Monday, November 30, 2015

Tioga Downs announces arrival of electronic blackjack

New gaming machines proving popular among visitors

Nichols, N.Y. - November 30, 2015 - Blackjack fans can now look no farther than Tioga Downs for their chance to play an electronic version of the popular card game. Special terminals for the games were just installed in the racino last week.

Up to 12 players can play electronic blackjack at a time. Two sides have been arranged, featuring six seats per "table," and each side has a separate virtual "dealer." The minimum bet is $5 for the main game and $1 for each of the optional side bets. Blackjack pays 3 to 2, and the dealer must hit soft 17.

"Our players have been asking for blackjack, and we are pleased to be able to add the game to our extensive offerings," said owner Jeff Gural. "We anticipate that it will also draw additional blackjack fans from the area."

The new electronic blackjack games aren't the first virtual table games to be played at Tioga Downs. Earlier this year, the casino added electronic roulette to the 800 gaming machines on the casino floor. Other popular games include Sex and the City, Blazing 7's Hot Shot Progressive, Big City 5's Progressive and video poker.

In addition to video lottery terminals, Tioga Downs offers live harness racing, live music and other entertainment. A variety of eateries are also part of the entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY and Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY. Tioga Downs is the lone bidder for the state's final full gaming license in the Southern Tier region. Once awarded, Tioga Downs will expand 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. For more information on Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.



Tioga Central wins New York State football championship today, celebrates with a motorcade visit to Tioga Downs

"I would like to congratulate the Tioga Central Tigers on their first New York State high school football championship, it is a well-deserved accomplishment for a wonderful group of student athletes. From the moment we walked in the doors of the school we could feel the energy, excitement and pride associated with being a Tioga Central Tiger.  For these students to go from a period of uncertainty surrounding their cherished programs to the pinnacle event for high school sports is a terrific ending to a long journey this year.  We look forward to being involved with Tioga Central for years to come and are proud of all the students, athletes, coaches, staff, volunteers and parents on a tremendous victory."  -Jeff Gural, CEO of American Racing and Entertainment, LLC.




Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Tioga Downs' Winterfest to offer free holiday fun for all ages

Series of seasonal events planned through 2015

Nichols, N.Y. - November 25, 2015 - The magic of the holidays begins this weekend with the return of Winterfest, a free celebration of the season for the entire family. The event kicks off November 28 and features nightly attractions such as a brand new magical dancing light and music show, singing tree shows and horse drawn wagon rides* from 5 - 9 pm. The event takes place on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout December. Additional event dates are planned for December 28, 29 and 30.

Other special holiday activities are also part of Winterfest 2015, sponsored by Redneck Boots & Western Wear located on 163 Main Street in Owego. Opening night will also feature a special Ice Bar on the Winners Circle Lounge patio from 7 - 11 pm complete with musical entertainment by Travis Rocco.

Saturday, December 5 brings an ice sculpting contest to Tioga Downs from 5 - 9 pm, and on Friday, December 11, a winner will be announced in the Holiday Wreath Contest. (Homemade wreaths must be delivered to the Players Club by December 11th at 8 pm to be considered for judging.) Cash prizes of $500, $300 and $200 will be awarded to the winning wreaths.

Tioga Downs will host a Holiday Craft Show Saturday, December 12 from 2 - 9 pm and Sunday, December 13 from 10 - 4 pm. The event is free and open to the public both days.

One of the most anticipated events is the annual Lighted Holiday Parade which takes place Saturday December 19 at 8 pm. All are welcome to enter, and winning floats can earn a cash prize for first, second and third places with the top winner taking home $1000. To register your vehicle, contact Alison Meyer at 607.321.9690 or ameyer@tiogadowns.com or Sarah Hoffman at 607.425.9325 or shoffman@tiogadowns.com.

Families are invited to a special Breakfast with Santa on Sunday, December 20. The event will be held from 10 am - 1 pm, the cost is $14.99 for adults and $6.99 for children.

Winterfest will not take place on December 25, but it resumes December 26 with an Outrageous Sweater contest at 8 pm offering cash prizes of $500, $300 and $200 and also features a reindeer petting zoo from 5 - 9 pm.

Winterfest 2015 wraps up Wednesday, December 30 with closing night events set for 5 - 9 pm.

Tioga Downs offers live harness racing, video lottery terminals, video poker and electronic roulette. A variety of eateries are also part of the current entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY and Vernon Downs in Vernon, 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 Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.


*Horse drawn carriage rides will not take place on Sundays with the exception of December 20 and December 27.

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

MEDIA REMINDER: TIOGA DOWNS WINTERFEST PRESS EVENT AND SPECIAL LIGHT SHOW PREVIEW SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT FROM 6 - 8 PM: ALL MEDIA AND MEDIA PERSONNEL REQUESTED TO ATTEND THIS SPECIAL EVENT

Good morning,

Just a quick reminder that the Tioga Downs Winterfest press conference is tonight from 6 – 8 pm.  Ken from W&W will be on hand to give the media a special preview of the first running of the light show which will make for great news coverage.

In addition, members of the media will be the first to learn about Tioga Downs’ long list of holiday activities that together create Winterfest 2015, sponsored by Redneck Boots & Western Wear located on 163 Main Street in Owego. The announcement will come during a special event set for tonight, Tuesday, November 24 from 6 – 8 pm at the casino.

The media is invited to first gather in the Winners Circle Lounge for a 6 pm news conference detailing what to expect during this year’s Winterfest. At 6:40 pm, following the announcements, media in attendance will have an opportunity to videotape/photograph a special presentation of the highly anticipated light show from the grandstands.

In addition to the media, Tioga Downs employees will also have an opportunity to attend the special preview show. Food and refreshments will be served. Members of the media who plan to attend the event are asked to RSVP to me as soon as possible.  All media staff and personnel are also invited to attend.

Please confirm the number of guests in your party along with media group and names.

If you have any questions or to confirm, please call me at 719-337-8238 or email me at stephenjamesdonnelly@gmail.com as I will not be checking this email for the rest of today.

Thank you, we look forward to previewing an even larger Winterfest 2015 tonight!

Best Regards,

Stephen J. Donnelly
Dynamic Innovation Group
719-337-8238: direct
800-930-8634: toll free

Friday, November 20, 2015

Tioga Downs Toy, Collectible show to benefit Toys for Toys, local foodbank

Public invited to shop, help those in need

Nichols, N.Y. - November 19, 2015 - A Toy and Collectible Show taking place this weekend at Tioga Downs is giving the community a chance to shop for the holidays and help those in need this season. The show, which features antique toys, trains, coins and collectibles, takes place Saturday, November 21 from 11 am - 7 pm and Sunday, November 22 from 10 am - 6 pm.

The event is being sponsored by the Marketplace at Tioga Downs, Early Owego Antique Center, Owego Elks Emporium, Dunbar Antiques and 'Erb Lady-Owego, Mapes Auction Gallery and Bostwicks Auctions.

The Toy and Collectible Show is free and open to the public, and all those attending are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped gift for Toys for Tots. Each person who donates will receive three entries per toy to win multiple door prizes.

"It's never too early to start thinking about how we can help brighten someone else's holiday," said Tioga Downs owner Jeff Gural. "We invite the community to join us in giving back in a small way to help others. Even a modest gift goes a long way in spreading joy this time of year."

Fees paid by vendors to participate in the event will be donated to the Foodbank of the Southern Tier.

Tioga Downs offers live harness racing, video lottery terminals, video poker and electronic roulette. A variety of eateries are also part of the current entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY and Vernon Downs in Vernon, 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 Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Tioga Downs invites media to special event announcing Winterfest 2015

Sneak preview for the media offers first look at this season's offerings

Nichols, N.Y. - November 16, 2015 - Members of the media will be the first to learn about Tioga Downs' long list of holiday activities that together create Winterfest 2015, sponsored by Redneck Boots & Western Wear located on 163 Main Street in Owego. The announcement will come during a special event set for Tuesday, November 24 from 6 - 8 pm at the casino.

The media is invited to first gather in the Winners Circle Lounge for a 6 pm news conference detailing what to expect during this year's Winterfest. At 6:40 pm, following the announcements, media in attendance will have an opportunity to videotape/photograph a special presentation of the highly anticipated light show from the grandstands.

"Last year's Winterfest was extremely successful and we have upped our game to bring even more fun and excitement this year.  We have an amazing line-up of events throughout November and December designed to spread holiday cheer to all ages," said President Tom Osiecki. "We look forward to sharing those details and a special sneak preview with our local media."

In addition to the media, Tioga Downs employees will also have an opportunity to attend the special preview show. However, the event itself is not open to the public. Food and refreshments will be served. Members of the media who plan to attend the event are asked to RSVP to Stephen Donnelly at the contact information above.

Tioga Downs offers live harness racing, video lottery terminals, video poker and electronic roulette. A variety of eateries are also part of the current entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY and Vernon Downs in Vernon, 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 Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.

Monday, November 16, 2015

Local teen to perform in Macy’s parade in NYC

Nichols, NY November 13, 2015:  Jeff Gural and Tioga Downs would like to congratulate 15-year old Greene sophomore Shannon Clark from Greene High School for being selected to be a member of the 2015 Macy's Great American Marching Band.  Gural and Tioga Downs have been longtime advocates of the arts and Southern Tier youth.   Clark's father is employed by American Racing and Entertainment, parent company of Tioga Downs. The band, made up of 185 music students from all 50 states, will perform in the nationally televised Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City on Thanksgiving morning. First-year members of the Macy's Great American Marching Band are selected after submitting an audition tape and application. Those who are chosen then spend six days in NYC prior to the Thanksgiving Day event learning the parade music and choreography with the other selected band members.  For Shannon Clark, a tuba player in the Greene music program, this will be her first experience performing in front of approximately 2.5 million spectators and 50 million TV viewers. To learn more about the Macy's Great American Marching Band, visit http://www.musfestivals.com/programs/great-american-marching-band/.

Be sure to watch Ms. Clark on Thanksgiving Day during national coverage of the Macy's Day Parade as she represents the Southern Tier.  Shannon is a 15 year old sophomore in Greene NY.  A lifelong musician, Shannon plays sousaphone, trombone, and piano.  Shannon has studied with world renowned Tubist, Dr, Aaron Tindall.  Greene contact: Heather Kriesel, MS/HS band director hkriesel@greenecsd.org.

Monday, November 9, 2015

Tioga Downs invites potential bidders to learn about expansion

Upcoming events to focus on minority and women-owned businesses

Nichols, N.Y. - November 9, 2015 - Just as Tioga Downs' multi-million dollar expansion begins, efforts to include minority and women-owned business enterprises in the process are also underway. Two special networking events to provide information on upcoming bidding opportunities are slated for Thursday, November 12.

The first session from 11 am to 1 pm will be geared towards mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection contractors and suppliers. An afternoon session from 2 to 4 pm will focus on site work, steel, masonry, interior carpentry, roofing and all additional trades. Both sessions will be held at Tioga Downs, and refreshments will be served.

Minority and women-owned businesses are asked to reserve a spot at either session by calling 716.855.1200 or emailing mwbe@lpciminelli.com by Tuesday, November 10. In addition, firms wishing to become prequalified as an invited bidder should contact Alicia Benjamin at abenjamin@lpciminelli.com.

"We are working to maximize opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses in our region as we embark on this exciting expansion at Tioga Downs," said owner Jeff Gural. The project itself has a goal of 30% minority and women-owned business participation.

Tioga Downs broke ground on the expansion on Friday October 30th. The entire project is expected to be completed by July 2017 and will include a new 60,000 sq. ft. amenities building with conference space, an indoor and outdoor banquet facility, a new restaurant, an outdoor pool and a six-story hotel with 161 rooms. The casino itself will also be expanded by 31,000 sq. ft. to allow for full casino gaming. The New York State Gaming Facility Location Board has recommended awarding the State's final full casino gaming license to Tioga Downs.

Tioga Downs offers live harness racing, video lottery terminals, video poker and electronic roulette. A variety of eateries are also part of the current entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY and Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY. Tioga Downs is beginning the process of transforming into a full casino gaming resort to serve the Southern Tier and beyond. Tioga Downs is in the process of 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 Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.

Thursday, November 5, 2015

Tioga Downs thanks community for generosity during high five weekend

More than 2,700 canned goods donated to those in need

Nichols, N.Y. - November 5, 2015 - At Tioga Downs, even a weekend of celebration wouldn't be complete without giving back to the community. Thanks to the generosity of its guests, Tioga Downs is donating more than 2700 canned goods to the Foodbank of the Southern Tier.

The entertainment complex broke ground last week on a major expansion in anticipation of being able to offer full casino gaming at the property. Tioga Downs is moving forward with the multi-million dollar casino project now that the New York State Gaming Facility Location Board has recommended awarding the State's final full casino gaming license to Tioga Downs.

In anticipation of the award of the full license, Tioga Downs celebrated its planned expansion as a resort destination by inviting the public to take part in special promotions. Each guest who brought two canned goods on Friday or Saturday was able to enjoy a $5 meal at the buffet.

"We are so pleased to be able to help provide canned good to those in need while allowing our patrons to join in celebrating such a significant weekend as we look towards a bright future," said owner Jeff Gural. "We can't thank the community enough for standing beside us and telling the state they supported Tioga Downs in the quest for this license."

Once full gaming revenues are generated at Tioga Downs, the casino has pledged that they will give a minimum of $1 million dollars in charitable contributions and $500,000 in small business loans annually to help those within the Southern Tier. Tioga Downs has a rich history of giving back to a variety of organizations that work to eliminate hunger, assist veterans and more.

Tioga Downs offers live harness racing, video lottery terminals, video poker and electronic roulette. A variety of eateries are also part of the current entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY and Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY. Tioga Downs is beginning the process of transforming into a full casino gaming resort to serve the Southern Tier and beyond. Tioga Downs is in the process of 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 Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.

Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Tioga Downs invites community to 'Vino at the Casino'

Special event offers celebration of local flavors

Nichols, N.Y. - October 28, 2015 - Tickets are on sale now for a chance to sample the best beer and wine the region has to offer at the annual Tioga Downs "Vino at the Casino" event set for Saturday, November 7. The entire community is invited to this showcase of the best food and beverage offerings in town. Several breweries and wineries from the Southern Tier will be pouring samples of their best brews and wines for guests to try from 1 - 8 pm.

Local cuisine is being provided by three vendors who were hand-selected to participate. Pacific Mountain Farms and Engelbert Farms are together known for their fresh meat, produce and dairy sourced right here in the Southern Tier. Meanwhile, Crystal City Olive Oils features a wide variety of flavor-infused oils, pastas and more.

The event continues to capture the community spirit even down to the entertainment. Local musician Virgil Cain will be the featured musical guest throughout the event. Virgil is known for being a one-man show who manages to create a full band sound. He performs on the keyboard, guitar and violin with a little help from technology to pull it together. Guests can enjoy a wide range of both original and cover songs in various musical styles. Later that evening, Andrew King will take the stage, performing after the tasting concludes, from 8 - 11 pm.

"We look forward to this event every year, because it highlights the gems of our community and gives our guests a chance to sample so much all under one roof," said owner Jeff Gural.

A $10 admission fee comes with 15 tasting tickets, which can be used for any combination of beer and wine. A $15 admission comes with 20 tasting tickets. All guests attending the event must be 21 years of age or older. Tickets can be purchased from the Tioga Downs gift shop or all Ticketmaster locations.

Tioga Downs offers live harness racing, video lottery terminals, video poker and electronic roulette. A variety of eateries are also part of the current entertainment complex. Jeff Gural owns Tioga Downs in Nichols, NY and Vernon Downs in Vernon, NY. Tioga Downs is beginning the process of transforming into a full casino gaming resort to serve the Southern Tier and beyond. Tioga Downs is in the process of 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 Tioga Downs, please visit www.tiogadowns.com.

Monday, November 2, 2015

Night of Illusions Press Conference

YWCA Elmira and the Twin Tiers
211 Lake Street
Elmira, NY, 14901
www.ywcaelmira.org
Anthony Charles Novakowski
Public Relations Specialist
anthonyn@ywcaelmira.org

Press Conference
Saturday, November 7th, 2015 at the YWCA 211 Lake Street.
Please join the YWCA and Tioga Downs for a press conference on Saturday, November 7th, 2015 at 3:30 PM at the YWCA 211 Lake Street Elmira NY 14901. We will be promoting the Night of Illusions, a Drag Show fundraiser being held at Tioga Downs on November 20th 2015. The Night of Illusions is a cabaret type production with the best female and male impersonators in the Twin Tiers.  All proceeds from the show will be going to the YWCA Elmira and the Twin Tiers. We invite all members of the media to this press conference to meet some of the performers for the fundraiser.  For more information please contact Anthony Novakowski via phone 607.733.5575 ext. 232 (office), 607.425.1341 (cell) or via email anthonyn@ywcaelmira.org


Thank you,

Anthony Charles Novakowski
YWCA Public Relations Specialist & Program Educator

YWCA Elmira and the Twin Tiers
211 Lake Street
Elmira NY 14901

P. 607-733-5575 ext. 232
F. 607-733-9524

www.ywcaelmira.org
anthonyn@ywcaelmira.org