Update on Mississippi Coast Casinos

"In the two days I've been off since I was mayor I visited a family-oriented spot like this, and I have to say this one is very competitive," said Gilich, who became Biloxi's mayor 13 months ago. "I have to believe that there are some people who are passing us by for similar places in Orange Beach (Ala.) or Destin (Fla.) and beyond, and this is something that gives us a new opportunity to bring people to Biloxi. This gives us the total package in a big way." Margaritaville, which borrows its name and theme from the music of Pascagoula-born singer-songwriter-author Jimmy Buffett, is located in the former site of Casino Magic, but the site will bear little resemblance to the pre-Katrina resort. It will feature 373 guest rooms, 83 suites, restaurants and a host other amenities.    More

Perhaps the third time will be the charm for the Margaritaville Resort after two rough starts.  Margaritaville is bringing an all-new escape to the Gulf Coast with a 373-room 22 story family-friendly resort featuring an indoor 55,000 square foot entertainment complex, the largest on the Gulf Coast. Situated along the Gulf of Mexico, overlooking Deer Island, Margaritaville Resort Biloxi resort is scheduled to open late Spring 2016.

The resort will employ approximately 600 employees, they invite the Coast community to attend a special job fair May 1st through the 3rd at the Biloxi Civic Center (578 Howard Ave), doors open at 8 a.m. and close at 3:30 p.m. daily where the resort will accept applications and conduct interviews for positions property wide. Applicants may also send their resume or direct questions to hr@m-ville.com.

Inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of singer, songwriter and author Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville Resort Biloxi will transport guests to paradise immediately upon arrival, offering unique experiences and coastal-luxe amenities centered around the vacation state-of-mind and island-inspired escapism that has become synonymous with the brand.   More Here

Architecturally,  Nory Hazaveh, architect for the Scarlet Pearl Resort has accomplished a spectacular achievement. The  unique use of striking finishes is comingled to create an exciting cohesiveness between commercial and artistic design.  Shapes and textures abound in what would otherwise be empty spaces.  The casino floor is expansive, shimmering, open and inviting.  Circles are a major theme with many one of a kind chandeliers being circular and match the circular design of the colorful, lush carpeting.  Undulating lighting enhances the spectacular metal ceiling that creates its own opulent design experience. Much More

Shuckers win in bottom of 14th inning in a sudden rally of 5-4 Saturday evening at the new MGM stadium. After 55 games on the road, the team didn't arrive in Biloxi until 4 a.m. Saturday. Fans commented on the impressive stadium and its high-tech, full color video board.   More

Between October and April, Penn Properties, including Hollywood Casino, Hollywood Gaming, Argosy Casino, Boomtown Casino, Casino Rama, Zia Park Casino Hotel & Racetrack and the M Resort Spa & Casino, hosted qualifying events for slot players to win cash prizes and a seat in the million-dollar final event. Two hundred winners, Angela among them, traveled to Las Vegas for the VIP treatment at the M Resort Spa & Casino. “I’m so overwhelmed. This week has been a dream,” said Angela, who hopes to open a day care center with her winnings. “With this money I’ve so far been able to complete payments on my home and help out my parents and siblings. It’s more than anyone could ask for.” More

The hotel expansion, which includes several high-end restaurants and amenities, is the third phase of growth and investment for the Gulfport, Miss. resort, which opened in 2006, in the wake of Hurricane Katrina's devastation. "As a private, locally owned business, we recognized the opportunity to further invest in the Mississippi Gulf Coast's future through this property expansion, which will strongly support the growth of our area's tourism industry and create a significant economic driver, including approximately 300 direct jobs," said Rick Carter, who co-owns the resort with Terry Green. "Today, as we proudly cut the ribbon to open the new beach tower, we are grateful to the support of this project by so many, including Gov. Phil Bryant;

Beau Rivage Mardi Gras Experience Offers Parade-Front Revelry

Gulf Coast Residents and Visitors are Encouraged to “Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez” Feb. 17

BILOXI – Guests looking for a memorable 2015 Mardi Gras are invited to grab some beads and join Beau Rivage’s Mardi Gras Experience. The celebration will take place on Fat Tuesday, Feb. 17, in downtown Biloxi on the corner of Reynoir St. and Water St. Celebrate the historic tradition of Mardi Gras with food, music and fun. This community event offers local residents and visitors a classic Biloxi Mardi Gras experience, Beau Rivage-style, complete with big crowds and plenty of beads, throws and moon pies. 

Dedicating itself to personalized service and unparalleled luxury, Beau Rivage is set alongside the beautiful Mississippi Gulf, yet only a five-minute walk from historical downtown Biloxi. As the largest casino resort in the Southeast to receive the AAA Four Diamond award, Beau Rivage features the most table games, guest rooms and meeting space on the Gulf Coast.  “We are incredibly honored to be awarded the Best of the South award,” says President and COO of MGM resorts International’s Southern Operations George P. Corchis Jr.      more

"Our hearts certainly go out to Margaritaville employees and their families,” said Biloxi Chief Administrative Officer David Nichols, “and we’re hopeful that the state’s rapid response dislocated worker unit will be able to help these workers find new employment. “Developments like this are not uncommon in the Mississippi gaming industry. We operate in a free-market system, and a number of factors come into play, including location, amenities, marketing, management and so forth. In the 20-plus years since gaming opened in Biloxi, we’ve seen a number of casinos come and go - Lady Luck, Gold Coast, Casino Magic, the President and the Biloxi Belle, to name a few - but the Biloxi casino market remains strong.”

The change was months in the coming, but Thursday signage work crews started renaming the Biloxi Grand Casino to Harrah's Gulf Coast. Cranes hoisted the new signs into place and on Friday the new Steak 'n Shake restaurant and Mix & Mingle indoor and outdoor bar and lounge opened.   With the new name comes a new look for Harrah's Gulf Coast. Guest rooms are getting an update, there is new  carpeting in the casino and a new look, the buffet is now Flavors Buffet and Grand Café has been renamed Corner Café. Magnolia House by Kelly English is the new fine dining restaurant at Harrah's.

Margaritaville Casino & Restaurant Biloxi Announces Details Of New Resort Construction Project
It's a New Year and a New Kind of Margaritaville Biloxi

From:  News Release  12/31/13   GCN

Margaritaville Casino & Restaurant Biloxi announced today it will break ground on a new hotel facility in the Spring, and estimates construction will be completed Spring 2015. The new hotel will feature 250 rooms – 170 deluxe guest rooms and 80 two- and three-bedroom suites.  In addition, they will become one of the first resort properties to offer time-share units through a major international partner, which will allow the property to attract a new type of visitor to Biloxi

Island View Casino Resort Announces Plans for $50 Million Expansion 

From:  News Release   8/14/13  GCN

GULFPORT – Island View Casino Resort officials today announced plans for a $50 million expansion to the Gulfport resort.

Island View will develop the waterfront corridor of the resort’s 40 acres to include a beachfront hotel, restaurants, meeting and convention space, as well as a pool and bar overlooking the beach and Gulf of Mexico. The hotel will be constructed within the existing footprint of the structure currently located on the south side of Beach Boulevard.

The expansion will increase Gulfport’s hotel-room inventory by approximately 400 beachfront rooms, as well as create the largest meeting and convention space in Gulfport and west Harrison County. More

Golden Nugget: A Transformative Addition to Biloxi
First Phase of Multi-Million Dollar Renovation Project Unveiled  

From:  News Release 6/26/13 - GCN 

BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI– The first phase of a $100 million dollar transformation project from Isle of Capri to Golden Nugget opened last Friday, June 21, as the oldest property on the Mississippi Gulf Coast became the freshest – and youngest.  Golden Nugget Biloxi proudly unveiled its iconic brand, featuring a completely redesigned and renovated casino floor – including 300 brand new slots – as well as a Morton’s Steakhouse, Lillie’s Asian Cuisine, Rush Lounge and Party Pit, a new Player Loyalty Program – the 24 KARAT Club – and a new, modern resort experience, including newly renovated guest rooms and suites. 

“We’ve had an overwhelming response to our grand opening events this past weekend from media, local dignitaries and casino customers alike” said Brad Rhines, vice president of marketing.  “Thousands of people came to the new Golden Nugget for the festivities which included appearances by the cast of Duck Dynasty, Kevin Harvick’s #29 Nascar car on display and many great cash promotions."    MORE

MGM Mississippi Celebrates Exceptional Guest Satisfaction Scores

From: News Release 1/18/13 GCN

BILOXI, Miss. – January 18, 2013 - MGM Mississippi employees have much to celebrate as Beau Rivage Resort & Casino and Gold Strike Casino Resort recently scored their highest customer satisfaction scores to date.

Tilman J. Fertitta, sole owner, chairman and CEO of Landry's, Inc., parent company of the Golden Nugget Las Vegas, Atlantic City and Laughlin, announced yesterday that Fertitta Entertainment completed the acquisition of the Isle Casino in Biloxi.

"We've been looking to extend the Golden Nugget's footprint to Biloxi for years and we're excited to make major changes to the property and to the South, a personal interest of mine," said Fertitta. "The Golden Nugget transformation will rejuvenate Biloxi, much as we have helped rejuvenate Downtown Las Vegas and most recently the Marina District in Atlantic City."

More

Margaritaville Biloxi Names Department Directors

From: News Release  1/17/12  GCN

 As the project nears its anticipated Spring/Summer 2012 opening, Margaritaville Casino & Restaurant Biloxi has named key members to its management team. (Click Here for More)

 Boyd Gaming Corporation (NYSE: BYD) today announced that it has completed its acquisition of the IP Casino Resort Spa in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Boyd Gaming now owns and operates 17 properties in Nevada, New Jersey, Mississippi, Illinois, Indiana and Louisiana. (More Here)

Tom Fazio-Designed Masterpiece Provided Stellar Test to Champions Tour Players     Filed 3/7/11  GCN

February 28, 2011 – Peter Jacobsen mentioned it in the same sentence as Pebble Beach and Augusta National. Loren Roberts said it could host a major championship. Ben Crenshaw, himself a noted architect, called it “an honest golf course.” And Jay Haas said it is in “the top five” of the host courses on the Champions Tour.

Beau Rivage Makes Celebrating the Holidays Affordable for Families
Bring the Children in Dec. 17-24 for Free Dinner and Photos with Santa; Discounts on Toys, Desserts and Christmas Show Packages

 Filed  12/7/10  GCN

BILOXI, Miss. (December 2010) – In the spirit of giving, Beau Rivage invites families to visit the resort this holiday season for a variety of fun, free and discounted activities. Beau Rivage is giving away photos with Santa and dinner at the Buffet for kids during an entire week in December. From Dec. 17-24, stop by to have your complimentary photo taken with St. Nick from 1:00 p.m.-6:30 p.m. between the Arcade and Roasted Bean. Children age 12 and under eat free in the Beau Rivage Buffet every day after 3:00 p.m. (Much More)

William Sackett’s Dance Time USA
Live Orchestra Dancing Venue

Jay Leno to Perform Benefit for Gulf Oil Spill Victims at Beau Rivage           Filed 7/22/10 

Jay Leno, America’s late night leader for nearly two decades as host of the #1 rated “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” has announced he will perform a benefit for Mississippians impacted by the Gulf oil spill.

Stand Up for the Gulf Coast: A Special Evening with Jay Leno to Benefit the Gulf Coast Community Foundation will take place Saturday, August 21 at 8 p.m. in the Beau Rivage Theatre. Proceeds from ticket sales will go to the Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s Mississippi Oil Spill Recovery Fund, established to benefit and support nonprofit organizations working to help Mississippi Gulf Coast communities, individuals and wildlife impacted by the oil spill. The fund not only provides emergency grants to nonprofit organizations helping the victims of the oil spill, but it helps address the long-term economic, environmental, cultural effects of the disaster and strengthen coastal communities against future environmental catastrophes by investing in solutions. (More Here)

Carter Green Steakhouse Open at Island View Casino
Filed 6/11/10

Carter Green Steakhouse, Island View Casino Resort’s newest restaurant, opened June 10 adding an upscale dining concept to the Gulfport resort’s food and beverage offerings. The signature restaurant’s concept is modeled in the classic American steakhouse tradition, offering hearty but creative dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The focus for the 200-seat restaurant is on fine dining with a casual, relaxed attitude.  (Full story Here)

Beau Rivage Announces Buffet Enhancements
6/11/10 

Steak, seafood, and Asian additions all come to The Buffet as Beau Rivage rolls out the best selection to come to the coast. Beau takes buffet dining to the next level with an array of favorites the most selective diners will enjoy. Thursday night is Steakhouse night at Beau Rivage. It centers around filet mignon and all the trimmings for $23.99.

Each month the gourmet buffet series brings dishes from a region of the world to The Buffet. It continues in June and the upcoming months are full of flavorful flair. Regional Italian dishes will be available in July and experience a taste of the Southwest in August. Other themes for the remainder of the year are:

• September - Wine Regions of The World
• October - Oktoberfest
• November - Spanish Fiesta
• December - Holiday Party

(More Information Click Here)

Yates Construction Selected to Build New CanCan Casino in D'Iberville   Filed 5/12/10

CanCan Development, LLC announced that Mississippi based W.G. Yates & Sons will lead the construction of its CanCan Casino Resort and Spa in D’Iberville, Miss.

“Yates Construction is very excited to be selected as the contractor for the CanCan project”, said William G. Yates, III. “We look forward to working with the entire team in making this project a success,” he said.

The President of CanCan Casino Resort and Spa, Joseph V. Manno, said he too was excited to have Yates on board.

“We are extremely pleased and excited that Yates will sign on to build Mississippi’s next world-class resort destination”, said Manno. “They are widely respected across the United States as a top-notch construction company that delivers on time, on budget, and routinely exceeds customer expectations”, he said. (More Here)

Hollywood Casino to Premier New Bogart's Steakhouse   Filed 4/13/10

The star cast of one of the best gourmet restaurants on the Coast will soon open a new steakhouse at Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis. Bogart’s Steakhouse, formerly Tuscany Steaks and Seafood, will open on Friday, April 30th at 5 p.m. with spectacular waterfront views overlooking the casino’s marina and The Bridge’s Golf Club.  Bogart’s Steakhouse is part of the Hollywood Casino’s $8 to $10 million make over that started last year.  “We’ve made a lot of extraordinary improvements throughout our property,” said General Manager John Chaszar. “Now we’ve combined what’s been one of the best fine dining restaurants with terrific waterfront views sweeping across our marina and The Bridges Golf Club,” said Chaszar.  (More Here)

Biloxi Moving Forward on Palace Casino Permits  Filed 4/12/10

Biloxi is moving ahead this week on building permits for the expansion of the Palace Casino on Point Cadet in east Biloxi, according to city spokesman Vincent Creel.

Creel mentioned the permits during plans during this week's "City Desk," program, which is broadcast exclusively on GCN Radio. The Palace Casino plans a $45 million expansion and improvement program that will substantially increase the size and amenities at the the popular casino. (More)

Island View Casino Resort’s Windance Country Club Among Golfweek’s “Best Courses”  Filed 3/23/10 

GULFPORT – Island View Casino Resort’s Windance Country Club – a Mark McCumber-designed golf course located in Gulfport, Miss. – was recently distinguished by Golfweek as one of “America’s Best Courses You Can Play” by state for 2010. The 18-hole, championship golf course was included in a list of 10 courses located in Mississippi by the national sporting magazine. Windance, which included in the “Modern Course” category, was among more than 2,200 courses nationwide that were ranked by 475 evaluators on 10 standards established by the publication. (More Here)

IP Casino and Resort Enters Partnership With Shell Landing Golf Club   Filed 3/5/10

New Casino Coming to D'Iberville    Filed 2/25/10

It is beginning to look good for D'Iberville's more than 12-year old plan to get a casino in their city located just north of Biloxi. The gaming commission has approved a site application for Can Can Casino. The 5-acre site is east of Interstate 110 and east of Central Avenue on the Back Bay. The resort will have a 60,000-square-foot casino with 1,800 slots and 40 table games, four restaurants, a French spa, 250 hotel rooms and suites and two retail outlets. It is expected to create 1,100 jobs. Construction has not been announced, but with the site approval from the Gaming Commission, developers, Manno and Joseph Py, can move ahead on obtaining the financing for the project. (More Here)

Hollywood Casino RV Park Rated Among Top 100

Filed 1/12/10  

The Hollywood Casino RV park is once again recognized  as one the Top 100 Good Sam Parks in the country for 2010. RV parks and campgrounds are rated by the Trailer Life Directory.  Only Good Sam Parks rating the highest in the nation and Canada qualify as “Top Rated.”

The Good Sam Club is the world’s largest RV owner’s organization with over 1,000,000 members.  There are more than 1,500 Good Sam Parks and campgrounds in the United States and Canada. (More Here)

Hollywood Casino in Bay St. Louis to Get a Makeover  Filed 12/15/09

The popular Hollywood Casino in Bay St. Louis is undergoing a multi-million dollar makeover. Some of the renovation work is already underway. As part of the improvements, the casino recently opened a new stage bar. It is an upscale venue for visitors where they can enjoy legendary New Orleans clarinetist Pete Fountain and other big name local bands. Two of the casino's restaurants will also undergo makeovers. Escalators will be installed to take guests the Epic Buffet on the second floor, which is also getting major improvements, as will the casino's Tuscany restaurant. The Tuscany will get a full waterfront view with improved decor. In addition, the casino's  poker room, table games and gift shop have new homes.

Beau Rivage Fallen Oaks Golf Course to Play Host to Major New PGA Event Filed 11/3/09

The excitement at the news conference on the 27th floor of the Beau Rivage was palpable as Coast business leaders and officials with the PGA announced that the Champions Tour, called the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic,  will be held April 26-May 2, 2010 at Fallen Oak, the Beau Rivage's premier golf course.

The tournament will feature three days of competitive play, a Pro-Am as well as numerous special events including a Junior Pro-Am and Junior Clinic. (Much more here)

Margaritaville Construction Delayed

Filed 11/5/09 

Back in May 2007, Singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett joined Mayor A.J. Holloway and Gov. Haley Barbour to unveiled plans for Margaritaville Casino & Resort, a $700-million-plus investment on Casino Row in Biloxi, but the national economy and financing issues have delayed the project.

While a significant amount of work has been done on the site, the casino is far from complete as of November 2009 and work is on standby as construction cranes are still on the site and equipment is covered by tarps. The project represents the single largest investment in Mississippi since Hurricane Katrina. The company expects  the first phase of a development that may cost more than $1 billion. Construction of Margaritaville was initially expected to be complete in time for an opening by the Spring of 2010 but that will not happen. The huge Harrah's project is located on the former Grand Biloxi and Casino Magic property south of U.S. 90 on the Biloxi Beach.

Diamondhead Casino Developers on Deadline

Filed 11/5/09

Developers for the proposed Diamondhead Casino in Hancock County have been given a deadline to submit construction plans or lose their permit for the site from Hancock County. It has been nearly 10 years that the project was first proposed and permits issued. The county has given the developers one year to submit the plans. The Diamondhead Casino Corporation reports it is still interested in developing the property.

Beau Rivage Accepted as Associated Luxury Hotel International’s First Mississippi Member 

Filed 10/8/09

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi has been accepted for membership into the prestigious organization Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI), becoming ALHI’s first member in Mississippi.  The 1,740-room resort will now receive national sales services by ALHI to the meetings, incentive/recognition travel, conventions and expositions marketplaces. (More Here)

Beau Rivage 'Fallen Oak' Named Mississippi's #1 Golf Course by Golfweek Magazine
MGM MIRAGE’S Tom Fazio-Designed Masterpiece Earns Another Accolade  Filed 4/17/09 GCN

One of the enduring qualities about Fallen Oak, the Tom Fazio-designed course that has captivated golfers since its November 2006 opening, is the fact any guest of the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino can play the challenging and spectacular course. Recognizing this, Golfweek named Fallen Oak Mississippi’s No. 1 Course You Can Play. This latest honor from Golfweek, recognizing public, resort or daily-fee courses on a state-by-state basis, appeared in the same March 14 edition in which the publication ranked Fallen Oak No. 55 on its prestigious Top 100 Modern Courses. That marked the course’s debut on that list.  (More Here)

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino Announces New Direct Air Jet Service from Tampa/St. Pete
Filed 3/4/09

Starting April 1, travelers can escape to Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, MGM MIRAGE’s destination resort on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, with more ease and value than ever. Beau Rivage celebrates its convenient new nonstop jet service from the St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport with introductory two-night air inclusive hotel getaway packages starting at just $199 per person. (More Here)

IP Casino's New Really Big Sign
Another Touch of Vegas

Filed 2/20/09

Everyone knows that Biloxi is not Las Vegas, nor does the city want to be. But with gaming now well established it doesn't hurt to add some flash. That is definitely what visitors and residents now get with the new huge sign that has gone up near the IP Casino Resort and Spa near the I-110 bridge. (More Here)

Travel + Leisure Magazine Selects Beau Rivage as One of the World's Best Hotels
Filed 2/13/09  GCN

BILOXI, Miss. – Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, MGM MIRAGE’s destination resort on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, has once again been recognized as one of the top hotels in the world by the  leading travel magazine Travel + Leisure. Beau Rivage is the only property in Mississippi to make the list.

Overall scores are an indexed average of evaluations concerning five characteristics: rooms/facilities, location, service, restaurants/food and value. Travel + Leisure’s editors describe Beau Rivage as a “waterfront resort

  that’s like Vegas on the Gulf Coast. (More Here)

  IP's New Showroom a Hit
Toby Keith Wows Audience

Filed  1/10/09

It doesn't hurt to launch a new showroom at a Coast casino with a superstar performer and that is exactly what happened Saturday night at the IP Casino Resort and Spa in Biloxi.

The IP's new showroom premiered with country music star Toby Keith who electrified the sold out crowd of more than 1,400 guests. The show began with a video movie vignette with Keith both acting and having some fun displayed on two huge screens in the showroom, the IP calls "Studio A." Then Keith and his band stepped up on the stage playing his most popular hits. (More Here)

IP Casino Resort and Spa to Feature Top Entertainers in New Showroom   Filed 1/2/09

Country music super-star Toby Keith will be the grand opening act in the new showroom called “Studio A” January 10 at the IP Casino in Biloxi. The showroom is one of several new additions to the Biloxi casino that was the first to reopen after Hurricane Katrina

“The $9 million renovation of the IP Showroom is part of our continuing endeavor to provide both gaming and non-gaming amenities and offerings to our guests and visitors. No detail was spared in this 1300 seat architectural wonder," said Jon Lucas, President & General Manager IP Casino Resort & Spa. (More Here)

Biloxi Gaming Revenues Rebound, Gross Revenues Only One Percent Lower than Last Year's Figures  Filed 11/17/08

Biloxi’s casino resorts saw gross gaming revenue figures sharply higher in October, jumping 23 percent from September and only one percent off the October 2007 figures. The total gross gaming revenue in Biloxi in October: $72.5 million. (More Here)

Economic Deck Stacked in Favor of Louisiana and Mississippi Coast Casinos   Filed 11/11/08

Even as casinos across the country feel the pinch of recession, the dice are still rolling in favor of casinos in New Orleans, Lake Charles and Biloxi, Miss., where smoking hasn’t been banned and a booming oil industry is generating income, gaming industry analysts say.  (More Here)

Diamondhead Casino Project on Hold Due to National Economic Conditions   Filed 11/11/08  From News Release

Diamondhead Casino Corporation issued a status report this month for its shareholders. On June 23, 2008, the Company signed a non-binding Letter of Intent with Casinos Austria International Holding, GMBH ("CAI") to form a joint venture partnership to develop, build and operate a destination casino resort at the Company's Diamondhead, Mississippi property in Hancock County. On September 22, 2008, the Company, at the request of CAI, extended the terms of the Letter of Intent through December 21, 2008. On November 4, 2008, CAI informed the Company that, although it still believes in the project and hopes to continue as soon as the economic situation improves and allows for acceptable financing for the project, it is ceasing its activities with respect to the project until such time as the market recovers and successful financing for the project is available. In the interim, the Company will explore opportunities and alternatives available to secure the required financing for the project. In addition, the Company intends to proceed with actual site selection for its casino resort and, to the extent possible, to obtain those permits required so as to be positioned to proceed when acceptable financing does become available. (More Here)

Coast Casinos Reopening Following Temporary Closings from Hurricane Gustav  Filed 9/3/08

Mississippi Coast Casinos that closed as a result of Hurricane Gustav reopened just a few days after the hurricane moved into coastal Louisiana. The storm also affected the Mississippi Gulf Coast with heavy rains and Tropical Storm force winds. The casinos were closed for public safety as part of Mississippi's hurricane emergency plans. Click Here for the latest information on the reopening of the casinos

Planned Bacaran Bay Casino Project Gets New Name   Filed 8/14/08

Bacaran Bay Casino is going forward but with another name.

The Sun Herald reports that the project will be referred to as the Phoenix Caillavet Street Project, according to Phoenix Gaming Group Managing Director John Ed Ainsworth, while they test market a new name.

"The first thing we needed to do was to stop the confusion," he said. "This is no longer a Torguson project. That ended on March 18." Phoenix Gaming Group was formed between Caillavet Street Development Group, the owner of the land where the casino will be built, and Firegame LLC, a finance company that holds an interest in the project.

Mississippi Gaming Commission Rejects RW Development's Plan for Casino North of U.S. 90 Near Veterans Avenue in Biloxi  Filed 7/17/08

A unanimous decision by the Mississippi Gaming Commission ended plans for the proposed South Beach Casino envisioned by RW Development July 17at the Biloxi Community Center. In a room packed with both supporters and opponents to the project, Commissioner Jerry St. Pe (pronounced: Saint Pay - .ed) made the motion to deny the application. The silence in the audience was palpable. With the unanimous vote the commission ended a huge controversy for the city, which could have placed the area's entire gaming industry in jeopardy. (More Here)

Coast Casino Industry Booming, But Condo Development has Slowed

Filed 4/23/08  Southern Gaming and Destinations Magazine

The sun is finally shining on the Katrina devastated Gulf Coast as millions of dollars have been invested to bring Biloxi back to its previous luster. While some planned developments have come to a halt, others are rising along the coast, bringing lifestyle and luxury to all time highs.

Officials and developers are citing a slowdown in the overall economy and the difficulty in getting money as a result of the banking industry’s sub-prime mortgage and overall banking problems. But the national slowdown that is affecting the city hasn’t slowed down progress at a number of Biloxi condo sites that have come out of the ground. South Beach condo developer RW Development is moving forward on its projects on the Beach and along Veteran’s Avenue in central beach Biloxi. The first of five South Beach condos is well underway. (More Here)

Filed 3/25/08 GCN     UPDATED

Bacaran Bay Casino Developers Resolve Land Ownership Issue
Project Moving Forward on Biloxi's Caillavet Street

Torguson Gaming Group, Inc. announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Caillavet Street Development Group, LLC (CSDG), owners of the land under the proposed Bacaran Bay Casino Resort and Firegame, LLC, a finance company holding security interests in some of the land, to convey the majority of its land and interests in the project to Phoenix Gaming Group, LLC, a new company formed by all three parties to direct development of Bacaran Bay Casino Resort.  Torguson will remain involved with Bacaran Bay as a minority equity holder and will serve as a consultant to the project going forward.  (More Here)

Biloxi Planning Commission Approves RW Development's Gold Coast Casino
IP Casino also gets Approval for Moving Casino Onshore 
Filed 3/7/08 GCN Updated 5/14/08

Representatives from RW Development's Gold Coast Casino are pleased after the Biloxi Planning Commission, March 6, overwhelmingly approved plans for a mixed-use development on U.S. 90 and Veterans Avenue that includes a casino north of 90.  RW Development has a multi-year billion dollar develop planned for the area in central beach Biloxi that includes condos, a casino, shopping areas and apartments.

The vote of 8-2-1 came at the end of a four-hour meeting that also saw the IP Casino Resort get approval to rezone land it owns south of the current hotel to allow an onshore casino.

With the approval from the Biloxi City Council, the Mississippi Gaming Commission will decide make the final decision on the sites.

Biloxi Casinos Pass Billion-Dollar Mark
Filed 1/16/08

Biloxi’s casino industry reported its largest ever annual gross gaming revenue in 2007, more than a billion dollars, according to figures compiled by the city today. The city’s eight casinos reported total gross gaming revenue of $1.007 billion for 2007, a year in which nine months saw revenue of more than $80 million, including an all-time monthly high of $97 million in July.

The city announced the figures today, once December’s gross gaming revenue figure -- $78.3 million – was reported. Mayor A.J. Holloway had acknowledged last week that November’s revenue figures had pushed Biloxi gaming revenue to $929 million for the year, eclipsing the previous record year of $911 million in 2004.

“This is a huge milestone, not only in our recovery, but in the overall growth of the casino resort industry in Biloxi,” Holloway said. “When you consider those gaming figures and the billion dollars in permits we’ve issued since Katrina – half of which were non-casino and non-condo – and the Biloxi Bay Bridge fully opening in three-and-a-half months, this tells the rest of the county that Biloxi is indeed coming back bigger and better.”

Biloxi Grand Casino Opens Asian-Themed Rooms   Filed 12/14/07

Harrah's Grand Biloxi Casino, Hotel and Spa's has opened an exciting new Asian gaming area and noodle bar. This is the first major addition to the casino since it reopened after Hurricane Katrina in August 2006.

The area is located off the casino floor next to the casinos main buffet. Ribbon cutting ceremonies during the opening of the new gaming area included a ceremonial lion dance that traditionally brings luck and prosperity.

Similar Asian gaming rooms have built at three other Harrah' properties in Atlantic City — Caesars, Bally's and the Showboat — and at Harrah's Lake Tahoe. Using Feng Shui.Feng Shui is the ancient Chinese practice of placement and arrangement of space to achieve harmony with the environment. Feng shui literally translates as "wind-water. The designer who worked at several Harrah's properties gave the room clean lines and high-end finishes such as Chinese terra cotta tiles and etched stone.

Coast Casinos Featured in article on Katrina Recovery    Filed 11/21/07

A recent article in a nationally distributed amusement trades magazine by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions  (IAAPA) features what several Coast casinos have done to recover from hurricane Katrina. The article focuses on the Imperial Palace President and General Manager, Jon Lucas and highlights the IP's steps to recovery after Hurricane Katrina. To read the full article, click on the following link IAAPA Article.

Isle of Capri Abandons Plan to Build a Casino in West Harrison County  Filed 11/08/07

Company officials with the Isle of Capri Casino in Biloxi say they have decided to abandon a plan to build a casino near I-10 in west Harrison County. The company says the site is no longer viable for their project. The Isle had previous said they were considering developing a $250 million to $300 million development in western Harrison County near Interstate 10 with a minimum of 500 rooms.

Jackson County Voters Vote Against Choctaw Indian Casino Filed 11/08/07

Voters in Jackson County voted overwhelmingly Nov. 6, in a non-binding referendum to reject a plan by the Choctaw Indian tribe to build a casino along I-10 on their property in Jackson County. Jackson County residents have rejected casinos in their county, just east of Biloxi's casinos in Harrison County, two other times in the past. The latest vote was 60 percent against. Jackson County is among the state's largest industrial counties and the home of the giant Northrop Grumman shipyard. The tribe is still interested in building a gaming facility on the Coast.

Harrah's Entertainment Announces Transaction Approval by the Mississippi Gaming Commission

From: Harrah's News Release       Filed 10/18/07 GCN  Photo: GCN

Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: HET) has announced it received approval from the Mississippi Gaming Commission for the proposed acquisition of Harrah's by affiliates of Apollo Management, L.P. and TPG Capital. The transaction remains subject to approval by other jurisdictions in which Harrah's subsidiaries operate and other conditions to closing set forth in the agreement and plan of merger entered into on December 19, 2006.  (More Here)

Airport Terminal Expansion Nearing Completion
Millions of Dollars Being Spent on Improvements Around Busy Airport

By Keith Burton - GCN   10/10/07

Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport officials and tenants are excited over a new cargo facility and the completion of the construction on the terminal expansion that should be finished by month's end.

Casino visitors and businessmen flying in and out of the Gulfport/-Biloxi International Airport will note that construction on the new and expanded terminal is rapidly nearing completion. The airport overall has been undergoing a $50 million expansion that actually began prior to Hurricane Katrina, but was substantially setback by the hurricane when the existing work on the terminal was badly damaged. (More Here)

Hard Rock Casino in Biloxi Opens Ahead of Schedule Filed 6/26/07

Officials with Biloxi's Hard Rock Casino opened Saturday, May 30th, a week ahead of their announced Grand Opening set for July 7th. For months the Hard Rock has said they would be opening on July 7th, capitalizing on the 7/7/7 date, but officials say they are ready to get started.

The soft opening also benefits the casino in getting services and employees up to speed for what will surely be a huge crowd on the Grand Opening.

Escatawpa's 3 Doors Down will open the 1,400-seat Hard Rock Live July 5, with Kid Rock playing on July 7.

The Hard Rock Casino includes The Rock Spa, Merge Salon with three Coast stylists, a fitness center, beach pool with underwater music, shops and five restaurants, including Hard Rock Cafe.

Hard Rock's original opening was delayed when hurricane Katrina slammed into the Coast August 29, 2005, just days from the planned original opening of the property, located just next door to the towering Beau Rivage. More information is available by visiting Hard Rock's website at www.hardrockbiloxi.com.

Treasure Bay Opens New Casino Casino and Hotel

Treasure Bay Casino in Biloxi opened its new hotel and casino Monday, July 2, marking the return of almost all of Biloxi's casinos that were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. Treasure Bay, whose former pirate ship barge became a Katrina devastation poster child, has finished a complete rebuild and remodel of their hotel site north of the highway. The casino has an entirely new theme, no longer the pirate ship look.

Casinos that are not returning are the President and Casino Magic. The President's location at the former Broadwater Resort has new owners and Casino Magic was purchased by Harrah's and will become part of a huge casino complex near the new Margaritaville Casino that is planned to begin construction soon.

Harrah's, Buffett Unveil Plans for $700M Margaritaville Casino & Resort in Biloxi

Harrah’s Entertainment and world-renowned singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett joined Mayor A.J. Holloway and Gov. Haley Barbour May 15 to unveil plans for Margaritaville Casino & Resort, a $700-million-plus investment that will be on Casino Row in Biloxi and represents the single largest investment in Mississippi since Hurricane Katrina. The company expects this to be the first phase of a development that may cost more than $1 billion.

Construction of Margaritaville began this past summer with a target completion date of Spring 2010. The project is to be constructed on the former Grand Biloxi and Casino Magic property south of U.S. 90 on the Biloxi Beach. (More Here)

Biloxi Mayor Details Casino Industry Status for Audience at 2007 Gaming Summit
Casinos Expanding Footprint in City  

Casino resorts in Biloxi have acquired more than 175 acres in Biloxi in the 20 months since Hurricane Katrina. Biloxi Mayor A.J. Holloway told a Southern Gaming Summit audience meeting in Biloxi early in May that the city will continue to see extraordinary growth without compromising quality of life.... (Much More Here)

More News Below...

The following is the latest information on post-Katrina casino activity on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Open

Beau Rivage Resort & Casino reopened Aug. 29, 2006, the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. The resort also has opened its new Tom Fazio-designed golf course Fallen Oak for guests at the resort. Beau Rivage has new restaurants, a redesigned and more luxurious casino, and the stores along the promenade look more like a street with each having their own look inside and out. In addition, all of the guest rooms have been redesigned and have a new look.

Silver Slipper,  opened November 9, 2006. The casino is located in Hancock County at Bayou Caddy west of Waveland. Silver Slipper has more than 1,000 slot machines, 26 table games and 10 poker tables. Restaurants include the Jubilee Buffet, the Blue Bayou Bar and Grill steakhouse and Palm Court Cafe.

Island View Resort in Gulfport is actually what has become of the former Gulfport Grand Casino. The new resort opened for the first time August 18, 2006. The owners of the Copa Casino purchased Harrah's Gulfport Grand property after Hurricane Katrina severely damaged the property and left the Copa's barge on land in a parking lot. The Island View Resort, which was the Grand Oasis Hotel, has been extensively expanded and reconfigured for the new casino resort. The Island View is Gulfport's only casino..

Hollywood Casino in Bay St. Louis opened August 31, 2007. It is the former Bay St. Louis Casino Magic. The new resort is similar to the one its parent company, Penn National Gaming, owns in Tunica County. The casino  is dedicated to movie themes and has displays from "Titanic" and Elvis Presley movies. The completely redesigned and updated resort also features the Arnold Palmer-designed Bridges Golf Course. The new look is completely different from the former Casino Magic days.

Biloxi Grand Casino  reopened, August 17, 2007 at 9 p.m. in the surviving BayView Hotel, but a huge $1 billion resort is being designed. The Grand is owned by Harrah's. All of the casino's shoreline property has been demolished in preparation for the much larger resort. The Grand currently features all-new rooms with flat panel televisions, a large gaming floor in the hotel, a terrific buffet and LB's for fine dining. A new casino on the south side of U.S. 90 where the former Biloxi Grand was located, named Margaritaville, is under construction.

The IP Casino Resort and Spa (Formerly the Imperial Palace) Features 1,000 refurbished and redecorated hotel rooms and a whole new decor since it reopened in December 2005. The busy resort has several new restaurants and popular entertainment venues that have turned this casino into a favorite since it reopened.

The Isle of Capri Casino Resort - opened Dec. 26, 2005 with the casino inside its new hotel. The resort is completely redesigned with numerous restaurants, upscale entertainment venues and a whole new feel inside and out. The Isle has also asked the Mississippi Gaming Commission for approval to open a new casino is west Harrison County near the Diamondhead community off of Interstate 10.

The Palace Casino Resort opened Dec. 30, 2005 with a new gaming floor inside the first and second floors of its hotel. An elegant pool located just at the edge of the Biloxi Back Bay and a variety of fine dining restaurants and buffet are among its charms. 

Boomtown Casino reopened June 29, 2006 with major improvements since Hurricane Katrina blew through the Mississippi Coast. The casino has a new gaming floor on its renovated casino barge and remains a local favorite with is popular buffet.

Treasure Bay Casino in Biloxi opened its new hotel and casino Monday, July 2, 2007, marking the return of almost all of Biloxi's casinos that were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. Treasure Bay, whose former pirate ship barge became a Katrina devastation poster child, has finished a complete rebuild and remodel of their hotel site north of the highway. The casino has an entirely new theme, no longer the pirate ship look.

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, held their former Grand Opening July 7th, 2007 but actually opened a week early on June 30. The resort took heavy damages from Katrina just days before the casino was to open in September 2005. After Hurricane Katrina, the overall structure survived but the property was heavily damaged.

Under Construction

Bacaran Bay Casino Resort - $500 million project, owned and operated by Torguson Gaming Group, with anticipated completion date 2010. 638 room all suite hotel; 432 one and two bedroom condominiums; Arnold Palmer signature 18-hole championship golf course; 40 lane bowling alley; and six movie theaters.

Proposed

Royal D'Iberville Casino & Hotel - The Mississippi Gaming Commission approved what could become D'Iberville's first casino Feb. 15. (See Below)

Bayview Casino Resort is a project under design next to Boomtown on Back Bay. The project is moving forward with plans for a resort that will include 55,000 square feet in gaming space and a 500-room hotel.

The Broadwater (former President Casinos) there are rumors that the huge Broadwater site is slated for a $2 billion development. Currently, the site has seen no construction, however, all of the structures that were once on the site have been torn down and in November the slabs from former structures were removed. The location has the potential for what could be the Coast's most significant casino and resort location.

More News

The Island View Casino in Gulfport opened their latest expansion May 14, 2007, that doubled the amount of gaming space  for the casino. The Island View casino is Gulfport's only casino.

IP Mississippi Charities – the philanthropic arm of IP Casino Resort Spa in Biloxi – donated a half-million dollars to the city of Biloxi in March to help purchase emergency vehicles destroyed in Hurricane Katrina. (More Here)

The Isle of Capri is increasing its presence in Biloxi and expanding. It is also shortening its name to just The Isle. The casino is filling in some land it controls on Biloxi's Point Cadet. The site is approximately 1.8 acres along the water. A $180 million expansion  will put a casino immediately adjacent to the the property's parking garage along with restaurants and bars. It will also allow ballroom and convention space - currently converted into a gambling floor - to go back to its intended use. It will be completed in May 2009.

Biloxi’s casinos reported March 19, $86.2 million in gross gaming revenue in February, the largest February in city's gaming history, according to figures released  by the mayor’s office.

“This means that five of the last six months have broken records in some form or another,” Mayor A.J. Holloway said, “and these figures overall show the strength and vitality of the Biloxi market.”

The trend, Holloway said, began six month ago, in September, when the city’s largest monthly gross gaming revenue -- $95.7 million – was reported. Added the mayor: “That was followed by the largest October ever, the largest November ever, the largest December ever, and now the largest February ever.”  (More Here)

Trump Entertainment Resorts Inc., the casino company founded by real estate developer Donald Trump, has dropped plans to build a casino on Mississippi's Gulf Coast in Hancock County. Trump Entertainment ended negotiations with Diamondhead Casino Corp.,late February. Diamondhed Casino Corp is the owner of more than 400 acres in Mississippi in Hancock County. Reportedly, the plans were dropped after the companies could not reach an agreement and over concerns about the project's financial return. The companies had signed a letter of intent to build on Diamondhead's site, which was approved for gambling after the state Legislature allowed casinos on land.

The owners of the site of the future Royal D'Iberville Casino & Hotel cleared two hurdles at once Feb. 15 when the Mississippi Gaming Commission declared the property a legal site for gambling and approved development plans. The plan calls for the casino resort to be built on the west side of Interstate 110 in D'Iberville and would be a cutoff before motorists reach casinos on the Biloxi peninsula. The developers envision a 60,000-square-foot casino with a 400-room hotel and a parking garage that will be parallel to the Interstate with condotel units on top. An elevated bridge would take gamblers directly into the casino. The waterfront towers would each have 99 units. Developers are now seeking financing for the project, that when finished, will become D'Iberville's first casino.

Biloxi Mayor A.J. Holloway said Feb. 16, 2007 on WLOX that Biloxi could see as many as six more casinos in the city in the not too distant future. The city is hearing plans from casino developers for property along Back Bay east of Boomtown Casino, as well as additional casinos on Biloxi's southern shoreline. The property that was once the President Casino at the Broadwater Resort has yet to see any construction, however debris removal and the removal of the former buildings on the Broadwater grounds has been completed.

The Isle of Capri reported Feb. 7, 2007, that they have purchased the property initially purchased by the Golden Nugget on Biloxi's Point Cadet. The land includes about 5 acres just north of the Isle's main property. The casino has not announced any plans for the property and a purchase amount was not released.