THIS WEEK AT EMPIRE DRAGWAY

01-23-12  Donna and I would like to thank everyone who helped make Empire Dragway's 25th Annual Awards Banquet the biggest ever.   With the support of the Empire Dragway racers, the MOMS Racing racers and staff, the Gasser Racing Series racers and board members, and the many sponsors and fans helped to increase the attendance over last year by 25%.
 If it gets any bigger, we're going to have to put tables in the foyer!! 
   
We truly had a great time.  The crowd was ready to party this year.  The party actually started on Friday night.  

 It was great to see everyone enjoying themselves.  Some - more than others.  We're not naming names, but we'll give you a hint. It starts with E and ends with ddie.
 
     We can't wait to see Stephanie Metz's new helmet this season.  We hear it's going to be a real ball buster. I'm feelin' a cool breeze honey.
    Who knew that Scott Beach, Pat Manners and Marc Liotta used to work for Chippendales.  The things you find out at the banquet.
     The porcelain god award was won hands down this year by Sheryl Harvey-Klump. (Yay for whiskey sours!!!)
     Tony Santucci and Ron Eason really seem to be getting along, don't they?

     The after party was a lot of fun, although it couldn't hold a candle to those of a few years ago.

 Also, Enquiring minds want to know -  
     Did anybody ever find Jeff??
     Is David Morris's trophy broken, or did the neck collar work?
     Why don't you have to call me darlin', darlin?
     Did anyone get Mark a belt? 
   
        On a serious note, I want to thank my son, Bob, for being my co-host for the evening. (You did a great job - I hate admitting this)  We also must thank Mike Paz and Ron Rigby for the countless hours spent on the video presentation.  They did an awesome job including everyone.  It was great from the beginning to the very hairy end.
     We cannot forget our great staff for coming in early Saturday to help us set up. (Brenda & Tom , Sheryl & Daryl, Dave) 300 balloons tied to the chairs in less than 2 hours. You guys are great.  Robbo, you did a great job organizing our champions for their introduction.  The "Red Solo Cup" toast to the champions was made possible by help from Davy & Melissa, Brenda & Tom, Sheryl & Daryl, Robbo and Melinda.  Thank you.
   Aaron thanks for picking up & returning the helium.  We also need to thank Jeff Griffo for his help assembling the trophies.  (You said you wanted to drink beer with me!!) It's the first time the Grand Champion has put together his own trophy.
              
That's all for this week. Bob and Donna