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she says she has never faced serious career challenges. Glebocki, Bally’s General Manager Karie Hall and Borgata COO Melonie Johnson echo that sentiment. It was hard work and some luck. This story made me contemplate good leadership. I’ve
worked for some really good people and some really mediocre people in my career. One thing I do believe…while accurately representing the population makes sense, using quotas to get the “right” employment mix seems unfair and potentially counterproductive. Let the best job applicant win, plain and simple. So, we’re having an election next month in America. You
knew that, didn’t you? Ha ha. Like most people I know, we can’t wait until it is over. Leadership means something. While people can define
leadership skills differently, almost everyone would agree that steadiness and purpose are key elements. Personal conduct is also crucial to gain respect. I was reminded of that recently when seeing Frank
Fahrenkopf Jr. on television. Those of you with history in the gaming industry since 1995 should know his name. Frank was the first, and longest serving so far, President/CEO of the American Gaming Association (AGA). During his 18 years at the helm, from 1995-2013, gaming’s expansion became an accepted recreational activity because of its commitment to integrity, community relations and technology. Over those years, I profiled Frank about his professional and personal lives numerous times. He had one of the most interesting life stories of anyone I’ve ever interviewed. His behind-the-scenes effectiveness and professional public persona held great sway during his gaming tenure and also when he served as Chairman of the Republican National Committee during the 1980s Ronald Reagan presidency. Frank was so connected that he co-founded the Commission on Presidential Debates with former Massachusetts Senator and Democratic National Committee Chair Paul G. Kirk in 1987. Kirk has since retired, but Frank remains a co-chair 32 years later. In this contentious election year with so many issues,
twists and turns, Frank’s leadership is again being tested. Following a harrowing first presidential debate, filled with interruptions and chaos, the Commission is under some pressure. Many are demanding they alter the rules for the
A quick update from last month’s column. After CI went to press, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo allowed New York State’s four upstate commercial casinos to reopen with restrictions. It’s a good decision for everyone. As we are not going to meet this month in Las Vegas, I
wish you all good health. How fast does a year pass? Just consider it’s already three years since the Mandalay Bay mass shooting that killed 58 people and injured more than 850. Victims and families accused MGM Resorts of both failing to protect people at its concert site and enforcing safety measures to prevent the shooter from stockpiling assault-style weapons and ammunition in his room. He later opened fire from his high floor window. After MGM’s refusal to acknowledge any liability, lawsuits
filed by 4,400 relatives and victims resulted in a recent court-ordered $800 million settlement, payable by January 2021. MGM will pay $49 million while insurance will pay $751 million. It’s a missed opportunity to show leadership and remorse for the pain and suffering. Kind words would go a long way to lessen the tragic memories.
Hope we all see each other next year.
two remaining meetings between Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden. It’s anyone’s guess what will happen with these debates
now that Trump has himself fallen victim to the vicious Covid-19 virus. Frank and company have important decisions to make. However, I’m sure whatever path they choose, it will be well thought out because of Frank’s significant role. Since age hasn’t stopped him at all, Frank clearly has no
retirement plans. He remains active on numerous boards and many civic groups.
OCTOBER 2020 11
miami2you/Adobe Stock
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