Editorial: Judge Jemez Pueblo off reservation casino on its merits

Thursday, July 7, 2011  

"New Mexico State University continues to show admiral restraint on an issue that could bring, or not, multi-millions of dollars to its Foundation.

It has not jumped in, nor opined, regarding a proposed major Indian casino in Anthony. If the casino is built, the university may no longer remain a major beneficiary of philanthropist Stan Fulton, who owns nearby Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino. Fulton has already infused millions of dollars into the university over the years.

A provision in Fulton's will states that upon his death NMSU is bequeathed half-ownership in the Sunland Park operations, along with half its profits.

But.

If there is another casino built within a 50-mile radius of Sunland Park ... well, it's snake eyes. No half ownership, no 50 percent of the operation's profits.

At this point, it's not known if this casino will ever be built. It's a project for the northern New Mexico Jemez tribe, but still must pass muster with the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs and then get the nod from New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez."

Get the Story:
Our View: Judge casino on its merits, not one man (The Las Cruces Sun-News 7/7)

Related Stories:
Column: Off-reservation casino battle heating up in New Mexico (7/6)
Opinion: Jemez Pueblo off-reservation casino is far from reality (7/1)
Jemez Pueblo optimistic for off-reservation gaming proposal (6/22)
Jemez Pueblo benefits from change in off-reservation gaming (6/16)
Fellow tribes against Jemez Pueblo off-reservation casino (6/13)