Dear Members
We are writing to update you on some recent events.
First and foremost, we wanted to speak to the rumors about the potential sale of Suffolk Downs. This possibility should come as no surprise, as it has been part of conversations since 2014. Management of the track admits there are ongoing discussions with an interested party and, thus, there is related due diligence underway. However, there is no executed purchase and sale agreement at this time and the potential buyer has not been disclosed, due to confidentiality agreements. Most importantly, the NEHBPA has secured racing days for 2017 and there is a real possibility that racing can occur at the site in 2018, even if the deal is finalized. Securing these days will continue to help support the Mass Breeders and Local Horsemen and women, rather than having no racing at all.
The next and even more exciting news, is that the NEHBPA has submitted legislation for the 2017 session necessary for the creation of a horse park in Massachusetts. The bill has been filed by Senator Gobi and will be assigned a bill number shortly. We are in the process of securing additional legislative co-sponsors of the bill. We urge our members and breeders to reach out to their legislators and ask them to sign on to the bill as a co-sponsor.
Contact the Speaker of the House, Robert.DeLeo@mahouse.gov The Senate President, Stan.Rosenberg@masenate.gov and your Representatives https://malegislature.gov/Search/FindMyLegislator and let them know “I support the New England HBPA and their efforts to create year round racing, an equine center, the thousand plus jobs that will be saved and created, in addition to the millions of dollars of which the commonwealth will benefit from as a result of the Horse Park.”
We want to thank everyone for the continued passionate support for the horse park. Also, be on the lookout for our new Horse Park website!
Under the Health and Welfare and Assistance Program – Specific funding we receive from the RHDF may and only be used for health and welfare and assistance programs.
- We increased the old age assistance benefit last year, and look to make another increase this year.
- We have provided financial assistance to our many NEHBPA members and family members for those that have experienced difficult times in the past three years.
- We have reinstituted the scholarship program for trainers and their children. Please visit our website for more information, applications, and submission deadlines.
All members, please be aware that our current bylaws are available on our website.
We are also happy to report that Bruce Patten, our former executive director for over 10 years, is doing very well after his recent surgery. We want to thank him again for all he has done, and his many years of service.
At this time, we also welcome Paul Umbrello the new appointed Executive Director. Taking his place on the board as an owner is Sam Saccardo who, in accordance with the bylaws of the NEHBPA, was voted in by the current board of Directors. Sam brings a wealth of business and financial knowledge to the organization.
In closing, we want you to know that NEHBPA leadership has made great strides with the plans of the horse park and their effort to restore full time racing. We need all our members and equine supporters now, more than ever, to help support our vision.
Remember, we always welcome your comments and, additionally, you as a member are always welcome to attend a monthly board meeting. Just contact us via email or by calling the office to find out when the next meeting is scheduled.
Sincerely NEHBPA Board
www.newenglandhbpa.com info@newenglandhbpa.com
617-568-3333