Gambling in the USA
Pace-O-Matic reports that PA Lottery Sales Show Impressive Growth — Not Negative Impact From Legal Games Of Skill

The Pennsylvania Lottery continues to see substantial growth among its games despite its unfounded public complaints of negative impacts regarding legal games of skill.
A report released by the state Revenue Department shows that scratch off ticket sales increased in total funding from purchasers and in the percentage of total overall Lottery sales — from 65.7 percent to 70.04 — in the last year. Keno and Xpress Sports also increased in both funds going to the state and in the percentage of overall sales. Lottery officials have wrongly testified at legislative hearings that the sales of these three products are suffering because of legal skill games.
“We congratulate the Pennsylvania Lottery on its impressive boost in sales from last year to this year,” said Tom Marino, Vice President for Pace-O-Matic, the entity that markets Pennsylvania Skill games. “We have been clear that our economic forecast numbers show legal games of skill will not negatively impact the Lottery. We are glad to know that the Lottery’s data is showing that as well.”
In addition, the statistics show that there is an increase in online lottery ticket sales. This would mean people are increasingly purchasing their lottery tickets online and not from stores that sell lottery games, Marino said.
Pennsylvania Skill has been operating legal games of skill across the state for five years, and all the while, the PA Lottery games have increased in popularity.
Marino said like the Lottery, games of skill give back to communities. They do so through charity work. Supporters of legal skill games also are asking state lawmakers to pass legislation so that they are regulated and provide increased tax revenue for the state.
Pennsylvania Skill, through the locations that have the machines, provide tens of thousands of dollars across Pennsylvania to fraternal organizations, volunteer fire departments, veterans groups, schools and community groups. All of the games, and most of the parts of the machines, are made in Pennsylvania.
Through the charity work and gaming manufacturing, funding from legal games of skill provide assistance and jobs all over the commonwealth.
“Legal games of skill are important to Pennsylvania and you will discover just how much by talking to one of the VFWs that has been able to keep its doors open now because they offer legal games of skill,” said Marino. “There is clearly room for both the Lottery and legal games of skill in Pennsylvania.”
Click here to view the Lottery’s Report which illustrates growth in scratch off tickets, Keno and Xpress Sports. The report clearly indicates the loss of lottery revenue has resulted from a drop of sales of Power Ball and Mega Millions. Revenue has been impacted by lack of large jackpots and its effects are being experienced by lotteries across the nation.
SOURCE Pace-O-Matic
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:
-
500 Club Casino (K & M Casinos, Inc.) received both initial and renewal owner-type license approvals through January 2027.
-
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.
-
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:
-
Jeffrey Thompson was approved with a condition prohibiting involvement in illegal gambling activities.
-
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:
-
HCAL, LLC
-
JCM Global
-
Konami Gaming, Inc.
-
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.â€
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.â€
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.
-
Latest News5 days ago
AGS Appoints Arthur Rotziokos and Richard Orozco to Lead International Growth Efforts
-
Latest News5 days ago
HARRAH’S RESORT ATLANTIC CITY WELCOMES BACK THE WORLD SERIES OF POKER® FOR A WSOP CIRCUIT STOP THIS AUGUST
-
Arizona5 days ago
Arizona Department of Gaming Issues Multiple Cease-and-Desists
-
Latest News5 days ago
ACR POKER LAUNCHES ‘MONEYMAKER MAY-HEM’, OFFERING PLAYERS A CHANCE TO JOIN CHRIS MONEYMAKER IN LAS VEGAS FOR $10K MAIN EVENT
-
Latin America4 days ago
Mexico Gambling Market to Hit Valuation of US$ 40.64 Billion By 2033 | Astute Analytica
-
Compliance Updates4 days ago
Altenar gains ground in Brazil with virtual sports certification
-
Latest News3 days ago
Churchill Downs Incorporated Reports 2025 First Quarter Results
-
Latest News3 days ago
Tachi Palace Casino trusts Continent 8 to bolster its cybersecurity through advanced managed SOC and SIEM solutions