By Neil Peterson
Executive Director
Gaming Industry Assoc.
After a few days on the job as the new Executive Director of the Gaming Industry Association of Montana, I have a new found appreciation for the phrase "baptism by fire.'
I know it would be much worse if not for retiring executive director Rich Miller' willingness to go above and beyond the call explaining how things work and why they work. I can't thank Rich enough for all his help though he probably is getting tired of me asking him if he really wants to go sailing.
I would like to thank the Board of Directors of the GIA for selecting me as their executive director. I really believe this is one of the best jobs in Montana and certainly the best job for me.
I was truly impressed during my visit with the selection committee as to their professionalism and their vision for the GIA.
While there are a bunch of things going on these days with the GIA, I want to highlight a couple of items.
The annual convention is being conducted May 20-21 at Chico Hot Springs, which is just around the corner. The poker tourney kicks things off on Monday night, May 19 with the full convention getting started the next day.
All of the candidates for the office of Montana Attorney General, as well as local sitting legislators, have been invited to attend the social and buffet the evening of May 20. Look for more information as those dates draw near.
In addition to the convention, I intend to get out and meet as many business owners and operators as I can in the coming weeks and months. I look forward to meeting and talking with folks from all aspects of the gaming industry. Your help will be invaluable to me.
I told the selection committee that I need to really learn your
business to be effective as your executive director. My experience so far has been great, with Montana Tavern Association Government Affairs Counsel Mark Staples, Montana Coin Machine Operators Association lobbyist Ronda Wiggers and Montana Tavern Times Editor and Publisher Cole Boehler demonstrating a sincere willingness to help the new guy.
In the meantime, please contact me with your questions or concerns. Feel free to call or e-mail me anytime. If I don't know the answer right then, I will find out and get back to you as quickly as possible.
The Gaming Industry Association' address continues to be P.O. Box 564, Helena, MT 59624-0564 and the telephone number is still 406-449-2481. The fax number is 406-422-5606 should you need to fax me a document. My cell number is 406-459-5771 and my e-mail address is
.
Thanks and I hope we will meet soon.