“Hi Ike. How are things over at Caesars? Any chance you’ll be hiring some bellmen?”

“Miguel, do you have any openings at the Flamingo? Yeah I’m laid off for awhile.”

“David, any chance the Venetian will have some jobs in bell or valet opening up? How about limo drivers?”

“Hi Ray, how are things at the Bellissimo? Any chance of some December openings? Yeah I’m looking around. Sure! I can be there by eleven. I’ll meet you at the front desk.”

It was finally an encouraging sign that someone would entertain the idea of talking about a job at this time of year. Then again, the Bellissimo was a top notch property that stayed busy even during the slow periods. Usually in December once the rodeo championships were finished, things slowed down considerably, however this property had cornered the market on the large corporate Christmas parties. Of course these social engagements meant lots of drinking, and that meant lots of people unable to drive home. Hotel occupancies stayed high.

Jeff’s old friend Ray Duncan used to drive limousines for the Bellissimo and the two got to know each other professionally. Since that time, Ray moved into an assistant managerial position where he had some influence on hiring.

Looking at his watch, Jeff realized the time was nearing 9:00 and the line increased significantly behind him. He was still nervous that he may not be able to buy a machine, but he was more nervous that he wouldn’t find a job.

“I hope we’ll have a chance. I heard they got a shipment and got down here quick.” The heavyset man ahead of Jeff in line spoke now that he noticed he was done with the phone calls.

“Yeah I hope so.”