At this time of year, we traditionally peer in two different directions: reflecting on the immediate past, and contemplating the future. As historian George Santayana advised, what we learn from the past will guide us in the future. We don't have the luxury of lamenting about what could have been. We can't merely wait for things to improve; we must act proactively to strengthen our industry, and every stakeholder must participate.

Fortunately, a groundswell of local leaders has recognized that we must collaborate toward common goals if success is to be achieved. We stand at a critical crossroads that will likely determine if New Jersey's gaming industry's potential will be fully realized, particularly in the face of growing regional competition.

Atlantic City Mayor Lorenzo Langford recently convened a summit of leaders to first identify existing issues, as well as impediments to solving those issues. Their findings will form the basis for a plan to be implemented in coordination with the city.

The Greater Atlantic City Chamber, through the leadership of Joe Kelly and Ken Calemmo, has established a business-focused advocacy group to serve our region. The Chair's Council is a group of about 50 diverse and respected leaders with the skill sets, relationships and commitment to get things done in collaboration with the chamber's 700 member businesses in the Atlantic County area. Recently, the chamber was able to recruit AtlantiCare President Emeritus George Lynn to help develop a plan to revitalize Atlantic City.

Governor-elect Chris Christie has already expressed his commitment to New Jersey's gaming industry, most notably when he opposed the expansion of gaming outside Atlantic City. Christie recognizes that the state has a significant investment here that should be protected, particularly during these difficult times.

The incoming governor further demonstrated that commitment by including representatives from our industry to discuss gaming-related issues with his transition team. This subcommittee will help him and his administration understand what needs to be done so our casinos can play a meaningful role in the state's overall economic recovery.

Our industry will continue to communicate what needs to be done:

• Private investment capital remains Atlantic City's most effective long-term weapon, and it is vital that we continue to attract that capital.
• We must maintain a stable gaming policy and regulatory environment that encourages capital investment after the current recession ends.
• Continued investment in our regional transportation infrastructure is another key ingredient. Improving access to Atlantic City will increase tourism and encourage further investment.
• We need Continued investment in our regional transportation infrastructure is another key ingredient. Improving access to Atlantic City will increase tourism and encourage further investment.
• To effectively market Atlantic City on a scale commensurate with its importance to our economy, including the development of an annual marketing campaign to promote the region.
• It is essential that we make a great first impression by providing a clean, safe, friendly and well-maintained environment for our visitors.

We're grateful for the leadership exhibited by all these groups. But none of these discussions will achieve the desired results unless they are followed by bold and decisive actions, and unless all stakeholders collaborate toward our common objectives.

If we all make that our collective New Year's resolution, we'll have cause for optimism this time next year, as we reflect back on 2010.

Joseph A. Corbo, Jr. is president of the Casino Association of New Jersey, and general counsel of the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa.