Page 11 - Mississippi/Louisiana Gaming News - Winter, 2023

of always seeking opportunities to improve and evolve their systems of operations, sustainability, and efficiencies.
The gaming industry in Vicksburg is a story of diversity and success. This is important. For many starting out, they need to believe that there is path to a success. The GMs in Vicksburg know the way and can serve as an inspiration. They shared a little about their journey in the casino world.
“I joined the gaming industry as
a dealer,” Bankston said. “Over the years, I have worked with hundreds, if not thousands, of people representing multiple countries, races, levels
of experience, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This has helped me
to become more understanding and provided me opportunities for personal growth.
“Because our customers come from all walks of life,” she continued, “it’s important that gaming is inclusive both in its hiring practices and in its service initiatives.”
Morris said he began his path as
a security officer who transferred to the slot department as a technician after realizing an interest in how the slot machines functioned. “I eventually worked my way up the ranks, working in various senior leadership roles in gaming operations, which eventually led to my appointment as GM in 2021,” he said. “I am grateful for
the opportunities I have been given throughout my 20 years to work in
an industry that constantly reinforces that experience still has merit and I look forward to what the future holds as the workplace culture continues to evolve.”
Overall, added Wasloski, the
gaming industry offers a challenging, dynamic, and fulfilling career for individuals who are passionate about entertainment and hospitality. “I
have had the opportunity to work
with many great mentors and work
in many divisions within the gaming industry. This exposure has afforded me career growth and exposure to
a diverse group of leaders. In turn,
I have worked to pay it forward and sought out diverse candidates to be a strong ally to and help them grow their careers.”
— David Grisham contributed to this story
Key to the City
Fitz Casino & Hotel Vice President and General Manager Tony Scudiero (center) was presented with a Key to the City of Walls, Mississippi, for the property’s ongoing support of local organizations. Pictured with Scudiero are Walls officials (from left) Fire Chief Mike Handcock; Regina Barnes- Young, town alderwoman; Police Chief Danny Bridges;
Mayor Keidron Henderson; and Kimberly Stancil, town court clerk.
Island View Casino Resorts chefs won the People’s Choice award at the 7th Annual Gulf Coast Oyster Cook-
off and Festival in March. Pictured are Calvin Lipe, Trey Cowan, Mary Crabtree, Bobby McBride, David Crabtree, Matthew Baker and Penny Rush.
Island View chefs are People’s Choice
GULFPORT — Island View Casino Resorts’ head chef and culinary team tied for first this year for The People’s Choice award in the 7th Annual Gulf Coast Oyster Cook-off and Festival.
The Oyster Cook-off event was held in March at Point Cadet Plaza in Biloxi. The winner of the cook-off was decided by a panel of chefs, writers and oyster experts. Under the leadership of Executive Chef David Crabtree, his culinary team took home the People’s
Choice Award for the sixth straight year and two second-place awards. Along with Crabtree, this year’s team included Trey Cowan, banquet chef; Calvin Lipe, room chef, Dockside Deli; Bobby McBride, sous chef, C&G Grille; Matthew Baker, production cook, Beach Blvd Steamer; Penny Rush, sous chef, The Buffet; and volunteer, Mary Crabtree.
Island View’s oyster dishes included three preparations. The first was in the raw category — an oyster topped with sesame vinaigrette, wasabi mayo, spicy mayo, pineapple, flying fish roe and micro cilantro. The second category was chargrilled, in which the team used roasted garlic and New Orleans-style barbecue topped with Romano cheese. The third, a crowd favorite in the
baked category, was Crabtree’s shrimp Rockefeller topped with Ritz crackers.
“The View team opened, cooked and served over 1,800 oysters between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.,” said Crabtree. “We hardly had a chance to look up the entire contest, but when I was able to, it seemed the line of guests was a mile long. All teams involved worked feverishly to feed the hungry crowd of oyster lovers.”
Island View chefs shucked more than 2,000 oysters at the Gulf Coast Oyster Cook-off and Festival.
SUMMER 2023 MISSISSIPPI GAMING NEWS 11