Gambling in the USA
Harrah’s Northern California Celebrates Grand Opening Weekend
A spectacular drone light show lit up the night sky in Amador County, Calif.this weekend as Harrah’s Northern California celebrated the official grand opening of Northern California’s only Caesars Rewards-affiliated casino.
Drawing guests from across the region, the highly-anticipated entertainment destination hosted round-the-clock promotional giveaways for players and invited guests, who took advantage of the casino’s affiliation with Caesars Rewards by earning Reward Credits that may be redeemed across the network’s more than 40 casino-resorts worldwide.
Hundreds of guests gathered outside the casino on Friday, May 17 to see the highlight of the grand opening festivities, a custom-designed Intel drone light show. The performance featured 300 Intel® Shooting Star ™ drones, which are designed for entertainment purposes and capable of creating more than four billion color combinations to light up the sky.
The Intel drone light show was accompanied by a dynamic 3D projection mapping of the casino exterior and spectacular pyrotechnics display. Designed exclusively for Harrah’s Northern California, the projection mapping and drone light show depicted imagery associated with the sumptuous collection of vineyards and scenic vistas in Amador County ahead of transitioning to reveal card suites and dice commemorating the rich history of Harrah’s gaming legacy. An over-the-top pyrotechnics display concluded the spectacular event as the Harrah’s Northern California logo danced in the night sky.
“This weekend was as much a celebration of opening as it was a ‘thank you’ to the local community and our guests who have been so supportive of the development,” said Buena Vista Rancheria Chairwoman Rhonda Pope-Flores. “The Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians have a long history of hospitality and this weekend was just the start of many celebrations we plan to bring to the community.”
Since opening its doors at the end of April, Harrah’s Northern California has welcomed a steady stream of guests and players eager to be among the first to place bets in the casino and explore the new entertainment destination. The property, which broke ground in March 2018, boasts 950 slot machines, 20 tables games, three fast-casual dining concepts and one casual elegant dining venue, Louie Oliver’s Restaurant & Bar which features an array of local fare and fresh, farm-to-fork selections. Harrah’s Northern California guests benefit from the many advantages and perks of the casino’s agreement with Caesars Entertainment, including earning Caesars Rewards member privileges and preferred access to Caesars’ resorts and amenities in Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe and around the world.
HARRAH’S NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
Harrah’s Northern California is a state-of-the art, 71,000 square-foot entertainment destination nestled in the scenic foothills of Amador County, Calif. The property boasts 950 slot machines, 20 tables games, three fast-casual dining concepts and the casual elegant Louie Oliver’s Restaurant & Bar. Harrah’s Northern California guests benefit from the many advantages and perks of the casino’s agreement with Caesars Entertainment, including earning Caesars Rewards member privileges and preferred access to Caesars’ resorts and amenities in Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe and around the world. Harrah’s Northern California Casino is located on the Buena Vista Tribe reservation land in Amador County, approximately one-mile south of the town of Buena Vista, 28 miles northeast of the City of Stockton, and 32 miles southeast of the City of Sacramento.
Source: Harrah’s Northern California
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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