News of Local Interest

New York, NY, September 5, 2009

N.Y. OTB plans to seek major concessions

By Matt Hegarty

New York City Off Track Betting Corporation, the country's largest bet-taker, which announced plans on Tuesday to file for bankruptcy protection, will ask the state legislature to approve a laundry list of changes to racing statutes as part of its reorganization under Chapter 9 of the bankruptcy code, officials of the corporation said.

The changes, which will almost certainly include modifications to the statutes that determine how much of the company's revenue goes to the racing industry, will be presented to the legislature in early 2010, according to Sandy Frucher, the chairman of the corporation. By that time, Frucher said, New York City OTB hopes to have convinced a federal bankruptcy judge that the company will be able to reorganize itself as a viable, solvent organization as long as the legislature votes to approve the package of changes.

"It will be presented as an up or down situation," said Frucher, in reference to the legislature's vote. "If the legislature's rejects it, someone will have to come up with $250 million."

Due to support from Gov. David Paterson and the presumption of the bankruptcy court's approval, the plan to push for modifications in the byzantine tangle of laws governing New York City OTB and its distributions to the racing industry and local governments will represent perhaps the first attempt at significant change in decades to have any reasonable chance to succeed. Over the years, the statutes governing the OTB company have been criticized as archaic, complex, and, in some cases, misguided. But substantive change has been nearly impossible because of a mix of conflicting political interests.

In the most recent fiscal year, New York City OTB paid out $128.6 million of its $244.7 million in revenue through the statutory formulas to the racing industry, state government, and local government, according to a recent audit by the New York City Comptroller's Office. The company derived vast majority of its revenue from the takeout on nearly $1 billion in wagers.

Frucher said that the company will likely press for a change in how its distributions are calculated. Currently, the distributions are calculated from the company's gross revenue, but the company is prepared to push for a distribution based on net revenue, or the amount left after expenses are subtracted from the gross.

Any change to the distribution formulas would almost certainly have a negative impact on Thoroughbred and harness tracks, which could present formidable hurdles to approval. Charles Hayward, the chief executive of the New York Racing Association, said that he believed the formulas could be tweaked to eliminate subsidies to the harness industry, but he also said that he believed NYRA deserved the share it received.

"We need to carefully protect our interests," Hayward said. "As long as we're being fairly compensated, we will support it."

It is unclear, so far, if the changes contemplated by New York City OTB will also apply to the state's five other OTB companies. When asked whether the reorganization of New York City OTB would affect the other OTB companies - which are all politically connected - Frucher said that he was "not going to wade into that minefield" while Paterson said that he was hopeful that some of the changes would serve as a "template" for change at the other companies.

In addition to changes to its distribution formulas, Frucher said that OTB would also seek to close a number of its 60 branches and negotiate new leases on existing facilities. The company will seek to renegotiate labor agreements with the unions representing the majority of its workers, who account for $500 million in unfunded obligations on the OTB's balance sheet.

Frucher stressed that New York City OTB would honor all of its existing obligations to its workers, and he said that the company was seeking only to reorganize while using Chapter 9 as a shield against its creditors. Chapter 9 bankruptcy was created in 1975 by federal law to protect municipalities facing bankruptcy - at the time, New York City was nearly insolvent - and since then, fewer than 200 municipalities or government-owned agencies have used the code.

"This is not a bankruptcy," Frucher said. "There is an insolvency issue. But this is not going to be a liquidation."

New York, NY, September 2, 2009

Gov. Paterson yesterday unveiled what he called "unprecedented" and ex traordinary life-saving measures to save the New York City Off-Track Betting Corp.

Sorry, governor: Too little, too late.

Paterson signed an executive order that would allow OTB -- which has been flirting with failure for decades -- to head into bankruptcy court, where it could then undergo a top-to-bottom overhaul.

He'd be better advised to simply shut down OTB -- notwithstanding the 1,300 jobs at stake.

We've never liked the idea of government -- whether New York City, which long operated OTB, or the state, which placed its own losing bet and took it over last year -- being in the bookie business.

Especially a bookie operation that actually loses tons of money.

Moreover, the agency has been a massive political patronage dump from the moment it was created, back in 1971.

As Charles Hayward, the president of the New York Racing Association, said recently, OTB is "where good local politicians are sent to max out their pensions."

And the agency's fiscal problems go far beyond the long-term imbalance in the amount it was forced to pay the state, which led to last year's Albany takeover.

A recent audit by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli disclosed that OTB is wracked by a bloated payroll and too many outlets -- particularly in the age of increased telephone and online betting -- as well as politically wired no-bid contracts and an expensive fleet of cars that top officials use for commuting.

Back in 1994, then-Mayor Rudy Giuliani trimmed OTB's excess fat and put it on the market, drawing bids of $250 million (plus a share of future profits) -- before lawmakers beholden to the unions put the kibosh on any sale.

Maybe it's time for Paterson & Co. to consider another look at the private sector -- though, as DiNapoli warned: "Even if cost-saving measures are implemented, it's unlikely [OTB] will remain fiscally solvent for long."

Enough's enough.

OTB has been a drain on the public fisc for too long.

Time to pull the plug.

Hamburg, NY, August 21, 2009

The following message is from Jim Mango:

Here are the final arrangements for Don Dylo’s Funeral Home visitations and mass.

Visitations are at the Lombardo Funeral Home, Southtowns Chapel, 3060 Abbott Rd (near Lake Ave)
On Saturday and Sunday (8/22 and 8/23) from 4-8 pm.

The funeral service will be at Lombardo Funeral Home on Monday 8/24 at 8:30 AM.
The Mass will be celebrated in Our Lady of Victory Basilica at 9:30 AM.

The breakfast will begin at approximately 11:45 and the location has been CHANGED.
The breakfast will be at Michael’s Banquet Facility, 4885 Southwestern Blvd. Danny’s was not available.

Hamburg, NY, August 19, 2009

The following message is from Jim Mango:

I have been contacted by Veronica Dylo and I want to let everyone know that Don Dylo passed away last night.

Don has been working as part of our Racing Paddock crew since at least 1986. Don left work at the end of March this year when he took ill at the track.

The family is still finalizing the arrangements but at this time we know:

Don will be at Lombardo Funeral Home on Abbott Road, South Buffalo.

Visitation will be on Saturday and Sunday.

The funeral will be on Monday with a service at Lombardo Funeral Home.

A mass will be then be held at Our Lady of the Basilica.

A breakfast gathering will be after the mass at Danny’s Restaurant.

Everyone who would like to attend is welcome.

I will follow up later once we know times, and if anything changes.


Christine Schuster for James Mango

Buffalo Raceway

Buffalo Trotting Association, Inc.

Hamburg, NY, August 14, 2009

Please read the following article carefully. The OTBs statewide have been attempting for years to eliminate commissions due to the racetracks and horsemen in NY State. Their push has intensified since the advent of VLTs. Our association has been continuously fighting against the elimination of any of these commissions. As you will see, the plight of City OTB has brought this issue to a head. You can be sure that if City is granted any sort of relief, the other OTB Regions will follow right behind. Rest assured, our association, along with the newly formed Horsemen's Association Alliance, will do everything possible to maintain the status quo as regards these commissions.

Bruce Tubin

New York City OTB is broke, audit says

By Matt Hegarty

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. - New York City Off-Track Betting Corp., the state-owned agency that has a monopoly on taking offtrack parimutuel bets from residents of New York's five boroughs, has an operating deficit of $38 million, an accumulated deficit of $228 million, and will be insolvent soon without legislative help or the implementation of drastic cost-cutting measures, according to an audit conducted by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli released on Friday.

The audit, which analyzed the operations of the state-owned company over the past four fiscal years, concludes that OTB's financial problems are largely related to its obligations to the racing industry and state and local governments. However, the auditors stressed that conclusion only after OTB officials repeatedly pointed out that an independent consulting group and its own accountants had concluded over the past several years that no amount of cost-cutting could restore the company to solvency.

"Even if cost-saving measures are implemented, it's unlikely that it will remain financially solvent for long," DiNapoli said, in a statement attached to the audit. "This is a serious problem that needs in-depth examination. If the goal is to keep OTB viable, serious consideration must be given to changing the mandated state formulas and restructuring operations to coordinate different aspects of the racing industry."

DiNapoli's office conducted the audit at the direction of Gov. David Paterson, who last year negotiated the takeover of New York City OTB from the city of New York after Mayor Michael Bloomberg threatened to close the operation. The audit covered New York City OTB's operations from July 2004 through October 2008.

New York City OTB operates 68 branches in New York's five boroughs as well as an Internet and telephone betting operation. In fiscal year 2008, which ended in July 2008, the company took in $998.2 million in bets, or approximately 7 percent of the national handle, making it the single largest bet-taker in the U.S.

Though the audit takes issue with a wide array of expenses at the company - including 87 company cars that cost $6,700 each a year to maintain, or $583,000 annually - it points most critically to New York City OTB's mandatory statutory distributions to the racing industry and state and local governments. OTB officials have been pressing the state to change the mandatory distributions, either through direct reductions or a change in the way the distributions are calculated, but have had little success except for minor changes.

According to the audit, New York City OTB had $244.7 million in revenue in fiscal year 2008. It paid out $128.6 million in statutory payments while incurring an additional $133.9 million in expenses, for a one-year deficit of $17.8 million, according to the audit. In the three previous fiscal years, the OTB ran deficits of $8.63 million, $6.12 million, and $5.78 million.

The auditors take issue with OTB's calculation of the total of mandatory distributions, however, contending that approximately $24 million of the $128.6 million total is not mandatory but is instead paid to out-of-state racetracks and the New York Racing Association because of simulcasting contracts. In a response, OTB contended that 32 percent of the payments could be considered mandatory because of a contract negotiated by NYRA, "which the corporation does not get to negotiate."

Meyer Frucher, who was recently appointed chairman of OTB, has said he is preparing a report for Paterson that would recommend dramatic structural changes for the company, to be released within the next month. Frucher has also said that OTB could benefit from a closer relationship with NYRA, which has been pressing for a consolidation among OTBs and racing interests for years.

If OTB and NYRA agree on a new relationship, it is likely the two organizations will go t o the legislature jointly to ask for relief, according to officials.

Hamburg, NY, July 28, 2009

The Empire State Harness Horsemen's Alliance held its second successful Video Conference on Thursday, July 23rd , 2009.  The difficult issue of Workers’ Compensation in New York State was a priority item on the agenda. Issues common to all the Horsemen’s groups, such as safety, protocol and marketing were also addressed. Pending issues with the New York State Racing & Wagering Board were also identified.

Attending the Video Conference were: George Casale, Exec. Director, Standardbred Owners Association of New York; George Karam, President, Saratoga Harness Horsepersons Association; Rick Papa, President, Harness Horse Association of Central New York, and Bruce Tubin, Administrative Director, Western New York Harness Horsemen’s Association.

The Alliance intends to meet monthly.

Hamburg, NY, July 16, 2009

Release from the WNYHHA

On Monday July 13th, 2009 George Karam of the Saratoga Harness Horsemen’s Association hosted a meeting of representatives from various New York State Harness Horsemen’s Associations, representatives of the New York State Workers' Compensation Board and the New York State Racing & Wagering Board in Saratoga Springs, New York.

In addition to George Karam, Bruce Tubin represented the Western New York Harness Horsemen’s Association, Rick Papa of the Harness Horse of Central New York, and Joe Faraldo and George Casale represented the Standardbred Owners Association of New York. Steve Carbone and Neil M. Gilberg were in attendance from the Workers' Compensation Board, and Nicole Robilotto and Joanne Quell represented the New York State Racing &Wagering Board.

Topics discussed were escalating premiums for workers' compensation insurance in the State of New York; why workers compensation insurance from other states was no longer acceptable in New York; what groups, including catch drivers, should be included or excluded from workers's compensation coverage; and the requirements for Workers' Compensation coverage for a designated trainer. The Workers' Compensation Board representatives were very helpful in identifying issues and recommending possible solutions, as were the two representatives from the New York State Racing & Wagering Board.

There is no question that the matter of workers' compensation insurance in New York State is very complicated, involving multiple state agencies with divided and competing interests, as well as a multitude of jurisdictional issues. Though there is no quick fix, we believe we have taken the first meaningful steps to address the problems and will be able to fashion appropriate remedies.

Batavia, NY, June 24, 2009

New 6 year contract signed with Batavia Downs

More race days!
More races per day!
Winter stabling resolved!

Details will be discussed at our Association's Annual General Meeting on Saturday, June 27, 1:00 PM in the Grange Building on the Erie County Fairgrounds.

Hamburg, NY, May 1, 2009 -

As reported in the WNYHHA April Newsletter, the recently imposed $10 Entry Fee will be in effect as of the May 5 draw.  The following is the procedure established by the Buffalo Trotting Association.

Batavia, NY, April 20, 2009

Betty Aquino, predeceased by her son Patsy Rapone and also mother of Louis & Francis Rapone and Betty Lou Buckley died Friday night at Strong Memorial hospital in Rochester,NY after suffering severe heart complications. Calling hours are 4-8 Tuesday (Alhart's Funeral home) and funeral mass Wednesday 12:00 noon (St.Columba church) both in Caledonia,NY Contributions can be made to American Heart Association in her memory.

Hamburg. NY, March 7, 2009 -

Buffalo Raceway To Add Race Dates

After discussions with the Western New York Harness Horsemen's Association, Buffalo Raceway Management has agreed to add two days to the racing calendar to make up for two weather related cancellations. The added dates will be Sunday, March 22, and Sunday, March 29. It was decided to add the dates sooner rather than later in an effort to help the problem of certain classes not getting raced on a regular basis.

Hamburg, NY, January 9, 2009 -

There has been a change in the qualifying rule at Buffalo Raceway. Effective immediately, any horse that raced on or after November 15, does not have to qualify if they race on or before January 31. The exception is that any horse that raced after December 6, when Batavia Downs closed, will still be subject to the 30 day rule. If you have any questions, please contact the Horsemen's Office.

Hamburg, NY, December 27, 2008 -

The Racing & Wagering Board is requesting that anyone needing a 2009 license renewal, mail in their renewal form. They promise to have your license processed & returned to you before racing resumes on January 14. The Board is cutting back on the time their licensing team will be at each racetrack & there will only be one representative at Buffalo Raceway & that will be on Tuesday, January 13 in the morning & afternoon. In order to avoid long lines & delays, mailing your renewal is strongly recommended.

Hamburg, NY, December 12, 2008 -

The Racing and Wagering Board has set a 60 day qualifying rule when racing resumes at Buffalo Raceway.  Therefore, if you plan to begin racing on January 14, you will need to have started on or after November 15. Also, if you race after Batavia closed on December 6, you will be subject to the normal 30 day rule.  Remember, all horses need a preference date in a new year. Your preference date will be the date you first enter or the date you qualify.

Hamburg, NY, October 1, 2008 -

On Monday, September 29, 2008, a new three year contract was signed between the Western New York Harness Horsemen's Association and the Buffalo Trotting Association. As you will see on the 2009 race day calendar, we will begin racing on January 14, 2009 and race a total of 90 days. This will also be the schedule for the second and third years of the contract. The schedules for all three years are, of course, subject to Racing & Wagering Board approval. We will be able to move onto the grounds on January 6. There are many additional items in the contract which will be covered in an upcoming newsletter.

We have begun negotiations with Batavia Downs Downs on a new contract and, hopefully, we will be able to reach an agreement in a reasonable amount of time.

Click here for the 2009 Buffalo Raceway Calendar

Hamburg, NY, June 9, 2008 -

Qualifying races at Buffalo Raceway will be held on Wednesday, June 11 & Wednesday, June 18 after which they will resume on Fridays beginning on June 27. Entries for Wednesday qualifiers must be made on Tuesday morning.

Hamburg, NY, May 1, 2008 -

2 year old schooling at Buffalo Raceway will be held this year on May 10 and May 17 at 11:00am. Please call the Horsemen's office if you wish to participate. The evening "baby race" program will begin the week of May 21.

Hamburg, NY, April 15, 2008 -

Long time horse owner Russ Loiacano has passed away. There will be a service for him Sunday April 20th at The Kaczor Funeral Home at US 20 and Rodgers RD at 10:00 AM

Hamburg, NY, March 25, 2008 -

Our Web Hosting service, located in Kentucky will be relocating to a new facility commencing at Midnight March 28.  This move can take as long as 48 hours to complete.  During that period, we may experience some outages in service.  I apologize for the inconvenience.

Thanks in advance for your support and understanding.

Don Niles

Hamburg, NY, March 7,2008 -

Racing has been canceled at Buffalo Raceway for Saturday, March 8 due to a major winter storm due to hit Western New York tonight & all day Saturday. We will be racing tonight.

Hamburg, NY, January 10, 2008 -

Early Qualifying at Buffalo Raceway

Buffalo Raceway will be holding qualifying races on Monday, February 11 at 11:00am. Entries must be in by 10:00 am on Saturday, February 9. There will also be qualifiers on opening night, Friday, February 15, but on that night there will be a limit of 4 races. Therefore, if you need to qualify, it would be best to do so on Monday before the first draw.

Yonkers, NY, December 13, 2007 -

STATEMENT FROM HARNESS HORSEMEN REGARDING THREATENED CLOSURE OF HARNESS TRACKS

Standardbred Owners Association President and Counsel to the Vernon Horsemen’s Association (HHACNY) Joseph Faraldo said today: “We understand that the owner of Vernon Downs formally announced today that he plans to close the track’s backstretch and barn area this coming Monday and then close the racino in early January since the Legislature has not yet approved ‘his’ legislation to increase his VLT vendor’s fees.

“Management’s announcement of its intention to evict nearly 300 horses and threaten the livelihoods of hundreds of racino employees is an extremely unfortunate ploy, especially in light of the fact that this entire situation could have been resolved months ago had the track operators chosen to come to the table and work collectively with legislators, horsemen and breeders to craft a thoughtful, industry-wide solution. Instead, it has excluded horsemen, breeders, farmers and the entire industry from the statutory protection that would have made the racing industry and the state healthier, rather than just management itself.

“It should also be noted that the announced closure of the backstretch represents a clear violation of the track’s contract with the horsemen and is yet another example of management’s continuing pattern of utter disregard for racing. Just recently in yet another act of defiance, Vernon’s management arbitrarily cancelled racing days, after earlier taking money out of the horsemen’s purse account. Vernon management has again chosen to act solely in its own interest with no regard for the niceties of a legal contract, state law, or racing board regulations. Perhaps the most egregious of these was the cancellation of awarded racing dates, which is the very basis for their VLT license in the first place.

“Time and again, rather than work together on comprehensive solutions or commit to an inclusive bill that would also protect horsemen and breeders by restoring statutorily defined contributions from VLT’s to the racing industry, Vernon’s ownership instead chose to believe they could secure their own legislative tax relief and ignore the big-picture needs of the racing and agricultural industries. Additionally, despite the fact that they knowingly purchased a track practically in the shadow of a Native American casino, Vernon management continues to attempt to lay blame for their ills on hard-working horsemen.

“We horsemen – on behalf of the 40,000 New Yorkers who rely on racing for their livelihoods – have been consistent in our position and will be pleased to support legislation that both gives the track owners the relief they need and provides the members of our industry with the legal protections they require (and, it should be noted, which we had under the state’s original VLT law).

“The track owners know full well how this issue can be resolved as a win/win for everyone involved, and it’s about time they stopped the gamesmanship and threats and started working toward a real resolution.”

Joseph A. Faraldo

President, Standardbred Owners Association of New York

Tel: (917) 886-8125

Yonkers, NY, December 9, 2007 -

STATEMENT FROM SOA PRESIDENT JOE FARALDO REGARDING VLT LEGISLATION, THREATENED CLOSURE OF HARNESS TRACKS AND THE POSITION OF NY STATE HORSEMEN AND BREEDERS:

“From the perspective of thousands of horsemen and breeders – and for the 40,000 people in New York who rely on racing and its associated industries for their livelihoods – it is irresponsible for certain harness track owners to continue to try to frame their efforts to secure additional VLT revenues as helping ‘the industry.’ Rather than infuse a fair portion of the additional money they are seeking into the state's important racing and breeding industries, the track managements have instead made it clear that they want a legislative ‘fix” that only benefits their bottom lines. The narrowly focused legislation the track operators have been advocating does nothing to protect the breeders and horsemen who are equally as invested in the tracks’ success.

For the past year, the State’s breeders and horsemen have advocated for a big-picture approach to the problems facing our harness tracks, and we are confident that legislation that both assists track owners and restores defined contributions from VLT’s to the agriculture industry's horsemen, breeders and farmers into the law is the most effective approach.

Fortunately for the breeders, horsemen and the 40,000 New Yorkers who rely on racing, the State Assembly has shown great leadership and responsibility by refusing to gratuitously give this handful of wealthy track operators millions of additional tax dollars without legal guarantees that such a move will both enhance patronage at the racinos and contribute to the long-term vitality of the New York racing and breeding industries. This comprehensive approach – which is what the state’s original VLT law created – will be a win-win for everyone. Had the wealthy track operators not objected to this well-reasoned, comprehensive approach, remedial legislation might well have been accomplished six months ago."

Joseph A. Faraldo

President, Standardbred Owners Association of New York

Tel: (917) 886-8125

Batavia, NY, September 8, 2007 -

Batavia, NY, August 8, 2007 -

Hamburg, NY, August 8, 2007 -

Latham, NY, July 6, 2007

THREE OWNERSHIP SEMINARS AVAILABLE IN NEW YORK

LATHAM, N.Y.—Three ownership seminars are scheduled in New York this summer hosted by Harness Horse Breeders of New York State. These half-day seminars provide valuable information for new, prospective and rookie owners and focus on all aspects of horse ownership.

Seminars are scheduled for Saturday, August 11, at Tioga Downs; Saturday, August 25, at Batavia Downs; and Saturday September 8, at Yonkers Raceway. All seminars will start in the early afternoon and include dinner and racing afterwards.

Seminars will cover the rewards and risks of horse ownership, actual costs, tax issues and how to choose a trainer. Participants will also have the opportunity to tour the racing facility, visit a trainer’s stable and talk with owners.

Tuition is $20 per person or $30 per couple and includes the seminar and materials, dinner, live racing, a one-year subscription to Hoof Beats Magazine and life-long follow-up services.

Seminars require advance registration. For more information or to register for a seminar, please call Harness Horse Breeders at 518-785-5858 or e-mail info@hhbnys.org.

The ownership seminars are sponsored by the Agriculture and New York State Horse Breeding Development Fund.


M. Kelly Young
Executive Director
Harness Horse Breeders of New York State
400 Troy-Schenectady Road
Latham, NY 12110
Tel: 518-785-5858
Fax: 518-785-5848
info@hhbnys.org

Hamburg, NY, June 29, 2007 -

Hamburg, NY, June 22, 2007 -

Western New York Harness Horsemen's Association Annual General Meeting and Board of Directors Election

Saturday, June 23, 2007 1:00pm Grange Building on the Erie County Fairgrounds.

Food & Beverage @ 12:30pm.

Voting Booth Open From 10:00am Until 1:00pm.

All Topics of Interest To Our Members Will be Discussed and There Will be an Open Question and Answer Session.

Batavia, NY, May 30, 2007 -

Batavia, NY, May 9, 2007 -

Hamburg, NY, May 5, 2007 -

Two Year Old Schooling program

The Western New York Harness Horsemen's Association Two Year Old Schooling program will be held this year on Saturday, May 12 and Saturday May 19. Schooling will begin at 11:00am. You must contact the Horsemen's Association to sign up during the week. Buffalo Raceway will begin its Two Year Old Baby Race program the following week.

Batavia, NY, April 3, 2007 -

Batavia Downs Gaming to host Women’s Driving Series

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Todd Haight Marketing Coordinator/Track Analyst 585-343-3750 X445 Batavia, N.Y.

The Mildred Williams’ Women’s Driving Series, a unique competition for licensed women harness drivers, is coming to Batavia Downs Gaming this summer in conjunction with a Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser. Batavia Downs Gaming, North America’s oldest lighted harness track, will host the Mildred Williams’ Women’s Driving Series on Sunday afternoon, August 12, announced Michael Kane, Vice President of Racing and Gaming. The Series will make stops at 38 different racetracks in North America, with the finals scheduled for Hippodrome Du Montreal in the fall. The Mildred Williams Women’s Driving Series is similar to the CKG Billings Amateur Driving Classic, according to Ann Curran, organizer of the event. “With the success of last season's series we thought it only natural to expand it to include the United States who are willing to sponsor an event,” Curran said. The Series is slated to kick off in Canada in mid-April, then move to the United States in May. To participate in the Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser, or for more information on the event, contact Todd Haight at Batavia Downs Gaming.

Hamburg, NY, March 22, 2007 -

Hamburg, NY, February 14, 2007 -

Live racing has been canceled for Wednesday, February 14. The draw for Saturday, February 17 will be held on Thursday, February 15. Driver changes for Saturday must be made by 1:00pm on Thursday.

Hamburg, NY, February 8, 2007 -

Batavia, NY, January 31, 2007 -

Hamburg, NY, January 9, 2007 -

Buffalo Raceway Clubhouse Dining

For dining reservations in the Buffalo Raceway clubhouse, call 716-646-6109 ext. 60149.
An operator will be available Monday 9:00 - 5:30 and Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 - 6:00.

Hamburg, NY, January 9, 2007 -

2007 Licensing

The New York State Racing & Wagering Board licensing team is scheduled to be at Buffalo Raceway as follows:

• Wednesday, January 17th: 9a.m.-12p.m.; and 1p.m.-4p.m.
• Thursday, January 18: 9a.m.-12p.m.; and 1p.m.-4p.m.
• Friday, January 19: 9a.m.-2p.m.; and late afternoon before racing begins.

Also, in addition to the NYSRWB license, everyone is required to acquire a Buffalo Raceway badge from the racing office. To help alleviate confusion on opening week, Cheryl Menchi will be in the race office on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:00a.m. until 12p.m. to issue badges.

Hamburg, NY, December 23, 2006 -

QUALIFYING RULE – 2007

The NYS Racing & Wagering Board has adopted the following rule for horses racing at Buffalo Raceway in 2007.

• If your horse raced on or after November 1, 2006, but did not race after December 2, 2006 you will not have to qualify at Buffalo Raceway provided you race on or before February 1, 2007.
  
  
• All horses that race after December 2, 2006 will be subject to the 30 day rule.

REMEMBER, if you have not raced in 2007 your preference date will be the date you first enter your horse in 2007 or the date you qualify in 2007. Please contact the Horsemen’s Office if you have any questions regarding these rules.

Batavia, NY, December 23, 2006

Albany, NY, December 21, 2006 -

The links below will take you to a series of stories on the ongoing investigation into State Senator Joe Bruno's activities.....

Editorials- Why the FBI is joltin' Joe

Senate in Turmoil as Bruno Is Eyed in Federal Probe

Bruno facing FBI scrutiny -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY

Bruno Being Investigated By FBI

Senate Majority Leader Bruno under federal inquiry

'Nothing to hide,' defiant Senate big says

Bruno Is Subject of Inquiry by F.B.I. - New York Times

Bruno's Statement

FEDS PROBE JOE

State senate leader acknowledges FBI probe of his business interests

Batavia, NY, December 14, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, December 12, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, November 15, 2006 -

Batavia, NY, November 11, 2006 -

Batavia, NY, October 27, 2006 -

Batavia, NY, October 27, 2006 -

Winter Stall Rental Agreement

Winter stall rental agreements for stabling at Buffalo Raceway beginning December 1 are now available at the horsemen's office and race office at Batavia Downs. Please return them no later than Monday, November 20.

Batavia, NY, October 9, 2006 -

Batavia, NY, September 22, 2006 -

Within a few days, all USTA District 8 members will be receiving notice of the joint meeting of the 2006/2007 United States Trotting Association's District meeting and the Harness Horse Breeders Awards ceremonies. This year's meeting will be held on October 22 at Tioga Downs.Included with your notice will be a USTA director election ballot. We look forward to seeing you at the meeting and banquet dinner, and please remember to mail in your election ballot.

Sincerely,

Bruce Tubin
Chairman, District 8

Batavia, NY, September 13, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, September 13, 2006 -

Batavia, NY, August 28, 2006 -

Vernon, NY, August 24, 2006 -

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Harness Horse Association of Central New York, Inc.
Contact: Rick Papa, President
August 23, 2006
315-829-3872
 
Vernon, New York: The Harness Horse Association of Central New York, Inc. (HHACNY), the State-certified horsemen’s group at Vernon Downs Racetrack, is pleased to report that it has successfully negotiated a comprehensive horsemen’s agreement with Management at the track. This agreement ensures the resumption of live harness racing at Vernon Downs for the 2006, 2007 and 2008 seasons under terms and conditions beneficial to all stakeholders, including the horsemen.

Some of the salient points are as follows:

The track will offer an abbreviated thirty (30) day race meet commencing on or about August 31, 2006. There is a guarantee of at least ninety (90) race dates in each of 2007 and 2008. A minimum of three (3) programs per week has been established.

The horsemen will receive 8.25% of video lottery terminal (VLT) revenue.

2006 purses are anticipated to approximately double those raced for in 2004.
Purses will increase even further in 2007 and 2008.
Purse money will be maintained in a secure, segregated account. Moreover, the Association will receive an accounting every two (2) weeks

Out-of-meet stall rent is capped at $100.00

The HHACNY will receive 6.5% from revenues to fund the association. This funding mechanism hopefully will permit the future establishment of a horsemen’s medical plan.

Improvements to the barn area will be made.

A race accident insurance policy will provide coverage of up to $100,000 per person (not per incident).

The allocation of purse money towards overnights and stakes will be subject to future board arbitration.

Additionally, the agreement provides that Management will under no circumstances discriminate against members or directors of HHACNY. Moreover, Management has agreed for the entire term of the agreement not to in any fashion promote or encourage a challenge to HHACNY’s status as the certified horsemen’s group.

Rick Papa, President of HHACNY, explained how the agreement was reached: “

Two groups truly receive all the accolades. One is the body of horsemen at Vernon who stuck together through some very bleak times, starting with the unprecedented bankruptcy of the Racetrack, and continuing through the long negotiating process. The horsemen’s support directly led to the result achieved today. The other group due accolades is the New York State Racing and Wagering Board, without whose patience and generous allocation of time in mediating the differences between the HHACNY and Management, this agreement would not have been achievable. Because of the tenacity and skills of Chairman Hogan, members Hoblock and Simoni, Executive Director Cansdale and the excellent staff, direct negotiations between Management and HHACNY were had, culminating in today’s terrific news.”

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Hamburg, NY, August 9, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, August 3, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, July 25, 2006 -

Latham, NY, July 24, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, July 22, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, July 22, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, July 20, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, July 20, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, July 17, 2006 -

The annual Horsemen's Picnic will be held this year on Tuesday, August 15 at the Erie County Fairgrounds during the fair.  Tickets will go on sale Tuesday, July 18 and be available until Friday, August 11 or until they are sold out.

A $13.00 ticket will include
Free admission to the grounds, parking pass and all day use of Hickory Tree Park.  Meals will be served between 4:00PM and 7:00 PM.  Free soft drinks and beer will be available.

A $25.00 ticket will include
All of the above plus an all day ride wrist band.  Ride tickets must be redeemed for a wristband by 6:30 PM.

If you cannot pick up your tickets in person, you may send a check to:

WNY Harness Horsemen's Association
PO Box 730
Batavia,  NY  14021

Upon receipt of your check we will send you your tickets and parking pass.  Please be sure to specify Ticket type and number of tickets.

Hamburg, NY, July 15, 2006 -

Members:

A reminder that nominations for the New York-Bred Late Closers for 3-year-olds are due Monday (July 17). Horses must be fully paid into the Sire Stakes and non-winners of $15,000 lifetime to be eligible for the Late Closers. Nomination fee is $300.00.

If you did not receive a nomination form, make your check out and mail to:

Ag & NYS Horse Breeding Dev. Fund
90 State Street
Albany, NY 12207

Include the horse's name, pedigree, age, gait and sex along with your name, address and telephone.

Please note that this year colts and fillies will be separated in ALL divisions. Purses are again $7,500 plus starting fees. To enter a race, 3YOs must have a clean charted line within 30 days of declaration in 2:06 for pacers and 2:08 for trotters.

The complete Late Closer race schedule is available at

http://www.nysirestakes.com/race_dates.cfm.

Late Closer nominations for 2YOs are due July 25. Horses must be non-winners of $5,000.

If you have any questions about the Late Closers, please call Harness Horse Breeders at 518-785-5858 or the Breeding Development Fund at 518-436-8713.

My best,
Kelly

M. Kelly Young
Executive Assistant
Harness Horse Breeders of New York State
400 Troy-Schenectady Road
Latham, NY 12110
Tel: 518-785-5858
Fax: 518-785-5848
nyss@nysirestakes.com
www.nysirestakes.com

Hamburg, NY, July 12, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, July 3, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, June 29, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, June 26, 2006 -

Beback Named to WNYHHA Board

The annual meeting of the Western New York Harness Horsemen's Association was held on Saturday, June 24 in the Grange Building on the grounds of the Erie County Agricultural Society.  Up for grabs were 3 seats on the WNYHHA Board of Directors.

Ed Newell, a 6 year Board member had decided not to seek reelection.  Ron Beback was the only candidate registered to seek the seat held by Mr. Newell.  In as much as Mr. Beback was the only individual seeking the soon to be vacated position, an election was not required and Mr. Beback was awarded the Director's position in the Owner/Trainer category.

The WNYHHA Board of Directors wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to Ed Newell for his support and efforts during his 6 year tenure on the Board.  Mr. Newell was a regular attendee and provided valuable insight and guidance to other Board members.

Catherine Barzycki (Owner) and Dr. Richard Hall (At Large) were unopposed in their bid for reelection.

The 2006-2007 slate of WNYHHA Officers will be determined at the upcoming June 29 meeting.

Hamburg, NY, June 22, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, June 19, 2006 -

Hamburg, NY, June 9, 2006 -

Beginning on Friday, June 9, 2006, first post at Buffalo Raceway will change to 7:05pm nightly.

Hamburg, NY, June 7, 2006 -

Batavia, NY, June 7, 2006 -