Vegas-style casinos to boost Florida tourism

It's already one of the most visited states in the US, the home of Disney World and the chosen retirement destination for most of the American middle class. But if a group of senators get their way, Florida could also be home to large Vegas-style casinos - a new initiative to increase the state's conference revenue and encourage gambling fans to make their vacations locally.

The proposed legislation, filed by Floridian senators Dennis Jones and Maria Sachs last Friday, would allow for up to five casino-resort complexes which would have to contain at least 1,000 rooms and 500,000 square feet of meeting space. Currently, the largest casinos in the state, owned by the indigenous Seminole people, have around 500 rooms.

The senators estimate the five casinos could bring in an extra 5 million new visitors to Florida each year, as well as encouraging more of its 3.5 million citizens who venture out of state for gambling trips to stay local. The large-scale meeting facilities could see the state take a bigger slice of trade show revenue, too. "Right now we're not a major player in the trade show industry", said Jones, who heads the Senate Regulated Industries Committee, responsible for gambling permissions in the state. "And if the Legislature thinks this bill is worthy, they'll help move it along."

The news comes after reports of significant recovery in the state's property industry, particularly in Miami, where cut-price repossessed homes are attracting growing numbers of overseas investors. The bill allows for one of the casinos to be in the Miami area, which could see an added boost to the local real estate market.

Read more: http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/119535/20110307/vegas-style-casinos-to-boost-florida-tourism.htm#ixzz1FzKfzhqH

Nightlife for February 9, 2011

Cruising….Literally!

If you were out and about just about anywhere in Fort Lauderdale or Wilton Manors—or South Florida in one of your Florida luxury villa, as a matter of fact—you know that more than 5,000 gay men and Lesbians were in town, anxious to depart on the world’s largest gay cruise. Yes, Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas, one of the two largest cruise ships in the world, sold out within weeks for a seven night cruise that departed Sunday evening to celebrate Atlantis’ 20th anniversary.

And, if you thought last weekend was crazy, get ready for this. All 5,000 boys and girls—mostly boys—will be returning this weekend, but the region will also be welcoming nearly 3,000 fresh cruisers departing on RSVP Vacations’ 25th anniversary cruise on Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam.

For those of you who missed the opportunity to party at sea, just head out to the bars and clubs. Here’s your chance to serve as a “Good Will Ambassador” to all those cruisers who are looking to kick off or wind down the vacation of a lifetime. We think it might be just as good as the “real” thing.
In the meantime, there’s plenty to do across South Florida this week. Here’s a look at some of the highlights:

Wednesday, Feb. 9

They don’t call Wednesdays “Hump Day” for no reason! If you’re feeling a little nasty tonight, head over to Cubby Hole, one of Fort Lauderdale’s popular bear bars for Eddie’s Encore Underwear Night. “Bare” your undies and enjoy 2-4-1 cocktails beginning at 9 p.m. Cubby Hole is located at 823 N. Federal Hwy, but don’t blink, you might miss it. Pardon the pun, but park in the rear.

Thursday, Feb. 10

On Thursdays in Miami Beach, chances are you’ll find the ladies at MOVA Lounge, 1625 Michigan Ave. DJ Zehno is in the booth, spinning the best of the ‘80s, ‘90s and today’s music and there are plenty of drink specials, too. The party jumps into high gear at 10 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 11

Miss Kitty hosts the Sexy Bear contest at Bill’s Filling Station, 2209 Wilton Dr. Whether you’re a muscle bear, cub, otter or grizzly, turn on your mojo—and take off your shirt—and you could take home the $100 prize.

Saturday, Feb. 12

The Manor Complex on Wilton Drive is getting a jump on Valentine’s Day with a special party, “I Feel Love,” featuring special guest DJ Terrance Lally. Unlike dinner on Monday night, there’s no cover to this extravaganza, making it the cheapest date night in town.

Sunday, Feb. 13

Edison Farrow and Omar Gonzalez present Jump! Sundays tonight at Lux (formerly Liquid) nightclub, 1439 Washington Ave. in South Beach. There’s no cover, DJ Jarell is in the booth, and you get to enjoy the Jump! Dancers, too, at this fun weekly party. This is definitely the place in Miami Beach to be tonight.

Monday, Feb. 14

You’re on your own with this one. Don’t forget to pick up the flowers and chocolates, and for gosh sakes, make a reservation for dinner at the restaurant of your choice! For those of you who don’t have boyfriends, girlfriends or whatever, well, pick a bar and drink away your sorrows. Better yet, find a new friend online!