RI to host national lottery conference

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Rhode Island has been chosen to host an annual convention that could greatly benefit the local economy.

The North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL) has selected the Ocean State to host the 2013 NASPL Conference.

According to Gerald Aubin, Director of the Rhode Island Lottery, the convention expects to draw more than 1,000 attendees and exhibitors, with an estimated 600 hotel rooms needed for peak nights and 40,000 square feet of trade show space needed.

"A host city's local economy typically reaps at least $1 million in ancillary benefits from this conference, not including the benefit to the Convention Center or the preferred hotel," said Aubin in a news release.

In similar fashion, the Major League Gaming National Championships held in Providence this past weekend pumped an estimated $1 million into Rhode Island's economy.

NASPL represents 52 lotteries, both nationally and internationally.

"While we at the Lottery have much work ahead, we are extremely excited to have this opportunity to showcase the beauty of Providence and the Ocean State to so many people from all around the world," said Aubin in a statement.

NASPL officials chose The Providence Westin as the host hotel, with the Biltmore, Hilton and Marriot Courtyard as backups.

The conference will take place from September 29 to October 3, 2013.