by T.C. Lane, the U.S. Trotting Association

Yonkers, NY — The members of USTA District 8A assembled in the Good Time Room at Yonkers Raceway for their annual meeting on Saturday (Jan. 26) at 4:30 p.m.

The afternoon was kicked off by district chairman Joe Faraldo showing a remarkable and finely produced 11 minute video to the members detailing the overall benefits of horse racing in the Empire state. Along with the video, an informative packet was distributed detailing the economic impact that the entire New York state equine industry represents.

Additional directors that were present were Jordan Stratton, Mike Kimelman, Bob Galterio and Tim Rooney, Jr. Also in attendance was Yonkers Raceway patriarch Tim Rooney, Sr., who greeted the 60-plus members in attendance.

A report of USTA activities for 2012 was also distributed to the membership.

District members also discussed and voted on the following proposed rule changes:

Proposal #1 (Bonus Earnings): Reject
Proposal #2 (Race Numbering): Reject
Proposal #3 (Prohibition of Same Day Fair Entries): Approve
Proposal #4 (Provisional Driver Preferences): Reject
Proposal #5 (Matinee License Minimum Age): Approve
Proposal #6 (Timing In Hundredths): Reject
Proposal #7 (Pleasure Horse Registration Language): Approve
Proposal #8 (Standard of Conduct Language): Approve
Proposal #9 (DNA Verification Requirement for Sales): Approve
Proposal #10 (Appeals to Full Board): Reject
Proposal #11 (Animal Cruelty Mandatory Ban): Accept

There were no contested elections held in district 8A. Faraldo was re-elected as district chairman.

Following a lively question and answer session, the members that made their way to Yonkers Raceway were treated to dinner in the clubhouse. The meeting was adjourned at 6:05 p.m.