Chief Promises Police Around Racino by Stephen Geffon - Queens Chronicle: South Queens News

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As the September opening day for the Resorts World New York casino in South Ozone Park edges closer, nervous neighborhood residents concerned about their safety were assured by Patrol Borough Queens South Assistant Chief James Secreto that the police manpower necessary to protect them will be provided.

Secreto told the members of the 106th Precinct Community Council at their meeting last week that if top police officials don’t give him the additional officers he has requested, he will provide them from the borough’s resources.

“One way or another we are going to have cops there,” said Secreto.

Residents fear that the influx of an estimated 8.4 million people a year into the neighborhood will add traffic and increase the risk of crimes and quality of life issues. Some expressed concern that prostitutes may be drawn into the area.

City Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) has also voiced the concerns of his constituents and recently asked for additional police officers for the 106th Precinct in advance of the casino’s opening.

“While the new racino is scheduled to open later this summer, many of my constituents are still concerned about the level of police protection the community will receive from the NYPD,” Ulrich wrote in a recent letter to Police Commissioner Ray Kelly. “Despite the fact that vehicular and foot traffic will increase, it still remains unclear if and when the local precinct will receive additional police personnel. Undoubtedly, more police officers will be needed to patrol the residential neighborhoods surrounding the facility.”

David Quintana of Ozone Park told Secreto that he saw a large contingent of police officers standing around the New York Stock Exchange building in Manhattan. He said that in light of the expected 30,000 visitors a day coming into the neighborhood surrounding the casino, “we could use some of those officers out here.”

On the noise abatement front, the precinct’s ongoing effort to quiet troublemakers resulted in the issuance of 26 noise summonses during the period from May 30 to June 5, according to Community Affairs officer Ken Zorn.

He added that 32 noise summonses were issued the week before.

A Lindenwood resident complained that cars are still speeding through area stop signs without stopping. Capt. Thomas Pascale told him officers would be made aware of this problem.

With the Fourth of July approaching, 106th Precinct police officers will be taking a zero-tolerance stance on fireworks use.

“For children’s safety and the safety of all residents, we are going to make sure that we prevent the discharge of fireworks,” said a police department official.

Fireworks burn at an extremely high temperature and can quickly burn through clothing and skin, causing serious injuries. Items such as sparklers are mistakenly thought to be safe, when even they can be very dangerous, the officers said, adding that fireworks should only be handled by trained professionals.

Pascale said that 40 additional police officers will be assigned to the precinct’s fireworks detail on July 4.

He also said that a police command post will be set up in front of the Starbucks store on Crossbay Boulevard.

Genting is on the Right Track - Op/Ed by Anthony J. Gellineau -Leader-Observer

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When I hear so-called “LEADERS” of South Queens rail about the lack of job creation by companies like Genting, I think back to the days when quite a few people would prey upon the ignorance of those in earshot to bring attention to THEMSELVES. These are people who thrive in the midst of those who are less fortunate, taking advantage of their fears by casting something as the bogeyman that is out to get them. These same “leaders” do nothing to improve the life condition of the people they are talking at – they produce no results other than the temporary mental satisfaction of those who feel someone is standing up for them, only to have those same people leave in the same way in which they came.


True civic organizations fight daily to improve the quality of life of the residents in our communities. We meet with entities in our communities to address issues; we bring decision-makers to our meetings with our members to get their questions answered. We spend an inordinate amount of hours researching, communicating and disseminating information to our constituents. We teach our constituents to fish, and we don’t expect anyone to give us a fish.


My civic association, together with other civic associations that surround the Aqueduct racetrack have been fighting for close to 20 years, looking forward to the reconstruction and revitalization of the track. We have been in discussions with Community Board 10, Borough Presidents Schulman and Marshall, Assemblywoman Pheffer, deceased Assemblywoman Pauline Rhodd-Cumming, and Senators Maltese and Addabbo; we have worked on several different plans and we have lived through several different disappointing fits and starts. When Genting was awarded the right to build their casino, we all felt a sense of relief and optimism. And to their credit, Genting has been working with us in partnership, alerting our constituents to their opportunities, answering all of our questions – all the while becoming acclimated to our community. The relationship thus far could not be better.


Despite the feelings of optimism for many, there are some that believe that the selection of Genting brought disenfranchisement. You would think that it would be those who sought the rights to build the casino but were not selected. In this case however, it is a community of people who thought they were initially awarded the rights in a previous process, only to be disappointed when that process was deemed invalid. Some decided to own the previous process as if they were investors. They had built a sense of ownership with the belief that they were going to be intricately involved in the development of the project. Rightly or wrongly, the invalidation of that process left some people feeling as if they lost a significant stake in the development of the racetrack. These people, led astray by the supposed previous winners, are ripe for exploitation by the misguided and their cohorts who are more than eager to accommodate.


Before Genting was even chosen to develop the racetrack, a group of people, led by MISGUIDED LEADERS held a protest in front of the racetrack in June of 2010 to protest the bidding process. Illustrating a severe lack of understanding of the procurement process, THEY denounced the state’s RFP and it’s “lack of inclusion”. Since then, THEY have continued to lead people astray with poorly conceived assertions and sound bites. Those of us who live next to Aqueduct have been simply baffled by these tactics. They continue to antagonize our community without consulting those that live here – promulgating mistruths along the way. Simply put, it needs to stop.


The NAACP is this country’s foremost civil rights organization, and using its legacy to back a misguided campaign devalues its meaning to all of us. The redevelopment of Aqueduct means a lot to all of us, and inappropriately calling a company racist because it has not “consulted” any one self-appointed “leader” is unjust. While holding true to our values of fairness and community, have maintained a high level of communication with Genting and we have met their efforts to hire locally with vigor and anticipation, not cynicism. We have publicized their many opportunities and we have encouraged our constituents to respond. We will continue to reciprocate the same respect the Genting officials and representatives have shown to us. We will continue to urge those who have the community’s interest at heart to do the same. We ask those with PERSONAL agendas to go elsewhere.


Anthony J. Gellineau is president of the South Ozone Park Civic Association West.

News & Notes from Senator Joe Addabbo

STATEMENT FROM NYS SENATOR JOSEPH P. ADDABBO, JR.

ON ANNOUNCEMENT OF ETHICS REFORM AGREEMENT

June 8, 2011

NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. released the following statement on the agreement reached between Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the NYS Legislature on ethics reform:

"Yesterday's agreement on ethics reform is the right answer to public outcries for immediate action. We have given New Yorkers a reason to once again believe that their government is responsible and is accountable to them."

"Governmental ethics reform has been on my radar since my City Council days starting in 2001, serving on its Government Operations Committee. Aside from pledges and promises, if we are to move this state government in the direction of improved ethics and credibility, then ethics and campaign finance reform are required ingredients to that end.”

"We've got more work to do, but now with stronger disclosure requirements, an independent oversight commission, greater transparency for those doing business with the state by ending 'pay to play', and tougher deterrents for public corruption, such as no pension awards, we've overcome the past blockages in Albany to ensure that the people come first with state government."

ADDABBO CO-SPONSORS BILL INCREASING PENALTIES FOR ANIMAL FIGHTING; VOTES IN FAVOR OF HUMANE ANIMAL BILLS

June 7, 2011

NYS Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr., (D-Queens) announced the passing of animal rights legislation in the Senate as part of the 1^st annual New York State Animal Advocacy Day on June 1. Among the passed bills were S.946, S.3317 and S.3237, which was co-sponsored by Senator Addabbo. The bill was in relation to increasing the penalties for those convicted of violating the prohibition of animal fighting. Passing this day, with Senator Addabbo’s support, were the inclusion of theft of dogs and cats within the crime of grand larceny in the fourth degree (S.946), along with the establishment of a toll-free hotline where individuals can report instances of animal fighting (S.3317).

Senator Addabbo praised the passing of these three bills, noting animal fighting is a distasteful sport and an unfortunate avenue some seek to capitalize financially in today’s economic climate. “For far too long, animal fighting has been, and remains, a serious problem that affects communities throughout the nation. Today, I proudly stand in support of these bills to eliminate this disturbing sport and to bring peace and comfort to all animals unfairly subjected to this harsh reality,” said Addabbo. “Animals used for animal fighting are specifically bred, conditioned and trained to fight, and have been known to sustain severe injuries often resulting in unfortunate deaths,” explained the Senator.

S.3237 co-sponsored by Senator Addabbo makes it a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for a period up to one year, and a fine of up to $1,000, for the knowing presence as a spectator at a place where an exhibition of animal fighting is being conducted. S.946 classifies stolen pets as a class E felony, and equates such charge to such current conditions as stolen credit cards, or stolen religious materials. S.3317 makes it easier for authorities to receive information on illegal animal fighting activity. “These measures passed by the Senate will allow New York to strengthen our outdated dog-fighting laws,” said Addabbo in relation to his decision to support all measures.

Currently, all three bills await passage in the Assembly before the Governor can act on each measure. “It is my hope and belief that New York will get serious in protecting the interests of our four-legged friends,” concluded Addabbo.

ADDABBO: LET’S MINIMIZE ELDER ABUSE BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE

Bill Passes Senate; Mandates Domestic Violence Prevention Programs in Senior Centers

June 6, 2011

NYS Senator Joseph Addabbo, Jr., (D-Queens) a member of the Senate’s Committee on the Aging, announced a measure that recently passed the Senate with unanimous support. Bill S.4235, if enacted into law, would direct the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence to develop domestic violence prevention programs for utilization by senior centers throughout the state. The bill would amend the executive law to incorporate this new vital requirement for senior citizens.

Senator Addabbo praised the intent of the bill and called on the Assembly to take further action on moving the bill. “It is important to remain both mindful and aware of the occurrences of domestic violence among seniors. A well informed and educated senior versed on prevention methods can save such an older adult’s life and reduce the risk of tragedy.” Addabbo pointed to senior centers as gathering places for many seniors in the community, and felt it was a logical place for domestic violence prevention programs to be offered.

Although domestic violence prevention programs are in existence, few if any meet the needs of our older adults. “Far too often, seniors are reluctant to seek help when it comes to sensitive issues. Establishing and promoting domestic violence prevention programs at senior centers is ideal,” stated Addabbo.

Should the legislation advance and pass the Assembly, the Governor will have 10 days to deliberate if the bill should become law. If the bill is enacted, it takes effect immediately.

Addabbo concluded, “I am hopeful this bill will reduce the growing problem of elder abuse in New York and improve the protection of seniors against domestic violence abusers.”

ADDABBO LEGISLATION WOULD MAKE USING A GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY TO HARASS INDIVIDUALS A CRIME

June 6, 2011

NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens) announced the bipartisan passage of one of his pieces of legislation in the Senate (S1242), which will define the use of a governmental agency to harass another individual to fall within the crime of aggravated harassment in the second degree.

Addabbo praised his bill’s passing in the Senate, noting that he got the idea for the bill from constituents who complained to him about being harassed, without reason, by their neighbors. The bill passed the Senate unanimously (54-0) and a vote is pending in the Assembly.

“Neighbors and other members of a surrounding community should not have to live with fear of being inundated with unwarranted harassing messages and visits from governmental agencies and inspectors,” said Addabbo. “This legislation reduces the threat of enlisting governmental agencies to seek and rectify false claims by holding those individuals liable who target others with intent to threaten and alarm.” The Senator also mentioned that while both the city and state are facing tough economic times, neither can afford to waste money and resources on false accusations.

Examples of harassment can comprise a neighbor calling a city or state departmental agency on another individual to justify a false claim against that individual, to the placement of false complaints regarding illegal dumping of resources into a neighboring reservoir. A person is found guilty of aggravated harassment in the second degree when that individual harasses, annoys, threatens or alarms another through physical or verbal means. Said Addabbo, 

“Each unfounded claim becomes a waste of taxpayer time and money, for an inspector must invest time and effort to investigate the false claim.”

Addabbo concluded, “Should this bill become law, I plan on working with the appropriate agencies to ensure individuals are no longer subjected to misconceived threats.”

STATEMENT BY NYS SENATOR JOSEPH P. ADDABBO, JR. ON TODAY’S OPENING OF RESORTS WORLD NEW YORK JOB CENTER

June 6, 2011

NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens), released the following statement on today’s opening of the Resorts World New York Job Center:

I appreciate the professional efforts of Genting New York and the fulfillment of another promise made to the community with the opening of a Job Center at the site of the Aqueduct Racino, Resorts World New York. While I believe that the demand for jobs citywide greatly exceeds the supply of job opportunities, I am grateful for Genting’s emphasis on local hiring. Through the opening of the onsite job center and its Web site, http://www.rwnewyork.com, Genting has provided qualified residents with the means of applying for employment at Resorts World New York. I look forward to meeting with Genting monthly to address various issues in addition to jobs, which include public safety and traffic patterns, and always respect their commitment to adhering to the concerns of my constituents.

News From City Council Member Eric Ulrich

NYC Council Member Eric Ulrich Celebrates Opening of Rockaway Beach for Summer

Council Member Eric A. Ulrich (R-Queens) joined Parks Department officials, residents and colleagues in government on the boardwalk at Beach 97^th Street in Rockaway on Friday to celebrate the annual opening of the city’s public beaches. After reminders from Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe to stay safe this summer, the officials and residents sampled some of the food available on the boardwalk this summer and tried their hand at beach tennis.

Ulrich said, “As we all know, Rockaway continues to be one of the city’s best kept secrets. It’s a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family, and to enjoy the beach. There are lots of new and exciting amenities this year, and I encourage everyone in Queens to visit this summer and discover the beauty Rockaway has to offer.”

In all, the City boasts 14 miles of beaches that attracted 19 million visitors last year. New this year will be food concessions run by Rockaway Beach Club, LLC, which will serve tacos, po’ boys, arepas, enchiladas, Italian ices and more at snack bars at Beach 86^th, 97^th and 106^th streets. In addition, a mile of new boardwalk is open this year along stretches between Beach 23^rd and Beach 81^st streets.

NYC Council Member Eric Ulrich: Additional Police Presence Needed at Aqueduct

Council Member Eric A. Ulrich (R-Queens) is asking the NYPD to assign additional police officers to the 106th Precinct in advance of the planned September opening of video lottery terminals at Aqueduct Race Track in Ozone Park.

The new racino is expected to draw more than eight million visitors each year, and local residents and Community Board 10 have already expressed concerns about the current staffing levels at the local precinct.

Ulrich said, “In order to keep our streets safe, we are going to need more cops at the 106^th Precinct. My constituents should not have to worry about any rise in crime that might emanate from Aqueduct. We need to do everything we can to guarantee a good quality of life for the neighborhoods surrounding the track. This request is more than reasonable.”

Ulrich had the opportunity to speak directly with Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly during a recent Public Safety Committee hearing and in a May 18 letter to the department. He requested that the new officers be assigned beginning in the new fiscal year so they will have time to acclimate themselves to the area before the racino opens.

In the letter to Commissioner Kelly, Ulrich wrote, “While the new racino is scheduled to open later this summer, many of my constituents are still concerned about the level of police protection the community will receive from the NYPD. Despite the fact that vehicular and foot traffic will increase, it still remains unclear if and when the local precinct will receive additional police personnel. Undoubtedly, more police officers will be needed to patrol the residential neighborhoods surrounding the facility… I believe this request is warranted given the size and scope of the new venue and the necessary planning that will go into maintaining a good quality of life for area residents.”

NYC Council Member Eric Ulrich Statement on Mayor's Plan to Close Engine 294 and Other Fire Companies

Council Member Eric A. Ulrich (R-Queens) released the following statement on the Mayor's plan to close 20 fire companies around the City, including Engine 294:

“The Mayor’s plan to close Engine 294 and other fire companies around the city is downright dangerous. Response times will go up and lives will be put at risk. Woodhaven and Richmond Hill desperately need adequate fire protection and emergency services, especially since many of the homes there are attached, wood-frame structures. We simply cannot balance the budget by putting people in harm’s way. Mark my words - budget cuts like these can be deadly and I will do everything in my power to fight them.”

NYC Council Member Eric Ulrich Co-Sponsors Bill to Prevent Children from Being Exposed to Pornography in Public Libraries Council Members Eric A. Ulrich (R-Queens) and David G. Greenfield (D-Brooklyn) announced bipartisan legislation on Sunday that will protect children at New York City’s public libraries from exposure to Internet pornography. The legislation would make it a misdemeanor criminal offense for any adult to view pornographic materials within 100 feet of a minor in a public library. Ulrich said, “This is a common sense piece of legislation aimed at protecting our children while they spend time at the library. Kids shouldn’t be exposed to sexually explicit content, and taxpayers shouldn’t have to foot the bill for it either. This is a serious concern for many people who don’t want their children subjected to this form of public indecency.” Greenfield said, “I am a strong supporter of our public libraries and the value and rich experiences that they provide to New Yorkers. Part of that experience, however, should not be traumatizing children by exposing them to sexual predators and debasing pornography. Our bipartisan legislation would send an unmistakable message to sexual predators: expose yourself to children and you will go to jail.” The legislation would make viewing pornography within 100 feet of a child a misdemeanor carrying fines of between $1,000 and $10,000 and the possibility of jail time, as determined by a judge. Because the proposed legislation is narrowly tailored to protect children, it is expected to pass any constitutional challenges.

NYC Council Member Eric Ulrich Statement on Mayor’s Proposed Budget

Council Member Eric A. Ulrich (R-Queens) today released the following statement in response to Mayor Bloomberg’s FY 2012 Executive Budget:

Ulrich said, “This is a very difficult budget. Even though years of prudent fiscal planning helped the city weather the recession better than most, cuts still seem inevitable. I’m especially concerned about the impact potential teacher layoffs will have on class size in our schools, and I’m also worried about the proposed firehouse closings. As an alternative, I am encouraging my colleagues to seriously consider some of the recommendations that have already been made by the Independent Budget Office. Rest assured, before the City Council adopts the budget, I will do everything in my power to protect vital services and persuade the Mayor to find money elsewhere.”

Resorts World Casino New York Announces On-site Employment Center

On-site employment center complements existing local employment center partnerships to facilitate hiring of 1,150 permanent workers at new facility; 

Career opportunities regularly updated at www.rwnewyork.com

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Center will officially open on Monday, June 6

Click here to view these pictures larger

Resorts World Casino New York will officially open an on-site employment center to help local residents apply for permanent positions at the new South Ozone Park facility, officials announced today standing alongside New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo, Assembly Member Vivian Cook, Assembly Member Michelle Titus, City Council Member Ruben Wills, Community Board 10 Chair Betty Braton and others.

“As promised, we are continuing to hire from the local community and this on-site jobs center will allow us to do just that,” said Michael Speller, President of Resorts World Casino New York. “The new jobs center will be critical in helping us identify the best local candidates so we can build a talented and robust Resorts World family based right here in Queens. We are very much looking forward to continuing to grow our permanent staff.”

The new on-site employment center is yet another resource for local Queens residents looking for opportunities at Resorts World Casino New York. Resorts World is already working with three local employment services centers to identify candidates for careers at the new facility:

· NYC Business Solutions – Queens Workforce 1 Career Center;

· Educational Opportunity Center (EOC); and

· Council for Airport Opportunity (CAO).

More information on permanent positions and future recruiting events at Resorts World Casino New York is available at www.rwnewyork.com.

“Having an on-site employment center is not only a great way for local residents to learn about careers here at Resorts World, but also a great way for us to interact with the individuals who will be operating this facility once it opens,” said Kevin Bogle, Vice President of Human Resources at Resorts World Casino New York. “The purpose of this employment center- along with the support from the three employment services centers that we have already been working with for months – is to help us hire talented individuals from within the local community, so we have a facility here in Queens that is run by Queens residents themselves.”

The new on-site employment center will officially open on Monday, June 6^th and will be open weekdays from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Applicants can visit the employment center to learn more about career opportunities at Resorts World Casino New York and submit applications for open positions.

At the end of last month, Resorts World Casino New York officially launched the hiring process for permanent positions at the facility, announcing that candidates from the local community will be hired first. This announcement marked the first phase of staffing Resorts World in such fields as entertainment, hospitality, security and food services.

Resorts World also recently announced that in an effort to enhance the overall experience at the new facility, the company will hire a staff of 1,150 permanent workers; a near-50% increase from original estimates. The bulk of the additional 350 employees will work in the facility’s food and beverage, customer service and security departments.

By creating an expansive outreach network that fosters community participation, Resorts World Casino New York has developed a strategic approach toward recruiting the most talented workforce in Queens and entire New York City metropolitan area. In partnering with community-based organizations, placing advertisements in local publications and hosting on-site job fairs, Resorts World Casino New York will continue to build a dynamic workforce ready to meet the needs of its customers and the community.

Resorts World Casino New York Announces Near-50% Increase in Number of Permanent Jobs

Facility will employ 1,150 permanent workers, 350 more than originally anticipated; career listings and vendor proposals for new casino to be updated weekly at www.rwnewyork.com

In an effort to enhance the overall experience at Resorts World Casino New York, the company will hire a staff of 1,150 permanent workers; a near-50% increase from original estimates, officials announced today.

“We want to bring quality jobs to Queens and produce a top-flight facility – two goals that go hand-in-hand,” said Michael Speller, President of Resorts World Casino New York. “We saw the potential to enhance aspects of our facility and the best way to do that is by creating a more robust workforce. With additional staff comes superior customer service and an overall better experience for our guests at Resorts World. Additionally, more positions mean more job opportunities for local residents looking for work. This is a big step in our goal to help revitalize the Queens economy.”

The bulk of the additional 350 employees will work in the facility’s food and beverage, customer service and security departments.

“To be clear, we are hiring locally, first,” said Kevin Bogle, Vice President of Human Resources at Resorts World Casino New York. “We are not only hiring directly from the community, but are also working hand-in-hand with local employment centers to help us identify local candidates who we might not otherwise reach on our own. Our goal is to create a facility where customers will be hosted by a knowledgeable and attentive staff in an environment that is welcoming and safe. We have decided that bringing more people from the local neighborhoods aboard is the best way to accomplish this goal.”

Last week, Resorts World Casino New York officially launched the hiring process for permanent positions at the facility, announcing that candidates from the local community will be hired first. This announcement marked the first phase of staffing Resorts World in such fields as entertainment, hospitality, security and food services.

Through its extensive outreach efforts, Resorts World is committed to enlisting a diverse staff and awarding vendor contracts to local Minority Women-Owned Businesses (MWBEs). Resorts World recently announced that minority and/or female workers compose 54% of the project’s construction workforce. Additionally, the percentage of MWBE-certified subcontractors and suppliers working under construction manager Tutor Perini now stands at 25% of total contracts awarded to date. Tutor Perini has already awarded nearly $50 million in sub-contracts to MWBEs.

Job applications and vendor proposals may be submitted through the ‘careers’ and ‘vendor forums’ sections of Resorts World’s website, www.rwnewyork.com.

By creating an expansive outreach network that fosters community participation, Resorts World Casino New York has developed a strategic approach toward recruiting the most talented workforce in Queens and entire New York City metropolitan area. In partnering with community-based organizations, placing advertisements in local publications and hosting on-site job fairs, Resorts World Casino New York will continue to build a dynamic workforce ready to meet the needs of its customers and the community.

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Founded in 1965, Genting is a global entertainment and tourism company operating in Asia, Europe, North America and on all four oceans through the Norwegian Cruise Line and Star Cruises brands. The Genting Group has more than 58,000 employees.

Resorts World Casino New York Officially Begins Hiring Permanent Employees – Search to Focus On South Queens Neighborhoods

Career listings and vendor proposals for new casino listed at www.rwnewyork.com; more opportunities to be added weekly

Resorts World Casino New York has officially launched the hiring process for permanent positions at the facility, and every effort will be made to hire from within the local community, officials announced today.

Job applications and vendor proposals may be submitted through the ‘careers’ and ‘vendor forums’ sections of Resorts World’s website,www.rwnewyork.com

“We are very excited to officially start staffing Resorts World,” said Michael Speller, President of Resorts World Casino New York. “This project is not just about bringing jobs to Queens; it’s about creating careers and forming relationships with the local community. Our goal is to build a local, diverse and hardworking family of Resorts World employees that will move up within our company. With this announcement, I am very excited to start the process of building that family.”

This announcement marks the official beginning phase of hiring the more than 900 workers expected to permanently staff Resorts World in such fields as entertainment, hospitality, security and food services. Through its extensive outreach efforts, Resorts World is committed to enlisting a diverse staff and awarding vendor contracts to local Minority Women-Owned Businesses (MWBEs).

“With so many Queens neighborhoods plagued by high levels of unemployment, Resorts World’s permanent staffing outreach could not be more timely,” said Harry Wells, Director of York College’s Small Business Development Center. “There are some terrific opportunities at Resorts World out there for Queens residents and local businesses looking for work. Few employers offer so many job and vendor possibilities in such a wide range of fields, and even fewer are as committed to supporting local MWBEs as is Resorts World; in fact, three of the MWBEs that I work with have already been subcontracted for the project. I look forward to continuing to work with Resorts World to identify even more local establishments, MWBEs and careers services centers to meet its needs for commodities, goods and services at the new facility.”

Resorts World recently announced that minority and/or female workers compose 54% of the project’s construction workforce. Additionally, the percentage of MWBE-certified subcontractors and suppliers working under construction manager Tutor Perini now stands at 33% of total contracts awarded to date. So far, Tutor Perini has awarded nearly $50 million in sub-contracts to MWBEs.

“For four months we have been working with employment services centers to prepare for today,” said Kevin Bogle, Vice President of Human Resources at Resorts World Casino New York. “We are a company that is committed to empowering the local community and hiring from within the local area. That's what we have been doing in the construction phase of this project, and that's what we will continue to do as we take this critical step in preparing Resorts World to open for business.”

By creating an expansive outreach network that fosters community participation, Resorts World Casino New York has developed a strategic approach toward recruiting the most talented workforce in the Queens and New York City areas. In partnering with community-based organizations, placing advertisements in local publications and hosting on-site job fairs, Resorts World Casino New York will continue to build a dynamic workforce ready to meet the needs of its customers and the community.

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Founded in 1965, Genting is a global entertainment and tourism company operating in Asia, Europe, North America and on all four oceans through the Norwegian Cruise Line and Star Cruises brands. The Genting Group has more than 58,000 employees.

Resorts World New York Announces Dining Options for New Facility

Resorts World Casino New York today revealed its full list of dining options, including two signature restaurants, an international buffet and a food court with numerous dining options, officials from Resorts World Casino New York announced today.

The two signature restaurants – Genting Palace, which will serve authentic fine-dining Cantonese cuisine by veteran Hong Kong chefs, and RW Prime, which will feature prime steaks, fresh seafood and other fine gourmet offerings - will both have 200-person seating capacities with private dining rooms available for large parties.

“We want to give our customers a full-fledged experience,” said Mike Speller, President of Resorts World Casino New York. “Included in that experience will be state-of-the-art gaming, exciting entertainment and a wide variety of dining options that will appeal to all tastes.”

In addition to the signature restaurants, Resorts World Casino New York will also offer a unique international buffet that, with the ability to seat 450 guests, is expected to be the primary dining outlet of choice during the facility’s peak hours.

Resorts World Casino New York food court will feature local favorites, as well as national brands, including:

• Stage Deli;
• Wolfgang Puck Express;
• Queens Burgers;
• Good Friends Noodle House;
• Cups n’ Cones (Proudly serving Starbucks); and
• Fiesta (Latin & Mexican Cuisine)

The facility will also offer two ‘grab-and-go’ food stops--Midtown Express and Uptown Express-- where customers can purchase quick food items.

Resorts World Casino New York recently announced a condensed opening schedule that will allow the new casino at Aqueduct Raceway to open its doors with far more components in place months earlier than expected. Under the schedule, 2,500 Video Lottery Terminals will be operational – rather than the 1,600 originally slated – when the casino opens in the late summer.

Once fully operational, Resorts World Casino New York is expected to permanently employ more than 900 workers in the entertainment, hospitality, security and food-service fields, and provide $300 million in annual revenue for the state.

Resorts World Casino New York: More Than Half of Construction Workforce Comprised of Minorities and Women

33 Percent of Current Subcontracts Have Been Awarded to MWBEs, Far Exceeding Contracting Norms throughout New York City

More than half of the Resorts World Casino New York’s current construction workforce is composed of minority or female workers, far surpassing the 25% goal set in its application to New York State, officials from Resorts World Casino New York announced today.

Minority and/or female workers today compose 54% of the project’s construction workforce. Additionally, the percentage of MWBE-certified subcontractors and suppliers working under general contractor Tutor Perini now stands at 33% of total contracts awarded to date.

“Creating a diverse workforce has always been a top priority for Resorts World Casino New York, which is why we are so pleased that we are far exceeding even our own high expectations in this crucial area,” said Michael Speller, President of Resorts World New York. “This project is about creating a facility for New Yorkers and tourists of all backgrounds, so we are excited that the individuals and organizations responsible for its construction are as diverse as those we hope to attract once it opens.”

These numbers are particularly noteworthy given a recent study from the NYC Comptroller’s office, which revealed that in 2010, just 2.4% of contracts awarded by city agencies were to MWBEs. With 33% of Resorts World Casino New York’s subcontracts awarded to MWBEs, the project exceeds even that of the department with the highest participation.

To date, Tutor Perini has awarded nearly $50 million in sub-contracts to MWBE’s.

“Resorts World’s commitment to diversity reflects their unwavering goal of improving our communities,” said Ruth Harvey, President of the Jamaica-based project cleanup firm, Ametis Industries, Inc. “As the proud owner of a certified Women Owned Enterprise, I am especially happy to see that Resorts World has followed through with its stated commitment to creating a workforce as diverse as the community in which the new facility will operate. I look forward to seeing the finished project, which I know will be a source of pride for all of Queens.”

In addition to far exceeding MWBE standards for the construction phase of the project, once the facility opens, Resorts World Casino New York will employ a diverse permanent workforce with 60 percent of jobs slated to go to minorities and women


Resorts World Casino New York recently announced a condensed opening schedule that will allow the new casino at Aqueduct Raceway to open its doors with far more components in place months earlier than expected. Under the schedule, 2,500 Video Lottery Terminals will be operational – rather than the 1,600 originally slated – when the casino opens in the late Summer.

Once fully operational, Resorts World Casino New York is expected to permanently employ more than 900 workers in the entertainment, hospitality, security and food-service fields; and provide $300 million in annual revenue for the state.

By creating an expansive outreach network that fosters community participation, Resorts World Casino New York has developed a strategic approach toward recruiting the most talented workforce in the Queens and New York City areas. In partnering with community-based organizations, placing advertisements in local publications and hosting on-site job fairs, Resorts World Casino New York will continue to build a dynamic workforce ready to meet the needs of its customers and the community.

Information on further bid packages will be announced in the coming weeks. For information about permanent jobs at Resorts World Casino New York, please visit www.rwnewyork.com.

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Founded in 1965, Genting is a global entertainment and tourism company operating in Asia, Europe, North America and on all four oceans through the Norwegian Cruise Line and Star Cruises brands. The Genting Group has more than 58,000 employees.

Tutor Perini Corporation is a leading civil and building construction company offering diversified general contracting and design/build services to private clients and public agencies throughout the world. Tutor Perini has provided construction services since 1894 and has established a strong reputation within various markets by executing large complex projects on time and within budget while adhering to strict quality control measures.

Wood Memorial Day at Aqueduct Racetrack on April 9th - $1,000,000 Purse

The $One Million Grade 1 Resorts World New York Casino Wood Memorial, scheduled for Saturday, April 9, serves as the final prep race on the NYRA circuit for the prestigious Triple Crown, comprising the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont Stakes.


Mentioned as a probable contender for the Resorts World New York Casino Wood Memorial is Queens native Mike Repole's undefeated Uncle Mo. The 3-year-old son of Indian Charlie won the 2010 Eclipse Award for Champion Two-Year-Old Male and is the current favorite for the Kentucky Derby.


The spectacular race card will also include The Carter (G1), The Bay Shore (G3), and The Comely (G1). NYRA will offer a $500,000 Guaranteed All Stakes Pick 4 on races 7 - 10.


All guests will receive a free commemorative Uncle Mo bracelet.


Post time is 1:00 pm EDT.

Richmond Hill South Civic Association Meeting - March 24th - Photos

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Assembly Member Michelle Titus, Resorts World New York representative Patrick Jenkins and Senator Joe Addabbo representative Michael Brasky spoke to the attendees of the  Richmond Hill South Civic Association meeting on Thursday, March 2th....

Resorts World Casino New York - New Images

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Resorts World Casino New York today released new images showing additional amenities that the casino will feature on Opening Day under its new accelerated timeline.

“These images will give our customers just a small taste of the excitement that will greet them when they walk through the doors of Resorts World Casino New York,” said Michael Speller, President of Resorts World Casino New York. “With our new condensed timeline that allows us to include so many more elements when we open for business, these new renderings give you a great overview of what the facility will look like on Opening Day.”

Resorts World Casino New York recently announced a condensed opening schedule that will allow the new casino at Aqueduct Raceway to open its doors with far more components in place, months earlier than expected. Under the expedited schedule, 2,500 Video Lottery Terminals will be operational – rather than the 1,600 originally slated – when the casino opens in late Summer.

Once fully operational, Resorts World Casino New York is expected to permanently employ about 1,000 workers in the entertainment, hospitality, security and food-service fields and provide $300 million in annual revenue for the state.


Photo Captions:


Photo # 1 - Aerial Update

Photo # 2 - Barview

Photo # 3 - Casino Floor

Photo # 4 - Food Court

Photo # 5 - View from Lobby

Genting to Present $1 Million Resorts World New York Casino Wood Memorial

The purse for this year’s renamed Resorts World New York Casino Wood Memorial, Aqueduct Racetrack’s premier race, will increase to $1 million through a presenting sponsorship from Resorts World New York to The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA), officials from both groups announced today.

“We are honored to be a part of this historic race that has been a staple of Queens for decades,” said Mike Speller, President of Genting New York. “From the beginning, one of our goals in building the new casino facility at Aqueduct has been to strengthen and support New York’s storied horse racing industry. Through this partnership with NYRA, we have taken a significant step in that direction. This year’s Resorts World New York Casino Wood Memorial is sure to be a spectacular event that will bring out racing enthusiasts and make all of New York proud.”

The Grade 1 Resorts World New York Casino Wood Memorial, scheduled for Saturday, April 9, serves as the final prep race on the NYRA circuit for the prestigious Triple Crown, comprising the Kentucky Derby, Preakness, and Belmont Stakes.

“Resorts World has been a great partner and this sponsorship reflects the depth of their ongoing commitment to New York racing,” said NYRA President and CEO Charles Hayward. “We are eagerly anticipating the opening of the Resorts World New York Casino, a cutting-edge facility that will help create stability for the state’s thoroughbred industry and reinvigorate the community surrounding Aqueduct Racetrack.”

Mentioned as a probable contender for the Resorts World New York Casino Wood Memorial is Queens native Mike Repole’s undefeated Uncle Mo. The 3-year-old son of Indian Charlie won the 2010 Eclipse Award for Champion Two-Year-Old Male and is the current favorite for the Kentucky Derby.

The 1 1/8-mile Wood Memorial has long been a springboard to Derby success. Beginning with Triple Crown winner Gallant Fox in 1930, 11 Wood winners have gone on to take the Run for the Roses, among them Triple Crown heroes Count Fleet (1943), Assault (1946) and Seattle Slew (1977), as well as Twenty Grand (1931), Johnstown (1939), Hoop Jr. (1945), Foolish Pleasure (1975), Bold Forbes (1976), Pleasant Colony (1981) and Fusaichi Pegasus (2000). In addition, Secretariat finished third in the 1973 Wood before going on to sweep the Triple Crown, culminating with his incomparable 31-length victory in the Belmont.

Resorts World New York’s Aqueduct redevelopment project – expected to open later in the Summer – will include 4,525 Video Lottery Terminals, two new restaurants, a two-story sports bar and other structural improvements to the area adjacent to the racetrack including a new parking structure, renovations to the existing racetrack facilities and the construction of an enclosed walkway from the MTA subway stop to the casino entrance.

Once fully operational, Resorts World New York is expected to permanently employ about 1,000 workers in the entertainment, hospitality, security and food-service fields.

Resorts World New York Condenses Schedule to Ensure Dynamic Late Summer 2011 Opening & Full Completion of Facility by End of Year

Addition of almost 1,000 Video Lottery Terminals to stage 1 opening; Main entry, Porte Cochere, International Buffet; and Parking Garage to now be included in first stage of opening;

Resorts World New York today announced a condensed opening schedule that will allow the new casino at Aqueduct Raceway to open its doors with far more components in place months earlier than expected.

Under the schedule, 2,500 Video Lottery Terminals will be operational – rather than the 1,600 originally slated – when the casino opens in the late Summer.

“This accelerated schedule will allow for not only a more robust opening and better customer experience with more food and beverage facilities than previously planned, but the completion of the facility – including the operation of all 4,525 Video Lottery Terminals -- by the end of 2011, three months ahead of schedule,” said Mike Speller, President of Resorts World New York Casino.

With the accelerated schedule – which will now take place in two phases, rather than three – not only will more VLTs be operational when the first stage launches, but the main entry, the porte cochere, the international buffet and the parking garage will be part of the initial opening, as well.

Other elements opening in phase 1 will include:

• A seven-outlet food court
• The 360 Bar and entertainment space
• A grab-and-go quick food outlet

Elements originally slated for phase three including the building of a skybridge connecting the “A” train station to the casino entrance will now be completed by the end of 2011, rather than the Spring of 2012.

Other elements opening in stage 2 include:

• The remaining 2,000 VLTs
• Two fine dining restaurants, Genting Palace and RW Prime
• An additional grab-and-go quick food outlet.
• Colony lounge and the VIP Crockfords Casino
• Another Bar with views of our first floor entertainment bar

Once fully operational, Resorts World New York is expected to permanently employ about 1,000 workers in the entertainment, hospitality, security and food-service fields.

Casino Construction and Round the Clock Simulcasting at Aqueduct by Brian Jackson - New York Horse Racing | Examiner.com

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You knew it was coming, folks. Well, guess what? It's come. The backstretch at the Aqueduct Racetrack is closed. I know - considering the season, it's kind of anti-climactic. Aqueduct Racetrack is closed for training and will not reopen until April 14, 2011. All things considered, it's good news for the New York Horse Racing Association. The closing is to allow for more construction on a new casino (Genting's Resorts) that will certainly help to subsidize the New York horse racing industry at large.

The 350+ horse stables being affected by the closing have been moved to NYRA's Belmont Park, and will return when construction is finished. The move will allow uninhibited construction of the casino to take place, which means the sooner New York residents will have slot machines and casino table games to supplement their horse racing wagers. At least that's the theory. Despite the closing, Aqueduct remains an active place with live simulcasting taking place round the clock.

The NYRA is also staying active during this harsh winter season, and has begun hosting a new "dark day" television show called "The NYRA Network Presents Raceday". Airing strictly on dark days on Channel 71 of the NYRA television network (generally Monday's and Tuesday's), the new show will cover the latest happenings in the horse racing industry (What else, right?). Hosts include NYRA TV Director and race caller, John Imbriale, along with various NRYRA TV analysts.

Helping to fill the void left by the NYCOTB Racing Network (NYCOTB was shut down late last year), the NYRA Network Channel 71 airs racing content for 12 hours straight: 11 am to 11 pm. When NYRA's live races are wrapped up, the channel airs highlights from the most popular simulcast signals around the country. Check it out!

Feds Reject Plan for Full-Blown N.Y. Casino by Tom Precious - BloodHorse.com

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New York racetrack casinos lost a major potential competitor Feb. 18 after federal officials rejected a plan for a sprawling, full-blown casino just 90 miles from Manhattan.

The U.S. Department of Interior formally ended a bid for an off-reservation casino to be built in the southern Catskills resort region by the Stockbridge-Munsee Community Band of Mohicans.


The Wisconsin-based tribe struck a deal late last fall in the final weeks of the outgoing administration of former New York Governor David Paterson for the casino rights in return for settling a long-standing land claims lawsuit by the tribe for what it maintains is ancestral land in central New York.


Racetrack-based casinos, which in New York can offer video lottery terminals, expressed concerns that they could not compete with the massive casino, complete with table games, that the Mohicans were proposing to build not far from the Monticello harness racetrack.


Genting New York, the developer of the long-stalled casino at Aqueduct racetrack that is expected to open this summer, has gone so far as to say it would be scaling back some plans for the new facility as a result of the competition from the proposed Catskills casino. Officials at racinos from Yonkers to Saratoga Springs openly worried about business dropping off by a Catskills casino.


The bid by the Wisconsin tribe was also opposed by New York Indian tribes, which urged the federal regulators to reject the out-of-state Indian bid for what would have been a lucrative casino.


"By rejecting this ill-conceived compact, the Department of Interior has allowed New York State to go back to the drawing board and put together a gaming policy that makes sense,'' said the New York Gaming Association, a group representing New York racetrack casinos.


The tracks say they should be allowed to operate full-scale casinos at their facilities.


"We are extremely pleased with DOI's decision and look forward to working with Gov. (Andrew) Cuomo and the state Legislature to develop a gaming policy that maximizes revenue, creates jobs and keeps the racetrack casino economic engine churning,'' the group said.