Latest news with #TimesSquare
Wall Street Journal
13 hours ago
- Business
- Wall Street Journal
Caesars Palace Times Square Submits Official Casino Proposal for 1515 Broadway
The backers of Caesars Palace Times Square submitted an official proposal that includes converting an office building at 1515 Broadway into a casino and 992-room five-star hotel. Caesars Entertainment CZR 1.23%increase; green up pointing triangle, SL Green Realty SLG 1.86%increase; green up pointing triangle and Jay-Z's Roc Nation have been working on the plan. On Friday, the companies said Live Nation is also part of the effort.
Yahoo
13 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
SL Green, Caesars Entertainment, Roc Nation and Live Nation Submit Proposal For Caesars Palace Times Square, a World-Class Hotel and Gaming Destination in the World's Most Iconic Entertainment District
$250 million in community benefits to support Broadway, public health, safety and security in Times Square and surrounding neighborhoods Unparalleled economic benefits for New York City and State, including $7 billion in taxes over 10 years, $26.7 billion in revenue to local businesses, more than 3,000 construction jobs and more than 3,800 permanent jobs Backed by more than 200 local organizations – unions, civic groups, local residents and businesses, Broadway workers, elected officials and entertainment venues – who rallied in Times Square this week NEW YORK, June 27, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--TIMES SQUARE — Today, SL Green, Caesars Entertainment, Roc Nation and Live Nation submitted the official proposal for Caesars Palace Times Square (CPTS), formally kicking off a bid to bring the world's top gaming, entertainment and hotel venue to the heart of the iconic Times Square entertainment district. The proposal would transform an existing office building at 1515 Broadway into a 992-room, five-star hotel, with restaurants featuring local and international culinary innovation, a wellness retreat, world-class gaming and the hottest nightclubs and entertainment curated by Roc Nation. Designed to create transformative excess demand for local hotel rooms, restaurants, retail and entertainment, CPTS will create an economic halo effect for hundreds of existing establishments in neighboring communities, driving more than $26 billion in new spending. By adaptively re-using an existing building easily accessible by more forms of public transportation than any other bidder, CPTS takes an approach that is both the most sustainable and fastest to market. The coalition supporting the bid now includes more than 200 organizations and businesses including local restaurants, hotels, residents, unions and Broadway stakeholders who stand to benefit from—rather than compete with—this exciting new project. Benefits include: $250 million in community benefits: Caesars Palace Times Square is committing $250 million directly to community projects. That will include a transformative, $81 million public safety plan for the surrounding neighborhood designed by former NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton. It also includes $15 million for a new civil rights museum spearheaded by the Civil Rights Foundation, the establishment of the Manhattan Plaza Capital Trust and $5 million to support the development of the Callen-Lorde Center for Excellence in Sexual Health. $225 million for Broadway: More than 835,000 additional Broadway tickets are projected to be sold annually as a result of the project's boost to demand overall, generating $124 million in annual revenue. Additionally, Broadway workers stand to gain tremendously from direct community investment, including a $32 million investment in child care, student and medical debt assistance, and rent support for Broadway workers as well as $20 million to purchase Broadway tickets for underserved families. Unprecedented revenue for City and State: As the fastest-to-market new gaming proposal, Caesars Palace Times Square is projected to generate transformative economic benefits for New York City and State, with over $7 billion in direct tax and fee revenue and $26.7 billion in local economic impact in its first ten years alone. Thousands of direct, good-paying jobs: The project will directly support more than 3,000 construction jobs and 3,800 permanent CPTS jobs, the vast majority of which are unionized and will be filled by New Yorkers. These permanent hospitality jobs have an average compensation of approximately $120,000 a year when factoring in tips and Caesars' comprehensive benefits. An economic halo effect: CPTS creates long-term demand far beyond its own supply: guests are expected to generate excess demand for more than 13 million meals annually at local restaurants, over 2,400 hotel rooms each night in surrounding hotels, and more than $880 million in incremental annual retail purchases. Through the Caesars Rewards program, over 165 local businesses have already partnered to accept rewards points to ensure the project uplifts the existing Times Square economy rather than competing with it. Ownership Diversity: By utilizing Cadre's unparalleled platform for reaching various individual investors at all income levels, in partnership with Rev. Al Sharpton, CPTS will empower local New York households with opportunities starting as low as $500. Historically, real estate investment has been out of reach for low-income New Yorkers, who have been underserved from opportunities of this scale. By New Yorkers, for New Yorkers: CPTS is a project built by New Yorkers with deep roots in the city—led by SL Green, Manhattan's largest office landlord; Caesars Entertainment, which operates a successful sportsbook delivering significant tax revenues in New York; Roc Nation, the global entertainment powerhouse founded in New York by Jay-Z; and Live Nation, the world's leading live entertainment company with a longstanding presence in Times Square through existing venues. The project is more than just a speculative venture by outsiders—it's a seamless addition to our state's economic and cultural engine that uplifts local businesses, honors neighborhood character, promotes diversity, and strengthens the future of Times Square for all New Yorkers. Commitment to responsible gaming: Caesars will bring its pioneering and well-recognized programs to mitigate problem gambling to CPTS. The programs are guided by the philosophy of ensuring that every guest enjoys their gaming experience for the right reason; to simply have fun. Caesars continues to set the standard for Responsible Gaming in the industry. CPTS goes a step further by committing to having no gaming activity on the ground floor, nor will any tables or gaming devices be visible from the street. Key stats for Caesars Palace Times Square: $5.4 billion in total direct investment $23.2 billion+ in Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) in the first 10 years of operation 3,800+ permanent jobs at CPTS, the vast majority to be filled by New Yorkers 3,000+ construction jobs $7 billion in direct tax revenue in the first 10 years of operation $26.7 billion in local economic activity in the first 10 years of operation 992 hotel rooms, 150,000+ square feet of gaming, Caesars Sportsbook at The 40/40 Club, the luxurious Qua Baths & Spa Restaurants from renowned chefs including Daniel Boulud, Gordon Ramsay, Bobby Flay, Melba Wilson and Lucali's Reimagined and newly renovated Broadway theater "Today's submission represents years of hard work, partnership, and belief in New York City's future," said Brett Herschenfeld, Executive Vice President of SL Green Realty and project lead. "Caesars Palace Times Square is the only proposal that can be delivered quickly, is transit-accessible and sustainable while maximizing economic impact for New Yorkers. Most importantly, it's the only one designed the New York way: prioritizing community investment and collaboration over competition in the heart of New York City. We're proud to stand with Caesars, Roc Nation and Live Nation to deliver a world-class entertainment and gaming destination that strengthens Times Square and serves all New Yorkers." "Caesars Palace Times Square builds on a long history of building world-class destinations that drive tourism, create jobs, and deliver lasting value to the communities we serve," said Thomas R. Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment. "New Yorkers have the opportunity to do something truly extraordinary right in the heart of the most iconic entertainment district in the world. This proposal brings together an unmatched location, unmatched access, and unmatched team to deliver a project worthy of New York." "Caesars Palace Times Square is about more than gaming—it's about investing in the soul of New York City," said Desiree Perez, CEO of Roc Nation. "This unbeatable project will bring new energy to the heart of Manhattan while expanding opportunities for local businesses, artists, and residents. Roc Nation is proud to be part of a team that's building something so inclusive and deeply connected to the people and our NYC community." "When we talk about this project, SL Green and Caesars building a casino here in Times Square — it's nothing but smart," said Mike Hellstrom, Vice President and Eastern Regional Manager, LIUNA/Mason Tenders/Local 79. "It's the best bet that New York can make in authorising and approving a casino license: right here in Times Square." "I am proud to support Caesars Palace Times Square because I understand how it will benefit New Yorkers across the city and create opportunity for all of our communities," said Assembly Member Jordan Wright. "My constituents wake up every day facing an affordability crisis that threatens to push them out of the city they've called home for generations. This project will face that crisis head-on – it's a lifeline for working-class New Yorkers that will provide thousands of good-paying union jobs and bring in new revenue and long-term economic stability for working people – not just in Midtown, but in every borough." "For the largest local union of musicians in the world and others, the choice is clear: it's Caesars Palace Times Square," said Harvey Mars, Recording Vice President of Local 802 AFM. "There is no Times Square without a thriving Broadway, and this project will not only create desperately needed jobs for our members, but also bring critical benefits like student debt assistance, rental aid, and childcare support – helping artists survive and thrive in New York City. The team behind the project has committed to becoming a true partner to everyone in the live performance community when they win a gaming license including Broadway's theater owners, producers, stagehands, charitable organizations and the millions who come to Times Square to enjoy our shows, and that's why we're proud to say yes to Caesars Palace Times Square." "SL Green has made it clear that they intend to be good neighbors and collaborators. They've put in considerable effort to genuinely understand the ecosystem they're entering so they can become positive contributors to a better Times Square and a better Broadway – better for New Yorkers, better for visitors, and better for the Equity actors and stage managers who make Broadway the premier destination it is." – Actors' Equity Association "The day Caesars Palace Times Square gets the green light is the day we unlock thousands of local, good-paying jobs," said Dajaire Blunt, member of LIUNA. "This project is a once-in-a-generation chance to revitalize one of the most iconic neighborhoods in the world. The hardworking union construction workers support Caesars Palace Times Square and we are ready to get to work." "Laborers are the skilled hands and proud hearts that built New York City and we are excited about Caesars Palace Times Square," said Noel Holliday, member of LIUNA. "The folks behind Caesars Palace Times Square have shown us real respect – with commitments to local hiring, apprenticeship programs, and union labor from start to finish. We are ready to support this project and back that commitment up with real work." "Caesars Palace Times Square represents more than just a project – it's an investment in the working people who keep New York running," said John Santos, Secretary-Treasurer of 32BJ SEIU. "By creating thousands of good-paying union jobs across the trades and service industry, this project offers real careers, real benefits, and real respect for labor. SL Green, Caesars Entertainment, and Roc Nation have been at the table with unions from day one, and their commitment to local hiring and union jobs is exactly what New York City needs." "As a restaurateur and small business owner, I am proud to support Caesars Palace Times Square because I know it will benefit restaurants across our city and help our industry and communities thrive," said Beatrice Ajaero, Founder and Owner of Nneji. "This project will help drive more customers to restaurants across the city and with the best-in-class Caesars rewards program, they are making it easy for all of us to support each other. This project is a win-win and I am excited to see it support communities from Times Square, to Astoria, and beyond." "Times Square has always thrived when all of its partners collaborate for the benefit of all," said Matt Goldman, Executive Director of The Town Hall, a historic, nonprofit venue in Times Square. "This project brings more audiences, more support, and more investment to the existing venues that define this neighborhood. We enthusiastically support Caesar's bid to make the engine of New York City's economy and culture even stronger and more vibrant." "As someone who was born, bred, and buttered in Harlem, a small business owner, and President Emeritus of the NYC Hospitality Alliance, I'm proud to support Caesars Palace Times Square," said Melba Wilson, Founder of Melba's Restaurants. "As a lifelong New Yorker, I've seen firsthand what our city has endured in recent years, and I believe that Caesars Palace Times Square will help energize and revitalize the city for the future. This project will spark new tourism and economic activity for restaurants across the five boroughs. Thanks to unmatched access to public transportation, visitors heading to Caesars Palace Times Square can easily make their way around the five boroughs to dine at one of the over 20,000 eateries in the city – just as the union workers building and working in it can head home with ease after a day's work." "On behalf of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and our more than 40 hotels throughout New York City, we are proud to back the Caesars Palace Times Square bid," said Maire Griffin, Senior Vice President of Global Communications at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. "As a fellow New Yorker, one thing is clear: Times Square is the epicenter of entertainment in New York City, a global magnet drawing millions of visitors annually, and of all of the casino proposal locations, Times Square makes the most sense as an established hub for tourism. Wyndham's franchisees look forward to sharing our warm Wyndham welcome with all of the new visitors this facility will attract, and we are more than ready to accommodate these guests making sure they can experience all Times Square has to offer." "New York City's hospitality industry is powered by hardworking servers, cooks, bartenders, dishwashers and more who've kept this city going through its toughest times. Caesars Palace Times Square is the reward they deserve, and they were proud to show up today," said Andrew Rigie, Executive Director of the NYC Hospitality Alliance. "It will bring new customers, new energy, and most importantly, new jobs to the heart of our hospitality sector. And by bringing powerful Caesars Rewards partnership opportunities to New York restaurants and bars, our local businesses will see the direct benefit of this transformative project." "At the New York State Latino Restaurant Association, we are proud to support Caesars Palace Times Square," said Sandra Jaquez, New York State Latino Restaurant Association. "Our mission is to uplift and empower minority- and immigrant-owned restaurants through partnerships that fuel recovery and long-term growth and we see this project as a partner that will do exactly that. Caesars Palace Times Square will bring new foot traffic, tourism, and economic vitality to the businesses that make this city thrive." "Callen-Lorde is proud to support Caesars Palace Times Square because we believe in its commitment to not only the LGBTQ+ community, but communities across New York," said Donnie Roberts, Executive Vice President for Development and Communications at Callen-Lorde. "This project's $5 million investment will help us build a new Callen-Lorde Center for Excellence in Sexual Health in Hell's Kitchen, expanding access to critical services like rapid STI and HIV testing and PrEP. We're ready to say yes to Caesars Palace Times Square and hit the ground running to provide culturally competent, compassionate care to even more New Yorkers." To see and download the full executive summary of the bid, click here. For high-resolution renderings of the Caesars Palace Times Square project, click here. Please note: Images should be credited with either: "Image by Binyan Studios" "Image by Motiv" or "Image by Atlantic Pictures." The corresponding image credit is noted in the file name. 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Associated Press
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
WHIPSHOTS® UNVEILS DECADENT NEW CHOCOLATE FLAVOR
In celebration, the brand teams up with iconic NYC restaurant Serendipity3 for a summer-long 'Whipshop' pop-up experience Starco Brands (OTCQB:STCB) LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, June 27, 2025 / / -- Just in time to heat things up, Starco Brands (OTCQB: STCB) has announced that Whipshots, the alcohol-infused whipped cream brand co-founded with global superstar Cardi B, is turning up the indulgence with its most crave-worthy flavor to date: Chocolate. Rich, smooth, and irresistibly luscious, Chocolate Whipshots is a celebration of decadence. Combining premium vodka with velvety chocolate flavor, this new addition brings a bold, boozy twist to everything from cocktails and coffee to desserts and late-night cravings. 'Chocolate is sexy, rich, and everything you want—it's giving dessert, it's giving decadent, it's giving delicious,' said Cardi B. 'You know I had to do it big for this one—this flavor is a whole moment.' To celebrate the launch, the brand is partnering with iconic NYC restaurant Serendipity3 on its first 'Whipshop' dubbed 'Cardi's Chocolate Shop' in both their Times Square and Upper East Side locations. Fans will be able to order specially created cocktails or purchase a can of Whipshots to take home. The effort kicked off with a private party in the Times Square location, hosted by Cardi herself (launch party IMAGES ). 'This is more than just a flavor launch—it's a celebration of indulgence,' said David Dreyer, Chief Marketing Officer, Whipshots. 'Chocolate Whipshots is our most over-the-top flavor yet, and creating a 'Whipshop' inside the legendary Serendipity3 is the cherry (and whipped cream) on top! We couldn't ask for better partners to help us launch our newest flavor.' 'Chocolate is the number one ingredient at Serendipity3 and creating new menu items using Chocolate Whipshots has been a fun and delicious endeavor! Cardi's vibrant energy and playful spirit is the cherry on the cake!' said Chef Joe Calderone, Creative Director of Serendipity3. Whipshots, the viral, shelf-stable whipped cream with 10% ABV, adds Chocolate to its bold flavor lineup alongside Vanilla, Mocha, Caramel, and Strawberry—continuing its mission to shake up spirits and desserts with Cardi-level flair. Launch Date: June 26, 2025 Availability: Select retailers nationwide and (beginning 7/1) About Whipshots® Developed by Starco Brands with partner Cardi B, Whipshots® is a first-of-its-kind alcoholic whipped cream (10% Alc./Vol) that launched in 2021. Shelf-stable and versatile, it's earned Silver, Gold, and Double Gold medals from top competitions including the New York World Spirits Competition, SIP Awards, and Beverage Dynamics' Growth Brand Awards. About Starco Brands: Starco Brands (OTCQB: STCB) invents consumer products with behavior-changing technologies that spark excitement in the everyday. Today, its disruptive brands include Whipshots®, the world's only alcohol-infused whipped cream; Art of Sport, the performance brand designed for athletes; Winona® Pure, the first indulgent theater-popcorn spray powered by air; Skylar, the only fragrance that is both hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin; and Soylent, the complete non-dairy nutrition brand. A modern-day invention factory to its core, Starco Brands identifies whitespaces across consumer product categories. Starco Brands publicly trades on the OTCQB stock exchange so that retail investors can invest in STCB alongside accredited individuals and institutions. About Serendipity 3: Serendipity 3 is a whimsical New York institution, now with a dazzling new Times Square location, where vintage charm meets 2025 flair—complete with handmade glass mosaics and giant purple chandeliers. Since 1954, it's been a beloved destination for locals, celebrities, and sweet-toothed travelers, known for its over-the-top desserts (like the iconic Frrrozen Hot Chocolate), playful energy, and fantastical comfort food—from glittering truffle fries to Guinness World Record–holding creations. More than a restaurant, Serendipity 3 is a storybook escape where joy is always on the menu. CONTACT: [email protected] Walker Drawas Walker Drawas email us here Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Instagram TikTok X Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
AITX Creates Times Square Buzz with Bold Promotion of Its Security Robots
A Little Mischief in Manhattan Designed to Draw Eyes to Its Breakthrough Security Technology Detroit, Michigan--(Newsfile Corp. - June 27, 2025) - On Friday, June 27, Times Square will get a surprise guest appearance from a missing dog, a wanted robot, and a curious crowd. Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (OTC Pink: AITX) (the "Company") , the Company behind some of the most advanced AI-based autonomous security robots on the market, is taking its message straight to the streets of New York with a bold visibility campaign designed to stop pedestrians, spark conversation, and draw attention from curious onlookers and the press. Artist's depiction of the future of security, AITX's HERO and RADDOG LE2, casually blending in with 400,000 tourists in Times view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: AITX CEO Steve Reinharz is expected to go live from Times Square at 12:30 PM ET on Friday, June 27 via X (formerly Twitter). The livestream will offer a firsthand look at the campaign's impact, share insights into the Company's approach to public engagement, and maybe even track down a missing robot or two. The campaign features missing dog posters that don't bark and wanted signs for a robot that hasn't technically done anything wrong. It's all part of AITX's creative push to spotlight its robotic security solutions, including RADDOG™ LE2 and the recently revealed humanoid known as HERO™ (Humanoid Enforcement & Response Officer). There's no booth, no handouts, and no one dressed as a mascot. Just curiosity, a few QR codes, and a growing number of people asking what AITX is really up to. For those looking to understand the full scope of the Company's ambitions, the AITX Company Profile is now available for download. "We're always looking for creative ways to earn attention without spending millions," said Steve Reinharz, CEO/CTO and founder of AITX. "This campaign is about sparking curiosity, starting conversations, and pulling new eyeballs into our world of autonomous security. Sometimes the smartest move is to surprise people, make them look twice, and let word of mouth do the rest." The Company expects the campaign to generate strong visibility among both the general public and media outlets, with social sharing and word of mouth doing much of the heavy lifting. Both HERO and RADDOG LE2 are currently in development, with availability anticipated later in 2025. This marks their first unofficial public appearance, offering a glimpse at what the Company believes will become headline-making additions to the evolving world of security automation. To explore AITX's full vision and progress, the Company invites investors and media to download the AITX Company Profile. New Yorkers, keep your eyes open. If you spot a robotic dog or a humanoid robot wandering through Times Square, snap a photo, scan the QR code, and help us track them down. HERO and RADDOG LE2 have gone missing, and we could use a few million eyes to find them. AITX, through its primary subsidiary, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), is redefining the nearly $50 billion (US) security and guarding services industry1 through its broad lineup of innovative, AI-driven Solutions-as-a-Service business model. RAD solutions are specifically designed to provide cost savings to businesses of between 35%-80% when compared to the industry's existing and costly manned security guarding and monitoring model. RAD delivers these tremendous cost savings via a suite of stationary and mobile robotic solutions that complement, and at times, directly replace the need for human personnel in environments better suited for machines. All RAD technologies, AI-based analytics and software platforms are developed in-house. The Company's operations and internal controls have been validated through successful completion of its SOC 2 Type 2 audit, reinforcing the Company's credibility with enterprise and government clients who require strict data protection and security compliance. RAD has a prospective sales pipeline of over 35 Fortune 500 companies and numerous other client opportunities. RAD expects to continue to attract new business as it converts its existing sales opportunities into deployed clients generating a recurring revenue stream. Each Fortune 500 client has the potential of making numerous reorders over time. About Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions (AITX) AITX is an innovator in the delivery of artificial intelligence-based solutions that empower organizations to gain new insight, solve complex challenges and fuel new business ideas. Through its next-generation robotic product offerings, AITX's RAD, RAD-R, RAD-M and RAD-G companies help organizations streamline operations, increase ROI, and strengthen business. AITX technology improves the simplicity and economics of patrolling and guard services and allows experienced personnel to focus on more strategic tasks. Customers augment the capabilities of existing staff and gain higher levels of situational awareness, all at drastically reduced cost. AITX solutions are well suited for use in multiple industries such as enterprises, government, transportation, critical infrastructure, education, and healthcare. To learn more, visit and or follow Steve Reinharz on X @SteveReinharz. CAUTIONARY DISCLOSURE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS The information contained in this publication does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit an offer to buy securities of Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc. (the "Company"). This publication contains forward-looking statements, which are not guarantees of future performance and may involve subjective judgment and analysis. The information provided herein is believed to be accurate and reliable, however the Company makes no representations or warranties, expressed or implied, as to its accuracy or completeness. The Company has no obligation to provide the recipient with additional updated information. No information in this publication should be interpreted as any indication whatsoever of the Company's future revenues, results of operations, or stock price. ### Steve Reinharz949-636-7060@SteveReinharz 1 To view the source version of this press release, please visit Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
New York Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Live Updates: Jurors Will Hear Sean Combs's Defense for Final Time
An InterContinental hotel in Times Square is one of the locations Sean Combs was said to have hosted a 'freak-off' at trial. The term first came to public awareness in November 2023, when the singer Cassie filed a lawsuit accusing Sean Combs, her onetime boyfriend and record label boss, of years of sexual and physical abuse: 'freak-off.' According to the suit by Cassie, who was born Casandra Ventura, a freak-off was what Mr. Combs called the highly choreographed sexual encounters that he directed 'to engage in a fantasy of his called 'voyeurism.'' They involved costumes, like masks and lingerie. 'Copious amounts of drugs,' including Ecstasy and ketamine. The hiring of male prostitutes. Mr. Combs watched and recorded the events on a phone while he masturbated. Freak-offs have become a central part of the government's case, which charges Mr. Combs with sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy and transportation to engage in prostitution. (Other witnesses have referred to the events as 'hotel nights,' 'debauchery' or 'wild king nights.') Mr. Combs pleaded not guilty, and his lawyers have strongly denied that any of his sexual encounters with women were not consensual. In testimony last month, Ms. Ventura described the freak-offs in sometimes excruciating detail. The first one happened when she was 22, she said, when Mr. Combs hired a male stripper from Las Vegas to come to a home that Mr. Combs was renting in Los Angeles. Ms. Ventura said she wore a masquerade-style mask and provocative clothing from a 'sex store' She and the man took Ecstasy and drank alcohol before they had sex while Mr. Combs watched, she said. Freak-offs soon became nearly weekly occurrences, Ms. Ventura testified. They took place in homes and hotels across the United States and in international locales like the Spanish island of Ibiza. Mr. Combs had his employees make travel arrangements for the men to come to him and Ms. Ventura — a key point in the government's case for sex trafficking. The events also became more elaborately staged, with candles and studio-style lighting, and Ms. Ventura said she would sometimes take an entire day to prepare herself for them. Mr. Combs controlled that process too, she said, down to the color of her nails. She testified that she took part in the sex partly because she wanted to make Mr. Combs happy. 'When you're in love with someone you don't want to disappoint them,' she said. But she also said she feared he would beat her if she refused and recounted episodes of him assaulting her. When Mr. Combs became angry, she said, his eyes would 'go black' and 'the version of him that I was in love with was no longer there.' The sexual marathons drained her, she said, and it sometimes took days to recover: 'The freak-offs became a job where there was no space to do anything else but to recover and just try to feel normal again.' The videos Mr. Combs made, she said, became 'blackmail materials' that were used to pressure her to agree to continue participating, she testified. She feared the videos might be released on the internet. Fueled by drugs, the freak-offs could last from 36 hours to four days, Ms. Ventura testified. They also became more 'humiliating,' she said: Mr. Combs would direct her and the men on sexual positions, and he would order them to continually apply baby oil to keep themselves 'glistening.' Blood was sometimes left on bedding because Ms. Ventura was compelled to perform while menstruating, she said. There was also urine, as Mr. Combs sometimes ordered the men to urinate into her mouth while she lay on the floor. In her testimony, Ms. Ventura said that a freak-off was underway in March 2016 at the InterContinental Century City hotel in Los Angeles, where a hallway security camera captured her trying to take the elevator before Mr. Combs assaulted her and dragged her away. The freak-offs, she said, continued until she finally left Mr. Combs in 2018. When Jane, another former girlfriend who dated Mr. Combs from 2021 until his arrest last year, took the stand, she described similar events and said her love affair with the music mogul turned into a pattern of unwanted sex with male prostitutes that she struggled to end: 'It was a door that I was unable to shut for the remainder of the relationship.' Describing herself as a single mother who made her living as a social media influencer, Jane said she became financially dependent on Mr. Combs after he began sending her thousands of dollars and paying her rent. She described one night when she had sex with two men, then retreated to a bathroom and vomited. Mr. Combs said the vomiting would make her feel better, Jane testified, and then he told her a third prostitute was ready for her. 'Let's go,' he said. She complied and had sex with the third man. Jane also read aloud a private note from her phone that she wrote about Mr. Combs in 2022: 'I don't want to do drugs for days and days and have you use me to fulfill your freaky, wild desires in hotel rooms.' She said she suffered from urinary tract and yeast infections as a result of frequent sex with other men. After news about Ms. Ventura's lawsuit broke, Jane said she recognized that Ms. Ventura's account mirrored her own 'sexual trauma.' 'I almost fainted,' Jane testified. 'In fact I think I did.' 'There was a whole other woman feeling the same thing,' she added.
