And now, amid the discussion of the state budget shortfall, Gov. Mike Easley has come out in favor of a state lottery. Easley has also asked for ideas on other ways to increase the state's revenues. Wagering on horse racing is legal in 26 states. We are proposing the same sort of structure to operate a racetrack within the state that would support charities within the local communities and across the state. Horse racing is an activity that is recognized around the world and provides a major economic impact in the states and countries where races are run.
Horse racing is an exciting event.
Planting hay and oats and improving our economic and agricultural base is what we are advocating. Horse racing requires raising, training, feeding and breeding horses. Pasture land that was once used for tobacco will become fields of oats and hay. Instead of tobacco, our farmers can raise world- class race horses. North Carolina can become known for its horses.