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IALEI AND IAAPA BOARDS VOTE TO SUPPORT MERGER
(Posted July 3, 2009 -- 1:30PM)

Officials from the International Association for the Leisure and Entertainment Industry (IALEI) and the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) say the due diligence review process for the merger of the two organizations is complete and that the boards of both organizations have voted in support of the proposed merger.

The IAAPA board met via conference call on June 25. The board voted to support the merger agreement with IALEI contingent on the resolution of several contractual matters. A spokesperson for IAAPA refused to elaborate when asked by this publication about the specific contractual issues pending resolution, saying it would be inappropriate to provide details as the negotiations over these issues are ongoing. Mandt said the financial considerations of the proposed merger also remain confidential at this point.

When asked further about the fate of the Fun Expo, which is half owned by IALEI (AAMA and AMOA also own 25% each), David Mandt, who serves as IAAPA communications manager, said: “Those plans are still in discussion, and we won’t be able to provide specifics until after Sept. 4.”

Officials with AAMA and AMOA have both said they were closely monitoring developments with regard to the Fun Expo. “AMOA continues to have talks with AAMA concerning the future of our tradeshows. Nothing specific to report, but we are studying the situation diligently,” AMOA president Russ Mawdsley told RePlay during a recent interview. “Our concern with the IALEI-IAAPA merger rests mainly with how it affects our partnership with IALEI and AAMA in the Fun Expo tradeshow.  Whatever other issues may exist for IALEI, AMOA wants the end results to be in the best interests of the members of IALEI. For whatever reason, AMOA was not approached by IALEI regarding a possible merger, even though we both are operator associations.”

“We have been working in conjunction with the AMOA to protect our flanks with regard to our investment in the Fun Expo,” added AAMA president John Schultz. “No one knows what’s going to happen yet.”

During a meeting in New Orleans on June 30, the IALEI board also passed a resolution to support moving forward with the combination merger agreement with IAAPA and dissolving IALEI. Leaders of the fun center association had approved a similar measure this spring, but critics of the decision, including a member of the board and a former association president, Frank Seninsky, have openly challenged the process used by the board to make that initial decision. IALEI leaders have defended that earlier decision and apparently re-affirmed their resolve with this latest vote.

In making the joint announcement, both associations said the next steps in the merger approval process are:

July 1-Sept. 4 – The IAAPA and IALEI transition teams will work to finalize the details of the contingent items for the merger. Both boards will be kept apprised on the progress and will be required to approve the final arrangements.
July 15 – Ballots and informational packets containing specific details of the combination proposal will be distributed to all IALEI members so they can vote on the final merger/dissolution agreement.
Aug. 15 – All ballots due from IALEI members.
Sept. 4 – Results announced.

“Legal counsel for both IALEI and IAAPA have been very involved in the process and have completed thorough due diligence reviews. With the support of both boards, we now look forward to the vote by IALEI members,” said IAAPA president and CEO Charles Bray.
 
“We are pleased progress continues in our merger with IAAPA,” said Dorothy Lewis, chairman of the IALEI board of directors. “This has been a complicated process but we are working through it carefully to ensure all the bases are covered from a business and legal perspective. It will now be up to our members to make the final decision.”

If the IALEI membership approves the IALEI/IAAPA merger/IALEI dissolution agreement, Lewis and Bray anticipate the transition process could begin in September and conclude by the end of the year.
 
NDA LAUNCHES VIDEO CONTEST
(Posted July 3, 2009 -- 1:30PM)

The AMOA-National Dart Association (NDA) is hosting a video contest for sanctioned players to create their own video showing just how much fun they have on league night for a chance to win free entry to Team Dart XXV.  The contest runs now through February 1, 2010. The winner will be honored during the opening ceremony on April 19, 2010, at Team Dart XXV, featured on the NDA website and in the spring issue of ThrowLines Magazine. The winner of the contest will also receive one free entry to Team Dart XXV, April 16-24, 2010.

To enter the contest, participants must upload the video on the NDA’s YouTube group page at www.youtube.com/group/ndadarts. Participants must register with YouTube and become a member of the NDA group before uploading their video. Participants must then fill out an entry form at www.ndadarts.org/videos/ in order to notify the NDA of their submission in the contest. The winning video will be chosen by the NDA. The contest is subject to the NDA’s Official Rules.

The NDA is an international trade association of coin-operated vending companies representing approximately 300 members and 250,000 players worldwide. For more information about membership in the NDA, its annual international Team Dart competition or biennial Dart Summit educational conference, contact Alyssa Pfennig, director of membership, at 800/808-9884, ext.135, or visit the NDA website at www.ndadarts.com.  

FREEMAN OFFERS SAVINGS ON FREIGHT AND STORAGE FOR VEGAS EXPOS
(Posted July 3, 2009 -- 1:30PM)

Exhibitors at the 2009 AMOA International Expo or the IAAPA show now have more incentive to exhibit at both. Freeman Decorating Co. will provide a “Return to Warehouse” transportation service from the Las Vegas Convention Center to the Freeman warehouse in Las Vegas at the end of the AMOA Expo at no charge. Also, there will be no storage charge for AMOA exhibitors who are also exhibiting at the IAAPA show (November 17-20). That’s a savings of $500 to $1,000 on average, according to a recent announcement by show management. Published advanced warehouse crated material handling rates at the IAAPA show will apply on IAAPA exhibitors’ invoices.

AMI AND FIRESTONE FINANCIAL OFFER 0% ON MEGATOUCH
(Posted July 3, 2009 -- 1:30PM)

AMI Entertainment and Firestone Financial have teamed up to offer operators several summer finance deals, including 0% APR for 18 months on all Megatouch countertops, including the popular Rx.
 
Operators can take advantage of 7.99% APR financing for 24 months with a 90-day delay or 4.99% APR financing for 12 months with a standard 30-day delay on a minimum purchase of three Megatouch units. On a minimum purchase of six units, operators have a choice between 5.99% APR financing for 24 months with a 90-day delay and 1.99% APR financing for 12 months with a standard 30-day delay. Operators may also lock in 0% APR financing for 18 months with a standard 30-day delay or 2.99% APR financing for 24 months on a 12 unit minimum purchase with a 90-day delay.

These offers end on September 30. All countertops must be on one invoice. Purchases for this promotion may not be combined with any other offers, and operators will be responsible for freight, tax and $200 filing fee. To learn more, contact your local AMI distributor or the Firestone Sales Department at 800/851-1001.

SHELTI EXTENDS PROMO DEAL
(Posted July 3, 2009 -- 1:30PM)

Shelti Inc. says it will continue to honor orders placed under its  “Summer Sizzler” promotion through the month of July. Buy any combination of three Shelti Bayside coin-op or programmable pool tables or Eye darts and get a free gas grill. Buy any combination of 10 or more Bayside tables or Eye darts and get the free gas grill, plus a $500 pre-paid Visa card. Buy any combination of 20 of the same units, and Shelti will pick up the freight in addition to the grill and the pre-paid Visa card. For more information, contact your distributor, call 817/235-9930 or log on to www.shelti.com.

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BCA BILLIARD EXPO HOSTS 1,120 BUYERS AT VEGAS SHOW
(Posted July 1, 2009 -- 5:30PM)

The 2009 Billiard Congress of America’s (BCA) International Billiard & Home Recreation Expo was held at the Sands Expo and
Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, June 25-27. Buyer attendance for the three-day event was 1,120. The number of companies exhibiting at the event was 116, while the total number of booths was 412.   
 
“I was excited to see how well the show turned out, and I am very pleased with all of the positive comments that I have received from both exhibitors and buyers,” said Ivan Lee, co-chair of the expo and 2008-2009 chairman of the BCA Board of Directors. “Informally, the show was a roll-call for the billiard industry, and the exhibitors that attended saw a strong show of support from the retail base. Many buyers commented that Las Vegas is the right place for the BCA Expo, and they were happy to be back in Vegas. I was also impressed with the Business of Billiards seminar series. We had very good attendance at the seminars this year, and the information presented was timely and very useful.
 
“If you are involved in the billiard industry and didn’t participate in the BCA Expo you missed out,” added Lee. “But don’t take my word for it, ask the exhibitors, retailers and room operators that came to the expo.”  
 
The BCA has secured the Las Vegas Convention Center for the 2010 expo, which will take place June 24-26, 2010, and the Sands Expo and Convention Center, June 23-25, 2011.   
 
Founded in 1948, the Billiard Congress of America is a non-profit trade organization dedicated to growing a united, prosperous and highly regarded billiard industry through BCA leadership. Look for first-hand coverage of the Billiard Expo in the August issue of RePlay.

REDEMPTION PLUS NOW HAS LAVA LAMPS EXCLUSIVELY
(Posted July 1, 2009 -- 5:30PM)

Redemption Plus has become the official distributor of the Lava Lamp product line for the amusement redemption markets.    
 
Lava Lamps have held a place in the hearts of generation after generation, and Lava Lite LLC is the only manufacturer of the original shape of cool.  Redemption Plus will offer customers four different sizes ranging from 10” tall to the enormous 27” Grande in varying colors, as well as an assortment of Lava barware.

The first motion lamp was designed in 1963 by an English engineer, Edward Craven Walker, who sold it under the name Astro Lamp. In 1965, the Astro Lamp was brought to the U.S., renamed Lava Lamp and production took off in Chicago. “Redemption Plus is a premier supplier to the family entertainment industry, and we are excited to have them as a partner,” said Larry Gutkin, CEO of Lava Lite.  For more information, please visit www.redemptionplus.com.

ECAST RELEASES MICHAEL JACKSON TRIBUTE AND HOLIDAY TUNES

(Posted July 1, 2009 -- 5:30PM)

Ecast this week released its “Remember the Time” playlist to its nationwide network of over 10,000 digital jukeboxes. The playlist is a collection of songs dedicated to Michael Jackson’s rich music career and commemorates the passing of one of music’s contemporary legends.

The collection spans more than 50 songs, comprising primarily the pop star’s best-known songs but lesser known ones as well. It also includes cover songs from Alien Ant Farm, Chris Cornell, Fall Out Boy, Willie Nelson and others, and was compiled by Ecast’s music department.

Hannah Blair, lead curator, commented: “Michael Jackson’s career bridged a remarkable number of disparate genres and eras, beginning with the early Jackson 5 days through the disco ’70s and the pop ’80s. It’s clear how much he was influenced by soul artists from the very beginning. In particular, I was struck by “(Come ‘Round Here) I’m the One You Need” where Michael sounds like a pint-sized Wilson Pickett on that track, which is a Smokey Robinson cover.”

Michael Jackson was clearly a favorite on the Ecast music network, racking up nearly 240,000 plays in 2008, with “Billie Jean” topping the list at 32,756 plays and “Thriller” a close second at 30,486. Interestingly, average Michael Jackson tracks played for the first quarter of 2009 were well ahead of 2008 totals. With the artist’s death, those numbers are expected to dramatically increase, indicating fans’ intentions to mourn him through his music.

“Since Michael’s passing, fans are mourning him in a number of ways. First and foremost, they’re obviously playing their favorite songs and reconstituting their own collections of Michael Jackson music. As such, we’re hearing about record downloads on iTunes and Amazon. This playlist is Ecast’s way of celebrating the life of a beloved artist and musical talent,” said Scott Walker, VP of network operations for Ecast.

Also going live across the Ecast 100 broadband network today is the Independence play list. The Ecast Independence list covers more than 175 songs, delivered using the Ecast shuffle mode to spur patron music discovery.  With songs from every genre as well as songs to celebrate every state, the list offers plenty of patriotic and holiday KABOOM. For more information, please visit www.ecastnetwork.com.

WARNER BROTHERS IS SOLE BIDDER FOR MIDWAY
(Posted June 29, 2009 -- 5PM)

Warner Brothers appears to be the only bidder for Midway Games, according to a report in The Los Angeles Times. If a deal goes through, Warner would take over the video game creator recently owned by media mogul Sumner Redstone

“Midway had hoped that the film studio's $33-million offer, made in late May, would spark a bidding war that would boost its price,” the paper reported. “A Chicago investment group and several game publishers kicked the publisher's tires, according to a source familiar with the discussions, but none pulled the trigger.”

The paper went on to say that Midway’s properties and expertise will greatly expand Warner’s fledgling presence in the consumer video game business. Midway left the coin-op business in 2001, and the company has struggled to achieve profits in the intervening years.

BENCHMARK OFFERING TWO-PLAYER MONOPOLY PUSHER
(Posted June 29, 2009 -- 5PM)

Benchmark Games is re-introducing the Monopoly two-station pusher from U.K. game developer Cromptons. Operators who purchase a new Crompton's pusher from Benchmark will receive a $500 credit toward the purchase of any new Benchmark game. “Here is just one more incredible way of upgrading and expanding your business and earn $500,” said Al Kress of Benchmark. “The Monopoly two-station coin pusher is a winner.”

Monopoly 2 pushers are now available in a card swipe compatible version. Players swipe their card and Monopoly automatically dispenses tokens for play. The game also offers a large variety of user program options and is available with a handy program module. A skill feature allows player to indicate an area where coins can be dropped into just the right place to win. For more details, call 888/538-1000
 
ECAST HOLDS FIRST OPERATOR ADVISORY MEETING
(Posted June 29, 2009 -- 5PM)

Ecast recently hosted the first meeting of its newly formed Operator Advisory Board (OAB).  Consisting of operators from across the country, the OAB was formed to further develop the relationships between the digital juke network provider and its operator partners.  “This meeting of the minds has been long overdue. While we always work closely with our operators, you can never have enough face time, especially with a group such as this – who truly represents the majority voice of operators everywhere,” said Scott Walker, VP of network operations of Ecast.

The two-day event took place at Ecast corporate headquarters in San Francisco. Friday’s business session consisted of presentations from various Ecast departments and emphasized three main areas: defining “operator,” best practices for maximizing revenue, potential new markets for Ecast and their operating partners.

“The level of engagement was excellent. The group was very receptive to some of the new directions that Ecast is exploring. They truly understand that we are committed to the coin-op industry and also see the new opportunities that may be available to them through Ecast’s evolution,” said John Taylor, CEO of Ecast.

“It was time well spent and I look forward to our next gathering,” said Tony Yula, president of Power to the Games. Other members of the Ecast Operator Advisory Board include Dave Ruthruff (Digital Music), Kris Gilmore (Troy Vending), Denis Smith (Vend Music), Ray Carpenter (Rainbow Novelties), Julie Nordeen (Stansfield Vending), Tim Zahn (American Amusement Arcades) and Bob Pernolia (Commonwealth Vending).

FLIP 2 WIN WILL BE CARD READER READY
(Posted June 29, 2009 -- 5PM)

Family Fun Companies says its new Flip 2 Win player pusher will be card ready. “With more and more locations utilizing card reader systems, we wanted to make sure those locations can reap the same full cashboxes everyone else has been experiencing,” said Family Fun’s Jim Chapman.  Flip 2 Win uses a self-filling system to keep the coins flowing to the customer’s hand while they play. This feature enables the many card reader locations to take advantage of this two-player pusher.

“With the expertise of our engineer Alex Mazon we now have Flip 2 Win ready for the card reader segment of the market. So many times these locations are not able to take advantage of quick coin games as players have to go to a changer for their coins,” said Chapman. “With our system the operator can drop from one to 10 coins per swipe right at the game. There is no need to search out a changer. Players swipe their card, get their coins and play in a very simple manner. The system also fills itself to make it much easier to operate.” For more information please contact Jim Chapman, 920/497-6991 or Lisa Chapman, 920/491-9453.

(Posted June 26, 2009 -- 3PM)

Kelye Stites, who heads up Champion Shuffleboard and recently acquired Valley-Dynamo from Brunswick, said he will move the latter’s factory from its current Mexico digs back to the Dallas area in a facility he has secured near the current Champion plant in Richland Hills. Brunswick moved production of the pool tables, air hockeys and foosball games to Mexico in early 2007. Stites told RePlay that he hoped to be up and running in early August, following a move-out deadline of the end of July at both the current Valley-Dynamo plant and its administrative offices in Grand Prairie, TX. Stites also indicated that he might change the name of the parent company, while continuing to utilize the various brand names for the respective table game products.

AMI RELEASES NEW MEGATOUCH SOFTWARE
(Posted June 26, 2009 -- 3PM)

AMI Entertainment has released a final version of its spring software update for Megatouch games. This release includes a host of new features for both operators and players, including simplified network configuration, a new installation option, two exciting new games and plenty of updated content for classic Megatouch titles.

The two new games developed for the release are Photo Hunt Widescreen Edition and Fight the Landlord. Photo Hunt Widescreen is an updated version of the number one touchscreen game of all time. Larger photos complement the sleek background while the classic game play remains intact. Photo Hunt Widescreen Edition is available exclusively on Rx and Aurora widescreen systems.   

Fight the Landlord (pictured at right) is a westernized version of one of China’s most popular card games, Dou Di Zhu. Players compete by discarding singles, pairs and trios of cards, attempting to be the first to discard all 17 cards in their possession. Easy to learn but hard to master, this popular card game is ready for a whole new audience.

“We strive for diversity in our game portfolio, and Fight the Landlord, a card game phenomenon in China, is the latest example,” said A.J. Russo, AMI creative director. “This unique game, along with Photo Hunt Widescreen, draws players in and gives them a reason to keep playing, which in turn creates more coin-drop for operators.” Look for the full story on this new release in the next issue of RePlay Magazine.

FIRESTONE OFFERING FINANCING ON DANCE DANCE;
CREDIT FIRM ALSO READY FOR ILLINOIS GAMING
(Posted June 26, 2009 -- 3PM)

Betson and Firestone are offering a new finance deal on Konami’s Dance Dance Revolution X, namely 4.99% APR for 24 months with the purchase of only one game. “The low rate and payments allows operators to add this must-have game to their locations,” said Jim Hines, VP of sales at Firestone. All applicable tax, freight and a $200 filing fee are due up front. For more finance information, contact the Firestone sales team at 800/851-1001.

Firestone also announced this week that it is gearing up for a wave of new business in Illinois in light of what looks like the implementation of legalized video lottery.  “We’re excited about changes in Illinois law that legalizes VLTs,” said Firestone top exec David Cohen. “We’re not newcomers to Illinois. We have an excellent, long-standing track record with coin-op operators across the state, having provided financing for over 275 coin-op operators in Illinois. We’re the industry specialists.”

Cohen says his company has financed over $286 million in the last three years, representing over 10,000 contracts in all 50 states. “We have a strong reputation and name recognition in our industry,” he said. In the past, Firestone has financed VLTs for operators in Louisiana, Montana and West Virginia.

I.T. OFFERING NO MONEY DOWN AND 0% ON LAWN DARTS
(Posted June 26, 2009 -- 3PM)

In an effort to assist operators in managing cash flow this summer, Incredible Technologies has established a financing plan for Target Toss Pro: Lawn Darts. No down payment is required, and no payments are due until July 25. The total amount financed can then be spread over six months at 0% interest.

“Lawn Darts re-energizes play on Bags games,” said Don Pesceone, VP of sales. “When operators install the Lawn Darts update, earnings go up. It would be difficult to find more value for $695 than TTP: Lawn Darts, and players have been raving about the new Raw Talk feature that establishes a new standard of authentic commentary for a bar game.”

Target Toss Pro: Lawn Darts and Bags is actually five games in one:

• Classic Lawn Darts – just like you played in your back yard
• Cricket – the classic barroom darts game
• 501 – the other classic barroom darts game
• Poker Darts – go for the royal flush!
• Bags – the beanbag toss game that’s a tailgating phenomenon!

The no money down, 0% financing program ends July 25. For more information, call I.T. at 800/262-0323 or visit the game’s official websites at www.targettosspro.com and www.itsgames.com.

SACOA OPENS OFFICE IN INDIA
(Posted June 26, 2009 -- 3PM)

Debit card system supplier Sacoa has opened an office for sales and support in India. It will provide service to local clients in the India region and will be the second international Sacoa office, joining existing facilities in Buenos Aires, Argentina and Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The new branch is being headed up by SS Bowling Network & STG Amusements Pvt. Ltd., with offices at CB-202, IInd Floor, Guru Harkishan Plaza, Ring Road, Naraina, New Delhi.

Thakur Surender Singh, director of SS Bowling, has extensive experience in India, Nepal and other countries with many years of expertise in FEC operations.
 
Jorge Mochkovsky, president and CEO of Sacoa, said: “The opening of this office will promote new sales, better service and support for customers in the region.” To learn more, email sales.india@sacoa.com.

BOWLING BIZ ABUZZ ABOUT FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
(Posted June 24, 2009 -- 10PM)

The lure of family entertainment, namely redemption and large-scale leisure attractions, is at the forefront of an ongoing discussion within the bowling industry about how to grow and attract a wider range of customers. This week’s Bowl Expo in Vegas offered more than half a dozen seminars on family entertainment, games and birthday parties, and the trade show floored, which opened today, was filled with exhibitors from the game and leisure industries.

Roughly two dozen amusement exhibitors were showing their goods and services at Bowl Expo, more than a few for the first time; that group included a new consulting firm called FEC NRG founded by four well-known amusement distributors – American Vending Sales, Brady, Mountain Coin and Shaffer Distributing. Representatives from several other amusement game distributors including C.A. Robinson, Betson and Lieberman Companies were also seen walking the show floor aisles.

The American Amusement Machine also debuted its new Location Trade Show pavilion, which simulates a small game room. The pavilion included exhibits by Andamiro, Bay Tek, Benchmark, Chicago Gaming, LAI, Game Room By Design, Namco, Raw Thrills, Redemption Plus and Smart Industries. A number of other amusement firms took their own booths including Medalist Marketing, which signed up as a full-fledged sponsor of Bowl Expo as a first-time exhibitor. “I have high hopes,” said Medalist VP Chris Peppard. Look for full coverage of amusement exhibitors at Bowl Expo in the August issue of RePlay.

Walking the show floor, a reporter for this publication also ran into a handful of bowling center operators who say they will be making the FEC plunge by upgrading their facilities this fall with a redemption game room component as well as other attractions. “Bowling centers are trying to reinvent the model and bring new people into their locations,” said Bill Merrick of Qubica/AMF.

“Bowling has finally awakened fully to the FEC concept,” added convention seminar speaker Frank Seninksy of Amusement Entertainment Management, a consulting firm that has worked to bring FEC attractions to a number of bowling centers.

Jumpstarting the day, former U.S. Senator and popular movie and television actor Fred Thompson (seen here), who ran for the Republican nomination for president in 2008, was the keynote speaker at the general membership meeting of the Bowling Proprietors Association of America, which sponsors Bowl Expo. “Small business is the backbone of our economy,” said Thompson in discussing the current recession. “Things will work themselves out in a free market system.”

As noted earlier, look for full coverage of Bowl Expo in the August issue of RePlay.

BENCHMARK OFFERS $1,000 TRADE-IN DEAL
(Posted June 24, 2009 -- 10PM) 

Benchmark Games is offering a $1,000 credit towards the purchase of its popular Big Rig Truckin' game when an operator trades in a Benchmark Big Haul.   "Here is just one more fantastic way of upgrading and expanding the games business while earning $1,000,” said Benchmark CEO Al Kress. “It's a winner in every respect." A one-year top to bottom and front to back warranty comes with the Big Rig game. Operators will be asked to send back to Benchmark the "heart" of their current Big Haul machine. The factory will then issue a credit for $1,000 with the order of a new Big Rig Truckin'.  The $1,000 trade-in ends August 3, 2009.  Operators can contact their distributor or call Benchmark (561-588-5200) to take advantage of this offer.

OHIO OPS HOPING TO GET ON BOARD WITH GAMING
(Posted June 22, 2009 -- 9AM)

Ohio Governor Ted Strickland has recently proposed expanding gaming at the state’s seven racetracks by allowing them to operate up to 2,000 video lottery terminals. Ohio amusement and music operators are hoping they can also convince state officials to include operator run gaming machines in hospitality venues, reports the Ohio Coin Machine Association.

“While this can be perceived as a negative development, we can also view it as an opportunity,” said OCMA executive director David Corey.  “An opportunity to continue what we have been educating legislators about these last few months – ‘if you are going to expand gaming; include Ohio’s 10,000 small business hospitality venues; specifically, bars and bowling centers.’”
Corey went on to say that Ohio officials have not closed the door on VLTs in bars as part of their response to filling the gap in looming budget shortfalls. Ohio operators are being urged to contact their elected state officials. In addition, operators should encourage their location customers to do the same.
 
“We need a huge grassroots effort on this issue,” said Corey.  “If they don’t hear from you, your bars, and everyone else, they will think that VLTs at racetracks only is OK by you.  Please don’t let them think this, because it can’t be farther from the truth!” 
 
OCMA is also coordinating its efforts with the Ohio License Beverage Association (OLBA), which is engaging members to conduct the same grassroots efforts as OCMA. To learn more, contact OCMA at 614/784-9772; email ocma@the-ocma.org.
 
 VIRGINA OPS MEET TO REBUILD ASSOCIATION
(Posted June 22, 2009 -- 9AM)

Virginia operators, who once had an active state association that has since gone dormant, met on June 11 in Charlottesville to begin the rebuilding process. “The meeting was attended by eleven operators from around the state and a rep from JVL,” reported John Newberry of Venco Music. “We agreed to re-establish our old association, The Amusement and Music Operators of Virginia.”

At the meeting, a board of directors was elected with John Newberry as president, Tony Moore as VP, and Charles Rowland as secretary/treasurer. They have also agreed to have Jeff Smith of The Smith Group in Richmond run the association as well as hand its government relations duties.

“I have contacted several other operators who wish to join,” added Newberry. “This has needed to happen for a long time and we have great support from a lot of good companies. Any interested parties please contact me.” Newberry can be reached at 800-762-9962; email jnewberry@vencomusic.com.

LEININGER IS NEW MOMA EXECUTIVE
(Posted June 22, 2009 -- 9AM)

Longtime MOMA member and officer Chuck Leininger has been named by the Minnesota Operators of Music and Amusement as its new executive director. He takes over for longtime executive director Hy Sandler, who is retiring.
 
“I will do my best to keep all members informed of any matters relating to MOMA,” reported Leininger. “I would like to welcome any emails or phone calls with suggestions as to how to make our organization stronger and more friendly to all of our members.”
 
MOMA president, Matt Zasmeta has also appointed Tim Williamson (Williamson Music) as an additional board member.

BETSON SOUTHEAST SERVES UP SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY
(Posted June 18, 2009 -- 10:30PM)

Betson Enterprises held a grand opening spotlight show at the newly opened Southeast office located in Marietta, Ga., on June 11. The distributor displayed the latest amusement games such as Guitar Hero Arcade, H2Overdrive and PUTT along with top earning redemption games while offering innovative financing options to operating companies throughout the region.

The spotlight show and grand opening marked a major milestone and reflected the continuing growth of Betson Enterprises by adding their twelfth national branch office. Over 125 attendees, 50 operating companies, and 15 suppliers spent the afternoon speaking to industry veterans and enjoying a good old-fashion barbeque. Betson personnel said they were glad to speak with the local operators and explain the commitment to service and parts the new office would provide.  “We want to invest in the operator and help him manage his business through these difficult economic times and are very excited to open our new Betson Southeast office to show our commitment,” said Bob Geschine, president of H. Betti Industries.

Educational seminars were conducted on topics such as “Generating Profits Through an ATM," “How to Increase Sales Through Lavazza Blue Coffee,” and “New Financial Strategies to Grow Your Business” given by David Cohen, CEO of Firestone Financial and Geschine.

“From the country barbeque to our financial services seminar it was a very good day in Marietta, GA.  We enjoyed a tremendous turn out that exceeded all expectations. From the panhandle of Florida to the coast of South Carolina customers were interested in seeing new equipment and checking out our new facility,” said Dave Capilouto, branch manager. For more information on Betson products and financing visit the company website at www.betson.com.

TOUCHTUNES TO FEATURE CANADIAN BAND THE NEW CITIES
(Posted June 18, 2009 -- 10:30PM)

TouchTunes says they will add the debut album by The New Cities to jukeboxes throughout Canada.  Lost in City Lights (Sony Music) features eleven synth-pop tracks by the six-member band and their first single “Dead End Countdown” is currently a Top 5 hit on Canada’s CHR chart radio chart.  “We’re really excited to be part of this program and it’s a cool way to get our music out across the country to new fans,” says Nick Denis, one of the two keyboardists in The New Cities. “We definitely count being added to the TouchTunes catalog as a milestone for The New Cities.”
 
 “We’re always looking at up and coming bands, and there’s been a lot of buzz around The New Cities,” said Vicki Saunders, VP of digital media and music marketing at TouchTunes.   “We’ve launched a number of high-profile music promotions in the U.S. for major artists including Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews, Wyclef Jean, Billy Joel, Miranda Lambert and many others. We’re excited to partner with Sony Music on our first promotion in Canada with such a promising band.” 
 
TouchTunes will be promoting the tracks from Lost in City Lights with special interactive banners on the jukebox screens, calling attention to the album’s new availability. 

PAST PRESIDENTS WEIGH IN ON
IALEI MERGER, SENINSKY RESPONDS
(Posted June 17, 2009 -- 4:30PM)

Controversy continues to roil the ongoing deliberations between IALEI and IAAPA over a proposed merger, namely because of internal conflict within the former FEC-focused organization. Past IALEI president Frank Seninsky and former board member Bud Umbach, who resigned in protest, have questioned the way in which the board voted to proceed with the merger and an alleged lack of information about the merger and its implications since that decision in March.

A group of past IALEI presidents responded in a letter released this week, saying: “Many of the statements made public by a small group of former board members who disagree with the majority vote of the board are by our reading rife with inaccuracies and unsubstantiated opinion. The process of analyzing a merger is painful, but the outcome either way is hopefully to the betterment of the members of the IALEI. The IALEI board, its staff and advisors are working through difficult times. We find certain attacks on them from this small group of current and former board members to be inappropriate. Board members are bound by confidentiality of sensitive matters when they accept the board election.” 

The letter went on to say that although the authors, 10 past presidents of IALEI, are not all of one mind concerning the merits of this potential merger, they “believe the current IALEI leadership is acting in the best interests of the association as they see it. In short, the process needs to be fair and balanced, not a public lynching of the rule of the many by the wishes of the few.”

Past presidents of IALEI who signed the letter included Phil DeAngelo, Jack Cohen, Larry Davis, Joey Herd, Gene Hinkle, George McAuliffe, Ed Pearson, Harold Skripsky, George Smith and Ken Vondriska.

Seninsky responded in an email, writing: “All of the past presidents that signed the letter are good people and have done a lot of good for IALEI. I do not believe that any of them would ever intentionally hurt this industry. I also do not believe that facts can be construed as a public lynching by a few.”

Seninsky went on to dispute a number of statements made by the past presidents, including their contention that a majority of the board voted to pursue the IAAPA merger instead of remaining a stand-alone organization or possibly merging with the American Amusement Machine Association.

“There was never a majority vote of the board of directors for the option of a merger with IAAPA,” Seninsky contended in his email. “That is a fact and has been confirmed by the IALEI attorney. The board did not have an opportunity to discuss any of the three options (and I ask why only three options) and vote yes or no for each of the three options. Rather the entire vote was staged and seven board members got their way even though eight others had totally different opinions.”

Additionally, Seninsky said his informal survey shows that IALEI members are opposed to the IAAPA merger and that finances are not the motivating factor behind the move to merge with another association. “IALEI has just picked up 121 new members over the past five months from the insurance program alone,” he claimed. “IALEI has switched over to a virtual office and cut some expenses. Even the Fun Expo did not lose money this year as expected.”  

Following a period of due diligence, IAAPA’s board is expected to vote next week on whether to proceed with the merger. IALEI’s board will in turn cast a final vote on the merger on June 30. The decision will then be up to the members of IALEI, who will have an evaluation period from July 15 through August 28 vote to consider the proposed merger before a vote of the entire membership either in person or by proxy. The latter form of voting was recently approved through an IALEI by-laws change.

AAMA TO HOST REDEMPTION SEMINAR
(Posted June 17, 2009 -- 4:30PM)

SIX FLAGS FILES FOR REORGANIZATION
(Posted June 14, 2009 -- 7PM)

Theme park operator Six Flag filed for bankruptcy organization on June 13. Six Flags is struggling under $2.4 billion in debt and was unable to refinance or meet its payments, but the amusement powerhouse has reportedly already negotiated a new debt structure with its lenders. According to the New York Times: “That proposal would eliminate $1.8 billion in debt and slice off the $300 million in preferred stock payments.”

Chief executive Mark Shapiro was quoted as saying, “The current management team inherited a $2.4 billion debt load that cannot be sustained, particularly in these challenging financial markets.” Six Flags experienced a 24% drop in revenue over the past year. Despite that decrease, the company still managed to cut net losses by $140 million during that same period.

FIRESTONE OFFERS DEALS FOR RAW THRILLS VIDEOS
(Posted June 14, 2009 -- 7PM)

Firestone Financial is working with Raw Thrills to offer special 7.99% financing with no payments for 90 days on half a dozen videogames, including Guitar Hero, Big Buck Safari standard and deluxe, Nicktoons Nitro, H2Overdrive and The Fast and Furious Drift. The term is 36 months and the minimum purchase for financing is $10,000. Jim Hines, VP of sales at Firestone, said: “Firestone is pleased to offer low financing and three months of no payments on these popular games. Now is the perfect time to preserve your capital and continue to use Firestone to grow your business.” The offer ends August 31. All applicable tax, freight and a $200 filing fee are due up front. For more details, contact Firestone at 800/851-1001.

IAAPA ASIAN EXPO DRAWS 3,500
(Posted June 14, 2009 -- 7PM)

At press time, preliminary estimates indicate more than 3,500 people, including 2,700 buyers from 40 countries, participated in IAAPA’s Asian Attractions Expo 2009. The four-day event took place June 9-12 June at the COEX Convention and Exhibition Center in Seoul, Korea.

Participants attended industry educational sessions, visited local attractions, built relationships at networking events, learned about what’s new in the industry and purchased products and services on the tradeshow floor.
 
“Given the worldwide concerns over the H1N1 virus, the current political climate in the region and the state of the global economy, we are pleased that more than 3,500 people participated in Asian Attractions Expo 2009,” said IAAPA president and CEO Charles Bray. “We greatly appreciate the strong support for this year’s expo from throughout Asia and particularly from our host country of South Korea.”

CONGRESS APPROVES FDA REGULATION OF TOBACCO
(Posted June 12, 2009 -- 2PM)

The U.S. Senate yesterday approved a measure that would grant the Food and Drug Administration the power to regulate tobacco products. The U.S. House has already approved a similar measure, and President Obama has said he would sign the bill, making Congressional approval of the measure very likely. Industry watchers have said such a move would likely have a major impact on cigarette vending.

During the Clinton years, the FDA asserted its right to regulate tobacco, but the Supreme Court rejected their effort, saying the agency needed the OK of Congress. “Cigarettes remained less regulated than cosmetics or pet food,” The New York Times reported on June 11. “But with broad bipartisan support in both the Senate and House, and a campaign pledge by Barack Obama to sign such legislation if he became president, the anti-tobacco forces came into alignment.”

The Times went on to report that the measure, called the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, “would empower the FDA to set standards for cigarettes, regulating chemicals in cigarette smoke and outlawing most tobacco flavorings… The law would also further restrict marketing and advertising of tobacco products… But while the FDA could mandate a reduced level of nicotine, an addictive chemical, the law expressly says the agency cannot ban it. Public health advocates say outlawing nicotine would force addicts to turn to a black market or other sources.”

AMI ENTERTAINMENT ACQUIRES ROCK-OLA MFG.
(Posted June 10, 2009 -- 7AM)

AMI Entertainment Network Inc. has acquired the commercial jukebox assets of Rock-Ola Manufacturing Corp. Since its founding in 1927, Rock-Ola has produced some of the most well-known coin-operated entertainment products. The company began manufacturing jukeboxes in 1935, and today Rock-Ola offers a line of commercial digital jukeboxes addressing the full-range of operator needs.

“This acquisition is a natural evolution of the AMI-Rock-Ola relationship,” said Mike Maas, president of AMI Entertainment Network.  “Rock-Ola commercial jukeboxes have been produced exclusively for connection to the AMI network since last fall.”

Rock-Ola’s commercial jukebox models, Slimline, Wall-Rock, and Rock-Star, will now be produced alongside Rowe jukeboxes. Under the agreement, Glenn Streeter retains ownership of Antique Apparatus Co. (AACO) and Qsonix Inc., who will use the Rock-Ola name for their consumer products. AACO will continue to manufacture and sell both digital and CD Nostalgia boxes, including the Q and Mystic, while also maintaining production of their wallettes, designed for 50s-style diner locations.  

“It’s been a great honor to run this American icon for the past 17 years,” reflected Streeter.  “And nothing is more American than a Rock-Ola jukebox playing rock n roll music delivered by AMI Entertainment.  I am confident that AMI will stay true to the history of quality and innovation, adding to Rock-Ola’s stature in the industry.”
 
AACO will maintain service for the commercial products during the transition. In early July, all service and support will shift to the industry-renowned AMI technical support team in Grand Rapids, MI (USA).  AMI will honor all valid warranties on Rock-Ola products including all Ecast-powered Rock-Ola jukeboxes.

COASTAL'S SPIDER BOT SELLS OUT
(Posted June 10, 2009 -- 7AM)

Coastal Amusements’ new Spider Bot, released in March of this year, is sold out through June.  Orders are now being taken for shipment in July.  Spider Bot has a “retro-futuristic” theme. A mechanical spider tries to steal the player’s prize.  The player must shoot the spider with his ray gun in order to kill the spider before it reaches its web.  Tickets are awarded based on the number of hits.

Spider Bot is also equipped with a progressive bonus to award large amounts of tickets, should the player score enough hits on the spider. The game is also available as a direct prize, capsule-dispensing game for those locations not equipped for ticket redemption. Log on to www.coastalamusements.com to learn more or find a distributor.

GUITAR HERO ARCADE HITS THE 2,000 MARK
(Posted June 10, 2009 -- 7AM)

Raw Thrills and Play Mechanix have shipped over 2,000 units of the video Guitar Hero Arcade since production started three months ago, the companies announced this week. Betson, which is serving as the game’s exclusive distributor, reports that many regional and national amusement facilities (movie theaters, FECs, LBEs, bowling centers, amusement parks, big box retailers) have covered all their locations with at least one game and have doubled up in many others. Coinstar, the national route that specializes in big box retail including Wal-Mart, reports Guitar Hero Arcade as its number one video, according to Betson.
 
Operators have also reportedly been successful in promoting the game through special contests with players competing for prizes and top honors as the Best of the Band. Brown University radio station, WBRU, is running weekly Guitar Hero Arcade contests on campus to offer a much-needed break from the rigors of collegiate academia, and more arcade events are beginning to pop up all over North America.

 “The current pipeline of orders for Guitar Hero Arcade is growing daily and we have not experienced this type of excitement for a video game in a long time,” said Bob Boals, EVP of Betson Enterprises.

North America is not the only region where Guitar Hero Arcade is experiencing success. Spain, Italy, Germany, England, France, Singapore, Philippines, New Zealand, Australia, India, Middle East, Africa, China and Canada are also enjoying brisk sales with the game, reported Betson. Guitar Hero Arcade is currently available through a special finance program being offer by Firestone Financial.

ECAST OFFERS SUMMER JAM PLAYLIST
(Posted June 8, 2009 -- 8PM)

Ecast is celebrating the advent of the sunny season with its Summer Jam playlist. Easing in the summer with the sound of favorite outdoor music festival bands, the playlist automatically made its appearance on all 10,000-plus Ecast-powered jukeboxes and will entertain bar goers for the remainder of the month. Bringing together bands from the 70s, 80s and 90s and today, the playlist offers visibility to a crowd appealing mix of eclectic fusion rockers in the Ecast catalog. The list spans seminal jam band the Grateful Dead and their peers the Allman Brothers to songs from Phish, Widespread Panic, Dave Matthews, Blues Traveler and more. Let the summer of love begin, again!

“Rock bars make up a significant part of the Ecast network and this is a great playlist for their patrons, regardless of age,” said Ecast VP Scott Walker, VP Network Operations, himself a huge jam band fan. “Playlists lets us mix up existing content in new and relevant ways, keeping consumers coming back for more and offering tremendous value to the labels and artists we carry.”

OHIO OPERATORS GET READY FOR JUNE 18 MEETING
(Posted June 8, 2009 -- 8PM)

The Ohio Coin Machine Operators Association will host its annual meeting on Thursday, June 18, at 1 p.m. with a social reception to follow at 4 p.m.  The event will take place at the Ramada Plaza in Columbus. Topics on the agenda include the possible expansion of gaming, maybe even into bars, as well an update on the legal situation with regard to redemption and skill games, the latest on smoking regulation and the possible expansion of the lottery to include on-premise keno machines. To find out more, call OCMA at 614/784-9772.

ILLINOIS OPS PONDER GAMING PROCESS
(Posted June 5, 2009 -- 3:30PM)

With the state on the verge of approving legalized video gaming in Illinois, operators were beginning to ponder what looks to be a fairly daunting process ahead for them. Tradesters from the Land of Lincoln got a detailed update on what gaming will entail for both them and their customers at this week’s Illinois Coin Machine Association annual meeting and trade show, held just over the state line in Lake Geneva, Wis. By all accounts, the licensing process will be more than thorough, what one insider described as akin to a “legal colonoscopy.”

Fortunately, for Illinois operators the bill, which has yet to be signed by Governor Pat Quinn but is likely to become law one way or other, is very industry friendly. It requires both operators (who have to be Illinois residents) and distributors but precludes location ownership of the games. Moreover, the revenue will be dedicated to capital improvement funding, meaning that it will be very difficult politically for state politicians to reverse their decision in the future.

“You are on the verge of possibly becoming the largest gaming entity in Illinois,” long-time ICMOA lobbyist Zach Stamp told the members at Thursday’s session.  “You are going to need to step up and become a cohesive association. There are going to be challenges and assaults out there, every year. We are not done. There is a lot more work on defense.”

In addition to an in-depth look at the possibility for video gaming, Illinois operators held a board meeting, listened to a national update from AMOA President Russ Mawdsley, three informative seminars (covering redemption, online video games and on-premise advertising), and an evening cocktail party and equipment show that featured many of the industry’s newest products. Look RePlay’s first-hand coverage of the ICMOA, including much more on gaming in Illinois, in the July issue of RePlay Magazine.

IALEI APPROVES PROX VOTE ON MERGER
(Posted June 5, 2009 -- 3:30PM)

The International Association for the Leisure and Entertainment Industry (IALEI) says its members have overwhelming approved a bylaws change recommended by the board. This change will allow IALEI members to vote by mail with a proxy on important issues including the potential merger of the association with IAAPA.
 
"We really wanted to get a system in place which would make it much easier and more practical for our members to fully participate in the important decisions facing the association,” said chairwoman Dorothy Lewis. "We are extremely pleased with the vote which showed that 93% of the responding members support the boards' position to facilitate greater membership involvement in voting."
 
IALEI is currently developing a merger proposal with IAAPA and if approved by both association boards, this important proposal will be presented to the IALEI membership later this summer. Controversy continues to swirl around this proposed merger. Expect much more on this story in the upcoming issue of RePlay Magazine.

RUDOWICZ FORMS CONSULTING FIRM;
TAKES ON FREEDOM SMOKELESS
(Posted June 3, 2009 -- 4PM)

Mike Rudowicz, former president of the American Amusement Machine Association, has formed Entertainment Connections. In this new venture, he will be working with a select few companies as a coin-op specialist to help facilitate a number of business operations such as relevant licensing opportunities, new product development, and market analysis.

His first order of business will be to establish a worldwide distribution network to include North America, South America, Europe, and the Asian marketplace for Freedom Smokeless Corp. Freedom Smokeless Corporation manufacturers tobacco-free alternative smoking products.

“We are proud to welcome Mike Rudowicz into the Freedom Family,” said Freedom Smokeless’ Glenn Kassel.  Freedom CEO Mike Lewis added, “Having an experienced, well-respected guy like Mike on our team will help us immensely.”

With over 35 years of experience in the coin-op industry, Rudowicz hopes his Entertainment Connections will become an invaluable and sought-after service.  

BILL FREEMAN JOINS BENCHMARK SALES TEAM
(Posted June 3, 2009 -- 3PM)

Benchmark Games has named 20-year industry veteran Bill Freeman as the newest member of the company's sales team.  Al Kress, CEO for Benchmark Games, said: "We are excited to have this 30-year veteran of the amusement and entertainment industry as part of Benchmark's sales team and we look forward to major contributions from Bill." 

Freeman has wide ranging experience and in-depth knowledge of the entertainment industry. He is a qualified teacher and trainer in many areas with excellent people skills.  Among his many career accomplishments, he has owned A Game Service for the past 11 years and provided business consulting to the games industry.  Freeman is well versed and skilled in the service and technical support for video games and pinball.  He has been a consultant on game rooms setup, management and coin-op refurbishment. 

Prior to establishing his own company, he was GM of the GameWorks in Orlando.  From 1986 to 1996, he was a computer systems technician at Walt Disney World, where he was responsible for audio and video quality for the entire EPCOT Theme Park.  Prior to that, he held positions in several other industries and served four years in the U.S. Navy, where he was a flight simulator systems specialist. Benchmark is happy to welcome Bill Freeman to its sales team.

BRUNSWICK & SACOA JOIN FORCES
(Posted June 3, 2009 -- 3PM)
 
Brunswick and Sacoa have joined forces to offer a full-function interface between Brunswick's Vector Plus Center Network System and the Sacoa Playcard System. The interface has successfully been installed at Strikz Entertainment in Frisco, Texas, where all transactions at the front desk are now run from the Brunswick terminal.  This Vector Plus Game Card Interface is available through Brunswick and includes the game card software, a magnetic stripe reader and an Ethernet card.

NBVA TO FOCUS LOBBYING ON PRODUCT LABELING
(Posted June 3, 2009 -- 3PM)

The National Bulk Vendors Association has agreed to sign a representation agreement with their lobbying firm Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky and Popeo, P.C. to engage the federal government on the issue of permanent product labeling. The deal is the largest undertaking the association has ever committed to in its 59-year history and obligates the association to pay $120,000 in fees over the next year. 

“We’ve dedicated ourselves to this issue because it has far reaching repercussions threatening the future of our business,” said Randy Chilton, NBVA president. The funds will be paid from donations provided by members and industry professionals who understand the severity of the situation.  “The vending community is very generous and we hope to be fully funded by the end of the summer,” said Chilton.

The labeling provisions of the CPSIA require that manufacturers of products designed for children 12 years of age or younger have permanent labels indicating where and when the product was made.  The idea is to be able to track a product in the case of a recall.  Vending machine toys and novelties are so small that there is not enough surface area to include this information and the price points of the item make it all but impracticable. 

That is why the vending industry is fighting these provisions, and Congress has recognized that permanent labeling cannot be possible on every type of item.  The provision becomes effective on August 14th of this year. “We’ve been educating our membership and the industry at large over the past few months and have included a lot of information at our website at www.nbva.org.  Further, anyone wishing to contribute to our Legislative Fund should do so by contacting our association headquarters at (888)-NBVA-USA (628-2872),” concluded Chilton.

VINCENT PARRILLO JOINS PYRAMID AS VP
(Posted June 3, 2009 -- 3PM)

Currency validation provider Pyramid Technologies has hired Vincent Parrillo as VP of sales and marketing.  Parrillo will be responsible for the company’s sales and marketing activities worldwide. “Pyramid Technologies is very pleased to have Vincent join our organization to help us continue our sales growth both domestically and internationally” said David Mays, CEO and founder of Pyramid.  “We are excited to have Vincent on our team because he brings more than a decade of sales experience managing distribution channels and a track record for implementing profitable growth strategies.” 

Parrillo comes to Pyramid Technologies from SIMCO Electronics where he managed sales in Southern California.  Previously, Parrillo was a sales director at Data I/O Corporation where he spent more than eleven years.  While at Data I/O, Parrillo managed the US, European and Asian sales organizations over the course of his career.

Parrillo holds both a Bachelors and Masters Degree from the University of California, Irvine and has managed sales organizations both in the U.S. and in Europe.  He is fluent in both English and German and has recently relocated from Los Angeles to Phoenix, AZ. To learn more about Pyramid log on to www.pyramidacceptors.com.

MICK WHITE TO HEAD UP SALES AT SHELTI 
(Posted June 3, 2009 -- 3PM)
 
Shelti Inc. recently welcomed Mick White to lead their sales team. He has more than 25 years of sales and marketing experience in the industry, including work with Tornado, Great American, Valley-Dynamo, and Merit.  He can be reached at 877/893-1739, or 817/235-9930.  Shelti Inc. manufactures the Bayside coin-op and programmable pool tables, Eye2 darts, Pro Foos foosball and an entire line of home table games. The company is located in Bay City Michigan, www.shelti.com.
 
 MERIT & ROWE NOW UNDER ONE BRAND
(Posted June 1, 2009 -- 4:30PM)

The merger of Merit Entertainment and Rowe International is now complete with the selection of AMI Entertainment Network Inc. as the new entity’s name. “Our diverse, collective digital entertainment portfolio has been simplified into four distinct segments,” said Mike Maas, AMI’s president and chief executive officer. “Games, Music, Video, and Emerging Media, all organized under AMI Entertainment Network, Inc.”

Each AMI Entertainment Network segment features associated brands that independently provide top-quality content to patrons and value to operators. As part of this integration, Megatouch will be the touchscreen game brand of AMI while Rowe will be a music brand. “By employing complementary system standards and industry-leading innovations, these repositioned game and music brands will be more versatile than ever before,” Maas continued.

The rapid expansion of AMI’s content delivery network continues to attract numerous partners with exciting products and applications. “With our Megatouch and Rowe brands, plus strategic partners, we are poised to offer the world’s most compelling, digital entertainment solutions, all backed by the best technical support team in the business,” added Maas.

HAIM STARTS NEW FIRM, GOLD COAST INTL.
(Posted June 1, 2009 -- 4:30PM)

Industry veteran Marc Haim, who headed up the now defunct export biz R.H., Belam, has launched a new international trading firm called Gold Coast International. GCI is dedicated to the international distribution of coin-op machines at wholesale export prices.  New equipment will be supplied in original factory cartons, used machines will be checked and complete in good working order, then packed or palletized as needed, Haim reported.
 
“I will continue to manage this business with many of the experienced export staff, and we will offer unbeatable prices combined with efficient rapid service for all international customers,” Haim said.  “We assure you of your satisfaction, we appreciate your support, and look forward to working with you. Our new website is being constructed, at the moment we are still using the  www.belamny.com website.”

GCI is located at 1010 Northern Blvd., Great Neck, NY 110021; 516-472-0730; fax 516-472-0737;  website www.belamny.com. 

IALEI HAS A NEW ADDRESS
(Posted June 1, 2009 -- 4:30PM)

The International Association for the Leisure and Entertainment Industries (IALEI) is moving its headquarters. Effective immediately, the group's office will be at: Hershey Square #208, 1152 Mae Street, Hummelstown, PA 17036. IALEI can be reached at the same phone and fax numbers: 888/464-6498 or 717/533-0534; fax 717-533-0535

AMOA EXPO TO CELEBRATE IN SONG
(Posted June 1, 2009 -- 4:30PM)

This year marks the 120th anniversary of the jukebox, and AMOA plans to celebrate this milestone in style at the association’s fall expo. At the annual Opening Gala Reception on the pool deck of the Las Vegas Hilton on Thursday, September 24, AMOA will sponsor a performance by Sonny Turner, former lead singer of the Platters.

Sonny joined the group at age 19 and helped bring the Platters back on the pop charts during the 1960s with such hits as "I Love You 1,000 Times;" "With This Ring;" and "Washed Ashore." As well, he re-recorded the group's classics such as "Only You;" "The Great Pretender;" and "The Magic Touch." To learn more about the fall show, log on to www.amoashow.com.