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Friday, Sept. 19, 1997 | 11:12 a.m.

Ellis Island casino expands

By

SUN STAFF REPORT

Ellis Island casino opens the first phase of a $12 million expansion today, adding six blackjack tables and 150 new slot machines to meet customer demand, founder Gary Ellis said.

"Business has been pretty good over the past few years and we felt it was time to add machines and a little live gaming as amenities because we had many requests to do so," Ellis said.

The 44,000-square-foot expansion, financed from cash flow and a Nevada State Bank loan, more than triples the size of the casino and lounge on Koval Lane south of Flamingo Avenue.

By the time the expansion is completed early next year, the casino will offer 410 slot machines in addition to the live blackjack games, Ellis said.

The project includes a new five-story parking garage with spaces for 300 vehicles, a new 200-seat banquet and meeting facility and expansion of the restaurant area to accommodate 400 persons.

Within 90 to 120 days, Ellis said, a microbrewery and lounge will be added to the popular recreation spot.

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