In Florida internet cafes sparked an investigation and political scandal that led to the resignation of the state’s Lieutenant Governor. Many internet cafes in Florida were operated by a fake veteran’s ‘charity’ that pocketed millions. The cafes were closed after the legislature passed a measure banning the cafes. The cafes’ were especially popular among the state’s senior citizens. Peg Kane, 72, is one of those seniors. Kane has returned to bingo after a two year absence. Kane said playing bingo is not her first choice and told reporters “I’m an Internet cafe player. I like to win money. I’m a gambler. Not a big gambler, but a gambler.”
Before the cafes were closed Kane preferred the gaming machines at several local internet cafes. The state intervened and after a lengthy investigation the cafes were banned. The Legislature and Governor Rick Scott intervened after an investigation showed that he owners of Allied Veterans of the World illegally took over $290 million in proceeds. Local bingo halls have benefitted from the cafe closures as former cafe players seek gambling alternatives. Tim Cockrell, the owner of Jackpot Bingo, stated “We’re seeing some people for the first time in years. They’re trickling back.”
About a mile away at Daytona Beach Bingo many former cafe patrons have returned to the bingo games. Player Fran Poole, 58, told reporters “We all went. A lot have come back to bingo now. I think it’s unfair what (the state) did, telling us what to do. Gambling is gambling. What I do with my $20 should be my own business.” Poole’s sentiments were echoed by Kane who said bingo fits her budget. Kane is still unhappy with the cafe and said “There’s a double standard. I’m allowed to bet on dogs or play poker at the track, or play bingo and the lottery. But I’m not allowed to go to the Internet cafe.”
Cafe opponents say that the cafes were not sufficiently regulated and had a negative impact on neighborhoods. Not all seniors liked the atmosphere at the cafes. Cathy Steinbuch of Port Orange, told reporters “I went once or twice, but I didn’t care for it. But I am seeing more people here since the cafes closed, as an alternative.” Lauren Coon of South Daytona has been an avid bingo player for years but said she missed the internet cafes for a variety of reasons. Coon stated “I won enough there to sod my lawn and gravel my driveway. And it paid for half a trip to Biloxi (casinos). My husband went three times a week with me. He’s recovering from heart surgery, and it gave him a reason to get out of the house. He doesn’t like bingo. So he’s back to sitting at home. They took away his purpose to get out in the morning.”
Florida seniors have another alternative available; internet bingo. The games are available 24/7 and seniors can play in the privacy of their own homes free from the prying eyes of government officials. Bingo is easily one of the most affordable games on the internet and no special skills are required to join in the fun.
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