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Senate Bill Would Eliminate Paper Dollar
(Posted February 3, 2012 -- 3:45PM)

Two prominent U.S. Senators from opposite sides of the political spectrum, Republican John McCain of Arizona and Democrat Tom Harkin of Iowa, this week introduced a bill in the U.S. Senate that would eliminate the paper dollar, effectively replacing it with a dollar coin. A companion bill was earlier introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives.

"The U.S. government has a love/hate relationship with the $1 coin," reported Time Magazine at its website.  "At the same time as the U.S. Mint is scaling down production of the largely unwanted presidential dollar coins, two U.S. senators are introducing legislation that would kill off the dollar bill completely and replace it with ... you guessed it: $1 coins."

Although generally derisive of the move, the Time story notes that Supercommittee on deficit reduction recommended replacing the dollar bill with the current coins. The Government Accounting Office puts the possible savings at $5.5 billion over 30 years, the magazine story also notes.

In a recent interview with RePlay, AAMA chairman John Margold said the Mint's recent decision to limit production of the dollar coin speaks directly to the need to eliminate the paper dollar.

"We certainly can't blame the government for stopping production of something when the warehouse is full," said Margold. "The problem is lack of demand for the coins because people don't want to change their habits. As long as the dollar bill is in circulation, there is not going to be strong demand for dollar coin. That's why we're focused on talking to members of Congress about the elimination of the dollar bill.  The use of coins is a more efficient than paper currency. The $600 million a year in savings is significant alone, not to mention the benefit the move would serve to many industries."

Under Margold's leadership, AAMA has begun actively lobbying in Washington, D.C., for the elimination of the paper dollar. Legislation blocking the elimination of the paper dollar has also been introduced in the U.S. Senate.

The Time story can be found at http://moneyland.time.com/2012/02/02/kill-the-dollar-coin-long-live-the-dollar-coin/
 
TrainerTainment Hosting Vegas Party Summit
(Posted February 3, 2012 -- 3:45PM)

TrainerTainment will host the first of four 2012 Training Summits March 12-13 at Sunset Station Casino in Las Vegas.

Day one of this party-packed event will immerse participants in everything related to birthdays. Participants will learn how to build and sell parties, recruit and train birthday party hosts and create memorable birthday experiences. Lunch is provided and the day of fun is followed by a happy hour. Day two will cover topics like target marketing, lead generation through social media and cold calling.

Sponsors like Embed, Redemption Plus, Bowling Music Network, Qubica AMF and Betson will also be on hand to offer attendees up-to-the-minute information and give product demonstrations and swag bag goodies.

TrainerTainment is a training company servicing the family entertainment and hospitality markets wanting to improve their sales teams, products, guest service ability or social media marketing skills. The company focuses on sales training in order to enhance promotions, events, birthday-party programs, team building and corporate and group outings. For more information, visit www.trainertainment.net.

Namco Shipping Pac-Man Battle Royale
(Posted February 3, 2012 -- 3:45PM)

Pac-Man Battle Royale Deluxe is now shipping to Namco's distributors. According to the factory, the units were so much in demand the initial run of games sold out before Namco America officially unveiled the piece to customers at IAAPA 2011. Deluxe units have been out in the field for several months producing what the factory calls impressive test results.

The deluxe cabinets officially launched in December with launch parties in 20 different Dave & Buster's locations across the U.S. The two-day launch event saw Pac-Man Power Girls appearing in locations from Times Square in New York to San Diego, Calif. Guests at the launch party locations were greeted by a Pac-Man Power Girl and were given free game swipes to try out the new multi-player game. Players at the event were also given limited edition Mardi Gras beads emblazoned with the iconic Pac-Man logo. Photos of the launch parties can be seen on the official Pac-Man Battle Royale Facebook page at www.facebook.com/PacManBattleRoyale

Pac-Man Battle Royale Deluxe is housed in an attraction-style cabinet that takes up the same amount of space as a twin driving game and features a large monitor and glowing neon lights. For more information about Pac-Man Battle Royale Deluxe, please visit www.namcoamerica.com.

Betson Renews Sales Agreement With ASI and CES For Vending Machines
(Posted February 3, 2012 -- 3:45PM)

Betson Enterprises has renewed its strategic marketing and sales agreement with Automated Services International (ASI) and Choice Equipment Sales (CES), distributors of used and reconditioned vending machines.

Betson, ASI, & CES entered into the original agreement in September 2010 with Betson having sole marketing rights for used and reconditioned vending machines for New York, New England, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.

"We are extremely pleased with the results thus far, and we're looking forward to taking the program to the next level in 2012 and beyond," said Steven Betti, president of Betson Imperial Parts and Service.  "We knew that we would be successful marketing the high quality reconditioned machines that ASI and CES provide, but we have been particularly impressed with the level of hard-to-find items that they always seem to have in stock, and the fast turn-around times on getting them out the door. Our salespeople sell with confidence, and also know that any after-sale support will be handled quickly and efficiently."


Video Promoting March Amusement Expo
(Posted February 1, 2012 -- 10PM)

The organizers of the upcoming Amusement Expo have produced a three-minute video extolling the values of the March Vegas Show. Several well-known Chicago area operators AE Show videoincluding Chris Hesch, Mike Pappas and Ed Velasquez, as well as factory representatives Gary Colabuono (Incredible Tech.) and Eugene Jarvis and Mark Struhs (Raw Thrills), discuss the value of show attendance. The video is hosted by AAMA president John Schultz. Take a look at http://www.youtube.com/embed/St-d4e5w7cI.
 
Fromm & Seninsky Take Workshop Westward
(Posted February 1, 2012 -- 10PM)

Industry experts Randy Fromm and Frank Seninsky are once again merging their talents to present a five-day amusement operator and game technician training workshop in San Diego, California, March 26 - 30, 2012.

The upcoming course will guide attendees through a simple, (non-mathematical) look at electronic components, electronic circuits, and schematic diagrams, which allows them to learn the basics of how circuits and components operate. Fromm will cover the theory of operation of power supplies, CRT and LCD monitors and will show attendees the most common failures in each of these areas so they can repair them quickly and easily without having to spend time troubleshooting.

Seninsky will discuss the most common video, redemption and crane problems and what tools you need to fix them. Attendees will learn how to how to layout the games and program them properly, inexpensive technologies to track game play in real time, as well as some popular game marketing ideas. He will share tips and tricks for maintaining and fine-tuning cranes, money making and money saving strategies, how to maximize your percentages for profit, best practices for merchandiser displays and enhancing player appeal, how to apply marketing magic in self-redemption, and much more.

"A basic fact of game operations is that for machines to earn their best, they must look and work their best," says Seninsky. "Too many games do not look or earn anywhere near their full revenue potential." 

For more information or to register, go to www.AEMLLC.com and click on the CRT/LCD Video, Redemption & Crane Game Repair link to download the brochure or contact Tracy Sarris at 717/533-1945, email tracysarris@aol.com.

Strikerz FEC Opens With Embed Debit System
(Posted February 1, 2012 -- 10PM)

Debit card supplier Embed recently installed its system at the new Strikerz Entertainment Center in Lee's Summit, Mo.  The site features 20 lanes of bowling, a 70-game arcade, laser frenzy, and a full-service restaurant and bar.  The Spare Room is a private event and banquet facility that also has four lanes of bowling, an eating area and big screen monitors.

Owner David Edwards was impressed with Embed's ability to integrate with Brunswick's Vector Plus and Micros' Point of Sale Systems.  "We knew Embed was a world-class solution but the Brunswick and Micros integration was a big advantage that made the decision easy," he said.

Strikerz utilizes the Embed System to manage the cashless operation of their games and attractions, as well as their redemption center. The installation is highlighted by Embed's Color-Glo HD Swipers, which feature a full-color display, enhanced color-glow style effects and full wireless-at-the-game network connectivity.  The Strikerz Fun Card can be purchased and reloaded at any number of point-of-sale stations and self-service kiosks throughout the location.

Edwards also said he likes the various marketing options that Embed offers and has deployed a unique card bonus structure that is driving sales and repeat visits.  "Embed has not only supported us from a technical standpoint but they have also brought marketing expertise as well.  We could not be happier with our decision," he concluded.

Lieberman Honored For ATM Business
(Posted January 30, 2012 -- 10PM)

Payment Alliance International (PAI), a provider of electronic payment processing solutions, has named Lieberman Companies a Top 10 Distributor of ATMs for 2011. The company was also a recipient of this award in 2010. Additionally, Lieberman was awarded the Better Business Bureau's highest rating, an "A+", for 2011. Lieberman is a family-owned business specializing in coin-operated amusement and vending equipment and ATMs while also operating a large amusement route in the Twin Cities area, American Amusement Arcades.
 
NAMA Appoints New Regional Legislative Exec
(Posted January 30, 2012 -- 10PM)

Sheree Edwards has accepted the position of regional legislative director of the National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) effective Jan. 16, 2012.

"The list of regulations that affect our industry is greater and more threatening than ever," said NAMA EVP and COO Dan Mathews. "Our members face unfair tax hikes on the local, state and federal level, new coin and currency regulations, new nutritional and labeling requirements, new health care mandates, and regulations associated with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), just to name a few.  NAMA made a conscious decision to broaden our Government Affairs Department to ensure we are doing our part to identify and monitor emerging issues on the local, state and federal level and address them before they become a threat to our members rather than trying to fight them once they have been passed.  Sheree's qualifications make her an excellent addition to our staff and we look forward to having her work with us to help protect our members' interests."

Edwards will direct and assist with professional state lobbying teams, legislative efforts and education activities of NAMA at the state council level.  She will also collaborate with those who represent NAMA's interests before state and local governments and help to ensure NAMA members are up-to-date on key legislative issues and developments.

Previously Edwards worked at the Asian American Hotel Owners Association as the managing attorney of government affairs. She has also worked at several law firms and the Detroit City Council as Public Policy Analyst.

Edwards earned a Master's degree with distinction in Advocacy Politics, Public Policy and Government Affairs from The George Washington University. She also has a law degree from Moritz College of Law at Ohio State University. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Tennessee State University where she graduated magna cum laude.


Firestone Announces Rewards Program
(Posted January 30, 2012 -- 10PM)

Firestone Financial Corp. has launched a rewards program for its customers in the amusement and vending industries.  "This is our way of showing appreciation to our loyal customers.The program is quite simple, the more you finance, the higher the rebate at the end of the year," said Larry Yaffe, Firestone's senior VP of sales and marketing

The program will pay a half a percentage point on all business funded in 2012 for those customers that finance above their annual target.  Customers have two ways to redeem their reward: they may opt for cash back paid in January 2013 or receive a 2013 membership with the AMOA or NAMA.

"AMOA appreciates the efforts by Firestone Financial to offer a tangible benefit for members. Firestone has long supported our membership, organization and industry and this new initiative serves as yet another great example," said Jack Kelleher, AMOA EVP.

NAMA membership is available for new operator members and those operators that were not members of NAMA in 2011 and 2012.  To sign up for the program interested parties need to complete an online form at www.firestonefinancial.com/firestone-partners.htm.

I.T. Set To Launch PowerPutt LIVE

(Posted January 25, 2012 -- 5PM)

Incredible Technologies is set to launch an all-new version of its popular videogame, PowerPutt, a stand-alone video offering three mini golf courses. The factory's new PowerPutt LIVE includes the three original courses plus three brand-new layouts for a total of six, as well as a new, daily online tournament with cash prizes.

"We've tweaked all the tee and pin positions on the original courses giving them a new look and feel," said game designer Jim Zielinski. "And when you add in all of the online functionality that players, locations and operators demand from on-premise games today, the end result is a unique, compelling entertainment experience."

According to co-designer Ralph Melgosa, PowerPutt LIVE is more than just an update -- it's an entirely new game and one that will stay fresh for a long time to come. "Jim and I pulled out all the stops with PowerPutt LIVE," he said.  "Besides getting to play six courses, players can track their stats, customize their on-screen golfer, check their world ranking and compete for cash in a daily tournament with an all-new format."

The new daily tournament format is designed to encourage repeat play.  Players can compete as many times as they'd like -- since a bad game does not hurt their chances of winning -- and there is a new tournament every day.  The new daily tournament also features an escalating cash purse starting with a minimum of $200.  The top 50 players will win and the first-place prize begins at $50.  As more games go online, and tournament entries increase, the tournament prize purse will increase as well.  Look for much more on this new game in the February cover story of RePlay Magazine.

NDA & VNEA Partner On League Conference 
(Posted January 25, 2012 -- 5PM)

The AMOA-National Dart Association (NDA) and Valley National 8-Ball League Association (VNEA) will once again host a joint educational conference. League SMART will be held in Minneapolis, Minn., July 12-14. A combination of the NDA's Dart Summit and VNEA's Charter Holder Workshop, League SMART helps teach successful business practices throughout the industry.

Operators and league coordinators from across the world will be traveling to Minneapolis for this two-day event to learn the best techniques for successfully increasing league participation and interest.

"Having the conference as a combined force from both the NDA and VNEA is a great way to bring together hundreds of people in this business field," said Marcia Petersen, president of the NDA. "This is an event where operators can take full advantage of being together by using each other as a resource to grow."

Conference attendees will have the opportunity to speak with NDA and VNEA representatives to ask specific questions and receive advice and recommendations. Also available at the conference will be leading manufacturers in both the dart and pool industry.

"The opportunity to bring our conference together with the NDA was proven to be a success, and we are excited to be putting it on together again this year," said Dave Hawkins, president of the VNEA. "We hope all of our charter holders, even those who attended the first biennial League SMART in 2010, will return this year for an information-packed good time."

Registration is free to NDA and VNEA members and is open to non-members for $275. This year's conference will be held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel & Suites Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport. The cost per room is $105 per night. The group rate is available until June 19, 2012. Visit www.NDAdarts.com/leaguesmart or www.vnea.com for more information.

Mouli Cohen Sentencing Set for Feb. 1
(Posted January 23, 2012 -- 4PM)

Ecast co-founder Samuel "Mouli" Cohen, who hasn't been associated with the company's management for close to 10 years, was set to be sentenced on Feb. 1 after a federal jury found him guilty late last year of 15 counts of wire fraud, 11 counts of money laundering, and three counts of tax evasion. Cohen was found guilty of luring would-be investors at the non-profit Vanguard Public Foundation into a fraudulent scheme by claiming that Microsoft was about to acquire Ecast. Cohen purported to sell them his founder's shares of Ecast for more than $6 million, despite the fact that no deal with Microsoft was pending. Ecast and its current management played no role in these fraudulent activities.

 U.S. Attorney Melinda Haag explained Cohen's actions further in a press release put out by her office following the conviction: "Over time, however, Cohen falsely told investors that first United States regulators, and later European Union regulators, were delaying the approval of the acquisition.  Cohen falsely claimed that the investors needed to pay their share of the fees and to post bonds held in escrow to assure the acquisition was completed, or the investors would lose their prior investment," the government press release continued. "In addition to their initial $6.2 million dollar investment, over the course of approximately three years scores of investors paid $25 million toward this purported acquisition."

Cohen reportedly spent the money on more than $6 million on private jet rentals, hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of jewelry, a Rolls Royce, an Aston Martin, a Jaguar, numerous luxury vacations to destinations such as Italy, the south of France, and the Caribbean, and $15,000 per month to rent a home in Belvedere, Calif.  Finally, despite collecting tens of millions of dollars from victims and spending huge amounts to live a lavish lifestyle, Cohen reported almost no income on his tax returns and paid zero taxes, according to the government.

EAG Show Gets Underway In London
(Posted January 23, 2012 -- 4PM)

EAG International, which describes itself as The Complete Amusement Show, will get underway this week, Jan. 24-26, at the ExCel London Exhibition Centre in London, U.K. EAG is sponsored by three European trade associations: BACTA, BALPPA and Euromat. A wide range of suppliers will show their wares in London, including many prominent U.S. game makers and suppliers. Check out the list of show exhibitors at http://www.eagexpo.com/who.html. The show will also offer various seminars including the next installment in redemption education from noted U.S. consultants Frank Seninsky and Michael Getlan.

Brady Distributing To Host Spring Show
(Posted January 23, 2012 -- 4PM)

Brady Distributing will host a post-Amusement Expo Spring Show, March 29, 2012, at the Shell Island Resort in Wrightsville Beach, N.C. The distributor says it will play host to all of the major manufacturers it represents, and the day's agenda includes lunch, prize drawing and a cocktail reception. To learn more, log on to www.bradydist.com. Operators can also RSVP to Christine Brennan at 704/357-6284.

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Previous Instant RePlay Stories



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Stern Launching
AC/DC Flipper Game

(Posted January 19, 2012 -- 12:30PM)

Stern Pinball has announced the availability of the AC/DC pinball machine. The game honors one of the most legendary rock and roll bands. Players will be able to rock out to 12 classic AC/DC hits including "Back in Black," "Highway to Hell" and "You Shook Me All Night Long."

Other game features include two separate ramps, a lower playfield, ball-shooting cannon, eight drop targets, a mechanized Hell's Bell and animations of the AC/DC band. Players can also join the party with a TNT detonator and the Devil's Jukebox. This tribute to one of rock and roll's most memorable bands pushes the auditory limits with its sound, style and infectious riffs. The AC/DC machine is designed to rock.

"The combination of classic rock and pinball can't go wrong," said Gary Stern, founder, CEO and chairman of Stern Pinball. "The music and play of the AC/DC machine delivers nothing less than the ultimate rock experience that both AC/DC fans and pinball players can appreciate." To learn more about the AC/DC pinball machine and Stern Pinball, visit www.sternpinball.com.

DNA Event Announces New Dates & Speaker
(Posted January 19, 2012 -- 12:30PM)

The DNA U.S. Conference 2012 has revised its upcoming dates from April to May 15, 2012 in order to accommodate growing interest in the event.

The conference is taking place in Los Angeles at the prestigious University of South California (USC) Davidson Conference Center, part of the extensive university complex - the venue making available additional space to accommodate the increased interest in this event. Supporting the new May date -- the DNA US Conference 2012 announces that it has added a brand new half-day event (May 16, 2012) that will see the conference move to a venue that will offer attendees a glimpse of a leading-edge immersive entertainment venue, and also a chance to experience innovative interactive experiences first hand.

Conference organizers also announced that Christopher Stapleton will present the event's keynote. He is a self-styled "creative venture catalyst" for Simiosys Real World Laboratory, and published author on innovative experience design. He is focused on transforming what he has labeled the "User eXperience" (UX) in all aspects of work, play, shopping and learning.

Chris' extensive background includes stints as an experience developer for NASA's Mission: LEAP Space STEM project; entertainment consultant for Canon Inc. mixed reality research; a show producer and attraction designer for Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Dubailand; a production designer for Nickelodeon Recreation & Paramount Parks; experience design consultant for Disney Imagineering and concept designer for Walt Disney World Entertainment.

Registration and additional details are available online at http://www.thestingerreport.com/us-conference.html.

Club Lucky Secures Dart Tourney Sponsor
(Posted January 19, 2012 -- 12:30PM)

The national operator consortium Club Lucky, which will host its first-ever national dart tournament later this year, has secured a national liquor brand sponsorship for the event. The group also recently announced plans to hold a new Golden Tee LIVE Tournament alongside the dart competition.

Pearl Vodka has agreed to sponsor this year's Club Lucky dart tournament, which will now be called the Pearl Vodka Darts Tournament of Champions. The event will take place at Kansas City Missouri's KCI Expo Center, Oct. 19- 23. This location adjoins the Kansas City Intl. Airport, which is a Southwest Airlines hub.

The addition of Pearl Vodka as a major sponsor will offer a unique marketing advantage including Pearl Vodka branded tournament kits for local bar events. This gives an additional benefit to players throughout the qualification period and provides Pearl Vodka a direct marketing link to bars and patrons.
 
A new website has been created for the event at www.dartstoc.com. This website contains an event flyer, as well as all the event details. It also includes qualification leader boards for the players. This will allow players to track their progress in qualifying for the tournament. Look for more details on this event in the February issue of RePlay.

Poker Games Reappearing in South Carolina
(Posted January 19, 2012 -- 12:30PM)

Video gaming was banned in South Carolina in 2000, but state law enforcement officials say illegal video pokers are on this rise, according to a report by one of the state's news outlets.  GoUpstate.com, the news website of the Herald Journal in Spartanburg, S.C., cited the State Law Enforcement Division in reporting that video poker games are "showing up again." The assertion was made in a news report of two recent raids in which law enforcement officials seized poker machines and cash from two different locations. The investigators also took statements from patrons that they had received cash payouts

David Foley Responds To Guilty Plea News

(Posted January 15, 2012 -- 11:30PM)

UltraCade founder David Foley has released a statement in the wake of news that he pleaded guilty to fraud regarding his sale of UltraCade game packs to an East Coast distributor after the company had dissolved.

Foley stressed that federal prosecutors ultimately dropped all but two counts of the original 54-count indictment against him, "including all of the allegations that Mr. Foley misappropriated Global VR intellectual property or trafficked in stolen or counterfeit goods."

"The action against Mr. Foley stemmed from a 2005 business deal that went horribly wrong and resulted in protracted civil litigation that settled in 2009," asserted a statement issued on behalf of Foley. "After agreeing to sell the company in a fully executed memorandum of understanding only to see the deal fall apart, Mr. Foley was left with nothing but a legal claim he went bankrupt enforcing."

In June 2006, Foley reportedly agreed to liquidate assets of UltraCade Technologies through an Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors.  "Thereafter, Mr. Foley continued to manufacture and sell game packs for his popular UltraCade platform to make up for the lost  revenue from the failed sale of UltraCade Technologies," the statement said.  "It was this effort by Mr. Foley to make something from the company no one ever paid him for that led him being indicted on over 50 criminal counts."

The government ultimately brought two cases against Foley, charging him with a total of 56 felony charges, including conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, 22 counts of trafficking in counterfeit goods, transportation of stolen goods, theft of trade secrets, conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering, conspiracy to commit bank fraud and bank fraud.

Foley maintained from the outset that he had the right to use all of the game pack technology in the UltraCade system.  Specifically, he asserted that a simple review of UltraCade's contracts with the developers of that technology made plain that even UltraCade never had the right to prevent others from manufacturing and selling game packs for the UltraCade system.  Foley has also maintained from the outset that he had the necessary licenses for all of the game packs sold and that the game packs could not be counterfeit because they did not use any registered trademarks, as explicitly required by the Federal penal code.

In a two-week negotiation with the government, a plea agreement was reached on the eve of trial. Foley admitted only that he and a co-defendant continued to use the name UltraCade in connection with selling game packs manufactured after the company dissolved and when Foley was no longer operating the company, and that Foley closed escrow on his home days after a change in his employment status after informing only the mortgage broker of that change.

"In accepting responsibility for his actions, Mr. Foley pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud," the statement concluded. "The Government and Mr. Foley both reserved their right to argue the loss amount, which will determine Mr. Foley's offense level under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.  Under the terms of the plea agreement, the Government can argue for a prison term of up to 41 months, and Mr. Foley can argue for no time."

Foley is represented by Benjamin L. Singer of Hopenfeld Singer Rice & Saito LLP, a Silicon Valley boutique law firm specializing in civil and criminal intellectual property litigation.


Shelti Adopting New Name: Gold Standard 
(Posted January 15, 2012 -- 11:30PM)

Shelti is transitioning to a new name, Gold Standard Games, reports company owner Mark Robbins.

"This is something that's been discussed and in the planning stages since I bought the company in 2010," Robbins said. "We wanted a name that reflects the future direction and focus of the company as we bring new products to market. Our new line of coin and home air hockey tables, to be introduced at trade shows this year, will bear the the Gold Standard name. At the same time, we are keeping the Shelti brand for products where a brand name identity has been established, such as our dart and pool lines."

Changes to the Gold Standard Games/Shelti website and Facebook page will be coming over the next few months. Customers can still access the website at www.shelti.com and the Bay City, Mich., office phone number remains the same, 877/893-1739.

"We invite everyone to stop by our expanded booth at the upcoming Amusement Expo in Vegas and view our new offerings," concluded Robbins.

TouchTunes Launches New Products at CES
(Posted January 15, 2012 -- 11:30PM)

TouchTunes Interactive Networks and Verizon Wireless this week debuted their latest entertainment applications at the 2012 International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
 
TouchTunes unveiled two new applications for its Virtuo jukebox -- PhotoBooth and TouchTunes Karaoke -- both of which were first previewed to amusement operators and in this publication last fall. 
 
TouchTunes also provided first look at the latest update to their widely successful myTouchTunes Mobile app which enables consumers to find TouchTunes locations, search for music and play their favorite songs on the TouchTunes jukebox. 
 
Christian McMahan, chief marketing officer for TouchTunes Interactive Networks, said, "The launch of Virtuo and the new apps is just the beginning, we are now aggressively developing a suite of breakthrough, innovative products that will allow our consumers to fully leverage the power of Verizon's 4G LTE network."

Ultracade Founder Pleads Guilty To Fraud
(Posted January 11, 2012 -- 10:30PM)

Ultracade founder David Foley has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and conspiracy to commit bank fraud, announced northern California U.S. Attorney Melinda Haag earlier this week.  
 
The charges stem, in part, from Foley's tenure as chief technology officer at Global VR, a job he assumed after striking a deal to sell Ultracade to the video game maker. The Ultracade system offered multiple retro-game titles in one arcade cabinet.
 
In its official press release, the U.S. attorney's office said Foley "admitted that, as charged in the first indictment, he manufactured thumb drives, known as 'game packs,' containing video gaming software that could be loaded onto arcade video game machines made for the home market. Foley illegally produced the products from his home while working as the chief technology officer of Global VR, which had previously acquired all rights to produce and sell games under the UltraCade name. After producing the game packs, Foley sold the products to a co-defendant located in Milford, Conn., and agreed to sell the game packs to the public using packaging and advertisements that falsely represented the goods to have been genuinely manufactured by UltraCade. Foley thereafter received payment for the illegally manufactured game packs by mail and wire."
 
In response to the announcement by federal prosecutors, Foley told the San Jose Mercury News that he pleaded guilty only because he sold the games under the Ultracade name when that company technically no longer existed.
 
"Foley said Global VR bought nonexclusive rights to the UltraCade name and ultimately did not take possession of it and backed out of the acquisition in January 2006," the Mercury News reported, quoting Foley as saying: "I felt like if they're not going to do the deal, I still need to make a living." 
 
The bank fraud charges stem from false statements made on a mortgage application.
 
According to federal prosecutors, "Foley further admitted that, as charged in the second indictment, he defrauded Countrywide Home Loans (now owned and operated by Bank of America) of mortgage and home equity line of credit loans in the amounts of $2,624,475 and $374,925. He did this by falsely claiming that he was still employed at Global VR. Foley had been fired from his job by the time the loan applications were submitted. Foley admitted that he instructed a co-defendant to contact Countrywide Home Loans to falsely confirm his continued employment, after his employment had been terminated and prior to receiving the funds."
 
However, Foley told the Mercury News that he had informed the bank of his termination before the loans were finalized but that he chose to plead guilty to those charges because "he did sign a copy of the previously submitted loan application."
 
U.S. District Court Judge Edward J. Davila allowed Foley's continued release on a $100,000 bond and ordered him to return to court on April 30 for sentencing.
 
The maximum statutory penalty for conspiracy to commit mail fraud is 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, a mandatory special assessment and restitution. The maximum statutory penalty for conspiracy to commit bank fraud is 30 years in prison, a mandatory special assessment, and a fine of $1 million and restitution. However, the court will consider sentencing guidelines and federal statutes in handing down its sentence. The prosecution was the result of a lengthy investigation by the FBI. 

Jack Guarnieri Exits Elaut USA
(Posted January 9, 2012 -- 10:30PM)

Trade veteran Jack Guarnieri has exited his post as president of Elaut USA as of Jan. 2.  Guarnieri reports many accomplishments during his three-year tenure with the manufacturer and national account operator formerly known as Monduce. Those achievements include the development of the Elaut Wizard of Oz pusher and the acquisition of King's Island as a new location for game operations.

Guarnieri will continue to focus on his other endeavors, including his new pinball company Jersey Jack Pinball, PinballSales.com online, interest in a family entertainment center called iPlay America, Jack Guarnieri Service Co. and ShuffleAlley.com.

Production of Jersey Jack Pinball's (JJP) first commercial pinball machine, the licensed theme Wizard of Oz, is scheduled to begin on March 13. The company already has sold out orders for the first 1,000 Emerald City Limited Edition games, and the goal for this year alone is to build 2,000 games. The pinball factory in Lakewood N.J., is currently being outfitted. In total, Guarnieri's combined companies will employ over 80 people this year.
 
"I enjoyed my time at Elaut USA. They have many good people and I positioned them for some wonderful opportunities for the future," said Guarnieri, who can be reached at 800/473-5225 or via email at Jack@JerseyJackPinball.com.

Retailers Concerned About Internet Gambling
(Posted January 9, 2012 -- 10:30PM)

Retailers in a number of states are concerned that an expansion of online lottery ticket sales, as well as the possibility of Internet-based, state-authorized poker, will eat away at their revenues. As RePlay reported earlier, a recent decision by the U.S. Justice Department opens the door for states to sell lottery tickets online and could provide a path for states that already sanction certain forms of gambling to offer games over the Internet.

In responding to that development, a number of newspaper articles over the past week have reported concern on the part of retailers who are currently the main source of lottery ticket sales.

"One of my members thought he would lose 40 percent of his lottery sales," William Fleischli, executive vp of the Illinois Petroleum Marketers Association/Illinois Association of Convenience Stores, was quoted as saying in the State Journal Register in Springfield, Illinois "I think he made close to $200,000 (on lottery commissions) from his 10 stores. It will cut down on foot traffic in our stores. When people come in to buy their lottery tickets, they will make other purchases. We think we are going to lose a significant amount of that foot traffic."

"That (online lottery) would affect my business tremendously," noted New Haven gas station and convenience store owner Gerry Katz in a story published in Connecticut's Register Citizen.  "Once it gets around that it's so much easier, that you don't have to make a stop at the local gas station to buy your tickets, that will have a tremendous effect."

Critics of online lottery ticket sales have also pointed out the loss of crucial tax revenues to local governments generated by the decline in on-location retail sales.
 
Associations Hosting Charity Events At Expo
(Posted January 9, 2012 -- 10:30PM)

AAMA and AMOA have a long history of supporting each other's charitable organizations including the former's American Amusement Machine Charitable Foundation and the latter's Coin-Op Cares Education and Charitable Foundation, which oversees the annual Wayne E. Hesch Scholarship Raffle.

With the two groups co-sponsoring the annual Amusement Expo, the spring show has become a touchstone for both groups' efforts to raise money for special causes.

During this spring's Expo, the tradition continues with AAMA member firms contributing prizes and purchasing tickets for the annual Wayne E. Hesch Scholarship raffle program, which takes place on the trade show floor. To learn more, log on to www.amoa.com.

In turn, AMOA has encouraged its members to participate in AAMCF's annual expo fundraiser, a charity golf tournament conducted on the eve of the trade show. This year's March 13 event will take place on a championship-calibre golf course, the Wolf Course, which howls at 7,604 yards, the longest course in the state of Nevada.

The Wolf is part of the Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort. The event will commence at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 13, with buses shuttling players between the course and Las Vegas Hotel. Only 72 players will comprise the field at the AAMCF event this year. To learn more, log on to www.coin-op.org.

Maryland Operators To Host Lawmakers
(Posted January 5, 2012 -- 5PM)

The Maryland Amusement and Music Operators Association annual reception for the legislators in Annapolis is set to take place at 5 p.m. on Jan. 17. The association's lobbyist will also be arranging one-on-one meetings with lawmakers.
 
Immediately before the meeting, the group will hold a membership meeting, also to be held in The Governor Calvert House, 58 State Circle, Annapolis, Md.
 
"If you have any doubts as to the value of your dues, consider that we are going into another year of stressful budgeting decisions with no crises yet on the horizon," wrote association president Larry Bershtein in an email to Maryland operators. "MAMOA has worked very hard, and very successfully, at maintaining strong relationships with Annapolis, city hall and others to protect our industry, and your contribution is absolutely necessary to continue this work."
 
For more information, contact Bershtein by email,  larry@capitolamusements.com.
 
Illinois Gaming Expected By Year End
(Posted January 5, 2012 -- 5PM)

Scientific Games has been awarded the contract to administer Illinois' video gaming central system, and a report in the Chicago Tribune predicts that games will be on location by the end of the year if not earlier.
 
"Last week, the state finalized a six-year contract with New York-based Scientific Games that could be worth more than $69 million, depending on how many people play the games," the paper reported. "The contract could be renewed for another four years, if both parties agree...In addition to monitoring every video gambling terminal in the state, the company will be responsible for collecting money from the machines and doling it out among the state, terminal owners and the businesses that house the devices."
 
Apple Industries Debuts Smile 2.0 Software
(Posted January 5, 2012 -- 5PM)

Apple Industries recently debuted its new Smile 2.0 software, which allows customers to e-mail their photos, as well as post them on Facebook or Twitter, instantly and directly from Apple's photobooths, which can connect through hard wire, air card or wi-fi. The photobooths also include functionality for creating audio/video recordings that can be uploaded and the ability to capture email addresses for marketing purposes.
 
"Social media is an exciting and entertaining part of today's world and our Smile 2.0 software brings it right inside the photobooth," explained Apple's CEO Allen Weisberg. "All of our photobooths, except the single-purpose Magazine Me, will feature our new Smile 2.0 platform and touch screen technology, and we anticipate this new platform attracting new locations and increasing revenue, particularly with the younger audience."
 
Additionally, the new software has functionality that will help operators manage their business. Operators will be able to access their machines remotely, which will allow them to audit collections, change booth settings, verify film supplies and conduct other booth maintenance. Software updates can also be uploaded to photo machines without requiring a location visit.
 
Apple's president Warren Friss added: "Smile 2.0 is only the beginning. Smile 2.1 and Smile 2.2, already being worked on, will provide operators with additional amazing technology, all down-loadable directly to their booths. We will continue to upgrade and improve our products to ensure that our photobooths remain the most fun and profitable in the business."

LAI Launches YouTube Channel
(Posted January 5, 2012 -- 5PM)

LAI Games recently launched a dedicated YouTube channel, featuring video demonstrations of the company's products and footage of people playing the games. The channel is found at www.YouTube.com/LAIGames.  
 
Videos feature popular and new games including pieces they debuted at November's IAAPA Expo: Speed of Light, Balloon Buster, Pirate Battle, Rainy Days and Stacker Wall Street.
 
"With the launch of our YouTube channel, our customers can get a great feel for our games, even if they weren't able to see them in person at a tradeshow or open house," said LAI marketing manager Allison Timberlake. "You can't accomplish the same thing with a static brochure."

Theisen To Distribute Falgas Rides
(Posted January 3, 2012 -- 10:30PM)

Falgas Amusement Rides and Theisen Vending Company have reached an agreement naming Theisen as a North American distributor for coin-operated kiddie rides.

Falgas is a Spanish manufacturer of coin-op kiddie rides with new releases yearly. Falgas has won consecutive prestigious international awards including the 2011 IAAPA Brass Ring Award on Best New Product / Coin-Operated Kiddie Ride with their 4 x 4 Safari Car. Some of their rides have features such as LED technology, multi-motion, interactive play and video screens. Theisen, which is based in Minneapolis, Minn., is a national operator and distributor of kiddie ride industry and runs a route throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Jose J. Saus, export manager for Falgas, said the manufacturer is proud to welcome Theisen as a distributor. Michael Ruegemer, national sales and operations manager for Theisen, is equally excited about the opportunity to work with Falgas and feels this addition will infuse new energy into its selection of kiddie rides. To learn more, log on to www.theisenvending.com.

TouchTunes Looks Back On A Year In Music
(Posted January 3, 2012 -- 10:30PM)

TouchTunes Interactive Networks recently released its top songs and artists of 2011.  The results, based on an analysis of over 900 million songs played across its network of 50,000 in-venue music systems, revealed that consumers choose a mix of newly released and classic songs tTouchTunes logoo listen to when they are out in a social setting.

TouchTunes' top-played song of the year across every genre was country superstar Jason Aldean's hit single "Dirt Road Anthem." Other notable songs to make TouchTunes' 2011 Top 10 most-played list includes Adele's "Rolling in the Deep," Eric Church's "Smoke a Little Smoke" and Kid Rock's "All Summer Long."

"Having the number one song of the year running on TouchTunes jukeboxes is a cool thing for me. It means my songs are being played in most every bar and honkytonk in the country," stated Jason Aldean. "Those are the kinds of places I used to have gigs when I was a teenager down in Georgia.   It's a really cool full circle kind of moment."

Jason Aldean was also the third most-played artist on the network, surpassed only by longtime fan favorites AC/DC, who was the second most-played, and Kid Rock, who was the most-played overall.  Other top artists on TouchTunes in 2011 include Rolling Stones, Johnny Cash and Lynyrd Skynyrd.

"It's always fun to look at the most played songs and artists on our network," said Vicki Saunders, TouchTunes VP of music marketing. "TouchTunes provides fans with a unique listening experience, and gives them a chance to find that one perfect song that will set the mood for their night out. For many this year, Jason Aldean did just that."

More information on TouchTunes top music plays of 2011 is available here:  http://www.touchtunes.com/2011charts   

Brady Announces Recent Staff Changes
(Posted January 3, 2012 -- 10:30PM)

Brady Distributing recently announced a series of new additions to its staff. They include:

Marsha Endres is the newest member of their sales team. MarshaEndres brings over 19 years of sales experience to Brady. She has extensive knowledge of the coin-operated amusement industry as well as the vending, food service and OCS industries. She will be covering the Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky and West Virginia territories. She can be reached at 704/516-0343 or mendres@bradydist.com.

Pat McGrattan is also joining the Brady sales department.  McGrattan's career began in 1982 with a route operator in Tidewater, Va. In 1995, he moved to Charlotte, where he has worked for Brady as production manager and serviPat at Bradyce manager. His desire to work closer with customers has now led him to the sales department, where his almost 30 years of knowledge and experience will be an added value.  He will be covering the West Virginia, Virginia, South Carolina and North Carolina territories. He can be reached at 704/651-3036 or pmcgrattan@bradydist.com.

Jim Noll is taking on the roll of Brady service manager.  Prior to joining Brady in 2008 as arcade operations manager, Noll Jim P at Bradyspent 21 years in the amusement industry, setting up and managing store operations for Chuck E Cheese, Jillian's, and Dave and Buster's. In addition to his current duties overseeing route operations, Jim has taken on the added responsibility of managing Brady's service department after McGrattan's move to sales. Noll can be reached at 704/962-9643 or jnoll@bradydist.com.

LAI to Sell ReRave In Pacific Territories
(Posted January 2, 2012 -- 10:30PM)

Coast to Coast Entertainment has struck an agreement with LAI/Timezone  for the exclusive  rights to distribute the former's  ReRave arcade game in the territories of Singapore and the Philippines.

Developed by Step Evolution LLC, ReRave is a popular title for Apple iOS devices like the iPad and iPhone. This new arcade version, which was a collaborative effort between Step Evolution and Coast To Coast, mirrors the game play of the mobile title.

ReRave combines music rhythm, as well as physical dexterity and accuracy to create a innovative gaming experience that is both fun and challenging for all ages and skill levels. The game also features a 46" multiplayer color touchscreen monitor in an Internet-enabled cabinet, combined with a real-time global interactive player ranking network with frequent music and software updates.

Redemption Plus Gets Nod For Pinnacle Hybrid
(Posted January 2, 2012 -- 10:30PM)

Prize supplier Redemption Plus earned an honorable mention in this fall's IAAPA show Brass Ring competition for its custom redemption counters. Redemption Plus, through its Pinnacle Entertainment Advisors division, added custom redemption counters to their line in 2011.  They are capable of creating traditional counters starting as small as eight linear feet, without size limit on the upper end.

A major factor in the judge's decision was the innovative "Pinnacle Hybrid" Redemption Room, which preserves all of the shopping experience positives of a room, while removing the traditional barrier and creating a visual connection between games and merchandise.

The award also noted specific features of the Redemption Plus including "max merchandise" displays, special lighting throughout, durability, security features and a modular approach to merchandise category displays. 

"We are honored to be recognized by the Brass Ring judges for our Redemption Counters in the Services, Supplies and Equipment category.  We know that creating an attractive merchandise display is essential to developing a high performing gameroom because it drives game play and generates revenue.  We want to help redemption centers maximize the impact of their product," said Ron Hill, CEO and president of Redemption Plus.

Expert Predicts Increased State Authorized Internet Gambling
(Posted December 28, 2011 -- 8PM)

A recent decision by the U.S. Department of Justice that the federal Wire Act only applies to sports-related gambling could open the door to state-sanctioned online gambling, including compacts between various legal gaming states or even other nations, predicts gambling industry expert I. Nelson Rose at his Gambling and the Law blog.

"If the Wire Act is limited to bets on sports events and races, what other federal anti-gambling statutes are left?" writes Rose. "There are prohibitions on interstate lotteries, but Powerball and the other multi-state lotteries show how easily these can be gotten around, even before Congress passed an express exemption for state lotteries. And poker is not a lottery under federal law.

"So, all that are left are the federal laws designed to go after organized crime," he continues. "These all require that there first be a violation of another law, like the Wire Act, the federal anti-lottery statutes, or a state anti-gambling law. If a state has expressly legalized intra-state games like poker, as Nevada and the District of Columbia have done, there is simply no federal law that could apply."

Looking ahead, Nelson sees a number of states pushing through some form of online gaming to help generate local tax revenue. "Once these jurisdictions open their online games, even if limited to players who are physically within the state, operators will push for compacts to allow interstate Internet poker among the legal states," he writes.

Meanwhile, Rose believes federal legislation will remain bottled up in Congress, providing no controlling federal law in light of the DOJ's view of the Wire Act. Read the entire piece by Rose at http://www.gamblingandthelaw.com/blog/320-a-present-from-the-doj-internet-lotteries-and-poker-are-legal-december-24-2011.html.
 
Firestone Celebrates Veteran Staff Members
(Posted December 28, 2011 -- 8PM)

Two key Firestone Financial executives -- David Cohen, president and CEO, and Helen Mooney, senior inside sales representative --  both celebrated their 25th anniversary with the company. In recognition of their achievement, both were presented with the company's service award.
Firestone Vets

"People who achieve this type of accomplishment must be adaptable, willing to change and able to learn.  David and Helen both have these qualities.  They are highly regarded and respected by ever major manufacturer, distributor and operator in the industry," said Scott Cooper, Firestone's CFO.

The awards were presented during Firestone's annual employee Holiday party on December 14th.  Cohen attributed his personal success and that of the organization to past and present employees.  "So many things were so different 25 years ago but one thing remains true, we have the most talented, hard-working people," he said. "We invest in our relationships with our customers and each other and that is why I am so proud to be celebrating 25 years at Firestone."

In receiving her award, Mooney praised the company and her co-workers: "I have had the opportunity over the years to work with great teams, but I don't think anything compares to who we have at Firestone today."

Pete Aldrich from the inside sales team also celebrated his 10-year anniversary.  In receiving his award Pete acknowledged the closeness of the Firestone team. "When I came here 10 years ago I was told I was joining a family and sure enough 10 years later nothing could be truer," he said.

The company also acknowledged employees with five years of service.  Recipients include Adam Bronkella, credit manager; Kurt Engelhardt, inside sales; Chuck Lambert, senior credit analyst; Liz McNeil, accounting manager, and Frank Moreschi, asset management.

IAAPA To Host Leadership Conference In L.A.
(Posted December 28, 2011 -- 8PM)

The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) announced its 2012 IAAPA Leadership Conference will take place in Los Angeles, Calif., Feb. 22-24. The conference will bring together current and future attractions industry leaders for networking and experiential learning at several Los Angeles-area amusement parks and attractions. Attendees will hear insights from keynote speaker and 40-year industry veteran Al Weber Jr., chief operating officer of Six Flags Entertainment Corp. Registration is open and a discounted early-bird rate is available until Jan. 27.

"The 2012 IAAPA Leadership Conference will bring together a cross-section of attractions industry professionals for non-traditional, firsthand educational experiences," said Chip Cleary, IAAPA president and CEO. "The environment will allow everyone, from seasoned owners to first-time managers, to learn from one another through hands-on activities, idea sharing, best practices exchange, and industry discussions."

Al Weber Jr., will deliver a keynote lunch address Thursday, Feb. 23, at Six Flags Magic Mountain. Weber will address how Six Flags is recapturing its industry leadership position and delivering record profit performance. He will also offer a first-hand insider's perspective on how to successfully manage through transition.

The out-of-the-classroom conference is designed for owners, presidents, CEOs, vice presidents, general managers, directors, and operations managers. It will include events and behind-the-scenes tours at several Southern California attractions, including Universal Studios Hollywood, Six Flags Magic Mountain, Technifex, Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, California Science Center, Disney California Adventure Park. To learn more, log on to www.IAAPA.org/expos/Leadershipconference.

AMOA-NY To Celebrate Music Suppliers
(Posted December 28, 2011 -- 8PM)

The 2012 dinner gala hosted by the Amusement And Music Owners Association of New York will be "A Tribute To Music." The event, which traditionally honors an individual member of the trade, will be held on Monday, February 27, 6-9 p.m. at The Douglaston Manor (www.thedouglastonmanor.com), 6320 Commonwealth Boulevard, Douglaston, N.Y.

AMOA-NY president Ken Goldberg (Emerson Amusement, Woodside) explained: "We are departing from our traditional format where an individual industry leader is honored.  On February 27, we want to recognize two content providers, Rowe/AMI Entertainment and Ecast Inc., both of which represent vital economic development for operators throughout the greater New York metro region, and throughout the nation."

Rowe/AMI Entertainment will be represented by its CEO/president Michael Maas. Ecast will be represented by its CEO John Taylor.

"Both companies have made a significant investment with AMOA-NY to become partners in our efforts to combat illegal jukeboxes, copyright violations, and music piracy --- all of which deny operators income and put operators at an unfair disadvantage," furthered Goldberg. "Our tribute to music sends a message about how operators and content providers must be united and strong in challenging any forces which seek to undermine what is a valuable, proud economic engine going forward the next 100 years."

AMOA-NY Executive Director Danny Frank added: "Both Rowe/AMI and Ecast, Inc. have demonstrated that they are committed to relationships with are supportive of operators and selling direct practices are against their policies."

Reservations can be made by contacting: 212/279-1041 or emailing dfrankproduction@aol.com

Coin Tech Debuts New Products
(Posted December 28, 2011 -- 8PM)

Debit card technology provider Coin Tech is rolling out a series of new products this winter following their debut at November's IAAPA show in Orlando.

Headlining the list are the firm's Online Party Booking and Online Membership Program. These two new software modules provide operators an easy and quick solution to guest's web registration and online party booking. Some of the main features are of the party booking system are adaptability with a location's current website, store locator, date, time, a number of guests scheduler, party package and menus options selection, online payment options, birthday e-cards design and emailing and many reservation options.
 
The membership program allows operators to have interactive communication with all of the members as in a social network, award them with special benefits, and earn the customer's loyalty. Of course, registered guests will be able to check their card balance online as well.

Coin TechCoin Tech is also releasing its updated Xperience Touch feature. Now, every Xperience card reader unit features touchscreen interactive games, educational quizzes, upsize you combo options, and instant rewards.  Lastly, the developer has created the Xperience for Coin Action Games, a debit card reader that controls coins and e-tickets for the coin action games. With the new kit, operators can load all the coin action electronic tickets directly to the guest's debit card.

To learn more about Coin Tech, read the cover story in this month's RePlay or log on to the firm's website at www.game-system.com.

Kevin Williams Tapped As Expo Speaker
(Posted December 21, 2011 -- 11PM)

Industry promoter Kevin Williams of KWP Ltd., who works as a consultant to manufacturing companies and publishes the Stinger Report digital commentary, has been selected as a seminar speaker at this spring's Amusement Expo, co-sponsored by AAMA and AMOA.

Williams was selected to present one of a series of six free seminars that are being overseen by Foundations Entertainment University, which will also be hosting a series of paid educational sessions for FEC operators and investors.

Williams will be presenting a session called "Entertainment Now and Towards the Future" on the morning of March 15. This presentation will look at the development, application and trends shaping the amusement scene.

Foundations is headed by Frank Seninsky of Amusement Entertainment Management (AEM) and Randy White of White-Hutchinson Learning & Leisure Group. The Foundations program will take place on March 12-13. The additional free seminars will be hosted by Foundations during the mornings of Amusement Expo as part of their educational conference. Birthday University will also hold two free seminars during this time.

"I promise that those who attend the seminar will get the best evaluation of the new business trends and applications that will define their future profits, as well as some interesting insights into new ways of attracting the future audience," said Williams.

ICE Shipping Ice Age Video Redemption Game

(Posted December 21, 2011 -- 11PM)

Innovative Concepts in Entertainment's new video redemption piece, Ice Age, is now shipping, the factory reports. "One of the world's highest-grossing animated movie licenses of all time, is now a stunning two-player skill redemption game," declared ICE sales veep Joe Coppola.  "Ice Age has tested incredibly well."

The Ice Age film brand has brought in over $1.9 billion dollars in revenue over the first three movies, with a fourth set to be released July of 2012.

The Ice Age arcade piece is a two-player game that allows competitors to play simultaneously, hitting Scrat's acorns in an attempt to crack the ice and strike the center bonus ring on the horizontally mounted 42" LCD monitor. To further entertain players, two 23" monitors mounted in the marquee provide previews of the 2012 film release of Ice Age: Continental Drift and highlights the big bonus.

"We again have teamed up with Playmechanix, who created the fantastic software and game play, and we feel together we have taken video redemption to a new level with this creation," added Coppola. "The combination of simple but challenging game play, one of the best movie licenses in the world, and a stunning cabinet with probably one of the most captivating marquees ever designed for a redemption game, makes this a great redemption game to kick off 2012!"

To learn more, contact ICE at 716/759-0370, website, www.icegame.com.

Apple Industries Offers Holiday Discount
(Posted December 21, 2011 -- 11PM)

Apple Industries is offering an instant discount of $500 for any photo booth purchased through January 6.In order to receive this discount, customers must refer to Discount Code 7894980.  The discount is available for any of Apple's Face Place line of photo booths and is limited to two photo booths per customer.

Apple sales director Mel LaForce: "Any potential customer who was waiting till after the holidays, or those looking for an early spring time purchase, should consider taking advantage of this savings." For further details, contact Apple at 516/619-8000.

U.K. Court Ends Music License Dispute
(Posted December 21, 2011 -- 11PM)

The United Kingdom's High Court of Justice has ordered digital jukebox maker NSM Music Ltd. to pay 85,000 pounds in license fees plus interest and legal costs as a result of a dispute with that nation's performing rights society. 

"This is the latest development in the dispute following the Court's decision in June 2011 when it ruled in favor of PRS for Music in its claim against NSM Music Limited, who was refusing to pay PRS for Music's licence fees," reported PRS in its official release to the media. "The Deputy Master of the High Court found that NSM Music Limited had no reasonable prospect of successfully defending the claim brought by PRS for Music and dismissed the arguments raised in their defense as being without merit."

Andy Hind, head of recorded media licensing at PRS for Music, said: "I am pleased that the High Court has delivered clear and unequivocal judgments upholding our members' rights."

Coin Biz Matriarch Leah Bettelman Is Gone
(Posted December 19, 2011 -- 6PM)

Mrs. B has died. The matriarch of the Southern California amusement industry has gone to join her late husband Al, and the industry is profoundly saddened at the loss of this uniformly decent person.

At Al's side, she helped build C.A. Robinson & Co. into SoCal's leading amusement distributor during the electronic games boom of the late '70s, early '80s. Honored by the AAMA as its person of the year back in the '90s, Mrs. B actually honored the industry by her warm and welcoming presence whenever anyone met her back at the old C.A. store on Pico Boulevard in Los Angeles.

More details on Leah and her life will be forthcoming. Meantime, funeral services will take place at 2 p.m. this Thursday, Dec. 22, at the Hillside Mortuary, 6001 Centinela Ave., LA 90045 (by the 405 freeway). 

In lieu of flowers, mourners are asked to honor Leah by contributing to the scholarship fund she started and long-supported at UCLA for undergraduate studies. Send donations to UCLA BEST #8483 Scholarship Fund, Box 951413, LA 90095, attn: Bea Richman.

OCMA Exec Advocates For Operator Run VLT
(Posted December 19, 2011 -- 6PM)

Ohio Coin Machine Association EVP David Corey told Ohio lawmakers this week the state should consider a targeted gaming strategy that embraces state-based vendors and local business in order to grow jobs and tax revenues -- a plan the trade group has embraced consistently for more than a decade.

"David P. Corey, who spoke on behalf of the OHC (Ohio Hospitality Coalition), said lawmakers ought not to let large out-of-state gaming companies write the rules on who can or cannot employ video lottery terminals (VLTs)," reported the Columbus Government Examiner website. "Corey...told committee members that Penn National Gaming (PNG), a company responsible for the passage of Issue 3 in 2009, which amended the Ohio Constitution to allow for a casino each in Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati and Toledo, would have a virtual monopoly on gambling in Ohio if VLTs were only placed in the two casinos and three racetracks they own."

Corey went on to say that only embracing large corporate gaming interests would leave small mom and pop tavern owners out in the cold, a tough break on the heels of stark consolidation in the amusement and hospitality industries over the last two decades.

"This will be a death knell," Corey was quoted as telling the lawmakers. "Don't you think there should be a level playing field? Who in the legislature is looking out for Ohio's small family-owned hospitality businesses? Why does the Ohio General Assembly continue to talk about 'small business' being the backbone of Ohio's economy and great job creators when all they do is turn their backs on us in the hospitality industry? When are they going to put their vote where their mouths are?"

Specialty Host Successful NW Expo
(Posted December 19, 2011 -- 6PM)

Northwest distributor Mike McWilliams tells RePlay his firm's recent Northwest Amusement Expo was a big success, hosting nearly two dozen manufacturing companies. The event was held in Olympia, Wash., at the Little Creek Casino Resort.

Throughout the day, over 100 attendees representing more than 50 operating companies viewed a wide range of new product on display.

Specialty also hosted four informative educational seminars. They included Equipment Leasing by First Lease's David Maschke; Live Equipment by AMI's Kris Link, Redemption Display by Sureshot's Aaron Graves and Redemption For the Streets by Redemption Plus' Howard McAuliffe.

"We received a lot of compliments for staging this event. The facilities, food and equipment display were excellent," said Mike McWilliams. "We will definitely be holding the third annual next fall, this time with some new features and entertaining twists."

Namco Debut Pac-Man Battle Royale at D & B
(Posted December 19, 2011 -- 6PM)

Namco's new Pac-Man Battle Royale four-player competitive Pac-Man arcade attraction is now available exclusively at Dave & Buster's locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Battle Royale takes the classic arcade game fans know and love and steps up the action with a twist: players eliminate their opponents by eating them, and the last Pac-Man standing wins the round. The Deluxe attraction features a huge screen so onlookers can get in on the action.

"Pac-Man is back, and he's bigger and hungrier than ever," said Steve King, CEO at Dave & Buster's. "We can't wait for our customers to try out this exciting new game."

To celebrate the launch, Pac-Man Power Girls will visit select Dave & Buster's locations across the U.S. on Friday, Dec. 16, and Saturday, Dec. 17, during evening hours. They'll treat customers to a game or even face-off against customers who are up for the challenge. Visit www.daveandbusters.com to find a Dave & Buster's location near you.

U.S. Treasury To Halt Dollar Coin Production For Bank Circulation
(Posted December 14, 2011 -- 11PM)

The U.S. Treasury Department announced yesterday that it is suspending production of new presidential dollar coin. In 2005, Congress enacted the Presidential $1 Coin Act. That law mandated that the United States Mint issue four new Presidential $1 Coins each year from 2007 to 2016.

When each new Presidential $1 Coin is introduced, Federal Reserve Banks order enough coins from the United States Mint to meet initial demand from financial institutions. For a variety of reasons, however, the demand for each of the new Presidential $1 Coins usually drops significantly soon after they are introduced. As a result, financial institutions have ended up returning a substantial amount of the $1 Coins that were initially minted -- about 40 percent -- to Federal Reserve Banks.
At the end of the most recent fiscal year, the Federal Reserve Banks held nearly 1.4 billion surplus dollar coins in their vaults - enough to meet current levels of circulating demand for more than a decade. Based on current trends, the Federal Reserve estimates that its surplus inventory of $1 coins will grow to 2 billion by the end of the program in 2016.

Regular circulating demand will be met through the Federal Reserve Banks' existing inventory of nearly 1.4 billion $1 coins, which will be drawn down over time, said Treasury. Consistent with the Presidential $1 Coin Act, those who would like to obtain future Presidential $1 Coins can purchase them directly from the U.S. Mint during specified periods. The next coin in the series, the President Chester A. Arthur $1 Coin, will be released in the Spring of 2012 and is expected to a have a dramatically lower production run, which will be set based on collector demand. Prices and shipping costs for future $1 Coins will be announced in the near future and will be set at a level that ensures that they do not result in a cost to taxpayers, the Treasury department added.

"Minting $1 coins that ultimately end up sitting in Federal Reserve Bank vaults - and serve no useful purpose for businesses, financial institutions, and consumers - is simply not a prudent use of taxpayer resources," said deputy Treasury secretary Neal S. Wolin." In fact, a number of members of Congress have expressed concerns over the growing inventories, and some have introduced legislation to suspend or end outright the Presidential $1 Coin Program."

The U.S. Mint says it has already taken steps to help address the growing inventory of $1 coins, but stronger action is necessary, particularly at a time when it's critical to cut waste and improve efficiency across all areas of government.


Under existing law, the Secretary of the Treasury has the authority to "mint and issue coins . . . in amounts the Secretary decides are necessary to meet the needs of the United States." Given the substantial, growing inventory of $1 coins, it is clear that the minting of hundreds of millions of additional $1 coins over the next several years is not necessary and is not an effective use of taxpayer dollars.


"The steps we're announcing today will save at least $50 million annually over the next several years," said Wolin. "That's the right decision for taxpayers. "


The decision by Treasury comes as two competing currency bills await action in Congress. The Currency Optimization, Innovation and National Savings (COINS) Act, backed by Republicans in the House, would eliminate the dollar bill. A counter-proposal to curtail dollar coins has been introduced by Mass. senators John Kerry and Scott Brown.

Dollar coin proponents attacked the move. "This makes zero sense other than getting a cute little headline," Tom Schatz, president of Citizens Against Government Waste, was quoted as saying in The Wall Street Journal. Schatz's group is part of the Dollar Coin Alliance.

On the other side of the issue, Louisiana Sen. David Vitter told the Journal: "These coins are a textbook case of wasteful spending-something Americans just don't want or need."  

Bulk Vendors Get Behind Dollar Coin Push
(Posted December 13, 2011 -- 11PM)

The National Bulk Vendors Association is rallying its membership to support the movement to get rid of the dollar bill and promote the use of a dollar coin. The group emailed its members today asking them to log on to a specific website, http://dollarcoinalliance.org/get-involved-nbva, which will in turn connect them with their respective members of Congress.

"In your letters, please be sure to mention how you would be positively impacted by the dollar coin, and how it would benefit your business," the group advised. "The more specific you can be, the better."

The group also posted a web address with more information about pending legislation, http://schweikert.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=260814.

Apple Extends Finance Offer
(Posted December 13, 2011 -- 11PM)

Apple Industries has extended its 18-month interest-free finance program through the end of the year. The finance program is funded through Firestone Financial. According to sales director Mel LaForce, "We were swamped at IAAPA, and with the introduction of our new Smile 2.0 software now being featured in all our new photobooths, the best response we can give our customers is to continue our extraordinary interest-free finance program for another month."

All Apple photobooths now offer Internet connectivity to Twitter, Facebook and emailing. Also new is the ability to capture email, upload audio/video recordings to social networks and touch-screen navigation. Call Apple Industries for details of the program, 516/945-3650 or visit the company's website at www.appleindustries.net.

Sacoa and Ordyx Partner On POS System
(Posted December 13, 2011 -- 11PM)

Debit card and POS supplier Sacoa is now partnering with Ordyx, developer of a popular point-of-sale software platform. The latter's technology allows Sacoa to integrate a full restaurant POS with all the functionalities of the Playcard debit card system. 

"We can now offer a rich set of features which are an irreplaceable tool for restaurant and bar owners" said Sacoa's Sebastian Mochovsky. "Ordyx provides you with the capability of manager approvals from outside the restaurant, SMS notifications, handheld compatibility, inventory tracking etc. Quickbooks integration, loyalty program and gift card features are included. We are excited with this exclusive partnership; the best of two worlds are combined in one system."

Sacoa said the new partnership was well received by fun center and theme park customers attending the recent IAAPA show.  "We are pleased to announce the partnership between Sacoa and Ordyx here at IAAPA. We feel that Sacoa's reliable wireless debit card system and our innovative POS system combined will revolutionize the amusement parks and attractions industry," added Remon Kroep, director of Ordyx. 

Amusement Expo Announces Seminar Topics
(Posted December 13, 2011 -- 11PM)

The Amusement Expo Education Committee, which is comprised of representatives of both AMOA and AAMA, has announced six topics to be developed for the 2012 event in Las Vegas. The free sessions will be conducted the morning of the opening day of the show: Wednesday, March 14.
 
Topics include:

    * Operator Round-table on Current Issues and Trends
    * Self-Redemption: Tips and Tricks from the Experts
    * ATM 101
    * Social Networking that Works in Your Business
    * Gaming Update - What's Ahead?
    * Securing Your Operation

Committee Chairman Marty Murin of Rainbow Falls Video Service Corp., Tannersville, N.Y., and his colleagues are working in smaller-sized teams to sharpen the goals, content and participants of each of these sessions to make them as informative and interesting as possible.

Amusement Expo is also partnering up with Foundations Entertainment University to conduct a special educational program, aimed at the family entertainment center sector, as part of next year's March 14-16, 2012 event in Las Vegas. 

South Dakota Operator Round Up in Deadwood
(Posted December 13, 2011 -- 11PM)

The Music & Vending Association of South Dakota held its annual meeting Dec. 1-2, 2011 at the Lodge in Deadwood.

"As expected, the new lineup of games being rolled out -- the first major change to the state's video lottery system in many years -- was the main topic of discussion," reported AMOA's weekly newsletter Off The Top. "Another focus was on ways to increase play, especially in light of the decline in net machine revenue since the inception of the statewide smoking ban. Lottery officials at the meeting reported from November 2010, when the ban took effect, and one year later, in November 2011, the drop in net machine revenue was 20.8 percent."

The association reported registration of 56 people registered with all nine of the association's manufacturing members in attendance. AMOA Donovan Fremin of Louisiana attended, representing the national trade group and providing an update on its new/ongoing programs and services.

Steve Schroeder of Musicvend was elected as the new president; Paul Gaetze of G & S is the new VP; and Allen Duprel of Hills Vending was voted in as treasurer. 

Raw Thrills Debuts Dirty Drivin' at IAAPA
(Posted December 12, 2011 -- 2PM)

Raw Thrills debuted its latest driving game, Dirty Drivin', at last month's IAAPA show in Orlando.  This new off-road driver offers 10 different vehicles (monster trucks, extreme 18-wheelers, etc.) and 14 tracks on which to compete.

The game was created by the same design team responsible for Hydro Thunder and H20verdrive. As many as eight games can be linked together, and the game comes with 100s of upgrades and power-ups, player customizable vehicle features and a player ID system using Raw Thrills' easily recognizable keypad entry system. Players can yank the skull crank handle situated on the cabinet's dashboard to access a special weapon power-up.
 
Dirty Drivin' was inadvertently left out of RePlay's new product catalog from IAAPA,  published in although it was duly noted in the cover story about Raw Thrills in the previous November issue. To learn more, log on to www.rawthrills.com or www.betson.com

Amusement Expo Pre-Registration Now Open
(Posted December 12, 2011 -- 2PM)

Tradesters can now register for this spring's Amusement Expo, the amusement industry convention co-sponsored by the American Amusement Machine Association and the Amusement and Music Operators Association. The show will be held March 14-16, 2012. 

Registrants will get access to the three-day expo as well as the co-located National Bulk Vendors Association annual show. Badge holders will also get a one day reciprocal admission to Pizza Expo right next door; free, industry-specific education programs; and the Industry Gala Reception at the Las Vegas Hotel (formerly Las Vegas Hilton), the show's host hotel. AAMA and AMOA members receive two free badges. 

Special rates at the Las Vegas Hotel, $109 for a single or double room, have also been negotiated. The housing deadline is Feb. 21, 2012. Register online at www.amusementexpo.org.
 
A & A Offers Disney Bottle Caps & More
(Posted December 12, 2011 -- 2PM)

A&A Global Industries is now showcasing its newest Disney-licensed prize release, Disney Bottle Caps. A nod to the recent trend in bottle caps as decorative jewelry and ornaments, these new caps are available with adhesive backing to adorn lockers, journals, invitations and even cell phones. A great collector's item for young girls, the eight bottle caps each have a character from a Classic Walt Disney movies including Alice in Wonderland, The Aristocrats, and 101 Dalmatians. Available exclusively for 2" capsules, Disney Bottle Caps are presented on a two-sided, Disney-themed display for increased selling options.

Vendors should also be on the look out for the next addition to A&A's Disney collection: Disney Cuties Zipper bags, which include all the Disney Cuties characters and will be available for 2" capsules this month.

Lastly for plush lovers, A&A has two Valentine's Day kits that are ready for crane machines. Jumbo Valentine's is available for $2.15 per piece with 50 pieces in each case and Small Valentine's for $1.00 per piece, 180 pieces per case. View these mixes and learn about A&A's free freight program at Parkway Toys' new landing page www.aaglobal.com/plush.

LAI Launches Five New Games At IAAPA
(Posted December 8, 2011 -- 11PM)

LAI debuted five new games at last month's IAAPA Expo in Orlando, including Speed of Light and Balloon Buster. Speed of Light, a ticket redemption game that tests player's speed and reflexes, received accolades from operators, distributors and players alike. LAI sponsored a competition challenging players to beat a posted score in order to win an Amazon gift card. Dozens of players attempted to win, but only two successfully beat the posted score, including fellow exhibitor and high-wire daredevil Nik Wallenda. The units from the show will be installed in Dallas-based Main Event locations. The game will be widely available January 2012.

LAI's newest prize merchandiser, Balloon Buster, also made a splash at the show. This carnival-themed game features prizes suspended by balloons. Players must guide a pin through a hole and pop a balloon via a patent-pending mechanism to win one of five available prizes. The game will be widely available January 2012.

In addition, LAI displayed three other new games: Rainy Days water game for youngsters, Pirate Battle ball toss game and the wall-mounted Stacker Wall Street. Complete information about all of LAI's new games can be found at www.LAIGames.com.
 
EAG Line-Up Includes Seninsky & Getlan
(Posted December 8, 2011 -- 11PM)

The EAG International Expo's Seminar Program taking place Jan. 24-26, 2012, will again include two familiar veterans of the U.S. family entertainment center business, Frank Seninsky and Michael Getlan.

Invited for a second year, Seninsky, president of Amusement Entertainment Management LLC (AEM) and Alpha-Omega Sales (AOS) and co-regent of Foundations Entertainment University (FEU), will be presenting during the two-day seminar program.

Seninsky will present his sessions, "Ten Critical Steps In Designing & Laying Out a Game Zone" and "Successful Strategies in Running Self-Redemption for Street Operators," imparting a wealth of knowledge to an audience that will be comprised of visitors to EAG from the operation and development side of the international business. Amusement Park and Family/Leisure Entertainment Center Managers will also find these seminars to be of great interest and value.

Also invited for a second time, Getlan is director of enthusiasm and opportunity for Amusement Consultants, New Roc Entertainment and Smiles Amusement Co. Getlan's first seminar will be "Redemption Basics: Getting It Right the First Time."  He will also present the seminar, "Working With the Public and Dealing With Difficult Guests."

Supporting this educational event, the U.K.'s amusement trade association's (BACTA's) chief executive Leslie Macleod-Miller will join Seninsky and Getlan for the first time. He will update both BACTA and the U.K.'s theme park association (BALPPA) members on the current state of the industry and explain how the associations are working closely together to improve the industries future.
 
The enhanced seminar program is free to all attendees with its location close to the show floor. For more information, visit www.eagexpo.com.

Venture Shuffleboard's McKay Passes Away
(Posted December 8, 2011 -- 11PM)

Venture Shuffleboard owner Russell McKay, 62, passed away suddenly on Nov. 30, 2011. Born in Hackensack and formerly of Saddle Brook, Russell resided in Bridgewater for the past 12 years. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and the owner and operator of both Brook Metal Products and Venture Hillside for the past 23 years.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 41 years, Deborah DeBoer McKay; daughter Wendy Merendino and her husband Jonathan of Lawrenceville; son Christopher McKay and his wife Elizabeth of Peach Tree City, GA; six grandchildren, Noah, Zachary, Emma, Colin, Joshua, and Caitlin; his mother, Rose McKay of Bridgewater; two brothers, Richard McKay of Toms River and Edward McKay and wife Elaine of Westchester, PA, and two sisters, Lorraine Cupo of Clifton and Debra Sparagosky and husband Richard of Fair Lawn.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Russell's memory to the American Cancer Society, 7 Ridgedale Ave, Suite 103, Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927 or the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, 1 Union St., Suite 301, Robbinsville, NJ 08691.
 

Amusement Expo Partners With Foundations
(Posted December 6, 2011 -- 9PM)

The American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) and the Amusement & Music Operators Association (AMOA) have selected Foundations Entertainment University to coordinate a week-long educational program aimed at family and leisure entertainment centers during Amusement Expo 2012, being held March 14-16, 2012, in Las Vegas, Nev. 

The decision appears to be part of a strategic plan by Amusement Expo to compete vigorously for the attention of family entertainment center operators in the wake of IAAPA's acquisition two years ago of the former International Association for the Leisure and Entertainment Industries (IALEI).

Foundations is headed by industry consultants Frank Seninsky, president/CEO of Amusement Entertainment Management (AEM) and Alpha-Omega Amusements & Sales, and Randy White, CEO of White Hutchinson Leisure & Learning Group,

"The FEC component is a major part of the industry and we're delighted that Foundations and the Amusement Expo will be teaming up next March to deliver timely, targeted information to those who are engaged in that part of the business," said expo chairman Gary Brewer of Brewer Amusement Co., McMinnville, Tenn.  "We look forward to welcoming attendees of the FEC program to the show in Vegas early next year."

Added expo director David Cohen of Firestone Financial: "We are pleased to have Frank and his partners as part of our educational program at the Amusement Expo in March. We believe that providing a strong educational program is imperative to the success and growth of our show."

By partnering with Foundations, Amusement Expo hopes to become the premier trade show for family and leisure entertainment center owners/operators. Foundations registrants will have the opportunity to attend the comprehensive educational workshop covering all aspects of market and financial feasibility, planning, designing, developing and opening and/or managing location-based entertainment businesses, as well as the Amusement Expo for $399, which represents a significant discount compared to normal Foundations tuition.

"Not only is this partnership a great value for the industry, Amusement Expo will provide a new home for those family and leisure based entertainment center owners and operators who attended the (now defunct) Fun Expo because it met their distinct needs," said Seninsky. "In addition, we will be starting new traditions, like an awards program for excellence in entertainment center facilities, a free advanced Foundations Alumni session for the more than 700 Foundations alumni and their staff, as well as other relevant educational seminars that will be free to all trade show attendees."


Joining Seninsky and White in presenting the Foundations Entertainment University seminar program will be Alan Fluke, president of AEA Consulting Group; Jerry Merola, CFO of Alpha-Omega Amusements and managing partner of Amusement Entertainment Management (AEM); and Peter F. Olesen, P.E., president of Entertainment Concepts, Inc. Other speakers and programs will be announced shortly.

Betson Ready To Hit Dirty Drivin' Streets
(Posted December 6, 2011 -- 9PM)

Hi-definition dirt track driving was the order of the day at Betson Enterprises' IAAPA show booth with the debut of Raw Thrills' latest video, Dirty Drivin'. Showcased at the entrance to their booth with four linked cabinets, the mega dealership reported the game was loved by players who raved about the "amazing graphics and loved that they could save their upgrades and progress on the keypad-based player account system." 

Up to eight units can be linked with the new driver, which features a true 42" high definition display. There are 10 extreme rides for players to chose from, along with hundreds of vehicle upgrades to create a fun and combative racing experiences. Of course, the slick and attention-grabbing cabinet graphics complete the package. Betson is offering 0% financing or a Stop N' Go lease on Dirty Drivin. For additional information visit www.betson.com, call 201/438-1300 ext. 3318 or email  info@betson.com. You can also visit any one of Betson Enterprises' 12 offices.

Cipperly Succumbs To Massive Heart Attack
(Posted December 6, 2011 -- 9PM)


Kenneth Cipperly, former president of Kemac Distributing, died suddenly of a massive heart attack on Thursday morning, Nov. 17, in Sandisfield, Mass.  Ken turned 59 on Nov. 7. He had recently separated from his wife and long time partner of 22 years (married for the past 9 years), Maggie Mitchell, though they remained good friends. Maggie and Ken recently closed their Kemac Distributing redemption merchandise business. Maggie continues to consult and sell to long time customers under the name Kemac Toys, and can be reached at kemaggiec@aol.com.
 
AMI Offering Tournamaxx For ML-1
(Posted December 6, 2011 -- 9PM)

AMI Entertainment is bringing its popular Tournamaxx system to the factory's newest countertop, ML-1. Tournamaxx Classic still retains the same look and feel that players are familiar with, but features a redesigned skin and menu for a more refined user experience. Game play is also designed to be completely identical to the existing Tournamaxx experience, allowing ML-1 units to seamlessly take part in Tournamaxx events alongside existing Ion machines. 

Tournamaxx Classic on ML-1 machines will provide all participants with the same playing field they would see on any Ion machine. Fans will still be playing their favorite Megatouch games in monthly tournaments for great prizes -- that concept remains completely unchanged. To kick things off, Tournamaxx Classic will debut with the Megatouch player favorite, Tri-Towers.

AMI will be supporting and promoting this launch with player notifications, social media outreach and idle mode attract videos on the ML-1 machine to let players know this popular feature is now available.


IAAPA Honors Falgas For Top Kiddie Ride
(Posted December 5, 2011 -- 5PM)

Spanish kiddie ride maker Falgas Comercial S.L. took home the Brass Ring Award for Best New Coin-Operated Kiddie Ride for the third consecutive year at last month's IAAPA Expo in Orlando, Fla. This year's winner, 4X4 Safari Car, is the latest in a series of kiddie rides that combine the traditional ride experience with the excitement of interactive game play, including optional ticket redemption.

"Following in the footsteps of the company's successful Pirate's Boat and 60's Surf Van, Falgas continues to bring innovative kiddie ride concepts to the marketplace," said Falgas U.S. sales director Paul Jacobs. "The vibrant colors, attractive lighting, realistic sounds and continuous motion make Falgas kiddie rides the best return on investment in the business."

Founded in 1960, and based in Girona, Spain, Falgas offers a wide variety of rides and attractions.  All rides can be operated either indoors or outdoors and come with a full two-year parts warranty. For more information on all the new rides available, visit  www.falgas.com.
    
EyePrize Combines Video & Bulk Vending
(Posted December 5, 2011 -- 5PM)


Big Bear Import Brokers, the manufacturer and distributor of the award-winning Web Glow Machine, has partnered with a private videogame programming company to produce their newest line of vending machines called the EyePrize.

The unit combines redemption skill, a high definition touchscreen, arcade games and vending. Arcades, bowling centers, entertainment facilities and movie theatres are just a few examples of the locations using the EyePrize, according to factory topper Aaron Pelto. Each machine is equipped with a 21.5-inch touch screen HD monitor, pre-loaded with two popular smart-device-style interactive games. Once the machine is in place, the owners can download multiple games to use as their two displayed game options.
 
"We wanted to bring new technology to the industry." said Pelto. "We have now raised the bar for the vending and gaming experience. Kids will be happy because there is a new, more exciting way for them to enjoy their favorite types of games and parents will be happy because their children are getting a better quality prize for their money."
 
For more information regarding EyePrize, log on to http://www.glowmachine.com or call 888/219-8500.

TouchTunes Promoting Journey Greatest Hits 2
(Posted December 5, 2011 -- 5PM)


TouchTunes Music Network is showcasing the recent Columbia Legacy release of Journey's Greatest Hits 2, which features additional hits not included in the band's first greatest hits compilation, as well as select favorites from Journey's principal songwriters Steve Perry, Neal Schon and Jonathan Cain.  Now, Journey fans can find all their favorites from Greatest Hits 1 & 2 on digital jukeboxes nationwide.Journey

One of the most popular American rock bands in history and a classic staple on TouchTunes, Journey rose to enormous popular and commercial success in the late 1970s. Since formation, the band has enjoyed 19 Top 40 singles and has created some of the best-known songs in American music, including "Open Arms," "Any Way You Want It" and "Don't Stop Believin."  In 1988, they released Greatest Hits, which featured 15 of the band's most beloved hits across seven studio albums. The Greatest Hits compilation became Journey's biggest-selling album to date with over 14 million copies sold.


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