Legal sports betting will soon make its way to Biloxi casinos and bring with it a welcome spike in tourism, Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich said today after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a 1992 federal law that had prohibited most states from authorizing sports wagering.
“Sports betting will probably result in a boost in gaming revenue for our eight casinos, and everyone agrees it will bring more people to our city more often that will increase hotel, restaurant and other tourism sales,” Gilich said. “This will be especially helpful in drawing casino visitors during tournaments and championships like March Madness and football bowl and playoff games.”
Gilich said the Mississippi Gaming Commission has yet to adopt specific legislation for pari-mutuel and sports betting, but that it is already allowed under State regulations. Lifting of the federal ban will expedite the arrival of legal sports betting in Biloxi but it certainly won’t be the first time the city has been a center of sports gambling.
For many decades in the mid-to-late 1900s several sports betting businesses thrived in Biloxi, even though they operated illegally. Residents and visitors bet regularly on college and pro sports, as well as horse racing around the country.
Casino insiders tell Mayor Gilich that legal sports betting in Mississippi could be operational by August.
Community blood drive scheduled this week
The City of Biloxi and the American Red Cross are challenging residents to roll up their sleeves to save a life for a community blood drive happening this week.
The friendly challenge, taking place on two days, will be from noon to 5 p.m. on Tuesday at the Dr. Frank G. Gruich Sr. Community Center on Howard Avenue and on Wednesday at the Woolmarket City Center off Kayleigh Cove.
“This community challenge is very important in helping to restock the blood supply,” Denise Smith with the American Red Cross said. “The blood donations will help provide patients in our local hospitals and elsewhere blood when needed.”
Donors can attend either day and will receive a $5 Amazon eGift Card.
Snacks, juice and water will be available and donors are asked to bring identification.
Donors should also drink plenty of water, and eat a healthy meal, avoiding fatty foods like hamburgers, fries or ice cream before donating blood. Also, wear a shirt with short sleeves or sleeves that can be rolled up.
See the blood drive flyer
News and notes: Weekly review, Shuckers, breakfast, unveiling
The week that was: Last week, the Fire Department answered 147 calls for service, including 101 medical emergencies and five fires; the Police Department handled 1,887 calls for service; the Community Development Department issued 74 building permits with a construction valuation of more than $1.5 million; and the Engineering Department continued to progress on projects throughout the city. To see the reports covering last week, click here.
Doggone Monday: Tonight is dog night at the Biloxi Shuckers game. Fans can take their pooch to the ballpark to cheer on the Shuckers as they take on the Pensacola Blue Wahoos with the first pitch at 6:35 p.m. Berm tickets are $7. Arrive early for a pregame pooch parade. To visit the Biloxi Shuckers website, click here.
Breakfast with the Mayor: The Biloxi Chamber of Commerce will host Breakfast with the Mayor on Wednesday morning at 8 at the food court of the Edgewater Mall. Mayor Gilich will speak about the latest happenings in Biloxi during the free, public event.
Poster unveiling: The 89th Biloxi Blessing of the Fleet poster unveiling will take place on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. at the Biloxi Visitors Center. The 2018 Shrimp King and the candidates for the 2018 Shrimp Queen will be introduced. For more information on the 89th annual event, click here.
