Gov. Mike Easley proclaimed today as Dale Earnhardt Day in North Carolina to honor the late NASCAR legend. Today would have been EarnhardtÃÂÃÂs 53rd birthday. ÃÂÃÂDale Earnhardt brought so much joy to fans throughout the world and pride to this great state,ÃÂÃÂ Easley said in a statement issued Wednesday. ÃÂÃÂHe helped elevate NASCAR and the motor sports industry to new heights. As DaleÃÂÃÂs legacy continues on, it is appropriate to pay tribute to the life and accomplishments of this outstanding North Carolinian.ÃÂÃÂ Easley signed a state House bill in October 2002 to designate N.C. 136 in Iredell and Cabarrus counties as N.C. 3, the same number as EarnhardtÃÂÃÂs racing car. The Dale Earnhardt Highway passes through Mooresville, home of Dale Earnhardt Inc. The highway also passes through and Kannapolis EarnhardtÃÂÃÂs hometown. The renamed roadway was dedicated during a March 2003 ceremony. Dale Earnhardt Inc. will host a day long celebration of the racing starÃÂÃÂs birthday. Steve Crisp, DEI media spokesman, said he and the rest of the corporationÃÂÃÂs staff are honored by EasleyÃÂÃÂs proclamation. ÃÂÃÂThe impact that Dale Earnhardt had on the state – heÃÂÃÂs one of the most recognized sports figures from North Carolina,ÃÂÃÂ Crisp said.(Independent Tribune)(4-29-2004)
