Gambling in the USA
Detroit Cannabis Company Takes A Gamble

Gambling is not new to those in Michigan. The state has passed laws that now allow for the operation of online casinos as well as sportsbooks. With the growing number of people placing bets, a cannabis company in Detroit has taken advantage of the popular pastime. Online casinos launched in Michigan at the beginning of 2021 and since then, many brands have entered the industry, generating millions in revenue. Today, residents enjoy having safe and secure access to trusted casino sites that host a plethora of exciting games.
Aside from new laws for online gambling, Michigan also provides access to recreational marijuana by visiting local dispensaries. There is one company that has taken things to a new level and has started to offer a casino concept for customers that make dispensary purchases. Ready to combine the excitement of playing casino games with high-quality products from The Reef? Read on to learn more!
Welcome to Reef
The Reef Dispensary has launched a unique concept that is one of the first in the country. A new cannabis casino is an opportunity for customers to play games by earning rewards points for making purchases. This is a type of loyalty program that combines the love of gambling with recreational cannabis use.
The Reef was one of the initial dispensaries to operate in Detroit and is now using this new concept to attract customers. By spending a certain amount of money, customers can receive reward points that can then be used to play a variety of casino games. Points can be accrued and used at a later date. This exciting casino concept is one way for The Reef to stand out in Michigan. There are many dispensaries that have started operating and with the chance to play some exciting games, including blackjack!
In addition to the casino promo, The Reef also has a Monopoly-like game promotion where customers stand the chance to win free pot for life, a $100,000 cash prize, and even Caribbean vacations. There are other promos that are always running, such as scratch cards and pull tabs. The Reef has decided to combine a bit of gambling with marijuana sales to attract younger users and those that have a love for placing bets on casino games.
The Dope and Dopamine Connection
The casino games featured at The Reef are not a form of real gambling. Customers will not be able to win cash on slot games or walk away with jackpots. However, the games all provide a chance to win discounts on purchases, gifts, and more. The dispensary currently hosts various slot machines, a 10-foot Craps table decorated with store logos, and other games that provide a Vegas feel.
The idea comes from the feeling people get when they smoke weed and engage in gambling activities at the same time. The combination has been very successful in generating business and this is one of the only places in Detroit that is offering such a unique experience.
The great success at the Detroit location has paved the road for similar casino concepts at other retail locations. The dispensary located in Muskegon Heights will soon offer the same casino concept and the company plans to expand the same thing to other locations.
Michigan’s Gambling Industry is Booming
The online industry in Michigan is one that cannot be compared to many other states. There was a revenue increase of 33.5% and online casino operators continue to take in massive amounts of revenue, making up for a decline in sports betting. In March 2023, igaming in the state recorded a massive sum of $171.8 million, which beat the previous record that had been set just in January. The adjusted revenue for online casino operators was $154.6 million, showing that many operators in the state have been spending a lot of money on promotions to attract new gamblers.
The first quarter of 2023 has been a successful one for online casinos, which is another reason The Reef has found their promo concept to be a huge hit. More people are gambling and younger players are becoming interested in a variety of casino games. Combine this with the group of people who also smoke weed regularly, and there is a powerful combination of loyal customers.
With nearly $2b in revenue generated in 2022, online gambling continues to be an appealing pastime for residents. Major brands have entered the market all offering access to top-rated games, exceptional promotions, and some of the best possible payouts.
Not looking to risk any money but still want the thrills of casino games? This is where The Reef comes into play. Just by making a purchase, customers will be able to play a variety of casino games for a chance to win store discounts, vacations, TVs, and even a lifetime supply of bud! The company has found a great concept that focuses on the popularity of gambling while providing a calm environment to play some games and win some swag.
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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