Jay-Z attends Super Bowl LVII at State Farm Stadium on February 12, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Roc Nation)
*JAY-Z’s Roc Nation has taken out full-page ads in multiple publications about its NYC casino plans.
“A gaming license is going to be awarded to New York City,” the letter begins, Complex reports. “A bill was passed in the state legislature confirming it. The question is: which applicant will get the license? Some conflicted parties have attempted to spread misinformation, so we wanted to speak to you, New York City, directly.”
We reported previously that Jigga joined a group of investors who want to open a casino in New York City’s Times Square.
According to the New York Post, the hip-hop mogul teamed with SL Green and Caesars Entertainment to submit proposals to the state to erect the first full-scale boutique-style casino at 1515 Broadway office tower. The partnership involves JAY-Z overseeing entertainment programming at the tower, as well as SL Green’s six other Times Square properties.
Jay-Z attends the Hollywood Walk of Fame Star Ceremony for DJ Khaled on April 11, 2022 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
“New York is the epicenter of culture. We have the opportunity to create a destination at the heart of the true crossroads of the word,” the rapper and entrepreneur said in a statement. “My partnership with SL Green and Caesars has all the promise and commitment to economic opportunity, growth and enrichment for the community and everyone that visits the Empire State.”
The new Roc Nation ad was published in the New York Post, the New York Daily News, and Amsterdam News on Thursday.
“Caesars Palace Times Square will benefit all of New York—the hotel and restaurant workers in the area, retailers and surrounding neighborhoods,” Roc Nation’s letter states. “Our bid commits $115 million for diverse theater programs that include daycare for Broadway workers and their families.”
Meanwhile, The Broadway League trade organization vehemently opposes the bid, Deadline reports.
Read Roc Nation’s full letter below (via Rolling Stone):
IT’S TIME, TIMES SQUARE
Dear New York,
A gaming license is going to be awarded to New York City. A bill was passed in the state legislature confirming it. The question is: which applicant will get the license? Some conflicted parties have attempted to spread misinformation, so we wanted to speak to you, New York City, directly.
The winning group must have a track record of turning words into deeds — of putting New York City and its residents first — people of all races, religions, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, and socio-economic statuses. New Yorkers in every corner of every borough — all of us. The winning organization must have a history of campaigning for fair hiring, representation, and reform. Hate, as well as groups that have a history of oppressing the most vulnerable, have no place in New York.
The winning licensee must always put the well-being of New Yorkers at the top of their agenda and do right by its residents. This is too important of a moment in our city’s illustrious history. Times Square, the epicenter of entertainment with a palpable energy, is unmatched. Roc Nation and our partners are here to ensure Times Square remains connected to all facets of culture. There’s no better location for a Caesars Palace entertainment destination than the Crossroads of the World.
Our proposal lays out an innovative plan that will not only draw additional tourists to our city but will also enhance the lives of everyday New Yorkers.
• Gives back to all surrounding businesses.
• Benefits mass transit.
• Invests money into sanitation and security from the bowtie all the way west into Hell’s Kitchen.
• Develops and delivers a much-needed transportation plan.
• Protects the interests of the actors, producers, theatre staff, writers and patrons that represent the true heart and soul of Broadway.
• Provides opportunity for all.
Caesars Palace Times Square will benefit all of New York— the hotel and restaurant workers in the area, retailers, and surrounding neighborhoods. Our bid commits $115 million for diverse theater programs that include daycare for Broadway workers and their families.
Our bid honors the city of dreams, New York City, and the people that have made this place we call home the cultural and entertainment capital of the world. This is our moment, our opportunity to capture the energy of Times Square and invest in our city. You’re a New Yorker, you get it.
In service,
Roc Nation
READ MORE: Jay-Z Teams with Investment Group to Open Casino in NYC’s Times Square
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