Convention just one of many GIA benefits
By Neil Peterson, Executive Director
Gaming Industry Association
The 2011 GIA Annual Convention is in the books, and it provided ample opportunities to socialize, network with peers and see the latest in video gambling machines and new games.
Social activities dominated the first day with the “freeze out” poker tourney and reception and trade show providing the fare. Blaine Bowman with Spielo edged Mark Ehli with Big B Bingo for first place and Kit Seaton with Fleetwood Gaming took third.
For the first time in this author's four conventions, all video gaming machine manufacturers were present at the trade show to demonstrate their latest and greatest in machines and games.
Wednesday things got down to business with the annual meeting and board meeting. Officers and directors were elected at the annual meeting. Stuart Ellison with Jackrabbit Red's Casinos was elected president, Larry Davidson with the Crystal Lounge in Billings was elected vice-president, and Mark Ehli was elected treasurer. I am looking forward to working with all of these folks for the next two years.
If gaming represents a significant revenue stream for your business, I encourage you to join the GIA. The GIA provides you two very important things: information and networking. The GIA provides in-depth information on happenings in the industry and regulatory environment. The GIA is all about the gaming industry and that topic is first and foremost for members.
The GIA also provides a chance to exchange information and ideas with others in the industry. It doesn't make any difference how big or small the operator is, folks are always learning something from each other about how to better operate their business or deal with issues impacting their business.
Please call me at 406-459-5771 or e-mail me at n.peterson@bresnan.net for information on becoming a member of the GIA. I know it will be worth your while to become a member.