October '07

 

ALL for ONE and ONE for ALL!!!!!!!

WE ARE THE UNION!

^Click the ^Employee Free Choice Act^ to sign the petition^

GET ON THE "U-TRAIN" TODAY!   Caesars Palace Dealers Voted in the Union 380-128!     Foxwoods Voted in the Union 1289 - 852!     MGM Grand Detroit Dealers - have a UNION contract!     Motor City Casino Dealers - have a UNION contract!     Greektown Casino Dealers - have a UNION contract!     Tropicana AC Voted in Union 626-157!    Bally's AC Voted in Union 628-255!    Caesars AC Voted in Union 572-128!    Trump Plaza Voted in Union 324-149!    The Wynn Voted in Union 444-149!    Casino Aztar Indiana Voted in Union 106-59!     Harrah's Laughlin is collecting cards for a Vote!      Harrah's Tahoe is collecting cards for a vote!     Harvey's Casino is collecting cards for a vote!

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OCTOBER 2007

(Post #197) From an Extra-Board Dealer 10-30-07:

hi
I would like to know when they will be fair and promote those people that are in line for years to get a greatius spot as a Full time CAESARS PALACE dealer, we wait years just before with could apply for a job and been dual rate, you don't think is our time to get a full time job?
They don't think we have life and bill to pay, or just been fair and give us what we been working for?
I hope in a answer if some one know some and if anyone cares about it.

Thank so much

RESPONSE:

Thanks for visiting! We can't say when anyone will be promoted, and at this point we can't say who. Hopefully, when we get the Union voted in we can resolve issues just as these! We believe in Seniority, as do most Dealers at Caesars Palace, including/especially the new Dealers.

WE DO CARE and this is why we are working very hard to get everyone to sign A-Cards and vote "Yes" for the Union when the time to vote comes!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #196) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-28-07:

For all of those that didn't go to meeting with Mr. Jenkins, let us clarify who he is. He is the guy that fired all the cocktail waitress at the Rio and made them re-apply, gave 6 month contracts and had to meet certain standards to keep the job such as weight etc. 

So for all of you older men and women, look around at the new hires, not just in the PCD pit but in all the pits. We are being replaced steadily and some cannot see the writing on the wall. 

Please, do not trust this company, stand up and help us protect ourselves. Don't talk people out of signing cards. It is imperative that we unite. Please think about what is happening right under your nose. 

SWING SHIFT WAKE-UP! DAY SHIFT WAKE-UP! Everyday I see new young female extra boards in the main pit! THEY WILL TAKE YOUR JOB AND MINE IF YOU DON'T HELP US PROTECT THEM!!!!! SIGN YOUR CARD TODAY!!! 

And for you young people, they will dictate your appearance as they already have to some PCD gals and you will have no protection if you don't help win this battle. Let them leave the sex themed thrills to the clubs and the professional gaming to professionals.

RESPONSE:

Please read the above message from the Webmaster and click the link provided there to read the article from the RJ and what Mr. Jenkins thinks about the "gaming environment".

We are ALL living in the MOST IMPORTANT DAYS of our careers RIGHT NOW! Put aside football, baseball, bar-b-ques, weekend trips, etc... and get this done! It may require a little effort and time right now, but what happens during the next few months is going to affect the rest of your lives!

SECURE YOUR FUTURE NOW while you have the chance!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #195) From a Mirage Dealer 10-28-07:

Dealers need to realize that it isn't going to get any better and we need someone to represent us. Some dealers are so afraid of different that they will regret it later if they don't sign up for the union. Please don't give up on us TWU.

RESPONSE:

We guarantee you, and every Dealer in Las Vegas, the TWU will NOT give up on us! They are here for the duration! 

Dealers, do NOT give up on the TWU! If anyone kills the Union drive, it will be the Dealers, NOT the TWU. 

They are spending millions on us as we speak. Las Vegas Dealers WILL be organized!

EVERY Dealer, not just the Caesars Palace Dealers, GET YOUR CARDS IN NOW! Contact the TWU or the website and things will get started at your property too.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #194) From a Poker Dealer 10-28-07:

I'm a poker dealer and have a few comments about our current situation. 

First, we just had our first Caesar's Classic Poker Tournament and just like the WSOP, the Floor men are awarded 30% of our tips for their "HARD WORK". Now, I'm not sure if this is already the same as what happened at The Wynn, but it appears to me that it is. 

Second, the current Manager, who has NO poker experience (and believe me, it shows) put in affect a new Variance policy for our chip banks. This policy is a joke. It allows for dealers to be given points based on the amount of the overage/shortage in any given chip bank. These points do not reset until that dealer has gone 90 days without an infraction. So, unless you're superhuman and don't make mistakes, it's inevitable that you will be fired. I have asked dozens of dealers and of those only one has gone more than 90 days without an infraction. If this continues, all of the current dealers will at some time be fired. 

There is double standards everywhere in the room. Certain dealers, who are liked, have their Variances "Overlooked" by the floor-persons awhile others are punished to the full extent of the policy. 

Lastly, our current manager, in a vain attempt to impress his superiors has discontinued CALL liquor to our guests. Our guests are only allowed to order well drinks for playing at Caesars' Palace, while they can go to the poker room at the Orleans, or any other place for that matter, and get what they want. I know at least a dozen players who simply won't play at Caesars any longer due to this change. This guy is hated by all, but no one will say anything because those who speak their mind have either gotten fired or written up. His nick name is Little Hitler. He has been patted on the back for "turning the Room around and making...???

RESPONSE:

Your Feedback was cut off for some reason, sorry. If you would like to finish it, please submit the remainder and we will post it.

Sounds like things are kind of "ugly" in the Poker Room. Poker Dealers should also send in A-Cards ASAP before it gets worse. We really can't comment on the "procedures" in your room, as we have very little experience with poker rooms. If someone from Poker would like to step up and help, that would be great!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #193) From a Harrah's Supervisor 10-27-07:

I work at Harrah's as a supervisor and I stopped here to check some things out. I think to be fair, you need to give ALL of the facts. On your points page, you failed to mention that if you call in 4 consecutive days, it's only 1.5 points. So, in theory, that could offset the 4 free call-ins that you used to have. That's not too bad of a deal. I support your right to rally the dealers and push for a union, and I think you make many good points. However, please give all of the facts, even if they don't help your cause.

RESPONSE:

Thanks for your feedback! We try to give all of the facts. Actually we have the entire Attendance Points policy (Page 1, Page 2, Page 3) on the website so everyone can read the actual policy. That is as factual as it gets. What has been given are examples.
 
We had the basically 3 different Attendance Policies within one month. The old one, the first change, then the second change (an example on how fast they can change policy when they want to). We tried to keep up with the quick changes as best we could, but as you may know, the website is quite large and it is easy for us to get sidetracked with new things happening every day.
 
As for what the Readers write in about (there was a recent post about points), that is basically out of our control. We post every Feedback we have received. 

We think the point was, we used to be able to call in sick 3 times (not 4 as stated in your feedback) in a year and receive ZERO points, and we also used to be able to call in 3 consecutive days and receive only 1 point. Granted, we can now call in up to 4 days and receive 1.5 points, but that is 2 days less and .5 points more. Also, if we are out more than 3 days, aren't we required to have a Doctor's approval to return to work at that point (over 3 days)?

Not everyone is sick multiple days. Under the new policy if someone is sick three non-consecutive days throughout the year, they will receive 3 points (one for each absence). Under the old policy, they would have received ZERO points (3 "free" sick-calls per year). That IS a very big difference.

Bottom line is, the new attendance policy is much worse, especially for Dealers who are within 2 feet from the coughing, sneezing, smoking, breathing customers faces for hours on end.

 As many readers have basically stated, they hire us only to look for ways to fire us. In the past if someone was sick or had some personal issues, we were told, "No problem. We have you covered. Take the time you need and get it worked out. See you when you get back." Those days are gone. Times changed and so must we.

Actually, we are more concerned with job security, toke security, working conditions and benefits more than anything else.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #192) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-26-07:

Once again, we would like to thank Harrah's wonderful management for helping our cause! Thank You! As usual, the tone was arrogant, unprepared, no definite answers, no guarantees, and I'm sure Mr. Jenkins would have rather have been anywhere else but in meetings with us pitiful underlings. We are not an uneducated lot Mr. Jenkins. We chose to do what we do, but that does not mean that a great many of us are not college graduates and if not, certainly streetwise. We are not in California but there sure was a lot of smoke blowing up our a**. We don't trust you! Now a lot more of our fellow dealers do not trust you. Please have some more meetings because right after, we get another round of Authorization Cards. Thanks again. LOL!

RESPONSE:

And to think, these guys are getting paid the "big bucks" and get the "big bonuses"! Talk about ripping a company off! They actually are getting paid? This has got to crush their CSA scores! What, low 50's maybe?

Yes, the cards coming in have nearly tripled the daily rate in the last week! Keep up the great work you guys, your making is so much easier for the Dealers to decide! Who needs "in-house organizers" when we have all of you working for us?!

When the Reader writes, "We chose to do what we do, but that does not mean that a great many of us are not college graduates and if not, certainly streetwise." How true!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #191) From a Swing Shift Dealer 10-26-07:

I was at the meeting last night and if that doesn't convince everyone that we need a union, then we deserve what will happens to us. Mr. Jenkins said they (Harrah's) would never take our tokes for redistribution to the floor because it would greatly alter game protection. "The MAIN job of Floor Supervision is GAME PROTECTION." What a crock of s..t that is at Caesars. So if you believe that they won't take our tokes just look at the game protection we have and you can easily see that Jenkins is full of s..t. We need a union as bad as a fish needs water. Vote TWU and protect yourself!

RESPONSE:

Game protection? What's that? Oh yeah, we remember, back a few years when the Floor had no more than 4 games to watch, and when they were not rating every player with a $20 bill, and when we had Pit Managers in every pit and Boxmen on every craps table, before checks were being snatched off our roulette wheels every month or so. That's right, we remember now. We think someone has there head in a small tight dark hole.

Oh, by the way, Mr. Jenkins likes to boast about his 11 years with the Culinary Union. WOW! He was in a Union before he is who he is now? We know what he did to the girls at the Rio who were NOT Union. We guess he doesn't like "scab" workers. Fired them all he did! Without a Union, guess what we all are? We need to organize NOW!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #190) From a Palace Court Dealer 10-26-07:

I was not able to go to the meeting last night as I was off the night before and didn't know about it. But this is what I gathered from the whole thing: 

First of all at 8:00 in the main pit there was only 5 dealers to take out that whole area, no buzz, no medallions. Someone from Palace Court finally walked by at 8:00 and said go to your games, when we asked about the medallions, they looked confused, like they weren't sure what to do. At 8:10 the day shift dealers were still on the games, except for the five of us from swing. Apparently, with all the organizing about these meetings, they forgot to figure out who was going to deal the games. So day shift waited patiently for someone to come relieve them, as no one even told them what time they would be getting out. 

Finally at about 8:15 swing shift starting showing up from the meeting! Apparently whatever responsibilities we have immediately after work is not important, just as always, keep us as long as you want and don't schedule or even tell us. Unheard of some of the things this place does! 

Then the swing dealers started talking about the meeting and what a waste of time it was. They said that they asked lots of questions and not one of them was answered. He kept saying he would "look into it and get back to us". 

Somewhere along into the meeting he told the dealers that he had better things to do at 7:30 at night, and when asked about the BJ rules, he said that he could change them back anytime, but its not going to happen tonight. 

Basically everyone I heard talking and talked too afterwards said what a waste of time it was, he didn't answer one question with a firm answer, and even seemed unprofessional and like a corporate millionaire who really wasn't interested in our petty problems, and even quite annoyed that we would be making problems for him. 

When asked about no seniority, he said he thought we liked being hired, and had other things being done on the merit system. When Mr. Jenkins said he thought the dealers liked doing things on the merit system, we told him no, he asked why, and the dealers said because if something happened and they laid off, they could pick and choose whoever they wanted, and that it wouldn't be fair. He said he would "look into it". 

Also there was a memo from J.W. about the toke vote, it was on the wall by the toke books, next to the door the smokers use. Not in a place where all the dealers could see it. 

Basically things have gotten worse for the dealers over the years, they hide things from us and lie to us, tell us they will "look into it", and then nothing changes and even gets worse. 

They want us to wait for the Supreme Court ruling so they can take our tokes, that was the jest of it. If dealers don't make a stand today! We are done!

RESPONSE:

When the Reader writes, "Somewhere along into the meeting he told the dealers that he had better things to do at 7:30 at night..." we gave you our thoughts as to why the meetings were not held on Saturdays, when the largest percentage of Dealers would be at work, in the Union Busters section of this site (basically because they are Mon-Fri 9-5 people and do not want to be bothered by us on their weekends). Sounds as if we are just a "thorn in their side" and they are trying to pull it out so they can carry on with their fat bonus checks earned from the 16% increase in revenues!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #189) From a 21 Dealer 10-26-07:

They say the definition of insanity is "Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result".
We have tried 'their' way for years and when push comes to shove, 'they' always revert to their old ways, leaving us vulnerable and at 'their' mercy. I say, maybe we have to take a chance on the union, and things may not be so perfect at first, but at least we will be going in the right direction for a change. We have been lied to and manipulated one too many times for my liking. I am ready to stop being 'insane' hoping that they will be forth right and treat us well. Theirs' are lies. Union all the way for me. Thanks for opening up my eyes!

RESPONSE:

When the Reader writes, "...we have to take a chance on the union, and things may not be so perfect at first, but at least we will be going in the right direction for a change." EXACTLY RIGHT!

We hope that many "see the light" as you have. 

Without a Union we have no option and are like "pets" waiting to be fed. Maybe our master will feed us today, maybe they won't. We "hope" they will. Let's all quit acting like animals sitting at the masters chair at diner time and stand up like the decent humans we are and get what we deserve, not their table scraps!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #188) From a 21 Dealer 10-26-07:

In regards to managements latest memo that we now will be allowed to vote on our previously passed toke issues... Could this not be just an attempt by management to take a "straw vote" on how strong we stand?
VOTE TWU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RESPONSE:

First of all, let us reiterate that management "allowing" us to vote on previously passed issues concerning our by-laws is management STILL trying to control our tokes! As everyone reads the posts following this one you will see that over and over again.

As for ho "strong" we are? We are very strong! And, as long as every Dealer does NOT fall for their BS, like we start from zero in contract negotiations (PURE BS LIE! Check out the NLRB Act), we will remain strong and get even stronger!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #187) From a 21 Dealer 10-26-07:

Mr. Selesner,
Why was S....... J.... allowed to take us down to 3 sick days a year when every other department gets 6, even though we have PTO time in our banks? We work directly with the public and are exposed to every kind of germ that you can imagine. How can we stay healthy? Then there are the toxins and cigarette smoke to contend with. Why do you wait until the threat of a union to treat us as well as any other department? We are your front line, the face of Caesars. Why are you so against us being union if you plan on treating us fairly?

RESPONSE:

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #186) From a Caesars Atlantic City Dealer 10-25-07:

Hi,
I am a 24 year dealer at Caesars A.C. and a member of the Bargaining Committee and I work day shift. Most if not all the dealers that I talk to on a daily basis are still strong in their support of the Union. We know that Harrah's Entertainment was not going to make things better without the Union. I have not come across anyone that is sorry. It has not cost us anything at this point and some things have improved. All this being said, we know we have a long road ahead but it beats the alternative. I will send your e-mail to a few dealers for their thoughts.

RESPONSE:

Thanks for visiting and for the Feedback!

We are very happy to hear from the AC Dealers that they are NOT sorry for voting in the Union! Put that rumor to rest everyone in Las Vegas!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #185) From a 21 Dealer 10-25-07:

Can we include the floor at Caesars also?

RESPONSE:

The Floor can form their own Union. To include them with us would get complicated. They would want/need things negotiated that Dealers do not want/need and vice-versa. We would be more than happy to help them through the process though if they get someone from their ranks to step up by contacting either us or the TWU.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #184) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-25-07:

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! T.W.U. I think I can honestly say with your support we can put our darkest days in the past. Caesars redistributed insurance packages today with lower rates. ( Although still higher than last year and unfair compared to other employees) Thank you T.W.U for your presence! We will take anything we can get every dollar counts these days. 

As far as the other silly little "feel good tactics", please do not insult our intelligence management. 

I am however very upset about this mandatory vote on our by-laws. These people just don't get it. STAY OUT OF OUR TOKES! MR. J.W don't play stupid, you know how it works. A petition must be signed by a majority and then a vote. If we need help with our issues we will ask, but that's if you really want to give back control. If you are serious about that, then just put things back the way they were before and give us a legal binding contract stating that the dealer tips are their property and they control them. 

We would also like a written legal opinion from HARRAH'S CORP stating that the tip redistribution at WYNN was illegal and immoral. That would make us proud of you. Remember everything must be in writing. 

To all Caesars dealers, most of us have been though organizing before, and some of us have been fooled by feel good tactics only to see things get worse when a drive dies. 

THIS DRIVE WILL NOT DIE! 

OUR FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT! 

THE TIDE HAS TURNED! 

LETS RIDE THIS WAVE ALL THE WAY TO A CONTRACT! 

THEN LETS HAVE THE BIGGEST PARTY THIS TOWN HAS EVER SEEN!

RESPONSE:

What everyone must remember is that it is the Union drive getting our stuff for us, nothing or nobody else! It is NOT management's "pawns" who have done this, it is all of you starting to stand up! Management sees us starting to rise, and they are trying to tell us everything is okay and they will take care of it. Don't be fooled! They just want to make us all sit back down and believe they will handle it. WRONG! Keep rising until we are ALL on our feet!

When the Reader writes, "To all Caesars dealers, most of us have been though organizing before, and some of us have been fooled by feel good tactics only to see things get worse when a drive dies." They are EXACTLY right! This drive must NOT die! We will get what we deserve from this as long as we all stay together! We will get better wages, benefits and working conditions, but ONLY if we stay strong and are not fooled by their "illusions" of caring for us. Did they care about us six months ago? NO THEY DID NOT!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #183) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-25-07:

I would like to use this forum to thank the PCD dealers and part time dealers who have already signed TWU cards and hope that the rest will soon follow.


We must all be told of how Harrah's laid off all the cocktail waitress at the Rio they where NOT in the union, and replaced them with Bev-a-tainers who are on short term contract and can be replaced at will. 

I would like to see all of the PCD girls and part timers dealing at Caesars for as long as they wish and to be able to transition into regular uniforms at their choosing rather than being shown the back door by management.

RESPONSE:

We too would like to thank all the PCD girls and part-time Dealers! We share your vision!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #182) From a Dealer 10-25-07:

An open letter to J.... B..., Harrah's CSA director,
I am mad as hell that you actually said a beverage server (as hard working as these fellow UNION employees are) has more customer contact than a dealer! Or why you would chose to arrogantly announce this in our break room during a time when our very livelihood is under attack is mind boggling! 

No matter what your flawed “scientific” CSA study shows, we know we have more one on one, eye to eye contact than any other employee in Caesars Palace period! We know our players, their spouses, their families and their friends. We are the ones that ask if they are staying with us and if their room is satisfactory. We help them in choosing a restaurant, a show and even help with reservations. 

You probably never considered that the games we deal took thousands of hours to learn and years to perfect! Or that most of us deal multiple games “fast and flawlessly”! You have no idea that the thousands of transactions we make every single day can add up to more than a million dollars per dealer! You probably aren’t aware that we do all this while delivering a product that is statistically guaranteed not to “meet or exceed a customers expectations” but, our CSA scores will be judged with the same criteria as a beverage server! 

J...., you have shown us once again that management does not respect the incredible job we do day in and day out and why we need the protection of a union. You single handily swayed some fence sitters votes for the union and for that we must thank you and I’m sure Mr. Selesner will too!

RESPONSE:

What more can we say about this one?

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #181) From an ATLANTIC CITY Dealer 10-25-07:

Hello to my brothers and sisters out west. My name is Jimmy Pitts, I'm the dealer in Atlantic City who called the UAW into town. Why did I put my name here? Because Harrah's has known about me and my web site for nearly a year already and I am not afraid of them. Since I started I have already gotten raises for many of my fellow dealers, they are now offering an HMO, and our annual raise went from 3% to 25 cents (like it was 20 years ago). I know my rights and am not afraid to exercise them.

I understand that there are rumors circulating that we are sorry that we are organizing. Nothing could be further from the truth. Caesars is in negotiations, Bally's was in appeal by Harrah's management and all of their charges were over-ruled (management can appeal once more, we don't know if they will only 1% of local rulings are ever overturned) and are awaiting certification. Tropicana dealers and dual-rates are certified and recently elected a strong bargaining committee. We should hear about our charges against Trump Marina in the coming weeks. We are signing cards at all 11 casinos in AC. We have a Union Hall and just signed a 2 year extension on the lease with an option to buy.

Our motto here is, UNITED WE BARGAIN, DIVIDED WE BEG!

STAY STRONG, STAND TALL AND VOTE YES FOR DIGNITY, RESPECT AND A VOICE IN YOUR OWN FUTURE!

RESPONSE:

Thanks for your Feedback Jimmy! We are sure that the Dealers in A.C. will be forever grateful for all that you have done and are doing.

Thanks for helping to clear up the "rumors" being spread here about you guys!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #180) From a Dayshift Dealer 10-25-07:

Remember when the president and the casino manager knew you and went out of their way to say 

hello?

But, as we all know, this is no longer the case. Our president, Gary Selesner, has never once come 

down from his ivory tower to meet any of us, UNTIL we started talking about a union! Our casino 

manager, J.... W..., thinks his one vote on our toke issues is more important than 500 of ours UNTIL 

we started talking union! When someone became ill they would ask other dealers how he or she was 

doing and would welcome them back when they recovered. Not any more. Now, it seems they want 

you to exceed you 6 month leave so that you can be terminated. When we lost a member of our 

Caesars family you could count on our president or casino manager to be at the funeral to show their 

support, it was just the classy thing to do. But when we lost one of our day shift dealers a month ago, 

not one person from Caesars management showed... but at the anti union rally D... A.... was rude 

enough to mention that our friend was too stubborn to go to the doctor. Real classy D...! Now that we 

know Caesars Palace, as well as this industry, has been changed by uncaring corporations and its 

greedy people, what can we do? We can stand up or our rights, just like our sister property Caesars 

Atlantic City, and vote for a union too!

RESPONSE:

The comment by D... A.... was as cold as it gets! HEARTLESS!!!!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #179) From a 21 Dealer 10-25-07:

I was given a pin button by a IHO and I had it on my lapel last night. I liked it because it was smaller and I really didn't have to worry about a conversation with a customer about the pin. I also noticed that other dealers were looking for and noticing people wearing buttons and pins. This is a excellent idea. 

Also I want to add a comment that I heard a Assistant Shift Manager say in the break room awhile back. He told a group of dealers during a regular conversation that J.... W..., Our casino manager was such a vindictive person that he pities anyone that crosses him. All the more reason that we need a union. We don't need a dictator type of person with a God syndrome attitude running anything. This isn't 1972, and we shouldn't have to come to work and worry about our job because of a a..hole like J.... W..., or the next dictator that comes in. 

I hope we can show some solidarity on the buttons and pins.

RESPONSE:

More pins and buttons are on order. We would like to see EVERY DEALER at Caesars Palace wearing either a pin or button. What a statement!

When the Reader writes, "We don't need a dictator type of person with a God syndrome attitude running anything." We couldn't agree more! We MUST protect ourselves with a CBA! Otherwise, ANYONE could be subject to being "targeted" at any time for any reason. We MUST stop the "FEAR" we must all endure as we come in to work!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #178) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-25-07:

Now it starts... J.W. has given the dealers committee the right (?) to vote back in sick tokes, hospital tokes, and Death Benefit Tokes. I don't know when the ballets will be out but the committee is waiting for a memo as they should ....PLEASE everyone don't let this stop you from signing a CARD. as fast as these things are given back they can be taken AWAY !!!!! A VOTE YES for these things will show J.W. that he should have never taken (or had the right too) our decisions on OUR tips.

RESPONSE:

We have a set procedure within our by-laws outlining how ANY "by-law vote" is to be taken. IF management will be FORCING us to bypass our procedures, they are STILL controlling our tokes!

What everyone must understand is this, they are giving back what was ours in the first place. Just because they are giving things back, that does not prevent them from taking them away again somewhere down the road. Look what it has taken to get back what was ours! Will we be forced to go through all this all over again if/when new management comes in? How many "chances" do we give them? We think we have given them more than enough chances over the last 40 years! Now it is time to SECURE our future and ensure we NEVER have to go through this again!

Get your cards in and VOTE UNION YES!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #177) From a Mandalay Bay Dealer 10-23-07:

I am a dealer at Mandalay Bay and this message is for all of you and all dealers. You must see what is starting, first your insurance and then what is next. What does happen to your insurance in 2009? You have to be asking yourselves this question, I know I am. I have a family and I need my insurance, I need my tokes and I need my job. What I don't need is someone telling me to fill out a health survey and telling me I need to take action on 1 of 3 categories to help me. That is your definition not mine. And by the way have you even looked at who is running this survey, it's an outside company hired by MGM. Why do they need my info or yours. It is time we stand together. After all you are all my family. It does not matter if you have a disagreement with another dealer the fact is you spend just as much time with your coworkers or more. I know in my home we have disagreements everyone does. But as a family we need to unite together. Please look at this site and read it. Look what is happening to the dealers. All of us everywhere. This union is run by dealers. That means me and you. Like it says STAND UP FOR YOUR RIGHTS. Print a card send it in. I am and I hope you do too.

RESPONSE:

Come on "Non-Caesars Palace Dealers"! Get your cards in too!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #176) From a 21 Dealer 10-23-07:

Awesome job you guys have done with this drive!!! I just wanted to say THANK YOU!! Now I feel that there is hope for my future as a dealer. Everybody in the break rooms are talking union, and they are saying we are going to win this Hands Down! Everyone I talked to today said they sent in a card! And now they are talking about the issues, instead of cowering in fear and pretending like there's no elephant in our living room! I cant wait until we have a vote and secure what we have and try to fight for fairness and equality, better wages and benefits. THANK YOU again. Oh and by the way, I sent in my card a few weeks ago. Come on PCD, we need you too, this is your future as a dealer!

RESPONSE:

Thanks! Congratulate ALL Dealers who have sent in their cards though, not just us.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #175) From a Wynn Dealer 10-23-07:

Hey guys it's the Wynn dealer again,

I am on this site everyday and read all of the writings. I have been through the exact same thing you are going through and think you are doing an incredible job. I just wanted to hit the topic again about tokes. For the minority that has it in their head that they can put it in writing that they won't take your tokes always remember that without a contract they can always change their minds. 

If you think that only Steve (the devil) Wynn is the only one that will do this and that no one will follow, remember that Steve Wynn is the one that years ago started to put tokes on a paycheck. How many dealers get toke envelopes anymore? Everyone followed and started doing tokes on paychecks. Steve Wynn made assigned seating at the shows. Got rid of the Matre'D's. How many shows have Matre'D's. Everyone followed. 

Now can you still say that the casinos won't follow this issue of taking the tokes to pay the floorpeople? Don't be ridiculous. You need to stop them before they can. Sign a card and vote yes and you can stop them in their tracks. 

The Wynn dealers will be there to show their support you when you get close. Stay Strong and stay together. Remember they will promise, but they can always take it back without a contract. 

Good Luck!!!!!!

RESPONSE:

Very good points!

HERE COME THE ROMANS!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #174) From a Swing Shift Dealer 10-23-07:

Has anybody been following the story in the papers about Harrah's not getting permits for remodeling at The Rio and at Harrah's. If they don't bother to do these basic things to protect their guests, proper plans and permits for remodeling, can you imagine anything that would be beyond their capability for cost cutting. 

We have already seen some of their moves and if we don't vote for the TWU I don't even want to consider the consequences. We must protect ourselves and our livelihoods. 

Vote UNION now

RESPONSE:

By not filing for the proper permits while remodeling, in essence they broke the law. That should speak volumes about who they really are! To cheap to obey the law and instead try to pull a "Wynn" and break it!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #173) From an Ex-Hilton Dealer 10-23-07:

I'm a 15 yr dealer currently with Mandalay Bay. I worked for Mr. J.W. at the LV Hilton when we went through a union vote a few years back. As I'm sure you've learned, he can't be trusted. The man has no decency.

Stay strong and you will succeed. Do not be swayed by professional union busters (they're coming) and talk of 'things will be different now'. Focus on the truly important points (not EDR food quality, ect...) and don't let the campaign become a gripe venue with no unified direction. Good luck-countless dealers beyond your property are pulling for, and counting on you.

RESPONSE:

Thanks for visiting our website and for your Feedback!

We absolutely agree when the Reader writes, "...don't let the campaign become a gripe venue with no unified direction."

We know the Dealers of Nevada are watching us and we are not going to let them down. We are hoping they are starting to form their own Committees RIGHT NOW. To all non-Caesars Dealers reading, know this: You MUST get your Drives started NOW. DO NOT wait on us at CP or The Wynn to get contracts! We will get them. 

You must ALL realize if you do NOT have a petition with the NLRB filed BEFORE the Nevada Supreme Court rules on the Wynn case that IF they rule in favor of Wynn, you all stand to lose your tips for redistribution that very minute! Once you lose them, it will be VERY difficult to get them back through negotiations. ACT NOW!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #172) From a Graveyard Dealer 10-22-07:

To Our Managers on Grave, 

Please remember and know that us wanting to be represented in an organized union is NOT PERSONAL! Unfortunately, we have seen too many of our managers come and go. We have seen our supervisors income taken away, bonus' reduced, overloaded on work, and being held accountable for situations that you cannot do anything about. 

We have seen unjust suspensions and terminations. Of course, we have seen some that were warranted. 

But mostly, know that us wanting a union does not make us malcontents, or unhappy, or trouble makers. We are hard working people trying to protect our livelihoods for our families and to maintain our basic needs such as food and shelter in these times of the escalating costs of living. 

Most of us are VERY PROUD TO BE CAESARS PALACE EMPLOYEES. It certainly seems we care more about the way our guests are being treated and the cleanliness of the hotel than the corporate heads that are seeking profit- profit -profit. It is not possible to make more every quarter without something suffering and being the only none union service ..they take from you and me ..so we, as well as our guests, suffer corporate profit. 

Please let us work together on the front line to give every guest the experience they should have at Caesars Palace. signed...ONE VOTE FOR THE UNION

RESPONSE:

That post should also include the Supervisors from Days and Swing. It is NOT personal. We are very good friends with many of you. We would actually like to see all of you organize as well. We will help you if you would like!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #171) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-22-07:

This, is for all the pussycat dealers. I'm sure you all remember one of your dealers Summer. She, had some problems with a deranged boyfriend coming in and causing problems. Instead, of management backing up their dealer they finally decided it would be easier to just fire her. How is it her fault some nut case won't listen. 

This, is the type mentality we have had to deal with for way to long. It sure would be nice to have someone stick up for you in these type of situations. 

It's time for us all including you to say enough is enough it's just time. 

Please, fill out your TWU cards today.

RESPONSE:

WOW! We were not aware of the PCD who was fired for a circumstance beyond her control! If we were Union we bet that would NOT have been the result! Shame on whoever made that poor decision!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #170) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-22-07:

WHAT CAN THE UNION DO FOR ME? This is a question we all have but, I think some don't quite understand the answer. We, all just saw our premiums jump up again. Also, when Harrah's came in they eventually changed the investment company for our 401K. 

Once, we go Union all our policies and procedures and health plan etc. are solidified it's called status quo. Meaning they can't change anything without NEGOTIATING with us. We, want changes to be made so we have to negotiate with them. Next time they want to change our 401K in anyway they have to negotiate it through the Union. 

The following is just an example and not meant to bash the pussycat dealers; it is not their fault how management has handled everything. Some of us still don't know that management decided to pay the pussycat dealers tokes for when they got dressed before the shift and after (dress time). We, only found out because some of the girls told us. So, some complaints were made and they changed it this was some time ago but, there are still people in the dark about it. We, didn't know the girls were getting full tokes for shadowing games again until they told us. 

These, are some of the things that are going to change. From, now on we will be informed of any changes they want to make and they have to negotiate with us and we will vote on it. The majority will decide.

WHY DOES MANAGEMENT CARE IF WE GO UNION?
Do they really think that they are protecting us; like they try to portray. I think Harrah's should understand that this has nothing to do with them it's just the timing it could be any company.

 Replacing door handles on the EDR and now suddenly taking the tokes away from the girls training isn't going to solve anything. These are just little things the bigger picture is it's time for us not to be cut out of the loop anymore and kept in the dark. Even, If they did give us a binding agreement that they wouldn't take our tokes it doesn't matter. "Enough is enough It's just time." 

This is why they really care. They, lose total control and now have to negotiate with us; when they want to make certain changes. We now have a voice and can no longer be threatened. Even, if there are hundreds of dealers that can replace us at a whim. That, can no longer be their threat anymore.

 I'm sure they are under a lot of pressure from MGM and others to get this squashed because, once we go Union it's just a matter of time before the rest of the city follows. 

It's time for us to stand united and with one voice say enough is enough.

RESPONSE:

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #169) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-22-07:

What a busy little day in the break room. We have new chairs. We had a visit from the CFO, VP Human Resources, and the CSA guy ( by the way James is a nice guy) trying to put a Band-Aid on compound fracture. Do not let them denigrate the issues. Chairs, coffee, door handles are not the issues. Those are things management should have handled a long time ago --good to see someone else doing their job. The issues are TOKE PROTECTION, AFFORDABLE INSURANCE, SENIORITY AND JOB PROTECTION. Sorry guys, to little --to late. Vote for the union ..send in your cards today.

RESPONSE:

This reader is exactly right!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #168) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-21-07:

My People, Be brave. Stand tall. Don't be scared. It is time. The time is now. Sign a card to show your support for those that has put themselves in the spotlight to fight for all of us. Wear your pin. If you don't have one - ask an IHO for one. AND NETWORK- NETWORK- NETWORK...THAT IS HOW YOU GET THINGS DONE. THEY OPENED THE DOOR FOR ALL OF US TO DEBATE OPENLY AND PUBLICLY...ASK QUESTIONS...GET INFORMED AND YOU WILL SEE WHY YOU MUST SEND IN YOUR TWU CARD TODAY!!!! DO NOT STICK YOUR HEAD IN THE MUD AND WAIT TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS OR PRETEND IT DOES NOT PERTAIN TO YOU. IT DOES. IT IS A FIGHT AGAINST CORPORATE AMERICA. OUR GI'S ARE FIGHTING FOR US TO HAVE THESE RIGHTS...USE THEM...SEND IN YOUR CARD AND SHOW THE TOP 15% THAT GETS 85% OF THE MONEY...WE HAVE HAD ENOUGH!!! VOTE UNION...YES...GOD IT FEELS GOOD TO FIGHT BACK AND YES, I HAVE WORN A PIN FOR TWO DAYS. SEND IN YOUR CARD....FIGHT BACK MIDDLE AMERICA!!!

RESPONSE:

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #167) From a Dealer 10-21-07:

"open door policy" we talking about the helps hall dinning room? thank them for the door handles for me please

RESPONSE:

See the following post about the door handles.

As for the "open door" policy, what a joke that is! When there was a dispute with tokes they tell our Dealer's Committee "You will pay who we tell you to pay, when we tell you to pay them and how much to pay them"! That's their idea of an "open door" policy. Yes, walk through only to be dictated to! 

Mr. J W... , our VP of Casino Ops, said at the meetings about Hospital Tokes and Death Benefit Tokes, "That was my decision to stop those policies. There were a few Dealers who didn't agree with them." WHAT? They say to us that the Union will be giving the "few" the rights to make decisions for us! Yet the ONE makes a decision contrary to what the MAJORITY OF DEALERS voted in as by-laws to settle the opinions of the "few" who "disagreed" with the policies?

Listen Dealers of Caesars Palace, as we stand right now there is ONE MAN making the decisions on our toke policies, and he does not even receive tokes! He is treating us like kindergarteners with our lunch money! THIS MUST STOP NOW, because if it does not, they have proven taht if the Nevada State Supreme Court rules in favor of Wynn and their toke issue, that they have already proven to us they will take our tokes and will do it again! 

Mr. J W... also said he would NOT rescind his decision about Hospital Tokes and/or Death Benefit tokes! What he is saying is that he will continue to control our tokes and there is nothing we can do about it!

READ BETWEEN THE LINES!!!!!! He IS telling us what their plans are! We must get their hands out of our tokes now and forever! We need a COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #166) From a Dealer 10-21-07:

WOW people we got something DONE for US !!!!! because of the Mandatory meeting the door handles to the back doors of the EDR (employee dinning room) have been put back on!!!! WOW I feel so much better NOW
HOW MANY CARDS CAN I SIGN (WINK)

RESPONSE:

Although we believe that placing the handles back on the doors to the EDR is something positive (they should NEVER have been removed in the first place!), that is not what this Union drive is all about. 

By allowing us to enter Cleo's by a quicker and more logical means, that does NOT secure anyone's tip income! 

Nor does it get any of us better health insurance! 

Nor does it help with our 401K retirement fund! 

Nor does it help with seniority! 

Nor does it ensure our by-laws are untouchable by management! 

Nor does it provide us with a healthier work environment! 

Nor does it add anything to job security!

Placing the door handles back on the doors at Cleo's does ONE THING, allows us 1 more minute to eat our delectable dinner! It is a NO COST "feel good" tactic. They are trying to display to us, "See we do care about you". What a joke! Why were they removed in the first place? They ONLY replace them when they think we are going to organize?! That's pure BS. DO NOT BUY INTO IT! Does it add anything to your future, your income, your retirement? NO!!!! Keep the handles off and give us guarantees in a signed binding agreement! That is what we want! Nothing less! Door handles...pffffftttttt...

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #165) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-21-07:

Are the extra board allowed to fill out the TWU cards. I thought we were including everybody. If not I think that is a big mistake. We don't need a huge list of extra board and that's exactly what management wants when we go union. If they did ask them to be excluded can't we tell them no.
On another note to anyone concerned about Union dues. The dues are not mandatory when we go union you are not forced to pay although you will not be able to run for any position and will not be allowed to vote on any issues etc. but, you will still be under the union umbrella.

RESPONSE:

EVERY DEALER at Caesars Palace is highly encouraged to send in a card! Full-Time or Extra-Board makes no difference. We want EVERY Dealer to be with us! However, we can not "force" anyone to send in a card or vote "yes" for the Union. All we can do is make the resources available to them and educate them as much as we are capable of.

You are correct about the Union dues. As far as "voting" on "issues" goes, if dues are NOT paid, those members will not be able to vote on "Union Issues". That is not to say they will not be able to vote on internal toke by-laws, provided they are separate from the main CBA.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #164) From a Reader 10-21-07:

Most corporate executives have what is called a "severance agreement".
It states something along the lines that for the next X number of years, if the person is fired, quits, laid off, or replaced; or if the business is restructured, sold, or closes; that person still gets their full salary for the duration of the agreement or in a lump sum.
That's how with a straight face they can stand in front of you and say "We don't have a contract".
Not exactly lying, but not exactly forthcoming with the truth.

RESPONSE:

Thank you for the insight! So, they tell us half-truths from one side of their mouth basically, and then call us "liars" when we say they have contracts. Interesting.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #163) From a Mandalay Bay Dealer 10-21-07:

Dealer for 30yrs
I am employed by the Mandalay Bay now MGM property for 15yrs, I deal multiple games, I love dealing.

 I take the time to teach the patrons, I have to keep track of the drop on my game for my shift at the Mandalay Bay, and who left with what and what was their average bet, this is not even my job but it is imposed on us. 

I have seen many changes in this town and in the casino industry. many casinos now have become corporate and that is all that interest them they do not care about our interest. Any time there is a change done or new rule implicated it is only one step closer to controlling us and our income. It is sad that there are so many dealers out there that can't see that, or maybe they are afraid to because of fear of losing their jobs, but it isn't like that any more as long as you do your job as you are suppose to they cant fire you for your personal believes. This is a right to work state. Casino Bosses have been placing this believe in dealers for so many years and years that it has been engraved in the dealers minds. Be afraid of not having protection of your job and benefits, be afraid of one day going in to work and finding out that our tokes will be controlled as the Wynn dealers tokes, when that happened our supervisor told us in our pre-shift meeting "we do not intend to take your tokes AT THIS TIME". Very well said so that the dealers felt comfortable. If Wynn which is still fighting and does not want to return the tokes to the dealers and is taking it to the Supreme Court with his big lawyers and wins this case you have to know that the other corporation are going to follow the same. 

We have to become ONE NOW! This is the time to unite and protect what is ours and what we earn and work very hard for. Protect your families income and benefits a hand shake or a verbal promise is not enough we need it on paper contracts! Please just give it some thought. DEALERS UNITE! WE ARE IN 2007 NOW IS THE TIME.

RESPONSE:

Thanks for taking the time to visit our website and submitting feedback. We encourage ALL Dealers in the State to do the same.

We agree with everything you wrote about. We hope you have been in contact with the TWU and are going to start your own Union drive soon! Every Dealer, no matter where you work, can access the Authorization Card on this website and send one in. Get the ball rolling on your properties ASAP to protect your income now. The sooner we are all organized, the sooner we gain our strength!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #162) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-21-07:

I hope that we are going to elect strong, intelligent, savvy and dedicated negotiators to our team !!! I say this because of a response dated 10/20/07 that stated we want a "freeze on our health care co-pays and premiums".
I now say respectfully, HELL WITH THAT!!!
I think that all dealers deserve, at the very least, the same health care plan ($0.00 premium) that is afforded to our bartenders and cocktail servers who are also paid 55% to 110% more than we are!!! Even more when retirement is added in!
We, as the largest group of front-line employees have been conditioned to cower! How many times have we been told "If you don't like it, there are a dozen other dealers out there that would like your job."?
IT'S TIME TO STAND-UP STRAIGHT AND TALL PEOPLE!!!
Loveman should be reminded that there are thousands of Qualified people who would like his job too!!! Same goes for all of the other big bonus people below him. Loveman and the rest are nothing more than employees just like us!!! These cut-throats can be replaced too! It's just harder to do because they stick together! A tight-knit club, a UNION if you will.
True, their club has raised the stock price by 400% or so, but where did they get it from? Not from all of the big players they have brought in. Most of it's come from cutting cost to the rank-and-file employees like ourselves!!!
We don't have to be sheep any more! Let us stand-up together with our human dignity intact!!! All we want is ALL that we have been denied and nothing less!!!
I hope others of us agree!

RESPONSE:

What everyone must keep in mind is that Unions such as the Culinary Union have been negotiating their contracts for over 40 years. What they have has been negotiated over many contracts. However, other Union's benefits will serve as examples for us to follow. If one Union member is receiving a certain benefit, wouldn't it make sense that another Union member working for the same company would have the same? If we do not organize now, we will have the same thing in 20 years that we have now, and probably even worse if history is any indicator. Who knows what we would have today if Dealers 20 years ago had organized! So, let's get started ASAP so we can begin our journey to better benefits.

Also, EVERY DEALER who belongs to the Las Vegas Dealers Union will have the opportunity to run for election for any Union position. The people involved in this Union Drive may never hold a Union position if they do not run or are not elected. We would also like to point out that if any Dealer does run for a Union position, if they did not support us by sending in a card, that fact will be made known during the election process of the position they are running for. Would we want someone representing us who didn't support us and our efforts? May as well elect the people who called the mandatory meetings if that's the case!

We really like the point that there are thousand of others who are standing in line for Loveman's job too!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #161) From an Extra-Board Dealer 10-21-07:

I have been told and also read on the website, Nevada is a right to work state and we don't have to pay union dues. then as i read through the site it says things like a 50 cent raise would pay for union dues. I've never heard of not paying union dues. also, is it true PCD Dealers make $10 an hour? any idea of more people getting full time before the new company comes in and when do they come in anyway?

RESPONSE:

Correct, as a Union Member in any "Right to Work" State members are not required to pay dues. That is one of the original intentions of the "Right to Work" Laws. One does not have to belong to a Union at their job, and if they do belong, they are not required to pay dues. However, if someone who is a Union member chooses NOT to pay their dues, they will not be eligible to hold any Union positions.

As for the PCD base wages, please read the next post.

We are not privy to managements intentions when it comes to promotions, be it when or who. All we know is when they do it and we know the same as any other Dealer knows then. Sorry.

As for when the new company is going to actually take over, all we can say is that they are currently going the "gaming approval" stages throughout all the gaming jurisdictions where Harrah's has casino licenses. We assume that when that is complete the transaction will be completed shortly thereafter.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #160) From a Dealer 10-21-07:

So am I correct to learn that the PCD make more per hour than the dealers outside of the PC?
What? That can't be true. Why would it be so?
The last time I checked you were all "Dealers." Why the difference in pay? And please don't tell me that it is because they deal to higher action. $500 a hand or $5 a hand. It is only one cheque. Size into it and go onto the next one.
If I were still there I would go ballistic if this was going on.
I constantly deal to high action and don't expect to make more than someone else who is not. We are still dealing the same game.
Get a union and stop the BS.

RESPONSE:

First of all let us clarify that the PCD Dealers are "Pussycat Dolls" not "Palace Court" Dealers. So when the abbreviation of PCD is used, it is in reference to "Pussycat Doll" Dealers.

As for the difference in paid wages, it is a "common rumor" that they do make more in basic wages. Although none of them will show a "regular Dealer" a check stub to either disclaim or substantiate what their "base wage" is. In the beginning when the pit first opened, we heard from management they were being paid more than a regular Dealer. Then when they saw our reaction, they corrected themselves and said they were not.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #159) From a 21 Dealer 10-21-07:

People it is simple.

If it is good for the casino they always do it. They changed the BJ rules because it was good for the casino. The PC should go up because the players are getting robbed.

They charged you more for your benefits because it was good for the casino. More money goes to the bottom line which translates into higher bonuses for the bosses.

So ask your self this question. If the casino does not want it then who is it good for?

Duh! That would be you. Imagine that.

The casino does not want a union because it is good for you. They do not want you to make a higher hourly wage because it is good for you. Hmm...

Do yourselves a big favor. Vote in the UNION. It is good for you which is why the casino does not want it.

Simple logic.

RESPONSE:

When the Reader writes, "The casino does not want a union because it is good for you. They do not want you to make a higher hourly wage because it is good for you." It may not be so much because it is good for us, but more that it is "bad" for them and the "record profits". We know what is happening to the games and customers at work and it is obvious that the "record profits" are not from winnings alone (yes they do profit from winnings, but they play is WAY down. There is a direct correlation between tokes and the drop, and if tokes are down, so is their drop), but also from all the "cost cutting measures" they have instituted. 

Who suffers as a result of those cost cuts? We do! The customers do as well (service standards drop). We suffer from the customers suffering because they are less happy and do not return. We suffer because they take directly from us.

The Union is our only valid option. We have one other option, to sit back and do nothing and take the "wait and see" approach. Where has that gotten us? Right where we are at! Where will it take us in the future? Ask the Wynn Dealers!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #158) From a Dice Dealer 10-20-07:

To Our Management:
If you do not want us to unionize: 

PUT IT IN WRITING THAT: 

1)OUR TOKES WILL NEVER BE TAKEN TO SPLIT ANYWHERE ELSE AND RETURN CONTROL TO THE MAJORITY BODY OF THE DEALERS. 

2) GIVE US COST OF LIVING RAISES. 

3) FOLLOW A SENIORITY PATTERN FOR HIRING THE X-TRA BOARD, DAYS OFF BIDS, SHIFT BIDS AND ETC.

4) HIRE A REAL HUMAN RESOURCES ADVOCATE FOR OUR RIGHTS AND MEET WITH US ON REGULAR BASIS TO HASH THINGS OUT. 

DO THOSE THINGS FIRST AND WE WILL BELIEVE YOU...DO ANY THREE OF THOSE THINGS AND MAYBE WE WILL BELIEVE YOU. 

AND FOR ONCE....HEAR OUR SIDE OF A STORY BEFORE TAKING A DRUNKEN GUESTS' SIDE.

RESPONSE:

We somewhat agree. 

We would also like a "freeze" on Health Insurance premiums and co-pays and ultimately a reduction.

We would also require "Progressive Discipline" procedures outlined and an updated "Policy Handbook" and also require that EACH Dealer be notified of any changes to policy in writing.

The "Cost of Living Raises" would have to be comparable to other Caesars Palace Union employees.

As for when the reader writes, "PUT IT IN WRITING THAT: " it would have to be a "Legal Binding Agreement" signed by authorized representatives of Caesars Palace. It can NOT be just an amendment to a "Policy" book or memo, either of which we know you can change tomorrow.

We would insist on the readers #1 item in the list.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #157) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-20-07:

I have been a dealer at Caesars for over 20 years. I deal all the games except one and I am an excellent dealer on all of them. I found out today that there are dealers that transferred, and dealers that have been there less than 10 years that make more money than I do. Why do I make $7.24 an hour and they make $7.60 and hour and why do PCD make $10.00 and hour. A break-in making $10.00 an hour and the dealers that deal to $150,000 a hand make $7.24. Something stinks at Caesars!! J.... W... came in and wanted to be fair to everyone so he took hospital and death tokes away and in the same breath did away with our seniority. To whom is he being fair to?? It seems we are continually punished for being loyal and conscientious employees and being able to hang on to our jobs for over 20 years. Where is the fairness??? And then there is S....... J...., the bitch to end all bitches!! She hates dealers! Why do they have someone that hates us, over us. She has proved it over and over! And what about upbeat and positive? She hasn't lowered her nose not even once to speak to a dealer unless J.... was talking to them! She makes up the rules as she sees fit - a different rule for different people--where are memos that used to be posted when it was important. They are in some stupid book ! Another great idea!!! Why, S......., do we have to wait until 23 after to clock out to get paid when we work on the 20 after break and more than that WHAT IS IT TO YOU HOW WE PAY OUR TOKES. GET OUT OF OUR MONEY! When do you pass the information on the players? We have these meetings before every shift which gets you another 10 minutes a day from us without pay but nobody ever knows anything! The lack of communication is pathetic. PLEASE GIVE ME ONE REASON TO BELIEVE AND TRUST ANYTHING YOU SAY! WE HAVE BEEN THRU 35 CASINO MANAGERS AND ALMOST AS MANY PRESIDENTS...AT ONE TIME THEY WERE PAYING THREE PRESIDENTS AT ONCE....WHY...BECAUSE THEY HAD A CONTRACT EVEN THOUGH THEY WERE NOT DOING THEIR JOB...THEY GOT PAID!!!!

RESPONSE:

All we have to say is this, the Mandatory Meetings have "stirred the hornets nest"! Great job management! We didn't really need the help, but appreciate it anyway.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #156) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-20-07:

We forgot to ask Mr. Selesner why Harrah's fired all the cocktail waitress at the Rio who where not in a union .But have been unable to do this at the Palace .They always say they want uniformity within the company.

RESPONSE:

That's right friends! All they have to do is "re-classify" our jobs and all is lost! Why wee need to organize NOW! >>> CLICK HERE <<< to read about how you can lose it all through re-classification. Get your cards in TODAY!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #155) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-20-07:

REALLY "LMAO" THANK YOU MANAGEMENT FOR CALLING A MANDATORY MEETING AND BEING SO UNPREPARED! THE CARDS ARE POURING IN NOW! MOST OF THE FENCE SITTERS FELL RIGHT INTO THE UNION FRONT DOOR!!! ALSO, IT WAS VERY CONVENIENT TO LEAVE THE PCD GALS OUT OF THE MEETINGS. WHY? YOU DON'T WANT THEM TO KNOW THE REAL ISSUES...WELL...A FEW LAST NIGHT SAID " TO F---ING BAD, BECAUSE THEY HAVE ALREADY SIGNED!!

RESPONSE:

It was/is curious that they would leave out any group of Dealers. What, they PCD Dealers are not good enough to hear what the rest of the Dealers are hearing? We don't believe that, but maybe management does as exhibited by their actions.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #154) From a Graveyard Dealer 10-20-07:

How can Mr. S....... and Mr. W... make a promise about not taking our tip money as Wynn has, when they told graveyard that they had no contract. Maybe Mr. Loveman will fire them to add more to his $100,000,000 that he will receive when the sale is complete.

RESPONSE:

They were asked about the "lies" on the website and were asked to name one. Selesner responded by stating he does NOT have a contract. Okay, maybe we have "assumed" that he and the VP's have contracts. Can anyone imagine ANY President of a branch of a company that makes 10's of millions of dollars each quarter NOT having a contract? Maybe he is "in between" contracts? Do we all believe that they have no contacts, especially the property President? Maybe we will do some "research" on that. All we have to say is this, if in fact we DO find a contract for Mr. Selesner, how many will take his word then? How many take it now? Now, what "lies" that directly affect the Dealers at Caesars Palace are on this website? Care to point one of those out Mr. Selesner?

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #153) From a Dealer 10-20-07:

"CSA scores are down" What a crock of shit. CSA scores are based on the same quarter the previous year. If you get a dynamite CSA score one qtr you can bet yer sweet patooty it isn't gonna be that way the same quarter next yr. It cant be. You did so well previously that it is nigh impossible to do better. This system is designed to see that you don't get yer Massive 200 'bonus' every qtr. This matters little to me. What is really important is that MR. Loveman and his henchman at the High Command get the big bonuses they so well deserve.

RESPONSE:

How does the "High Command" earn their bonuses? By increasing the bottom line. How is that done? By instituting terrible BJ rules and cutting costs and providing employees with less.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #152) From a Wynn Dealer 10-20-07:

You guys ready? I hope so... it is time!

RESPONSE:

We agree!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #151) From a Dealer 10-20-07:

You can provide a customer a room, a show, a drink or even a meal and odds are you can meet or even exceed his or her expectations. When that same customer comes to a casino game all that changes. Now, with every hand ODDS ARE a dealer will NOT exceed or even meet that customers' expectations! So, when it comes to customer service we are at a constant statistical disadvantage! But, our performance appraisals are based on the same standards as every other service industry employee!

RESPONSE:

It is a Dealer's job/responsibility to deal the game. Every game has a built-in advantage for the House. When the House believes someone is taking advantage of the game (like card counting), the House will stop that customer from playing that particular game.

Bottom line is, the Dealers beat customers out of their money. How may we ask then can we meet or exceed a customer's expectations of "service"? The only thing a customer who is gambling wants from a Dealer is a winning hand. That is why the customer sat at the table in the first place, to win. When they lose, they blame the Dealer 9 out of 10 times. When the customer makes a complaint about the Dealer, it most likely stemmed from their losing. How many times has a customer who is winning made any complaints about the Dealer? Very rarely if ever.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #150) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-19-07:

I asked a senior cocktail waitress what she got paid an hour. 11.30 plus the union got her a raise over the next five years. The same dealer who worked the same amount of years gets under eight dollars. Take the difference in pay over ten years and you get a 70,000 difference in pay. Add that to an interest bearing account or directly to your 401k and you would even have a larger number. Hell you could buy a very nice car every five years just on the difference in pay. Vote union and lets get what others are getting.

RESPONSE:

We know that the cocktail servers get paid the same in wages from the hotel, no matter how long they have with the company. A 20-year server gets the same as one who has just been hired. They use their "seniority" to earn them more money by the "area" they are assigned to.

We would also like to make mention that once we vote the Union in, we will NOT get a large raise immediately with our first contract. The Union workers who are at CP have earned those scales through many contract negotiations. But we must start somewhere, or we will NEVER even have a chance. Voting in the Union will benefit the young Dealers the most, those who have another 20+ years on the property when it comes to wages. We hope they understand that.

ALL Dealers will see immediate benefits though. Number one will be the protection of our tip income. That is something they do not provide us with now. There are many other immediate benefits we will all see, most of which is contained throughout this website.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #149) From a 21 Dealer 10-19-07:

What's up with dealers evaluations being sent back over and over because they score too high on them? They are rejected, and the floor has to redo them until they are average? And does that mean you have to wait for your .04 cent an hour raise while the floor is redoing your eval.? That does come to 76.80 cents a year.

RESPONSE:

Because while they gave the cocktail waitresses a $3-per-hour raise, they do not want to give you a $.04-an-hour raise! You aren't good enough, and they are going to make sure of that by rejecting your evaluations continuously. They do not "trust" those they put in charge of doing evals evidently! The same people who supervise us and can get us fired!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #148) From a 21 Dealer 10-19-07:

I am wondering why these casinos don't want us to belong to a union? Is it because it will cost them money, like raises and better insurance? Is because they wont be able to fire us at a whim? Is it because they want to have control over our tokes, tell us who to pay when to pay? Is it because they want to be able to promote to full-time who they want, when they want? Is it because they want to have full control over us? Is it because they want to have dissention among the dealers? Other than that I cant think of any reason why they wouldn't want us to unionize!

RESPONSE:

You our friend, have just listed a few of the main reasons WHY they do not want us to organize!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #147) From a Swing Dealer 10-19-07:

They promote to full-time at random, "I will promote who I want, when I want" was told to a dual-rate, when asked why they were passed over.  Also the cocktail waitresses just got a 3 dollar an hour raise, which comes to 5,760 dollars a year, over ten years that is 57,600 dollars!  Put that 3 dollar an hour raise straight into your 401K for 10 years and you have added almost 90,000.  Now take my 8 cent an hour raise, that is 153.60 cents a year! That is 1,536 dollars saved over 10 years put that straight into my 401k and I have saved almost 2500 dollars over 10 years!   WHOOHOO!!!  Also they promoted again last night, people were passed over again.

RESPONSE:

Need to ask yourself "WHY" should you join the Union? Just re-read the above post! 

Maybe you are a Full-time Dealer and don't think much of them continually passing over Dealers for promotions, but it is just an example of how they operate. How they treat you will be just the same as the way they treat those who they continually pass over.

Please, anyone who has NOT sent in a card, DO SO NOW! It just continues to get worse EVERY DAY! We must stop the bleeding and the Union is our only tourniquet!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #146) From a Swing 21 Dealer 10-19-07:

I just want to offer a BIG thank you to the In House Organizers. I know it took a lot of moxy. My deepest thanks to all of you. I wasn't able to come out. It was just causing too many problems for my personal life. I hope when this drive is complete and we are a union hotel that we can all come together and have a party in appreciation of all the IHO's. Again, thanks and good luck to all of us.

RESPONSE:

We too would like to thank the Dealers who have "outed" themselves for the Dealers of Caesars Palace! Please, everyone support the "In-House Organizers" best as you can, we are all in this together!

We WILL have a party like Vegas has never seen when CP Dealers are UNION!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #145) From a Wynn Dealer 10-17-07:

As corporations in America is getting stronger and stronger, our political systems is being abused. They use all that billions in profits that YOU and I made for them to influence politicians to pass law that will raise corporate earnings while make stealing your hard earn money legal. Do you wanted to allow this corporate dictatorship? This is America! Fight back! The only way we can win this battle is by numbers. Together we can be stronger and through the Union, we can make a different. Everyone in Las Vegas should group together and join the Union. Be part of history that you can be proud of when you look back in life, that you have done the right thing! I was afraid but I did it, so can you!

RESPONSE:

Thank you for visiting us and for your Feedback! We invite ALL Dealers from ALL casinos to contact us.

We view organizing not so much as a fight, but as a struggle to overcome oppression. Yes, we understand that the corporations have provided us with jobs, but we have in turn provided them with hard work and success. Yes, the corporations have invested much cash into the business, but it is us, the workers, who have made their business successful so they have revenue to re-invest. 

Many people like to think that the CEO's and other executives are the "owners" of the businesses they head, but that is not true. They are employees just as we are. They make decisions, some good some bad, that affects the business, but so do we. How many times have you, as a Dealer, had to soothe a customer, exchange family photos, comfort those who are losing their money, make recommendations for restaurants or shows, etc... It is our interaction that is the "glue" keeping the business we work for solvent. We are not machines. Without the companies money, there would be no business. Equally important is our presence and hard work, without it there would also be no business. Neither is more important than the other and all facets are needed to be successful.

All we want is our fair share, nothing more, nothing less.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #144) From Anonymous 10-16-07:

I need to check but, I think our tokes have dropped dramatically since the new BJ rules started.
It only makes sense that the rules which reduce a players chances to win simultaneously reduce ours!
If a player can't split a hand that has a toke on it then your chance to get another toke on that hand is gone! If he/she can't double after a split then he can't double for you either! If the house advantage increases because of hitting a soft 17 then it decreases for you as well!
The only catch is it's their joint so they get to make the rules, which was probably in response to a decrease in hold.
Now if the decrease in play, or drop, out weighs the increase in hold then the joint may have no choice but to revert to the previous rules. Any player with even a little knowledge of BJ knows that the better odds are right next door, which has caused a reduction in play!

RESPONSE:

We have several Dealers reporting their income is DOWN anywhere from $7-12K from last year. In addition to our decrease in income, we are paying MORE for our benefits and getting LESS in 401K match.

Management liked to tell us, "You made more money last year than you have ever made before", and we respond to that on a separate page >>> HERE <<<. In addition, we would like to point out that at Caesars Palace the Dealers have ALWAYS made more in TIPS (NOT base pay!) than the previous year over the last 20+ years, with one year being an exception. Looks like we are headed for another year when we are going to make LESS than the year before, while the corporation is gleefully recording "RECORD PROFITS".

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #143) From a Full-Time Dealer 10-16-07:

I agree with "just had to vent". The BJ RULES ARE ATROCIOUS!!! The customers walk out everyday over these rules " very pissed off" and then management has the audacity to tell us the CSA scores are down....DO YOU THINK....Management ...we know you read these...so do you think you could reevaluate just how much more percentage you hold as to how many customers you piss off that will never come back!!! If I was the new company coming in...the first thing I would do is throw you all out on your ear for ruining a gaming icon such as Caesars...shame on you Loveman...shame on all of you for being so greedy...I hope the Nevada Resorts Ass. has their reunion in hell!!!

RESPONSE:

CSA scores? Let's play with some math here. Let's say we have 5K employees. Let's say we scored high enough for the $200 (before taxes) "bonus". That is equal to $1 million. Let's say we do it 4 quarters in a row. That is $4 million TOTAL POSSIBLE BONUS to the workers of CP. What was Loveman's "bonus"? $12 million? He must have had one hell of a CSA score!

"...shame on all of you for being so greedy..." They have no shame! But they sure do have some FAT bank accounts while ours are dwindling and we take all the heat!

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #142) From a Venetian Dealer 10-14-07:

Let me clear on the Venetian/Palazzo toke policy. We are all going as one casino for at least 2 reasons. First, there would be fighting amongst dealers over where the georges should play. Second, the place is being opened under the same license. The entire property is nonunion. Taking our tokes would change that. Right now, there is no threat of redistribution to supervisors.

RESPONSE:

Thanks for visiting us and sending in your feedback and providing us with more insight on the plans there!

From what we heard was happening with HET when they first took over PPE was that they tried to funnel all the players to Caesars Palace. I am sure that hurt their Dealers bottom line at the other properties. So, when the reader writes, "We are all going as one casino for at least 2 reasons. First, there would be fighting amongst dealers over where the georges should play.", not that we believe they care for us at HET to such a depth, but there my friends is a "reason" they could use to combine our properties.

When the reader writes, "The entire property is nonunion. Taking our tokes would change that. Right now, there is no threat of redistribution to supervisors." Unfortunately, if they took your tokes for redistribution you would find yourselves in the same position the Wynn Dealers are in (if they did it before the NSC ruling). If however the NSC rules in favor of Steve-o, then if you are not organized and they decide to grab your tokes, you have lost and getting them back through negotiations would be nearly impossible. 

This is exactly WHY every Dealer in the State of Nevada MUST organize BEFORE the NSC hands down a decision. It is our ONLY "insurance plan". For those who decide to wait to see how it all turns out, that is taking your entire lives and gambling with them with one roll of the dice. When it comes to gambling, we as professionals know who holds the advantage, the House.

If the NSC rules against Steve Wynn, and the Dealers everywhere have organized, nothing has been lost. You would still have a Union and be on the road to a "contract", which would include job security, better wages and benefits, and better working conditions. And if by some chance the Union did not work out for you all, you always have the opportunity to "de-certify" and go back to the way it was as an "at-will" employee.

To most of us, the decision of voting in a Union is a "Win-Win" situation. There is nothing to lose, but everything to gain.

Please, make sure you print a TWU Authorization Card fill it out and mail it in today. Tell your friends about this site! Print extra copies for them!

(Post #141) From a Swing Shift Dealer 10-14-07:

Congratulations on making the news! That's big. It was in the paper and on TV that we are organizing. I understand that we have enough cards to petition the NLRB already but would like to see a higher percentage in good faith! SO FOR THOSE OF YOU THAT I HAVE HEARD SAY "YES, I THINK IT IS A GOOD IDEA---SEND IN THAT CARD" We must for once in our careers-STICK TOGETHER!!!! Be kind to each other, support each other, and inform each other. We have nothing to lose and everything to gain by having a union. If we do not vote the union in...then we have everything to lose. Please my fellow dealers, DO NOT WASTE THIS OPPORTUNITY!! To those of you that started this website and worked on the committee...THANK YOU FOR HAVING THE COURAGE TO COME FORWARD AND TRY TO HELP US ALL! so come on people...SIGN YOUR TWU CARDS AND SEND THEM IN TODAY...DON'T WAIT... We have already moved faster than most places that start organizing...Let Caesars dealers be unique yet again....SIGN A CARD AND MAIL IT!!

RESPONSE:

That "Congratz" is not for us, but for every Dealers who has sent in the card! Our hats are off to all of you!

Yes, we have enough cards now, but to illustrate how strong we are we need more cards sent in before the TWU will feel secure about petitioning for the vote. 

As everyone can see, everyone's names have been kept "confidential" as we have said they would. We would like to point out something about the "confidentiality" though. First, we will have "in-house organizers" (IHO's) VERY soon. They will be Dealers from CP who represent the Union. Their names WILL be provided to CP in a letter declaring them as IHO's. These people will be standing up for each and every Dealer in CP. Please help them out as much as you can when they show up. They have risked their entire livelihoods and the livelihoods of their families for all of you. These people will have access to the names of everyone on their shift who has sent in a card. The IHO's need this information to be able to see who still needs to be educated about the benefits of the Union. They have been carefully selected from the Organizing Committee. They will NEVER divulge to ANYONE who has or has not sent in a card. Please keep in mind, when a Union organizes a work place, traditionally the IHO's are there from the beginning of the "drive" and have access to the lists because they manually passed out and collected cards throughout the drive. That is exactly how they did it in AC and at The Wynn. We have br