A faltering economy and fear of air travel have had adverse effects on the travel and gaming industry, creating a ripple effect that has caused several casinos to postpone projects. One exception is Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. -- the gaming company that is beating the odds at every turn.

"Our sound, steady business plan has been put to the test, and we have succeeded," Bernard Goldstein, chairman and CEO of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc.  said. "Our strategy has served the company well as we have focused on brand strategy, cost controls, and asset diversity. While we may not be the largest gaming company in the industry, we are a stand-out in terms of our creative, efficient operations."
    
The market supports Goldstein's assessment, with the stock price of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. increasing more than 80 percent since September 11, 2001.  Just two weeks ago, two analysts upgraded the stock from a "buy" to a "strong buy."
   
Isle of Capri has reported earnings per share of $0.34 for the second quarter -- well ahead of the consensus estimates of $0.26.
    
"What sets us apart from our competitors is that we maintain a high standard of customer service and continue to spend wisely," said John M. Gallaway, president and chief operating officer of the company. "We have a steady, measured growth strategy that is atypical of our industry. And it works."
    
Goldstein added, "We are pleased to bring high quality casino entertainment to Central Missouri. Along with our property in Kansas City, we now offer fun and entertainment in locations convenient to two thirds of the residents of Missouri."
    
Like all Isle of Capri Casinos, the Boonville facility is strategically located in a drive-in market and offers patrons the regional flexibility to access its operations without traveling by air. The company caters to a strong regional client base.
    
The new Boonville casino will serve as an economic stimulus to the Boonville community, bringing more than 800 jobs to the area. The casino features 900 slot machines and 28 gaming tables. The dockside casino also offers three signature restaurants and touts its Isle Style tropical decor, hospitality and exceptional guest service. The 72,000-square-foot property is the 14th casino to be launched in the United States by the company.
     
Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. has quickly grown to become one of the 10 largest publicly held gaming companies in the United States. The first gaming company to open in the South in 1992, Isle of Capri currently owns and operates 15 riverboat, dockside and land-based casinos at 14 locations including Biloxi, Vicksburg, Tunica, Lula and Natchez, Mississippi; Bossier City and Lake Charles (two riverboats), Louisiana; Black Hawk, Colorado; Bettendorf, Davenport and Marquette, Iowa; Kansas City and Boonville, Missouri; and Las Vegas, Nevada.  The company also operates Pompano Park Harness Racing Track in Pompano Beach, Florida. 

This press release may be deemed to contain forward-looking statements which are subject to change.