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Coney Island Casinos? Marty Markowitz Can't Wait To Double Down
By
Garth Johnston
Published Jan 10, 2012
Modified Jan 10, 2012
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By
Garth Johnston
Published Jan 10, 2012
Modified Jan 10, 2012
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With the success of the Aqueduct "Racino" last year there is a serious political push, headed by Governor Cuomo, to bring real casinos to New York State. And you know who really likes the idea? Brooklyn mascot and third-term Beep Marty Markowitz, who really wants to bring Casino's to the boardwalk. Craps on Coney, anyone?
"I commend Governor Cuomo for...his support for a constitutional amendment allowing casino gambling, which would bring jobs and revenue to potential locations in New York City," Markowitz says in a statement, "especially Coney Island, which is a natural."
And Markowitz has a point, gambling—assuming Cuomo can get it through the state legislature and a referendum vote—would bring serious cash money to the city and state. And it isn't like historically it is an alien concept to the Coney area in particular (from 1860 through the banning of gambling in 1910 Gravesend and Brighton were gambling meccas). But it has its drawbacks, too. As Assemblyman Steven Cymbrowitz (D-Sheepshead Bay) points out, studies show that those within 50 miles of casinos have a much higher instance of gambling addiction and bankruptcy.
"While we might be looking at an economic engine that could generate over a billion dollars annually for the state, thousands of new jobs and increased recreational venues for New Yorkers, we are also looking at a substantial increase in problem gambling," Cymbrowitz told the Brooklyn Paper.
So, since there is still much time before we see gambling grannies coming out for a smoke and bumping into the Mermaid Parade, now seems as good a time as any to ask what you'd think of a casino (or five) on the boardwalk?
Tagged
andrew cuomo
brooklyn
casino
coney island
gambling
marty markowitz
Garth Johnston
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