IMGL 2017 Spring Conference
May 10 - 12, 2017
Overview
Miami, Florida
May 10-12, 2017
IMGL members traveled to Miami, Florida for the association’s 2017 Spring Conference. The successful conference was well-attended and included fact-filled and timely presentations.
View Photos from the Conference
- Spring 2017 Miami Opening Reception
- Spring 2017 Miami May 11 Sessions
- Spring 2017 Miami May 12 Sessions
Conference Program
Click here to view or download a PDF of the conference program.
Register
Registration is now available.
Sponsorships
Sponsorships for this conference are now available.
View and download the Sponsorship Levels Prospectus
For more information, contact IMGL Director of Education of Education, Morten Ronde: morten@imgl.org
Gold Sponsor
Fox Rothschild
foxrothschild.com
Fox Rothschild LLP is a national law firm with nearly 800 attorneys practicing in 22 offices coast to coast. We’ve been serving clients for more than a century, and we’ve been climbing the ranks of the nation’s 250 largest firms for many years, according to The National Law Journal. Ranked by Chambers Global among the top gaming lawyers worldwide, Fox is home to one of the largest gaming law practices in the United States, complete with skilled attorneys who possess decades of experience helping clients domestically and internationally achieve success in this highly regulated industry.
IGT
igt.com
IGT (NYSE: IGT) is the global leader in gaming. We enable players to experience their favorite games across all channels and regulated segments, from Gaming Machines and Lotteries to Interactive and Social Gaming. Leveraging a wealth of premium content, substantial investment in innovation, in-depth customer intelligence, operational expertise and leading-edge technology, our gaming solutions anticipate the demands of consumers wherever they decide to play. We have a well-established local presence and relationships with governments and regulators in more than 100 countries around the world, and create value by adhering to the highest standards of service, integrity, and responsibility. IGT has over 12,000 employees. For more information, please visit www.IGT.com.
Silver Sponsor
GulfStream Park
gulfstreampark.com
Since 1939, Gulfstream Park has been one of the most important venues for horse racing in the country. Anchored by the legendary Gulfstream Park racetrack, The Village at Gulfstream Park is South Florida’s premier home design, dining, shopping and entertainment destination. The open air mall includes a plethora of signature home stores, an international array of restaurants, world-class art galleries, a bowling alley, outdoor cafes and nightclubs, fashion boutiques, and health and beauty services. Valet service and complimentary self-parking is available.
Gulfstream Park is a Stronach Group company, North America’s leading Thoroughbred racetrack owner/operator. The Stronach Group racetracks include Santa Anita Park, Gulfstream Park & Casino, Golden Gate Fields, Portland Meadows, Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course, home of the world-famous Preakness. The company owns and operates the Palm Meadows Training Center in Florida, and is one of North America’s top race horse breeders through its award-winning Adena Springs operation. The Stronach Group is one of the world’s largest suppliers of pari-mutuel wagering systems, technologies and services. Its companies include AmTote, a global leader in wagering technology; XpressBet, an Internet and telephone account wagering service; and Monarch Content Management, which acts as a simulcast purchase and sales agent of horseracing content for numerous North American racetracks and wagering outlets. The Stronach Group is also a leading producer of social media content for the horseracing industry.
Scientific Games
scientificgames.com
Scientific Games is a leading innovator in the global lottery and regulated gaming industries. Beginning with the breakthrough technology that launched the world’s very first secure instant lottery game in 1974, the company has been a driving force behind the success of more than 1,500 customers on six continents.
The world’s top-performing lotteries and gaming organizations partner with Scientific Games for game content, technology, customized programs and managed services that engage today’s players in new and exciting ways, provide solutions for both traditional and interactive channels – and ultimately, increase revenues.
Scientific Games continues to innovate with patented gaming technology and research-driven programs delivered to customers with the highest level of security, integrity and ethical standards. The company is committed to worldwide responsible gaming principles and has received international certifications for environmental sustainability.
Headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada (U.S.), Scientific Games serves customers from advanced-technology manufacturing and operational facilities in North America, South America, Europe and Asia.
Scientific Games offers a diverse portfolio of products, technology and services, including: Instant, Interactive & Draw Games; Instant Game Product Management; Lottery Systems; Retail Technology; Video Gaming Systems; Gaming Terminals & Gaming Terminal Content; Lottery & Gaming Operations Management; Marketing Research & Analytics; Licensed Properties; Loyalty & Rewards Programs; Internet, Mobile & Social Gaming
Reception Sponsor
Ifrah Law
ifrahlaw.com
Jeff Ifrah, founder of Washington, D.C.-based Ifrah Law, is widely regarded as a leading expert on the cutting-edge of internet gaming matters and currently serves clients in all internet gaming-related spheres including fantasy sports, mobile integration, sports betting, affiliate marketing, Esports, regulatory compliance, social media and sweepstakes. He represents many of the largest iGaming companies and industry associations in the world including Amaya, PokerStars, Unikrn and the Interactive Gaming Council.
Having been involved with online gaming since its dawn, Jeff has developed an unparalleled understanding of the online gaming market. He is a sought after speaker on industry-related topics, including a recent CLE-credit webinar for the American Bar Association entitled “eSports & the Legal Landscape: A Primer on the Emerging eSports Industry.” Other engagements in 2016 include being a presenter at the eSports Conference in Los Angeles, the International Masters of Gaming Law Conference in San Francisco, the iGaming North America Conference in Las Vegas, and the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States in Orlando.
Jeff and his firm frequently write on the topic as well, recently publishing a white paper entitled, “The Definitive Guide to iGaming in the United States”; a comprehensive overview of iGaming legislation and business opportunities in the U.S. Ifrah Law also publishes the blog,www.ifrahonigaming.com. Jeff serves on the editorial board of the Online Gambling Lawyer and as Special Internet Gaming Counsel for the Delaware State Lottery. He is also a member of the International Masters of Gaming Law. Jeff was named to Gaming Intelligence Magazine’s Hot 50 List and is recognized in Chambers USA as one of America’s leading lawyers for Gaming & Licensing.
Bronze Sponsor
The Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM)
agem.org
The Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM) is a non-profit international trade association representing manufacturers and suppliers of electronic gaming devices, lotteries, systems, table games, online technology, key components and support products and services for the gaming industry. AGEM works to further the interests of gaming equipment suppliers throughout the world. Through political action, regulatory influence, trade show partnerships, educational alliances, information dissemination and good corporate citizenship, the members of AGEM work together to create benefits for every company within the organization. Together, AGEM has assisted regulatory agencies and participated in the legislative process to solve problems and create a business environment where AGEM members can prosper while providing a strong level of support to education and responsible gaming initiatives. For more information, visit www.AGEM.org.
Hard Rock International
hardrock.com
With venues in 74 countries, including 174 cafes, 24 hotels and 11 casinos, Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies. Hard Rock owns the world’s greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. HRI owns the global trademark for all Hard Rock brands. The company owns, operates and franchises Cafes in iconic cities including London, New York, San Francisco, Sydney and Dubai. HRI also owns, licenses and/or manages hotel/casino properties worldwide. Destinations include the company’s two most successful hotel and casino locations in Tampa and Hollywood, Fla., both owned and operated by HRI parent The Seminole Tribe of Florida, as well as other exciting locations including Bali, Chicago, Cancun, Ibiza, Las Vegas, Macau and San Diego. New Hard Rock Hotel or Hotel/Casino projects include Abu Dhabi, Atlanta, Berlin, Dubai, London, Los Cabos, New York City, and Shenzhen, Dalian and Haikou in China. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com.
Break Sponsor
Gaming Laboratories International
gaminglabs.com
For over 25 years, Gaming Laboratories International, LLC (GLI®) has delivered the highest quality land-based, lottery and iGaming testing, assessment and professional services to regulators, suppliers and operators from more than 475 jurisdictions worldwide. GLI, which has over 20 laboratory locations on six continents, is dedicated to helping their clients get so much more than just testing. The company has established an incomparable team of highly trained, hand-picked professionals to test and certify equipment. Beyond testing, GLI offers a wide range of professional services, including consultation; auditing; field inspections; responsible gaming; and governance, risk and compliance. The company holds U.S. and international accreditations for compliance with ISO/IEC 17025, 17020, and 17065 standards for technical competence in the gaming, wagering and lottery industries. In addition, GLI University®, the world-renowned training program, produces critical, in-depth seminars and events designed to empower attendees with industry fundamentals that will keep them on the leading edge of information and knowledge. GLI’s expertise and experience in the gaming industry helps give their clients’ a competitive advantage that is unmatched in the industry. Please visit www.gaminglabs.com or contact your local Client Service Representative today for more information. GLI – leave nothing to chance.
FANTINI RESEARCH
fantiniresearch.com
FANTINI RESEARCH is a publishing, research and consulting firm serving the gaming industry, primarily institutional investors, C-level executives and professionals such as attorneys and regulators. Its numerous publications and reports revolve around the flagship Fantini’s Gaming Report, the industry’s leading daily source of news, analysis and information.
Fantini also publishes the monthly National Revenue Report, Fantini’s Public Policy Review, and co-publishes the industry-leading EILERS-FANTINI Quarterly Slot Survey, and Spectrumetrix reports, the gaming industry’s data source, and performs commissioned research.
For more information visit www.fantiniresearch.com or contact Ashley Rentz at arentz@fantiniresearch.com or at (302)-730-3793.
Jones Walker
joneswalker.com
The Gaming Practice at Jones Walker offers internationally recognized and industry-leading legal, regulatory, transactional, and litigation counsel to owners, operators, investors, tribes, manufacturers, pari-mutuels, lottery vendors, sweepstakes, and charities throughout the world. Our client base is broad, our gaming experience is deep, and our network of regulatory, tax, and industry contacts is extensive. Taken together, these strengths enable us to provide targeted transactional, legislative, and regulatory solutions, and dispute-resolution services that address today’s challenges in the gaming industry.
Wind Creek Casino & Hotel
windcreekhospitality.com
Wind Creek Hospitality is the principal gaming and hospitality entity for the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Dedicated to providing a first-class customer experience, the casinos and hotels of Wind Creek Hospitality are renowned for their geniality and refinement. The company operates six properties throughout the state of Alabama and the Florida Panhandle.
Supporting Sponsor
Avigilon
avigilon.com
Founded in 2004, Avigilon™ provides trusted security solutions to the global market. Avigilon designs, develops, and manufactures video analytics, network video management software and hardware, surveillance cameras and access control solutions.
Schedule
Wednesday, May 10
4:00 – 5:20 p.m.
Membership Business Meeting
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Opening Reception
Thursday, May 11
9:00 – 9:15 a.m.
Opening Remarks
IMGL President Mike Zatezalo
9:15 – 10:00 a.m.
Keynote Speaker
Jim Allen, Chairman, President, CEO, Seminole Hard Rock Entertainment, Inc.
10:00 – 11:05 a.m.
Gaming Developments in LATAM and the Caribbean
This panel discussion will include current information on gaming developments in the LATAM and Caribbean sectors. Panelists will include representatives of the regulatory sector and those operating within the current gaming environment in these regions. As regulations become more certain, and as the political environment changes, operators are having to adjust their respective business models to participate in these growing markets. The market base has not yet become saturated, as in other international locations, so the regions should be followed by any company seeking an expanded customer base.
Moderator:
Ernest C. Matthews IV, President/General Counsel, ISI – Maritime/Islands, Ltd.
Panelists:
Felix Gomez, CEO of Meier Corporation
Gino Campbell, General Director, Curaçao Gaming Control Board
James Kilsby, Managing Director – Americas for GamblingCompliance in Washington, D.C.
The Honorable Ryan Pinder, Partner, Graham Thompson, Bahamas
11:05 – 11:15 a.m.
Networking Break
11:15 a.m. – 12:25 p.m.
The Future of Sports Betting in the United States
Efforts to legalize sports betting in the U.S. have intensified over the past year on a number of different fronts. The longstanding federal ban on state-sanctioned sports betting is under attack in the courts, the American Gaming Association has stepped up lobbying efforts to repeal the federal prohibition, and several of the major U.S. sports leagues (led by the National Basketball Association) have expressed a willingness to finally support expanded legal sports betting. After years of talk (but no action), 2017 may finally represent the breakthrough year for sports betting legalization in the US, especially as the Supreme Court appears poised to hear New Jersey’s constitutional challenge to the federal ban on sports betting, and a number of states are readying sports betting bills in the event New Jersey wins its case. This panel of key stakeholders will examine the future of sports betting in the U.S., including an assessment of the likely path(s) to legalization, timelines, regulatory environment, and opportunities and challenges for stakeholders.
Moderator:
Daniel Wallach, Shareholder, Becker & Poliakoff, P.A.
Panelists:
Sara Slane, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, American Gaming Association
Frank Fantini, Founder and Publisher, Fantini Research
Robert W. Stocker II, Member & Gaming Practice Leader, Dickinson Wright PLLC
Dan Shapiro, VP Strategy and Business Development, William Hill US
12:30 -1:45 p.m.
Lunch and Keynote Address
Speaker:
James Maida, President/CEO, Gaming Laboratories International
1:45 – 3:00 p.m.
Globally Emerging Gaming Technology and Game Concepts: How are Regulators Dealing with Them?
Suppliers continually face the dilemma between what is technologically possible versus what gaming regulators can or will authorize. Despite decades of success in using regulatory discretion to approve new game types, many suppliers still feel constrained by the lack of flexibility in considering new technology that many argue is more reliable and secure than older methods. This panel will explore the path of gaming technology, some of the more innovative developments as well as the challenges in the develop process that might be inhibiting the ability of gaming operators to compete against the myriad of other entertainment options increasingly available to consumers online and in non-regulated delivery channels.
Moderator:
Kevin P. Mullally, Vice-President of Government Relations & General Counsel, GLI
Panelists:
Gayle Cameron, Commissioner, Massachusetts Gaming Commission
Douglas Florence Sr, CPP, Business Development Director VPL – Gaming NA
Dale Fuga, Chief Operating Officer, Liquor and Gaming Authority of Manitoba
Connie Jones, Director of Responsible Gaming, AGEM
3:00 – 3:15 p.m.
Networking Break
3:15 – 4:30 p.m.
The Effects of the 2016 Elections and Emerging Trends facing Gaming in the United States
Given the unprecedented election of a former casino owner as President and the Republican control of Congress, this panel will discuss, among other things, the implications of the foregoing for the U.S. gaming Industry. The panel will also look at the future of on-line gaming, tribal gaming and sports betting as changes in the executive, legislative and judicial branches start to be felt.
Moderator:
J. Kelly Duncan, Jones Walker, Louisiana, U.S.
Panelists:
Nick Casiello, Chair, Fox Rothschild, LLP., New Jersey, U.S.
Marc Dunbar, Partner, Jones Walker, LLP
Marc Ellinger, Partner, Blitz, Bardgett & Deutsch, L.C, Missouri, U.S.
Mike McBride, Chair, Crowe & Dunlevy, Oklahoma, U.S.
4:30 – 4:50 p.m.
A Comparative Economic Assessment of Indian Gaming and Commercial Gaming in the U.S.
The session will present the results from the newly released edition of Dr. Meister’s Indian gaming study. In this information-packed presentation, he will provide an update on the economic state of Indian gaming in the United States and compare and contrast it with commercial casino gaming segments.
Alan Meister, Principal Economist with Nathan Associates, Inc. and IMGL Member
4:50 – 5:00 p.m.
Organizational Remarks
IMGL President Mike Zatezalo
7:00 – 9:30
Gala Dinner
Adena Grill
Friday, May 12
9:00 – 9:15 a.m.
Opening Remarks
IMGL President Mike Zatezalo
9:15 – 10:30 a.m.
Trends and Hot Topics Affecting Horse Racing Around the World
Horse racing continues to be a popular worldwide gambling industry. Access to international simulcast markets, new wagering types and new multi-million races are driving handle growth. As the investments in the sport increase, regulators and industry lawyers are also stepping up their rules to ensure that the integrity of the sport remains intact. This panel will look at the cutting edge topics from around the world facing horse racing from anti-doping programs to simulcasting regulations.
Moderator:
David Romanik, Florida, US
Panelists:
Scott Daruty, President, Monarch Content Management, Inc., California, U.S.
Pablo Kavulakian, Director, Latin American Racing Channel
Alex Waldrop, CEO, National Thoroughbred Racing Association, Kentucky, U.S.
Marc Summers, General Counsel, Jockey Club, New York, U.S.
Ed Martin, President, Association of Racing Commissioners International, Kentucky, U.S.
10:30 – 10:45
Networking Break
10:45 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Issues involving Lotteries Around the World
As worldwide lottery sales quietly exceed $250 billion each year, issues arise in the industry which require unique legal expertise in addition to political forethought. Walking the fine line of increasing sales while not upsetting an often anti-gaming apple cart is where the members of this panel thrive. This panel will look at trends and best practices for lotteries and their vendors.
Moderator:
Dan Russell, Jones Walker LLP
Panelists:
Tom Dolan, Senior District Manager, Florida Lottery
Jim Kennedy, Chief Executive of Lottery, Scientific Games
Rodney Wilson, Account Development Manager, IGT Florida
Tal Itzhak Ron, Chairman and CEO, Tal Ron, Drihem and Co., Law Firm
12:15 – 1:30
Lunch and Keynote Address
1:45 – 3:00 p.m.
Tribal Gaming Update
Tribal members and counsel will discuss the recent developments in Tribal gaming and the prospects that the new US President, Congress and Supreme Court hold for Tribal gaming issues.
Moderator:
Dennis Whittlesey, Dickinson Wright LLP
Panelists:
Mark Hammerle, Vantiv Gaming Solutions
Dean Luthey, Gable Gotwals Law Firm
Joe Webster, Hobbs Strauss Dean & Walker, Washington, D.C.
Jane Zerbi, Law Office of Jane Zerbi, Sacramento, CA
3:00 – 3:15 p.m.
Networking Break
3:15 – 4:30 p.m.
The Evolution of Gaming Policy and Taxation in Europe
Denmark is the first European jurisdiction to evaluate its current gambling regulation. Malta proposes to introduce a simplified licensing system and has introduced first licenses for skill games. The UK is preparing for Brexit. The Netherlands are about to set into force their first online gaming regulation. Sweden has made a big move towards the re-regulation of its gaming market while Germany is still taking baby steps in term of reaching an EU compliant regulation – at the same time collecting more and more gaming related taxes. Gain some insight into how European gaming policies are constantly evolving and increasingly influenced by taxation.
Moderator:
Joerg Hofmann, Partner, Melchers Law Firm
Panelists:
Andrew Cotton, Director of Betting and Gaming, Gordon Dadds, United Kingdom
Morten Ronde, Partner, Nordic Gambling
Carl Brincat, Senior Legal Advisor, Maltese Gaming Authority, Malta
Birgitte Sand, Director, Danish Gambling Authority, Denmark
Frank Tolboom, Partner, Kalff Katz & Franssen, The Netherlands
Mattias Kelmeling, Associate, Hansen Law Firm, Sweden and Malta
4:30 – 4:45 p.m.
Closing remarks
IMGL President Mike Zatezalo
5:00 – 6:00
Cocktail Reception
Events
Thursday, May 11
7:00 – 9:30
Gala Dinner
Adena Grill
Saturday, May 13
12:30 p.m.
IMGL Day at the Races
Gulfstream Park
View all the details here.
Accommodations
Host Hotel and Accommodations
Named one of the “World’s Best Resorts” by Travel + Leisure Magazine, Turnberry Isle Miami is a South Florida treasure. Timeless architecture encircles a 100-year-old Banyan tree, which sits at the center of this 300-acre tropical oasis. Calming Koi Ponds are a part of the arrival experience, while sounds of tranquil waterfalls and fountains follow your every movement.
Turnberry Isle Miami
19999 West Country Club Drive
Aventura, Florida 33180
Special IMGL group rates are available starting at $259 per night.
This rate is only valid through April 19th.
Click here to make your reservation
Turnberry Isle Resort Fee / Service Charge
Please note that a REDUCED resort fee of $10.00 per room, per night (plus applicable tax), is also available. The resort fee includes:
- Enhanced high-speed internet access
- Use of resort bikes
- Round-trip transportation to Aventura Mall and beach access
- Access to Laguna and Cascata Pools
- Access to Lotus Lounge located on the second floor in the Spa with complimentary light snacks, drinks and use of steam rooms
- Access to driving range with unlimited use of range golf balls
- Local and 800 calls
- Children 5 years of age and under eat complimentary at CORSAIR (children’s menu)
- Evening housekeeping services*
- Daily newspaper*
- Shoe shine*
*Service available upon request
Additional accommodations
Additional accommodations are available at the adjacent Marriott Courtyard for a special IMGL rate of $169 per night. To reserve a room, call 800-331-3131 and request the rate for International Masters of Gaming Law. You must make reservations by April 17th to receive the discounted rate.
Speakers
List of Miami Conference Speakers to Date (in alphabetical order)
Keynote Speakers:
Jim Allen, Chairman, President, CEO, Seminole Hard Rock Entertainment, Inc.
James Maida, President/CEO, Gaming Laboratories International
Speakers:
Gayle Cameron, Commissioner, Massachusetts Gaming Commission
Gino Campbell, General Director, Curaçao Gaming Control Board
Nick Casiello, Chair, Fox Rothschild, LLP., New Jersey, U.S.
Andrew Cotton, Director of Betting and Gaming, Gordon Dadds, UK
Scott Daruty, President, Monarch Content Management, Inc., California, U.S.
Tom Dolan, Senior District Manager, Florida Lottery
J. Kelly Duncan, Jones Walker, Louisiana, U.S.
Marc Dunbar, Partner, Jones Walker, LLP
Marc Ellinger, Partner, Blitz, Bardgett & Deutsch, L.C, Missouri, U.S.
Frank Fantini, Founder and Publisher, Fantini Research
Douglas Florence, Sr., CPP, Business Development Director VPL – Gaming NA
Dale Fuga, Chief Operating Officer, Liquor and Gaming Authority of Manitoba
Felix Gomez, CEO, Meier Corporation
Mark Hammerle, Vantiv Gaming Solutions
Joerg Hofmann, Senior Partner, MELCHERS law firm
Connie Jones, Director of Responsible Gaming, AGEM
Pablo Kavulakian, Director, Latin American Racing Channel
Mattias Kelmeling, Associate, Hansen Law Firm, Sweden and Malta
Jim Kennedy, Chief Executive of Lottery, Scientific Games
James Kilsby, Managing Director, Americas for GamblingComplinance, Washington, D.C.
Dean Luthey, Gable Gotwals Law Firm
Ed Martin, President, Association of Racing Commissioners International, Kentucky, U.S.
Ernest C. Matthews, IV, President/General Counsel, ISI – Maritime/Islands, Ltd.
Mike McBride, Chair, Crowe & Dunlevy, Oklahoma, U.S.
Alan Meister, Principal Economist, Nathan Associates, Inc.
Kevin P. Mullally, Vice-President of Government Relations & General Counsel, GLI
The Honorable Ryan Pinder, Partner, Graham Thompson, Bahamas
David Romanik, Florida, US
Tal Itzhak Ron, Chairman and CEO, Tal Ron, Drihem and Co., Law Firm
Morten Ronde, Director of Education and Association Development, IMGL; Partner Nordic Gambling
Dan Russell, Jones Walker LLP
Birgitte Sand, Director, Danish Gambling Authority, Denmark
Dan Shapiro, VP Strategy and Business Development, William Hill US
Sara Slane, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, American Gaming Association
Robert W. Stocker II, Member & Gaming Practice Leader, Dickinson Wright PLLC
Marc Summers, General Counsel, Jockey Club, New York, U.S.
Frank Tolboom, Partner, Kalff Katz & Franssen, The Netherlands
Alex Waldrop, CEO, National Thoroughbred Racing Association, Kentucky, U.S.
Daniel Wallach, Shareholder, Becker & Poliakoff, P.A.
Joe Webster, Hobbs Strauss Dean & Walker, Washington, D.C.
Dennis Whittlesey, Dickinson Wright LLP
Rodney Wilson, Account Development Manager, IGT, Florida
Mike Zatezalo, President, IMGL
Jane Zerbi, Law Office of Jane Zerbi, Sacramento, CA
See & Do
Coming Soon