November 1998 News Archives

(11-30-98)
SABCO PR: Team SABCO will return to a two-car NASCAR Winston Cup operation in 1999 after fielding a third entry for the past several seasons. The #46 Chevrolet had been sponsored by First Union and The Money Store, however, the financial institution opted to refocus their involvement in the Winston Cup series. “If in the next few weeks a sponsor shows interest in SABCO, we’ll investigate further into the possibility of bringing the 46 team back,” said Team SABCO owner Felix Sabates. “At this time, we’ve chosen to concentrate our efforts on a two-car operation and focus on returning to a top-notch Winston Cup organization.” Sabates’ two other teams will remain intact. Joe Nemechek extended his contract to drive the #42 BellSouth Chevrolet through 2001, while two-time Daytona 500 winner Sterling Marlin returns to the No. 40 Coors Light Chevrolet for the next two years.(SABCO PR via Stock Car Racing Mag)(11-30-98)
Cale done? Not yet? It was 11 years in the making, but as of late last week Cale Yarborough Motorsports ceased operations. Yarborough, a three time Winston Cup champion, without a sponsor for his #98 Ford team, decided it was time to call it quits. See full story at GoRacing(11-25-98) — Missed it but heard that Reece Davis of RPM2Nite talked to Cale Yarborough, who owns the #98 Ford. Cale supposedly said that the team has started working again with a skelton crew and it’s engine shop and may have a sponsor lined up and hopes to have an announcement within the next two weeks, Winston Cup Today Radio reports the same, Cale calls it a glimmer of hope. See the NASCAR Online story(11-30-98)
Another DW rumor: Darrel Waltrip may have a deal lined up for the next two years with an owner new to NASCAR(no idea who). Could involve using Buz McCall’s shops or Joe Gibbs old shop(11-29-98). Looks like this won’t happen as DW will be in the 2nd Travis Carter ride(11-30-98)
Graves leaves DEI: It was announced today that Fred Graves, crew chief for the Dale Earnhardt, Inc. (DEI) No. 16 NASCAR CTS team sponsored by NAPA, has resigned his position with the team. Graves is leaving to pursue other opportunities in motorsports. The DEI organization has begun the process of searching for a team leader.(GoRacing) and although not stated in the release from DEI, country.com/Motorsports has learned that Graves will be joining the Hendrick Motorsports Winston Cup organization in a team management role with the #5 car. Graves’ son, Andy Graves, will continue as the crewchief of the #5, driven by Terry Labonte, but the senior Graves will join the team to assist during testing, at the shop, and at the track(TNN’s website)(11-30-98)

(11-29-98)

Geoff Bodine on TNN: TNN’s Inside NASCAR had an interview with Geoff Bodine. It was mentioned that Bodine has talked to five Cup teams, three BGN teams, a CTS(truck) team and Bodine mentioned that he has talked to an IRL team, not an existing one but a possible new IRL team and he is considering it but wants to stay in Cup and would like to run most of the BGN season if possible so he could race with hid son Barry(11-29-98)

(11-28-98)
Texas Testing: Both Firestone and Goodyear are scheduled to test during the first two weeks of December with drivers such as NASCAR Winston Cup driver Jeff Burton and Greg Ray of the Pep Boys Indy Racing League. The Indy Racing League will also hold a two-day test for five potential new drivers for the IRL. Test are closed to the public. On Ded. 8-9 / GOODYEAR – NASCAR Winston Cup driver Jeff Burton will be on the speedway testing for Goodyear. Burton, who won the inaugural Winston Cup event at Texas in 1997, will be the first Cup driver to run full speed on the reconfigured speedway(Sue’s ADNASCAR Daily Newsletter)(11-28-98)

(11-27-98)
#91 Close? Joe Falk is close to a deal with UPS to sponsor the #91 Chevy in 1999. He hopes Todd Bodine will be the driver. However, Bodine has a contract to drive Cicci-Welliver Racing’s Phillips 66 Cheverolet in the BGN(NSSN)(11-27-98)
Philips/Mattei/Bodine? According to sources, the rumored split between Philips and Mattei Motorsports is not happening, but apparently it is happening. Confused? Supposedly former Mattei driver Geoff Bodine has won over some friends at Philips and will take a significant associate sponsorship from the Philips Lighting divisions with him to another team, possibly Junie Donlavey’s #90 Ford. Meanwhile the Philips electronic division will remain with the #7 Mattei car(Chevy?) and new driver Michael Waltrip(NSSN-thanks Sharon))(11-27-98)
Elliott 2nd team: Bill Elliott said he is still waiting to hear if FirstPlus Financial will return to the #13 for 1999. As a result, the driver announcement is also in limbo(NSSN)(11-27-98)

(11-26-98)

(11-25-98)
#96 Team Alive UPDATE: The Buz McCall #96 team appearing headed to a sure sellout or merger, could be close to signing a deal with a backer for next season(Times-Dispatch)(11-20-98) — Nope, looks like the team will close down, most of the help has found other jobs or are looking, no one will buy the Team as is, just the euqipment will go up for sale(11-25-98)
SABCO #46 Alive? UPDATES: WC Today Radio reports that an 11th hour deal may have been found that will keep the third SABCO in action for the 1999 season.(11-19-98) — Felix Sabates appears to be breathing new life into the #46, which lost its sponsor and driver Jeff Green late in the year(Times-Dispatch)(11-20-98) — sources tell me this team is done and if anything may becoame a test or R&D operation of some sort but will not race. The #7 Mattei Motorsports team will use SABCO engines and possibly buy some Chevy’s from the team(11-23-98) — SABCO has announced that the #46 is done and the team will run a two car team(WC Today Radio)(11-25-98)
Bickle Signs: Rich Bickle announced that he will drive Pontiacs for Tyler Jet Motorsports in 1999 and the team is also on the verge of making a sponsorship announcement for next season(NASCAR Online)(11-25-98)
Elliott 2nd Team UPDATE 2: Bill Elliott remains silent about the status of his second car(#13), though he apparently has a sponsor willing to sign(Times-Dispatch)(11-20-98) — The NASCAR Online Notebook, also says Elliott has nothing to announce, yet(11-23-98) — Now I hear that Elliott may not run the second team in 1999 and concentrate on the #94 team only(11-25-98)
LJ Racing News: #91 LJ Racing team owner Joe Falk expects to name a sponsor by December 1st and has three good possibilities. Falk hopes to have Todd Bodine in the car, but he would have to miss three Cup races because of his committment to the #30 Phillips 66 BGN team, Falks second choice may be Geoff Bodine for the seat.(Winston Cup Today Radio) Also the LJ Racing team will be profiled on TNN’s Inside NASCAR this weekend. The show is scheduled to air on Saturday, Nov 28 at 6pm/et and Sunday, Nov 29 at 10am/et. The TNN crew was at the shop a couple weeks ago, filming activities and interviews with Owner Joe Falk and Crew Chief Doug Richert, as well as other events(LJ Racing Online)(11-25-98)
Noticed: Many results(NASCAR Online, That’s Racin’, etc) I have seen of the Japan race last weekend list Bill Elliott in a Chevy, just a misprint, he was in a Ford(Speedworld and GoRacing lists Elliott correctly in a Ford)(11-25-98)
Craven Crew UPDATE: I hear Stan Meserve will become shop foreman for Ricky Craven’s new Cup team beginning next week. Meserve has raced for over 30 years, including a few Winston Cup events in the early 1970’s, and was one of Craven’s early mentors(11-23-98) — See a full report on this at North East Racing(11-25-98)

(11-24-98)
DW and Yates: Have heard NOTHING to confirm any rumors that Darrell Waltrip would a third Yates car in 1999 or replace Kenny Irwin in the #28. As far as everything I hear, is that Irwin returns to the #28 in 1999 and the DW news is in a note on this page from the 22nd(11-24-98)
Green and the #36? NO and CORRECTION, I messed this one all up – RETRACTION BGN that is – saw on TNN’s Raceday that David Green is going to drive the #36 Stanley Tools BGN Pontiac on a limited basis. The Cup #41 team will be pitting the car on raceday. — Green(not Grissom, doh) will NOT drive the #36 BGN car, he will drive a Hedrick Motorsports BGN entry in some companion WC/BGN events, which will be crewed by the #41 Cup crew.(11-23-98) — CORRECTION, This is what was EXACTLY said on TNN’s RACEDAY: “If all goes according to plan, former BGN champ David Green could be back in busch part-time. Green drove for team 34, the second half of this year, his NEW team will be separate from his Winston Cup ride with Larry Hedrick, but will be pitted on raceday by the hedrick over the wall gang.” No mention of the #36 car being part of this deal, I regret this error(11-24-98)
Gordon Driver of the Year: Jeff Gordon Takes Third Driver of the Year Award, see the story at the WRAL-TV NASCAR site.(11-24-98)
New Cope Crew Chief? UPDATE Looks like Jim Long is the man heading the list to replace Doug Hewitt as crew chief for Derrike Cope in 1999. Long started the 1998 season working for Ricky Rudd and finished it with the Stavola Brothers. Hewitt left Bahari Racing to become Kyle Petty’s new crew chief(MRN Radio’s Marty Snider’s Two Cents’ Worth)(11-20-98) — I hear Long will not be the crew chief and an announcement is expected soon pertaining the sponsor and new crew chief(11-24-98)
TOP Cop Racing: Top Cop racing is a program designed to benefit the youth throughout the state. Although the actual driving of the cars is done by sworn law enforcement officers, all of the money raised is used to benefit youth charities throughout the state, the drivers receive only trophies for their efforts. The cars and other equipment used in the races are either obtained through donations, or in a lot of cases, at the expense of the driver and his crew. See the site at Top Cop Racing(11-24-98)

(11-23-98)
Philips to Stay? Michael Waltrip, who now drives for the #7 Mattei Motorsports team, says he is confident that Philips will remain with the team next season. Speculation was that the sponsorship was shaky after 1998 driver Geoff Bodine left the team and that Philips has gone through changes and realignment in their business strategies, but feels confident that things will work out(NASCAR Online)(11-23-98)
Honda? NO: Mike Helton of NASCAR was asked if he saw Honda participating in NASCAR competition any time soon. He said that Honda does not currently have a motor that meets specifications for NASCAR racing(NASCAR Online Notebook)(11-23-98)

(11-22-98)

#98 CLOSED UP? UPDATE: Just heard that the #98 Cale Yarborough team is in the process of closing it’s shop and laying off the crew. The Philips and Geoff Bodine deal never materialized. Looks like Philips just may leave the sport.(11-20-98) — Yep, it’s true, mid afternoon on Friday the crew/team were informed and most were back in Saturday to collect their tools and belongings. Yarborough maintains that he is still looking for a sponsor and hopes to get the team back up and running(11-22-98)

(11-20-98)
Lake News: at The Lake Speed Fan Club Online – News(11-20-98)
Bodine Info: Geoff Bodine is currently working on a sponsorship deal with the casino that the Cherokee Indians own in North Carolina. If Bodine can work out that deal he would stay in Winston Cup, if not he may stay there anyway waiting for that first pink slip to be handed out in 1999(MRN Radio’s Marty Snider’s Two Cents’ Worth)(11-20-98)
Beverley No-Sell: Tim Beverley says his #17/35 team is not for sale(Times-Dispatch)(11-20-98)
Donlavey News: Junie Donlavey, owner of the #90 Ford team, is confident that his team will be back next season — he is building the 1999 cars in the Richmond shop. He has not signed with anyone yet, but says he is talking to a few people. Some of those deals come with their own driver, others would give him a choice. For now, it’s business as usual for the veteran owner(Times-Dispatch)(11-20-98)
Not closed yet: The Stavola Brothers have laid off some employees, but have not closed the doors to their shop yet. According to employees there, no decision to shut down operations will be made until January 1999(Times-Dispatch)(11-20-98)
#58 Sponsor at Japan: Tempe-based Innovative Environmental Products (), a 20-year-old environmental technology company, has announced that its MiraChem(R) livery will appear on the SB111 Motorsports #58 Ford Taurus on Nov. 21 at the NASCAR Thunder, Special Coca-Cola 500 at Twin Ring Motegi in Japan. The race will mark the debut of both MiraChem and of SB111’s entry with Ricky Craven driving(PRN Newswire)(11-20-98)

(11-19-98)
Mattei news: Good chance that Philips will not be back as the sponsor of the #7 Mattei Motorsports #7 team in 1999. The team has signed all it’s associate sponsors but not Philips and needs a decision by Philips by Monday(WC Today Radio)(11-19-98)
More changes at Tyler Jet: I hear Team Manager John Cunningham and Tyler Jet Motorsports(#35 Tabasco Team in 1998) have parted ways. Not sure what this means for the future of the team(11-19-98)
Speed Magazine article: RJR may sever some big ties (11-19-98)
Benson Crew Chief CORRECTION and UPDATE: Jack Roush and Johnny Benson were at Road Atlanta today, for the ‘Roush Ride and Drive’ and did a satellite interview with Alan Bestwick on Speedvision’s ‘Inside Winston Cup Racing’ where Roush announced that Bobby Leslie would be Benson’s Crew Chief with the #26 Cheerios Ford in 1999.(Wide Freakin’ Open). Jayski Note: Leslie was the interim crew chief after Steve Hmiel left Roush Racing.(11-10-98) — My mistake – Bobby Leslie has not been the interim crew chief in 1998, it was Ben Leslie who was formerly the car chief stepped in to perform crew chief duties after Steve Hmiel left. Bobby Leslie (no relation to Ben) was the crew chief for Mark Martin’s BGN ride in 1998 and provided support to Martin’s team on race day for Winston Cup.(11-10-98) — Little old but…NASCAR Online reports Leslie named Benson’s crew chief(11-19-98)

(11-18-98)
Morgan-McClure/Microsoft? Hey, a wild one – hear that a second Morgan-McClure team effort is may still happen in 1999. The sponsor rumored is Microsoft. No word on a driver yet.(11-18-98)
Martin has cold UPDATE 2: Mark Martin’s back surgery has been postponed a couple of days because Mark has a cold.(WC Today Radio)(11-17-98) — small blurb, more details at GoRacing – Martin Standing By.Surgery not needed for Martin: Surgery not necessary for Martin(NASCAR Online)(11-18-98)
Pardus News: Midwest Transit Racing, owner of the #07 car driven by Danny Pardus has announced the signing of a two year engine support agreement with Hendrick Motorsports covering Winston Cup Seasons 1999 and 2000. Midwest has puschased 4 additional cars from Sabco and intends to run a full schedule during the 1999 season with Danny Pardus to be nominated for Rookie of the Year.(11-18-98)
More MacDonald Stuff: For the past year or so Randy MacDonald has been advising the 3M company (1997 sales, $15.1 billion US) as it has deliberated how to best jump into NASCAR racing as a primary sponsor. See the story at MacDonald pushes for a 3M deal(11-18-98)
Gamers: NASCAR Goes Online, Sierra and NASCAR are officially launching the NASCAR Racing Online Series (NROS) on November 23.(go to above link for info, don’t email me, not into games)(11-18-98)

(11-17-98)
#13 News: Hearing that Rich Bickle is another driver under consideration by the #13 Bill Elliott owned team.(11-17-98)
Crew Changes: Tony Liberati, car chief/engineer for the #50 Bud team this past season has been released from Hendrick Motorsports and is looking. From what I hear Liberati is a crew chief in the making.(11-17-98)
UPS: I hear that UPS may end up being the sponsor on the #7 Mattei Ford(11-17-98)
Winston Safe: R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. would be allowed to continue its title sponsorship of NASCAR’s premier racing series under the proposed settlement with state attorneys general announced Monday. See the That’s Racin’s story at: Winston Cup looks safe under proposed deal(11-17-98)

(11-16-98)
Tobacco Deal: States Outline Big Tobacco Deal and JournalNow – Tobacco Articles(11-16-98)
Beam Gone from the #94 to the #21 UPDATE 3: Hearing rumors that Team Manager Mike Beam and Owner/Driver Bill Elliott have parted ways, no confirmation on this yet. Elliott owns/drives the #94 McDonald’s Ford and owns the #13 Ford team. — Winston Cup Today radio reports that the team says this is not true. But….I hear he is looking at his options and they may include the #28 team(11-12-98) — Am now hearing that Beam has left the Elliott team and that the #28 team may be an option for 1999. — No #28 but…..At the beginning of December, Mike Beam, will join forces with driver Elliott Sadler and the Wood Brothers Racing Team. Beam has served as crew chief for driver Bill Elliott since 1995 before taking his current role of chief operating officer with Bill Elliott Racing in 1998. Beam will serve as the crew chief for the #21 CITGO Ford and spearhead Elliott Sadler’s campaign for rookie of the year. Initial plans are for Beam to work one or two days a week in Stuart, Virginia at the Wood Brothers’ race shop and then oversee the team’s operations at the race track.(GoRacing via CITGO Racing)(11-16-98)
DJ OK: Dale Jarrett underwent successful gall bladder surgery in Phoenix Monday, will be released Tursday, and given a routine checkup Wednesday before heading home(WC Today Radio) and see the story at GoRacing: Jarrett in Good and Stable after Successful Glallbladder Surgery also check out the DieHard Yates Fan’s Dale Jarrett “Get Well” Wishes page.(11-16-98)
#81 team done? UPDATE: Hearing that Filmar Racing has let all of the shop personnel go as of Friday the 13th. Supposedly the team(equipment, cars) is for sale(11-15-98) — I hear that Filmar racing has not officially closed its doors, but the equipment has been lined up and prepared to sell. Supposedly team owner Filbert Martocci had the option of selling it to Ford teams that want to gain a 2nd team, however since former crew chief Gil Martin(now works for Bill Davis Racing and the #93 team) is still 45% owner, Martin may seek an injunction blocking the sale, which Martocci is trying to conduct quietly. I hear Martocci would not sell the remaining portion of the team to Martin. The ownership of #81 is public knowledge, though not many know.(11-16-98)
STP/#43 Stuff UPDATE 2: There are rumors abound that STP will do one of the following: 1) STP Stays as primary; 2) STP drops down to an associate sponsor; 3) STP leaves the team(most unlikely). One rumor has UPS becoming a primary or associate sponsor. A few fans have emailed STP and gotten the following response: “As you know “Clorox” has purchased STP. During the sale discussions it was NEVER mentioned that STP would discontinue their relationship with Richard Petty. From a business standpoint I’m sure we agree its a win win situation for both parties. This rumor regarding a partial sponsorship has never been implied nor told to my office. Unless told otherwise I can assume nothing. Thank you for your time and patience as well as your interest in #43.”(11-3-98) — “A spokesman for STP said rumors the product won’t return as a sponosr of Petty Enterprises weren’t true. He said STP would be on the #43 next year”(Winston Cup Scene), what he didn’t say was in what capacity, primary or an associate sponsor. Also the WC Scene reports that Dale Inman, Team Manager will not return to Retty Enterprises for the 1999 season. Inman, Richard Pettys cousin has been fulltime with the team since 1962(with the exception 1984 when he was part of Terry Labontes 1st championship with Billy Hagen). Other notes on the team: Mike Suter was Kyle Petty’s crew chief Atlanta, Bobby Kennedy left after Rockingham. Doug Hewitt comes aboard for the 1999 season(as previosuly announced).(11-14-98) — After talking to UPS concerning sponsorship of the #43, Richard Petty has signed STP to a one year deal as the primary sponsor with Petty having a two-year option(Winston Cup Today Radio) I am hearing that UPS is looking to sponsor a Cup team in 1999, no word on who they are looking at.(11-16-98)
Shepherd/Stavola’s? UPDATE 3: I hear that the Stavola Brothers and Morgan Shepherd may be joining forces for the 1999 Winston Cup season. Also added two shot’s of the Nokia Chevy Shepherd ran at Atlanta for the Stavola’s on Jayski’s Paint Scheme Gallery.(11-12-98) — The self-imposed deadline passed Friday afternoon for the Stavola Brothers team to find a sponsor in order to compete in the 1999 NASCAR Winston Cup season, but the team was still waiting and hoping to hear from a potential sponsor and had yet to give the official word that they were or were not shutting down.(NASCAR Online)(11-13-98) — I hear the sponsorship for the Morgan Shepherd & Stavola Brothers race team has fallen through and will not happen for 1999. Stavola Brothers racing are again looking for a driver and sponsorship. Would love to have a Geoff Bodine or a Darrell Waltrip or even a rookie. As of Monday 11/16 the employees of Stavola Brothers are free to seek employment elsewhere. Also from what I hear, the team GAVE the #8 up to DEI, they did not sell it.(11-14-98) — The team has laid off 18 employee’s but has not toatally closed up shop yet, in case sponsorship can be found. See NASCAR Online Story.(11-16-98)

(11-15-98)

#93 to Cup: As reported months ago, the #93 Amoco Bill Davis team will run some Cup races in 1999 with Dave Blaney. No idea when or where yet(11-15-98)

(11-14-98)
Look for Jeff Fuller to run at Homstead in his own unsponsored #94 car.(11-9-98) — and Fuller made the race(11-14-98)
Stefanik to CTS: Mike Stefanik announced he will be driving Dale Phelon’s Carlin Burners #66 in the Craftsman Truck Series in 1999. Stefanik, who is also the NASCAR Busch North champ for 1997 and 1998, drove the Phelon truck to an 8th place finish at Las Vegas in his “audition” for the team.(11-14-98)

(11-13-98)
Yates looking?? UPDATE 2: Robert Yates, who owns the #28 and #88 teams, is in the market for a crew chief, according to sources close to his operation. Yates wouldn’t confirm/deny. Donnie Wingo, the crew chief for Jimmy Spencer and Travis Carter, may be one man under consideration. Richard Labbe, Irwin’s crew chief and a rookie at the job, says he’s heard the talk too, but has been told his job is safe.(JournalNow)(11-9-98) — Ut oh, hearing that this is true and that Labbe and Yates have parted.(11-12-98) — Richard Labbe, who took over crew chief duties on the #28 Robert Yates Racing Texaco Havoline Ford driven by Raybestos Rookie of the Year Kenny Irwin after the third race of the 1998 NASCAR Winston Cup season, has parted ways with the team, according to team spokesperson Pam Colbert. According to Colbert, Yates is on vacation until early next week, and the team will not have an announcement on a possible replacement for Labbe until after Yates returns(NASCAR Online)(11-13-98)
DW Chat UPDATE 2: On Thurday, 11-12 at 2pm/et, Darrell Waltrip chated with fans on CNNSI, I have had no luck in finding the transcript on the chat, I now hear that they do not post a transcript, so what’s the sense of a chat??(11-12-98) — Had a few readers email what they saw in the chat and have compiled a few things: Q) As for his 1999 plans – A) doesn’t know yet but is trying to work out a deal to be a member of a multi-car team, with the resources, people and technology to be successful. Q) about the #91 LJ Racing team and that Tabasco may go with them and that DW is at the top of Joe Falks list – A) DW has been absolutely fascinated by Joe Falk, on his budget. That car has been very competitive.. he is not on the top of my list, but he is on my list. That’s it for now. — HEY A TRANSCRIPT – check it out at: Chat Transcript: Darrell Waltrip at CNNSI.(11-13-98)
LaJoie Out – NOW? NOPE During TNN’s Raceday show, an argument was show been the owner of the #74 Fina Chevy and soon to be ex-driver Randy LaJoie. Owner Bill Baumgardner basically blamed LaJoie for blowing their 8th motor of the year, saying the tach was at 10,000. When both were asked about LaJoie racing next week in the #74 at Homestead, Baumgardner was pretty much non-committal why LaJoie just smiled and said he didn’t know but he’d be racing someone’s car. Stay tuned for what may happen with this.(TNN Raceday)(11-8-98) — LaJoie is in the #74 car for the weekend.(NASCAR Online)(11-13-98)

(11-12-98)
Bodine/Philips?? UPDATE: Now here’s an odd RUMOR – I hear that Geoff Bodine now has control over the Philips sponsorship and will take it wherever he lands. I also hear that Philips has not signed with the #7 team for 1999 yet. Truth is in there somewhere, I guess. Also I once again hear that the #7 team WILL switch to Chevy’s for 1999.(11-11-98) — maybe not as odd as I thought, looks like Bodine is taking Philips to the #98 Cale Yarborough team.(11-12-98)
MacDonald/3M 1999: “The Toronto Sun reports MacDonald would be part of an ambitious sponsorship campaign by 3M company, which is looking to get into stock car racing next year. Patsy Bartley, the manager of communications, development and planning, told the newspaper that any NASCAR involvement will include MacDonald behind the wheel. 3M, which is best known for its Scotch brand of tape, is also a major supplier of auto parts. They were behind MacDonald’s last minute attempt at qualifying for last weekend’s Busch race in Atlanta. But 3M executives say the failure to qualify was all part of the learning process as they investigate just what it takes to go racing with the big boys. MacDonald approached 3M more than a year ago in an attempt to land some sponsorship for his racing career. He was hired on as a consultant with the company once it began to consider using auto racing as a means to promote itself.” From the Headlines section, Canadian MacDonald to catch a break?.(TSN Motorsport, Canada’s sport source), doesn’t mention if it’s for Cup/BGN/CTS.(11-12-98)
Bradberry Back UPDATE: Gary Bradberry will be attempting to make the Homestead BGN race this week. The BGN team is still searching for sponsorship for next year. Bradberry will also be back driving the #78 TRIAD Motorsports Ford in 1999. More info can be found at The Official Gary Bradberry Fan Site(11-10-98) — Also Pilot Travel Centers will return to the #78, they will once again have Yates engines, and no 1999 Crew Chief has been named.(11-12-98)
iRace stats: NASCAR by the Numbers, Statistics compiled by iRACE historian Gene Granger. Including drivers and team owners with at least one win and one pole in consecutive seasons, drivers with 300 consecutive starts, winning percentage, etc.(11-12-98)
4th Quarter Nominee: Bill Elliott, who organized a relief fund for tornado victims in Georgia is the fourth quarter nominee for the NASCAR True Value Man of the Year Award.(NASCAR Online)(11-12-98)
Whitaker to run Query: Ed Whitaker, one of the winningest car owners in the BGN Series, will field the #7 Pilot™ Chevy for Freddie Query in this at Homestead. With four poles, nine victories, 13 top-five finishes and 14 top-10 finishes Query has clinched the 1998 NASCAR Slim Jim All Pro Series Championship. Pilot™, is a product of Pilot™ Automotive and a division of Wang’s International Inc. Wang’s International, Inc., established in 1984, offers a wide range of product lines, including: Pilot™, He-Beam™, Navigator™, Pilot Motorsports™ Performance Accessories, Restyling Accessories, Bully™ Truck Accessories, Spoilers and Fender Trim, among others.(The Premiere Group)(11-12-98)

(11-11-98)
The latest Japan list: Includes 13 Cup drivers – via NASCAR online: NASCAR Thunder Special Motegi – Coca-Cola 500 Driver List, including Cup drivers Jeff Gordon, Michael and Darrell Waltrip, Rusty and Kenny Wallace, Jeff Burton, Dale Earnhardt(Jr and Sr), Bobby Hamilton, Sterling Marlin, Jeremy Mayfield, Mike Skinner, Ricky Craven and Bill Elliott.(11-11-98)
Lake Speed News: Lake Speed will speak this Saturday(11-14) at 7pm/et at the Bible Baptist Church Gym in Danville, WV. Speed will give his testimony on the topic of his “Greatest Race” and will be followed by an autograph session. There will be a display of memorabilia from his racing career and refreshments will be served. Speed will also speak in the morning worship service Sunday at 11am/et. The event is being sponsored by the Lake Speed Fan Club and for more information contact VP Joe Linville at: [email protected] (11-11-98)
Nadeau on RPM2Nite UPDATE: Jerry Nadeau is scheduled to be on RPM2Nite, Wednesday, 11-11 at 7pm/et to announce his 1999 plans.(11-10-98) — Jerry Nadeau was on RPM2Nite and announced that he has signed with Melling Racing for 1999 in the #9 Ford. Sponsorship will be announced soon, Mark Melling said it is a big deal and is very happy with both Jerry and crew chief Jeff Buice.(11-11-98)
46 Team Done: I just heard that the #46 SABCO team has shut down operations as no sponsorship was found. I also hear that the #7 Mattei team will buy up some of the chevy’s from the SABCO left over from the #46.(11-11-98)
Tyler Jet: I hear the team will go back to the #17(from the #35) and will stay with the Pontiacs because the team has spent so much money converting from Chevy’s to Pontiacs. One rumor has Rich Bickle as a possible driver for the team.(11-11-98)
Morgan OK: I hear that Morgan Shepherd is ok after that nasty run-in with the wall, just a headache but checked out ok and is fine.(11-11-98)
Ray Hill’s mother passed away over the weekend. Hill is the Busch Director and is retiring at the end of the 1998 season. Condolences to the Hill family.(11-11-98)

(11-10-98)
More Carter 2nd team stuff UPDATE 3: Hearing the second Travis Carter team(currently owns the #23 No Bull Ford) is close to becoming reality with Rick Mast as the driver. Jimmy Spencer even talked about it on the radio(Winston Cup Today Radio), I hear Peter Guild-ProMotors and Carl Haas (used to own part of the #37 now #12 team) are involved with Kmart to sponsor.(11-5-98) — Carter cancelled a scheduled Saturday morning Press Conference(11-6-98), supposedly sponsorship for the 2nd team and Rick Mast have fallen through(11-7-98) — I now hear that the press conference was postponed and the deal is still in the works, if it falls thru look for Mast to sign with the #13(11-8-98) — I hear the Travis Carter 2nd team is still on, just delayed in the announcement, which was planned in Atlanta. One rumor I hear is that the car will be the #66 BIG Kmart/Route 66 Ford. CART team owner Carl Haas is rumored to be a partner.(11-10-98)
Japan List: See a list from September on who will drive at Twin Ring Motegi from NASCAR Online: NASCAR teams set for Coca-Cola 500K. It has Rich Bickle listed, but doesn’t list Ricky Craven who will drive the #58.(11-10-98)
Hendrick to return: NASCAR Online story – John Hendrick looks ahead to return of his brother, on January 1, 1999. Also mentioned in the story, no turnover with the #24 DuPont team, minor changes on the #5 Kelloggs team including the addition of a new No. 2 man behind crew chief Andy Graves and the Bud team will go back to the #25 from the #50 and is the main concern within Hendrick Motorsports.(11-10-98)
Spencer/Trickle UPDATE: It was just announced that Jimmy Spencer’s BGN team, Spencer Motor Ventures, will field a full time effort next year with Dick Trickle as the driver and Schneider National’s trucking division. Trickle currently drives the #64 Schneider National Chevrolet in the BGN.(SpencerFan Newsletter)(11-6-98) — not sure what to make of this, but am hearing that this is not a not a done deal and that Schneider is still not sure about it’s 1999 plans but wants to be with Trickle and is happy with Shoemaker racing, this could get interesting.(11-10-98)
Stavola’s/Bodine UPDATE: During Happy Hour practice on ESPN2, Dave Despain mentioned that Geoff Bodine is supposed to get the ride with the #8 Stavola Bros team, BUT, that the team has no sponsorship and may close the doors if none is found soon.(11-7-98) — The Stavola brothers have told their crew “If they don’t get a sponsor, they’re closing the doors next Friday,” according to crew chief Jim Long. Morgan Shepherd gave Long’s car a good workout Sunday, battling Jeff Gordon for seventh late in the race. Gordon tangled with Shepherd, who ended up in the wall.(JournalNow)(11-10-98)
Stanley Tools ride: I hear Jeff Green and Steve Grissom remain the two leading candidates for the #36 Stanley Tools Pontiac ride with Randy Lajoie and Mike Stefanik as outside candidates. I have also heard this may have been one of Geoff Bodine’s BGN offers.(11-10-98)
Many at Homestead: See the story at NASCAR Online: Big entry list for Homestead event.(11-10-98)

(11-9-98)
Earnhardt and the #8: I reported on this weeks ago but am getting much email about it, so here it goes again: Dale Earnhardt, who bought the #1 from Richard Jackson’s team last year and put it on his car for Steve Park, has purchased #8 from the Stavola Brothers. Dale’s dad, Ralph, used that number, and his son, Dale Jr., will drive that number during a five-race 1999 stint.(many sources, this one SpeedNet)(11-9-98)
Kenny’s new car UPDATE: Kenny Wallace will unveil his new 1999 Andy Petree ride at Atlanta this morning, he will be driving the #55 Square-D Chevy.(TNN’s Inside NASCAR)(11-8-98) — NASCAR Online has an image of the #55 Square-D Chevy at NASCAR Photo Gallery #3.(11-9-98)
Jarrett Surgery: Dale Jarrett is scheduled to undergo surgery to remove his gall bladder on 11/16 in Phoenix, AZ. Jarrett will return to John C Lincoln Hospital – North Mountain, where he was treated by Dr. James Magary, a gall bladder specialist, following a gall stone attack during the Dura Lube/Kmart 500 at Phoenix. Magary is scheduled to perform the surgery. Jarrett does not anticipate missing the NASCAR Winston Cup Awards Banquet on Dec. 4 in New York City.(NASCAR Online)(11-9-98)
Evernham honored: Ray Evernham, crew chief for Jeff Gordon, won the 1998 NASCAR Winston Cup Illustrated Person of the Year Award. The award is decided by a vote of Winston Cup fans and a panel of motorsports experts and is given to someone who brings positive attention to Winston Cup racing through achievement, contributions, influence and service.(That’s Racin’ notes)(11-9-98)
Cale Back? Cale Yarborough also seems secure for another season as a Winston Cup car owner. Although his #98 Ford failed to qualify at Atlanta, don’t be surprised to see Yarborough and a new sponsor at Daytona next season.(Times Dispatch) I hear Geoff Bodine and Jeff Green are candidates for this ride along with present driver Rich Bickle.(11-9-98)
Donlavey/Shepherd? If Junie Donlavey can sign a new sponsorship, and he’s talking with a financial services company, he is considering hiring Morgan Shepherd to drive for him next season, according to sources close to the team.(JournalNow) Everything I have heard is that Shepherd plans to run his own team in 1999 and supposedly has a three year sponsorship deal in place.(11-9-98)
Passport? UPDATE Kenny Irwin won’t drive the #88 Yates Ford in Japan because he forgot to get his passport photo taken. Irwin was set to drive the car because teammate Dale Jarrett was scheduled to undergo gallbladder surgery this week in Phoenix. Irwin went to the SEMA trade show in Las Vegas to fulfill a sponsor obligation and simply forgot to have the photo taken.(many sources including Times Dispatch) — Have gotten many messages about this, saying how simple it is to get a Passport and the photos and that NASCAR could have done something to speed up the process, that may be true, I am not worrying about it, just reporting what most other sites have reported about the situation.(11-9-98)
Monte Carlo news: The 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo fared well in testing at Talladega last week. According to John Hendrick, the acting chief of Hendrick Motorsports, the car performed as expected in its final track runs. NASCAR officials were on hand, counting the test as their own. BGN driver Mike McLaughlin drove the car because Hendrick drivers Jeff Gordon, Terry Labonte and Wally Dallenbach were busy preparing for the NAPA 500. The car currently has its own rear end, not the proposed common template with the Ford. Hendrick said NASCAR will be looking at the final model of the car in the next few weeks. He said the car should debut at the Charlotte race in May.(Times Dispatch)(11-9-98)
DW and DEI? Darrell Waltrip is trying to get Dale Earnhardt to buy Buz McCall’s operation(#96), according to sources close to the situation, but Earnhardt isn’t very interested. Waltrip is pushing Earnhardt for help in landing a ride.(JournalNow) and Waltrip is surveying his options for next season and talking to several owners, including Joe Falk. Falk has several potential deals — some of which involve Waltrip. Waltrip, who’s leaving the No. 35 car, reportedly is trying to work out a deal with Dale Earnhardt Inc. Waltrip wants the company to purchase Buz McCall’s Chevrolet so he can drive it. McCall, who has no sponsor for next year, is waiting to make a final decision on the status of his team.(Times Dispatch) and see the story at That’s Racin’: Waltrip wants to go out in style.(11-9-98)
Houston to Cup? CTS driver, Andy Houston, and team has purchased two new Cup Chevys from the Diamond Ridge racing team, and Houston had his first laps in a Winston Cup car this weekend at Las Vegas. Houston plans to run five Winston Cup races next season, but the venues have not yet been selected.(NASCAR Online Truck Notes)(11-9-98)
Skinner to BGN – UPDATE 2: Mike Skinner will drive up to 12 BGN races in 1999 with Riddling Motorsports.(TNN’s Raceday) Sponsor will be Yellow Freight on a Chevy, supposedly Skinners son Jamie will run a few races.(NSSN)(11-8-98) — The team, which will donate 10 percent of all prize money earned next season to Motor Racing Outreach(MRO), is also looking for another driver to enter eight additional races in 1999.(That’s Racin’ notes) — The team is owned by the Emerald Performance Group and not Ridling Motorsports and will be referred to as Team Yellow Racing. They also have major associate sponsorship from Pameco Corporation and their Thermalzone brand of HVAC products. Other announcements concerning the other driver(s) in the very new future.(11-9-98)

(11-8-98)

NAPA 500 at Atlanta: Results, Lineup, Qualifying, Practice speeds at Speedworld, GoRacing and, NASCAR Online. Jayski’s Provisional Page with unofficial owners points. 48 cars tried for 43 spots, including #08 Harris DeVane and #80 Andy Hillenburg who both missed.
Sad News: Former Winston Cup team owner, Dick Moroso passed away Saturday, thoughts and prayers go to the family. He was 59 and passed away due to Cancer. Small story on RaceWire: Dick Moroso Passes.(11-8-98)
Bahari Racing stuff: During the rain delay today at Atlanta, Derrike Cope was interviewed and said the team would make an announcement soon regarding sponsorship and a crew chief.(ESPN), I hear it will be Sara Lee in some capacity.(11-8-98)
DW and Falk? During Happy Hour practice on Saturday, Benny, Bob and Dave were discussing the #91 LJ Racing team and said that owner Joe Falk said that Darrell Waltrip was on his list of six possible drivers for 1999.(ESPN2)(11-8-98)
#96 Done? Steve Grissom’s failure to qualify the #96 Caterpillar Chevy Saturday for Sunday’s NAPA 500 at Atlanta may have marked the end of much more than the season for team owner Buz McCall. It may also bring to a close McCall’s career as a Winston Cup team owner. See the rest of the story at McCall faces possibility of closing up shop.(11-8-98)
Selberg named to the #75: Troy Selberg returns to the Cup series as the crew chief of the #75 Butch Mock Remington Ford and new driver Ted Musgrave for the 1999 season.(TNN’s Inside NASCAR)(11-8-98)
Bodine/BGN/CTS?? During the 2nd rain delay, ESPN talked to Geoff Bodine who said he has offers to drive in the BGN and Truck series but is looking for a Cup ride. He said the BGN did appeal to him some as his son Barry will drive the series in 1999.(ESPN2)(11-8-98)
Pressley’s Engine: Robert Pressley lost a motor in Happy Hour practice.(11-8-98)
The race for 25th: Brett Bodine enters Atlanta ranked 26th in the Winston Cup points standings. With 25th being the last position that receives a share of the Winston Cup points fund, Bodine needs to make up 23 points on 25th-place Joe Nemechek to gain a share of the postseason money.(Speed Magazine)(11-8-98)
Junie #800: When Dick Trickle starts the #90 Heilig-Meyers Ford today, it’ll mark Junie Donlavey’s 800th start as a Cup car owner.(Times-Dispatch)(11-8-98)
Benson at Homestead? I hear Johnny Benson will run a third BACE car at Homstead.(11-8-98)
Bliss Back? Mentioned during the CTS race, Mike Bliss may return to the #2 truck in 1999. He had announced weeks ago that he would leave at the end of the season. I also hear he is a candidate for the #37 Brewco BGN ride. Other candidates for the #2 truck ride include Mike Wallace and Tony Raines(11-8-98)
Riddling Back? Skinner in UPDATE: Continue to hear David Riddling will return to the BGN series as an owner with Veryfine Juice or possibly Bilo or Harris Teeter. The plan is to do a full BGN run in 1999 and then move to Cup in 2000. No drivers rumored yet(11-1-98) — Mike Skinner will drive up to 12 BGN races in 1999 with Riddling Motorsports.(TNN’s Raceday) Sponsor will be Yellow Freight on the #19 Chevy, supposedly Skinners son Jamie will run a few races.(NSSN) The team will debut in Rockingham in February(NASCAR Online)(11-8-98) see above story

(11-7-98)
2nd round Cup qualifying is over at Atlanta and the field is set: Seven drivers made attempts and fourteen stood on their 1st round time, only two moved into the top 36, Bradberry and Lepage. Gary Bradberry was the fastest 2nd round attempt at 189.922mph(would have been 22nd fastest) which moved him up to 26th. Five drivers missed the race including Steve Grissom in the #96 and Rick Mast in what would have been his final ride in the #75. Earnhardt and Terry Labonte as well as DW had to take provisionals, to see who missed the race and why and who took provisionals and why, see the Jayski’s Provisional Page. Harris DeVane crashed in turn two during his 2nd round attempt(GoRacing) and failed to make the show. DeVane had to be cut out of the car and was transported to Georgia Baptist Medical Center for a precautionary CAT scan. DeVane was treated at the hospital and released later Saturday afternoon.(NASCAR Online)(11-7-98)
Cravens new deal UPDATE 2 OFFICIAL: On Saturday morning it Atlanta, I hear it is likely that Ricky Craven will announce his new association with SBIII Motorsports to compete on the full 1999 Winston Cup schedule in a Ford(#58 Black and Gold). This is a new team owned by Scott Barbour; Mike Hillman will be the crew chief. Also, see a story that appeared yesterday in the Portland, ME newspaper: Portland Press Herald. Also a big story in the Winston Cup Scene about the team and owner, no sponsor is lined up yet.(11-5-98) — The official annoucement will take place in Atlanta at 8:30am Saturday with a sponsor supposedly to be announced. Also another story about the new owner at Florida man is owner of Craven’s team.(Bangor Daily News)(11-6-98) — This was made official this morning and Craven, not Rich Bickle, will drive the #58 Ford in Japan in the team’s debut. No sponsorship was announced see GoRacing for the details: Ricky Craven and SBIII Motorsports Team Up for 1999.(11-7-98)
Elliott Sponsor? UPDATE2 DW in the mix?? Winston Cup Today reports that Firstplus will not return to the #13 Elliott/Marino team but that Elliott has supposedly found a new sponsor to keep the team going in 1999.(11-5-98) — hearing Tabasco may be Elliotts sponsor and if the 2nd Travis Carter team falls thru, Mast may end up in the #13. — Now I am hearing DW-Darrell Waltrip may end up in the #13 with Tabasco, wow!(11-7-98)
#91 LJ Racing News: Joe Falk, owner of the #91 LJ Racing team says the team will be back in 1999. If they wind up without a sponsor again next year, they may run a limited schedule but the plan os to definitely be at Daytona in February. Falk has three potential sponsor’s that will be watching them this week and feels pretty confident that something will turn up. Falk’s car has out performed several fully sponsored teams throughout the year, and have done so consistently. As for the driver, Todd Bodine has a full BGN schedule, and is not expected back next year, but there are a host of driver’s that want to drive the car. Falk has begun an addition to his race shop in Charlotte, that will double it’s current size.(Victory Lane Online)(11-7-98)
Hardee’s with Roush: As rumored here a few weeks ago: Hardee’s Food Systems, Inc. is ready to add another chapter to its storied association with the popular sport of stock car racing. The restaurant company announced today that it had teamed with Roush Racing to promote nine NASCAR race vehicles and seven drivers, beginning with the 1999 season. The partnership gives Hardee’s the opportunity to feature the drivers in a variety of marketing programs; including advertising, promotion, merchandising and packaging, see the Yahoo story at: Hardee’s Gets On Track With Roush Racing.(11-7-98)
Facts: Bobby Labonte was the last pole sitter to win this race(1996). The pole sitter has won this race four times. Bobby Labonte holds the record for the farthest back a race winner has started, 21st in the 1997 NAPA 500.(Gordon starts 21st this year)(11-7-98)
Bradberry ok: Gary Bradberry had the only accident during the Cup qualifying on Friday. Bradberry spun coming out of turn four and barely hit the wall with the #78 Pilot Travel Centers Ford. He was taken to the infield care center, but was quickly treated and released.(NASCAR Online)(11-7-98)

(11-6-98)
Teams that failed to make the field in first round qualifying and are 26th or worse but are guaranteed(by this I mean whatever happens in 2nd round, not where things stand now) to make the NAPA 500 at Atlanta based on owners points: #99-Jeff Burton(5th in owners points); #3-Dale Earnhardt(8); #5-Terry Labonte(9); #43-John Andretti(11); #36-Ricky Craven(15); #94-Bill Elliott(16); and yes #35-Darrell Waltrip(champ prov). If there are two past champions, they place the first six by owners points then if there are any remaining past champs, he gets the 43rd spot, otherwise it goes to the next in line. The five teams that would miss the race if things stayed the same: #98-Rich Bickle(38); #96-Steve Grissom(43); #78-Gary Bradberry(45); #80-Andy Hillenburg(61) and #08-Harris DeVane(–). Rookie Kenny Irwin, Jr won the pole. See Jayski’s Provisional Page for the Provisional and Owners Standings.(11-6-98)
Trickle/Spencer team up: It was just announced that Jimmy Spencer’s BGN team, Spencer Motor Ventures, will field a full time effort next year with Dick Trickle as the driver and Schneider National’s trucking division. Trickle currently drives the #64 Schneider National Chevrolet in the BGN.(SpencerFan Website)(11-6-98)

(11-5-98)
DW in Japan UPDATE Hearing Darrell Waltrip will drive in Japan, no idea what team or sponsor. — Just saw this(in part thanks to a few readers): Kenny “Irwin won’t replace teammate Dale Jarrett in the NASCAR exhibition race in Motegi, Japan, on Nov. 22, as planned. Earlier this week, he learned three-time Winston Cup champion Darrell Waltrip will drive the #88 Ford for Jarrett, who is having gallbladder surgery.” See the complete story: Yates bypasses Irwin, sends Waltrip to Japan, from the Orlando Sentinel. Also the DW site has the news at: www.dw17.com.(11-5-98)
Sadler in Japan: Elliott Sadler will make his #21 Wood Brothers debut(doh, not Winston Cup debut) at Japan in the #21 CITGO Ford.(RPM2Nite)(11-5-98)
Monte Carlo at ‘dega: Jeff Gordon tested the new Chevy Monte Carlo at Talladega Wednesday with some other Chevy teams observing the test. No speeds released or comments on the new car.(WC Today Radio)(11-5-98)
Butch is back: Ralph’s Grocery Company is announcing the formation of their 1999 NASCAR Team, for the NASCAR Winston West Racing Series. Butch Gilliland and his #1 Ford Taurus will be the Ralphs/Food 4 Less Race Team driver. Gilliland and Ralphs have agreed that in addition to racing in the NASCAR Winston West Series, they will also participate in a number of NASCAR Winston Cup Races. The new team plans to run a full season in the 1999 NASCAR Winston West Series, including 5 Winston Cup Races. They will enter the races in Las Vegas, Fontana, Sears Point, Phoenix and Indianapolis. All are local markets for the Ralphs Grocery Company and their parent company Fred Meyer with the exception of Indianapolis. Ralphs will be teaming up with Mission Foods and a number of associate sponsors for the 1999 race season in their quest for the championship.(Butch Gilliland Online and Unofficial Winston West Site.(11-5-98)
Kenny Bouchard will drive the Washington Erving Motorsports Dr Pepper #50 at Atlanta this Weekend. The brother of Ron Bouchard, former winner of the Talladaga 500, has found much success. In 1988 he was the Winston Cup Series “ROOKIE OF THE YEAR”. Ken has over 2000 Career Victories and has over 100 Career Winston Cup, Busch Grand National and Craftsman Truck Series starts. Kenny will drive the Dr Pepper #50 for Washington Erving Motorsports at Atlanta this week for the Stihl Power Tools 300. Crew Chief Darrell Bryant and the Crew are getting everything ready for Kenny Bouchard for a good qualifying effort. It’s been quoted that Ken Bouchard is “NASCAR’s best kept secret”.(www.washingtonerving.com)(11-5-98)
Stavola’s Sponsor: As reported a week or so ago, Morgan Shepherd will drive the #8 Stavola Bros Chevy at Atlanta. The sponsor will be Nokia, a telecommunications company.(11-5-98)
David Green’s departure from Team 34 will create some interesting scenarios in the NASCAR Busch Series, leaving one of the best rides open without a driver. One possibility has Randy Lajoie taking over the seat in the Stanley car. Lajoie was supposed to drive for James Finch in a second team to Jeff Purvis in 1999. But the deal was contingent upon finding a sponsor and Finch reportedly told Lajoie last week that a sponsor has not come through for that team yet. That leaves Lajoie open to pursue other options and the best option out there is with Team 34.(MRN’s Marty Snider)(11-5-98)
BACE Motorsports may be without a driver for #74 car next year. Andy Michner may not be filling the seat he planned to next year. So with a new sponsor in Bayer, car owner Bill Bumgarner has decided to look elsewhere for driving help. Last week at Rockingham, Bumgarner talked to former NASCAR Busch Series champion Steve Grissom about taking over the 74 car duties for next year. Grissom has been in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series for the last three years but does not have a ride for next year. The move would make sense for both considering Grissom doesn’t have any solid plans for 1999 and he would get one of the best rides in the NASCAR Busch Series. For Bumgarner he gets a proven NASCAR Busch Series driver and that former champion’s provisional for his new high buck sponsor Bayer.(MRN’s Marty Snider)(11-5-98)

(11-4-98)
It’s Official: Ted Musgrave will drive the #75 Ford Taurus for Butch Mock Motorsports beginning with the 1999 season. Mock’s team will run with Robert Yates Engines in ’99 as a result of an alliance between Mock and Yates.(GoRacing)(11-4-98)
Home Depot: NASCAR has reached an agreement with The Home Depot, resulting in the retailer being named “The Official Home Improvement Warehouse of NASCAR.” starting in 1999.(SpeedNet)(11-4-98)
Wind Tunnel? Hendrick Motorsports is considering building a wind tunnel at its complex in Harrisburg, NC. According to John Hendrick, the 30,000-square foot aerodynamic wind tunnel is still in the planning stage. If the tunnel is built, Hendrick — which owns the Chevrolets of Jeff Gordon, Terry Labonte and Wally Dallenbach — would be the only company with an in-house facility for testing.(Times Dispatch)(11-4-98)
Cutis Markham will be driving the Northstar Motorsports #89 Ford at Atlanta. Both Ashton Lewis and Crew Chief, Jamie Jones have parted ways with Northstar Motorsports, Brian Murphy will be interm Crew Chief. John Preston will attempt to qualify the #89 in Homestead, John is also the transport driver for Northstar.(11-4-98)
Craven back in for Irvan UPDATE Ricky Craven will sub for Ernie Irvan once again this weekend at Atlanta in the #36 Skittles Pontiac.(11-3-98) — Also on the Skittles Page – latest, there is a Real Audio message from crew chief Ryan Pemberton saying that Ricky Craven will drive the car at Atlanta and they will come back in 1999 with Ernie.(11-4-98)
No Buckshot: BGN regular Buckshot Jones has decided not to enter this weekend’s NAPA 500 to keep his rookie status intact for next season. Jones has run in five Winston Cup races this season — one more and he would be ineligible for the rookie of the year title in 1999 when he moves full-time to the series. Jones had entered this weekend’s race but withdrew Tuesday. He will run in Saturday’s Stihl 300 Grand National race at Atlanta.(That’s Racin’)(11-4-98)

(11-3-98)
Green to the #41 – OFFICIAL: I hear David Grren has decided to take the #41 Kodiak Chevy ride and leave the #36 Stanley Tools BGN ride.(11-1-98) — Larry Hedrick Motorsports announced Tuesday that David Green has been signed as the driver of the #41 Kodiak Chevrolet Monte Carlo for the 1999 NASCAR Winston Cup Series season.(NASCAR Online)(11-3-98)
Dana to the #4: Dana will be an associate sponsor on the #4 Morgan-McClure Kodak Chevy in 1999. Dana will be the primary sponsor of Bobby Hamilton’s truck team in 1999.(NASCAR Today Radio) Also tire specialist Jay Cole is doing fine after spraining his ankle during the Rockingham race and will heal in the next three to four weeks. Cole is back to work and in the shop.(11-3-98)
More Monte Carlo News: “Richard Childress’ Chevrolet team will be testing its final version of the new Monte Carlo this week at Talladega before presenting it to NASCAR officials. General Motors engineers are upset over some NASCAR template rules covering the new car’s rear deck. The rear decks of both the current Monte Carlo and Taurus were the subject of considerable debate at Talladega and Daytona last month; that part of the car is very important in determining how much or how little air reaches the rear spoiler. By altering the rear deck — or designing ”wiggle room” into the specs — a team can create either a high downforce rear deck that works well in traffic during the race or a low downforce rear deck that is faster but looser for qualifying.”(JournalNow)(11-3-98)
Who is Greg Zipadelli? ‘Zippy’ — as they call him in the garage — is facing a daunting challenge over the next year as Tony Stewart’s new crew chief. See the rest of the story to find out about ‘Zippy’ at the JournalNow: Zipadelli says he is prepared for job as Stewart’s crew chief by Mike Mulhern.(11-3-98)
Skinner, BGN? Mike Skinner may start a BGN team in 1999 with RCR support.(JournalNow)(11-3-98)
3M Announces NASCAR Busch Series Title-Sponsor Agreement With Ed Whitaker Racing. Diversified Manufacturing Company Will Use Vehicle For Product Testing During 300 Mile Race – 3M announced today that it has signed a single-race agreement to serve as the title sponsor on Randy MacDonald’s #7 Chevy for the BGN STIHL 300, scheduled for November 7, 1998 at Atlanta. MacDonald’s car is owned by Bristol, Virginia-based Ed Whitaker Racing and will carry decals for 3M products such as Thinsulate, Scotchprint Graphics, 3M Fuel System Cleaner and Filtrete Air Filtration Systems. 3M also will serve as a corporate sponsor for the Speedway Children’s Charities Dinner and Silent Auction on Friday, November 6, 1998 at the Renaissance Atlanta Hotel-Concourse.(3M PR)(11-3-98)
CORRECTION: Hearing Randy Renfro will drive the #84 Porter Cable Truck at Las Vegas. Doug George will return as crew chief.(11-1-98) — Doug George will NOT be Crew Chief on the #84 truck at LVMS this weekend but will be driving a 2nd team truck #98. No sponsor as of yet.(11-3-98)
BGN teams will be testing NASCAR’s newest proposed Daytona-Talladega shock-and-springs rules at Talladega sometime in the next two weeks. Among the keys: a limit on the size of springs (no more than 11 inches tall or 5 inches wide, to limit the ride height) and a required 40-thousandths bleed hole to keep teams from using lock-down shocks that lock the car down lower to the track and make for a harsh ride. To make the crucial 40-thousandths bleed work, however, NASCAR might have to specify the shock fluid used, to keep teams from skirting the bleed by filling the shock with sawdust.(JournalNow)(11-3-98)

(11-2-98)
DW resigns from Tyler Jet/Tabasco gone soon UPDATE: It was announced on TNN’s Raceday that Darrell Waltrip had resigned from Tyler Jet Motorsports effective the end of the 1998 season.(Raceday) Tabasco will not return as the sponsor of the #35 Tyler Jet Motorsports Pontiac in 1999, and driver Darrell Waltrip has been given the go-ahead to pursue other opportunities for 1999, team owner Tim Beverley announced Sunday. Beverley has spoken with the heads of a few companies about sponsorship for next season for his team, and said he’s optimistic about landing a sponsor soon. Should that happen, Beverley said, Waltrip is more than welcome to stay on board for next season.(NASCAR Online)(11-1-98) — Tabasco, settled its suit with ISM Racing Corporation(Tyler Jet Motorsports) earlier this week, putting aside a dispute that put the #35 Pontiac in jeopardy earlier this season. After ISM Racing owner Tim Beverley bought the team in July, McIlhenny ceased to make its sponsor payments and sought a court injunction to have its logos stripped from the car. The lawsuit was to be heard in Federal Court in January. Under the terms of the settlement, McIlhenny will pay its share this season and Beverley will let the company out of the final two years of its contract. Beverley expects Tabasco to remain as an associate sponsor next year on the #35 car, which lacks a primary sponsor for 1999. Rich Bickle, driver of the #98 Ford, has spoken with Beverley about driving the #35 car next year.(Rea McLeroy/Times Dispatch), no word on if the team will switch back to the #17 or Chevy’s in 1999.(11-2-98)
#4 Crew Member hurt: During an early-race pit stop, Jay Cole of Bobby Hamilton’s pit crew twisted and sprained his ankle. The ankle was swelling and Cole was taken to a local hospital for precautionary X-rays to determine whether he had suffered a fracture. His condition was not known late Sunday.(That’s Racin’)(11-2-98)
1999 Monte Carlo News: “The 1999 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, designed and fabricated at Hendrick Motorsports, may have to undergo key changes to meet NASCAR’s deck lid specifications. Hendrick Motorsports engineers and NASCAR officials have not met to discuss the final specifications. But the rear template for the Chevrolet could be the same as the template for the Ford Taurus next season. The cars wouldn’t appear identical. Engineers working on the Monte Carlo said there are lots of ways to give the car unique characteristics that would make it easily identifiable. The new Monte Carlo, which is scheduled to roll out for the first Charlotte race next season, has been tested in the wind tunnel. The car will be tested today through Wednesday at Talladega Superspeedway. After those tests are completed, engineers will be ready to present their final car to NASCAR. There still are a few major alterations needed. The model is 4 inches too low, and research and development specialists are trying to find where to add the height. The problem should be resolved during testing this week.”(Rea McLeroy/Times Dispatch)(11-2-98)
Unleaded Fuel, NOT? I am hearing that the BGN series will not use unleaded fuel in 1999 and that the Cup series will not switch.(11-2-98)
Irwin ROTY? Kevin Lepage’s problems in yesterday’s AC Delco 400 all but assured Kenny Irwin of NASCAR’s 1998 rookie-of-the-year award. The NASCAR rookie committee will meet next weekend at Atlanta and be prepared to make an announcement immediately after Sunday’s race.(JournalNow) See Jayski’s Misc Stats for the unofficial standings race-by-race and the rules.(11-2-98)
Provisional Changes: NASCAR officials are considering more changes in the guidelines for race provisionals next season, including limiting the number of times a driver can use the past champion provisional.(JournalNow)(11-2-98)
Cup to go Unleaded? NASCAR’s plans to go with unleaded gas at Daytona next season is drawing mixed comment among engine builders. NASCAR is pushing for the unleaded gas as part of a proposed media marketing program with Unocal that will let the gas company advertise some of its pump gas as ‘the same stuff NASCAR drivers use.'(JournalNow)(11-2-98)
Rules changes? Cup teams should know today or Tuesday if NASCAR will change aerodynamic rules for Sunday’s race at Atlanta. Rumor has the NASCAR raising the rear spoilers 1 1/2 inches and lowering the front air dam 1 1/2 inches, to make the cars handle better in the corners.(JournalNow), and Two sources close to the situation said Sunday it was high unlikely NASCAR would institute any change in the spoiler size on Winston Cup cars before next Sunday’s NAPA 500 at Atlanta. There had been much speculation in recent weeks NASCAR would make a rule change to allow teams to add spoiler size to all three makes of cars before season’s end.(That’s Racin’)(11-2-98)
Jason Keller and the #57 Progressive Motorsports team will be sponsored in Atlanta by Stihl.(MRM)(11-2-98)
Grissom to finish in #96: Steve Grissom will close out the 1998 season driving the #96 Chevrolet in next Sunday’s NAPA 500 at Atlanta.(That’s Racin’ and The Williams Co)(11-2-98)
Rules Changes for Atlanta: NASCAR officials are informing the Winston Cup teams of a rules change that will take effect with Sunday’s race at Atlanta (Ga.) Motor Speedway. The rules change effectively eliminates the “five-and-five” rule from earlier this season, giving the cars more rear spoiler. All three car makes will have higher rear spoilers and longer front air dams. The Ford Taurus will have a rear spoiler size of 6.25 inches (front air dam of 3.5 inches); Chevrolet Monte Carlo 6.5 inches (3.5 inches); and Pontiac Grand Prix 6.875 inches (3.5 inches). In addition, all models will be required to maintain a minimum rear spoiler angle of 65 degrees throughout the Atlanta weekend.The Williams Co)(11-2-98)
Manufacturers Championship: It’s pretty simple: If a Ford wins at Atlanta the Ford wins the Manufacturer Championship, if Chevy wins at Atlanta they win it. Ok What happens if Pontiac wins, Ford is second and Chevy is third? Ford and Chevy would be in a tie with 235 points and 15 wins, which is the first tiebreaker. The next tiebreaker is the number of second-place finishes. Ford has 20 and Chevy has eight, so the tie and the championship would go to Ford.(11-2-98)
Look for Mike Stefanik to make an announcment, in mid October, about coming to the BGN with a full time ride in 1999(9-23-98) — didn’t happen(11-2-98)
I am hearing that the BGN series will not use unleaded fuel in 1999 and that the Cup series will not switch.(11-2-98)

(11-1-98)

New Testing Rules: NASCAR officials have announced a change in the rules for testing in Winston Cup. The current rules allow each team seven total tests over the course of the season. For 1999, NASCAR will allow Winston Cup teams four tests that will be determined by the manufacturers (Daytona, Talladega, Charlotte and Indianapolis) and three tests at any track a team chooses.(Williams Company PR), teams will be allowed two cars, one transporter. Rookies can test up to 12 times total(TNN), also see the story at GoRacing: New Testing Rules For Cup in 1999.(11-1-98)
ACDelco 400 at The Rock: Race Results, Starting Lineup, Qualifying and Practice speeds at Speedworld, GoRacing(great 2nd round stuff) and, NASCAR Online(has qualifying order). TNN RACING also has news, history, racecams, images, etc. at www.tnnracing.com. Jayski’s Provisional Page with unofficial owners points.
PE2 Crewmember hurt: Greg Burkhardt, a crew member for the #44 Hot Wheels Pontiac driven by Kyle Petty, suffered minor first-degree burns to his face when Petty pulled into the pits two-thirds of the way through Sunday’s race with his car on fire. Burkhardt was taken to the infield care center, treated and released.(NASCAR Online)(11-1-98)
1st time since 1994: That the Winston Cup Championship has been won before the final race of the season, when Dale Earnhardt won the championship.(11-1-98)
K Wallace in the #55 at Japan: I hear Kenny Wallace will make his Andy Petree team debut in Japan in the #55 EA Sports Chevy.(11-1-98)
#27 team done? I am hearing that the #27 David Blair team cannot find sponsorship for the 1999 season, will sell the team and has told remaining personnel to look for jobs.(11-1-98)
Ingle remains with Rudd: During the early part of the race, it was mentioned that Bill Ingle would remain with Ricky Rudd and the #10 Tide team for the 1999 season. He was thinking about leaving back around Richmond/Darlington a few weeks back.(11-1-98)
#41 painted blue: The #41 Hedrick Motorsports Chevy sported the blue Kodiak Ice paint scheme at Rockingham.(11-1-98)
Martin to have surgery: Mark Martin plans to have back surgery on the morning following the final BGN Series race of the season. It’s an operation he has planned all season. The lower-back surgery should remove the pain that has, at times, been crippling for the driver this year.(Times Dispatch)(11-1-98)
Kennedy’s last race: Rockingham was #44 crew chief, Bobby Kennedy’s last race with the team. He moved on to the #7 Mattei Motorsports team. No idea who will handle the crew chief job at Atlanta for Kyle.(TNN, during the ACDelco Race)(11-1-98)
Hmiel signs with DEI: Dale Earnhardt Inc(DEI) announced Sunday the signing of Steve Hmiel to a three-year contract that calls for the longtime crew chief to oversee DEI’s motorsports operations. Hmiel will oversee all of the technical development and testing for DEI’s three existing teams as well as the development of Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s new NASCAR Winston Cup Series team(#8). Hmiel will coordinate DEI’s involvement in RAD — the new aerodynamics alliance DEI formed with Richard Childress Racing and Andy Petree Racing. Other duties include the development of the 1999 Monte Carlo and implementing race day pit strategy.(NASCAR Online)(11-1-98)
Nadeau in the #9 for 1999 – UPDATE: Sue’s Newsletter reports that Jerry Nadeau said he will be back in the #9 Melling Ford with the Cartoon Network as the sponsor in 1999.(10-30-98) — Jerry Nadeau plans to sign with the Harry Melling team for next season but has not done so yet. Neither has the sponsor, Cartoon Network.(Times Dispatch)(11-1-98)
Four Teams were out of Provisionals until the 32nd race, Rockingham. None had to use them and will have one available at Atlanta if needed.: #7-Geoff Bodine; #9-Jerry Nadeau; #41-David Green and #30-Derrike Cope.(11-1-98)
#9 Cartoon Network car news: Jerry Nadeau will once again be at the wheel of the #9 Cartoon Network Ford at Atlanta this weekend.(11-1-98)