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RAYNHAM, Massachusetts: Despite opponents' efforts, the state of Massachusetts held its last live dog race on December 26, 2009. The ban was to take effect on January 1, 2010 due to the approval of the Greyhound Protection Act that was placed before Massachusetts voters in 2008.
The race took place at Raynham Park, which was formerly known as Raynham-Taunton Greyhound Park before the measure was enacted. According to reports, the race symbolized the end of live dog racing in the region of New England, for the time being. According to Christine A. Dorchak, president of Grey2K USA, who supported the measure: "I just thank Massachusetts voters for giving greyhounds a second chance. We have finally reached this wonderful day."[1]
 Olympia, Washington: This week the United States Supreme Court announced that on January 15, 2010 they plan to review and decided whether to take up the Referendum 71 signature privacy case.[2] Initially, Protect Marriage Washington, a group in favor of placing the referendum on the ballot and opponent of the measure, requested a temporary restraining order to halt the public release of a list of those who signed the R-71 petition in July 2009. The United States Supreme Court ruled on October 20, 2009 to uphold the the ban on releasing petition signatures. Justice John Paul Stevens dissented. The Supreme Court did not, however, rule on the merits of the issue.[3]
Should the court accept the case, the case will be heard in April 2010, according to reports. A final decision would be expected in June. However, if the case is declined, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals decision will stand - an order to release the names on R-71 petitions.[4][5]
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