Robert “Chaplain Bob” Miller of the Ocala Farm Ministry, who has been imbedded in with horse-industry families, told the Florida House commerce committee that it’s ‘the hardest-working community I’ve ever lived in, and I’ve lived in a lot of places in the world. Speaking at the March 17 hearing on HB 105 (which would allow Gulfstream Park to keep its gaming licenses without live horse racing), he said: “I’m scared. The people in the industry don’t have a lot of options in their lives. If the industry fails to thrive because of this bill, it’s going to be a disaster for many, many families that cannot move laterally in their lives and businesses…. Come to Ocala. You can stay at my house. Come and see what you’re dealing with here, whose lives you’re touching here.’ Thanks to TRI industry partners Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association (FTBOA) for video of the committee testimony and National HBPA for hosting on Youtube. These individual videos are available for any media use as part of the Thoroughbred Racing Initiative’s advocacy campaign promoting live horse racing, starting in South Florida.
Watch the complete video below.