A casino is a place where people can gamble, enjoy a meal and drinks, attend live entertainment shows or watch broadcasts of sporting events. While casinos often have a reputation of seedy backroom gambling parlors where criminal activity takes place, many are lawful enterprises that offer a safe environment to gamble and spend time with family and friends. Casinos employ security guards, monitor their parking lots and take precautions to prevent violent crime afflicting their patrons.
Casinos cater to all types of gamblers, providing them with an extensive menu of games and various betting limits. Some casinos specialize in high-stakes betting. These “high rollers” gamble in special rooms and receive comps that include free hotel rooms, meals, tickets to shows and even limo service and airline tickets if they spend enough money.
The average casino gambler is a forty-six-year-old female from a household with above-average income. In 2005, this demographic made up 23% of casino patrons. Casinos also generate tax revenue for local governments. Proponents of gambling facilities often point to a drop in local unemployment when arguing that casinos help boost the economy. However, it is important to examine whether this drop is due to the introduction of a casino or a change in overall economic conditions. Moreover, it is also crucial to determine if the work force for a casino comes from within the local area. If not, the promise of job creation may not be realized.
