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CHRIS MORRIS / SPECIAL TO THE SUN
By J. Patrick Coolican (contact) 
Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010 | 2 a.m.
Reader poll
Obama's remark about Las Vegas
Mayor Reacts to Obama
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Mayor Goodman reacts to President Obama's comments about Las Vegas.
Related story
Related Document (.pdf)
Here we go again — time to crank up the outrage machine.
For the second time in less than a year, President Barack Obama made an offhand swipe at Las Vegas.
Last time, he said there should be no Vegas junkets for banks that had received government bailout money.
That was bad enough. But Tuesday, at a New Hampshire town hall, he added insult to injury, implying that Las Vegas is a place of profligacy.
“When times are tough, you tighten your belts,” he said.
“You don’t go buying a boat when you can barely pay your mortgage,” a lesson lost on untold Las Vegans last decade. “You don’t blow a bunch of cash on Vegas when you’re trying to save for college. You prioritize. You make tough choices. And it’s time your government did the same.”
Nevermind that Obama made his remarks defending a budget that will saddle future Americans with $1.5 trillion of debt. The real outrage? Suggesting that blowing money in Vegas instead of saving for college is a bad idea.
Here is where Las Vegas and the rest of the country part ways: We’ve built an entire industry, indeed, an entire city, around out-of-towners blowing their discretionary income, and lately they have less of it, and are less eager to part with it.
Nevada’s elected representatives responded quickly and forcefully to Obama’s remarks, pumping out news releases and sound bites like Model T’s from a 1920s Ford plant.
“The president needs to lay off Las Vegas and stop making it the poster child for where people shouldn’t be spending their money,” said Sen. Harry Reid, the Democratic majority leader who has been tasked with shepherding Obama’s agenda on Capitol Hill.
“How dare he insult any American city,” scolded Gov. Jim Gibbons before meeting with Nevada school superintendents in Carson City to tell them to expect 10 percent budget cuts. “I’m writing a letter to him today telling him to tone down or temper his remarks about Las Vegas. This is another slap in the face of the hardworking families in Nevada.”
When the story broke on the Web, the press secretary for one Nevada member of Congress double-checked to make sure the Sun had received his release expressing shocked outrage.
Not to worry. Reps. Shelley Berkley, Dina Titus and Dean Heller: All satisfactorily outraged.
Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman, who once extolled the joys of gin to some fourth-graders and defended the likes of mobster thug Tony Spilotro in court, said Obama is no friend of Las Vegas and has “psychological hangups” about our city.
The mayor said he would “give him the boot back to Washington to visit his failures back there” and called Obama “a real slow learner.”
If Obama didn’t have hang-ups about Las Vegas before, he will now.
After cleaning up his mess last spring by saying “(T)here’s nothing like a quick trip to Vegas in the middle of the week,” Obama had to grovel again Tuesday, no doubt after an angry call from Reid.
The president has a subtle sense of humor and has always chafed at some of the more absurd rituals of politics, like, say, having to apologize for suggesting that people saving for college shouldn’t be blowing money on Vegas.
His letter to Reid on Tuesday had the tone of a schoolchild caught eating paste or making fun of a portly cousin:
“I hope you know that during my Town Hall today, I wasn’t saying anything negative about Las Vegas. I was making the simple point that families use vacation dollars, not college tuition money, to have fun. There is no better place to have fun than Vegas, one of our country’s great destinations. I have always enjoyed my visits, look forward to visiting in a few weeks, and hope folks will visit in record numbers this year.”
Not an apology, exactly, but a pretty nice endorsement.
At this rate, by the time he’s finished with his presidency, Obama could be a full-time pitchman for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.
(Before the non-apology endorsement, the LVCVA put out its own statement of gentle protest.)
What’s missing here is a fundamental truth of human experience: We never appear to others as we appear to ourselves.
“When people ask where you’re from and you say, ‘Las Vegas,’ people’s eyes light up,” says Bo Bernhard, a lifelong Nevadan who studies and teaches the sociology of gambling and Las Vegas at UNLV. “It conjures up the same imagery: A passion for consumption, fun and entertainment and using your money to achieve all that.”
Southern Nevadans, most of whom live normal, suburban lives, may sometimes forget how the rest of the country views us — there’s the prostitution, which they mistakenly think is legal, the gambling, the 24-hour partying.
Seen in this light, Obama’s remark is barely controversial, a typical throwaway line that will evince yawns among most Americans.
Bernhard said he always asks his students the reaction they get when they tell friends and family in other places that they go to UNLV; the students react passionately, he said, sharing their experiences of friends and relatives mocking the notion of serious intellectual inquiry in Las Vegas.
“I’ve lectured on six continents, and it’s remarkable the degree to which that reputation is pervasive, in part because we sold it,” he said.
Jennifer Duffy, an analyst for the Cook Political Report, pondered the political fallout. The remark was bad for Reid because his re-election message is that his influence and proximity to the White House will help Nevada, but then Obama goes and steps on his feet.
As for Obama, it won’t amount to much, Duffy said.
In the politics business, there’s a saying, she quipped, “Stereotypes exist because they’re true.”
“Like it or not, the image of Las Vegas is that of a place you go to have a very self-indulgent vacation. He played a stereotype. It’s not unusual.”
New Yorkers and their banking industry, also struggling to see that the rest of the country views them differently than they view themselves, aren’t happy with their portrayal either, but that won’t stop elected officials from banging away at Wall Street.
Rob Lang, a UNLV sociologist, said Obama is wrongheaded, both on the merits, and the politics.
He notes that in a tough re-election campaign, Obama could need Nevada if a few big states such as Ohio and Florida leave his coalition, as now seems possible. These remarks surely aren’t helping him with voters here, Lang said.
Moreover, Lang said, Obama is incorrect in thinking that Las Vegas is a place of mere indulgence and fun.
Obama should know as much — he was here 20 times during the campaign, almost always off the Strip.
“It’s not a true junket city. It’s not the Caribbean or Santa Barbara,” Lang said of Vegas. “If you’ve been at a giant convention here for electronics or homebuilders or shopping centers, you know this is business, and people are making deals and working hard.”
The beauty of Las Vegas, Lang said, is that conventioneers can leave work and have fun in the evening, rather than being “stuck at the Indianapolis airport Ramada.”
Catch that, Indianapolis?
Sun reporters Dave Toplikar and David McGrath Schwartz contributed to this story.
Either this was a set up arranged so harry Reid could look good standing up for Nevada or this administration is the biggest bunch of political idiots in history.
Speeches like the President made are not accidents. Writers have their work examined by dozens of advisers before the President utters a word. The teleprompters are prepared and accidents don't happen.
Easy question to answer.. People have no jobs, money, foreclosures on their homes.So with that said, what responsible person( or President) recommends that gambling & the gliter of Las Vegas will cure their problem. People have got their priorities straight & visiting Vegas is nopt on the top of their list. Paying for food & shelter had taken the top of the list.
The state is broke---The county is broke---The city is broke---Your grand kids are going to be broke---and this guy is telling the citizens of America NOT to go to Las Vegas and spend their own money. May I suggest that he keeps his big vexatious mouth shut for just ONE DAY!!!
He just can't do it because he's a loud mouthed, know it all! He just put the final nail in Titus's and Harry's coffin, and he's digging the hole for both of them. Yep, Titus was right after all, they're f--ked come November!!!
THIS COMMENT BY OBAMANATION WAS A SET UP TO ALLOW HARRY REID TO GET A SECOND CHANCE WHICH HE FAILED THE LAST TIME AROUND TO DEFEND OUR INTERESTS HERE IN NEVADA. DON'T FALL FOR IT ! IT IS JUST ANOTHER SLEAZY CHICAGO STYLE POLITICAL TRICK PROBABLY DREAMED UP BY RHOM EMANUEL. DON'T FALL FOR IT!!!!!!!
Its obvious that this president is an enemy of this city and everybody that lives here. His ignornace never ceases to amaze me. Insulting an American city? Very Presidential Mr. Obama.
I just want to say what a great Mayor we have and it really a horrible thing that he will not be able to run again. He is so 100% behind Las Vegas and I hope that he keeps up even out of office.
With that said I also would not put it past Obama or Reid that this is a set up to help get Reid reelected. I do hope that everyone sees what this is and also sees past it and that Reid has still not done anything to help this state. I do think we should get some support from some of the other candadates and go and protest Obamas visit to our wonderful city.
Of course Obama is right. This is no time for middle income Americans to blow their cash in Vegas. Big fat whales, no problem.
I love it when these Nevada politicians blame the person who tells the truth instead of focusing the spotlight on themselves and their failure to diversify the Las Vegas economy.
Yea! That's it --- reverse psychology.
The public's was too stupid to figure out the straight skinny, the first time Obamaman uttered those stay-away words, so we'll really be stupefied this time around, and Harry can ride in on a white horse and save the city.
Brilliant!!!
Yea! That's it---reverse psychology. These boys are always thinking, and our well being is always on their minds.
Gotta love both of em!!!
Gov. Jim Gibbons and Mayor Oscer Goodman understood the painful result of Obama attack the first time
Harry Reid and the LV Sun have Defended Obama for the get go
Reid needs to tell Obama NOT TO COME to LV for a campaign event.
We do not want Obama here
i agree with dawg. if you cannot afford to gamble or vacation, why would someone travel to vegas for the weekend for fun? people have to buckle down, and make sure their families needs' are the #1 priority.
But, but, but who's going to come here to buy the "Sun" if everyone stays away. Certainly not too many unemployed folks that live here have the money for this paper. Who's the "WE" that the "SUN" is referring to as being upset with these stupid comments??? The folks that buy their paper or their editorial writers???
Everything will be AOK once Obama writes Harry a letter to apologize. What about the businesses that will suffer from his remarks, where is there letter? Why does he have to apologize to Harry Reid? He is only our representative by title, he doesn't do anything else for us.
This is a non-issue. 90% of Americans will never visit Vegas. Also, it's not exactly a secrect that Vegas vacations are a waste of money. People come anyway because it's how they like to vacation. I don't understand it but I don't gamble. The strip is no longer for ordinary people. It's geared to wealthy foreign visitors. Joe the Plumber won't make or break the casinos.
The Red rock Casino had an unfriendly locals attitude when they first opened and thought that the high roller were IT. Now you can shoot a canon in the place and perhaps hit a dealer sleeping at a BJ table. The Rampart finally figured this out many years ago, but that was during better times. Nope, any negative comments, especially by a president ain't good,and it didn't help anyone, even Joe the Plumber (who is looking for work in L.V.)!
Las Vegas IS a great city to spend a vacation. How and where a family spends their well earned vacation is their business and not the Presidents. This Dem administration has traveled more and spends more taxpayer money on travel than any other with little to show for their efforts. They have no credibility on being careful with our money.
To all of you out there that are commenting on people going to Vegas and blowing your money...well, its really non of your business!!! While your sitting playing your video games, Ipods..downloading hundreds of songs., cell phones, going to your football games, paying extra cable bills so you can see your sports..on your 50 inch tv.., planning your next vacation (possibly to Europe,Disney World) HEY...DON'T KNOCK PEOPLE FOR GOING TO VEGAS!!! And Mr. O" should not put down ANY city in this country, what kind of "President" does that??? This president has proved over and over how he really feels about this country!!! Its obvious..and when he stops spending like a drunken sailor, then maybe he could throw those stones..but this is like the pot calling the kettle bl...opps..
He's gonna blow a billion by closing Gitmo and trying terrorists in civillian court. Lawyers, security, transportation, ...all to please WHO?
I think THIS picture pretty much sums it all up. What do you think?
http://abadreid.com/blog/wp-content/uplo...
Bad Reid
Bad Senator
http://aBadReid.com
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
What Obama was really concerned about is people having less cash and would not be able to paid higher taxes
Obama and Reid want their cut first
$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Saltydawg & adrianhu - Whether Obama's point is valid or not doesnt matter. You don't name names and point the finger at any one city in particular along with the tens of thousands of people that rely on that city's tourism. People vacation all over the country and world so he could have directed his comment on people taking "vacations", not just people taking vacations in Vegas. If its an anti gambling thing then why didnt he point the finger at the hundreds of indian casinos/riverboat casinos/racetracks/lotterys etc that arent in Vegas that people are blowing their cash at every day???
Orlando has more tourism now that Las Vegas.. funny I didnt hear Obama telling people not to go spend their time and money at Disney World. THANKFULLY most people take Obama's words for what they are worth and know that the man is a fool..
I am hoping that the people of this city, county, state, country, will now see that our two party system has become a sham. Neither the Republicans, nor Democrats have any solutions to modern problems facing the planet. It's time to reform how we elect our leaders by creating an independent party, reforming the way funding is provided to the three campaigns by providing equal amounts of public funds with strict even spending caps for each candidate. We need to throw out the electoral college, and go with the popular vote. These changes will result in each candidate having to come up with true solutions, and may the best and most intelligent person win. This would a true democracy at work..
Obama should have told the truth. "Americans, after I get through with you, your taxes will be so high you will not even be able to buy gas to get to Vegas let alone gamble".
Vegas' economy has tanked because it isn't diversified. Instead of whining about the president's comments, politicos should seek out more industry.
People are leaving in droves, houses are being foreclosed upon, new developments are ghost towns, LV makes the national news as the poster child for excess and the recession - do you really think that some gambling addict who's about to blow his kid's college fund is going to cancel a trip to Vegas? He's already gambled the money at an indian casino or online.
Stop whining and create some jobs for a change - real jobs, not ones that depend upon discretionary spending.
IF your looking to invest in a stock market you don't go to New York, If you are going to invest in movies you don't go to Hollywood...
What I see is if you want to have an intelligent or patriotic president you don't go to Washington!
More like the third time, you forgot to mention leaving Nevada out of the high-speed rail funding. Also, he's telling American's not to spend their money in a American city BUT he tell them to "donate" their money to a foreign country 'Haiti' I mean I feel bad for the people of Haiti, it's a horrible thing that happen but we need to fix our problems first.
8 years of conservative laissez-faire policies destroyed the middle-class and the wing-nuts try to pin the blame on the black guy! Some things never change....
Louise - There is a measurable effect to Obama's words. The last time he opened his big, fat mouth the property I worked at lost $1 million worth of corporate & government group business. We had contracts that were canceled and they specifically cited Obama's speech.
This time around, it's going to impact the leisure business.
We're not whining.....this is reality and our city is getting hammered for no reason. This guy is worthless in my eyes. As soon as you start messing with me providing for my family, I get pi$$ed.
S711
BushDepression :
Both parties are to blame you idiot! and STOP playing the race card you whining ninny..
I have every intention of blowing my hard earned discretionary income in Vegas. No other city compares.
I just called the White House to complain about Obama's remarks about Las Vegas; can't get through, what a surprise, the complaint line is always busy.
I agree, he should shut up about how and where people spend money and stop attacking Las Vegas. I think it's time to file an injunction to make him shut up.
For truth about Obama, watch the Obama Deception and Fall of the Republic, both online for free. He is a puppet with many strings attached.
The President had said: "You don't blow a bunch of cash on Vegas when you're trying to save for college. You prioritize. You make tough choices. And it's time your government did the same."
He should have stated: " You don't blow a bunch of cash on Democrat Political Contributions when you're trying to keep up with my higher taxes and a poor economy made worse by my administration's economic policies including a record breaking budget. My friend Harry Reid has as much of a chance winning his next election as he has of winning a hand of Blackjack in the New Frontier Casino next week."
I don't think Obama's remark is going to sway anyone who wants to come to Las Vegas. And that includes those who have never been here!
S711, Obama's comments will not affect my desire to visit Las Vegas and I doubt that it will impact many others' decision-making process. In other words, the affect on the leisure market will be minimal primarily because the national recession has already weeded out those tourists who don't have enough discretionary income to enjoy the town.
JahReb :
Your comment just shows how uninformed and naive you are. Of course the president's comments are going to have an economic impact on whatever he is commenting on. Look at Wall St. The dow dives 200 points when he opens his mouth attacking the banks and investment industry. We have hard data which shows millions lost on convention business the last time he blabbed negatives about Las Vegas. Stay informed !
Im sooooo glad I didnt vote for this guy and I feel sorry for the people that did and were made a fool of. The ignorant arrogance oozing from this man on a daily basis is scary, yet humorous. I respect the Office of the President but I do not respect this man.
Comment removed by moderator. Comment contained name calling.
Oh, please. He's absolutely right - you don't spend cash here or anywhere for that matter when you're trying to save for college or trying to pay bills or trying to buy food. Instead of being so stupidly sensitive, wake up...this isn't about Las Vegas.
saltydawg :
Your just one person with one opinion, and definitely a minority opinion on this issue!!
A perfect example (pardon the expression) of the pot calling the kettle black. Obamination has spent recklessly and continues to do so along with the congress. His personal trips on Air Force 1 should be an embarrassment to him but with arrogance such as his, it's do as I say not as I do. Typical arroganance talking down to the public. The sooner this moron departs the better.
What right does Obama have to preach what is right or wrong on how we spend our personal funds?. It's NOT about we the people, it's about the public servants we elect who spend our hard earned tax dollars. Obama needs to be responsible for the way HE is blowing all of those freshly printed greenbacks which are going to be worthless if his spending keeps up.. In the meantime don't forget this business of him slamming Vegas is just a ruse and political trick to prop up a desperate loser Harry Reid..
is blowing my money in vegas any different than flying to europe in a failed attempt to get the olympics in chicago so all my corrupt buddies can profit from it?
yes. way different because he used MY money to do it.
i don't get it. people are just so so so in love with this guy. he's not jesus, folks. he's just a politician. hasn't the "we have a black president" pop culture gloss worn off yet? let it go. he's horrible.
Wah, Wah, Wah.
environprotector, like your alias, but your argument assumes that the rest of the country actually is paying close attention to what Obama had to say at this townhall meeting. It isn't. The only reason we are discussing it is because this forum is based in Las Vegas, NV and not Las Vegas, NM. Tourists who visit Las Vegas, NV are not interested what Obama has to say about the subject of gaming. The only reason that a few of the business crowd changed their plans the last time Obama mentioned LV was because they didn't want any bad press or questions from their shareholders. Tourists don't answer to anyone but themselves.
Tell you what, I bet that 2Q tourists numbers are up, not down.
This is a bit off topic, but looking at the photos of the Mayor, does it appear to any one else that His Honor truly enjoys alcoholic beverages?
Comment removed by moderator. Comment contained vulgar language.
I think it's utterly ridiculous to think that the president telling everyone the obvious is going to keep people from "blowing their money on Vegas" anyway.
"Oh honey, let's listen to the President and cancel our trip to Vegas. We don't need to blow this hard earned money!" LOL
I know quite a few people are upset because the gambling industry drives revenue for this city and we would all just love it if everyone came here to blow all their money.
Vegas would be in a lot better situation if we diversified our economy and don't depend so much on one industry. In terms of business, Vegas has no exit strategy or emergency plan when things go sour.
That's why we're in deep **** and why everyone is so sensitive about any little remark that has to do with gambling and Vegas.
Las Vegas -- built on a mirage principal of what is perceived as real -- or possible! Like the chance of winning the Megabucks payout on the $1 machine.
Your City in the desert is owned by corporations that make money separating dreamers from their money -- They provide the fantasy, the mirage, the drinks and cheap entertainment -- you provide the money.
Obama is right"and unless Las Vegas decides to offer something besides this money losing fantasy -- deal with it. The reputation began when the Flamingo opened.
Even your gin loving Mayor - is a mirage!
"You don't blow a bunch of cash on Vegas when you're trying to save for college. You prioritize. You make tough choices. And it's time your government did the same." Yeah, right. The President's proposed budget & the Congressional pork they larded up on last year really shows they're taking that bull by the horns! Obama and his acolytes Reid & Berkely need to be given their pink slips asap -- for the children.
Idiot in chief. Goodman and Gibbons need to band together and tell Obama he isn't wanted here, whether it be for Reid or not. Ban him from coming here. Don't do any security for him or anything. He is a joke as the president of us. I bet his parents and grandparents are rolling in their graves. They are discusted with him. GO VIST OBAMA'S HOME TOWN, THE MURDER CAPITAL OF THE US.
"You don't go buying a boat when you can barely pay your mortgage,"
"You don't blow a bunch of cash on Vegas when you're trying to save for college."
"You prioritize. You make tough choices. And it's time your government did the same."
So what exactly do people have a problem with these statements? This is how I was brought up and I suspect that many of you were too.
Most of the country views Vegas as a place to go on a spree. Vegas has worked hard to cultivate this image (what happens here stays here). Stop whining and face up to it.
Las Vegas has been in trouble a long time and well before Obama opened his pie hole about gambling. We care about the economy, healthcare and terror attacks far more than we care what the idiots in Washington are saying about Vegas so I say relax ... nobody is listening to him anyway.
The fact of the matter is that Las Vegas is the least expensive place to hold a convention. We have the facilities, we have the hotel rooms & flights are inexpensive. It actually costs these companies MORE money to follow the President's advice and not come to Vegas ........ hmmmm following the President's advice costs more money - yep, sounds about right!
I think the Little O needs to be enrolled in a "No President Left Behind" program for slow learners. This latest slam of Vegas is just the latest of his dumb moves. George Bush is an absolute genius compared to the Little O. In eight years, Bush never once insulted Vegas, and the Little O has done it twice in a year...unbelievable. He's not a slow learner, he's a REAL SLOW learner.
Maybe its just me, but I think this is being blown way out of proportion. I didn't vote for Obama and I really don't like what he has done, but I don't get the outrage over the comments. It is obvious he was simply making the point that you don't use money you have set aside for college, bills, food, etc... to go on a vacation. Its silly and naive to think that someone is going to cancel their trip to Vegas and go to Miami or Atlantic City based solely on the comments Obama made. Could he have simply said "Don't blow your kids' college money going on vacation?" Sure. I just don't see this as a reason to get outraged with Obama or his administration. I'd rather focus on the fact that he has spent more than every other president combined to bail out companies that never let the bailout trickle down to the people who need it. The fact that this administration is doing things eerily similar to that of 1940's Germany concerns me a bit more.
i wasn't upset with the first comments but now i am. Obama seems to be picking on vegas. He doesn't seem to have a problem encouraging people to buy cars (cash for clunkers, helping Detroit) or investing in the stock market(forced 401k plan in budget). Buying a new car is the worst investment you can make, and the stock market is basically leagailzed gambling at this point.
Where is Vegas' stimulus? Based on the lack of federal forclosure funds and high speed rail funds, its obvious Obama has a problem with Vegas.
No one outside of this state cares about this comment. Well, except for the Fox News website, but that is no shock.
Think about all of the comments, jokes, and abuse New York took for decades because of the crime and the rats. If you brief them about this, which you would have to because its not news outside of this state, they would wonder what all of the fuss is about and why people in Nevada don't have backbone.
And isn't the hypocracy of the Right funny? Get this-those who consider themselves fiscal conservative Republicans disagree with a comment the Presisdent said about being fiscally conservative. Make ANY sense???
And don't we have more important things to worry about? Y'know....financial things? State budget things? Remember?????
He also said not to buy a boat instead of paying your mortgage. Do you see the boat dealers calling foul and demanding an apology? No, of course not, because they listened to the context of the entire message. Which is to set your prioirties and not spend money you can't afford. If only our politicians like Reid would try that instead of grandstanding over a few words.
saltydawg - You said...."Tell you what, I bet that 2Q tourists numbers are up, not down."
I'll take that bet. See you August after the June visitation numbers come out from the LVCVA. The numbers will be down YOY.
S711
What do you expect from a guy who has never even held a job? He is clueless and arrogant.
The good thing is that he is costing Prince Harry the re-election, not that Harry didnt already ruin his own chances.
Well, duh - if I had a choice of saving for college versus going to Vegas, the only responsible outcome - as a good parent - is to not blow the money and invest in my kids education. The odds are better that my financial returns will be better, and certainly giving my kids a good education is better than spending time in the desert for a fleeting whim.
Get a grip, folks - it wasn't about you, it was about your kids. If you complain about that, you're a moron.
S711, If 2Q YOY tourist numbers are down, I don't think it will be by much and it wouldn't be because of Obama's comment. I think the numbers will be up because folks are thinking "I need to take a Spring break from this damn recession". Oil prices seem steady which is a positive. Of course, I've always been an optimist and don't have access to convention bookings.
He was right, both times.
He is either clueless or he is picking on Vegas on purpose. Either way, he looks bad.
FYI...I don't need the government to tell me how to spend my money. I didn't take advantage of the cash for clunkers program because it didn't make sense to take on a five year loan with higher taxes and dmv fees.
I recently took a trip to DC. Transportation, hotel, and food cost a lot more than my trip to Vegas. What would happen if he stated, "People don't need to take trips to DC"
What he said was factually true, and blown out of proportion. Ridiculous to blame that comment on the Vegas economic downturn. The blame lies squarely with Nevadans abject failure to diversify their economy when they had the chance. Failure to invest in education, and the local middle class. Instead Nevada catered to retired people looking for a cheap place to retire, and gambling interests. Both units being solidly pummeled by destinations else where, with less crime, more education opportunity, and ten times better medical. The politician most responsible for Vegas downfall, Harry Reid. As majority leader he should of forced the issue here in Nevada. Reid will no doubt lose. Lets hope that Sue Lowden another casino special interest Republican like Ensign does not get in, or Nevada can count on a long and painful recovery.
By the way, Nevada needs more politicians like Oscar Goodman who has bent over backwards trying to bring diversification to Las Vegas, and positive promotions.
He used to come to Las Vegas quite a bit while it was a swing state. Hopefully that has changed.
"
Either this was a set up arranged so harry Reid could look good standing up for Nevada or this administration is the biggest bunch of political idiots in history.
Speeches like the President made are not accidents. Writers have their work examined by dozens of advisers before the President utters a word. The teleprompters are prepared and accidents don't happen."
this is pretty much it. reid knew he was going to say it, and it was a ploy to let him look good
Obama should work for Harrah's
Sorry, he was right. Las Vegas has been ripping off it's visitors for years...and no one can deny that.
Until the powers that be start providing value for the customer LV will continue it's downward spiral no matter who says what.
I don't care what Obama said we're going to vegas for a week in march for the first time in 3 years simply because it's the best place for 2 adults to vacation. If obama is so worried about how people spend their money he could start by asking house speaker pelosi to reimburse the over 2 million dollars she's spent flying her children and grandchildren around the country. I don't care if they have a D or an R by their names they all stink to high heaven. Another 1.3 trillion dollars of debt our grandchildren will have to pay off, simply wonderful.
I read so many times that Las Vegas citizen are smarter and know that gambling is not the best way of passing time. In one way, they have obviously learned that the bad consequences might hurt their lifestyle, but on the ohter hand they still depend on it and support gambling, for obvious reaons.
People who have limited incomes and lots of responsibilities, they should definetely stay at home and not fire up their (borrowed) money at the Vegas gaming tables. That's for sure.
I think when he used the word "Vegas" , he was referring to gambling in general. There are many many other gambling destinations in the U.S.already, so Vegas may be the capital, but it's definetely not the only place broke people should avoid.
It's nice to see Obama stab in the back his liberal stronghold, corrupt Las Vegas, in his message in favor of "austerity" for the American People. It makes Nevada Senator Harry Reid cringe in modifying his dog-like devotion to his Master, Obama. Reid is torn between being a dog-like devotee of his master, Obama, and being a dog-like commercial servant of the Las Vegas casinos.
Ghost Town, here we come!
Even LeBron throws up a brick once in a while.
The real question is what has obama done for Vegas? Nothing. What's the difference between what the bailout banks did and what Station casinos did? Well the banks got a bailout, stations didn't. Why not throw some money their way? cause its vegas and he doesn't want to help this city. Harry Reid should be bringin the govt cheese to vegas but isn't, and I believe its because of Obama. Detroit didn't diversify their economy but got tens of billions for the auto companies. Stations rolled the dice and lost but isn't getting a bailout.
Big players, rich whales, foreigners who carry money into your country, should be very welcomed, and not dis-couraged from staying in Las Vegas. The international competition keeps growing and growing, so it's extremely important for Vegas' casino operators not to lose focus on that one. Due to the extremely long traveling times to Vegas it's about time to give international players (such as me) some more incentives than just a simple "warm Vegas welcome" when visiting.
Greetings from Switzerland
The author of this story and other Obama apologists just don't get it. Nobody is upset with Obama for suggesting that people struggling to save money for college should not blow it on gambling; they're upset because he -- again -- casts Las Vegas in a negative light in a national speech.
His message would have been just a strong had he left "Las Vegas" out of his remarks.
Comment removed by moderator. Comment contained an advertisement.
Our-Linn, can you call the spokesman of the president and ask him to scratch that L-V word from his speech and do it all over again? :D
At last - Las Bugsy has a scapegoat for the crash that began two years before O took office.
Things continue to spiral downward yet you people have the same ones in office who helped - even fostered - your own crash.
I can only imagine the commercials the Republican challenger to Harry Reid is going to bombard us with this during the election. Harry, a puppet on Obama controlled strings. Harry, a chew toy covered in Bo the dog's saliva.
Wow it is ever going to be ugly.
How funny is it that Obama is telling people how to save and spend their own hard earned money... cause lets face it, hes doing such a bang up job himself with our tax money. He needs to keep his big fat cigarette stained lips closed.
Send Obama a vegascupcake.com
It was a website, not an ad. Can I say I listen to Alex Jones once in a while?
Love you, sidpers!
And you, too, Mayor G!
Those who feel Obama's remarks have no effect on behavior simply don't understand. After his previous remarks, many companies that had already contracted for conventions and other corporate outings in Las Vegas pulled their events from our city and moved them to places like Orlando, San Diego, New Orleans, Houston, and Anaheim. The effect of lost revenue and revenue multipliers for Las Vegas was certainly significant.
If you think a simple comment like "don't blow a bunch of cash on [sic] Vegas" doesn't have any effect on people's behavior, why do you think advertising campaigns like "What happens in Vegas..." have such a major effect? People form opinions and images of locations based on what they hear from influential sources. As President of the United States, Obama is likely viewed by many as an influential source, and his repeated disparaging and derogatory comments about Las Vegas and those corporations and individuals who choose to come here do make a difference.
In my opinion, he should choose his words more carefully so as not to single out one city. He could have said "don't blow your cash on gambling" or "don't blow your cash on stuff you don't need", but to single out Las Vegas another sign of poor judgment for the POTUS. If he had said "Don't move to Detroit if you want a job", how do you think that city would be reacting?
as a complete "watcher" from the outside, I do not believe that Obama was actually referring on Las Vegas when he put the word "Vegas" in speech. I think by "Vegas" he meant "gambling, sportsbets, horse race betting, etc, and gambling in all gambling resorts in general. So I wouldn't be too upset about his speech. Which, in my eyes, was actually a pretty good speech.
From Switzerland
Obama is an idiot for hurting Nevada since we are a decent donor state to the Federal government thanks to Harry Reid.
NO train
NO housing help
NO relief from the banking thieves that put us here
NO respect
this president is a total idiot!. I've never had cause to bother seeing a prez when they come to Vegas, but I'll be there booing him on his next trip.
I think Obama's message was correct in the fact that people need to prioritize their spending. Meaning that if you only have enough money to buy groceries OR gamble, you should probably buy groceries.
Where he goes way off target is when he speaks of specifics (in this case Vegas). Last time I checked 48 states have some form of legalized gambling (lotto, casino, etc.) He needs to stop mentioning any activity or location by name.
The problem with Vegas is the country has ran out of SUCKERS. Gambling is everywhere, why come to Vegas to get fleeced. When the government allowed Indian Casinos to open, that was the start of the end of Vegas. After blowing a couple of paychecks at a local Indian Casino, why would a person want to spend money gambling in Vegas. Same odds, same slots, same drinks, and alot of times better food just around the corner from any town in USA.
The president isn't our dad, or our king, he shouldn't be telling people how they spend their own money. No government should.
And yes, spot on Mr. Coolican and company - the $1 trillion + deficit is a bigger cause for alarm than people coming and blowing their own money in a Vegas casino.
Do you think anyone would even pay attention to this one sentence if some critics in Vegas weren't complaining about it? I bet if you asked 100 random people outside Nevada if they had heard this comment, 99 would not would have. This is becoming a little like Sarah Palin going ballistic about late night one liners - if you don't like it, just let it be forgotten within hours like the thousands of other comments made by politicians and comedians every day.
vegstudent
He also said not to buy a boat instead of paying your mortgage. Do you see the boat dealers calling foul and demanding an apology?
WRONG, it would be more like saying do not buy a Bayliner boat, at which point Bayliner would be screaming bloody murder!!! Get a clue.
Just remember, this is the same president that forces American car companies to close factories, eliminate brands, and shut down nearly 2000 dealerships (800 of them with 3 weeks notice to close), eliminating thousands of U.S. jobs. And then he offers his cash for clunkers program which mostly went to Japanese companies, including one which is currently not allowed to sell some of it's product because of dangerous defects.
The guy has no clue.
We went to Vegas 3 times last year, I imagine we'll be there at least that many this year.
You dont blow your money on HAITI if you have to save for college...
Who needs college? I get paid for every Democrat I register from ACORN
Harry Reid will be back in the tank for BO soon enough. That you can be sure of. It's for the good of the democrat party you know...........
It is amazing that Our President could possible make comments like that about our town. It just doesn't hurt our industry what about the families and non gambling business. It makes our whole state a bigger joke then we already are. We are at the bottom of every list in the country on Education . Our own commander and Cheif throws out awful remarks. Who writes his speaches? Even emails has spell check. Our President needs to be respectful
Just wondering, what exactly did GW Bush ever do for Las Vegas except reforming the bankruptcy laws in favor of the creditors and telling the housing regulators to go asleep?
I didn't hear the boat manufacturers acting like little babies. Steve Wynn said he never saw anyone win big and not come back and lose it all. He said that on "60 Minutes" Was that bad for Vegas.
The Republicans that John Ensign hangs out with in Washington want to eliminate the tax write-off for gambling loses. McCain wants to ban college sports betting. You don't hear the talk radio crowd or the Drudge Report making a big deal about that.
This is all talk radio driven. One of the stations making the biggest deal of this runs Dave Ramsey 15 hours a week. This broadcaster out of Tennessee has frequently said he doesn't gamble and he thinks it is stupid. He says people should eat rice and beans until their mortgage is paid off. He says they should only buy used cars. He says they should not see the inside of a restaurant unless they work there, and so on. If people adopt the life style he advocates, it would be worse for Vegas than people prioritizing college tuition over vacationing in Vegas.
Alan Stock
Rusk Limbaugh
Sean Hannity
Mark Levin
Casey Henderson
Dave Ramsey
George Noory
Heidi Haris
Glen Beck
Jerry Boyles
Mike Savage aka Weiner
Dennis Miller
Phil Hendrie
Laura Ingram
Dr. Laura Schlessinger
Michael Medved
Roger Hedgehog
Rusty Humphries
Dirk Ward
Micahel Smirkanish
Lou Dobbs
Clark Howard
Lars Larson
Joey Something
Four talk stations in town and all the on air people are white, no blacks, no hispanics. The only reason this is a big deal is a bunch of racists don't like a black guy in the Oval Office.
I applaud the Mayor for blasting Obama. Obama is an empty suit and as the days go by we see that he is NOT a leader and is surrounded by liberals(with your money)and people who, frankly, seem to want to do great harm to this country. I am surprised that Sen Reid even said anything against Obama. I HOPE that both Obama and Reid can get the boot next election. They with the other libs and a handfull of Republicans have the USA on course for a disaster of Biblical proportions..in other words total financial collapse under the weight of wreckless Federal spending and waste. Wake up and vote these liberals(with your money) out of office ASAP!
Yep, the talk radio listeners just can't wait for the Republicans to get back into power again. I guess they think the special interests the republicans represent are looking out for the best interests of the average Joe.
I did not Vote for Obama but yet I some how received a email about a web site that He has sent for his supporters. Normally I just would delete. Well Last I unscrible to it ....It asked me why I didn't want to receive emails and I wrote. I have no attentions while being a resident of the State of Nevada and living in North Las Vegas I could support a President who thinks it is ok to Bash our City. If he could not support my city I could not support his missions . What a joke. Any one who receives that email site should do the same
I am a Republican and I agree with Obama on this issue.
But like others have said, this is a red herring that Obama is throwing out to make Ried look good to his home folks.
Harry Reid to the rescue.....Super Dog is coming....B.S.
Too little too late....The only time you give a damn about Nevada is at the end of your term when you want to be re-elected....NOT THIS TIME HARRY, YOU'RE TOAST.....
VOTE REID OUT IN 2010!!!!!
Quit making 50 per cent of these useless wars all over the world and you will see how much less money your household would consume. Most of these wars are under the impression that it would prevent terrorism and the like. Matter of fact is that this is not true, but these wars just cost too much money. Some very powerful people make fortunes on these wars, but the majority of all participants don't. Not even talking about the population in each country were these useless wars are fought.
In summary: In order to pull the belt tight, perhaps there's a little less warfare a good plan, and then people can go to Vegas instead :)
From Switzerland
Why can't our goverment just be " FOR THE PEOPLE" It is always the middle and lower class who pay the price. While the FAT CATS line their pockets. Banks like AIG who was apart of taking us down give execuitives their BONUSES. "WE THE PEOPLE NEED TO WAKE UP" Bring back the Values of our Country to what they use to be!!!! START THE ACCOUNTABLITY OF OUR PRESIDENT AND ALL GOVERNMENT OFFICALS. THEN MAYBE THE FINGER POINT WOULD STOP. IT IS NOT LAS VEGAS FAULT.
Obama is right. Sorry to tell you guys but LV isn't exactly looked upon fondly by the rest of the country. In fact most don't trust anything about LV. Do you blame them?
That is really a ridiculous and inappropriate comment from the president. There is certainly a better way to make his point. By once again focusing on Las Vegas he simplifies the issue and perpetuates a myth about the city which is unfair and hurts business. I live in the midwest and usually visit Vegas twice a year. I hardly ever gamble but like the city because of the good weather, the activities, and certainly, if one is careful, the price for a vacation can be much lower than other spots. My children usually come along and with all the deals being offered it is a great place for food, shopping, and shows, as is obvious. Obama's remarks immediately destroy the positive aspects of the city and its surroundings - which include hiking and outdoor activities - and make it seem that it is only a place of negatives that offers nothing in return. It is also close to LA and other destinations in the west. I have attended many excellent conventions in Vegas and most people, believe me, do not blow their money or spend foolishly - they just have a good time. Now this adds to the feeling of guilt for just considering Las Vegas for a vacation or convention.
WE ARE ALL ADULTS
WE DON'T NEED OUR GOVERNMENT TELLING US WHAT WE CAN OR CAN NOT DO
ANYONE BELIEVES OUR PRESIDENT IS CORRECT IN CALL OUT LAS VEGAS NEEDS TO TAKE A GOOD LOOK AT THEMSELVES ASK THE QUESTIONS "WHAT DOES THE OTHER 49 STATES HAVE THAT OUR PRESIDENT CAN PICK AND BASH THEM ON ? WHEN IT IS YOUR STATE YOU WILL HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY, WE MAY LIVE HERE IN VEGAS HOW IS MY FAULT?
Big brother Obama is telling us what to do, when to do it and how to do it.
What would do without him!!!!!!!
Big big brother, big big government, big big deficits....Thanks Democrats!!!!!
Elizabeth- you said go visit Obamas hometown-the murder capital of the country? Are you referring to Hawaii??? Are you trying to refer to Chicago?? PLease Elizabeth, before you spew your thoughts, do your research, Vegas is in the Top Ten in Crime, not Chicago and not Hawaii- sorry, the truth hurts- please, research next time, that way you don't look like a fool next time.
the people of Las Vegas are idiots.
Although I would not call myself a staunch Vegas advocate, the bottom line is that people come to Vegas to have fun and there's nothing wrong with that - even in these economic times.
That the city has come to somehow symbolize irresponsible financing is simply lazy and based on a popular, yet comical marketing campaign.
Are we now led to believe that truly responsible American tourists shouldn't go to Vegas, they should visit one of our many national parks instead? (as they are less hedonistic and more patriotic)
Las Vegas Sun writers, editors, readers, watch this video about the Citizens United case
http://reason.tv/video/show/citizens-uni...
Not sure why people are making such a big deal about this. If you're a student and have outstanding loans or want to pay for graduate school, you should be saving your money. If you're a parent and paying for your child's education, the same applies. If anything, this is just free publicity for Vegas. The truth hurts, quit whining.
Dave Ramsey should be taken off the air for telling people not to buy things and spend money.
CMJ and mred :
You are both idiots...
We all have better things to do with our money than blow it on Vegass.
Nothing wrong with that statement.
I think everyone and the Mayor of your great city should grow some thick skin. Everything is taken so personally now. Thank God, that the people of Buffalo, NY don't get upset when everyone laughs at the Buffalo Bills or the amount of snow we get. We have a sense of humor here.
"the people of Las Vegas are idiots."
Is that you Obama?
CMJ thinks that the people of Las Vegas are idiots.
It usually takes an idiot to call someone else an idiot.
Vegassucs rants that Las Vegas has a higher crime rate then Chicago and that Las Vegas is in the top ten of crime.
According to FBI statistics, Las Vegas is about number 25 in having highest violent crimes.
And...
During 2008 Chicago had a murder rate of 18.1 per 100,000 population.
During 2008 Las Vegas had a murder rate of 8.9 per 100,000 population.
So Vsucs, do you want to list any facts to back up your claim???
get a life vegas, your greedy ceo's and other rich people have turned vegas into a nightmare. easy to blame someone else when you only have yourself to blame. keep catering to these rich snobs, how's that been workin for ya.
The new properties (Since Belagio) are for rich people, so people should listen to Dave ramsey on KXNT and not spend money.
Larry Vegas, give me some factual data from the last 3 years for god's sake- oh, look who is in the top 3 here. Don't worry, i will get ready for your excuses after I post this.
http://www.forbes.com/2009/04/23/most-da...
No, you should not be upset. The comment was made in the context of responsible govt spending.
Gambling is a vice and is hardly defensible behavior for someone trying to be fiscally responsible. That is the way it is.
Vegas has built an empire on a vice. And offended or not, it wont change the fact that poeple will sill come to gamble....although many states now have legalized gambling so competition is tough.
Besides, Larry Vegas, what hold does Vegas have on you? Are you some dumb Californian that bought about 5 houses with your 500 credit score and Taco Bell salary and are all bitter that you lost everything?. Give it up loser, people would rather visit Siberia, at least they don't have to worry about getting hit by drunk Drivers or Ex-Columbian soldier gang-bangers that Vegas has to offer.
and this is coming from someone who lives in Summerlin!!!!!!!!!!! And has a job!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oh, Larry, here is another one for you to sink your teeth into. Let me guess, Obama probably made this list right- sorry, there is no Vegas on this list.
http://www.forbes.com/2010/01/22/paris-l...
At least only stupid non-Nevadans Democrats are defending Obama's dumb remark.
Actually, Sgtrock, I live in Nevada- I think Obama made a bad choice, but the Mayor looks like even a bigger fool outside of the Atomic Sandbox!!! Diversify!!!!!!
President Obama's comments spoken by "Anyone" are reasonable! Comments illustrating the times and conditions, telling us to be responsible and accountable. Something our State and Local elected officials have fail to do. Oscar Goodman, what a joke. The News Media consistently give this drunk a break. John Ensign and Harry Reid has exhaust their influence and must move on. Mr. President, I love Nevada and make my living working in gaming. I enjoy my job and the excellent gaming company that I work for.
You no brains stop blaming the President for speaking truthfully. Our elected officials need a backbone, stop blaming others for your lack of vision and passion to help our local ecomony.
The President is saying-- be responsible! You sensitive emotional half-brains, stop looking for excuses to distract from your limitations! Say it again Mr. President, next time say it loud!
Are you posters serious with this?
Las Vegas has been built on tourists blowing their discretionary income on a sun-thur gig or thu-sun hop.20 years ago sitting around with your buddies you always brought up the statement"hey lets go to vegas for a couple days.
Granted the president could have phrased statement different,but the defensive attitude you so called vegans take is laughable
80% of you are not even from here,so why all the uproar.
peace out
Looking for legal representation. I want to sue President Obama for slander of a city and willful disregard of the people. I want to sue for lost wages, lost business and the slander of the City of Las Vegas. You would think someone in his position would think more clearly before making a statement like that. Since this is the second time he has purposely attacked Las Vegas it is done then with malice and forethought. As such he is liable for the harm his words have caused upon this fine city. Are we viler in our way of life than any of the many Casino laden cities in America? We have people losing their money on the Lottery, yet he does not mention that. If you are a good Lawyer looking to sue the president Sign me up.
Ah, the indignant Mayor deserves an Academy Award for his histrionic acrobatics.
"President cautions frugality. Las Vegas voices outrage."
It might be better if we reflected on the reasons "Sin City" has the reputation it does. Poor graduation rates, poorly formed social systems, and elected representatives that care more about maintaining office than caring for Nevada's citizens. Our university is low class; it's scholarship abhorrent. The treatment of workers is reprehensible and we still think its okay to blow smoke(screens) instead of taking a serious look at ourselves and wondering what we have done to deserve a caution to "stay away."
Although I don't believe in President Obama's "Change we can believe in, I believe far less in the lies told to us by our current leaders that belie the statistics that we are raising an uninformed, poorly educated populace despite the large amounts of educational funding our surrogates in Washington are bringing in. Who cares what is brought in if the result is continued poverty and heavy reliance on gambling instead of critical thinking.
Why don't we fire our senators and representatives first before criticizing Obama's far more temperate remark?
I don't understand the philosophy of the President. He came to Las Vegas 7 or more times during his campaign trail to beg for vote and got 25% edge against his opponent. How can he say, "Don't blow your cash in Las Vegas"? I would suggest, "Don't poke holes in the plate you eat"."Is there a socialist agenda behind it?"
Tourism is the lifeline of the world's most renowned entertainment city Las Vegas. Besides gambling there's lot of other options or venues of entertainment and things to do in Las Vegas like dinning, shows etc. It is the entertainment capital of the world. He is coming back to Las Vegas to beg for vote again on February 18th (second trip in one year) Is it double standard or what?
The President should be embarrassed and apologize, as should the politicians who've caused damage to our nations private aircraft and hospitality industries by thoughtless remarks.
Here's a classic example of a lack in our education system. Even those we elect to office aren't smart enough.
How does that work again, you go somewhere, you spend money you create and retain jobs. It's a circle, and if you stop and reverse direction all of those entities suffer, their employees suffer, their lenders suffer, and as today we're backing the lenders, we all ultimately suffer.
Saltydawg - Your comment....If 2Q YOY tourist numbers are down, I don't think it will be by much and it wouldn't be because of Obama's comment. I think the numbers will be up because folks are thinking "I need to take a Spring break from this damn recession"
Dude, you just spoke out of both sides of your mouth. Are you going to bet that it goes up? or that it goes down? I bet it goes down in Q2 2010. I stand by my original answer.
S711
J Patrick Coolican sounds like he gets tingles up his legs for ODUMBO ala Chrissy Matthews. What an apologist for the worse president in history.
Ever notice how he NEVER slips and says something like, "Don't blow your money on a trip to Hawaii."?????
This president is self-destructing before our eyes. If things were not already dismal enough for Nevada and Las Vegas, Obama's destructive and hostile attacks have made things worse. Our city and state used to be prosperous and proud. Since the Democrats have dominated not only Washington but Nevada we have slowly sunken to the dismal conditions we have now. We have to wake up and change the political direction of our country and our state. We CAN take our state back! November is coming soon!
I think that people are always looking for the drama in the things that are said. Obama did not tell anyone NOT to go to Vegas. He was just saying to be responsible and keep your priorities in check.
We have enough drama in the world right now, do we really need to take exception for everything that is said?
S711, Yes I still think that 2Q will go up YOY.
Why? Because Las Vegas is a fun place to travel to and the casinos are promoting the town with low room rates and other incentives. Another factor is that the economy appears to be coming out of the recession. While the local economy will continue to be hammered with foreclosures and short sales as well as high unemployment, tourists really don't care about that. So local $$$ will continue to be constrained but domestic and foreign tourist $$$ will pick up. Plus the US$ devaluation makes LV a compelling choice for foreign players. More bang for the buck.
One fact there's more people moving out of Las Vegas than moving here.
February 3, 2010
Editor:
Come on, Vegas. Take off your rose colored glasses, dry your crocodile tears and put on your reality hats. Humans are never going to stop gambling. We wouldn't stop gambling no matter who gave us a direct order,including the President of the United States. You all know the reality of gambling. It's fun. It's exciting. It's wild abandon. But nobody wins except the house. Nobody"if they did, Steve Wynn and all the other owners who euphemistically call it, "Gaming" wouldn't be living in penthouses, buying yachts and rubbing shoulders with politicians. Las Vegas has labored for years to solidify its image of gambling's gossamer promises. Why waste all that effort on hankies?
Here's the hitch. There comes a time in every life when money is tight, when an individual has to make a choice between wild abandon and eating. We are living in one of those times. Of course you see that. You may even be experiencing the worst of that. You know that Mayor Goodman and Senator Reid and every other politician who wants to impress you with his/her political side-stepping is doing just that, political pole dancing, and no more.
The reality of the matter is this: During these difficult times do you want people to keep their homes, feed their kids and save a little bit just in case"or do you want, families be damned, to purchase another yacht for Mr. Wynn.
Trust me, the world will be flying back to Vegas (or maybe even getting there by Maglev) when times get better unless the politicians keep them away with their tiresome grandstanding.
Political Pole Dancing: Seductive to watch but doesn't deliver the promise it suggests.
Can't believe the amount of Idiots in Las Vegas.......80% of the people here are from somewhere else and it is the dumb ones that came here.
Obama and his crew are killing our country have have got to go!
On Ronald Reagan's last trip to Las Vegas he warned American how dangerous Harry Reid was, now we know how very right the was!
Watch this historic video and consider supporting Danny Tarkanian, he is the kind of guy we need in D.C. - send Harry back to the search light Cafe!
>>> http://www.tark2010.org/reaganslastcampa...
Obama said it as it is. That caring for your children comes FIRST. If these naysayers want to help the economy in Nevada, they could reallly fund the schoold system, and fix up the crumbling roads and infrastructure so we don't look like a third-world-country. [Oh, I uess we would have to tax the mines - like Sarah Palin did in Alaska, or have a state-wide business tax - like every other state including Utah, Texas, and Idaho --real red states!]. Any parent who decides a trip to Vegas is more important that their family's welfare is, well, an unfit parent.
"When times are tough, you tighten your belts," Obama said. Why doesn't Obama try practicing what he's preaching! Obama continues to spend and spend and spend our taxpayer dollars.
This Chicago pot calling the kettle black needs to learn something from his own empty rhetoric! And our own Harry Greid is the one pushing Obama's personal spending agenda.
The BO Comedy show and circus is coming to town. Please All mighty BO dont bother. This evil place does not need to have Our Tax Payers money spent on you being flown here and possibly put up in one of Our Hotels. Of course you wont need a comp because your spending Our tax dollars to fly around the country. By the way Mr all mighty BO. When most presidents go to there home states and there homes they dont rent Beach side houses (twice). Bush went to Texas his home state and stayed at his Own Ranch. What an idea. Of course The all mighty BO can and does live at several places on the Peoples tax dollars. I'm sorry but I'm off topic just a bit. Just Keep the BO Comedy show and Circus out of this state. We dont need you to stick your foot in your mouth here, cause then we would get stuck with the medical bill. And in some way it would end up Nevada's fault.
I love Vegas, and go a few times a year. No one should tell me what to do with my hard earned cash. Especially someone whose party spends your and my tax dollars on the biggest spending spree in history. Why doesn't he concentrate on jobs and the economy (and that includes bringing dollars to NV!)instead of bashing the city even inadvertantly. Open mouth, insert foot, Mr. O--you've done it again. I have a total respect for your mayor, LV. He tells it like it is!
If Obamas nose were to grow everytime he lied, the US could be the worlds largest exporter of wood! PinnoBarackeeO! Votes count and you that voted for this empty suit are seeing the results of your misguided vote!
I vote with my wallet, I dont tip as much to union hotel employees who helped put this guy in office. He thinks he is a teacher and teacing us about the economy. He is just proving the old saying, those who can do those who cant teach.
no doubt about it, your mayor is an idiot. I'll take my vacation some place else..
My family has been here in Nevada for a few generations and we as a family have worked hard as many Nevadans have in contributing to OUR COUNTRY. Mr. Obama seems to forget that Nevada is responsible for some of the most sophisticated military weapons programs and training programs for our military like Red Flag (that is not just the blue suites, green suites, but many branches of the armed forces as well as some of our allies.) The Nevada Test Site, WTR, Nellis, Fallon air bases etc., trains some of the best of the best. Nevada has ideal geographical advantages, which provides ideal training grounds in the fight we are in now and since WWII. Mr. Obama, it is not just the military, but civilians as well who are a major part of these programs. I worked in this Great State of Nevada and along side of the Department of Defense for E. G. & G Special Projects, in "That Place" in the desert. I cannot even begin to tell you about this people who gave it their all and still do. We have been called "the unsung hero's" because we are sworn to silence for the rest of our lives and that is very hard not being able to talk about your day at work to your own family, but WE WHO WERE THERE, LOVE OUR COUNTRY and NATIONAL SECURITY. I must sound like a real go-for-it hawk, but I am just a realistic person about who we all are. Mr. Obama, the United States spends billions in these types of operations (IN NEVADA), which helps keep our enemies at bay and in immeasurable ways to keep not only our own families safe, but OUR COUNTRY SAFE. We were Battle Born, because President Lincoln knew he needed our resources in a time of war. Anyone in "any town" USA does not deserve your inexperienced observations. People of Nevada, I am mortified that I placed my mark by his name on Election Day. I have been to Hawaii many times for pleasure and business and many will agree with me how much of a rip-off these Islands are (were.) Good Military location, but we should have kept that place a territory like Guam. From my research, many do not know that Hawaii was taken illegally by a few businessmen backed up with a few US military personnel. This is something that has real interesting details. The natives (about 30 percent who are considered natives, from what I recall) want it back, and I am all for it. Maybe anyone thinking of going to Hawaii should make sure your roof does not leak first and/or until you have your children college funds up to date. At least the casinos are upfront and do offer some winnings and one heck a lot of fun, etc.
Battle Born
obama = vanilla ice = parachue pants = "what's on" magazine's summerlin edition = leno at 10:00pm.
all seemed like good ideas at the time, then we quickly realized how stupid they were.
obama would screw up a lemonade stand staffed by asian strippers across from a construction site.
you don't tell people not to spend money in a recession. you ENCOURAGE them to spend money.
moron.
So all that voted for OBUMA,, would you do it now... You get what you got,, and that is someone that has no idea what Las Vegas is about...I am sure that it wont hurt us to much,, but all of you that work in the casinos and are laid off since voting for OBUMA,, see how good the change is now...LMFAO...Talk is nothing as action is king...
Outraged? YES, surprised? NO. Look at what is being said and by whom. A man who conned the people in this country to beleive in him. A man who lied to the people in this country about hope and change. A man who played the RACE card so well the he convinced the black people to vote for him, never really saying that he was one of them ,that was thier fault for assuming that. And now , he's just like like Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton ,loves the camera and never knows when to shut the @#$%^& up. With out a doubt the most embarrasing President we've ever had. Are ya missin W yet?
Vegas is built upon one industry, and that industry is one that relies on people blowing pretty good sums of money on gambling, booze, women, all the sins Vegas loves to hype.
But when people have to make a choice between basic needs, or sending their kids to college, and blowing money in Vegas, Vegas will lose out.
Until you diversify your economy you are just a variation on Michigan's reliance on the auto industry, and will suffer the same fate they have been.
Obama was right. Vegas is wrong.
No but we should be upset because he is not a natural born citizen of the United States.
saltydawg - It's going to be tough to increase visitation when the # of flights into Vegas have been severely cut. Plus, factor in the Tribal casinos that have stepped up their product offerings. Add to that Obama's comments.
Yes, it appears we are slowly rising from the recession.....but we won't see any meaningful impact for another 18 mo to 2 yrs. Obama's comments only extend that horizon.
S711
I will take President Obama's advice and not spend my kids' college savings in Vegas. Instead, I'll gamble the kids savings in Laughlin. The Cocopah Casino in Yuma is a good place to spend my home equity loan. The 401K I'll use up in Atlantic City.
It is good I got the point of what he had to say: Don't spend your money in Vegas.
"Diversify" "Diversification" Over & over & over again. Easy to say, but do any of you who are advocating diversification have a realistic suggestion as to what the ideal industry would be? Warehousing? The transportation to market would nullify any advantage. Manufacturing? Same problem when diesel fuel is nearly $3 a gallon. Green? Supposedly Harry is going to provide 40,000 new jobs in Green; realistically, how many people does it take to install solar panels or put blades on windmills? Las Vegas IS Sin City; quit apologizing for it. It IS our industry. Clean-up the garbage on the Strip. Quit charging people $150 to see a show. Get over the $5 minimums per hand. Get over $15-$20 for a buffet at a Station Casino. The value is gone; I won't go to Disneyland at $100 a head; why would tourists still want to come here at our current prices?
I have a suggestion for all of you who think that Obama is the Messiah and won't come and have a good time in Vegas because he told you so...
Why don't you pack up your bags and take your family in tow and spend an exciting weekend in the South side of Chicago.
Oh, don't forget to write if you survive...
Pres. Obama referenced Las Vegas because it is the preferred gaming and entertainment vacation spot in America. And, Americans do 'blow' money in this city. I would rather that Obama used the term 'Vegas' than the term 'Indian Reservation'.
I have visited Las Vegas more than 50 times for a vacation and have never been dissatisfied. I even convinced my family to have our reunion there in 2001 and it was a BLAST. I would rather spend my 'vacation' money in Vegas than anywhere else, even though things have changed and are yet changing in the city.
Obama is not 'dissing' Vegas; he is only stating what we American families (and in turn, our government) should do with our earmarked finances. As for me, with my discretionary finances, I enjoy Las Vegas (will be there this May).
oh yes wow,
i was definitely packed and getting ready to leave for Vegas, but when I heard Obama's speech I took on his advice and decided to stay home
relax!!
whoever can afford to come to vegas, they will!
whoever can't, they won't, or better not be
Holy crap! Where did this guy come off suggesting that we shouldn't piss away our kids college fund on the blackjack table or the slots? What a stupid remark. Like we don't know that already? Who doesn't know that?
Oh. You mean those idiots over there cashing their paychecks in the casino?
we been digging ourselve in hole the last 27 month according to jeremy aquero an economy anylist. he said our economy been going down since 2007 and gues who was in charge back then. we will continue until we can diversify our economy. also didn't he said not do spend you children college fund. what wrong with children education more important then coming here getting ripped off from casino. unlike our governor who cut education.
President Barack Hussein Obama has my compassion (just remember the meaning of CUM = with PATI = pain): He's simply spoken from his own experience when, as a young college student years ago, he's gambled all his savings in Las Vegas and spent a whole year flipping burgers at a McDonald in Chicago. It's really an eye-opening fact that has a lasting remorse in his life.
He was right - both times. He was referring to gamblers if anything else. That's mainly what this town is about and always will be. The shows, whores and Liberace's museum come second, third and fourth. See ya later Vegas! I'm outta here!!
The next thing Obama will probably say is to stay home and cook your meals and not go to McDonalds...
Obama has a complete lack of leadership skills...
Larry, would you like to super-size your comment?
Super-size like this???
THE NEXT THING OBAMA WILL PROBABLY SAY IS TO STAY HOME AND COOK YOUR MEALS AND NOT GO TO MCDONALDS...
OBAMA HAS A COMPLETE LACK OF LEADERSHIP SKILLS...
Our economy is so bad the Salvation Army Thrift Store closed in Kalihi.Don't blow your money in Las Vegas. Come to Hawaii and spend your tourist dollars.
CMJ
"the people of Las Vegas are idiots."
Spoken like the true chimp YOU are, sounds like another sore loser that got their clock cleaned while visiting LV.
philipol
"no doubt about it, your mayor is an idiot. I'll take my vacation some place else.."
Thank You! Trust me, you and your clan won't be missed.
CMJ
"the people of Las Vegas are idiots."
CMJ.....is that you Obama??????
What the idot should have said is, "people shouldn't blow their money on the Illinois Lottery, or the Illinois casinos in Elgin, Aurora, Joliet, Rock Island, East Peoria, Alton, Metropolis and East St. Louis Illinois. All Americans should probably stay away from horse race tracks in Chicago, Collinsville, Maywood Park and Cicero, Illinois. I mean people should really avoid Illinois if they need to pay for college and feed their families..............
I've lived here for 5 yrs. It was decent 5 yrs ago but not any place one would want to call home permanently. I'm outta here after march madness. This place is full of scumbags, weirdos and idiots. Sorry if the truth offends you guys, must be locals.
Read the comments here for proof of the stupidity that is a Las Vegas resident.
Las Vegas will improve after "March Madness" is over...
Man where are all those honest politicians like Dario Herrera, Mary Kinkaid-Chauncey, and Yvonne Atkinson Gates when you need them to come to the defense of las Vegas?
"Las Vegas will improve after "March Madness" is over..."
I hope it does. But improving would still not make it a place worth living. Visiting maybe, but there are better options out there for vacation today. I wish you guys the best of luck trying to turn around this city. You all had a shot to become a real city in the 2000's and really blew it. I think that was your last shot though.
Barrys speech probably sounded like this: Yo let me ax yoo sumsin, is you be fellins the economis hawdships where you stays? well don't bees goin to vegas blowin yo kids united negro college funds, know whut I bees sayin? Save yo money dont bees buyin nuttin from no whiteys, and dont goes buyin a boat neeter, cuz most of yas cant swim no how. Tighten da belt at home and I bees titenit in washeentun. Any one got to ax me a question bout my comment?
"Obama Winter White House," will cost around $4,000 a night. The two houses next door will be occupied by Obama family members and friends. The Obamas will spend 10 days on the island of Oahu. Boeing 757 costs about $20,000 an hour for fuel, crew, and maintenance. Since a trip to Hawaii entails 10 hours of flying time from Washington DC, the total cost for each round-trip comes to about $400,000. Someone's more than happy to waste OUR tax money on vacations
For once we have a president who is not for sale to the special interest groups. I know people here are upset because what the man did is shed bright light on the dark heart of the gamming industry. So like freaked out zombies those who get their paychecks from the mistakes of others, poor decisions of senior citizens, and those in despair are screaming their gutteral displeasure at said illumination. Face it: he spoke the plain truth. It is wrong to blow your money gambling if instead that money could go to help you, your family, perhaps your friends or a hurting neighbor. Values here are twisted and inverted. Simple common sense. Only those who are part of the evil machine or a practicing gambling addict, or simply imbued with hatred could take offense to such a simple, wise and true remark. Let us hope the spread of gambling is stopped in this country, and the world in general before it destroys too many more communities or lives.
Actually Larry, March Madness will improve Las Vegas; but you knew that.
Well, if people dont have the money, they shouldnt be paying so much in taxes, should they...
Obama is just out for himself.
And Harry Reid, who was quiet when he was kissing Obama's rear end during the last of Obama's outbursts, is now all of a sudden vocal (perhaps because he is losing big time in the polls for re-election)
The whole thing stinks to high heaven. Get rid of Reid period.
As to Obama, he promised change but its certainly NOT the change we can believe in (or even want).
Is it 2012 yet?
I was planning a trip to Las Vegas this spring. I will now change my plans and travel elsewhere. Any city that says "The President is not welcome here" is no city I want to visit. President Obamas' comments were insensitive and should not have been said, but they were totally true. Mayor Goodman's response however was out-of-line and totally disrespectful towards the President of the United States. The Mayor should have handled it like a mature, educated adult instead of a spoiled, petulant child.
I think Las Vegas is a very fun city, but people should not spend their childrens college education savings gambling in Vegas. It is not the President's fault your city is having economic troubles, it started long before he took office. So any city that does not support and welcome MY PRESIDENT, does not welcome me either.
Faustina and other wailers will be welcomed in Chicago in true Obama fashion.
So please go and don't bother us by posting your rants anymore in the LV SUN...
What the idot should have said is, "people shouldn't blow their money on the Illinois Lottery, or the Illinois casinos in Elgin, Aurora, Joliet, Rock Island, East Peoria, Alton, Metropolis and East St. Louis Illinois. All Americans should probably stay away from horse race tracks in Chicago, Collinsville, Maywood Park and Cicero, Illinois. I mean people should really avoid Illinois if they need to pay for college and feed their families..............
LOLOLOL You forgot to mention one thing - you don't need thousands of dollar to go to any of those above-referenced casinos. And...you can actually WIN at most of them.
PS You don't know too much about the State of Illinois. Didyou google all those casinos?
Ok , after reading a lot of the comments on here,I think it's safe to say that the Afro American that was elected to be our leader is a failure, no surprise. The only Black man that would ever be a great leader would be Colin Powell, and he didnt want the job, so , just accept the stupid black man because your stuck with him til next election, and hope to god that nothing happens to him, look who's next in line.
hey mayor im sure that tony spilotro would be proud of your little comment to the president of the united states, telling him that you are going to boot him back to washington, but we are not. who do you think you are. you do not speak for the people of vegas.have another drink..
You people make me laugh. As if Obama has anything to do with Las Vegas's downturn. As Samuel Goldwyn famously said, "If people don't want to come, you can't stop them."
You don't come to Las Vegas for the culture--there are better cities for that. You don't come for the weather--there are much warmer destinations in the winter and few as hot in the summer. You don't come for the architecture--unless you like kitsch.
Las Vegas has spent millions over six decades to imprint itself on the world's psyche as the hedonistic fun capitol. I guess advertising works.
I think that Mayor Goodman thinks that he is Mayor of Las Vegas.
And, I do think that Mayor Goodman represents Las Vegas. Remember, we the people elected the Mayor to represent us and he does speak for the people of Vegas.
If you don't like the Mayor, you are welcome to vote for someone else during the next election.
Until Mayor Goodman is replaced, then the good Mayor speaks for all of us in Vegas...
Kind of like the current resident of the oval office; he got elected.