Page 15 - MGHA Annual Report, 2023

Penny Bankston, MGHA Chair
“We have come a long way over the years and have contributed not only to our communities and charitable organizations, but have provided countless jobs for our citizens. To be part of such an amazing group of professionals in an industry that touches so many lives is truly an honor. We provide entertainment for the masses while giving back to charities and helping the livelihood of our work families. Each property in Mississippi brings something a little different but more importantly brings entertainment and fun for the customers that walk through our doors. I don’t think you can beat our Southern hospitality!”
~ Penny Bankston, vice president and general manager WaterView Casino Hotel, Vicksburg
“Mississippi’s gaming industry has made tremendous progress since reopening from pandemic- related closures more than two years ago. That is a tribute to the resilience of our industry, as well as Mississippi’s long-established pro-business philosophy. This philosophy is essential to our success as an industry and to efforts that encourage innovation. One innovative step would be the addition of mobile betting to our state’s thriving sports-betting business. It would enhance our competitiveness and encourage continued investment. We look forward to partnering with Mississippi leaders in building a stronger gaming industry that benefits our entire state.”
~ Toni Burns, vice president and general manager Sam’s Town Hotel & Gambling Hall, Tunica
“As we look back on 2022, we are pleased to see that the gaming industry continues to bring visitors to Mississippi by serving as a tourism driver; a driver that impacts the economy of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and the entire state. Looking ahead, our focus is to bring visitors more of what they enjoy, and above all else, excel at customer service. Beyond ensuring a great customer experience, we are focused on providing jobs that offer growth opportunities and excellent benefits that promote good health to employees. We will continue to be strong community partners for the City of Gulfport, the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and the State of Mississippi by supporting initiatives that encourage tourism and grow the local and state tax base.”
~ Mike Bruffey, vice president/general counsel Island View & Beach View Casino Resorts, Gulfport
“We’re optimistic as we move into 2023 that the future of gaming in the region and throughout Mississippi is moving in the right direction. I’m proud to say that the industry in the state has done a tremendous job in attracting and retaining talent. However, as we take a close look at the state of the workforce, we find there are more jobs available than job seekers. This has forced operators to become more and more creative in finding the means of overcoming these challenges, which is why automation and new technology will play an important role in the future of our industry. To that end, I’m incredibly optimistic about the long term future of gaming and truly appreciate being a part of such an amazing group of operators.”
~ Roscoe Greene, president and general manager Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa, Greenville
Toni Burns, MGHA Vice Chair
Mike Bruffey, MGHA Treasurer
Roscoe Greene, MGHA Secretary
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