Schenectady, NY (WIBX) - It's all "Big Money" for the New York Lottery.

Officials say they've set a new record for profits and pay-outs in 2011, generating $8.44 billion.

About $2.9 billion was earned for K-12 educational funding in New York State.

Sales included the video gaming line as well as sales of traditional lottery games.

Changes made to Powerball late in the year contributed significantly to the increase. New York Lottery Director Gordon Medenica says he's thrilled to "continue as the nation's largest and most successful lottery."

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