In 1985, Steve started his 20 year association with Trump Properties in Atlantic
City. From 1990-1999 Steve managed various departments including special events,
public relations and entertainment. Currently Steve is Vice President of
Entertainment for Trump Entertainment Resort, Inc. His responsibilities include
talent buying, entertainment operations, and creating Trump nightclub products.
Steve is widely credited with the transformation of Atlantic City's
entertainment product from traditional to contemporary. Steve was responsible
for "The Wild Side" re-themeing at Trump Marina, booking Atlantic City
debut Artists such as Sting, Prince and Chris Rock among many others.
How long have you lived in Atlantic City?
I moved to the area in 1985 to open Trump's Castle (now Trump Marina)
Are you married or single?
Thankfully married to Susan, the best woman I know
Do you have any children?
Three great kids Evie, Vaughn and Dane who constantly remind me to never take
anything for granted
What do you like most about Atlantic City?
I really like the area due to the fact that in under 40 minutes from home I can
be on the beach, kayaking the Pine Barrens or in downtown Philly. Specifically I
like the fact that the city is beginning to show growth and diversity. It's an
exciting time to work for Trump Entertainment Resort as we are poised to take a
leadership role in defining that growth.
Describe your perfect day in Atlantic City.
It's one of those glorious "blue sky, no humidity days" (ever been to
San Diego?!) that are too infrequent here. I'm in my pool, on the beach or on a
boat all day. Dinner at Tomatoes (for the fish) Red Square's private room (for
the atmosphere) or Chef Vola (for the desserts). Then it's usually a show, 32
Degrees to see Barry Gutin (the best operator around!) and finally the Casbah to
attempt to absorb the energy of youth!!
What originally brought you to AC?
I was working as a touring sound engineer for Hall and Oates, Stevie Wonder, Al
Jarreau among others. I was at Resorts with Peter Allen. I met the Entertainment
Director for what was then Hilton (later opened as Trump Castle) at the show. We
hit it off immediately and I took the opportunity to stop sleeping on tour
buses! I figured I'd put in a year or two, I just passed my twentieth!
Where do you see the city in 10 years?
In 10 years the city should have become a thriving retail/gaming destination
with enough room availability to meet the consumer's expectations as well as
service the convention business.
What is your part in getting there? Trump Entertainment Inc. is
acknowledged as a trend setting company. We broke the mold on what was
considered casino entertainment long before our competitors. My job is to
explore opportunities that allow us to lead.
Tell us about your favorite AC memory.
Speaking business it's either bringing Andrea Bocelli to the Taj for his
Atlantic City debut and doing a million dollar box office or bringing Chris Rock
to town in the 90s redefining casino entertainment in the process.
You've got two hours to kill on the boardwalk, what do you do?
Two hours to kill is never an option but a stroll on the boardwalk is always a
reality check!
What's your favorite casino? Hotel? Bar? Restaurant?
My license prohibits me from gambling in A.C. so I don't have a favorite
casino to play in. I think that Borgata has done a great job showing the town
that people respond to what's new. Think about it, the next newest property is
13 years older! The casino feels right to me in terms of size and design. When
it's casual, Irish Pub for Guiness, White House for the hoagies (it's all about
the bread!)
What three words describe Atlantic City best?
Potential, opportunity, growth
What's your favorite part about being in the entertainment business?
I'm enamored with the entire process. Making the deals, watching our talented
technical staff make it reality, experiencing the artist delivering to an
enthusiastic audience and providing an incredible guest experience make it the
best job in town
What attributes do you look for when considering an act?
We are in the business of selling tickets to shows, meeting our invited guests
entertainment expectations, branding our company and marketing the brand. Any
entertainer we consider must do all of these things to varying degrees.
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