Some Politicians Don't Get It
4/12/10 by Terry Cullipher

    Imagine Idaho without potatoes, Georgia without peaches, Florida without oranges, and
    California without wine vineyards. Now imagine Kentucky without racehorses.

    As I drove into Ocala, Florida a couple years ago, I saw a big sign that said "Horse Capitol Of
    The World". At the time, I laughed and found so much humor in it that I couldn't wait to make a
    few phone calls to my friends.

    Who could fathom such a thing? Kentucky is the horse capitol -- or so I thought. Recently, as I
    traveled past that same sign, it hit me. I realized that statement is as close to reality today than
    ever before.

    Lexington, Kentucky has always been known as "Horse Capitol Of The World", or for as long as
    I can remember. If you refuse to believe Kentucky could be without what it is known for
    worldwide -- you're not alone. However, you do need to understand there is no light at the end
    of this tunnel, as the horse industry in the Bluegrass state appears to be in a state of
    emergency. Its apparent that some of our politicians could care less.

    As other states offer expanding gaming, owners, trainers, and breeders are moving their
    operations (out of Kentucky) by the trailer loads.

    Sadly, today the future of horse racing in Kentucky lies in the hands of a few politicians. It's not
    known if these few are looking for fame, taking the envelope, or just have their heads buried so
    far, that even a good proctologist could be of no help.

    Senator David Williams has made it clear he is not in favor of bringing Kentucky up to par with
    other horse racing states. Senator Williams may or may not have a solution, as he fights
    relentlessly against expanded gaming. (If the senator does in fact have a plan, now would be a
    good time to unveil it.) After watching and reading everything about expanding gaming and
    horse racing in Kentucky, I can't help but wonder;

    Does Senator Williams have a plan, or does the Senator just plan to fight?

    One would think, with the number of people that make their living in the horse business (directly
    and indirectly), that there would be very little problem finding enough people willing to come
    together at the same time for the sake of the industry. Unfortunately, the majority of the men
    and women involved in horse racing (industry wide) are unwilling to make the effort to fit
    anything but horse work into their busy schedules. The majority never make the time (even
    when asked) to become involved in the political realm of the business. Horsemen have always
    found it easier to work with their horses, and place their faith in "others" to take care of the
    political end of things. It appears, that situation has helped Senator Williams in his efforts to
    keep expanded gaming out of Kentucky.

    Whether a politician likes or dislikes horse racing, he or she must realize that they live in the
    Bluegrass, a state that has always been known as "The Horse Capitol of The World". This is
    known worldwide. The horse industry is the signature cash crop for Kentucky.

    If horse racing is taken away, Kentucky will become a ghost town. And that begs the question;
    where will the funding come from to fight crime and drugs? What about all that green grass that
    surrounds Lexington? Will it be developed? And we must not forget about how many jobs will
    be lost.

    Plans are already in the works at the historic Red Mile for development. That is just one of many
    examples to what's happening right now.

    Just the thought of no horse racing in Kentucky is unbelievable. What's even more unbelievable
    is to think that The Kentucky Derby could, in the near future, be raced in Indiana.

1 Comments

    Lexington, Ky - Billy Woodrum
    Terry I would like to give you credit on article which I personally think hit nail on head. IT'S a sad shame
    that some are not open minded enough to see the dead end street, and before long that will no longer
    exist!! Your article was well rounded, informative, and very true to us few who still have a passion for this
    great state and sport!!

    BEST OF LUCK AS YOU CONTINUE THE ONE VOICE WHO IS TRYING VERY HARD TO GET PEOPLE TO WAKE UP
    AND TAKE A STAND!!!