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Mississippi Casino Revenue Plunges

"…Winnings at the 29 casinos regulated by the state were $213 million, the worst August since 1998. Statewide, revenue fell by 10 percent. The Coast's 12 casinos reported a 9 percent drop in revenue from August 2001.

"…Casinos submit their gambling revenue figures to the State Tax Commission, which compiles the numbers and releases a report every month. Billy Klauser, director of the miscellaneous tax division, which covers casino revenues, said he knew of no reason for the decline, since August 2001 and August 2002 both covered 5-week periods.

"Wednesday's figures may change because it's common for casinos to adjust their revenue reports to reflect write-offs and other factors after the state releases the preliminary numbers. In July, after Coast casinos reported winning nearly $120 million, the figure later was changed to $119 million.

"…John Ferrucci, general manager of Casino Magic Biloxi, said the Casino Row resort was 17 percent ahead of last year's numbers. Ferrucci said he didn't hear any complaints about business from other Coast casinos.

"…Rich Westfall, senior director of marketing for the Isle of Capri, said the Biloxi resort saw about a 7 percent increase in revenue and gamblers during August. Westfall said the numbers indicate that the Coast casino market hasn't been affected by the Rebel flag controversy…"

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