Andrew Hamilton to Bolster Food and Beverage Program at Tioga, Vernon Downs

Casinos Name New Senior Regional Director of Food and Beverage

NICHOLS & VERNON, NY – Mr. Jeff Gural, owner of Tioga Downs Casino Resort and Vernon Downs Casino Hotel, is thrilled to announce another impressive addition to the leadership team of both establishments. Andrew Hamilton has been named Senior Regional Director of Food and Beverage for the thriving Nichols and Vernon destinations.

A veteran of the food and beverage industry, Mr. Hamilton has had a passion for culinary arts since a young age. The Philadelphia Enquirer dubbed him as an “upcoming chef” at the age of 23. Today, he brings with him more than 40 years of experience, 24 years of which he spent with Hyatt Hotels and Hyatt Gaming. There, he worked at 14 properties in various leadership roles, ranging from Executive Chef to Assistant General Manager. He opened 12 properties with Hyatt Hotels including the Lone Eagle Grille in Lake Tahoe, Nevada and the Black Hawk casino in Black Hawk, Colorado. Mr. Hamilton also spent time as Vice President of Food and Beverage for Jack Binion at the Horseshoe casino in Bossier City, Louisiana. Most recently, Mr. Hamilton served as the Food and Beverage Director in Rochester, Washington, where he completed a $45 million renovation for the Washington Chehalis Tribe.

“At Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs, people come for the top-tier gaming and entertainment, but they stay, and return, for the full experience,” Jeff Gural, owner of Tioga Downs, said. “Our fantastic food and beverage programs are the centerpiece of that experience, and we have full confidence that Mr. Hamilton’s direction will enhance every aspect of dining in both Nichols and Vernon.”

With the introduction of exciting amenities, like P. J. Clarke’s restaurant, Tioga Downs has truly transformed into a full-service destination resort. Mr. Hamilton, a native of Laconia, New Hampshire, is pleased that his new position has brought him back to the northeast, and is looking forward to launching the food and beverage programs at both Tioga and Vernon Downs to new heights.

About Tioga Downs:

Tioga Downs, which opened in 2006, offers live harness racing, casino gaming and live entertainment.  Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, New York as well as Vernon Downs in Vernon, New York.  Since opening the new casino in December 2016, Tioga Downs has expanded its gaming offerings to include 944 slot machines, 32 table games and a luxurious 12-table poker room, which is now affiliated with the World Series of Poker.  The new Tioga Downs Hotel, which spans six stories and boasts 161 rooms, an events center and many other exciting amenities, officially opened in December 2017. Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 1,000 family-sustaining jobs and donated millions to nonprofit organizations. For more information on Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.

Tioga, Vernon Downs Name New President/General Manager

Charlie Otto to oversee operations at two premiere upstate casinos

NICHOLS & VERNON, NY – Mr. Jeff Gural, owner of both Tioga Downs Casino Resort and Vernon Downs Casino Hotel, is pleased to announce the promotion of Mr. Charlie Otto to President/General Manager.

Mr. Otto was officially promoted from his previous position of Director of Operations at Tioga Downs to President/General Manager of both Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs. He has been serving as the Interim President/GM of the two facilities for the past six months. Mr. Otto is a veteran of the gaming industry, having spent 33 years in the casino business, 25 of which he spent in upstate New York casinos. Per his new promotion, Mr. Otto will oversee all operations at both Tioga and Vernon Downs.

“Tioga Downs is performing better than ever before, and Vernon Downs has started performing better under Mr. Otto’s leadership. That success of both establishments is, in large part, thanks to the guidance and direction of Charlie Otto,” Mr. Jeff Gural, owner of Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs, said. “His recent promotion is well deserved, and I have no doubt Mr. Otto will only continue and enhance the success of these two facilities.”

Mr. Otto’s promotion became effective November 1^st.

About Tioga Downs:

Tioga Downs, which opened in 2006, offers live harness racing, casino gaming and live entertainment.  Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, New York as well as Vernon Downs in Vernon, New York.  Since opening the new casino in December 2016, Tioga Downs has expanded its gaming offerings to include 944 slot machines, 32 table games and a luxurious 12-table poker room, which is now affiliated with the World Series of Poker.  The new Tioga Downs Hotel, which spans six stories and boasts 161 rooms, an events center and many other exciting amenities, officially opened in December 2017. Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 1,000 family-sustaining jobs and donated millions to nonprofit organizations. For more information on Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.

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Tioga, Vernon Downs Owner Thanks Local Leaders for Continued Support

Mr. Jeff Gural Credits Loyal Dignitaries for Success of Casinos

Nichols, NY & Vernon, NY – In light of Tioga Downs tremendous ongoing success, Mr. Jeff Gural, Chairman of American Racing and Entertainment and owner of Tioga Downs Casino Resort and Vernon Downs Casino, is thanking political leaders in the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier region for their continued support. 

“It’s important to me to express my lasting appreciation for the esteemed dignitaries who have gone above and beyond to advocate for these casinos, which are both among the largest employers in their respective regions,” Mr. Gural said. “Tioga Downs is performing better than any other competing casino in the region, and the future of Vernon Downs is no longer uncertain. We owe that success to the continued bipartisan support of our great leaders, who have a genuine care and concern for their constituents and the communities we serve.”

Mr. Gural would like to specifically recognize Senator Fred Akshar, Senator Thomas O'Mara, Senator Joseph Griffo, Senator John Bonacic, Assemblyman Chris Friend, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi. Their support and commitment has made it possible for Tioga Downs to solidify itself as one of the Southern Tier’s premiere destinations.

Both establishments look forward to many years of continued success and prosperity that will be a tremendous benefit to the region in terms of boosting tourism, generating tax revenue and spurring job creation.

About Tioga Downs:

Tioga Downs, which opened in 2006, offers live harness racing, casino gaming and live entertainment.  Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, New York as well as Vernon Downs in Vernon, New York.  Since opening the new casino in December 2016, Tioga Downs has expanded its gaming offerings to include 944 slot machines, 32 table games and a luxurious 12-table poker room, which is now affiliated with the World Series of Poker.  The new Tioga Downs Hotel, which spans six stories and boasts 161 rooms, an events center and many other exciting amenities, officially opened in December 2017. Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 1,000 family-sustaining jobs and donated millions to nonprofit organizations. For more information on Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.

Vernon Downs to Unveil New and Improved Gaming Floor

Vernon Downs Announces Gaming Floor Changes, Upcoming Luau Party

Vernon, N.Y. – August 21, 2018 – Gaming at Vernon Downs will soon be bigger and better than ever before!

After seven weeks of expansion and renovations, Vernon Downs will re-open its new and improved gaming floor at 9 a.m. on Friday, August 24^th. With new machines, a designated promotions area and a thoughtfully re-designed gaming floor, plus new paint, carpeting and flooring, the gaming area has undergone a complete makeover and is more functional and aesthetically pleasing than ever before.

Our luau party on Saturday, August 25^th will be the perfect opportunity for the media to experience the new gaming floor, and take in an evening of Hawaiian-themed fun. We’ll welcome 700 guests to this private VIP event, making it our largest party to date. There will be quality entertainment provided by Hawaiian Luau dancers and drummers, plus a full buffet, open bar and a pig roast. The fun kicks off at 6 p.m. and will end at 8 p.m.; we hope to see our media partners there!

In addition to its video lottery terminals, Vernon Downs offers live harness racing, concerts and other entertainment. Jeff Gural owns Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY and Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY.  In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 1,000 family-sustaining jobs. For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.vernondowns.com.

Wynonna and The Big Noise to Rock Vernon Downs July 27th

Benefit Concert will Support Food Bank of Central New York

Vernon, N.Y. – July 20, 2018 – It will be all about good music and a great cause at Vernon Downs on Friday, July 27^th.

Wynonna and The Big Noise will perform a special benefit concert to benefit the Food Bank of Central New York. Wynonna will give the crowd at Vernon Downs an unforgettable experience delivering hits from her debut album with her new band, The Big Noise. All ticket sales will be donated to the organization and Vernon Downs owner Jeff Gural has generously pledged to personally donate $15 for every ticket sold. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the concert, sponsored by Pepsi, kicks off at 8 p.m.

“The Food Bank of Central New York is a fantastic organization that feeds families all over our region, donating nearly 39,000 pounds of food every day,” Mr. Gural said. “They’re making a major difference in the daily lives of those in need, and we’re happy to help support them in that important work.”

Mr. Gural and Vernon Downs have set a goal of $100,000. Tickets are $15, and are on sale now on Ticketmaster.com and the Vernon Downs Hotel Casino Player’s Club.

In addition to its video lottery terminals, Vernon Downs offers live harness racing, concerts and other entertainment. Jeff Gural owns Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY and Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY.  In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 1,000 family-sustaining jobs. For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.vernondowns.com.

Memorial Day weekend to feature live racing Vernon Downs

Racing on Monday May 28 to honor all those that have put their lives on the line for the country

Vernon, N.Y. – May 24, 2018 – As we enter the Memorial Day weekend, it is a time to remember and honor all those, past and present, that have fought for the United States and put their lives on the line daily to protect our freedom.  Vernon Downs Owner Jeff Gural has long honored military veterans as well as active duty military and will be once again hosting a celebration of our military heroes on Monday, May 28, with live harness racing, giveaways and entertainment. 

With a post time of 1:05 p.m., Vernon Downs will kick off its Memorial Day celebration with live harness racing including a live bugler that will be calling horses to post.  Guests will be treated to the New York Sire Stakes 3-Year-Old Colt Pace as well as the Empire Breeders Classic Trot Finals. There will be an American flag baseball hat giveaway (while supplies last) for all guests that visit the raceway as well.  Promotions include a free handicapping contest where contestants could win up to a $250 wagering voucher.

Guests of all ages are invited to enjoy these special events as well as all harness races during the Vernon Downs season. Only guests 18 years of age and older are permitted to wager on racing and take place in special promotions.

In addition to its video lottery terminals, Vernon Downs offers live harness racing, concerts and other entertainment. Jeff Gural owns Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY and Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY.  In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 1,000 family-sustaining jobs. For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.vernondowns.com.

MacDonald’s quest for four straight titles at Vernon starts Friday

Thursday, April 19, 2018 - by John Horne, for Vernon Downs

Vernon, NY --- John MacDonald has won three straight driving championships at Vernon Downs. He will begin his quest for four in a row as Vernon Downs opens for live racing on Friday (April 20) starting at 6:10 p.m.

MacDonald won 185 races last season. His main competition the last three years came from Chris Lems, who was runner-up all three years. Lems will be on hand opening day but will only be here part time this season.

Also returning is another former track champion, Jimmy Whittemore, who was third with 82 wins a year ago. Truman Gale (54) and Leon Bailey (30) round out the top five from last year.

MacDonald will also go for his third straight training title. He trained 57 winners in 2017. Andy Gardner returns to take another crack at the training title. He was just six wins behind MacDonald last season.

Opening day features free t-shirts and schedule magnets while they last. Fireworks will follow the 11-race card.

For more information go to www.vernondowns.com.

Vernon Downs to start live racing on Friday

Vernon, NY --- Vernon Downs is set to begin its 65th year of racing on Friday (April 20) with a new post time of 6:10 p.m.

Opening night will feature a t-shirt and schedule magnet giveaway, plus the popular “That’s My Driver” promotion. Five entries will be randomly selected following race two. All will have a chance to win up to $140. At the conclusion of the evening’s racing will be a large fireworks display.

Highlights for the season include “Derby Day” featuring the live showing of the Kentucky Derby on Saturday (May 5) with a special post time of 4:30 p.m. Memorial Day (May 28) features the Empire Classic finals for both 3-year-old filly trotters and 3-year-old trotting colts. Each final is racing for a purse of $250,000 (est.) with a post time of 1:05 p.m. The Zweig Memorial races will take place on Friday (Aug. 17) featuring the 3-year-old colt trot ($370,000 est.) and 3-year-old filly trot ($150,000 est.).

The Million Dollar Ball Drop will take place on Saturday (Aug. 18). The Horseplay Car Giveaway featuring a 2017 Ford Fiesta will be on Saturday (Sept. 1). 

John MacDonald will attempt to defend the driving and training titles he won in 2017. MacDonald was top driver in 2017 with 185 wins on the season and top trainer with 57 wins on the year. He was also the owner and trainer of Oh My Joepa, who won Horse of the Year honors with nine wins.

The 11-race card for Friday will feature leg one of the Robert E. Keller Trotting Series. A live bugler will be on hand for the festivities as well.

For more information go to www.vernondowms.com.

Vernon Downs Announces Highlights of Racing Season at Media Night

2018 season packed with racing promotions, entertainment

Vernon, N.Y. – April 17, 2018 – Local leaders and media partners gathered at the Gold Cup Buffet at Vernon Downs Tuesday for an exciting and informational peek into the upcoming racing season.

The event, which was complete with tours, photo opportunities, and interviews, detailed highlights of the 2018 racing season, including:

Kentucky Derby Day will be held at Vernon Downs on Saturday, May 5^th. Post time for racing is 4:30 p.m. Registration will begin for our fun Derby hat contest at 4 p.m., and food trucks will be on hand from 4 to 8 p.m. The day’s featured promotion is a $500 Derby Dream Bet.

This Memorial Day, fans can look forward to the Empire Breeders Classic Finals for the 3 year old Trotters, and an estimated $250,000 in purses. There will also be an American Flag baseball hat giveaway. Post time is 1:05 p.m.

There will be more than just racing to take in on Wednesday, July 4^th.  Post time is 6:10 p.m Guests will be able to catch a glimpse of a spectacular fireworks display and a fun-filled night of quality racing.

On Friday, July 27^th, it’s all about good music and a great cause at Vernon Downs! Wynonna and The Big Noise will perform a special benefit concert to benefit the Food Bank of Central New York. Wynonna will give the crowd at Vernon Downs an unforgettable experience delivering hits from her debut album with her new band, The Big Noise. All ticket sales will be donated to the organization and in addition, Vernon Downs owner Jeff Gural has generously pledged to match all ticket proceeds. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the concert kicks off at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15.

Zweig Stakes Day Highlights will take place on Friday, August 17^th. This exciting racing event will feature 3-year-old trotters and an estimated $630,000 in purses. There will also be a long sleeve shirt giveaway. Post time is 6:10 p.m.

Our highly anticipated Million Dollar Ball Drop will take place on Saturday, August 18^th. Post time is 6:10 p.m. The bal will drop during live racing. Fans have a chance to win up to $1,000,000.

There will be another major prize up for grabs during the Horseplay Car Giveaway on September 1^st. Post time is 6:10 p.m. Make a $1 donation and receive a rubber horse for your chance to toss, and enter to win a 2017 Ford Fiesta!

We appreciate the continued support of our media partners, patrons and dignitaries, and look forward to another great racing season at Vernon Downs!

In addition to its video lottery terminals, Vernon Downs offers live harness racing, concerts and other entertainment. Jeff Gural owns Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY and Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY.  In the last decade, Tioga Downs and Vernon Downs have created more than 1,000 family-sustaining jobs. For more information on Vernon Downs, please visit www.vernondowns.com.