Editorial: A true success story

Thursday, Oct. 16, 2003 | 9:29 a.m.

International Game Technology founder Si Redd, one of the gaming industry's pioneers, died Tuesday at the age of 91. His role in developing highly profitable video slot machines and video poker machines helped transform the industry during the 1990s when it saw explosive growth. IGT's many innovations not only drew people into casinos, but they also, just as importantly, kept gamblers in their seats playing these popular games. Redd's foresight resulted in IGT becoming the world's largest maker of slot and video poker machines.

Video poker machines have been incredibly successful, expanding well beyond casinos into convenience stores and other retail establishments. Video poker hasn't been without controversy, however, as some critics suggest its proliferation has contributed to problem gambling. To the credit of Redd, who retired from IGT in the early 1990s, he didn't flinch from the criticism and said in a 2001 interview with the Sun that some proceeds from video poker machines should help those who become addicted to playing these machines. A short time after he made his comments, IGT pledged $50,000 annually for three years to a nonprofit treatment center for problem gamblers.

Redd was more than a gaming executive. He also made his impact on Las Vegas through his philanthropy. Redd's success, as someone who didn't start with much money but still rose to become one of the giants in the gaming industry, is the kind of story that serves as an inspiration to other Las Vegans.