A number of local businesses involved in the Biloxi High School Cooperative Education program were honored at the annual Employers Appreciation Banquet, which was held April 23 at the IP Casino Resort Spa.

Co-op employers representing the following training station were honored and received a framed certificate of appreciation for the time and talents they have devoted to each student:

Applebee's; Auto Zone; Beau Rivage; Beef O'Bradys; Boys & Girl Clubs of the Gulf Coast; City of Biloxi Parks and Recreation Department; E-Kids; FEB Distributing; Grate, Grills and More; Hobby Lobby; I.A. Recording Studio; IP Casino Steward Department; IP Casino Buffet; McAlister's Deli; Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum; Outback Steakhouse; Preston Hood Chevrolet; Stein Mart; Wal-Mart Tire and Lube; and Yuki's.

In appreciation for the IP Casino generosity the students donated $500 to the IP Associate Emergency Fund.

"This is IP's third year as sponsor of the educational event and it is a sponsorship we look forward to every spring," stated Elaine Stevens, IP Public Relations Manager.

Photos: To see photos from the appreciation banquet, click here.