Dear Board of Directors - Hulman and Company:
As a native Hoosier and lifetime Indy 500 fan (primarily and Indycar Series supporter second despite them being close relatives), I track with great passion the sport's changes as how they may affect the Indy 500 first, and the remainder of the sport next. Mr. Tony George's resignation from the board is the final shovel of "not good" that has tipped the scales for me from optimist to pessimist regarding the future of IMS and the Indy 500.
This recent bit of news is troubling to me, because I am optimistic by nature, but I now have an insurmountable fear that no one is left who has the passion, vision, and desire to carry it forward in a manner which allows it to not merely survive, but thrive. Surely, your privately-owned, family business must realize it has generations of a vast public who personally identify with (and in some cases even gave their life for) this event, it's history, and the grounds. The staggering popularity of The 500 and it's history certainly are evidence of that. I understand I own precisely 0.00% of the company's stock however I am mentally and emotionally invested in the place which is worth more than a little.
From this meager platform, I ask the board to please give us, loyal 'lifers' some sort of idea what the heck your plan is for this place.
It is yours in ownership. It is also mine in heart and soul. Understand me, your loyal fan, and do NOT toy with it. What I bring to you shows up as positive numbers on your Balance Sheet if that is all you understand.
If you can understand the above, then understand these concerns:
- Who will be the passionate visionary to energize and elevate this place?
- Who among you is dedicated to the 500 to your very core?
- Who will be the talisman with tireless diligence to an entity whose value as a national treasure is far greater than the sum of its parts.
- Who is next?
You will note that I do not address the 'How' or 'What' is next, but 'Who' is next. This is by far the most critical component in my opinion.
Who is next?
My concerns are growing, my patience wearing thin.
Instead of a lifetime of dedication from me (your most loyal fans), you must know that you have now relegated yourself to a year-by-year basis.
I strongly advise not screwing it up.
