The ' Christmas Spirit ' All Year Round
Having attended the Daytona Kennel Club for 17 years now, I can attest to one thing: The folks who work
here are quite special. From the moment one enters at the front desk, Carrie and Nancy's customer
service people greet you with smiles and attentiveness. Sam, Roger, Fred, Nikki, Judy et all are there to
help everyone to a pleasant experience. The wagering clerks, for the most part, behave in the same
manner. Believe you me, some of our patrons are not the easiest to deal with either, especially when it
comes to our ' dog and pony shows ‘.
Terri's dining room and poker room servers and bartenders are always friendly and helpful. They juggle
food trays and drinks with friendly customer interaction.
Dominic's poker room crew make our players feel comfortable, even when they may not be on the
winning side of things. Dealers like Mike Williams, Tony and Francis add a bit of class to the operation.
Usually, as with most businesses, the type of management reflects down to its employees. Outgoing GM
Dan Francati was always present throughout the facility, chewing the fat with his patrons all the time.
We look forward to our new GM, Fred Guzman, to follow a bit in Dan's footsteps. Sadly, we ' feel ' for
2nd in command Michael Stringer, as his hometown favorites, the Cleveland Browns, always let him
down (as does Racing Secretary Sissy's team, the Jets).
Jim Jenkins, our director of marketing, always finds ways to make the Daytona facility filled with great
special events. We are lucky to have him around.
May we all continue to enjoy the Daytona Poker Room and Kennel Club in the New Year? And to all
those who labor for our fun and enjoyment: Happy Holidays and thanks a million!!
Philip A Farruggio
Simulcast Columnist