Raynham journal: At the dog track, absorbing a loss
John Tlumacki/Globe staff
Calvin Titus of Sandwich said he's been coming to the Raynham dog track for 25 years.
By Christine Legere, Globe Correspondent
RAYNHAM – A day after Massachusetts voted to ban greyhound racing, a pall settled over the Raynham-Taunton Greyhound Park.
The park’s owner worried about the fate of the more than 600 workers amid the ailing economy. Employees and patrons appeared stunned at the park today. Most said they never thought the proposal, Question 3 on the ballot, would pass.
Even the bugle sounding the cheerful “Call to Post” over the track’s loudspeakers at noon failed to elicit the usual excited chatter from spectators as the greyhounds were led to the starting line.
“I’m pretty discouraged,” Sharon Butts, 50, said as she tended a long row of customers at the lunch counter. “I started here 25 years ago as a single mother, and I’ve been able to support my son all through school. … This place has always been very good to people with families.”
Trainer Mike Curran, his eyes welling with tears, said he has worked at the track for 30 years.
“We spend every day and night together, and we all help each other,” Curran said. “I’m 52 years old with a high school education. This is a dream job: playing with dogs all day. That vote is a life-changing event for us.”
Wonderland Greyhound Park in Revere is the only other dog racing track in Massachusetts.
Though the ban doesn’t take effect until January 2010, Raynham park owner George Carney said he expected many of those who own or lease dogs that race at his track to immediately start looking for racing venues in other states.
“I plan to keep on going, but I don’t really know what to expect,” Carney said today. “I haven’t really given any thought to what I would do with the track. I was thinking about winning.”
For now, he said he is very concerned about his employees. Many are older workers who have been at the track for decades, he said.
“They’ve said there will be training programs for these employees, but how are you going to train a man 60 or 70 years old?” Carney asked. “I really feel for these people, and I’ll try to place as many as I can.”
The track dates back to the early 1940s, when it was a much smaller operation. Carney’s father was a partner in the track in those early years. In the 1960s, the two-level grandstand was all open, and dogs ran only in the summer.
In 1972, Carney initiated a nine-month season, closing in the grandstand and heating the track. “We were the first heated track in the country,” he said.
The Raynham track operated from Dec. 1 to the end of July, then the Taunton dog track on Route 44 would take over, racing the dogs from August until the end of November.
“I bought the Taunton track and shut it down and had year-round dog racing here. It proved to be very successful,” Carney said. “In our heyday, we would do $1 million in business on Friday, $1 million on Saturday and $1 million on Sunday.
The track’s popularity continued until the first casino opened in Connecticut in the mid-1990s and drew away business.
Even with the slowed pace, the mood at the track each day is always friendly and upbeat. The workers all know each other, as well as their patrons, who line the lunch counters and gather around tables.
Many of those patrons are senior citizens, who are now looking at an end to a mainstay in their social lives.
“I’ve been coming here for more than 30 years,” said Arthur Rocha, 80. “This is a great place for old-timers. I also have a lot of good memories here.''
The ballot question proved contentious, and both sides launched emotional ad campaigns. Proponents used images of sad-eyed greyhounds that they say are caged inhumanely and raced to injury; opponents put the spotlight on the track employees who would be left jobless.
State Representative David Flynn, a strong proponent of the Raynham park, joined Carney and employees on Tuesday to watch the results roll in. Flynn, who spoke with the workers, said today he was disheartened by the ban.
“It’s unfortunate that emotions prevailed over common sense,’’ the Bridgewater Democrat said. “I feel very badly for the hundreds of people employed there who will have no place to go.”
He vowed to keep up his effort to get legislative support for putting slot machines at the state’s dog and horse racetracks.
“Every day we don’t have slots there the Commonwealth is losing one million dollars, along with licensing fees,’’ he said. “Just the image of those people I addressed at the track last night will keep me going.”
Town officials, meanwhile, fretted over the impact of the ban. Raynham will take a financial hit, since the community gets about $400,000 each year as part of the track’s handle, and about $165,000 annually in property taxes.
“Towns always have their peaks and valleys financially,” said Raynham Selectman Donald McKinnon. “I feel more concerned for the employees than the town, and many of them are from Raynham.”
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I stood at a prominent polling location in Boston yesterday with my "Vote Yes" sign, next to a young man who was handing out "No" flyers. This young man, who works on the turf at the Raynham track, impressed me very much. He articulated the tracks' position articulately, spoke very highly of his employers and clearly loves his job. I have no doubt that this young man will be snatched up by another lucky employer. In a civilized society, we cannot condone cruelty to animals for the purposes of entertainment. Can the people of Massachusetts effectuate change in state laws that perpetuate cruelty? "Yes We Can."
"McKinnon said that most of the dogs now housed at the dog track won’t become house pets. They will simply be shipped to other states to continue racing."
Yes, but the demand for dogs will go down because of the MA tracks closing, and therefore, fewer will be bred for the future.
How sad that so many voted to put people out of work in these tough times. This is not the time to do such things.
I feel bad for anyone who has to lose their job. However in a lot of cases it's because your job skills are obsolete, and you should be focusing on another industry anyway. Interest in dog racing has been declining for years, so whether the track goes bankrupt or whether it gets shut down by a vote doesn't change the fact that these jobs were going away at some point.
The dogs finally get to stop being used for races. The employees now have to race to get a new job in 12 months. Seems like a fitting end to me.
I feal so sorry for those who will no longer profit from this blood sport.
Today Massachusetts, tomorrow THE WORLD!!!
GOOD RIDDANCE DOG RACING!!!!!!!!!!
MAN THIS SUCKS I BEEN GOING 2 RAYNHAM SNICE I WAS 6 (44) NOW SRY FOR ALL THE PEPOLE
When do you draw the line in importance, people over animals? I am sorry to all those who will lose jobs because of this vote. The people of Mass unfortunately decided the dogs were more important than their fellow citizens. I find that very sad. And how many of the people who voted yes are going to now step up to help find the displaced workers new jobs? If we could rally around the people like they thought they were rallying around the dogs, this state would be much better off.
I feel for those losing their jobs but that does not justify continuing the cruelty. Massachusetts was absolutely correct in banning dog racing. The employees at the race track are being given over a year to find new work. I did not have that luxury when my previous employer was bought out and I was laid off.
The people pushing the no vote were very concerned about the workers loosing their jobs. But not one seemed worried about the quality of life of the dogs, who did not choose to be abused. The workers chose to work for a company that condoned animal cruelty and poor quality of life for these dogs and now want us to feel bad for them? I would suggest a course on ethics and morals before complaining.
My belief is that the dogs at the track are well cared for, and that many people work very hard to adopt out the retired dogs. I voted to ban dog racing for all of the dogs that are never good enough to race. I don't think they are treated well.
David Flynn, my local cobbler is having a tough time of it because consumers are replacing shoes instead of repairing them. With your logic that we need to add slots to save the tracks, perhaps we can start dealing drugs at cobbler shops to save them too!.
To those folks who will lose their jobs because of teh moonbat vote, cheer up! haven't you heard? Obama won! He'll pay your mortgage, fill your tank and feed your family. He'll just get the money from those rich people who dare earn a good living.
While we're at it, how about shutting down those pesky zoos, too? They keep the animals confined! CONFINED, I tell you! And teh circus? Don't get me started on the circus.
It is amazing to me that liberals have no problem throwing out Human Beings from work during a"DOWN ECONMY"These animals were monitored by vets and the state police.Funny this ban will not stop the abuse of cats,dogs who get trashed regulary by there icompent owners..But yet the foolish voters of this state allow posseion of marijuana under a certain amount.What about those dopes who use that crap and hit dogs,cats with there cars and keep going.And do not forget the lost taxes to the commonwealth.Oh no we might have to lay off teachers.Kidding just raise taxes like Deval did.SHAME ON YOU MSPCA
Hopefully now with no dog track owners to oppose, we can get some casinos built in MA to:
1) employ the people that lost their jobs at the tracks and
2) pump some money into this state so cities and towns can stop having to close schools and increase taxes.
As a former employee of the Raynham track who worked as a leadout many years ago, I can, and often do, tell horror stories of the treatment of the dogs. It was a nightmare then and probably only less so now. I am certainly happy that less dogs will be subject to racing. As for the employees, perhaps the casino in Middleboro will be built and they can get jobs there. Perhaps Mr. Carney can invest there and find a place for his staff members.
I was really torn on this one..Hate to see those animals treated like that, hate to make a decision that puts someone out of work. But it always comes down to this for me. The animals have no choice in being there, the people do.
I would defintely support slots and other forms of gambling going into these places so that people can keep their jobs or perhaps switch jobs. Massachusetts needs to grow a set and allow OTHER forms of gambling
Ah, sorry. What goes around comes around eventually. While I feel for the people that have lost their jobs, they were INHUMANE jobs. People need to take responsibility for their actions, and who they choose as employers. As for the people who will miss going to the track, why don't you make new memories by running around it chasing a fake rabbit? See how you handle being stuck in a cage and made to run for profit. Get yourself a racing number and have people bet on you. Animal cruelty prevention has to start somewhere. Try going to a bar and playing Keno instead - no one gets hurt except your wallet. Animals weren't put on this earth for entertainment. PERIOD.
Whats next, banning horse racing?
These businesses should have taken better care of the dogs. It would have been a simple thing to do. Dogs love to run and some TLC for them could have been the solution, but the dog tracks were too used to treating them like absolute garbage. If OJ can kill 2 people and walk away, but Mike Vick ran a dog fighting ring and got the book thrown at him then what did the tracks expect. We are a climate that will not tolerate abuse of innocent loving creatures. Shame on the owners for not caring for the dogs.
How many people who voted to ban the dog racing are vegeterians? How many DON'T wear leather? I would say most who voted are hypocritical. Breeding an animal just to kill it is just as inhumane. What's next? Banning steaks?
I hope everyone who people these hard working people out of work in the darkest of days are happy.
Bring on the slot machines, that way people keep jobs, people can still gamble, and the state gets more money! Everybody wins, especially the dogs!
Hey George Carney
Maybe if you did not mistreat animals in an in-humane way then your shop would not be closed up for good.. I hope someday you get punished the exact way you have treated each and every one of those dogs. Love that Question 3 passed !!!!!!!!
I am truly sorry that people will be losing their jobs in a year, but I also think that gambling on an animal's ability to run fast is pathetic. If you need to gamble THAT badly, then find a casino or play the lottery. I voted YES proudly.
CRAZY,BEEN GOING TO DOG TRACK SINCE HIGH SCHOOL, THE TRACKS WILL BE SLOT PARLORS SOON AND ALOT MORE PEOPLE WILL LOSE MONEY THERE, HORSES WILL BE NEXT, THE PC POLICE ARE EVERYWHERE!!!
What a shame that a relatively small group of people can get this law passed and, from where i'm standing, feel no remorse for the people losing their jobs. I love dogs, i don't want to see them abused but there had to be a better way here. Maybe have the dog tracks hire people to monitor how the dogs are trained and cared for. To put all of these employees out of a job is just sad. With the way the economy is today, it's going to be pretty difficult for most of these people to find jobs that are comparable to what they are doing today. Good luck to you guys at the track.
convert the tracks to a casino, let people keep their jobs
The opponents of the ban should have focused on the well-fare of the dogs in their ads. I did not know if the dogs were truly being treated badly. If the racers had explained that the dogs were being treated humanely I think a lot of people would have supported racing. Their silence about the plight of the dogs made me believe that they were being badly treated.
I would love to see how many of the people that voted Yes to this question actually go out and adopt a greyhound. These dogs are going to other tracks or they will be euthanized.
Personally in these economic times I'll take humans over dogs and vote not to put 1000 people out of work. The state should redeem themselves by approving casinos/slots and giving those jobs to the people who lost theirs today.
"Yes, but the demand for dogs will go down because of the MA tracks closing, and therefore, fewer will be bred for the future."
Do you even know what kind of dogs are raced? Have you ever even been to Raynham-Taunton Dog track? Every last dog will be shipped somewhere. They will still be bred and shipped all over. You are just an idiot that has no idea what you're talking about. I have been going this place for years and you can't meet a bunch of friendlier people. Sure, there are scum bags there, but there are scumbags everywhere you go. The majority of people effected are senior citizens. I hate to say it, but the dog track is what keeps a lot of these people alive. The friends that these people make at the dog-track are what keep them alive. Show me some examples of animal cruelty. Everyone talking here about "vote yes" acts like Michael Vick is the lead-out here walking these dogs out. Grow up, look at the facts every town 45 minutes away from the dog track, that is directly affected voted no. Places 200 miles away and in the middle of cape code are the places that voted yes. It shows just how stupid and ignorant people can be. If it doesn't affect then don't vote it's that simple. It is people like you guys that voted yes for no reason other than the "animal cruelty" propaganda, that put this country in the shape that it's in. You guys are basically saying 'screw the senior citizens' and screw the uneducated people the people that here, which the majority of them only have a high school diploma. And for the people saying, oh they can find another job... how about you hire them to work for you? Exactly... You people are just ignorant and whether you chose to or not have directly affected thousands of people. I hope you can sleep at night.
Bloodsport? Have you ever been to the racetrack? It's a race, not a fight. I love animals and I used to volunteer fostering cats, but I still voted NO on 3. This isn't an issue about cruelty to animals. The dogs were always well-treated, our state laws required that. This is about class, pure and simple. Dog racing is seen as low-class entertainment while horse racing is seen as upper-class and refined. Just because you don't enjoy dog racing doesn't meant there are many that do. I feel sorry for all of those who will never be able to enjoy the racetrack almost as much as feel for all the people who will lose their jobs. It's time for all the elitist snobs in Boston (look at the map of who voted YES on 3 -- no surprise it's not the people from the communities near the racetracks) to get off their high horses and have some respect for the common man. If you don't agree with dog racing then DON'T GO, but don't tell me or anyone else what to do. This is America, it's supposed to be the land of freedom.
it's SAD no matter if it is right especially at this time when so many ppl are out of work and ppl are dumping their pets at shelters. I feel for both the employees and the dogs - SAD. Change will be hard and hopefully there is a better future better for both.
Consider yourself lucky if you are losing your jobs with A YEAR AND 1/2 notice. Most people are lucky to get NO notice in this economy
This is just awful. I can't believe these liberal freaks won this. What will be next?
My neighbors keep their dog in a cage all day as they trot off to work and we pick on the dogtrack? The dog handlers their probably have just as much respect as some of these "dog lovers" out there.
Bloodsport? Have you ever been to the racetrack? It's a race, not a fight. I love animals and I used to volunteer fostering cats, but I still voted NO on 3. This isn't an issue about cruelty to animals. The dogs were always well-treated, our state laws required that. This is about class, pure and simple. Dog racing is seen as low-class entertainment while horse racing is seen as upper-class and refined. Just because you don't enjoy dog racing doesn't meant there are many that do. I feel sorry for all of those who will never be able to enjoy the racetrack almost as much as feel for all the people who will lose their jobs. It's time for all the elitist snobs in Boston (look at the map of who voted YES on 3 -- no surprise it's not the people from the communities near the racetracks) to get off their high horses and have some respect for the common man. If you don't agree with dog racing then DON'T GO, but don't tell me or anyone else what to do. This is America, it's supposed to be the land of freedom.
You're all a bunch of idiots..............You'll get yours one day.
This is a shame that the self righteous think they are speaking for the dogs. Maybe the dogs like to run? What's next on their agenda, banning horse races? I am sorry for all the people affected.
I don't understand why everyone is so concerned about the people losing their jobs... this is NOT about people, it is about the dogs. Period. Yes, people will lose their jobs, and I am sorry that happens to be a result of this, but it is still not about the jobs (or people for that matter)... the dogs cannot be raced for people's profit and enjoyment at the expense of the dogs.. it just is not fair.
I voted yes but get a kick out of you tools who care more for animals than you do human beings.
And to "the rat race"..... you are going to die at some point but do you want it to be today. What do you do for a living? Your sense of logic is so keen, you must be a rocket scientist.
This is horrible! My grandfather has worked for the track for 50 years. This should have been a local vote and not state wide. The people of Southeastern Mass will be hurt by this.
lets see-save the dogs, and put people out of work. what's next, no cock fighting!!! you dog people are messed up or don't know how to communicate with other humans.
I [sarcastically] love the logic that animal cruelty is okay so long as it supports low paying jobs. It's about time this ban passed.
Nice point, Jan. Keep beating those dogs until the economy improves!
To the owners/workers of dog tracks:
How pathetic that you abused and objectified animals because you were a "single mother" or a man with only a high school education.
You ought to be ashamed of yourselves.
Get an education.
Learn a new skill.
Find a way to make a decent living that does not involve the drugging and murder of innocent animals.
The remaining states that condone this behavhior ought to watch out. We're coming to YOUR neighborhood next.
DOGS RULE.
I'm glad this passed..now if we can just get rid of it in NH....
The State should stop being hypocrytical and allow slot machines to replace those greyhounds. Then those people might be able to keep their jobs. The state should also get moving on Casinos. Mr. DiMasi's disapproval has not brought anything else to the table that can replace the revenue he is all to ready to throw out the window. It is time to look to ways of getting new sources of revenue in this state..Casino gambling and slot machines at both Rayhnam and Wonderland are long overdue. Lets stop legislating people's vices and stop being hypocrites at the same time. I too am sorry that people will be losing their jobbs, but that is no reason to keep up an archaic practice like greyhound racing.
I wonder how many of these so called "animal lovers" eat meat? Because I have a hard time believing that the treatment of a racing greyhound is worse or more inhumane than that of industrial raised cattle or chicken.
The banning of dog racing in Massachusetts has been campaigned for years now. The employees of the tracks should have been more aware and ready for this day. Committee to Protect Dogs has been working their butts off to bring this vote about. The dogs never had a choice about being there, the people, employers and spectators alike, all did.
Its a shame for all the "old-timers" who will loved to go to the track, throw back a couple of beers with their buddies and bet on animal exploitation and cruelty. Its a shame the employees of the industry have to go find new ways to make a living that doesn't help perpetuate the inhumane treatment of pack animals who only look to humans for protection and love. What a shame that Massachusetts has become just a bit more animal friendly. My goodness, what were we thinking?
Way to go HSUS, MSPCA and Committee to Protect Dogs- you do amazing work for animals and people alike! WAY TO GO!
Abused and neglected dogs always run faster? right? right? C'mon. Think about it. Do you think ALL kennel owners really treated their dogs like that. It was just a couple random videos. Do you "Yes" voting tree huggers feel better about yourselves today because now you think "At least those dogs won't be abused anymore!" Well, you're right...... But now most of those dogs will now be put to sleep.... Way to go! oh yeah, you also put a 1,000 MA residents out of job.
Who are we to vote hard working folks out of a job? Instead of being so concerned wth the well being of greyhounds, how putting that energy into the kids with parents who do not care or can not take care of them. Go to Lynn or Lowell and you see kids that just need an alternatve to a life in a gang. Is dog racing really bringing down society?? Please! Get real!!!
Unfortunately, Greyhounds were raised for hundreds of years to do one thing - Run. Logic should tell you these dogs were treated very well and far from inhumanely - after all they make the owners money. Why would an owner abuse or otherwise harm a dog who needs to be perfectly trained and in top health and strength in order to win?
Face the facts - Ironically, by banning dog racing those who believe they are 'saving these dogs' are instead very possibly one step closer to bringing this particular breed of dog to extinction. Nobody wants a greyhound as a pet or family dog - they are not attractive animals and they are not bred to be family dogs - especially when they could have a fluffy golden retriever or that mini-pug instead.
Shame on the Globe for waiting until after the vote to run an article about the impact on the employees and the local community. Maybe this would have made some people think about their priorities.
YOU ALL ARE A BUNCH OF FREAKS!! You probaly don't know anything about dog racing. it's pretty said that now my parents who are LOYAL and LOVE the greyhounds have to find different jobs when they have been in the buisness for 35 years. it's pretty said how many people have nothing better to do then to pass some law about dog racing when there are many other things in the world people could be focusing on! i hope u sleep well at night knowing how cruel u all are!
it doesn't matter whether its a days, months, year, or even a couple of years that they give these people who work at the track to find a job. The Economy is horrible and now there even more people trying to get a job when there's nothing out there for jobs!
Its sad that people are that dumb to vote shutting down something that gives jobs to 600 people just in Raynham. I hope someone who voted to shut this down is let go from their job and ends up on the street. Now that would be poetic justice in my book. I have 3 dogs myself and love dogs but the line need to be drawn between people and animals. So are we now going to stop killing cows for food? We would have been better to create a dog racing tax to fund a no kill shelter and create an oversight board. This would have generated more Mass jobs and saved hundreds as well as saved dogs from kill shelters and saved dogs from being shipped to states to benefit their state economy.
Well at least the workers can make their worries go away for a little bit and step outside and smoke a joint with only the risk of a 100 dollar fine
I find it amazing that there is so much concern over the conditions at dog tracks while thousands of animals are caged, abused, and mistreated in pet shops around Massachusetts. I hope the MSPCA and their Yes on 3 allies launch an immediate campaign to ban the commercial sale of animals, of all kinds, in pet shops. If the abuse of several hundred greyhounds can't be tolerated at dog tracks, then how do you justify allowing the commercial sale of animals,
particularly through an industry as unseemly as the pet shop industry.
I now live in another state and foster for a no-kill humane society, there is more abuse to animals elsewhere in the states then ever occurs at a dog track. These dogs have been bred for running for centuries, why don't you ask the dogs how they feel? Now you'll be going after the horses, what next football because it's too rough!
I find it amazing that there is so much concern over the conditions at dog tracks while thousands of animals are caged, abused, and mistreated in pet shops around Massachusetts. I hope the MSPCA and their Yes on 3 allies launch an immediate campaign to ban the commercial sale of animals, of all kinds, in pet shops. If the abuse of several hundred greyhounds can't be tolerated at dog tracks, then how do you justify allowing the commercial sale of animals,
particularly through an industry as unseemly as the pet shop industry.
Its sad that this question passed. I have never been in favor of simply closing a legal business because a vocal minority does not like it. I believe that it is the start of a continued agenda that the poorly educated Grey2K people are preaching. Today it will be dog racing, tomorrow it will be dog shows; anyone who has been to the Bay Colony Cluster dog show has seen hundreds of dogs confined in cages at Boston's Bay Side Expo Center over a three day weekend for the purpose of competition and entertainment. I suppose their number is up next; then on to horse racing and closing Suffolk Downs, then lastly Grey2K will capture the tree hugging crown jewel by closing the Harvard Primate Lab.
That's one small step for human evolution. Next step -- end factory farming!
Be kind to animals -- don't eat them (or exploit them in any way).
In over 40 years, has there ever one documented case of abuse at Raynham? No! Where has the MSPCA been for 40 years? Have they ever been denied access? No! The tracks have been run under the supervision of state appointed vets. Almost 1000 people out of work due to unproven charges. It's a disgrace.
I hope horse racing is the next to go! That is cruelty to animals as well!---There is plenty to bet on, if you feel so strongly about gambling!
Then again, there is always GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS--I WONDER WHY???
ems
THIS IS RIDICULOUS THE IDIOTS WHO PUT PEOPLE OUT OF WORK ALSO ALLOW YOU TO HAVE AN OUNCE OF WEED .THE LOSERS AT PETA SHOULD LOSE THERE FREAKIN JOBS.THIS WAS VOTED DOWN 4 YEARS AGO THEY SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ABLE TO PUT IT ON THE BALLOT AGAIN .WHY DON,T THEY PUT GAY MARRIAGE ON THE BALLOT?
I wonder how much money was spent on all of those pathetic, "Save our Jobs" ads I saw all over the TV and print? I'm sure that money could have been used to provide some nice severance packages to the employees at the track (if your employer really cared about the employees). But of course, it was always about greed -at the expense of the dogs- and this ban is long past overdue.
I lost my job in the last economic downturn. I got another job. I didn't put my pathetic mug all over television begging people to "save my job". What an embarrassment. Yay for the dogs!
I voted no because I didn't think that the government should be able to shut down a business by voting.
I think dog racing is lame and the tracks are gradually fading away.
But this puts 1,000 people out of work in a bad time. So these people are going to stop spending money and hurt the economy even more!
Also this might stop full casinos because it means less gambling in the state.
Why not go after circus's that chain elephants before this stuff..THAT'S bad.
"I voted yes but get a kick out of you tools who care more for animals than you do human beings. "
Not true. If human beings were being kept in cages 23 hours a day at those race tracks, I'd be pretty upset about that too.
"Dogs Rule", its my new restaurant, our new special is greyhound ala-king! come quick before we sell out. we will be open for only one more year... until supplies last. really this shuld never have passed. greayhounds as a bread, despite the tough meat, were designed to run. why couldnt this law have been to improve the current standards of treatment for the dog instead of removing a fantastic tradition from our great commonwealth.
I had my first kiss with my now wife in the parking lot of the R-T track after a date there. Plus, the Carneys have always been real nice to my family. This is really a shame.
Was this a way to get back at dimasi's for not allowing casnios in ma.
now they think slots can take the place of dogs.
putting people out of work must be ok.
as long we get casinos for the people who put them of work to go.
I used to give money to the MSPCA.
BUT NO MORE.
maybe they can get it from the casios.
All you idiots saying I hope horse racing is the next to go are just ridiculous. Do you understand champion horses like greyhounds are born to run. They're not born to grow up in the stables just eating hay all day. It's just ridiculous and stupid comments like these that irritate me the most. All you animal rights activists I hope are planning on bringing in these greyhounds to your homes because they simply will be sent somewhere else. These greyhounds simply love to run, and you are simply taking away what they enjoy. And to degrade people's jobs becasue a lot of workers don't have much of an education is embarrassing and stuck up. Become informed on a topic before you start making ignorant statements.
All you idiots saying I hope horse racing is the next to go are just ridiculous. Do you understand champion horses like greyhounds are born to run. They're not born to grow up in the stables just eating hay all day. It's just ridiculous and stupid comments like these that irritate me the most. All you animal rights activists I hope are planning on bringing in these greyhounds to your homes because they simply will be sent somewhere else. These greyhounds simply love to run, and you are simply taking away what they enjoy. And to degrade people's jobs becasue a lot of workers don't have much of an education is embarrassing and stuck up. Become informed on a topic before you start making ignorant statements.
I eat chicken, beef and fish. I'd eat dog if it tasted as good as any of those. Dogs are animals, people are people. This crazy state voted thousands of people out of work and stole entertainment from thousands and thousands of others. Crazy people who voted for cute and sad pictures on tv, without knowing (or even caring to know) anything about what really happens at the tracks. We voted to put a harmless and successful business out of business. Hardly the American, or Boston, way. You should all be ashamed.
oh no! the humanity,, dogs were treated like dogs!!! how evil. i am sickened by the lame pukes who voted all these people out of jobs. these dogs were bred to race, raised to race. that is there purpose, live with it. are you going to rescue dung beetles next? you do realize that horses break legs and do steroids,, lets ban em,, then again, so don't football players and baseball players,, lets just ban everything, and we can all stand in a circle and feel self righteous, we have a ballot question where we can kick people out of work, but thousands of idiots who have jobs will drive to work tomorrow with a phone attatched to there ear,, but that only endangers humans, so why care?
Whats next, banning horse racing?
Posted by Rob November 5, 08 05:05 PM
Rob,
From your lips to the electorate's ear!
Employment at a dog track cannot be justified. The injury/deaths since 2002 that were made public by the two tracks disgusted voters, even those that did not have dogs.I was holding a "yes on 3" sign at the polls and throughout the day no less than a dozen people said, "That's the only reason I came to vote today." They were reasonable and friendly, usually older and many said they had been at the tracks. I made calls to Taunton about this issue and dozens of former employees aof the track were voting yes b/c what they saw behind the scenes was horrible.
racing - what i saw abehjind the scenes was
As many of you have pointed out, dog racing in MA is a business. The odds these dogs will just be put to sleep are very slim. They more than likely will be shipped to tracks in other states throughout the country where dog racing is still legal. This way the dog owners can still make a profit on their investments. I think what this article and the subsequent comments have proven is that most of you are really ignorant and don't know how to logically argue a point. You all sound like a bunch of sore losers and whiny bitches. That said a select few of you did make some valid logical points even a few for the continued support of dog racing, but overall this article only proves that "No one ever went broke underestimating the intelligence of the American people." -- H.L. Mencken.
Are you all serious? You put a thousand people out of work in this economy because of animal rights? What about those people?
For those who sit around and say they should get new job skills, get a clue. This is America. There are the have's and the have not's. It's the way of this country and the world. For everybody who works on Wall St, there's 100 who pick up trash. This was their livelihood. This is real life for them. And for what, for a dog?
Now, I'm a dog owner, and a college graduate, and someone who is in the "high" middle class; and while I'm next in line to go after someone who treats a dog like crap, I know in recent years, they've done a MUCH better job at taking care of the dogs. So now, my taxes, get to help (and ALL of yours) these unemployed folks while they get themselves back together.
You idiots probably wanted to get rid of the income tax too. Where the hell else would we make up the 12.6 billion dollars?
This state goes more and more downhill, each damn week.
Shut down by non-involved, non-impacted arm chair conservationists... too bad for all concerned. Oversight could have been strengthened if it needed to be and jobs and revenue generated for the state are soon to be history. The hours of the track let full-timers and part-timers make a buck. A good tradition passes into thin air. While a student I worked at the two area tracks when Joe Linsey and Russ Murray were still running them and loved every minute of it. The cars used to line both sides of Rtes 44 and 138 as well as fill the lots. Feldcrest ruled and the handles were huge compared to today's numbers.
I have an idea...for all you people out there who voted YES on questoin 3. Lets put your job or whatever you do on a ballot for people to vote on and when they vote for you to be kicked out on the street in 1 year tell me how you would feel. Think about the familys and the children you affected. Alot of these people had health care COMPLETLEY paid for now they will have none....so I ask you again how would you feel if your child has a problem that needs constant attention by a doctor and now you have no health insurance???
Now that Massachusetts voters have voted to put the dog track employees out of work, we have a moral obligation to support state programs to help them replace their lost earnings and find new jobs.
To those worried about losing their jobs at the race track...remember you win some, you lose some...while we voted against dog racing, we voted to decriminalize possession of less than 1 oz. of marijuana...so you're wondering what to do next to make money?
Where is the evidence of Dog Abuse at Raynham? Where is the evidence of Dog Abuse at Raynham.? My Father once worked for Mr. Carney, Mr. Carney saw a guy abusing his dog, Mr. Carney told the guy, I want you off my property by 2 pm today.
The problem is - there is no dog abuse at Raynham dog track.
What is next for these whack job, living in fear, revenge of the nerd weenies , I heard there going after high school track coaches for making kids run and eat right..
Okay I will admit there were occasional people who would abuse the dogs BUT more trainers love those dogs and the dog business is their lives. I grow up in it since I was 0 and left when I was eleven, but that's because I had to move. I'm eighteen now and I know that those people will not be able to find new jobs and those dogs won't be able to find better trainers. How could the people who voted "yes" listen to all of the LIES about this wonderful place? Those people are family to each other and now you're tearing that family apart. Forget about the money, think about how these people have lost the passion of their lives. Think about how it would be if your world was ripped from under you. That's how these people feel. I wish my family, because that's what I consider them, the best of luck and to not lose hope. Please stop this madness and let these people do what they love and let the greyhounds be cared for by them. Please cancel this closing and let the track stay open.
Do any of you work for the track? Do you have a friend or family member effect by this? I sure hope so. Because if you do not gamble at the track or have someone close to you effected by the job loss, then why are you even on here complaining about it?
Because 650-1,000 people are going to lose their jobs? Are you also on the Yahoo message boards advocating for those families who have just been effected by Yahoo's 1,000 lay-off? How about all the workers at Linens' N Things? Are you screaming at the top of your keys for them too? Read CNN and you will see people being laid off by the hundreds, by the thousands. Does anyone care about them?
The owners of the dog tracks have admitted that it is a dying business. People can not afford to gamble right now and if they do, guess where they go? Foxwoods. If all you care about is the people in the community having jobs, then gather a bunch of your friends, create a campaign and fight to get the slot machines put in place of the track.
It's really sad that people think of the dogs as just a profit. I can bet you that if a casino was opening up down the street and all the workers at the dog track were offered a job there, how many of them would jump on it? I bet every single one. Let's be real this is about money and job security, not the dogs.
Don't be mad that people who love animals and fight for their rights did the RIGHT thing by passing this ballot. It was long over-due! A million+ people can not all be wrong. To those who are affected by this job? It sucks, but you have a year to find another, lucky for you because most people are laid off without warning. Dog track racing is INHUMANE. People who work for the track should be ashamed and want to leave on their own. They should not have waited for this to happen, Cause after-all, they 'care' about the dogs, don't they?
The only reason the vote was even slightly close is because our economy is so crappy right now, people feel BAD that they're going to add to it by putting these people out of a job. If we were not in this recession, trust me.. The ballot would have passed by a much bigger margin.
This is a victory for the greyhounds! One step at a time, One dog track at a time, until hopefully they all close down in EVERY single state, forever.
Wahhhh, wahhhh, bring back the dogs, the real rabbits, bullfighting, drive in movies, lynchings, all the fun stuff we uncreative idiots love...the liberals stoled all our fun! At least they haven't outlawed huffin' gas!
Yeah, it's really not a big deal if these innocent dogs are abused and live horrible lives to keep some lunch counter lady's job...give me a break, why don't we just make dog fighting legal to bring more money to the state, isn't that a great idea??? The people who support racing are LOONEY TOONS!!! The town officials need to get over themselves bc all of the gamblers that spend hours upon hours watching these abused dogs can now spend their money on normal things, at normal places. GOOD RIDDANCE DOG RACING!!!
Twin River here I come!
Foxwoods here I come!
Say good bye to additional tax money Gov Patrick!
Being a degenerate gambler rules!
Everyone who voted yes on 3 will devolp a incurable case of crotch crickets in the next 24 hours
Greyhounds were born to run just like labs and retrievers were born to fetch. I once had a husky, it didn't fetch for sh*t but if you hooked it up to a sled it would pull for days and be happy as hell. Huskies pull, retrievers fetch and greyhounds run. The tracks were overseen by government agencies and state vets. Any abuse that took place I'm sure was only an isolated incident and not commonplace. Think about it, why would a trainer risk injuring their investment. Next time use your head and make an educated decision.
I saw a horse or 2 get put down on the track on tv once before, does that mean horse racing is next to be banned?
a ban on horse racing is next.
You know, I never saw ANY compelling arguments on the TV or anywhere else to try to educate people about whether or not the dogs were well cared for. If my profession was on the line and I thought it might go away because of peoples' incorrect perceptions, I would have done all I could to educate them about the truth. The animal rights activists that advertised about the abuse played the game very well. Remember, people make judgements based on the information they have. Dianne Wilkerson hasn't been proven guilty, but we've all seen the photos and we've mostly judged her to be a crook based on what we have all SEEN so so all those people ranting about lost jobs, where was the push to educate from your side?
Monitored by the state police....hahah i love it...they can't monitor traffic, especially when reading the herald and sleeping on their details.
Just my two cents - (disclaimer - i voted 'NO' on Question #3)
My problem that I had with this qiestion in the first place is that it involves a PRIVATE business. It is not a school, a town or even at state that depends on Federal or local monies (grants, etc.) It is a PRIVATE business, therefore I do not think a ballot question like this should be a state-wide question, let alone even on it. I agree with some posters about how people voting on the Cape or in Northhampton or East Longmeadow should be allowed to vote on this. It is not a state matter. It should be a local matter. The represenatative that quoted the loss of revenue for just the city of Raynhem is right, with a loss of just the half a million dollars from the track alone, not including the taxes from employees, the food tax or any other revenue, how can people justify taking that money out of the hands of the local residents. Let's set aside the fact that close to a 1,000 people have lost their jobs (i know it sucks, I have had it happen twice), I think those people have one hell of a nerve telling them to go find a new job skill or train for something else, because they dont like their job. (my job skills are in very high-demand, yet buyouts happen, so what, i should go learn something new?) They trained for their job. You are a DOG trainer or a 59-year old concession worker, now where do you go? your whole life you have been working, doing something you love, now some person 200 miles away decides your job is worthless and dosen't like it so ah what the hell, do it for the dogs. Do the dogs talk? did i miss that story on talking dogs? how do you know they hate racing, and vice-versa, how do we know they like it. (we don't know either, so stop telling us racing makes them sad and we are hurting their 'feelings') The problem here again is people always say it is inhumane, therefore you are giving the ANIMAL the same status as a HUMAN! You have just told people that an ANIMAL is more important than feeding your family, putting your kid through school, working your last year before retirement. And have also told people that they can't enjoy a form of entertainment they have enjoyed for 75 years. Now, longevity by no means, means it is right, but now after 75 years there is suddenly something wrong about it? How about the INHUMANE acts to your fellow RESIDENTS (ie - HUMANS!) Anybody that thinks these dogs will be saved or stopped being bred is saddly mistaken.
You know what, the way they hold penguins, seals, whales, dolphins, etc, etc at the Aquarium and at Sea World is that next? They hold them in cages, while the dorsal fins become under-developed from the swimming in one direction AKA circles! Maybe we should put all those people out of work for their INHUMANE treatment of those animals,. why not, the sea world jumping dolphins are a form of entertainment, that you pay for, why not say that is inhumane. YOU CANNOT PUT ANIMALS ON THE SAME LEVEL AS HUMANS! no matter what you say, it is just wrong to equate them the same way. In the case of greyhounds, they are bred to run, bred to race or show-off at a dog show. Hey, that is inhumane too, dressing them up with makeup and l ittle dresses, prancing thm around, making them jump through hoops and over barrels. Stop the dog shows, oh no you say, cause their owners get money from their little pooch winning a prize and they love the dogs, well so do the trainers/owners and racers.
As a farmer, why do you raise chickens? farm salmon, shrimp, cows, TO EAT THEM! Why would you grow tomatoes or corn? TO EAT THEM! anybody think that the tomatoes and corn have feelings? maybe they just wanna grow and grow and grow, so please don't kill them to eat. (see the sarcasm flowing here?)
While we are talking about uniformed voters, does ANYONE have an idea of how much an OUNCE of marijuana really is? Maybe if it was 1/2 an ounce or just a blunt/joint/doobie, whatever you wanna call it, then maybe a yes vote would make sense. WHat, are cops going to carry around scales to weigh it now? $100 fine, u tell me how many people are going to actually pay this? ZERO! since you dont have to rpovide ANY sort of identification and it is now a civil matter instead of a criminal matter.
Everything must change and progress. If not, we would still be going to chariot races.
Animals won't kill for no reason. People will. So yeah- sometimes you can learn a lot more from a dog. Sorry those people will be out of a job, but it still doesn't justify using animals for entertainment. You would think people would have progresses more than that.
My family all worked at The Hood Rubber and Schrafts factories. They closed and they all got new job. Its just part of life.
Whhaaaa whaaa is all I hear get over it you get 1 year to find a new job. I didn't even get a notice that I had to pick up all my stuff and leave. Spend less time crying over it and more getting a new job.
And I did vote yes on 1 because I don't want to support people that don't look for jobs or that don't do anything productive. And I don't have children that go to public schools.
Cry more please. I didn't get a year notice to find a new job. Spend less time on here crying about it and more time looking for a new job.
Cry more please. I didn't get a year notice to find a new job. Spend less time on here crying about it and more time looking for a new job.
Your better off without a job Obama is our next president he will give you money to live more than enough at that.
A Greyhound much like a domestic cow would have no purpose on the earth except for their pampered exsistance as a racing dog and therefore due to the scientific process of natural selection would be extinct.
If you don't like dog racing, don't go to the races and don't watch. Why stop people from being employeed because it offends you. Your job as a lawyer, stripper, telemarketer or whatever may offend the average dog racing fan but you don't see them being uppidty and injecting themselves into your lives by voting to ban you.
Live and let live and worry about stuff that actually matters like education, crime, the economy.
I adopted two retired Greys. One raced at the Raynham track and one in Florida. I am a serious animal lover but I have to tell you this. Sometimes the best meant intentions backfire on us. The dogs will continue to be bred for racing, and they will continue to race. The problem is they will now be shipped to substandard tracks in South America and Mexico where their lives will be hardly worth living. And guess what? We won't have wonderful people like the ones that run the Adoption Placement Centers in each State and Conrad who coordinated the adoptions with the track watching over how these beautiful animals are treated. Mine still runs today, in our yard, and we usually have to leash him to stop him from running. They were bred to run and racing is their passion. How they are treated before, during and after the races are more important then people betting on them. I really wish us do-gooders (and yes I am one of them) would consider the "big picture" first and how our well meaning intentions can cause even more pain to those we think we are helping.
In response to Post #85, the difference you FAIL to mention is that those companies are PUBLICLY traded companies, not private like the tracks. I do not know anyone or have relative sthat work there, but all of the companies you mentioned you again fail to recognize that those companies did not have people VOTE TO CLOSE THEM!. they are losing their job at linens 'n things cause costs are too high, not enough people buying stuff , i.e bad economy, NOT because somebody VOTED to close them, THAT IS THE DIFFERENCE. I love dogs also, but their are certain dogs bred for certain reasons. The reasons you would probably cite as a reason as why pitt bulls or terriers should not be house pets, IT IS THE SAME THING. pitt bulls are bred to be guard dogs, scare tactic dogs, so your argument, to me, is baseless.
I live in Connecticut - and I am a big fan of Dog Racing and Parimutuel betting.
Unlike slot machine or table games, I can use past performances to "invest" and not just "get lucky" - this is something that can only be found in the world of dog racing, because they don't know there is any money at stake on how they finish - unlike Horse racing or Jai Alai.
When Plainfield was open I would go there - and when Shoreline Star ran live races I would go there. Now that they have stopped live racing - I must go to Raynham or Wonderland in MA - or Hinsdale in NH to see live racing. I refuse to go to Twin Rivers as it is a slime pit with a new coat of paint and lots of shiney new penny slots... It s-s-s-s-sucks.
With Raynham and Wonderland closing I will be forced to spend my money in other states. This doesn't just include my wagers - I also pay for hotel rooms and meals along with other incidentals when I visit your state to "donate to the dogs".
Once again the "animal rights wacko's" prevail over the business people. Do you not realize that closing down a viable money-making business to serve your desire to protect the animals - accomplishes nothing. The dogs that race there will go elsewhere to race. So all you have accomplished is to have a large amount of cash flow re-directed to some other place
I just returned from a vaction to Memphis, TN where I visited Southland. This venue is amazing. They had 17 races on a Thurday Night - many with 9 dog fields. I had a great time - had good food and a few drinks - and they got $140 from me, not including the $400 I spent in Hotels on the trip..
I go to Florida every year - to visit Palm Beach Kennel Club. Outstanding facility offering day and evening cards. They are happy to see me and my hard earned dollars come for a visit.
I guess it just goes to show how incredibly short sighted Massachusetts voters are. See ya in the funny papers.
So - I will continue to play "the dogs" - and my money (and everyone else's like me) will go to other states - through whatever simucasting venue I go to as well....
Sorry I don't feel sorry for these people. Its like working in abortion clinic, you know what you are doing may offend some people, but you take it with a grain of salt and realize that in one swift swoop you may be out of a job. Its really that simple.
I am sorry to put anyone out of work however times have changed and we don't tolerate animal cruelty anymore.
I for one, would like one of the animal activists to show me pictures, documentation from accredited veterinarians or some other professonal person, that will prove to me that there is all this horrific abuse going on? All I can see is that a ban was voted on, that was based on nothing but the word of some "do-gooders" and a bunch of voters who figure that they have to get into heaven somehow, so they jump on every fashionable "cause" that's out there.
I also would like all of the animal activists and those who voted yes, who wear or own anything made of leather-fur or animal skin, eat meat-fish-eggs, enjoy a zoo-circus-aquarium, ride horses, cage or leash an animal, send their animals to a kennel when they vacation, have an animal put down because a treatment or operaton costs too much, or even better have had an abortion to--SHUT THE HELL UP, DO YOUR DARN HOMEWORK, AND STICK TO YOUR OWN KNITTIN'!
BTW: Greyhoundgirl is sadly mistaken. The Greyhound was bred from the Whippet as a racing animal (much the same way a thoroughbred or standard bred horses were) in Ancient Egypt over 4000 years ago... It's what they do - race for entertainment. Natural selection was not involved.
Just like Holsteins are great milk cows... these animals are really good at running. They don't give milk or eggs - they don't pull ploughs, they don't sit behind computer terminals all day writing poorly reasoned things like "Animals were not put on this Earth to be entertainment .PERIOD)....
There is a whole colony of ANIMALS in Hollywood whose sole purpose is to entertain... Why are you not trying to save them?
There are a number of "claims" made by people posting on this blog about the deplorable condition these animals are forced to live in... but not one goes into any detail...
While these animals race, they are treated very well... it would make no sense (financially or otherwise) for their trainers to not take care of them - abused animals will not function at peak performance and the trainers need them to perform to get paid.
Adopt them after they are done racing (they make great pets) - but do not confuse this vote with any type of victory. the only way greyhounds will not race - is if the breed becomes extinct. They will race somewhere in the world - no matter what you want, because that is what they do.
Although I would love to see a race between of some of the track characters - that was a funny visual.PERIOD... although I am sure you were not trying to be Entertaining.
Hmmmmm, the last time I ran into an animal activist, it was when I took my 5 year old niece and 10 year old nephew to the circus. The so-called "protector of lions, tigers, and elephants" frightened us to death by blocking our entrance to a secured parking garage, and screaming obscenities through the window where my 5 year old niece was sitting in the car. All the while waving a picture of a dead, mutilated elephant at her. I'm so anxious to believe that these activists are angels from heaven here to save anyone or anything. Look some of these activists, and you will find that many of them look alot like hypocrits!
If I don't like how a movie sounds, I don't go see it..... If you don't like dog racing, stay away.......
How many of you have first hand knowledge of greyhounds? These dogs LOVE to race. Dogs that were adopted as puppies have never been trained or raced. They will happily run at any opportunity. Have you seen how a long retired dog gets excited beyond belief when they get to revisit the track?
What do you think is going to happen to these dogs? Your yes vote may have an impact on future dogs but what about the ones right now? What's going to happen to them?
Each and every one of you needs to back up your BS with time or money to help the dogs you have virtually put in a life or death situation. The volunteers that work with these dogs are stretched thin. Put up or shut up.
A very sad Mom to 3 retired athletes.
Ummmm, Greyhound Girl...... I never realized that the woman that served me soup and a sandwich at Raynham was doing something "INHUMANE". And dayum, I tipped her for being "INHUMANE".... Does that mean that anyone who works in a restaurant anywhere is "INHUMANE"..... Is Emeril as "INHUMANE" as the chefs in the restaurant at Raynham? I weep for the future! I never realized that when my pet Cockatiel entertains myself and my family with the words we've taught him, and his beautiful singing, we were actually viewing an "INHUMANE" bloodsport...... RIDICULOUS!
Not every person who voted "YES" on Question 3 is an animal activist-not even close-and it is a huge jump in logic to assume so. You whiners do not even know how to argue a valid point.
And to the person who disagrees with the banning of Dog racing because this is a private business. To that, I say, that the Dog track and the business can still operate and remain open, but they will have to find some other form of 'entertainment' to bring in the paying customers because the majority of the people in the Commonwealth have agreed that Dog Racing is cruel and inhumane. Maybe they could stay open and race robot dogs? LOL I'm sure they'll come up with something. Never underestimate man's ability to devise new and improved ways of making a buck! But please, leave the animal exploitation and abuse out of it from now on.
One Man's career and family is worth more than every Greyhound's life on earth. We might as well call the state Connecticutsetts now. Those Casino's are laughing at this pitiful commonwealth.
Lets go Mr. Carney!!!! Casinos!! Sorry sir. Very sorry.
Blah Blah Blah............. there is not one shred of anything that would stand up in a court anywhere that this is a blood sport and that an animal has been abused, or even slightly inconvenienced. I love Friend of A Friend's story about her bird being entertaining, and not realizing her family is exploiting the poor bird in an inhumane way because he is entertaining them. hehehe! As pointed out by others in this blog, no, not every YES voter is an animal activist, but they are certainly uninformed. Jumping on every cause around to seek personal redemption is borderline pathetic.
I gave my greyhound a big hug when the news came that the ballot question passed.
Never saw so mush bull being thrown around.
The issue wasn't that the workers at the track may have been abusing the dogs.
It was simply the life at the track in a cage that is no way any dog deserves to live, plus the fact that the race is on an oval track that actually caused a dog down at Hollywood track to be killed a couple of years ago, that makes this outcome whjat it should be. I don't care if it's one dog out of a million, it coould have been my dog that yes, is way more important to me than all the other bull arguments.
Glad this is over.
PS,
Doug,
Comments like your's make me very glad I voted yes and that it passed. Thanks for confirming why we needed this in the first place.
I also gave my hound a huge hug when I got the news. I do feel bad for the people losing their jobs but the industry was dying anyway. Aside from that , Greyhounds are wonderful animals and I encourage anyone thinking about getting a dog, go to one of the many adoption places and take a Greyhound for a couple of days. They are smart loyal dogs. They will be nervous for a few days but settle in nicely. I am on my second and will never own another breed.
I feel bad for the ppl who will be losing their jobs, but i feel happy that the dogs wont have to stay in those tiny cages all day long and that are under nurished... its not really bout the "poor people" that will be job less its about the poor dogs who have already died and been put through hell bc they were forced to race for entertainment purposes. all you ppl can find jobs so seriously stop whining about it and go out there and look!!!
To all the bozo's that think these dogs are unhappy being caged up, get a grip. When you go adopt these dogs - the adoption service will tell you that they will sleep a majority of the time. But beyond that, what do you think you are doing when you adopt one and then leave it to go to your job on a daily basis? It's just a bigger cage.
The more I consider this, the more I am actually happy. The Ban on Dog Racing will go into effect in 2010 -- and at that point, 500-1000 people will directly lose their gainful employment. PLUS ( as a bonus) all of the folks in the area of the tracks that used to get the money infused from out-of-staters like me will see a significant decrease in cash flow...
That's when the good part starts happening. That's when they will need public assistance - and guess who doesn't have to pay for it! That's RIGHT! ME! Because I live in Connecticut - so I don't pay taxes in Massachusetts.
PLUS! I can still go to Mohegan Sun and bet on dogs races from Derby Lane, Bluffs Run, Tampa, Palm Beach, Twin Rivers, Phoenix, Southland, and maybe even some tracks overseas. Or I can drive an hour and a half north to New Hampshire and stay in a nice hotel for a weekend of racing action. And by the magic that is parimutuel wagering, a portion of every dollar I bet will go somewhere besides your great "commonwealth"... HAHAHAHAHAHa...
You have succeeded in preventing absolutely nothing - because the dogs you have "saved" (like they needed saving) - will go to the same places as my wagering dollars. And you intrepid souls - that care more about the dogs than the neighbors - will end up paying more of your hard earned money to help them when they were perfectly fine before your "well reasoned" vote. Maybe yyou can ask these unemployed souls to run around in circles with numbers on their back - for your amusement - before you give them any welfare.
Sometimes it is important to look at the big picture - and see all of the cause and effect relationships before you decide. And generally - if you make up your mind based on a gut hunch - rather than researched information - you will find you've made a mistake.
I'm just glad I don't have to help clean up your mess.
Coolerhead, your diatribe only shows your ignorance and you clearly know nothing about cause and effect either. I could use your twisted logic and say that all of these people who will lose their jobs at the track will find better jobs and as a result make even more money for themselves and the state (since they'll be paying higher taxes). Maybe some of them will learn a new skill, you know, better themselves and make themselves more marketable...........The possibilities are endless.
For crissakes give it a rest already because the fact remains that in 2010 there will be no dog racing in the State of MA.
Industries come and go and nobody in this country is guaranteed a life long job with the same company for the rest of their lives (unless you are a congressman, but that's another story.) and the sooner you realize this the better off you will be. All the insults in the world are not going to bring back these jobs and if you really care about these people maybe you could offer some constructive advise to them on finding a new job instead of arguing (and badly, might I add) a moot point.
animallover:
Regardless of your remedial grammar skills, I could care less what you think... You might be right that 1000 people who were gainfully employed MAY find better jobs, but as a person who knows the odds - I sincerely doubt your rosey pictured lala land will ever come to pass. The possibilities are certainly endless, but just because you list the happy endings doesn't make them more likely.
The facts is that a lot of ill informed (or more likely ignorant) people were told to vote the Dog Tracks down "for the sake of the dogs", and they did so without giving a moments consideration of the consequencesto their neighbors. I will bet dollars to doughnuts that few (if any) even considered the fact that this would mean a loss of jobs to a large number of people who reasonably won't find new work based on their age or lack of education. Industries come and go to be sure - but I am willing to bet if you had to choose between your dog living in a kennel and racing 2-3 times a week - or being unemployed, you would gladly let your dog race.
The fact that you feel a need to personally attack my ability to form a cogent argument belies your lack of forensic skills.
My advice for the people displaced by the voters of Massachusetts - is....
COME TO CONNECTICUT. I am sure there must be similar jobs at the Casinos and OTB's here. I can't guarantee that you won't find the same level of shortsightedness here (Massuchusetts doesn't have a monopoly on ignorance), but at least we are not closing down shop to make sure all the animals are "happy".
There, now I have done more for these unfortunates in one sentence than all of their "Yes voting neighbors" have done.
Yes the dog races are going away in Massachusetts. But as I explained before - It will not bother me at all - since I don't have to deal with losing my job - and I have many other places to go to spend my $$$. You guys stay there and enjoy the warm feeling you have when you think about all the puppies you have "saved" and all the people you have displaced with this ridiculous referendum.
Coolerhead OUT!
Animallover says "Maybe some of them will learn a new skill, you know, better themselves and make themselves more marketable...........The possibilities are endless". How dare you come off like the people who work in these establishments weren't "better" to begin with. You are in NO position to judge those of us who not only need, but enjoy the jobs that we do. I don't need a college education to know that you just insulted about 1000 of your neighbors. You and all of your buddies on this blog who cannot prove that there was any abuse to any animals as a result of dog racing, need to stop living in Disney World. I know that what comes around goes around, and I know you will someday feel as let down and insulted as you make others feel. You are a one-sided ill-informed, low-life.
I live in Massachusetts and I am simply surprised and embarrassed that question 3 has passed through. These people who have voted "yes" have done so to feel like life savers, in order to think they have done a quality thing but in fact these top dogs will be sent elsewhere and subpar dogs will be sent to kennels where they will be unhappy. I'm so sick of the uneducated people who vote in this state because they don't think of what they are voting for. They are influenced by anyone's whims and it simply makes me sick.
I read the Boston Globe article , if they were making 1 million on Fridays and 1 million on Saturdays, and 1 million on Sundays, then WHY did they not insure the health and happiness of the dogs. Racing might still be available ( I am glad it is not) , if the dogs were cared for and treated as the wonderful intelligent LIVE beings they are. I do feel bad for the employees who have lost their jobs , but come on....I have worked with the leftover damaged dogs from the track.... SHAME on them for not taking care of the dogs.
My dog sleep in thier crates about 20 hours per day.. with the door OPEN..THEY CHOOSE to stay in the crates.. dogs are den animals..and the smaller the better.. my sisters whippet ( by the way greyhounds came BEFORE whippets.. DUH) will sleep a;llday long in a box half his size.. and then run for a few minuites and then.. back to sleep.. DOGS ARE DOGS.. not one person on this forum who voted yes understands a thing about normal canine behavior....too bad .. dog racing is a fun event.. in fact my sisters whippet races in "fun: eventall of the time.. is he "abused".. I think not
I know a lot of dogs are were abused and mistreated, but I am sure there were other dogs that were treated well. Maybe the solution was not to shut down dog racing all together but set up a board of inspection to randomly visit the facilities and make sure that all dogs were being kept in appropriate conditions.