There are many codes and symbols that surround us and have special meanings.
TK421 (for you Star Wars buffs)
CPE 1704 TKS (the launch code)
867-5309 (to find Jenny)
777 807 3454 (direct to world circuit)
However, today I'm going to talk about SB-744. (Say what? Is that another droid from Star Wars?)
SB-744 is the code for the bill that was just passed by the Illinois legislature!! To the average person this may not mean a whole bunch. However, for us Arlington Park fans, this legislation contains parameters to expand gambling in the state of Illinois.
Some of the items include:
1) A casino in Chicago
2) Harness racing in Springfield, IL
3) Four new riverboat casinos
But the main focus present in this bill with the most meaning for thoroughbred racing fans is:
1) Slots at the race tracks and
2) Other racing industry benefits which I will go over below
First, let's discuss the slots at the race tracks. It's no secret that casinos can generate a lot of revenue for a particular entity or business, and slot machines are one of the more popular casino games around. Adding slot machines to the race tracks has an ENORMOUS downstream benefit to racing fans. Follow me here:
When the race track generates additional revenue the money can be used to beef up the sizes of the purses. Greater purse size will attract more quality horses, trainers, and owners. More horses means bigger field sizes. Bigger field sizes mean better payouts for the casual fans and expert handicappers. Better payouts mean more interest from fans and increased handle. Increased handle means greater purse sizes. Rinse and repeat cycle.
SHOW ME THE MONEY!!! (Um, money is good, right?)
Second, the legislation adds additional benefits to Illinois racing:
1) A minimum number of racing days and number of races that must be met
2) Guarantees that the gaming revenues be reinvested into the race track
3) Additional funding for horse breeders
Boy, wasn't that all a mouthful?? Anyway, it's clear to see that the passage of this legislation will help Arlington Park thrive and reclaim the glory of being the premier racing facility in the Midwest!
Currently the bill (who is only a bill, not on Capitol Hill, and wants to be signed into law) sits on Governor Quinn's desk and awaits signature. So on behalf of all racing fans, I urge you to contact Governor Quinn and ask that he sign the bill soon!!!
Additional information regarding the bill can be found here: SB-744
You can contact Secretariat by using a séance.