Get On The Bus

by Ed Meyer

posted on June 18, 2009 in General Discussion, News | No Comments >>

Today, folks from many Kentucky tracks made the trek to Frankfort to let their voices be heard with much riding on the decision of legislators. This could have been the ride to the promised land, or the final visit to the capitol.

Personally, I have many friends who made the ride to Frankfort, Kentucky today. They are from all walks of life. Some are tie-wearing execs, some are union personnel throwing their voice to the cause, and many others came in hopes of continuing the tradition of racing in Kentucky.

For the naysayers who don’t believe this is it, just watch. If it is good news, you will see the industry flourish and jobs and monies generated. If for some reason the powers that be do not hear the call of the many, there will be a deafening silence. This will be the sound of jobs, taxes, and more importantly the livelihoods of many deflating.

If there has ever been a bigger week in racing for the Commonwealth of Kentucky, I surely don’t know when it was. Never has so much, for so many, weighed on the opinions of so few. This is the place you think of when racing is mentioned. Tobacco, Bourbon, and Thoroughbred horses. No other place on earth has what this state offers. Oh, there may be many who have products of the same kind. But, the specialness of the Bluegrass is stamped with these brands.

Keep your fingers crossed, and hope that common sense weighs over moral opinions. The state will never be the same either way the vote comes down. One will ensure that generations to come will enjoy what makes Kentucky special. The other will end a long tradition, and fill the void with sadness. Either way, it will never be the same…….