976 ADDRESSES AND STATE PAPERS

line to where they had a sense of dignity and achievement and sophis-
tication and assurance — just as the Japanese Americans, just as the
Korean Americans and the Chinese Americans and the Polish Ameri-
cans and everyone else — because the United States is now reaching
a point where your ancestry is simply an interesting point of con-
versation, not a slur, and we won't stop until we find that in this
country of America Negro Americans who have been so long dis-
criminated against can feel the same way.

If I have inadvertently offended anyone I am sorry — I am truly
sorry. To those of you who have misread my words I only say you've
misread my heart.

NEWS RELEASE AND STATEMENT ON MARYLAND
GAMBLING STUDY COMMISSION

October 16, 1968

Governor Agnew today commended the Maryland Gambling Study
Commission for its in-depth study of horse racing and pari-mutuel
betting in the State.

"Commission Chairman Clarence Miles and members Charles S.
Garland, Robert B. Hobbs, and Stanford L. Hoff have performed an
outstanding public service, " the Governor said, "and the documented
depth of their work demands a close study. "

The Commission plan calls for a thorough reorganization of the
State's existing racing structure. It would not only substantially in-
crease the State's annual revenue from racing but would also allow
Maryland to maintain its preeminence in the racing world in the
face of increasing competition from nearby states.

"Mr. Miles has told me that the Commission is not seeking the ap-
proval of the Legislature at this time for the specific plan proposed, "
the Governor said. "They urge only the adoption of amendments to
existing laws which would make it possible at some future time for
the plan to be adopted with the approval of the Racing Commission
and the track owners. "

"It is my hope, " the Governor said, "that the Legislature will take
whatever action is required to give the Racing Commission the au-
thority to consider and pass upon a plan of the nature proposed by the
Miles Commission if such is presented for consideration. "