Richard Shapiro Quotations

I think the fact that the governor was present was without question noticed by the court.

We needed to have our (asset management) plan to the council by January 31 of this year. At that point we were not clear as to what the school department was asking for.

We cannot afford, in my opinion, not to move forward with this.

We had our moments. However, in the final analysis, both of those schools are old buildings and they need work done.

This committee plans to meet both earlier in the calendar year and more often than in past years to review what is in the best interests of the industry and the public. I already have discussed this subject with all track owners in the state and nearly all of the (industry) organizations. We tried to discuss their views, concerns, and philosophies of how California should move forward. I have not suggested or concluded what a final outcome would be to anyone. I have stated that I want to see racing promoted, and the best program presented within the state.

There's a lot going on. We didn't think that rebuilding the schools, which is necessary, should be lost among everything else. It's a stand alone item and it should be looked at fairly for what it is.

Everyone in the industry supports this effort. We all view it as critical to the health and safety of horses, jockeys, and other racing participants.

In a sense, the state of California is leasing race dates or meets to the track operators, and we need to hold them responsible in order to protect and secure the racing industry in California.