Page 18 - Mississippi/Louisiana Gaming News - Fall, 2022

“There are so
many things that
come to mind, but
first and foremost
is the level of
commitment
I’ve witnessed
repeatedly and
at every level of
our industry. Yes,
we’re all very
resilient and yes, we built back bigger and better when we had to, but beyond that, everyone associated with our industry
has demonstrated a real commitment
to contribute to the vitality of the gaming dream that became a reality 30 years
ago. The companies have shown their commitment by continuing to invest in
their properties in an effort to keep them attractive and relevant to our guests. The employees have shown their commitment by staying actively employed and contributing
to the growth of the Coast economy while providing their families with the comfort
and confidence of a reliable and secure income source that they helped make successful. And, those loyal guests of the casino properties who have been committed to supporting their local economies while enjoying world-class fun and entertainment. It’s that synergy that has impressed me the most.”
John Ferrucci, General Manager Silver Slipper Casino & Hotel
“The introduction of gaming in Mississippi
created a lot of opportunity, as promised. The
most notable change over the years, however,
has been the advancement of technologies
to improve both the operation of the state’s
casinos and the guests’ experiences in them.
When casinos opened in Mississippi 30 years
ago, there were no mobile or widespread
wireless applications available. Particularly in
recent years, we have seen incredible growth
in efficiency and convenience that result from
technological advancements to provide easier, faster, and more secure use of our data and systems.”
Penny Bankston, General Manager WaterView Casino Hotel
“Wow! It’s absolutely amazing to think that casinos have been in Mississippi for 30 years. The gaming industry has helped create a stronger economy and made available thousands of jobs in Mississippi that provide opportunities for team member development and launching pads for future careers. I believe the next 30 years will be just as exciting as the first.”
Tony Scudiero, Vice President & General Manager Fitz Casino & Hotel
“The state of Mississippi did it right, passing a good law and sticking to it. For the past 30-plus years, gaming has brought many benefits to the Gulf Coast and the entire state of Mississippi through taxes, state and local tourism, jobs and charitable contributions. Congratulations to all for this great achievement!”
Terry Green, Co-Owner Island View Casino Resort
“Gaming is in our DNA in Biloxi.
It is part of Biloxi’s history and continues to be part of Biloxi’s future. The key to our success is the sentry and energy of the eight casinos we have in Biloxi. With all in one spot, we have the variety and spice of success. Competition improves the product and we have that.”
Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich
City of Biloxi
“I’m fairly new to the
state, but the past year
has really shown how
Southern hospitality is
thriving in Mississippi.
I’ve been welcomed with
open arms and I think that
translates to successful
relationships in the gaming
industry. Working in other
jurisdictions, it can be
challenging to share best practices or even move forward with initiatives that better the industry. That hasn’t been the case here in Mississippi, as the majority of casino business leaders work together for the betterment of the state and industry. I can see that moving the industry forward is a priority
to the state. I’m glad to be a part of these growing relationships and look forward to being a part of moving the industry forward together.”
Colin Skidmore, Senior Vice President & General Manager Trop Casino Greenville
“The common thread brought to Tunica and our corner of Mississippi by the gaming industry in my opinion is opportunity. Opportunity for the thousands of Mississippians employed by
the industry to improve their careers and lives, opportunity for the millions of visitors to Tunica over the years to experience Mississippi first hand and discover our hospitality thus changing our state’s stereotypical image and, the opportunity to build an infrastructure that allows for growth and economic diversification once thought impossible here in the Mississippi Delta.”
Webster Franklin, President & CEO Tunica Convention & Visitors Bureau
18 MISSISSIPPI GAMING NEWS FALL 2022