I represent the Sundowns Training Center. We are located at the Benton County Fairgrounds in Kennewick. Two years ago we began negotiating with the county to open the facility so that horsemen, namely race horses, could come in the fall and train. The grounds had previously been closed to the public. We came up with a seemingly fair deal for both parties and we are now well into our second year of operations.

Our focus has moved to a community equine center offering opportunity for all equine disciplines to enjoy this spacious multipurpose horse facility. I'm finding the county actually does want and like us in here contrary -- to previous belief by most all horsemen.

We are a nonprofit organization and need the help and support of the entire community to help meet contract obligations. We would love the county to consider putting in a large, but modest, indoor riding arena that could host multiple events.

Thank you to the county and to the community for supporting this endeaver thus far.

Bob Lawrence, Burbank