Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: WEDNESDAY, July 28, 1993                   TAG: 9307280098
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C3   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

IN VIRGINIA

MANASSAS - Portions of a historic landmark at the Manassas National Battlefield Park were destroyed in a suspicious blaze, fire officials said.

The fire Monday night swept through the Robinson House, built on the site of the original home and tavern of James Robinson, or Gentleman Jim, a freed slave whose descendants still live in the area.

"It's a real tragedy," park Superintendent Kenneth E. Apschnikat said. "You can't put a value on history."

Prince William County fire Lt. Tim Hattwick estimated damage at a minimum of $100,000.

- Associated Press

\ Race-track promoter predicts job boom

MANASSAS - A race track in Prince William County would create 1,500 full-time jobs and contribute $2 million annually in local taxes, officials of Virginia Jockey Club Inc. said Tuesday.

The proposed $40 million, 600-acre equestrian center would include a 1[-mile dirt track, two turf tracks, a training track, a polo field, a riding arena for horse shows and a riding trail, said James J. Wilson, president of Virginia Jockey Club.

But first, Virginia Jockey Club must beat out competitors for the only track license the Virginia Racing Commission will issue. The deadline to apply for the license is Oct. 1. - Associated Press

Keywords:
HORSE RACING