Richard Petty Motorsports, STP and Motorsports Authentics Partner to Launch Fans Making Smiles at Victory: Richard Petty Motorsports, STP and Motorsports Authentics announced a new program Fans Making Smiles at Victory Junction offering exciting new Petty Products to race fans. The program will introduce newly licensed STP and Richard Petty apparel and products available this weekend at Kansas Speedway with a portion of every $50 purchase on the Chase Authentics souvenir rig benefiting the camp built by the Petty family in honor of their son, Adam. With each $50 purchase, fans will make smiles for each camper sent to Victory Junction. The program will kicked off at Kansas Speedway in April. Through the campaign, Motorsports Authentics will introduce special products that will be sold at its Chase Authentics souvenir rig at-track and through the Richard Petty Motorsports online store. The products will include collectible Sam Bass/Richard Petty/STP themed posters, Richard Petty "Charlie 1 Horse" hats, diecasts and apparel. The campaign will last through Sunday, June 2 at Dover International Speedway.(RPM)(4-21-2013)

3M Plants Trees to Help NASCAR Race to Green: St Paul, MN, based 3M Company is pleased to be an active sponsor for the NASCAR Race to Green initiative. This month-long program will culminate on Earth Day, April 22, National Tree Planting Day. Through NASCAR's partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, 3M Racing announced that their 3M Community Affairs organization has committed to fund the planting of 2,350 trees, or 1 tree for every lap of NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and NASCAR Nationwide Series Racing that takes place in the month of April. The trees will be planted across the country in five areas: (1) portions of the Northeastern US recently hit by Hurricane Sandy; (2) areas in Northern Alabama damaged by tornadoes in 2011; (3) regions of Minnesota where forests are still in recovery following the Ham Lake Fire in 2007; (4) Central Texas' Lost Pines Forest which was damaged by wildfire in 2011; and (5) California forests which have seen several years of consecutive damage from wildfires. 3M is committed to both sustainable products and sustainable processes. In March of this year, 3M was awarded  for an industry-leading ninth consecutive year the US Environmental Protection Agency's ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year-Sustained Excellence Award for our comprehensive worldwide energy conservation efforts.(3M/Roush Fenway Racing)(4-19-2013)

NHRA trounces NASCAR for 19-5 softball win: A squad of highly competitive and terrifically talented NHRA drivers trounced a team of NASCAR stars 19-5 in Wednesday night's softball game in Kannapolis, N.C., in front of a boisterous crowd at CMC NorthEast Stadium, the home of the Kannapolis Intimidators of the South Atlantic League. Elliot Sadler was the top player on the NASCAR side, flashing big-time leather in the field and ripping a number of line drives. The NASCAR team also included Kurt Busch, Matt Kenseth, Kasey Kahne, Kerry Earnhardt, Johanna Long, Hermie Sadler, Michael Waltrip, Darrell Waltrip, and others. The lone earned run scored by the stock car contingent was actually hit by a Wounded Warrior veteran, Mattias Ferraro, a double-amputee playing on two prosthetic legs. His blast drew one of the biggest ovations on the night, from fans and players alike. In a mid-game Home Run Derby exhibition, Bob Vandergriff and Elliott Sadler tied, with three long balls apiece. The game benefited Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and The Armed Forces Foundation. (see full story at NHRA.com)(4-18-2013)

Brad Keselowski's Checkered Flag Foundation Announces 2013 R2R Program for Vets: Brad Keselowski's Checkered Flag Foundation (CFF) will once again bring its exciting Race to Recovery program to benefit wounded service members and their loved ones to five race tracks in 2013. This year marks the third year for the Race to Recovery (R2R) program, as well as the third full year for CFF, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, whose mission is to support those who have sacrificed greatly, to include military personnel, veterans, first-responders and their families, among others. The 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion and foundation President Brad Keselowski loves to spend time with the R2R honorees and looks forward to each event, as he says it keeps his life balanced.
"I am a firm believer in showing someone my appreciation for his or her sacrifices and the Race to Recovery program allows me to do that," Keselowski said. "I feel like life is about balance--I couldn't do what I do on the racetrack without these men and women making the sacrifices they do for me. It means a lot for me to have the opportunity to bring them out and show them a good time the best way I know how."
Keselowski and his foundation will bring its innovative R2R program to Richmond International Raceway, Talladega Superspeedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Michigan International Speedway, and Bristol Motor Speedway in 2013. Guests at the track this season will strap in beside Brad and another Penske Racing driver in either a brand-new Cup-spec Ford Fusion or a Nationwide-Spec Ford Mustang with a new, exciting patriotic paint scheme that includes a custom mural representing the military services.
In 2013, leading Kimberly-Clark brand, SCOTT Car Care has become a major partner with the CFF to help the program continue to meet its number one metric -- to put smiles back on the faces of those heroes who have sacrificed so much for our country-allowing them to enjoy a VIP NASCAR race experience with the people closest to them and surrounded by fellow veterans. As a part of the Worth the Work, Pass it on campaign, SCOTT® Car Care has joined forces with CFF and its R2R program to provide unique experiences for the veterans.
"SCOTT Car Care is thrilled to partner with Brad Keselowski's Checkered Flag Foundation to help provide this unique group of car enthusiasts with an experience of a lifetime," said Charlotte Ciccone, Associate Customer Marketing Manager for Kimberly- Clark Professional. "The mission of the CFF strongly aligns with our emotionally-rooted Worth the Work, Pass it on campaign, where we strive to recognize the hard work and great reward our loyal end users deserve."
Working with the Veterans Administration and other military hospitals to select candidates, CFF identifies wounded veterans around the country who have worked hard to persevere beyond their injuries. The idea is to inspire and incentivize those who are working hard to meet milestones in their treatment with a three-day VIP Race Experience, capped off with a ride along in a custom-built two-seat Ford Fusion race car with foundation President Brad Keselowski. Typically, six veterans along with one "crew chief," an individual who has had significant impact upon the veteran in his or her recovery process, per market are invited for the three-day experience. In addition, another large group of veterans and their guests are invited to watch either the Saturday or Sunday race in the CFF suite at the race track. VA case managers determine the individuals who receive suite tickets, with an emphasis on rewarding those who have met certain milestones in their treatment.(CFF)(4-6-2013)

AdvoCare Supports Childress Institute for Pediatric Trauma in 2013: AdvoCare International, LP (AdvoCare), a leading health and wellness company, today announced it will donate to the Childress Institute for Pediatric Trauma based on the performance of Richard Childress Racing NASCAR Nationwide Series driver Austin Dillon, pilot of the #3 AdvoCare Chevrolet. The Childress Institute invests resources in research, education and awareness to improve the treatment for critically injured children in the U.S. AdvoCare is pledging $5,000 for every win, $2,000 for every top five finish and $1,000 for every top 10 finish Dillon has throughout the 2013 Nationwide Series. A check for the total donation will be presented to RCR team owner and Childress Institute co-founder Richard Childress during the AdvoCare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Race on November 10, 2013 at Phoenix International Raceway. "Nearly 10,000 kids die every year from life-threatening injuries - more than all other causes combined," said Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing and co-founder of the Childress Institute for Pediatric Trauma. "It's the number one killer of children in America, and it can happen anywhere, at any time, to any child. We are grateful for the powerful teaming of Austin and AdvoCare to help raise money and awareness for this national problem." Race fans can follow Dillon's progress and AdvoCare's commitment throughout the year by visiting Dillon's website - www.austindillon.com. Fans can help save the lives of injured children by making their own contribution to the Childress Institute in two ways: donate $33 in honor of Dillon via his website, or text WIN to 80077 for a $10 donation. When prompted reply YES. In appreciation of the Childress Institute's mission and AdvoCare's contribution, Dillon and the #3 AdvoCare racing team plan to visit injured children in several hospitals across the U.S. throughout the 2013 race season. Follow their experiences via Twitter @RCR3ADillon or Facebook at www.facebook.com/austindillon3.(4-1-2013)

NASCAR Day will be May 17: The NASCAR Foundation and many throughout the NASCAR industry will come together on Friday, May 17 at Charlotte Motor Speedway to celebrate the 10th Annual NASCAR Day. This special day is an unprecedented celebration of drivers, corporate partners, media and the sport's millions of fans uniting with The NASCAR Foundation to support a range of charitable causes relevant and meaningful to those within the NASCAR family. For the first time, The NASCAR Foundation will be launching a "Ten Days of Giving" tour that will include philanthropic activities in several markets across the country. At each stop on the tour, beginning May 8 in Atlanta, Ga., and culminating on NASCAR Day in Charlotte, N.C., the foundation will partner with various organizations to deliver surprise acts of kindness. In addition to Atlanta and Charlotte, the tour will make stops in Winston-Salem, N.C.; Brooklyn, Mich.; Darlington, S.C.; Kansas City, Kan.; New York, N.Y.; and Daytona Beach, Fla.
Camping World, the Official Outdoor and RV Retailer of NASCAR, has joined the cause this year and will make the limited edition pin, designed by NASCAR's first officially licensed artist Sam Bass, available now until May 17 at Camping World SuperCenters nationwide for a $10 donation to The NASCAR Foundation. NASCAR fans and supporters can also pick up their collectible pins at track during select race weekends or online at NASCAR.com/foundation. To date, NASCAR Day fundraising efforts has raised nearly $12 million for various charities supported by The NASCAR Foundation with an emphasis on children's causes.
NASCAR Day at-track activations will include commemorative B-post decals on all trucks running in that day's NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race and on all cars participating in the next day's NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race, a special pre-race check presentation and many others.(NASCAR)(4-5-2013)

JJ Yeley Partners with the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation : NASCAR driver JJ Yeley has partnered with the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation (RAK) to promote giving back to others and then passing the deed along. RAK's mission is simple: inspire people to practice kindness and to pass it on to others. They also provide free educational and community ideas, guidance and other resources to kindness participants through their website.
How does Yeley come into play with RAK? Like any good racer, he is issuing a challenge to NASCAR fans. It's simple, with the focus on JJ's number 36. Driving the #36 car for Tommy Baldwin Racing and with there being a 36 race schedule, Yeley is recruiting NASCAR fans to join aboard for "JJ's 36/36 RAK." That means in the next 36 weeks, complete 36 random acts of kindness to celebrate Yeley's #36.
"I am really proud to partner with the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation as we work together to achieve their mission of giving back to others," Yeley said. "NASCAR and its fans are always such a giving community, I am looking forward to see what creative things they come up with for my 36/36 RAK. Stay tuned to see what I have planned as well, I am giving back right along with everyone else."
"The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation is overjoyed to collaborate with JJ Yeley in spreading kindness in the NASCAR community," said Brooke Jones, Manager, Random Acts of Kindness Foundation. "It is wonderful to see JJ embracing kindness with such enthusiasm, and we hope it continues to create a ripple effect nationwide."
Are you up for the challenge? Head over to RAK's website, Facebook or Twitter page to get ideas on how you can join JJ's Initiative. JJ also wants to hear from you, what are your plans for the 36 weeks? Tweet him or post on Facebook, he wants to hear how you are giving back to others.
Established in 1995 as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation is a resource for people committed to spreading kindness. We provide a wide variety of materials on our website, including ideas for kind actions, ideas for educators and schools, activities and lesson plans, inspirational quotations, videos and workplace resources-all free of charge.)140Buzz)(3-1-2013)
UPDATE: NASCAR Sprint Cup driver JJ Yeley will play "Shoe Fairy" for grass-root non-profit, Peach's Neet Feet. After challenging NASCAR fans to perform at least one "Random Act of Kindness" per week, for the entire 2013 NASCAR season, JJ Yeley, driver of the #36 Tommy Baldwin Racing Chevy, hits the pavement to live by example. Yeley is scheduled to make stops at children's hospitals while traveling across the country to NASCAR races. There he will deliver personalized, painted shoes to children that are fighting cancer, long-term illnesses, and lifelong disabilities. Will you join JJ Yeley and Peach's Neet Feet and accept the challenge to spread kindness, one person at a time? With the web of caring individuals growing, through partnerships such as this, children and families are supported, strengthened, and encouraged during what may be the hardest times in their lives. Peach's Neet Feet donates custom, hand-painted shoes to children living with disabilities and fighting cancer and other serious illnesses. Every shoe is customized to complement each child's life, interest, and courageous fight. These personalized, one of a kind gifts, lift the spirits of these fighter children and their families. If you'd like more information about what JJ Yeley and Peach's Neet Feet are doing to Pay it Forward through these Random Acts of Kindness, please contact Bob Chasse at 386.566.8754 or bob.chasse@genuine-partners.com. You may also contact Annie Smith at 505.486.9299 or anniepnf@gmail.com. You can also visit their site here.(4-4-2013)

The NASCAR Foundation Celebrates "High Speed Hold 'Em On The Halifax": The NASCAR Foundation held its second annual poker event, "High Speed Hold 'Em On The Halifax" on Wednesday night, a fun and charitable lead-in to Sunday's Daytona 500. The evening brought together NASCAR personalities and local community leaders for a fun-filled night of charity high stakes, presenting The NASCAR Foundation's annual $150,000 donation to benefit the Speediatrics childrens' care unit at Halifax Health Medical Center in Daytona Beach. The NASCAR Foundation Chairwoman Betty Jane France was joined by co-chairs, Brett Dill, president of MG on the Halifax ownership group and Glenn Ritchey, former Daytona Beach mayor and president and CEO of Jon Hall Automotive Group. Greg "FossilMan" Raymer, winner of the 2004 World Series of Poker Main Event and Heartland Poker Tour 2012 Player of the Year served as Honorary Tournament Director. The evening's activities included an auction event, 18 tables of poker and a check presentation by The NASCAR Foundation for its annual donation to the Speediatrics unit.(2-24-2013)

NASCAR Day Pin 2013 is Here: This weekend's NASCAR Preview brought great excitement as Foundation Board Member and NASCAR Hall of Fame Member Rusty Wallace, official NASCAR artist Sam Bass and NASCAR Truck Series driver Dakoda Armstrong helped unveil the 2013 NASCAR Day Pin! To help celebrate the 10th year of NASCAR Day, Sam Bass designed a custom art piece to showcase your NASCAR Day pin collection. The piece contains a special place for each years' pins and will be available in a set with the 2013 pin for a $25 donation. Bass unveiled the 2013 NASCAR Day pin with NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace. The 10th annual NASCAR Day is scheduled for May 17, and this is the second time Bass has been asked to design the pin that signifies NASCAR's day of giving back. Proceeds from sales of the pins will go toward the NASCAR Unites initiative and the NASCAR Foundation.(2-12-2013)

Speedway Children's Charities Teams Up With Britax USA To Provide Free Car Seats and Strollers to Young Mothers: The Charlotte Chapter of Speedway Children's Charities (SCC) joined forces with Charlotte-based Britax USA, a leading manufacturer of child safety seats and strollers, to help make life on the road safer for young mothers and their children. Tuesday, Marcus Smith, president of the Charlotte Chapter of SCC and general manager of Charlotte Motor Speedway, presented 81 car seats and strollers donated by Britax USA to the Crisis Pregnancy Center in Gastonia, N.C., a nonprofit organization committed to helping women, men and families in crisis pregnancy situations. "Speedway Children's Charities is really focused on helping local charities, people who are doing great work like what's happening here at Crisis Pregnancy Center," said Smith. "Today's donation represents about $20,000 worth of car seats and strollers, courtesy of Britax."
Dr. Ancil Overbey III, executive director of the Crisis Pregnancy Center, said it was hard to put into words the impact the donation would have on clients receiving the donated items. "If you could put into words the smile on their face and the joy of knowing that those kids are going to be safe, you can't compare that to anything," Overbey said. "To walk in and see the wall of car seats and strollers  over $20,000 in high-tech equipment. We do this all the time; we've done car seats for years, but we've never had a blessing like this." During the presentation, Overbey introduced three clients who received the first three new car seats. Among them was Tiffany O'Brien, whose daughter is due in three weeks. "With me not working and having troubles with my health, this helps out a lot," said O'Brien. "Knowing my daughter is safe, that's my main concern."
Members of the Crisis Pregnancy Center staff who are trained in car seat installation were on hand to help properly install the seats for the three recipients.(CMS)(1-30-2013)

Penske engineer and wife looking to adopt child from Ethiopia UPDATE: When Aron Oakley met his future wife, Robyn, he quickly discovered her huge heart. The Penske Racing aerodynamics engineer also realized she had plenty of love to go around. Not long after the couple met in 2004, Robyn shared her desire to adopt a child from Africa. Two years later, the couple married. While their family has grown with three little girls, ages 1 to 4, the dream of adopting a child in need never waned. In May, the Oakleys ramped up the process. The couple narrowed their search to an Ethiopian boy "to balance our house full of girls," Robyn said, and enlisted the services of West Sands Adoptions. For the initial expense to expedite the adoption, the NASCAR community has stepped up to help the Oakley's.
The "Our Journey to Bring You Home Silent Auction Fundraiser", held July 14th helped the Oakley's get within $10,000 of their goal, They have a sale this weekend [Sept 22-23] with Suki from Stella and Dot set up and selling, Julie Fay from Thirty-One Gifts and Jenn Harrington from Scentsy. They are donating all of the proceeds and are also taking orders online. There will be an auction on Saturday, September 22nd at the Wynfield Club House, Huntersville, NC. Those who can't make it or are not in the area can bid online. Some of the items include: Danica Patrick signed crew shirt, Denny Hamlin signed firesuit, Ryan Newman signed tire, catering package, bowling birthday package, bike tune ups and other items. For all the info and link, go to ourjourneytobringyouhome.org.(some of this post is from a Fox Sports story)(9-18-2012)

NASCAR Fine Payments Go to NASCAR Foundation: NASCAR announced that starting with the 2008 season, all money collected from fines and penalties issued to drivers will go to the NASCAR Foundation for its charitable initiatives.(NASCAR PR)

The NASCAR Foundation and many throughout the NASCAR industry will come together on Friday, May 17 at Charlotte Motor Speedway to celebrate the 10th Annual NASCAR Day. This special day is an unprecedented celebration of drivers, corporate partners, media and the sport's millions of fans uniting with The NASCAR Foundation to support a range of charitable causes relevant and meaningful to those within the NASCAR family.

Over the past 10 years, the annual celebration has grown substantially in its outreach efforts and impact on communities throughout the country. NASCAR Day, first held in August 2004, initially consisted of supporters making financial donations and showing support by wearing a NASCAR Day pin at their place of business.

Today, it involves so much more. For the first time, The NASCAR Foundation will be launching a "Ten Days of Giving" tour that will include philanthropic activities in several markets across the country. At each stop on the tour, beginning May 8 in Atlanta, Ga., and culminating on NASCAR Day in Charlotte, N.C., the foundation will partner with various organizations to deliver surprise acts of kindness. In addition to Atlanta and Charlotte, the tour will make stops in Winston-Salem, N.C.; Brooklyn, Mich.; Darlington, S.C.; Kansas City, Kan.; New York, N.Y.; and Daytona Beach, Fla.

"This exciting Ten Days of Giving tour reflects an overall expansion of the NASCAR Day initiative, which is perfectly aligned with our original ambition for The NASCAR Foundation," said Betty Jane France, chairwoman of The NASCAR Foundation. "Through the years, the growth of NASCAR Day has paralleled the growth of the foundation. That has increasingly enabled us to do more to help communities throughout the U.S."

Camping World, the Official Outdoor and RV Retailer of NASCAR, has joined the cause this year and will make the limited edition pin, designed by NASCAR's first officially licensed artist Sam Bass, available now until May 17 at Camping World SuperCenters nationwide for a $10 donation to The NASCAR Foundation. Go online to CampingWorld.com/stores to find a location near you. NASCAR fans and supporters can also pick up their collectible pins at track during select race weekends or online at NASCAR.com/foundation. NASCAR Camping World Truck Series driver Darrell Wallace Jr. is among the drivers helping to promote NASCAR Day activities.

"I'm pumped to join Camping World and NASCAR to help promote this year's NASCAR Day program," said Wallace. "The NASCAR Foundation supports many great causes and has proven its ability to make a difference every year. I encourage fans to stop by Camping World to get their NASCAR Day pins and join me in supporting the NASCAR Foundation by wearing their pins on May 17."

To date, NASCAR Day fundraising efforts has raised nearly $12 million for various charities supported by The NASCAR Foundation with an emphasis on children's causes.

NASCAR Day at-track activations will include commemorative B-post decals on all trucks running in that day's NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race and on all cars participating in the next day's NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race, a special pre-race check presentation and many others.

Fans and supporters are encouraged to join the conversation on Facebook at facebook.com/NASCARFoundation and Twitter using hashtag #NASCARDay and share in the celebration of the sport's long history of philanthropy.

The Bobby Labonte Foundation invites bicyclists to saddle up for safety for a third year in a row. The foundation and its founder, NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Bobby Labonte, will host the third annual Archdale Drug "Share the Road" Memorial Bike Ride on Sunday, May 19, in Trinity, N.C.

The event will consist of three different routes with various distances of 50, 70 and 100 kilometers through the rolling hills of Randolph County. The ride will feature live timing and scoring. The challenging courses were mapped by a USA Cycling-sanctioned team member and include routes for both recreational and experienced cyclists. Labonte, an avid cyclist, will ride on the 100-kilometer (63.5-mile) course. Cyclists can register now at www.bobbylabontefoundation.org/events.

Registration will open at 11 a.m. and the ride will begin at 1 p.m., starting and finishing at Wheatmore High School in Trinity, N.C. The pre-registration cost is $25 for a member of a team of eight and $30 for an individual rider. Registration will be available the day of the event based on availability for $35. The first 300 registered cyclists will receive gift bags.

The memorial ride was born after two cyclists were killed while riding in the Charlotte and Greensboro, N.C., regions in 2010 and 2011.

"Awareness of cyclers on the road is improving, but unfortunately we're still hearing stories on the news of people being hurt or killed while riding their bikes," said Bobby Labonte, founder of the foundation with his wife, Donna. "Getting people together every year for this event not only provides a striking visual reminder to be mindful of bikers on the road, but it also helps raise funds for Bikes Belong, which will work to raise awareness across the country long after the memorial ride is over."

The Bobby Labonte Foundation is also using the memorial ride to further its mission to give back to children in need in the local community. The event will help support Communities In Schools of Randolph County Backpack Pals Program, which meets the needs of hungry elementary students by sending home a backpack of nutritious, non-perishable, child-friendly food each Friday. Riders, spectators and fans will be encouraged to bring an essential item such as canned meat items, juice boxes, cereal bars, fruit cups, crackers and pudding cups to donate to the program.

"CIS of Randolph County is excited that the Bobby Labonte Foundation has chosen our Backpack Pals Program as one of the recipients of the ride again this year," said Sandi Norman, executive director of CIS of Randolph County. "This program is something that the entire community has embraced as no one wants to think of a child going hungry. Yet, hunger among children is a reality especially during these tough economic times. The program does more than fill an empty stomach; it also lets these children know that someone in the community cares about them and their future."

In only its third year, the Share the Road Memorial Ride continues to have tremendous support from local and national sponsors whose support will benefit the two causes. Locally, Archdale Drug has continued its title sponsorship of the event. Additional sponsors include Trinity Furniture, CLIF bar and more to be announced later.

"The foundation is always working to help support kids, but a few years ago we felt the need to also do something special for cycling safety, especially with Bobby being an avid biker," said Donna Labonte. "This ride works to help both causes, and we're very grateful to our sponsors for helping to make it a success."

Pre-registration for the events ends on May 17.

Tire Talk: A Drive Down Memory Lane on Sunday, May 19, 2013

EPIC Building
UNC Charlotte Campus
click here for a campus map, parking is free for this event!

2:30pm: Seating for "Tire Talk, a drive down memory lane" begins

3:00pm: Come hear and put a face with the name of some of those closest to Alan Kulwicki, his pit crew. This panel will share their personal stories and reflections of what it was like to work with the 1992 Champion. Cost: $7/person before May 1; $14/person after May 2-18; $20/person at door.

Confirmed Speakers:
Brian Whitesell
Cal Lawson
Danny Cameron
Ed Lesley
Gary Preziosi
Joe Covington
Peter Jellen
Randy Clary
Ron Vicarro
Shane Parsnow

4:30pm: Cocktail Reception for those with paid dinner admission

5:15pm: Dinner with a member of the pit crew. After attending the panel, continue the dicussions over a plated dinner. Business casual attire is requested. Cost: $77/person

The overall goal of this event is to increase the endowment of the Alan Kulwicki Memorial Scholarship so that the amount of the scholarship award can be increased to current students, given the increased cost of tuition.
The Alan Kulwicki Memorial Scholarship recognizes Alan's dedication to education and his ability to inspire others. The Kulwicki Scholarship was established at The University of North Carolina at Charlotte through the generosity of the R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. The scholarship was funded by the sale of a special Winston Cup Champion's poster, which commemorates Kulwicki's 1992 championship season, and contributions from friends.
The $1500 scholarship is awarded each year to an outstanding high school graduate who has an affiliation with NASCAR and who exemplifies Alan's experience and commitment. The award is renewable annually up to four years for full-time students attending UNC Charlotte.
If you are unable to attend this event, you can still donate directly to the scholarship fund! Please visit giving.uncc.edu, then select "William States Lee College of Engineering" on the right drop down menu. Click "Submit Dropdown Field", and on the next page, you will see the "Alan Kulwicki Memorial Scholarship" in the Designation Name drop down menu.

For more information:
Deborah Shuntich
Alumni Relations Coordinator - College of Engineering
704-687-8626
Deborah.Shuntich@uncc.edu

Five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson made his first trip to Le Mars, Iowa today to announce the 2013 Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope campaign. Le Mars is the home of Wells Enterprises, maker of Blue Bunny Ice Cream. Johnson was joined by Mike Wells, President and CEO of Wells Enterprises, Inc. to unveil this year's Jason Beam designed helmet, and to recognize the first charity selected, Make-A-Wish Iowa.

This year's Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope campaign will run during six NASCAR Sprint Cup race weekends beginning at Texas Motor Speedway on April 13th and culminating at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 26th. Johnson will draw two charities each week to be included on the helmet, for a total of thirteen charities. Nominations are currently being accepted at www.HelmetOfHope.org. To date, the program has contributed more than $430,000 to 61 different charities.

At the announcement, Johnson and Wells were joined by Rob Kelly, CEO of Make-A-Wish Iowa, and several children who have been granted wishes through the organization. The event was capped with an ice cream party in the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor.

"At Wells, giving back and being a good corporate citizen is an important commitment we've made through our core fundamentals," Wells said. "We are incredibly pleased to support the work of Make-A-Wish Iowa in their efforts to change lives of kids and families in our state by awarding them the first Helmet of Hope grant in 2013."

Make-A-Wish Iowa grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Established in 1987, Make-A-Wish Iowa is part of a nationwide network of nearly 25,000 caring people dedicated to making wishes come true.

Johnson will take to the track this weekend at Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, Calif. in the #48 Lowe's/Jimmie Johnson Foundation Chevrolet SS, which features the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope logo on the decklid. Johnson will wear the actual Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope during the Sprint Cup race at Michigan International Speedway in August. A replica helmet will be a part of the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope World Tour, which will launch this fall and include visits to each of the selected charities.

About the Helmet of Hope In its sixth year, the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope program gives fans and media members across the country the opportunity to nominate their favorite charity to be featured on five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson's Sprint Cup helmet for the race at Michigan International Speedway on Aug. 18, 2013. The title sponsor for Helmet of Hope is Blue Bunny Ice Cream. In addition to being featured on the helmet, each charity selected also receives a grant of $10,000 and a Blue Bunny ice cream party. To date, the program has contributed more than $430,000 to 61 different charities.

Who the 2013 Helmet of Hope works

Nominate your favorite charity for the chance to be featured on Jimmie's helmet, to receive a $10,000 grant and a Blue Bunny ice cream party. A total of twelve charities will be selected for the 2013 Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope*

Fan Nominations will be accepted until 5:00pm ET on Monday, May 6, 2013

Media Nominations will be accepted until 5:00pm on Monday, May 20, 2013

Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope Drawing Schedule:
Week 1- April 13: Texas Motor Speedway
Week 2- April 21: Kansas Speedway
Week 3- April 27: Richmond International Raceway
Week 4- May 5: Talladega Superspeedway
Week 5- May 11: Darlington Raceway
Week 6- May 26: Charlotte Motor Speedway

August 18: Jimmie wears the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope at Michigan International Speedway

*NEW THIS YEAR:
-Ten Fan Submissions will be selected from nominations Week 1-5
-Two Media Submissions will be selected in Week 6
-Past winners of the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope program are not eligible to apply. To see a complete list of charities by state, click here .

For additional information and to nominate your favorite charity, visit www.HelmetOfHope.org

UPDATE - Fan Charities 1 & 2 - Texas: #48-Jimmie Johnson selected the first two charities to be featured on the 2013 Jimmie Johnson Foundation Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope. Against Abuse, Inc. and the Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired were chosen to appear on the helmet that Johnson will wear during race weekend activities at Michigan International Speedway on August 18, 2013. Each organization also will receive a grant of $10,000 and a special Blue Bunny ice cream party.
Jo Anne Pinto, an employee at Against Abuse, Inc. located in Casa Grande, Ariz., nominated the organization, whose mission is to provide services, support, and education to all who experience the effects of family dysfunction and/or abuse, past and present. "When families have problems, children are the most vulnerable and the most at risk," Pinto pointed out in her nomination form. "AAI's children's program, La Casita de Paz (Little House of Peace) provides an island of security and support as children learn to manage their feelings, make choices for themselves and look towards a more positive future."
The Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired, which offers blind and visually impaired people of Greater Cincinnati, Ohio, the opportunity to seek independence, was nominated by Peg Fortenbery of Liberty Township, Ohio. Peg's daughter and son-in-law received support from Cincy Blind when they found out their son had a visual impairment. "CABVI provided the emotional support needed after the initial diagnosis. CABVI has provided them with excellent resources and unbelievable support for the past 3 1/2 years," said Fortenbery. "One of the resources provided was access to a community of people going through the same or similar experiences."
Against Abuse, Inc. and Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired join Make-A-Wish Iowa, which was selected by the program's title sponsor, Blue Bunny Ice Cream, as charities that will be featured on the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope.(4-14-2013)

UPDATE Fan Charities 3 & 4 - Kansas: Five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson selected two more charities to be featured on the 2013 Jimmie Johnson Foundation Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope. Chelsea's Hope and Me Fine Foundation were chosen to appear on the helmet that Johnson will wear during race weekend activities at Michigan International Speedway on August 18, 2013. Each organization also will receive a grant of $10,000 and a special Blue Bunny ice cream party.
Chelsea's Hope, whose mission is to assist in raising funds for research, treatments and cures for those affected by Lafora disease, was nominated by Mari Brackin, whose daughter suffers from Lafora. Mari's daughter Elisa has suffered from Lafora disease for 10 years. Lafora, which is the most severe form of human epilepsy, only has a prognosis of 3-10 years from manifestation. There is currently no known cure. "We need to get the word out and what better way than to have it on Jimmie Johnson's helmet" said Mari.
The Me Fine Foundation provides necessary resources and financial assistance to parents and caregivers with children being treated at Duke and UNC Children's Hospitals. Joey Powell, who works for the Me Fine Foundation, nominated the charity, stating "By helping provide for these families' emergent needs during this vital time, we can ensure that the children can focus on healing, recuperation and hopefully defeat illness."
Chelsea's Hope, located in Danville, Calif., and Me Fine Foundation, located in Princeton, N.C., join Against Abuse, Inc., Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired and Make-A-Wish Iowa as charities that will be featured on the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope.(4-22-2013)

UPDATE Fan Charities 5 & 6 - Richmond: Five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson selected two more charities to be featured on the 2013 Jimmie Johnson Foundation Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope. Denver Kids, Inc. and Miracle League of Pensacola were chosen to appear on the helmet that Johnson will wear during race weekend activities at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn on Aug. 18, 2013. Each organization also will receive a grant of $10,000 and a special Blue Bunny ice cream party.
Denver Kids' mission is to help Denver Public School students, grades K-12, who face the personal challenges of higher risk environments to successfully complete high school, pursue post-secondary programs and become contributing members of society. Denver Kids, nominated by employee Andy Tiehen, provides one-on-one educational counseling for more than 1,000 students living at or below poverty in the Denver area. "These students have a graduation rate around 35 percent, but with Denver Kids, Inc., they are graduating at 91 percent" stated Tiehen. "We need more mentors, specifically male mentors, and the publicity and financial support we would receive through a spot on Jimmie's helmet would be invaluable."
The Miracle League of Pensacola provides a safe, organized baseball league and facilities for Gulf Coast children with mental and/or physical challenges where every player plays, every player hits, every player gets on base, every player scores and every player wins - every inning. Currently they serve nearly 200 players ranging in age from 4 to 64 years young. Paul Hinson, a volunteer umpire for the organization, nominated The Miracle League of Pensacola for the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope, saying, "We accept all players, regardless of their challenges, there are players confined to wheelchairs, players with Down Syndrome and players with attention and learning disorders." The League pairs up an able bodied person with each player, enabling the people of the community to form a bond with the players and also to see the happiness that the players gain by being able to play the game of baseball.
Denver Kids, Inc., located in Denver, Colo., and Miracle League of Pensacola, located in Pace, Fla., join Chelsea's Hope, Me Fine Foundation, Against Abuse, Inc., Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired and Make-A-Wish Iowa as charities that will be featured on the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope.(4-29-2013)

UPDATE Fan Charities 7 & 8 - Talladega: Five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson selected two more charities to be featured on the 2013 Jimmie Johnson Foundation Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope. International FOP Association, Inc. and Ruth's Reusable Resources were chosen to appear on the helmet that Johnson will wear during race weekend activities at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn on Aug. 18, 2013. Each organization also will receive a grant of $10,000 and a special Blue Bunny ice cream party.
The International FOP Association was created to raise funds to find a cure for Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP), while supporting individuals and their families through education, public awareness and advocacy. FOP is one of the rarest, most disabling genetic conditions known to medicine. It causes bone to form in muscles, tendons, ligaments and other connective tissues. The organization was nominated by Kristina Sligh, whose nephew Lincoln is afflicted with the disease. "The IFOPA is very important to me because my six year old nephew has this rare disease," shared Sligh. "The hope and prayer is to find a cure. Please consider IFOPA for Jimmie's helmet because all kids deserve the same mobility."
Ruth's Reusable Resources ensures that students and classrooms in Maine have the basic tools for learning, by transferring surplus business supplies and merchandise into the hands of school children and teachers. Nominated by staff member Seth Libby, the organization has given away more than $45 million worth of supplies. The organization's vision is to provide every Maine child with the variety and quality of supplies needed to succeed in school. What began in the basement of founder Ruth Libby's home has greatly expanded to what it is today. "I think that Ruth's Reusable Resources should be on the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope because in 19 years, the organization has impacted 70,000 students," said Seth Libby. It has filled more than 10,000 backpacks in the last nine years alone."
International FOP Association, located near Orlando, FL, and Ruth's Reusable Resources, located in Portland, ME, join Denver Kids, Inc., Miracle League of Pensacola, Chelsea's Hope, Me Fine Foundation, Against Abuse, Inc., Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired and Make-A-Wish Iowa as charities that will be featured on the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope.(5-6-2013)

UPDATE Fan Charities 9 & 10 - Darlington: Five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson selected the final two fan charities to be featured on the 2013 Jimmie Johnson Foundation Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope. Peach's Neet Feet and MISS Foundation were chosen to appear on the helmet that Johnson will wear during race weekend activities at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn on Aug. 18, 2013. Each organization also will receive a grant of $10,000 and a special Blue Bunny ice cream party.
Peach's Neet Feet donates custom, hand-painted shoes to children living with disabilities and fighting serious illnesses. Every shoe is designed to complement each child's life, interest, and courageous fight. They have donated nearly 700 pairs of shoes to children around the country in just two years. Peach's Neet Feet was nominated by Misshay Smith, whose son received a pair of shoes while in The Children's Hospital located in Oklahoma City, Okla. "My son loves his Spiderman shoes," shared Smith. "They give him the courage to fight and make him smile when he wears them." Madison "Peach" Steiner is the founder/president of Peach's Neet Feet, which started in Steiner's bedroom with a spark of fierce desire to make a difference. "Madison doesn't just paint shoes, but she becomes part of the team that helps these kids fight" said Smith.
MISS Foundation provides Counseling, Advocacy, Research, Education and Support (C.A.R.E.S). for families experiencing the death of a baby or child at any age and from any cause. They are a place where families can feel connected to others during their darkest hours. MISS Foundation offers free family packets, HOPE mentor matches, support groups, counseling, and more. "Without their help, I am not sure where my wife and I would be right now," states Brian Bobier. Brian nominated the MISS Foundation after losing their first-born daughter. "I believe this would be a wonderful charity to promote since losing a child happens far too often in our society" said Bobier.
Peach's Neet Feet, located in Farmington, N.M., and MISS Foundation, located in Phoenix, Ariz., join International FOP Association, Ruth's Reusable Resources, Denver Kids, Inc., Miracle League of Pensacola, Chelsea's Hope, Me Fine Foundation, Against Abuse, Inc., Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired and Make-A-Wish Iowa as charities that will be featured on the Blue Bunny Helmet of Hope.
Media nominations are still being accepted at www.helmetofhope.org. The media nomination process closes on Monday, May 20th.(5-11-2013)

The King's Cup - Karting for a Cause benefitting the Paralyzed Veterans of America (Paralyzed Veterans) welcomes back Xtreme Motorsports and D&B Motors as the presenting sponsor to the popular event that has become one of the most-notable, fan-friendly events during the May race weeks in Charlotte. Xtreme Motorsports and D&B Motors, long-time advocates of the Paralyzed Veterans, continue their support of the organization.

The King's Cup - Karting for a Cause has raised over $500,000 for the Paralyzed Veterans since it began in 2009. Teams and tickets are still available for purchase. For more information, please visit www.pva.org/gokart.

Dover International Speedway will again host the NASCAR Unites Track Walk, benefiting The NASCAR Foundation and Autism Speaks, following the Saturday, June 1 "5-hour ENERGY 200" NASCAR Nationwide Series race.

NASCAR returns to Dover International Speedway May 31-June 2, 2013, for the June 2 "FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks" NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, the June 1 "5-hour ENERGY 200" NASCAR Nationwide Series race and the May 31 "Lucas Oil 200" NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race. For tickets or more information, call 800-441-RACE or visit DoverSpeedway.com.

Pocono Celebrity Charity Poker Showdown Benefiting The NASCAR Foundation and the Armed Forces Foundation
Join Pocono Raceway as it hosts the second-annual Pocono Celebrity Charity Poker Showdown!

Date: Thursday, June 6, 2013
Time: VIP Meet-and-Greet 6-7pm; Main Event 7-10pm
Where: Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs in Wilkes-Barre, PA

The event precedes the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Pocono 400 on June 9, 2013, at "The Tricky Triangle," and will feature race fans playing alongside NASCAR drivers and celebrities. The top-finishing fan will receive their choice of an all-expense paid trip to Mohegan Sun in Montville, CT or a VIP Pocono Raceway race weekend experience.

Limited space available! Fans can choose from four donation options below:
$250 donation offers a pre-tournament, VIP meet-and-greet with drivers and celebrities on hand, as well as entry for one to participate in the Poker Showdown
$150 donation allows entry into pre-event VIP reception and attendance at the event as a spectator
$100 donation reserves a seat in the poker tournament
$50 donation allows for fans to attend the event as spectators.

More info at foundation.nascar.com

Foundation Fest: San Diego will be held on Wednesday, June 19th. This is your chance to meet Jimmie Johnson, have your picture taken with him, and get up to 2 items autographed. Fans must be a 2013 All-Star Club member by Friday, April 12, 2013 to be eligible for the Foundation Fest: San Diego invitation lottery. Details on how to register for the lottery will be emailed to all current members on Thursday, April 18, 2013. Not an All-Star Club member? Click here to join. Memberships start at just $24.

The Reed Sorenson Charity Golf Tournament is scheduled for Thursday, August 29, 2013 at the Crystal Lake Golf Club in Hampton. GA for a day filled with golf and fun with drivers and racing celebrities! Registration begins at 8 a.m., and play begins with a 10 a.m. shotgun start. For more info, call (770) 946-3980 or e-mail gingerm@atlantamotorspeedway.com

Purchase your 2013 Corvette raffle ticket and you could be the winner of Jeff's personal 2012 Corvette Convertible Grand Sport 4 LT.

Tickets purchased benefit the Jeff Gordon Children's Foundation's efforts to fund pediatric cancer treatment and research programs and the Jeff Gordon Children's Hospital. Purchase your tickets online for $100 each and be among the select few who have a chance to drive home in Jeff's personal Corvette Convertible Grand Sport 4LT. Only 7,500 tickets will be sold.

More info and to purchase go to jeffgordonchildrensfoundation.org

The raffle will end on Monday September 23, 2013. Winner will be announced first week in October of 2013.

Paula Heath of Castroville, CA won Jeff Gordon's 2011 Corvette Convertible Grand Sport 4LT!

Legendary country and Southern rock musician, Charlie Daniels. announced at Bristol Motor Speedway that he has partnered with NASCAR brothers Darrell and Michael Waltrip to headline the Fourth Annual Waltrip Brothers' Charity Championship Champion's Dinner in Franklin, TN. Daniels, who provided the pre-race entertainment at the half-mile race track, will perform at the Oct. 23 Champion's Dinner, kicking off the two-day fundraiser that concludes Oct. 24 with a golf tournament and benefits Feed The Children, Motor Racing Outreach (MRO) and Lipscomb University's Charlie Daniels Scholarship for Heroes.

"We've made great strides with WBCC and continue to raise the bar every year," Darrell Waltrip said. "Charlie Daniels agreeing to entertain our guests is just another gigantic example of how well-supported this event has become. He's an American hero and a national treasure. The man is a wizard with a fiddle, and we're honored to have him bring it to this year's event. But more importantly, I'm grateful to call this legend a true friend and neighbor."

Daniels is a staunch supporter of the American military, supporting Lipscomb University's Yellow Ribbon Enhancement Program, which allocates funds for tuition-free undergraduate degrees to veterans who qualify for 100-percent of the Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. A portion of the funds raised through this year's WBCC will go toward this effort.

"I can't say 'thank you' enough times to Darrell and Michael Waltrip for their generous contribution and participation in the Yellow Ribbon Event this year," Daniels said. "But I'm going to try. I'll be seeing the boys for their annual Waltrip Brothers Charity Championship Champion's Dinner this year and am really looking forward to it. Let's have a little fun."

Last year's WBCC was the most successful to-date, raising $350,000 for Motor Racing Outreach (MRO) and Feed The Children. Several top names from the NASCAR, country music, sports and entertainment world annually lend their support through participation and donations of autographed items for auction.

"The 2013 event was the most fun and most successful we've had yet," Michael Waltrip said. "The support from icons in the music, sports and entertainment world was amazing, and the addition of Charlie to this year's event tells me this year will be even better. With a little luck and more great friends like Charlie, the WBCC could become a legend in its own right in due time."

For further information or to inquire as to how you may attend the Waltrip Brothers' Charity Championship or assist, please contact Van Colley at vancolley@waltripbrothers.com and more info at waltripbrothers.com.

The "No Limits" Wild Asphalt Run Half Marathon & 5k Benefiting Speedway Children's Charities-Texas will make its 2013 return to Texas Motor Speedway on Saturday, Oct. 26, with early-bird registration beginning Dec. 1 for both races.

Individuals that sign up between Dec. 1 and Jan. 15 will get a reduced entry fee rate of $65 for the half marathon and $20 for the 5k. Race teams also will receive a price break during that early-bird period as well. The entry fee will be $65 per individual for the half marathon; $18 for 5k teams; and $15 for school 5k teams, which have an extended early-bird window through Aug. 15.

NL Run The half marathon entry fee increases to $75 from Jan. 16-May 31; $85 from June 1-Aug. 15; $95 from Aug. 16-Oct. 15; $100 from Oct. 16 until online registration closes; and $110 on race day. For the 5k, the entry fee will increase to $25 from Jan. 16-Aug. 15; $30 from Aug. 16 until online registration closes; and $35 on race day.

Competitors can register online by visiting www.nolimitsrun.com.

Texas Motor Speedway, in partnership with Cowtown Marathon, Inc., is coming off a successful inaugural event on Oct. 27, 2012 that served as the "Go Green" kickoff event for the Nov. 1-4 AAA Texas 500 NASCAR tripleheader race week.

The one-day running event and expo attracted nearly 2,000 runners from 13 states and raised $93,000 for Speedway Children's Charities-Texas. Kolin Styles, the 2012 Cowtown Marathon champion, captured the half marathon crown with a time of 1 hour, 11 minutes and 32.4 seconds while Clinton Blacksmith won the 5k overall title with a time of 18 minutes, 29.3 seconds.

Half marathon competitors that participated in the inaugural event can purchase additional finisher shirts for $10. Event t-shirts and bags also are available to competitors and the general public as well for $10 each. All of the proceeds from these items will go to Speedway Children's Charities-Texas.

For those interested in the additional items, event sponsorship opportunities or have additional questions, please contact Speedway Children's Charities-Texas at (817) 215-8421.

On-line registraton is open for the 9th Annual Ryan Newman Foundation Annual Charity Fishing Tournament scheduled to take place on Saturday, December 14, 2013.

THERE WILL BE NO REGISTRATIONS ACCEPTED THE MORNING OF THE EVENT! Click Here to register.

The 2013 NASCAR Pets Calendar is on sale. The 2013 NASCAR Pets Calendar features NASCAR Drivers Greg Biffle, Kyle Busch, Danica Patrick, Jeff Burton, Ricky Stenhouse, Jr., Aric Almirola, Bobby Labonte, Tony Stewart, Jeff Burton, Regan Smith, Joey Logano, Kyle and Richard Petty and Miss Sprint Cup pictured with their pets and family members. The calendar also features members of the media including Shannon Spake, Rutledge Wood, John Roberts, Jeff Hammond and Chris Myers.

All proceeds from the calendar go to the Greg Biffle Foundation which Greg and his wife Nicole founded in 2005 to create awareness and serve as an advocate to improve the well-being of animals by engaging the power and passion of the motor sports industry.

The 2013 calendar can be purchased at gregbifflefoundation.com

The Greg Biffle Foundation is still offering 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 Calendars Go to the The Greg Biffle Foundation site for more info and to purchase