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Drivers Bolster Mississippi Coast Tourism

``Officials are optimistic about the outlook for this fall, when thousands of visitors are expected for Cruisin' the Coast, a classic car event that starts Oct. 6.

``...Hotel and casino operators said summer numbers looked strong.

``In July, the 12 Gulf Coast gambling halls reported capturing nearly $120 million, not counting what was spent elsewhere in the resorts.

``Keith Crosby, general manager of the Palace Casino in Biloxi, said the casinos also had a strong August, although the final numbers won't be reported to the state until the middle of this month.

``Harsha Chacko, a professor at the University of New Orleans' school of tourism administration, said drive-in markets such as the Gulf Coast have stayed strong.

``...Steve Richer, executive director of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau, said the fall and winter should see more tourists than last year..."

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