Gambling in the USA
MGM Resorts International Reveals Future Name And Logo For Northfield Park Property
During a pep rally for employees of Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park today, MGM Resorts International executives shared the future name, logo and other details around exciting changes to take place at the property following the acquisition’s close in April. With a name symbolic of MGM Resorts’ legacy as an entertainment and hospitality leader, MGM Northfield Park will be integrated into the company’s portfolio of best-in-class gaming and entertainment destinations.
“MGM Resorts is proud to work alongside the 950 dedicated employees during this transition. MGM Northfield Park is situated in a great location within a vibrant community and offers wonderful amenities – from dining and entertainment venues to gaming, harness racing and retail options,” said Chris Kelley, President, MGM Northfield Park. “Through the dedication and hard work of this team, the Rocksino and harness track have established themselves as market leaders and we are excited to begin this new journey together.”
Additional details shared with employees today:
- Food and Beverage: MGM Northfield Park’s food and beverage program will offer a new twist on beloved favorites. From MGM Resorts’ renowned TAP Sports Bar, a guest favorite from the company’s diverse culinary portfolio, to new beverage options, there will be something to please all palate preferences.
- TAP Sports Bar (currently Hard Rock Café) – An MGM Resorts original concept with locations at MGM Grand Las Vegas, MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, MD and MGM Detroit, TAP is a popular, high-energy restaurant and sports bar where guests will enjoy the latest sporting events while surrounded by sports memorabilia. Classic and contemporary American culinary favorites will be on the menu along with an extensive selection of local and craft beers. TAP will be open daily for lunch and dinner.
- The Buffet (currently Fresh Harvest Buffet) – Guests will encounter a new spin on a classic, all-you-can-eat dining experience. The delectable array of beef, fresh seafood, pasta, vegetables and fruit, along with sweet desserts, will bring the tradition of the Las Vegas buffet experience to the heart of MGM Northfield Park.
- The Roasted Bean (currently Constant Grind) – a charming bistro, this quick service concept will serve coffee, tea, pastries, salads and sandwiches. The Roasted Bean will be open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
- Center Bar and Lounge (currently Center Bar) – Center Bar and Lounge is a high-energy casino bar, adjacent to TAP Sports Bar. The open atmosphere will place guests in the heart of the action on the casino floor – a prime spot for people watching from day to night.
- Entertainment: Hosting the most highly regarded sporting events and musical acts in the world in multiple state-of-the-art performance venues, MGM Resorts is an undisputed, worldwide leader in entertainment. MGM Resorts is excited to continue the momentum at MGM Northfield Park.
- Center Stage (currently Hard Rock Live) – The concert style music hall will host multiple entertainment acts and events throughout the year. With a state-of-art audio and lighting system, 1,900 seats and an electrifying atmosphere, it is the ideal venue for stars to grace the stage any night of the week.
- The Neon Room (currently Club Velvet) – From hosting comedy acts to live musical performances, The Neon Room will be a high-energy venue ideal for the hottest programming line-up around. The versatile space also will serve as a rental facility for corporate or special events.
- Retail: Fun and convenient retail options will provide an assortment of amenities for guests to purchase such as souvenirs, snacks, water, sodas and more.
- The Shop (currently Rock Shop) – The Shop will serve as the property’s sundries store, offering snacks, gifts, MGM Northfield Park merchandise and more.
- Rewards Gas & Wash (currently Rockstop Gas & Wash) – A unique property amenity where guests can get gas, drive through a car wash and shop in a full retail store.
Kelley said, “It has been an absolute pleasure working with the Hard Rock team during this transition. They have created a successful and special destination with a terrific team and they have our commitment that we will uphold the high standards they have set.”
Additional details on the MGM Northfield Park transformation will be available in the coming weeks. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions.
Gambling in the USA
California Gambling Control Commission Advances Licensing, Tribal Partnerships, and Responsible Gaming Initiatives

Sacramento, CA — In a meeting packed with regulatory updates and licensing decisions, the California Gambling Control Commission (CGCC) convened on April 24 to advance numerous agenda items impacting the state’s gambling landscape—from tribal gaming approvals to responsible gambling programs and operator renewals.
Problem Gambling & Public Health Takes the Stage
The Commission meeting opened with a presentation by Sosha Marasigan-Quintero from the California Department of Public Health, offering an overview and update on the California Problem Gambling Treatment Services Program. While no specific staff recommendations were provided, the update underscores California’s continued focus on behavioral health in gambling.
Tribal Revenue Distribution Approved
The Commission approved the quarterly distribution of payments from the Revenue Sharing Trust Fund to eligible recipient Indian Tribes. This routine, yet vital, procedure ensures the equitable distribution of revenue to support tribal sovereignty and infrastructure across the state.
Cardroom Licensing: Approvals and Extensions
Among key licensing matters:
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500 Club Casino (K & M Casinos, Inc.) received both initial and renewal owner-type license approvals through January 2027.
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Casino Chico, Hollywood Park Casino, and Lake Bowl Cardroom were granted renewals and short-term extensions, some with conditions such as improving record-keeping systems or ensuring regulatory compliance ahead of reopening.
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Hotel Del Rio & Casino was granted a 60-day extension under several strict conditions, including updated safety plans and the restatement of commingled financial records.
Key Employee Licensing Actions
The Commission approved several initial and renewal key employee licenses. Notably:
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Jeffrey Thompson was approved with a condition prohibiting involvement in illegal gambling activities.
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Kevin Lee and George Rahme received 120-day extensions for renewal processing.
Third-Party Proposition Player Services Under Scrutiny
The Commission approved both initial and temporary licenses for Fortune Players Group, Inc., with a lengthy list of conditions tied to the conduct of a former associate, Rene Medina. These conditions highlight the Commission’s ongoing vigilance in monitoring third-party player services and maintaining compliance across operations.
Progressive Gaming, LLC was also approved for an initial license, further expanding third-party service provider capacity.
Gaming Resource Suppliers & Tribal Approvals
Initial suitability findings for several prominent tribal gaming resource suppliers were approved, including:
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HCAL, LLC
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JCM Global
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Konami Gaming, Inc.
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PDS Gaming, LLC
Dozens of tribal gaming employees were also approved for key positions at tribal casinos across California, reflecting the Commission’s continued support of tribal gaming operations and the necessary workforce to support it.
Notable Withdrawals and Denials
In two notable cases, requests to withdraw license applications—Josephine Hoang and Jesus Bojorquez—were denied, signaling the Commission’s increased scrutiny and emphasis on applicant accountability.
A Broader Look Ahead
With regulatory reform on the horizon and ongoing efforts to promote responsible gaming, the April 2025 CGCC meeting showcased a mix of routine license management and deeper engagement with emerging compliance issues. As the Commission prepares for the next quarter, the groundwork laid in this session will likely influence policy developments and enforcement trends across California’s gambling sector.
Gambling in the USA
NEW YORK CASINO IN MEXICO WELCOMES CONCEPT AND NEW GAMES FROM ZITRO

The renowned Mexican operator Logrand has installed Zitro’s new CONCEPT cabinets and a selection of its latest games at the New York Casino in Monterrey.
Building on its global success, the CONCEPT cabinet line stands out for its Magic Lighting, immersing players in a synchronized light display, resulting in a unique sensory experience. Furthermore, the cabinet’s large Screen Deck blends comfort with intuitive functionality, optimizing the experience for players and operational teams.
The installation of the CONCEPT cabinets is complemented by the addition of the medieval-themed multi-game Legendary Sword, in which players can double their prizes through unique mechanics with the help of a magic sword.
On the other hand, Fairyland Quest takes players to an enchanted forest where Magic Mushrooms give access to a different bonus each, while a friendly Fairy will give a special bonus that doubles the playing area.
Juan David Baracaldo, Director of Operations and Product, highlighted: “The addition of Zitro’s CONCEPT cabinets is a great step to continue offering unique and high-quality experiences to our players. The unique combination of technology, spectacular graphics, and the experience these cabinets offer will further elevate our casino’s entertainment offering.”
For his part, Johnny Ortiz Viveiros, founder of Zitro, expressed: “We are very excited to strengthen our partnership with Logrand, a strategic partner that shares our vision of providing exceptional gaming experiences. The new CONCEPT cabinets and games like Legendary Sword and Fairyland Quest are just the beginning of what will transform how players enjoy entertainment.”
Gambling in the USA
Sky River Casino Guest Wins Half-million Dollars Playing Progressive Blackjack

Sky River Casino has announced that an Elk Grove resident has won a whopping $511,311 while playing progressive blackjack on March 31, 2025. The Sky River Rewards member hit the big win after playing the table game for less than an hour.
“Our progressive table games and slot machines continue to be really hot here at Sky River Casino. Our players have had an impressive number of life-changing jackpots and our winning streak continues. We look forward to the next big win and welcome adults near and far to visit to explore and enjoy our high-energy atmosphere, lively promotions, exciting gaming, and unparalleled dining experiences,” said Michael J. Facenda, President of Sky River Casino.
The lucky local guest plans to use her winnings to renovate a kitchen and build a house back home.
“Without question, the best part of my job is watching our valued members and guests experience jaw dropping wins like this one. We all share in the incredible excitement that is absolutely contagious and can be felt throughout the casino,” said Charleen Ripley, VP of Casino Operations for Sky River Casino.
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