One former Magnolia State governor has been inducted into the Mississippi Gaming Hall of Fame.
On Thursday at the Beau Rivage in Biloxi, the Mississippi Gaming and Hospitality Association held its latest induction ceremony to introduce the newest hall of fame class.
Most notably, former Governor Haley Barbour was recognized alongside former state representative Bobby Moak, D-Brookhaven, for their role in helping the state’s casino industry build back after Hurricane Katrina.
“The Hall of Fame will continue its legacy by recognizing industry leaders who exemplify personal and professional qualities through this award,” Larry Gregory, executive director of the Mississippi Gaming and Hospitality Association, said. “Their legacy is Mississippi’s success.”
In addition, Chevis Swetman, the president of People’s Bank in Biloxi was honored for helping launch Mississippi’s gaming industry in the 1990s. He was also rewarded for keeping the casinos from folding throughout crises such as Katrina, the housing market collapse, and the BP oil spill.
The Engelstad Family Foundation was also recognized during Thursday’s ceremony. The foundation, which previously owned the IP Casino Resort Spa, provided millions of dollars to the Mississippi Coast community in the years after Katrina struck the Gulf Coast.
