8-25-08 Outgoing IHHA President’s Message

8-25-08  Outgoing IHHA President’s Message

The IHHA board of directors at its September meeting overwhelmingly supported a change in leadership and in effect expressed a vote of no confidence in the president’s activities for the past several years.  Accordingly, rather than remain as an ineffective director and possibly serve as a lightning rod for dissension, I have chosen not to remain on the board in any capacity.  I apologize to those who did cast their vote indicating their desire that I represent their interests; however, making a place for fresh insight should serve the IHHA well.   The past several years have been challenging and there have been some successes; --- uninterrupted racing---  passage of legislation  eliminating  sales taxes on sales/claims ---favorable IL. Supreme Court ruling regarding escrow monies which will ultimately be released for distribution to purses with elimination of recapture --  HB2702 which is expected to become law in November extending the 3% Impact Fee and elimination of recapture for three (3) additional years--- maintaining our position in the proposed major gaming legislation in spite of extreme pressures from other segments of our industry--- improvement in our insurance program which resulted in three (3) premium holidays--- educating state agencies regarding the need for protection of integrity in our industry--- website improvements  expanding flow of information to our membership. (www.harnessillinois.com) --- Additionally, the new Balmoral Park surface is the result of IHHA intervention. --- We have improved our relationships with the General Assembly, the Illinois Racing Board, track operators, and other racing interest groups,  all recognizing that we, the standardbred community,  are legitimate business people seeking a fair and reasonable return on investment and job security.  It has been a privilege and honor to serve the IHHA and I urge all to support your board of directors and respond when called upon.  “We need to help ourselves”…

George Bonomo