Double Downsize

With an armada of gambling-boat casinos poised to set sail up the Des Plaines River, Lake County has -- at long last -- caught the gamblin' fever. In fact, Lake County has been waiting so long for casino action, that the high rollers here have all but forgotten their remedial gaming strategies and skills. If that sounds like you, your LakeCountyEye recommends one of many State of Illinois on-line refresher courses in how to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em, know when to walk away, know when to run -- before trying your luck.

Of course no casino will be a done deal until Gov Pat Quinn signs whatever it is he is supposed to sign. And Quinn may welsh. According to the Northwest Herald ...

State Sen. Terry Link, D-Waukegan, who sponsored the legislation, said Quinn "has indicated very strongly that he wants to see a reduction. He doesn't want to see it as big," Link said. "So his message was loud and clear to us, and we have to see how we can do this to appease what his concerns are."
Bill to expand gambling may be downsized

It goes without saying that when the request is for -- not so big -- Lake County can & will accommodate. Your LakeCountyEye has been informed that the experts at downsizing -- the Lake County Board -- are working on a proposal designed to satisfy Gov Quinn's demand that smaller is better, while at the same time keep that gamblin' money flowing into the county treasury.

So, instead of one big-box mega-casino somewhere in the crime-riddled upper-right quadrant, look for a network of boutique mini-mart casinos scattered throughout the County. These so-called slots-in-a-box would be downsized casinos catering to the suburban gamer who may be looking for some fast blackjack action while stopping for a gallon of milk and a carton of Marlboros. Drive-thru lanes will be available for late-night, after-hour gamers. Most franchises will be located near a convenient pawnshop or payday loan outlet.

Wealthy political-donor/contractors are poised and ready to dig, the minute the casino bill is signed into law. Look for one coming to a strip-mall at the busy intersection nearest you.