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AMOA-NDA Hosts Successful Team Dart
(Posted May 21, 2013 -- 11 PM)

The AMOA-National Dart Association (NDA) held its 28th annual international soft-tip dart tournament, Team Dart, at Bally's Las Vegas on April 19-27. This year's Team Dart received more than 10,000 event entrants (over 2,900 players from five countries), all competing for over $500,000 in prize money. 
 
The tournament is unique compared to others in that skill levels range from beginner to master. All participants are classified into levels according to their individual or team's skill rating. There are anywhere from one to 18 levels in any one event each year, depending on the number and skill levels of entries. The unique advantage to Team Dart, says NDA, is that all levels in open events pay the same amount of money for each place, be it level one or 18. Therefore, every player has the opportunity to be in the money no matter the skill level.
 
Approximately 150 NDA operator members sent teams to Team Dart this year. Team Dart entry qualifications include being a NDA-sanctioned player and playing at least 96 league games in a specified period for the NDA coin-op vending company who enters the player in the tournament. Players had the option of participating in up to 10 events throughout the nine days of competition.
 
Team Dart is held annually at Bally's Las Vegas, which the group boasts as a prime location allowing players to experience Vegas at a central location for full vacation benefits. The tournament hall, which is large enough to hold the entire tournament, is located just steps away from Bally's casino and sleeping rooms. Look for more on this event in a future issue of RePlay.

Jersey Shore Amusement Icon Reopens
(Posted May 21, 2013 -- 11 PM)

New Jersey's Keansburg Amusement Park held a grand reopening this past weekend. The facility includes arcade operations owned by Coast To Coast Entertainment, who also supplies games and cranes to other operators.
 
According to the Asbury Park Press, Keansburg co-owner Bill Gehlhaus "thanked workers and volunteers for their dedication to restore the 108-year-old park after Sandy destroyed rides, game stands, arcade games and more...Many of the park's attractions are up and running; games and arcades are brand new."

NTSB Calls For .05 BAC Driving Limit
(Posted May 21, 2013 --11 PM)

The National Transportation Safety Board is pushing all 50 states to enact laws that would set the driving limit for blood alcohol content at .05. All 50 states are currently a .08 BAC.
"Most Americans think that we've solved the problem of impaired driving, but in fact, it's still a national epidemic," said NTSB Chairman Deborah Hersman. "On average, every hour one person is killed and 20 more are injured."
 
According to NTSB, although impairment begins with the first drink, by 0.05 BAC most drivers experience a decline in both cognitive and visual functions, which significantly increases the risk of a serious crash. "Currently, over 100 countries on six continents have BAC limits set at 0.05 or lower," the agency said. "The NTSB has asked all 50 states to do the same."
 
NTSB has posted its report, "Reaching Zero: Actions to Reduce Alcohol-Impaired Driving," at http://go.usa.gov/TeQe.
 
S.C. Court Allows Player To Sue For Poker Loss
(Posted May 21, 2013 --11 PM)

A South Carolina appeals court has given the green light to a lawsuit filed by a losing player against a video poker gambling establishment to recover losses, reported the website thestate.com. The player is seeking approximately $700,000 in losses.
 
The plaintiff's lawyer predicted a "flood of lawsuits against the illegal video poker and sweepstakes industry and the mom-and-pop stores that house their machines," according to the website.
 
"The Court of Appeals' decision says allowing a gambler to sue to recover losses is beneficial to society because it conceivably serves to deter gambling by putting an illegal betting establishment on notice that it is subject to being sued," thestate.com reported.
 
The full story is available at
http://www.thestate.com/2013/05/15/2772372/court-gambler-can-sue-columbias.html#storylink=cpy
 
Apple Now Offering Online Photo Media Sales
(Posted May 21, 2013 -- 11 PM)

Apple Industries/Face Place now offers operators the ability to purchase media for all of their Face Place photo booths over the Internet.
 
Operators who own a Face Place photo booth can register (free) to create an account. Once their account is live, they can click through a series of options in a matter of seconds to make their purchase. The photo strips needed to keep their units earning -- up to several hundred dollars per week in strong locations -- will be soon on their way, says the firm.
 
"Media purchase capability is the latest step in our steady expansion of operator tools and services at faceplacephoto.com," said Apple CEO Allen Weisberg. "We're launching this service as a simple way for operators to get started with online purchasing. More products and capabilities will be added to the Apple ecommerce portal in the coming months."
 
After registering for an account on www.faceplacephoto.com, operators can purchase media through the portal. Available media include 4 x 6" photo strips for nearly all Face Place booths and the oversized 6 x 8" strips for the Magazine Me photo booth. Operators may purchase by media by the roll or by the case. The system automatically calculates the correct taxes and shipping fees for the operator's destination address.
 
All online financial details and account details are secured via Apple's SSL Certificate-bearing content management system, which validates all data prior to processing. Product will initially ship via UPS ground service. Additional options will be added in the coming weeks for faster shipping.
 
As a welcome gift to Apple operators getting started with the system, free Apple Face Place t-shirts will be included with every order through May 17. Operators may continue to place media orders by phone 516/619-8000.
 
I.T. Announces Golden Tee June Sweepstakes
(Posted May 21, 2011 -- 11 PM)

Prize Play isn't the only way for players to play and win on Golden Tee. Throughout the month of June, Incredible Technologies is hosting an automated sweepstakes on participating Golden Tee LIVE 2013 machines. Messages that advertise the event will appear on the game before every play. A special web page will be available for complete prizes, rules and eligibility.

During the month of June, players select and play Glory or Stats games on participating Golden Tee LIVE 2013 machines and are automatically entered into both the weekly drawing, as well as the grand prize drawing at the end of the month. The more games they play, the more chances they have to win, says I.T.
 
The first three weeks in June will award a $1,000 prize to a lucky player, chosen randomly from each week's entries. Then in the final week of June, all entries from the month will be counted for the grand prize drawing for a Golden Tee Home Edition game. Winners will be announced each Monday and posted on participating machines, as well as the LIVEWIRE website.
 
"An easy-to-enter sweepstakes is a great way to keep players focused on Golden Tee as the nice weather moves in", said Elaine Hodgson, I.T. President and CEO. "There is no additional entry fee to the player, and big prizes give plenty of incentive to play a few extra games for more chances to win."
 
The June sweepstakes will be offered automatically on all online Golden Tee LIVE 2013 machines in the U.S., except for Florida, New York, Rhode Island, Alaska, Hawaii and New Jersey.
 
Operators with participating machines are encouraged to visit the June Sweepstakes website at goldentee.com/gtsweeps and educate their locations in advance of the June 1 start date. A printable poster is available for download at itsgames.com.

ATM Hackers Steal $45 Million in Global Scam
(Posted May 21, 2013 -- 11 PM)

A coordinated effort involving people in more than 20 countries reportedly defrauded ATM machines of $45 million, reported The New York Times.
 
"In New York City alone, the thieves responsible for ATM withdrawals struck 2,904 machines over 10 hours starting on Feb. 19, withdrawing $2.4 million," the paper reported. "The operation included sophisticated computer experts operating in the shadowy world of Internet hacking, manipulating financial information with the stroke of a few keys, as well as common street criminals, who used that information to loot the automated teller machines."
 
Federal prosecutors announced charges yesterday against eight suspects, calling it one of the largest heists in modern history. "The indictment and criminal complaints in the case offer a glimpse into what the authorities said was one of the most sophisticated and effective cybercrime attacks ever uncovered," according to The Times. "The indictment outlined how the criminals were able to steal data from banks, relay that information to a far-flung network of so-called cashing crews, and then have the stolen money laundered in purchases of luxury items like Rolex watches and expensive cars."
 
The effort began when hackers cracked into a credit processing service for Visa and MasterCard prepaid debit cards, raising the withdrawal limits on the cards.
 
"By using prepaid cards, the thieves were able to take money without draining the bank accounts of individuals, which might have set off alarms more quickly," the newspaper report explained. "The hackers distributed the information to individuals in 20 countries who then encoded the information on magnetic-stripe cards. While the street crews were taking money out of bank machines, the computer experts were watching the financial transactions from afar, ensuring that they would not be shortchanged on their cut, according to court documents."

Read the full story here, http://www.nytimes.com/2013/05/10/nyregion/eight-charged-in-45-million-global-cyber-bank-thefts.html?smid=pl-share
 
New Louisiana Group Says Its Fighting Taxes
(Posted May 21, 2013 -- 11 PM)

A group claiming to represent video poker interests in Louisiana says it will focus on avoiding increased taxes, according to an AP report that appeared in the Alexandria Town Talk newspaper.
 
"Stan Guidroz, president of the new Louisiana Video Gaming Association, said video poker operators want to be sure legislators don't raise taxes on them but not on riverboats and other casinos," the story reported, noting that Guidroz is VP of Jacobs Entertainment.
 
While no new taxes have been proposed by the Louisiana legislature, Guidroz said operators are concerned they might get hit with an unexpected tax, added as a last-minute amendment to a legislative bill.
 
Truckstops now pay a tax of 32.5 percent on gambling revenue, the state's highest gambling tax, Guidroz said. Bars and restaurants pay 26.5 percent. A fourth of the tax revenue goes to local governments. The state's casinos reportedly pay lower rates.
 
Louisiana video poker operators are currently faced with hefty upgrade costs as the state moves to a new central system. "Guidroz said the state's video poker industry expects to invest around $100 million in new machines by the end of 2015," according to the AP story. "Half of the state's 14,000-plus video poker machines need replacement, though others could be upgraded."

Video Violence Issue Still Simmering
(Posted May 21, 2013 -- 11 PM)

Efforts to regulate violent video games may have taken a back seat to the fierce debate over gun control, but the issue remains active with the nation's lawmakers, according to a recent update from AAMA and AMOA's legislative counsel.
 
"The Senate has moved legislation meant to identify and treat children with mental health issues and continues to debate the role of violence in movies, video games and graphic comics," the Washington-based law firm Dentons noted in its report to the industry. "It is expected that the Senate will be unable to move meaningful gun control legislation and will turn to the 'softer' issues of mental health and violence to appease a public craving action."
 
Both the House and Senate have introduced bills to address the question of how violent video games relates to violent actions.
 
A bill sponsored by Sen. Rockefeller of West Virginia would require the National Academy of Sciences to examine whether violent video games and programming cause children to act aggressively or otherwise hurt their well-being, according to the report. Rockefeller has also called on the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Communications Commission to expand their work in overseeing violent content. 
 
The House's Video Games Ratings Enforcement Act would prohibit shipping or distributing for interstate commerce, selling, or renting a video game that doesn't display a packaging label containing an age-based content rating.
 
"It prohibits any person from selling or renting video games containing the ESRB content rating of: (1) 'adults only' to any person under the age of 18, or (2) 'mature' to any person under the age of 17," reported Dentons. "Violations of such requirements and prohibitions as an unfair or deceptive act or practice are subjected to a civil penalty of not more than $5,000 per violation."
 
AAMA Streamlines Parental Advisory System
(Posted on May 21, 2013 -- 11 PM)
 
AAMA has streamlined its Coin-Operated Video Game Parental Advisory System in an effort to simplify and clarify the disclosure message that go along with various ratings. 
 
In its recent newsletter, the association noted that a group of industry leaders gathered at its offices in Elk Grove Village, Ill., to evaluate the PAS. "The group consensus was that the former rating system was in need of an update," the group reported. "After much consideration, the revised ratings categories now reflect a more current portrayal of the industry. Parents and children will find the revamped, color-coded traffic light system even easier to use in making responsible game playing decisions."
 
To learn more about PAS or to download the new sticker and poster order form, visit the AAMA website at www.coin-op.org.
 
Sacoa Makes Headway With New Installs
(Posted on May 21, 2013 -- 11 PM)

Playcard developer Sacoa recently announced a number of key installations, as well as several future projects. New installations include the Walt Disney Resort Hotel's Shades of Green facility, including 50 games equipped with Sacoa's wireless Colorshot readers and using the firm's Redemption, Customer Registration and Online Party Booking modules.

Sacoa also recently installed its technology in two Frank Theaters locations, Delray and Saucon Valley, that switched from another debit card system supplier, and the Sky Deck Lanes and Grill in the Mall of America in Minneapolis, that switched from a competitor's system, as well. Finally, Sacoa recently launched in Xtreme Lane bowling center in Los Angeles with over 100 wireless games.
 
The firm's Sebastian Mochkovsky says immediate future plans include two casino locations: MGM Grand at Foxwoods Resort & Casino in Mashantucket, Conn., whose installation is schedule to start by the end of the current month, and the Wind Creek Casino from Creek Indian Enterprises in Atmore, Ala., for July this year.
 
For additional information on the Sacoa Playcard system, please visit the web site at www.sacoacard.com.

AAMA & AMOA Returning to Washington, D.C.
(Posted May 7, 2013  -- 11 PM)

AMOA announced last week that it would once again join AAMA for a June lobbying trip to the nation's capitol. Industry legal counsel Dentons, an international law firm, will organize and direct the June 12 visit.
 
AMOA's delegation will include: VP and government relations committee chairman Rick LaFleur of I.F. LaFleur & Son, Devils Lake, N.D.; VP Tony Paszkiewicz of Columbia Amusements, Baltimore, Md., who just completed a one-year term as chairman of AMOA's PAC Committee; and AMOA Deputy Director Lori Schneider, West Dundee, Ill.
 
AAMA representatives will include: AAMA Director Eugene Jarvis of Raw Thrills, Inc., Skokie, Ill., who is a member of the association's government relations committee; Gary Stern of Stern Pinball, Melrose Park, Ill., who was recently named AAMA Manufacturer of the Year; and AAMA EVP John Schultz.
 
AMOA also reports progress in getting PAC commitments from association members. The group predicts its PAC contributions will top $100,000 for the first time this year.

Bushnell Venture Aims to Make Learning Fun
(Posted May 7, 2013  -- 11 PM)

Robots, lasers, acrobatics and cotton candy cooked up by seasoned inventors are just some of what will make up the STEAM Carnival, whose Kickstarter fundraising campaign launched last week. This traveling high-tech amusement event, will visit select U.S. cities starting Spring 2014 if it reaches its goal of $100,000 during the Kickstarter campaign. 

The goal of the STEAM Carnival is to make education more entertaining and entertainment more educational, and to transform the way people view games and amusement, similar to how Cirque du Soleil transformed the performing arts.
 
"When you say 'engineering' to most kids they zone out.  But when you say 'lasers, robots, and fire,' you have their undivided attention," said Two Bit Circus CEO and co-founder, Brent Bushnell, son of video game patriarch and Atari Games founder Nolan Bushnell.
 
"We've found that high-tech games spark curiosity about engineering and science so we created the STEAM Carnival to inspire the next generation of inventors," said CTO and co-founder, Eric Gradman.
 
STEAM is a derivative of the more widely recognized acronym STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). The critical A, for Art, has been backed by celebrities like pop singer Will.i.am, cultural organizations and some charter schools but has yet to pick up steam and spawn a movement, at least until now.
 
In the spirit of a state fair, the STEAM Carnival will showcase kids' own work via creative competitions, a digital art gallery, a concert featuring musical robots and a fashion show of wearable electronics.
 
Kids can sign http://steamcarnival.com to receive one of several kits designed by Two Bit Circus to help kids create amusement-focused technical projects. People wishing to donate kits to kids from low-income communities can do so on the Kickstarter page where there are many opportunities to join in the funding of the project.
 
The Two Bit Circus' team of roboticists, scientists, engineers, designers and makers employs the STEAM disciplines every day to create the fantastical in their downtown Los Angeles warehouse laboratory. In 2010, several 2BC team members gained notoriety from their involvement in the band OK Go's music video This Too Shall Pass, a YouTube sensation with close to 40 million views to date. (If you haven't seen it, do yourself a favor and check out their amazing Rube Goldberg Machine production). Said Lead Engineer Dan Busby: "The sheer volume of interest we received from science and math teachers around the world after that video is what spawned the idea for the STEAM Carnival."
 
For more information about the STEAM Carnival visit the Kickstarter page at http://kck.st/ZZOHED.

AMOA & AMI Say Lawsuit Should Be Dismissed
(Posted May 7, 2013  -- 11 PM)

Attorneys for both the Amusement and Music Operators Association and AMI Entertainment Network have moved to dismiss a federal anti-trust lawsuit filed by a Mass.-based company, Lease America.

Lease America alleges the national operator association conspired with the digital jukebox provider to halt its method of selling jukeboxes directly to locations. This, in turn, crippled its business, Lease America claims.
 
The lawsuit alleges, among other claims, that AMOA and AMI violated the Sherman Act, a federal statute dating to 1890 that prohibits unreasonable monopolies and conspiracies that restrain trade. The broad language of the law has been the subject of over a century of litigation to determine exactly what actions are prohibited.
 
In their arguments that the lawsuit should be dismissed, both AMOA and AMI say that Lease America's claims are essentially a business or contract dispute between Lease America and AMI over the terms of the digital jukebox operating agreement. They also claim that Lease America's Sherman Act allegation fails to meet the standard required for pleading a plausible conspiracy claim.
 
In its lawsuit, Lease America claims that representatives of AMOA threatened to stop buying Internet jukeboxes from AMI if the factory did not discontinue dealing with Lease America. The lawsuit goes on to claim that AMI discontinued music service to Lease America for violation of the standard operator agreement even though the factory had allegedly agreed to provide Lease America music on separate terms that allowed for the direct sales.
 
AMOA's motion to dismiss attacks a lack of factual detail in the lawsuit. "The complaint provides no clue as to the identity of the participants of the alleged AMOA meeting, where and when it occurred or even the identity of the alleged informant who told Lease America's CEO about the meeting," AMOA attorney's argued in their court filing. "Similarly, the reader is left to guess about when, where and how AMOA and Rowe came to an agreement to boycott Lease America."
 
In its separate motion to dismiss, AMI's lawyers say the company terminated Lease America's music service because it breached the operator agreement, not as a result of a conspiracy with AMOA. AMI and Lease America appear to view the terms of the contract between them differently, but Lease America did not claim that AMI breached the contract in its lawsuit.
 
In its response, Lease America's lawyer argued that the discovery process would likely substantiate its direct claims of conspiracy. "Lease America was an innovator; its business model disrupted the status quo in the jukebox industry," attorneys for the firm contend. "Entrenched competitors often resist innovation for anti-competitive reasons and use anti-competitive tactics to stifle or suppress innovation."
 
VGT Moves to New Illinois Offices
(Posted May 7, 2013  -- 11 PM)

Video Gaming Technologies, a licensed supplier of gaming machines to several markets including Illinois, has expanded its operations in the Land of Lincoln.
 
"We have moved to a much bigger space to accommodate such demand," informs the firm's marketing pro Vanessa Cabrera. "The new location comes complete with office space, a showroom and warehouse space to support future growth in the Illinois market."
 
Here's the new contact information:
 
Video Gaming Technologies
945 Dillon Drive
Wood Dale, IL 60191
Phone: 630/475-4200 
 
Fax: 630-616-5597 
Technical Support: 866/852-7948

Ohio Senators Proposes Sweeps Referendum
(Posted April 29, 2013 -- 9AM)

An Ohio state senator has proposed a voter referendum on the question of whether Internet cafés that operate sweepstakes games should be regulated or banned.
 
"Sen. Joe Schiavoni, D-Boardman, introduced a resolution that would require three-fifths passage by both the GOP-controlled Ohio House and Senate to land on ballots in November," reported the Columbus Dispatch. "The House already has passed a bill that would effectively shut down Internet cafés, and last week Republican Senate President Keith Faber of Celina said the Senate would move legislation in May to ban the nearly 800 sweepstakes cafés operating in Ohio."
 
Schiavoni said in a statement to the media: "While a ban has already been proposed, this has been a controversial issue that I believe can best be addressed on the ballot, as other gambling issues have. It is necessary to allow voters to weigh in on the future of these facilities, just as they did with Ohio casinos."
 
New Jersey Approves Online I.T. Games
(Posted April 29, 2013 -- 9AM)

Incredible Technologies has reported that the New Jersey Attorney General recently approved "Glory," "Stats" and other non-prize online functionality for all I.T. LIVE-enabled games. The approved video titles, which include Golden Tee LIVE, Silver Strike LIVE and PowerPutt LIVE, can now be placed in licensed premises using the usual procedures in that state.
 
I.T. will adjust their ITNet system to allow games properly registered to New Jersey to participate in online, non-prize games and contests. The target date for service to begin is Monday, May 13.
 
Players who participate in these game modes will be able to track their stats and game history and be ranked on national leaderboards. Online game features encourage repeat play and foster loyal customers, which in turn increases game collections, explained the factory.
 
Amusement and vending companies with appropriate commercial locations in New Jersey should contact their local amusement distributor or their I.T. sales rep for more information. Once a machine is registered, the online features will be available automatically.
 
Operator and machine registration forms can be found on the amusements section of itsgames.com.
 
ICE Service Bulletin for Milk Jug Toss
(Posted April 29, 2013 -- 9AM)

Innovative Concepts in Entertainment has released a service update for Milk Jug Toss.
 
ICE has made a change in the software that has resolved the ball dispensing problems that have been reported. ICE recommends that all existing units in the field receive this new software. 
 
For more information, contact an ICE distributor or the factory service department at 716/759-0360 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.

Ohio Senators to Consider Sweeps Ban
(Posted April 29, 2013 -- 9AM)

Ohio lawmakers will take up a bill to ban sweepstakes games, state senate president Keith Faber announced last week, reversing course from discussions to regulate the 800 or so sweepstakes cafés across the Buckeye State.
 
"My caucus received briefings from law enforcement officials," Faber, a Republican, said last week. "I am convinced that these entities are not only illegal but that many of them also engage in criminal activity within their facilities. Ohioans did not contemplate this kind of unregulated activity when they voted to approve gaming in this state, so the time to act is now."
 
In the interim, lawmakers will enact a moratorium that requires operators to register with the state attorney general or face penalties of $1,000 a day.
 
In recent weeks, Ohio attorney general Mike DeWine began raiding Cleveland area sweepstakes operators, based on an appellate court ruling that declared sweepstakes illegal.
 
"DeWine, along with a half-dozen law enforcement agencies, including the Ohio Investigative Unit, raided six Cleveland-area sweepstakes parlors, seizing more than 200 terminals and bank records, while also hitting the New Jersey headquarters of a sweepstakes-software provider, VS2 Worldwide Communications," reported the Columbus Dispatch.  "The raid of VS2 turned up strategy memos detailing how much in campaign contributions the sweepstakes owners were to give to lawmakers and legislative campaign committees. Most names on the list were Senate Republicans."
 
Senate Republicans have failed to move sweepstakes legislation twice following passage of  a House ban and then late a House limitation of $10 on prize payouts.
 
Legacy Joins Firestone Charitable Outreach
(Posted April 29, 2013 -- 9AM)

Legacy Coin-Operated Distributors has joined Firestone Financial in supporting the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing by making a donation to The One Fund Boston, Inc.
 
The One Fund Boston was formed by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Tom Menino to help the people most affected by the tragic events that occurred in Boston on April 15.
 
"The go-to guys at Legacy are very proud to be partners with Firestone Financial.  When we heard about the attack we wanted to help the innocent people that were affected.  My hope is that others in our industry will join us," said Ed Chermak, Legacy EVP.  
 
"We are proud to support the community in which we live and work," explained Firestone CEO David Cohen. "In addition to The One Fund Boston, several of our employees will be participating in local blood drives in the upcoming months." 
 
To join Firestone and Legacy in their efforts please visit: The One Fund Boston, http://www.onefundboston.org.
 
USA Tech. Offers Wireless Loyalty Program
(Posted April 29, 2013 -- 9AM)

USA Technologies, a provider of wireless, cashless payment solutions for small-ticket, self-serve retailing, kicked off its new mobile payment and loyalty program at last week's NAMA OneShow in Las Vegas.
 
Since U.S. vending has traditionally been a cash-based industry, consumer engagement tools such as loyalty programs that market directly to the consumer were largely impossible before, the firm noted.
 
The USAT mobile payment and loyalty program will integrate USAT's installed base of over 100,000 NFC-enabled cashless payment terminals with Isis' SmartTap mobile commerce technology for rewards acceptance and redemption. The Isis Mobile Wallet enables mobile payments through an NFC-ready terminal and allows consumers to redeem offers and loyalty with the tap of their smart phone.
 
Under the Fifth Vend Free promotion being announced by USAT, and Isis, customers would be eligible to receive free products from vending operators based upon loyalty rewards earned by using the Isis Mobile Wallet to pay for a purchase at a qualifying terminal.
 
"After USAT's successful pilot with Isis in Salt Lake City and Austin, we are extremely excited to expand via the addition of a loyalty program," said CEO Stephen Herbert. "In our view, the USAT mobile payment and upcoming loyalty program is yet another way for operators to optimize their cashless payment platform as a tool for driving top line growth. It reflects our commitment to deliver more value to our customers with every USAT connection, with the added benefit of making vending fun for the consumer. In our view, it's a win-win for everyone involved." To learn more, visit http://www.usatech.com.

Ideal Offers Cloud-Based Game Tracking
(Posted April 29, 2013 -- 9AM)

Ideal Software Systems is now offering its WorkerBee cloud-based solution for game tracking, reporting and monitoring, giving game operators an easy way to enter data and access game revenue and performance reports from a smart phone or computer. The company says their tiered solution is designed to grow with a business by offering multiple levels of affordable reporting and monitoring to accommodate the evolving needs of route managers and game owners.
 
WorkerBee will launch with two product tiers that offer game operators strong cash control, efficiency and accuracy in reporting, says Ideal. WorkerBee's cloud-based game tracking product allows operators to quickly input game data to the cloud through a smart phone or tablet for storage, reporting, forecasting and more. The monitoring product actively monitors via wireless to give owners comprehensive, real-time information on games, 24/7.
 
"WorkerBee's unique reporting and monitoring platform will change how operators collect and process business information, and give them the ability to accurately track their revenue," said David Goldman, president of Ideal Software Systems. "As a scalable solution, WorkerBee meets the needs of all operators, whether they choose to simply enter and report on games or opt for the electronic monitoring solution."
 
WorkerBee makes tracking game revenue and performance simple and convenient by saving time on collections for route managers, and improves accuracy by using technology that electronically identifies games via smart phone, tablet or computer, allowing them to collect game data swiftly and efficiently. For more information, contact Ideal Software Systems at 800/964-3325.
 
Bob Harris To Head European Sales
(Posted April 29, 2013 -- 9AM)

Triotech Amusements recently named Bob Harris to head-up its European sales and business development efforts.
 
Working out of the U.K., Harris joins Triotech as they launch a range of cutting-edge interactive products developed to enhance visitor attraction sites, amusement parks, zoos, aquariums and science centers.
 
Prior to joining Triotech, Harris has worked for major international manufacturers in the field of complex display systems for flight simulation, Formula 1, planetaria and many of the major broadcasting companies, along with 3D systems for cinema and scientific research.
 
"I am both pleased and excited to be joining Triotech at a significant point in their history, where they are pushing the boundaries of innovation for the visitor entertainment market, in addition to offering totally new interactive experience systems that educate as well as entertain," said Harris.
 
"With his customer-focused responsiveness and empathy, we are certain that he will be a great asset to the company and will offer our current and future European customers a refreshing new interface," said Triotech VP of sales and business development Gabi Salabi.
 
"Senior Arcades" Challenge Fla. Sweeps Ban
(Posted April 24, 2013 -- 11PM)

Operators of so-called senior arcades in Florida, locations that offer gaming-style equipment on an amusement basis that are popular with retirees, have filed a lawsuit challenging Florida's recent sweepstakes ban. That law will also restrict the operation of these game rooms, as well as traditional amusement redemption.
 
The lawsuit was filed in Broward County on behalf of two arcade operators, according to the Sun-Sentinel newspaper, asking for the law to be enjoined (i.e. Put on hold).
 
"Gale Fontaine, president of the Florida Arcade and Bingo Association, hired attorney Bruce Rogow of Fort Lauderdale to challenge the law," the paper reported. Rogow boasts considerable experience in arguing state constitutional issues, and the lawsuit claims the statute's language is unconstitutionally vague and has "no rational relation to any legitimate state interest."
 
Generally, governments must claim some rational basis for passing legislation that draws a distinction between individuals or businesses. "For example, when the state says you can only use a coin, not a dollar bill or a card, what legitimate state interest are they trying to protect? What are they trying to protect its citizens from?" asked the arcade association's lawyer Michael Wolf, who was quoted in the Sun Sentinel article. Wolf was referring to a controversial provision that limits games that fall within the amusement section to coin operation.
 
Read more at http://www.sun-sentinel.com/fl-senior-arcade-lawsuit-041913-20130418,0,421820.story.

AMOA Past President Jerry Derrick Is Gone
(Posted April 21, 2013 -- 11PM)

 Jerry Derrick, the 70-year-old West Virginia operator who served as AMOA president from 1996-1997, suffered a heart attack and passed away on April 16. AMOA EVP Jack Kelleher said Jerry entered the hospital following March's Amusement Expo for a pre-scheduled survey and remained there due to complications from the surgery.
 
Jerry was one of the largest operators in West Virginia and was actively involved -- both financially and politically -- in obtaining passage of legislation that legalized the operation of video lottery terminals in that state.
 
"Jerry was an operator's operator until his last breath," said fellow West Virginia Lee Wesson who followed Jerry to the AMOA presidency. "Jerry was out on the route every single day visiting customers and fixing equipment, and figuring out how to give somebody a loan or what kind of equipment needed to be in a location. That's who he was, and that's what he did. He enjoyed being a coin machine operator."
 
According to Wesson, Jerry got his start working for his dad's business, but he grew that company substantially by competing for new locations and, over the years, acquiring routes owned by fellow operators. The late Leoma Ballard of West Virginia, the first female president of AMOA, mentored Jerry during his early days in business and encouraged his participation in the state and national trade associations. Jerry ultimately bought out Leoma's business when she opted for retirement and they remained close until her death.
 
Always courteous to a fault, Jerry's country manners often led people to the wrong conclusion. Jerry was, in fact, a shrewd and strategically savvy businessman and, when necessary, a fierce competitor. He gets credit for detecting the source of AMOA's financial problems in the mid-'90s, which in turn, led the association to hire its own staff and return to financial health. "He was integral in moving toward that transition," said Wesson.
 
"He was a good guy, and that's the bottom line. He was good at the business. He worked hard," concluded Wesson.  "We are all very sad."
 
Funeral arrangement have not been announced. RePlay will pass them along as soon as they are finalized.
 
Fed Court Rejects ATM Price-Fixing Claim
(Posted April 21, 2013 -- 11PM)

A federal court in Washington, D.C., earlier this year, dismissed a price-fixing claim brought by independent ATM operators, through the National ATM Council, against Visa and MasterCard, claiming the firms were restraining competition through fee contracts.
 
The operators raised a complex claim that charged Visa and MasterCard with stifling competition in the market for interchange fees by essentially committing to meet any independent processing network's lowest fee agreement. According to the operators, this stifled independent networks from offering lower fee agreements. But the court didn't buy their argument.
 
"What is missing is any discussion of what the ATM operator's costs are, and whether they change if the operator uses a Visa or MasterCard network or an alternative network," the court noted in its decision to dismiss.  "There are no facts in the complaints that support a conclusion that prices would be lower if the restrictions at issue were lifted."
 
The court also rejected the collusion aspect of the operators' claim, noting lack of evidence of any conspiracy between Visa and MasterCard and the banks that formerly owned the networks.
 
The crux of the operator's legal theory was that absent the fee mandate by Visa and MasterCard, independent networks would be willing to remit more of the bank interchange fee back to ATM operators, who could in turn charge lower access fees to consumers.
 
Independent ATM's charge consumers two fees, an access fee that goes directly to the operator (many of whom split these fees with location) and then a bank fee, part of which the bank pays to a network processor as a so-called interchange fee. The network processor retains a certain portion of that interchange fee and then shares the balance with the ATM operator. The amount of the fee that is shared with the operator was at stake in the recent litigation.
 
The opinion can be found here, http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/USCOURTS-dcd-1_11-cv-01803/pdf/USCOURTS-dcd-1_11-cv-01803-0.pdf 
 
Associations Name Amusement Expo Board
(Posted April 21, 2013 -- 11PM)

AAMA and AMOA recently announced their respective appointees to the Amusement Expo Board of Directors for 2014. The two associations co-own the show and each have four individuals who serve two-year terms as directors. The Expo Board is the governing body for the event, setting policy for its programs, services and activities. (The Expo Show Committee directs the operation and conduct for the show.)
 
AAMA expo directors are Frank Cosentino, Namco America; Chris Felix, MEI; Holly Meidl, Bay Tek Games; and current AAMA chairman John Margold, AMI Entertainment Network. AMOA will be represented by Bobby Hogin, Hogin Amusement; Jerry Johnston, Amusement Unlimited; Russ Mawdsley, Russell-Hall; and current AMOA president John Pascaretti, Pascaretti Enterprises.

Georgia Governor Signs New Redemption Regs
(Posted April 14, 2013 -- 11PM)

Georgia Governor Nathan Deal has put his stamp of approval on a measure that would create a more extensive regulatory framework for redemption game operation under the auspices of the Georgia Lottery Corp.   
 
Games that allow for carryover credits, so-called Class B games, will soon be linked to a state monitoring system. The state will retain as much as 10% of the revenue; the government's share will initially be 5%, but will increase over time. That money will help fund a state college scholarship program. Existing prize limits, $5 per play, and a skill predominance requirement will remain in place. However, operators will be able to offer Georgia Lottery tickets as prizes, as well as special state scholarship-sponsored gift cards.
 
At one point, state senators wanted to include a community opt-out provision, but settled on a compromise that reduced the number of machines to which local communities can restrict a location from nine to six machines.
 
Some provisions of the new law take effect upon the governor's signature, while others go into effect when the next licensing year begins on July 1, 2013.
 
"With GAMOA's strong working relationship with our state government, we can contribute funding to the Hope Scholarship Program that is so critical for education in our state and lead our industry into the future here in Georgia," noted GAMOA's Steve Walton.
 
GAMOA will host a meeting and seminar to discuss the details of the new law on April 18 in McDonough, a south suburb of Atlanta.
 
Stern Begins Shipping Metallica Flipper
(Posted April 14, 2013 -- 11PM)

Stern Pinball has begun shipping the new Metallica pinball game, the latest addition to the iconic Stern collection of rock and roll machines. The game spotlights one of the world's foremost rock bands, and Metallica's notoriously fast tempos and aggressive musicianship sets the tone for an exciting player experience, reports factory execs.
 
Players will be able to bang their heads --  and their flippers -- to 12 classic Metallica hits including Master of Puppets, One and Fade to Black. Other action-packed features include an electric chair, snake, grave marker and what Stern says is "unparalleled magnetic action"
 
"We are proud to release our newest music-themed game designed to capture the raw, rebellious nature of Metallica," said Gary Stern, chairman and CEO of Stern Pinball.
 
Formed in 1981 by drummer Lars Ulrich and guitarist and vocalist James Hetfield, Metallica has become one of the most influential and commercially successful rock bands in history, having sold 110 million albums worldwide and playing to millions of fans the world over. They have scored several multi-platinum albums, including 1991's Metallica (commonly referred to as "The Black Album"), which is the best-selling album in history (according to SoundScan's tally showing sales of 16 million albums in the United States alone). To learn more, log on to www.sternpinball.com.
 
Ohio Lawmakers Debate Sweepstakes Issues
(Posted April 14, 2013 -- 11PM)

Ohio senators are considering a bill that would enact sweeping regulations of sweepstakes cafés, giving oversight of the nearly 300 statewide locations to the Oregon Casino Control Commission.
 
According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the bill (SB 317) would provide for operator licenses of at least $100,000 (along with a $25,000 application fee), license the sale of equipment, enact a machine testing process, require operators to post odds, prohibit sweepstakes cafés from locating in residential zones or near schools or state-licensed casinos, and ban alcohol sales. Local government would also be able to opt-out of allowing sweepstakes cafés.
 
Amusement operator David George (Bell Music), who also serves as president of the Fair Gaming Coalition of Ohio, told the paper that banning alcohol sales would exclude taverns and bars from participating in the initiative. "The hospitality industry, your bars and taverns and bowling alleys, will already take a 35 to 40 percent hit when the casinos and racinos start opening this year," the paper quoted George as saying.  "All we've wanted from Columbus is a level playing field."
 
Meanwhile, Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine announced plans to pursue prosecutions against sweepstakes operators based on a recent state appeals court decision upholding the conviction of several who were charged with illegal gambling by Cleveland police.
 
"DeWine said...he's tired of waiting for state lawmakers to act on legislation regulating or eliminating the 820 Internet café operations in the state," reported the Columbus Dispatch. "DeWine said he will work with county prosecutors and law-enforcement officials statewide to take legal action against sweepstakes operators, but he wouldn't say when or how."
 
Firestone Partners With LAI Games
(Posted April 14, 2013 -- 11PM)

Firestone Financial and LAI Games announced two new financing programs today for Speed of Light, Mega Stacker and Mega Stacker Lite.
 
Operators can purchase these games for 0% APR for 12 months, or opt for a longer repayment term of 30 months with no payments for six months.  For full program details, visit http://www.firestonefinancial.com/lai-2013.htm.
 
"Family entertainment centers across the country have had great success with these games," said Chris Brady, LAI's VP of sales.
 
"We are so excited to partner with LAI Games for this program and offer such a compelling finance promotion," added Jim Hines, Firestone VP, who noted that the offer runs through the end of May.
 
Governor Signs Florida Sweeps Bill Into Law
(Posted April 14, 2013 -- 11PM)

Florida Gov. Rick Scott signed into law a measure that may significantly limit the operation of redemption games, especially ticket games in street locations and bowling alleys.

The measure was enacted in response to an ongoing scandal involving a veteran's charity that was allegedly operating sweepstakes machines illegally. That scandal has engulfed many public officials who were connected to the group through donations and consulting work.
 
In addition to making changes to existing law that allowed for certain charitable promotions, state lawmakers also amended provisions defining prohibited slot machines and the amusement machine exceptions to that prohibition.
 
The net result appears to be that amusement redemption games will be held to a skill predominance standard, as well as a prize limitation of 75 cents per game play. Moreover those games will only be allowed in arcades with 50 or more games or truck stops.
 
The proposal's definition of slot machines now incorporates a provision that spells out the elements of a gambling machine in a casino context, Florida statute 551.102. Those elements include consideration; "operation...by reason of skill or application of the element of chance or both," and a prize. This broad definition could encompass many traditional amusement games. The only exceptions to that prohibition are found in the state statute offering a safe harbor for amusement games in arcades with 50 games and truck stops.
 
However, Florida operators and representatives of the bowling trade say the measure was targeted at gaming-style devices, as well as sweepstakes machines, not bona fide arcade games. They note that the definition of a slot machine also involves exchanging something given out by the machine for something of value. That definition, they say, does not encompass many of the prizes offered by merchandise and crane games, although it could limit the ability to give out gift cards. 
 
Maryland Lottery Commission Puts Redemption Regs On Hold -- At Least For Two Months
(Posted April 14, 2013 -- 11PM)

Officials with the Maryland Lottery Commission have temporarily tabled efforts to implement rules that would limit the operation of redemption games in that state, according to a recent update from MAMOA's Larry Bershtein.
 
Last year, state lawmakers authorized the commission to regulate electronic gaming devices, and a series of proposed rules were published. The state law did make clear that skill based amusement games offering prizes of minimal value should not be defined as a slot machine. However, the initial rules drafted by the lottery commission raised red flags with operators because they included a $10 limit on redemption prizes as well as potentially troubling game definitions.
 
Maryland operators have since met with lottery officials both privately and as part of a public hearing process, and Bershtein says they are hoping to be directly involved in amending the regulations.  "We have started hammering out a compromise," he told us last month. "We are going to wok on it together. We have gone through our concerns one by one, and we have started to get a feel for what they were agreeable and their sticking points."
 
To that end, and following a recent meeting with lottery officials, the commission has agreed to slow the process of implementing new regulations. "The Agency agreed with MAMOA that regulating our industry is not a simple proposition," explained Bershtein in a recent email to MAMOA members. "Given the higher priority tasks, such as table games for the casinos, we were told that the earliest the regulations will be worked on again is maybe two months away. While this provides no clarity on the future, be assured that all legal amusement games remain legal. There are no statutory changes being made at this time."
 
In the meantime, Maryland operators will continue to engage directly on the issue. "The best news is that we are working with the lottery," concluded Bershtein in talking to RePlay. "We got our foot in the door, and we are building a relationship and convincing them that we are not evil and they don't need to kill us."

AMOA Awards 52 Hesch Scholarships
(Posted April 14, 2013 -- 11PM)

AMOA's Coin-Op Cares Education and Charitable Foundation Board recently awarded 52 scholarships for the 2013-2014 academic year to students around the country. These scholarships, which go to applicants sponsored by an association member, are paid for by proceeds raised during the association's annual expo fundraiser.

This year's Hesch Raffle at the Amusement Expo generated $84,450 for the scholarship fund.
 
"In a world of change and uncertainty, there is one constant in coin-op, at least for the past 28 years, and that is AMOA's annual scholarship fundraiser at its trade show," wrote AMOA EVP in last week's Off the Top newsletter. "It's quite a production. There's the legion of volunteers who serve on the planning committee, along with spouses and significant others who help out. AMOA staff works to coordinate the details. Show management oversees booth logistics. Prize contributions for the daily equipment drawings come in from all corners of the coin-op universe.
 
"Unlike most charitable donations -- where we make a donation but don't know exactly where or how the money is being applied -- chances are you personally know someone, or know of someone, who has been awarded a Hesch scholarship," Kelleher added.
 
AMOA reports that $84,540 in tickets were sold in 2013, an impressive amount considering the fact many organizations are raising money for a variety of good causes. Contact AMOA for the list of winners, www.amoa.com, 800/YES-AMOA.
 
WAMO Show: June 25-26 in Brookfield
(Posted April 14, 2013 -- 11PM)

The Wisconsin Amusement and Music Operators Association recently announced plans to host its annual show June 25-26 at the Sheraton Hotel in Brookfield, Wis. The agenda includes golf, fly fishing, exhibits, seminars, a legislative update, special events for spouses, tech training, awards banquet and the annual auction. Attendees will also have a chance to attend a Brewers vs. Cubs game at Miller Park. Rooms have been reserved at the Sheraton for the rate of $94 per night plus fees and taxes. To learn more, call WAMOA at 608/635-4316 or log on to www.wamo.net.

Florida Measure Limits Redemption Operation
(Posted April 8, 2013 -- 11PM)

Lawmakers in Florida have approved a measure that could significantly limit the operation of redemption games, especially ticket games in street locations and bowling alleys. The bill awaits the governor's signature, which is expected.
 
However, Florida operators and representatives of the bowling trade say the measure was targeted at gaming-style devices, as well as sweepstakes machines, not bona fide arcade games.
 
"There is no intent to chase after us or the bowling centers," said Florida operator Phil Juckem of All Brands Vending, who also represents the Florida Amusement Machine Association. "This bill was a freight train. It was going to pass no matter what. This bill was an effort to clean up poker and sweepstakes problems."
 
The measure was enacted in response to an ongoing scandal involving a veteran's charity that was allegedly operating sweepstakes machines illegally. That scandal has engulfed many public officials who were connected to the group through donations and consulting work.
 
In addition to making changes to existing law that allowed for certain charitable promotions, state lawmakers also amended provisions defining prohibited slot machines and the amusement machine exceptions to that prohibition.
 
The net result appears to be that amusement redemption games will be held to a skill predominance standard, as well as a prize limitation of 75 cents per game play. Moreover those games will only be allowed in arcades with 50 or more games or truck stops.
 
The proposal's definition of slot machines now incorporates a provision that spells out the elements of a gambling machine in a casino context, Florida statute 551.102. Those elements include consideration; "operation...by reason of skill or application of the element of chance or both," and a prize. This broad definition could encompass many traditional amusement games. The only exceptions to that prohibition are found in the state statute offering a safe harbor for amusement games in arcades and truck stops.
 
However, Juckem and others in Florida note that the definition of a slot machine also involves exchanging something given out by the machine for something of value. That definition, they say, does not encompass many of the prizes offered by merchandise and crane games, although it could limit the ability to give out gift cards. Thus, merchandise and prize vending games would not have to fall within the law's amusement game safe harbor parameters, including the prize limitation, because they don't likewise fall under the definition of a slot machine. However, the measure does appear to limit the operation of ticket redemption games to arcades as defined by state law.
 
"Arcades are defined as a "place of business having at least 50 coin-operated amusement games or machines on premises which are operated for the entertainment of the general public and tourists as a bona fide amusement facility."
 
The amendments to that provision now incorporate references to a federal law, 15 USC 1171 or the so-called Johnson Act, that has been judicially construed to require skill predominance. The amusement game safe harbor also specifies a 75-cent per game cost value prize limitation. Additionally, the law defines a single play of a game as an "event occurring from the initial activation of the machine until the results of play are determined without payment of additional consideration."
 
Look for much more on this story in next month's issue of RePlay Magazine.
 
North Carolina Bill Would Legalize Sweeps
(Posted April 8, 2013 -- 11PM)

North Carolina lawmakers may consider a bill that would legalize and tax sweepstakes, although the Associated Press is reporting that the bill was introduced by "two legislators whose campaigns accepted cash from a sweepstakes operator now facing racketeering charges in Florida." North Carolina has previously banned both video gaming and sweepstakes.
 
"Bill sponsor Rep. Jeff Collins, R-Nash, said the intent of the bill isn't to revive the industry but only to tax and regulate machines that can't be outlawed," the AP reported. "Campaign finance records show Collins and bill co-sponsor Deputy Democratic Leader Michael Wray both recently received checks from political donors tied to the sweepstakes industry."
 
Read more here: http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/04/03/2799113/nc-bill-seeks-to-legalize-sweepstakes.html#storylink=cpy
 
Bar Show Boasts 11% Increase in Attendance
(Posted April 8, 2013 -- 11PM)
  
Last month's Nightclub & Bar Convention and Trade Show reported 37,740 attendees, an 11% increase from the previous year. The show also saw a 10% increase in new exhibiting companies, with nearly 700 companies represented. The largest beverage, bar and nightclub event of the year featured a kick-off ribbon cutting with Vegas' newest resident performer, CeeLo Green and Jon Taffer, star of Spike TV's Bar Rescue and president of the Nightclub & Bar Media Group.
 
"We are thrilled with the success of this year's show and were pleased to offer our attendees access to the top beverage, bar and nightlife vendors in the country," said Taffer.  
 
Event sponsors, which included Indemnity Insurance, Anheuser-Busch, MillerCoors, Diageo Innovation, Revention, TY KU, Spike's Bar Rescue, Kahlua Midnight, BevIntel and Coca-Cola, "displayed some of the newest, most innovative and technologically advanced products and services our industry has ever seen," Taffer continued. "Once again, Las Vegas, the nightlife capital of the world, provided the perfect back drop to showcase our industry."
 
AAMA Modernizes Association Bylaws
(Posted April 8, 2013 -- 11PM)

The American Amusement Machine Association recently updated its bylaws, which were originally drafted in 1981. The group's newsletter Loose Change said the document was "long overdue for a facelift.
 
"As our industry continues to evolve and change, the AAMA must continue to evolve with it, and one way to do that is to make the association's governing by-laws easy to understand for members and prospective members," the publication continued.
 
The following changes were noted by Loose Change:

• The title of board chairman was changed to board president and the title of board vice chairman was changed to board vice president.
• The former title of president was changed to executive vice president.
• In describing the industry, the phrase "coin-operated amusement machines" where noted in the by-laws, was changed to "revenue generating amusement machines."
• To make it easier to classify member companies and prospective new members, the verbiage describing them was clarified and updated.
• The duties of the board of directors were clarified and updated.
• The by-laws overall language was updated and modernized where necessary.

  To learn more, go to http://www.coin-op.org.
 
Laserforce Celebrates 25th Anniversary
(Posted April 8, 2013 -- 11PM)

Australia-based laser tag manufacturer and operator Laserforce International reports that it's been plying its craft for a quarter century.
 
"To still be in business after 25 years has taken perseverance and a great deal of hard work," said company founder Len Kelly. "Throughout that time, it has particularly been a pleasure to see laser tag go from something that was brushed off as little more than a passing fad, to now being in the main stream and a must have for many FECs and bowling centers. I feel a sense of accomplishment and think it's a great testament to our hard work that 120 businesses worldwide are now operating with Laserforce equipment."
 
Last fall, Laserforce released its Gen 7 system with innovative new features. After a very successful quarter of a century as a leader in laser tag, Len has been slowly turning the reigns over to his son, Sam Kelly, who has shown the same commitment to the industry and the company as his father.
 
"It has been a great experience and has taken a lot of hard work getting heavily involved with Laserforce over the past three years," said Sam. "I am passionate about Laserforce because it is my family's business. I take great pride in my work and I want to see the company grow. I would love to see laser tag played in every FEC, bowling center and theme park in the world because I know how much fun it is. It is something I grew up with."
 
To learn more, check out the company's website at http://www.laserforcetag.com.
 
Namco Debuts Dead Heat Riders, Appoints Gilly
  
Namco recently debuted the new motorcycle racing game Dead Heat Riders, which borrows its concept and play dynamics from Dead Heat, transforming that racer into a white-knuckle, heart-pounding two-wheel attraction. The game's 42" HD graphics pull riders into the race through four painstakingly detailed cities: San Francisco, Chicago, New York and London. Plus, the factory says their patented software technology analyzes driving styles accurately and mimics registered 'ghost' drivers, allowing other drivers to race against absent opponents. "Every race will be extremely close so slam the nitrous and blow past your opponents," encourages Namco.
 
In other Namco news, the company recently bolstered its sales department with the addition of Erik Gilly. Erik will be the company's western regional sales representative. The factory says that Erik's hire continues their efforts to expand its sales team to support its distributors.
 
Erik began his career with Namco in the Product Strategy Department as product promotions specialist. He is a graduate of Eastern Illinois University with a bachelor's degree in business marketing.
 
Erik can be contacted by telephone at 847/264-5648 or at egilly@namcoamerica.com.
 
Rhode Island Novelty Acquires MistCo
(Posted April 8, 2013 -- 11PM)

Rhode Island Novelty has acquired MistCo, a leading full-service supplier of an extensive line of quality jewelry, gifts, custom souvenirs and novelties to zoos, aquariums, museums and resort-based gift shops throughout the Americas and Caribbean.
 
For over 20 years, the Miami, Fla.-based MistCo has been a premier supplier to the giftware industry with an extensive line of unique products and outstanding customer service, explained R.I. Novelty. From educational books to gold-plated jewelry to impulse buy and custom-created items, MistCo continually offers retailers fresh, new ideas and merchandise, that uniquely blends current trends into their nature themes, continued R.I. Novelty in its announcement.
 
"In addition to the acquisition came the most important asset, Stuart Freides, MistCo CEO, who has joined the Rhode Island Novelty team and will continue the direction MistCo has taken for more than fifty years," stated Robert Nowak, Rhode Island Novelty CEO and president. "MistCo's product line and Stuart's design talents will complement and strengthen Rhode Island Novelty's Adventure Planet and the Custom Imprinting divisions, as well as open new opportunities for both companies' product offerings."
 
The MistCo acquisition enhances Rhode Island Novelty's goal of providing customers with a one-stop shopping experience, continued the company, and complements other recent acquisitions which include: Nanco-Nancy Sales, Co. (NANCO), GiftCo, Inc., Nadel & Sons Toy Corp., and Northeast Imports, Inc.
 
For more information on Rhode Island Novelty or to view the company's online catalog, visit: http://www.rinovelty.com.
 
Peach Auction Sales Update: June 15 Event
(Posted April 8, 2013 -- 11PM)

In the April issue on page 105, Peach Auction Sales ran an advertisement with their next auction date showing as April 20, and upcoming auctions on May 18 and June 22.  Date changes have been made and the next auction will be on June 15, with additional dates to be announced.  For more information, call Bonnie Crotty at 478/956-0910 or visit their website at http://www.peachauctionsales.com.

Florida Lawmakers Move to Ban Sweeps & More
(Posted April 1, 2013 -- 11PM)

In the wake of a scandal involving a statewide veterans charity that was operating sweepstakes games, Florida lawmakers are moving to ban the games. The state House voted last week to prohibit charities, as well as arcades and for-profit sweepstakes operators, from operating the machines.

"Opponents blasted the measure as a knee-jerk reaction to a political scandal and warned that the bill will have the unintended consequence of putting hundreds of owners out of business and sending their employees to the unemployment office," reported the Miami Herald. "Here we are today going to outlaw something that for the past 30 years has been legal in the state of Florida," the paper quoted Rep. Jim Waldman as saying. "If we're going to do that, what's next?"
 
Florida has long allowed the operation of casino-style games for amusement redemption purposes. Critics say this bill would effectively eliminate that practice.
 
State and federal officials have recently shut down close to 50 sweepstakes operations run by the Allied Veterans of the World, charging the owners and operators, as well as their attorney, with illegal gambling, money laundering and racketeering.
 
The bill under consideration bans the operation of permanent gambling centers, prohibits the use of gift cards or gift certificates as prizes, bans slot-style games (even those with some skill element) and limits prizes to 75 cents per game. The bill would also prohibit carrying credits over from one game to the next. However, the measure provides an exemption for the type of amusement games operating by family entertainment centers and arcades that cater to youngsters, according to the Miami Herald.
 
According to reports from Florida tradesters, the bill also includes language that would ban the use of bill acceptors or debit card readers on machines. "Many operators have no clue on how this bill will affect their business and need to join us in the fight," wrote John Sasso of Electromatic International in an email to RePlay.  He can be reached at johns@electromaticusa.com.
 
Georgia Lawmakers Approve Redemption Bill
(Posted April 1, 2013 -- 11PM)

The Georgia legislature has approved a measure that would create a more extensive regulatory framework for redemption game operation, under the auspices of the Georgia Lottery Corp. The bill passed the state house two weeks ago, was amended in the Senate and has now been approved by the full legislature, according to reports from members of the amusement game trade in that state. Governor Nathan Deal has already indicated his intention to sign the measure.
 
Under the proposed law, games that allow for carryover credits will be linked to a state monitoring system. The state will retain as much as 10% of the revenue; the government's share will initially be 5%, but will increase over time. That money will help fund a state college scholarship program. Existing prize limits, $5 per play, and a skill predominance requirement will remain in place.
 
At one point, state senators wanted to include a community opt-out provision, but settled on a compromise that reduced the number of machines to which local communities can restrict a location from nine to six machines.
 
"Under the measure, the state would be able to crack down on the machines' illegal payouts by tracking how many people play games," reported the Associated Press. "The machines are often found in gas stations, and award non-cash prizes...Rep. Matt Ramsey, a Peachtree City Republican, said the amended measure would reduce illicit gaming."

South Carolina Bans Sweepstakes
(Posted April 1, 2013 -- 11PM)

South Carolina lawmakers recently approved a measure that makes it clear that sweepstakes are illegal, according to press reports.The move, also approved by the governor, comes nearly 15 years after the state supreme court declared widespread video poker illegal.
 
"On March 22, Republican Gov. Nikki Haley signed a bill that critics of video gambling believe clears up any ambiguity about how the law applies to sweepstakes machines, phone-time machines and other devices known as video poker 2.0," reported the Free Times. "In 1999, the state Supreme Court outlawed video poker machines. In recent years, though, they've come back in a new incarnation as sweepstakes machines, or phone-card machines."
 
Legal ambiguities produced inconsistent court results when sweepstakes were challenged, and the new law aims to clear that up, supporters say.
 
But Pickens Republican Sen. Larry Martin, a sponsor of the legislation, says the new law clears that up.
 
"We asked law enforcement and the attorney general's office to provide for us what they needed to clear up any ambiguity in the existing law regarding these sweepstakes machines," state Sen. Larry Martin, who sponsored the bill, told the Free Times. "We believe they're illegal...but this was an added protection in an effort to keep these folks from suing their way back into existence as they did the first time back in the late '80s and early '90s."
 
Coast to Coast Releases Hurricane Attraction
(Posted April 1, 2013 -- 11PM)

Coast to Coast Entertainment, a New Jersey-based company with no small amount of first-hand hurricane experience, debuted a machine that simulates the high winds of the real thing.
 
"Players step inside the attraction to feel the power of a real hurricane with up to 78 mile-per-hour wind as well as lighting strikes. Hurricane will test the player's senses," explained the factory's Jim Chapman. "Our industry is all about creating a memorable experience. With our Hurricane, your players will have a real blast when they step inside."
 
A monitor inside Hurricane shows the power of the wind as it is increases and the person inside experiences lighting strikes and fog. Operators can even add bubbles to the experience. Coast to Coast has also installed a second monitor on the outside to attract and entertain customers while they wait for their turn.
 
To learn more, contact Chapman at 800/224-1717, ext. 726, or email jimmychaps@aol.com.
 
Massachusetts Operator Jack Kerner Is Gone
(Posted April 1, 2013 -- 11PM)

Former AMOA president Jack Kerner of Melo-Tone Vending, which served the Boston area, passed away on March 18. Kerner served as AMOA president in 1990. 
 
He was a larger than life character who reveled in the industry in which he worked and was generous in sharing his experience and wisdom with industry colleagues. 
He is survived by wife Shirley (pictured with Jack), daughters Ellen (Vara) and Terri (Levine), son James, and 10 grandchildren. 
 
Charitable contributions in memory of Jack may be made to the Genitourinary Cancer Research Fund, c/o Dr. Dror Michaelson, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St., Yawkey 7E, Boston, MA 02114.   
 
Oregon AMOA Schedules May Meeting
(Posted April 1, 2013 -- 11PM)

The Oregon Amusement and Music Operators will host their annual state meeting on May 15 at Colwood National Golf Club in Portland.
 
The association says it is also making progress advancing two pieces of legislation in the state house. One would essentially allow simulated card games for amusement purposes, while the other would require law enforcement officials to return seized equipment when no further action is taken.
 
The former bill would deal with problems relating to the some police officers viewing amusement touchscreens as gambling devices, while the other would help operators get their property back. Some operators have had games in custody for more than three years even though no further action was taken following the seizure.
 
AMI Unveils Tap Trivia, Music Videos
(Posted April 1, 2013 -- 11PM)

AMI Entertainment announced two major entertainment initiatives at Amusement Expo: the re-launch of Tap TV as a trivia game system and plans to offer music videos on the firm's Internet jukebox network.
 
 The most recent incarnation of Tap TV will provide operators with a new tool, an ongoing trivia game system connected to a location's TV screens and accessible by mobile tablets and smart phones. AMI envisions operators selling the service to locations for a monthly fee of $149 or more. AMI will charge operators $89 a month for the service. Content will be updated on a regular basis, and AMI execs say the service should help keep patrons in locations buying more drinks and food.
 
AMI says the hardware is easy to install and will be available either through distributors or direct from the factory for $499. For more information on the reinvented Tap TV and Tap TV Trivia, visit www.tap.tv.
 
AMI also unveiled its new video jukebox, which will require a core upgrade to existing jukeboxes and will be supported by new NGX 32" models. AMI says it has already licensed thousands of music videos, which will carry a premium charge of one additional credit. When patrons search for songs with videos, they will be alerted to that choice along with the additional charge. Videos must be display on flat panel screens connected to the jukebox. AMI CEO Mike Maas says the time is right for video.
 
"Even MTV is playing videos again," he noted "You can see with our video jukebox and TAP TV that we are trying to control the glass (video screens) in a location. The option to purchase videos will be stitched everywhere into our jukebox interface."
 
Look for more information on AMI's products and services, as well as the latest news and updates about the AMI jukebox network, on the company's website: http://www.amientertainment.com.
 
CEMA Makes Headway At Amusement Expo
(Posted April 1, 2013 -- 11PM)
 
More than 50 tradesters gathered at last month's Amusement Expo for an in-depth discussion of the launch of a new state association, the California Entertainment Merchants Association (CEMA). "California has long been overdue for an association," said Ron Westphal of Newport Diversified in southern California, who is a driving force behind the formation of the new group.
 
Attendees discussed the nuts and bolts of getting the new association up and running, including dues support, the need for effective representation in the state legislature and the importance of self-policing to avoid becoming the target of aggressive law enforcement or civil litigation.
 
The association was formed in response to a lawsuit two years ago against Chuck E. Cheese's claiming a number of traditional redemption games violated state gambling laws, and subsequent discussion of an effort by the pizzacade chain to lobby for redemption prize limits. That lawsuit settled out of court and legislation limiting prize value was never introduced.
 
"You can't do anything once something is about to be voted on by lawmakers," said Westphal. "By that point, it may well be too late.  We've got to be proactive, not reactive. We need to be ahead of these issues."
 
California lawyer and gaming expert Bob Snyder was on hand for the meeting, reminding operators that the state requires games to operate on a skill-predominance standard, meaning more skill than luck in determining the outcome. However, he noted that 19 states have some form of prize limitation and thus it's quite possible that lawmakers could take one up for consideration. However, he noted that law enforcement focus has largely been limited to cash on the playfied of certain types of games, as well as some high-value prizes, as a potential indicator of illegal gambling. He also noted the possibility of civil liability under various unfair business practice statutes, which was, in fact, the basis of the Chuck E. Cheese's litigation.
 
"We need some kind of self regulation," declared Los Angeles area operator Dave Peck. "We have unscrupulous operators who are being greedy. This creates a potential monster."
 
Peck said he has seen cash being offered in pusher games in locations near where he operates lawful equipment. However, his efforts to get law enforcement involved have come up short, he added. Police failed to respond to his reports of allegedly unlawful activity.
 
Richard Scherer of The Pelican Group noted that when he served as president of a previous operator association in the state in the 1980s, the group required members to adopt its code of ethics.
 
Group organizers passed out membership sign-up sheets and made plans to hold future meetings by phone as well as regular in-person meetings, possibly rotating back and forth between southern and northern California. To learn more, email CEMA.information@gmail.com.
 
VendEver Ceases Cotton Candy Factory Sales; Smart Industries To Provide Service & Support
(Posted April 1, 2013 -- 11PM)

VendEver LLC announced the closing of its worldwide operations as master distributor of the Cotton Candy Factory vending machine. The unit is manufactured in Taiwan by Feiloli Electronic Co Ltd.
 
Unable to reach an agreement with the manufacturer to continue the distribution of the CCF machine, VendEver will cease worldwide operations immediately.
 
Smart Industries announced today that it will be providing "basic supplies" needed to operate the cotton candy machines.
 
"We have a long established relationship with the manufacturing company in Taiwan," said Smart's Jim Dupree. "We will be glad to assist operators with immediate and future needs of these supplies."
 
To learn more, contact Dupree at Jdupree@smartind.com or by phone at 800/553-2442, ext 13.
 
Stern Debuts Avengers Premium Flipper
(Posted April 1, 2013 -- 11PM)

Stern Pinball released the Avengers Premium pinball machine, boasting the same exciting playfield features as the Limited Edition models and a unique Premium translite.
 
 For almost 50 years, The Avengers have delighted fans through comic books, television series and movies. Stern brings the heroes to pinball and provides fans with a new medium through which to enjoy the franchise.
 
The machine features a dynamic setting that incorporates six iconic Avenger heroes: Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, Captain America, Black Widow and Hawkeye. Players help The Avengers assemble to defeat the notorious villain Loki. The Avengers pinball features an animated twisting and pounding custom-molded HULK, drop targets and a spinning cube bonus, in addition to plenty of multiball action. To learn more, visit http://www.sternpinball.com.
 
TouchTunes Celebrates 15th Anniversary,
Announces Concert Webcasting Service
(Posted March 25, 2013 -- 11PM)
 
TouchTunes hosted a 15th birthday party for itself last week at the Marquee Club in Las Vegas on the eve of Amusement Expo. In addition to thanking its operators partners, the firm announced plans to launch a service called TouchTunes Presents, which will provide live streaming concerts to jukebox locations.
 
TouchTunes is launching the new live-casting service as part of a partnership with recording artist Jimmy Buffett. The first live show, a Buffet concert, will be streamed in May, promised TouchTunes CEO Charles Goldstuck.
 
Buffett appeared on a special TouchTunes video, commenting that as a young man he used to collect quarters from a jukebox in his uncle's bar in Pascagoula, Miss.  "I also got to play the jukebox while I cleaned the bar," recalled the beach bum bard turned music empire magnate, recounting his lifelong affection for the jukebox.
 
Goldstuck noted that TouchTunes had 750 licensed songs on its network when it launched in 1998. Today, he said the network has over three million licensed songs and close to 60,000 digital jukeboxes on location. "You were there right from the beginning when this was a tough sell, and you stuck with us," Goldstuck told the hundreds of operators in attendance. "That was a leap of faith. Fortunately many of you shared our pioneer spirit. Our innovation will continue unabated."
 
The jukebox exec also honored investor Alan Salzman of VantagePoint Capital Partners, who Goldstuck credited with providing crucial resources to develop its current line-up of products. "Fifteen years ago, the concept of a digital media box was a novel concept," said Salzman, who also praised TouchTunes' operator partners. "This celebration is about what we have accomplished together."
 
TouchTunes also announced the release of the new Gen3 Plus software and new photo booth tools, including location-specific frames, at this week's show.
 
Goldstuck reported that an upcoming episode of Bar Rescue on Spike TV will focus almost exclusively on the implementation of TouchTunes at a once iconic, but now fading, Hollywood, Calif., bar that pioneered karaoke. The show has featured TouchTunes in three other episodes.
 
Bill Beckham Was Right: Court OKs Parallels
(Posted March 25, 2013 -- 11PM)

Parallel imports -- products purchased overseas and then imported into the U.S. for sale or distribution -- are exempted from copyright infringement by the first-sale doctrine, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled yesterday. The first sale doctrine gives owners of a copyrighted product the right to resell a lawfully purchased copy.
 
During the video heyday, game manufacturers and operators squared off over the issue of video game parallels. Ohio operator Bill Beckham of Red Baron Amusements took the issue all the way to the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals in the late 1980s, challenging Taito's right to control the importation of copies of its game Double Dragon purchased from overseas suppliers.
 
At trial, Beckham won the lawsuit on the basis of the first sale doctrine, but lost at the appellate level where the court said Taito had the right to control the public performance of the game. The Supreme Court chose not to hear a final appeal by Beckham. Congress has since amended the copyright statutes to protect public performance under first sale, and parallel imports no longer raise much of an issue in the game trade.
 
However, the legal question of first sale remained up it the air, at least until yesterday. In the case, John Wiley & Sons v. Kirtsaeng, the court declared that goods bought overseas can be legally imported and resold under the first sale doctrine. The case involved Supap Kirtsaeng, a graduate student at Cornell University, purchasing textbooks published by John Wiley's Asian subsidiary in Thailand, importing them to the U.S and reselling them to fellow students at prices much lower than they were available for in the U.S. John Wiley sued and ultimately won $600,000 in statutory damages against Kirtsaeng. The Supreme Court's ruling yesterday reverses that decision.  In its opinion, the court cited Beckham's 1980s case, Red Baron v. Taito, on several occasions.
 
In handing down its decision penned by Justice Stephen Breyer, the court relied in part on the deep roots of the first sale doctrine in the common law regarding not only copyrighted material, but other items as well. Breyer said the most natural reading of the statue covering the first sale doctrine, 17 USC 109, did not include a geographical limitation.
 
"The non-geographical reading is simple, it promotes a traditional copyright objective (combating piracy), and it makes word-by-word linguistic sense," wrote Breyer. "A geographical interpretation would prevent the resale of, say, a car, without the permission of the holder of each copyright on each piece of copyrighted automobile software. Yet there is no reason to believe that foreign auto manufacturers regularly obtain this kind of permission from their software component suppliers, and Wiley did not indicate to the contrary when asked. Without that permission a foreign car owner could not sell his or her used car."
 
One net effect of the ruling will limit product manufacturers from pursuing price discrimination in different international markets.

Olsen-Hughey Joins Specialty Coin Products
(Posted March 25, 2013 -- 11PM)
 
Industry veteran Heidi Olsen-Hughey has joined the staff of Northwest distributor Specialty Coin Products. Heidi brings many contacts and knowledge gained over her 11 years as product specialist and national sale representative for OK Manufacturing.  In addition, Heidi has a wealth of experience working with family entertainment centers throughout the country. Heidi will take the newly created position as FEC Specialist.
 
"Her expertise, special customer care and service will fit the SCP mission," said Specialty Coin honcho Mike McWilliams. "Heidi will be in charge of sales, marketing and education to all existing and future FECs. In looking for someone  to fill the key position of  'FEC Specialist,' Heidi quickly rose to the top.  Her personality, experience and legendary customer service will allow her to relate to the FEC industry on many levels.  She is our type of person and will fit right in with our service-first philosophy "
 
Heidi will be based out of Salt Lake City and can be reached at 801/369-4572 or via email heidio@coin-opgames.com.
 
Redemption Plus Partners With Xbowling App
(Posted March 25, 2013 -- 11PM)

Redemption Plus has finalized an agreement with Sports Challenge Network to be the exclusive merchandise supplier for Xbowling.
 
Xbowling provides what it calls the bowling industry's first social mobile application from the Sports Challenge Network. Now, bowlers and fans can access real time scoring, player stats, enter challenges and see leaderboards on their smart devices from anywhere in the world.
 
Available free from the Apple App Store and Google Play, the app allows bowlers to set up competitions and go head-to-head against other bowlers in Xbowling-enabled centers around the world.  As an added bonus, bowlers receive rewards for entering and winning challenges, as well as points that will be redeemable with bowling centers and the Sports Challenge Network Zone.
 
"We feel honored to have been selected to partner with such an innovative company." Stated Ron Hill, president and CEO of Redemption Plus.
 
"We are very happy to be working with Redemption Plus, an industry leader in redemption and, and one with deep knowledge and a proven track record in the bowling industry," said Bruce Cox, President and COO of the Sports Challenge Network. "As SCN launches our Xbowling app this Spring, our key partners, such as Redemption Plus, will help us deliver a new and exciting play and rewards and loyalty experience through Xbowling.

Florida Lt. Gov. Resigns Amid Sweeps Raids
(Posted March 18, 2013 -- 12AM)

Florida Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll resigned Wednesday amid a wide-ranging federal investigation into sweepstakes operations run by an organization called Allied Veterans of the World. Investigators allege illegal gambling and fraud.
 
Dozens of Allied locations have been raided and a number of people connected to the business, including the head of the firm providing the system, have been arrested for illegal gambling.
 
Carroll previously owned a public relations firm that worked with Allied Veterans, and one of her top aids told The Florida Times-Union newspaper in Jacksonville that her resignation was connected to the investigation.
 
Carroll has been interviewed by investigations, reported Reuters, and wanted to step aside in order to "keep her former affiliations with the company from distracting from the administration's important work."
 
No one has suggested, at least so far, that Carroll is a target of the ongoing investigation. Carroll advocated for legislation authorizing online gambling during her time in the state legislature.
 
Georgia Senate Approves Redemption Bill
(Posted March 18, 2013 -- 12AM)

A measure that would regulate prize-based redemption in Georgia and create an online system monitoring prize games that allow credits to be carried over from one play to the next was approved by the state Senate yesterday. The measure would limit prize value to $5 per play and give the state a 5% share of the revenue, but operators would be able to offer gift cards and lottery tickets as prizes. Money from the games will be used to shore up the state's Hope Scholarship program.
 
Media reports have largely characterized the measure as authorizing video poker, although proponents, including the Georgia Amusement and Music Operators Association, say that's a mischaracterization of the proposal.
 
"The plan has the support of Gov. Nathan Deal, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and convenience stores where these machines are played," noted the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "The 35-16 vote sends HB 487 back to the House because of changes made to the bill both in committee and on the floor. The bill's backers also beat back challenges that almost sank the bill on the floor. The House originally approved HB 487 last week."

Stern Announces Blue Dot Matrix Kit
(Posted March 18, 2013 -- 12AM)

Stern Pinball is offering a special promotion on a new Blue Dot Matrix Display Kit. The factory says this blue display is the perfect addition to Avengers, Tron, X-Men, Avatar and many other Stern games.
 
The Blue Dot Matrix Display kit, priced at $399, will be available in mid-April from authorized Stern distributors and dealers, as well as from the factory's own parts department. According to Stern, the kit is easy to install and will include the display and a film. 
 
To learn more, get in touch with Dorothy Brown in Stern's parts department at 708/786-7040 or email her at  dorothy.brown@sternpinball.com.  Stern accepts Visa, MasterCard and American Express.  The part number associated with the kit is: 502-6811-00.

Feds Make Sweepstakes Arrest in Two States
(Posted March 13, 2013 -- 11PM)

A wide-ranging federal gambling investigation has resulted in arrests in both Florida and Oklahoma in connection with a multi-location sweepstakes operation in Florida, according to several news reports. Investigators also raided locations seizing computers and business records. The six-year investigation was conducted by the U.S. Secret Service, the IRS and local and state law enforcement.
 
WTEV in Jacksonville reported that the leader of a veterans organization, Allied Veterans of the World, which operates sweepstakes cafes across the state, was arrested. Officers of a Jacksonville area police union and an attorney for Allied Veterans were also arrested in connection with the investigation, the station reported. 
 
Meanwhile in Oklahoma, the owner of sweepstakes system provider International Internet Technologies, Chase Burns, was arrested as part of the same investigation, according to a report in the Oklahoman newspaper.
 
"In the 130-page search warrant, investigators claimed Allied Veterans raked in hundreds of millions of dollars from a fraud ring that used Internet cafes as a front throughout Florida," the Florida TV station reported on its website. "The company claimed they were a non-profit who donated 70% of all of their proceeds back to the Veterans Administration, according to court documents....After seizing evidence in two states and pouring through more than 30 bank accounts, federal investigators found only 2% of all of the proceeds were charitably given to the V.A., or about $6 million.
 
The sweepstakes operation reportedly made $290 million from 2007 through early 2012 even after payouts, WTEV reported, citing court documents. Investigators reportedly searched 50 Allied Veterans affiliates around Florida, as well as the I.I.T. offices in Oklahoma. 
 
"Allied Veterans and others engaged in a conspiracy and scheme to defraud the public and governmental agencies into believing that the money spent, and lost, at the Internet casinos that used the Allied Veterans name went to a charitable organization that was a member of the Veterans Administration," the search warrant claimed.
 
I.I.T. topper Burns reportedly denied the allegations, claiming the firm's system operated legally. Burns will soon be charged criminally, reported the Oklahoman.
 
CD Jukebox Licenses Due By March 15
(Posted March 13, 2013 -- 11PM)

AMOA recently reminded operators that CD jukebox licenses must be renewed by March 15. "For many operators, the CD jukebox is still a relevant, viable part of their equipment inventory," AMOA said in its Off The Top email newsletter.
 
The Jukebox License Office (JLO) has set fees for the coming year. After the first license is secured for $464, AMOA members receive a $28 per box discount on the second and subsequent JLO licenses. The rate for members on those licenses is $79 versus $107 for nonmembers.
 
MEI and Raw Thrills Extend Partnership
(Posted March 13, 2013 -- 11PM)

MEI Inc. and arcade game developer Raw Thrills recently extended their multi-year partner agreement. The new long-term commitment extends an existing program in which Raw Thrills will continue to specify MEI as its preferred choice for payment systems for an additional three years.
 
"The quality and reliability of MEI bill validators are integral to the success of Raw Thrills and our operators," said Eugene Jarvis of Raw Thrills. "Our whole business depends on our games accepting the player's money. MEI bill validators are the best in the industry. That makes it easy for us to continue to partner with MEI. The partnership we have established goes beyond just shipping arcade games and bill validators. Both companies have the consumer experience in mind, which is why this renewed agreement was an easy decision for us."
 
Chris Felix, national amusement OEM manager for MEI, said, "We are proud Raw Thrills will continue to specify MEI in all of their new games.  This decision demonstrates that the value and performance of the MEI product has more than delivered outstanding results for Raw Thrills and the amusement operator over the past three years."
 
Targeted at the amusement industry, the MEI Cashflow AE Series includes three base bill validator models.  The AE2400, AE2600 and AE2800 validate notes between $1 and $100 and come in an up- or down-stacker configuration.

Illinois Gov. Rejects Casino Gambling Expansion
(Posted March 12, 2013 -- 11PM)

Illinois governor Pat Quinn turned back an effort to establish a Chicago-based casino, as well as additional casinos in the Chicago suburbs and down state. Quinn described the bill as "bad for the people of Illinois," according to a report in the Chicago Sun Times.
 
"The governor's move kills the chance of Chicago getting its own casino, meaning state lawmakers will have to start from scratch this spring with another gambling-expansion bill," the paper noted. "The measure that Quinn acted on Monday, which also would have permitted casino wagering at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, was sent to him at the conclusion of January's lame-duck legislative session after Senate Democrats had placed a parliamentary hold on it after its May 2011 passage."
 
Quinn, in his veto message, said: "This bill allows for an excessive expansion that is simply too much, including a casino at the fairgrounds where families bring their children."

The governor also decried lack of ethical and regulatory safeguards, as well as insufficient school funding from gambling tax revenues.
 
IAAPA Asia Show Moves to Beijing for 2014
(Posted March 12, 2013 -- 11PM)

The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) recently announced that its Asian Attractions Expo (AAE) 2014 will take place at the China National Convention Center in Beijing June 17-20, 2014. Since 1997, Asian Attractions Expo has been the premier international trade show and conference for the multibillion-dollar leisure and attractions industry in Asia.
 
"IAAPA is looking forward to bringing Asian Attractions Expo to China," said IAAPA Asia Pacific operations VP Andrew Lee. "The attractions industry within China is growing at a rapid pace with several attractions recently completed and a number of other major amusement parks in development, making its capital city, Beijing, a logical choice to host AAE 2014." 
 
"Beijing's experience as host to the 2008 Olympic Games, its area tourist attractions, and its history and diverse culture make it a perfect backdrop for Asian Attractions Expo, the attractions industry's fastest growing trade show and conference in the region," said IAAPA president and CEO Paul Noland.
 
Gold Standard, D & B Host Air Hockey Tourney
(Posted March 12, 2013 -- 11PM)
 
The 2013 California State Air Hockey Championships took place Feb. 23 at Dave & Buster's in Irvine, Calif. The event was sponsored by Gold Standard Games, Dave & Buster's, Proairhockey.com and several other businesses. Tournament organizers Cory Dzbinski and Kim Wenskay of Proairhockey.com were pleased with the response to their first state-level event. Media coverage included an extensive segment on San Diego Union-Tribune's UT-TV.
 
Winning the tournament was current USAA World Champion Billy Stubbs of Chicago. Second place went to Davis Lee Huynh of Sunnyvale, Calif., a two-time world champion. Joe Cain of San Ramon, Calif., was the third-place finisher, followed by Donovan Brown of Houston, Texas.
 
"The tournament was an opportunity to showcase a prototype of our new Premium FEC air hockey table," said Gold Standard Games/Shelti owner Mark Robbins. "The response was great from both players and D & B personnel. And as expected, Dave & Buster's was a first-class venue for such an event."
 
Dave & Buster's marketing manager Popeye Vasquez said: "What an awesome spectacle for our guests! Dave & Buster's is proud to have hosted this year's tournament. The quality of class and sportsmanship these players showed up with was nothing short of admirable. And the new Premium Gold Standard air hockey table was the talk of the tournament."
 
For info on Gold Standard tables, visit http://www.gold-standard-games.com.
 
Georgia Bill Would Regulate Redemption
(Posted March 12, 2013 -- 11PM)

The Georgia House of Representatives approved a measure last week that was largely reported as authorizing video poker. However, a closer look at the bill reveals instead a plan to heavily regulate and tax redemption games that allow for carry-over credits. The measure passed the House overwhelmingly on a vote of 169-1, and will now be taken up by the state senate.
 
The measure would extend regulatory power over "coin-operated amusement machines" -- including both games and jukeboxes, but not vending machines -- to the Georgia Lottery Corp. It also provides that tax revenues generated through this oversight would be dedicated to the state's HOPE scholarship fund.
 
Under the law, machines would be broken down into two categories, Class A and Class B. The former class includes most current amusement games including those that award both tickets and prizes. However, Class A games differ from Class B games by not allowing players to carry over points won on one play to a subsequent play. Local governments are granted the authority, under this law, to limit specific locations to no more than nine Class B games.
 
The bill defines single play as "the completion of a sequence of a game, or replay of a game, where the player receives a score and from the score the player can secure free replays, merchandise, points, tokens, vouchers, tickets, cards, or other evidence of winnings... A player may, but is not required to, exchange a score for rewards."
 
Both Class A and B games must involve some skill. "If a player can take no action to affect the outcome of the game, the bona fide coin-operated amusement machine does not meet the 'some skill' requirement of this Code section," the bill says.
 
In awarding prizes, both categories of games must comply with the state's existing redemption law that says prizes are limited to free replay, "noncash merchandise, prizes, toys, gift certificates, or novelties, each of which has a wholesale value of not more than $5.00 received for a single play of the game" or "points, tokens, vouchers, tickets, or other evidence of winnings which may be exchanged for rewards."

Apple Uses Movie Magic in New Scene Machine
(Posted March 12, 2013 -- 11PM)

Apple Industries/Face Place has introduced its new Face Place Scene Machine, which uses "green screen" (chroma key compositing) technology to create the illusion that users have actually become a part of the selected scene, just like in movies and special effects.'
 
Harnessing this technology, the Scene Machine removes the bright green backdrop installed in the booth's interior from the printed image, replacing it with a fun and exciting themed setting. In addition to superimposing a new background, the photo booth also adds a foreground image to simulate a realistic 3D image.
 
"With the Scene Machine, Hollywood digital effects magic comes to the photo booth industry in a fun, exciting way," said Apple president Allen Weisberg.  "Big-budget movies use green screen technology to put an actor on another planet or in the middle of a dinosaur-filled jungle. Now that same technology is available for photo booth patrons, exclusively through Apple's Face Place Scene Machine booths."
 
The Scene Machine will initially ship with a library of 16 image themes including: a stage with a microphone for the world's next big singer; an underwater theme where customers can swim with all types of tropical fish; Valentine's-style hearts; virtual tours of landmarks in major cities such as Manhattan, Las Vegas or Washington, D.C.; two different horror movie motifs with zombies or vampires in pursuit; a gentle children's fantasy theme with rainbows and friendly unicorns; and a jungle adventure scene with dinosaurs on the attack.
 
Look for more on this new photo booth in the April issue of RePlay Magazine. 
 
Jersey Shore Landmark Plans Easter Opening
(Posted March 12, 2013 -- 11PM)

The famed Keansburg Amusement Park, a Jersey Shore icon ravaged by Hurricane Sandy, still plans to re-open by Easter although the holiday is approaching rapidly.
 
 "When we first looked at the damage, we knew it was bad. But I don't think we truly understood though how bad it was until we got all of the sand and debris out of here," Keansburg owner Hank Gehlhaus recently told the website NJ.com.
 
Nevertheless, with the help of contractors and volunteers, the park has scheduled a "soft opening" on Palm Sunday. "Gehlhaus said the entire park would not be open by Easter, but that enough things will be open and ready to keep people happy," noted NJ.com. A number of new rides will not be in place until Memorial Day, the website added.
 
"The goal is not just to put back what was here, but to make things look modern and interesting to the eye," Gehlhaus said. "We're going above and beyond, replacing things that don't necessarily need to be replaced and putting in things that never existed before."
 
Coast to Coast Entertainment operates two game rooms at Keansburg, and we caught up with company co-founder Gary Balaban on his way there today.  "We're working hard to get open and we will continue to do so," said Gary. "We are pretty sure we are going to make it."
 
Firestone: New Bank Partner & Increased Credit
(Posted March 12, 2013 -- 11PM)

Firestone Financial Corp. recently announced the addition of Berkshire Bank to its bank group and the signing of $150 million, multi-year revolving credit facility.  Provided through a bank group led by Citizens Bank, this addition is an increase of $25 million to the line secured in May of 2011.
 
David Cohen, president and CEO of Firestone Financial, said: "We are growing and have partnered with banks that understand our growth strategy and support our initiatives.  The addition of Berkshire Bank will provide the additional capital we need to increase our presence in our existing markets and to explore new ones. "
 
Patrick Sullivan, EVP of commercial banking and wealth management at Berkshire Bank, said: "Firestone Financial has built its business based upon long standing customer relationships and industry expertise, a philosophy that is shared by Berkshire Bank. They serve their customers well and we look forward to continuing to partner with them as they grow even further."
 
In addition to Berkshire Bank and Citizens Bank, other banks that participate in the financing are Wells Fargo Capital Finance, LLC, Bank of America, N.A., TD Bank, N.A., and Brookline Bank.
 
AMOA Notre Same Session on the Horizon
(Posted March 12, 2013 -- 11PM)

AMOA will host session two of its current Notre Dame Management Program class from May 3-6 at the university's South Bend, Ind., campus. Class XVI officially got underway last October, but the association say it's not too late to join the group.
 
AMOA noted in last week's Off The Top newsletter that "not all who expressed a desire to participate in this program were able to attend the first session, but those interested and able to get started by attending the second weekend of the program are welcome and encouraged to do so."
 
The AMOA continuing education offers a mini-MBA style program with many facets tailored for amusement industry professionals. The scope of the program encompasses a series of four weekends over a two-year period.
 
For more information, contact AMOA deputy director Lori Schneider via email at llschneider@prodigy.net or by phone at 800-937-2662.
 
Game Exchange Hosting Open House
(Posted March 12, 2013 -- 11PM)

Game Exchange of Colorado will host a post-Amusement Expo open house on Friday, April 5. "Our plans include some morning seminars, focusing on improving profitability for our operating community, and a show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to include a nice lunch buffet, and good networking time," said distributorship founder Rich Babich.

UNIS Launches Pirate's Hook Fishing Game
(Posted March 4, 2013 -- 12PM)

Game maker UNIS reports being busy making final preparations for this month's Amusement Expo (March 20-22). The factory plans to showcase Pirate's Hook, its latest redemption piece.
 
"This hooking fun fishing game was originally launched at the IAAPA show in November and has proved itself to be a great addition to all types of locations," said UNIS international sales manager Steven Tan. "At the show we will be including some earning reports that we have received from around the U.S., we are very pleased with how well Pirate's Hook is performing in venues".
 
During the same week UNIS's Moscow distributor ODA will be exhibiting Pirate's Hook, along with many other UNIS machines, at RAAPA 2013 in the All-Russian Exhibition Center.
 
To learn more log on to http://www.universal-space.com or call Debbie Gonzalez, U.S. sales manager at 714/377-0508.
 
Barron Games Shipping Air Ride Hockey
(Posted March 4, 2013 -- 12PM)

Barron Games has started shipping a sleeker version of its current two-player redemption air hockey table. "Air Ride is perfect for smaller locations or height restrictions," says the factory.
 
The game has an updated design with scoring directly on the playfield and blue LED lights along the puck release, as well as chasing blue LED lights along the playfield.
 
Other features/specs include:

• no overhead bar/scoreboard
• timer and scoring located on the playfield
• aluminum body
• poly-carbonate scratch-free playfield
• side sound sensors
• chasing LED lights along playfield
• 10 pucks, 4 rubber gripped mallets and spray polish
• redemption optional 
• dimensions: 87" long x 46" wide x 31" high
• weight: 330 pounds

To learn more, visit http://www.barrongames.com. Barron will be exhibiting Air Ride at Amusement Expo this month in Las Vegas.
 
Former Distributor Dave Patterson Passes Away
(Posted March 4, 2013 -- 12PM)

Dave Patterson, former Texas distributor and recent Dallas-based financial advisor, was the prime topic of conversation early this week as many sought details of his reported death the previous week. The word is that Dave left us unexpectedly on Wed., Feb. 20. He is best known in the trade for operating Sunbelt Distributing back in the "golden days" of coin-op, with offices in both Dallas and Oklahoma City. After closing the company in 1999, he became a financial advisor, most recently working for a firm in Dallas. Called "Diamond Dave" by his friends for his sometimes flamboyant style (he put on huge open house parties during the video game boom), he was also an avid golfer, as well as a student of the Civil War. More details as we get them. 
 
Betson Teams with USA Technologies on Cashless Payment Systems
(Posted March 4, 2013 -- 12PM)

Betson Enterprises has entered into a national distribution agreement with USA Technologies to expand the use of cashless payment systems within the amusement industry. USAT is a provider of wireless, cashless payment and M2M (in simplest terms, meaning machine-to-machine) solutions for small, self-serve retailing businesses.
 
In this three-year deal, Betson will be an authorized distributor of USAT's ePort for cashless payment and data reporting services, which includes the exclusive use of USAT's ePort Connect service (which is used in conjunction with a customer's ePort).
 
"We are excited to be launching this new distribution relationship with USAT," said Betson VP Jonathan Betti. "We believe USAT's cashless payment and data reporting can provide another powerful boost to the industry. The growing appeal of cashless payment alternatives and the data reporting element available through USAT's ePort Connect service should support broader market appeal and greater returns for amusement operators.
 
"Players of high-end prize redemption games, digital jukeboxes, simulators and cranes are a great match for the convenience of cashless payment," Betti continued. "No more wrestling with the bill acceptor or searching for more coins in your pocket." Betti added that operators would also benefit from the increased play cashless systems can create while also reducing the costs of handling cash.
 
USAT's ePort is supported by its one-stop ePort Connect service: "a PCI-compliant, comprehensive suite of cashless payment, telemetry and consumer engagement services specially tailored to fit the needs of the unattended, small-ticket retailing industry." ePort Connect enables self-
service terminals to accept cashless payment from sources including credit, debit and contact-less cards. It also includes all elements of transaction processing, 24 x 7 customer service and online tracking of cash and cashless transactions, explained the companies.
 
"Betson is the gold standard for distribution in the amusement industry," said Michael Lawlor, USAT's senior VP of sales and business development. "We believe their reputation and nationwide reach will be a facilitator to our anticipated growth platform as we continue to extend our reach beyond traditional vending to new market segments in small-ticket, unattended retail."
 
Nevada Approves Interstate Internet Gambling
(Posted March 4, 2013 -- 12PM)

Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval put his stamp of approval last week on a bill that authorizes online gambling across state lines.
 
"Nevada wanted to beat New Jersey, its East Coast casino rival, to the online gambling punch," reported the Associated Press. "New Jersey Governor Chris Christie previously vetoed an online wagering bill but has indicated he may sign an amended version next week. Sandoval and Nevada legislative leaders said it was important for Nevada to remain at the forefront of gambling regulation."
 
State regulators have already received 20 applications from various operators and suppliers looking to get licensed. The law authorizes Nevada to enter into agreements with other states to offer Internet poker.
 
"Lawmakers in 2011 passed a bill that put Nevada in position to legalize Internet gambling if the federal government sanctioned it," the AP story explained. "But when those efforts failed in Congress, Sandoval said Nevada would work toward agreements with other states...Partnering with other states gives Nevada an expanded customer market and provides other states with Nevada's expertise in gambling regulation."
 
Birmingham Vending Matriarch Passes Away
(Posted March 4, 2013 -- 12PM)

Birmingham Vending's Steve Toranto recently passed along some sad news: his mother Razelle Toranto passed away on Feb. 19. 
 
She was the daughter of Max and Bek Hurvich who were among the founders Birmingham Vending Company in 1931. Razelle was married to Albert Toranto for 48 years until his death in 2000.  She volunteered countless hours to many organizations in Birmingham, Ala., including Hadassah and the Sisterhood of Temple Beth El.  
 
Steve wrote of his mom: "She loved life, travel, her husband, children and grandchildren and will be missed dearly by those who loved her."  

Betson Bolsters Staff With Gillmore, Lamoreaux
(Posted March 4, 2013 -- 12PM)

Betson Enterprises recently appointed Scott Gilmore as its director of FEC sales and consulting, and has also welcomed new employee Steve Lamoreaux as an outside sales rep for the Mountain States region.
 
Scott Gilmore has moved into a newly created position where he will work directly with current and newly developing location-based amusement centers, directing their entertainment projects. According to Betson, Scott will be offering a complete line of services including floor plan layout, game room selection, redemption design and merchandising which will help maximize ROI and increase revenue through his extensive industry knowledge.
 
Scott is a 14-year veteran of H. Betti Industries with over 30 years of industry knowledge, having learned the coin-op business by running his family's amusement and street route. Through his tenure at Betson, Scott has focused primarily on the seasonal Jersey Shore customers and large regional installations. In doing so, Betson execs say he has developed a well-rounded knowledge of the components that make for a successful and profitable family fun experience.
 
"Scott's new role gives him jurisdiction to work with all Betson offices, salesmen and customers on their entertainment projects," said H. Betti president Bob Geschine. "We are confident that Scott's experience, expertise and personality will bring positive results to all of those points of interactions." Scott Gilmore can be contacted directly by phoning  201/438-1300, ext. 93370, or by emailing him at sgilmore@betson.com.
 
New Mountain States region sales rep Steven Lamoreaux "is an experienced road salesman and we are excited to have him on board," said Jonathan Betti, VP of sales and business development. "Steve will have the full support of the Betson management team and our company resources to ensure current and future success in the market." Lamoreaux can be contacted directly at 630/390-5126 or can be emailed at slamoreaux@betson.com.

Discount Plush Launches Custom Mix Builder
(Posted March 4, 2013 -- 12PM)

Discount Plush has begun offering a new, online "Pick Your Plush" feature that lets customers to build custom small or jumbo mixes of generic and/or licensed plush.
 
Company execs say the feature allows customers to choose specific quantities of different varieties of plush, making it simple for customers to meet their price points while catering to their preferences and the needs of their location. The service is provided at no extra cost and all custom orders qualify for Discount Plush's free freight program.
 
To find out more about this feature or to build your own mix, visit 
http://www.discountplush.com/pick-your-plush.