Alabama Baptists and Casino Supporters Clash
Anti-gambling leaders had their work cut out for them to speak over an unruly crowd at a rally held Feb. 23 on the steps of the Statehouse.
Hundreds of Alabama Baptists and others against illegal gambling in the state gathered to show support for Gov. Bob Riley and other leaders, but they were met with large numbers of the opposition who had also turned out en masse.
Shouts from hundreds of casino supporters drowned out the Governor as he struggled to address hundreds of casino opponents gathered in front of the Alabama Statehouse.
Chants of "Let us vote" made it nearly impossible to hear Riley say electronic bingo machines are illegal slot machines and casino operators aren't above the law.
"Not here. Not in Alabama," Riley said at a rally organized by Citizens for a Better Alabama and religious groups that oppose casinos.
As during previous rallies held by those who support pro-gambling legislation, they criticized Riley with signs and shirts. But, on Tuesday, they also angrily shouted their criticism at him in person.
Patsy Riley, the Governor's wife, shushed the crowd. She even pled with them to quiet down and show respect to a "Southern lady," but they refused.
The shouting occurred as inside the Statehouse, proponents of legislation allowing 10 electronic bingo casinos in Alabama decided not to seek a vote in the Senate. That's because they don't yet have the required votes -- 21 of the 35 senators.
Melissa Roberts, 42, of Gordon, said working as a cage supervisor at Country Crossing's casino had allowed her to support her three children. She lost her job Jan. 29 when the casino closed to avoid being raided.
"I don't want to be on unemployment. This is the first time in my life," the mother of three said.
Country entertainer Darryl Worley, one of the developers of Country Crossing, told the crowd he was offended by what gambling opponents have said about proponents. "They insinuated I don't know my Lord," he said.
Worley said he prayed to God about whether he should speak at the pro-casino rally Tuesday.
