First Round of $250,000 In Funding Announced By Tioga Downs Regional Community Foundation

Cocktail Reception for all recipients to be held Friday January 4^th at 6:30 pm

Nichols, N.Y. – January 2, 2019 – As part of the commitment of Tioga Downs and owner Jeff Gural, Tioga Downs is pleased to host its very first cocktail reception officially announcing the recipients of the first $250,000 in funding through the Tioga Downs Regional Community Foundation, a non-profit organization that reviews and selects applications for grant funding.

The cocktail reception will be held at the Tioga Downs ballroom on Friday, January 4 at 6:30 pm.  All sixteen award recipients will be on hand to receive their share of $250,000 during this inaugural event, with further announcements regarding the next round of grant funding forthcoming.  All sixteen grant award recipients were narrowed down from a list of more than fifty applications received since the beginning of November.

“My mother was from Binghamton, and I fondly remember spending many holidays here as a child. It’s a region I’ve grown to love, which is why I chose to do business here, and one I will always support,” Jeff Gural, owner of Tioga Downs, said. “Through the Tioga Downs Regional Community Foundation, we are proud to announce the first sixteen recipients that will share in $250,000 and we look forward to awarding additional grant monies in 2019.”

The Tioga Downs Regional Community Foundation is now accepting applications for 2019.  In 2019, $1 million will be paid out in two phases: the first phase will be in July 2019 and the second phase will be paid out in January 2020. Interested organizations looking to apply for funding can access the application here.

About Tioga Downs         

Tioga Downs, which opened in 2006, offers live harness racing, casino gaming, restaurants, golf 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 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.

DANCING UNITED WITH THE STARZ ’18 LIGHTS UP THE NIGHT

The Tioga United Way’s Dancing United with the Starz ’18 was a great success thanks to their generous donors, sponsors, dancers, volunteers and supporters. On Saturday, December 1, 2018, more than 400 guests sparkled and swayed in Tioga Downs’ gorgeous grand ballroom in Nichols, NY. Over-the-top hors d’oeuvres were enjoyed while participating in an exciting balloon pop. Their attention was then brought to the dance floor where Masters of Ceremony, Lew Sauerbrey and Cate Pichany along with Disc Jockey, Mike Neil, kept the audience engaged and grooving.

Tioga United Way Executive Director, Carolyn Palladino, announced that Mr. Jeff Gural would, once again, match half of what was raised for the entire event. This clearly inspired the audience to reach deep down in their pockets and donate even more.

The highlight of the event was watching the 11 competing couples light up the dance floor. The couple who won the Judge’s Choice Mirror Ball Trophy was Sabrina Slater, the Pastor of Christ the King Fellowship Presbyterian Church in Spencer, NY, and Merlin Joseph, Manager of Key Bank in Binghamton, NY who danced a salsa soca and wowed the audience. The couple who took home the People’s Choice Mirror Ball Trophy and raised the most money was Tia Wright with her brother, Arthur Murray Instructor, Harrison Wright, who danced a Mambo with a fun Bollywood beat.

The total amount raised from the event surpassed their goal of $50,000 which will go toward the 34 agencies of the Tioga United Way. In attendance were NY Senator Fred Akshar, Mr.& Mrs. Jeff Gural, Tioga County Legislator, Marte Sauerbrey, as well as many friends and family who travelled from all over to support their favorite dancer.

The Tioga United Way would like to give special thanks to Jana Bowen, Anne Grant, Barbara Patten, Madison Hornick, Teresa McNamara, Connie Sternberg, Betsy Snyder and Jenny Ceccherelli for volunteering their time and energy to make this event a success. If you would like to learn more about the 34 agencies of the Tioga United Way or if you’d like to volunteer to help at the next big fundraiser, the Adult Spelling Bee, send an email to tiogaunitedway@stny.rr.com. Mark your calendars for Dancing United with the Starz ’19 scheduled for November 2, 2019.

In the meantime, the Tioga United Way is conducting their annual giving campaign to assist those most in need in Tioga County. To make a donation, go to tiogaunitedway.com.

Cast of Dancing United with the Starz 2018.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Winners of the People’s Choice Mirror Ball Trophy Harrison and Tia Wright and Winners of the Judge’s Choice Mirror Ball Trophy, Sabrina Slater and Merlin Joseph.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Tioga Downs & Casino Owner Jeff Gural. with Tioga United Way Executive Director, Carolyn Palladino.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Masters of Ceremony, Cate Pichany and Lew Sauerbrey.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Tioga Downs Casino & Resort General Manager Charlie Otto with instructor, Peggy Sayers.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Owner of Tioga Media, Ian Barrett-Sargent with instructor, Annie Graham.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Owner of Fuddy Duddy’s Suzan Williams with instructor Philip Herin.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Director of the Tioga County Boys & Girls Club, Jamie Holliday with instructor, John Silvela.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

WBNG TV’s Kara Conrad with instructor, Geraldo Iglesias.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Owner of Yaman’s Automotive, Joe Yaman with instructor Karen Harriell.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Chemung Canal Trust Company Branch Manager, Sarah Darling with instructor, Tim Sayers.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Lockheed Martin employee, Mike Kania channeling his inner Michael Jackson.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Dancing United guests, Owner of Tom Ash Agency, Jennifer Welch, Executive Director of Racker, Dan Brown and Executive Director of Tioga County Rural Ministry, Sister Mary O’Brien.

Photo credit: Andreea Earley

Fifth Annual Winterfest Underway at Tioga Downs Casino Resort

Featuring free holiday fun and activities for all ages!

Nichols, N.Y. – November 29, 2018 – The magic of the holidays can surely be felt at Tioga Downs with the return of Winterfest, a free celebration of the season designed for the entire family.

Winterfest kicked off on Black Friday, and runs from 5 to 8:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays through December 22^nd. Guests can take in our spectacular display of Christmas lights with horse drawn wagon rides around the track, and children can enjoy train rides, visits with Santa and opportunities for priceless holiday photos! If you’re a fan of a little friendly competition, Winterfest is your time to shine: Tioga Downs will host competitions for ice carving, Christmas tree decorating, wreath designing and, of course, crazy sweaters!

Tioga Downs would like to thank Jim’s RV for their sponsorship, which makes possible the unforgettable holiday experience of horse drawn wagon rides at Tioga Downs.

Please visit our website or Facebook page for a complete schedule of Winterfest events and activities.

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.

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.

$250,000 Up for Grabs Through Tioga Downs Regional Community Foundation

Application Process Officially Open to Southern Tier Non-profits

NICHOLS, NY – Mr. Jeff Gural, owner of Tioga Downs Casino Resort, is making good on his promise to give back in a big way to community organizations in the Southern Tier.

The Tioga Downs Regional Community Foundation will award $250,000 in funding to non-profit organizations before the year’s end, and is now accepting applications. These funds are intended to contribute to community development in the counties surrounding Tioga Downs. The ideal organizations will be those that combat poverty and community deterioration by providing financial support to charitable organizations in order to advance charitable, religious, literary, scientific and educational purposes.   

Mr. Gural, who is well known for his passion for philanthropy and care for the community, says it’s a pleasure to award these funds to worthy recipients – but also a responsibility.

“Those who are fortunate enough to have the financial means to better the lives of others should do so whenever possible. I view it as a moral obligation,” Mr. Gural said. “I have a great care and concern for this community, where my mother was from. I, and Tioga Downs, will always be committed to improving quality of life for our neighbors.”

Applications are due by November 30 2018, and awards will be given out before the end of the year. In subsequent years, $1 million will be awarded annually.

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.

THANK YOU MR. & MRS. GURAL

On Thursday, August 9^th Tioga United Way, Inc. will hold a press conference to thank Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Gural for their generosity and support of our organization and community. The press conference will take place at 2 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom at Tioga Downs Casino Resort.

The Tioga United Way’s Dancing United with the Starz fundraiser took place at Tioga Downs last December, and the Gurals generously offered to match whatever was raised at the event. With the tremendous help of the Gurals, the event brought in more than $100,000.

“This singular donation is being distributed across all of our 34 wonderful agencies,” said Carolyn Palladino, Executive Director.  “Some will use it toward specific needs such as new freezers at our food pantries, appliances in our shelters, and books for our children.  While others will use it toward updating electrical systems, staff & volunteer training, as well as new programming.”  

The Board of Directors of the Tioga United Way hope that the Gurals will recognize that their financial support stretches far and wide across Tioga County and that they are truly making a difference in the lives of those in need.

The event will also showcase three agencies supported by the Tioga United Way: Owego Gymnastics & Activity Center, Spencer Van Etten Community Food Cupboard and Camp Ahwaga. 

To learn more, or find out how you can help support the Tioga United Way, please visit tiogaunitedway.com.

Wynonna and The Big Noise to Shake Stage at Tioga Downs July 28th

Benefit Concert will Support the Southern Tier Veteran’s Support Group

Nichols, N.Y. – July 26, 2018 – You can take in a great show and and support a great cause on Saturday, July 28^th at Tioga Downs.

Wynonna and The Big Noise will perform a special benefit concert to benefit the Southern Tier Veterans Support Group at 8:00 p.m. Grammy-nominated country artist Wynonna will give the crowd at Tioga 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 Tioga Downs owner Jeff Gural has generously pledged to match all ticket proceeds.

“I have tremendous respect and admiration for the men and women who have served our armed forces, which is why it’s especially important to me to support veteran’s groups whenever possible,” Mr. Gural said. “Last year’s benefit concert raised $110,000 for the Southern Tier Veteran’s Support Group, and I’m hopeful we can do even better this year.”

Tickets are available for $15 each in the Tioga Downs gift shop and ticketmaster.com.

The 2018 Tioga Downs Summer Concert Series is sponsored by Mirabito Energy Products and Pepsi, the official beverage sponsor.

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 Downs to unveil new outdoor pool, cabana bar Friday

Highlights announced of action-packed night at Tioga Downs Casino Resort

Nichols, N.Y. – June 19, 2018 – Summer is officially upon us, and Tioga Downs is kicking off the season with a splash on Friday, June 22.

The Southern Tier’s premiere entertainment destination will unveil its new outdoor pool and cabana bar Friday. The addition of these fantastic new amenities will make Tioga Downs Casino Resort an even more attractive destination for guests during the warmer months. A grand opening celebration will be held from 6 to 8 p.m.

There’s even more excitement in store for the crowds at Tioga Downs that evening. Tioga Downs is proud to be the Presenting Partner of the 2018 Greater Binghamton Air Show, which takes place at the Greater Binghamton Airport on Saturday, June 23. As a show of appreciation for Tioga Downs’ support and partnership, several of the planes that will be included in Saturday’s air show will fly in formation over the resort casino, giving guests a sneak peek of what’s in store for the highly anticipated air show. The flyover is scheduled to take place at approximately 6:15 p.m., at the start of racing.

Our media partners are encouraged to attend Friday’s events.

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.