Enthusiasm for racino evident in Tucumcari

The article in the Quay County Sun's Aug. 13 issue about racetracks favoring Raton over Tucumcari makes me ask: Why can other racetracks weigh in about a decision when their management will be in direct competition with Coronado Park over the gambling dollar?

The people of Tucumcari showed their overwhelming approval of the "racino" to the New Mexico Racing Commissioners on July 24, when 1,400  people attended the public hearing in Tucumcari.

This was far more enthusiastic than the Raton get-together.

Amarillo games people are not going to drive to Moriarty for one night out, but they will visit Tucumcari. Tucumcari is also the perfect rest stop for travelers between Amarillo and Albuquerque because it's midway. There are other advantages because there is less traffic congestion and it's more relaxed and laid back.

What the other racetracks  have to say smacks of political arrangement and Gov. Bill Richardson's office should be paying close attention to the awarding of this license. This really doesn't pass the smell test for anyone who has seen the backroom boys in action.

Raton and Santa Fe have had a racetrack before and they failed, now Tucumcari deserves a chance.

Brian Nelson

Tucumcari

Racetrack deserves honest city debate

The New Mexico Racing Commission will soon make the decision on who will get the racetrack. Finally, not only Tucumcari but  Quay County, Logan, San Jon and eastern New Mexico stood together for a common cause.

Whether we get the track or not, I am proud of those who worked on this project and those who took time to voice their opinions either for or against.  Hopefully this has started a fire under us that will not be extinguished.  

Many disagree this is a good thing for Tucumcari and I certainly respect those opinions. Each person has unique talents and together we can improve our area and stop the loss of population, jobs and our youth. If someone would do what anyone could do and no one has done, it would benefit everyone. Together we can make some positive changes.

Warren Frost should be commended as he has been the someone for us. He has spent many hours and his own dollars in order to make this a reality for us. He has certainly earned his $1 fee for this service.  Win or lose thanks to all that have worked so hard to bring economic development into Tucumcari and beyond.

Bobbye Rose

San Jon