Louisiana: Paragon Casino Resort celebrates 30th anniversary

Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, Louisiana celebrated three decades of operations with its team members, tribal citizens, and casino visitors during a commemoration weekend.

The celebrations culminated in a 30th Anniversary Ceremony on Monday, in which tribal leadership welcomed visitors, tribal citizens and local and state officials. Attendees heard from Paragon General Manager and Tunica-Biloxi Vice Chairman Marshall Ray Sampson, Sr. on the casino resort’s history and legacy.

“Paragon Casino Resort has always been and will continue to be the entertainment heart of Avoyelles Parish,” said Marshall Ray Sampson, Sr., Paragon’s General Manager. “For the past 30 years and the next 30, our greatest pride is bringing joy to the community and all its visitors. We’re grateful to those who paved the way for our success and are eager to begin the next 30 years with a reinvigorated spirit.”

Tunica-Biloxi Chairman Marshall Pierite welcomed special guests including representatives from Governor Landry’s Office, who presented an official proclamation from the State after learning about the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe’s history in the Marksville area. 

Additionally, Paragon’s Assistant General Manager recognized 30-year employees who have seen the destination grow and expand over the years. Also acknowledged were the Tunica-Biloxi Councils from 1991-1995, the 1994 Economic Development Corporation & Board, and the 1994 Gaming Commission.

“It is always an incredible feeling to gather with our friends and loved ones,” said Pierite. “When we gather for an occasion like Paragon’s 30th Anniversary, you can feel the excitement and pride in the air. Paragon has been a driving force for economic development in the parish and has employed a great number of tribal members over its 30-year history. It’s one of our best accomplishments as a Tribe, and we congratulate them on their success.”

"Thirty years ago, in 1994, the doors first opened as Grand Casino Avoyelles and was instantly Central Louisiana’s largest luxury gaming resort," says Paragon Casino Resort. The property has been an economic boost for Marksville and Avoyelles Parish throughout its tenure —hiring residents, contributing $32 million to the Avoyelles Parish Police Jury, and securing more than $5 million in donations to the local community.

Paragon Casino Resort has seen a lot of change over the past 30 years. Most recently, the resort completed an extensive renovation of 531 rooms, upscale suites, hotel corridors, and its lobby. Upgraded rooms for guests feature new paint, lighting and carpeting along with fresh furniture, fixtures and window treatments.

The property's casino floor currently features over 30 tables including a High Limit Room, live poker, sports betting and more than 1,000 high-quality, modern slot machines.

"Thirty years ago, Paragon Casino Resort first opened its doors to entertain residents of Avoyelles Parish and beyond," said casino officials. "Since then, it has remained steadfast in its mission to provide a premier gaming experience to visitors while also giving back to the Avoyelles Parish community it calls home."