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Mississippi aims to boost tourism

MISSISSIPPI – As reported by Bloomberg: "Mississippi, the biggest U.S. gambling destination after Nevada and New Jersey, is determined to boost tourism -- without luring Las Vegas-style debauchery.

"Casinos began rising from Tunica County cotton fields beside the Mississippi River 14 years ago. Now officials are negotiating for a $2.7 billion gaming-free development in adjacent DeSoto County, anchored by a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc. movie theme park and backed by about $200 million in state incentives. Plans for the project, called Riverbend Crossing, include hotels, golf courses, shops and rides.

"…Governor Haley Barbour said in an interview that family attractions will keep visitors in the area longer and help the economy of a state that last year had the lowest median household income, $32,938 versus $46,242 for the U.S. as a whole. Las Vegas tried a similar pitch to families in the 1990s, resulting in slowing revenue growth, and now touts itself as an adult playground with the slogan: `What Happens Here, Stays Here.' …"

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