BIG CHANGES AT PPA

24 August 2007

Bolcerek steps down, and a move across country to Washington DC

The poker pressure group Poker Players' Alliance has announced some far-reaching moves just ahead, with President Michael Bolcerek resigning to concentrate on business interests in San Francisco.

He will be succeeded by John Pappas (see previous InfoPowa reports) in an executive director capacity whilst former Senator Alfonse D'Amato remains chairman.

In concert with these changes, the Alliance will be moving its centre of operations from San Francisco to Washington DC, better positioning it to continue the fight to legalise online poker and protect the rights of players.

Pappas recently became full-time Vice President of PPA's government affairs, having previously worked with the Alliance as an external consultant.

Announcing the changes, D'Amato said that the PPA has become an influential force which had built wide support and momentum in the U.S. Congress to enact sensible legislation to regulate online poker and provide the necessary safeguards to all players.

"It is vital that the PPA centralise its efforts in D.C. so we can best serve the interests of our over 660 000 members,” he said.

“Michael [Bolcerek] has been a strong leader and under his tenure we have seen tremendous growth in PPA. We are thankful that he has brought us to this point and are excited for the next evolution of this organisation in Washington,” the PPA chairman continued..

Bolcerek said that it was the right time for him to step down as part of the PPA move. “I am happy to have helped the cause of American poker players and expect to see continued success from the efforts of Senator D’Amato and our new Executive Director, John Pappas,” said Bolcerek.

The PPA is a non-profit body comprised of poker players and enthusiasts from around the United States who have joined together to speak with one voice to promote the game, ensure its integrity, and protect poker players' rights. The PPA will make a formal announcement with new contact information once the transition is completed.

Online Casino News courtesy of InfoPowa