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f ROM THE EDITOR Organizational arthritis W e've all heard, and probably said ourselves, that operators could move mountains if they would just push in the right direction at the same time. Most likely, every time you hear that statement you are reminded that operators are not organized enough to coordinate one effective assault. They have organizational arthritis. We see fragmented efforts across the country for any particular campaign, but seldom is there a true united effort. It's a shame that when trade magazines or state association newsletters plead for operator involvement, usually the only ones reading it are those that are carrying more than their share of the load. It makes me a little crazy when I run into an operator who smugly says that he can't afford to join his state association or subscribe to a trade magazine. Does an operator expect me to believe he can't afford a subscription that costs less than he'd spend on dinner or a few drinks with friends at his favorite watering hole? Does he really think it's a smart business decision to ignore his state association and not get involved in matters that will affect his business? I wonder if he thinks he's impressing me with how well he saves a buck? I could just scream thinking about it! But I'm getting out of control. Operators who don't contribute to the good of the industry should be called something besides "operator." How about something like "traitor"? A bit harsh? You bet it's harsh, but a traitor is defined as one who is "false to an obligation or duty"-an apt description. There's a chain reaction when operators do things that tarnish the industry's image. We found out all to PLAY METER 10 OCTOBER 1991 well in the early '80s how the public reacted to less-than-reputable operators and their operations. And what common denominator did these guys have? They did not bother to learn what the industry is all about. Earning a quick buck at minimum effort was never what the industry offered. When the "video bust" came, it was interesting to see all the rats deserting the ship. But we were glad to see them go. It's not only our industry that suffers from lack of support and long-term vision. A quick example hit close to home, literally. When a neighbor discovered plans for a housing development on vacant land bordering our neighborhood, he pleaded with other residents to campaign against it. In fact, he suggested that the money be raised from homeowners to buy the land and designate it for a park. Many balked at the idea ofreaching into their pockets. So what happened? Those working to squash the plans succeeded only slightly; plans were modified and smaller apartment units were built. But here it is five years later. The apartments have turned into an eyesore to those coming into the subdivision from the back. How eagerly everyone would put up their money today to have an attractive park instead of repugnant apartments. Now please don't think I'm saying AMOA has not done some wonderful things. I'm not criticizing what is being done. I'm simply condemning those that aren't contributing. The few who do most of the work and are called upon time after time deserve a round of applause. They are on call because it's good for their businesses. The fact that their efforts benefit others, so be it. But those sitting idly by in their own little worlds rarely understand the benefits. One state association successfully fought a gross receipts tax that would have spelled financial ruin for many operators in the state. Nevertheless, when it came time to pay dues, some operators wanted to know where their money was going. I'd like to tell these guys just to send the association the money they would have paid in taxes. Now how do those dues look? Let's pretend it's 2001 , IO years from now. What will I write in my 10 years ago column? Let's see, maybe it will be something like this, reflecting on the video lottery situation in many states: "Operators could have gotten together and changed the industry forever, but too many figured someone else would do the work. The industry was never the same after that." Operators have been lucky so far in Montana, South Dakota, and soon Louisiana. All three states have welcomed operators into the fold; they will be a part of the program. Iowa operators are not so lucky. The state lottery commission is formulating plans to place over 1,000 video poker machines in about 400 locations on a trial basis. Operators are not included. If you don't think it could be devastating to operators, maybe it's time for you to get involved, because you are way out of touch. There are mountains to move and you can make a difference. D Valerie Cognevich Editor