Miff:
They are dropping like flies. Hard to imagine about 2 years ago the debate
was which entity would be worse for NY Racing, Churchill or Magna. Each of
those organizations expanded into debt to the extent that neither of them is a
major player, even as a joint venturer.
Crist in his DRF article seems to feel that Spitzer is leaning towards
creating a public authority to administer racing in the state. If this authority
is given control over the OTBs and is given the power to reel in the New York
State Thoroughbred Greeders, and partners with an established gaming company to
administer the VLTs and operate the facilities, Racing in the Empire State might
begin on the comeback trail.
A quarter of a century ago, some of the most famous names in American
commerce would not have allowed New York racing to descend to its current
depths. But where now are the Phippses, the Vanderbilts, the Whitneys, and the
Mellons?
I would like to see Spitzer try to get Steve Crist a little more involved.
The DRF has improved under Crist\'s stewardship, but the articles in DRF which
criticize racing and its participants are rather mild where they need to be
scathing. Bottom line is that DRF, for all of its improvements and increased
access, is still Racing\'s house organ and as such will never be an implement of
change for the better.
Its Easter time, Steve. Roll away the stone. Get a glove and get in the
game.
