Those barges you've seen on Highway 90? They're our casinos.

We'll be putting people back to work - and once again helping draw hundreds of thousands of tourists to New Orleans.

Harrah's New Orleans is a vitally important property to us, and we want one of our most skilled operators at its helm. Jim's business acumen, operating experience and familiarity with New Orleans and the Gulf Coast make him the ideal person for this crucial task. I'm confident Harrah's New Orleans has a bright future ahead under his leadership.

In Memphis, we've got just a terrific heritage of music.

There is a silver lining in all the destruction that happened, and we plan to be a part of it.

We are fully committed to this state and are excited about the opportunity to design and develop a first-class resort at our Biloxi site that will complement our substantial entertainment offerings in northwest Mississippi. This agreement is a significant step toward the rebuilding of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Mardi Gras is a very good time for the city to invite visitors to come and see that New Orleans is open and ready to receive tourists. We were determined to be a part of that invitation and to help deliver the fun and excitement that people expect when they arrive.

After considerable repair and renovation work, we are pleased to support this community by re-opening our doors and providing Lake Charles with much-needed additional hotel capacity.