Loose Change - June 2026 Edition

Jun 1
4 min read

FEC Connect Rewind - From Candi Kelley - FEC Connect Committee co-chair

When the AAMA FEC Connect Committee started discussing bringing this event back, one thing became very clear very quickly: we didn’t want to create another seminar or educational event.

Our industry already has strong conferences, seminars, webinars, and educational tracks. Instead of competing with those, we wanted to create something that felt more personal, more interactive, and more connected to the real day-to-day operations of a successful facility.

This year marked the successful relaunch of FEC Connect after a multi-year hiatus, and for the first time ever, the event was directly tied to the AAMA FEC of the Year program. That partnership allowed attendees to experience something unique: true behind-the-scenes access to an award-winning operation.

A tremendous thank you goes to our gracious host, Star Lanes Polaris, for opening not only their doors, but also their systems, processes, challenges, strategies, and team culture to attendees throughout the event.

One of the biggest goals for FEC Connect was to create an environment where operators and industry partners could ask real questions, have authentic conversations, and build meaningful relationships. Based on attendee feedback, that goal was absolutely accomplished.

The behind-the-scenes tours were consistently rated as one of the most valuable aspects of the event. Attendees appreciated the opportunity to see how an award-winning facility actually operates beyond what is typically visible to guests. The " Ask Me Anything " panel and roundtable discussion sessions also received strong praise for the transparency and practical insights shared by the Star Lanes team.

Another major success was the quality of networking throughout the event. The more intimate setting created opportunities for operators, vendors, and partners to engage in conversations that often don’t happen at larger trade shows or conference settings. Several sponsors shared that they left the event with meaningful follow-up opportunities and new business conversations already in motion.

The event also brought strong support from the industry, with 14+ sponsor companies participating and helping make the experience possible.

What stood out most in the feedback was that attendees repeatedly described the event as “different.” Different in energy. Different in access. Different in the level of openness and interaction.

That was intentional.

From the interactive play sessions to the operational walkthroughs to the candid conversations around challenges and lessons learned, FEC Connect was designed to feel less like sitting through presentations and more like being welcomed into the real workings of a successful facility.

Was everything perfect? Of course not. This was the first year connecting FEC Connect and the FEC of the Year program in this way, and there are already conversations happening about how to continue improving and growing the experience moving forward.

But the momentum is real.

Most importantly, this event reinforced something many of us already know: one of the most valuable things our industry can do is create spaces where people can connect honestly, share openly, and learn directly from one another.

That is exactly what FEC Connect set out to accomplish.

Applications Open for the 2027 AAMA FEC of the Year Award

The American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) is now accepting applications for the prestigious 2027 FEC of the Year Award — recognizing the very best in the Family Entertainment Center industry.

Following in the footsteps of respected past winners like Star Lanes Polaris in 2026, this is your opportunity to showcase what makes your facility stand out. From exceptional guest experiences and innovative attractions to outstanding operations and community impact, AAMA is looking for facilities that represent excellence in family entertainment.

In addition to the honor and industry recognition that comes with the award, this year’s competition includes an added value for participants. The Top 5 finalists selected during the judging process will each receive a professional secret shopper report, providing detailed feedback and operational insights that can help strengthen and elevate their business.

This valuable “bonus benefit” makes the application process even more worthwhile for facilities looking to benchmark their guest experience and operations against the best in the industry.

Applications are due June 30, 2026.

Don’t miss your opportunity to be recognized among the best of the best in the FEC community.

Watch Fun Across America - Star Lanes Polaris

Watch Understanding, Survivine & Thriving the Next 24 Month in the FEC Industry

Each year, the AAMA community honors a leader whose impact has shaped our industry, and in 2026, we proudly celebrate Eugene Jarvis of Raw Thrills and Play Mechanix. From Defender and RoboTron to today’s cutting-edge arcade experiences, Eugene’s creativity and vision helped define generations of gaming.

This annual ad journal honors his legacy while supporting the important work of the American Amusement Machine Charitable Foundation (AAMCF). Funds raised benefit three incredible organizations: Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, KEEN USA, and Sunrise Association—bringing medical care, inclusion, joy, and hope to children and families facing extraordinary challenges.

Our goal this year is to raise $330,000. Every ad and every contribution helps make a difference.

Celebrate Eugene’s legacy and help us deliver care, joy, and hope to those who need it most. Together, we make our change matter.

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