He ran from 20 to 40 lengths behind the field until he would suddenly “Fire” in the back stretch, and either win or end up in second or third place.

   Silky earned the name of “Mr. Heart Attack” because of the absolute electrifying effect his come from behind style had on his fans.

   The Bakersfield Californian recently published my article Bravo, Schools and Students, September 1, 2023 in which I championed the results obtained by our local educators under unprecedented challenges.

   It occurred to me that like Silky,  our students at all ages, have a mind of their own, and with effective engagement by our educators, with their students and families, a way can be found to “Fire” their motivation to make the most out of the greatest gift our society confers on our children.

   They are still in the “back stretch” with plenty of running room, to win their race! In the race for individual achievement, there are many winners.

   The 2023/24 school year is the “homestretch” for everyone. Remember, Silky was just an ordinary youngster, raised on the outskirts of Bakersfield, who overcame his slow starts to become admired by millions!

   Let’s develop the “Silky Mindset”  in our students and show our community, state and country, that Bakersfield not only raises smart horses, but also recognizes that all its students can graduate with the title of a “Silky Winner”!

   If not now -when?

Phil Rudnick

A Proud resident of Bakersfield and 1950 graduate of Kern County Union high school.