August 2006: E-issue #2
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Contents
AMOT Convention Overview
Convention Thanks!
Welcome New AMOT Members
Gaming in the News



AMOT MEMBER NEWSLETTER
Latest industry news to help you stay informed and connected

AUGUST 2006



33rd Annual AMOT Convention Overview

The 33rd annual AMOT convention was held in San Antonio from July 20-22nd. The two-day event brought together all segments of the coin-operated industry and included over 160 distributors, operators, manufacturers and suppliers.

In addition to the exhibits and silent auction, the legislative policy discussion played a central role, as gaming issues will be front and center during the 2007 Legislative Session. If you were not able to attend the convention, please let us know if would like a copy of the powerpoint presentation given by lobbyist Lee Woods. Woods outlined the political landscape and how AMOT members can take an active role in preserving the health of the coin operated industry in Texas.

Of note, please help us congratulate Elwyn Herman of South Texas Vending and Denis Smith of Vend Music of Texas who were both honored during the Convention. Herman was given the Ever Burning Torch Award for his steadfast legal battle with the officials in the South Texas area and Smith was presented the Presidents Award for his dedication to the Amusement and Music Operators of Texas. Association.


Special Thanks to the 2006 AMOT Convention Sponsors, Exhibitors and Auction Donors!

Sponsors: Firestone Financial, Global VR, Incredible Technologies, Rowe International, Merit Industries and Valley Dynamo

Exhibitors: Amusement Distributors, Betson Texas Distributing, Choice Enterprises, Inc., Commercial Music Company, Discount Arcade Distributing, Inc., H. A. Franz and Company, Happ Controls, Houston Game Repair, Imonex, Incredible Technologies, Inc., M.E.I., Micro Distributors, Pioneer Game, Pyramid Technologies, and Wallace Distributing Company, Inc.

Silent Auction Donors: Merit Industries, Global VR, Rockola, Commercial Music Company, Harp Vending Company, JVL, Discount Arcade Distributing, Replay Magazine, Imonex, Valley Dynamo, AMOA, Pyramid Games, Betson Texas Distributing, Amusement Distributors, Rowe International, Arachnid, C. E. Thompson and Sons, Harp Vending Company, Touchtunes, Plaia's, and Incredible Technologies


Welcome New Members!

As we gear up for a critical legislative session, increasing AMOT membership is essential. To this end, we are pleased to announce the following new members:

Robert Jozwiak, A C Music (Houston, Texas)
Joe Gonzales, Broadway Amusements (San Antonio, Texas)
Mark Bullard, Bullard and Company (Terrell, Texas)
Bill Kruger, Micro Distributors (Peoria, Illinois)
Corey R. Mills, O'Mar Amusements (Bridge City, Texas)
Michael Rochon, Rochon Service Network (Houston, Texas)
James Temple, Wooden Nickel (Odem, Texas)
Richard Black, Yukon Twin, Inc. (Austin, Texas)



Gaming in the News

Whether or not to legalize further gaming in Texas continues to be a hot topic in the news. Recent articles of particular interest include:

Dallas could win big with casino
Dallas Morning News, August 22, 2006

Texans gambling on Lotto to fund education take note
Houston Chronicle, August 19, 2006

Eight-liners back in Raymondville
Harlingen Valley Morning Star, August 18, 2006


AMOT convention pictures — click here to take a look!



Make-A-Wish Foundation
Reminder, if you have not already done so, please send in your donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Over the years, AMOT has raised over $10,000 for the Foundation, helping grant the wishes of a number of special children.





Legislative Dates of interest:
Tuesday, November 7, 2006
General election for legislative and other offices

Monday, November 13, 2006
Prefiling of legislation for the 80th Legislature begins

Tuesday, January 9, 2007
80th Legislature convenes at noon More dates.


Do you know who represents you and your business in Austin and in Washington? Find out here.




Websites to Watch:
Texas Legislature Online
Governor's Office
Lieutenant Governor's Office
Attorney General's Office
Quorum Report
Capitol Inside




AMOA Initiatives
During the convention, AMOA President Jim Pietrangelo touched on several issues of importance to our industry including the impact of downloaded music. Make sure to check out www.amoa.com to learn more.




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