According to figures from the University of California in Berkeley, the state has the most gaming tribes in the United States. In the year 2000 Proposition 1A was passed in California and the numbers of Nevada-type gaming venues have subsequently grown. As in many other states, tribal gaming that started life as somewhat ramshackle bingo halls has developed into sophisticated top-notch gaming destinations.

The figures from the University show that there are 43 tribes in California who are operating some form of gaming entertainment. Revenue from these operations is estimated to be $5.1 billion. An example of the rapid progress seen by the tribes is in Brooks, 90 miles from San Francisco. Here the Rumsey Band of Wintum Indians opened a bingo hall six years ago. It is now one of the biggest casinos in north California, with 2,200 slot machines, blacjack and poker tables.

San Francisco has no legal gambling but a new casino school has opened there, tapping the market for well-prepared dealers in the state’s growing gambling industry. Last year saw an 11.3% increase in gaming-related employment, some 48,200 jobs. As there are further casino projects being submitted for approval, the future for prospective dealers should be bright. The racing industry, however, foresees a gloomier future for itself. Casino gaming in California, a relatively recent innovation, has had a detrimental affect on racing, both in attendance and wagering. The industry is now trying to work with the state governor to limit any further decline.

The dealer school in San Francisco is an expansion for the company that runs it. Its first school operates in Sacramento and it is the strength of the gambling industry in California that has prompted the opening of a second school. With dealer salaries commencing at $35,000, often with added benefits, it is hardly surprising that there is no shortage of pupils. The basic salary is further enhanced by tips, which for some will be up to $400 on a good shift.

Apart from dealing skills much emphasis is placed by the school on customer relations, as the casino industry is very much a service industry. With so much competition around, casino operators need to give the public much more than just gambling availability. Las Vegas had to move with the times and offer entertainment and the complete gaming experience to maintain its dominance as a gaming destination, and it is no different in California. Customer care is of prime importance to a successful operation.

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