AAMA Wraps Up Record-Breaking All Access Annual Meeting in Dallas
- Melissa M
- Aug 28
- 4 min read
Cary, Il – August 28, 2025 — The American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) is proud to announce the resounding success of its 2025 All Access Annual Meeting, held this past week in Dallas, TX. This year’s event brought together a dynamic mix of industry veterans, new members, and first-time attendees, creating an atmosphere of energy, connection, and forward momentum for the association.
For 2025, AAMA introduced a new city, new format, and new educational programming—and the results exceeded expectations. Of all registered participants, 108 attendees, more than half the total, were brand new to the Annual Meeting, reflecting the growing excitement and interest in AAMA’s mission. The event also saw both new and returning leaders step into board positions for AAMA and the AAMCF, strengthening the future of the organization.
The AAMA Board of Directors was pleased to see the return of George Smith (Family Entertainment Group) return to the Board. Several BOD Members whose terms expired at the Annual Meeting were re-elected and include - Jim Bennington (No Cash Value, LLC), Joe Camarota (Alpha Omega Sales), Frank Consentino (Bandai Namco), Don Marshall (Marshall Productions), Howard McAuliffe (Pinnacle Entertainment Group), Paula Rinker (Pixel Plush & Prizes), and Gary Stern (Stern Pinball). They will join current BOD members Rich Babich (Game Exchange of Colorado), Britannie Betti (Betson Enterprises), Jeff Blair (Sureway Games), Jon Brady (Sports Connection), Brian Cohen (Entertainment Properties Group), Jonathan Durst (Pyramid Technologies), Adam Kleinhenz (Shaffer Distributing), Beth Standlee (TrainerTainment), and Allen Weisberg (Apple Industries). The 2025-2026 AAMA BOD alternate is Sara Paz (Embed).
The AAMCF Board of Directors welcomed newcomer Bailey Luke (Moss Distributing). Several BOD Members whose terms expired at the Annual Meeting were re-elected and include Rich Babich (Game Exchange of Colorado), Joe Camarota (Alpha Omega Sales), David James (Service First Processing), Candi Kelley (TrainerTainment), Adam Kleinhenz (Shaffer Distributing), Howard McAuliffe (Pinnacle Entertainment Group) and Allen Weisberg (Apple Industries were reelected. They will join current BOD members Britannie Betti (Betson Enterprises), Jeff Blair (Sureway Games), Holly Hampton (BayTek Entertainment), Amy Hedrick (Cleanbox Technologies), John Keys (CenterEdge Software), Sara Paz (Embed), Paula Rinker (Pixel Plush & Prizes). The AAMCF alternate is Gary Stern (Stern Pinball).
Networking and collaboration were at the forefront, with highlights including the always-popular Government Luncheon with AAMA’s lobbyist, John Russell, a partner with the DGA Group, and an inspiring Tuesday evening session with industry leader David McKillips, CEO of Chuck E. Cheese. The week also celebrated member excellence, as the Shining Star Award—chosen by AAMA staff—was presented to Adam Kleinhenz (Shaffer Distributing), and the Joe Robbins Award—selected by the AAMA Board of Directors—was presented to Brian Glasgow. The programming continued with education tracks on Wednesday, covering a variety of industry-focused topics, followed by Thursday’s offsite experiences at B&B Theatres’ Red Oaks location and Alley Cats Hurst, giving attendees a firsthand look at innovative entertainment operations.
A highlight of the week came during the Annual Gala Dinner on Wednesday, August 20th, hosted in the Turtle Creek Ballroom at the Warwick Melrose Dallas, where the association proudly celebrated Joe Camarota, recipient of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his generous spirit and decades of contribution to the amusement industry.
In addition, the AAMCF’s charitable initiatives were met with overwhelming support. During the event, $34,000 was raised in person, funds that will be gifted to AAMCF’s charity partners in the months ahead. In total $250,000 was awarded that evening, with $50,000 going to each, KEEN USA and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital and $145,000 to Sunrise Association and $5,000 to Make A Wish New Jersey.
“This year’s All Access Annual Meeting was truly a turning point for AAMA,” said Pete Gustafson, AAMA Executive Vice President. “The energy, the fresh perspectives, and the commitment of our members—new and old—proved that our industry is not only thriving but also ready to grow stronger together.”
AAMA extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Annual Meeting Committee for their vision and hard work, and to Tina Schwartz, whose dedication helped bring this unforgettable experience to life.
With a revitalized spirit and a clear focus on the future, AAMA looks forward to building on the momentum of Dallas and driving continued innovation, collaboration, and advocacy for the amusement industry.
About the AAMA
The American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) is an international not-for-profit 501(c)6 trade organization representing the manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, professional service providers and location owner/operators for the coin-operated amusement industry. Our mission is to make the industry better through collaboration, education, advocacy and networking. We never stop playing!
About the AAMCF
The American Amusement Machine Charitable Foundation (AAMCF) is a 501©3 organization that raises funds to support charities focused on children, education, and scientific research. Founded in 1983 by members of the American Amusement Machine Association, the AAMCF has made contributions of more than 3.5 million dollars supporting nearly 150 charities.
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