New Resolution

I promised myself that this year I would write something every day. The year is almost gone and I am just getting started.

I realize that to gain people's interest you must have something engaging to write about. I have so many friends and memories to share it is hard to find where to start. But in the days to come I am going to do just that ... so bear with me.

Time passes very fast

Today is 6 days from the anniversary of the passing of my friend Michael R. Vignochi. Until the week before he died there was not one day that I did not talk to Michael ... where ever he was. I still find myself wanting to pick up the phone and call him to tell him about what was interesting to me and find out what news he had. His company issued his cell phone number to another employee ... but for about 3 weeks his voice mail never changed. I called it many times to hear his strong and healthy voice and to remember him as he always was.
As I mentioned in an earlier post, Michael watched both of my children grow up. He loved both of them as if they were his.
In Michael's last days he became particularly close to Brandon, my oldest. he thought Brandon could do anything, and he called on Brandon a lot, for which I am very proud.
I have said in the last few years ... there is a right way and a wrong way... and there was Michael's way. I believe Michael had it figured out.

Jimmy Parker's New Camaro

I am posting a picture of Jimmy's new E/SA 1967 Camaro. As with all the cars Jimmy builds,this one is a true masterpiece. I have seen pictures of the car from it's inception and Jimmy has really outdone himself this time.

The car is powered by a 350/295 engine. Jimmy and Sandra are braving the elements today to test the car in Montgomery, AL.

Michael Vignochi

On December 15th, 2008 my long time friend lost his battle with lung cancer. Michael suffered through his illness very quietly, never complaining and always hopeful and optimistic that he would be able to live, be happy and enjoy another day at the races. In the last days of his life no matter how bad he felt, Michael would smile and say " what I need is a little dragstrip therapy"
I will miss Michael very much and so will my family, he has been in our lives for over 40 years, saw the birth of our two children and their children.
Michael was a true and loyal friend.

28th Annual Southern Nationals

Today starts qualifying at the NHRA/Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals. There are 68 entries on the Stock Eliminator roster. Even if there are a few no-shows this always shapes up to be a tough race to win, with the best talent on the east coast competing.

Butch and Randy Payne

I attached a picture of Randy Payne, Hall of Fame Stock, Super Stock and Pro Stock legend. Randy's son Butch advanced to the third round in their wheelstanding E/SA Pontiac Firebird.
Butch was defeated by eventual event winner Painter Stevenson.

Congratulations to Tom "Painter" Stevenson

Congratulations to Painter for his Stock win today at SGMP. Great driving all day long !!!