Friday Hound Blogging

Rut Ro. Just when the overlords think they've got the inside track on separating social security recipients form their rent money, along comes those pesky native Americans to steal the pot right from under their noses.

An agreement between the state and the Seminole Indian tribe could spell serious trouble for the Naples-Fort Myers Greyhound Track, one of the track's owners says. "Look, there are only so many people dumb enough to fall for this," said Izzy Havenick, one of the owners of the Bonita-based track. "Not that I have anything against Indians, but what am I supposed to do if all the rubes start going over there, get a job?"

It'll put all pari-mutuels out of business," Havenick said. "My grandfather built this track. I don't want to think about what will happen. I mean, where are drug addicts and drunks supposed to go? To the casino? Have you seen their security? We're providing a public service here."

Andrew Smith, the director of research at the American Gaming Association in Washington, D.C., said if the state approves the compact, it won't be the first time pari-mutuels cry foul. "Their customer base is aging and they're having a difficult time attracting younger customers," Smith said. "Track operators are saying that they're having a hard time competing because of the limited number of potential customers with IQs lower than grass seed."

Darren Robertshaw, chairman of the Bonita Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, said he couldn't fairly gauge the economic impact. "It's not something I've really thought about," he said. "Quite frankly I'd forgotten the track was there."

Yeah. They must get that a lot, huh Brandy?

Brandy is a gentle, quiet intelligent dog who is a bit nervous until he gets to know you. He loves playing with stuffies. When he wants some ‘loving’ he walks up to his foster mom and leans his forehead against her legs and just stands there waiting to be petted. Brandy would do well in a working family home with well-mannered older children, 8 and up. He is good with other dogs and would probably be fine as an only dog. For more information about this dog, and other rescued racing greyhounds looking for homes, go here. If you don't know about the plight of racing greyhounds go here.