Letter: ‘Family friendly’ phase of Las Vegas needs to pass

Friday, Aug. 14, 1998 | 11:29 a.m.

Ever since Las Vegas became "family friendly" we've had nothing but families just clogging up the aisles on their way to the newest "family attraction." The casinos are definitely at fault for making these parents and children walk through the casino to get to the attractions in the first place.

However, a local parent who has visited the Mirage many times should know that a child young enough to ride in a stroller will get absolutely nothing out of Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden because he is too young.

It used to be that no one under 21 was allowed in any casino at any time. Now, it's "not allowed in gaming areas." Yet how many times have you seen teenagers loitering around slots? Or toddlers holding mommy's hand while she slips in just a few more dollars?

Some locals whine about slots in convenience and grocery stores but you don't hear anyone whining about kids in the Strip properties just running around like it's a neon playground.

The sooner the "family friendly" phase of Las Vegas history is over, the better.

James M. Giuffre