NYCOTB RIP

[HP]

I really can\'t believe they closed OTB.  I remember when they first opened up, and in every NY neighborhood these parlors attracted the local characters, sometimes to the dismay of the more purtian types.  

We will not be able to duplicate this kind of \"flavor\" at Starbucks.  Over the years OTB was also a great connection to the game, because if you were out doing something no matter where you were you could find a joint and touch base for a race or two if you were interested.  I know it\'s a cliche to say it was part of the fabric of NYC...but there it is.  

Another nail in the coffin of NYC as we are paved over by continued gentrification, Disney-fication, and overall conversion into another damn minimall/food court driven locale.  

HP

[toppled]

How does any OTB expect to compete in the 21st century when they\'re counting on a large percentage of their business coming from OTB parlors that take 5-6% off every bet cashed?  Serious players don\'t go into the OTBs that aren\'t surcharge free.  They either go to teletheaters or open surcharge free accounts.  
I don\'t want to get into how draconian New York State can be to a bettor.  If you want to see how bad things can get, search the names Kathleen Karlsberg, Michael M & Charlotte M Lippman, and Erna Pospischil.

[plasticman]

If you\'re interested, get a phone account that pays track prices.

[HP]

I\'m talking about the splendid ambience and atmosphere of the places.  Their place in the neighborhood.  I know there are better deals.  But there aren\'t that many places where you could see a guy in a three piece suit standing next to a guy with newspaper shoes looking for something in his pants.  

HP