25 years ago: 1988

Nashville — Shelby County Mayor Bill Morris and Charles D. McVean vigorously protested Tuesday to Gov. Ned McWherter that the State Racing Commission is “dragging its feet” on McVean’s quest to race hackney ponies in Memphis.

They repeatedly appealed to the governor to intervene.

McWherter told them he would ask the commission to hold a public meeting in Memphis soon on McVean’s pitch for the indoor racetrack with parimutuel wagering. But, he said, that is all he can do under state law.