The 86th Longacres Mile is just over a week away with nominations in and weights announced on Saturday. Background is here from the midwest, Five Star General from British Columbia and Anyportinastorm expected from southern California. Other shippers possible to take on Papa's Golden Boy and top local stars.

Trainer Chris Stenslie is this week's guest. From her barn comes possible Emerald Distaff favorite Daffodil Sweet and she's nominated Hard to Deny to the Mile. The "$1,000 Horse Toss" returns on Saturday nights and vote for the top horse in our first 25 years beginning Saturday. Check out "News and Notes" at emeralddowns.com, tons of EmD information updated weekly.