California

Gambler hits ‘holiday surprise’ on 10-cent slot machine, California casino says

A gambler at Thunder Valley Casino Resort near Sacramento hit a $105,389 jackpot on a slot machine, casino officials reported.
A gambler at Thunder Valley Casino Resort near Sacramento hit a $105,389 jackpot on a slot machine, casino officials reported.

A gambler at Thunder Valley Casino Resort near Sacramento hit a $105,389 jackpot on a slot machine, casino officials reported.

The player won the progressive jackpot on a $12.50 bet on the 10-cent “Dollar Storm – Emperor’s Treasure” machine just days before Christmas, the casino said in a news release.

“There is definitely something special happening this time of year,” said Dawn Clayton, resort general manager. “Whether it is the holiday spirit or simply being in the right place at the right time, it has been exciting to see our guests enjoy these moments.”

The jackpot caps off a string of wins on slot machines at the casino, including a $224,804 winner on the “Buffalo Link” game, the casino said.

Thunder Valley Casino Resort at 1200 Athens Ave., in Lincoln, has 3,500 slot machines and 89 table games.

Many people can gamble or play games of chance without harm. However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families.

If you or a loved one shows signs of gambling addiction, you can seek help by calling the national gambling hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or visiting the National Council on Problem Gambling website.

This story was originally published December 24, 2025 at 10:42 AM with the headline "Gambler hits ‘holiday surprise’ on 10-cent slot machine, California casino says."

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Don Sweeney
The Sacramento Bee
916-321-1028
Don Sweeney has been a newspaper reporter and editor in California for more than 35 years. He is a service reporter based at The Sacramento Bee.
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