Hello everybody in blog land. I’m back in the office today after being off over Christmas and then sick. I feel better today. Snowing again here on Cape Cod. I remember when I moved here years ago they said it doesn’t snow on the Cape. Not true anymore.
Doing some work here in the shop to get ready for the World of Wheels Show in Boston, where we’ll move in next Thursday, January 8. Show runs January 9-11.
Had a great holiday with the family. Going to stay home tonight to celebrate New Years. Hope everyone has a safe and wonderful evening and we’ll talk to you next year.
Jay
December 31, 2008
December 22, 2008
UPDATE
Hey Everyone,
Back in the great white north, and my God, is it white & cold! The racecar is in the shop and we're starting to get it ready to go out the door to the World of Wheels Show in Boston and the 2009 season. There's a bunch to be done with all of the equipment and the crew will be getting together after the holidays to get busy. I've been busy winterizing the truck & trailer, getting stuff out for re-certification to meet all the safety requirements. I have to spend some time in the next couple of days getting ready for Christmas. Jimmy and his family will come to the Cape to spend Christmas Eve with my family-we're looking forward to this, it should be alot of fun.
I wish everyone a wonderful & happy Christmas. Will touch base at the beginning of next week.
"Now, Tommy! now, Jimmy! now, Nick and Terri! On, Joe! On, Jay! on, Charlie and Marty! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! dash away!dash away all!"
Back in the great white north, and my God, is it white & cold! The racecar is in the shop and we're starting to get it ready to go out the door to the World of Wheels Show in Boston and the 2009 season. There's a bunch to be done with all of the equipment and the crew will be getting together after the holidays to get busy. I've been busy winterizing the truck & trailer, getting stuff out for re-certification to meet all the safety requirements. I have to spend some time in the next couple of days getting ready for Christmas. Jimmy and his family will come to the Cape to spend Christmas Eve with my family-we're looking forward to this, it should be alot of fun.
I wish everyone a wonderful & happy Christmas. Will touch base at the beginning of next week.
"Now, Tommy! now, Jimmy! now, Nick and Terri! On, Joe! On, Jay! on, Charlie and Marty! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! dash away!dash away all!"
December 10, 2008
Back In Florida
Hi folks-
Returned to Florida yesterday afternoon. Met up with my buddy, Tom Dobruck with Permatex and will speak at the Automotive Specialty Products Alliance meeting luncheon in Ft. Lauderdale on behalf of our sponsor Permatex on Wednesday, Dec. 10. After the luncheon, Tom & I will drive to the Orlando Convention Center for the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show. The racecar will be moved into the show prior to our arrival (thanks to Ed Parker & Charlie Mitchell). The show runs tomorrow, Thursday, Dec. 11 through Saturday, Dec. 13. My brother, Jim Blake and team crew chief, Tom Howell will be flying to meet us and we'll spend the time walking the show and meeting up with current sponsors to thank them for their continued support and meeting some new friends & fans.
After the show, Ed & I will be driving back to New England. On our way home we've scheduled a stop at Lincoln Technical Institute in Philadelphia on Tuesday, Dec. 16 where I'll speak to the Automotive students and faculty beginning around 10am.
Will update you all on our trip when I return to the office middle of next week.
Have a great day!
Jay
Returned to Florida yesterday afternoon. Met up with my buddy, Tom Dobruck with Permatex and will speak at the Automotive Specialty Products Alliance meeting luncheon in Ft. Lauderdale on behalf of our sponsor Permatex on Wednesday, Dec. 10. After the luncheon, Tom & I will drive to the Orlando Convention Center for the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show. The racecar will be moved into the show prior to our arrival (thanks to Ed Parker & Charlie Mitchell). The show runs tomorrow, Thursday, Dec. 11 through Saturday, Dec. 13. My brother, Jim Blake and team crew chief, Tom Howell will be flying to meet us and we'll spend the time walking the show and meeting up with current sponsors to thank them for their continued support and meeting some new friends & fans.
After the show, Ed & I will be driving back to New England. On our way home we've scheduled a stop at Lincoln Technical Institute in Philadelphia on Tuesday, Dec. 16 where I'll speak to the Automotive students and faculty beginning around 10am.
Will update you all on our trip when I return to the office middle of next week.
Have a great day!
Jay
December 4, 2008
Hi Everybody-
Home for a couple of days, getting ready to return to Florida for the PRI Show. Weather here on Cape Cod has been beautiful the last couple of days. Been great to be home for awhile spending time with my wife Ann and the rest of my family.
Been working in the office trying to pull things together for next year and getting ready to leave for Florida early next week.
The CFADA Auto Show in Orlando was great, lots of attendees and the chance to meet some terrific people. I'd like to thank Barbara, Josie, and all the folks at Seminole Community College for their hospitality and assistance in making this a great event.
Readers, feedback and suggestions of topics you'd like to see discussed on the blog would be very helpful. If you have suggestions, please forward through the comments section.
Hope you all are well and will touch base again early next week.
Jay
Home for a couple of days, getting ready to return to Florida for the PRI Show. Weather here on Cape Cod has been beautiful the last couple of days. Been great to be home for awhile spending time with my wife Ann and the rest of my family.
Been working in the office trying to pull things together for next year and getting ready to leave for Florida early next week.
The CFADA Auto Show in Orlando was great, lots of attendees and the chance to meet some terrific people. I'd like to thank Barbara, Josie, and all the folks at Seminole Community College for their hospitality and assistance in making this a great event.
Readers, feedback and suggestions of topics you'd like to see discussed on the blog would be very helpful. If you have suggestions, please forward through the comments section.
Hope you all are well and will touch base again early next week.
Jay
November 25, 2008
ON THE ROAD AGAIN...
Hello Race Fans
Left Boston yesterday afternoon to meet Ed and the truck/trailer in Orlando for the Central Florida Auto Dealers Assoc. Auto Show being held at the Orange County Convention Center. The CFADA Show is one of the largest in the country, so it should be lots of fun and an opportunity to meet some new friends.
Spoke at Seminole Community College in Sanford, FL this morning and will move into the show later today. The show runs through Sunday, where we'll be displaying the racecar (Automotive Careers Display #F-1) and signing autographs for a couple hours each afternoon. On Thanksgiving, the Association will be providing a sit down turkey dinner for all those working the show which should be great.
After moving out of the show on Sunday, we'll make a stop Monday morning, Dec. 1 at Mid Florida Tech in Orlando to speak to students and faculty before flying home later in the day.
Then its home for about a week and then off to Florida again for the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show in Orlando, Dec. 11-13.
Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
Jay
Left Boston yesterday afternoon to meet Ed and the truck/trailer in Orlando for the Central Florida Auto Dealers Assoc. Auto Show being held at the Orange County Convention Center. The CFADA Show is one of the largest in the country, so it should be lots of fun and an opportunity to meet some new friends.
Spoke at Seminole Community College in Sanford, FL this morning and will move into the show later today. The show runs through Sunday, where we'll be displaying the racecar (Automotive Careers Display #F-1) and signing autographs for a couple hours each afternoon. On Thanksgiving, the Association will be providing a sit down turkey dinner for all those working the show which should be great.
After moving out of the show on Sunday, we'll make a stop Monday morning, Dec. 1 at Mid Florida Tech in Orlando to speak to students and faculty before flying home later in the day.
Then its home for about a week and then off to Florida again for the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show in Orlando, Dec. 11-13.
Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
Jay
November 18, 2008
Home At Last!
Hey Everybody, I'm finally home. My daughter, Marybeth picked me up at the airport last night. It was great to be home and see my wife and get to the office this morning to see Terri's smiling face! I'll be in the office through the end of this week doing paperwork and preping to meet Eddie in Florida, where I'll be a part of the Central Florida Auto Dealers Show.
The racing season has come to an end, and we're already preparing for the 2009 season. We're very excited about the opportunities availabile to us in 2009 and look forward to working hard throughout the winter to get ready.
Keep checking back, we're working hard at keeping the blog updated.
As always, thanks to all of our friends and fans in the racing community for your support of Follow A Dream.
Jay
The racing season has come to an end, and we're already preparing for the 2009 season. We're very excited about the opportunities availabile to us in 2009 and look forward to working hard throughout the winter to get ready.
Keep checking back, we're working hard at keeping the blog updated.
As always, thanks to all of our friends and fans in the racing community for your support of Follow A Dream.
Jay
November 16, 2008
The End of Pomona- For Now
Hello everybody!
Its still warm in California. They tell me that its kinda smoky, as brush fires are sweeping through Southern California.
Today was the final rounds of racing, and we lost in the quarterfinals. We had the right lane, and we had some problems with the car shaking. We ran a 5.77 at 251mph to Jay Payne's 5.59 at 257mph.
This brought our California weekend to a close. The crew worked tirelessly on the car throughout the entire weekend. Tommy Howell did a marvelous job for us, and it was great having the entire crew here working together. Although the Pomona magic is over for now, we know we will return.
We are packed up to go. Eddie will be heading to Florida tomorrow. I will be on a plane, and back in the office on Tuesday. I am looking forward to going home and seeing my wife and family.
Stay tuned for more updates.
Best,
Jay
Its still warm in California. They tell me that its kinda smoky, as brush fires are sweeping through Southern California.
Today was the final rounds of racing, and we lost in the quarterfinals. We had the right lane, and we had some problems with the car shaking. We ran a 5.77 at 251mph to Jay Payne's 5.59 at 257mph.
This brought our California weekend to a close. The crew worked tirelessly on the car throughout the entire weekend. Tommy Howell did a marvelous job for us, and it was great having the entire crew here working together. Although the Pomona magic is over for now, we know we will return.
We are packed up to go. Eddie will be heading to Florida tomorrow. I will be on a plane, and back in the office on Tuesday. I am looking forward to going home and seeing my wife and family.
Stay tuned for more updates.
Best,
Jay
November 15, 2008
Day 2 Part 2
Yesterday, in our 3rd qualifyer, we ran a 5.62, which qualified us 6th. We did break a rocker arm, and we spent a lot of time fixing that last evening.
Today we have round 1.
Check back soon,
Jay
Today we have round 1.
Check back soon,
Jay
November 14, 2008
Day 2- Part 1
Hey everyone!
It's about 2:00 out here in California. We had our second qualifying pass this morning. We ran a 5.79. The car was driving through the clutch. Right now, we are currently not qualified, but we are getting the car ready for our third and final qualifying race this evening. We are confident that it will move us up the ladder.
Chris and Rick from ARP products and Bill from Cleavite stopped by to see how we were doing. We really appreciate all the support from all our sponsors. We certainly couldn't do this without them.
If any of you are wondering what the weather is like in California, it is about high 80s/ low 90s. It is another hot, sunny California day.
Check back later today for information on our 3rd qualifying race.
-Jay
It's about 2:00 out here in California. We had our second qualifying pass this morning. We ran a 5.79. The car was driving through the clutch. Right now, we are currently not qualified, but we are getting the car ready for our third and final qualifying race this evening. We are confident that it will move us up the ladder.
Chris and Rick from ARP products and Bill from Cleavite stopped by to see how we were doing. We really appreciate all the support from all our sponsors. We certainly couldn't do this without them.
If any of you are wondering what the weather is like in California, it is about high 80s/ low 90s. It is another hot, sunny California day.
Check back later today for information on our 3rd qualifying race.
-Jay
November 13, 2008
Day 1
Hey everybody!
This is coming to you from the sunny, hot, Pomona, California where temperatures have reached about 85. I am definitely feeling pain for all of those on the East Coast, suffering in the cold.
Today was our first qualifying pass. We ran 5.82 seconds at 253mph, which puts us currently at 14th. We were looking to calm the car way down and to make a smooth pass down the track. We did this, just slower than we had hoped. This is a solid foundation to build on for tomorrow's 2 qualifying passes.
It is great to have the crew back at the race track. Everyone is back together and working hard.
It is about 3:30 California time, and the car is put to bed for the night to rest up for tomorrow.
Check back with us tomorrow so we can keep you updated as the race continues.
Also- be sure to get the new Follow a Dream t-shirts for your loved ones for Christmas before they all run out.
Until then,
Jay
This is coming to you from the sunny, hot, Pomona, California where temperatures have reached about 85. I am definitely feeling pain for all of those on the East Coast, suffering in the cold.
Today was our first qualifying pass. We ran 5.82 seconds at 253mph, which puts us currently at 14th. We were looking to calm the car way down and to make a smooth pass down the track. We did this, just slower than we had hoped. This is a solid foundation to build on for tomorrow's 2 qualifying passes.
It is great to have the crew back at the race track. Everyone is back together and working hard.
It is about 3:30 California time, and the car is put to bed for the night to rest up for tomorrow.
Check back with us tomorrow so we can keep you updated as the race continues.
Also- be sure to get the new Follow a Dream t-shirts for your loved ones for Christmas before they all run out.
Until then,
Jay
November 12, 2008
Greetings from Pomona!
Hey everybody!
Its Wednesday, and we are in Pomona, CA, set up and ready to race!
But first, I need to tell you about last night. Wynn's Mark Hisher took Eddie and I to Speed Zone where they had Small Block Chevy Dragsters on a track. I was able to drive them. Wow! It was awesome! I made 6 passes which were about 200 feet long, and I went about 80mph or so in like 3.4 seconds. It was really, really cool. Oh ya, did I mention that it was really, really cool? In my last three passes, I was going against three other cars, and I was able to beat 2 of the 3. That just goes to show how pathetic the other drivers were. We had a lot of fun. Mark then took Eddie and I to dinner, and then we called it a night.
The rest of the crew showed up today, and they are all really excited to race. Our first qualifying pass is tomorrow around noon.
It is absolutely wonderful having Tommy Howell back from Afghanistan and with us for the race. We are all really looking forward to this weekend.
I will be blogging everyday while we are out here so stay tuned for the daily update!
-Jay
Its Wednesday, and we are in Pomona, CA, set up and ready to race!
But first, I need to tell you about last night. Wynn's Mark Hisher took Eddie and I to Speed Zone where they had Small Block Chevy Dragsters on a track. I was able to drive them. Wow! It was awesome! I made 6 passes which were about 200 feet long, and I went about 80mph or so in like 3.4 seconds. It was really, really cool. Oh ya, did I mention that it was really, really cool? In my last three passes, I was going against three other cars, and I was able to beat 2 of the 3. That just goes to show how pathetic the other drivers were. We had a lot of fun. Mark then took Eddie and I to dinner, and then we called it a night.
The rest of the crew showed up today, and they are all really excited to race. Our first qualifying pass is tomorrow around noon.
It is absolutely wonderful having Tommy Howell back from Afghanistan and with us for the race. We are all really looking forward to this weekend.
I will be blogging everyday while we are out here so stay tuned for the daily update!
-Jay
November 9, 2008
Hello from the Road
Hey everybody!
Its Sunday night and Eddie and I are driving through the desert. We're going to Asuza to do a presentation for Wynn's. Tomorrow morning, we will go to Wynn's to display the car, and I will do the presentation tomorrow night.
This weekend was spent doing work on the truck, hanging around and catching up on some sleep. Tomorrow after we will be going grocery shopping!
As for now, the sun is out, the weather is beautiful, and I am looking forward to everyone coming out and going racing!!
That's all for now
-Jay
Its Sunday night and Eddie and I are driving through the desert. We're going to Asuza to do a presentation for Wynn's. Tomorrow morning, we will go to Wynn's to display the car, and I will do the presentation tomorrow night.
This weekend was spent doing work on the truck, hanging around and catching up on some sleep. Tomorrow after we will be going grocery shopping!
As for now, the sun is out, the weather is beautiful, and I am looking forward to everyone coming out and going racing!!
That's all for now
-Jay
November 8, 2008
Weekend
It's Saturday and the sun is out! It is bright, warm and beautiful. Eddie and I got the car out of the AAPEX show on Thursday night. We had a wonderful last day at the show. I did a SEMA TV piece with Barry Meguiar on Car Crazy.
Yesterday, I just walked around SEMA, and I headed out of Las vegas last night. On Monday, I will be speaking at the Wynn's headquarters.
Check back soon,
Jay
Yesterday, I just walked around SEMA, and I headed out of Las vegas last night. On Monday, I will be speaking at the Wynn's headquarters.
Check back soon,
Jay
November 6, 2008
Good Morning From Vegas!
Wednesday was a great day at the AAPEX Show. Shook alot of hands and met some wonderful people. Always great to meet fans and introduce those that don't know about us to Follow A Dream and our unique program. Drag racing legend, Don Prudhomme was at the Wynn's booth yesterday so I had the chance to talk with him and then we took some pictures of the funny car for Wynn's.
Last night Eddie and I got out of the hotel for awhile and took a nice long walk down the Vegas strip. Stopped at a place that had $1.50 beers and then finished off our big night out with dinner at Denny's. We are two wild & crazy guys!
We'll be in the Permatex booth again today and then we're going to walk the show and try to hook up with some of our contacts and meet some new folks. Tonight is the move out and then off to California where we're going to visit the Wynn's USA headquarters on Monday on our way to the NHRA Finals in Pomona, CA later in the week.
Keep checking back!
Jay
Last night Eddie and I got out of the hotel for awhile and took a nice long walk down the Vegas strip. Stopped at a place that had $1.50 beers and then finished off our big night out with dinner at Denny's. We are two wild & crazy guys!
We'll be in the Permatex booth again today and then we're going to walk the show and try to hook up with some of our contacts and meet some new folks. Tonight is the move out and then off to California where we're going to visit the Wynn's USA headquarters on Monday on our way to the NHRA Finals in Pomona, CA later in the week.
Keep checking back!
Jay
November 5, 2008
Hello from Vegas!!
I have arrived! Eddie and the car were here on Friday. He spent the weekend at the races.
On Monday, we moved the car into the AAPEX Show to be displayed for everyone to see. After we had set it up, we went to Pole Position, which is an indoor go-cart track and bar. They were holding a birthday party for Permatex’s 100 year celebration! It was a lot of fun, until they asked me to just say a few words. Man, I dropped the ball. I thought that if I sang “Happy Birthday” everyone would join in with me. Oops, I was wrong. I ended up singing it by myself in front of about 200 people. And I can’t really sing.
I did not do any driving at the party, but Marty and Eddie did their share. I would like to thank Permatex for putting on a great party.
Tuesday day/evening were very busy. The AAPEX show opened, and it was a great first day. The crowd was wonderful; Marty and I signed autographs for them. I did a TV piece with Sam from Two Guys Garage on the Right Stuff from Permatex. That night, I went to a retirement party, and Marty went to a party for Clevite Engine Bearings.
Since then, Marty has flown home. I will be at the Apex show all day Wednesday and Thursday. I am looking forward to a great couple of days.
Nothing else too exciting; I have just been keeping very busy. I am still trying to get used to the time change here. I will blog again soon to keep you updated about my adventures in Vegas.
Best,
Jay
On Monday, we moved the car into the AAPEX Show to be displayed for everyone to see. After we had set it up, we went to Pole Position, which is an indoor go-cart track and bar. They were holding a birthday party for Permatex’s 100 year celebration! It was a lot of fun, until they asked me to just say a few words. Man, I dropped the ball. I thought that if I sang “Happy Birthday” everyone would join in with me. Oops, I was wrong. I ended up singing it by myself in front of about 200 people. And I can’t really sing.
I did not do any driving at the party, but Marty and Eddie did their share. I would like to thank Permatex for putting on a great party.
Tuesday day/evening were very busy. The AAPEX show opened, and it was a great first day. The crowd was wonderful; Marty and I signed autographs for them. I did a TV piece with Sam from Two Guys Garage on the Right Stuff from Permatex. That night, I went to a retirement party, and Marty went to a party for Clevite Engine Bearings.
Since then, Marty has flown home. I will be at the Apex show all day Wednesday and Thursday. I am looking forward to a great couple of days.
Nothing else too exciting; I have just been keeping very busy. I am still trying to get used to the time change here. I will blog again soon to keep you updated about my adventures in Vegas.
Best,
Jay
November 4, 2008
ARRIVED IN VEGAS
Hi All!
Caught a flight to Vegas Sunday night to meet up with Ed for the AAPEX Show. Moved the racecar into the show yesterday afternoon and will be in the Permatex booth today, tomorrow, and Thursday meeting fans and signing autographs.
Last night, Permatex held a 100th Anniversary celebration at Pole Position Raceway, an indoor kart racing facility in Las Vegas. Had a lot of fun catching up with some of my Permatex friends but, unfortunately nobody would let me drive!
This evening will be a busy one, have 3 events that I am required to attend between 5-6:30pm. Should be interesting to see how that all goes. Will fill you in some more when I get a few minutes. Have a great day!
Jay
Caught a flight to Vegas Sunday night to meet up with Ed for the AAPEX Show. Moved the racecar into the show yesterday afternoon and will be in the Permatex booth today, tomorrow, and Thursday meeting fans and signing autographs.
Last night, Permatex held a 100th Anniversary celebration at Pole Position Raceway, an indoor kart racing facility in Las Vegas. Had a lot of fun catching up with some of my Permatex friends but, unfortunately nobody would let me drive!
This evening will be a busy one, have 3 events that I am required to attend between 5-6:30pm. Should be interesting to see how that all goes. Will fill you in some more when I get a few minutes. Have a great day!
Jay
October 24, 2008
Keeping Busy
Hey everybody!
Wednesday saw Charlie, Eddie and I working in the shop. We were able to blow the cobwebs out and get the car running. It sounds great! I definitely think that it sounds ready for the West Coast trip, and we’re hoping to have some great runs out there. We are ready as well. Saturday, we are going to load up the trailer, pick up the body of the car, which is currently getting some touchups, and Eddie will head West on Sunday.
I, however, won’t be flying out to Vegas until Sunday, November 2. I am keeping myself busy until then. I flew out yesterday to Houston, Texas, where I will be speaking today at the National Industries for the Blind Annual Training Conference. I will then hop back on a plane and fly home this afternoon. Tomorrow, I’ll be back in the shop.
Next Stop: The Big Bright Lights of Vegas!
Check Back Soon,
Jay
Wednesday saw Charlie, Eddie and I working in the shop. We were able to blow the cobwebs out and get the car running. It sounds great! I definitely think that it sounds ready for the West Coast trip, and we’re hoping to have some great runs out there. We are ready as well. Saturday, we are going to load up the trailer, pick up the body of the car, which is currently getting some touchups, and Eddie will head West on Sunday.
I, however, won’t be flying out to Vegas until Sunday, November 2. I am keeping myself busy until then. I flew out yesterday to Houston, Texas, where I will be speaking today at the National Industries for the Blind Annual Training Conference. I will then hop back on a plane and fly home this afternoon. Tomorrow, I’ll be back in the shop.
Next Stop: The Big Bright Lights of Vegas!
Check Back Soon,
Jay
October 20, 2008
Heading West
Hey everybody!
It’s that time of year again- autumn in New England. As the weather gets increasingly colder, the crew is looking forward to heading west. Lately, we have been working in the shop to prepare for our upcoming trip. We put in rods and freshened the heads on the motor. Charlie and I worked in the shop on Sunday. He went through the transmission, and we have been working on getting everything ready to go.
The next couple of days will be spent loading the trailer. We’re getting ready to put the blower on, and we plan to warm up on Wednesday. Just getting everything done that we need to before we can leave.
I would also like to congratulate Jamie Blake for winning the 2nd annual Junior Jam at New England Dragway on Saturday.
Will keep you updated!
Jay
It’s that time of year again- autumn in New England. As the weather gets increasingly colder, the crew is looking forward to heading west. Lately, we have been working in the shop to prepare for our upcoming trip. We put in rods and freshened the heads on the motor. Charlie and I worked in the shop on Sunday. He went through the transmission, and we have been working on getting everything ready to go.
The next couple of days will be spent loading the trailer. We’re getting ready to put the blower on, and we plan to warm up on Wednesday. Just getting everything done that we need to before we can leave.
I would also like to congratulate Jamie Blake for winning the 2nd annual Junior Jam at New England Dragway on Saturday.
Will keep you updated!
Jay
October 6, 2008
Hello Race Fans!
Wanted to stop in and say hi-sorry it's been so long. Been working in the shop getting the racecar ready to head West for the AAPEX Show with Permatex and then to the finals in Pomona. Been doing some office work and will be headed out to speak on behalf of TravelCenters of America at the end of the week in Cleveland, OH.
Has everybody seen the new t-shirts we have for sale on the website. Take a look on the homepage-they're very cool!
I just heard about Bobby Martindale's accident this past weekend in Atlanta. I'd like to send our thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and crew. What a sad day in drag racing. RIP
Will keep you all posted & have a wonderful day!
Best,
Jay
Has everybody seen the new t-shirts we have for sale on the website. Take a look on the homepage-they're very cool!
I just heard about Bobby Martindale's accident this past weekend in Atlanta. I'd like to send our thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and crew. What a sad day in drag racing. RIP
Will keep you all posted & have a wonderful day!
Best,
Jay
September 9, 2008
Hello Everyone!
It’s been a week or so since I last touched base, and wanted to fill you all in. Indy started well, with a couple of great passes that put us in the #3 qualifying spot. Hurt the rear end and twisted the axel so Jimmy & Joe jumped in the rental car and drove to Chicago Saturday night to meet up with the folks at Strange Engineering. Worked on fixing the rear end and arrived back at the track after 4am on Sunday. Got the rear end back in the car and were ready to go Sunday morning for the final qualifying pass. Again, we struggled to find just the right combination and shook the tires pretty hard. Qualified 12th going into eliminations on Sunday afternoon, where we lost to Roger Bateman. We were all disappointed after giving it our all. Before packing it all up and heading to Englishtown, NJ we stopped at one of the Texas Roadhouse locations in Indy to display the racecar and then spoke at Lincoln Technical Institute on Wednesday, where I spoke in front of over 800 students. Had a great day at Lincoln Tech!
Got to NJ where we competed with hurricane Hanna to get some racing in. Had one qualifying pass each on Saturday & Sunday where unfortunately, we did not qualify for the event. Again, the team was discouraged but, we all know we have the right combination of driver, team, sponsors, parts-you name it. To put it simply, we have all the right stuff. Spent Monday at Pro Start Racecars with Kurt where we worked to get some changes and repairs made to the parachutes. All looks good and we’re now headed to NC for the inaugural race at Concord. Did an interview over the phone yesterday for an On The Run article for National Dragster.
Will be stopping to display the racecar in Concord, NC at Texas Roadhouse on Wednesday evening before we get to the track. A good opportunity to meet some race fans and have a great meal to start what we hope will be a great weekend of racing.
The positive attitude and determination of the entire team will carry us through our difficult times as we work to find out what it is that our great hotrod is looking for. The Chevrolet Impala SS/Prostart funny car has tons of power and we just have to find the right way to put it to the ground.
We thank you all for your support and will give you an update Thursday from the new racetrack. A special thanks to Strange Engineering for working with us into the night during Indy-you guys are awesome!
P.S. Keep an eye on the website, we’ll be launching a new line of custom Follow A Dream t-shirts in the next several days.
Got to NJ where we competed with hurricane Hanna to get some racing in. Had one qualifying pass each on Saturday & Sunday where unfortunately, we did not qualify for the event. Again, the team was discouraged but, we all know we have the right combination of driver, team, sponsors, parts-you name it. To put it simply, we have all the right stuff. Spent Monday at Pro Start Racecars with Kurt where we worked to get some changes and repairs made to the parachutes. All looks good and we’re now headed to NC for the inaugural race at Concord. Did an interview over the phone yesterday for an On The Run article for National Dragster.
Will be stopping to display the racecar in Concord, NC at Texas Roadhouse on Wednesday evening before we get to the track. A good opportunity to meet some race fans and have a great meal to start what we hope will be a great weekend of racing.
The positive attitude and determination of the entire team will carry us through our difficult times as we work to find out what it is that our great hotrod is looking for. The Chevrolet Impala SS/Prostart funny car has tons of power and we just have to find the right way to put it to the ground.
We thank you all for your support and will give you an update Thursday from the new racetrack. A special thanks to Strange Engineering for working with us into the night during Indy-you guys are awesome!
P.S. Keep an eye on the website, we’ll be launching a new line of custom Follow A Dream t-shirts in the next several days.
August 28, 2008
Just Catching Up
Hey everybody!
Wanted to fill you in on what’s been going on in Dream Land. After we finished up the race in Lebanon Valley over 4th of July, the car came back to the shop and we started preparing for the second half of the season, as we were in a bit of a summer break. I took a couple of days off and hung out with my wife, Ann.
All was going well as we were preparing to head to Reading for the Toyo Tires Nationals. The Monday before Reading, I took a fall in the trailer, fell from the second floor to the first floor, split my head open, got a concussion, and an extremely sore knee. As I recovered, the team headed to Reading without me. Won best appearing crew at the event. Many thanks to Champion Systems for the great looking uniforms and all their support of the Follow A Dream Team. Lost in the quarter final round of eliminations and headed home. After the car got back to Massachusetts, the team got together, serviced the car and Ed Parker and I jumped in the rig and headed to Indy for the US Nationals. Got into Indy yesterday afternoon and visited a Texas Roadhouse Restaurant location in Avon, IN last night. We’re excited to get the racing started and look forward to a great weekend. Next Tuesday evening, Sept. 2 we’re going to visit the Texas Roadhouse @ 9111 N. Michigan Road, Indy before heading to Englishtown, NJ for another race next weekend.
This is an extended trip, as we’ll be on the road for the next several weeks. After the race in Englishtown next weekend we head to North Carolina for the Carolina’s Nationals at Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Concord and then on to Nashville, TN to speak at the 2008 SuperTech Competition on behalf of our sponsor Permatex. After that, I think we’re home for a couple weeks.
Stay tuned, as I’ll work on doing a better job of keeping you all updated in the days to come.
Have a great weekend!
Jay
Wanted to fill you in on what’s been going on in Dream Land. After we finished up the race in Lebanon Valley over 4th of July, the car came back to the shop and we started preparing for the second half of the season, as we were in a bit of a summer break. I took a couple of days off and hung out with my wife, Ann.
All was going well as we were preparing to head to Reading for the Toyo Tires Nationals. The Monday before Reading, I took a fall in the trailer, fell from the second floor to the first floor, split my head open, got a concussion, and an extremely sore knee. As I recovered, the team headed to Reading without me. Won best appearing crew at the event. Many thanks to Champion Systems for the great looking uniforms and all their support of the Follow A Dream Team. Lost in the quarter final round of eliminations and headed home. After the car got back to Massachusetts, the team got together, serviced the car and Ed Parker and I jumped in the rig and headed to Indy for the US Nationals. Got into Indy yesterday afternoon and visited a Texas Roadhouse Restaurant location in Avon, IN last night. We’re excited to get the racing started and look forward to a great weekend. Next Tuesday evening, Sept. 2 we’re going to visit the Texas Roadhouse @ 9111 N. Michigan Road, Indy before heading to Englishtown, NJ for another race next weekend.
This is an extended trip, as we’ll be on the road for the next several weeks. After the race in Englishtown next weekend we head to North Carolina for the Carolina’s Nationals at Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Concord and then on to Nashville, TN to speak at the 2008 SuperTech Competition on behalf of our sponsor Permatex. After that, I think we’re home for a couple weeks.
Stay tuned, as I’ll work on doing a better job of keeping you all updated in the days to come.
Have a great weekend!
Jay
July 7, 2008
So Good to Be Home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wow, it is so nice to be home with the wife and family. You know me, it's nice to be at the track, but after four weeks spanning the globe...or at least Atco, Englishtown, Norwalk and Lebanon Valley. My own bed is sure going to feel nice!!
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
Lebanon Valley
Hi Everyone,
Hope everyone had a great 4th of July. Another weekend of battling weather. After qualifying 5th, we lost in the first round of eliminations when Marty red lit.
Jay
Hope everyone had a great 4th of July. Another weekend of battling weather. After qualifying 5th, we lost in the first round of eliminations when Marty red lit.
Jay
June 30, 2008
Traveling to New York
Hi
Eddie and me are getting things ready for this weekend's Division 1 race in New York. Yeah, we're doing exciting stuff like laundry and getting the trailer in shape for our fourth straight weekend of racing.
Jay
Eddie and me are getting things ready for this weekend's Division 1 race in New York. Yeah, we're doing exciting stuff like laundry and getting the trailer in shape for our fourth straight weekend of racing.
Jay
June 29, 2008
Norwalk - 2nd Round of Eliminations
Lost an great opportunity against Steve Harker, who had violent tire shake, but we went red to end our weekend in Norwalk. All in all the team did a great job this weekend. It's always disappointing going home without a trophy, but it's time to start thinking about next weekend's Division 1 race in New York.
June 28, 2008
Norwalk - 1st Round Eliminations
Just an awesome first run in eliminations as Marty had a great light and then ran low ET for the event so far with a 5.640/258.27 MPH. We get Steve Harker in the next round and with lane choice we're hoping for good things on Sunday!
I can't say enough about the way the team has brought things together throughout the weekend!
Talk to you tomorrow.
Jay
I can't say enough about the way the team has brought things together throughout the weekend!
Talk to you tomorrow.
Jay
Norwalk - Saturday Qualifying
It's back to racing!
Our second run shows marked improvement with a 5.799/254.62 run. We're 10th...Bobby Martin is in the #1 position with a 5.654.
More later.
Jay
Our second run shows marked improvement with a 5.799/254.62 run. We're 10th...Bobby Martin is in the #1 position with a 5.654.
More later.
Jay
A Wet Day
Well it was a long day or waiting. The day was cut short by continual seeping through the track surface. Norwalk has had about a dozen inches of rain fall in the last 10 days so the ground is pretty saturated. Action was stopped around 4 PM and despite efforts by NHRA, things were finally called off at 9:15.
Here's hoping for a drier Saturday!!
Jay
Here's hoping for a drier Saturday!!
Jay
June 27, 2008
Norwalk - 1st qualifying run
Our first run wasn't what we wanted 5.965 seconds, 230.88 mph. More to come after our second run.
Jeff
Jeff
Norwalk - Friday
Afternoon everyone,
Getting ready for our first qualifying run at 2 PM EST. We've put in new rods and changed the heads on the motor. Putting it back together right now. Randy Anderson once again is in the pits with us, working with my brother Jim on tuning the car.
Last night was incredible with a big storm blowing over top the track. Thought we were going to be lifted up and blown away!!
Looks like we'll be dodging weather all weekend long.
Jay
Getting ready for our first qualifying run at 2 PM EST. We've put in new rods and changed the heads on the motor. Putting it back together right now. Randy Anderson once again is in the pits with us, working with my brother Jim on tuning the car.
Last night was incredible with a big storm blowing over top the track. Thought we were going to be lifted up and blown away!!
Looks like we'll be dodging weather all weekend long.
Jay
Norwalk Preview News Release
Hi everyone,
Below is our news release for this weekend's race in Norwalk, Ohio.
FOLLOW A DREAM LOOKS TO BUILD UPON RECENT SUCCESSES AT
NHRA NATIONALS IN NORWALK, OHIO
Marstons Mills, MA – Follow A Dream, Incorporated (“FAD”) team owner Jay Blake believes the team is carrying momentum into this weekend’s (June 27-29, 2008) Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals At Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio.
“Getting to the semifinals last weekend in Englishtown was huge for this team,” said Blake, who is the only totally blind crew chief in motorsports. “Consistency is something that we’ve been striving for all this season, and I think we’re really getting close to putting together an entire weekend of solid runs that will put us in position to challenge for a championship on Sunday.”
“We’re just scratching the surface with the Permatex/Wynn’s/Texas Roadhouse 2008 Chevrolet Impala SS Top Alcohol Funny Car,” said driver Marty Nothstein, the 2000 Olympic Gold Medalist in track cycling. “Every race we’re getting stronger, and I really feel that we haven’t seen the best that this car and team has to offer.”
Since a first round elimination at its season opener at the Southern Nationals in Atlanta in late April, Follow A Dream and Nothstein has appeared in three finals at Northeast Division 1 events in Virginia, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, plus the semifinal appearance at Englishtown last weekend.
One of the highlights of the young season occurred two weeks in Atco, New Jersey when Follow A Dream was able to beat defending national champ Frank Manzo in the first round of eliminations. The victory snapped Manzo’s win streak of 47 straight elimination victories.
About Follow A Dream
Established in 1999, Follow A Dream is a non-profit 501(C)3 organization. The organization’s message is uniquely delivered through NHRA drag racing as its medium. As racing’s only totally blind, race crew chief, Follow A Dream Founder, Jay Blake draws upon his personal experience of overcoming adversity and achieving his dream of auto racing, and shares his inspiration with others. For more information go to www.followadream.org.
About Marty Nothstein
Marty ‘The Blade’ Nothstein is one of the most recognized cyclists in the world having won an Olympic Gold Medal in the 2000 Games in Sydney and Silver in Atlanta in 1996. Nothstein is America’s most decorated track cyclist with 35 U.S. National titles, three World Championships, four Pan-American Games Gold Medals, plus he’s a World and Olympic record holder. Since retiring from professional cycling in 2006, Marty is focusing his need for speed in the world of drag racing. 2008 will mark Marty’s third season in a Top Alcohol Funny Car. Nothstein will drive for Jay Blake, the Founder and Crew Chief of “The Follow A Dream Team”. Blake is the only totally blind crew chief in the world of motorsports. After a successful rookie season in 2006 in his Top Alcohol Funny Car, Nothstein found the winner’s circle twice during the 2007 NHRA Drag Racing Series season.
About Permatex
Permatex, Inc. is a leading manufacturer, distributor, and marketer of premium chemical products to the automotive maintenance and repair markets. Since 1909, Permatex has been an acknowledged leader in the development of innovative new products and services for the automotive aftermarket.
About Wynn’s
Wynn’s traces its history to 1939 when the original Wynn’s Friction Proofing Oil Treatment® formula was first developed and introduced to the automotive market. In the 65 years following the introduction of that single product, Wynn’s has grown to become a leading worldwide manufacturer and marketer of innovative, groundbreaking automotive specialty chemicals and service equipment, as well as Complete Automotive Maintenance Programs. For more information, log on to www.wynnsusa.com.
About Texas Roadhouse
Based in Louisville, Ky., Texas Roadhouse opened its doors in 1993. In just 15 years, the company has grown to more than 290 locations in 44 states. In 2006, readers of a national magazine voted Texas Roadhouse as the top concept in the Pub/Grill category, and Forbes magazine ranked the company as one of the 200 Best Small Companies. For more information, visit www.texasroadhouse.com.
###
Media Contacts:
Jeff Fisher 312-805-4850
jeff@blitzgroupllc.com
Trish Hoffman 312-805-4314
trish@blitzgroupllc.com
Below is our news release for this weekend's race in Norwalk, Ohio.
FOLLOW A DREAM LOOKS TO BUILD UPON RECENT SUCCESSES AT
NHRA NATIONALS IN NORWALK, OHIO
Marstons Mills, MA – Follow A Dream, Incorporated (“FAD”) team owner Jay Blake believes the team is carrying momentum into this weekend’s (June 27-29, 2008) Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals At Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk, Ohio.
“Getting to the semifinals last weekend in Englishtown was huge for this team,” said Blake, who is the only totally blind crew chief in motorsports. “Consistency is something that we’ve been striving for all this season, and I think we’re really getting close to putting together an entire weekend of solid runs that will put us in position to challenge for a championship on Sunday.”
“We’re just scratching the surface with the Permatex/Wynn’s/Texas Roadhouse 2008 Chevrolet Impala SS Top Alcohol Funny Car,” said driver Marty Nothstein, the 2000 Olympic Gold Medalist in track cycling. “Every race we’re getting stronger, and I really feel that we haven’t seen the best that this car and team has to offer.”
Since a first round elimination at its season opener at the Southern Nationals in Atlanta in late April, Follow A Dream and Nothstein has appeared in three finals at Northeast Division 1 events in Virginia, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, plus the semifinal appearance at Englishtown last weekend.
One of the highlights of the young season occurred two weeks in Atco, New Jersey when Follow A Dream was able to beat defending national champ Frank Manzo in the first round of eliminations. The victory snapped Manzo’s win streak of 47 straight elimination victories.
About Follow A Dream
Established in 1999, Follow A Dream is a non-profit 501(C)3 organization. The organization’s message is uniquely delivered through NHRA drag racing as its medium. As racing’s only totally blind, race crew chief, Follow A Dream Founder, Jay Blake draws upon his personal experience of overcoming adversity and achieving his dream of auto racing, and shares his inspiration with others. For more information go to www.followadream.org.
About Marty Nothstein
Marty ‘The Blade’ Nothstein is one of the most recognized cyclists in the world having won an Olympic Gold Medal in the 2000 Games in Sydney and Silver in Atlanta in 1996. Nothstein is America’s most decorated track cyclist with 35 U.S. National titles, three World Championships, four Pan-American Games Gold Medals, plus he’s a World and Olympic record holder. Since retiring from professional cycling in 2006, Marty is focusing his need for speed in the world of drag racing. 2008 will mark Marty’s third season in a Top Alcohol Funny Car. Nothstein will drive for Jay Blake, the Founder and Crew Chief of “The Follow A Dream Team”. Blake is the only totally blind crew chief in the world of motorsports. After a successful rookie season in 2006 in his Top Alcohol Funny Car, Nothstein found the winner’s circle twice during the 2007 NHRA Drag Racing Series season.
About Permatex
Permatex, Inc. is a leading manufacturer, distributor, and marketer of premium chemical products to the automotive maintenance and repair markets. Since 1909, Permatex has been an acknowledged leader in the development of innovative new products and services for the automotive aftermarket.
About Wynn’s
Wynn’s traces its history to 1939 when the original Wynn’s Friction Proofing Oil Treatment® formula was first developed and introduced to the automotive market. In the 65 years following the introduction of that single product, Wynn’s has grown to become a leading worldwide manufacturer and marketer of innovative, groundbreaking automotive specialty chemicals and service equipment, as well as Complete Automotive Maintenance Programs. For more information, log on to www.wynnsusa.com.
About Texas Roadhouse
Based in Louisville, Ky., Texas Roadhouse opened its doors in 1993. In just 15 years, the company has grown to more than 290 locations in 44 states. In 2006, readers of a national magazine voted Texas Roadhouse as the top concept in the Pub/Grill category, and Forbes magazine ranked the company as one of the 200 Best Small Companies. For more information, visit www.texasroadhouse.com.
###
Media Contacts:
Jeff Fisher 312-805-4850
jeff@blitzgroupllc.com
Trish Hoffman 312-805-4314
trish@blitzgroupllc.com
June 25, 2008
Visiting Permatex Plant in Solon, Ohio
Good Morning Everyone,
I'm paying a visit to the Permatex plant in Solon, Ohio today. I love talking to the workers and they love to check-out the Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse Funny Car that will be on display.
I'll tell you about my visit later today.
Jay
I'm paying a visit to the Permatex plant in Solon, Ohio today. I love talking to the workers and they love to check-out the Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse Funny Car that will be on display.
I'll tell you about my visit later today.
Jay
June 23, 2008
Englishtown Pics
Hi everyone,
Here are some pics from Race Day on Sunday in between rounds.
Jay
Marty checking the Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse Chevrolet Impala SS
Trashing between Quarters and Semis
Here are some pics from Race Day on Sunday in between rounds.
Jay
Marty checking the Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse Chevrolet Impala SS
Trashing between Quarters and Semis
Link to NY Times Article
Hi everyone,
For those of you that haven't seen the NY Times sports section article, click here to see it.
Jay
For those of you that haven't seen the NY Times sports section article, click here to see it.
Jay
June 22, 2008
Englishtown - Sunday
Hi all,
It was a good weekend, not a great weekend for the Follow A Dream team.
Sunday's eliminations saw Marty Nothstein lose to national points leader Mickey Ferro, but we certainly had a great shot at getting to the finals for the fourth straight race. We had an electrical problem that caused us not to have a shift lift in the semis, and despite a great reaction time, Marty lost to Ferro.
Now it's time to head to Ohio for next weekend's race in Norwalk. Along the way, we'll make a couple of stops for speaking engagements. More on that tomorrow.
Thanks for checking-in.
Jay
It was a good weekend, not a great weekend for the Follow A Dream team.
Sunday's eliminations saw Marty Nothstein lose to national points leader Mickey Ferro, but we certainly had a great shot at getting to the finals for the fourth straight race. We had an electrical problem that caused us not to have a shift lift in the semis, and despite a great reaction time, Marty lost to Ferro.
Now it's time to head to Ohio for next weekend's race in Norwalk. Along the way, we'll make a couple of stops for speaking engagements. More on that tomorrow.
Thanks for checking-in.
Jay
Raining in Englishtown
We're in a holding pattern because of a light rain, but the sun is coming out at 1:10 and they should start drying the track.
Jay
Jay
Sunday NY Times Article
Good Morning Everyone,
Make sure everyone goes out and picks up a copy of the Sunday NY Times. Follow A Dream is featured on the front page of the sports section today. It's a wonderful article, but now it's time to go racing!!
Check back throughout the day!
Jay
Make sure everyone goes out and picks up a copy of the Sunday NY Times. Follow A Dream is featured on the front page of the sports section today. It's a wonderful article, but now it's time to go racing!!
Check back throughout the day!
Jay
June 21, 2008
Englishtown - Saturday
Our hearts and prayers go out to Scott Kalitta's family tonight as it mourns the loss of Nitro Funny Car driver who lost his life Saturday during an accident in Englishtown. As racers, we go back to the track tomorrow, but with heavy hearts.
NHRA will try to get in all four rounds of TAFC eliminations tomorrow. Our third round of qualifications was cancelled earlier earlier in the day. We're qualified second and will face John Headley in the opening round tomorrow.
Check-in throughout the day...we'll be posting our results as they happen.
Jay
NHRA will try to get in all four rounds of TAFC eliminations tomorrow. Our third round of qualifications was cancelled earlier earlier in the day. We're qualified second and will face John Headley in the opening round tomorrow.
Check-in throughout the day...we'll be posting our results as they happen.
Jay
June 20, 2008
Englishtown - Friday
Wow...what a day!!
The first qualifying run of the day was awesome...some might say perfect. Marty ran a 5.566 with a speed of 261.72, which is said to be the fifth best all-time in TAFC. We were qualified #1 until Manzo took the track and laid down a 5.532 at 263.87.
We pinched a piston so we repaired it just in time for the second qualifying run. We set the car up a little fat and ran a 6.653/258.62 and held on to the #2 spot with our final qualifying run set for 11 AM on Saturday. Manzo backed up his time with an identical 5.532.
Today was a great team effort!! For the second time this year Randy Anderson is helping my brother Jim with the set-up.
Finally, more awesome news. NY Times reporter Dave Caldwell was on-hand for most of the day, and it looks like you'll be able to read about Follow A Dream in Sunday's paper.
Good night,
Jay
The first qualifying run of the day was awesome...some might say perfect. Marty ran a 5.566 with a speed of 261.72, which is said to be the fifth best all-time in TAFC. We were qualified #1 until Manzo took the track and laid down a 5.532 at 263.87.
We pinched a piston so we repaired it just in time for the second qualifying run. We set the car up a little fat and ran a 6.653/258.62 and held on to the #2 spot with our final qualifying run set for 11 AM on Saturday. Manzo backed up his time with an identical 5.532.
Today was a great team effort!! For the second time this year Randy Anderson is helping my brother Jim with the set-up.
Finally, more awesome news. NY Times reporter Dave Caldwell was on-hand for most of the day, and it looks like you'll be able to read about Follow A Dream in Sunday's paper.
Good night,
Jay
June 15, 2008
Atco - Day 2
Man, on cloud 9 after a great day!!
Beating Frank Manzo in the first round and snapping his streak of 47 straight elimination round wins, shows how far we've come!!
Our third straight final also puts a big smile on my face!!
I'm so proud of the team!! Looking forward to Englishtown.
Jay
Beating Frank Manzo in the first round and snapping his streak of 47 straight elimination round wins, shows how far we've come!!
Our third straight final also puts a big smile on my face!!
I'm so proud of the team!! Looking forward to Englishtown.
Jay
June 14, 2008
Atco - Day 1
Hi everyone,
Late on Friday when I'm writing to you. Tough day at Atco, but we're in the show, and you know that's what matters!
On our first pass during qualifying Marty spun the tires and then on the second run the Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse Chevy Impala SS Funny Car couldn't be shifted into third gear, so Marty got out of the throttle. He did a great job getting the car down the track.
A run of 5.914/251.67 qualified us 8th for eliminations. First round, we get Frank Manzo, who of course has been the guy that beat us on the last two finals.
The car is back together and ready to go on Saturday.
Time to get some sleep,
Jay
Late on Friday when I'm writing to you. Tough day at Atco, but we're in the show, and you know that's what matters!
On our first pass during qualifying Marty spun the tires and then on the second run the Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse Chevy Impala SS Funny Car couldn't be shifted into third gear, so Marty got out of the throttle. He did a great job getting the car down the track.
A run of 5.914/251.67 qualified us 8th for eliminations. First round, we get Frank Manzo, who of course has been the guy that beat us on the last two finals.
The car is back together and ready to go on Saturday.
Time to get some sleep,
Jay
June 9, 2008
Weekend of Hard Work & Good To Hear From An Old Friend
Hi Everyone,
Crew came down Friday night and worked on the car until 1 AM getting it ready for Atco and then some more on Saturday. I took Sunday off to enjoy the family!
Friday was a great day as I got to talk with our tuner Tommy Howell, who's serving our country in Afghanistan. It was so good to hear his voice and share the season so far!
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
Crew came down Friday night and worked on the car until 1 AM getting it ready for Atco and then some more on Saturday. I took Sunday off to enjoy the family!
Friday was a great day as I got to talk with our tuner Tommy Howell, who's serving our country in Afghanistan. It was so good to hear his voice and share the season so far!
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
June 6, 2008
Getting Ready for Atco
Hi everyone,
Took several days off from the blog, but I'm back as we get ready for next weekend's Division 1 race in Atco, New Jersey, which will kick-off three big weekend's of racing!
Spent yesterday working on cylinder heads and on engine assembly. Scott DeWitt will be in town this weekend and we'll be working in the shop.
Talk to you later today,
Jay
Took several days off from the blog, but I'm back as we get ready for next weekend's Division 1 race in Atco, New Jersey, which will kick-off three big weekend's of racing!
Spent yesterday working on cylinder heads and on engine assembly. Scott DeWitt will be in town this weekend and we'll be working in the shop.
Talk to you later today,
Jay
May 30, 2008
A Sad Couple of Days
Been a little quiet, lost a very dear friend of mine yesterday. Bret Marceline passed away Thursday...way too early in life!! I'm going to miss him. My thoughts are with my good buddy and his family.
I'm really going to miss him.
The guys are going to be in the shop over the weekend...and I'll keep you updated!!
Jay
I'm really going to miss him.
The guys are going to be in the shop over the weekend...and I'll keep you updated!!
Jay
May 29, 2008
Working in the Shop
Good morning everyone,
Going to be a busy couple of days here at the shop in Massachusetts as we begin preparing for the race at Atco, New Jersey next month.
The car's in the shop and I'll be working on it all day today. I'm going to have Terri takes some pics of me so you can see what we do between races to prep the car.
Thanks to everyone commenting on the blog, please keep them coming.
I'm expecting great things in June with races national races in Englishtown, NJ and Norwalk, OH, plus a divisional race at Atco.
In the latest Division 1 Points Standings, Follow A Dream is in fourth place with 128 points. Mickey Ferro, who has four events in his total leads things with 170 points; Frank Manzo is second with 170 and Frank Schuster is third with 139 points.
Talk to you later today,
Jay
Going to be a busy couple of days here at the shop in Massachusetts as we begin preparing for the race at Atco, New Jersey next month.
The car's in the shop and I'll be working on it all day today. I'm going to have Terri takes some pics of me so you can see what we do between races to prep the car.
Thanks to everyone commenting on the blog, please keep them coming.
I'm expecting great things in June with races national races in Englishtown, NJ and Norwalk, OH, plus a divisional race at Atco.
In the latest Division 1 Points Standings, Follow A Dream is in fourth place with 128 points. Mickey Ferro, who has four events in his total leads things with 170 points; Frank Manzo is second with 170 and Frank Schuster is third with 139 points.
Talk to you later today,
Jay
May 25, 2008
Video From Last Night's Final in Reading
Good morning everyone,
Very excited to share with you last night's final between Marty and Frank Manzo. Click on the YouTube video below. Have a happy Memorial Day!!
Jay
Very excited to share with you last night's final between Marty and Frank Manzo. Click on the YouTube video below. Have a happy Memorial Day!!
Jay
May 24, 2008
Second Straight Final
Long day, but a great day in the books after making getting the Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse 2008 Chevrolet Impala SS into the finals for the second straight race.
Came up a little short to Frank Manzo for the second straight race, but we're getting closer! Marty ran a 5.73 to Frank's 5.63 in the final.
Come back tomorrow for video of the finals, plus some comments from me.
Jay
Came up a little short to Frank Manzo for the second straight race, but we're getting closer! Marty ran a 5.73 to Frank's 5.63 in the final.
Come back tomorrow for video of the finals, plus some comments from me.
Jay
Post Qualifying from Reading
Follow A Dream is always trying to keep you up-to-date from the track. Today, you can checkout video comments from the track, plus my thoughts on the 11th anniversary of my accident.
May 23, 2008
Qualified 5th in Reading
After a tough first round of qualifying we put it together in the second run. We ran at 5.743 that puts us fifth heading into tomorrow's quarterfinals. First round of eliminations set for 5 PM.
Frank Schuster is the top qualifier with after a run of 5.672. Marty will take on Eric Lourie the #4 qualifier in the quarters. Lourie's top qualifying run was 5.712.
Heading to Texas Roadhouse to have a meal with the team.
Jay
Frank Schuster is the top qualifier with after a run of 5.672. Marty will take on Eric Lourie the #4 qualifier in the quarters. Lourie's top qualifying run was 5.712.
Heading to Texas Roadhouse to have a meal with the team.
Jay
May 22, 2008
Arrived in Reading
Hi Everyone,
Late on Wednesday night. We left the shop in the afternoon and I'm now in Reading for this weekend's Division I race. Big weekend, because tomorrow is the anniversary of my accident.
I really feel things are coming together as we continue to improve upon things we learned in the first two races.
I really expect great things to happen over the next several races, and it should begin at Maple Grove Raceway, where as most of you know, I began to follow my dream!!
Good night,
Jay
Late on Wednesday night. We left the shop in the afternoon and I'm now in Reading for this weekend's Division I race. Big weekend, because tomorrow is the anniversary of my accident.
I really feel things are coming together as we continue to improve upon things we learned in the first two races.
I really expect great things to happen over the next several races, and it should begin at Maple Grove Raceway, where as most of you know, I began to follow my dream!!
Good night,
Jay
May 19, 2008
Pics from Southern Nationals
Good Monday Morning Everyone!!
Videographer Steve Baker has been around Follow A Dream for a long time....he's a great friend and awesome videographer. Steve was the the Southern Nationals with us about a month ago shooting video of the new car. He got plenty of great stuff of the Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse Chevy Impala SS.
He grabbed some stills from the video and sent them to me, so I'm sharing them with the rest of the Follow A Dream family.
Enjoy,
Jay
Videographer Steve Baker has been around Follow A Dream for a long time....he's a great friend and awesome videographer. Steve was the the Southern Nationals with us about a month ago shooting video of the new car. He got plenty of great stuff of the Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse Chevy Impala SS.
He grabbed some stills from the video and sent them to me, so I'm sharing them with the rest of the Follow A Dream family.
Enjoy,
Jay
May 18, 2008
Doing Some Work Around the House & Enjoying My Wife
Spent the day with my wife. Ann and I got the deck ready for summer. It was a perfect day!!
May 17, 2008
Getting Ready for Reading in the Shop
Hi everyone,
The crew was in the shop all day today working on the motor and clutch. Also getting the trailer ready for Reading over Memorial Day weekend. Can't wait to get back to Maple Grove Raceway. As most know, it's the track that really led me to "follow my dream".
Jay
The crew was in the shop all day today working on the motor and clutch. Also getting the trailer ready for Reading over Memorial Day weekend. Can't wait to get back to Maple Grove Raceway. As most know, it's the track that really led me to "follow my dream".
Jay
May 12, 2008
A Day in the Shop
Did a lot of things around the shop today. Main thing was took apart the cylinder head on the motor from the Atlanta weekend. As you'll recall we burned a piston in the first round of eliminations. Other than that, pretty much a quite day as I get ready for dinner.
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
May 11, 2008
Happy Mother's Day!!
Hope all of the mothers in the Follow A Dream family had an awesome day!!
Jim and I took our mom Mary out to dinner and just enjoyed the day. Just a nice day all around with my wife Ann and the kids!
Jay
Jim and I took our mom Mary out to dinner and just enjoyed the day. Just a nice day all around with my wife Ann and the kids!
Jay
May 8, 2008
Speech at Barnstable Middle School
Evening everyone!
Resting right now after an after-school speaking engagement to students at Barnstable Middle School in Hyannis.
I always come away from talks with kids with a good feeling. It's invigorating to tell kids that they don't have to wait for bad things to happen before they start working toward their future goals.
I have two school speeches tomorrow, so I'm going to get some rest. Thanks to everyone for reading.
Jay
Resting right now after an after-school speaking engagement to students at Barnstable Middle School in Hyannis.
I always come away from talks with kids with a good feeling. It's invigorating to tell kids that they don't have to wait for bad things to happen before they start working toward their future goals.
I have two school speeches tomorrow, so I'm going to get some rest. Thanks to everyone for reading.
Jay
May 7, 2008
I Get To Finally Sleep in My Own Bed!!
What a road trip!!
I'm home from a long two weeks on the road, but it was worth every minute of it!
The speech for Permatex at the Automotive Sales Council went very well this morning. With the help of Tony Battaglia of Permatex I was able to catch an earlier flight and get home to see the wife and kids sooner than I thought, which puts a smile on my face.
My daughter Mary Beth picked me up from the airport and I was able to get to my step daughter's Spring Concert at school, so needless to say, I'm a happy guy as I get ready to settle down for a nice evening in my own bed.
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
I'm home from a long two weeks on the road, but it was worth every minute of it!
The speech for Permatex at the Automotive Sales Council went very well this morning. With the help of Tony Battaglia of Permatex I was able to catch an earlier flight and get home to see the wife and kids sooner than I thought, which puts a smile on my face.
My daughter Mary Beth picked me up from the airport and I was able to get to my step daughter's Spring Concert at school, so needless to say, I'm a happy guy as I get ready to settle down for a nice evening in my own bed.
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
May 6, 2008
Speaking in St. Petersburg, FL
Hi Everyone,
It's wonderful in Florida! Got up early for my speech at the Automotive Sales Council on behalf of Permatex. This is the first of several speeches this week. I'll be back on the Cape talking to a couple of schools on Thursday and Friday.
In the meantime, yesterday was rather uneventful. No delays with my flight, which is always nice. Listened to a Blues Brother cover band in the hotel last night and got a good night's sleep.
Wanted to thank Joe Loomis and Mike Bradford for checking in on the blog.....keep the comments coming. Joe and Shannon, can't wait for Reading!! I feel that it's going to be a great weekend for the team, because that's Marty's home track.
Jay
It's wonderful in Florida! Got up early for my speech at the Automotive Sales Council on behalf of Permatex. This is the first of several speeches this week. I'll be back on the Cape talking to a couple of schools on Thursday and Friday.
In the meantime, yesterday was rather uneventful. No delays with my flight, which is always nice. Listened to a Blues Brother cover band in the hotel last night and got a good night's sleep.
Wanted to thank Joe Loomis and Mike Bradford for checking in on the blog.....keep the comments coming. Joe and Shannon, can't wait for Reading!! I feel that it's going to be a great weekend for the team, because that's Marty's home track.
Jay
May 4, 2008
Chillin in VA
Hi Everyone,
The car is packed up and heading back to Cape Cod, and I'm just sitting here at a hotel getting ready for my flight tomorrow to Florida for my speaking engagement on behalf of Permatex in St. Petersburg at the Automotive Sales Council meeting on Tuesday.
I'm just so proud of the team this weekend. We came very close to finding the winner's circle. Thanks to all of the sponsors, I can feel a real good season coming together.
My good friend and foe Frank Manzo continues to have Lady Luck smiling on him. After we made sure he was ok after the race, I shook his hand, and gave him a little good natured ribbing! Our little $2 part that failed is nothing compared to a new motor!!
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
P.S. Pat thanks for checking out the blog...hope all is well with you. And for others checking out the blog, please feel free to make comments.
The car is packed up and heading back to Cape Cod, and I'm just sitting here at a hotel getting ready for my flight tomorrow to Florida for my speaking engagement on behalf of Permatex in St. Petersburg at the Automotive Sales Council meeting on Tuesday.
I'm just so proud of the team this weekend. We came very close to finding the winner's circle. Thanks to all of the sponsors, I can feel a real good season coming together.
My good friend and foe Frank Manzo continues to have Lady Luck smiling on him. After we made sure he was ok after the race, I shook his hand, and gave him a little good natured ribbing! Our little $2 part that failed is nothing compared to a new motor!!
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
P.S. Pat thanks for checking out the blog...hope all is well with you. And for others checking out the blog, please feel free to make comments.
Virginia Day 2...Second Place
Ahh...what could have been!!
We made the finals against defending champ Frank Manzo, but a $2 part on the throttle linkage on Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse 2008 Chevrolet Impala SS Top Alcohol Funny Car broke in the finals... causing the throttle linkage not to work and the car shut-off about 150 feet down the track. That aside, we're very happy with the second place finish. It's just a little disappointing because Frank's car also broke on the run...but hey, that's racing!
Overall, great weekend for the team!!
We had an awesome run (5.662/254.62) in the semis. This car is still new...five passes this week, and four last week in Atlanta. Now we've got a couple of weeks to prepare for the race in Reading, which I know is going to be a great weekend, because that's Marty's home track and the one that holds special meaning to me, because it's really where I decided to start following my dream of owning a drag race team.
Gonna work on the car now and I'll talk to everyone tomorrow.
Jay
We made the finals against defending champ Frank Manzo, but a $2 part on the throttle linkage on Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse 2008 Chevrolet Impala SS Top Alcohol Funny Car broke in the finals... causing the throttle linkage not to work and the car shut-off about 150 feet down the track. That aside, we're very happy with the second place finish. It's just a little disappointing because Frank's car also broke on the run...but hey, that's racing!
Overall, great weekend for the team!!
We had an awesome run (5.662/254.62) in the semis. This car is still new...five passes this week, and four last week in Atlanta. Now we've got a couple of weeks to prepare for the race in Reading, which I know is going to be a great weekend, because that's Marty's home track and the one that holds special meaning to me, because it's really where I decided to start following my dream of owning a drag race team.
Gonna work on the car now and I'll talk to everyone tomorrow.
Jay
May 3, 2008
Virginia Day 2...Semis
Man...that one felt real good. Marty ran a 5.662/254.62 to beat Schuster. Now it's time for old friend and foe Frank Manzo in the finals.
Virginia Day 2...Quarterfinals
Sometimes...someone smiles on you and that's what happened in the first round of eliminations.
We're moving on...even though we missed on the tune-up...Marty ran a 5.924/252.10...Scott McNiece red-lighted so we're on to the semis to meet Frank Schuster.
Time to go thrash.
We're moving on...even though we missed on the tune-up...Marty ran a 5.924/252.10...Scott McNiece red-lighted so we're on to the semis to meet Frank Schuster.
Time to go thrash.
May 2, 2008
Virginia Day 1
Kudos to everyone for a job well done here in Virginia!!
Man, the team is really working its tail off to get this beautiful brand new 2008 Pro Start Chevrolet Impala SS faster and faster.
We're qualified second heading into tomorrow's eliminations, and I'm cautiously optimistic heading into Saturday.
I'm got tip my hat to my brother Jim and the rest of the crew for the improvements they made since last week's season opener in Atlanta. We got quicker each time down the track today. First run was a 5.744/243.33 and then Marty ran a 5.725/256.65. The car shook off the line otherwise it could be been a very good run.
We're taking baby steps to make sure things are safe. Remember this is a new motor that we put in after we burned a piston last Saturday. Thanks to our great sponsors we're able to do things it takes to be an excellent race team. The chute problems we had last week have been taken care of, and every thing worked well today.
This Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse 2008 Chevrolet Impala SS Top Alcohol Funny Car is going straight as an arrow down the track, and I'm ready to get after things tomorrow.
Jay
Man, the team is really working its tail off to get this beautiful brand new 2008 Pro Start Chevrolet Impala SS faster and faster.
We're qualified second heading into tomorrow's eliminations, and I'm cautiously optimistic heading into Saturday.
I'm got tip my hat to my brother Jim and the rest of the crew for the improvements they made since last week's season opener in Atlanta. We got quicker each time down the track today. First run was a 5.744/243.33 and then Marty ran a 5.725/256.65. The car shook off the line otherwise it could be been a very good run.
We're taking baby steps to make sure things are safe. Remember this is a new motor that we put in after we burned a piston last Saturday. Thanks to our great sponsors we're able to do things it takes to be an excellent race team. The chute problems we had last week have been taken care of, and every thing worked well today.
This Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse 2008 Chevrolet Impala SS Top Alcohol Funny Car is going straight as an arrow down the track, and I'm ready to get after things tomorrow.
Jay
Virginia Is For Racing
Well, we're at Virginia Motorsports Park and ready to rock and roll for this weeke's Northeast Division I opener. Today, Eddie and I spent the day getting supplies and now we're working on getting everything set-up. Probably will be working on the set-up until 10 PM tonight.
Marty's driving down. Our first qualifying run is set for 3 PM Friday afternoon.
We've never had great success here. Weather's always been a little iffy.
Talk to you tomorrow after the run.
Jay
Marty's driving down. Our first qualifying run is set for 3 PM Friday afternoon.
We've never had great success here. Weather's always been a little iffy.
Talk to you tomorrow after the run.
Jay
April 30, 2008
Still in Tennessee at WildSide...getting the hauler in-shape for our first division race this weekend in Virginia.
What I love about WildSide is they really work hard to meet their customer's needs.
We'll be pulling out of Franklin later today and heading to Virginia. Ah, life on the road. This a two-week odyssey down south has been made a little more enjoyable with our new hauler.
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
What I love about WildSide is they really work hard to meet their customer's needs.
We'll be pulling out of Franklin later today and heading to Virginia. Ah, life on the road. This a two-week odyssey down south has been made a little more enjoyable with our new hauler.
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
April 28, 2008
Follow A Dream Featured on FOX 5 Atlanta
Morning everyone,
As I mentioned on Thursday, we were interview by Buck Lanford of FOX 5 Atlanta. The story ran Sunday night and you can check out the story by clicking here.
More later today, we're heading to Franklin, Tennessee.
Jay
P.S. After the interview, the reporter did confirm that I look like George Clooney!! LOL. You'll see what I mean.
As I mentioned on Thursday, we were interview by Buck Lanford of FOX 5 Atlanta. The story ran Sunday night and you can check out the story by clicking here.
More later today, we're heading to Franklin, Tennessee.
Jay
P.S. After the interview, the reporter did confirm that I look like George Clooney!! LOL. You'll see what I mean.
April 27, 2008
Southern Nationals Day 4
Well, not the day you want...race day and we're hear putting things back together getting ready for next week's Division 1 race in Virginia.
Put in a new motor today, and getting ready to pull out of Commerce.
We'll hit the road tomorrow and head to Franklin, Tennessee to WildSide Trailers to fix a few things to our liking.
Talk to you tomorrow.
Jay
Put in a new motor today, and getting ready to pull out of Commerce.
We'll hit the road tomorrow and head to Franklin, Tennessee to WildSide Trailers to fix a few things to our liking.
Talk to you tomorrow.
Jay
April 26, 2008
Southern Nationals Day 3
Hi everyone,
Well we're done for the weekend. Obviously we're disappointed that we didn't win, but we learned a lot about the new 2008 Pro Start Chevy Impala SS.
First, the good news. Marty's third qualifying run was an improvement. He ran a 5.810/249.76, which was our best of the weekend. It bumped us to 13th position, but we ended up where we started in 14th, which meant we would meet Steve Harker in Round 1 of eliminations.
With the help of Randy Anderson, who helped us throughout the weekend, the Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse team did a great job of preparing the car for the first round run. Marty did a good job with his best run of the weekend 5.796, but it wasn't enough as Harker ran a 5.589.
We did burn a #8 piston, which means we have some work to do. Probably be at the track until midnight!!
Great job by the entire team, and proud of my brother Jim, who as our new tuner did a great job throughout the weekend.
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
Well we're done for the weekend. Obviously we're disappointed that we didn't win, but we learned a lot about the new 2008 Pro Start Chevy Impala SS.
First, the good news. Marty's third qualifying run was an improvement. He ran a 5.810/249.76, which was our best of the weekend. It bumped us to 13th position, but we ended up where we started in 14th, which meant we would meet Steve Harker in Round 1 of eliminations.
With the help of Randy Anderson, who helped us throughout the weekend, the Permatex/Wynn's/Texas Roadhouse team did a great job of preparing the car for the first round run. Marty did a good job with his best run of the weekend 5.796, but it wasn't enough as Harker ran a 5.589.
We did burn a #8 piston, which means we have some work to do. Probably be at the track until midnight!!
Great job by the entire team, and proud of my brother Jim, who as our new tuner did a great job throughout the weekend.
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
April 25, 2008
Southern Nationals Day 2
We're 14th after two rounds of qualifying that really tested the entire team.
I was happy with the first run of 5.954/244.38 MPH. We were 10th the run. The car was fat, which was okay because we were just looking for a benchmark and wanted to be safe on the run.
We tried to step it up in the second round, but we just missed it. Marty ran a 5.998 (236.34 MPH), which dropped us back to 14 heading into our final qualifying Saturday at noon.
The first qualifying run came under very sunny condition, but the afternoon came after a cool down caused by cloud cover, but that didn't make a difference in the run.
Not to make excuses, but we're really working through the issues of everything being new. We're working late into the night to get ready for Saturday.
Frank Manzo is at the top of qualifying after putting up a 5.558/262.54.
Talk to you tomorrow,
Jay
Follow A Dream Article in Athens Banner-Herald
Good morning,
Ready to head to the track. Click here to read our feature in Friday's edition of the Athen's Banner-Herald. We made the front page of the paper!!
I'll be blogging about qualifying later today.
Jay
April 24, 2008
Southern Nationals - Day 1
Ah, the adrenaline is pumping now!!
It's 9 PM EST and we're all working hard to work out the little things to make sure we're ready for our first qualifying run at noon on Friday. There have been challenges today, just getting the little glitches fixed. Remember, we've changed just about everything there is to change during the off-season.
The new trailer is awesome!!
Aside from getting things together, I also did two media interviews today. One with Roger Clarkson, who will be doing a feature Friday in the Athens Banner-Herald. We'll put up a link for that story tomorrow, plus on Saturday FOX 5 Atlanta will air a feature on us.
No time to rest, gotta get back to the car. We'll be at the track tomorrow at 7:30 AM.
Keep coming back for updates.
Here's to a great start to the season!! Thanks to all that got us to this point!!
Jay
April 23, 2008
Catchin' Up
Hey Everybody, sorry it's been so long since we've blogged. It's been an absolute crazy time getting ready to head out to Atlanta to start our season. More details to follow, but we're headed to Atlanta pulling a brand new Wildside trailer and carrying a brand new Pro Start Chevrolet Impala SS Funny Car. We took the delivery of everything last Wednesday and nobody has slept much since. Went up to Lebanon Valley on Monday for a quick burnout and swapping feet. The car left the starting line well and went straight.
Want to thank Lebanon Valley for their hospitality and track prep, they were awesome and we look forward to testing there again soon!
There will be pictures and more info up on the blog soon, and I don't mean three months from now either-I mean soon! We'll get the hang of this so keep checking in.
Thanks
Jay
Want to thank Lebanon Valley for their hospitality and track prep, they were awesome and we look forward to testing there again soon!
There will be pictures and more info up on the blog soon, and I don't mean three months from now either-I mean soon! We'll get the hang of this so keep checking in.
Thanks
Jay
April 17, 2008
New Trailer
Hey,
Check out the pictures of the new hauler fresh from WildSide in Franklin, Tennessee. Can feel the juices really start to flow for Atlanta now!!
Jay
Check out the pictures of the new hauler fresh from WildSide in Franklin, Tennessee. Can feel the juices really start to flow for Atlanta now!!
Jay
April 11, 2008
April 9, 2008
New Car!!
Hi Everyone,
Haven't blogged in a while, but that's because I've been crazy busy getting ready for the 2008 season that opens later this month at the Southern Nationals outside of Atlanta.
But today, I've got great news!
Heading to Asbury, New Jersey to pick-up the chassis to our new Top Alcohol Funny Car!! Yes, it will be announced with a news release later this week, but for everyone that follows my blog, I wanted you to know first.
Now you know why I've been so quiet here!!
Building the new 2008 Chevrolet Impala SS Top Alcohol Funny Car and getting it ready for my new driver Marty Nothstein has kept me pretty busy!!
Please keep coming back to the site daily because I'm going to be offering updates every day leading up to Atlanta.
Have a Great Day!!
Jay
February 19, 2008
Hello Friends
Hello Everyone on the web-
I'm back at the shop and things are busy, lots of office work. Got engines apart and getting cranks checked. Did a radio interview today with Jason Rufo at Audio Journal for his show called Out of Sight, a radio talk show which airs twice monthly focusing on information of interest to the sight impaired community. Will let you all know when I get an airtime.
Stay tuned for another possible announcement toward the end of this week-we'll see!
Talk soon,
Jay
I'm back at the shop and things are busy, lots of office work. Got engines apart and getting cranks checked. Did a radio interview today with Jason Rufo at Audio Journal for his show called Out of Sight, a radio talk show which airs twice monthly focusing on information of interest to the sight impaired community. Will let you all know when I get an airtime.
Stay tuned for another possible announcement toward the end of this week-we'll see!
Talk soon,
Jay
February 11, 2008
San Francisco Trip
Hello Friends,
Hanging out at the airport in San Francisco waiting to fly home. Spent the weekend with Wynn's at the NADA convention. All went well and enjoyed an evening out on Saturday with the folks from Wynn's. Had dinner at Sinbad's on Fisherman's Wharf. Lots of fun and good conversation.
Spent last night in the room, packing and watching eliminations from Pomona. Can't wait to get back to racing. Will be working at the shop putting all the pieces together to get the season under way when I return tomorrow.
Temperatures were in the 60's all weekend here. My body should be in for a real shock when we land in Boston tonight, more like the frozen tundra from what I hear. Spring can't get here soon enough!
Type at you later,
Jay
Hanging out at the airport in San Francisco waiting to fly home. Spent the weekend with Wynn's at the NADA convention. All went well and enjoyed an evening out on Saturday with the folks from Wynn's. Had dinner at Sinbad's on Fisherman's Wharf. Lots of fun and good conversation.
Spent last night in the room, packing and watching eliminations from Pomona. Can't wait to get back to racing. Will be working at the shop putting all the pieces together to get the season under way when I return tomorrow.
Temperatures were in the 60's all weekend here. My body should be in for a real shock when we land in Boston tonight, more like the frozen tundra from what I hear. Spring can't get here soon enough!
Type at you later,
Jay
February 7, 2008
Off to San Francisco
Hey Everybody!
I'm getting ready to head out to San Francisco tomorrow for the NADA Convention with Wynn's and Big Daddy. Show runs Feb. 9-12 @ the Moscone Convention Center. There has been some chatter about the latest press release regarding the driver change at Follow A Dream for 2008. Don't think for a minute that Dave Ray and I are at odds with each other or anything even close to that. Dave, Irene, Angie, & Chris are some of the nicest people I've ever met and I've been honored to work with them. The Ray family has helped Follow A Dream become what it is today and I truly count them all among my friends.
Marty and I have aspirations to step up to Nitro. Not today, not tomorrow, but that's the goal we're working towards. All in good time!
Things are really crazy, all kinds of stuff going on, more news about Follow A Dream coming soon so, please stay tuned and keep checking in.
I'm jealous of all the folks out in Pomona but wish them all the best of luck as the 2008 season gets under way.
Stay Tuned,
Jay
I'm getting ready to head out to San Francisco tomorrow for the NADA Convention with Wynn's and Big Daddy. Show runs Feb. 9-12 @ the Moscone Convention Center. There has been some chatter about the latest press release regarding the driver change at Follow A Dream for 2008. Don't think for a minute that Dave Ray and I are at odds with each other or anything even close to that. Dave, Irene, Angie, & Chris are some of the nicest people I've ever met and I've been honored to work with them. The Ray family has helped Follow A Dream become what it is today and I truly count them all among my friends.
Marty and I have aspirations to step up to Nitro. Not today, not tomorrow, but that's the goal we're working towards. All in good time!
Things are really crazy, all kinds of stuff going on, more news about Follow A Dream coming soon so, please stay tuned and keep checking in.
I'm jealous of all the folks out in Pomona but wish them all the best of luck as the 2008 season gets under way.
Stay Tuned,
Jay
January 28, 2008
We'rre Still Here-Long Time, No Blog
Hello everybody in blog land, sorry I haven't written. It's been a whirlwind! Last time I blogged we were going to Boston. That day ended abruptly when a van drove into our vehicle. The car was towed home to the Cape and is now at Ryll's Auto Body getting fixed. The important part of all this is that no one was hurt in the accident.
I heard the news this weekend about the Herbert family. My heart goes out to Doug and his family and my prayers are with all of them at this difficult time.
Working on cleaning up the shop, suprise.....it was worse than I thought. Have a local school group coming in on Wednesday for a presentation. Was at Suffolk University in Hyannis, MA last week meeting with a Marketing class.
Woke up today to ten inches of snow, had to shovel our way out-boy I hate snow. My stepson Brandon called after I got to work to let me know the plow guy had shown up-perfect timing for him I guess!
I promise to make the time to find the keyboard before too long-look for our next post on Wednesday.
Have a great day!
Jay
I heard the news this weekend about the Herbert family. My heart goes out to Doug and his family and my prayers are with all of them at this difficult time.
Working on cleaning up the shop, suprise.....it was worse than I thought. Have a local school group coming in on Wednesday for a presentation. Was at Suffolk University in Hyannis, MA last week meeting with a Marketing class.
Woke up today to ten inches of snow, had to shovel our way out-boy I hate snow. My stepson Brandon called after I got to work to let me know the plow guy had shown up-perfect timing for him I guess!
I promise to make the time to find the keyboard before too long-look for our next post on Wednesday.
Have a great day!
Jay
January 9, 2008
Just Another Day
Hey everybody!
Just thought I'd say hi and let you know we're still cleaning and pounding the phones. I won't be in the office tomorrow as I'm taking the day off with my wife Ann. I put my knee through the glass top on her stove over Christmas, now she gets a stove for Christmas. Will go up to Jarvis Appliance in Wellesley, MA to see my friend Tony Jarvis and pick one up that doesn't have a glass top. Hope everyone is well and will touch base again on Monday.
Jay
Just thought I'd say hi and let you know we're still cleaning and pounding the phones. I won't be in the office tomorrow as I'm taking the day off with my wife Ann. I put my knee through the glass top on her stove over Christmas, now she gets a stove for Christmas. Will go up to Jarvis Appliance in Wellesley, MA to see my friend Tony Jarvis and pick one up that doesn't have a glass top. Hope everyone is well and will touch base again on Monday.
Jay
January 8, 2008
Busy...Busy
Hi folks-
Sorry I haven't been keeping up. Busy with the holidays and travel. Just finishing up lunch and trying to clean the shop. Trying to put everything where it belongs so that we can work. Had the TAFC up at the World of Wheels in Boston last weekend with HTC Coatings, which worked out really well. Check out their website, www.htcracing.com when you get a chance. They're great people and lots of fun to work with.
I'm going to try and get better at keeping up with the blog. Would be great if people would write in to let us know what they're interested in hearing/reading about. I'll be back in touch soon to let you all know how the clean up is going. Gotta run!
Have a great day,
Jay
Sorry I haven't been keeping up. Busy with the holidays and travel. Just finishing up lunch and trying to clean the shop. Trying to put everything where it belongs so that we can work. Had the TAFC up at the World of Wheels in Boston last weekend with HTC Coatings, which worked out really well. Check out their website, www.htcracing.com when you get a chance. They're great people and lots of fun to work with.
I'm going to try and get better at keeping up with the blog. Would be great if people would write in to let us know what they're interested in hearing/reading about. I'll be back in touch soon to let you all know how the clean up is going. Gotta run!
Have a great day,
Jay
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