It was a busy afternoon for prospective brides and grooms at Sunday's wedding show at Batavia Downs, according to Ryan Hasenauer, marketing director for Western OTB, with more than 200 people attending the event.
There was plenty for them to see with dozens of vendors and a fashion show featuring wedding dresses from various designers.
Submitted photos.
It was a packed house at Batavia Downs today for the first day of the Legends & Stars Sports Expo.
Dozens of vendors are selling sports memorabilia while sports stars, including some current members of the Buffalo Bills, are signing autographs.
At the autograph tables in these photos are Lee Evans, Willie McGahee, and Roscoe Parish.
Doors are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
Press release:
Western Region Off-Track Betting (WROTB) / Batavia Downs Gaming President and CEO Henry Wojtaszek presented representatives from the Genesee County Volunteers for Animals and the Genesee County Animal Shelter with checks totaling $2,471 to help support their efforts to take care of animals in the Genesee County area.
The Puppy Paws Indoor Craft and Vendor Market, held at Batavia Downs on February 6th, was organized by Mary Bucceri, Group Sales Manager at Batavia Downs. 100% of collected vendor fees and accepted donations by attendees were given to these 2 local organizations.
Volunteers for Animals will use the money raised for pet supplies and medical expenses for the animals. The Genesee County Animal Shelter will use the money to repair and replace various equipment at the Animal Shelter and in the Animal Control van. in addition to purchasing safety equipment for the officers when interacting with feral cats.
“We host several vendor events throughout the year, and we are happy to use these events to help raise money for local worthy organizations,” said Wojtaszek. “We will continue to do what we can to be a good partner to local charities and organizations.”
“The Volunteers for Animals would like to give a special thanks to Batavia Downs and their continued support, “ said VFA Board President Deb Stocking. “We work hard every year to raise enough money to continue to help the animals. The Downs has been a huge part of this goal. Thank you all for your hard work and - the dogs and cats say 'thank you' as well!”
Press release:
Todd Haight, the long-time general manager and director of live racing at Batavia Downs, has announced that he will retire from that position at Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corporation effective March 15.
"I would like to thank WROTB Chairman of the Board Richard Bianchi and all the directors for their support over the past 20 years. I would also like to thank my dedicated co-workers who proved to be a great support system for the live racing department, and the members of the Western New York Harness Horseman's Association that I’ve worked in conjunction with for many years," said Haight.
Haight started at WROTB in 1998 as an independent contractor and later became an employee when the historic racetrack re-opened in 2002.
He first co-hosted a nightly live broadcast of races on cable TV with track announcer John Bothe. Then in 2005, he joined the corporation's marketing department, and that allowed him to reinstate all the great promotions that occurred at Batavia before WROTB purchased the Downs.
"I was able to bring back the popular driver's bike race on Labor Day and the old-fashioned hot dog days and our fans responded in big numbers once we did. Another popular promotion we started and grew was the wiener dog races and it’s nice to see so many other race tracks are doing them now," said Haight.
“I was also able to hit the streets to sell advertising and more importantly, develop great relationships throughout the community. We used those relationships to bring businesses -- many of them for the first time -- to the Downs for a night at the races. Working with Group Sales Manager Mary Bucceri, we routinely sold out the clubhouse. Those groups affected the corporation's bottom line with sales surpassing one million dollars."
Haight explained his most valuable experience during his tenure was to work side-by-side with then WROTB vice-president and general manager of live racing, Mike Kane. He said that although he already knew the racing side of the business, Kane's mentoring on the management aspect made all the difference and was a roadmap to success for him.
In 2011 when the WROTB board of directors promoted Kane to President, Haight was promoted to general manager and he remained in that position through his retirement.
The racing product grew under Haight's watch and in 2013 betting rose 24%. Incremental year-over-year increases continued until 2019 when the track hosted the prestigious New York Sire Stakes Night of Champions and saw new records set for both total betting handle and nightly betting handle.
"I was very happy with the way the Night of Champions turned out. It was the biggest card of racing here since the 1988 Breeders Crown and it was simply a great night, from the crowd to the racing to the event itself. The entire staff here stepped up and did an incredible job," said Haight.
"We got through the pandemic relatively unscathed in 2020 and despite not having spectators, nightly betting doubled the levels of 2011 and crushed the records set in 2019. Last year we tried some new things and you could look at the tote-board and clearly see our pools were bigger. We ended the year up to about $3,000 per race, which was another record since WROTB took over the Downs."
Haight is currently a USTA director and the chairman of District 8 and will remain in both of those positions. And regardless of which job he was doing, his hard work promoting the sport of harness racing has not gone unnoticed by his peers.
"It was my pleasure to work with Todd for the past 10 years. As general manager of racing at Batavia Downs, Todd had an amazing mastery of the many responsibilities his job entailed. I will miss working with him as he was a true professional. I wish him all the best in the years to come," said Bruce Tubin, president of the Western New York Harness Horsemen's Association.
"Todd has been a pleasure to work with and he will leave big shoes to fill. His kind are a dying breed in that he cared for racing so much. I wish him the best of luck in retirement," said Kim Crawford, director of USTA District 8.
"I have worked with Todd at Batavia Downs since 2014 and can tell you there is no one in this industry who worked harder to promote harness racing than him. Appeasing an established customer base while trying to draw the next generation to the sport is not easy, but he maintained that delicate balance which in turn drove increased handle and attendance to the track year over year. He will certainly be missed," said Tim Bojarski, racing publicist and president of the Upstate New York Chapter of the United States Harness Writers Association.
As far as retirement, Haight isn’t sure about his future and has indicated that he has several options.
"If it’s playing a lot of golf I’m okay with it. And if it’s remaining in the horse racing industry in some capacity, I’m okay with that too. In any event, the last 20-plus years have been good to me and for that I’m extremely grateful."
Photo: File photo from 2021 by Howard Owens.
The Third annual Batavia Brew Fest was held at Batavia Downs on Friday night. It was sponsored by Genesee Specialty & Young Lion Brewing Company. The event was well attended and according to one attendee “They hit the sweet spot for this event, I’ll definitely come to more”.
Press release:
Officials from Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel have announced that they have entered into an agreement with the Riviera Theatre, located in North Tonawanda, NY whereby both properties will help promote each other’s musical events.
Each Riviera Ticket will have a free play coupon, valid at Batavia Downs, for attendees of the Riviera’s events. Riviera will also display signage onsite noting Batavia Downs as a major sponsor of their facility. General Admission Tickets will also be on sale for the Michael DelGuidice Show (Celebrating the music of Billy Joel) at the Riviera Box office for the discount price of $10.
Batavia Downs will be giving away tickets to select Riviera events to customers via drawings, all while advertising those upcoming events on their website and social media pages.
“The live entertainment industry is coming back in a big way, “said Henry Wojtaszek, President and CEO for Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel. “We hope that by partnering with another facility we are able to help a fellow venue owner, and also provide more prizes in the form of Riviera tickets to our great guests here. We want the people of Western New York to continue to support local live events which keep so many of our friends and neighbors employed.”
"Batavia Downs has been a major sponsor for the Riviera Theatre over the last three years, " said Riviera Theatre Executive Director David Fillenwarth. "We are excited to partner with Batavia Downs to collaborate and help each other market our shows. The entertainment industry struggled as a whole the last two years and we are always looking for new ways to promote and host great concerts. Batavia Downs shares that same vision and this will open the door for bigger and better things to come in the future at both venues. I think we can all agree that there is always room for more live concerts in our lives."
Officials from Batavia Downs also announced continuing promotions for purchasing tickets at the Lucky Treasures Gift Shop in the Batavia Downs lobby through Valentine’s Day with $15 in Free Play for each ticket purchased.
Those wishing to buy tickets online for upcoming Batavia Downs Events can visit https://www.bataviaconcerts.com. Tickets for upcoming Riviera Theatre Events can be found at www.rivieratheatre.org/upcoming-events/. Tickets for select events at the Riviera Theatre are given away via drawings on Wednesday nights at Batavia Downs.
Submitted photo.
Among the vendors at yesterday's Volunteers for Animals Vendor Fair, hosted by Batavia Downs, were Brock Bucceri and Hunter Wagner making their vendor show debut as entrepreneurs.
During the pandemic, Bucceri and Wagner (along with friend Gavin Beck, not pictured) decided to start making their own fishing lures.
"We spent a lot of money on fishing lures at Dick's and Cabela's where a frog can cost up to $12," said 13-year-old Bucceri. "So we said, 'let's make some money off of it and we can get some free lures."
The trio makes the senkos they sell themselves. They design the frogs and have them custom manufactured, which they sell for $8.99.
Yeah, that's cheaper than the big retailers but Bucceri said they're still making money -- mostly with sales through Etsy -- because their frogs sell.
The first-ever vendor fair was a big success, according to Angie Knisley, who organized the event for Volunteers for Animals. It raised more than $2,000 and the more than 300 people who attended brought in a large amount of food and other pet-care donations.
“It’s an outrage,” said Committee Chair Marianne Clattenburg, who represents the City of Batavia. “I’m really concerned about this power grab.”
Clattenburg said Genesee County has a significant stake in WROTB, the public benefit company that operates Batavia Downs Gaming and harness track in Batavia and Off-Track Betting locations throughout Western New York.
She mentioned that Genesee County provides law enforcement and public safety services to the Park Road facility.
Richard Siebert, (photo at right), the county WROTB director for the past 28 years, brought the matter to the legislature’s attention two weeks ago and he was present at today’s meeting at the Old County Courthouse in support of the resolution that would retain the longstanding board structure – one vote for each director representing 15 counties and the cities of Rochester and Buffalo.
Kennedy’s bill calls for the following:
Kennedy said that his intent is to “provide more equal representation of the people of the area who benefit from proceeds from said corporation.”
Siebert, in disputing that contention, said “this is just a blatant takeover of (by) very powerful people.”
“In my estimation, we have a very good thing going here. You know what we’re doing here in the casino ... the race track, with our concerts,” he said.
With a year-by-year revenue distribution list in hand, Siebert said WROTB has distributed more than $12 million to Genesee County since 1975.
“When we joined OTB in 1974, we had to give them $13,700 seed money. To date, our investment for Genesee County – the cash we have paid – is $12,683,000 and change,” he said. “If anybody in Albany is saying that we’re not doing a good job, for a $14,000 investment and getting $12 million back speaks (for itself).”
Siebert said the key issue is that Genesee County “has the most to lose” by not having its own vote on legislative, purchasing, personnel, and other topics.
He said with the casino and horse racing track in the Town of Batavia, local municipal leaders are available to handle situations that come up from time to time.
“If there's a problem with Redfield Parkway, or noise or horse manure, which we’ve had in the past, people can come to you and can come to me and say, ‘What’s going on over there and why are we doing this or that?’” he said. “Not having one director to represent our count and everything we’ve got going on here, is just, I think, a travesty.”
Siebert said WROTB directors in other rural counties also are going to their legislators and council members in expectation of similar resolutions, and that the corporation is looking to hire a lobbying firm to exert political pressure on senators and assembly members in Albany.
“And a third thing is to basically go back to the position that we’re a public benefit corporation set up under Home Rule, and if they want to take us apart, they have to do it the same way we started – take us apart by Home Rule and let you people (legislature) decide,” he said.
The resolution points out that WROTB has generated more than $250 million in operating and surcharge revenues to the taxpayers of the participating municipalities, with Siebert adding that the board sends $3 million per month to New York State for what is supposed to go to support education.
Passed unanimously by the committee, the resolution will be addressed by the full legislature at next Wednesday’s meeting.
It’s a familiar story with a surprise twist for one Batavia-based nonprofit.
Volunteers For Animals had been planning its first-ever vendor fair for early April in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic struck and rendered all public activities dead. That’s the familiar part for so many organizations that had to press pause for their fundraising events. What happened this year is a surprise.
“We found out the Downs and (Batavia Downs employee) Mary Bucceri was going to host it for us,” volunteer Angie Knisley said during an interview with The Batavian. “I think they felt bad about what happened in 2020.”
And the Puppy Paws Craft & Vendor Market was born. It’s set for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Batavia Downs & Gaming, 8315 Park Road, Batavia. Monetary donations and pet supplies and food will be accepted at the door. Admission to the event is free.
Proceeds from the event are earmarked for where most VFA fundraising goes, Knisley said: direct animal care. Rescued dogs and cats may need a veterinarian to treat wounds, fractures, or other injuries; required vaccines; dental care or other medical services, Knisley said. VFA, a nonprofit based at Genesee County Animal Shelter, pays those expenses.
Zoey and Wasabi are two of the many animals saved with such medical services paid for by VFA. A tan brindled Boxer with white paws and chest, Zoey was rescued with a group of dogs in a hoarding situation. She was thin and found to be positive for heartworm. A vet’s exam and X-ray discovered she had a severe case of heart worm disease, and volunteers mulled the idea of a lengthy, risky, and quite expensive process to restore Zoey to better health.
The answer was yes. Zoey was housed with Diane, an animal lover who volunteered to foster, house, and care for Zoey during her treatment. The two have bonded over the past few months as Zoey has gained weight and come to enjoy her life. Perhaps no surprise is that Diane plans to adopt her new friend.
Wasabi, a glowing green-eyed feline, was found as a stray with severe hair loss and loaded with fleas. She’s been treated, vaccinated, and, with a new outlook and “great” personality, Wasabi has been adopted and welcomed into a loving home, volunteers said.
Knisley has not only heard about and witnessed these stories, but she has also adopted rescue cats from Genesee County and other similar animal shelters over the years. Once she got to know the inner workings of VFA, it drew her to become more involved, she said.
“So when I had the opportunity to get a closer look at all the time, care, and funding that VFA members devoted to animal welfare, I felt I would like to help however I could; maybe sort of paying it backward,” she said. “I think because I do care about animal welfare and their needs, and I have the time to help out. I felt it was something good to do, to be able to do something positive for them means a lot."
The Corfu resident has been a hands-on member of VFA off and on for eight years, she said. Her role includes helping out with fundraisers, and she looks forward to this first vendor fair. There are more than 35 businesses registered so far, including Gourmet Dips, Epicure, Mary Kay, Pampered Chef, Paparazzi, Artful Shenanigans, Scentsy, Touchstone Crystal, Lula Roe, Pudgies Lawn & Garden, Dead Stick Fishing Company, and Tastefully Simple. Shoppers — may be in search of a Valentine’s gift? — will find a wide variety of products, from makeup, purses, popcorn, and Valentine’s gift boxes to sun catchers, photo packages, and Tupperware.
Anyone that makes a donation to VFA at the door will be entered into a drawing for a Stay & Play gift certificate valued at $225 at Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel. All attendees age 18 and older will receive Free Play for the gaming floor. Lunch will be available for purchase.
“The Downs is really highlighting Valentine’s Day with decorations. It’s a nice day out and a fun way if someone wants to do a little Valentine’s shopping,” she said. “And it gives them a chance to learn more about the shelter and the Volunteers For Animals programs.”
The VFA will have a table with information at the event. There may be a few spots left to participate, and interested vendors may call Mary Bucceri at 585-344-6144 or email mbucceri@westernotb.com for more information.
Top photo: Angie Knisley, a member of Volunteers For Animals, shows off Abby, a friendly five-year-old cat who has been overlooked for adoption at Genesee County Animal Shelter on Route 5, Batavia. She really needs a home, Knisley says, and would make for a great companion. For more information about Abby and other prospective pets, go to vol4animals.org. Photo by Howard Owens.
Press Release:
The Ricky Palermo foundation announced today that a charity concert will be taking place at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel on Friday, June 10th. All proceeds from tickets sales will go directly to the Ricky Palermo Foundation to fund spinal cord research.
The concert will be headlined by Bruce in the USA, the World’s #1 Tribute to Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band. It is a high-energy musical experience that is a note-perfect and visually accurate recreation of a Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band show. The band consists of seasoned world class professional musicians and has toured all over the globe for more than 15 years.
“We were honored that Ricky thought of us when he and his foundation were looking for a place to hold their show,” said Henry Wojtaszek, President and CEO for Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel. “Through the concert we hope to assist Ricky and his foundation to not just raise funds but also awareness of spinal cord research.”
“Our Ricky Palermo Foundation has been finding many ways to raise awareness and much needed money to help our community and find a cure for spinal cord injuries,” said Ricky Palermo, President and CEO of the Ricky Palermo Foundation. “A large portion of the money raised from this year's concert on June 10th will be staying in our community as we donate to our local YMCA and UMMC, Rochester Regional Health, as well as the Strong Memorial Hospital Spinal Injury Unit and The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis. Our Foundation would like to thank the Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel staff for partnering with us as we continue to find yet another way to bring people together. We normally have an annual golf tournament, comedy shows, soccer clinics, dinners with live and silent auctions but this is our first attempt at such a huge concert. Everyone has been so generous and supportive as they continue to help our foundation which has raised over $1.7 million in 25 years. I would like to give a special THANK YOU to my committee that has continued to help me find different ways to have fun and raise much needed money for spinal cord research.”
Tickets for the concert are on sale now at www.BataviaConcerts.com.
Ticket prices for the concert match what Batavia Downs does for their summer concert series: $15 for General Admission, $30 for VIP, $50 for Premium. Front row tickets for $75 have already sold out, but additional tickets in the front row may go on sale at a later time. All tickets can be redeemed at Player’s Club at any time in the three days following the concert for $15 Free Play to be used on one of Batavia Downs Gaming’s 800+ gaming machines. This event is a stand-alone event and is not a part of the Rockin' the Downs summer concert series. Purchased season passes for the concert series will not be honored for this concert.
Press Release:
The Elba Hall of Fame Foundation is excited to announce it will be hosting the next induction dinner for the 2020 and 2021 inductees on February 12, 2022 at Batavia Downs. After a year delay, due to Covid, the Elba Hall of Fame Foundation is excited to introduce you to our newest members!
Let us introduce the 2020 inductees:
JoAnn Olsen was a member of the Elba Class of 1961 and was nominated by her daughter, Melissa. Melissa said that her Mother shared her love of music with hundreds of Genesee County students with music theory and piano lessons. Annually, Mrs. Olsen hosted a year-end recital for all her students at Elba Central School. When she was not teaching piano she was often found at the local farm markets. She was known as “The Glad Lady” selling the gladioli she grew on their farm on North Byron Road. Mrs. Olsen was an active member of our community taking part in the Genesee Symphony Orchestra, Altar Rosary Society, Genesee County Farm market and many other groups.
Craig Yunker was a member of the Elba Class of 1968 and was nominated by his Mother, Bernice. Mr. Yunker is a lifelong Elba resident and is very involved in his family businesses. He is a managing partner for CY Properties, LLC, CY Heifer Farm, LLC, Batavia Turf, LLC and Provitello, LLC. He graduated from Cornell University, University of New Hampshire, University of Minnesota and Texas A & M with several degrees as he continued to learn about agriculture. Mr. Yunker has served through several roles in the community including Genesee County Legislature Chairman, a Trustee of Cornell and a director of the Bank of Castile & Tompkins. He is also a Director for Liberty Pumps and Genesee County Economic Development Center. He has received numerous farming awards and accolades. Mr. Yunker and his wife, Kim raised their three children and he stated they were his contribution to Elba Central School.
Elba class of 1975 graduate, Vern Saile has worn many hats within our community. He was nominated by Zachary Saile. Pastor Vern started his education at Genesee Community College and continued to Binghamton University where he completed his degree in Psychology. He then moved to St. Louis where he received his Masters in Social Work from Washington University. Pastor Vern then returned to Genesee County where he could help those within our community. He began working as a Genesee County community mental health professional and served on the Board of Directors for GCASA for many years. In 2001, after taking many night classes, Pastor Vern completed his Masters of Divinity at the Northeastern Seminary to become a Pastor. He is currently serving as the Senior Pastor at Northgate Free Methodist Church here in Batavia where he continues to be a wonderful example on how to live a life of faith.
Our 2021 inductees include:
Former Elba Central School teacher, late Mrs. Mary Torrey. Mrs. Torrey will be inducted as an Honorary Member of the Elba Hall of Fame Foundation. Mrs. Torrey grew up on a farm in Stafford, New York and moved to Elba when she married Mr. Charlie Torrey. Together they raised four children on their family farm. Mrs. Torrey is remembered for changing numerous students’ lives with her dedication to teaching. The Hall of Fame Foundation chose to induct Mrs. Torrey after receiving numerous praises by past Hall of Fame inductees. They shared how Mrs. Torrey was a positive influence on their education at Elba as well as creating a foundation for their lifelong successes. One past inductee spoke of the time Mrs. Torrey came to his home for several months to tutor him after he was injured. She encouraged him to continue to work hard on his education. He stated, “I would not have made it without Mrs. Torrey’s support.”
Our first “Team” inductee will be the 2012 Lady Lancers State Championship team along with their coach, Tom Nowak. This team had an impressive 25-0 season where their margin of victory averaged 36.2 in most games. They were Genesee Region Division II Champions after winning their third consecutive Class DD Sectional Title by defeating Notre Dame. They finished their year with titles including the 2012 Far West Regional Champions and 2012 NYS Class D Champions. These ladies were also awarded with being a Section V Scholar-Athlete Team and received the Section V Sportsmanship Team award. Our Lady Lancers were chosen for this award out of 75 New York State teams. For Class D, McKenzie Bezon was named Player of the Year, Meg Stucko was first team and Coach Nowak was coach of the year. These young ladies set an excellent example for our younger Lancer athletes and we are thrilled to honor them as they approach their 10 year anniversary of winning the New York State Class D Title.
Please join us for an evening of celebrating and honoring these inductees. You may purchase your tickets for the February 12th dinner at the Elba Town Clerk’s office (7133 Oak Orchard Road) or at the Elba Central School District office. Tickets are $40 for an individual or $75 for a couple and include your buffet meal. The event kicks off at 6 pm with a cocktail hour (cash bar) followed by dinner and the program. If you have any questions please feel free to call Trisha Werth at 716-560-0843 or Laura Luft at 585-704-0510. We look forward to a great evening honoring our newest Elba Hall of Fame members!
Press Release:
By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs
Kenneth L. Middleton age 77 of Mount Morris, New York, died Wednesday January 12, 2022 at Wyoming County Community Hospital in Warsaw, New York. He was born the son of Kenneth and Mary (Rapone) Middleton on September 4, 1944 in Caledonia, NY.
Mr. Middleton married Mary Ann Valentino on July 22, 1961 and the two then raised a family. Although he owned and operated his own restaurant for many years, Mr. Middleton also bred, owned and trained a stable of harness horses at his farm in Mount Morris, NY for decades. First licensed in 1966, Mr. Middleton competed dozens of horses during that time including Keystone O’Brien, Keystone Gallant, Wildwood Wayne, Hot Temper and R Brother Richard.
Mr. Middleton loved spending time with his family and attended St. Patrick’s Church. He was a member of the Western New York Harness Horseman’s Association, an avid pool player and fan of the Buffalo Bills and New York Yankees.
Mr. Middleton is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years Mary Ann, daughters Rosemary (Louis) Russo of Batavia, NY and Joanne Somers of Mt. Morris, NY, grandchildren Mike (Bobbi Jo) Bonefede and Joseph Layland both of Leicester, NY and Jerrett Laskett of Batavia, NY, great grandchildren Alexis, Parker, Lillian, Sophia, Faith, McKenna and Klayton, sister Pat (Carmen) Cappotelli of Caledonia, NY and many nieces, nephews and dear and loving friends. He was predeceased by his daughter Mary Kenny Layland and sister Georgianna Dellas.
Memorial services were held for Mr. Middleton on Monday (Jan. 17) followed by interment at St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the American Lung Association.
Bianchi (Monroe County) and Morgan (Orleans County) (in photos, left to right) were unanimously re-elected to lead the board at its monthly meeting at Batavia Downs Gaming on Park Road.
In nominating Bianchi, director Dennis Bassett (City of Rochester) cited WROTB’s “record earnings and record attendance,” adding that Bianchi “has guided us through some storms … and brought the board together like never before.”
Morgan, a retired highway superintendent, also was credited by Genesee County director Richard Siebert for his expertise in helping WROTB navigate the Park Road Reconstruction project with the Town of Batavia and for being available when needed.
The board, understandably, is opposing a bill proposed by State Sen. Timothy Kennedy of Buffalo that would revise the structure of the board based on population – action that would end the longstanding setup of a director for each of the 15 counties and cities of Buffalo and Rochester that own the public benefit company.
Kennedy also has drafted two other bills that would cap the allowance of promotional items for certain members of the corporation at $15 and prohibit WROTB corporation vehicles from being used as take-home vehicles. This proposed legislation comes on the heels of a State Comptroller’s report that faulted WROTB management and board in these areas.
WROTB President Henry Wojtaszek said the board has worked hard through the committee process to elevate Batavia Downs Gaming, the harness track and its OTB branches to record earnings.
“You heard today that the board certainly doesn't support a measure to dismantle the board that has done such a great job to bring Batavia Downs to where it is right now, where it is returning record amounts of money to the municipalities,” Wojtaszek said.
“So, they oppose it and they intend to go back to their respective communities and legislatures and councils and have them pass resolutions in opposition to this type of legislation. And as I said yesterday (to The Batavian), they directed me to explore options relative to fighting such a piece of legislation going into effect, including litigation.”
Wojtaszek said Bianchi and Morgan are “outstanding” leaders and “they’re always accessible.”
“They are often on site and they provide their expertise in the various areas that they bring to the table and you can see the results,” he said. “And in the numbers (because) people vote with their feet and their dollars … people love what they see when they come here. We provide a great entertainment, we provide great customer service, we have great food and drinks. And we intend to continue doing that.”
As far as Kennedy’s other bills, Wojtaszek said WROTB addressed the perks situation three years ago and is “supportive of those type of actions that provide transparency that cuts down on government waste. All those issues we support.”
He said the corporation has set a limit relative to gifts, but noted a difference in game tickets (Sabres, Bills) that are given to directors for hosting groups.
“It’s not a gift to the person who is a host for Batavia Downs; they’re actually working. So, the use of that ticket is for work, it's not a gift in the first place,” he said. “Our policies and procedures put in place by our marketing director are very good at this point.
“We've been dealing with people all across the state and the Inspector General, and anybody else who's asked – the Comptroller – who we invited into give us advice as to how to run this place better. We've followed that advice and things are running very well right now.”
Press Release:
By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs
Elwood L. Clark, 87, passed away Sunday, January 9, 2022. Mr. Clark was born and raised in Lockport, New York, the son of the late James and Edna (Brown) Clark. He resided on his horse farm in Corfu, New York for 35 years and later in life retired in Naples, Florida.
Mr. Clark graduated from Alfred State College in 1957 before marrying the love of his life Barbara (who predeceased him in 2019) in 1958. The two raised five children and enjoyed more than 61 years of marriage.
Mr. Clark worked as a mechanical engineer at Graham Manufacturing in Batavia, New York for more than 30 years, but he was also a harness racing enthusiast that owned and trained a private stable starting in 1962. Over that time he conditioned a number of horses led by local favorites Mary Meadow, Aaron The Baron, Cecil Minbar and the ever popular St. Nick, who he bred, trained and raced until he retired at the age of 14.
Besides racing, Mr. Clark enjoyed social activities and being with family and friends. He was a competitive game player (especially cards) and loved watching the Buffalo Bills.
Mr. Clark is survived by children Christopher Clark, Matthew Clark (Linda), Gregory Clark (Michelle), Elizabeth Weydig (Steven) and Aaron Clark (Corey); 12 grandchildren; three great grandchildren; 32 nieces and nephews; and special friend, Sandra Truax Kinisky.
Calling hours are Tuesday (Jan. 18) from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the C. B. Beach & Son Mortuary located at 4 East Main Street, Corfu, NY. A celebratory mass of Mr. Clark's life will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday (Jan. 19) at St. Teresa Catholic Church, 5771 Buell Street, Akron, NY, with burial to follow at Cold Springs Cemetery in Lockport, NY. In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to Niagara Hospice in Mr. Clark’s memory.
Press Release by Tim Bojarski for Batavia Downs:
Batavia Downs completed their 2021 race meet on Friday (Dec. 10) and when all the columns were tallied, the track posted very strong wagering numbers over the course of the 55-day session.
The track had its third highest handle ever since Western Regional OTB reopened the track in 2002, with per-race betting up 17%. The increase was fueled by competitive racing on the track and two new wagers that were introduced for the first time this year: the Jackpot Pick-6 and Jackpot Super Hi 5 pentafecta. These bets drew the interest of the bettors by providing large carryovers throughout the meet, including the largest in track history ($25,599).
Having fans back in the grandstand this year impacted wagering in two ways. First, on-track betting at Batavia Downs was up 10% from 2019, as spectators were not allowed in 2020. But the extra live traffic sent the numbers at off-track locations down.
The WROTB locations -- including OTB outlets and Bataviabets.com -- saw betting decline 18% from 2020, which was expected. The 2020 number was an all-time record and a result of the exceptional amount of people who wagered online when patrons weren’t allowed at the track. This year, gamblers took their business back to the track and the numbers reflected it.
However overall betting versus 2020 was up $933,027 or 13%.
“We were happy to welcome back our fans and hold racing in front of a live audience again this year. The crowds were great all summer, driven by our Sunday Dollar Day matinees and our service staff in the clubhouse and on the apron did a great job all year,” said Todd Haight, General Manager/Director of Live Racing at Batavia Downs. “The new wagers, carryovers and guaranteed pools all drove our numbers and our horsemen kept the competition keen on the track. I was very proud of the effort everyone put in to make this meet a success.”
Henry Wojtaszek, President and CEO of Western Regional OTB which owns Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel, was also happy with the results the track had and gave full credit to their associates for the successful year.
"I can't thank our racing fans enough for returning to the track after last year's hiatus. They came back in force and took full advantage of the great amenities we have here. Our newly acquired hotel was sold out on many occasions as a result of the great stay and play deals we offer. People once again enjoyed live racing, gaming, a multitude of concerts and events and all the great restaurant choices on site," said Wojtaszek.
"But none of it would be possible without our great staff that worked tirelessly all year to provide a great experience and I can't thank them enough. Todd (Haight) heads our racing department and he's done another outstanding job presenting and promoting that product, which in turn drove the increase in our handle."
Scott Kiedrowski, Vice President of Operations also lauded the staff and fans of live racing for a successful 2021 meet. He said “We are very grateful to have been able to roar back in 2021 with live racing here at Batavia Downs. Our customers truly are the backbone of our success as a race track here in Genesee County.”
With approval from the New York Gaming Commission, opening day for the 2022 meet at Batavia Downs will be Wednesday (July 20) and feature the New York Sire Stake 2-year-old trotting fillies. They will be only one of eight divisions visiting Genesee County next year to highlight the racing schedule along with the return of Batavia’s signature stake, the $60,000 Robert J. Kane Memorial Pace that will be raced on Saturday (Aug. 26).
Press release:
Batavia Downs Gaming Vice President Scott Kiedrowski, along with General Manager of Gaming, Sean Schiano, Group Sales Manager Mary Bucceri and Director / General Manager of Live Racing, Todd Haight, presented representatives from the Rochester Veterans Court Mentors (RVCM) with a check for $710 to help support their efforts of assisting Veterans with within the court system.
On December 5th a Kris Kringle Craft and Vendor show was held at Batavia Downs and a portion of proceeds from the booth reservation fees were collected in support of the RVCM. The organizer of the show, Ted Hanes, always chooses a group to benefit from the events he puts on. The RVCM usually has a fundraising event held during the racing meet inside the Clubhouse but did not this year due to COVID.
“We are appreciative to Ted Hanes and to Mary Bucceri from Batavia Downs for thinking of us, “said Ray Melens, Lead Mentor for the Monroe County Veterans. “The funds are so important for us to continue our work as we look to assist Veterans who find themselves within the court system. We strive to identify and treat the underlying issues facing many Veterans to help them get back on the right path.”
About Batavia Downs/WROTB
Western Region Off-Track Betting Corporation is a public benefit corporation with headquarters in Batavia, NY. WROTB owns and operates 11 branches, as well as Batavia Downs Gaming, a standard bred racetrack and gaming facility. Since its inception, Western Region OTB has generated over $232 million in operating and surcharge revenues to the taxpayers of participating municipalities.About Veterans Treatment Court
The Veterans Treatment Court program is available to eligible Veterans with non-violent criminal charges who have either substance abuse or mental health diagnosis. The goal of VTC is to treat the underlying issues that are at the root of the criminal behavior. With intensive case management, the Veteran is given all the tools they need to return to being a productive member of society. This group of Veterans is further supported by the opportunity to attend a variety of peer groups on a voluntary basis while they are in treatment and after their discharge.Photo by Howard Owens. Pictured: General Manager of Gaming, Sean Schiano, Group Sales Manager Mary Bucceri, Ray Melens, Lead Mentor for the Monroe County Veterans, Vice President Scott Kiedrowski and Director / General Manager of Live Racing, Todd Haight
Press Release by Tim Bojarski, president, Upstate New York USHWA
The Upstate New York Chapter of the United States Harness Writers Association has announced the horses of the meet for the 2021 racing season at Batavia Downs.
Pacer of the Meet: Art Scene (American Ideal-Lover Of Art)
Art Scene was a relatively new acquisition for trainer Maria Rice when he came to Batavia, after being claimed at Yonkers Raceway in mid-June for $25,000. But his new home track suited him just fine as he went on to have the winningest year of his career. While racing at Batavia, Art Scene won six Open paces and finished second twice out of his 13 starts in Genesee County and put $43,765 in the bank, making him the richest pacer on the grounds this year. He won his first start at the track and his last before shipping to Pompano for the winter and took his seasonal mark of 1:53.3 at Batavia in between.
Art Scene is owned by Vogel & Wags Nags, Team Rice Racing and Adelphi Bloodstock and is trained by Maria Rice.
Trotter of the Meet: Barn Hall (Conway Hall-Exotic Form)
It’s not too often a 3-year-old trotter can come in and not only compete with, but beat older Open campaigners, but Barn Hall proved it can be done. After racing successfully on the New York Sire Stake Excel A circuit all summer, Barn Hall settled in at Batavia and became a powerful top class performer for the entire meet. He hit the board 12 out of 14 starts, winning four and earning $42,092 which was the most won by any trotter at the meet this year. Plus he took his lifetime mark of 1:55 at Batavia after winning the Open trot in October.
Barn Hall is owned by Steve and Nancy Pratt, Wanda Polisseni's Purple Haze Stable and the Out In The Country Stable and is trained by Steve Pratt.
Mare of the Meet: Protect Blue Chip (American Ideal-Lucky Turn)
Protect Blue Chip surpassed all her previous career numbers this year and excelled in her 11 starts at Batavia Downs. She hit the board eight times, winning four Opens while finishing second and third twice each which netted her $35,142 in purses. Her best win time of 2021 was 1:54 taken at the Downs in September and it was also her fastest career win over any half-mile track. Plus this was the third consecutive year she took her seasonal mark at Batavia Downs.
Protect Blue Chip is owned by Vogel & Wags Nags, Team Rice Racing and Adelphi Bloodstock and is trained by Maria Rice.
Claimer of the Meet: Raksmach N (Mach Three-Raksplace)
Raksmach N also had the best year of his career in North America since landing here from New Zealand in 2018 and the bulk of his success came at Batavia Downs. During the meet he had six wins in only nine starts and earned $29,150 in purses. But he also paced the fastest mile of his life over a half-mile track on September 18 at the Downs when he scorched the oval in 1:52.3, winning by 5-1/4 lengths for driver Jim Morrill Jr. Five of Raksmach N’s six wins came in claiming races of $15,000 or higher.
Raksmach N is owned by Jeffrey Savidge and trainer Jennifer Giuliani.
The connections of these horses will be presented with their trophies in the Purple Haze Winner’s Circle at Batavia Downs on Saturday (Dec. 11) during UNY-USHWA’s Night of Distinction. Saturday is the final night of the meet and post time is at 5 p.m.
Photos by Paul White
Press Release by Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs
The management of Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel and the Western New York Harness Horsemen’s Association have agreed to cancel live racing on Saturday night (Dec. 11), which was the last card of the 2021 season at Batavia Downs. This is because of concern for the safety of all the participating horsemen, horsewomen, horses and patrons due to the impending day-long forecast of near hurricane force winds of between 65 to 70 mph for all of western New York -- including Batavia.
"Over half the card of horses ship in and some from as far as Pennsylvania and Ohio. It's simply unsafe for trailers to be on the road with winds gusting up to 70 mph. And it's doubtful we could get the wings of the starting gates to consistently and safely close at the start of each race in this type of dangerous weather conditions,"said Todd Haight, Director/General Manager of Live racing at Batavia Downs. "
“Therefore after consulting with Bruce Tubin (President of the WNYHHA) on the situation, we decided it was in the collective best interest to err on the side of caution and safety and shut it down for the season. We want to thank our staff, horseman and horsewomen and all of our loyal fans for a tremendous racing season and look forward to reopening on July 20, 2022, pending New York Gaming Commission approval.”
Press Release by Tim Bojarski, president, UNY-USHWA
Photos by Paul White
Jim Morrill Jr. and Jennifer Giuliani have been named the top driver and trainer of the 2021 Batavia Downs meet that comes to a close on Saturday (Dec. 11).
Morrill had this title wrapped up at the halfway mark as he got off to a hot start in July and burned his way through November. Morrill finished the meet with 365 starts, 116 wins, 71 seconds and 46 thirds to post a stellar .468 UDR. Those 64% in-the-money finishes garnered his connections $714,074 in earnings making him the top earner as well.
Kevin Cummings finished second with 68 wins and $504,137 in purses and the meet's Rising Star Award winner Kyle Cummings was third with 50 wins and $394,862 banked.
Giuliani was in a tight race all year but came out on top with 41 wins, 24 seconds and 22 thirds out of 146 starts that produced $207,379 in earnings and a UTR of .422. Her horses hit the board 60% of the time and she also trained the Batavia Downs claimer of the meet, Raksmach N.
Maria Rice finished second with 40 wins and $311,602 in purses (which made her the highest earning stable on the grounds) and Gerry Sarama was third with 36 wins and $234,722 earned.
Jim Morrill Jr. and Jennifer Giuliani will be presented a trophy from the Upstate New York Chapter of the United States Harness Writers Association for their achievements but since Morrill has already started his winter break and Giuliani has relocated to Pompano Park for winter racing, these awards will be presented when they return for the 2022 Batavia meet next July.
Saturday is the final night of the meet and post time is at 5 p.m.
Press Release by Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs
Batavia Downs will close out the 2021 meet on Saturday (Dec. 11) and there is a full night of action, awards and Auld Lang Syne on tap.
First the action. There will be one guaranteed pool and one carryover and both will have mandatory payouts.
There is a $3,500 guaranteed pool in the Pick-5 wager in the first race and it will be part of the United States Trotting Association’s Strategic Wagering Program. And as a result, free program pages will be available courtesy of TrackMaster on the USTA’s website, the Batavia Downs website and Facebook page or by clicking this link (https://www.trackmaster.com/freeContent/usta/freeContentFiles/hpl/btv1211x.pdf). The Pick-5 is a 50-cent base wager that begins in race one and runs through race five. If all five winners aren’t picked, the most correct winners selected will be paid.
Then in race six, there is a carryover of $1,188 in the Jackpot Pick-6. That is a 20-cent base wager and it runs through race nine. And again if all six aren’t picked, the most correct selected will be paid.
And if you are attending live you can play the free Pick-6 contest for a chance to win $2,000. Just go to Players Club and get an entry blank and deposit it with your selections before the start of the fourth race. If you get all six winners correct, you will win $2,000. And since this is the last day of the meet this contest is a must pay as well. If no one picks all six winners, the person with the most winners selected will get $1,000. If there are multiple winners, the $1,000 will be split evenly among all correct contestants. Entry is limited to one per person.
Saturday is also the United States Harness Writers Association’s awards presentations during the Night of Distinction where all the top horses, horsemen and dignitaries will be honored. Honorees include President’s Award winner New York State Assemblyman Stephen Hawley, Unsung Hero Award winner Jami Chatt, Rising Star Award winner Kyle Cummings and all the top horses of the meet. Awards will start after the fifth race in the Purple Haze Winner’s Circle and run through race 10. These awards will be streamed live on the Batavia Downs YouTube channel.
Then after the last race the Batavia Downs tradition of closing the meet will continue with the playing of Auld Lang Syne as the lights go out on the track for the last time this year.
Free full card past performance program pages for Saturday and every live racing night at Batavia can always be downloaded at bataviadownsgaming.com under the live racing tab. And if you can’t attend live, you can still watch all the racing action via the Batavia Downs YouTube channel.
Post time for the first race is slated for 5 p.m.
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