Thursday, November 19, 2015

Vernon Downs clarifies position on embattled Lago Casino project

Owner makes official statement on behalf of entertainment complex

Vernon, N.Y. - November 19, 2015 - While the Lago Casino project continues to be debated, Vernon Downs' owner Jeff Gural has released a statement clarifying their official position on the matter. This comes just after a minority owner of Vernon Downs, made a statement to the media earlier this week backing Lago.

"Mr. Greenburg owns an extremely small percentage of Vernon Downs, is not involved in the daily operation of the property and his unsubstantiated statements and opinions do not reflect that of Vernon Downs, Tioga Downs or American Racing and Entertainment, LLC," said owner Jeff Gural. "We want to let the media and public know that we have not taken a position on the matter involving the Lago Casino. We trust that state regulators will determine the appropriate course of action on the project once all factors are considered. Obviously cannibalization is a concern but for the moment our focus is on the Tioga Downs expansion project in anticipation of the full gaming license.  We are continuing to effectively operate Vernon Downs to best position it for the future and as winter sets in we hope the new indoor garage will make it easier for our customers to visit.  Members of the media are welcome to contact me at any time if they would like a comment on American Racing and Entertainment or its associated properties," Gural added.

Tioga Downs recently broken ground on its own expansion in anticipation of receiving the state's final full casino gaming license.  The official gaming licenses are expected to be issued to the four New York State Gaming Facility Location Board recommended locations at the end of this year.

In addition to live harness racing, Vernon Downs offers 767 of the most popular slot machines. A variety of eateries are also part of the entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY, and Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY. Tioga Downs is beginning the process of transforming into a full casino gaming resort to serve the Southern Tier and beyond as well as expanding its facility and workforce to accommodate live casino gaming. In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 700 family-sustaining jobs and donated millions to nonprofit organizations. For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.vernondowns.com.

Monday, November 16, 2015

Vernon Downs prepares for close of live racing season

November 21 event features "war horse" finale, fireworks

Vernon, N.Y. - November 16, 2015 - Another exciting season of racing is coming to a close at Vernon Downs on Saturday, November 21. Fans are invited to cheer on a veteran horse expected to make one last career race on this final night. Fourteen-year-old "My Fella" is required to retire at age 15 and will race against other "war horses" who are at least ten years old and have amassed more than $100,000 in career earnings over at least 200 starts.

Live racing begins with a post time of 6:45 pm. Several special promotions are planned, including a Snow Camouflage Long Sleeve T-Shirt giveaway (while supplies last). A Fall Fever Handicapping Contest will allow guests to enter to win up to $250 by accumulating the largest "mythical bank account." Fans should arrive early to join the contest, as all entries must be received prior to the start of live racing.

Lastly, guests are invited to stay after the end of racing that evening and enjoy a spectacular fireworks display marking the conclusion of the 2015 racing season.

"We want to make the last night of racing something special for our loyal fans," said owner Jeff Gural. "Those who have never been to a race are also more than welcome to join in the special events we have planned to wrap up another exciting season."

In addition to live harness racing, Vernon Downs offers 767 of the most popular slot machines. A variety of eateries are also part of the entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY, and Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY. Tioga Downs is beginning the process of transforming into a full casino gaming resort to serve the Southern Tier and beyond as well as expanding its facility and workforce to accommodate live casino gaming. In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 700 family-sustaining jobs and donated millions to nonprofit organizations. For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.vernondowns.com.