I've been in NJ since Thursday visiting my family and celebrating Mom's birthday. Today we took our mandatory trip to Atlantic City. Sure wish the weather had been better but I got the usual dose of 'July in New Jersey', hazy and overcast. Not even a break in the weather long enough to get a picture of those windmills. The folks in Palm Springs would have had a good laugh over them.
I visited Bally's, where I began my gaming career 27 years ago. Although I haven't been there in about 15 years it looked very much the same, although in many ways newer and brighter. A pleasant surprise. I also got a glimpse of the Wild, Wild West Casino which is basically a slot extension of the main casino with a western theme. OK.... next.
Caesars was the busiest of the three, but the staff was a little on the rude side. Tough to get anything out of them, especially a smile! The shops on the pier are a huge step up from what was there the last time I visited. The city looks a lot cleaner than when I worked there and it appears that a lot of progress has been made.
The next stop was the famous White House Subs on Arctic Ave for subs to bring home. Now I know for sure that I've been to Atlantic City. A trip to Atlantic City isn't complete without a stop at the White House.
Finally, back up the GS Parkway with a detour to Barnegat and a visit to my friends Jim & Barbara Episale at their wonderful shop, Unshredded Nostalgia. If you are ever in the vicinity of Atlantic City, this place is a MUST!!! Room after room filled with casino goodies, artwork, movie cells, posters, photographs, etc, etc. Jim always has the coffee on and welcomes everyone who stops by. Unfortunately Jim & Barbara won't be at the convention this year, but have already booked for next year. I'll be looking forward to seeing them again then. Oh, they have a website too!
I'll be back home on Thursday and can't wait to see you all next month in Las Vegas!!