Two approved for N.Y. board

The New York Senate on Thursday night approved two nominees from Gov. George Pataki to the New York State Racing and Wagering Board, effective immediately.

The appointees are Daniel Hogan, the former commissioner of the New York State Office of General Services, and John Simoni, the owner of an office supply business in Schenectedy, N.Y., who is a former owner of harness horses.

Hogan was named chairman of the board, replacing Cheryl Ritchko-Buley, who has been nominated to a position on the state's Public Service Commission. Simoni will join the board as a member, alongside Michael Hoblock, a longtime board member who was forced out as chairman last year but stayed on as a member.

Dan Toomey, a spokesman for the board, said that the Senate approval was the final step for the nominees, who will take their positions immediately.

Members of the three-person board are appointed to six-year terms. The chairman is paid approximately $120,000 a year, and other members approximately $100,000 a year.