The Empire of Boardwalk This is the stuff movies are made of – or rather TV shows! During the prohibition era in the US, Atlantic City offered some rather controversial forms of entertainment, unlike other resorts, including: back-room gambling, rum running, and speakeasies. In 1930, Atlantic City played host to a conference for the leaders of organized crime in the United States. It is considered by many crime historians to be the earliest organized crime summit held in the US. It has been written that the conference played a major role in the future direction of the criminal underworld. The Atlantic City Conference was said to be hosted by John Torrio, Charlie “Lucky” Luciano, Frank Costello and Meyer Lansky. The host of the conference was Atlantic City and South Jersey crime Boss, Enoch “Nucky” Johnson, who provided the hotel accommodations, along with food and entertainment, all while making a guarantee of no police interference. For a true taste of the past, delve into the colorful history of AC by visiting the cities many historic landmarks. One such landmark worth noting is a turn-of-the-century building on St. James Place, now called The Irish Pub, which was once known as The Elwood Hotel, a local speakeasy. The history of the Irish Pub dates back to the 19th century, and rumor has it that it has been identified with the game of Monopoly and the red hotels used in the game are based on the architecture of the Irish Pub. The rich history of Atlantic City is brought to center stage in the Emmy Award-winning HBO series, “Boardwalk Empire,” inspired by the non-fiction book of the same name by Nelson Johnson.
GAY-FRIENDLY From Broadway shows to Diva Bingo, the nightlife and entertainment catering to the LGBT community in Atlantic City is most certainly welcoming. Conveniently located to major metropolitan cities, AC is only 60 miles from Philadelphia, 125 miles from New York, and 175 miles from Washington, DC. The New Jersey Civil Union law went into effect in 2007, so if a beach ceremony is on your bucket list, here are a couple resources that may be useful for planning your special day: www.atlanticcitynj.com/visitors/thingstodo/attractions/gayfriendly www.engaygedweddings.com/new-jersey-gay-wedding
OUT in AC has attracted media attention worldwide, and the website features dining, nightlife, shopping, events, commitment ceremony information, and package discounts for gay patrons. http://www.caesars.com/getoutinac/ The Greater Atlantic City GLBT Alliance and the Schultz-Hill Foundation present the Miss’d America Pageant, in association with Caesars Entertainment. The 2013 pageant takes place at the House of Blues – Showboat Casino Hotel on www.connextionsmagazine.com September 21st. http://www.acglbt.org
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photo courtesy Revel Entertainment
Ceasar’s Atlantic City portrays their pride with an open and inviting atmosphere, welcoming equality.