Just Saying Hi

I remember a time when I would write in my blog daily, or every two days. Then it became a month, then every few months. And I just noticed that this is my second post in all of 2012. I feel bad because writing is my passion. I still know that my dream job would be in the writing field. My unfinished project on my casino life is still, well, unfinished.

Life goes on. I am still working as a resident concierge, which has its ups and downs. It wasn't that long ago that I was keeping track of 80+casino tables and going up and down those stairs so many times in a day. I got to know which dealers spoke Mandarin, which wore glasses, and which were under 25 (if you are not a casino employee, then don't ask). And now during the graveyard shift, I more or less sit alone for eight hours. I'll see people come in and out of late night parties, or people walking their dogs. When I first started working it was rather peaceful but I'll have to admit it's become boring. Luckily I have been blessed with morning shifts on the weekend. It does mean I see a lot more people and often have many things to do at once. That's always been the way I like it. Monotony is boring.

What does the future hold? Who knows? I still think about returning to the casino industry, not as a floor manager but in another capacity. I have so much to offer. It's become part of my life whether I like it or not.

Amy and I are finally going on our honeymoon end of September. We are taking a 7-day cruise on the Oasis of the Seas, that big honking boat with 14 stories. And yes, there is a Starbucks on board, although I hope to be able to sample from the 27 eating establishments. Now what do I do with two 4's on a dealer's 3 again?

I just wanted to say hi to everyone, because a number of you have wondered why I the writer don't write anymore. I hope I can start writing in this blog more often. See you all soon, and remember, if anybody needs advice or just want to talk, I'm always there

A New Life

I haven't updated my random life and times for a long time as so much has happened in my life. It was of course a little over a year ago that my illustrious career in the casino industry had possibly come to an end. While I definitely don't regret meeting so many wonder people through the years. It is hard to believe that it has now been 23 years (March 1989) that I first stepped into that casino at 2477 Heather Street.

I don't regret moving up through the ranks until I'd finally become floor manager. Of course I regret the way I left. Whatever people want to say they can. I know that I was at least able to put a smile on my employees almost every day I was there. A lot of people have said I was not the typical casino manager; whether that is good or bad is open to interpretation. I've always said you can be friends with me or you can be enemies with me, but just be honest with me.

A lot people are wondering why I never came back to visit, especially after my 6 months. Well, believe me, I wanted to visit. I miss almost everyone at work, whether it is the Wanker Pit or Pit 11 or of course the Party Pit. But I can't. I can make a big deal out of it but suffice to say I can't come in. Am I mad about it? Of course. I would think that in 22 years I had built up enough of a good character that one little mistake wouldn't change that, but some people are allowed to think what they want to think. My true friends know what kind of a guy I am. People who continually ask me how I'm doing, or even make fun of my beloved Habs, thank you for being there. Some of you are more or less not allowed to talk to me, and that's fine. I know and I understand.

I'm pretty sure I've closed the casino chapter of my life now. With all due respect, I don't think I could go back. Whichever company it is, I think it's more of the same. Perhaps it is unfortunate because I have so much to offer but fate has told me to start anew.

So now I am starting anew. I'd spent the last 7 months in sales, and realized it wasn't for me. So currently I am a concierge at the Fairmont Pacific Rim Private Residences. I'm starting as the graveyard concierge (2300-700 Wednesday to Sunday). I get to wear a black suit and make use of those fabulously colored shirts and ties that started fashion trends in the casino. Yes, I still look good in a pink tie. Perhaps the concierge or indirectly the hotel industry is my new muse, my new career. It remains to be seen.

Thanks again for all those that have said a kind word in the past. I remember you all.

RESP's

I just wanted everyone to know that I am now licensed to sell RESP (Registered Education Savings Plans) scholarship plans. I just got my license last week so if any of you have children, plan to have children, or know anybody who has children, please contact me. I have access to one of the best plans on the market. It's easy to contribute and you will also get free money from the government as a result! Facebook message or email me, or if you have my phone number, call me!

First Steps

Through networking, I have begun an internship as a writer for the Vancouver Observer, an online newspaper of sorts. As I write more and more hopefully this will lead to the future that I've dreamed about. My first articles were about something dear to my heart, the casino industry. I was also interviewed by one of the senior writers there. Enjoy. Many people have said I should write that book that I've wanted to do, and I know that I will start that soon. I do have the short term goals to meet first and then, get ready. The opportunities are there.

My Interview
One of My Memories from the olden days
Vegas
Gambling Addiction

Goodnight Liz

A handful of celebrities are known by one name (Madonna, Cher, etc.). But there was one celebrity who was simply known by her shortened three-letter name. Liz. In the acting world, there was and will only be one Liz. But Liz left us this morning, and Hollywood lost perhaps the last icon of the Golden era. The days of Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, Vivian Leigh, Ingrid Bergman and others are now of the past.

Priorities

Even though right now I'm a difficult time, I guess it's part of my nature that I'm worried more about other people and events The devastation in Japan has almost made me forget that I have to look for a job in the short term. I guess that's the way I've been brought up, to think about others before thinking about yourself. Even closer to home I think I'm more worried about how the employees (OK, ex-employees) are rather than how I am. Shouldn't I be panicking now (is that how you spell panicking?). Stay calm I guess.

That being said, it's scary and sad watching the news regarding Japan. I know the country itself will eventually rebound but all these reports of tsunamis and nuclear explosions makes everybody nervous. And to think it happened so soon after the disaster in New Zealand. Who's next?

Don't Worry Be Happy

I don't want to hear about people crying and sad, because then I start feeling the same. I've been very blessed and fortunate to read such wonderful words in the matter of 24 hours. I'm man enough to say that there have been tears in my eyes. I'm sorry I did what I did but let's just remember the good, happy, and fun times.

Tell you what, I see these kind of posts before so if you want to play, post your favorite memory of me or something about me that made you happy. I hope it's more than just "I got EO a lot", although I know I may have been the King of Handing Out EO's (especially Pit 11). Gordon, you get to pick between "Delilah" and "FINGA". And even if you are one of my "non casino" friends, you can participate.

Goodbye (long version)

I won't go into detail, but suffice to say I am no longer working for River Rock or Great Canadian Casinos. It was sudden but it's happened. I'll leave it at that.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many people I met and knew through the years. People such as Albert and Ron I knew before I even started in the casino industry in 1989. It's hard to imagine that was 22 years ago. I spent many years at the Holiday Inn on Broadway later known as Casino on Broadway. It's ironic that a few days ago I was reminiscing about the HIB and those memories still remain.

I spent a year at Fraser Downs and I met some great people as well. Some people came over with me when the COB closed down but I met others when I went to Cloverdale. And not just the tables department, but also the security, cage, and slot departments were very welcome (sorry Deryck, I guess we won't be doing cards anymore).

The River Rock was where my career ended. Sorry guys, I can't help you with EO's and cancelled shifts anymore. Enjoy the 10am shifts though. Les is still morning EO king and Fred can stay the 8pm king. And when Dancing Queen or Beat It plays on the stereo, do a little dance if no one is watching. Mamma, somebody else has to get coffee now. And for whoever does: Albert (1 and 1), Danny (1 cream), Oscar (hot chocolate), Chris (3 and 3), Ann (3 and 3), Dan (double double) and Wanda (double double). Sorry graveyard, never did buy coffee for you guys...

To Albert, Danny, Oscar, Chris, Ann, Sina, Dan (I'm putting you in the midshift section), Howard, Sylvia, Lenny, Wanda, Bo and Eva, you are one fine team and it was my pleasure to work with you. To Rick, Deborah, Daniel, Jim and Ray, I'm sorry for what happened but keep up the fine work you do. Take care everyone.

That being said, OTHER than the casino industry, Facebook me (is that a verb now?) if there are any job opportunities that a Michael Jackson dancing tall Chinese guy may be qualified for....