concerned with others ethos, it is kind of depressing to think about another avenue for some to waste away their meager earnings.

But, as a parent of a HOPE scholarship recipient - and who made the Dean’s List last semester (first semester in college) - I say, more power to them, and keep that HOPE alive.

And, if they let me buy wine or beer on Sundays to go along with all this - that’s even better.

By DB, Gwinnettian

January 22, 2009 9:49 AM | Link to this

Gotta run, but Jay, if you’re ever stumped for a goofy topic for a new thread that’ll be meta enough for this crowd, consider the etymology of the term “Welshing” (or “Welching”).

Originally I thought it was a slur against the Welsh, but not really. I looked it up and found it kinda fascinating.

‘later all.

By CommunistAJC

January 22, 2009 9:58 AM | Link to this

I say put a riverboat on the Chattahoochee like the riverboats in Biloxi and Shreveport. If the river dries up then move the casinos to Stone Mountain. It would be fun to gamble on top of the mountain. Better yet, put slot machines on roller coasters at Six Flags.

By CommunistAJC

January 22, 2009 9:59 AM | Link to this

JAY BOOKMAN, I’m still pondering whether or not Andy is a welcher. We should have a more diverse conversation about how we go about determining how and if Andy is truly a welcher. Do you agree?

By Taxpayer

January 22, 2009 9:59 AM | Link to this

From now on, everyone should go Dutch.

By CommunistAJC

January 22, 2009 10:03 AM | Link to this

Pelosi said one of her favorite moments from Inauguration Day was when Marine One lifted off the Capitol grounds, signifying former President George W. Bush’s exit from Washington. “It felt like a 10-pound anvil was lifted off my head,” she said.

Wow, this is some statement because there have been a lot objects dropped on Nancy Pelosi’s head. I won’t go in to detail but I will mention a few items that have been dropped on her head: cinder blocks, bricks, bongs, dongs, ladders, anvils, coffee cups, doors, car doors, baseball bats, bowling balls, balls, more balls, even more balls, pride flags, shoes and many other objects.

By Davo

January 22, 2009 10:04 AM | Link to this

“I say put a riverboat on the Chattahoochee “

In St. Charles, MO the law was that all gambling establishments had to be on the water. So they built a moot around a casino…govt genius at work!

By CommunistAJC

January 22, 2009 10:15 AM | Link to this

Davo, Indeed. Government at work. I’m sure it took the guvmint about 2 years to figure out just how to dig the moat. “Gee, should we use a bulldozer or a shovel?”

By brian

January 22, 2009 10:20 AM | Link to this

What is the point of this blog, and if there is one…would someone find it??? Are we talking about Gambling in Georgia, Nancy Pelosi, Obama, welching, or what? For cryin’ in the sink people!

By Gambler

January 22, 2009 10:21 AM | Link to this

Get real Georgia. This isn’t casino gambling when you can go to a corner gas station and buy a lottery ticket. This will fail miserably. A true full-fledged casino would be a draw.

By KG

January 22, 2009 10:24 AM | Link to this

**BUILD A REAL VEGAS CASINO IN THE LUCKY/MARIETTA DISTRICT AND IT WILL BE A HUGE, HUGE SUCCESS.

BUILD A THIRD RATE, GLORIFIED VIDEO ARCADE IN UNDERGROUND AND IT WILL BE CLOSED IN TWO YEARS.**

By LUCY

January 22, 2009 10:25 AM | Link to this

I think that it is a great idea for the casino’s making jobs and how we ned to do so keep up the grat ideas keep them rolling 7-11

By AmVet

January 22, 2009 10:29 AM | Link to this

The best Vent EVER was right after the 96 Games:

“Now that the Olympics are over, everyone can be afraid to go downtown again.”

Atlanta will never be a Boston or Philly, where intown neighborhoods bustle and finding a parking place downtown on Saturday mornings is as difficult as on a Monday morning.

A casino in downtown Atlanta would be like building a megachurch on the Vegas Strip.

People would walk by and go wtf?

By getalife

January 22, 2009 10:31 AM | Link to this

I was born in Vegas and it has changed big time. It was the fastest growing city before the w economic disaster hit and is just like any other town with better entertainment.

They are hurting now and rooms are down to 35 a night. Houses are real cheap and plentiful.

If you are going to have gambling, have a full Casino with everything not just lottery machines. That is weak.

Anyhoo, ya’ll play nice so Jay does not have to take away your toy again and put you in time out.

By Paul

January 22, 2009 10:34 AM | Link to this

Politicians like casinos and gambling as it provides them an out for voting in (or up) a tax. They can call it a ‘voluntary’ tax, giving people what they want, whatever - it’s still an abdication of political responsibility.

The people love it as it allows them to have government give them stuff other people pay for. Same is true with stadiums (taxes on rental cars and such).

Maybe Republicans could attack it as “gambling and spend.” Kinda goes against the social values, doesn’t it? Has more impact than the worn-out “tax and spend.”

Didn’t anybody get Pres Obama’s memo on responsibility and not looking at the same old ‘solutions’?

By JB

January 22, 2009 10:37 AM | Link to this

The location would kill it. Who in their right mind, Black or White would go there after dark. Downtown Atlanta is not a place to be after dark. Ask the countless people who have tried to open a business there. you are alone……and usually mugged !

By rptrcub

January 22, 2009 10:41 AM | Link to this

Get rid of the panhandlers. Get rid of the panhandlers. Also, give tickets to people caught giving to the panhandlers. A very aggressive, Giuliani-style crackdown is needed.

By Redneck Convert

January 22, 2009 10:41 AM | Link to this

Well, everybody’s trying to figure out how to raise more money for the state. Now we even got gambling on the table. If the state ain’t going to vote itself out of business, like me and Raghead want, then seems to me we got to come up with ways to raise money that ain’t Sinful, like gambling is.

So me and Jim Earl and Joe Bill were tossing around money-raising ideas at Billy Bob’s last night. And the more PBRs we drunk, the better the ideas got. Here’s a couple we talked about. If you want more, you can just write me up here at Simpson’s Trailer Park in Cumming and inclose a stamped envelope and I’ll be happy to send them to you.

Anyway, these are just a couple ideas we had. Maybe you all can come up with more, and it’s for sure I got more. They make alot more sense than turning Atlanta into Sin City if it ain’t already and God wouldn’t be mad at us. Have a good day everybody.

By GreenJeans

January 22, 2009 10:48 AM | Link to this

“In a gambling town the ethos of the casino, the cheap sadness, spreads well outside the casino walls.”

Interesting, Jay. A few years back my sister and I spent some time in Vegas.

I was like a kid in a candy store and had a ball.

My sister, on the other hand (always reluctantly intuitive), had a melancholy settle into her bones that lasted days after we were gone. She said that the she just could not shake the feelings of desperation and sadness that hung in the air.

So proceed with caution, ya’ll. But I’ll still come visit.

By Wyld Byll Hyltnyr

January 22, 2009 10:50 AM | Link to this

Jay, if casino gambling assured that downtown Atlanta would become “oddly sterile”, I’d be all for it. Atlanta can’t move forward unless the homeless, miscreants, and mools that loiter and threaten all decent folk are flushed.

By AmVet

January 22, 2009 10:50 AM | Link to this

He has his faults, but at least Ahnuld isn’t in bed with the enviro-rapers like the flightless dodos in the neo-con wing of the GOP.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger isn’t waiting to press the Obama administration on one of California’s top priorities - regulating greenhouse gas emissions from automobiles.

The Republican governor sent a letter to the new Democratic president on Wednesday, asking him to give California and other states permission to implement tough tailpipe-emission standards.

“Your administration has a unique opportunity to both support the pioneering leadership of these states and move America toward global leadership on addressing climate change,” Schwarzenegger wrote.

He wants the Environmental Protection Agency to reverse a 2007 conclusion by the Bush administration that states do not have authority to impose greenhouse gas standards for new cars, pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles. The Bush administration argued that such goals can be met only by regulating fuel-efficiency standards, which falls under the authority of the federal government.

By Rhett Butler

January 22, 2009 10:55 AM | Link to this

Where are your examples of towns that have suffered from casinos? Where are your facts to support your opinions? Your statements are not the slightest bit convincing. Don’t try to compare a town like Las Vegas that has lots of casinos to one that is only going to have one. Las Vegas major industry is Casinos. Of course their culture is going to be affected by that one major industry.

Bookman why won’t you call New Orleans and ask them how their casino across the street from their convention center has affected their economy and culture? Or dial up Miami and ask them. And then rewrite this opinion. News flash ATL still doesn’t have the tourism pull that it needs to survive. Aquariums are a dime a dozen in the US and who is really interested in visiting Coca-Cola’s monument to their own marketing campaigns and commercials? What else do we have? The Margaret Mitchell house and the MLK museum?

You give the same no balls excuses that all the other conservatives do. “We don’t need it because its not really going to give us a whole lot of money and its bad for us morally and may corrupt my little snowflake’s mind.” Here is an opinion piece for you to write about; Predictions for GA by the end of 2009 beginning 2010. GA government will be so poor that it finally allows Sunday alcohol sales and changes the constitution to allow casinos. Will you please get over your apathy and pessimism! Its thinking like yours that holds GA back from pulling through this recession without its inhabitants suffering too much.

By Where's The Party??!!

January 22, 2009 10:55 AM | Link to this

Gambling, o.k., almost gambling….

So, Underground is going to be a huge convienent store??!! For conventioneers no less… Lawd. Our backwards is showing…

Why not lift the ridiculously stoopid ban on partying downtown? Give incentives for clubs to open and attract major talent with a FRIENDLY police presence that is more party goer friendly than Gestapo. Then people will be excited about coming to the ATL. I just don’t see people flocking to play a gaming machine. This sounds like the same people who thought it was a great idea to have the Smothers Brothers host the Super Bowl years ago.

Atlanta, get with the program. People want to have a good time. Not stand around with the Senior Citizens dropping coin into a machine. This is the time to develop a definition of the city.

Underground used to be talked about all over the nation when the bars where there. Now its a complete joke. If you put the machine and lottery in there, you would have solidified Atlanta as the most boring big city on the planet.

By @@

January 22, 2009 10:59 AM | Link to this

First things first, jay! Kudos for posting your opinion without tapping into the resources of other people’s. Wooten wrote a column on this very subject January 14th. That having been said….

this’d be like lettin’ the vultures descend on a dead carcass.

As long as I don’t have to pay to “re-Habitat-e” humanity, I have no qualms?

Something to think about…….how many kids would go hungry, ‘cause Mom and Dad gambled away their meal ticket?

Another thought! Isn’t Georgia a no-smoking state? I’ve never been to a casino where the one-armed bandits weren’t enveloped in smoke. Puff & Pull, Puff & Pull.

By Davo

January 22, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

Apparently gambling is a vice so evil that govt has decided to prosecute those involved in it. Equally apparent is the fact that when it enriches the state, the vice no longer applies.

http://www.gambling-law-us.com/State-Laws/Georgia/

So…when can I fire up this tax generating reefer?

By stop talking and lets do this!

January 22, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

You people kill me! Most of you probably don’t even live in Atlanta or even know how to get downtown that complain on here. With that being said, someone at least is trying to make SOMETHING happen for downtown. Good or bad but at least its SOMETHING. Remember all of you that shot down the lottery years ago, well looks like the lottery is doing quite well! I do like the gambling idea, but needs to have real slot machines and table games as well to really pull it off. Build a nice high-rise hotel and really clean up the area. It’s not really THAT BAD people! Have a well lit area around Underground, get rid of the riff raff “hanging” around, and get extra security to keeps things in check. You would have people come from Miami to Charlotte and west to come play. What about all the layovers at the airport? People could ride the train in and play for a few hours and head back to the airport in 20 min. Have pretty servers walking around giving free boos to those playing the machines. Just some ideas folks!

By Clay

January 22, 2009 11:22 AM | Link to this

I am all for casino gambling! But not in dangerously crime ridden downtown Atlanta! People are scared to go there. And with Atlanta’s notoriously corrupt police force — please!!!! Put casino gambling in the suburbs where it is much safer.

By sd

January 22, 2009 11:27 AM | Link to this

I am for legalization of all gambling, narcotics, and prostitution.

I’d like to see a red light district where prostitutes can work in a safe environment.

I’d like to see casinos where people can gamble in a safe environment.

I’d like to see dispensories where drug addicts can go for their fix rather than to street corners where they deal with criminals and rob others to support their habit.

By Gambler

January 22, 2009 11:32 AM | Link to this

I’m all for all night gambling downtown if the city can do something about all these thugs and rif raf down there all the time, morning and night, and all the bums looking for easy cash to buy drugs. But, the police have more important things to do downthere, like arrest jaywalkers and write traffic tickets for illegal parking!

By steve brown

January 22, 2009 11:32 AM | Link to this

Underground, Underground, Underground. Enough already. Put that folly to sleep and put the Casino in a more pleasant area of “greater” Atlanta.

By mark

January 22, 2009 11:37 AM | Link to this

Whats the world coming to. Lets just lay-off about 50% of the Govt. workers, most are dead-beats anyway. That alone would take care of our money shortfall.

By sd

January 22, 2009 11:41 AM | Link to this

If we had a casino downtown, it would be very safe. You would park in a garage with private security. You would be surrounded by security while in the casino.

Its like some of you have never been anywhere ever.

The Casino would PROVIDE the safety you so crave. They are business people. they aren’t going to rely on the worthless city cops. They will get REAL security.

By The Truth

January 22, 2009 11:44 AM | Link to this

Robb Pitts you will still not become Mayor of Atlanta because you are a lying two-faced coward. You abandoned North Fulton after we supported you in-spite of your Democrat ties.

Its time Republicans run the ill-fated City of Atlanta.

Who cares what happens regarding gambling because just like the state run Lotto they will make promises and fail to keep them.

How about funding our childrens college tuition?

Will someone recall Robb Pitts. He is the Pitts.

By GOP is gone

January 22, 2009 12:00 PM | Link to this

DB,

I have never given much thought to Zell’s contribution to Clinton’s election. I just know, and this sounds very self absorbed, that I have been given a huge gift of a first rate college education for both of my kids by Zell’ passing of the Lottery Bill. For that one thing alone, I can not look at Zell with too much malice. I did not care for what he had to say about the Democratic Party, especially when claiming that the GOP was more financially conservative after the last 8 year spend-a-thon as a legacy.

By Cougarmom

January 22, 2009 12:11 PM | Link to this

As a frequent visitor to Biloxi I can attest to the fact that there is not and never has been a RIVERBOAT casino in Biloxi…but there was a Pirate ship in the Gulf that was wicked…..man I miss the OLD Treasure Bay and The President.

With that all said, not that I think anyone of any importance on the issue is reading this blog but I am just putting this out there…

Take over Fulton Industrial Boulevard and let Harrah’s and MGM and the such build true, full fledge Casino / Hotels along Fulton Industrial. It would still be in Fulton County and could be marketed as a FAMILY VACATION DESTINATION with Six Flags across the river and all of Atlanta’s Attractions within reach by car OR public transportation. It would help the city of Atlanta rid itself of the problems that the FIB business district has become and reviatlize what was once a major industrial park but is now little more than a huge burden to APD and other social services.

Just a suggestion……

By jmcguffey

January 22, 2009 12:15 PM | Link to this

If anyone is so naive as to believe you cannot place a bet,play a video machine for cash or find a card game any time,they are in a state of denial.LEGALIZE IT AND TAX IT.

By Patrick

January 22, 2009 12:23 PM | Link to this

This is typical of the problem with Georgia government. Lots of bold statements being made without anything to back them up. I do like your stand against increased tourism, I don’t want out of state dollars creating waves in our beautifully stagnant economy.

By Kenny Rogers

January 22, 2009 12:37 PM | Link to this

Doesn’t anyone on here following current events in our city? There is already gambling in Downtown Atlanta.

My family and & I already GAMBLE with our lives each & every time we go downtown to see the Braves, see a concert and try to enjoy a urine-scented picnic at Centennial Park.

If you can make it through “running the gauntlet” of Atlanta’s rude, law-ignoring, self-entitled vermin such as the ultra-aggressive panhandlers, shiftless ne’er-do-wells, hustling ticket scalpers, thugs, gangsters, knife-wielding homeboys and run-of-the-mill criminals on the way to your event from your vehicle or MARTA station completely unscathed, you should go buy a lottery ticket immediately - It is definitely your lucky day!

-

Nuke everything inside I-285 and south of I-20 and just start over.

By Bring Me the Head of Deforest Kelley

January 22, 2009 12:46 PM | Link to this

Whether gambling should be legalized in the state is an entirely different question than whehter a casino should be built at Underground.

A casino would be horrible to downtown. All of downtown’s current problems that get mentioned on blogs like this - crime, lack of pedestrian and retail traffic, homeless congregations, etc - are a direct result of this very “cater to the conventioners” approach the city has taken for so long. Until we get serious about making downtown a good neighborhood for Atlanta residents and locals, these problems will continue to worsen.

Of course, from such small-minded people as Sam Massell and other “leaders” in this city (Dan O’Leary, I’m talking about you), you can do no wrong by pitching the same tired, unimaginative ideas for economic development.

Yesterday, it was an aquarium (despite no body of water within 25 miles of downtown). Today, its a casino. Tomorrow, it will be another stadium, or an amusement park.

Speaking of “visionaries”, Massell hasn’t held an elected post in this city for 30 years. I’m tired of has-beens like him continuing to have so much voice in our civic affairs.

By Margie

January 22, 2009 12:52 PM | Link to this

If you really look around downtown you see the pathos and misery already…how do you figure the casino will make it worse? How much worse can it get? Perhaps, just perhaps, if we build the Casino we just might have “JOBS” that we can offer to those who are unemployed through no fault of their own. Maybe, just maybe, instead of looking at the negative side of everything, consider the benefits the casino would bring. It’s time to grow up and look at the other cities that have joined the 21st Century - casinos have not torn their town apart or down. I’ve been to Vegas, the first casino that ever opened in Atlantic City, Cherokee NC, and hopefully Mississippi before I get too old to drive! They are thriving and providing necessary revenue for the city and state. It doesn’t have to be a den of iniquity as people imagine. The South will not rise again and it’s time that Altanta get on the band wagon, like Mississippi, North Carolina, etc., quit sticking your head in the sand and holding this state back by your “antiquated views, laws, etc.” You moan and whine about the condition Atlanta and Georgia are in…grow up and smell the roses and ACT for a change and just don’t TALK IT TO DEATH. Don’t bury the messenger who had the foresight to bring this us this proposal. Things WON’T GET BETTER, until we’re finally ready to take a step forward…NOW IS THE TIME - we’ve already waited too long. How much longer are the “Good Ole Boys” going to run and ruin this state. We need positive, fresh thinkers and doers in the Atlanta mix. You can “talk it to death…or you can act”. I personally recommend acting on all our behalf.

By Margie

January 22, 2009 12:53 PM | Link to this

If you really look around downtown you see the pathos and misery already…how do you figure the casino will make it worse? How much worse can it get? Perhaps, just perhaps, if we build the Casino we just might have “JOBS” that we can offer to those who are unemployed through no fault of their own. Maybe, just maybe, instead of looking at the negative side of everything, consider the benefits the casino would bring. It’s time to grow up and look at the other cities that have joined the 21st Century - casinos have not torn their town apart or down. I’ve been to Vegas, the first casino that ever opened in Atlantic City, Cherokee NC, and hopefully Mississippi before I get too old to drive! They are thriving and providing necessary revenue for the city and state. It doesn’t have to be a den of iniquity as people imagine. The South will not rise again and it’s time that Altanta get on the band wagon, like Mississippi, North Carolina, etc., quit sticking your head in the sand and holding this state back by your “antiquated views, laws, etc.” You moan and whine about the condition Atlanta and Georgia are in…grow up and smell the roses and ACT for a change and just don’t TALK IT TO DEATH. Don’t bury the messenger who had the foresight to bring this us this proposal. Things WON’T GET BETTER, until we’re finally ready to take a step forward…NOW IS THE TIME - we’ve already waited too long. How much longer are the “Good Ole Boys” going to run and ruin this state. We need positive, fresh thinkers and doers in the Atlanta mix. You can “talk it to death…or you can act”. I personally recommend acting on all our behalf.

By Donna

January 22, 2009 12:53 PM | Link to this

Do something about the panhandlers downtown and it will revive itself — we won’t need a casino.

By JJ

January 22, 2009 1:01 PM | Link to this

It’s a gamble just to go to Downtown Atlanta, and come home alive.

By Mr. Man

January 22, 2009 1:04 PM | Link to this

I think both Ga & Al should legalize gambling, but Downtown Atlanta is the WRONG place for it. The resorts should go in or near parts of the states that need the jobs and money the most.

The states should pick 3-4 poor counties to legalize gaming in and only those 3-4 counties. Some of the poorest counties in the states have plenty of room to grow.

By Scrabcake

January 22, 2009 1:07 PM | Link to this

If the decision is made to add a Casino to underground, at least make it a REAL casino, not one of the half-a*******ed video parlor cheapies.

Have true slots, have real table games, and have REAL security, something Atlanta doesn’t have…..

Don’t waste the effort with the typical slow wit effort like most things in this two bit wannabe city.

By Mr. Man

January 22, 2009 1:07 PM | Link to this

I think both Ga & Al should legalize gambling, but Downtown Atlanta is the WRONG place for it. The resorts should go in or near parts of the states that need the jobs and money the most.

The states should pick 3-4 poor counties to legalize gaming in and only those 3-4 counties. Some of the poorest counties in the states have plenty of room to grow.

By Mr. Man

January 22, 2009 1:08 PM | Link to this

I think both Ga & Al should legalize gambling, but Downtown Atlanta is the WRONG place for it. The resorts should go in or near parts of the states that need the jobs and money the most.

The states should pick 3-4 poor counties to legalize gaming in and only those 3-4 counties. Some of the poorest counties in the states have plenty of room to grow.

By SaveOurRepublic

January 22, 2009 1:12 PM | Link to this

Pro = money/revenue for the Casino, & thus their employees. Financial gains for Atlanta business (hotels (if no hotel within the Casino (vice versa)), restaurants, etc.

Con = The Pro’s would largely be “ill-gotten gains” at the expense of those duped into tossing away money (that they can’t afford to lose). While everyone has responsibility for their own actions & choices, the proverbial “carrot” need not be dangled (in this instance). For a more “fundamentalist” prospective…

http://www.jesus-is-savior.com/Evils%20in%20America/gamblingisa_sin.htm

By mrwhitehurst

January 22, 2009 1:14 PM | Link to this

I agree w/Bookman. A casino will suck the life of Atlanta. My family and I visited Metropolis, Illinois. No one was on the streets, most restaurants were closed down, and several shops were closed down. The casino down the street literally had taken all of the business.

If you are a business owner is Atlanta, you should vote NO on a casino. If you want to gamble, go to Vegas. Let what happens in Vegas stay in Vegas, not Atlanta. That’s not we’re about!

By Lisa

January 22, 2009 1:16 PM | Link to this

@DB,Gwinnettian Why did you post this??? This story had absolutely NOTHING to do with PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, NOTHING!! Next time try commenting on the subject!!!

By Lisa

January 22, 2009 1:17 PM | Link to this

@DB,Gwinnettian Why did you post this??? This story had absolutely NOTHING to do with PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, NOTHING!! Next time try commenting on the subject!!!

By Lisa

January 22, 2009 1:18 PM | Link to this

@DB,Gwinnettian Why did you post this??? This story had absolutely NOTHING to do with PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, NOTHING!! Next time try commenting on the subject!!!

By Reality

January 22, 2009 1:27 PM | Link to this

I just think it’s the wrong location. I’m already afraid to carry more than $10 cash with me in that area. Just imagine what’s going to happen when certain people become aware, that gamblers will be parking blocks away, and walking to a casino with lots of cash on them.

By nique

January 22, 2009 1:28 PM | Link to this

I wish the proposal was a full on casino, but I guess you have to take steps. Slot machines probably do not attract people with a lot of disposable income able to spend it elsewhere in the neighborhood, but blackjack, poker, etc. I believe would. I think it’s a good idea to allow gambling at Underground for the reason it will give conventioneers something else to do, bring in additional revenue and possibly improve the Underground by people actually investing money in it. As far as people going to casinos only caring about/spending money on what’s in the casino, I completely disagree. Vegas generates a ridiculous amount of money from its shows and restaurants.

By Mike

January 22, 2009 1:28 PM | Link to this

I think that casinos in Georgia would be a great idea, but not in Atlanta. A casino downtown in the middle of a crime ridden city would yield the same crowd as Underground. I’m one that has traveled out of state to gamble on occasion. It would be a great desination in a more remote part of Georgia. And not just video poker, a real casino with blackjack, craps, a poker room, a buffet with crablegs the whole works. That way it would attract tourists and not the poor that already reside in the city. Not to mention safer for those wanting to visit the establishment.

By Reality

January 22, 2009 1:29 PM | Link to this

I just think it’s the wrong location. I’m already afraid to carry more than $10 cash with me in that area. Just imagine what’s going to happen when certain people become aware, that gamblers will be parking blocks away, and walking to a casino with lots of cash on them.

By suckthelifefromatl

January 22, 2009 1:37 PM | Link to this

I agree w/Bookman. A casino will suck the life of Atlanta. My family and I visited Metropolis, Illinois. No one was on the streets, most restaurants were closed down, and several shops were closed down. The casino down the street literally had taken all of the business.

If you are a business owner is Atlanta, you should vote NO on a casino. If you want to gamble, go to Vegas. Let what happens in Vegas stay in Vegas, not Atlanta. That’s not we’re about!

By Not me

January 22, 2009 1:48 PM | Link to this

A casino in Atlanta would be a great idea at the old Ford or GM plant, but not at Underground. I would be a little scared to walk about that area with any cash in my pocket.

By Facing up to own mistakes

January 22, 2009 2:07 PM | Link to this

I believe Casinos does suck the life out of a city. Just look at Atlantic City, Biloxi and New Orleans… Even looking at Vegas, what else is there in those cities but gambling?

Although the tax revenues would be great but on what cost?

By DB, Gwinnettian

January 22, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this

Ok, so what’s weirder about our Lisa @ 1.16-1.18; is it that

1) she triple-posted to scold me about not posting on topic? or

2) she neglected to post on topic, herself? (for the record, Lisa, if you’re still around, I did comment on topic with my first post, and again at 8.38.)

I’m wondering if maybe she (or others) thought I actually agreed with the nutball who had posted the comments about electing a “Muslin”… I’d only quoted those comments as a joke, in case it wasn’t clear.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

GOP is gone @ 12.00, thanks for the feedback. I don’t think there’s anything “self absorbed” about wanting a good education for your kids; who doesn’t? Even if I weren’t a parent I’d still support HOPE wholeheartedly, out of enlightened self-interest as a taxpayer.

By You Guys R Killin' Me!

January 22, 2009 2:09 PM | Link to this

I think that the gambling should be allowed downtown or at one of the abandoned car plants. I think the vote should be put to the people whether they want slot machines only and/or slots and tables. Crime is going to be every! People are going to gamble whether they do it here in Atlanta or drive two hours to NC or AL. Our state seriously needs the money and the jobs.

By Hillbilly Deluxe

January 22, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

I’d agree with Jay on this one.

By soyouwantlowtaxes

January 22, 2009 2:28 PM | Link to this

Look, people want all the things that government does for cheap. That’s why we’re in this mess. And what we do pay for isn’t nearly enough except maybe the prisons and jails.

It’s time for Sunday alcohol sales, and it’s time for gambling. Let the people vote who wants what. If folks down in South Georgia don’t want these things, then fine, just don’t tell me I can’t have them here in Atlanta.

And as far as organized crime goes, they are already here, it takes a very naive person to think that they aren’t everywhere already.

I believe in proceeds from gambling should only go to teacher’s and professor salaries, research grants at colleges, text books and supplies in grade and secondary schools, as well as building maintenance.I also believe police and fire personnel should get 1/4 for salaries and equipment.

Thanks to our over reliance on testing, the HOPE scholarship has turned into poor,working class, and lower middle class people funding well off kid’s education. It’s no coincident that the campus and faculty of the flagship university of our state doesn’t look at all like our state and the people who pay taxes to help keep it running.It’s is skewed geographically and by economic class.

So bring on gambling, Atlanta has to decide if it is going to be a big city with vibrant nightlife, or another suburb. So far we’ve stripped the soul out of the city, what nightlife their is, is boring and soon the convention business will be effected as people opt for places that have the vices they want after doing their business during the day.

By JAMES

January 22, 2009 2:49 PM | Link to this

do the casino and use the money for the childrens’ programs that the state is cutting funds to.

By Kady

January 22, 2009 2:50 PM | Link to this

Atlanta is a great place to live but a sorry place to visit. The one place people loved was Buckhead….too many bars, the folks said…so guess what….? no place to go, no revenue from the acohol sales….just like shutting the bars early, doing away with Light Up Atlanta and reallythe embarrassment of all the honky tonk huts that lined the streets during the Olympics.

Sorry, I’m a native….But Atlanta does not do anything well in a big way….Nope, not even casions to bring the poorinto them

By tom

January 22, 2009 2:50 PM | Link to this

Please you already gamble with your life and wallet when you do to Underground.. nothing but low lifes

By Some Other Mike

January 22, 2009 3:06 PM | Link to this

I think that creating some form of “casino zone” in Underground Atlanta is just more evil, from the same folks who routed Braves shuttle traffic through Underground. If those stakeholders want captive headcounts, they should close all the stores, put bars around the place, and call it a jail.

And a “lottery casino”? I’m sorry, but I’m not really interested in playing lottery of any kind when their officials are being paid those bonuses, especially during a budget contraction.

By Cari

January 22, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

Atlanta needs something beside the non-tax paying Baptist churches. We need money for new sewer and water lines and property taxes in Atlanta are quite high enough. Maybe if we put in a casino we can afford to hire and pay the police and fire departement employees. There will always be people who have no self control no matter what you put down there. So, I say legalize alcohol on Sunday, that ought to pay for the new sewers and bring some nice casinos in. One more thing. Will the idiots who think that our new President is a Muslim, please invest in some reading classes and some books instead of guns and crack. You make all of us in Georgia look like we are morons.

By CJ

January 22, 2009 3:21 PM | Link to this

Pros: Tax revenue, new businesses in Downtown, may spark infrastructure improvements (rail, road paving, etc.). Cons: May attract an undesirable crowd like in the off-strip areas of Las Vegas, may not spark infrastructure improvements needed to support so many people in such a small space, may increase traffic on the alread clogged Downtown Connector.

By scrappy

January 22, 2009 3:46 PM | Link to this

Atlanta needs so many things to improve it is hard to pick just one. In order to be a bustling city the city needs to offer things to majority of the population that spend money, this is the young professionals and young families. We already have enough ‘family friendly’ activities, couldn’t we try some entertainment for the young people with no kids that are willing to spend money on a night out? This means Nightlife! Being able to go to a nice dinner, maybe see a show, or do some gambling, and if the mood arises, to stay out late drinking (or be able to buy alcohol on Sunday!)and still be able to get home safely. This same mentality holds for the conventioners too. Until we let go of conservative values that do nothing but stifle the will of the young spenders, Atlanta will continue to decline and these young professionals and conventioners will move elsewhere.

By O4W

January 22, 2009 5:24 PM | Link to this

I don’t believe a CASINO would bring excitement and nightlife to Atlanta, but that’s not what we’ll get. We’ll get video scratch-off ticket parlors, and that sucks.

By Mr Fury

January 24, 2009 9:33 AM | Link to this

This is nothing but an idea to line the pockets of Mr O’Leary. And a pathetic idea at that. If that is the best he can do then I suggest he find another line of work.

By Ted

January 24, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this

Jay- Don’t forget about Atlantic City. I don’t think even the most rabid gambling supporter could argue that Downtown Atlantic City has been “revitalized” by its casinos. And the city has not become prosporous by any stretch. And have any of these supporters been to Tunica or Biloxi? Once you leave the casinos, there’s nothing.

Casinos draw in thousands of people that really cannot afford to be there. They suck money out of other parts of the economy, like from stores and restaurants. They do not create wealth.

Hopefully, one day, our leaders will stop looking for “silver bullets” to rescue downtown and get back to basic revitalization strategies that are proven winners. Thanks

By Concerned

January 24, 2009 10:07 AM | Link to this

It is really sad when someone professes to be a Christian yet hurls such ridiculous insults. Perhaps you are a Christian but obviously a mentally ill one!

In reference to gambling that is managed by the Ga. Lottery Corp., it would not work. If the payouts are similar to the payouts on scratch off and other tickets, the casino would fail miserably. All you buy is a piece of cardboard in most instances.

If the truth was known, Georgia already has small casino gambling in the corner convenient stores. This is one reason that I use my ATM card to purchase gas so that I do not have to go in them and possibly be robbed by someone waiting to rob the store and those playing the machines. I know someone who goes around the metro area playing the machines and once the owners of the stores become familiar with the “regular players”, they pay them cash! I’ve always wondered why this was not monitored by some law enforcement entity!

I think the reason why most legislators do not and would not support gambling is because they could not get their greedy hands on the money like they would love to get the Hope money for most ridiculous “pork projects”. Many Georgia citizens go to Las Vegas, Mississippi, Alabama, Atlantic City to gamble. Many legislators go there to hide and gamble!

By ben

January 24, 2009 10:39 AM | Link to this

tell ya what. you couldn’t get people to go underground no matter what. perception is reality. if you want to revitalize downtown put more money into GSU. move companies downtown. you don’t want the crime around casinos. it would make the panhandling now look like Barney.

By alex kascic

January 24, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

why not horse racing? a track in georgia would certainly be a plus…most of the best race horses are shipped to other states from here and many people go to Alabama for the simulcast…it’s a great sport and better than the stock market…It takes a lot of skill to pick a winner and it’s a great mind exercise as well as great entertainment.. it would be a tremendous source of tax revenue for the state and could help lower personal taxes, mmaybe even allow the state to get rid of advalorum or personal property tax at least…also add revenue and jobs….

By NICK

January 24, 2009 11:13 AM | Link to this

NOTHING WORKS IN BLACK NEIGHBORHOODS, literally. (except liquor store owners, pimps and drug dealers)…Every business that has opened in the Underground has failed. I mean look at apes that congragate around the place. No one goes down there unless they are looking for trouble.

White people, the taxpaying ones with the money and jobs, have not and will not, go down to “The Ghetto”.

Putting in a casino, will only attract more degenerates to an already disgusting and unsafe part of town. But then again, black folks would “throw their own mommas under the bus” to make a buck….

By GaLiberal

January 24, 2009 11:22 AM | Link to this

**By AJC/DNC Management

January 22, 2009 7:15 AM | Link to this

{{{{In watching the inauguration of Obama, I had the overwhelming feeling that our country has finally grown up.-Urinal/Kult of baraKKK Vent}}}}**

Jay: Please ban this racist to stop it from posting more racist filth. It’s continual use of KKK in reference to President Obama’s race is offensive to decent Americans. But, then it is not a decent American. I’d bet it is a member of a white supremacist or neo-Nazi fascist group. All Hail Bush! America’s answer to Hitler.

When you vote Rethuglicon, you vote against your own best interests. And AJC/DNC Management is living proof.

By James Adams

January 24, 2009 11:45 AM | Link to this

I am a college graduate that pays his taxes and I vote, am not ‘entitled’ to anything. I enjoy casinos and do not in any way consider myself a ‘loser’. If my vacation budget is spent on gambling, so be it. far better spent than idiots that go to Branson, Missouri or any Blue Collar Comedy show.

By Carl

January 24, 2009 11:50 AM | Link to this

Too many beggars downtown, despite all efforts to stop it. I have lived downtown for six years, and it has not gotten any better. Beggars, bums everywhere. I had a friend in from out of town lastnight and the three blocks we walked from my condo to the Hardrock Cafe, we were followed 6 times by bums asking for money. It’s impossible to walk down the street without having someone ask you what your looking for, where are you staying, or trying to handout resturant coupons they lift from the counters, that are free for the taking, as if their doing you a great service only to get your attention so they can then ask you for money. I know all the hooks, it’s such a nussiance. Clean up downtown!

By Xes

January 24, 2009 12:10 PM | Link to this

@Nick If you have nothing constructive to say, shut your mouth. That diatribe of hate has no place in a blog about whether or not we should bring a casino to downtown. You should be banned from ajc.com for ever. Same goes for AJC/DNC Management

@GaLiberal I agree with you completely, but you cannot be going around telling people that Bush is America’s answer to Hitler. That will really make people take you seriously.

Anyway, I see no problem with a casino, but it would have to be a REAL casino and would have to placed in the right part of town. Opening one casino in Atlanta does not mean that we have to legalize cambling everywhere in the state. Most countries in Europe have to approve a casino before it can be built… and they just say no. It would not bring more crime that’s not ALREADY THERE. In fact maybe we can make a few bucks to help clean up the place. And this whole thing about no alcohol sales on Sundays… ridiculous. No legal reason to not let us buy a beer on Sunday at the gas station. Only religious reasons, which are supposed to stay out of the government, remember?

By Corey

January 24, 2009 12:14 PM | Link to this

Look no farther than the shelter at Peachtree and Pine(human warehouse) which is just a stone’s throw away from the convention district. That is the source of the professional beggars. I know this first hand. Ms. Beaty and her ilk will not rest until this city becomes a haven for all who wish to give up on a productive life and become a nuisance to everyone else. Think about it. Free room and board; you get to mingle with visitors while taking advantage their generosity. Where do I join? Shirley, do something and stop being held hostage by these enablers.

By cg kennesaw

January 24, 2009 12:43 PM | Link to this

WOW… there are sick miserable sad human beings in this state.. DB in gwinette, you need a doctor, possibly rehab… you are one of the sickest racist miserable saddest human beings.. I know that My GOD, same God as you, understands your confusion and sickness and thankfully through her eyes she stills loves you, but wow!!! to all the hate filled comments, go home and pray about it.. I think at this point people are just trying to brain storm and bring in some revenue for the city, mistakes have been made and some of our leaders are not doing a good job but that’s the beauty of democracy, we get to vote!! as far as people blaming this on Obama, give me a break, and for those of you wishing for his death, impeachment or resignation, SHAME on you, he is our president!!! you call yourself a “christian” you should never have thoughts like that about another soul!!!! and the saddest of all is this type of racist hate fear crap doesnt surprise me, I cant wait to move outta this city!!!

By Tyree

January 24, 2009 1:44 PM | Link to this

Respectfully, I disagree that Atlanta has more going for it that Detroit. Atlanta has become the Detroit of the south. Want proof? Witness the two auto plants that have closed in the last year. Want more? Last night there were two shootings in Midtown alone. One resulting in another homicide. Midtown being the crown jewel of urban revitalization in the last few years. More you say? Look at the crumbling sidewalks and pothole filled roads throughout Atlanta. Look at the demoralized Firefighters and understaffed police protection. Let’s not even talk about city employee layoffs, budget shortfalls, and the infamous sewer structure.I won’t even mention the traffic issues.Face it, Atlanta has officially become a cesspool. Atlanta needs revenue. At this point, the image of the city has little to lose. Let it happen.

By Harold

January 24, 2009 2:06 PM | Link to this

Going to Underground Atlanta is already a huge gamble, so why not increase security and limit what’s gambled to money rather than lives?

By DeKalb Lifer

January 24, 2009 3:07 PM | Link to this

Do you think Gov Purdue has Real Casino on his mind? No.

He’s thinking we’ll garner more money from tourism because we’ll develop the ancillary trades that go along with any sort or gambling real or arcade - namely drugs, prostitution, and all the social burdens this city does not need more of.

Instead why don’t we end c** fighting and dog fighting (pit bulls) and work our way up from there.

By JR

January 24, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

Mr. Bookman and people like him always seem to be against anything that will move this city and state into the 21st century.

If Mr. Bookman others want to live a life of the past I suggest they move to Utah or something.

Get a grip people. Bring on the casino, sunday sales, late night openings and anything else will make Atlanta a great destination.

By scott

January 24, 2009 3:25 PM | Link to this

Bring it on. Would make spending time in dt Atl much more attractive.

By MrLiberty

January 24, 2009 3:29 PM | Link to this

Is gambling the answer to what?

Gambling establishments provide a service just like any other business. ALL businesses should be able to exist with the government providing only one service - the prevention of fraud or theft. Nothing more. Instead, govt. regulates, taxes, subsidizes, controls, bans, and every other kind of micromanagement.

Central management of the economy doesn’t work. It should be obvious to everyone that this city’s problems are the direct result of government action, not a lack of it.

If one wants to condemn any gambling, they should condemn lotto. The odds on this game would not stand up to a free market of other gambling alternatives.

Gambling may be condemned, but remember. If one could work hard, save, and expect that they could get ahead and be safe in their future, the lure of easy money in all forms would diminish. So long as the federal and state governments can take away property at will through property taxation, take away income through income taxation, destroy savings through the inflationary policies of the Federal Reserve, everyone is encouraged to risk it all to try and “beat” the system.

Government, you are the problem. You can never be the solution. Leave gambling, prostitution, and every other business you fear alone and let the market decide what is needed in our society.

By DeKalb Lifer

January 24, 2009 4:30 PM | Link to this

Atlanta a great destination. ??

For what? Drugs and prostitution and other social ills of which we already have too much of?

No thanks. Why don’t we make this a great place to live and if others would like to visit excellent. But if they need to be drunk, drugged, carry weapons, pandered too then forget it.

Maybe all the gamblers here can move to Vegas. Best wishes.

By billy

January 24, 2009 4:40 PM | Link to this

lottery to education-gaming to the state,not to bad of a trade off.Wait until the Indians get the upper hand and build one then the STATE GETS…N-O-T-H-I-N-G!!!! Let The high Rollers Pay..the working class pays a higher % of the taxes,so let them pay,by playing…AS it goes in Illinois YOU HAVE TO PAY TO PLAY…….SAME THING

By Daniel

January 24, 2009 5:30 PM | Link to this

I have lived downtown for more than five years, was hopeful downtown would have blossomed into a vibrant city by now, but hasn’t. In fact, more beggers than ever. I have stopped eating and making any purchases downtown all together. Single male, don’t cook who eats out at least 5 times a week. Don’t want to support an area that puts the beggers over the property owners. Just wish my place would sell! Anyone who lives around Underground should recieve a tax credit for the crap they have to put up with.

By Jay

January 24, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this

Man, the city would benifit to read some of the comments posted on the blogs regarding downtown. I hav enoticed that recently there hav ebeen several about Underground and the lackluster nightlife. Everyone of the comments in some way or another share the same sentiment about downtown; boring, nasty or something negative. If these comments express how the locals feel, imagine how tourist must feel when they first come to downtown. Downtown, is however, very dismal!

By CJKatl

January 24, 2009 5:57 PM | Link to this

NO NO NO NO

Vegas is great. Biloxi is great. Gambling in ATL would be half-baked. Think St. Louis. Think Detroit. Think of a Greyhound station full of sad looking zombies parked in front of cheap machines. If conventions want gambling, why would they choose slots in ATL when they can have fun table games elsewhere.

The people who brought us Underground want us to trust them to choose and administer gambling in Downtown. Nobody goes to Underground because they’ve done such a poor job with it. Underground screams “Don’t let these people run a lemonade stand.” IF gambling were to be allowed in Underground, the first thing to do is not allow anyone currently having anything to do with Underground to have ANY input in the plan.

All in all, unless ATL wants to commit to gambling in a meaningful, all-in way, then just don’t do it.

By Big Lund

January 24, 2009 6:54 PM | Link to this

yea put the casino where the old taurus plant. Then lets get a shuttle from the airport, lets get as much money to atlanta as possible. Religion has nothing to do with it. $$$$$

By bill

January 24, 2009 8:44 PM | Link to this

poor poor jay , still living his glory college day when the city and state need revenue. jay, hate to inform you but upscaling of ga. univ and ga tech are not the lifesavers of taxes. the conventions are not coming to atlanta for 1 BIG reason, after spending all day in the congress center and other convention meetings the last place they want to go is to the coke cola museum or the fish tank. if you want to look at cities and states that have solved many of thier tax problems you only need to look to tunica miss, chester, pa. etc hugh employment draw, taxes went down and what do you know crime has not risen. jay, maybe it is time for you to take retirement and move on. we need jobs, tax revenue, and better places to spend our free time

By Rufus

January 24, 2009 8:51 PM | Link to this

I am so tired of these so called Americans hating on our President why dont you just take a hike and disappear. We have a good man who cares about the common man so get over and get with it. We all need to eat and live.

By hlg

January 25, 2009 7:56 AM | Link to this

yes a casino will greatly help this state as a whole,georgians have to get out of the mentality of what’s is good for some what happened to the good for all oh i forgot what happened to mick vick wow how much this state lost due to racists how much money did he really GENERATE for this state?

By hlg

January 25, 2009 7:58 AM | Link to this

yes a casino will greatly help this state as a whole,georgians have to get out of the mentality of what’s is good for some what happened to the good for all oh i forgot what happened to mick vick wow how much this state lost due to racists how much money did he really GENERATE for this state?

By tc

January 25, 2009 8:05 AM | Link to this

A casino in this redneck state? LOL! Don’t hold your breath! The bible thumpers will be in full force to make sure it doesn’t happen, and they can continue living in the early 1900’s.

By Bill Gullion

January 25, 2009 9:44 AM | Link to this

Machine gambling does not enjoy the following that table gambling does. People with money who like to gamble will not come to Underground period! They like the thrill of playing against the dealer in black jack, rolling the dice in craps, going all in Texas Holdem, etc. They certainly aren’t going to come downtown put coins in a slot and watch a preset machine fork out occasional coins. If gambling is all machines at Underground, the casino will enjoy only limited success and will add to the continually disasterous efforts to make this project a success. If it includes tables, it most likely will be the first successful thing developers have done with this floundering downtown project.

By Justine

January 25, 2009 9:55 AM | Link to this

This is just another foolish plan which will result in higher taxes and the need for more resources than we can provide. Underground started off great after its renovation in the 1980s. However, it failed because of greed and the inability to maintain it.

Underground should go back to its original purpose. A place where families can visit during the day and early evening hours and where adults can party at night. This is not impossible.

I visit Baltimore regularly and after all these years the Harbor remains a major tourist and local attraction during the day and evening hours. Remember Underground was developed by the same people with the ssame goal. It was the petty politics and greed of Metro Atlanta which spoiled Underground.

Gambiling is not the answer. It has not been the answer in any place where it is. It has not lowered property taxes or increased revenues to a point where the impact was possible.

By John M

January 25, 2009 10:15 AM | Link to this

As this article notes, downtown is making great strides forward. Georgia State’s huge new dorm on Ponce (with another on the way) and the new condo and loft developments spread throughout downtown are making this a living city after the end of the business day. Give this trend some more time and Underground could convert back to its original functions — retail, restaurants, and entertainment. Using the facility for casinos would be a big step backward.

By John M

January 25, 2009 10:18 AM | Link to this

As this article notes, downtown is making great strides forward. Georgia State’s huge new dorm on Ponce (with another on the way) and the new condo and loft developments spread throughout downtown are making this a living city after the end of the business day. Give this trend some more time and Underground could convert back to its original functions — retail, restaurants, and entertainment. Using the facility for casinos would be a big step backward.

By Expected

January 25, 2009 10:53 AM | Link to this

Put a casino downtown governed or with any oversight by Atlanta city government and in 2-3 years it will be corrupt, bankrupt, and full of thugs….

By The Thin Guy

January 25, 2009 10:53 AM | Link to this

If people want to throw their money down a rathole why is it any of the government’s business? How would a casino differ from the State Lottery? Considering the state of the city’s economy we need all forms of gambling, prostitution, drugs, and bull and dog fighting legalized. Atlanta the city where you can have a good time and not worry about the Church Ladies.

By cornell

February 24, 2009 5:12 PM | Link to this

who wants a casino with just slot machines if you going to do it do it right with everything craps,real poker , 21 and all the rest not just machines i can go sit in a gas station and do that crap

By greetingsfrompoland

March 6, 2009 11:16 AM | Link to this

Hello to all ! Greetings From Poland. very Good Page !