Egg prices went up but it didn’t stop folks from brooding on stools attempting to hatch the idea they themselves could become wealthier by pushing buttons on video game terminals. The January 2025 video gaming report for Carmi reveals more than $184,000 net wagering activity and terminal income took place amongst the 11 establishments within the city. That number is down slightly from the January 2024 number which was just over $201,000. The Video Gaming Act stipulates that the revenue from video gaming terminals is split between the state of Illinois, the licensed establishment, and the terminal operator. The City of Carmi also receives 5%. The biggest winner in January when it comes to establishments was Martin & Bayley with just under $59,000 reported income. Four other establishments including Danny’s Pool Room, the Carmi American Legion, Rock Bottom, and Pundrakes reported incomes from $28,000 to $21,800. The state of Illinois’ share of that $184,000 total amounts to about $55,000. The establishment and terminal operators got about $64,000 each. The city of Carmi made just over $9,474. The biggest financial losers in video gaming remain the agglomerative collection of individuals who place money in the machines.
