July started off with a bang at Empire City Casino when a slot-player from Mamaroneck hit a$139,808 jackpot on Friday (July 1).

The woman identified as “Nancy” made the six-figure score at 4:31 pm in the afternoon on the Bally Fireball slot in Empire City’s Victorian Room. She made a $2 wager on the penny-denomination machine.

It was the second six-figure jackpot in three days at Empire City, and the sixth in 2016.

A Connecticut player identified as “Vincent” hit a jackpot worth $100,020 on June 28 in the Gotham Palace on the Bally/Double Jackpot Wild slot. Vinny made a $5 wager on the $1 denomination machine.

“Lucy” from the Bronx hit the jackpot for $129,107 on June 8 on the Bally/Hot Shot Progressive machine.

Empire City is one of the largest entertainment destinations in the northeast located less than two miles north of New York City.

Tracie B’s $388,311.84 score on February 5 was the biggest hit of the year, registered on the Blazing 7’s slot machine. That was the largest jackpot since the all-time Empire City record of $1,473,503 was brought home by Suffolk County resident Howard G. on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at 11:00am. That jaw-dropping score was won on the popular IGT Wheel of Fortune® Triple Stars® slot machine, located just a few hundred feet from the casino’s valet entrance.

“Salvatore,” a Long Island player, hit the year's second largest jackpot – a $144,324 score – on May 2 on the Bally/Hot Shot Progressive machine at Empire City Casino.

On February 18, a player identified as “Pavel” had the hot hand, scoring for $105,778 on the Bally 777 Wild Jackpot Quick Hit slot machine.

Bravo Italia!
Italy’s Twister Bi Sets World Record in $1-Million Yonkers International Trot at Empire City Casino on October 14th
Christoffer Eriksson Drove five-year-old champ, American Expatriate Jerry Riordan trained winner

The formidable American trio of Resolve (3-1), Hannelore Hanover (4-1) and Obrigado (5-1) will be challenged by world-class trotters from Canada, Italy, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Denmark in the Yonkers International Trot. This will be the 38th edition of the global classic. The U.S.A.'s potent threesome, all with career earnings of more than $1 million, will race as separate betting interests.

Resolve‎, a winner of 14 lifetime starts, will start from post position two, and was tabbed the 3-1 favorite. Ake Svanstedt is the trainer-driver of the five-year-old stallion. The only mare in the field, ‎Hannelore Hanover, drew the advantageous inside rail post for driver Yannick Gingras and trainer Ron Burke, and is the 4-1 second choice on the morning line. The four-year-old is a $32,000 bargain purchase who has won 23 of 37 career races. Obrigado‎‎ has Mark MacDonald in the sulky, and drew post six as the 5-1 third choice.  Paul Kelley trains the six-year-old.

Three leading Euros returning for a second try after failing in last year’s Yonkers International are: Italy’s Oasis Bi (driver Erik Adielsson, post five, 5-1), Norway’s BBS Sugarlight (driver Vidar Hop, post seven, 6-1), and On Track Piraten of Sweden (driver Orjan Kihlstrom, post eight, 10-1).

Last season’s winner, Norway’s Papagayo E., is injured and unable to defend his title.

The field also includes: Jonesy of Finland (Tuomas Korvenoja, post 3, 15-1); Canada's Flanagan Memory (driver Brian Sears, post 4, 6-1); Tano Bork (driver John Campbell, post 9, 20-1); and Explosive De Vie of Sweden (driver Kevin Oscarsson, post 10, 12-1).

Empire City Casino and raceway president Timothy J. Rooney revived the Yonkers International last year after a 20-year hiatus. The million purse equals the richest in New York State and raceway history. Last year's International and the 2007 Art Rooney Pace, also at Yonkers, share in the record seven-figure purse. The International was inaugurated in 1959 at now-defunct Roosevelt Raceway, and Mr. Rooney brought it to Yonkers in 1988 upon Roosevelt’s closure.

The United States has won 13, France 12, Sweden 5, Canada 3, Italy, Norway, the Netherlands, and Denmark have one apiece.

ICE BUCKET CHALLENGE ORIGINATOR PAT QUINN NAMED GRAND MARSHAL FOR YONKERS ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE; OFFICIAL INSTALLATION AT “CHANGING OF THE SASH” GALA ON MARCH 6 AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO

‎***Empire City Casino General Counsel Tim Rooney, Jr. to “Pass the Sash”‎***

EIGHTH ANNUAL DICK MCGUIRE TROT THIS THURSDAY NIGHT, AUGUST 3, AT YONKERS RACEWAY REMEMBERS KNICKS AND ST. JOHN’S GREAT, BASKETBALL HALL OF FAMER; N.Y.S.S. FOR THREE-YEAR-OLD COLTS & GELDINGS AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO’S HISTORIC HARNESS OVAL WORTH $169,499

Bit of a Legend N. Heads $609,000 George Morton Levy Memorial, Saturday Night at Yonkers Raceway; Jordan Stratton Drives 7-Year-Old Seeking Series Sweep

A resident of Union, New Jersey, hit the second biggest jackpot of the year at Empire City Casino when “Santa” scored for $332,654 in the early morning hours on Sunday (September 11th).

At 4:18 am, the player made a $6 wager on the $1-denomination Wheel of Fortune slot machine located in the Victorian Room to hit the ninth six-figure jackpot of the year, and the third for upwards of $300,000.

The largest jackpot thus far in 2016 was hit by “Tracie B.” on February 5th, when she won $388,311 on the Blazing 7’s slot machine. Tracie’s score was the largest jackpot since the all-time Empire City record of$1,473,503 was brought home by Suffolk County resident “Howard G.” on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at 11:00 am. That jaw-dropping score was won on the popular IGT Wheel of Fortune® Triple Stars® slot machine, located just a few hundred feet from the casino’s valet entrance.

September picked up right where August left off at Empire City. On August 24th “Maluisa” hit a jackpot worth$119,916 at 6:31 pm on the Hot Shots Progressive slot machine with a $3 wager on the penny-denomination slot machine, also in the Victorian Room. “Tommy” from Yorktown Heights, New York, hit a $320,000 jackpot on August 11th with a $200 wager on the $100 denomination 3x4x5 Double Diamond slot machine at 12:45 pm.

July started off with a bang when a slot-player from Mamaroneck hit a $139,808 jackpot on July 1st. The woman identified as “Nancy” made the six-figure score at 4:31 pm on the Bally Fireball slot in Empire City’s Victorian Room. She made a $2 wager on the penny-denomination machine.

Three days earlier, a Connecticut player identified as “Vincent” hit a jackpot worth $100,020 on June 28th in the Gotham Palace on the Bally/Double Jackpot Wild slot. Vinny made a $5 wager on the $1 denomination machine.

Back to back jackpots were hit on the Bally/Hot Shot Progressive machine when “Lucy” from the Bronx scored for for $129,107 on June 8th and “Salvatore,” a Long Island player, hit for$144,324 score on May 2nd.

On February 18th a player identified as “Pavel” had the hot hand, scoring for $105,778 on the Bally 777 Wild Jackpot Quick Hit slot machine.

$1 MILLION YONKERS INTERNATIONAL TROT SATURDAY (OCTOBER 15) AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO AT YONKERS RACEWAY
10 World Class Trotters from Seven Countries Vie for Richest Purse in New York State, Raceway History

Giants Super Bowl champs Justin Tuck and Stephen Baker hosted a Big Game viewing party on Sunday (February 5) at Empire City Casino. Fans enjoyed a meet and greet photo session with the Big Blue duo, and later watched the Patriots’ epic win over the Falcons in the Entertainment Lounge and Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar. Tuck was a defensive end on two Giants Super Bowl championship teams, both against the New England Patriots. Baker was a wide receiver on the Giants Super Bowl XXV team in 1991 that beat the Bills.

3,000 Participate in Efforts to Fight Juvenile Diabetes

Fifth Annual “OneWalk” for JDRF Has Strong Support at Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway (Oct. 23)

DUBAI WORLD CUP SIMULCAST WAGERING AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO AT YONKERS RACEWAY THIS SATURDAY, MARCH 25
“World’s Best Racehorse” Arrogate Heads Field of 14

COUNTY CLARE, IRELAND NATIVE, LONGTIME YONKERS RESIDENT GUSS HAYES BACK AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO AT YONKERS RACEWAY FOR ST. PATRICK'S DAY AT DAN ROONEY'S ON THURSDAY, MARCH 17

Begin 2018 with Lots of Laughs at Empire City Casino’s Comedy Nights
Headlined by Yannis Pappas & Paul Virzi

A pair of six-packs were cause for celebration on back-to-back nights at Yonkers Raceway. Leading driver Jason Bartlett and fellow sulky star Mark MacDonald both brought home six winners on consecutive nights at Empire City Casino’s historic half mile oval.
 
On Friday night (June 17), Krispy Apple registered her 44th career triumph, going wire to wire in the $45,000 Filly and Mare Open Handicap Pace, pairing with Bartlett for the four length score over Hidden Land (Brent Holland) in 1:52.2.  
 
For Krispy Apple, an 8-year-old daughter of Western Ideal co-owned by Bamond Racing and Joseph Davino and trained by Jeff Bamond Jr., it was her fourth win in 10 starts this season, boosting her career earnings to $1.7 million). Yonkers Raceway’s “Maine Man” brought home six wins on the 11-race program.  
 
It was MacDonald’s turn on Saturday night to join the “Six-Pack Fabs” twosome, highlighted by both halves of the evening’s $45,000 co-features on his best-ever Yonkers performance.

MacDonald first chauffeured favored Sunfire Blue Chip ($5) to a wire-to-window triumph in the Open Handicap Pace, stopping the clock in 1:51.2. “Sunfire” won by a length over Doctor Butch with Dan Dube in the bike.
 
In the featured Trot, MacDonald took advantage of the rail assignment behind Aggressive, and lit up the board with a $38 win mutual, getting past E R Ellie (Jordan Stratton) by three-quarters of a length at the wire in 1:54.3.
 
Here’s a recap of MacDonald’s six pack: his first win of the evening was behind Northview Punter A ($11.40) in the $18,000, second-race pace (1:52.1)…in the fifth race, he steered Forty Five Red ($7) in the $22,000, fifth-race pace (1:52) to a wire to wire victory…After putting the aforementioned co-features in the books, he then swept a $591 late double with Summers Windsong ($59) in the $26,000, 10th- race trot (1:54.4), and Sapphire City ($25.60) in the $22,000, 11th-race pace (1:52.2).

Former New York Rangers captain Ron Greschner will join Blueshirt fans at Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar at Empire City Casino this Saturday, April 16, as the Rangers look to even the series against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first round of the NHL Playoffs.

The “Official Rangers Viewing Party” will begin at 2:00 pm ‎with face off for the game at 3:00 pm.

Greschner played all 16 seasons of his career with the Rangers from 1974 through 1990, including the 1978-79 trip to the Stanley Cup Finals. “Gresch” will be on hand for or photos and autographs from 2:00-3:00 pm, and then will join fans at Dan Rooney’s throughout the game. Greschner and fans will participate in trivia sessions between periods, when guests will be able to win prizes. Patrons will be able to enjoy a photo booth from Foxtales as well.

The Rangers “Blue Crew” will be on-site with great giveaways items including T-shirts, rally towels, stress pucks, and keychains.

Empire City will provide a complimentary bus service to the casino from Madison Square Garden at 1:00 pm, and the return trip to the Garden will depart at 6:00 PM.

Fans can view the action on Dan Rooney’s 40 large-screen HDTV’s.

Former Rangers stars Steve Vickers and Stephane Matteau were big hits watching games with fans at Dan Rooney’s Rangers Viewing Parties during the regular season.

About Dan Rooney’s: Inspired by the original Dan Rooney’s Cafe & Bar built and operated in the early 1900s in Pittsburgh by the family of Tim Rooney, the president and CEO of Empire City Casino, the new Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar is warm, inviting and casual, featuring a Steelers theme, 40 large screen TVs to view the big games at every angle, dual flame rotisseries, private “snugs” for intimate seating, and two fireplaces.

Popular comedian and actor Donnell Rawlings, supporting star of Comedy Central’s hit television series “Chappelle’s Show,” will headline Empire City Casino’s Comedy Night on Wednesday, August 16th in the casino’s Good Time Room. Joining Rawlings on the 16th will be featured comedienne Abby Rosenquist and MC Phileo Shacor.

Rawlings is most notable for his frequent appearances in “Chappelle’s Show” sketches and was host in the program’s third season. He has also appeared in the HBO Emmy-Award winning series, “The Wire,” as well as Director Sam Raimi’s critically-acclaimed Spider-Man 2. Additionally, Rawlings served as a cast member on MTV2’s hit series, “Guy Code,” and “Guy Court.”

Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the show begins at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are sold at the door the night of the show. Admission is $5 for Empire Club Members and $25 for non-members; non-members can stop by any promotions booth prior to the show and join the Empire Club for free.  Elite Club and President’s Club members gain free admission.  All attendees receive a complimentary drink ticket.

Previously announced headliner, Joe DeVito, will be rescheduled for a later date.

Theresa P. of Ossining, NY is Empire City Casino’s newest multi-millionaire, having hit a record-breaking $2,919,162.81 Wheel of Fortune® slots jackpot on Sunday, March 11, 2018. Theresa joins the company of millionaires Howard G. of Long Island, NY who won $1,473,503 in October 2015, and Linda H. of Thornwood, NY who took home a “nearly there” million-dollar jackpot of $961,411 in November 2016.

Placing a $20 wager on the $10 denomination IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars® slot machine, Theresa claimed the life-changing jackpot and eclipsed Howard G.’s record win by a whopping $1.4-million, nearly double the previous record held by the Long Island resident.Theresa now holds the record for winning the highest-ever jackpot at any of New York State’s regulated casinos.
 
It took only eight spins that lucky Sunday to hit the jackpot. Theresa and her husband, who have been frequenting Empire City since the casino opened in 2006, recently retired and plan to use their winnings to really enjoy life.
 
Empire City’s millionaires aren’t the only ones with something to celebrate; each of the three highest jackpots at the casino were won on a Wheel of Fortune-themed slot machine. Furthermore, six of the top 10 jackpots won at Empire City were also on Wheel of Fortune slots.
 
The IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars slot machine that turned Theresa into a millionaire ballooned past the $2.9-million mark on March 4, 2018, and has had guests visiting from far and wide to try their luck. The progressive jackpot was not the typical Wide Area Progressive – this particular jackpot could only be won on one of two Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars games at Empire City Casino.
 
Empire City boasts the sixth largest casino floor in the country including Las Vegas and Indian casinos nationwide. More than 8-million visitors a year try their luck on the casino’s nearly 5,300 slots and electronic table games, hoping to join the ranks of Theresa, Howard and Linda.
 
“When our players are happy, we’re happy,” said Ryan Munroe, Empire’s director of gaming operations. “Empire City is such an important part of the region so whether we are making millionaires, generating funds for New York schools, or supporting local charities and nonprofits, we are grateful that we can touch and change lives.”
 
And There’s More!
More than 65 six-figure jackpots have been won at Empire City to date and there are currently ten other six-figure jackpots still available to win at the casino, ranging from $112,000 to another millionaire-making jackpot of $1,000,332.66 (as of March 16th) on another Wheel of Fortune slot machine. New players should be sure to sign up for the free Empire Club at any Promotions Booth to earn perks, including free play and food offers, while they play.
 
According to the New York State Lottery, there’s no shortage of wins at Empire City. Customers took home their share of $731-million in credits won in the month of February 2018.

*MEDIA ADVISORY*
The Real Housewives of NY Star Bethenny Frankel Celebrates Kentucky Derby at Empire City Casino
The Skinnygirl Mogul Dishes Details on Derby Drink Recipes, Mixes and Mingles with Fans
Saturday, May 7, 2016 - Photo, Video & Select Interview Opportunities with Frankel from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Lightning Strikes Twice at Empire City Casino; Record-Holder Theresa P. of Ossining Hits Second $1 Million-Plus Jackpot in Five Month Span

Leading driver Jason Bartlett and top conditioner Rene Allard are set to defend their respective titles at Yonkers Raceway as Empire City Casino’s historic half mile oval rings in its 2016 racing season on Thursday night, January 7.

Last year’s 230-program season concluded on December 13, and saw Bartlett roll along to a fifth Yonkers title. The 34-year-old native of Augusta, ME, easily outdistanced George Brennan, 466 wins to 377. Bartlett was also the busiest reinsman at the Hilltop oval with 2,405 dash assignments, compiling a 19.4 win percentage, and amassing more than $8.8 million in purses.

BrianSears (345 wins), Dan Dube (320) and Tyler Buter (234) rounded out the top five in victories.

Allard, a 28-year-old native of Quebec, won a hotly-contested battle with two-time defending champ Ron Burke, taking the trainer’s championship with 181 wins (26.2 win percentage). Burke had 173 victories, but did lead in starters (815) and purses ($4.8 million), a solid $1.7 million more than Allard.

Richard Banca (160 wins), JeffreyBamond Jr. (108) and Gilberto Garcia-Herrera (91) completed the top five.

Bartlett has assignments in 11 of 12 races (except for the second) on Thursday night, and is listed behind several horses in all but the opener and finale, and here they are: First Race:  Hustleonhome; Third Race: Kim’s Day, Derek Delight, Bad Girl Vegas; Fourth Race: Brussels Hanover, Lean On Yourself; Fifth Race: A Plus Hanover, Pam’s Legacy; Sixth Race: Double Your Bet, Shadios; Seventh Race: OK Galahad, Ziggy Sky, Grandpa Don; Eighth Race: Fanticipation, The Filly Princess, Ameritime; Ninth Race: Playaway N, I Do It Myself; Tenth Race: Twin B Famous; Hardts Or Bettor, Electric Chapel N; Eleventh Race: Canaco Star, Elisaverta N; Twelfth Race: Image of Felicia.

Allard will trigger seven starters, and they are as follows:Third Race: Kiddie McCardle; Fourth Race: Champagne Shower; Sixth Race: Just Plain Luck; Ninth Race: Little Miss Henry; Tenth Race: Uncle Goodfellow: Eleventh Race: Wanna Rock N Roll: Twelfth Race: Kaitlyn Rae.

Another February Six-Figure Jackpot Hit At Empire City Casino

Hot Slots Heat Up Wintry Air

BARTLETT WINS 6,000TH RACE AT YONKERS RACEWAY THURSDAY NIGHT (OCTOBER 29)

NEW WHEEL OF FORTUNE “TRIPLE EXTREME” SLOTS A HIT AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO

Giants Super Bowl Champion Steve Weatherford Returns to Punting at Empire City Casino; Three Lucky Fans will be “Receivers” with Chance to Win Following WFAN Radio Monday Night Live Show on December 19

Promotions Provide the Fireworks in July at Empire City Casino including 4th of July Tote Giveaway‎

Historic Yonkers Raceway is moving its finish line…for starters.

Empire City Casino’s historic half mile oval literally put the “finishing touches” on its new finish line just days ago. It was a project that was approved by the New York State Gaming Commission, and the current line has been moved up the track by 105 feet, meaning the length of the stretch decreases from 660 to 555 feet.

Along with the new finish line comes a new quarter-pole, as well as a new, pole-mounted, robotic finish-line pan camera and dual-sided, mirror-image photo finish cameras (all in high-definition).

There is also improved lighting around the area of the new finish line.

The project has been ongoing during Yonkers’ scheduled hiatus, completed and tested in time for the return of live racing this Friday night (June 16th).  
“We’re very excited to complete this work,” Raceway COO Bob Galterio said. “We’re striving to improve the video presentation, and this is going to make our signal even better and give our fans the best look at those tight finishes.”

BRONX WOMAN HITS $129,107 JACKPOT AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO; FOURTH SIX-FIGURE SCORE OF 2016

Cirillo World put the ageless wonder horse Foiled Again's quest for career win no. 100 on the national stage with the Associated Press story that ran in countless newspapers across America including USA Today and the Miami Herald, as well as a CBS "Snapshot" feature by Steve Overmyer which aired in New York and on many CBS affiliates across the country.

Missile J. Among Top Contenders in $529,000 George Morton Levy Memorial Final at Yonkers Raceway on Saturday, April 22; 30th Edition Remembers Roosevelt Raceway's Hall of Fame Founder

$150,000 Slot Tournament Finale on Sunday, March 12, at Empire City Casino
Qualifying Players Vie for $100,000 Grand Prize

Former New York Giants Star Quarterback Phil Simms to Host "Big Game" Viewing Party at Empire City Casino on February 4
SB MVP to participate in Q&A, sign autographs, watch Patriots vs. Eagles with fans​

$75,000 Cash Up for Grabs in Empire City Casino Slot Tournaments April 19-20-21

Last week, it was Richard Lohmann of The Bronx, who was the lucky winner of the Porsche Boxster on Monday night, July 24, at Empire City Casino. Then in the second round of the promotion last night (July 31), the Bronx came up aces again when Carmen S. of the Bronx was revved up as another lucky winner at the finish line.

‎The “Luck of the Irish” will be musically profound at Empire City Casino with the announcement that Shilelagh Law and Celtic Cross, the exceedingly popular New York City-based Irish-American bands, will perform on Sunday, March 6, from 1:00-4:00 pm in a pre-St. Patrick’s Day indoor concert. The Pipes and Drums of the Police Emerald Society of Westchester, comprised of police officers from many of the 39 Police Departments within the County of Westchester will also perform.

Shilelagh Law is known to embody all that is New York Irish music. By interpreting traditional Irish music through a filter of urban grittiness, Shilelagh Law helps define the Irish-American experience that is such a part of New York.  Their fan base is wide-spread and one of the most loyal in the music industry.

Founded in the Bronx in 1990, CelticCross has been making and breaking Irish music tradition all over the US and abroad. The music of the seven-piece band tells great stories using the traditional on top of sassy pop, alt-country and funk playing.

Tickets are priced at just $20 and are on sale now at www.empirecitycasino.com. All tickets are general admission/standing room. Venue opens at noon.

Performance Schedule:
Pipes and Drums of the Police Emerald Society of Westchester - 12:45pm
Celtic Cross - 1:00pm
Pipes and Drums of the Police Emerald Society of Westchester - 2:15pm
Shilelagh Law - 2:30pm

About Shilelagh Law:
New York and Irish music have a long and storied history together.a collision of two cultures that results in bedlam, beauty and a lot in between. Shilelagh Law embodies all that is New York Irish music: old songs, new songs, jigs, reels, dancing, weeping, lots of laughter, plenty of drinks and the inevitable visit to the local diner at 5am. By interpreting traditional Irish music through a filter of urban grittiness Shilelagh Law helps to define the Irish-American experience that is such a part of New York town.

About Celtic Cross:
Celtic Cross is the legendary NYC seven-piece band fronted by Kathleen Fee, a talented singer-songwriter and her brothers John (accordion) & Kenny (fiddle) Vesey. They are joined by a group of accomplished and skilled NYC players Wally Ensor on guitar, Pat Dineen on bass/keys, Frankie McCormick on mandolin/banjo, and Ryan Cavan on drums. Products of Irish parents, traditional Irish music roots, and American pop radio, Celtic Cross puts it all together in a very different way than what you will hear from most Celtic acts. The band’s music tells great stories using the traditional on top of sassy pop, alt-country and funk playing. They are a band’s band around the NYC Irish scene and will remind you of Fleetwood Mac or the B-52s with a heavy dose of Saw Doctors or Stockton’s Wing. The band was founded in the Bronx in 1990 and has been making and breaking Irish music tradition all over the US and abroad ever since.

About The Pipes and Drums of the Police Emerald Society of Westchester:
The Pipes and Drums of the Police Emerald Society of Westchester Band was founded in May 1973 under the direction of Lt. Martin J. Harding of the Yonkers Police Department. Our membership is comprised of Officers from many of the 39 Police Departments within the County of Westchester, New York.

The Band's first appearance was in 1974 at the Yonkers St. Patrick's Day Parade where it captured the "Trophy for Musical Excellence". From this auspicious start, it went on to march in the New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade where, in 1976 it was honored to win the "Irish World Trophy" and in 1980 the trophy for "Best Pipe Band".   The band has also been twice decorated with the "Westchester County Service Award", bestowed by County Executive Andrew O'Rourke, in recognition of The Bands' portrayal of Police Professionalism and its dedication to the community of Westchester.

Two-time Super Bowl champion Lawrence Taylor, the greatest defensive player in Giants’ history and a member of the football Hall of Fame, will appear at Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar at Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway ‎(Yonkers, NY) on Sunday, November 15th.
 
“LT” will kick off the Giants vs. New England Patriots game from 3:15-4:15 PM in a pre-game meet and greet with the fans. The first 100 Empire Club members will have a chance to receive an autographed photo of Taylor, and have a photo opportunity with the nine-time All Pro linebacker by the Empire City photographer. Dan Rooney’s has 40 large-screen HDTV’s to view the game.
 
Note that Empire Club members must obtain wrist bands to participate prior to the event beginning at 2:00 pm; Fans may sign up to become Empire Club members at the Valet Entrance. Personal memorabilia will not be signed at this event.

About Lawrence Taylor: Lawrence Taylor was a member of the New York Giants for 13 seasons, and is considered one of the best linebackers in the history of the game. Selected by the Giants as the second overall pick in 1981, LT was named an All-Pro six times (1981–1987) and made 10 Pro Bowl appearances (1981–1990 seasons). He was inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999. The ground-breaking linebacker led the Giants to two Super Bowls in 1987 and ’91. Taylor quickly redefined the outside linebacker position, collecting nine sacks his rookie year, the first his of 10 straight Pro Bowl seasons. That same year, Taylor became the first rookie to win the league's "Defensive Player of the Year" title. He won the honor two more times, in 1982 and 1986. That ‘86 season stands out as Taylor's finest. That year he finished with 20.5 sacks and 105 tackles, making him the first defensive player in 15 years to be named the NFL's MVP. In 1995, Taylor was named to the NFL's Anniversary All-Time Team.

Yonkers Raceway has announced that next year’s Yonkers International Trot is set for Saturday afternoon, October 15th, 2016. The purse again will be $1 million, and the distance 1 ¼ miles. There will be 10 invitations extended to trotters across the globe.

This year’s revival after a 20-year hiatus was captured in stirring fashion by Norway’s Papagayo E. (Oct. 10th). 

“We were very excited to bring this race back after 20 years and even more excited to have it return in 2016,” Raceway president and CEO Tim Rooney said. “The response was overall very positive and we learned quite a bit, so we’re already starting to look into what we can do to make the event even better.” 

“We’re very appreciative of the interest shown in this race,” Rooney added. “Returning our Yonkers International Trot was something we had discussed for many years, and we feel that by confirming a 2016 date well in advance, we are assured of attracting the world’s best trotters.

“Once again, we are grateful for the continued support of our overseas audience, as well as our fans locally and throughout North America.”

Yonkers Woman Hits First Six-Figure Jackpot of 2017 at Empire City Casino; “Nancy G.” Scores for $190,860 on Wheel of Fortune Slot Machine Saturday

Birthday Celebration Turns into Jubilation at Empire City Casino; James E. Dobson Hits $143,723 Jackpot on Trip from Maryland Celebrating Aunt Thelma’s Birthday

Empire City Casino, one of New York’s most successful casinos has launched a new ad campaign entitled “Real Winners, Real Money, Real Deal”. Who better to enlist as advertising pitch-man for Empire City Casino than its biggest jackpot winner? Howard Gershowitz of Suffolk County, Long Island is back in the “slot-”light in the Yonkers casino’s new ad campaign after scoring Empire City’s record-breaking jackpot worth $1,473,503 on October 25, 2015. (View the commercial at http://bit.ly/HowardG)

Coincidentally, the same jackpot that made Howard G. a very wealthy man, has grown since Howard’s fateful day and is fast approaching the record-breaking amount and could even exceed it. This record-breaker is ripe again for winning and is only available on two Wheel of Fortune slots at Empire City Casino. Now, anyone could be the next Howard G.!

Howard's lucky roll was the only million-dollar plus jackpot in the history of not only Empire City Casino but all New York State racetrack casinos. Howard hit on the Wheel of Fortune Triple Star slot machine – one of the most popular slot machines in the world. There have been many television show-themed slots that have attempted to bring the action from the screen to the slot world, but none have succeeded in the dazzling style of Wheel of Fortune, which has captivated gamblers for years with high jackpots and spinning money wheels.

When this latest jackpot is hit, it will give Wheel of Fortune “bragging rights” to the three highest jackpots in the history of the Yonkers casino and six of the top 10 highest jackpots. Three Bally slot machines – Hot Shots, Blazing 7’s and Stars & Bars – can also boast major scores ranging from nearly $250,000 to $571,000, all ranking in the top 10 jackpots at Empire City Casino.

This past November, Linda H. of Thornwood, New York, took home a $961,411.81 jackpot also from a Wheel of Fortune slot machine - the second largest in the ten-year history of Empire City. Linda’s hit eclipsed the $571,049 score won by former runner-up Manuel Esteche in February of 2015 on the Blazing 7’s.

Empire City recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and ranks as the sixth largest casino floor in the country, including Las Vegas and Indian casinos nationwide. More than 8 million visitors a year try their luck at Empire City Casino, hoping to hit one of the many six-figure jackpots on the behemoth gaming floor.

“Right now there are 11 six-figure jackpots ready for the taking at Empire City, almost half of them above $300,000 including the $1.4 million life-changer,” says Ryan Munroe, Empire City’s director of gaming operations. “With over 5,200 slot machines available, there’s no need to travel far when you can win this kind of money so close to home.”

 At the time of this writing, six-figure jackpots at Empire City range from just over $100,000 to more than $1.4 million on slots with minimum bets from one cent to ten dollars. To be eligible to win the top jackpot, a player must make the maximum bet on the machine.

Current Six-Figure Jackpots Available at Empire City

If the current top Wheel of Fortune jackpot is not hit before it exceeds the amount of Howard G.’s win of $1,473,503.54, the lucky winner who takes it home will be celebrated as the new highest jackpot winner at any of the state’s racetrack casinos.

Top 10 Jackpots in Empire City Casino History

Fight Night at Empire City Casino, Wednesday, March 30th
Historic New York Daily News Golden Gloves Semi-Finals

James E. Dobson and his good friend Donzella Parker Bert made a four-hour bus trip from Stevensville, Maryland, to New York to visit Aunt Thelma Sligh, to celebrate her 89th birthday over Memorial Day weekend. There was even greater merriment than anticipated when Mr. Dobson hit a $143,723 jackpot at Empire City Casino in Yonkers on Saturday (May 27).

“We hadn’t seen Aunt Thelma in three or four years, so we took the bus to New York, not wanting to deal with the holiday traffic,” explained Dobson.

Aunt Thelma (actually Donzella’s aunt) lives in Harlem, and “she wanted to go to the casino,” since it would be a festive locale to celebrate She and Donzella share the same birthday, May 28th.

“It only took two spins,” said the avid casino-goer, who visits Delaware Park, the Horseshoe in Baltimore, and Dover Downs casinos, all much closer to home. “I usually play the slots, for $5 to $10 spins, but this was the biggest jackpot I ever hit.” As is customary, Dobson made a $10 wager on a $5 denomination machine, this time on the wildly-popular Wheel of Fortune slot in the Gotham Palace for the big payday at 8:00 PM Saturday.

“We’ll be back,” he vows.

Dobson, 76, a retired welder (45 years at Grumman), said that he was “alone when I hit the jackpot. When they got back, they were so happy to see me win.”

He reports that I gave them “a birthday present,” sharing part of the winnings, which he plans to invest. “I have scheduled a meeting with my broker.”

Oh, by the way, it was also an early birthday party for Dobson, who celebrates his on June 8th.

When not playing the slots or visiting Aunt Thelma, Dobson is an avid fisherman, “I live on Chesapeake Bay,” he says, and also hunts and bowls. The slots have now become his most lucrative hobby.

The Wheel of Fortune has been more than good to Empire City players from near and far. Just six days earlier, on May 21, another lucky James made a shorter trip from The Bronx to Yonkers a winning journey when James M. hit a $149,931 jackpot at Empire City. The six-figure score was also made in the Gotham Palace on the Wheel of Fortune, just yards away from the slot machine where a New York State racetrack casino record $1,713,985 jackpot (as of Tuesday, May 30) is still waiting to be hit. James made a $6 wager on a $1 denomination machine to score at 4:23 PM.

The Empire City life-changer still looming continues to soar. On May 9, it eclipsed $1.6 for the first time in history. On April 17, it had soared past $1.5 million for the first time, and on April 10, when it reached $1,480,045, it eclipsed the previous all-time Empire City and New York racetrack casino jackpot record hit by HowardGershowitz of Suffolk County, Long Island ($1,473,503 on October 25, 2015).

This record-breaker is ripe again for winning and is only available on two Wheel of Fortune slots at Empire City Casino. Who will be the next Howard G.?!

The Wheel of Fortune Triple Star slot is one of the most popular slot machines in the world. There have been many television show-themed slots that have attempted to bring the action from the screen to the slot world, but none have succeeded in the dazzling style of Wheel of Fortune, which has captivated gamblers for years with high jackpots and spinning money wheels.

On the heels of an exhilarating return of the Yonkers International Trot last October, and successful French-hub simulcasting since last year, Yonkers Raceway continues its hot-to-trot foreign flavor. Five of Yonkers Raceway’s premier drivers are set to square off against their fine French counterparts in the inaugural "Drivers’ Cup" later this month.

The two-nation competition begins at Empire City Casino’s historic half mile oval on Sunday afternoon, March 20, in races two and four, trotting events which will be among those simulcast to the French-hubbed audience. The Cup then wraps-up with a pair of races at Vincennes in Paris, France, one each day on Friday, June 24, and Sunday, June 26.

Here are the Drivers’ Cup line-ups:​

Yonkers Raceway: Jason Bartlett (captain), Tyler Buter, Dan Dube, Pat Lachance and Jordan Stratton; France: Pierre Vercruysse (captain), Matthieu Abrivard, Nicolas Ensch, Pierre Levesque and Franck Ouvrie.

New York Rangers Favorite Nick Fotiu To Host Viewing Party at Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar at Empire City Casino on Friday night, December 8th

Yonkers, NY — The Dan Rooney Pace has been established to honor the memory of the late, Hall of Fame Chairman of the Pittsburgh Steelers who passed away earlier this year, it was announced today by his brother, Timothy J. Rooney, President and CEO Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway. The inaugural Dan Rooney, for a purse of $250,000, will be raced on Saturday afternoon, October 14, as part of the stellar $3.3 million harness racing card highlighted by the $1 million Yonkers International Trot at the casino's historic harness racing oval.

The Rooney family purchased Yonkers Raceway in 1972. Empire City Casino opened in 2006.

In addition, Mr. Rooney announced the inaugural $250,000 Harry Harvey Trot to pay homage to the Harness Racing Hall of Fame trainer and driver, also to be contested on October 14.

During a seven-decade career as one of the NFL’s most influential executives, Dan Rooney was the Chairman of the Pittsburgh Steelers, the storied franchise with six Super Bowl championships, a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and former U.S. Ambassador to Ireland. Mr. Rooney was also chairman of the NFL Diversity Committee, which implemented the “Rooney Rule” to provide greater opportunities in coaching and NFL front office positions for minorities.

Among his many community activities, Dan Rooney was a board member for The United Way of America, The American Ireland Fund, The American Diabetes Association, Presbyterian University Hospital, The Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation, and Duquesne University.

“My brother’s contributions in sports and to the community were significant, many and lasting,” said Tim Rooney. “It is appropriate that we pay tribute to him annually with the Dan Rooney Pace on our biggest day of the year on the Yonkers International Trot card.”

Harvey won the 1953 Hambletonian behind the filly Helicopter, and at the time was the youngest driver, at age 29, to capture the premier trotting stakes. Harvey also developed, trained and drove two-time Horse of the Year Albatross during the colt’s freshman campaign. Harvey trained and drove horses for Art and Tim Rooney's Shamrock Farms for nearly 50 years, including the champion Lismore.

Harvey trained and drove the Tim Rooney homebred Lismore, namesake of Empire City’s premier pacing filly race.  Lismore was a Hall of Fame broodmare whose progeny won $4.2 million.  Harvey trained most of the fillies produced by Lismore, including her daughter Lisheen, who won the 1984 Mistletoe Shalee, in which stablemate and another Rooney homebred, Newbridge, was second. His last good horse was Rooney homebred Lislea Phia, winner of $542,450 and the 2007 Matron Stake.

“Harry was a man of great integrity and superior horsemanship,” said Mr. Rooney. “He trained many of our horses, including our champion broodmare Lismore, and her fast daughter Lisheen. We are proud to name a race in his memory.”

YONKERS RACEWAY TO MAKE HISTORY SUNDAY AFTERNOON (MARCH 12) WITH FIRST ALL TROTTING CARD IN ITS CENTURY-PLUS ANNALS

 Spider-Man 2 Actor and Star of “Chappelle’s Show” Donnell Rawlings Headlines Empire City Casino’s Comedy Night Wednesday, August 16th

COUNTY CLARE, IRELAND NATIVE, LONGTIME YONKERS RESIDENT GUSS HAYES BACK AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO AT YONKERS RACEWAY FOR ANOTHER ST. PATRICK’S DAY PERFORMANCE ON FRIDAY, MARCH 17

BARTLETT, ALLARD SET TO DEFEND TITLES AS YONKERS RACEWAY COMMENCES 2016 SEASON ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 7

The iconic New York Daily News Golden Gloves returns to Empire City Casino for the sixth consecutive year on Wednesday, March 30. The 2016 semi-finals of the fabled amateur boxing tournament will be hosted on the casino’s fourth floor.

The oldest and most esteemed amateur event in the U.S., celebrating its 89th anniversary this season, has produced generations of legendary boxers including Sugar Ray Robinson, Emile Griffith, Floyd Patterson, Riddick Bowe, Gerry Cooney, Mark Breland, Jose Torres, and Zab Judah.

“We are proud that the Daily News Golden Gloves has become part of the great sports tradition at Empire City Casino, and is now in its sixth year,” said president & CEO, Timothy J. Rooney. “Two New York institutions are once again teaming up for what we know will be an exciting event for fight fans.”

General Admission tickets are $25 ($20 for Empire Club Members); senior citizens and college students are $15; and first responders will receive free admission. To receive free or discounted tickets, guests must present valid photo ID. For more information visit www.nydn.us/gg or call Empire City Casino at 914-968-4200.

Doors open at 6:30 PM and first bell is 7:30 PM sharp. These in-demand tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis only at the door on fight night. Tickets and seating are limited.

Yonkers Raceway first opened its doors in 1899, and in over 115 years of its history has been the home to harness racing’s Triple Crown events such as the Yonkers Trot, Cane Pace and Messenger Stakes, as well as such premier stakes races as the Art Rooney Pace. Professional boxing had been held in the Old Glory Horse Pavilion, and many major fights shown on closed circuit television. But the Daily News Golden Gloves, the most elite Golden Gloves tournament in the country for 89 years, became a “first-time starter” in 2011.

Empire City Casino has launched its “Late Night Woodlawn 4 Train Shuttle Service” to serve players and employees who require public transportation during the off-peak hours of 1:00am and 6:30am.

The $1 per-ride shuttle will pick-up and drop-off at the intersection of Jerome & Bainbridge Avenues at 3700 Jerome Avenue, just steps from the train station in front of the 24-hour Gary & Gino’s Pizzeria. The convenient location offers round-the-clock food and drink for hungry travelers.

“With over 8 million annual visitors and 1300 employees, many of whom rely on the 4 train to reach Empire City, it became clear this was a service our customers and employees wanted,” said Taryn Duffy, Empire City’s director of public affairs. “This shuttle will serve our late-night customers as well as team members who work late shifts.”

The daily service will be provided by Boston Deluxe. Riders can reach them at 914-308-287 with any immediate service questions related to scheduling, weather, traffic delays, etc.

The full shuttle schedule is available at www.empirecitycasino.com/getting-here/line-run and in print at any promotion booth at Empire City Casino.

Pick-Up Schedule:
Daily
3700 Jerome Avenue (Gary & Gino’s Pizzeria)
1:00AM | 2:00AM | 3:00AM | 4:00AM | 5:00AM

Return Schedule:
Monday-Friday
Empire City East Entrance Near Food Court
1:25AM | 2:25AM | 3:25AM | 4:25AM

Empire City West Entrance Grand Victorian
1:30AM | 2:30AM | 3:30AM | 4:30AM

Saturday & Sunday
Empire City East Entrance Near Food Court
1:25AM | 2:25AM | 3:25AM | 4:25AM | 5:25AM | 5:55AM | 6:25AM

Empire City West Entrance Grand Victorian
1:30AM | 2:30AM | 3:30AM | 4:30AM | 5:30AM | 6:00AM | 6:30AM

“Tracie B.” hit a jackpot worth nearly $400,000 on February 5 at Empire City Casino, one of the largest entertainment destinations in the northeast located less than two miles north of New York City. The New Jersey resident scored for $388,311.84 on the Blazing 7’s slot machine in the casino’s Gotham Palace at 10:46 PM with a $2.50 wager.

It was the biggest jackpot of the year thus far, and the largest hit since the all-time Empire City record of $1,473,503 brought home by Suffolk County resident Howard G. on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at 11:00 am. That jaw-dropping score was won on the popular IGT Wheel of Fortune® Triple Stars® slot machine, located just a few hundred feet from the casino’s valet entrance.

The record jackpot exceeded the previously held record by nearly one million dollars, hit by Manuel Esteche of Port Chester hit for $571,000 in February 2015. Esteche’s haul broke the previous record jackpot of $509,000 won in November 2014 by Moosue Stefern of Bergenfield, New Jersey.

Empire City Casino will be celebrating Independence Day with a cool "market tote" giveaway for Empire Club members on Monday, July 4.

Beginning at 10:00 am, the first 3,000  Empire Club members to visit the promotions booth will receive a patriotic tote to celebrate the Fourth, and all summer in style. Totes are available while supplies last and are limited to one per member.

TGI Friday @ Empire City

"TGIF‎" will be the explosive catch-phrase for slot players at Empire City Casino on five consecutive Fridays during the month of July. From 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Empire Club members who obtain five Empire points will receive $5 in Free Play on July 1, July 8, July 15, July 22 and July 29.

Free play must be redeemed on the same Friday before 5 pm. (Note that points cannot be earned on electronic table games). The free play offer is limited to one per member for each day of the promotion.

The Bronx Wins Again! Second Bronx Resident Takes Home Porsche Boxster at Empire City Casino

The air may be cold, but the slots are hot in February at Empire City Casino. On the heels of the near $400,000 jackpot score by “Tracie B.” earlier in the month, a player identified as “Pavel” had the hot hand on February 18th, hitting for $105,778 on the Bally 777 Wild Jackpot Quick Hit slot machine in the casino’s Gotham Palace at 6:40 pm.

Pavel made a $5 wager on the $1 denomination slot machine at Empire City, which is one of the largest entertainment destinations in the northeast located less than two miles north of New York City.

Tracie’s $388,311.84 score on February 5th was registered on the Blazing 7’s slot machine, and was the biggest jackpot of the year thus far. It was the largest hit since the all-time Empire City record of $1,473,503 brought home by Suffolk County resident Howard G. on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at 11:00am. That jaw-dropping score was won on the popular IGT Wheel of Fortune® Triple Stars® slot machine, located just a few hundred feet from the casino’s valet entrance.

Jackpot Record History: Howard G’s record jackpot exceeded the previously held record by nearly one million dollars, hit by Manuel Esteche of Port Chester hit for $571,000 in February 2015. Esteche’s haul broke the previous record jackpot of $509,000 won in November 2014 by Moosue Stefern of Bergenfield, New Jersey.

Gingras Reunited with Foiled Again in Quest of Career Win No. 100 Thursday Night (March 8) at Yonkers Raceway

Record-Breaking Jackpot Hits on Wheel of Fortune Slots at Empire City Casino 
Long Island Resident Wins $1.4 Million Life-Changing Score

Yonkers Raceway and the Standardbred Owners Association of New York hosted 100 metropolitan-area Army, Navy and Marine Corps veterans for dinner on Saturday night, May 14.

The vets led ‎the post parade for first three races of the evening, and we able to meet owners, trainers, drivers and track officials during a behind the scenes look at Empire City Casino's historic half-mile racetrack.

The veterans groups were in the winner’s circle following the early races for an impromptu meet and greet.

Trainer Robbie Siegelman once again spearheaded the effort. Siegelman has been a long-time, active volunteer with HorseAbility (www.horseability.org), an Old Westbury, NY-based non-profit organization offering therapeutic riding programs, hippotherapy and a summer day camp to children, adults, and families with special needs.

"Everyone had a great time,” Siegelman said. “We may have to do this more often.”

The storied history of Yonkers Raceway, first established in 1899 as the Empire City Trotting Club, adds another page this Sunday afternoon, March 12, when it presents what is believed to be the first-ever all trotting-race card.

This according to longtime publicity director Frank Drucker, Assistant Race Secretary Bob Miecuna, and the track statistician Fred Opper.

All 11 races on the matinee card, with first post at 12:30 PM, will be trotting affairs, including seven (races 3 through 9) for the French-hub simulcasting at the mile-and-one-quarter distance.

Pacers are the customary, standard fare offered at Yonkers and harness racing tracks across America, accounting for an estimated 80 percent of the races.

The card starts off with a $50,000 Open Trot, which is blind-draw battle that includes Hemi Seelster handled by leading driver Jason Bartlett from post seven, Springbank Sam N., driven by Jordan Stratton from post position two, and the lone mare in the field, Allerage Star, with Andy Miller in the bike from post eight. The trio finished first, second and third in last week’s handicapped event.

Sunday’s afternoon card also features the return of the “New York, New York Double,” with the third race from Aqueduct (post time 2:20 PM) and the sixth from Yonkers (post time 2:55 PM).

Nominees for Levy Series Announced
Defending champion Bit of a Legend N. leads 40 Free-For-All nominees into Yonkers Raceway’s 2017 edition of the George Morton Levy Memorial Pacing Series, which honors the Hall of Fame founder of Roosevelt Raceway.

The five weeks of preliminaries begin next Saturday, March, 18, with each race in each leg worth $50,000.

Bit of a Legend N is an eight-year-old Down Under son of Bettor’s Delight, who swept through the Levy series a season ago. He won the $609,000 final (1:51, matching stakes record) a week after his scintillating, dead-heat with Wiggle It Jiggleit (world-record ‘heater’ of 1:51.2). Peter Tritton trains and Jordan Stratton drives for owner Harry von Knoblauch.

Other notable eligibles listed alphabetically include: All Bets Off, Bettor’s Edge, Caviart Luca, Mach it So, McWicked, Missile J, Provocativeprincen, Rockin’ Ron, Soto, Take it Back Terry, Vegas Vacation, and Wakizashi Hanover.

The Levy’s companion event, the ladies-only Blue Chip Matchmaker, seduced 28 of the best distaffers in training.

Among the fast femmes (alphabetically) are: Bedroomconfessions, Devil Child, Krispy Apple, Mach it a Par and Sell a Bit N.  The ’17 edition was guaranteed a new leading lady after Yagonnakissmeornot, last season’s victress, began her second career as a broodmare.

That series, also with five prelim legs (at $40,000 per race), begins Friday night, March 17.

Finals (and consolations) for both the Levy and Matchmaker are set for Saturday night, April 22 with purses to be announced.

Nick Fotiu, the beloved New York Rangers fan favorite forward and Staten Island native, will host a viewing party at Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar at Empire City Casino this Friday, December 8th, as the “Broadway Blueshirts” take on the Washington Capitals.

Fotiu will meet and greet fans, sign autographs and take photos beginning at 6:30 p.m. The first native New Yorker to play for the Rangers will watch the pivotal Eastern Conference Atlantic Division match up with faithful fans. Opening face off in Washington is at 7:00 p.m.

Dan Rooney’s features over 40 large screen TVs with upscale pub food and cold brews available for purchase. Along with food and drink specials, a Rangers trivia contest will be held, as well as giveaways, including two tickets to a Rangers game.

Empire City is providing round trip bus service from Madison Square Garden. Those interested should email empirecitycasinoviewingparty@msg.com to reserve their spot.

Empire City continues to bring New York’s favorite athletes to the casino. Yankees World Champion Tino Martinez, Giants Super Bowl champs Lawrence Taylor and Mark Bavaro, and Mets World Series pitcher Bobby Ojeda are among the stars who have appeared this year.

About Nick Fotiu: signed with his hometown Rangers in 1976, and endeared himself to fans in his role as an enforcer. He played with the Rangers until 1979, when he was claimed by the Hartford Whalers in the NHL Expansion Draft. Fotiu was traded back to the Rangers in 1980, and was with the team for five more seasons.

Magical Irish music and American classics provided by Guss Hayes and his band have been part of the fabric of the city of Yonkers and Yonkers Raceway for three decades.

And Hayes and his band of renown have brought smiles to many faces at the raceway’s Empire City Casino since its opening in 2006, too, be it on St. Patrick’s Day or to ring in a New Year. Thursday, March 17 will continue the tradition, when the Guss Hayes Band will perform in the Dan Rooney's Sports Bar, with sets from noon to 9:00 PM.

Hayes, the former owner/performer at Tara Restaurant for almost three decades, has been a fixture at Yonkers Raceway on St. Patrick’s Day as a favorite of patrons and raceway president Timothy J. Rooney alike.

“One of our main venues is surely Yonkers Raceway and the Empire City Casino,” says Hayes. “We have been entertaining for Mr. Tim Rooney for almost 30 years at the raceway for a variety of affairs. He has been very kind to the band and now performing at Empire City Casino has become part of our exciting routine.”

The native of County Clare in Ireland has his roots firmly planted in Westchester with his wife Theresa, though they return to the homeland often.

“I come from Ennistymon, a town in North Clare,” says Hayes. “Ennistymon is translated to River Side.  It is a beautiful town with a river running through it  that has an amazing and much photographed Falls.  It is also known as a Market Town with a lot of tradition and history. When I left my hometown we had forty pubs, today there are eight of them left.

“In the days growing up most of the Pubs had a dual purpose, one side of the store had a bar where you would buy a drink, the other side had a shop where you might buy candy, flowers, groceries, meat, coal or even find the services of an undertaker.  Yes, an undertaker, which is one of the pubs still in business! So the bars were not just for serving drink and you could be sure of a session too!”

Hayes, still with a twinkle in his smiling Irish eyes, says that his two favorite Celtic classics are “The Old Man” and “Song for Ireland,” which will surely be in his repertoire for St. Patrick’s Day.

“I have some personal favorite Irish songs,” reflects Hayes. “One was written by a great Irish songwriter named Phil Coulter and it is called ‘The Old Man.’ It's a beautiful story about a sons love for his father. Another is ‘A Song for Ireland,’  and listening to it if you close your eyes makes you feel like you're travelling home.  We have a great saying in Ireland that goes:

‘All our wars were merry
All our songs are sad’

“Irish music can be uplifting and have you dancing in your seats one minute and the next the tears are rolling down your face,” continues the popular musician. “We are a very nostalgic people.  We have spent our existence emigrating, returning, returning, emigrating.  As once again 2011 sees all our young emigrating again.”

Yonkers Raceway, the city of Yonkers and all of Westchester are fortunate that Guss Hayes calls New York his home.

Jason Bartlett Wins Seven Races at Yonkers Raceway Sunday Afternoon; “Maine” Man Leads Standings

Empire City Casino is gearing up to host slot tournaments with $75,000 in total cash prizes up for grabs. The Vegas-style tournaments will be held at Empire City April 19th, 20th and 21st from 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm each day. Participants are elite and presidents level members of the Empire Club, the casino’s player loyalty club.

Using Bally Technologies, one of the leading manufacturers of slot gaming machines, elite players will compete for a $10,000 top prize while president level players can win up to $15,000. Prize levels for second through tenth place range from $5,000 to $100 for elite players, and $10,000 to $150 for president level members. All invited guests are also eligible to receive $25 in free play and will enjoy complimentary food and beverages in the grand VIP Room prior to their tournament.

The Empire Club is free to join and members can earn entries into promotions, exclusive merchandise, invitations to special events, and points that can be redeemed at the casino for food and beverages. To become an Empire Club member, visit any casino promotions booth. To learn more visit www.empirecitycasino.com/empire-club.

Scott Zeron Reaches 3,000 Career Win Milestone at Yonkers Raceway

​Brennan, Sears, Size-Up Saturday’s Art Rooney Pace; Missile J./Artmagic Entry favored in $300,000 Sophomore Stakes Salutes Steelers’ Founder at Yonkers Raceway

Nearly 1,000 Toys & Coats, Catholic Charities Receives Surprise $10,000 Donation from Empire City Casino President at Ninth Annual ‎Coat and Toy Drive

***Donation Will Assist Hundreds of Families & Children in Need this Holiday Season***

FORMER RANGERS’ CAPTAIN RON GRESCHNER TO HOST RANGERS VIEWING PARTY AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO’S DAN ROONEY’S SPORTS BAR ON SATURDAY, APRIL 16

Magical Irish music provided by Ireland's County Clare native Guss Hayes and his band have been part of the fabric of the city of Yonkers and Yonkers Raceway for three decades, and most notably on St. Patrick's Day.

Long a tradition at the raceway, and Empire City Casino since its opening in 2006, Hayes will bring Irish classics to smilin' Irish eyes from 6pm to 2am in the Entertainment Lounge, among the highlights of the St. Patrick’s festivities on Friday night, March 17.

Hayes, the former owner/performer at Tara Restaurant almost 30 years, is a favorite of guests and president and CEO Timothy J. Rooney alike.

"One of our main venues is surely Yonkers Raceway and the Empire City Casino,” says Hayes. “We have been entertaining for Mr. Tim Rooney for 30 years at the raceway for a variety of affairs. He has been very kind to the band and now performing at Empire City Casino has become part of our exciting routine.”

The native of County Clare in Ireland has his roots firmly planted in Westchester with his wife Theresa, though they return to the homeland often.

“I come from Ennistymon, a town in North Clare,” says Hayes. “Ennistymon is translated to River Side. It is a beautiful town with a river running through it that has an amazing and much photographed Falls. It is also known as a Market Town with a lot of tradition and history. When I left my hometown we had forty pubs, today there are eight of them left.

“In the days growing up most of the Pubs had a dual purpose, one side of the store had a bar where you would buy a drink, the other side had a shop where you might buy candy, flowers, groceries, meat, coal or even find the services of an undertaker.  Yes, an undertaker, which is one of the pubs still in business! So the bars were not just for serving drink and you could be sure of a session too!”

Hayes, still with a twinkle in his smiling Irish eyes, says that his two favorite Celtic classics are “The Old Man” and “Song for Ireland,” which will surely be in his repertoire for St. Patrick’s Day.

“I have some personal favorite Irish songs,” reflects Hayes. “One was written by a great Irish song writer named Phil Coulter and it is called ‘The Old Man.’ It's a beautiful story about a sons love for his father. Another is ‘A Song for Ireland,’ and listening to it if you close your eyes makes you feel like you're travelling home.  We have a great saying in Ireland that goes

‘All our wars were merry
All our songs are sad’

“Irish music can be uplifting and have you dancing in your seats one minute and the next the tears are rolling down your face,” continues the popular musician. “We are a very nostalgic people.  We have spent our existence emigrating, returning, returning, and emigrating."

Yonkers Raceway, Empire City Casino, the city of Yonkers and all of Westchester are fortunate that Guss Hayes calls New York his home.

Jason Bartlett was in “Seventh Heaven” at Yonkers Raceway on Sunday afternoon, his own brand of March Madness, as he continued his assault on the drivers’ standings at Empire City Casino’s historic half-mile oval with seven wins on the matinee card.

Bartlett’s 129 dash wins are more than double those of runner up Brian Sears with 64 triumphs.

Yonkers Raceway’s “Maine” Man, Bartlett showed his magic touch in the third and fourth races with the favorites, winning by a mere nose and neck in back to back mile and a quarter contests for the French simulcasting hub. In the third, Tober began the Bartlett brigade of victories, winning by a scant nose over TheresADemonInMe, driven by Andy Miller, in 2:27:3.

In the fourth, Zorgwijk Nova got the job done in another close one, scoring over Bingo Queen and Brent Holland in 2:26:2.

Movement was Bartlett’s third winner of the afternoon in yet another 1-¼ mile trot, stopping the clock in 2:29:2 in the sixth race on the card to begin a string of four consecutive races.

Close finishes were the order of the day for Bartlett, scoring in the seventh with the appropriately named hunch of the day with RoethBlissBerger, considering that the Rooney Family of Pittsburgh Steelers fame have been the raceway owners for four decades. Bartlett got his charge up by a neck in the final strides over favored Touch The Rock and George Brennan,stopping the clock in 1:54.

In the eighth, Bartlett continued to pile onto his A-plus grade for the afternoon, bringing home, of course, A Plus Hanover in the shadow of the wire, and stopping the clock in 1:53:3.

Do you believe in Bartlett, yet? You’d better believe that What I Believe and, yes, it was Bartlett again in the ninth race with the favorite, timed in 1:53 for the mile pace.

The coup de grace and last of the Bartlett victories put the cherry on the “Sundae” matinee card, a 7¼-length, sizzling 1:50.4, season’s-fastest local mile with odds on favorite Santa Fe Beachboy ($2.20) in the 12th race finale.

Richard Banca trained all four pacing victories for Bartlett, benefiting from the sulky wizardry. Banca is dismantling the trainers’ colony at Yonkers with 27.2 percent winners, 55 triumphs in 202 starts, and forming a lethal trainer-driver tandem.

Real Winners, Real Money, Real Deal: Empire City Casino’s New Ad Campaign Features It’s Biggest Jackpot Winner, but Will He Soon Lose His Spot at the Top?
Howard G. Hit for Nearly $1.5 Million at Empire City in 2015; Jackpot on Same Machine Expected to Soon Eclipse that Record-Breaking Win

​YONKERS RACEWAY TO INTRODUCE NEW FINISH LINE, CAMERA AND LIGHTING FRIDAY NIGHT

Favorite Downbytheseaside Captures $300,000 Art Rooney Pace Named for Steelers Founding Father

Red Hot Herbie Heats up Wintry Yonkers Raceway in 2017 Opening Day Feature Trot

A Long Island man turned his $20 bet into a $1,473,503 million jackpot at Empire City Casino, one of the largest entertainment destinations in the northeast located less than two miles north of New York City.

Suffolk County resident, Howard G. hit the record-breaking jackpot at the Westchester County casino Sunday, October 25 at 11:00am. The life-changing score was won on the popular IGT Wheel of Fortune® Triple Stars® slot machine, located just a few hundred feet from the casino’s valet entrance.

It took less than five spins that lucky Sunday morning to hit the jackpot that Howard says will help secure retirement for himself and his wife. The lucky winner says he knew it was only a matter of time.

“I told everyone I knew I was going to hit that jackpot; my co-workers, family, and friends,” said Howard. “I was determined. It was part of my routine. I play my slots, then hit the blackjack tables, and always try for the (Wheel of Fortune) jackpot before I leave. This time, I started at the jackpot. And it worked!”

“I play at casinos in Vegas, Atlantic City and Biloxi, but I truly feel most comfortable at Empire City,” explained Howard. “Not only do I love the gaming variety, but the staff is accommodating and friendly – they were so happy when I won!”

Howard said he doesn’t have specific plans for the winnings but said the jackpot will provide a more comfortable retirement adding, “My wife wants a new roof on the house, so I guess we can get that now.”

Howard says the reaction from friends, family and colleagues has been very positive, “Someone asked me if I woke up that morning thinking I was going to win. I told him I wake up every morning thinking I am going to win!”

The Wheel of Fortune slot machine that turned Howard into a millionaire ballooned past the $1 million mark on April 15, 2015 and has had guests coming from far and wide to try their luck ever since. The progressive jackpot was not the typical wide area progressive with slot machines linked between various casinos. This particular jackpot could only be won on two Wheel of Fortune games at Empire City, both $10 denomination machines with a max bet of $20 needed to hit the jackpot. Howard G. is one of over 1,000 million dollar jackpot winners on Wheel of Fortune slots to date.

“We are thrilled that the largest racetrack casino jackpot in the history of New York was won right here at Empire City Casino,” said Ryan Murphy, vice president of marketing at Empire City.  “Empire City has some of the best payouts in the entire country and this is another prime example of a huge win for one of our guests.”

The record jackpot exceeded the previously held record by nearly one million dollars, hit by Manuel Esteche of Port Chester hit for $571,000 in February 2015. Esteche’s haul broke the previous record jackpot of $509,000 won in November 2014 by Moosue Stefern of Bergenfield, New Jersey.

There’s no shortage of jackpots at Empire City. There are currently nine (9) six-figure jackpots ranging from $133,000 to $424,375 on games with denominations as low as a penny, and hundreds more jackpots valued at tens of thousands of dollars are waiting to be hit. According to the New York State Lottery, in September of 2015, Empire City patrons took home their share of $658 million.

JASON BARTLETT REACHES 7,000 CAREER WIN MILESTONE AT YONKERS RACEWAY

Yonkers Raceway and the Standardbred Owners Association of New York have announced a joint contribution to assist those affected by the Classy LaneStables barn fire.

The initial donation is $10,000 — equally shared by the track and its horsemen — with an initiative underway to increase that amount.

“As with the rest of the harness industry, we were stunned and saddened by what happened,” Raceway COO Bob Galterio said. “We have enjoyed a strong simulcast relationship with Ontario tracks for many years, and we’re thinking of those horsemen and their loss at this very difficult time.”

“It’s the worst thing that can happen to anyone in this business, so we’re just trying to assist in any way we can,” SOA of New York president Joe Faraldo said.

In addition to the “first donation,” Yonkers’ owners, trainers and drivers have been encouraged to set aside a portion of their purse earnings to be earmarked to the Central Ontario Standardbred Association. The SOA has specifically requested that the half the money raised go toward caretaker assistance and for those trainers who had three or fewer horses. Distribution of the balance is at the sole discretion of COSA for those based upon financial need.

“We’ve had any number of our members ask how they can help,” Faraldo said.

The barn fire in southern Ontario last week killed 43 standardbred racehorses.

Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway Employees Participate in Inaugural “Wrapped with Love” Program; New Addition to 11th Annual Christmas Spirit Coat & Toy Drive

Steve Byrne, the creator and star of the TBS comedy hit Sullivan and Son, will headline the Wednesday Comedy Night laugh-fest at Empire City Casino on March 15. The Pittsburgh native has appeared nationally on such late night shows as Jimmy Kimmel, Conan O’Brien and Jimmy Fallon.

Doors will open for the shenanigans in the Good Time Room at 7:00 pm, and the show will begin at 8:00 pm. Admission is $5 for Empire Club Members and $25 for non-members. Elite Club and President’s Club members gain free admission. All patrons will receive a free drink ticket.

Byrne is one of comedy’s most innovative and sought-after performers, rising the ranks from New York City’s comedy clubs to star-status. Byrne was born to a Korean mother and an Irish father in his Steel City home town, giving him the base for his comedic material.

He is set to release his fourth hour stand up special entitled "Tell the Damn Joke" in early 2017.

Byrne has been featured in his own half-hour Comedy Central Presents, which was soon voted as one of the best specials of all time in the Comedy Central Standup Showdown. Byrne has appeared in the hit comedies The Dilemma, Couples Retreat, Four Christmases and The Goods: The Don Ready Story. His 2006 documentary, 13 or Bust, chronicles the attempt to perform 13 comedy shows in Manhattan in one night.

Joining Steve on stage will be featured performer Tom Cassidy and MC Peyton Clarkson.

GIANTS GREAT AND FOOTBALL HALL OF FAMER LAWRENCE TAYLOR TO APPEAR AT DAN ROONEY’S SPORTS BAR AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO AT YONKERS RACEWAY ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15‎th

MEET & GREET WITH BOBBY OJEDA, FORMER METS PITCHER AND 1986 WORLD CHAMPION

Tristate area gamblers have more than dollar signs in their eyes this month - they’re seeing double. After giving away the first of the stylish rides this past Monday, EmpireCity Casino is revved up to give away the second brand new Porsche Boxster luxury car, now on display on the casino floor. Sports car aficionados with a need for speed will be all-in on the Porsche Boxster which can run the zero-to-60 mph sprint in 4.3 seconds. Empire City and its historic Yonkers Raceway are bridging the gap between the racetrack and the road, trading in horses for horsepower.

The final drawing will be held TONIGHT (Monday, July 31) for all eligible Empire Club members. 10 finalists will be called. Each finalist will be handed a custom Empire City t-shirt: one will declare the winner driving home in a brand new Porsche, the other nine t-shirts will boast a humorous “I Almost Won a Porsche at Empire City Casino” and receive a consolation prize of $250 cash.

The summer heat isn’t cooling off anytime soon, as the hot prizes continue at Empire City! Make sure to visit during the month of August for the Great Gift Card Giveaway, happening every Thursday beginning at 3:00 p.m. Complete details available at empirecitycasino.com.

Tim Rooney, Owner of New York’s Empire City Casino and Son of NFL Steelers Founder, to be Recognized as One of State’s Top Leaders in Corporate Social Responsibility

WFAN Radio's Al Dukes, the popular producer and ensemble member on the Boomer and Carton show, scored a touchdown at Dan Rooney's Sports Bar ‎at Empire City Casino. Dukes was on hand to meet with fans during the AFC Wildcard games on Saturday, including the Pittsburgh Steelers stirring win over the Cincinnati Bengals.‎ Dan Rooney's is an "official" Steelers bar.‎ Dukes got together with Empire City’s public relations rep John Cirillo, the longtime Chappaqua resident who is president of Cirillo World, and among the scores of zealots on hand to chat with the morning show biggie.

A father-son tandem also from Chappaqua, New York  – Dave and Josh Benaroya – were among the football fanatics on hand to enjoy a beer and pulled pork sliders with Dukes.

Dukes, known for his zany song parodies and wacky holiday advice tips, was a smiling, gracious host to the many Boomer and Carton zealots on hand for the proceedings.

WFAN sponsored two $1,000 giveaways at Dan Rooney’s, one at halftime of each game.

About Dan Rooney’s:  Inspired by the original Dan Rooney’s Cafe & Bar built and operated in the early 1900s in Pittsburgh by the family of Tim Rooney, the president and CEO of Empire City Casino, the new Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar is warm, inviting and casual, featuring a Steelers theme, 40 large screen TVs to view the big games at every angle, dual flame rotisseries, private “snugs” for intimate seating, and two fireplaces.

Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway employees were in the Christmas spirit, joining General Counsel Timothy Rooney Jr. at the inaugural “Wrapped with Love” volunteer event to assist those in need during the holiday season today (Monday, November 13th) in the casino’s Good Time Room. The supportive staffers wrapped toys that will be donated to Catholic Charities and the Yonkers-based Aisling Irish Community Center as part of 11th Annual Christmas Spirit Coat & Toy Drive. The gifts will assist the organization’s local families this upcoming holiday season.

Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, Executive Director of Catholic Charities, and Órla Kelleher, Executive Director of Aisling Irish Community Center, were on hand for the festivities to accept the donations. Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano, Assemblyman Gary Pretlow, Yonkers City Council President Liam McLaughlin, Yonkers City Council Member Michael Sabatino, joined Tim Rooney Jr. in support of the program, reminding the public that there is need in Westchester County. Empire City’s COO Bob Galterio was also in attendance.

Tim Rooney Jr., on behalf of Empire City Casino, was more than in the Christmas spirit, surprising Monsignor Sullivan with a generous $10,000 check donated to Catholic Charities to assist with essentials that might be needed by families.

Scott Nicholson, president of the Gander Group’s eastern corporate office, also participated in today’s gift-wrapping and donation. For the past several years, a truckload of new toys has been donated to the drive by Josh Blake, CEO of the Gander Group, a California-based company. Mr. Blake has made considerable toy donations to the drive for six consecutive years, clearly illustrating commitment and loyalty, which are important pieces of the company’s mission.

Another annual key contributor to the effort is John Lennon, owner of Yonkers-based Smart Move & Storage, who generously donated his company’s services to transport all of the wrapped toys to Catholic Charities’ headquarters.

During the first 10 years of the initiative, Empire City has collected 10,000 toys and 3,500 coats to families and children in need. The community effort, now in its second decade, is underway and will continue through November 30th. Donations are being accepted throughout November at the casino’s promotions booth. Patrons are asked to bring new, unwrapped toys and/or new or gently used coats which will go towards helping families and children in need.

Though Westchester County is often considered to be an affluent and wealthy community because of its median income of $83,422, there are still extreme pockets of poverty (nearly 10 percent living in poverty), and 31 percent of that population is under the age of 17. In addition, 12 percent of families do not have anyone working in the household, and 52 percent of those in poverty are single parents. Those assembled at today’s event encouraged both corporations and individuals to give back to the community.

For more information on Empire City Casino visit www.empirecitycasino.com.

A slot-player made the 12-mile trip from Larchmont, New York to Empire City Casino in nearby Yonkers, and went home $150,000 richer. That’s a great mileage reimbursement – $12,500 per mile!

The jackpot winner identified as “Mel” hit for exactly that sum at 9:15 PM on Friday night (October 21), parlaying a $15 wager on the $5-denomination Wheel of Fortune slot-machine located in Empire City’s Grand Victorian Room.

It was the second straight six-figure jackpot hit by a “local.” On September 17th Antoinette Marcelin of Spring Valley took home $119,481 after wagering $5 wager on the $1 denomination Bally's Quick Hit Black and White Jackpot ‎machine in the Gotham Palace.

Mel’s score was the 11th six-figure jackpot of the year at Empire City. Expect more heat on the Wheel of Fortune machines; a pair of $900,000-plus jackpots are currently up for grabs. Here are the 11 six-figure winners of 2016, followed by the biggest jackpots waiting to be hit at the Yonkers casino:

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“Matteau, Matteau, Matteau” was the radio call made famous by Howie Rose when Stephane Matteau vaulted the New York Rangers into the 1994 Stanley Cup Finals with an overtime goal against the New Jersey Devils. Rangers’ zealots can relive the moment when Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar at Empire City Casino hosts Matteau on Saturday, March 12 at the “Official Rangers Viewing Party” beginning at 1:00 PM. The Rangers will face off against the Detroit Red Wings at 2:00 PM.

Matteau, a key member of the Rangers ’94 Stanley Cup championship team, will meet and greet fans, and pose for photographs outside of Dan Rooney’s from 1:00-2:00 PM. Stephane will then join fans at Dan Rooney’s to watch game, including trivia sessions and a Q & A between periods.

The Rangers “Blue Crew” will be on-site with great giveaways – T-shirts, rally towels, stress pucks, keychains and more.

ESPN NY Radio 98.7 FM will broadcast live from Dan Rooney's from noon to 2:00 PM, hosted Dave Rothenberg.

Empire City will provide a complimentary bus service to the casino from Madison Square Garden at 12 noon, and the return trip to the Garden will depart at 5:30 PM.

Fans can view the action on Dan Rooney’s 40 large-screen HDTV’s.

Former Rangers star Steve Vickers was a big hit at the first Dan Rooney’s Rangers Viewing Party on February 27.

About Stephane Matteau…Matteau played in 800 NHL games, including three seasons with the Rangers…The left wing scored two overtime goals in the Eastern Conference Finals against the New Jersey Devils, including one that ended the series and became an iconic goal in Rangers lore… His first overtime goal ended Game 3 at 6:13 of the second overtime in New Jersey giving the Rangers a 3–2 victory and a 2–1 series lead…Matteau’s second goal came at 4:24 of the second overtime of Game 7 at Madison Square Garden. Matteau scored off a wrap-around that bounced off a stick on the left side of New Jersey's rookie goaltender Martin Brodeur, a play which was immortalized by the dramatic play-by-play call of Rangers radio announcer Howie Rose.

State-of-the-Art Blackjack & 3-Card Poker Arrive in New York Cutting Edge Technology Offers New Gaming Experience at Empire City Casino

There will be “double-barrel” action in the $300,000 Art Rooney Pace at Yonkers Raceway this Saturday night (May 28). That’s in the form of the explosive 4-5 favored entry of Missile J., firing away on the heels of two straight including last week’s elimination win for driver Brian Sears, and sidekick Artmagic, with George Brennan in the sulky, for the stakes race that pays homage to the founding father of the Pittsburgh Steelers and patriarch of the Rooney Family.

Here’s what the sulky stars have to say about their swift Standardbreds:

Sears on Missile J.: “He’s a nice horse with a good turn of speed. There’s nothing bad I can say. I know they’ve been babying him along, but I was happy with him last week (1:53.2 victory). I’m not happy with the draw (post 8), but we just have to deal with it.”

Brennan on Artmagic: “I thought he paced well through the wire (finished third), and you can never complain about the inside (post 1) in a $300,000 race. I would be surprised if he didn’t race well again.”

Missile J. is trained by Linda Toscano, while Artmagic is conditioned by Trond Smedshammer.

The Jason Bartlett-steered Tap Into Power is tabbed as the 7-2 second choice, Rodeo Rock, with Dan Dube driving from post position two, is third on the morning line at 5-1.

The Art Rooney Remembers the venerable Hall of Fame founder of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the patriarch of the Rooney family annually at Yonkers, and this year’s stakes for three-year-olds celebrates its 26th edition. Eight of the premier three-year-olds in the nation will assemble in Saturday night’s sixth race over Empire City Casino’s historic half-mile harness racing oval.

The salute to “The Chief” includes a pair of promotions paying homage to the Rooney Family patriarch. The first 2,000 Empire Club members (one per member while supplies last) to visit a promotions booth beginning at 4:00 pm will receive a custom commemorative Art Rooney Key Chain, depicting Mr. Rooney smoking his omnipresent cigar.

“The Chief” had a passion for both football and horse racing, so the tribute to the great sportsman each year is fitting and appropriate. The Rooney family purchased Yonkers Raceway in 1972, and Art’s son Timothy J. Rooney has been the famed harness track’s president and CEO since then. Tim Rooney, Jr., another product of Pittsburgh, is Art’s grandson and Empire City Casino’s General Counsel. Legend has it that Art parlayed $10 into $300,000 during a two-track winning streak in 1936 -- starting at the old Empire City Trotting Club and ending in historic Saratoga -- monies that financed the Steelers into a football powerhouse.

In a second wagering promotion, since the Steelers are 6-time Super Bowl champions, Yonkers Raceway will be offering a free way to play through its Empire City Bets ADW portal: the number -- 6 -- turns into $60 in free triple wagers for Empire City Bets members on the Art Rooney final, the premier stakes event for three-year-olds. Visit www.empirecitybets.com for accompanying rules, regulations and complete details.

Cirillo World spearheaded Empire City Casino's media coverage of Theresa P.'s record $2.9 million jackpot on March 11, 2018, and a second $1 million hit in the span of five months.

Hugh Hefner “Comes Alive” at Yonkers Raceway
9-year-old pacer – a gelding!  – Wins at Empire City Casino on night after namesake’s passing

Empire City Casino continues to go to extremes to enhance the experience for its players at the premier gaming destination closest to New York City. The Yonkers-based casino installed new dynamic “Wheel of Fortune Triple Extreme Spin” slots last week at the Entertainment Lounge area in the Gotham Palace.

“The Wheel of Fortune Extreme Spin slots are as exciting to watch as they are to play, and bring a fresh spin to our games,” said vice president of marketing Ryan Murphy. “We now have over 100 games with the wildly-popular Wheel of Fortune theme, and the new slots bring even more excitement to the casino floor.”

The new games are of a penny denomination with a maximum bet of $3.00.  Empire City plans to double the number of the new slots to in the coming months. The extreme spin games feature exciting bonus rounds with three wheels spinning simultaneously.

The eye-catching slots were previewed by the casino’s executive team at last year’s G2E Gaming Conference in Las Vegas, and the team has eagerly anticipated their arrival.

The Wheel of Fortune® brand slots are among the more popular games on the 140,000 square foot gaming floor. In October 2015, the IGT Wheel of Fortune® Triple Stars® slot machine delivered the largest jackpot ever hit at any of New York State's racetrack casinos, with a whopping $1,473,503 score hit by Suffolk County resident Howard G. just a few feet from the casino's valet entrance. The best part of the win according to Howard was that he hit using free play from his Empire Club membership, Empire City's players reward program.

As the mercury continues to rise and the ‘feels like’ temperature reaches 101 degrees, tri-state area residents are seeking refuge at Empire City Casino where the climate is kept at a cool 70 degrees and the only thing giving off some heat are the jackpots.

"Tommy" from Yorktown Heights hit a $320,000 jackpot on the afternoon of Thursday, August 11. ‎It was the second biggest jackpot of the year, and seventh six-figure score in 2016. Clearly feeling lucky, the player made‎ a $200 wager on the $100 denomination 3x4x5 Double Diamond slot machine at 12:45 pm.

The biggest jackpot of the year so far was hit by Tracie B. on February 5, when she won $388,311.84 on the Blazing 7’s slot machine. That was the largest jackpot since the all-time Empire City record of $1,473,503 was brought home by Suffolk County resident Howard G. on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at 11:00 am. That jaw-dropping score was won on the popular IGT Wheel of Fortune® Triple Stars® slot machine, located just a few hundred feet from the casino’s valet entrance.

Last month started off with a bang when a slot-player from Mamaroneck hit a $139,808 jackpot on July 1. The woman identified as “Nancy” made the six-figure score at 4:31 pm on the Bally Fireball slot in Empire City’s Victorian Room. She made a $2 wager on the penny-denomination machine.

Three days earlier, a Connecticut player identified as “Vincent” hit a jackpot worth $100,020 on June 28 in the Gotham Palace on the Bally/Double Jackpot Wild slot. Vinny made a $5 wager on the $1 denomination machine.

“Lucy” from the Bronx hit the jackpot for $129,107 on June 8 on the Bally/Hot Shot Progressive machine.

“Salvatore,” a Long Island player, hit the year's third largest jackpot – a $144,324 score – on May 2 on the Bally/Hot Shot Progressive machine at Empire City Casino.

On February 18, a player identified as “Pavel” had the hot hand, scoring for $105,778 on the Bally 777 Wild Jackpot Quick Hit slot machine.

Jackpot Record History: Howard G’s record jackpot exceeded the previously held record by nearly one million dollars, hit by Manuel Esteche of Port Chester hit for $571,000 in February 2015. Esteche’s haul broke the previous record jackpot of $509,000 won in November 2014 by Moosue Stefern of Bergenfield, New Jersey.

Bearing the name of the legendary football family, Dan Rooney’s Sports Pub is synonymous  with football, and knows how to feed hungry football fans. With more than 1.3-billion chicken wings typically consumed across America the Sunday of the "Big Game," Empire City Casino in Yonkers, New York is sharing its fan-favorite garlic rub chicken wingrecipe, perfect for the home chef or cooking connoisseur. Served at the casino’s gridiron hangout Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar, the garlic rub features a tantalizing combination of spices, including dark chili powder, paprika, cumin and, of course, garlic. Paired with an ice cold beer, these wings are the perfect addition to any Big Game gourmet table.

For the burger-lover in the group, you’ll score by serving the award-winning signature Dan Rooney burger. Topped with Brie cheese, watercress, and homemade honey peppercorn aioli, this burger is perfect for a full entrée, or slim it down to make it a great football slider. Any way you size it, the Dan Rooney burger is sure to have guests running to the end zone for a second helping.

Don’t forget to serve something sweet for the 4th quarter: whip up Empire City’s delectable classic cheesecake to satisfy the sweet tooth of every party goer. There’s no chance of a flag when your guests taste the creamy cake atop a homemade graham cracker crust – just hope there’s no overtime, as guests will easily devour this dessert in one down.

Here are the recipes for the garlic-rubbed extra spicy wings, Dan Rooney burger, and the classic cheesecake for inclusion consideration in any Big Game party stories:

Dan Rooney’s Garlic Rub Chicken Wings (1 serving)

Directions: Combine the spices (reserving 1 tbs of garlic powder for post-cooking seasoning) and toss with the wings to coat. Bake for 35 minutes in 350-degree oven. Fry wings until crispy and golden brown, drain and toss with garlic infused olive-oil and remaining garlic powder.

Dan Rooney’s Signature Burger (1 serving)

Honey Peppercorn Aioli Recipe

Directions: Grill burger, place on bun, top with Brie cheese, onions and watercress. Spread aioli sauce on inside of bun top and place on top of the burger.

Empire City’s Classic Cheesecake

Directions: In a mixer with the paddle attachment, cream the cream cheese and sugar until smooth, about 5 minutes. Add the eggs, yolks and sour cream until fully combined. Set batter aside

Classic Cheesecake Crust

Directions: Mix all crust ingredients until combined. Using an 8” springform pan, spray with non-stick spray and then place crumbs on the bottom. Press into the pan until firm. Pour cheesecake batter on top. Place on a sheet pan in the oven and add warm water around springform pan to cover bottom of the sheet pan. Bake on 250-degrees for 1 ½ hours. Cheesecake should still jiggle slightly in the middle. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Refrigerate overnight (in the springform pan.)

For hosts with a better throwing arm than a pan-flipping wrist, have no fear – Empire City also offers catering for the Big Game, with customizable menus and crowd favorites, including nachos, game classic pigs-in-a-blanket, mouthwatering garlic rub chicken wings and more. To cater your home party, please call 914 457-2457 and place your order by Thursday, February 1, 2018.

It is also noteworthy that last September, Empire City hosted the first-ever Westchester County “Wingfest” in partnership with WestchesterMagazine.Wing fanatics from across the tristate area flocked to the casino for a celebration of all-you-can-eat chicken wings prepared by more than 25 area restaurants, including, of course, Dan Rooney’s.

Dan Rooney Pace Remembers Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Fame Chairman; $250,000 Inaugural Saturday, October 14; $250,000 Harry Harvey Trot Honors Harness Hall of Famer

Cruzado Dela Noche of Sweden, dismissed at 30-1 in the wagering, got up in the shadow of the wire to capture the $1 million Yonkers International Trot on Saturday afternoon, September 13th, at Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway.  Hall of Famer Brian Sears drove the six-year-old stallion to win by a head over Lionel of Norway, with Goran Antonsen in the sulky.  France’s Up And Quick, driven by Jason Bartlett, finished third.

Sears captured his 10,000th career win earlier in the year, and said that “it’s such a thrill to win such a big race, it was bigger than winning 10,000.” He has also previously won the Hambletonian and Yonkers Trot.

Marcus Melander trained the son of Muscle Massive, who lifted his career earnings to $1.2 million with his 15th career victory in the 40th edition of the 1 ¼ -mile International, timed in 2:24:3.

Cruzado Dela Noche returned $62.50 for a $2 wager.

The 7-5 favorite Ringostarr Treb of Italy, driven by Wilhelm Paul, went offstride before the quarter-pole and finished ninth in the 10-horse field. Canada’s Marion Marauder, with Scott Zeron in the bike, was the 9-5 second choice and finished fifth, setting the stages for the long shot Cruzado Dela Noche.

“The race set up perfectly,’ added Sears, "he likes to race on the outside with cover, and that's how it played out." Cruzado Dela Noche raced on the outside behind Lionel most of the race, was third in the stretch, and unleashed a furious late rush for the victory.

Ariana G. of the United States, the only mare in the race, finished fourth for driver Yannick Gingras.

Casino and raceway president Tim Rooney returned the Yonkers International in 2015 after a 20-year hiatus. The International was inaugurated in 1959 at now defunct Roosevelt Raceway.

Christmas came early at Empire City Casino with the presentation to Catholic Charities of nearly one thousand toys and coats collected during the casino’s Tenth Annual “Christmas Spirit” Toy and Coat Drive. The donations will ensure that New Yorkers in need have a warm coat this winter and a toy or two to put under the Christmas tree for their children.

Timothy J. Rooney, president and CEO of Empire City Casino, presented the annual donation to Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York and Órla Kelleher, executive director of Aisling Irish Community Center of Yonkers. The presentation took place inside the casino atrium with the donated toys and coats on full display.

Joining Rooney and Monsignor Sullivan were Westchester County Executive Robert P. Astorino; Mayor of the City of Yonkers Mike Spano; New York State Senate Minority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins; New York State Senator George Latimer; New York State Assembly Member ShelleyMayer; New York State Assembly Member GaryPretlow; and Westchester County Legislator David Tubiolo. Reminding the public that there is need in the County, those assembled made their own contributions and encouraged both corporations and individuals to give back to the community.

Though Westchester County is often considered to be an affluent and wealthy community because of its median income of $83,422, there are still extreme pockets of poverty. Recent statistics indicate nearly 10 percent of Westchester residents are living in poverty, and 31 percent of that population is under the age of 17.  Over 12 percent of families do not have anyone in the household employed, and 52 percent of those living in poverty are single parents.

“Social responsibility is not just for corporations, it is imperative we all do what we can,” said Rooney. “Giving back is about community and helping others move forward. There are no greater deeds than charity and service.”

The drive to help families in our communities attracted some West Coast warmth. Josh Blake, president of California-based and family-owned company, The Gander Group, donated hundreds of toys to the annual drive. This is the fifth consecutive year that Blake and his family have showered New Yorkers with their generosity. He is committed to assisting those less fortunate, and participates in toy drives like Empire City’s, and also donates time, money, food and clothing to those who need assistance.

“This is my favorite time of year,” said Blake. “Giving brings me joy. My life has been fortunate, I have a wonderful family, a wonderful company and I am surrounded by love. Every year I try to give back and spread that love to others.”

Another annual key contributor to the effort is John Lennon, owner of Yonkers-based Smart Move & Storage, who generously donates his company’s services to transport and store of all donations while they are distributed by local community organizations.

“Once again we are fortunate, through the generosity of Tim Rooney and the Empire City Casino family for this donation of toys and coats that will benefit some of the more vulnerable families that we work with in the City of Yonkers and beyond,” said Monsignor Sullivan. “In this Christmas season we are grateful that this spirit of generosity and caring enables Catholic Charities to provide help and new hope in the lives of Non-Catholics and Catholics alike whom we serve.”

For the 10th consecutive year, Empire City Casino and Catholic Charities have teamed to make the holiday season warmer and happier for those New York families in need. This year’s “Christmas Spirit” Toy and Coat Drive began November 1st and generous donors have given over 600 toys and more than four hundred coats. The toys and coats will be distributed through Catholic Charities community agencies to families in need. The toy and coat drive has become a holiday tradition at Empire City Casino and thousands of toys and coats have been donated since 2007 when the campaign was first launched.

“Aisling Irish Community Center is delighted to be chosen again this year as a recipient of Empire City Casino’s annual coat and toy drive,” said Kelleher. “Aisling Irish Community Center is widely recognized as a resource and respite center in Yonkers. We provide programs and services for the more vulnerable people in our community, i.e. seniors, low income families, homeless, etc. Empire City Casino’s generous contribution to our holiday appeal is welcomed with open arms by Aisling Irish Community Center as well as by all the grateful recipients.”

“The holidays provide a wonderful opportunity to show goodwill to our neighbors,” said Westchester County Executive Robert Astorino. “Once again, Empire City Casino, and all the generous donors who contributed to the toy and coat drive, are making the holidays brighter, warmer and happier.”

“The holiday season is not about what we hope to receive in gifts but rather how we can give of ourselves to benefit others in our community,” said Mayor Mike Spano. “The annual toy and coat drive, hosted by our generous and supportive partners at Empire City Casino, is one example among many of Yonkers uniting together in generosity and service during the season of giving. I want to thank Tim Rooney, Jr. and the entire team at Empire City Casino for their continued commitment to Yonkers.”

"The holiday season is a time of giving," said Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins. "Empire City Casino has worked with Catholic Charities for ten years to distribute toys and coats to kids who might otherwise have nothing to open during the holidays. I'm grateful to represent such a generous community and I encourage everyone to contribute to this charitable effort. The best way to show our appreciation for all the great things in our lives is to extend a helping hand to those who need it."

"This is one of my favorite events of the year. Catholic Charities does such good work providing for our needy neighbors, and Empire City Casino and the Rooney family continue to show their generosity right here in Yonkers. The families in this area that are in need have really hit the jackpot with these two groups," said Senator Latimer.

“No act of giving is ever too small or unappreciated and I commend Mr. Rooney and the Empire City Casino for their ongoing effort in providing toys and coats that will offer a special, joyous and warm holiday season for hundreds of families throughout our community,” said Assemblymember Pretlow.

"The Rooney Family and the staff at Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway have been wonderful and caring partners to all the members of our Yonkers family. Year after year, they have joined with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York to make the holiday season a bit brighter for those who face additional challenges. I appreciate all they do to support our neighbors and am proud to be part of this effort," said Assemblymember Mayer.

Call this one truth is stranger than fiction. It turns out the reports of Hugh Hefner’s death were greatly exaggerated. No, we’re not horsin’ around, here. Hugh Hefner N., a nine-year-old pacer – on the outside “coming alive,” as track announcer John Hernan roared at the three-quarter mile mark –  in the late stages of the seventh race at Yonkers Raceway last night (September 28) to score the victory in the $15,000-purse feature for $20,000 claimers.
 
The New Zealand-bred obviously didn’t read the obituaries 
 
In an obvious, if not ghoulish hunch play, Hugh Hefner N. delivered the goods for racing aficionados as the favorite to eek out a neck victory, timed in 1:55. On the night after his namesake’s passing, ‘Hef’ returned $4.60 for his third win in 20 seasonal starts.
 
The son of Falcon Seelster is a gelding, which, as raceway publicity director Frank Drucker mused,“somehow doesn’t seem right.” Leading driver Jason Bartlett, (pictured), smiling in amazement as he crosses the finish line, was in the sulky for trainer Doug Dilloian Jr. and owner Keith Motusesky.​​

$400,000 JACKPOT AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO IS BIGGEST IN 2016

The 14-year-old "Wonder Horse" Foiled Again takes another crack at the elusive 100-win career milestone on Thursday night, March 8th at Yonkers Raceway.

The robust gelding will be reunited with Yannick Gingras, who drives from the coveted rail in the evening's eighth race, his fifth try at the rare century mark. Gingras has been the “go-to” pilot of Foiled Again's at Empire City Casino's historic half mile oval. Check this out: in 42 Yonkers starts with Gingras in the sulky, Foiled Again has been to the winner’s circle on 19 occasions, with six second place finishes and six-times in the show column, good for $1,129,640 in earnings. To say that the two get along is an understatement of giant proportions.

Harness racing’s richest-ever horse has a $7,572,178 career bankroll. Win no. 99 came on January 13 in Foiled Again’s season debut, a half-length score with George Brennan driving. The triumph was timed in 1:55 at the same non-winners $20,000 in last five starts level. Since then, Foiled Again has been foiled in four attempts at his 100th career win.  

He came close on February 1, carving out all the fractions but coming up a nose and a head short to just miss in a blanket photo in a typical fight-to-the-finish effort.

“I came here to win with him,” Gingras said after the race. “I wanted to leave. I wasn’t going to race him from third–over.”

Talk about a "horse for course!" Foiled Again, dubbed “The Gremlin” by caretaker Sara Murphy, has 34 wins, 12 seconds, and seven third places in 74 starts at Yonkers. That's a plus-.480 "batting average" (win percentage), more than 1/3rd of his career victories, and 74 percent "in the money" finishes! Wow!

According to the United States Trotting Association, Foiled Again would become the 18th standardbred (in what might be described as modern era mid-seventies through today) to reach the coveted 100-win milestone, joining most notably the revered Rambling Willie, who paced to 111 victories during a storied career from 1976 through 1983. Heisman (134 wins/1978-89) is another familiar name in the “100 Win Club).

The wily veteran is co-owned by trainer Ron Burke, Weaver Bruscemi and JJK Stables.

Foiled Again, who’s been winning races at Yonkers since 2006, includes a pair of George Morton Levy Memorial Pacing Series titles (2009-10) on his robust resume. The $500,000 Breeders Crown Open Pace at Pocono Downs in 2013 is another stakes victory on his resume.

Award-winning Empire City Casino has earned five more honors – including Best Casino – from Casino Player Magazine, America’s premier gaming lifestyle magazine based in Las Vegas, NV, in its “Best of Gaming” Awards in 2015 (October issue).‎

The Yonkers-based casino, which is celebrating its Ninth Anniversary (first opened October 2006), received top honors in a quintet of categories selected from racetrack casinos across the country.

Along with Best Casino, Empire City is also number one for Best Roulette, Best Slots, Best Comps, Best Reel Slots, and Best Race Book, with the historic, century-old Yonkers Raceway harness oval as part of its setting. Empire City recently hosted the $1 million Yonkers International which attracted trotters from around the world.

“Offering our players the ultimate gaming experience is always our first priority,” said Ryan Murphy, Empire City Casino Vice President of Marketing. “So, we are delighted to be selected ‘the Best’ in five categories by Casino Players Magazine, and congratulate our staff on its excellence.”

Visit Casino Player Magazine for more information.

On Tuesday, October 20th, Timothy J. Rooney, son of Steelers founder Art J. Rooney, Sr. and president & CEO of Empire City Casino, will be honored at City & State Magazine’s Corporate Social Responsibility Awards (CSR) Breakfast, which will recognize leaders in the Hospitality, Gaming and Tourism industries. Rooney will be the recipient of the Special Award for Excellence in Workforce Diversity, Corporate Giving & Community Engagement.

The CSR Breakfast will take place at Hunter College in New York City. The event will feature a panel discussion featuring NYC Hospitality Alliance’s Andrew Rigie and begins at 8 AM. 

As the owner of the largest private employer in the fourth largest city in New York, Rooney employs nearly 1,300 employees, representing 14 different unions, with an annual payroll of over $45 million. As a family-run business, Rooney considers each employee to be a member of his extended family and works to create and maintain a diverse workforce. Nearly two-thirds of the current workforce identifies as either minority or female, and over half of the management team does as well.

Opportunities are also provided for employees who would like to give back. Employees volunteer at the Food Bank of Westchester to bag food items like beans or pasta, for distribution to needy families. Employees and customers participate in an annual toy and coat drive done in partnership with Catholic Charities and the local Aisling Irish Community Center, and hundreds of thousands of dollars are raised for diabetes research in the annual JDRF Walk held on the racetrack.

"Mr. Rooney and the team at Empire City Casino consistently show that their corporate culture is to give back to the community and be a good corporate citizen,” said Dr. Marsha Gordon, president of The Business Council of Westchester. “They are the region's largest job generator and are committed to positive employment opportunities for so many." 

Rooney credits much of Empire City’s success to the dedication of the employees at Empire City.

“When you treat your employees with respect, they will in turn treat your customers with that same respect,” said Rooney. “Our customers can go to a lot of different places for entertainment and gaming, in the end, people will go where they feel most at home. And that has more to do with respect than anything else.” 

Rooney is known for his quiet philanthropic involvement supporting hundreds of charitable organizations throughout New York with contributions of more than $1 million annually made in the form of sponsorships and donations supporting non-profits in the areas of education, hunger, the arts, medical research and more. An annual donor to the Inner City Schools initiative of the Archdiocese of New York, Rooney was recently honored at their 78th CYO Club of Champions Tribute held at the Waldorf Astoria, where over 600 attendees gather to recognize his lifetime achievement of “dedication, compassion and generosity to the young people of the Archdiocese of New York”.

“The most important thing we can do in this country is give people living in poverty a chance to get out of poverty,” Rooney said. “I believe educating our youth is key in that effort.”

City & State Corporate Social Responsibility Awards for Hospitality, Gaming & Tourism will take place at Hunter College in New York City. The event will feature a panel discussion featuring NYC Hospitality Alliance’s Andrew Rigie and begins at 8 am. For more information about the event contact Jasmin Freeman at 646-442-1662.

YONKERS RACEWAY, SOA OF NY CONTRIBUTE TO CLASSY LANE BARN FIRE FUND

YONKERS RACEWAY/SOA OF NY SALUTED VETERANS ON MAY 14

Foiled Again's Quest for  Career Victory No. 100 at Yonkers Raceway

LONG ISLAND MAN HITS $144,000 JACKPOT AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO

Patrick Quinn, a leading advocate for increasing awareness of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), ‎has been selected 2016 Grand Marshal for the 61st Annual Yonkers St. Patrick’s Day Parade which take place on McLean Avenue on Saturday, March 19. The official installation of Mr. Quinn as Grand Marshall and the Aides for the Parade will take place on Sunday, March 6, at a gala celebration of the “Changing of the Sash” in the Good Time Room at Empire City Casino at 6:30 p.m. Empire City General Counsel Tim Rooney, Jr., last year’s Grand Marshall will “Pass the Sash” at that time.

Tickets for the gala Dinner/Dance are priced at $90 per person, and include an open bar, prime rib or salmon dinner (chicken and vegetarian option), complimentary valet parking, and entertainment by the legendary Guss Hayes Band. For reservations and more information visit http://www.yonkersstpatricksparade.org/dinner-menu-page.

Quinn was and remains at the forefront of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, connecting to a myriad of networks to popularize the challenge around the United States and around the World in the fight against Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

Patrick Ryan Quinn is 33-years-old, and was born and raised in Yonkers. He attended St. John the Baptist grade school, Iona Prepratory School and Iona College. A strong athlete, he played basketball in high school and collegiate Rugby. Pat was diagnosed with ALS in March, 2013.

Pat Quinn’s Irish Ancestry: Quinn is of Irish ancestry. His father, Patrick Liam Quinn was born in the town of Newry, linking Quinn’s grandmother from Count Armagh and grandfather from County Down. His mother Rosemary’s maiden name is Keane, and his great grandparents are from County Cork, County Clare and the County of Westmeath.

In 2014 the South Broadway St. Patrick’s Day Parade merged with the McLean Avenue Merchant’s Association St. Patrick’s Day Parade.  This combination began a new era for Yonkers in honoring our Irish heritage, contributions and Saint Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland and the Archdiocese of New York. The Parade will be underway on March 19 following a Mass at St. Barnabas High School Chapel on McLean Avenue, when marchers step off at 1:00 p.m. on McLean Avenue west of Bronx River Road.

Make a New Year's resolution to laugh a priority with Empire City Casino the destination for a pair of Wednesday Night Comedy shows onJanuary 17th and 31st to start 2018 with a smile. Comedy Central funnyman and MSG Networks’ The Bracket host, Yannis Pappas, headlines on the 17th, while on-the-rise Westchester-born stand-up Paul Virzi tops the bill on the 31st in the casino’s popular Good Time Room.
 
January 17th headliner Yannis Pappas has appeared on AXS TV, TruTV, VH1 and Good Morning America, and was the first comedian to ever do stand-up on the new Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. His album, Let Me Be Yannis, was awarded Album of the Year for 2016 by SiriusXM Comedy, and his half-hourComedy Central special is available on Amazon, iTunes, and ComedyCentral.com. Pappas is also co-host of MSG’s sports fan show, The Bracket. He will be joined on the 17th by featured stand-up Adrienne Iapalucci and MC Tom Cassidy. Bronx-born Iapalucci competed on season seven of the hit NBC television series, Last Comic Standing, while Cassidy launched his career in Philadelphia at The Laff House Comedy Club.
 
Westchester-native Paul Virzi takes center stage on January 31st. His 2015 debut comedy album Night at the Stand reached #1 on iTunes and #4 on Billboard’s Top 100. Virzi has made appearances on a gamut of television programs including TruTV's Comedy Knockout, AXS TV's Gotham Comedy Live, the NFL Network’s Good Morning Football, FOX's Redeye, and has also written for the ESPN ESPY Awards. He was first attracted to stand-up comedy at age nine when he watched Eddie Murphy’s Raw. Joining Virzi is featured comedian Luz Pazos, a former beauty queen from Peru, who has performed at the ComedyStore, Improv and Laugh Factory in Los Angeles, as well as many top venues across America, and the evening’s host, Bronston Jones, who stands at 6’7” with giant-sized jokes called “certifiably unique” by LA Weekly.
 
Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the show begins at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are sold at the door the night of the show. Admission is $5 for Empire Club Members and $25 for non-members; non-members can stop by any promotions booth prior to the show and join the Empire Club for free. Elite Club and President’s Club members gain free admission. All attendees receive a complimentary drink ticket.
 
While visiting Empire City, patrons can try their luck on the IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars® slot machine, where the record jackpot, only available at Empire City, recently surpassed the $2.7-million mark.

As Temperature Rises , Yorktown Resident Wins Over a Cool Quarter Mill
Slot Player Hits $320,000 Jackpot at Empire City Casino

Empire City Casino Hosted Daily News Golden Gloves

It came as no surprise that the big hitter was a big hit last night (August 16) at Empire City Casino. New York Yankees four-time World Series champion first baseman Tino Martinez wowed the crowd just as he did at Yankee Stadium during the Bombers championship run, meeting with fans, posing for pictures and signing autographs before watching the Subway Series game with zealots at Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar.
 
The Yankees won their third straight over the Mets to add to the joy for Yankees fans.
 
Empire City continues to bring New York’s most popular players to the largest entertainment destination in the northeast. Last month, it was 1986 Mets World Series champion lefthander Bobby Ojeda, and later this month, on August 26th, two-time Giants Super Bowl champ Mark Bavaro will appear at the casino’s Entertainment Lounge in the Gotham Palace.
 
During his 16-year career with the Yankees, Mariners, Cardinals and Devil Rays, Martinezdrove in 1,271 runs as a two-time All-Star. He enjoyed six seasons with 100 or more RBI, while slugging 339 home runs. A first-round draft pick out of the University of Tampa, his clutch hitting helped to lead the Yankees to world championships in 1996, ’98, ’99 and 2000. He was also an Olympic gold-medalist in the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, Korea.

‎High-tech electronic Blackjack and Three Card Poker tables are making their debut at one of New York’s most successful entertainment destinations, Empire City Casino. A provision in New York State’s budget was approved April 1st, setting the stage for Empire City to add state-of-the-art, electronic Blackjack and Three Card Poker tables, two of the most popular casino games. Empire City has been aggressive in its roll out of the new machines in an effort to boost revenues and help retain the billions New York residents spend at casinos in neighboring states.

Blackjack fans are enjoying the advanced technology offered by more than 165 new Blackjack seats at Empire City. Nearly 200 positions will be available in the coming months, with an additional 300 added in the near future.

Players confirm that this new, high-tech Blackjack allows for a faster pace of play without the intimidation of live tables yet plays exactly as traditional casino Blackjack, sans handheld cards and chips. The game sets up betting stations with a virtual dealer offering electronic cards, and players make decisions such as whether to hit or stand via touchscreen.

With a minimum bet of $10 and maximum of $2,500, denominations welcome recreational players and high rollers. Odds at Empire City are 3-2, higher than the 6-5 odds typically found at most other casinos.

Similarly, poker aficionados are welcoming the new Three Card Poker games at Empire City and can expect additional seats to be added in the near future. The innovative Three Card Poker, the most popular specialty table game of all time, has also been drawing new customers throughout the tri-state area, particularly Manhattan. The fast pace game features three ways to play and four ways to win, allowing players to bet against the dealer, bet on the value of their own card, or bet on both.

“These games have been long awaited by our guests,”‎ said director of slot operationsRyanMunroe. “The higher odds on the Blackjack are a big draw for players, and the Three Card plays just like the game card players would see on real felt.”

The addition of electronic Blackjack and Three Card Poker could result in millions of dollars of additional revenue for state education, as well as state and local government. According to New York State Lottery reports, Empire City Casino has generated nearly $2.4 billion in funds for education in New York State, which is an average of $300 million annually, since opening as a casino in October 2006.

With over eight million visitors a year, Empire City Casino is one of the largest entertainment and gaming destinations in the northeast. In addition to electronic Blackjack and Three Card Poker, the Westchester County casino also features 5,300 of the hottest slot machines, as well as electronic baccarat, craps, roulette, and sic bo.

“These games are extremely popular and continue to grow in popularity as the market becomes aware of how similar they are to live tables,” continues Munroe. “If you live anywhere near New York City and enjoy blackjack or poker, you no longer need to drive for hours. We’re just minutes away.”

Empire City Casino Celebrates “Year of the Rooster” on Sunday, February 12
Chinese Lunar New Year Festivities Include Lion Dance Performances & Concert

EMPIRE CITY CASINO HOSTS BIG GAME VIEWING PARTY WITH GIANTS SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS JUSTIN TUCK AND STEPHEN BAKER

The invincible Arrogate – the Travers Stakes, Breeders Cup Classic and Pegasus World Cup champion deservedly proclaimed as the “World’s Best Racehorse” – tries to continue his dominance in the $10 million Dubai World Cup this Saturday, March 25. Look no further than Empire City Casinoat Yonkers Raceway as the place to be for simulcast wagering on this epic.

The four-year-old son of Unbridled Song, trainer Bob Baffert and regular jockey Mike Smith have headed halfway across the world to square off against such familiar names and tough hombres as Keen Ice, Hoppertunity, Gun Runner, Lani and Mubtaahji in the elite field of 14, but New York area racing enthusiasts only need a short trip to Empire City Casino just north of New York City to partake in the betting action. Post time is at 12:45 pm.

After finishing third in his career debut, Arrogate has reeled off six consecutive wins, including the trio of multi-million dollar stakes, in dramatic and emphatic fashion.

Meydan Racecourse is the host of the Dubai World Cup Carnival, and Yonkers will be accepting wagering on the last four races – all Group 1 affairs – on the program: Race 6 – Dubai Golden Shaheen, 10:35 am/ET, Race 7 – Dubai Turf, 11:30 am/ET; Race 8 – Dubai Sheema Classic, 12:05 pm/ET, and the main event Race 9 – Dubai World Cup, 12:45 pm/ET. Doors at Empire City will open at 10:00 am. Mutual windows will be open on the third and fourth floors.

Here’s the field: Arrogate, Mubtaahji, Gun Runner, Hoppertunity, Neolithic, Special Fighter, Keen Ice, Gold Dream, Awardee, Apollo Kentucky, Long River, Move Up, Furia Cruzada, and Lani.

Empire City Bets will have wagering on the nine-race card available (see full program below). Please visit www.empirecitybets.com for more information.

The immortal Cigar won the inaugural Dubai World Cup win 1996, and such champions as Silver Charm, Curlin, Animal Kingdom, and California Chrome have brought the Cup back to America.

​

A twister hit Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway Saturday afternoon (October 14th) with fierce, record velocity at 4:05 p.m./ET as the world watched, and left an annihilated field in its wake two minutes later.

 Italy’s Twister Bi, driven by Christoffer Eriksson, blew the doors off of nine classy rivals while obliterating the world record for 1-¼ miles to capture the $1-million Yonkers International Trot at the historic harness racing oval. The Italian flag-carrier did it in devastating style in a race timed in 2:22:1, smashing the record for the distance over a half-mile track set by last year’s champion Resolve (2:23:4).

 Bettors world-wide jumped on the prohibitive 2-5 favorite trained by the Rhode Island expatriate Jerry Riordan, who cut his teeth on the New York harness racing circuit, and for two decades lived in Italy and now in Sweden. Twister Bi returned $2.90 for a $2 win wager.

The “Italian Tornado” Twister Bi put away Canada’s Marion Marauder, with Scott Zeron in the bike watching the performance in awe, by five and a half lengths. It could have been a wider margin. The second Italian representative, Oasis Bi, was third with Kim Eriksson driving.

Twister Bi, a five-year-old stallion sired by the champion Varenne, vaulted his career earnings past $1.2-million with the 21st victory in his 50th career start for the awestruck owner Pasquale Ciccarelli.

Empire City president and CEO Tim Rooney, who resuscitated the Yonkers International in 2015 after a 20-year hiatus, made the trophy presentation following a whirlwind week hosting the connections of seven European world-class trotters, two United States representatives and the standard-bearer from Canada.

Twister Bi got rolling on the outside at the half-mile mark to the outside of defending champ Resolve, who was trotting on the lead with trainer/driver Ake Svanstedt at the helm. Then Italian champ, in full throttle, stormed to the front in magical style at the three-quarter mile marker, opening up as many as seven lengths to this snazzy call from track announcer John Hernan: “And look at Twister Bi running up the score…the door has been slammed here…it’s Twister Bi taking the Yonkers International Trot in dramatic style…Bravo Italia!”

Twister Bi became only the second “Italian Stallion” to raise Italy’s flag in the International in its 39th edition. There was a 40-year gap in between. Delfo carried the red, white and green colors of Italy in 1977 at Roosevelt Raceway for legendary driver Sergio Breghenti. 

“He is a tremendous horse,” related Riordan in the winner’s circle tempest. "You get stressed about a lot of things in a big race like this. I just wanted everyone to see what a great horse he is. He’s a whole other breed of cat.”

“The nicest thing was when everyone showed up to wish me luck,” added the white-locked conditioner, who groomed horses at Yonkers and Roosevelt as a young horseman. “People were bringing regards from friends from years ago.”

“Today I felt like I was home,” wrapped up an elated Riordan, as the Italian National Anthem blared over the public address.

But Jerry Riordan was back at home amidst a cyclone of emotions, and it was quite the homecoming indeed!

When asked through a translator how he was feeling after the exhilarating victory, the owner Signore Ciccarelli took a long, long pause: “I am speechless,” he said. Yes, speechless in any language. But once he composed himself, he added: “I feel like I am up there with the stars!” Ciccarelli was accompanied by his girlfriend Elena Villani, an Italian harness driver, to witness the historic triumph.

 Said driver Christoffer Eriksson: “He was feeling really good today; I wanted to take it easy behind the gate and into the first turn. He was feeling really, really strong and wanted to take the lead (at the half-mile). He is really good making the turns at high speed.”

 The remainder of the finish: Tripolini VP (Denmark) was fourth; On Track Piraten (Sweden) finished fifth; defending champion Resolve (United States) was sixth; Shadow Woodland (Finland) finished seventh; In Secret (United States) was eighth; Dreammoko (France) and Midnight Hour (Finland) finished in a dead-heat for ninth.

 The star-studded Yonkers International card featured a total of $3.3-million in purses buoyed by the $1.8-million New York Sire Stakes Day of Champions, and a pair of $250,000 Invitationals both captured by trainer Ron Burke – the Dan Rooney Pace (won by All Bets Off/driven by Matt Kakaley/time: 1:51:4 for the mile) and the Harry Harvey Trot (won by Crazy Wow/driven by Yannick Gingras/time: 2:25 for 1 ¼ miles).

It was a whirlwind day!

Westchester Woman Hits Record-Breaking Jackpot on Wheel of Fortune® Slot Machine at Empire City Casino
Empire City is Making Millionaires as Theresa P. from Ossining, NY Wins Over $2.9-Million, A Record-Breaking Jackpot for Any of New York State’s Regulated Casinos

Connecticut Resident Hits $100,020 Jackpot at Empire City Casino

Fifth Six-Figure Score of 2016, And Second In June

Steve Byrne Headlines Wednesday Comedy Night on March 15 at Empire City Casino

“Salvatore,” a slot player from Northport, New York, hit the second largest jackpot of the year – a $144,324 score – on May 2 at Empire City Casino.

It was the third six-figure jackpot in 2016, and was hit on the Bally/Hot Shot Progressive machine at 5:24 pm. Empire City is one of the largest entertainment destinations in the northeast located less than two miles north of New York City.

Tracie B’s $388,311.84 score on February 5 was the biggest hit of the year, registered on the Blazing 7’s slot machine. That was the largest jackpot since the all-time Empire City record of $1,473,503 was brought home by Suffolk County resident Howard G. on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at 11:00 am. That jaw-dropping score was won on the popular IGT Wheel of Fortune® Triple Stars® slot machine, located just a few hundred feet from the casino’s valet entrance.

On February 18, a player identified as “Pavel” had the hot hand, scoring for $105,778 on the Bally 777 Wild Jackpot Quick Hit slot machine.

Jackpot Record History: Howard G’s record jackpot exceeded the previously held record by nearly one million dollars, hit by Manuel Esteche of Port Chester hit for $571,000 in February 2015. Esteche’s haul broke the previous record jackpot of $509,000 won in November 2014 by Moosue Stefern of Bergenfield, New Jersey.

A network television comedy star originally from Wisconsin (who's now a true-blue New Yorker), and a funnyman of Dominican heritage from the Bronx named Vladimir (that's right!) will headline the two Wednesday Comedy Nights in February at Empire City Casino.

The eclectic and diverse mix of laughs will be provided by Pete Lee on Wednesday, February 8, and Vladimir Caamaño on Wednesday, February 22. The comedians will be front and center in the casino's Good Time Room.

Doors will open at 7:00 pm and the show will begin at 8:00 pm. Admission is $5 for Empire Club Members and $25 for non-members. Elite Club and President’s Club members gain free admission. All patrons will receive a free drink ticket.

Pete Lee might be the nicest person in New York City, but that’s because it’s impossible to sound aggressive with a Wisconsin accent. In 2005, Pete flew to New York to make his television debut on Comedy Central’s Premium Blend. Soon after moving to NYC, he was selected to perform at the Just for Laughs Comedy Festival in Montreal, where he was voted a standout performer. In 2008 Pete made his network television debut performing on NBC’s Last Comic Standing finishing as a semi-finalist. At the end of 2008 he shot his own Comedy Central half Hour Special.

Accompanying Lee on the 8th will be featured performer Crystian Ramirez and MC Aaron Berg.

With the name “Vladimir,” few people expect a Dominican from The Bronx to take the stage. His comedic style is the fruit of an immigrant Dominican family living in the cultural mecca that is New York City and is described as an elegant combination of urban grit and intellect. Vlad has quickly become a staple of the New York Comedy scene performing at The Stand, Gotham Comedy Club, New York Comedy Club, Dangerfield’s and the Comic Strip Live. He has been featured on Gotham Comedy Live on AXS.TV and Adam Devine’s House Party for Comedy Central.

Joining Vladimir on the 22nd are featured funnyman Nore Davis and MC Josh Wesson.

Link to photos, and two photos attached indicated in red – credit Chris Brokate: JDRF 2016 Photos

An enthusiastic and dedicated throng – a full field of 3,000 representing the largest in history – went behind the starting gate on historic Yonkers Raceway’s half-mile oval at the Fifth Annual “One Walk” to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation on Sunday (October 23).

The nip in the morning air and blustery winds didn’t hamper the enthusiasm of the assembled masses in their efforts to lend support to Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway Vice President and COO Bob Galterio and his efforts to fight juvenile diabetes. It has been 16 years since his daughter Cara was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 9. At that time, the longtime executive was immediately compelled to take action to fight the disease, and the “Cure for Cara” was born. He continues to do so, including last Sunday when several thousand Empire City employees, volunteers and participants gathered to take action in the “One Walk” for JDRF. Galterio once again served as captain of the “Cure for Cara” team.

“It is so important to be working alongside JDRF on such an important goal – curing a disease in which 80 people are diagnosed with every day,” said Galterio. “JDRF’s One Walk is a morning full of celebration, community and families gathering together to support their loved ones with type one diabetes.”

Jessica Waldman of “Team Jessica” cut the ribbon to start the proceedings (photo 1 attached). The “Type 1 Toughs,” strongly represented with more than three dozen participants, wore Superman style “M” logos on their T-shirts – the “M” representing Matty. (photo 2 attached).

For more information, visit www.empirecitycasino.com and walk.jdrf.org/yonkers or call JDRF at 914-686-7700.

Former Mets hurler John Franco, one of baseball’s all-time great relief pitchers, will meet and greet fans at Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar at Empire City Casino on Friday night, September 30, when the Mets play the Phillies in what is expected to be a pivotal game in the National League wild card race.

The Brooklyn native, who ranks fifth on the all-time saves list with 424 and is first among lefties, will be on hand from 7:00 to 9:00 PM to pose for pictures and sign autographs for the first 100 fans, and then watch the game and talk baseball with Mets zealots.

Food and drink specials will be on the menu, and fans will have a perfect view of the game on Dan Rooney’s large-screen TVs.

More about John Franco: During a 21-year major league career with the Mets, Reds and Astros, Franco appeared in 1,119 games in his career to rank third all-time, and first in National League history. He played college baseball at St. John’s University before being drafted by the LA Dodgers in 1981. He was traded to the Reds in 1983 and was called up to the big leagues the following year. The four-time All Star and three-time NL saves leader, Franco was honored with the National League Relief Man award twice. He became the third Mets captain in history, from 2001-2004, and was inducted into the New York Mets Hall of Fame in 2012.

Yonkers Raceway News: Crescent Fashion Sets Track Mark; Bartlett Six-Pack; Purse Increase Begins Monday

Jason Bartlett Named Captain
Yonkers Raceway’s Drivers to Square-Off Against French Counterparts in “Drivers’ Cup” in International Battle
***New York legs at Empire City on March 20th; Paris on June 24th and 26th***

Westchester Resident Wins $961,000 on Wheel of Fortune Slots at Empire City Casino

New Jersey Slot Player Hits $332,654 Jackpot at Empire City Casino; Santa’s Wheel of “Good” Fortune Score is Second Biggest of 2016

Perennial leading driver Jason Bartlett reached the lofty 7,000 career win plateau on July 23rd at Yonkers Raceway.  The milestone came behind the favorite I C Caviar ($4.40) in the $11,000, seventh-race trot.
 
The six-year-old Malabar Millennium gelding, making his first start for trainer Richard Banca, went up and over Me the Boss (Dan Dube) down the backstretch, and defeated 65-1 rank outsider Mr. Protab by a couple of lengths in 1:58.2. The winner is co-owned by Joseph & Vincent Barbera, Allan Alkes and Richard Facciola.
 
But back to the Yonkers Raceway's "Maine Man," who suffered through an uncharacteristic dry spell (3-for-35) before earning his requisite congratulatory sign.
 
“Longest three days of my life,” Bartlett said, “I’m so happy it’s over, and the kids are, too. “They were asking me, ‘Daddy, do we have to go to the track again?’ “   
 
“I was talking with my wife (Kristen) the other day,” Bartlettsaid. “We’re been down here (Yonkers) close to 10 years now, and when I first came, I was around 2,000 wins.
 
“It’s been a helluva ride.”

The 36-year-old Bartlett, native of Augusta, ME, has $87.7 million in career purses. He began Sunday leading the locals in wins (297) and purses ($6.1 million).

The “Luck of the Irish” was musically profound at Empire City Casino with the Shilelagh Law and Celtic Cross, the exceedingly popular New York City-based Irish-American bands, performed this past Sunday, March 6 in a pre-St. Patrick’s Day indoor concert. The Pipes and Drums of the Police Emerald Society of Westchester, comprised of police officers from many of the 39 Police Departments within the County of Westchester also performed.

Shilelagh Law is known to embody all that is New York Irish music. By interpreting traditional Irish music through a filter of urban grittiness, Shilelagh Law helps define the Irish-American experience that is such a part of New York. Their fan base is wide-spread and one of the most loyal in the music industry.

Founded in the Bronx in 1990, Celtic Cross has been making and breaking Irish music tradition all over the US and abroad. The music of the seven-piece band tells great stories using the traditional on top of sassy pop, alt-country and funk playing.

About Shilelagh Law:
New York and Irish music have a long and storied history together.a collision of two cultures that results in bedlam, beauty and a lot in between. Shilelagh Law embodies all that is New York Irish music: old songs, new songs, jigs, reels, dancing, weeping, lots of laughter, plenty of drinks and the inevitable visit to the local diner at 5 am. By interpreting traditional Irish music through a filter of urban grittiness Shilelagh Law helps to define the Irish-American experience that is such a part of New York town.

About Celtic Cross:
Celtic Cross is the legendary NYC seven-piece band fronted by Kathleen Fee, a talented singer-songwriter and her brothers John (accordion) & Kenny (fiddle) Vesey. They are joined by a group of accomplished and skilled NYC players Wally Ensor on guitar, Pat Dineen on bass/keys, Frankie McCormick on mandolin/banjo, and Ryan Cavan on drums. Products of Irish parents, traditional Irish music roots, and American pop radio, Celtic Cross puts it all together in a very different way than what you will hear from most Celtic acts. The band’s music tells great stories using the traditional on top of sassy pop, alt-country and funk playing. They are a band’s band around the NYC Irish scene and will remind you of Fleetwood Mac or the B-52s with a heavy dose of Saw Doctors or Stockton’s Wing. The band was founded in the Bronx in 1990 and has been making and breaking Irish music tradition all over the US and abroad ever since.

About The Pipes and Drums of the Police Emerald Society of Westchester:
The Pipes and Drums of the Police Emerald Society of Westchester Band was founded in May 1973 under the direction of Lt. Martin J. Harding of the Yonkers Police Department. Our membership is comprised of Officers from many of the 39 Police Departments within the County of Westchester, New York.
The Band's first appearance was in 1974 at the Yonkers St. Patrick's Day Parade where it captured the "Trophy for Musical Excellence". From this auspicious start, it went on to march in the New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade where, in 1976 it was honored to win the "Irish World Trophy" and in 1980 the trophy for "Best Pipe Band". The band has also been twice decorated with the "Westchester County Service Award", bestowed by County Executive Andrew O'Rourke, in recognition of The Bands' portrayal of Police Professionalism and its dedication to the community of Westchester.

The Real Housewives of NY star Bethenny Frankel was a big winner with fans at Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway for the Kentucky Derby party on Saturday, May 7. The casino hosted a variety of events and festivities for the public on Derby Day including its annual “Fancy Derby Hat Contest,” with Bethenny as the celebrity judge. Photo Credit: Stefan Radtke 
Here is the link  to additional photos: Click Here

FORMER METS STAR JOHNFRANCO AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO’S DAN ROONEY’S SPORTS BAR FRIDAY NIGHT, SEPTEMBER 30

Lefty Reliever to Meet and Greet Fans, Watch Mets vs. Phillies from 7-9:00 PM

Linda H. had nearly a million reasons for which to be thankful just days before Thanksgiving. The resident of Thornwood, New York, was at Empire City Casino today (Tuesday, November 22) for the $961,411.81 check presentation, collecting on the second biggest jackpot in the 10-year history of the casino. Linda turned a $10 wager into nearly a million dollars on her favorite Wheel of Fortune slot machine in the casino’s Gotham Palace on November 13.

A slot-player at Empire City since its inception in October 2006, Linda was joined by her husband Eddie to receive an oversized check presented by fellow jackpot winner Howard G., who holds the top jackpot spot in New York State with a $1.4 million record jackpot hit last year. Also on hand for the presentation was Empire City’s top harness racing driver Jordan Stratton, who reached his 3,000 career-win milestone on Sunday at Empire City’s Yonkers Raceway, Ryan Munroe, Empire City’s director of gaming operations, and public relations manager Clare Rooney Galterio.  New York Lottery Draw Team Member John Schnurr hosted the media proceedings at the casino’s valet entrance.

Asked to relive the moment, the government worker said, “It felt absolutely amazing. I was in shock. It still hasn’t really hit me.” Her plans for the winnings include helping her two adult sons and a vacation for her and her husband.

Stratton, the 29-year-old harness star, was asked if he would trade his 3,000 wins for the one big check, said with a smile: “Yeah! Are you kidding?!”

Linda and Eddie who visit Empire City a couple times a month for the slots, dinner and harness racing with friends, made the November 13 trip on “the spur of the moment,” planning to stay for an hour and then “go food shopping at ShopRite and Stew Leonard’s.”

The grocery shopping had to wait for another day because Linda was “too exhausted from all of the excitement.”

It was just over a year ago, on October 25, 2015, that Howard G. of Suffolk County, Long Island, scored Empire City’s record-breaker worth $1,473,503 on the Wheel of Fortune Triple Star slot machine. Coincidentally, Linda’s hit was on the Wheel of Fortune slot next to the slot machine where Howard made his life-changing score, and the two enjoyed discussing their big moments.

There’s no shortage of jackpots at Empire City. Linda’s score was the 12th six-figure jackpot of the year. Another $988,000-plus jackpot is still up for grabs on a Wheel of Fortune slot machine at Empire City.

The popular Wheel of Fortune slot machines, designed by International Game Technology PLC ("IGT"), are located just a few hundred feet from the casino’s valet entrance.

“Wheel of Fortune is my favorite game because of their generous jackpots and I like the idea of spinning the wheel,” said Linda. “I hit a $4,000 jackpot on ‘the Wheel’ last year, but nothing like this.”

Linda’s hit eclipsed former runner up Manuel Esteche’s $571,049 by almost $400,000. The distance traveled from Thornwood to Yonkers is approximately 18 miles, so the mileage for Linda was a whopping total just short of $60,000 per mile.

Empire City is one of the largest entertainment destinations in the northeast located less than two miles north of New York City.

NEW WHEEL OF FORTUNE “TRIPLE EXTREME” SLOTS A HIT AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO

​Downbytheseaside, the prohibitive favorite, cruised to an easy victory in the 27thannual Art Rooney Pace at Yonkers Raceway on Saturdaynight (May 27). Dave Miller drove the three-year-old son of Somebeachsomewhere to his third straight triumph in the $300,000 stakes race which remembers the founding father of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the patriarch of the Rooney family.

The winner returned a meager $2.10 for a $2 win wager as the short-priced 1-9 favorite. There was no place or show wagering.

 Downbytheseaside, leaving from post position three, stormed to the lead at the opening quarter timed in 27:3, posted fractions of :55 and 1:24:1 for the half mile and three quarters, and then waltzed off from his foes for the win timed in1:52 for the mile.

Summerside, driven by Tim Tetrick, finished three and a quarter lengths back in second, while Funknwaffles was third with Brian Sears in the bike.

Downbytheseaside, who won last week’s lone Rooney elimination race in 1:52.2, is trained by Brian Brown for co-owners Country Club Acres, Joe Sbrocco, Richard Lombardo and Diamond Creek Racing. DrIver Miller won the Rooney in back to back years behind Ashlee’s Big Guy in 2002, and No Pan Intended (via disqualification) in 2003. In 16 career starts, “Seaside” has never missed the board with 11 wins, three seconds, and a pair of thirds en route to $731,016 in career earnings. He is three for three in 2017.  

The Rooney family purchased Yonkers Raceway in 1972, and Art’s son Tim Rooney, Sr. has been president and CEO since then. Empire City Casino was launched at the raceway in 2006.

The beloved “Chief” was an ardent racing fan, and legend has it that he won the fortune which funded the Steelers during a two-day spree at Yonkers and Saratoga.

Yonkers Raceway remains one of harness racing’s few year-round facilities, with world class racing available throughout the calendar year. The racing schedule is five days per week, with first post at 7:10PM ET on Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and1:00PM ET on Tuesday. We also race on 11 Sundays through the year, post time varies – please see our race calendar for details.

Dan Rooney’s Sports Pub at Empire City Casino Unveils Recipes for Its Garlic Rub Chicken Wings & More – Just in Time for Your "Big Game" Party

MAMARONECK WOMAN STARTS JULY FIREWORKS EARLY AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO WITH $139,808 JACKPOT ON FRIDAY; SECOND SIX-FIGURE JACKPOT IN THREE DAYS

Mel from Larchmont Makes 12-Mile Trip to Empire City Casino a Winning Journey; Hits $150,000 Jackpot
***Two $900,000 Jackpots Loom on Wheel of Fortune***

Mayor Mike Spano and City Council President Liam McLaughlin announced the City of Yonkers, along with Yonkers native Pat Quinn, will host the Second Annual ALS Ice Bucket Challenge on Sunday, August 7 at 1 pm trackside at Empire City Casino.  The free festivities will run from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM and will include music and family-friendly entertainment; highlighted by the ice bucket challenge at 1:00 pm.

Quinn, diagnosed with ALS and one of the co-founders of the global phenomena Ice Bucket Challenge, will lead hundreds of participants in a simultaneous ice bucket challenge to reignite the viral social media movement throughout the month of August to benefit ALS research.

“Pat Quinn’s fight and determination to combat this horrible disease has been nothing short of inspirational,” said Mayor Spano. “With Pat as our fearless leader, the City of Yonkers hopes to recharge the energy we feel as part of the Ice Bucket Challenge. We encourage any and all to join us on August 7 so we can continue to make strides in finding a cure to ALS.”

“Yonkers is proud to once again host the ALS ice bucket challenge,” Council President McLaughlin said. “Pat Quinn, the Quinn family and our friends at Empire City Casino and Home Depot have done so much to make this event a success which will set the bar for raising awareness about ALS nationwide. Pat has courageously and selflessly turned his battle with ALS into one of the largest movements this world has ever seen. We are proud to join him in that effort.”

The August 7th event will take place at Empire City Casino on the trackside apron. This is the second year Empire City Casino has supported the Ice Bucket Challenge providing the event venue, manpower, hundreds of gallons of water, and 2,000 pounds of ice to make the event a reality. Participants will receive a bucket, donated by Home Depot, filled with ice water and join Pat Quinn in simultaneously dumping the buckets of ice water over their heads.

Pat Quinn commented, "I'm beyond grateful for the continued support from Mayor Mike Spano, City Council President Liam McLaughlin, and the entire City of Yonkers.  I'm extremely proud to know Quinn for the Win and Yonkers were a major catalyst in making this happen.  We live by the mantra, ‘Every August Until A Cure.’ Although last summer did wonders for our battle, we still have no cure for ALS. Please join me August 7th at Empire City Casino to kick off the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge in Yonkers. Not only will it be fun, you will be a part of something special."

“We are excited and proud to be again be the host site of such an important effort,” said Tim Rooney, president and CEO of Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway. “ALS is a devastating illness, and continuing to raise awareness and research funds is vital.”

Those interested in participating in the August 7th event, are urged to register via www.YonkersNY.gov. The event is free and open to all ages. No donation is required to participate.  Proceeds from the event will be donated to“Quinn for the Win,” which benefits Pat Quinn’s care as well as not-for-profit ALS research organizations.

Mayor Spano added, “Special thanks to our partners at Empire City Casino and Home Depot for committing to the cause and once again being good neighbors to Yonkers. We are proud that our Yonkers community is joining forces to support Pat Quinn and others fight ALS.”

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's Disease," is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. When the motor neurons die, the ability of the brain to initiate and control muscle movement is lost. With voluntary muscle action progressively affected, patients begin to suffer from muscle weakness and muscle atrophy. They can lose the ability to easily handle simple tasks like shaving or buttoning a shirt. In the later stages of the disease, patients may become completely paralyzed.  ALS usually strikes people between the ages of 40 and 70, and approximately 20,000 Americans suffer from the disease.  ALS is a disease with no known cure.

Jason Bartlett reached the 6,000 career win milestone at Yonkers Raceway on Thursday night (October 29th) in the third race behind the pacer Cndiana Jones.

The 34-year-old sulky star from Augusta, Maine led with the odds-on favorite ($3.60) from start to finish to win by a length and a half. The mile was timed in 1:55:2.
 
Just two years ago, Bartlett reached the 5,000 win plateau, likewise over the historic Yonkers half-mile oval, where he is the leading driver this season.
 
Bartlett made quick work of writing his personal record book, taking the opening race of the evening behind Hustleonhome ($4.80), an 11 ½ length winner in 1:54.1.
 
Bartlett was greeted in the winner’s circle by family and friends, including his wife Kristen, sons, Kobe and Karter, grandfather, Richard, Jimmy Nickerson and Heidi Rohr, were among those in the celebration entourage. Mr. Rohr trained Cndiana Jones.   
 
“Coming from Maine and not knowing what to expect, it’s sort of hard to believe,” Bartlett said after getting the obligatory sign of congratulations. “I never thought I’d have the success I’ve had, going against Brian (Sears), George (Brennan) and all the great drivers who compete here.
 
“I’m so happy my family was with me tonight,” Bartlett said. “My grandfather has been a father to me and by far my biggest influence.” Bartlett has career purses in excess of $71 million.
 
Bartlett’s milestone win was his 413th local victory this season as he closes in on a fifth title at Empire City Casino’s famed harness oval.
 
Next up on the milestone list is George Brennan, who began Thursday night 15 wins away from 9,000.

It’s the “Year of the Rooster,” and Empire City Casino will put forth a traditional Chinese New Year Festival on Sunday, February 12 with a lion dance parade and live musical entertainment. Admission is free.

The Lunar New Year celebration will be complete with Chinese dancers and musicians in colorful costumes. First, the “Fortune God” will lead two lion dancers throughout the casino’s first and second floors, starting at the Valet Entrance, from 2:00 to 3:00 pm. The Fortune God, signifying wealth and prosperity, and the lion dance are important pieces of the fabric of Chinese tradition and culture, particularly during the celebration of the New Year.

The festivities will continue from 3:00 to 5:00 pm with a Golden Rooster Chinese New Year Concert in the Entertainment Lounge. Presented by Jam Promotions, the performers will include The Ram, Chelsea, Andy, Nana, Angela, Eyrs, and Mina.

About the Year of the Rooster:
Occupying the 10th position in the Chinese Zodiac, the Rooster symbolizes such character traits as confidence, pompousness and motivation. Those born under the Chinese Zodiac sign of the Rooster are known to be loyal, trustworthy individuals who are blunt when it comes to offering their opinions. Their bluntness stems not from being mean but from being honest; a trait which Roosters expect from others. Roosters are extremely sociable and prefer being the center of attention, often bragging about themselves and their accomplishments. They are known to seek the unwavering attention of others, which some consider to be annoying. Roosters are as proud of their homes as they are of themselves. They’re extremely organized individuals as evidenced by the fact that their homes are always neat.

Pete Lee and Vladimir Caamaño to Headline Wednesday Comedy Nights at Empire City Casino

The time-honored adage that “Lightning Never Strikes Twice” was debunked like a thunder bolt at Empire City Casino this weekend. Theresa P., who hit the casino’s and New York State record-breaking $2,919,162.81 Wheel of Fortune® slots jackpot on March 11, 2018, has done it again.
 
Almost five months to the date, the Ossining, New York resident scored again, taking home a $1,469,368.28 jackpot on yet another IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars® slot machine at 2:45 pm on Sunday, August 12. Theresa made a maximum $10 bet on the $5 denomination slot machine.
 
Theresa had already joined the company of millionaires Howard G. of Long Island, NY who won $1,473,503 in October 2015, and Linda H. of Thornwood, NY who took home a “nearly there” million-dollar jackpot of $961,411 in November 2016. Now, she has one up on all of them.
 
Empire City’s millionaires aren’t the only ones with something to celebrate; each of the four highest jackpots at the casino were won on a Wheel of Fortune-themed slot machine. Furthermore, seven of the top 11 jackpots won at Empire City were also on Wheel of Fortune slots.
 
Empire City boasts the sixth largest casino floor in the country including Las Vegas and Indian casinos nationwide. More than 8-million visitors a year try their luck on the casino’s nearly 5,300 slots and electronic table games, hoping to join the ranks of two-time winner Theresa, Howard and Linda.
Placing a $20 wager on the $10 denomination IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars® slot machine, Theresa claimed the life-changing jackpot and eclipsed Howard G.’s record win by a whopping $1.4-million, nearly double the previous record held by the Long Island resident. Theresa now holds the record for winning the highest-ever jackpot at any of New York State’s regulated casinos.
 
It took only eight spins that lucky Sunday to hit the jackpot. Theresa and her husband, who have been frequenting Empire City since the casino opened in 2006, recently retired and plan to use their winnings to really enjoy life.
 
The IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars slot machine that turned Theresa into a millionaire ballooned past the $2.9-million mark on March 4, 2018, and has had guests visiting from far and wide to try their luck. The progressive jackpot was not the typical Wide Area Progressive – this particular jackpot could only be won on one of two Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars games at Empire City Casino.
 
“When our players are happy, we’re happy,” said Ryan Munroe, Empire’s director of gaming operations. “Empire City is such an important part of the region so whether we are making millionaires, generating funds for New York schools, or supporting local charities and nonprofits, we are grateful that we can touch and change lives.”
 
And There’s More!
More than 65 six-figure jackpots have been won at Empire City to date and there are currently ten other six-figure jackpots still available to win at the casino, ranging from $112,000 to another millionaire-making jackpot of $1,000,332.66 (as of March 16th) on another Wheel of Fortune slot machine. New players should be sure to sign up for the free Empire Club at any Promotions Booth to earn perks, including free play and food offers, while they play.
 
According to the New York State Lottery, there’s no shortage of wins at Empire City. Customers took home their share of $731-million in credits won in the month of February 2018.

Yonkers Raceway’s team of five premier drivers, led by points-leader Jordan Stratton, try to say “au revoir” to their French counterparts when the group travels across the Atlantic to Hippodrome de Vincennes in Paris for the second leg of the inaugural Drivers’ Cup Challenge.

There’s one race each next Friday (June 24) and Sunday (June 26).

The first leg saw Stratton win both Yonkers’ races in late March, one in a dead-heat with YR captain Jason Bartlett. The locals won the opening round, 85 points to 47

(points awarded as 17/12/9/7/6/5/4/3/2/1, with five given in the event of a scratch). 

In addition to Bartlett and Stratton, Tyler Buter, Dan Dube and Pat Lachance are representing Westchester against a potent French quintet of Pierre Vercruysse (captain), Matthieu Abrivard, Nicolas Ensch, Pierre Levesque and Franck Ouvre.

 “I’ve driven at Vincennes before (in the World Driving Championship), and the track is great, “Bartlett said. “It’s an honor to represent both Yonkers and the U.S.

As for Stratton, he’s keeping his eyes on the prize.

“I have to make sure to bring a suitcase big enough to carry home the trophy,” he said.

Red Hot Herbie put the heat on Yonkers Raceway’s half mile oval and eight foes on a sub-freezing Sunday afternoon to win the 2017 opening day feature, a $75,000 Open Handicap Trot at a mile and a quarter.

A ski-masked leading driver Jason Bartlett picked up right where he left off in 2016, leaving the octet of elite trotters in the dust, er snow, en route to a length and three-quarter score over Springbank Sam N. and Jordan Stratton, stopping the clock in 2:27:3. Red Hot Herbie returned $10.80 to win in the added distance feature, the first of seven “French forays” scheduled for Sunday afternoons at Empire City Casino’s famed harness oval.

Tweet Me and Pat Lachance carved out the modest early fractions of :29.4, :59.1, and 1:29.1 to the three-quarter mile with Herbie literally sitting chilly. Then “Maine Man” Bartlett pulled out of the pocket to challenge at the 1:57.3 mile marker and pulled away to victory.

The seven-year-old Here Comes Herbie gelding is co-owned by trainer Rene Allard, Bruce Soulsby and EdwardReppucci.

Yonkers continues its five- night a week schedule on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays with first post at 7:10 PM. Post time for the remaining two January Sunday matinees on the 15th and 29th are TBA.

STEPHANE MATTEAU HOST RANGERS VIEWING PARTY AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO’S DAN ROONEY’S SPORTS BAR ON SATURDAY, MARCH 12‎

Harness driver Jordan Stratton reached the 3,000 career win milestone Sunday afternoon, November 20, at Yonkers Raceway.‎

The 29-year old sulky star steered Bingo Queen to victory in the second race trot at Empire City Casino's historic half-mile oval. The milestone was never in question as Stratton drove the trotter to a 2-3/4 length victory, returning $7.70 to win.‎

Stratton began his career in 2006 as a teenager. He also recorded career victory 2,000 at Yonkers in 2012. The career earnings of his drives are $45 million.

Stratton has 225 wins this season, mostly at Yonkers.

Nearly 1,000 Toys & Coats Presented to Catholic Charities at 10th Annual Toy & Coat Drive
Empire City Casino Urges Community to Assist Families in Need throughout Westchester County

Empire City Casino continues to go to extremes to enhance the experience for its players at the premier gaming destination closest to New York City. The Yonkers-based casino installed new dynamic “Wheel of Fortune Triple Extreme Spin” slots last week at the Entertainment Lounge area in the Gotham Palace.

“The Wheel of Fortune Extreme Spin slots are as exciting to watch as they are to play, and bring a fresh spin to our games,” said vice president of marketing Ryan Murphy. “We now have over 100 games with the wildly-popular Wheel of Fortune theme, and the new slots bring even more excitement to the casino floor.”

The new games are of a penny denomination with a maximum bet of $3.00.  Empire City plans to double the number of the new slots to in the coming months. The extreme spin games feature exciting bonus rounds with three wheels spinning simultaneously.

The eye-catching slots were previewed by the casino’s executive team at last year’s G2E Gaming Conference in Las Vegas, and the team has eagerly anticipated their arrival.

The Wheel of Fortune® brand slots are among the more popular games on the 140,000 square foot gaming floor. In October 2015, the IGT Wheel of Fortune® Triple Stars® slot machine delivered the largest jackpot ever hit at any of New York State's racetrack casinos, with a whopping $1,473,503 score hit by Suffolk County resident Howard G. just a few feet from the casino's valet entrance. The best part of the win according to Howard was that he hit using free play from his Empire Club membership, Empire City's players reward program.

​Giants Super Bowl champion Steve Weatherford is punting again!

Weatherford, the co-host of WFAN Radio’s Monday Night Live with Kim Jones from Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar at Empire City Casino (Yonkers, NY) from 6:30 pm- 8:00 pm, dons the kicking cleats again, and fans will be the beneficiaries of the Weatherford comeback!  On the final Monday night show – December 19 — three lucky fans will be the “receivers” when Weatherford returns to the turf to punt on the infield of the Yonkers Raceway historic half mile oval immediately following the broadcast.

‎If the participating fan catches the punt, the prize is two tickets to a future New York NFL game. If it’s “incomplete,” they’re still a winner – dinner for four at Dan Rooney’s! Weatherford will also meet and greet football zealots during breaks in the show, so everyone in attendance is a winner.

Those who wish to participate can sign up at Dan Rooney’s simply by providing name and email address; the drawing will take place immediately following the broadcast.

Dan Rooney’s offers 40 large screen TVs to view all of the action of Monday Night Football from every angle.

Visit Empire City Casino for more information.

PAT QUINN, ICE BUCKET CHALLENGE ORIGINATOR, OFFICIALLY INSTALLED AS GRAND MARSHAL OF YONKERS ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AT “PASSINGTHESASH” GALA AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO

***Empire City Casino General Counsel Tim Rooney, Jr. “Passed theSash”‎***

The eighth annual Dick McGuire Trot, which was inaugurated in 2010 to pay tribute to the legendary Knicks and St. John’s point guard and basketball Hall of Famer, is set for this Thursday night, August 3, at Empire City Casino’s historic Yonkers Raceway.

The New York Sire Stakes for three-year-old colts and geldings is worth a total purse of $169,499, split into three divisions worth more than $56,000 apiece, and carded as the fourth, fifth and sixth races of the evening.

The “McGuire” remembers the ardent $2 horse player who starred at St. John's and then at the Garden with the Knickerbockers as one of the game's greatest playmakers.

Members of the McGuire family who will be on hand include Dick’s wife Teri, sons Scott and Michael, daughter Leslie Dwyer, and an assortment of grandchildren.

"Dick went to the track hundreds of times, and each and every time he got home, he said: "I broke even," says his wife Teri with a laugh.

Casino and Raceway president and CEO Timothy J. Rooney and COO Bob Galterio put their stamp of approval on the McGuire Trot for its inaugural rendition in 2010 soon after McGuire's passing, and it has become a fixture on the summer stakes schedule for New York-bred sophomore trotters.

McGuire was a racing devotee, and could be regularly found at harness and thoroughbred tracks across the country, including the venerable Yonkers half-mile oval, and wherever his Knicks scouting missions and training camps might take him.

Says Rooney: “We are truly delighted and privileged to continue to honor one of New York’s greatest sportsmen, and an avid racing fan, with the seventh annual Dick McGuire Trot. Yonkers Raceway looks forward to continuing this tradition for many years to come, and to having Dick’s family, friends and many fans honor his memory at our historic track during the height of our summer stakes season.”

Born in the Bronx, a product of the Rockaways, and a long time Dix Hills, Long Island resident, McGuire was a part of the Knicks organization for 53 seasons as a player, coach and scout before his passing on February 3, 2010 at age 84. The St. John’s University star was one of the most selfless players in NBA history. The deft-passing McGuire was a five-time NBA All-Star and led the Knicks to three straight NBA Finals in the fifties. His number 15 was retired to the Madison Square Garden rafters in 1992, and he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame the following year. McGuire’s legend, along with his historic NBA career, includes his love of horse racing, spending memorable times at racetracks across the country during his travels as a player, coach and scout.

Legendary Irish Band ‘Shilelagh Law’ and the Rousing ‘Celtic Cross’ Return to Empire City Casino for 3rd Annual Irish Concert on Sunday, March 6‎th‎‎

Wednesday, August 16th at Empire City Casino
Meet & Greet with Tino Martinez, Four-Time World Series Champion and Former Yankees First Baseman

WFAN Radio’s Al Dukes scores touchdown at Empire City Casino; Chappaqua Trio among those to meet producer at Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar

Empire City Casino hosted the iconic New York Daily News Golden Gloves for the sixth straight year on March 30. Here are the results of the bouts which featured amateur boxers from the boroughs, Yonkers, New Rochelle, Long Island, and Poughkeepsie:

View Photos Here
Photo Credit: Sean Hamrock

Novice 108 lbs
Dean Cuadrado (Brotherhood BC,from Ridgewood, NY) def. David Asilis (Gleason’s Gym) walkover

Female 106 lbs
Brittany Delgado (Impact Boxing MMA, from Long Island) def. Neena Ajwani (Mendez BC, from Manhattan) 3-0

Female 112 lbs
Ivette Delgado (Atlas Cops N Kids, Yonkers) def. Gabriella Gulfin (Class One MAA, from Astoria, NY) 3-0

Female 125 lbs
Nyisha Goodluck (Atlas Cops N Kids, from Brooklyn) def. Trudy Li (Green Fitness, from Brooklyn) 2-1

Open 114 lbs
Chayanne Rivera (Mendez BC, from Bronx) def. Andy Dominguez (Mendez BC, from Bronx) 3-0

Female 152 lbs
Nisa Rodriguez (NYAC, from Bronx) def. Macarena Soto (Atlas Cops N Kids, from Long Island) 1rd TKO

Female 176 lbs
Krystal Dixon (Champs BC, from New Rochelle) def. Daniela Huerfano (Eastern Queens BC) 3-0

Open 178 lbs
Patrick Aristhene (Freeport PAL, from Freeport, LI) def. Tyriece Stokes (API Boxing, from Poughkeepsie) 3-0

The $609,000 George Morton Levy Memorial Final will be Yonkers Raceway’s richest purse of the season, and will headline the Saturday night (April 23) card at Empire City Casino’s historic half-mile oval.

Series points-leader Bit of a Legend N., drew post position two with regular driver Jordan Stratton in the bike. The 7-year-old Down Under son of Bettor’s Delight swept his five series preliminary legs, including last week’s track-record dead-heat, timed in a scorching 1:51.2, with Wiggle It Jiggleit and pilot Montrell Teague. Peter Tritton trains for owner Harry von Knoblauch.

The Levy remembers the Hall of Fame founder of Roosevelt Raceway on Long Island, which closed its doors in 1988.

It is a $1 million-plus night of stakes that also includes the $309,800 Blue Chip Matchmaker Final, the $100,000 Levy Consolation, and the $75,000 Matchmaker Consolation.

Take it Back Terry, a three-time winner in four starts in the prelims, drew the coveted rail and will be driven by GeorgeBrennan for co-owners (trainer) Ron Burke, Weaver Bruscemi, Larry Karr and Phil Collura.

Bit of a Legend N. (5-2) and Take it Back Terry (8-5) both race as part of an entry, coupled with Texican  N.(driver TBA, post six) and All Bets Off (Matt Kakaley, post five), respectively. Yet a third entry is comprised of P H Supercam (Jason Bartlett, post three) Mach it So (Tim Tetrick, post seven).

Texas Terror N. (Brett Miller, post four) and Lucan Hanover (Brian Sears, post eight) complete the robust field of veteran classmasters.

The $309,800 final of the Blue Chip Matchmaker in Saturday’s companion feature, and "Senor Stratton" is in with a chance to sweep both finales, driving Sell A Bit N. from post position three. Like her stablemate “Legend,” Sell A Bit N. is a New Zealand-bred driven by “Air Jordan” for the Tritton/von Knoblauch trainer/owner tandem. A pair of three-time prelim winners – series point leader YaGonnaKissMeOrNot with Dan Dube in the bike, and Al Raza N driven by Dave Miller – and another two time winner, Krispy Apple with Jason Bartlett in the sulky, appear to provide the sternest competition.

Here’s the full Matchmaker lineup: 1-Lady Shadow (Corey Callahan), 2-Regil Elektra (Tetrick), 3-Sell a Bit N. (Stratton), 4-YaGonnaKissMeOrNot (Dan Dube), 5-Al Raza N (Dave Miller), 6-Mach it a Par (Brennan), 7-Venus Delight (Tetrick also listed), 8-Krispy Apple (Bartlett). Venus Delight is the defending champ.

The young, standout harness driver Scott Zeron, best known for reining the three-year-old star Marion Marauder to victory in the Hambletonian and Yonkers Trot this summer, won his 3,000th career race on Thursday night, September 15, at Yonkers Raceway.

The milestone victory came behind the pacer Rock Absorber ($7), getting up in the final strides of the $14,000, third-race pace at Empire City Casino’s historic half-mile oval. The win was timed in 1:54.2 for the mile.

The affable 27-year-old Zeron, a native of Montreal whose career began in 2007, is approaching $49 million in career purses.

He is, of course, “enjoying the ride” with stakes-rich sophomore Marion Marauder, the early favorite in Saturday night’s Canadian Trotting Classic at Mohawk.

“I really just appreciate everyone who’s shown confidence in me,” Zeron said. “It’s amazing what Marion Marauder has done for my career. Harness people from all over the world know all about those two races (Hambletonian and Yonkers Trot), and to say that I’ve won them both is such an honor.”

Yonkers Raceway boasts the leading drivers colony in America as indicated by two major plateaus reached on the Hilltop last year:  George Brennan hit career win 9,000, while Jason Bartlett won his 6,000th race.

The green is on full display at Empire City Casino in March to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day highlighted by a chance to win a trip to Ireland, cash winners, giveaways, and a prelude concert with Irish rockers Shilelagh Law and Celtic Cross.

The celebration kicks off Sunday, March 5th with the return of the popular New York City-based Irish-American bands Shilelagh Law and Celtic Cross. The indoor concert is scheduled from 2:45-5:30pm. These giants of Irish entertainment will be joined by the Pipes and Drums of the Police Emerald Society of Westchester, comprised of police officers from many of the 39 Police Departments within the County of Westchester. Doors open at 2:00 PM. Please note that the concert is standing room only. Visit empirecitycasino.com to purchase tickets.

On St. Patrick’s Day, Friday, March 17th, Empire City will give away custom designed, branded short sleeve Irish-themed shirts to Empire Club Members. The first 5,000 members to visit the promotions booth will receive the free T-shirt, while supplies last. The Guss Hayes Band will perform Friday evening from 6pm to 2am in the Entertainment Lounge.

The big win will be the Trip to Ireland Giveaway, valued at $5,000, on Friday, March 17th. Runners up will receive $500 prizes and all winners will receive a silver Claddagh ring.

Beginning on Wednesday, March 1st through Friday, March 17th, Empire Club members can receive an entry to win the trip for every 100 Empire points earned. All entries must be activated on March 17 beginning at 5:00 PM to be eligible to win. At 7:00 PM, ten Empire Club Members will be drawn from eligible entries to participate in the giveaway to the Emerald Isle. Visit any promotions booth or EmpireCity.com for more contest rules and details.

One of harness racing’s all-time greats and an outstanding young sulky star both were both in the winner's circle spotlight last week at YonkersRaceway. George Brennan started off the proceedings on Monday when he reached the career 9,000 win plateau. Jordan Stratton bagged five wins on Friday night, including the $40,000 featured Open Handicap Pace.

Brennan swept Monday night’s late daily double at the historic half-mile oval at EmpireCity Casino, vaulting to the big career milestone in the second half. Ron Burke fittingly trained both horses. Twin B Scandal ($4.90) and Givenupdreaming ($3.10) were the winning duo, stopping the clock in 1:53.4 and 1:53.1, respectively, and puttingBrennan in the record books.

“All milestones are special,” Brennan said. “I’d been thinking about (the number) a bit, and I knew I was if was going to get it tonight (Monday), I was running out of chances.

“Needing to win the last two races and having those two trained by Ronnie (Burke) made it pretty cool. We remain very loyal to one another and in the end it pays off.”

Brennan, a 48-year-old native of Monticello, NY, was just a high school junior when he won his first race in 1982. RobRon Romper was the winner, and it took place at his hometown racetrack. Brennan has career purse earnings exceed $152 million. According to U-S Trotting Association statistics, the two-time Yonkers driving champ ranks 17th all-time in wins and eighth in purses.

Friday the 13th proved to be no problem for Mr. Stratton. Sell a Bit N, a repeat winner in the $40,000 Filly and Mare Open Handicap Pace, gave Jordan Stratton a five-bagger on Friday night. The mare led wire to window through fractions of :28, :57.1, 1:25.3, stopping the clock in a sizzling 1:53.2. The 5-year-old Down Under daughter of Julius Caesar is owned by Harry von Knoblauch and trained by Peter Tritton. It was her seventh win in 18 seasonal 

June jackpots have kicked off summer at Empire City Casino. A Connecticut player identified as “Vincent” hit a jackpot worth $100,020 on June 28 at 5:05 pm, the second six-figure jackpot of the month, and fifth in 2016.

Like the earlier June score, the hit was made in the Gotham Palace, this one on the Bally/Double Jackpot Wild slot. Vinny made a $5 wager on the $1 denomination machine. "Lucy" from the Bronx hit the jackpot for $129,107 on June 8 on the Bally/Hot Shot Progressive machine.

Empire City is one of the largest entertainment destinations in the northeast located less than two miles north of New York City.  

Tracie B’s $388,311.84 score on February 5 was the biggest hit of the year, registered on the Blazing 7’s slot machine. That was the largest jackpot since the all-time Empire City record of $1,473,503 was brought home by Suffolk County resident Howard G. on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at 11:00am. That jaw-dropping score was won on the popular IGT Wheel of Fortune® Triple Stars® slot machine, located just a few hundred feet from the casino’s valet entrance.

 “Salvatore,” a Long Island player, hit the year's second largest jackpot – a $144,324 score – on May 2 on the Bally/Hot Shot Progressive machine at Empire City Casino.

On February 18, a player identified as “Pavel” had the hot hand, scoring for $105,778 on the Bally 777 Wild Jackpot Quick Hit slot machine.

Jackpot Record History: Howard G’s record jackpot exceeded the previously held record by nearly one million dollars, hit by Manuel Esteche of Port Chester hit for $571,000 in February 2015. Esteche’s haul broke the previous record jackpot of $509,000 won in November 2014 by Moosue Stefern of Bergenfield, New Jersey.​

Jackpots Galore:

Six Figure Gold at Empire City

Call her “Lucky Lucy.” “Lucy C.,” a slot player from The Bronx, hit the fourth six-figure jackpot of the year – a‎ $129,107 ‎score – on June 8 at Empire City Casino.

 The hit was made on the Bally/Hot Shot Progressive machine at 2:00 pm in the Gotham Palace. Lucy made a $2.50 wager on the penny slot machine. Empire City is one of the largest entertainment destinations in the northeast located less than two miles north of New York City.  
 
Tracie B’s $388,311.84 score on February 5 was the biggest hit of the year, registered on the Blazing 7’s slot machine. That was the largest jackpot since the all-time Empire City record of $1,473,503 was brought home by Suffolk County resident Howard G. on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at 11:00am. That jaw-dropping score was won on the popular IGT Wheel of Fortune® Triple Stars® slot machine, located just a few hundred feet from the casino’s valet entrance.

 “Salvatore,” a Long Island player, hit the year's second largest jackpot – a $144,324 score – onMay 2 on the Bally/Hot Shot Progressive machine at Empire City Casino.
 
On February 18, a player identified as “Pavel” had the hot hand, scoring for $105,778 on the Bally 777 Wild Jackpot Quick Hit slot machine.
 
Jackpot Record History: Howard G’s record jackpot exceeded the previously held record by nearly one million dollars, hit by Manuel Esteche of Port Chester hit for $571,000 in February 2015. Esteche’s haul broke the previous record jackpot of $509,000 won in November 2014 by Moosue Stefern of Bergenfield, New Jersey.

INAUGURAL DRIVERS’ CUP WRAPS UP NEXT WEEKEND IN PARIS
BY JOHN CIRILLO, for Empire City/Yonkers Raceway

Former New York Mets star pitcher, Bobby Ojeda, a key member of the 1986 World Series Champion Mets, will meet and greet fans at Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar at Empire City Casino on Sunday, July 16, when the Mets play the Colorado Rockies in a 1:10 p.m. game. "Bobby O." will pose for pictures with Mets zealots, and watch the game with fans at Dan Rooney's Sports Bar.

The left-handed starting pitcher was one of the anchors in the starting rotation of the ’86 champs that also included Dwight Eugene “Doc” Gooden, Ron Darling, and Sid Fernandez. His 18–5 record, 2.57 ERA (second-best in the league) and 148 strikeouts – all career-bests – played a major role in the Mets championship that season. Ojeda pitched in Game 3 of the World Series against his former Boston Red Sox teammates, and cruised to a 7–1 victory. Originally drafted by the Red Sox, “Bobby O.” compiled 115 wins and 1,128 strikeouts during a 14-year career that included a four-year stint with the Mets, as well as the Dodgers, Indians, and Yankees.

Food and drink specials will be on the menu, and fans will have the perfect view of the game on Dan Rooney’s 40 plus large-screen TVs.

Phil Simms may have coined the phrase “I’m going to Disney World” following his championship win in 1987, but the legendary quarterback is "going to Empire City Casino" for this year’s Big Game to host a viewing party, sign autographs and watch the Eagles take on the Patriots in a battle for the Vince Lombardi Trophy on Sunday, February 4.

The free festivities begin in the casino’s Entertainment Lounge at 6:00 p.m. on game day, where Simms will mingle with fans, participate in a Q&A session, and sign autographs before watching the Big Game and testing out his throwing arm with fans. Simms will also reflect on his career, offer his predictions and share what it takes to win the big one. Empire City Casino will display all of the championship action on LED jumbo screens to bring football fans as close to the action as possible. Seating will be first-come, first-served with beer and food specials all game long.

As an added bonus, the first 5,000 Empire Club Members to check in at the main promotions booth will receive a free football-themed beanie hat. Fans who are not yet Empire Club members can sign up for free in a matter of minutes at any promotions booth.

Empire City is Manhattan’s closest casino, a short drive from the George Washington Bridge and easily accessible via Metro North, Bus, Shuttle Bus and more (exact point-to-point directions provided here). For more information on Empire City Casino and the viewing party, visit www.empirecitycasino.com.

Tino Martinez Big Hit at Empire City Casino

The seventh annual Dick McGuire Trot, which was inaugurated in 2010 to pay tribute to the legendary Knicks and St. John’s point guard and basketball Hall of Famer, is set for Friday night, September 9,at Yonkers Raceway.

The New York Sire Stakes for three-year-old colts and geldings is worth a total purse of $167,874, split into two divisions worth more than $83,937 each, and carded as the fifth and sixth races of the evening.  

SmallTownThrowDown, runner up in Saturday’s Yonkers Trot by a diminishing head to champion Marion Marauder, wheels right back in for the first division of the McGuire with Dan Daley driving. Daley hopes to register a McGuire double in the second division with Royal Bachelor, a nine-length winner in the Excel at Batavia on August 31.

The “McGuire” remembers the ardent $2 horse player who starred at St. John's and then at the Garden with the Knickerbockers as one of the game's greatest playmakers.

Members of the McGuire family expected to be on hand include Dick’s wife Teri, sons Scott and Michael, and daughter Leslie.

Casino and Raceway president and CEO Timothy J. Rooney and COO Bob Galterio put their stamp of approval on the McGuire Trot for its inaugural rendition in 2010 soon after McGuire's passing, and it has become a fixture on the summer stakes schedule for New York-bred sophomore trotters.

McGuire was a racing devotee, and could be regularly found at harness and thoroughbred tracks across the country, including the venerable Yonkers half-mile oval, and wherever his Knicks scouting missions and training camps might take him.

Says Rooney: “We are truly delighted and privileged to continue to honor one of New York’s greatest sportsmen, and an avid racing fan, with the seventh annual Dick McGuire Trot. Yonkers Raceway looks forward to continuing this tradition for many years to come, and to having Dick’s family, friends and many fans honor his memory at our historic track during the height of our summer stakes season.”

Born in the Bronx, a product of the Rockaways, and a long time Dix Hills, Long Island resident, McGuire was a part of the Knicks organization for 53 seasons as a player, coach and scout before his passing on February 3, 2010 at age 84. The St. John’s University star was one of the most selfless players in NBA history. The deft-passing McGuire was a five-time NBA All-Star and led the Knicks to three straight NBA Finals in the fifties. His number 15 was retired to the Madison Square Garden rafters in 1992, and he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame the following year. McGuire’s legend, along with his historic NBA career, includes his love of horse racing, spending memorable times at racetracks across the country during his travels as a player, coach and scout.

Here are the fields for the two divisions of the Dick McGuire Trot, in post-position order, with drivers in parenthesis:

THE $167,874 DICK MCGUIRE TROT 1ST DIVISION Fifth Race Trot Purse $83,973

1ST DIVISION** Fifth Race Trot Purse $83,937 1. MASTER CLASS (Mark MacDonald); 2. JUST FOR TODAY (Mark MacDonald); 3. REVE ROYALE (Jason Bartlett); 4. THATS A BAD BOY (George Brennan); 5. DAYSON (Jim Morrill, Jr.); 6. DANTE (Ake Svanstedt); 7. SMALLTOWNTHROWDOWN (Dan Daley); 8. A JERSEY CONTRACT (Jim Morrill, Jr.)

THE $167,874 DICK MCGUIRE TROT 2ND DIVISION Sixth Race Trot Purse $83,937

1. DOG GONE LUCKY (Tyler Buter); 2. OMAHA SET HUT (Brian Sears); 3. SIR ROYSON (Jason Bartlett); 4. SOUTHERN PALMS (Jim Morrill, Jr.); 5. ROYAL BACHELOR (Dan Daley); 6. THE ROYAL HARRY (Ake Svanstedt); 7. DRAZZMATAZZ (Mark MacDonald); 8. ALLERAGE ECHO (Jason Bartlett)

EMPIRE CITY CASINO CELEBRATES ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Giveaways, Concert Highlight “March” to the 17th

Missile J., the winner of last year’s Art Rooney Pace, tries to continue his success at Yonkers Raceway in the $529,000 George Morton Levy Memorial Pace Final set for this Saturday night, April 22.
 
The Levy, in its 30th edition, is the richest harness race of the season to date, and honors the memory of the Hall of Fame founder of Roosevelt Raceway.
 
Missile J. is a four-year-old son of American Ideal, and captured three straight Levy preliminaries before finishing fifth in last week’s prelim leg.
 
Regular pilot Tim Tetrick drives from post position three for trainer Scott DiDomenico, and is the 4-1 third choice on the morning line.
 
According to the U.S. Trotting Association’s Anne Chunko, just four of the previous 29 winners of the Levy have been 4-year-olds.
 
Defending series champ Bit of a Legend N., with “Air” Jordan Stratton in the bike, was two for five in the prelims, including last week’s wire to wire score in a sizzling 1:51.3. The eight-year-old Down Under son of Bettor’s Delight, trained by Peter Tritton, drew post position six and is listed as 5-1.
 
Somewhere in L.A., another 1:51.3 winner last week in front-end style for leading driver Jason Bartlett, is the 2-1 morning line favorite from post five. The six-year-old Somebeachsomewhere gelding trained by Richard Banca became the sport’s newest millionaire ($1,022,456) with the triumph.
 
McWicked scored his first win of the series last week with Matt Kakaley at the helm. The six-year-old son of McArdle is trained by Steve Elliott, and drew the coveted rail as the 3-1 second choice on the morning line.
 
The field for the 2017 Levy, which goes as the 10th of 12 races (first post 7:10 PM, race is approximately 10:15 PM) is as follows: … 1-McWicked (Matt Kakaley, 3-1), 2-Blood Brother (Brian Sears, 12-1), 3-Missile J (Tim Tetrick, 4-1), 4-Keystone Velocity (Dan Dube, 9-1), 5-Somewhere in L A (Jason Bartlett, 2-1),  6-Bit of a Legend N (Jordan Stratton, 5-1), 7-Provocativeprincen (Yannick Gingras, 20-1), and 8-Soto (Brett Miller, 12-1).

Crescent Fashion set a Yonkers Raceway track record Tuesday (May 10) afternoon for a mile and ¼ trotting race, stopping the clock in 2:25:4 with owner-trainer-driver Ake Svanstedt in the sulky.

The blistering time shattered the previous mark of 2:27 by more than a full second, which was set in the 1993 Yonkers International Trot by ‎Giant Force with Sonny Patterson in the bike.

A son of Muscle Hill, Crescent Fashion won by four and ¾ -lengths, and returned $2.90 for a $2 win bet as the 2-5 favorite at Empire City Casino's historic half-mile oval. A stakes-winner who earned more than $300,000 as a sophomore, Crescent Fashion made his seasonal debut in a non-winners of six parimutuels (or $60,000) lifetime event and made short-work of his rivals in style.

In other Yonkers news, leading driver Jason Bartlett continued his assault on the standings, winning half the Tuesday afternoon races, bringing home six of 12.

Yonkers Raceway has announced across-the-the-board purse increases ranging from $500 to $5,000, beginning Monday, May 16. The hike raises the overnight purse range from $8,500 (for non-winners of $5,000 last five starts and/or $12,500 claimers) to $45,000 (weekly Opens/Open Handicaps). The current structure is $8,000 to $40,000.

The purse boost is the second in two months; an increase ranging from $1,500 to $8,000 was instituted on March 14 at Empire City Casino’s historic half-mile oval.

Hats Off to Bethenny

Swedish Longshot Cruzado Dela Noche Upsets in $1 Million Yonkers International Trot

Six Pack “Fabs”: Jason Bartlett and Mark MacDonald at Yonkers Raceway on Friday and Saturday Nights

With $2.7-Million, Your New Year’s Resolutions Become Reality

Yonkers Trot runnerup SmallTownThrowDown Heads First Division
SEVENTH ANNUAL DICK MCGUIRE TROT ON FRIDAY NIGHT, SEPTEMBER 9, AT YONKERS RACEWAY REMEMBERS KNICKS AND ST. JOHN’S GREAT, BASKETBALL HALL OF FAMER; N.Y.S.S. FOR THREE-YEAR-OLD COLTS & GELDINGS WORTH $167,874

Patrick Quinn, a leading advocate for increasing awareness of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), ‎has been selected 2016 Grand Marshal for the 61st Annual Yonkers St. Patrick’s Day Parade which takes place on McLean Avenue on Saturday, March 19. The official installation of Mr. Quinn as Grand Marshall and the Aides for the Parade took place on Sunday, March 6, at a gala celebration of the “Passing of the Sash” in the Good Time Room at Empire City Casino. Empire City General Counsel Tim Rooney, Jr., last year’s Grand Marshall “Passed the Sash” at that time.

Quinn was and remains at the forefront of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, connecting to a myriad of networks to popularize the challenge around the United States and around the World in the fight against Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

Patrick Ryan Quinn is 33-years-old, and was born and raised in Yonkers. He attended St. John the Baptist grade school, Iona Preparatory School and Iona College. A strong athlete, he played basketball in high school and collegiate Rugby. Pat was diagnosed with ALS in March of 2013.

Pat Quinn’s Irish Ancestry: Quinn is of Irish ancestry. His father, Patrick Liam Quinn was born in the town of Newry, linking Quinn’s grandmother from County Armagh and grandfather from County Down. His mother Rosemary’s maiden name is Keane, and his great grandparents are from County Cork, County Clare and the County of Westmeath.

In 2014 the South Broadway St. Patrick’s Day Parade merged with the McLean Avenue Merchant’s Association St. Patrick’s Day Parade.  This combination began a new era for Yonkers in honoring our Irish heritage, contributions and Saint Patrick, the Patron Saint of Ireland and the Archdiocese of New York. The Parade will be underway on March 19 following a Mass at St. Barnabas High School Chapel on McLean Avenue, when marchers step off at 1:00 p.m. on McLean Avenue west of Bronx River Road.

Christmas came early at Empire City Casino with the presentation to Catholic Charities of nearly one thousand toys and coats collected during the casino’s Ninth Annual “Christmas Spirit” Toy and Coat Drive on December 17.

The donations will ensure that New Yorkers in need have a warm coat this winter and a toy or two to put under the Christmas tree for their children.

Timothy J. Rooney‎, president and CEO of Empire City Casino, presented the annual donation to Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York but also surprised the service organization with a donation of $10,000 to assist them in continuing to provide vital services to New York families in need.

This year’s “Christmas Spirit” Toy and Coat Drive began November 9th and generous donors have given over 600 toys and more than four hundred coats. The toys and coats will be distributed through Catholic Charities community agencies to families in need. The toy and coat drive has become a holiday tradition at Empire City Casino and thousands of toys and coats have been donated since 2007 when the campaign was first launched.

Joining Rooney and Monsignor Sullivan were Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino, Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins,  Assemblymember Shelley Mayer, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and City Council Member Corazon Pineda. Esmeralda Hoscoy, regional supervisor of Westchester County Catholic Charities Community Services, and Órla Kelleher, executive director of the Aisling IrishCommunity Center were also present and will help ensure the toys and coats get into the hands of families most in need.

The drive to help families in our communities attracted some West Coast warmth. Josh Blake, president of California-based and family-owned company, Jams, donated hundreds of toys to the annual drive. This is the fourth consecutive year that Blake and his family have showered New Yorkers with their generosity. In previous years, Blake even made the trip to New York to present the toys in person.

Another annual key contributor to the effort is John Lennon, owner of Yonkers-based Smart Move & Storage, who generously donates his company’s services to transport and store of all donations while they are distributed by local community organizations.

“Social responsibility is not just for corporations, it is imperative we all do what we can,” said Rooney. “Giving back is about community and helping others move forward. There are no greater deeds than charity and service.”

“Once again we are fortunate, through the generosity of Tim Rooney and the Empire City Casino family for this donation of toys and coats that will benefit some of the more vulnerable families that we work with in the City of Yonkers and beyond,” said Monsignor Sullivan. “In this Christmas season we are grateful that this spirit of generosity and caring enables Catholic Charities to provide help and new hope in the lives of Non-Catholics and Catholics alike whom we serve.”

“This is what the holidays are all about – neighbors helping neighbors,” said Astorino. “I join in thanking Empire City Casino and all those who donated to this year’s toy and coat drive. You are helping to put a smile on a child’s face, and helping to keep someone warm this winter. Nothing could be more important this time of year.”

“The holiday season is not about what we hope to receive in gifts but rather how we can give of ourselves to benefit others in our community,” said Spano. “The annual toy and coat drive, hosted by our generous and supportive partners at Empire City Casino, is one example among many of Yonkers uniting together in generosity and service during the season of giving. I want to thank Tim Rooney, Jr. and the entire team at Empire City Casino for their continued commitment to Yonkers.”

"Each year for the past nine years Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway has worked with Catholic Charities to make the holiday season a bit better for Westchester families in need,” said Mayer. “There are so many families here in Westchester that struggle all year long, and the holidays can be particularly difficult.  Empire City has always been a strong community partner, and I applaud them for continuing to give back."

“Aisling Irish Community Center is delighted to be chosen again this year as a recipient of Empire City Casino’s annual coat and toy drive,” said Kelleher. “Aisling Irish Community Center is widely recognized as a resource and respite center in Yonkers. We provide programs and services for the more vulnerable people in our community, i.e. seniors, low income families, homeless, etc. Empire City Casino’s generous contribution to our holiday appeal is welcomed with open arms by Aisling Irish Community Center as well as by all the grateful recipients.”

WHAT: Kentucky Derby Day at Empire City Casino with Celebrity Guest, Bethenny Frankel.
The Real Housewives of NY star and Skinnygirl mogul, Bethenny Frankel will be at Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway celebrating Kentucky Derby Day and conducting a meet and greet with fans on Saturday May 7, 2016 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The casino will be hosting a variety of events and festivities open to the public for Derby Day including their annual “Fancy Derby Hat Contest,” with Bethenny as the celebrity judge. Among other prizes and giveaways, the contestant with Bethenny’s favorite hat will receive $750.  All attendees can mix, mingle and pose for photos with Bethenny and watch the Kentucky Derby trackside at the casino’s Derby Viewing Party. The viewing party will include musical entertainment by DJ LAX, a beer garden, a food tent with items and beverages for purchase, and 80 inch screens showing the races and festivities at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The Kentucky Derby post time is 6:24 p.m. and betting windows will open at 10:00 a.m. In addition, Frankel will be presenting her Skinnygirl spin on the classic derby drink - ‘Cooler Than Julep’ (for purchase). No stranger to horse racing as her late father, Robert Frankel was one of the most successful and respected American thoroughbred horse race trainers in the history of racing. Bethenny will surely share her picks for Win, Place, Show!

WHEN: Saturday, May 7, 2016
Bethenny will be at the casino and available for media opportunities from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Empire City Casino, 810 Yonkers Ave, Yonkers, NY
Media opportunities and guest meet and greets with Bethenny will take place at the Trackside at the Winners Circle.

MEDIA RSVP: Media must RSVP for this event.  Please contact John Cirillo, Cirillo World: 914-260-7436, johnnycigarpr@aol.com, or Justine@nicholaslence.com, (631) 807-1088; Josh  Knoller, Josh@nicholaslence.com, (201) 294-9586.

DIRECTIONS: Empire City Casino is located off I-87 at Central Park Avenue. Free general parking is available at the Central Park Avenue or Yonkers Avenue entrances. Valet parking is available at the Central Park Avenue & Clark Street entrance for $15.

To the Winner’s Circle:
From General Parking – Located on the right side of the racetrack before the casino entrance.  

From Valet Parking –  Located through the casino, passing Dan Rooney’s Pub and Promotions Booth and Cashier on the right, taking a left at Lil’ Cocina and through the racetrack.

Full Release below:
If you’re not going to Churchill Downs in Louisville for the Kentucky Derby, Empire City Casino is the place for New Yorkers to watch the “Run for the Roses.” Real Housewives of New York megastar Bethenny Frankel, the daughter of the late and legendary Hall of Fame trainer Bobby Frankel, will host the casino’s Kentucky Derby Viewing Party on Saturday, May7, trackside at historic Yonkers Raceway.

A bevy of trackside activities at the casino’s historic Yonkers Raceway will be highlighted by the opportunity to meet and take a photograph in the winner’s circle with the wildly-popular Frankel from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. The annual Kentucky Derby “Fancy Hat Contest,” a free two-horse exacta box on the “Run for the Roses” to the first 1,000 Empire Club members, the Cooler than Julep made with Bethenny’s Skinnygirl Sangria and Skinny Girl Vodka, live entertainment by DJ LAX, and of course the simulcast of the Kentucky Derby at 6:34 pm will turn Empire City into Churchill Downs East.

Empire City’s Kentucky Derby extravaganza is open to the public, and gets underway at 3:00 pm on the raceway apron.

Frankel is among the most popular reality television personalities in America with 1.5 million twitter followers, has hosted the talk show Bethenny, and is the best-selling author of four self-help books, chef, entrepreneur, and founder of Skinnygirl Cocktails.

Participants can register for the Fancy Hat Contest trackside from 3:00-4:30 pm, and the winner will be announced at 5:00 pm. The Grand Prize is $500 in cash; second place wins $250 cash, and third place receives $100 cash. A celebrity pick will be announced at 5:30pm and the winner receives $750 cash.

While the traditional and classic Mint Julep is on the menu, the Cooler than Julep will take center stage at Empire City. Its ingredients include: Skinny Sangria, Skinny Vodka, Raw sugar, Lime, and Mint.

Simulcast locations include: trackside, the Winner’s Circle Bar in Empire Terrace on the 2nd Floor, the Simulcast Room on the 3rd Floor, the 4th floor Grandstand and Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar.

The first 1,000 Empire Club Members to visit the entertainment lounge beginning at 4:00 pm will receive a two-horse exacta box for the Kentucky Derby whiles supplies last.

Menu for Kentucky Derby
SALAD
- Mixed Green Salad with Tomato, Cucumber and a Side of House Vinaigrette
- Classic Potato Salad with Celery and Eggs

ENTREES
- Barbecue Pork Ribs
- Hamburgers with Cheese and Condiments
- Bourbon glazed Chicken
- Grilled Flank Steaks with Sauté Onions and Mushrooms
- Corn on the Cob
- Macaroni and Cheese

DESSERT
- Cookies
- Brownies
- Fresh Fruit Salad

EMPIRE CITY CASINO LAUNCHES LATE-NIGHT WOODLAWN SHUTTLE SERVICE FOR PLAYERS AND EMPLOYEES
Late-night shuttles now available at 4 train’s Woodlawn subway stop.

$1 MILLION YONKERS INTERNATIONAL TROT RETURNS NEXT OCTOBER 15th, 2016

George Brennan Reaches 9,000 Win Milestone at Yonkers Raceway; Jordan Stratton Bags 5 Wins

Empire City Casino Captures Five “Best of Gaming” Awards from Casino Player Magazine

Each New Year, people all over the world make promises to themselves to rejuvenate their lives, change bad habits, and better their quality of life. For some, it means eating healthier or acting nicer, while for others it's time for something new. The resolutions kick in, quickly followed by reality: how can one suddenly afford the organic chicken rather than store-brand, or learn a new language without paying for lessons? How does one incorporate reading and sleeping more into their daily routine when they have no new books and their mattress is sinking into the frame?

All answers lead to Empire City Casino this New Year, as visitors and "Resolutioners" set their eyes on the casino’s IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars® slot machine, which recently surpassed the $2.7-million mark. Winning $2.7-million would not only break the record for the highest-ever jackpot at any of New York State’s regulated casinos, but would also help keep resolution goals on track.

Top 10 New Year’s Resolutions*
1.      Diet/Exercise/Lose Weight
2.      Read more
3.      Learn something new
4.      Save money
5.      Be a nicer person/more patient
6.      Get a new job
7.      Volunteer/be more charitable
8.      Drink less alcohol
9.      Get more sleep
10.  Make new friends

A quick analysis of the past year’s top 10 resolutions people make shows how such a life-changing jackpot can turn 2018’s "New Year, New You" from a motto into a lifestyle:

Looking to lose weight or start a new diet plan? With $2.7-million, that personal trainer is only a call away.

Made it a goal to read a book a month in 2018? $2.7-million can not only get you the hottest new e-reader, but several – or more – e-books with it. Heck, you can even hire someone to read them to you.

Interested in learning new things? Invest that $2.7-million into lessons of your choice.

Growing your rainy-day fund? $2.7-million could help a little with that!

Want to be a nicer person overall? $2.7-million will surely make you a little more cheerful and less stressed.

In the market for a new job? Why not go into finance – you have 2.7-million reasons to learn how to manage money.

Looking to give back? According to the Food Bank for Westchester, $2.7-million would provide 10.8-million meals to hungry families.

You could cut back on alcohol – but winning $2.7-million does call for some champagne to celebrate! And now, you can afford the good stuff. Glass of Dom Pérignon anyone?

Need more shut-eye in your life? With $2.7-million can get you the best mattress, pillows, and sheets on the market – and even have enough left over for the latest sleep therapy machine on the market.

Want to expand your social circle? Win $2.7-million and instantly join Empire City’s company of millionaires: Howard G. of Long Island, NY who won $1,473,503 in October 2015; and Linda H. of Thornwood, NY who took home a “nearly there” million dollar jackpot of $961,411 in November 2016 – maybe making some friends along the way.

Available only at Empire City Casino, the IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars® jackpot can be hit on one of only two machines, playing a $20 wager on the $10 denomination machine. Eager patrons are lining up to try their luck, hoping to fund their resolutions and refresh their lives. Let Empire City Casino help the New You become a reality. Stop by Manhattan’s closest casino and take your chance at winning the life-altering jackpot today.

Empire City Casino is open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. and is located at 810, Yonkers, Ave in Yonkers, NY. For directions and public transit information, visit empirecitycasino.com.

*http://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/beauty/fitness-wellbeing/news/a39139/2017-most-popular-new-years-resolutions/

Cirillo World

Servicing Sports, Entertainment & Culinary public relations & management Clients since 1997

A Yonkers woman turned a short trip to nearby Empire City Casino into a bonanza when “Nancy G.” hit a jackpot worth $190,860.89 on Saturday night (January 21).

A $4 wager on the penny-denomination Wheel of Fortune slot machine in the Gotham Palace at 8:57 PM pulled down the first six-figure jackpot of the year at the Yonkers casino. Last year, a dozen six-figure jackpots were hit at Empire City, including a near $1 million score by Linda H. of Thornwood who hit for $961,411 on the Wheel of Fortune on November 13, 2016.

A still-growing $1.1 million jackpot, which would be the second largest in history, is up for grabs on yet another Wheel of Fortune slot machine at Empire City. Howard G. of Suffolk County, Long Island, scored Empire City’s record-breaker, a mind-blower worth $1,473,503 on the Wheel of Fortune Triple Star slot machine on October 25, 2015.

Legendary Irish Band ‘Shilelagh Law’ and the Rousing ‘Celtic Cross’ Returned to Empire City Casino for 3rd Annual Irish Concert on Sunday, March 6‎th‎‎

CITY OF YONKERS JOINS ICE BUCKET CO-FOUNDER & YONKERS NATIVE PAT QUINN TO HOST SECOND ANNUAL ALS ICE BUCKET CHALLENGE AT EMPIRE CITY CASINO ON SUNDAY, AUGUST 7 AT 11 AM
Public Invited to Participate in Largest Simultaneous Ice Bucket Challenge to Benefit ALS Research Pre-Registration Available at www.YonkersNY.gov

What: $150,000 Slot Tournament Championship
Who: Qualifying Slot Players – 600 in total; Grand Prize winner will take home $100,000
When: Sunday, March 12, 2017
Time:  12 noon to 7:15 pm
Where: Empire City Casino at Yonkers Raceway
            Yonkers Avenue, Yonkers, New York
            The "Red Room"
            Enter at Valet Entrance
            (Take elevator to 2nd floor)

The excitement will reach a fever pitch in the $150,000 Slot Tournament Championship this Sunday, March 12, at Empire City Casino. For the past month, slot mavens have been earning points for a chance to qualify for the high-stakes tourney which culminates on Sunday.

In all, 600 Empire Club Members earned the right to participate to compete for the $100,000 Grand Prize. Sessions will be held every 15 minutes from 12 noon to 7:15 pm. Along with the six-figure top prize, nine runners up will bring home cash prizes worth between $20,000 and $1,000. In addition, all qualifiers will be eligible to receive $50 in free play.

Here’s the prize structure:

Place    Cash/Free Play Prize Each  
1st                         $100,000 Cash
2nd                        $20,000 Cash
3rd                         $10,000 Cash
4th                         $7,000 Cash
5th                         $5,000 Cash
6th                         $3,000 Cash
7th                         $2,000 Cash
8th – 10th               $1,000 Cash

Empire City Casino continues to bring New York baseball’s most popular players to the largest entertainment destination in the northeast. Former New York Yankees first baseman Tino Martinez, a key player on four “Bronx Bombers” World Series championship teams, will appear at Dan Rooney’s Sports Bar at the casino on Wednesday, August 16th when the Yankees play their crosstown rival Mets in a “Subway Series” game at Citi Field.
 
Martinez will meet and greet fans to sign autographs and take photographs beginning at 6:30 p.m. The first 75 attendees will receive an exclusive Empire City Casino baseball for Martinez to sign. Martinez will watch the game with baseball devotees inside Dan Rooney’s, a sports pub featuring over 40 large screen TVs and upscale pub food and cold brews available for purchase. Hungry visitors can enjoy the signature half rotisserie chicken with roasted potatoes, or dive into a mouthwatering award-winning Dan Rooney’s burger topped with brie cheese, marinated onions, and honey mustard.
 
During his 16-year career with the Yankees, Mariners, Cardinals and Devil Rays, Martinez drove in 1,271 runs as a two-time All-Star. He enjoyed six seasons with 100 or more RBI, while slugging 339 home runs. A first-round draft pick out of the University of Tampa, his clutch hitting helped to lead the Yankees to world championships in 1996, ’98, ’99 and 2000. He was also an Olympic gold-medalist in the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, Korea.
 
Attendees can come early and take a chance on the record-breaking $2-million jackpot currently available only at Empire City Casino on the IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars® slot machine. Or check out Empire City’s newest games, including Titanic - Heart of the Ocean and Wan Shi Ru Progressive. Empire Club members 55 and over who earn at least 10 Empire Points on Wednesdays in August can receive $10 free play & free valet. Visit empirecitycasino.com for details.

Jordan Stratton Reaches 3,000 Career Win Milestone at Yonkers Raceway‎‎