Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News
By Sam Wroblewski, reporting by Steve Klamkin WPRO News
A large banner was placed on the front of the Newport Grand slot parlor Monday, urging Newport voters to approve a referendum to allow table games in the facility, while an anti-casino group labelled the move a “publicity stunt”.
The banner covered up the large neon sign reading ‘SLOTS’ on the building’s façade in an effort to show residents the potential of the $40 million project.
“’Slots’ has always been somewhat controversial in Newport, so that’s why we’re covering it up,” said former Providence Mayor and project ambassador Joe Paolino.
Paolino is trying to convince Newport voters in the remaining weeks before the November 4 referendum that the vote for table games can be an economic boost for the city.
“I have a great deal of hope that we can create a lot jobs here, to try and save the 175 people who are working here now, create about 350 jobs here in Newport, and be able to get more revenues for the city of Newport.”
The proposed, $40 million renovation “is nothing but lipstick on a pig”, said Liz Taber, spokeswoman for the group “Citizens Concerned About Casino Gambling”. She said the group has been waging a 37-year battle against various casino proposals in Newport.
Paolino said that a newly renovated Newport Grand would not only save the existing jobs, but may also save an event that has been a staple of the Newport summer scene for over a decade.
The Newport Summer Comedy Series was recently forced out of its traditional place at the Newport Yachting Center after it incurred noise violations and the venue was sold to new owners. Comedy Series Director Joe Rocco hopes the proposed Newport Grand expansion can give his shows a new home.
“If they and the present owners can provide a first class venue that is affordable to us to move our 14-year-old comedy series here, we definitely want to remain on their short-list,” said Rocco.
Paolino said recent polling shows it is a close race for the referendum, but that Newporters are interested.
Taber, however said that anti-casino sentiment is running high in Newport.
“One of the reasons we’re fighting it is, it’s such an unfair competitive advantage to the local businesses here that we’re looking to defend,” she said.
Former Ambassador and Mayor Joseph Paolino with renderings of his proposed overhaul for Newport Grand. Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News
Spokeswoman Liz Taber of the Newport-based “Citizens Concerned About Casino Gambling”. Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News
