AGA announces four new inductions into 2017 Gaming Hall of Fame

American Gaming Association (AGA) has announced the four honourees who will be inducted into the Gaming Hall of Fame’s Class of 2017.

This year’s inductees are casino management veteran and philanthropist Diana Bennett; the visionary of the electronic card shuffler John Breeding; Joe Kaminkow, the renowned slot game designer; and Melvin B. Wolzinger, a well-known Nevada and Las Vegas businessman.

The honouring ceremony will take place Wednesday October 4 at the Chairman’s Reception during the annual Global Gaming Expo (G2E).

Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the AGA said following the announcement: “The Class of 2017 was instrumental in shaping the casino-gaming industry.

“From revolutionising the way games are seen and experienced, to reshaping employee operations and business development, these leaders’ achievements extend throughout the nation, and even the world.”

The Gaming Hall of Fame has been awarding the industry’s highest honours to the most significant contributors and sector-leaders for over 25 years now. In 2017, more than 100 candidates were nominated to this prestigious recognition. Among these accomplished candidates, the judging panel has praised Diana Bennett’s extensive career in gaming management as well as her efforts to support youth and women’s organisations, educational and health initiatives, and the arts through her charity the Bennett Family Foundation.

John Breeding has been recognised with this merit for being the inventor of Shuffle Master, which remains as one of Scientific Games’ strongest and most profitable product brands, and the iconic game Let It Ride; whilst Joe Kaminkow was the person behind the introduction of Pop Culture in gaming, developing slot games tied with licensing brands from movies, TV shows, quiz shows and even personalities. The last nominee to enter the hall of fame this year was Melvin B. Wolzinger, also known as 'A founder of Las Vegas' for his vision and sincere dedication to the local community. Wolzinger has become one of Nevada’s most accomplished visionaries, applying his sharp business acumen to support the evolution of the Las Vegas business landscape.