Save Arlington Park

Arlington Park Racetrack is a landmark. In fact Arlington Heights town logo incorporates an image of this icon. Since 1927, it has continued to introduce state-of-the-art technology and is considered by many horse owners to be the most beautiful racetrack in the country.

It came onto the international stage hosting the world's first million dollar thoroughbred race, the Arlington Million. It's been a part of the lives of every single person I know in this area - whether its Opening Day, Derby Day, Mother's Day or simply a great way to spend a summer afternoon.

Churchill Downs has wanted to add casino games since they bought the track, and now their priority as switched to their Rivers Casino. But there are groups of buyers ready to not only purchase the track and the land but keep it as a track. CDI will not sell to someone who intends to keep it as a track. Do they fear that a new owner will add casino games and force competition with their Rivers Casino?

The current law allows casino games at the track so long as a percentage of the profits goes toward the horse racing purses. CDI says this clause made it untenable for them to keep the track. What if that clause were adjusted, making it profitable for the owner while ensuring the purses will continue to attract top horse owners?

Lastly, the state of Illinois holds a certain amount of power over CDI in the form of licensing - both for a new track which they say they will build in Illinois and for their current Rivers Casino license. I urge our elected Illinois officials to reconsider these licensing options, deny approval of alternative land uses and give CDI the incentive to reconsider their actions: either keep it and operate it as a track or sell it to someone else who will.

Laurie Turpin-Soderholm

Arlington Heights