I am also a dealer at the Rio. I have known David Fehrman for many years and here is my comment regarding what he said:
First of all, David has not worked at the Rio since they opened, he did start when they opened, however, he quit for some time and came back. I wonder why he would return to a job that is so stressful for him.
Second, 'High stakes games'..? I don't think so.
In regards to the rest of this nonsense, management has already told us several times that they have no intention of forcing us to share our tips with floor bosses or anyone else.
I do not believe we need a union at all.
In the 18+ years the Rio has been open I can't think of a single employee who has been fired for no reason. If you come to work and do your job the way we are supposed to, you will have a job to come to. Come on people, aren't we adults?
Finally, since Harrah's has owned the Rio, our tips have gone up steadily every year. Yes, they want us to smile, be friendly, and high five the players, but let's remember, these people are on vacation. Don't we all want to have fun while on vacation? I know when I am made to feel special (by having someone remember and use my name, for example) I am much more likely to tip a little more generously.
Overall, it is a small price to pay for a very big reward.