Mayor's Speeches

State of the CIty 2015: a city of contrasts

Here is the text of the State of the City video presentation, delivered Thursday, March 12, 2015, during a Biloxi Bay of Commerce luncheon at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. Today, as we take account of the state of our city, we stand on the cusp of a milestone year – we mark the […]

Gines: ‘I stand ready to assist in anyway needed’

Here are the remarks delivered by Ward 2 Councilman Felix O. Gines, speaking as acting mayor at the Biloxi Chamber’s “Breakfast with the Mayor,” Feb. 3, 2015, at the IP Casino Resort Spa. Good morning and welcome to Breakfast with the Mayor. Today, of course, it’s also “Breakfast with the Acting Mayor.” I want thank […]

On Mary Mahoney’s 50th anniversary

Comments on the 50th anniversary of Mary Mahoney’s Old French House Restaurant: Thank all of you for being here and for inviting me to speak to you. Mary Mahoney’s is a Biloxi tradition. I can’t say enough about what the Mahoney and Cvitanovich families and the staff have done as goodwill ambassadors for Biloxi and […]

State of the City 2014: We are arriving at a turning point

Here is the text of the mayor’s presentation on Monday, March 10, 2014 during the State of the City luncheon, sponsored by the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce and presented at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. Thank all of you for being here today. This is a great turnout. You know, I’ve worn a […]

Holloway on baseball, bait shop and infrastructure

Here are the prepared remarks for Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation at Breakfast with the Mayor, a Biloxi Chamber-sponsored event Feb. 12, 2013 at the IP Casino Resort Spa. Thank you for being here for another Breakfast with the Mayor. It’s been quiet at City Hall, with nothing much going on. Unless you include baseball. We […]

Fire Chief, infrastructure and downtown headling Morning report

Chief Administrative Officer David Nichols introduced three Biloxi city staffers to present reports for the Breakfast with the Mayor session on July 24, 2013. The Biloxi Chamber-sponsored event was presented at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Mayor Holloway, meantime, was in Washington, D.C. for meetings with the the state’s legislative delegation. Here are the […]

Inaugural 2013: ‘Let us work until our work is done’

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s inaugural address delivered on July 1, 2013, during the inauguration ceremony conducted at the Biloxi Civic Center. Greetings and welcome to our distinguished guests and to my family, my colleagues, and my friends — old and new. This is a day of new beginnings, a day […]

Remarks at Gov. Bryant’s baseball press conference in Biloxi

The prepared text of the remarks by Mayor A.J. Holloway, during a press conference on May 30, 2013, at the Biloxi Visitors Center. Thank all of you for being here for this important announcement. Baseball has a long history in Biloxi, going back to the early 1900s, when we were part of the old Cotton […]

Holloway on baseball, FEMA work, and saving trees

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks made during Breakfast with the Mayor, a Biloxi Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event held Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at Bonefish Grill at Edgewater Mall. Thank all of you for being here. We have a lot of things to talk about. First, let me say thank you […]

Holloway updates city projects for breakfast crowd

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks made during Breakfast with the Mayor, a Biloxi Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event held Wednesday, March 27, 2013 at IP Casino Resort Spa. Good morning, and welcome to another Breakfast with the Mayor. This morning, I’m going to give you a quick update on things we […]

State of the City 2013: A milestone each and every day

Here is the text of the mayor’s presentation on Monday, Feb. 26 duirng the State of the City luncheon, sponsored by the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce and presented at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. To see the video presentation,  click here. Thank all of you for being here. Today marks the 20th time […]

The truth about annexation

Here is the text of a letter that Mayor Holloway and the City Council submitted to the Sun Herald for publication on Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2013, regarding the issue of annexation between Biloxi and Gulfport. There has been a growing level of public posturing on this annexation issue in recent weeks, but the public would […]

Comments at retirement party for Brenda Johnston and David Staehling

Here are comments made by Mayor A.J. Holloway during a retirement party to honor Director of Administration David Staehling and Municipal Clerk Brenda H. Johnston, at the Biloxi Visitors Center, on Dec. 5, 2012. Thank all of you for being here. This is a way to say thank you to Brenda and David for the […]

Holloway outlines commercial construction, infrastructure work

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks made during Breakfast with the Mayor, a Biloxi Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event held Thursday, Nov. 14, 2012 at Biloxi Regional Medical Center. Thank all of you for being here this morning. I also want to thank Biloxi Regional for sponsoring this edition of Breakfast with […]

Update on Popp’s Ferry Road work, other public projects

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to the audience at the Biloxi Chamber’s Breakfast with the Mayor, held Wednesday, Sept. 19, 2012 at The Innovation Center, the small business incubator on Popp’s Ferry Road. We have a lot of work going on right now. Let me give you a quick rundown. […]

Mayor reviews projects and Year One of civic, visitors centers

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to the Biloxi Chamber’s “Breakfast with the Mayor” gathering, on Wednesday, July 18, 2012, at the Vibe restaurant at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Biloxi. Before I get started, let me tell you something I need to practice. In about two weeks, we’re […]

Holloway updates new casinos, Point development

Here is the edited text of Mayor Holloway’s presentation for the Biloxi Chamber’s Breakfast with the Mayor,” conducted May 16, 2012 at Edgewater Mall. I want to thank Terry Powell and his staff at Edgewater Mall for hosting us today. Terry, y’all do a great job here. I think all of you can see what […]

Status report on blighted properties, infrastructure

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s comments to the Biloxi Chamber’s Breakfast with the Mayor gathering on Wednesday, March 28, 2012 at the IP Casino Resort Spa. Thank all of you for being here today. I like to use these Breakfast with the Mayor gatherings to give you an update on city […]

Are we headed down a familiar path with new museum?

Here is a guest column that appeared in the Sun Herald on Thursday, March 22, 2012, the morning the City Council voted unanimously to move forward with the project to construct a new Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum on Point Cadet. By Mayor A.J. Holloway Among the many memorable lines that Ronald Reagan is associated […]

SOTC 2012: An historic year on many levels

Here is the prepared text of the State of the City address delivered on Feb. 8, 2012 during a Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce luncheon at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. Thank all of you for being here today. I especially want to thank Tina Ross Seamans and everyone with the chamber for organizing […]

An extraordinary interest rate, and plenty of ‘old’ news

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to the Breakfast with the Mayor audience on Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2011. The breakfast, sponsored by the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce, was hosted by Biloxi Regional Medical Center. Good morning, and thank y’all for being here this morning. I especially want to thank our hosts, […]

Holloway updates progress for businessmen’s club

Here is the text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s speech to the Biloxi Businessmen’s Club, delivered Oct. 13, 2011 during a luncheon at Mary Mahoney’s Old French House Restaurant. Good afternoon, and thank you for inviting me here today. We’re seeing a lot of positive signs in Biloxi right now, and before you leave this meeting, […]

Veto of additional payment to seafood museum

Here is the text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s Sept. 23, 2011 veto of the City Council proposal to make an $18,400 payment to the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum, which would have canceled the 20 percent funding reduction councilmembers had voted to make at this time last year. I hereby veto Resolution 496-11, which proposes […]

Mayor speaks to budget, Katrina debt, other issues

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce “Breakfast With the Mayor” Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011, at The Innnovation Center. Good morning, and welcome to another Breakfast with the Mayor. Yesterday, the City Council passed a budget and I think it’s a good one, considering everything. We […]

Ohr, Seafood museums need support from private sector

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to the Biloxi Chamber’s “Breakfast with the Mayor” gathering, on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2011, at the Vibe restaurant at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Biloxi. Thank you for being here this morning. We have a lot of things to talk about, so let’s […]

On city finances, water bills and more

Here are the speaking points for Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to the audience at the Biloxi Chamber’s Breakfast with the Mayor, held Wednesday, June 15, 2011 at Edgewater Mall’s Food Court. — We’re working on our municipal budget for Fiscal Year 2012, which begins Oct. 1. I’ll be making my recommendation to the City Council […]

We need more non-gaming amenities, mayor tells gaming audience

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s comments to an audience at the 2011 Southern Gaming Summit, made on May 5, 2011, at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center in Biloxi. Good morning, and welcome back to Biloxi and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. We are glad to have you here. Our gaming […]

Margaritaville will grow market, create a buzz

Here is the full text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s comments submitted on April 7, 2011 to the Mississippi Gaming Commission regarding the proposed Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Casino and Restaurant project in east Biloxi, on Biloxi’s Back Bay. I want to thank the members and staff of the Gaming Commission for meeting here in Biloxi again. […]

Remarks to initial meeting about Point Cadet waterfront plan

Here are comments that Mayor Holloway made at the opening of the intial meeting to discuss the revitalization of the Point Cadet waterfront. The public presentation was conducted Wednesday, March 30, 2011 at the Dr. Frank G. Gruich Sr. Community Center on Howard Avenue. Good evening and thank all of you for being here. Tonight, […]

Loook around: The great year is well underway

Here is the prepared text of the Mayor Holloway’s presentation for the Biloxi Chamber’s “Breakfast With the Mayor,” on Tuesday, March 29, 2011, held at the IP Casino Resort Spa. Welcome to another Breakfast with the Mayor. I want to thank the Biloxi Chamber and the IP for hosting us, and I want to thank […]

State of the City 2011: ‘This will be the year’

Here is the prepared text of the State of the City address delivered on Feb. 28, 2011 during a Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce luncheon at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. (To see video of the 30-minute speech, click here.) Thank you for being here today. It’s great to see another sold-out audience, with […]

Breakfast with the Mayor

Here are the speaking points that Mayor A.J. Holloway used for his presentation to the Biloxi Chamber Breakfast with the Mayor audience at Biloxi Regional Medical Center on Nov. 17, 2010: — Glad to be here today. Want to give you an update on where we are today and maybe answer a few questions. — […]

Breakfast talk: Budget, development, progress and more

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation for the Biloxi Chamber “Breakfast with the Mayor,” on Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2010, at the Innovation Center on Popp’s Ferry Road. As you know, we’re continuing budget negotiations with the City Council. Many of you who I run into on the street tell me that […]

Mayor’s comments to national oil spill commission

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks to the National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Gulf Drilling, delivered on the second day of the inaugural meeting of the commission in New Orleans on July 13, 2010. Good morning, commission members, and thank you for inviting me to be […]

‘We’re very fortunate,’ mayors tells Conference of Mayors

Here is the prepared text of comments that Mayor A.J. Holloway took to the U.S. Conference of Mayors on Monday, June 21, 2010 in New Orleans: First, I want to thank The US Conference of Mayors and Mayor Landrieu for organizing this session. On behalf of the people of Biloxi and of the Mississippi Gulf […]

Holloway discusses post-Katrina on C-SPAN

Here is the transcript of an interview on the C-SPAN program Q&A, on Feb. 12, 2006, a mere 5 1/2 months after Hurricane Katrina. Mayor Holloway appeared on the program while in Washington, D.C. to speak before the U.S. Conference of Mayors. BRIAN LAMB, HOST: Biloxi, Mississippi, Mayor A.J. Holloway, what do you think of […]

State of the City 2010: The end of the beginning

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address, delivered Jan. 27, during a Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce luncheon at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. Good afternoon and welcome to the State of the City 2010. I’m glad to see so many of you here today because I […]

Update on restoration of historic properties

Here are Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks, as prepared, for “Breakfast with the Mayor,” a Biloxi Chamber of Commerce event on Dec. 1, 2009 at Biloxi Regional Medical Center. —I hope all of you had a Happy Thanksgiving, and I wish you the best in this holiday season and into the New Year. —This morning I […]

Holloway updates rebuilding progress

Here are remarks that Mayor A.J. Holloway made to the Edgewater Rotary during a presentation on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2009 at the Bonefish Grill at Edgewater Mall. — We break ground on Friday on our two biggest municipal facilities, a $15 million visitors center north of the Biloxi Lighthouse, and a $24 million downtown library […]

Vetoes of ‘water park’ at Beck Park, equipment at Mercy Cross

To read Mayor A.J. Holloway’s veto of a measure that would have seen the construction of a “water park” at John Henry Beck Park, click here.

Inauguration 2009: The journey begins anew

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s inaugural address delivered on July 1, 2009, during the inauguration ceremony conducted at Biloxi Junior High School auditorium. My fellow Biloxians, friends and family, distinguished guests, members of the City Council, ladies and gentlemen: Thank you for that kind reception. Today marks my fifth inaugural address. […]

Breakfast with Mayor: Popp’s Ferry bridge update and more

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to “Breakfast with the Mayor,” on Wednesday, April 1, 2009, sponsored by the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce and hosted by the IP Casino Resort Spa. Good morning. I’m glad to see so many of you here for Breakfast With the Mayor. I have a number […]

STATE OF THE CITY ’09: “Let’s get on with it”

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address, delivered Monday, Jan. 26, 2009 during a luncheon sponsored by the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. To see online video of the speech, click here. I am delighted to be here today to provide […]

In Biloxi, when the economy turns the corner, we’ll find a new road

Here is the text of a forecast of gaming in Biloxi for 2009 Mayor A.J. Holloway submitted for the January issue of Casino Enterprise Management magazine. We’ve seen our share of layoffs in the Biloxi casino industry – about 10 percent of the workforce, I would say — but I can’t help but believe that […]

Holloway defines quality of life for Leadership class

Here is the prepared text of a speech on quality of life that Mayor A.J. Holloway made to the Leadership Mississippi class, which met on Nov. 13, 2008 at Biloxi High School. I want to welcome you to Biloxi and the final stop on your Leadership Mississippi tour. I also want to congratulate each of […]

Holloway outlines progress in chamber presentation

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to the Biloxi Chamber’s “Breakfast with the Mayor,” on Oct. 14, 2008 in the cafeteria at Biloxi Regional Medical Center. Good morning, I’m glad that so many of you turned out to hear this update on what we have going on in Biloxi. I suppose […]

Veto of increases in employee pay, longevity pay

To read Mayor A.J. Holloway’s veto of measures to raise employee pay and longevity pay, click here.

Veto of FY 2009 municipal budget

To see Mayor Holloway’s veto of the City Council’s proposed budget, click here.

‘Laz Quave’ marks centennial of City Hall building

Following is the prepared text of the presentation by Biloxi High School student Bryan Rosetti, who portrayed former Mayor Laz Quave during a July 30, 2008 ceremony celebrating the centennial of the building that now houses Biloxi City Hall. Quave was a longtime community leader who served as mayor when the federal building became City […]

Holloway on centennial of City Hall building

Here are Mayor A.J. Holloway’s comments at the June 30, 2008 reception marking the centennial of the building housing City Hall: On behalf of myself, the members of the Biloxi City Council, and councils and mayors of the past, welcome to City Hall and the observance of the centennial of this building. Some people have […]

Holloway on the challenges facing casino gaming, tourism in Biloxi

Here are Mayor A.J. Holloway’s prepared remarks delivered May 7, 2008 at the Southern Gaming Summit at the Coast Coliseum, where the mayor took part in the panel discussion about the future of casino gambling. Good morning and thank all of you for being here. I’m delighted to be a part of this panel because […]

Holloway speaks to smart growth, sustainable development

Here are Mayor A.J. Holloway’s prepared remarks to the ninth annual Coastal Development Strategies Conference, known as the “Smart Growth Conference,” delivered May 5 at the Saenger Theater in Biloxi. I want to welcome all of you back to Biloxi. We are glad to have this important gathering in our city again. I’ll speak a […]

Mayor speaks about appreciation of history, culture

Here are Mayor A.J. Holloway’s comments at a reception to kick off “Thursdays in May,” a celebration of preservation and culture in Biloxi, on May 1, 2008 at the Bond-Grant House on Howard Avenue in Biloxi. Let me begin by returning the spotlight to Ken P’Pool and the folks from the Mississippi Department of Archives […]

Mayor addresses airline, tourism development summit

Here is the text of remarks that Mayor A.J. Holloway made to the Airline and Tourism Developmetn Summit, on April 8, 2008 at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. Thank all of you for being here. Bruce asked me to tell you a little bit about the Biloxi story – and where we are today. […]

Holloway speaks to Gold Coast, city health care plan, harbor, other issues

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation at the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce “Breakfast with the Mayor” program, on Tuesday, April 1, at IP’s 32. We have a number of issues on the agenda for the City Council meeting this afternoon. I’ll discuss them briefly, update you on a few other projects, […]

Mayor previews comprehensive plan process, other projects

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to the Biloxi Kiwanis Club, delivered Monday, March 3, 2008 during a luncheon at Biloxi Regional Medical Center. Thank all of you for being here. I’m going to give you a quick update on where we are on a number of issues and save plenty […]

STATE OF THE CITY ’08: We’re making progress each and every day

Here is the text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address, delivered Feb. 11. 2008 during a Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce-sponsored luncheon at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. (To see online video of the speech, click here.) Good afternoon. I thank all of you for being here. For the past two […]

Holloway, no Senator he, updates city projects

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to the Biloxi Rotary on Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2008 during a luncheon at Mary Mahoney’s Old French House Restaurant. Good afternoon, and thank you for inviting me to be here. I hope all of you had a Merry Christmas and that you have a great […]

Holloway tells Virgina College graduates of â€shared responsibility’

Here is the prepared text of the Commencement Address that Mayor A.J. Holloway delivered to the graduates of Virginia College’s Biloxi campus in a ceremony on Jan. 5, 2008 at the Sacred Heart Center in downtown Biloxi. President Newton, Dean Taylor, distinguished faculty members and guests, and, finally, to our graduates: I’m honored to deliver […]

2007, as monumental as it was, sets the stage for a great ’08

Here is Mayor A.J. Holloway’s year-end message, which appeared in the Dec. 27 issue of The Biloxi-D’Iberville Press. By Mayor A.J. Holloway As we bring down the curtain on another year of significant milestones and accomplishment, the progress we’ve made and the economic indicators promise an even greater year in 2008. Consider some of the […]

Ruth Hunt wanted us to appreciate where we came from

Mayor A.J. Holloway was one of the people who eulogized longtime civic leader Ruth Hunt during a memorial service on Monday, Dec. 17, 2007 at First United Methodist Church in Biloxi. Hunt, a longtime friend of Holloway and his wife, Macklyn, died Dec. 13, 2007. Good morning. I’m honored that Ruth asked me to say […]

Holloway on growing the city: “This vote is about the future”

Here are the comments that Mayor A.J. Holloway made to the Biloxi City Council at the outset of a meeting on the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2007, where the issues of annexation – past and present – were discussed. Council members were scheduled to vote Tuesday afternoon on whether to proceed with plans to […]

Holloway discusses Tullis veto, rebuilding progress

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s speech to the Gulfport Business Club, a presentation made on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2007 at the Bayou Bluff Tennis Club in Gulfport. First, I want to thank the Gulfport Business Club for inviting me to speak today. I thought I was going to be late, to […]

Text of veto message regarding proposed Tivoli re-zoning

Here is the text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s veto message concerning an ordinance to re-zone a nearly 30-acre tract of land at the former site of the Tivoli Hotel on U.S 90 in east Biloxi, a move that would have opened the door to casino gaming and other amenities at the site. The City Council […]

Thoughts as we approach the two-year point

Here are Mayor A.J. Holloway’s thoughts on Biloxi at two years after Katrina, based on his comments to media members in the days and weeks before Aug. 29, 2007, the second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina striking Biloxi and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. —I think Biloxi is doing well because we were not broke or broken […]

Growth in hospitality industry will fuel qualify-of-life improvements

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s opening remarks to a symposium on the future of gaming in Biloxi, delivered at Tulane University’s Gulf Coast campus in Biloxi, on Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2007. I’m glad to see so many of you here this evening. Attorney Mike Cavanaugh and the panel are going to […]

Isle set standard for casino industry in Biloxi

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks on the 15th anniversary of the Isle of Capri in Biloxi, delivered Aug. 1, 2007 during a ceremony at the Isle of Capri Casino Resort in Biloxi. It was 16 years ago – a year before the Isle opened its doors – when a study […]

Holloway to MML delegates: â€Welcome home’

Here are Mayor A.J. Holloway’s welcoming remarks to the annual convention of the Mississippi Municipal League, delivered Tuesday, June 26, 2007, at the Coast Convention Center. The convention, one of the city’s longest running and largest, was forced to meet in Tunica last year because of damage from Hurricane Katrina. Good morning, and welcome home, […]

Mayor addresses museum, roads, cleanup at marinas

Here are the speaking points for Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation at “Breakfast with the Mayor,” a Biloxi Chamber-sponsored event that took place June 13, 2007, at Edgewater Mall’s Food Court. • I’m encouraged by what I heard at the City Council meeting yesterday regarding the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum. I was a supporter of […]

Margaritaville: A huge milestone in our long-term recovery

Here are Mayor A.J. Holloway’s comments made during the May 15, 2007 announcement of Harrah’s plans to open a Jimmy Buffett-themed Margaritaville Casino & Resort on Casino Row in Biloxi. It was a year ago this month when Harrah’s called me down here to push two buttons and implode a hotel. This morning, as I […]

The status and future of Biloxi gaming industry

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s introductory remarks made during a panel discussion, “Resort Development Update,” on Thursday, May 10, as part of the Southern Gaming Summit in Biloxi. Good morning and welcome home. I’m delighted to be a part of this panel because I think we have a great story to […]

Living Cities plan is bold, in need of private investment

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks to the luncheon gathering organized by Living Cities, at the Biloxi Community Center on March 14, 2007. Good morning. Thank all of you for being here, and thank you for your role in helping Living Cities create a plan in conjunction with the Reviving the […]

Remarks to President Bush during City Hall briefing

Remarks of Mayor A.J. Holloway to President Bush during the president’s visit to Biloxi City Hall, on Thursday, March 1, 2007: I want to tell you how honored we are to have the President of the United States in Biloxi City Hall. And on behalf of the people of Biloxi, I want to thank you […]

STATE OF THE CITY ’07: The revival is underway and coming to a street corner near you

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address, delivered Feb. 12, 2007 during a Biloxi Bay Chamber-sponsored luncheon at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi. Good afternoon, and welcome to the annual State of the City address. I’m glad to see so many of you here. Today, […]

Gaming forecast: The future will take shape in 2007

Following is a 2007 gaming forecast that Mayor A.J. Holloway was asked to write for the January 2007 issue of Casino Enterprise Management magazine, a four-year-old gaming industry journal that has a audience of 17,000 industry insiders. By A.J. Holloway Mayor of Biloxi I used to welcome a convention to Biloxi once or twice a […]

2007 will be a year of major accomplishment

Following is a New Year’s column that appears in the Dec. 29, 2006 edition of The Bay Press. By Mayor A.J. Holloway In the sweltering days after Hurricane Katrina, amid the fields of debris where neighborhoods once stood, hundreds of water pipes once connected to homes were spewing water. Members of the Biloxi Fire and […]

Holloway: People realize Biloxi has a promising future

Here is the text, as prepared, of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to a group of investors, delivered Oct. 26, 2006 at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. Good morning and welcome to Biloxi and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. I used to say that at least once a week to convention groups, but for the past […]

Our best days lie ahead, Holloway tells memorial audience

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s comments delivered during the “Katrina & Biloxi: One Year Later” memorial observance on Aug. 29, 2006 on the Biloxi Town Green. Secretary Chertoff, Senators Cochran and Lott, Governor Barbour, distinguished guests on the platform and in the audience here on the Town Green, to the thousands […]

Holloway expresses concerns over budget

Mayor A.J. Holloway told a luncheon audience today that the city needs to hold the line on discretionary spending and maintain a cash reserve since the city’s property insurance coverage is a fraction of what it was before Hurricane Katrina. Holloway, speaking to a luncheon of the Harrison County Republican Club, said he was worried […]

Biloxi has a great track record, mayor tells analysts

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s presentation to two audiences of financial analysts in New York City, where he was invited to speak on Monday, June 19, 2006. Thank you for inviting me here today, and I’m glad to see so many of you. I hope that I can give you a […]

Gaming audiences told of reasons for promise in Biloxi

Following is the text of remarks Mayor A.J. Holloway delivered May 5, 2006 to the Southern Gaming Summit Tunica, Miss., and May 10, 2006 to the American Gaming Association convention in Las Vegas. One of the things that has made the story of Biloxi so compelling since Aug. 29, 2005, is, as The Washington Post […]

Why Biloxi is such a compelling story

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks to the Biloxi Rotary, delivered Wednesday, April 12, 2006 at Mary Mahoney’s Old French House Restaurant. I’m glad to be here today. This is my third speaking engagement in two days. And I’m happy to say that’s because we have a lot of good issues […]

88 percent of approved ROEs cleared; city seeking $159 million from FEMA

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks to the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce’s “Breakfast With the Mayor” gathering Tuesday, April 11, 2006, at the IP Casino Resort’s Crown Room. Good morning, and thank you for being here this morning for Breakfast with the Mayor. All of you are dealing with a great […]

Reviving the Renaissance Kickoff Meeting

Here are the remarks that Mayor A.J. Holloway delivered at the kickoff meeting of the Reviving the Renaissance initiative, before an audience of about 700 on March 30, 2006 at the Saenger Theater in downtown Biloxi: Good evening, and thank you for being here for the kickoff meeting of our drive to Revive the Renaissance. […]

Holloway: Let’s revive the renaissance in Biloxi

Biloxians were in the midst of the most prosperous and promising era in the city’s 300-year history in the decade leading up to Hurricane Katrina, Mayor A.J. Holloway told a packed State of the City audience today, and the city is poised to realize even greater opportunity with its recovery effort. Holloway, speaking during a […]

On building bridges: Let’s get on the road to the future, which is now

Following is a guest editorial released to the media by Mayor A.J. Holloway on Tuesday, Jan. 31, for publication as soon as possible. By A.J. Holloway Mayor of Biloxi   A reporter asked me the other day if I thought the issue over a new bridge between Biloxi and Ocean Springs would be resolved anytime […]

Presentation to U.S. Conference of Mayors, Washington, D.C. Jan. 25, 2006

Here is the text, as prepared, of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks at the opening session of the 74th Winter Meeting of The United States Conference of Mayors, delivered Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2006 at the Capital Hilton in Washington, D.C. To see the speech, click here. Thank you for inviting me here today to speak to […]

Holloway tells gaming audience of new potential in Biloxi

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks to the Mississippi Gaming Commission, made during the commission’s Nov. 17, 2005 meeting at Imperial Palace in Biloxi. Good morning and thank you for inviting me here to update you on the Hurricane Katrina recovery here in Biloxi. First let me say this: I have […]

What does it take to rebuild a city?

Here is a wide-ranging response Mayor A.J. Holloway gave reporter Jerry Mitchell of the Clarion-Ledger newspaper in response to the question “What does it take to rebuild a city?” The exchange occurred on Sept. 17, 2005, about three weeks after Katrina struck. This storm has been totally devastating for Biloxi and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. […]

Mayor discusses condos, budget at chamber gathering

Here is the text, as prepared, of Mayor Holloway’s remarks to the audience at the Biloxi Chamber’s “Breakfast With the Mayor,” Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2005, at the Gulf Coast Business Technology Center. Thank all of you for being here this morning, and thanks to Adele for hosting. As you now, we’re a month into the […]

2005 inaugural: Our challenge is to capitalize on success

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s inaugural address delivered Tuesday, June 28, 2005, during a Saenger Theatre ceremony in which Holloway and members of the City Council took their oaths of office. The occasion marked Holloway’s fourth inaugural address. Honorable councilmembers, distinguished guests, Biloxians: Thank you for being here today. To the […]

Mayor updates sports complex, other projects

Here is Mayor A.J. Holloway’s prepared text for his presentations to Biloxi Regional Medical Center’s board and to the Biloxi Chamber’s “Breakfast With the Mayor,” which takes place Tuesday, April 12, 2005. Sports complex: Last weekend, we had 10 inches of rain in a 15-hour period. After all of that rain, we were able to […]

We need to keep doing the things we’re doing.

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address, delivered Monday, Jan. 31, 2005 during a Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce luncheon at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino. I’m delighted to come before you again to deliver the annual State of the City address. Thank you for such a […]

Holloway on Caillavet: We’re building for the future

Here is the text, as prepared, of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks at the ground-breaking ceremony for the new boulevard to replace Caillavet Street, delivered on Nov. 9, 2004. I want to welcome all of you here today for the formal ground-breaking ceremony for construction of a new boulevard to replace the current Caillavet Street. We’ve […]

We can improve an existing north-south corridor now instead of later.

Here is the text of a guest column that appears in the current issue of The Journal of South Mssissippi Business. By A.J. Holloway Everyone, I believe, agrees that having adequate and efficient roads to carry an ever-increasing amount of traffic is more of an issue now than at any other time in our history. […]

Holloway: Let’s make the Golden Fisherman a landmark “for the ages”

Here is the text, as prepared, of remarks that Mayor A.J. Holloway made to the Biloxi Businessmen’s Club during a luncheon on April 8, 2004. Thank you for having me here today. We have a number of major projects taking place in all areas of our city, and today I want to announce the kick […]

STATE OF THE CITY ’04

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address, delivered Jan. 29, 2004 during a Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce luncheon at the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino: Thank you for such a warm welcome. It’s great to see such a good turnout for this event each year. Before I […]

10-year budget trend: Revenue more than doubles, spending almost triples

Here is the text of a speech about city finances that Mayor A.J. Holloway delivered to luncheon meetings of the Edgewater Rotary (Aug. 13, 2003) and Biloxi Businessmen’s Club (Aug. 14, 2003). Thank you for having me here today. I’m glad to see so many of you this afternoon. The City Council and I right […]

Mayor explains city’s acquisition policy on Caillavet Street property

By Mayor A.J. Holloway One thing I’ve always tried to do as your mayor is to be fair to all residents of Biloxi, and to do what is right for the city as a whole. Over the past week, The Sun Herald has covered an issue in a way that questions whether the city – […]

Holloway praises officers, police department at awards ceremony

Here is the prepared text of the remarks that Mayor A.J. Holloway made Feb. 14, 2003 at an awards ceremony at the Lopez-Quave Public Safety Center, where two officers were awarded Medals of Valor by Holloway and Police Chief Bruce Dunagan, and several officers were recognized by the DEA. Thank you. I’m glad to see […]

STATE OF THE CITY ’03

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address, delivered Jan. 30, 2003 during a noon luncheon at the Isle of Capri and sponsored by the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce. Good afternoon, I’m glad to see so many of you this new year. I have several things to tell […]

Holloway Addresses Gulfport Kiwanians on Keesler

Here is the prepared text of a speech Mayor A.J. Holloway gave to the Gulfport Kiwanis club on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2002, at the Holiday Inn Beachfront in Gulfport. Good afternoon. I’m glad that you invited me to speak to you today, and I’m happy to see such a good turnout. I was over here […]

Holloway calls for fair return on taxes

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks to the Gulfport Rotary, Thursday, June 6, 2002, at the Great Southern Club: Good afternoon. I’m glad that you invited me to speak to you today, and I’m glad that so many of you are here. They asked me to speak about what we have […]

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Remarks on “Leadership” to William Carey College MBA class

Here are Mayor A.J. Holloway’s remarks to Dr. Janet Williams’ Masters in Business Administration class on the subject of leadership, presented April 17, 2002, at William Carey College in Gulfport: Everybody has an idea of what successful leadership is – and how to be a successful leader. Some of things you’ve probably heard are having […]

Separating fact from fiction on the city budget

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s address on city finances, made Monday, March 4, 2002, to the Biloxi Kiwanis Club, at the Holiday Inn Coliseum.: Good afternoon. I’m glad that you invited me to speak to you today. Today, we’re going to talk about one of everybody’s favorite subjects – money. Some […]

STATE OF THE CITY ’02

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City Address, delivered Thursday, Jan. 31, 2002, before a luncheon sponsored by the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce at the Isle of Capri Casino Resort.: Good afternoon and welcome. I’m glad to see so many of you here. This is my ninth time […]

“The first 100 days, and managing what’s next”

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s address to the Edgewater Rotary, delivered Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2001 at the Holiday Inn-Coliseum.: I’m glad to be here today to talk about a few of the issues that we are dealing with at City Hall. I was looking at my inaugural address the other day. […]

2001 Inaugural Address

Mayor A.J. HollowayĂ­s inaugural address for his third term, delivered July 8, 2001, at the Donal Snyder Community Center Thank you Judge Russell. I hope we can do this again in four years. Honorable council members, distinguished judges, ladies and gentlemen: Thank you for being here on this great day. We’ve come through a spirited […]

Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City Address

Here is the text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City Address, delivered Thursday, March 8, 2001, before a luncheon sponsored by the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce at the Isle of Capri Casino Resort. Thank you for being here today. I’m glad to see such a great turnout. I’m proud and honored to […]

State of the City Address at Isle of Capri Crowne Plaza Resort

Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address delivered Feb. 23, 2000 during a luncheon at the Isle of Capri Crowne Plaza Resort sponsored by the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce. Good afternoon. I am proud to come before you again for the State of the City address. The state of our city is better […]

State of the City Address to the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce

Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address to the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce, delivered March 17, 1999 at the Grand Bayview Hotel. Good morning. I’m glad to be with you this morning to present the State of the City address. You know, it seems like it’s been only a few weeks since I gave […]

State of the City Address

Here is the text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address, delivered Feb. 22, 1999, during a luncheon sponsored by the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce at the Grand Bayview Hotel. Thank you for that kind welcome. I’m delighted to see such a great turnout. I want to congratulate Don Marie and Lucy […]

Deal$ ’98: Gaming & Entertainment Finance and Investment Forum

Prepared remarks for Mayor A.J. Holloway, for “Deal$ *98: Gaming & Entertainment Finance and Investment Forum.” Panel discussion on “Crystal Balling the Future of Gaming Expansion across the Nation.” Sponsored by the Institute for International Research and UNLV International Gaming Institute Monday, April 20, 1998, The Desert Inn, Las Vegas. Good morning. I’m happy to […]

City Commissioner Pete Elder Eulogy

Here is the eulogy that Mayor A.J. Holloway presented at the funeral of former City Commissioner Pete Elder, who died in April 1997. He served as the city’s payroll cerk at the time of his death. Yesterday, we had a meeting in City Hall about the proposed school bond issue. It was a day full […]

1997 Crime Statistics

Following is a speech delivered by Biloxi Police Chief Tommy Moffett regarding the 1997 crime statistics for the City of Biloxi. The speech was delivered in March 1998 to the Biloxi Rotary Club at Mary Mahoney’s Old French House Restaurant in Biloxi. Good afternoon, and thank you for having me here today. Today, I’m going […]

State of the City Address

Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address delivered Feb. 5, 1998 to the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce at J.L. Scott Marine Education Center. Thank you for such a kind reception. It reminds me of what the cow said to the farmer after the milking machine broke. "I appreciate the warm hand." I am […]

Inauguration Speech

Inauguration speech delivered by Mayor A.J. Holloway, Monday, July 7, 1997 in inauguration ceremonies at the Saenger Theater in Biloxi. Honorable council members, distinguished judges, guests, ladies and gentlemen: Thank you for being here to share in this great occasion. Today, I want to lay the groundwork for what promises to be four historic years […]

Mayor’s Remarks regarding Crime Statistics

Mayor’s remarks regarding crime statistics, to Biloxi Businessmens Club, Feb. 13, 1997. Good afternoon, and thank you for having me here today. I am here to talk about a very important issue facing our society, and in particular our city: CRIME, and what we have been doing to help keep our city streets and neighborhoods […]

State of the City Address

Mayor Holloway’s “State of the City” Address, delivered Feb. 3, 1997 to Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce, Treasure Bay Hotel. Good evening and thank you for having me here tonight. I am honored to present the annual State of the City address. For three years now, I have come before you to outline the many […]

Biloxi Rotary Address

  Mayor Holloway’s address to the Biloxi Rotary, Jan. 28, 1997, Mary Mahoney’s Old French House Restaurant. Thank you for having me here today. When Len James called the office last month, he’d asked us about coming to give a report on hat’s been going on in the City. Frankly, we’re busier than ever, with […]

National Black Caucus of State Legislators

Mayor Holloway’s remarks to the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, Dec. 4, 1996, Broadwater Beach Resort, Biloxi. Delegates to the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, honored guests, friends…. I’m honored to be here this morning to welcome you to Biloxi and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Let me spend a few minutes telling you […]

World Gaming Congress & Expo

Comments to the World Gaming Congress & Expo, Las Vegas (Nev.) Convention Center, September 1996. Biloxi is one of America’s oldest and youngest cities. Oldest because we were first settled in 1699 and youngest because this city is undergoing a rebirth that began shortly after the first dockside casino opened in 1992. Today, we are […]

State of the City Address

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address delivered to the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce on March 27, 1996 at the Jefferson Davis campus of Gulf Coast Community College. When I began thinking about my address to you today, I recalled a recent incident at a City Council meeting. […]

State of the City Address

Here is the prepared text of Mayor A.J. Holloway’s State of the City address to the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce, delivered Feb. 1, 1996. Thank you for inviting me here tonight and giving me the opportunity to present the traditional “State of the City Address.” First let me say I have some “good news” […]

Southeastern Gaming & Business Exposition

Welcome address to the Southeastern Gaming & Business Exposition, by Mayor Holloway, in Biloxi, August 1995. On behalf of the city and its citizens, I welcome you to Biloxi for the 1995 Expo. I hope you enjoy your stay and discover why Biloxi is a nice place to visit and a great place to live. […]

State of the City Address

Speech to the Greater New Orleans Executive Club, by Mayor Holloway, October 1995. Thank you for having me here today. I’m always glad to speakto groups about the tremendous prosperity that we are now enjoying in Biloxi. First, though, let me tell you a story that I told during a speech the other day to […]

Bond Agencies Speech

Mayor’s presentation to bond rating agencies, made in July 1995, to Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s Investments Service. Thank you for the opportunity make this presentation today about the City of Biloxi. We have a lot of exciting things occurring in our city right now, our citizens are excited, business leaders are excited, and I’m […]

Greater New Orleans Executive Club

Speech to the Greater New Orleans Executive Club, by Mayor Holloway, October 1995. Thank you for having me here today. I’m always glad to speakto groups about the tremendous prosperity that we are now enjoying in Biloxi. First, though, let me tell you a story that I told during a speech the other day to […]

Inaugural speech, 1993: A day of new beginnings

To see a PDF of Mayor. A.J. Holloway’s inaugural address, delivered on July 6, 1993, click here.