Front Stretch Follies
with Dina Leach
04/11/04

Impossible: Incapable of existing or taking place

Well, here we are again; set and ready for another edition of this hallowed column. There is much to discuss and there are some things that are better left unsaid. I am certain that I should start out with a reason for picking the word of the week. Well, look at all that has happened in racing in the past two weeks! What can you say about the home state boy winning the World of Outlaws?? What can you say about Bucky Kell winning the modified feature at NES when he was told that he never would be able to drive a race car again?

It’s been a heck of a few days in the racing community. It’s been full of surprises and of course, the downfalls. Personally, I think that the surprises are the best part of racing. It makes it for a fun night. You know, speaking of that, I was invited to go with Al Cheney and Uncle Nick to the Allentown Library to talk to some of the young kids about safety and racing. I was amazed at the children’s concentration as they listened to Al and Uncle Nick talk about the safety issues of racing. Some of the kids thought that it was impossible that the racecars could meet the speeds that were discussed. Uncle Nick even when on to say that there are some cars that go even faster than Al’s!! Al, Uncle Nick, Aunt Nancy, Rosie and I a great time shared it. I was glad to be a part of that.

Well, I guess that I will be the bad guy and mention the weather that has been petruding our race days. Ok, yes, there was a week where EWS could have ran, but what are you going to do about that? There is not much that you can do and you accomplish nothing by complaining about it. As race fans, we find trying to find something else to do on a race night virtually impossible, but we always seem to manage. Some do movies, then, some of the crazier sectors of the racing community think we are on American Idol and go to the local karaoke bar. When we get there, all we talk about is racing. We can’t get away from it. It’s everywhere!! (Like the blob.)

Onward….let’s talk about Outlaw night!! Ok, how hot was it?? I couldn’t even breathe!! I thought that I was going to melt like an ice cube on a hot stove! I was hoping that Mr. Grosso would set up closed circuit TV in an air-conditioned room!! That would sell some seats!! For sprint cars, I thought that some of the times were slow, didn’t you? Or, am I just uneducated about sprints? Contrary to popular belief, I don’t know everything!!! JJ I thought that they went faster last year, but that could be me. Perhaps I was delirious from the heat. When my ex, Wayne got there, him and I had to move. There were too many people in one spot. Plus, there was some older gentleman blasting Wayne for the big wreck Rusty Wallace caused at Pocono!! But, I was glad for PJ Chesson as he ran a flawless race. I got the chance to talk to him afterwards. Man, what a gentleman!! I thought that it was going to be impossible to get to him, but, after the initial crowd left, there was plenty of room and time to go up and talk to this young kid. He was so appreciative of everyone and took the time to listen to your every word. I told him that the doughnut that he did was one of the best ones that I had seen in a long time. I never thought that he was gonna REALLY climb the fence!!! I hope that there are pictures of that floating around. That was absolutely spectacular. (It was hysterical when Uncle Nick did it this past week at NES!! Good job, Nickie!)

Ok, I know that you are all waiting, so I will start the conversation. No, I do not know what happened to Mr. Godown during the invitational Sportsman race. I was at his house the night before and it seemed as though they were ready and looking for a good finish. I think it was all the time that Ryan, Cheryl, Ryan, Jr., Mike, Dawn and Ashley spent in the pool!! Could have been the corn, though. (For my money, the best corn on the cob comes from RINGOES!!) Nah, the guys really worked their asses off, but it wasn’t Ryan’s night. It was Jack Swain’s night.

I was ecstatic for Jack and his crew. Funny thing happened on the way to the forum!! Jack was late to the track, he couldn’t find his wallet, and the Outlaws were already on the track for their heat races!! Yet, I think that it was an omen because, like PJ, Jack led a flawless race and came out on top. It was great to be in Victory Lane with the J&C Racing team. I am glad that I could be a part of the celebration. Thanks, Jack!

Those Sportsman guys certainly put a show on that night. I was equally proud of The Flyin’ Munchkin, Jeff Geiges as he qualified the 77J for the Invitational. I thought that GR Smith looked great coming through the pack and Dom Buffalino started jumping up to the man’s lane later on in the race as the track slicked up even more than it already was. It was not a track that most of these guys are used too, however, they made the impossible, possible as they ran a great race. Hats off to my friend, Matt Papiez. Great job, boys. <Sigh> I love the Sportsman Division.

How about EWS this past weekend? OK, I GOT RAINED ON!!! Larry Reed told me that he knew it was gonna rain. But, again, the fearless race fan goes to where the race is!! I can’t say too much about the racing that night, as it was merely heat races, and the guys didn’t even get their cars dialed in for the features. I thought that Rob Schuster did great in his heat as he went from front, to back, to qualifying. (Oh, let the rumors fly, Robbie!!) Oh, and what was up with someone sitting in my seat??? JJJJJ Notice how no one sits around me?? I guess I’m too opinionated. NOT ME!!!!

Well, impossible really comes into play this past weekend at NES. First, the temperature skyrocketed again!!! I didn’t think that I could sweat that much!! Well, I would first like to start talking about impossibilities with the Powder Puffs that transpired at NES on Saturday. How many of us actually thought that we were ever going to get into one of those machines let alone drive it!! I know for me, it was a dream come true. Ever since I was young, I always wanted to take just ONE lap around a track inside of a racecar. I didn’t have to be at full speed, nor did I have to win. I just wanted to go out and see what my Uncle John saw. What a friggin’ view!!! If you were to ask me a year ago about driving in a Sportsman, I would have said no. Well, this year, when the ride was offered to me, I jumped at it. Wanna know why? ‘Cause I knew that I could fit in one this year. Last year, impossible. This year, the dream was a reality. I was especially impressed with Sandra Kell, Amy Lynne Tanner, Denise Page and Robin McTighe. Also, I have to say that my Aunt Nancy gave it her best shot, as did my friend Rae Rae Jones. It’s a lot of fun and excitement that you could only experience if you got in to one of those cars.

I want to take this forum to express my deepest thank you to Mike Fatorri for allowing me the tools to realize my dream. I felt like a million bucks when Ace Lane, Jimmy Brown and Video Jim were taking my picture and making me feel like I was Jeff Gordon or Billy Pauch for that matter. You know, Mike was the first NES driver to call me after I got home from my surgery last year and I never will forget that. When he said that I could drive his car for the Powder Puff, it meant more to me than words could express. I promised him that I would do my best and keep it in one piece. We accomplished that! Also, I have to thank George Gareis for his help getting me in and out (!!) and for the use of most of his gear and knowledge. And also, to John Bangs. John turned the wrenches on the 5F and I was always taught that your pit guys are what make it happen. So, thanks to you all. You made a life, long, impossible dream become a reality that I will always treasure in my heart. The tears just streamed down my face as I took the green. My whole family even came to see me!! WHAT A RUSH!! (Special thanks to Matt Papiez for the suit and to the A-Team, Gene and Mike, for their support and for "almost" borrowing what I needed. Oh, and Schuster! Didn’t need the ride after all, but thanks!)

Impossibilities are sometimes hammered into our brain that we sometimes feel that is how we are supposed to be. Well, I am glad that Bucky Kell would not allow himself to have those ideologies running through his mind! We were all cheering for Bucky since he came to NES and some of us even lost our voices as the laps clicked away during the modified feature on August 3, 2002. The most fun for me was watching his niece, Paige lap after lap as the tears welled up in her eyes when her uncle took the two to go sign. See, this man did not allow a supposed educated person tell him that he could not drive his racecar again. He didn’t let others tell him that he couldn’t win or that he couldn’t be a part of something so tremendous as Victory Lane at NES. Let me say this: I am floored that this guy got a win at NES. I know some of you have your opinions about the Kell’s and the Smith’s, yet, I have grown to become such a fan of their racing program. I believe that GR is going to be something very special in the coming years (as long as he doesn’t give it up for hockey!!) and that Bucky is just beginning to get back on track. Their sister, Sandra, has become a very good friend to me and I can’t thank her enough for some of the long chats that we have had via Instant Message. Also, I thought it was quite appropriate that Tori was there, being as her name means "victory". Good job by all at Statewide Racing.

Well, I think that I have banged everyone’s ear long enough concerning racing for this week. I am glad to be doing the Follies again and hope to be back on the Internet really soon. I just want to take this time to that the Roscoe clan for the picnic on Outlaw night and to my Dad for knowing that being in the AC for three hours is better than melting for six. !!! I hope that we can all learn from the impossibilities that were crushed this week and know that ANYTHING is possible as long as we have the love, honesty and support of those we love.

Well, love and luck to all this weekend, especially to the Godown, Papiez, Page, Fleming, and Geiges gangs. Be strong, be safe, and don’t let anyone take your place. To all my guys, the list is so long; I can’t type you all in here. One day, I will, tho. I hope that you can all hear me, because I am out there, cheering for you!! And, I get others involved!!!

Until then, Don’t walk by the flagger’s stand without saying hello. Don’t walk through life without stepping into your own victory lane. Love yas!!!

You can call me at anytime if you wanna gossip or just talk about the happenings at the tracks!

Well, well, well…. It’s nice to be back!! I appreciate everyone’s interest in the thoughts and antics of the crazy person. I am still ‘Internet deprived’ but that is my fault and I will get it back soon enough. Until then, I will be typing the Follies from the confinements of the New Jersey Department of Corrections on my lunch hour!! Special thanks to Hot Toddie for still believing that I could write…even if I didn’t have AOL!!

OK, brief synopsis of what went on with me on the off season. I tried to keep racing as close to my heart as I could during those cold winter months. I think that the only month that I did have to come up with some creative ways to occupy myself was December. Even then, we had the SJDR X-mas party at my favorite spot on Route 539! I can’t say enough about all of you that continue to give me all of your support and encouragement when it comes to my personal battle and my lifetime commitment to wellness. As previously noted on the board, I have lost 218 pounds and continue to strive to may goal number. I won’t let any of you in on what that number is, however, the doc says that the number should be coming around the bend around the beginning of 2003. At that point, I can begin to consult with cosmetic surgeons to get the extra skin taken care of and all that jazz. At this time, I am planning to donate the extra skin to The Burn Foundation. I don’t know the specifics of that yet, so, if any of you know what that would entail, I am very visible at the tracks, so please come and see me.

I got to know some great people over the winter. I spent a lot of time up in Hillsborough, NJ having a great time with the 77J gang and the DelNero Gang. (Hey Dave, I am not going to NYC again! Jeff has NO IDEA where the theatre is!!) Spent sometime with some of the Papiez Gang and of course, Ryan and his family. Got to know Weldon Collier and his band of banshees. Knowing all of these great folks made the wait a hell of a lot harder, ‘cause I was so ready to get back into the swing of the season. I had a great time at the NES Banquet, even though I was sicker than a four-year-old in the middle of winter. And, the Nick and Pete party was a great deal of fun and excitement. I can’t say enough about the FNL Motorsports party and George Idell…we need to get ya a better weather man! (Thank you Dana, Bonnie and Rae for helping me with that red dress and letting me believe that red was my color!)

Anyhow…this boring synopsis leads to me THIS season which is full of fun and excitement. I would like to start out at East Windsor and say that I am growing more attached to that track then I ever thought possible. I don’t know what it is. I just think that I am taking more time to get to know the drivers and the people around me. (People actually sit around me??) I am thinking that I am getting more like my father and ‘watching’ the race instead of only one person. I think that EWS is the track to do that. The surface is unsurpassed by none, according to drivers that I’ve talked to. Some of the best racing is found in the deeper parts of the track then just up front.

I am pretty excited about the season thus far at EWS. I cannot get over the competition in the modified ranks. Of course, you’ve got the four storm troopers, Horton, Hoffman, Brightbill and Pauch. However, I think that some of these other guys are figuring out what it takes to run with these guys. I mean, think about it. You cannot count out Hendrickson and under no circumstances should Kerr, McCaughey and Radd be considered on of the little guys. When these few guys figure out the track and conditions are right, it’s anyone’s ball game. You know, depending on if the feature is 25 laps or 27.you know…J No, seriously, I believe that this year is gonna be a great year for EWS as RUMORS are brewing that this might be the last year of this facility. Well, let me say this: I don’t know if all that is true. All I know is that I have been there since I was a kid and that it would not behoove the racing community if this track were to close.

I see a lot of improvement in the Sportsman Division at EWS and I can gladly say that I am still probably one of the few fans that looks forward to the Sportsman feature. You have guys like GR, Brian Godown, CheeseMan, Stinson, Pratt, Lyons and a whole gang of others that make this division fun to watch. Sure, some of them want to win this on the first lap and there are some that will give you a shove and put you in the infield while you are leading, but HEY!! It’s still the best spot to see the stars of tomorrow. There are two Sportsman guys that I have really gotten a chance to get to know these past few months and I am the better for it. I met Rob Schuster not long ago at NES. He was very nice and took the time to listen to what a ‘know it all’ like me had to say. From that point, each time that I saw Rob, he would ask what I thought and he would let me in on what he and Mr. Balaam (HI BOB!!) would be doing to fix the problem. I like Rob. He takes his licks and knows that he still has a lot to learn with making more laps and getting as much seat time as possible. He’s a got good people around him and I think that once He and Bob get it all together, that 20 car will be a consistent runner.

I have to also go on and say that I have been impressed with the changes and improvements of Larry Reed and the K&L Racing Team. For those of you that do not know, Larry comes from an asphalt background, so he knows what it takes to win and run up front. Larry has one thing that sets him apart from some of the drivers that he competes with each week: heart. Now, I am not saying that none of the Sportsman guys do not have heart, because I know that you all do. However, Larry loves this sport and is just as happy to win a heat, take home 11th place money and know that his 22 is on the trailer in one piece. For Larry and his wife Kris, there is always next week. Larry has been getting some valuable help from some of the veterans of the modified ranks and I think that he is well on his way to getting his machine fine tuned and running up front without worrying about loose/tight. Take heed, folks…I think that Reed may take one once the 22 Team figures it out. (Don’t let Wayne in on it, Larry!) ILUBUS

RUMOR has it that IF, now IF the track does go one more year, that these street stocks may turn into full blown late models. Now, I don’t know if all that is true, I mean, it’s just rumor and all that means is that people are flappin’ off at the gums and have NO IDEA what they are talking about. Yet, still I think that a lot of those street stock drivers will be up for that challenge. You have people like Cheney who is tearing up EWS with wins, Whitehouse, Marra, and a slew full of other guys that are making this a pretty good division to see some good competition. I think that if I were gonna go street stock, I would try EWS. It is still considered a ‘low buck’ division, but don’t tell that to the guy that just bought a Bernheisel and a $10000 motor to put in it. It is getting so competitive that some of the real low buck guys are getting squashed by money. I am not suggesting that guys that run these cars have no driving talent, ‘cause nothing beats Cheney when he’s on, however, the horsepower helps and you need money to get it. I still think that this is a great division and I hope that it continues to lend excitement to our Friday nights at EWS.

Well, as I run my mouth off about RUMORS and all that jazz. It sorta reminds me of silly season in NASCAR. (Hot rumor on the circuit is that Jeff Gordon …) KIDDING!!! Nah, I think that sometimes when someone does something that is a little out of the ordinary for their "personality", others take it a little far and start whispering and jumpin’ at the jaw. All I know is this: if you know what you are doing and no one is getting hurt, what you do on your time is your business. As long as you can sleep at night and not worry about what or whom is talking about you and you can hold your head up high….SCREW ‘EM! Let them talk. This holds true for everything: personal relationships, friendships, and even sometimes, the racing community. I mean, if I have to hear that a certain driver is cheating one more time I am going to scream!! The rumor mill has been grinding on overtime lately and I think that it overshadows what we are all here for: the love and respect for this sport that we call dirt racing. But, I ain’t one to gossip, so you didn’t hear it from me….

Well, I am having a great time down at NES this year. So much STILL has to be said regarding the fans, the drivers and the employees of that track. I can’t express how great it is to walk into that place and know almost everyone I run into. Or, walk as the case may be. J Competition is heating over in Plumstead Township, too. Personally, as like at EWS, I think that a lot of our Modified guys are figuring out what they need to do in order to beat the best. Again, no one can be counted out of the race. Look at Ryan Godown! The man won and ALL of the big guns were still running at that point. The look of emotion on that young man’s face was enough for me. I was crying too. I mean, look at Roger Laureno! He took the checkered not long ago. It was done on pure blood, sweat and tears. A lot of guys are truly coming around at that track, however, I have been most impressed (other than with you know who) with Tim Tanner, Jr.

I have gotten to know the Tanner family in the past few years and their racing program has come around to Timmy’s style of driving. Each week, he is fast, consistent and smart when it comes to getting through the pack. I understand that some of you may not agree with some of Tim’s tactics, but, like another modified star, he gets the job done. Timmy is a thrill to watch when he’s teaching the cushion clinic. I couldn’t be happier for the family as I can see that the dream victory for this young man is going to be made reality. He’s figured it out. He’s working his way through the ‘crap’, as we like to say.

How about those Triple 20’s last week?? I thought they were a lot of fun! It would have been really cool if one of the guys could have gotten the ‘tri-fecta’. However, I do believe that Mr. Hoffman did with the overall finish. It was great fun to see the drivers out there, giving everything that they had for triple points. When I talked to Ryan afterwards, he was tired, yet, I think that he could have gone another fifty laps!!! As fans, we love the Twin Twenties and all that. I think that sometimes we forget that this sport is SO physical and these guys and gals can get pretty wore out. (I miss Brian Weaver. Just thought that I would put that in.)

Speaking of gals, it was thrilling to see Carol Whitehouse back in Victory Lane at NES! I do have to admit, though, I was pulling for Bill Miscoski, but, Carol did what she needed to do to win that race. It’s always a fun time to watch the street stocks, OOPS, SUPER stocks in action. My friends and I always take our picks and nine times out of ten, one of us is coming up front. My Dad always yells that he is taking Mario Page and Al Cheney every week, so, those two guys always have a fan in the grandstands! We have a great time watching the super stocks and I am glad that they are first on the card each week.

Well, I know that a lot of you are wondering what I am doing since Ryan stepped up to Modifieds. Well, I am still a lover of the Sportsman division!! I honestly believe that is where we are going to see all the stars of tomorrow!! Nothing beats when Matt Papiez is on and it can’t get much more exciting when The Scag Man is battling it out with Jack Swain for the lead! I was especially glad that Jack won this past week. He needed it. He’s been going through some rough times with racing; he didn’t qualify one week and used up his point provisional. But, he is back on top and it couldn’t happen to a nicer guy. If you have yet to meet Jack, do yourself a favor and make it over to the 42 pit after the races. Jack, his wife Carol, Dale, his father, all of the guys…are willing to talk and hang out with the kids and all that good stuff. I am glad to consider myself a fan of Jack Swain and also a friend. Surround yourself with good people and good things happen.

I gotta thank Gene Stravinsky, Advantage Financial and of course, the A-Team for Christmas in July and I was glad that I could be there and present the National Anthem for the fans that day. You know, the Anthem means so much more to me now then it ever did. I know I go off key sometimes, but I hope that I do it justice. Everytime I see a firefighter, or a police person, or an EMT, or anyone in our Armed Forces; I thank the Lord above that I have this day. Sometimes, I think that we as people forget that fact it is because of these people that we have the freedoms that we have in this country. I am proud to be an American for I have opportunities here that I know I could not have in another part of the world. JJJJJ Brought to you courtesy of the red, white and blue. Hey, what is with Peter Jennings tellin’ Toby Keith that he couldn’t sing that song at a 4th of July celebration?? The nerve. Jennings isn’t even American. Whatever.

Well, I am at the conclusion of the Follies for this week. I am so glad that a lot of you were still so interested on my view of what has been going on in the racing community. I hope to do this every week now as I have a spot to type and a place to e-mail, thanks to my friends and family. Speaking of family, I think that it is amazing how when things are being said about you, certain members of your family come to you before they even think of believing it. I am so glad that I have members of my family that trust each other enough to see what the truth is. I guess that is what I wanted to say. Don’t believe the hype. It makes people crazy and gives others bad names. Whether it’s true or not is no one’s business. And that, is true respect.

Ok, well…I am heading out for the week. If any of you need to get a hold of me, my cell phone number is out there and you can always see me at the tracks. I am the nutty person that sits behind the flag stand with a bright orange chair with a big 26 on it. Thanks to the Roscoe clan for making the time in the grandstands a trip!! Donna, come to NES!! Come to NES!!! Todd, thanks again for allowing me this forum. Love and luck to all this weekend, especially to the Godown, Fleming, Papiez, Geiges and the Page Gangs. My list has grown pretty long, but, I still have my boys that I am always there for. WHERE’S RON JOHN???? Anyone know?? Anyhow, you all know who you are. Be strong. Be safe. And to the LRA 99/Horton Team: You don’t know what it means for me to have my #1 Favorite driver in that car. Consistency is the name of the game. Wins will come.

Lastly, I want to congratulate one of my best friends Danalyn and her hubby, the Flyin’ Fireman, Tim on the impending birth of their baby daughter. Dana and Tim are two of the most wonderful people that you could ever meet and they genuinely are "tickled pink" about their girl. If she’s anything like her parents, she’ll be OK. The strength and wisdom that comes from the two of these people is god-sent. I love you both. And, to the love that brought color into my life…Do whatever it is you need to do. Just please, all I ask is that I am not far from your memories of a time when you were happy and in the midst of a change. I am just sorry that I couldn’t be that change for you like we had thought. Don’t buy that race car!!! Well, at least don’t number it a 2!!! Down with Rusty Wallace!!! Also, love to Brad Weaver. Brad, you are a great kid. We are praying for you and your family.

Until then….don’t walk by the flagger’s stand without saying hello. Don’t walk through life without stepping into your own victory lane. See yas!!!!

Speaking of championships and having emotions flare up and hangin’ ‘round with good people, I gotta talk about BIG Al Cheney! What a season for this man! I mean, the Street Stocks were so competitive at both EWS and NES but Al and the crew took the bull by the horns: they had fun and worked their asses off to get the dual track championship. I have gotten to know Al, Rosie and his parents this year and you couldn’t ask for a better guy to cheer for. They are so appreciative of the fans that come up and see Al after the show and are not above offering you a soda or a bite to eat of whatever they have at the trailer. It’s a fun time at the 73 pit. Hey, did that ERBE kid wake up after that Saturday night in Delaware? He was moving pretty slow the last time I saw him. JJ Thanks to Al for a great show at both tracks and to Rosie for being my inspiration.

Well, if I am talking about Syracuse, I have to talk about the one person that made it the best time ever: Mario Page. It was actually Mario who basically told the three of us chicks that we were going. I learned a lot about Mario that weekend and can honestly say that his heart is just as beautiful as the rest of him! JJ Forreal, tho. If it looked like we weren’t having a good time, there was Mario, making sure that the three of us gals (Dana, Rae and ME!) had a smile on our face. I think that the ‘Cuse weekend could have been the beginning of the No Issues Tour 2002. That was one thing that I learned that weekend: don’t let stupid stuff bother you. Everyone has issues and you aren’t special if you have them. You have to work through them and get on with it. Mario has become like a brother to me now and he gives me great wisdom like that all the time. So, to everyone we hung out with at Syracuse: Mario, Richie, Kellie, Mike, Rich, Sr, Dana, Rae, Biff, Dave, Gary, John, Gene, the whole A-Team, Godown, Brian, Papiez peeps: what a blast!! I hope that we all can do it again next year. All we were missin’ was the Flyin’ Munchkin!! He got called at least three times a day. He felt like he was there.!!

Well, like I said earlier, this article was going to turn into one about my personal growth and the friendship I have made. My friends and my family mean the world to me. You can’t ask for better friends than I have. Rae, Dana, Bonnie, Rich, Mario, Jeff, Dave, Kellie, Mike, Dawn, Mike, Danielle, (It’s about time!!), Biffliscious, Pam, Marge, Lena, the Roscoe clan, Jenn, Chris, Kelly, the Haines Gang, Kimi, Kass, Kourt, Margaret and Charlie (my fellow Godown fans), Donna, Mom and Cindy, all the drivers that have been so wonderful to me and their crews…I can’t thank all of you enough for what you have done for me. Todd, the webmaster, you have given me a forum to express myself and my opinions without even knowing who or what I was about. You have been a great friend and confident and I will always remember the flamingo pink from Delaware. Dude, stay away from Doritos!! I even got to know Re-Rob and some of the Port gang. They are all wonderful and Rob, you will always be on the list. Sandra, I am so glad that I took the time to meet you and get to know the woman you are. Thank you for our chats…and let’s get together soon…leave GR’s steering wheel at home.. JJJJJJ

To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.

Love to all and THANK YOU for allowing the chubby kid her moment in the sun….Means more than you will ever know…

MYSTERY: anything beyond human comprehension, a secret

LOVE: devoted attachment to another person or thing, the object of affection

COMMENTS CAN BE FORWARDED TO GORACIN26@AOL.COM

I suppose that many of you may be wondering why I chose luck as our word and not something different. Well, racing has a lot to do with luck, does it not? I mean, how may times have we said. "He’s havin’ some bad luck." Or, "That was just dumb luck." Luck plays a part in the weekly scope of racing. Of course, I know some drivers who claim that is it weren’t for bad luck; they’d have no luck at all. J

Anyhow, how many of us sat on our rear ends on Friday? I know I did. I was a little bitter about the whole "no racing" Friday thing. It didn’t rain here in Burlington, however that means nothing where weather is concerned. So, what did all of you EWS fans do on Friday night? I baked cookies and crumbled brownies for the crew of the 26 and watched the Daytime Emmy awards. Yippee. Way deep down inside of myself, I was waiting for Jimmy Horton or one of them guys to come on the television and present the award for best Daytime Drama. It’s funny. In the off-season, it doesn’t matter to us much about Friday and Saturday nights being rainy; we just keep going. During the season, we bitch and moan and carry on because we KNOW where we are supposed to be. Anyhow, I bitched through the night and waited out the weather report of the next day.

Needless to say, the show went on at NES without a hitch. I tell you what…the weather was a little different than Friday. It was hot! I was over in the fourth turn with Kimi, Kourt, Kass, Mom Fleming, Margaret and Charlie..and the sun was beating down on us pretty good! I got sunburn on the back of my neck and my face. What is all that about? I mean, is it JULY?? We were all ready to pass out. We just weren’t prepared for anything like that! Some of us even had on long sleeves….I am about ready to make a call into John Bolaris…

Anyhow, I do have to talk about those PRO-STOCK guys. I thought their feature went pretty good. Not too many yellows and definitely nice to see a new face on the podium. What about that Fleming kid!! He did an awesome job this past weekend! He was quite excited, and, as he said, it was a real confidence booster for him. Not only for him, but all of those associated with Sleepy Hollow Racing. He had gotten a good luck charm from a fan earlier in the day. I guess it worked Kory!! Remember to wave at your Mom and the rest of the clan! Good job, kid. And…and congrats to Mr. Bauma for taking the win. I am beginning to like this class more and more each week…..

My modifieds were on fire! I am so glad that Kenny B finally got it all together and put one in the win column. That last lap was one to remember, huh? I don’t know if luck played a part, but I know that the skill and determination of Mr. Brightbill had a hand in this win. And, the Dream is still making his way through the nightmare and getting on the podium. The fans love the show, Brian. It amazes me how these drivers just cut through the muck and get it done. Billy is a master at it. I could never imagine myself behind the wheel of one of those things. It’s gotta take everything you have just to climb in one, let alone have the sanity to drive it through traffic like that. We get that show each week at NES. It’s been good, thus far. Oh, and Ron John…I missed ya. And, the big shout out to the Velenger gang! Glad to see yas all back!

Well, good friends and new ones made the Rookie Graduation Night a success. Hey, Jim Potts, I want that BEETLE!! My Dad told me that I couldn’t have one. I got to give the credit where it is due: Dave Seip and the whole gang at A-Team Motorsports did a fine job these past eight weeks. I t was a pleasure to get to talk to Dave each week and see some of his view on racing. I knew he was going to do the Polish Victory Lap! He told me, in cofidence at the "After Show Party". He’s very gracious and allowed some "crazy" person be a fan. A lot of those guys were on fire the past coupla weeks. I am especially proud of my friend, Rich McTighe. Richard and I have had many talks concerning racing and I know that he has the determination…needs a little luck. Don’t be taken too far aback by Rich. He’s a good kid and has racing in his blood. I am very proud of you, Richard. You can pay me my cut when I see you at Ken’s.

How about one of my boys taking the Sportsman feature?? Although, I did miss Larry and the Hoopdee started smokin’ way before I lit up, but Jack Swain was the man! Jack is one of the greatest people I have ever met around the racing community. He’s gracious and takes the time to stop by and see the fans whenever he can. Ever since I have known him, he’s been a hard charger with a big heart. I like that in a driver. All I know is that Saturday is an especially long day for most of us. It’s nice to see that your favorites finish up front, or at the very least bring the damn thing home in one piece.

Well, I probably shouldn’t do it, but I am going to clear my name, so to speak. Whatever some of you thought I did, I didn’t do. I don’t have the balls to do something like that. What you saw was nothing more than what you see Lynda and Bonnie do on a Saturday night, OKOKOK, they may look better at it than I. To those of you who completely bashed me, I hope that you would e-mail me first and I would have told you that it was a joke between me and a few friends that I was sitting with. Nothing was revealed. (I wouldn’t want that!) I do apologize to the kids who may have thought that I was going way over the edge. I’m not saying it was right, but it wasn’t completely wrong, either. My apologies to anyone who was offended by the "gesture".

Off the soapbox…so, where am I? Well, after the show was a blast. If any of you want something to do, join us! Hey Terry..BOWWOW…Are you taking my date?? Bonnie …didn’t know that you were a dancer!!! You go girl!! Dana, Tim let me down…what’s up with that?? Sorry for screwing up the dance…Tony…when I hear Crocodile Rock (like I did today)…it’s all you, babe…and I can sing it better than you! Although, I doubt if I could fix up broken race care drivers better than you...hmm…. LYN…you missed it all, sister…

Hey, I got to meet Mike Frattori…speaking of rookies. He came up and introduced himself. Thanks for your kind words, Mike. That’s what I like about this column. I would hope that people would introduce themselves and take a minute to chat so I can get to know more of the racing family. Hmm..Perhaps, people just think I am nuts…

Ok, well, love and luck to all this weekend. Webmaster!! I miss you…come up and see me sometime…and bring that Donna girl! Luck to the Flemings and the Papiez gang…… To my boyz: Ron John, Ryan, Larry, Jack, Kenny (COME HOME, BOY!!) and Richard. Insanity has a name and it is called "Dina’s Boyz". Be strong. Be safe. Don’t let anyone take your place. I love yas all…. Much luck to the LRA99 race team and their driver, Mr. Hoffman. It’s coming again, guys.

Know that people cast lots on luck and drive it as far as they can until the luck runs out. Luck isn’t really a coincidence. Luck is really divine intervention at its best. Some say, make your own luck…other’s wait for luck to come. Luck ain’t even luck, you gotta make your own breaks. Then, the intervention happens. J

All this talk…I wanna go back to Atlantic City…JJ

Nick, thanks for the memories of Nan...She's still here as long as she's in our heart and chasing us with wooden spoons....

PRAYER: A COMMUNION WITH A HIGHER POWER, AN EARNEST REQUEST

Well, I don't know about ya'll, but alot of my prayers were answered this weekend. Well, some out ward ones anyway, but answered none the less. I had a tough week, worrying about work, worrying about up coming things in my life, but I knew that Friday was going to bring me back to the thing I loved the most: Dirt Track Racing. Then, I saw the weather reports. So, I screamed at the top of my lungs, ran to my room and didn't come out for a few minutes. Man, I hate relying on something that we have no control over. Then, that's when it dawned on me...I don't have any control over the weather. It is what it is. So, I made alternative plans....Just in case....and I prayed..."Please don't rain!"

Other motorists musta thought I had a screw loose. (All of you already know that I do!) I kept turning on the windsheild wipers to see if those little spots on the windsheild of my Ford Ranger Pace Truck were rain. Most times, they were not. But, a few times they were. I started praying again..."Please, don't rain!" And, I turned up the music really loud....

How about BIG Al Cheny taking the SS win! We picked him to do so. And, as far as the Sportsman feature goes? Well, let me see..Who made the call for FIVE to go when it was TEN?? That is just complete lack of communication. I wonder how the drivers felt?? I thought that the Flagger's were ALSO supposed to keep count of the laps as they were happenening. I didn't see a the last eight laps anyhow. Ryan's motor shut off....and I went to my truck. Congrats to the Liedel2 Team for the win. Good run by Racer Boy Romano. And a special thanks to Pork Chop for making it all a little more interesting Friday night..And to the EWS staff and the Jones Family for not calling it when we had a few rain drops. Another answered prayer....

Front Stretch Follies song of the week: LIVIN' ON A PRAYER.....That's what we were doing.....

Until next time, don't walk by the Flagger's stand without saying hello. Don't walk thru life without stepping into your own victory lane.

Gripes and comments can be forward to GoRacin26@aol.com

Well, there was alot of that going on at New Egypt Speedway this past Saturday night. Through many prayers and sundances, we did get opening night in and I coudn't have been happier. Well, I could have if say, Ricky Martin was sitting next to me, BUT nonetheless...happy, happy, joy, joy!!

Yet beyond all the happiness and anticipation of being at opening night, I was reminded that things do not always go according to plan. I forgot a heavy coat, forgot my gloves and forgot the fact that I had just been diagnosed with diabetes and was running for hot chocolate. But, above all that, I was reminded that life is precious and you have to live it when you can live it.

Uncle Nick did a superb job with the helping hand of Rev. Dan. I didn't know how I was gonna feel when I first heard that Nick had been planning on something like this for awhile. When he said the names, Wismer, Zangli, Earnhardt, Haugland..it was as if a drum was beating into my head at his every syllable. It was difficult to hear that these guys would never physically a race again. It was more devestating to know that they were not even that old.

I found it very appropriate and inspiring. The song of choice could not have said the words any clearer. While standing there, I couldn't help but notice the guys standing in victory lane. I don't know who they all were, I recognized some faces, however, it made me feel as if they were standing there representing each man and woman that has ever been taken way too soon. It was as if they had known that these four men, who we all have come to honor as our own, had completed the final lap and were embraced with everlasting victory. I don't know if the officials or the Haines' Boys realized that, but....I did...And cried as I remembered.... Uncle Nick, a fantastic job and straight from the heart. One more day....One more time....

I don't know about you all, but I was definetly ready to get some racin' in after that. We were fighting the elments: cold, cold, and did I mention the cold? And, to say the least...VIDEO JIM had me as worried as a mother on the first day of school. Jim, I love ya..and take care of yourself!

We started with street stocks....Billy Bauer lookin' excellent as well as Al Cheney. Al is definetly a fan favorite. The kids flip when he walks over from the pits. Those guys were getting around pretty good on the new configuration. I really thought that the father/son team, the Page's, had some great looking cars...It was hard to tell one from the other. Plus, they had a fantastic finish in the feature. Speaking of street stocks, I was greeted at my seat by none other than Ken Guyer. He's a good guy that gave me some good advice on Saturday. I plan on taking it. Congrats to Billy Bauer for taking the first win of the season....Repeat??

Could the modifed feature gotten any more exciting?? I tell you..What a treat it was to see Timmy Tanner back at NES! I think he and perhaps Billy Pauch were the culprits of the dustbowl I sat in. How about Pauch?? Picked right up where he left off...Guess he had the right tires this time...and...I was quite impressed by the Dream Weaver...He could cause a major coo of the reigning generals at New Egypt. Keep an eye on the Hitman, Keith Hoffman and also, on that Tanner kid if he stays with us. I hope he does. And, I must give a shout out and get well fast to Kenny B...You all know what went down with him Saturday and I hope and pray that he is doing well and can get back to us for some more slicin' and dicin'. Congrats to Mr. Pauch for taking the win...What was the margin?? Missed ya, Ronnie....I know you were more pissed than I was...

Sportsman guys finally got a lap in. What's with that? Non conformists?? Well, what am I talking about..most of my guys are Sportsman. I know that as the year moves on, it will only get better. I am very proud of my best good friend, Kenny Roth for taking his heat win as well as the run by Jack Swain. I think Ryan could be mad at me...I think he told me I was number one after I had told him to stay on the bottom...a million times! Well, don't let that fluster you, my dear...you have a whole year ahead of you....Don't count that 26 out....Hey, Larry....He needs a swift kick in the..well..you know...Paybacks...Very glad to see the Scag Man take the win. He was on his way to Charlotte and called to see if we were racin'!!! He turned around....

Which leads me to say this: what a tribute that is to the Grosso family and their employees. What an honor it is to be a part of one of the premier tracks on the East Coast. As fans, we may not always agree with the official word, but we can agree that there is no other place we would rather be on a Saturday Night..Except for maybe Hawaii...

Oh, guys, I need your help. Got an e-mail from someone that disrespected this column because they said that I am not an expert and I shouldn't be writing about somethng I don't know about. Well, as I pointed out to this person, I told them our column was about a fan to fan conversation..and it had nothing to do with stats and facts. Am I wrong? Am I an idiot? Whaddya think?

Well, I am gonna steal from Tony Bizowski and give my own few little shout outs here...Weigh station on the infield..EXCELLENT! Just wish the the readout was easier to see. I guess I am gonna have to invest in a pair of binoculars to see. Now, being as I don't know the mechanics of our sport, which I have already stated, what are the appropriate weights for the cars? Just so I know...well..so I can act like I know.

Cars comin out on the front strech...COOL!!! That means that none of my friends can steal my drivers when they come out. I know them all by the hood of their cars...Call me a dork....

Great racing this week...Thanks to the Grosso's and everyone that allowed us to enjoy our Saturdays again. Good luck to all this week, especially my boys: Ron John, Ryan, Larry, Jack, Kenny, Rich...and Dale.(Speaking of hurricanes, there sounds like one is whippin' up right now here in Delran, NJ. YIKES!) Rich, one day they will let off the throttle when they get a push....Thanks for keeping that wind off me...well..as much as you could for being a stick...:):)

Until then I leave you with this:

Until next week, don't pass by the Flagger's stand without saying hello. Don't walk thru life without stepping into your own victory lane.

Until then, I leave you with this:

Friends are a very rare jewel, indeed. Friends are like the family that we didn't know exsisted. Friendships are very special and and can make a person choose between living or giving up. Try not to take for granted that what you say and do does not matter. To your friends, it does. And, they are better for it. I am thankful for all the wonderful friends I've made within the past year of my life.

Ok, I'll take full blame and call myself a fanatic. Truth be known, I was always a fanatic about something: Michael Jackson, Bon Jovi, Garth Brooks...now..it is RACING.

Well, come to find out, I enjoyed writing the first episode of Front Stretch Follies. A lot of you 'fanatics' out there e-mailed me and called me with your thoughts and comments. I must thank you all for being so kind. It's nice to know that the BA in English is starting to pay off. Todd, how much am I getting paid? Kudos to my 'friend', Video Jim Murdoch for being a great sport. Still waiting on that karaoke, Jim.

Some familiar names and faces were seen as well as some old names that I thought I forgot a long time ago. Brightbill, Pauch as well as Hoffman...and I slightly remember a guy by the name of DeSantis. I recall being young and ALWAYS being 'fanatical' about the Temple Tornado. It was nice to hear that name again. Now, I am sure that all of you want me to say something about 'Kid Lightning', but I shall refrain. All I will say is this: the 117 was beautiful, one of the best lookin' ones out there, and the kid does have some talent. I just hope that he learns patience is half the battle.

If you want SPRINTS, the Grove is the place to get them. Watching them come out of the turns is awesome. OK, I didn't see the flip with Rahmer and Krietz (I was half asleep in the car and then went for coffee) but I heard that it was spectacular from the pit grandstands in turn four. It's amazing the speeds these guys get on the straightaways. My favorite? Had to be the beautiful car that Sean Michael was driving. The colors were pheonomonal (I know a nice lettering guy!) and he finished a good top ten. A big SHOUT OUT to Uncle Nick for making the radio show a laugh riot. It oughta be pretty interesting for next year! Let's just get the correct Cracker Barrel next time...and whatever we do....Don't let the driver take the car out in the rain. I got my coat dirty from drying it off....:):)

So, with everything I had, I went to the New Egypt Speedway practice session on Sat..March 24. Let's see, what did I like? Um...the new configuration?? Yeah, I did and I am into the 'short chute' they have goin' on! I kinda agreed with Mr. Brightbill, wishing they could have moved some of those tractor tires and let everyone come in and out of three and four like they wanted. I thought that Kenny B looked fantastic as well as Gary Butler in the modifieds. I'm sorry that Billy Pauch didn't have the right tires 'cause I would have enjoyed seeing him get around on the 'new' track. The man could drive through a corn field and win a race. I still have the pen, the PEN, Billy signed an autograph with about twenty years ago. How wild is that?

I was hoping to see Ron John, however that didn't pan out. I also thought that Mark Bitner, alias MR. TWISTER looked excellent. His car is gorgeous!!! I've come to know Mark in the past few years and think he's a pretty good guy. Who else did I think was good? Well, it was kinda hard. Most guys were out there just to shake the cars down and not really run them wide open. Although, I know one that did. (KR) See, for me, it's hard to say who's good and who ain't. 'Cause, this soul sister ain't gonna lie: I don't know that much about the mechanics of the sport to know any better. Kenneth, get rid of the push!

Speaking of Kenny, how about some of those new paint schemes going on? My fave?? The Reid Sod Farm Team cars: Eddie Bohn and Scott Reid. They were BEAUTIFUL!!! A definite change from last year. Of course, I liked the Custom Creations Sportsman, the Flemings, and I was liking the stripe jobs on ALOT of cars. I loved Billy Bauer's Street stock...and..I guess I gotta say it....Mr. Haines' car is also one of the best looking SS's I've seen in a long time. Who else? There were alot of guys that had some good paint (or vinyl as the case may be). I liked VanGorder's car and also liked Stravinsky's. I saw Gene's car as it was being done! And who is the 14 Rookie guy?? Beautiful.... McTighe: Get those panels over to the fine lettering guy!

There was one thing that made me quite a happy camper at practice day: Larry Archer driving the 747. If any of you were at Nick's party, you knew that Larry was contemplating seeking other pastures. Well, it looks like he may be runnin' with us after all. That was something I remained positive about. Larry and his wife, Jenn, are two great people who I could not imagine my Saturday nights without. The man's drive and determination for racing is one that should be admired and emulated. Thanks for comin' back, Larry. Oh..and where is the HUGE goblet from the party?

Well, I froze at NES.......I'd better go down...GODOWN???? hehe...go down and get me some blankets. It's gonna be a long, cold few weeks...

Hagerstown was just as cold...and there wasn't much passing there either. Right, TODD? I had the pleasure of hangin' out with our Webmaster for Hagerstown. What was that on the dance floor at the Barracuda Club?? NASTY! Even DENNY TERRIO!!! And must BOBBY keep touching me?? :)

Hagerstown was cool for me. It was my first time there. I was scared to walk over to the pits because they just watered the darn thing! Doug Hoffman laughed at me!! What is that? So, I sat in the grandstands with a whole SLEW of Von Dohren fans! He was fast..and so was the 112. Hearn tried..but..I am assuming he couldn't make it stick. He was trying, tho. We finished 7th after we busted the mag...in warm ups and started 22nd. Not bad....Scotty V got in the feature as did Rich Scagliotta. Good wood on the track...However, there couldn't have been that much people in the grandstands. It was brutally cold.

One thing that impressed me about Hagerstown? LATE MODELS!! They ain't your mama's street stock!! I have never seen them before in my life! They are fast and they lend for good racing most of the time. Impressive. Hey, Donna...don't worry. Thanks for my halftime chat.

Well, I am assuming that it is time for me to sign off. I will be at NES each Saturday and EWS each Friday..Cheering for my boyz...and to answer your questions...Front Stretch Follies should be out once per week. Thanks to everyone for their thoughts. and..for being as 'fanatic' as I am.

I leave you with this.....

Find the one that makes your heart smile.

Until next time, don't walk pass the Flagger's stand without saying hello. Don't walk through life without stepping into your own victory lane.

It amazes me that Todd would even take this leap of faith and consider asking me to write a column for our beloved web site. I told him to batten down the hatches and strap on his seat belts. It could be a bumpy ride.

Well, the off season has had it's ups and downs, no? I lost my aunt, which made me realize that life is way too short and that you gotta tell people that you love them the moment you think about it. She was only in her early forties which seems so hard to believe. However, I can turn around and see that life has sprung upon my Aunt Shirl. I am a firm believer in the fact that she is a breathing miracle. Positive energy works.

I don't wanna bum us out, however, I do gotta talk about Kenny Wismer III. I remember being at work and my good friend, Betty Lou, told me that Ken was gone. All I remember doing at that point was dropping about ten Department of Corrections records and crying. No, I hadn't known Kenny personally, however, it was like losing a member of our family. Later on, I met his mother and father. The respect, beauty and appreciation that flowed from these two people was enough to make me feel that I did truly loose a member of my family. I am grateful and honored to know the Wismers and pray that peace and serenity will meet them again.

The Mac Daddy. Those of you who know us Leach's know what I mean when I say Mac Daddy. Dale Earnhardt, Sr. What more can I say? Sure, I heckeled him and wished that Jeffrey (24) could win them all, but the respect I had for that man will always be unsurpassed. I found out about Dale's death right here on South Jersey Dirt. Uncle Nick and I read it together. We thought we had jumped into a dream, however, Scotty V sent us the link and it was true. Nick and I cried together and alerted family members about "that guy" who invaded our homes every Sunday. My Dad said I lied. I don't believe for a minute that Dale had any regrets. My only regret about Dale is my Dad never met him and never will. That's all I have to say about that........

But, there was LOTS of fun stuff over the break if you got off yer duff and participated. We ran Delaware.Don't get me started on that. After, I found myself at the Fort Washington Expo Center, hob-nobbin' with some of racing's elite. Yeah, I met Dave Blaney and even thought for a second he could spell my name without me saying it over and over. (D-I-N-A....) Was it true that McTighe really had on orange pants? Did Racheal really sleep under the Custom Creations table out of boredom? Yo, shout outs to my best guy friend, Kenny Roth for having the BEST APPEARING stock car at MotorSports!!! Wait, what did Godown say? "He better had won. He does it for a living!" Oh, man..What a hoot that Ryan Godown is! He got me half lit at MotorSports off BEER. I don't drink beer, ususlly. But, truly, I tell you. Those who know me, know that I was in my GLORY when I was hangin' out with the man who roughrides, I mean, drives the 26!! I got over my fear of him and now, we are like oil and water. No, he's a great guy and I am truly blessed with an awesome friendship that I never thought would happen. He shoots a great game of pool, too. Even beat my Mom, who is a pool champion!!! I also had the chance to get to know Jay D and all those associated with JD III Graphics. Man, what a time we had at the after party!! I think Papiez still owes me a drink...and VIDEO JIM..dissed me...as usual...Although the $$$$ in the cleavage....He may like women after all....

That leads me to Atlantic City. First of all, I got to drive down with our beloved announcer, my Uncle Nick, so I knew that I was in for a great time. The second we got there, after stopping at the Silver Coin for lunch, Mom started messin' with the one armed bandit while Nick and I promptly strolled over to the bar. Well, of course, I was waiting for Hoopdee to get there and Nick was waiting to see who came in and what trouble he could cause for them. We saw lots of beer, I mean people. Later, we had dinner with Mr. Gary Bozowski himself and his lovely wife. (Good food...bad service) Nickel slots, quarter slots, dollar slots..I couldn't keep up. I went back to the bar, with Nick and found Mr. Godown and his band of miserable gypsies. Earlier, Kenny Roth was buying drinks, but Ry got to be called 'honey' once he started flashing one hundred dollar bills. With a few more beers and shots in us, we called it a night...Of course, someone just had to put a chip on my shoulder....

The banquet for New Egypt was absolutely beautiful. Not only did Mrs. Swanson and the NES Girls make the ballroom attractive, but everyone, including me, was all decked out in their Sunday best. Drivers had on ties rather than firesuits and us girls actually put on dresses!! Well, I just gotta say that the drivers at my track treat me very well. I, too, was awarded with a special award from 'my Rear Bumper boys'. I can't explain the feeling that I felt when Nick told me that they've been wanting to do something like this for sometime. It proved alot to me. Yes, all, I remember every bit of the banquet..Even though I fell. Hey, was that Kevin Gatsby who picked me up off the dance floor? I did sing with the band. That was a highlight. The best part of it all was hangin' out after with none other then: The Hurricane, The Kid, Mr Twister, Mighty Matt and his boys, Billy Bauer and his entourage, John Mc. and even Stan J. Of course, being many flags down, we still enjoyed our late night suare at the bar. Oh, and no matter what anyone tells you, the cartoons in AC are the bomb!! I weathered the storm and was up till six o'clock in the morning watching 'em! The one thing I learned in AC?? I learned that things happen for a reason, you can't plan them; and that true beauty is only measured by what is inside your heart...or something like that. George Gareis told me that... I lived it in Atlantic City.

There were great parties to be attended in the off season. First, we took a drive out to Kelly's in Wrightstown to hang out with none other than George Idell. It was his annual party and Nick and I had a blast. The food was pretty good, and I even had the chance to sing with George myself. And, we had Backstreet McFly!! I did win the karaoke contest and promply gave my size LARGE t-shirt to Ryan. I sweat that man so much. His wife is a lucky woman. Thanks, Idell...It was a blast...And, that is where I met WEBMASTER TODD..Hot sex, anyone?....

Well, then there was the FLEMING party! What a great family that is! And that Chopper guy!! Well, what about that JEREMY guy?? Anyhow, hung out with Gary Butler and told him that the night he won at NES was one of the greatest races I had seen in a long time. (Me chasing Video Jim does not count!!) Oh, and ask Uncle Nick about those officers in Frenchtown....Hey, that was my first time meeting the Fleming boys..and might I say..the Chuck Wagon has it goin' on!! Don't mess with that boy. He's liable to lay the smackdown on ya...Thanks to KIMI and LOUISE for making me feel like family..

What about Nick's jamboree?? It was a chance for me to re-live the excitement of AC, but in a less formal setting. I was waiting to be confronted by an angry mom, but that ended up being a misinterpreted forecast. (Love ya!) Man, I danced all night and still had energy to muff up George Gareis. I met even more people (Anthony B.) and was accosted by a lot of men. They musta been drinkin'. What the hell was my Mom serving? Not enuff Hot Sex for Todd...Nick and Pete did a fine job conducting interviews. It just needed to be louder. Custom Ken said he couldn't hear in the back. Great to see the Tanner family. And, it's nice to know that, even when you are three sheets to the wind, people still love you...Even if they make no effort to call ya or hang out!!! I guess that's what it's all about. Hey..anyone got an extra mug?? I guess I didn't survive the Nick and Pete Season Preview...And I didn't survive the diner afterward..Hey Todd, did you ever play sink the...never mind.!?!?!

Which leads me to where I am now..Sitting in front of my computer, waiting for the season to start. Leach Racing Associates is beginning their season at Williams Grove. That is going to be a chilly blast. I met Kevin Hirthler there last year....He was pretty cool. We did pretty good and hopefully we can have breakfast with all the church people again. It plans on being one cold adventure. Lotsa luck to my Uncle John and his driver, Mr. Doug Hoffman.

Well, I sit, and I wait. Only a few days until practice then opening dayz begin. You know, I am so proud and thankful for being a part of our racing family. I truly believe that we are an intricate part in each other's lives. I've learned so much about life this past off season. The most important thing I learned was this: Make every second count. Know that people are people and no matter what they look like, or what downfalls they may have, they are still one hundred percent loveable and have the ability to reach out and love. If you love someone, tell them. Don't wait until they aren't able to hear and feel anymore. Love the sport, love everything about it, not just the praise and the glory. Be confident, be loyal and above all; be as strong as you possibly can. Don't let anyone take your place.

I am gonna get off the soap box now and sign off. Just wanna thank a special person who taught me alot this past off season. He knows who he is. And, I'll never forget the magic that happened right before my weeping eyes. Uncle Nick, you've been terrific to me and I can't thank you and Nancy enuff. Thanks to my girls for puttin' up with my shananigans and for not hitting me when I pulled their hair. And to my Dad..my racin' buddy. Thanks for the rules of the game. Love and luck to my boyz: Ronnie, Ryan, Jack, Larry, Kenny and Dale. You'll be good. I promise.

Lastly, I give my heart and my prayers to the family of Jim Zangli. May you be comforted by the racing family and the knowledge that we all offer our greatest sympathies and respect.

Until then, don't pass by the flagger's stand without saying hello. Don't walk thru life without stepping into your own victory lane.