John is going to be missed on many levels. Not only is he a great guy, a friend, a good husband and father, he is a stand up righteous dude who backs his buddies and tells it like it is. He also has a great sense of humor, and all this is apparent because otherwise there is no way Paula would have married him. You see this in numerous situations, a guy who has clearly outran his punt coverage...usually has good character traits and is a solid person (perhaps a fat bankroll too)..because as we all know she is way out of his league.
The first time I met Johnny was at a small capper convention in Vegas at Bally's that Marc Lawrence put on like in 1998 or something. I would like to say it was an enlightening experience but I was half shitfaced after spending the morning at the Cheetah Club and then having some female workers from that same club visit me at the Rio pool all day in a cabana ...so besides being late, I can only remember bits and pieces of the evening, but I do remember Marc Jr's wife being extremely hot....and sadly to say that was the highlight of the event. I think I said a few words to the troops but again I doubt they carried any meaning of importance in my state of mind, but I do remember a beer with JD....and apparently because of the events of my day leading up to the meeting and my lateness, JD did relay to me I had his eternal respect!
In all seriousness, this business is filled with rip off artists, scamsters, wannabees, pretenders, non gamblers who slam guys like us daily all over the internet, guys with no balls, haters, guys with boiler room tactics, shysters all over the landscape, and full of people you cannot trust, and without question, and I know everybody, either up close and personal or from a distance, 80% of this industry is a sham.
JOHNNY DETROIT does not fall into any of these categories.
He is a true professional who approaches his craft with professionalism, an open mind, integrity and a work ethic that is a good as anyone's in this business. Pregame is losing a HUGE asset, but more so than that, this marketplace is losing a true professional and a mover and shaker of epic proportions. His forward planning strategies and vision has helped Pregame beyond words, and has been a huge asset to RJ Bell that cannot be measured in dollars. Pregame will go on no doubt and still lead the charge, but JD's everlasting mark of excellence will be hard to replace.
I admire anyone who gets out of this rat race, This is a VERY VERY tough business that takes alittle piece of you each and every day. I do not think I could 100% leave this industry but admire anyone who can, and trust me JD although overwhelmed at times with Pregame (and putting up with RJ!! ) he will sorely miss this..I know him.. but he has had an internal calling to be great at something else now. Hats off walking away from a business model you helped develop and nurture into one of the largest gaming brands in America, to follow your dreams buddy. Again just an example of his character.
JD will be fine. He will go out in the real world and stake his claim with a sword in one hand and a torch in the other, and he will be SADLY missed on numerous levels in the Sports Handicapping and Gaming Arena, not just Pregame. One of the true legends in our business.
I will always be in touch JD as you journey down your new path and wish you nothing but success in your next adventure. You ever need anything bro, you know how to find me.
Your Friend - Tony George
PS - I will give you $50 for the domain Let it ride.com