N.M. casino opens

Powerhouse Technologies Inc. of Atlanta opened its Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino Monday in southeastern New Mexico, just 10 minutes from El Paso.

Powerhouse said this is the first casino in New Mexico to open under the state's new rules allowing gaming machines at pari-mutuel facilities and fraternal organizations statewide. Powerhouse said it spent $8.5 million renovating a 40-year-old racetrack for the new 11,500-square-foot casino addition. It has 175 gaming machines with plans to expand to 300 machines within one month.

"We expect the casino to generate earnings growth while showcasing the state of New Mexico's horse racing product and our gaming machines," said Powerhouse Chief Executive Richard Haddrill.

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