Loose Change - August 2025
- Melissa M
- Aug 1
- 4 min read
In this August issue
A Letter from your AAMA President
All Things All Access
Meet the Maker - Dan Gingiss
Get a Room
Joe is the Man
Carnival Time
Dear AAMA Members and Industry Friends,
It’s hard to believe nearly a year has flown by since I accepted the honor of serving as your AAMA President. From the moment I received the gavel, I have carried this responsibility with immense pride and a deep commitment to our remarkable industry. As I reflect on our progress and look ahead to what’s next. I feel a genuine sense of excitement for all we are achieving, together.
That excitement has reached a peak as we prepare to gather for our reimagined annual event, August 19–21 at the Warwick Hotel in Dallas, TX. The energy behind this year’s conference is palpable and you won’t want to miss it! Under the expert leadership of board member Brian Cohen and an inspired planning team, we have crafted an experience that promises to leave a lasting impact.
This is where the best and brightest in our field come together to share ideas, renew connections, and shape the future of location-based entertainment. We are thrilled to welcome distinguished leaders, kicking off with an exclusive keynote from the CEO of Chuck E. Cheese, who will offer powerful insights on adaptation and innovation in our rapidly changing world.
Our agenda is packed with must-see sessions: unlock the secrets of game room performance with George Smith, Joe Camerato, and Nick DeMatteo; dive deep into critical trends like Cyber Security and AI transformation; and gather million-dollar ideas to take back to your business. I’m especially looking forward to shining a spotlight on some of our industry’s top leaders including Alley Cats, our most recent Top FEC of the Year in a session that is sure to inspire and inform.
None of this would be possible without the generosity of our sponsors, whose support elevates our association and this event. A heartfelt thank you to our Diamond Level Sponsors—Smart Industries and Embed, our Luxe Meal Sponsor, Betson, our Signature Sponsors, and all the outstanding companies supporting us at the Access Entertainment Sponsors and Celebration Table Sponsor levels. Your belief in the AAMA’s mission and our collective future means the world.
If you haven’t already saved your spot, I personally invite you to join us in Dallas. This is your chance to reconnect with friends, forge powerful new connections, and return home with fresh ideas and renewed enthusiasm for your business. Location-based entertainment centers from across the country—Andretti’s, Holiday Lanes, Dave & Busters, Pinstacks, Sports Connection, Shenaniganz, and so many more will be there, ready to make this our best event yet.
In uncertain times, togetherness and innovation are more important than ever. Let’s seize this opportunity to support one another, tackle challenges, and keep leading our industry forward. I can’t wait to see you in Dallas, to celebrate our successes and write the next chapter together.
With gratitude and excitement,
Beth Standlee
President, AAMA
We Have Our Seats at the Table! Do You?
So, Do You Have Your Seat?
The excitement is building for AAMA All Access—and the movers and shakers of the amusement industry are definitely showing up.
If you’re not in the photo gallery we’ve shared, double-check that you’re officially registered for the event. And hey, we’re human—if we missed you, don’t panic! Just give us a call. We’re fun to talk to, promise.
This is the can't-miss event for connection, innovation, and inspiration. If you want to be where the action is—make sure you’re on the list.
We’ll see you in Dallas!
What to Expect at All Access? An Experience Like Never Before.
This year’s AAMA All Access is designed to elevate everything. Think exquisite food, top-tier entertainment, and education that inspires action.
Get ready for sessions packed with real-world insight—from choosing the right games and attractions to maximizing revenue per square foot and leveling up your operations. Whether you’re running an arcade, FEC, or bowling alley, you’ll walk away with strategies you can use immediately.
And don’t miss our keynote speaker, Dan Gingiss, The Experience Maker. With a passion for unforgettable customer experiences—and a soft spot for pinball—Dan brings energy, inspiration, and actionable ideas that will spark new ways of thinking about your business.
All Access is where the future of fun begins. Are you ready?
Final Call: Hotel Rate Ends Today!
Today, August 1st, is your last chance to lock in the exclusive $189 room block rate at the award-winning Warwick Melrose Hotel in Dallas for the All Access event.
This rate has already been extended once—there will be no further extensions.
Don't miss your opportunity to stay in style just steps from the action. Book now before the rate disappears!
Stay Connected!
Make sure you're following us on Facebook and LinkedIn to stay up to date on all things All Access—and everything happening across AAMA.
Don't miss the updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes moments.
📲 Follow us today and stay in the loop!
Celebrating a True Industry Champion
While we’ll gather for our official AAMA Members-Only Annual Meeting, we’re also coming together to honor someone truly special—Lifetime Achievement Award winner Joe Camarota.
Joe’s impact on the amusement industry is profound, but it’s his unwavering dedication to making a meaningful impact beyond the industry that truly sets him apart. From his leadership within AAMCF to his recent appointment to the Board of Directors of Sunrise Association Philly, Joe’s legacy is one of service, compassion, and connection.
He’s above and beyond. Welcoming to all. An all-around good guy.
We celebrate Joe.
Be sure to RSVP for Wednesday night’s Gala Celebration—you won’t want to miss it.
🎪 One Last Chance to Volunteer at a Sunrise Carnival! 🎉
Come spend a day with the amazing kids of Camp Sunrise—children living with cancer and their siblings. Join us for a day of joy, games, and heartwarming moments. 💛
📍 August 12 – Long Island
You’ll laugh, play, and leave inspired. 🌟
📩 Questions? aamacharity@gmail.com
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