Gary Porter is the general manager for V.I.P., a chain of porn shops that is trying to open a large new store next to a residential neighborhood in Berlin, CT. Town officials have rejected their permit application as not consistent with local ordinances and the company has sued.
In a November 17 newspaper article, Mr. Porter is quoted as making light of citizen concerns and suggesting that the store’s customers will mostly come from out of town:
“We’ll be helping the community, maybe not Berlin, but surrounding communities,” Porter said jokingly, “community service is what we’re all about.”
Porter said they have been delayed between three to four months, and believes the store will open in September rather than July as was previously expected.
“Though Mr. Porter’s arrogance may be noble in the sex shop and novelty world, it does not serve him well in the town of Berlin,” [Berlin mayor Adam] Salina said.
The Herald (New Britain, CT), “V.I.P. claims its rights are being violated”, 11/17/06