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An in-depth look at the changing industry of Greyhound Racing

An in-depth look at the changing industry of Greyhound Racing

 

by: Tiffany Neely

The controversial sport of greyhound racing could be ending, after animal rights groups and loss of profits shake the industry.

“Ever since birth these greyhounds have been cared for by people, a lot of people don’t get to see that,” said Shane Bolender, racing director at Southland Gaming and Racing, which is one of only 22 greyhound racing tracks left in the country.

            In 2001, the number of greyhound racing tracks was around 50. Now that number has decreased by almost 50%, in little over a decade.

            The decrease is due in part to the business’s loss of revenue and popularity. The work of Animal rights groups in the past decade also contributed to the reduction.

See the Titanic in true 3-D in Tunica

See the Titanic in true 3-D in Tunica

Information provided by Hollywood Casino Tunica

The RMS Titanic, the world largest ship, sank April 15, 1912, after colliding with an iceberg in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean. The accident claimed the lives of over 1,500 passengers. April 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the famed Titanic.  The 1997 Titanic movie, which won 11 Academy Awards and starred Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, has been rereleased in 3-D in time for this centennial.

But, if you really want to see the Titanic in true 3-D, then get to Hollywood Casino Tunica, just south of Memphis, to view their extensive, major memorabilia collection of props from the 1997 James Cameron Titanic movie.

Runners, Get Set to Register Early and Secure your Spot for the 2012 St. Jude Memphis Marathon Week

Runners, Get Set to Register Early and Secure your Spot for the  2012 St. Jude Memphis Marathon Week

 

Commit to raising $2,500 and receive exclusive weekend package; Discount pricing ends April 30

Early registration is now open for the 2012 St. Jude Memphis Marathon Weekend to from Nov. 29-Dec. 1.  More than 17,000 participants are expected for the annually sold out event that benefits St. Jude, where the world’s sickest children receive the best care at no cost to their family.

Bad Dog's Legacy Continues With Charity Run

The John "Bad Dog" McCormack Memorial 5K is coming up on Saturday, April 28th, benefiting Ronald McDonald House of Memphis. 

McCormack used his radio fame to raise awareness & funds for Ronald McDonald House for over 20 years.  The House serves the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital patients & their families.

The race will wind through the streets of downtown Memphis, including around FedExForum & Riverside Drive.

Registration is $25 through April 11th ($5 more after the 11th).

To register, to find out more about the event, or learn more about the charity, check out their website.

Off-Leash areas around Shelby County

Off-Leash areas around Shelby County

Now that the weather is warmer, local pet lovers want somewhere to run around with their pups. If you don't want to stay in your own backyard, go to one of the off-leash dog parks in the area.

There are several locations throughout the Mid-South where dogs can enjoy the freedom of being off-leash and owners don't have to fear their furry friends running out into the street.

Safe, fenced-in areas are available to the public, and the only necessity for most is that the dog be up-to-date on vaccinations.

1. Shelby Farms Dog Park: The most well-known and largest in the area. The park has recently finished updates to the area which includes water, a wooded area and large fields. There is a separate entrance for the dog area, located off of Trinity Road at Gate 12.

Youth Villages 5K Event Fundraiser Returns

The Youth Villages 5k still has a spot for you in its 2012 run, taking place Saturday, April 21 at the Ridgeway Center. The run benefits the Memphis-founded organization and offers programs and services to help emotionally and behaviorally troubled children and their families.

This year's fundraising goal is $90,000 and your entry can help make a difference.

Advance registration is $20 for adults & $15 for students and for non-timed walkers.

The race begins at 9:00 a.m.

For more information, check out their website or call 901-251-4827.