Here’s something a little different…as we countdown to the ‘next’ budget deadline.
Since I was a kid I’ve been a big fan of racing and sports cars and of driving them. Stock Car racing has been my favorite. The roots going back to these guys in the South ‘runnin shine’ has grown into the biggest one day event in sports wherever it’s held. Its fan base is huge across the country and the loyalty is fierce, just witness the #3 and #8 stickers among the many "W" stickers you see on the backs of cars, pickups and trucks as you travel the highways. The loyalty to the sponsor products is very high as well. Coke drinkers don’t drink Pepsi, Pepsi drinkers don’t drink Coke. Even men will buy Tide detergent for their home use if they like that driver they sponsor.
If you’re around the Capitol on Thursday, tomorrow, we have a NASCAR Festival lined up for the general public. This is to highlight stock car racing in California and the annual appearance by the Nextel Cup NASCAR racers at Infineon Raceway at Sonoma this weekend. The festival takes place on the west steps of the Capitol from 10AM til 1PM and includes 3 racecars, the #88 UPS car of Dale Jarrett, the #2 Miller Lite of Kurt Busch and a special Toy Story racer. As well, last week’s new first time winner David Gilliland of the Busch Series will appear along with other NASCAR and Infineon dignitaries. We will have an official proclamation, about 11AM or so, recognizing their contributions to the sport, entertainment and the economy of California.
Most exciting is your chance to try the Nextel Racing Experience, a behind the wheel simulator where you can experience yourself the thrill of NASCAR racing. Come try it. Also, being an outdoor sport, visit the Blue Lizard Suncream folks who are doing free skin cancer checks on sight.
It oughta be a kick even if you’re not a race fan…yet [my wife became one during our honeymoon trip thru the Carolinas, thanks Richard Petty!] If you’re interested in the race itself, this Friday is qualifying at Infineon, Sunday is raceday, get online to douglamalfa.com and get discounted ticket info and enter to win a VIP NASCAR raceday. We’ll see you there. Go #6!