Thanks for the comments, greek39…
Managing the affiliate programs as a third party, I cannot speak for the casino operators, nor can I comment on their motives, business practises or philosophies.
All I can do is ask affiliates, new and existing, to allow me the chance to prove that these affiliate programs can work. If I didn’t feel that there was potential to succeed, believe me, I would not be here 
Being independent of the casino operation will allow us (program management AND affiliates) to become more and more influential on the direction the casinos take. It appears to me that the affiliate programs were largely left to their own devices previously, which most likely accounts for the relative lack of popularity and credibility amongst affiliates. The operator’s decision to move the affiliate program management to an external party is a clear signal of intent – an intent to get these affiliate programs to a level where huge commission checks are the norm.
I am a huge fan of affiliate marketing, and truly believe that a strong program is absolutely crucial to the sustainable success of an online casino (in fact, any online business). For this type of marketing to work, you need affiliates (duh!), as well as a dedicated setup geared to servicing these affiliates and helping them to make the most of the opportunities available.
Bottom line… I need you guys to help me make these programs work. Without affiliates, there is no affiliate program. Simple as that.
I appreciate that the past cannot be completely erased, but reputations are temporary, and can be changed through positive attitudes, hard work, and doing the basics properly. That is what I am here to do… with your help