Same dance, different band. So, here we are again, considering gambling on the large steamboats. We're again told that this bill is needed, in order to compete with other cruise lines. And, we're talking ocean cruise lines, since no other river cruise line comes close. If this passes, and the gambling "amenity" is added to the AQ for instance, how long before the DQSC says that gambling must be a bigger portion of the boat? We all know that's the next step. One needs to look no further than the gambling "amenity" that was added to help the excursion boat industry in the early 1990s. And, where are we in 2005? Gambling only "boats", with true excursion boats still struggling. Various reasons and excuses were given for the transition to all gambling, but it is the change in clientele and desire for income that is the factor. So, when the AQ or MQ gets slots, will the true steamboater/cruise traveler stay? Or, will the gambling hungry crowd move in and desire more gambling? The DQSC, being 'customer friendly', will gladly try to fulfill their wish, and that's the end of that steamboat. Sure, my story might be drastic and sped up, but it is a very real possibility. Another problem that this bill doesn't fix is the fact that the short cruise experiment hasn't gone well for the AQ. The revolving door of crew members and breakdowns in service are a big problem now, and would continue to be a problem, in my opinion. Plus, the company must spend money on additional security systems, property/furnishings, and personnel. Is there enough living space for more crew, as well?
On a different topic, have you noticed that more airports are considering slot machines? I think this could be the next area of gambling expansion. It is, of course, all over the Las Vegas airport, and I'm sure it works well for them. Even the baggage claim area looks like a big casino, with a reflective ceiling and slot machines mixed in. Afterall, that's what the town is known for.
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