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	<title>Kyle Busch &#8211; THROUGH THE EYES OF JEFFERSON</title>
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	<description>Presidential site adventures as told by a bobble head</description>
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		<title>285: IF YOU AIN&#8217;T FIRST, YOU&#8217;RE LAST AT TALLADEGA SUPERSPEEDWAY</title>
		<link>https://eyesofjefferson.com/285-if-you-aint-first-youre-last-at-talladega-superspeedway/</link>
					<comments>https://eyesofjefferson.com/285-if-you-aint-first-youre-last-at-talladega-superspeedway/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Thomas Watson]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 30 May 2024 18:06:47 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2024 Geico 500]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Denny Hamlin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kyle Busch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Martin Truex Jr.]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Michael McDowell]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[NASCAR]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Redneck]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Talladega Superspeedway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Big One]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thomas Jefferson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thomas Jefferson bobble head]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tyler Reddick]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://eyesofjefferson.com/?p=41255</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[When Tom&#8217;s alarm rang at 5:20am on Sunday April 21, 2024, I thought we might be closer to Thunder Road than Talladega. Not only did I hear the distant rumble of thunder, but I also heard the sound of rain&#8230;]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">When Tom&#8217;s alarm rang at 5:20am on Sunday April 21, 2024, I thought we might be closer to Thunder Road than Talladega.  Not only did I hear the distant rumble of thunder, but I also heard the sound of rain drops as they pelted the windows of our room.  Unfortunately, the weather forecasters in northern Alabama were correct &#8211; and hopefully their accuracy would continue as they had predicted the moisture would stop around nine o&#8217;clock.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">My companions didn&#8217;t need to pack up their belongings as they decided to spend Sunday night in the same hotel, which the Best Western located near Moody, Alabama.  That hotel was in a good location for the race at Talladega Superspeedway, as the track was roughly 30 miles due east of us and just south of Lincoln, Alabama.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">We were in the Jeep and on the road shortly after seven &#8211; the early departure was due to Tom&#8217;s wanting to park close to the racetrack for a couple of reasons.  One &#8211; he didn&#8217;t want to walk very far.  And two, Tom had purchased a special &#8216;Garage Experience&#8217; pass for the three of us and he wanted to make sure we were in position when gates opened.  I laughed to myself because my photographer had no problem getting his wife out of bed that morning.  After all, it was &#8220;Race Day&#8221; and the Geico 500, along with all of the extra bells and whistles, was Tom&#8217;s Christmas gift to Vicki this past winter.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">By 7:45am, Vicki had our Jeep parked in the first row of the VIP Parking Lot, which was in the shadow of the enormous Talladega Superspeedway grandstands.  It appeared the sprinkles of rain we ran into during the 45-minute drive to the track were out of the picture &#8211; at least for the time being.  During the next hour or so, I watched as a countless number of fans of all shapes, sizes, and mental capacities filed past us.  It became apparent through my observations that a lot of those people had more tattoos than teeth, and I quickly realized why NASCAR was an acronym for Non-Athletic Sport Centered Around Rednecks.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-1-1.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41261" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-1-1.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-1-1.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-1-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-1-1.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-1-1.jpg?resize=1536%2C1097&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-1-1.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Before the gates opened to the racetrack, I stood in our Jeep and watched the NASCAR rednecks as they tailgated in the parking lot.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Talladega Superspeedway opened on September 13, 1969 as the Alabama International Motor Speedway until its name-change twenty years later.  In the past few years, Tom, Vicki, and I had visited numerous NASCAR racetracks, and we also attended the night race at Bristol Motor Speedway on August 19, 2017 where we saw our favorite driver, Kyle Busch, drive his M&amp;Ms sponsored Toyota to victory.  While the three of us took a tour of &#8216;Dega in July 2019, this was scheduled to be the first race we&#8217;d see in person at the largest and one of the fastest oval tracks used in NASCAR.  The driving surface is 2.66 miles in length, the turns are banked at 33 degrees, and Talladega is second only to Daytona International Speedway when it comes to overall speed.  While I find the so-called sport fairly boring, as does my photographer, the one aspect I was anxious to witness in person was called &#8216;The Big One&#8217; &#8211; the name given to the high-speed, multi-car crash where all hell breaks loose, and sheet metal and race car parts are strewn everywhere on the track.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Shortly before nine o&#8217;clock, my companions and I started the long hike along the exterior of the grandstands in a quest to find a ride to the track&#8217;s infield where we&#8217;d participate in the &#8216;Garage Experience&#8217;.  We got lucky and boarded a shuttle &#8211; which was a large golf cart on steroids.  My hefty photographer sat on the very back of the cart and at times, I thought I felt the front of the redneck limousine lift off the ground whenever we hit a bump.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Once we had been chauffeured through a tunnel which took us under the track near Turn 3, it seemed as though we had entered another world like I&#8217;d never seen before.  Due to our early arrival to the garage area of Talladega, we were able to get great views of the race cars.  But it didn&#8217;t take very long before the entire area became packed with fans who were eager to get close to some of their favorite drivers.  At one point, before Tom and Vic stopped for some two-dollar hot dogs, my photographer managed to obtain an autograph from Michael McDowell &#8211; the driver who had qualified for the pole position of the race.  My companions also had the opportunity to pose for a photo with the Geico 500 trophy that would be eventually awarded to the winner of the race &#8211; which the three of us hoped would be Kyle Busch.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Even though Tom kept me safely tucked in the front pocket of his jacket, which meant I wasn&#8217;t able to be included in the photo with him and the trophy, it still felt as though the two of us had become Magic Man and El Diablo from the movie <em>Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby</em>.  It was Shake and Bake time and I was with my trusty camera guy at Talladega Superspeedway.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Then suddenly, it happened &#8211; I heard a snap, and my right arm went numb just as Tom sat down at a table to devour several of the cheaper-than-usual hot dogs.  When my photographer removed me from his pocket, my right arm stayed inside, once again it had broken off at the elbow.  Disappointed, but not surprised by my injury, I knew the &#8216;Magic Man&#8217; nickname was gone with my arm.  From that moment on, I referred to the two of us as &#8220;Uno Armado and Gran Panza&#8221; &#8211; which was &#8216;One Armed and Big Belly&#8217;.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">After a couple of hours of meandering around the garage area surrounded by a swarm of rednecks, we headed back to our Jeep to drop off some of the goodies Tom had purchased.  Although my cheap photographer didn&#8217;t get me anything but a broken arm, he did buy a shirt for himself and limited-edition Geico 500 hats for his brother Bob and Tom&#8217;s good friend Earl McCartney &#8211; both of whom have teams in his NASCAR fantasy league.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-2.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41265" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-2.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-2.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-2.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-2.jpg?resize=1536%2C1097&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">One of the first cars we saw during the &#8216;Garage Experience&#8217; was the Bass Pro Shops #19 Toyota Camry that would be driven by Martin Truex, Jr. in a few hours.  My photographer and I don&#8217;t mind Truex as a driver, but we can&#8217;t stand Denny Hamlin, the whiney driver of the #11 car behind me.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-3.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41267" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-3.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-3.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-3.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-3.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-3.jpg?resize=1536%2C1097&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-3.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">When we went to the second garage area, we found the Holy Grail of race cars &#8211; the Cheddar&#8217;s Scratch Kitchen #8 Chevy Camaro which we hoped would propel Kyle Busch to victory in the Geico 500.  While Tom and I loved the orange and black paint scheme, nothing will ever compare to Kyle&#8217;s colorful M&amp;Ms motif from a few years ago.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1159" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-18-TROPHY.jpg?resize=800%2C1159&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41268" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-18-TROPHY.jpg?w=1242&amp;ssl=1 1242w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-18-TROPHY.jpg?resize=207%2C300&amp;ssl=1 207w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-18-TROPHY.jpg?resize=707%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 707w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-18-TROPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C1113&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-18-TROPHY.jpg?resize=1060%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1060w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tom and Vicki were photographed as they posed with the Geico 500 championship trophy.  I&#8217;m in the photo, although I&#8217;m hidden by the bulge in my photographer&#8217;s lower front jacket pocket.  Less than fifteen minutes after this image was taken, my right arm was broken in a hot dog eating incident.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">By one o&#8217;clock, the three of us were in our seats in the top row of the Moss Thornton Tower, which was just past the start/finish line of the racetrack.  Tom selected those seats at the top so he and his wife might have a chance to see the entire 2.66-mile Tri-Oval track.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">After a lengthy pre-race ceremony, which included driver introductions, the national anthem, and a fly-over by three Air Force jets, the green flag dropped and the race started.  It&#8217;s hard to describe the excitement I felt as 38 racecars roared past our seats, even though the noise was deafening to my sensitive resin ears.  Tom and Vic each sported headsets, which not only protected their hearing, but also gave them the opportunity to listen to Kyle Busch communicate with his spotters and pit crew during the race.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Roughly two or three laps into the 188-lap race, I saw him; I saw the &#8220;Most Annoying Redneck&#8221; at the race.  That tagline was given to an older guy standing a few rows in front of us by my crabby photographer, who said, &#8220;People like that guy are near me at most every sporting event, concert, historic site, or large gathering I attend.  They stick out like a large goiter on someone&#8217;s neck &#8211; you can&#8217;t take your eyes or mind off of them.&#8221;  At first, I wanted to tell Tom that he&#8217;s that same guy to a lot of other people when we visit Presidential sites together.  However, it turned out this guy was far worse.  When I couldn&#8217;t ignore him any longer, I nicknamed him Ernest T. Arse (Arse was short for Annoying Redneck &amp; Stupidity Expert).  The scrawny redneck sported a black cowboy hat, an orange Martin Truex, Jr. tee shirt, numerous tattoos, and he had at least one beer, and sometimes two, in his hands at all times.  To make matters worse, with each lap Truex passed by our seats, Mr. Arse felt it necessary to &#8216;high-five&#8217; everyone around him while he pointed to the driver&#8217;s name on the back of his shirt.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">But as much of an annoyance as Ernest was to me and my companions, his antics provided a much-needed distraction from the boring race.  I thought the first few laps were interesting because watching 38 cars speed along a narrow track at nearly 200 mile per hour isn&#8217;t something you see every day.  However, it tends to become same ol&#8217; &#8211; same ol&#8217; after a while.  The only aspect of the 500-mile race that kept my interest was the anticipation of &#8216;The Big One&#8217;, but unfortunately the cars had completed 499 miles without any major incidents.  During the middle portion of the race there were two small wrecks along the backstretch.  Unfortunately, both crashes were hidden from our view by the conglomeration of buildings and other obstructions in the infield.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Then, on the 500th mile, while Michael McDowell led the pack of cars around Turn 4 as they headed for the Tri-Oval and checkered flag, it happened &#8211; the much-anticipated &#8216;Big One&#8217; unfolded before my eyes. As McDowell attempted to block the hard-charging car of Brad Keselowski when the two were less than a half-mile from the finish line, the Loves #34 Ford Mustang driving by McDowell went sideways, which always spells bad news when travelling at nearly 200 miles per hour.  The multi-car crash ended the race for McDowell and 14 other drivers, while Tyler Reddick passed Keselowski to win the race while the carnage unfolded behind them.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-4.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41272" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-4.jpg?w=1286&amp;ssl=1 1286w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-4.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-4.jpg?resize=732%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 732w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-4.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-4.jpg?resize=1097%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1097w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">During driver introductions before the start of the Geico 500, Kyle Busch appeared on stage and threw a rolled towel or shirt into the crowd of spectators.  I had hoped Busch would fire the shirt our way, but at well over 100 yards away, that wasn&#8217;t going to happen.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-17-TURN-2-TJ.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41274" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-17-TURN-2-TJ.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-17-TURN-2-TJ.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-17-TURN-2-TJ.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-17-TURN-2-TJ.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-17-TURN-2-TJ.jpg?resize=1536%2C1097&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-17-TURN-2-TJ.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This was the view I had from our seats as the drivers headed for Turn 2 during the early part of the race.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="580" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-6.jpg?resize=800%2C580&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41275" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-6.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-6.jpg?resize=300%2C218&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-6.jpg?resize=1024%2C743&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-6.jpg?resize=768%2C557&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-6.jpg?resize=1536%2C1114&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-6.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Although we couldn&#8217;t see much of the backstretch from our seats, we did have an amazing view of the cars as they exited Pit Road after getting fuel and a tire change.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-5-1.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41276" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-5-1.jpg?w=1286&amp;ssl=1 1286w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-5-1.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-5-1.jpg?resize=732%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 732w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-5-1.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-5-1.jpg?resize=1097%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1097w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I also had a decent vantage point to see the racers as they entered the Tri-Oval of the track.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-20-TOM-AND-VIC.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41279" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-20-TOM-AND-VIC.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-20-TOM-AND-VIC.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-20-TOM-AND-VIC.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-20-TOM-AND-VIC.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-20-TOM-AND-VIC.jpg?resize=1536%2C1097&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-20-TOM-AND-VIC.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">My photographer&#8217;s wife captured this image of her and Major Tom, listening to Busch with their headsets on.  It&#8217;s difficult to tell by this photo, but my camera guy was thinking at that moment, &#8220;I can&#8217;t wait for this race to be finished.&#8221;</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-7.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41277" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-7.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-7.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-7.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-7.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-7.jpg?resize=1536%2C1097&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-7.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tom captured this image of the cars, including Kyle Busch in the Cheddar&#8217;s #8 car alongside Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. in the Boost by Kroger #47 Chevy.  One month later, at the NASCAR All-Star Race held on May 19th, &#8220;Wrecky Spinhouse&#8221; punched &#8221;Cheeseballs Busch&#8221; in the head after the race was over.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-16-REDNECK-CHEER.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41278" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-16-REDNECK-CHEER.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-16-REDNECK-CHEER.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-16-REDNECK-CHEER.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-16-REDNECK-CHEER.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-16-REDNECK-CHEER.jpg?resize=1536%2C1097&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-16-REDNECK-CHEER.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">With two beers in hand, Ernest T. Arse saluted Martin Truex, Jr. as he sped past our seats.  Ernest&#8217;s redneck antics continued for roughly 400 of the 500 miles of the race.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-21-REDNECK.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41280" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-21-REDNECK.jpg?w=1286&amp;ssl=1 1286w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-21-REDNECK.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-21-REDNECK.jpg?resize=732%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 732w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-21-REDNECK.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-21-REDNECK.jpg?resize=1097%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1097w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">&#8220;Do you know me?  I&#8217;m the most annoying person in the entire state of Alabama today!&#8221;  At one point, during the final stage of the race, Ernest T. Arse made eye contact with my photographer.  Just as the annoying bastard was about to attempt a &#8216;high-five&#8217;, Tom glared at him with a snarled-look on his face.  Needless to say, there was no high-five &#8211; especially from me, as I had no right arm.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-9-FINAL-LAP-TURN-2.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41281" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-9-FINAL-LAP-TURN-2.jpg?w=1571&amp;ssl=1 1571w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-9-FINAL-LAP-TURN-2.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-9-FINAL-LAP-TURN-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-9-FINAL-LAP-TURN-2.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-9-FINAL-LAP-TURN-2.jpg?resize=1536%2C1097&amp;ssl=1 1536w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">During the final lap of the race, #34 Michael McDowell led the pack of cars into Turn 2.  The other cars in this image were driven by #45 Tyler Reddick, #6 Brad Keselowski, #19 Martin Truex, Jr., #10 Noah Gragson, #4 Josh Berry, #1 Ross Chastain, and #38 Todd Gilleland.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="434" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-10-BIG-ONE-START.jpg?resize=800%2C434&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41282" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-10-BIG-ONE-START.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-10-BIG-ONE-START.jpg?resize=300%2C163&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-10-BIG-ONE-START.jpg?resize=1024%2C556&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-10-BIG-ONE-START.jpg?resize=768%2C417&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-10-BIG-ONE-START.jpg?resize=1536%2C834&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-10-BIG-ONE-START.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As the cars entered the Tri-Oval and were headed for the finish line, McDowell attempted to block Keselowski.  This was the moment &#8216;The Big One&#8217; started to unfold. </figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="417" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-12-MORE-BIG-ONE.jpg?resize=800%2C417&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41283" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-12-MORE-BIG-ONE.jpg?w=1657&amp;ssl=1 1657w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-12-MORE-BIG-ONE.jpg?resize=300%2C156&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-12-MORE-BIG-ONE.jpg?resize=1024%2C533&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-12-MORE-BIG-ONE.jpg?resize=768%2C400&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-12-MORE-BIG-ONE.jpg?resize=1536%2C800&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-12-MORE-BIG-ONE.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">After Keselowski made contact with McDowell&#8217;s car, which sent him sideways into the wall, all hell broke loose on the track.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-11-BIG-ONE.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41284" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-11-BIG-ONE.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-11-BIG-ONE.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-11-BIG-ONE.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-11-BIG-ONE.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-11-BIG-ONE.jpg?resize=1536%2C1097&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-11-BIG-ONE.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">With the carnage unfolding behind them, Tyler Reddick passed Keselowski in the final few hundred yards of the race to take the checkered flag.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-13-KYLE-AFTER-CRASH.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41287" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-13-KYLE-AFTER-CRASH.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-13-KYLE-AFTER-CRASH.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-13-KYLE-AFTER-CRASH.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-13-KYLE-AFTER-CRASH.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-13-KYLE-AFTER-CRASH.jpg?resize=1536%2C1097&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-13-KYLE-AFTER-CRASH.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">When the race was over and he crossed the finish line in 27th place, Kyle Busch drove his Cheddar&#8217;s #8 Chevy back to Pit Road.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-15-REDDICK-AT-FINISH.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41285" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-15-REDDICK-AT-FINISH.jpg?w=1800&amp;ssl=1 1800w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-15-REDDICK-AT-FINISH.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-15-REDDICK-AT-FINISH.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-15-REDDICK-AT-FINISH.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-15-REDDICK-AT-FINISH.jpg?resize=1536%2C1097&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-15-REDDICK-AT-FINISH.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tyler Reddick stood on top of his racecar in celebration of his sixth career victory and his first of 2024.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-14-REDDICK-CHAMP.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41286" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-14-REDDICK-CHAMP.jpg?w=1144&amp;ssl=1 1144w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-14-REDDICK-CHAMP.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-14-REDDICK-CHAMP.jpg?resize=731%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 731w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-14-REDDICK-CHAMP.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-14-REDDICK-CHAMP.jpg?resize=1097%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1097w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The owner of Reddick&#8217;s team, 23XI Racing, is Michael Jordan of basketball fame.  Jordan was in attendance at Talladega, and it was the first victory for his team Michael had witnessed in person.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">When the long and boring race was finally over at 5:30pm, and Tyler Reddick was awarded the trophy we had posed alongside that morning, the three of us made the long walk back to the Jeep.  While the race seemed to take forever to complete, it paled in comparison to the slow-moving traffic snarl we encountered on the route from the parking lot to the expressway and then thirty miles back to our hotel.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">At one point, somewhere on the road between the track and Moody, I listened as Tom ordered Papa Johns pizza for their dinner from a place not too far from our hotel.  When we finally arrived at the Best Western at 8:30pm, which was exactly three hours after the race had concluded, the three of us made it safely to our room for the night.  I stood in my usual place alongside the TV, my right arm was laying alongside my base, and I watched as my two companions opened their box of pizza.  At that moment, I recited a prayer in the voice of the legendary driver, Ricky Bobby.  &#8220;Dear Lord Baby Jesus, or as our brothers in the South call you, &#8216;Hey-Suz&#8217;, we thank you for this bountiful harvest of Papa Johns and Diet Coke.  I also hope you can use your Baby Jesus powers to heal my right arm, so I won&#8217;t look like Uno Armado in Georgia.  Thank you, for all your power and your grace, Dear Baby God, Amen.&#8221; </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">A few minutes after Tom polished-off the last slice of pizza, it was time for my photographer to transform into a highly skilled bobble head surgeon.  That meant three things &#8211; he needed a bottle of Gorilla Glue; a roll of athletic tape; and a steady hand.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">The entire surgical procedure took less than five minutes.  After my right arm was reattached and wrapped in tape, Tom placed me alongside the TV set where I rested comfortably for the rest of the night.  In the darkness, once my photographer had dowsed the lights at eleven o&#8217;clock, I was left alone with my thoughts.  </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">While I did my best to think about Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter, as well as all of the Carter Presidential sites we were scheduled to visit when the three of us travelled to Plains, Georgia in the morning, the only vision I had stuck in my resin mind was of that damned redneck from the racetrack.  I had a nightmare about that bastard following us to Plains and stalking us at each Presidential site.  But since the former President never drove racecars, didn&#8217;t drink beer, had no tattoos, and was likely in no condition to give that skinny bastard a high-five, I think our days of Ernest T. Arse had faded away along with the Talladega Nights.  </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Now, it was time to Shake and Bake!  </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-22-BROKEN-ARM.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-41293" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-22-BROKEN-ARM.jpg?w=1286&amp;ssl=1 1286w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-22-BROKEN-ARM.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-22-BROKEN-ARM.jpg?resize=732%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 732w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-22-BROKEN-ARM.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/DEGA-22-BROKEN-ARM.jpg?resize=1097%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1097w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I stood alone through the entire night in our hotel room and was thankful when Tiny Baby Jesus, and the Gorilla Glue, healed my severed right arm.  By the following morning, I was no longer &#8216;Uno Armado&#8217;.</figcaption></figure></div>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">41255</post-id>	</item>
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		<title>133: A SIMPLER TIME IN ANDY&#8217;S MAYBERRY</title>
		<link>https://eyesofjefferson.com/133-a-simpler-time-in-andys-mayberry/</link>
					<comments>https://eyesofjefferson.com/133-a-simpler-time-in-andys-mayberry/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Thomas Watson]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 26 Apr 2021 21:44:52 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Andy Griffiths Home Place]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Aunt Bee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brexton Busch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dale Earnhardt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dale Earnhardt Inc.]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Denny Hamlin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Deputy Barney Fife]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Goober Pyle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Joe Gibbs Racing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kyle Busch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kyle Busch Motorsports]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Martin Truex Jr.]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mayberry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Millbridge Speedway]]></category>
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					<description><![CDATA[My companions got out of bed around 6:30am on Tuesday July 28, 2020 at the SpringHill Suites Hotel located near Charlotte Motor Speedway. Although we had several NASCAR-related sites to visit in the Charlotte area, that was the day our&#8230;]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">My companions got out of bed around 6:30am on Tuesday July 28, 2020 at the SpringHill Suites Hotel located near Charlotte Motor Speedway.  Although we had several NASCAR-related sites to visit in the Charlotte area, that was the day our long journey back to Michigan had begun.  For some reason, it seemed as though my photographer and his wife moved slower than usual that morning &#8211; they didn&#8217;t have their gear stowed away and ready to head out until roughly 8:45am.  </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Vicki completed the 13-mile drive to Huntersville, North Carolina in about twenty minutes when she pulled into the parking lot at Joe Gibbs Racing headquarters.  As soon as we got out of the car, I could tell that Tom and his wife were excited when they saw one of Kyle Busch&#8217;s M&amp;Ms cars through the building&#8217;s glass-covered front entrance.  Joe Gibbs, who was the one-time head coach of the NFL&#8217;s Washington Redskins, began JGR in 1991; which was about seven years before the current team headquarters was built.  NASCAR Cup Series drivers who drove for JGR in 2020 included Kyle Busch, Denny Hamlin, Martin Truex, Jr. and Erik Jones.  As we walked towards the front entrance of the headquarters, we saw four race cars through the glass façade &#8211; one for each JGR driver.  Then, like so many other times on the trip, we saw a sign posted on the front door that read: &#8220;Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Joe Gibbs Racing is currently closed to the public&#8221;.  With no way to enter the JGR headquarters, the three of us were left to admire the cars through the windows. </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-448.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7961" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-448.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-448.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-448.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-448.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-448.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-448.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The three of us were excited to be at Joe Gibbs Racing headquarters in Huntersville, North Carolina; that is until we walked up to the entrance.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-453.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7962" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-453.jpg?w=5599&amp;ssl=1 5599w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-453.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-453.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-453.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-453.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-453.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tom and Vicki were thrilled to see Kyle Busch&#8217;s car in the lobby, however, their Peanut M&amp;Ms were crushed when they saw the sign on the door.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-451.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7963" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-451.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-451.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-451.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-451.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-451.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-451.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Denny Hamlin&#8217;s #11 FedEx car and Kyle Busch&#8217;s #18 M&amp;Ms car were situated on one side of the entrance to JGR.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-450.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7964" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-450.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-450.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-450.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-450.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-450.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-450.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Martin Truex Jr.&#8217;s #19 Bass Pro Shops car, along with Erik Jones&#8217; #20 DeWalt car, was on the opposite side of the entryway.  My photographer didn&#8217;t capture an image of Jones&#8217; car because he sucks.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-449.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7965" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-449.jpg?w=5238&amp;ssl=1 5238w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-449.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-449.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-449.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-449.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-449.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The main reason the three of us were at JGR was because of Kyle Busch.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Disappointed, the three of us returned to the Edge, but we weren’t ready to give up just yet.  Our second NASCAR stop of the morning was located near Mooresville, North Carolina.  Vicki navigated our vehicle north along the eastern edge of Lake Norman and then we headed east for a few miles when we arrived at the headquarters of Dale Earnhardt, Inc.  The headquarters building was situated along Coddle Creek Highway, which was renamed Highway 3 after &#8220;The Intimidator’s&#8221; racecar number.  Earnhardt&#8217;s headquarters was an impressive mirror-like metallic structure that had been built on property near Dale&#8217;s home.  After Tom carried me to the front entrance, we discovered that Earnhardt’s place was also closed because of the virus; which was a shame.  Through one of the front windows, however, we could see a very nice display that honored one of the most famous and popular drivers in NASCAR history; one who was killed on February 18, 2001 at the Daytona International Speedway.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-454.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7968" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-454.jpg?w=5384&amp;ssl=1 5384w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-454.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-454.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-454.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-454.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-454.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I thought it was cool that Coddle Creek Highway was renamed Highway 3 in honor of Dale Earnhardt.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-455.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7969" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-455.jpg?w=5283&amp;ssl=1 5283w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-455.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-455.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-455.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-455.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-455.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Three flag poles, also symbolic of Earnhardt&#8217;s racing number, stood gallantly in front of Dale Earnhardt, Inc. headquarters. </figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-457.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7970" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-457.jpg?w=4942&amp;ssl=1 4942w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-457.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-457.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-457.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-457.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-457.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The three of us were awestruck by the Dale Earnhardt tribute that was on display in the lobby of his headquarters in Mooresville.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">We spent roughly ten minutes at Earnhardt’s place; but before we headed north to our next stop, my photographer and his wife attempted to get a glimpse of Dale’s house that was located on the property behind the headquarters.  While the large gate at the main driveway to the home was closed, Vicki drove down a second driveway that took us towards a large barn.  Unfortunately, due to the trees that surrounded Earnhardt’s house and grave, we never saw Dale’s beloved home.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">With two strikes against us in the bottom of the ninth inning, we arrived at Kyle Busch Motorsports that was located 6.7 miles north of Earnhardt’s headquarters.  I could tell that my companions were excited to visit the “Candyland Headquarters” near Mooresville as my photographer believed they had a chance to meet Kyle in person.  But as we approached the front door to KBM, Tom swung and missed for strike three – once again a NASCAR site was closed to the public due to the pandemic.  Through the dark-tinted windows at Kyle’s headquarters, my photographer did his best to snap images of a handful of Busch’s race cars and fire suits on display.  For a brief moment, Tom became excited when he saw a few people working in the building’s shop – and although it appeared those men were working on some of the race cars stored inside, none of the workers resembled Kyle Busch.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-458.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7971" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-458.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-458.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-458.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-458.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-458.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-458.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">That&#8217;s our Edge parked near the front of Kyle Busch Motorsports near Mooresville, North Carolina.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-459.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7972" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-459.jpg?w=4756&amp;ssl=1 4756w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-459.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-459.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-459.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-459.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-459.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As we peered through the window of KBM like a couple of Peeping Toms, we could see some of Kyle&#8217;s race cars and fire suits on display.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-460.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7973" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-460.jpg?w=5277&amp;ssl=1 5277w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-460.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-460.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-460.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-460.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-460.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tom signaled a &#8216;thumbs down&#8217; as he photographed the entrance to Kyle Busch Motorsports.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size"> After three unsuccessful attempts at getting inside a NASCAR headquarters, we headed eastward to a place that Vicki had wanted to visit after reading a few posts on Samantha Busch’s website.  At roughly 11:00am, we pulled into the parking lot of Millbridge Speedway; a small dirt track located just west of downtown Salisbury, North Carolina.  My photographer’s wife had discovered that Kyle and Samantha Busch’s five-year old son Brexton has been racing regularly on that track and she figured it would be our only chance to meet ‘The Candyman’ on the trip; but only if Brexton was there practicing.  Not only was Kyle Busch not at Millbridge Speedway, but no one else was there either; we had the entire track to ourselves.  Tom and Vicki had watched Samantha’s ‘YouTube’ videos of Brexton racing around the track and when my companions walked out onto the hard-packed dirt racing surface, it was as though the two of them could see the five-year old scooting around the track in his #18-B Outlaw kart that was sponsored, in part, by Far Out Toys. </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3000-2.jpg?resize=800%2C533&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7982" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3000-2.jpg?w=5825&amp;ssl=1 5825w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3000-2.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3000-2.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3000-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3000-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3000-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> Millbridge Speedway near Salisbury, North Carolina was where Kyle and Samantha Busch regularly cheer on their son Brexton during some of his races. </figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-463.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7976" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-463.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-463.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-463.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-463.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-463.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-463.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">When the three of us arrived at Millbridge Speedway, we had the track to ourselves.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-465.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7977" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-465.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-465.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-465.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-465.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-465.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-465.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The front stretch of Millbridge Speedway, the dirt track where Brexton Busch races on a regular basis.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-466.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7978" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-466.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-466.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-466.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-466.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-466.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-466.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As we looked across the infield at the backstretch, it appeared that Donald Trump advertised at the track.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="573" height="371" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BREXTON-BUSCH.png?resize=573%2C371&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7980" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BREXTON-BUSCH.png?w=573&amp;ssl=1 573w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BREXTON-BUSCH.png?resize=300%2C194&amp;ssl=1 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 573px) 100vw, 573px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Brexton Busch, in his #18 car, sped around Millbridge Speedway during a late summer race in 2020.  This image was captured from a video likely taken by Brexton&#8217;s mom.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-467.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7979" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-467.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-467.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-467.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-467.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-467.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-467.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I heard Vicki tell her husband that had Kyle Busch been at the track with his son, she would&#8217;ve left him alone.  I knew Tom had a different view and I likely would&#8217;ve ended up in his hands for a photo.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Although our visit to Millbridge Speedway lasted only about 20 minutes, my photographer and his wife enjoyed the stop because they knew their favorite driver frequented the track.  It was difficult to say whether or not any current NASCAR drivers got their start at Millbridge, but the three of us had a gut feeling that a future star would one day say he cut his teeth there &#8211; and that was Brexton Busch.  After all, Brexton has race car driving in his DNA as father Kyle Busch is one of the greatest NASCAR drivers in history.  Also, his uncle Kurt Busch has had a great career in motorsports as well.  Combine his genealogy with unlimited financial resources that provide Brexton with the finest equipment available and it&#8217;s a recipe for success &#8211; just as long as he doesn&#8217;t get burned out.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Back in the Edge, we began our 80-mile journey north to a town that my photographer had wanted to visit for a handful of years &#8211; Mount Airy, North Carolina.  That small town of just over 10,000 residents was located only three miles from the Virginia state line and was where Andy Griffith was born on June 1, 1926.  It&#8217;s also widely believed that Mount Airy was the basis for Mayberry &#8211; the fictional town in The Andy Griffith Show.  Once in town, I could tell that Tom was in seventh heaven &#8211; oops, wrong show.  He had finally made it to Mayberry; my camera guy was transported back in time to the early 1960s, albeit we made the journey in a Ford Edge instead of a DeLorean. </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Just as Vicki pulled into the parking lot of the Andy Griffith Museum that was located in the heart of Mount Airy, a severe storm hit the area.  My photographer and his wife had to wait roughly 20 minutes inside their vehicle for the storm to subside as our Edge was pummeled with hail and heavy rain.  I laughed when I heard Tom tell his wife: &#8220;I can only remember one episode of The Andy Griffith Show where it stormed and that was when Opie brought a &#8216;trembly&#8217; lost dog into the courthouse.  Then the minute we arrive in Mayberry, we get hit with one of the worst storms we&#8217;ve ever encountered on any of our trips.  I hope that&#8217;s not a sign we shouldn&#8217;t be here.&#8221;</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">When the deluge slowed to a sprinkle, the three of us made our way towards the museum; all the while Tom whistled the theme song to The Andy Griffith Show.  Even though my photographer is a better whistler than he is a singer, his rendition of &#8220;The Fishin&#8217; Hole&#8221; was embarrassing.  Until that moment, I didn&#8217;t realize that anyone could whistle sour, off-key notes; but Tom did.  As we entered the museum that was dedicated to Andy Griffith, I expected to be disappointed by seeing replica artifacts on display or very few items that were related to The Andy Griffith Show.  Boy was I wrong!  That small museum turned out to be one of the finest &#8220;non-presidential&#8221; museums that I had ever visited.  The museum displayed authentic costumes and props used in the 60s comedy show that featured Sheriff Andy Taylor, Deputy Barney Fife, Aunt Bee, Goober Pyle, and the town drunk Otis Campbell.  Just sit right back, and you&#8217;ll hear a tale &#8211; oops, wrong show.  Sit back and enjoy the images that my photographer captured inside the Andy Griffith Museum, and take a stroll down memory lane of Mayberry, North Carolina.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-493.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7985" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-493.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-493.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-493.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-493.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-493.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-493.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The exterior of the Andy Griffith Museum in downtown Mount Airy, North Carolina.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-468.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7986" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-468.jpg?w=3993&amp;ssl=1 3993w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-468.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-468.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-468.jpg?resize=731%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 731w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-468.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-468.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Carl Lee Griffin made this chair in 1927 for his wife Geneva to rock their newborn son Andy.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-469.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7987" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-469.jpg?w=3993&amp;ssl=1 3993w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-469.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-469.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-469.jpg?resize=731%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 731w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-469.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-469.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">In my opinion, this sheriff&#8217;s uniform shirt worn by Andy Griffith on the show was the highlight of the museum.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="573" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-TAYLOR.jpeg?resize=800%2C573&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8014" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-TAYLOR.jpeg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-TAYLOR.jpeg?resize=300%2C215&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-TAYLOR.jpeg?resize=768%2C550&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-TAYLOR.jpeg?resize=1024%2C733&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-TAYLOR.jpeg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Andy Griffith as Sheriff Andy Taylor of Mayberry.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1335" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3067-2.jpg?resize=800%2C1335&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7988" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3067-2.jpg?w=2766&amp;ssl=1 2766w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3067-2.jpg?resize=180%2C300&amp;ssl=1 180w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3067-2.jpg?resize=768%2C1282&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3067-2.jpg?resize=613%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 613w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3067-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3067-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">It was an honor for me to pose near the shirt worn by Sheriff Andy Taylor.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-471.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7989" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-471.jpg?w=3238&amp;ssl=1 3238w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-471.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-471.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-471.jpg?resize=731%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 731w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-471.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-471.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> Tom captured a close-up image of Sheriff Andy Taylor&#8217;s badge.  Andy was also famous for hardly ever carrying a gun.  Sheriff Taylor once said in an episode: &#8220;When a man carries a gun all the time, the respect he thinks he&#8217;s getting might really be fear.  So I don&#8217;t carry a gun because I don&#8217;t want the people of Mayberry to fear a gun.  I&#8217;d rather they respect me.&#8221; </figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-474.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7990" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-474.jpg?w=5181&amp;ssl=1 5181w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-474.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-474.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-474.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-474.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-474.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This display case featured a couple of salt-and-pepper suits that Barney Fife wore on the show when he wasn&#8217;t in uniform.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="631" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BARNEY-FIFE-SUIT.jpeg?resize=800%2C631&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8015" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BARNEY-FIFE-SUIT.jpeg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BARNEY-FIFE-SUIT.jpeg?resize=300%2C237&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BARNEY-FIFE-SUIT.jpeg?resize=768%2C606&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BARNEY-FIFE-SUIT.jpeg?resize=1024%2C808&amp;ssl=1 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Barney Fife and Andy Taylor during an episode of The Andy Griffith Show.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-473.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7991" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-473.jpg?w=3993&amp;ssl=1 3993w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-473.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-473.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-473.jpg?resize=731%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 731w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-473.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-473.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">In the Season 5 episode called &#8220;Barney&#8217;s Uniform&#8221;, the deputy made a reference to his suit that was at the dry cleaners: &#8220;The old salt-and-pepper; it&#8217;s just right for the dips&#8221;.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-475.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7992" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-475.jpg?w=3804&amp;ssl=1 3804w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-475.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-475.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-475.jpg?resize=731%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 731w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-475.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-475.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The highlight of the third display case was Goober Pyle&#8217;s clothes he wore while working at Wally&#8217;s Fillin&#8217; Station.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="960" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/GOOBER-PYLE2.jpeg?resize=800%2C960&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8016" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/GOOBER-PYLE2.jpeg?w=1334&amp;ssl=1 1334w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/GOOBER-PYLE2.jpeg?resize=250%2C300&amp;ssl=1 250w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/GOOBER-PYLE2.jpeg?resize=768%2C921&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/GOOBER-PYLE2.jpeg?resize=854%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 854w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sheriff Taylor shared a laugh with Goober Pyle outside of Floyd&#8217;s Barber Shop.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="839" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3045-2.jpg?resize=800%2C839&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7999" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3045-2.jpg?w=3418&amp;ssl=1 3418w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3045-2.jpg?resize=286%2C300&amp;ssl=1 286w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3045-2.jpg?resize=768%2C806&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3045-2.jpg?resize=976%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 976w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3045-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3045-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> When George Lindsey retired from acting, he had his famous whoopee cap bronzed.  The hat was a trademark look for Goober Pyle on the show.  In my opinion, I would&#8217;ve rather seen Goober&#8217;s hat in its original condition rather than bronzed and mounted on a plaque. </figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3046-2.jpg?resize=800%2C533&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8000" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3046-2.jpg?w=6000&amp;ssl=1 6000w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3046-2.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3046-2.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3046-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3046-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3046-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I laughed at the creativity that went into the Otis Campbell display; one that put Hal Smith&#8217;s screen-worn suit and hat behind bars.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/OTIS-CAMPBELL-2.jpg?resize=800%2C533&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8017" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/OTIS-CAMPBELL-2.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/OTIS-CAMPBELL-2.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/OTIS-CAMPBELL-2.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/OTIS-CAMPBELL-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayberry&#8217;s loveable town drunk Otis Campbell.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-477.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7994" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-477.jpg?w=3993&amp;ssl=1 3993w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-477.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-477.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-477.jpg?resize=731%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 731w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-477.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-477.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Preserved in a display case that was surrounded by the bars of a jail cell, we saw the suit and hats worn by Otis Campbell actor Hal Smith.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="600" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/KEYS.jpg?resize=800%2C600&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8019" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/KEYS.jpg?w=4032&amp;ssl=1 4032w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/KEYS.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/KEYS.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/KEYS.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/KEYS.jpg?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/KEYS.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/KEYS.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">These were the actual keys to the Mayberry Courthouse jail cells on The Andy Griffith Show.  The key on the right was the one that Barney&#8217;s cousin Virgil filed smooth in Season 2.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="588" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3082-2.jpg?resize=800%2C588&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8002" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3082-2.jpg?w=5373&amp;ssl=1 5373w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3082-2.jpg?resize=300%2C220&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3082-2.jpg?resize=768%2C564&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3082-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C753&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3082-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3082-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This was the Mayberry Courthouse interior display that featured some authentic props used in the show.  Most of the items on the desk were original and Barney&#8217;s chair was used by Don Knott&#8217;s as he portrayed Deputy Barney Fife.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="513" height="377" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-TAYLOR5.jpg?resize=513%2C377&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8012" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-TAYLOR5.jpg?w=513&amp;ssl=1 513w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-TAYLOR5.jpg?resize=300%2C220&amp;ssl=1 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 513px) 100vw, 513px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sheriff Andy Taylor at his desk in the Mayberry Courthouse.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="469" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3030-2.jpg?resize=800%2C469&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-7997" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3030-2.jpg?w=3431&amp;ssl=1 3431w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3030-2.jpg?resize=300%2C176&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3030-2.jpg?resize=768%2C450&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3030-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C600&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3030-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3030-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tom had me pose for a photo near some of the items on Andy&#8217;s desk.  I&#8217;m not sure why my mask wasn&#8217;t on &#8211; perhaps my photographer wanted everyone to see my smile.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="600" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-DESK.jpg?resize=800%2C600&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8020" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-DESK.jpg?w=3766&amp;ssl=1 3766w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-DESK.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-DESK.jpg?resize=768%2C576&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-DESK.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-DESK.jpg?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-DESK.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-DESK.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">All of these items were props used on Sheriff Taylor&#8217;s desk.  Andy Griffith signed the wooden gavel block in 2009 at the age of 83; likely around the time the museum opened.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1389" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3050-2.jpg?resize=800%2C1389&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8007" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3050-2.jpg?w=2993&amp;ssl=1 2993w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3050-2.jpg?resize=173%2C300&amp;ssl=1 173w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3050-2.jpg?resize=768%2C1333&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3050-2.jpg?resize=590%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 590w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3050-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3050-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This telephone sat on Sheriff Taylor&#8217;s desk and was used during The Andy Griffith Show.  As I looked at the phone, it was as though I could hear Andy say: &#8220;Sarah, will you get me Helen&#8217;s house?&#8221;</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="968" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3035-2.jpg?resize=800%2C968&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8001" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3035-2.jpg?w=3704&amp;ssl=1 3704w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3035-2.jpg?resize=248%2C300&amp;ssl=1 248w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3035-2.jpg?resize=768%2C930&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3035-2.jpg?resize=846%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 846w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3035-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3035-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The chair that I&#8217;m standing on was used by Deputy Barney Fife during some of the Mayberry Courthouse scenes.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="932" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3075-2.jpg?resize=800%2C932&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8003" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3075-2.jpg?w=3975&amp;ssl=1 3975w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3075-2.jpg?resize=258%2C300&amp;ssl=1 258w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3075-2.jpg?resize=768%2C895&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3075-2.jpg?resize=879%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 879w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3075-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3075-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">While the doors were replicas, the &#8216;Sheriff&#8217; and &#8216;Justice of the Peace&#8217; plaques were the original ones used in the show during the eight seasons.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="552" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3058-2.jpg?resize=800%2C552&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8005" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3058-2.jpg?w=2087&amp;ssl=1 2087w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3058-2.jpg?resize=300%2C207&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3058-2.jpg?resize=768%2C530&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3058-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C706&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3058-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tom couldn&#8217;t find a place for me to stand near the plaques, so he stood next to them instead.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="742" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3089-2.jpg?resize=800%2C742&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8006" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3089-2.jpg?w=4188&amp;ssl=1 4188w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3089-2.jpg?resize=300%2C278&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3089-2.jpg?resize=768%2C712&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3089-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C949&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3089-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3089-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">We found a small display dedicated to Frances Bavier in the basement of the Andy Griffith Playhouse, which was next to the museum.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="606" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3119-2.jpg?resize=800%2C606&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8008" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3119-2.jpg?w=5134&amp;ssl=1 5134w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3119-2.jpg?resize=300%2C227&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3119-2.jpg?resize=768%2C581&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3119-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C775&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3119-2.jpg?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3119-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3119-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">My photographer placed me on the seat of Barney&#8217;s sidecar which was used in the Season 4 episode aptly titled &#8216;Barney&#8217;s Sidecar&#8217;.  I wasn&#8217;t totally sure if this sidecar was the authentic one or whether it was a replica.  The sidecar was located just outside of the museum, which made me believe it was a replica.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="598" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BARNEYS-SIDECAR2.png?resize=800%2C598&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8011" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BARNEYS-SIDECAR2.png?w=1353&amp;ssl=1 1353w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BARNEYS-SIDECAR2.png?resize=300%2C224&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BARNEYS-SIDECAR2.png?resize=768%2C574&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BARNEYS-SIDECAR2.png?resize=1024%2C765&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BARNEYS-SIDECAR2.png?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Deputy Barney Fife as he patrolled the streets of Mayberry on his motorcycle.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1255" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3095-2.jpg?resize=800%2C1255&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8009" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3095-2.jpg?w=3631&amp;ssl=1 3631w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3095-2.jpg?resize=191%2C300&amp;ssl=1 191w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3095-2.jpg?resize=768%2C1205&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3095-2.jpg?resize=653%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 653w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3095-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3095-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Commissioned by TV Land, the Andy and Opie statue was dedicated on September 24, 2004 and was located near the Andy Griffith Playhouse.  That building was once the Rockford Street Grammar School auditorium where Andy first performed on stage in the third grade.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1072" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3097-2.jpg?resize=800%2C1072&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8010" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3097-2.jpg?w=1778&amp;ssl=1 1778w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3097-2.jpg?resize=224%2C300&amp;ssl=1 224w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3097-2.jpg?resize=768%2C1029&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3097-2.jpg?resize=764%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 764w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3097-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As I stood on Andy&#8217;s thumb, I wanted to whistle the theme song &#8211; but the darn mask kept that from happening.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Since childhood, my photographer has loved The Andy Griffith Show and he&#8217;s watched every black and white episode from Season 1 through 5; in other words, the good ones that featured Don Knotts as Deputy Barney Fife.  After our visit to the Andy Griffith Museum, Tom experienced a renewed love affair with the show when he came face-to-face with some of the props and costumes used on the show. </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">For the next three hours, the three of us emerged into the ambiance of Mayberry, North Carolina.  We took a stroll down Mount Airy&#8217;s Main Street where numerous businesses had capitalized on the show&#8217;s success.  Not only did we see Walker&#8217;s Soda Fountain, Opie&#8217;s Candy Store, Barney&#8217;s Café, and Floyd&#8217;s Barber Shop; there was a Ford Galaxy squad car parked along the street that looked exactly like the one Sheriff Taylor and Deputy Fife drove on the show.  My companions and I browsed a handful of antique shops in town before Tom and Vicki purchased some mid-day snacks at Opie&#8217;s Candy Store.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.1.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8027" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.1.jpg?w=4141&amp;ssl=1 4141w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.1.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.1.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.1.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.1.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.1.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As we strolled down Main Street, I waited for Sheriff Taylor to get out of his squad car and walk down the street to Floyd&#8217;s Barber Shop for a hair cut.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.2.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8028" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.2.jpg?w=3086&amp;ssl=1 3086w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.2.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.2.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.2.jpg?resize=731%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 731w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">It was unfortunate that Floyd&#8217;s was closed.  We could&#8217;ve gone inside and caught up on the latest Mayberry gossip.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.4.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8029" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.4.jpg?w=4245&amp;ssl=1 4245w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.4.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.4.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.4.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.4.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-507.4.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vicki was impressed with the Coca Cola wall art that was located across an alley from Walker&#8217;s Soda Shop.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Once we had finished our walking tour of downtown Mayberry, we hopped into the Edge and drove four blocks south along Main Street to Wally&#8217;s Service Station.  The exterior of the &#8220;fillin&#8217; station&#8221; looked very similar to the one featured on The Andy Griffith Show, but when Tom carried me inside the station, we didn&#8217;t find Gomer or Goober working on cars.  As a matter of fact, it was a souvenir store that sold trinkets related to Mayberry.  Located next to Wally&#8217;s was a building that represented Mayberry&#8217;s Courthouse.  My photographer carried me inside the courthouse where I was blown away by the resemblance to the one on the show.  The only thing missing inside the jail cell was the drunken Otis Campbell.  When we got back to the Edge where Vicki sat and looked at her phone instead of visiting the sites, I heard Tom say: &#8220;I give the people who created all of these replica buildings and vehicles a lot of credit as they tried to bring the show to life for the fans of the show.&#8221;</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-495.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8031" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-495.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-495.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-495.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-495.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-495.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-495.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Wally&#8217;s Service Station was located roughly four blocks from the downtown shopping district of Mount Airy.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="602" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/WALLYS-FILLING-STATION-2.jpg?resize=800%2C602&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8039" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/WALLYS-FILLING-STATION-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C771&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/WALLYS-FILLING-STATION-2.jpg?resize=300%2C226&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/WALLYS-FILLING-STATION-2.jpg?resize=768%2C579&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/WALLYS-FILLING-STATION-2.jpg?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/WALLYS-FILLING-STATION-2.jpg?w=1200&amp;ssl=1 1200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This photo from The Andy Griffith Show featured Gomer and Andy outside of Wally&#8217;s.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-498.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8032" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-498.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-498.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-498.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-498.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-498.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-498.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">While the effort to recreate Wally&#8217;s was admirable, it wasn&#8217;t too close when compared to the show&#8217;s original fillin&#8217; station.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-499.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8033" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-499.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-499.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-499.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-499.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-499.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-499.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This old truck represented Briscoe Darling&#8217;s family truckster, but unfortunately it wasn&#8217;t close to the original.  As a matter of fact, the name Darling on the door was misspelled.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="599" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BRISCOE-DARLING-TRUCK-2.png?resize=800%2C599&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8040" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BRISCOE-DARLING-TRUCK-2.png?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BRISCOE-DARLING-TRUCK-2.png?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BRISCOE-DARLING-TRUCK-2.png?resize=768%2C575&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/BRISCOE-DARLING-TRUCK-2.png?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Briscoe Darling talked to Sheriff Taylor as he filled the truck&#8217;s radiator with water from the memorial horse trough.  Notice there is no writing on the truck&#8217;s door.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="500" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3150-2.jpg?resize=800%2C500&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8036" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3150-2.jpg?w=5960&amp;ssl=1 5960w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3150-2.jpg?resize=300%2C188&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3150-2.jpg?resize=768%2C480&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3150-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C640&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3150-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3150-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The interior of the Mayberry Courthouse looked cool, even though it was likely smaller than the original.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3160-2.jpg?resize=800%2C533&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8038" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3160-2.jpg?w=6000&amp;ssl=1 6000w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3160-2.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3160-2.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3160-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3160-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3160-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Replica or not, I wanted to stand on Andy&#8217;s desk for a photo.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-501.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8035" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-501.jpg?w=5452&amp;ssl=1 5452w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-501.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-501.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-501.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-501.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2020-TRIP-501.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The jail cells in the Mount Airy courthouse looked similar to the show&#8217;s original cells.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="564" height="423" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-JAIL-CELL-2.jpg?resize=564%2C423&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8041" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-JAIL-CELL-2.jpg?w=564&amp;ssl=1 564w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-JAIL-CELL-2.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/ANDY-JAIL-CELL-2.jpg?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 564px) 100vw, 564px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">During an episode of The Andy Griffith Show, Andy and Opie watch Barney try to snag the key after he accidentally locked himself inside a cell.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3155-2.jpg?resize=800%2C533&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8037" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3155-2.jpg?w=6000&amp;ssl=1 6000w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3155-2.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3155-2.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3155-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3155-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC_3155-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As I stood on the cell door, it was as though I could hear Otis Campbell say to Barney as the deputy was trying to impress a group of tourists from Raleigh: &#8220;You&#8217;re right, I am a killer.  I just killed a whole pint!&#8221;</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">At roughly 4:30pm, we had one final Andy Griffith site to visit in Mount Airy; and it was a place that my photographer attempted to reserve for our night&#8217;s stay in Mayberry.  The place was called &#8216;Andy Griffith&#8217;s Home Place&#8217; and it was where Andy Griffith lived from the age of nine until he graduated high school and enrolled at the University of North Carolina.  A number of years ago, the two-bedroom bungalow was purchased by the local Hampton Inn and turned into a bed-and-breakfast.  Tourists have the opportunity to spend the night in Andy&#8217;s boyhood home for the low-low rate of $179 per night, which was nearly one-third of what Andy&#8217;s parents paid for the place when they bought it.  That&#8217;s right; Carl Griffith paid $600 for the house on October 31, 1935 and his family lived there until the home was sold for $6,000 on May 31, 1966; which was just after Season 6 of the Andy Griffith Show had ended.  As we stood in front of Andy Griffith&#8217;s boyhood home, I thought to myself: &#8220;It&#8217;s too bad the place was already booked for the night.  It would&#8217;ve been cool to stand next to the television set and watch episodes of The Andy Griffith Show in Andy&#8217;s actual home.  That&#8217;ll be my goal when we head back to the Carolinas in 2022 or &#8217;23.&#8221; </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="593" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09657-2.jpg?resize=800%2C593&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8044" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09657-2.jpg?w=4256&amp;ssl=1 4256w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09657-2.jpg?resize=300%2C223&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09657-2.jpg?resize=768%2C570&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09657-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C760&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09657-2.jpg?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09657-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09657-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As I stood near the front walkway to the Andy Griffith Home Place, I envisioned young Andy whistling the song &#8220;The Fishin&#8217; Hole&#8221; as he headed to school. </figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="581" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09660-2.jpg?resize=800%2C581&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8045" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09660-2.jpg?w=4008&amp;ssl=1 4008w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09660-2.jpg?resize=300%2C218&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09660-2.jpg?resize=768%2C558&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09660-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C743&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09660-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSC09660-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">It would&#8217;ve been very cool for my photographer and me to watch episodes of The Andy Griffith Show in Andy&#8217;s boyhood home; that&#8217;ll have to wait for our return trip to Mayberry.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Our short visit to Andy Griffith’s boyhood home was the perfect ending to our day in Mayberry.  While my photographer snapped a few images of the home, Vicki sat in the vehicle and reserved a room at the Comfort Inn that was located about one mile southeast of Andy’s place.  Once we checked-in and had our gear lugged up to our room, the three of us headed to the nearby Cracker Barrel where Tom and Vicki ordered food to bring back to the hotel.  As I watched my photographer gorge himself on Cracker Barrel&#8217;s fried chicken dinner, I thought to myself: &#8220;There&#8217;s no way that fried chicken is better than Aunt Bee&#8217;s.&#8221;  </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">When the lights were extinguished at roughly 9:00pm, I stood alone in the darkness and thought about Andy.  While my mental capacity should’ve been focused on President Andrew Jackson or President Zachary Taylor, it was centered on Sheriff Andrew Jackson Taylor instead.  Occasionally, I could hear Andy and Barney&#8217;s words echo in my mind: “Nip it.  Nip it in the bud” or “You beat everything, you know that Barney?”  As the night went on, however, a smile filled my sculpted resin face and warmth had soothed my soul; it was time to whistle my way down to the fishin’ hole.  After all, there wasn’t a better way to pass the time of day! </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size"><em>“Well now, take down your fishing pole; and meet me at the fishing hole.  We may not get a bite all day</em>,<em> but don&#8217;t you rush away</em></p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size"><em> What a great place to rest your bones, and mighty fine for skipping stones.  You&#8217;ll feel fresh as a lemonade, A-setting in the shade.</em></p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size"><em>Whether it&#8217;s hot, whether it&#8217;s cool, oh what a spot for whistling like a fool.  What a fine day to take a stroll and wind up at the fishing hole.</em><strong> </strong><em> I can&#8217;t think of a better way to pass the time of day.”</em></p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="560" height="475" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/SHERIFF-ANDY-TAYLOR-2.jpg?resize=560%2C475&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-8050" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/SHERIFF-ANDY-TAYLOR-2.jpg?w=560&amp;ssl=1 560w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/SHERIFF-ANDY-TAYLOR-2.jpg?resize=300%2C254&amp;ssl=1 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 560px) 100vw, 560px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Andy Griffith 1926 &#8211; 2012</figcaption></figure></div>]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>110: THIS TALLADEGA KNIGHT WASN&#8217;T DAZED</title>
		<link>https://eyesofjefferson.com/110-this-talladega-knight-wasnt-dazed/</link>
					<comments>https://eyesofjefferson.com/110-this-talladega-knight-wasnt-dazed/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Thomas Watson]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Dec 2020 00:03:44 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Alabama State Capitol Building]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Buddy Baker]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dale Earnhardt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Darrell Waltrip]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dick Trickle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[First White House of the Confederacy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[International Motorsports Hall of Fame]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Ricky Bobby]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Talladega Nights]]></category>
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					<description><![CDATA[When we left the Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia around 12:15pm on Sunday July 14, 2019, the three of us were still intoxicated from our Jimmy Carter experience. It didn&#8217;t take long, however, for Hurricane Barry to sober us&#8230;]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">When we left the Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia around 12:15pm on Sunday July 14, 2019, the three of us were still intoxicated from our Jimmy Carter experience.  It didn&#8217;t take long, however, for Hurricane Barry to sober us up.  As we headed out of town, we heard on the radio that The Rolling Stones had postponed their Superdome concert for that night in New Orleans.  Instantly, my photographer made the decision to alter our agenda and avoid the northern parts of Alabama and Mississippi.  Tom figured that it was safe to visit the famed racetrack in Talladega; but instead of us travelling West from there and into the heavy rain and flooding caused by the storm, we would drive South to the Gulf Coast after our Superspeedway tour.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">It was a noneventful 170-mile drive from Plains to the Talladega Superspeedway, which was closer to Lincoln, Alabama than it was to Talladega. My photographer and his wife broke up the boredom by stopping at several antique shops along the way. Visiting the state of Alabama was a big deal for the three of us as we had never been there before. As a matter of fact, when we crossed the Georgia/Alabama line just North of West Point, I heard my camera buy break into a sour-note version of &#8216;Sweet Home Alabama&#8217; &#8211; which made me laugh to myself and cringe at the same time. Although we gained a Time Zone hour at the border, we arrived at the International Motorsports Hall of Fame located next to Talladega Superspeedway at 4:30pm; which was the same time the passenger van departed to the track for the last tour of the day. With little to see until morning, Tom and Vicki decided to use the remainder of the afternoon to relax, which they did once we were registered and unpacked at the Comfort Inn that was roughly three miles from the racetrack. My photographer placed me next to the television set while he and his wife had dinner at a nearby place called &#8216;Montana Saloon &amp; Grill&#8217;. When they returned from their meal, Vicki watched TV while Tom worked on his NASCAR report for his fantasy league. When the lights in the room went off around 10:00pm, I spent the night thinking about our time with President Carter and the feeling I had being so close to him. It was definitely an experience I will never forget.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-large-font-size"><strong>**********</strong></p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Monday July 15, 2019 began when the alarm clock rang at 6:30am.  Tom set the clock a half-hour later than normal because of our close proximity to the day&#8217;s first destination; plus, the racing hall of fame didn&#8217;t open until 9:00am.  My companions packed the car and made the short trip to the International Motorsports Hall of Fame; and as usual, my photographer got us there early.  The primary reason for our visit was to tour Talladega Superspeedway; the Hall of Fame museum was an added bonus.  After my companions purchased their tickets, we had a half-hour to kill in the museum before we boarded the bus that would transport us to the track for a tour.  The motorsports museum turned out to be pretty cool as we saw dozens of race cars.  Perhaps the car I enjoyed seeing the most was the #26 Wonder Bread Chevy Monte Carlo used in the movie &#8216;Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby&#8217;.  Although I never posed near any of the historic race cars, Tom left the top of the camera case open so I could see the artifacts on display.  </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-248.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6407" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-248.jpg?w=4895&amp;ssl=1 4895w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-248.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-248.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-248.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-248.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-248.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The International Motorsports Hall of Fame that was located next door to Talladega Superspeedway near Lincoln, Alabama.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-253.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6411" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-253.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-253.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-253.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-253.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-253.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-253.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nicknamed &#8220;Double Thunder&#8221;, this #11 Budweiser Chevy was driven by Darrell Waltrip in 1985.  The car was owned and donated by Junior Johnson.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="502" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DOUBLE-THUNDER-2.jpg?resize=800%2C502&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6412" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DOUBLE-THUNDER-2.jpg?w=1280&amp;ssl=1 1280w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DOUBLE-THUNDER-2.jpg?resize=300%2C188&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DOUBLE-THUNDER-2.jpg?resize=768%2C482&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DOUBLE-THUNDER-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C642&amp;ssl=1 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Darrell Waltrip behind the wheel of &#8216;Double Thunder&#8217; that he drove to the 1985 NASCAR driving championship.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-254.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6413" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-254.jpg?w=5198&amp;ssl=1 5198w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-254.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-254.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-254.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-254.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-254.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vicki had dreamed of sitting behind the wheel of a NASCAR race car.  This mock-up might be the closest she will ever get.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="487" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3260-3.jpg?resize=800%2C487&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6415" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3260-3.jpg?w=5966&amp;ssl=1 5966w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3260-3.jpg?resize=300%2C183&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3260-3.jpg?resize=768%2C468&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3260-3.jpg?resize=1024%2C624&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3260-3.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3260-3.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">With one of the funniest names in motorsports, Dick Trickle once drove this #90 Heilig-Meyers Ford Taurus in a NASCAR race.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-257.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6416" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-257.jpg?w=5590&amp;ssl=1 5590w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-257.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-257.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-257.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-257.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-257.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Will Ferrell&#8217;s character Ricky Bobby drove the #26 Wonder Bread car in the movie &#8216;Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby&#8217;.  This was one of three Wonder Bread prop cars used in the movie.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-259.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6417" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-259.jpg?w=5599&amp;ssl=1 5599w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-259.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-259.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-259.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-259.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-259.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As Ricky Bobby once said: &#8220;If you ain&#8217;t first, you&#8217;re last!&#8221;</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="503" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/RICKY-BOBBY.jpg?resize=800%2C503&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6418" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/RICKY-BOBBY.jpg?w=866&amp;ssl=1 866w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/RICKY-BOBBY.jpg?resize=300%2C189&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/RICKY-BOBBY.jpg?resize=768%2C483&amp;ssl=1 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ricky Bobby and his wife Carley celebrate in Victory Lane.  Will Ferrell and Leslie Bibb played the colorful couple in the movie Talladega Nights.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="517" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3283-2.jpg?resize=800%2C517&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6421" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3283-2.jpg?w=5898&amp;ssl=1 5898w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3283-2.jpg?resize=300%2C194&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3283-2.jpg?resize=768%2C496&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3283-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C661&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3283-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3283-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">My photographer never passes up a chance to snap an image of one of Dale Earnhardt&#8217;s #3 Goodwrench Chevys.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="531" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3278-2.jpg?resize=800%2C531&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6423" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3278-2.jpg?w=5492&amp;ssl=1 5492w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3278-2.jpg?resize=300%2C199&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3278-2.jpg?resize=768%2C510&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3278-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C680&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3278-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3278-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">In 2005, Kyle Busch drove this #5 Kellogg&#8217;s Chevy Monte Carlo during his rookie season.  Jimmie Johnson&#8217;s #48 Lowe&#8217;s car was in the background.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-278.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6433" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-278.jpg?w=5394&amp;ssl=1 5394w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-278.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-278.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-278.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-278.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-278.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Buddy Baker&#8217;s #88 Dodge Charger Daytona was driven by Baker when he was the first to set a 200-mph lap around a closed course.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">While we were walking around the museum, the call came out that the van was loading for our tour of the race track.  The three of us boarded the 12-seat passenger van and headed for Talladega Superspeedway.  While it would have been cool for the van to have gone 200mph and hit the 33-degree banking on the turns at full throttle, that never happened.  As a matter of fact, the van travelled very slowly and stayed on the apron.  Unfortunately, we were never allowed out of the van and onto the track; which was an alleged safety rule.  My guess was the Hall of Fame didn&#8217;t want to spit in the eye of the &#8220;Talladega Curse&#8221;.  Numerous strange occurrences at the track have led to rumors of Talladega being cursed.  It&#8217;s been said that the track was built on an old Native American burial ground, while another legend stated that an Indian chief was killed there when he was thrown from his horse on the land.  The story that I found interesting came during the 1973 Talladega 500 when the &#8217;72 NASCAR Rookie of the Year Larry Smith was killed in a solo crash at the track.  Later in the race, Bobby Isaac parked his car and quit &#8211; Isaac stated: &#8220;Something told me to quit.  I don&#8217;t know anything else to do but abide by it.&#8221;  During our slow-speed lap around the Superspeedway, I didn&#8217;t hear any voices and never felt close to experiencing &#8220;The Big One&#8221;.  I knew for sure that my photographer, his wife, and I enjoyed our tour of Talladega Superspeedway; even from the friendly confines of an air conditioned van.  Take a look at the nine images taken by my photographer during our tour of Talladega.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-280.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6424" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-280.jpg?w=4267&amp;ssl=1 4267w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-280.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-280.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-280.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-280.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-280.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Our 12-seat passenger van that took us for a lap around the track.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-283.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6425" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-283.jpg?w=3851&amp;ssl=1 3851w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-283.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-283.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-283.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-283.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-283.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The main entrance into Talladega Superspeedway.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-267.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6426" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-267.jpg?w=4117&amp;ssl=1 4117w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-267.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-267.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-267.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-267.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-267.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure></div>


<p></p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-268.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6432" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-268.jpg?w=5599&amp;ssl=1 5599w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-268.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-268.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-268.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-268.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-268.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure></div>


<p></p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-269.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6427" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-269.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-269.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-269.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-269.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-269.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-269.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure></div>


<p></p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-270.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6428" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-270.jpg?w=5599&amp;ssl=1 5599w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-270.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-270.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-270.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-270.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-270.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure></div>


<p></p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-272.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6431" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-272.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-272.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-272.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-272.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-272.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-272.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure></div>


<p></p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-273.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6429" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-273.jpg?w=5599&amp;ssl=1 5599w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-273.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-273.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-273.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-273.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-273.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure></div>


<p></p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-276.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6430" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-276.jpg?w=5018&amp;ssl=1 5018w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-276.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-276.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-276.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-276.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-276.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">When our tour of the track was finished, the van headed through the tunnel that went beneath the legendary track.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">When our tour group was returned to the Hall of Fame, the three of us went inside to finish our tour of the museum.  I thought the museum was good, but I was ready to leave as there were only a handful of race cars that interested me; plus, NASCAR has nothing to do with the Presidents.  I surely didn&#8217;t think Jimmie Johnson was related to Lyndon nor was Kyle kin to George W. Bush.  Thanks to Hurricane Barry, we headed due South at 11:30am instead of going Westward towards Huntsville; which put us in Montgomery, Alabama two and a half hours later.  I was excited to be in Alabama&#8217;s Capital City because I heard Tom planned to photograph a couple of Presidential sites there.  What I didn&#8217;t realize, however, was the sites were associated with the Confederate President Jefferson Davis instead of a U.S. President.  I was okay with that &#8211; after all, I had been to Davis&#8217; gravesite, as well as his Confederate White House in Richmond only two months earlier.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Vicki found a parking place along the street one block east of the Capitol Building; which was where we headed to on foot.  Tom wanted to place me on the marker where Jefferson Davis took the Confederate Oath of Office beneath the Capitol&#8217;s West portico.  Just as we neared our intended site, my photographer&#8217;s wife noticed a historical marker that identified the Confederate White House.  I was confused because I had been inside the White House of the Confederacy in Richmond back in May.  It turned out that the mansion in front of us was the first residence of Jefferson Davis after he became President of the Confederacy.  Following the inauguration of Davis on February 18, 1861, the President and his family moved into the house three days later.  The First Couple held lavish parties in their new mansion that was furnished to the nines; they lived the lives of royalty.  Jefferson Davis&#8217; stay was short-lived, however, as he and his family resided in the mansion for only three months.  When the Confederate Capital was moved to Richmond, the Davis&#8217; vacated their Montgomery home on May 27, 1861 and moved to the Executive Mansion in Virginia.  </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-02.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6436" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-02.jpg?w=4316&amp;ssl=1 4316w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-02.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-02.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-02.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-02.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-02.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Originally located roughly ten blocks West of the Capitol, the First White House of the Confederacy was moved to its current location in 1921.  From where I stood on the White House lawn, I could see the Capitol Building that was in front of me.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-01.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6437" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-01.jpg?w=4316&amp;ssl=1 4316w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-01.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-01.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-01.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-01.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFFERSON-DAVIS-FIRST-CONFEDERATE-WHITE-HOUSE-01.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">While this mansion seemed smaller than the Confederate White House in Richmond, I thought the exterior of this building was more elaborate.  Neither of the two Confederate mansions could compare to the &#8220;real&#8221; White House.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">After our photoshoot in front of the Confederate White House, the three of us made the five-minute walk to the front of the Alabama State Capitol Building.  The first Capitol burned down in 1849, just two years after it was built.  The current structure was constructed in its footprint and was first occupied in 1851.  As I stood in front of the Capitol and gazed up at the magnificent dome with its huge clock, I was awestruck by the overall beauty of the building.  In my mind, I thought it was one of the most beautiful Capitol buildings that I had seen.  After I posed for several photos at the base of the front steps, Tom carried me up those steps to a spot on the front portico.  There, embedded into the marble surface, was a brass six-sided star that was inscribed with the historic event that occurred on that site.  On February 18, 1861, Jefferson Davis stood on that exact spot as he took the Oath of Office as the first and only President of the Confederate States of America.  As I stood alongside the commemorative brass star, it was as though I could hear President Davis as he recited the oath.  It was ironic to me that the Confederate oath was nearly identical to the one used by the United States.  I wondered to myself why the rebels couldn&#8217;t write something unique?</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="708" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08732-2.jpg?resize=800%2C708&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6439" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08732-2.jpg?w=3627&amp;ssl=1 3627w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08732-2.jpg?resize=300%2C265&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08732-2.jpg?resize=768%2C679&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08732-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C906&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08732-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08732-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As I stood in front of the historic Alabama State Capitol Building, I worried about the darkening sky in the distance.  Were we about to witness some remnants of Hurricane Barry?</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1077" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFF-DAVIS-REAL-INAUGURATION-2.jpg?resize=800%2C1077&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6447" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFF-DAVIS-REAL-INAUGURATION-2.jpg?w=1214&amp;ssl=1 1214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFF-DAVIS-REAL-INAUGURATION-2.jpg?resize=223%2C300&amp;ssl=1 223w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFF-DAVIS-REAL-INAUGURATION-2.jpg?resize=768%2C1034&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/JEFF-DAVIS-REAL-INAUGURATION-2.jpg?resize=761%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 761w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This photo, captured on February 18, 1861, recorded the inauguration of Jefferson Davis.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="588" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3402-3.jpg?resize=800%2C588&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6441" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3402-3.jpg?w=4619&amp;ssl=1 4619w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3402-3.jpg?resize=300%2C221&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3402-3.jpg?resize=768%2C564&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3402-3.jpg?resize=1024%2C753&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3402-3.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3402-3.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dwarfed by the two-story Ionic columns on the West portico, I was standing where Jefferson Davis was sworn-in as Confederate President.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="673" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3404-2.jpg?resize=800%2C673&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6442" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3404-2.jpg?w=4714&amp;ssl=1 4714w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3404-2.jpg?resize=300%2C252&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3404-2.jpg?resize=768%2C646&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3404-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C861&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3404-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3404-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I love standing in the footsteps of Presidents; even if it was the President of the Confederate States of America.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="601" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3405-2.jpg?resize=800%2C601&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6443" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3405-2.jpg?w=4371&amp;ssl=1 4371w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3405-2.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3405-2.jpg?resize=768%2C577&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3405-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C769&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3405-2.jpg?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3405-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3405-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> As I stood on this spot, I could hear Jefferson Davis as he recited the oath: &#8220;I do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the Confederate States, and will, to the best of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution thereof&#8221;. </figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="554" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3407-3.jpg?resize=800%2C554&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6445" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3407-3.jpg?w=4902&amp;ssl=1 4902w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3407-3.jpg?resize=300%2C208&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3407-3.jpg?resize=768%2C532&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3407-3.jpg?resize=1024%2C710&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3407-3.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC_3407-3.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"> As Jefferson Davis stood here on February 18, 1861, he had no way of knowing what the future held for himself or for the new country that he was sworn to lead. </figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="606" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08734-2.jpg?resize=800%2C606&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6440" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08734-2.jpg?w=4245&amp;ssl=1 4245w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08734-2.jpg?resize=300%2C227&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08734-2.jpg?resize=768%2C582&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08734-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C776&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08734-2.jpg?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08734-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/DSC08734-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This view of the West portico of the Alabama Capitol and its Southern wing took my breath away.  As soon as this photo was captured, we hurriedly headed back to the Highlander.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">After we finished our photos at the Capitol Building, we had little time to lollygag as the sky grew darker and there was a definite threat of a storm.  From my camera case, I could hear thunder in the distance; I wondered if this storm was conjured-up by Barry that was still dumping moisture along the Mississippi River as it headed North.  Although it began to sprinkle as we approached the Highlander, the storm didn&#8217;t unleash its fury until we were safely inside the vehicle.  The relentless deluge pummeled the car while I could see lightning flashes from the opening in my camera case.  Then the rain stopped.  As quickly as the storm arrived, it was gone.  As the sun tried to emerge, we left Montgomery and continued our journey to the Gulf Coast.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">When our route was switched due to Barry, Vicki had requested that we visit Pensacola, Florida to see the Blue Angels.  That idea was spawned in Greeneville, Tennessee a few days earlier when Amber Emmette suggested that we stop there to see the aerobatic flight demonstration team.   Amber mentioned that Pensacola was the Blue Angels&#8217; home base, and the public are permitted to watch their practices, which are exactly like their shows.  It was roughly 6:30pm when we arrived in the Florida Panhandle city, and we easily found the Suburban Extended Stay Hotel that Vicki had reserved during our drive South.  That hotel was in the perfect location; situated only four miles from the Blue Angels&#8217; Navel Base.  Once we were unpacked, the three of us headed for dinner; which was at a recommended place called The Oar House.  After we were seated and my companions had their meal, we could easily see why the hotel&#8217;s desk clerk had suggested that restaurant.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-289.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6451" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-289.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-289.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-289.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-289.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-289.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-289.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">While some patrons stayed outside in the heat, my photographer and his wife dined beneath the tiki roof where they enjoyed their meals near an electric fan.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-290.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6452" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-290.jpg?w=4972&amp;ssl=1 4972w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-290.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-290.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-290.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-290.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-290.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">This was Tom&#8217;s shrimp Po&#8217; Boy that he had ordered, while Vicki sunk her teeth into a fresh shrimp dinner.  Not only did I hear my photographer say that it was the best Po&#8217; Boy that he had ever eaten, it was the first one as well.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-291.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6453" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-291.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-291.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-291.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-291.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-291.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-291.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">When dinner was finished, the three of us took a self-guided tour of the restaurant to see its unique décor.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-293.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6454" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-293.jpg?w=4888&amp;ssl=1 4888w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-293.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-293.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-293.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-293.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-293.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">With the live music, great food, and exuberant atmosphere, we discovered why the hotel&#8217;s desk clerk recommended The Oar House. </figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-294.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6455" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-294.jpg?w=5599&amp;ssl=1 5599w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-294.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-294.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-294.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-294.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-294.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Oar House was situated along the Bayou Chico with an overlook of Bahia Mar Marina.  We had been inland for the entire trip and it seemed good to finally see water.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-295.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6456" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-295.jpg?w=2913&amp;ssl=1 2913w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-295.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-295.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-295.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-295.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-295.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A brown pelican flew across Bayou Chico in search of its own shrimp Po&#8217; Boy!</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-297.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6457" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-297.jpg?w=5599&amp;ssl=1 5599w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-297.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-297.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-297.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-297.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019-TEXAS-TRIP-297.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As Vicki waited in the Highlander before we headed back to the hotel, Tom captured an image of the restaurant&#8217;s sign.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">My companions were exhausted when we returned to our hotel. After all, we began our day at the Talladega Superspeedway and it ended nearly 260 miles away in Pensacola, Florida. I was thrilled to finally set foot in the Sunshine State for the first time; even though that visit would likely be void of any Presidential sites. That was alright, though, as I looked forward to seeing the famous Blue Angels practice the following day. From my position alongside the television set where I stood throughout the night, I had hoped that the weather would cooperate. Due to the safety of the Naval pilots who fly the aerobatic jets, there needs to be very good visibility during the practice &#8211; the rule of thumb is the pilots must be able to see at least three and a half miles. There are times the pilots travel at speeds up to 700 mph and as close as 18 inches from each other; lack of visibility could be deadly. </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">As the rhythmic rumbling of snores emitted from Tom and Vicki&#8217;s beds, the lyrics to Cheap Trick&#8217;s song &#8216;Mighty Wings&#8217; kept rolling through my resin-filled head. &#8220;There&#8217;s a raging fire in my heart tonight; Growing higher and higher in my soul. There&#8217;s a raging fire in the sky tonight; I want to ride on the silver dove, far into the night.&#8221; </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">When daylight breaks, I&#8217;ll be flying high on the mighty wings of the Blue Angels &#8211; and I couldn&#8217;t wait!</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
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		<title>71: IT&#8217;S BRISTOL, BABY!</title>
		<link>https://eyesofjefferson.com/71-its-bristol-baby/</link>
					<comments>https://eyesofjefferson.com/71-its-bristol-baby/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Thomas Watson]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2020 21:07:45 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2017 Bass Pro Shops/NRA Night Race]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brad Keselowski]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bristol Motor Speedway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chase Elliott]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dale Earnhardt Jr.]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Danica Patrick]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Erik Jones]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jefferson bobble head]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jimmie Johnson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kevin Harvick]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kyle Busch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kyle Larson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Martin Truex Jr.]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Monster Energy girls]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thomas Jefferson]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://eyesofjefferson.com/?p=3526</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[For Vicki, Saturday August 19, 2017 was &#8220;Race Day&#8221;; or technically race night as we were headed to the Bass Pro Shops/NRA Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway that was scheduled to start at 7:30pm. For my photographer, it was&#8230;]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">For Vicki, Saturday August 19, 2017 was &#8220;Race Day&#8221;; or technically race night as we were headed to the Bass Pro Shops/NRA Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway that was scheduled to start at 7:30pm.  For my photographer, it was &#8220;I&#8217;m Another Year Older Day&#8221; as it was his 61st birthday.  One of the first things Tom did that morning was to call his son to wish him a happy 34th birthday.  That&#8217;s right &#8211; Tom and Tom II share the same birthday; as do Vicki and their daughter Ashley, which is February 15th.  Even their dog Abigail has a special birthday &#8211; May 4th &#8211; which is Star Wars Day!</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">I had to laugh to myself as we got into the Avenger for the 45-mile drive to the racetrack.  Both my photographer and his wife were sporting Kyle Busch tee shirts, which from my perspective was good because &#8220;Rowdy&#8221; was no doubt the best race car driver in NASCAR.  Busch had already won the Camping World Truck Series race on Wednesday and the Xfinity Series race on Friday; and he was attempting to be the first driver to complete a &#8216;three-for-three&#8217; weekend sweep for a second time by winning the Monster Energy Cup race on that Saturday night.  The Candyman accomplished a &#8216;three-peat&#8217; at Bristol in 2010 as he became the first driver in NASCAR history to achieve that feat.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Traffic was thick around Bristol Motor Speedway and we parked the car in the same lot as the day before.  Although there was no threat of rain, the weather was extremely hot &#8211; the mercury in the thermometer was hitting the 95-degree mark and there was very little wind.  After our mile-long downhill trek to the racetrack, we spent over two hours outside as there was a lot going on to entertain the NASCAR fans who had arrived early.  We saw the championship trophy that we knew would be in Kyle Busch&#8217;s hands later that night, and my photographer rented a pair headsets that he and his wife used to listen-in on driver-spotter chatter during the race.  Then out of nowhere, it happened; and I thought I was having a case of Deja-vu.  There were two scantily-clad Monster Energy girls who were posing for photos with fans.  When Tom hesitated to have his image captured with the two young women, likely because he had a quick flash-back of his photo-op at Times Square in July with two body-paint artists, his wife insisted and she once again snapped a picture for posterity.  I think if I had a hinged jaw, it would&#8217;ve fallen off into the bottom of the camera case.  But, the more I thought about it, Vicki wasn&#8217;t upset because her husband didn&#8217;t shell out any money for them to pose; unlike what he had done in NYC.  </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="664" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-TROPHY-POSE.jpg?resize=800%2C664&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3530" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-TROPHY-POSE.jpg?w=4688&amp;ssl=1 4688w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-TROPHY-POSE.jpg?resize=300%2C249&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-TROPHY-POSE.jpg?resize=768%2C637&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-TROPHY-POSE.jpg?resize=1024%2C849&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-TROPHY-POSE.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-TROPHY-POSE.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">My photographer and his wife posed with the Bass Pro Shops/NRA Night Race championship trophy that Kyle Busch had in his sights going into the race.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OUTSIDE-BMS-1.jpg?resize=800%2C533&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3534" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OUTSIDE-BMS-1.jpg?w=6000&amp;ssl=1 6000w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OUTSIDE-BMS-1.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OUTSIDE-BMS-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OUTSIDE-BMS-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OUTSIDE-BMS-1.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OUTSIDE-BMS-1.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The thousands of NASCAR fans that had gathered outside of Bristol Motor Speedway in the early afternoon of race day.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MONSTER-GIRLS.jpg?resize=800%2C533&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3536" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MONSTER-GIRLS.jpg?w=6000&amp;ssl=1 6000w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MONSTER-GIRLS.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MONSTER-GIRLS.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MONSTER-GIRLS.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MONSTER-GIRLS.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/MONSTER-GIRLS.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As my photographer posed with the two Monster Energy girls, I had flash-backs to a month earlier at Times Square in New York City.  I kept thinking to myself: &#8220;Just don&#8217;t give those girls any money to pose and you will be alright.&#8221;</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="871" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8986.jpg?resize=800%2C871&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3542" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8986.jpg?w=3274&amp;ssl=1 3274w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8986.jpg?resize=276%2C300&amp;ssl=1 276w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8986.jpg?resize=768%2C836&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8986.jpg?resize=940%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 940w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8986.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8986.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">While almost every Monster Cup driver had their own souvenir  truck, there was only one driver that interested my photographer&#8217;s wife. </figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">At roughly 3:30pm, we made our way inside Bristol Motor Speedway; which was cool because my photographer and his wife had passes that got them onto the track.  Not only did Vicki receive the tickets to the race as a Christmas present, Tom also purchased two passes that gave them V.I.P. access to everything except the pit and garage area.  Once the three of us stepped foot onto the rough concrete surface, my photographer carried me up the steep 28-degree banking of Turn Four.  We also had an up-close look at the start-finish line before we walked around the track to the back stretch where the band was set up to perform the pre-race concert.  I laughed when my cameraman told his wife about his conversation with Taylor Lindsay that centered on the pre-race concert: &#8220;I asked Taylor if they could get KISS to play the pre-race concert.  She laughed at me and said that it wasn&#8217;t going to be KISS; but, they had a very good band by the name of Cody Jinks.&#8221;  It&#8217;s a fact that Tom dislikes country music very much, but he could&#8217;ve handled a show performed by Shania Twain; or Garth Brooks; or even Blake Shelton.  But even his wife had never heard of Cody Jinks; which meant the really good singers must&#8217;ve all been busy on August 19, 2017.  Needless to say, the pre-race concert sucked!</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">  The late afternoon sun had scorched the concrete track and all the other V.I.P.s were sitting in the little bit of shade that could be found; including the three of us.  We sat along the SAFER Barrier on the back stretch until it was time for driver introductions; at which time the three of us got into position near Turn Three where we had a good view of each driver as they were introduced to the enthusiastic crowd.  From my position in the camera bag, I could see all of the drivers as they made their way, one by one, along a ramp and into the back of a pickup truck for a lap around the track.  I laughed to myself when Joey Logano made his appearance as I heard my photographer yell out:  &#8220;You suck, Snot Nose!&#8221;  All of the drivers seemed to receive a great ovation, but two drivers stuck out from the rest &#8211; Dale Earnhardt, Jr., who was making his final appearance as a driver at Bristol, seemed to be the fan-favorite; while Kyle Busch received the largest number of boos that were mixed with the cheers.  When Rowdy rode past us, with his son Brexton secured in front of him, I could see Vicki had a huge smile on her face as she held up three fingers.  Her three-fingered salute signified Kyle&#8217;s attempt at the weekend three-peat.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="525" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8987.jpg?resize=800%2C525&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3548" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8987.jpg?w=5478&amp;ssl=1 5478w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8987.jpg?resize=300%2C197&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8987.jpg?resize=768%2C504&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8987.jpg?resize=1024%2C673&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8987.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8987.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Once we had made our way onto the track, Vicki made a bee-line to see Kyle Busch&#8217;s car.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="512" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8989-2.jpg?resize=800%2C512&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3552" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8989-2.jpg?w=5984&amp;ssl=1 5984w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8989-2.jpg?resize=300%2C192&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8989-2.jpg?resize=768%2C491&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8989-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C655&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8989-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8989-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Up close and personal with Kyle Busch&#8217;s Number 18 M&amp;Ms Caramel Toyota Camry &#8211; a car that he would drive into NASCAR lore!</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="545" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8994-1.jpg?resize=800%2C545&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3555" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8994-1.jpg?w=5117&amp;ssl=1 5117w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8994-1.jpg?resize=300%2C204&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8994-1.jpg?resize=768%2C523&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8994-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C698&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8994-1.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_8994-1.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vicki gives Kyle&#8217;s car the three-fingered salute in honor of his potential three-for-three weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway.  At that moment, I noticed her smile; which was a lot bigger than it was when we visited Theodore Roosevelt&#8217;s house.  I think she even held up just one finger during that visit.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9000-1.jpg?resize=800%2C533&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3558" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9000-1.jpg?w=6000&amp;ssl=1 6000w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9000-1.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9000-1.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9000-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9000-1.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9000-1.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">My photographer carried me up the steep 28-degree banking of Bristol&#8217;s Turn Four.  I had figured my &#8220;sure-footed&#8221; chubby camera guy was going to slip and go for a tumble all the way down to the track&#8217;s apron.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1200" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9005.jpg?resize=800%2C1200&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3560" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9005.jpg?w=4000&amp;ssl=1 4000w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9005.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9005.jpg?resize=768%2C1152&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9005.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9005.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9005.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Not wanting to get yelled at by a &#8220;Weekend Warrior&#8221; from Tennessee, whose battalion served as security to keep spectators from climbing the steep-banked turns, Vicki stayed low on the track near the entrance to Turn One.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="615" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9009.jpg?resize=800%2C615&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3561" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9009.jpg?w=2215&amp;ssl=1 2215w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9009.jpg?resize=300%2C231&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9009.jpg?resize=768%2C591&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9009.jpg?resize=1024%2C788&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9009.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A close look at the rough concrete surface of Bristol Motor Speedway&#8217;s track.  The black gob in the center of the photo is rubber from an Xfinity car&#8217;s tires from the night before.  Could it be from Kyle Busch&#8217;s car?</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="534" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9014.jpg?resize=800%2C534&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3563" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9014.jpg?w=2883&amp;ssl=1 2883w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9014.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9014.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9014.jpg?resize=1024%2C684&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9014.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9014.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The first big-named driver we saw during introductions was Dale Earnhardt, Jr.  Ol&#8217; &#8220;Water Cooler&#8221; Dale was the driver of the #88 Axalta Chevy that qualified 31st for the race.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9030.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3564" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9030.jpg?w=4197&amp;ssl=1 4197w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9030.jpg?resize=300%2C215&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9030.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9030.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9030.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9030.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Starting from the 29th spot was the driver we met on Thursday night at Outback Steakhouse; driver of the #4 Busch Outdoors Ford Kevin Harvick.  To my photographer and his wife, it was obvious that Harvick was a Kyle Busch fan as he had Kyle&#8217;s last name plastered all over his car; and on his fire suit as well.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="660" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9035.jpg?resize=800%2C660&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3565" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9035.jpg?w=1511&amp;ssl=1 1511w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9035.jpg?resize=300%2C248&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9035.jpg?resize=768%2C634&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9035.jpg?resize=1024%2C845&amp;ssl=1 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Danica Patrick, the girlfriend of fellow driver Ricky Stenhouse, Jr., started the race in the 24th position in her #10 Ford.  It was Danica&#8217;s last race at Bristol.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="726" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9041.jpg?resize=800%2C726&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3566" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9041.jpg?w=2206&amp;ssl=1 2206w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9041.jpg?resize=300%2C272&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9041.jpg?resize=768%2C697&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9041.jpg?resize=1024%2C929&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9041.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Seven-time NASCAR Cup champion Jimmie Johnson was introduced in the 21st spot to start the race; driving his famous #48 Lowe&#8217;s Chevy.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="975" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9050.jpg?resize=800%2C975&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3567" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9050.jpg?w=1273&amp;ssl=1 1273w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9050.jpg?resize=246%2C300&amp;ssl=1 246w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9050.jpg?resize=768%2C936&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9050.jpg?resize=840%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 840w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Shortly after Johnson had been introduced, Vicki got her first look at Kyle Busch as he addressed the crowd.  Boo or cheer, he&#8217;s the best of the best in NASCAR.  His nickname should be &#8216;Maverick&#8217; instead of &#8216;Rowdy&#8217;.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="891" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9053.jpg?resize=800%2C891&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3569" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9053.jpg?w=2918&amp;ssl=1 2918w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9053.jpg?resize=269%2C300&amp;ssl=1 269w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9053.jpg?resize=768%2C855&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9053.jpg?resize=919%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 919w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9053.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9053.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">With his son Brexton in front of him, #18 M&amp;Ms Caramel Toyota driver Kyle Busch stood proud during his introduction in the 18th position.  #18 in the 18th spot &#8211; was that some M&amp;Ms karma that will melt in your mouth and not in your hand?</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="607" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9060.jpg?resize=800%2C607&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3571" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9060.jpg?w=3895&amp;ssl=1 3895w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9060.jpg?resize=300%2C227&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9060.jpg?resize=768%2C582&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9060.jpg?resize=1024%2C776&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9060.jpg?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9060.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9060.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Starting in the 17th position and resembling &#8216;Toad&#8217; from the movie American Graffiti was #2 Auto Trader Ford driver Brad Keselowski.  As he rode past us, I heard my photographer yell out: &#8220;Hey Toad, where&#8217;s John Milner and Wolfman Jack?&#8221;</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="496" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9068.jpg?resize=800%2C496&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3573" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9068.jpg?w=5421&amp;ssl=1 5421w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9068.jpg?resize=300%2C186&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9068.jpg?resize=768%2C476&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9068.jpg?resize=1024%2C635&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9068.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9068.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Then we saw him &#8211; my photographer&#8217;s most hated driver &#8211; Joey &#8220;Snot Nose&#8221; Logano.  As the driver of the #22 Pennzoil Ford rode past, I heard Tom yell out: &#8220;You suck, Snot Nose&#8221;.  I was waiting for Logano to flick a snot-rocket at us!</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="706" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9075.jpg?resize=800%2C706&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3575" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9075.jpg?w=3480&amp;ssl=1 3480w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9075.jpg?resize=300%2C265&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9075.jpg?resize=768%2C678&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9075.jpg?resize=1024%2C904&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9075.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9075.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A driver that seemed to be one of the fan favorites was Martin Truex, Jr., the driver of the #78 Toyota.  The Bass Pro Shops star qualified sixth for the Bristol Night Race.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="560" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9081.jpg?resize=800%2C560&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3576" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9081.jpg?w=2998&amp;ssl=1 2998w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9081.jpg?resize=300%2C210&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9081.jpg?resize=768%2C538&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9081.jpg?resize=1024%2C717&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9081.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9081.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Qualifying fourth for the Bristol Night Race was the driver who always seemed to be chasing Kyle Busch during every race.  He&#8217;s the aptly named Chase Elliott, driver of the #24 NAPA Chevy.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="498" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9092.jpg?resize=800%2C498&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3577" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9092.jpg?w=4788&amp;ssl=1 4788w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9092.jpg?resize=300%2C187&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9092.jpg?resize=768%2C478&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9092.jpg?resize=1024%2C638&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9092.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9092.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Does Kyle Larson wear diapers?  It Depends!  But on that night, Larson qualified second in his #42 Huggies Chevy.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="576" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9098.jpg?resize=800%2C576&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3578" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9098.jpg?w=4784&amp;ssl=1 4784w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9098.jpg?resize=300%2C216&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9098.jpg?resize=768%2C553&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9098.jpg?resize=1024%2C738&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9098.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9098.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The last driver introduced to the crowd was Bristol pole-sitter Erik Jones; driver of the 5-hour Energy #77 Toyota.  Could he foil The Candyman&#8217;s bid for the broom?</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">The green flag dropped to start the 2017 Bass Pro Shops/NRA Night Race at 7:40pm and we immediately knew why the track has been called &#8216;Thunder Valley&#8217;.  From our seats in the front row of Turn One, we could see the race cars come towards us down the front stretch and then roar past us in a streak of metal fury.  My photographer and his wife wore their communication headsets over their ear plugs, and they could hear the back-and-forth chatter between Kyle Busch and his spotter.  Numerous times during the race I could tell that the two of them were laughing; and it turned out to be due to the fact that Rowdy may have set a NASCAR record for the use of the &#8216;F&#8217; word in one race.  In one exchange while Busch was near the entrance to Pit Road, Tom and Vicki heard Kyle call someone a &#8220;stupid mother f***ing a**hole&#8221; and they figured he must&#8217;ve been talking about Snot Nose Logano.  For most of the race, pole-sitter Erik Jones dominated the field as he led 260 of the 500 laps.  But on the race&#8217;s 455th lap, Busch&#8217;s M&amp;Ms Carmel #18 Toyota passed Jones and Kyle&#8217;s fancy driving skills helped him keep the lead all the way to the checkered flag.  The sweep was complete; my photographer and his wife were ecstatic as Kyle stood on top of his blue Toyota with a broom in his hand &#8211; &#8216;Rowdy Nation&#8217; was once again king of the world!</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="527" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9114.jpg?resize=800%2C527&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3581" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9114.jpg?w=2962&amp;ssl=1 2962w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9114.jpg?resize=300%2C198&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9114.jpg?resize=768%2C506&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9114.jpg?resize=1024%2C675&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9114.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9114.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Erik Jones, driving the #77 car on the left, led the field past the start/finish line as the 2017 Bass Pro Shops/NRA Night Race began.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="472" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9119.jpg?resize=800%2C472&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3582" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9119.jpg?w=5199&amp;ssl=1 5199w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9119.jpg?resize=300%2C177&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9119.jpg?resize=768%2C453&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9119.jpg?resize=1024%2C604&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9119.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9119.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Five drivers were bunched up as they headed into Turn Three of Bristol Motor Speedway.  The drivers were Trevor Bayne (6), Ty Dillon (13), Brad Keselowski (2), David Ragan (38) and Jimmie Johnson (48).</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="408" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9122.jpg?resize=800%2C408&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3583" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9122.jpg?w=4801&amp;ssl=1 4801w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9122.jpg?resize=300%2C153&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9122.jpg?resize=768%2C392&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9122.jpg?resize=1024%2C523&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9122.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9122.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kevin Harvick, driving his Busch Outdoors #4 Ford, was sandwiched between three cars as they headed into the backstretch.  The other drivers were Michael McDowell (95), Danica Patrick (10), and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. (88).</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="536" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9157.jpg?resize=800%2C536&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3584" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9157.jpg?w=2031&amp;ssl=1 2031w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9157.jpg?resize=300%2C201&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9157.jpg?resize=768%2C515&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9157.jpg?resize=1024%2C686&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9157.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">&#8220;Water Cooler&#8221; Dale drives in his final race at Bristol Motor Speedway.  Earnhardt finished the race in 23rd place, which was typical for the overhyped son of a legend.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="474" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9184.jpg?resize=800%2C474&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3585" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9184.jpg?w=4283&amp;ssl=1 4283w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9184.jpg?resize=300%2C178&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9184.jpg?resize=768%2C455&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9184.jpg?resize=1024%2C607&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9184.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9184.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">&#8220;You stupid mother f***ing a**hole&#8221; shouted Kyle Busch as was about to pass Snot Nose Logano to get onto Pit Road.  Snot Nose finished in 13th place, which likely provided him enough money to buy some Kleenex tissues.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="536" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9190.jpg?resize=800%2C536&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3586" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9190.jpg?w=2292&amp;ssl=1 2292w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9190.jpg?resize=300%2C201&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9190.jpg?resize=768%2C515&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9190.jpg?resize=1024%2C686&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9190.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">My photographer thought that Kyle Larson wet his pants when Kyle Busch whizzed past him on the backstretch late in the race.  Larson ended up in finishing the race in 9th place.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="485" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9126.jpg?resize=800%2C485&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3587" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9126.jpg?w=2511&amp;ssl=1 2511w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9126.jpg?resize=300%2C182&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9126.jpg?resize=768%2C465&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9126.jpg?resize=1024%2C620&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9126.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DSC_9126.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kyle Busch showed exactly why he is the best driver in NASCAR history as he methodically made his way from 18th position at the start of the race to winning the 2017 Bass Pro Shops/NRA Night Race championship.  The victory gave Busch the clean sweep of the weekend and he became the only driver to accomplish that feat twice. </figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="800" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/KYLE-SWEEPS.jpg?resize=800%2C800&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3588" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/KYLE-SWEEPS.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/KYLE-SWEEPS.jpg?resize=150%2C150&amp;ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/KYLE-SWEEPS.jpg?resize=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/KYLE-SWEEPS.jpg?resize=768%2C768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/KYLE-SWEEPS.jpg?resize=200%2C200&amp;ssl=1 200w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kyle Busch celebrated his weekend &#8220;sweep&#8221; after winning the Bass Pro Shops/NRA Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway.  Although my photographer wished he would have captured this image himself, he unfortunately didn&#8217;t get close enough to Kyle&#8217;s celebration.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">It was a one-mile uphill hike back to the Avenger after the race; which was no issue for me as I rode along inside the camera bag.  Every few minutes during our walk, I overheard Kyle Busch fans as they celebrated the victory.  For my photographer and his wife, they held their head up high all the way to the car as people commented on their Candyman tee shirts.  It was nearly midnight when we returned to the Super 8 in Lebanon, Virginia; we were delayed a few minutes when Vicki stopped at the Taco Bell near the motel for a late-night snack.  When the lights were finally extinguished in the room, all I could think about was when my photographer shouted out his displeasure with Joey Logano &#8211; the words &#8220;You suck, Snot Nose&#8221; still rang loudly in my resin ears.  I had only hoped that Snot Nose heard those words as clearly as I did!</p>
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		<title>70: I&#8217;M IN VIRGINESSE; OR IS IT TENNEGINIA?</title>
		<link>https://eyesofjefferson.com/70-im-in-virginesse-or-is-it-tenneginia/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Thomas Watson]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2020 04:31:11 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bristol Motor Speedway]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bristol Tennessee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bristol Virginia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dale Earnhardt Jr.]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Delaware Ohio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Geico gecko]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jefferson bobble head]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kevin Harvick]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kyle Busch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rutherford B. Hayes birthplace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rutherford B. Hayes boyhood home site]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Parade of Haulers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Pinnacle Bristol Tennessee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Thomas Jefferson]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://eyesofjefferson.com/?p=3480</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[As my photographer and his wife hurriedly pack the car at 3:30pm on Wednesday August 16, 2017 for our five-day trip to Bristol, Tennessee, all I could think of was Elvis Presley. Yes, part of Bristol is in Tennessee and&#8230;]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">As my photographer and his wife hurriedly pack the car at 3:30pm on Wednesday August 16, 2017 for our five-day trip to Bristol, Tennessee, all I could think of was Elvis Presley.  Yes, part of Bristol is in Tennessee and Elvis had lived in Tennessee, and Bristol was where we were headed.  But that&#8217;s not why I was thinking of Elvis the Pelvis; it was because the King of Rock and Roll had died exactly 40 years ago that day.  While that historic day was long before I was molded and assembled in China, I had listened to stories that my camera guy has told about where he was when he heard about Elvis&#8217; death.  It was right about this time in the afternoon, 40 years ago to the minute, when the telephone rang at Tom&#8217;s parent&#8217;s house in Marine City, Michigan.   Chris DeWitt was on the other end of the line and Chris shocked my photographer with the news &#8211; The King was dead.  Minutes later, Tom drove to the local K-Mart and bought a copy of Elvis&#8217; &#8216;Moody Blue&#8217; album for a keepsake.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">We hit the road at 4:00pm with the goal of getting halfway through Ohio before finding a place to stay for the night.  Detours and a stop for Jimmy John&#8217;s subs near Southfield, Michigan delayed our trip, but once we got past Detroit the drive went smoothly.  At roughly 8:15pm and nearly 220 miles later, we arrived in Marysville, Ohio where we spent the night at the Holiday Inn Express.  Although I knew it would be a few days before we would visit the Andrew Johnson sites in Greeneville, Tennessee, my photographer set his alarm earlier than normal so that he could take me on a short sunrise journey to the site where Rutherford B. Hayes was born in nearby Delaware, Ohio.  I didn&#8217;t know for sure what to expect, but I was excited to see a Presidential site at sunrise.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-large-font-size"><strong>**********</strong></p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">When the alarm went off at 5:15am on Thursday August 17, 2017, Tom shot out of bed and was in the shower before I knew what had happened.  Once dressed, he packed up his belongings and had them ready to go before he woke Vicki from her sleep.  My photographer had his camera equipment in one hand; me in the other hand; and he said to his wife: &#8220;We&#8217;re headed to Delaware, which is a little over 15 miles down the road.  We should be back in 45 minutes; please be showered and ready to hit the road when we return.&#8221;  In the Avenger, Tom set his GPS and we were off to find the birthplace site of 19th President Rutherford B. Hayes; which happened to be on the same road that we began our drive in Marysville.  Rutherford B. Hayes was born on October 4, 1822 in a house on Williams Street in Delaware, Ohio.  The future President&#8217;s father had died ten weeks before Rutherford was born; and the house was demolished in 1929.  When we arrived at the site, we saw a BP gas station that featured a large flag pole next to a stone marker near the street.  The bronze plaque affixed to the granite marker stated that it had been placed on the birthplace site of President Hayes.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/01-HAYES-1.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3481" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/01-HAYES-1.jpg?w=2930&amp;ssl=1 2930w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/01-HAYES-1.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/01-HAYES-1.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/01-HAYES-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/01-HAYES-1.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/01-HAYES-1.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The marker to my left designated the spot as the site where Rutherford B. Hayes was born on October 4, 1822.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/03-HAYES-3.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3482" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/03-HAYES-3.jpg?w=3180&amp;ssl=1 3180w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/03-HAYES-3.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/03-HAYES-3.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/03-HAYES-3.jpg?resize=731%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 731w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/03-HAYES-3.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/03-HAYES-3.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As I stood on the Hayes monument with the pink, sunrise sky behind me, I thought it was a shame that the birthplace house had been destroyed. </figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="700" height="408" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/HAYES-HOUSE.jpg?resize=700%2C408&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3483" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/HAYES-HOUSE.jpg?w=700&amp;ssl=1 700w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/HAYES-HOUSE.jpg?resize=300%2C175&amp;ssl=1 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The original Rutherford B. Hayes birthplace house before it was razed in 1929.  It sure looked better than the BP gas station.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/02-HAYES-2.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3484" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/02-HAYES-2.jpg?w=3993&amp;ssl=1 3993w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/02-HAYES-2.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/02-HAYES-2.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/02-HAYES-2.jpg?resize=732%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 732w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/02-HAYES-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/02-HAYES-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">After I had given it time to sink into my resin-filled brain, there was no way the officials of Delaware, Ohio could&#8217;ve known that the house would be a Presidential birthplace.  After all, Hayes was only seven-years old when the house was demolished.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/04-HAYES-4.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3485" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/04-HAYES-4.jpg?w=3867&amp;ssl=1 3867w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/04-HAYES-4.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/04-HAYES-4.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/04-HAYES-4.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/04-HAYES-4.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/04-HAYES-4.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">I had figured that somewhere near where I stood by that gas pump was potentially the spot where Rutherford B. Hayes was born.  One thing I knew for sure:  he wasn&#8217;t born where the monument was situated.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size"><strong>After I posed for a handful of photos at the BP gas station, we headed one-block west where we found the William Street United Methodist Church.  At the corner of the church&#8217;s property, we saw a small granite marker with a bronze plaque that was situated at ground-level in front of some manicured shrubs.  It turned out that when President Hayes was one-year old, his mother moved him and his older sister to a house that sat on the property now occupied by the United Methodist Church.  To help out, Hayes&#8217; uncle Sardis Birchard moved into the house and became a father-figure to the impressionable future President.  In 1846, Rutherford&#8217;s mother sold the property to the church and their home was used as the parsonage.</strong></p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/06-HAYES-6.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3486" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/06-HAYES-6.jpg?w=4088&amp;ssl=1 4088w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/06-HAYES-6.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/06-HAYES-6.jpg?resize=768%2C548&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/06-HAYES-6.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/06-HAYES-6.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/06-HAYES-6.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">From 1823 until 1846, Rutherford B. Hayes lived in a house that occupied the property behind me.  When the house was sold to the church, Hayes&#8217; boyhood home was used as a parsonage.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/07-HAYES-7.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3487" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/07-HAYES-7.jpg?w=5004&amp;ssl=1 5004w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/07-HAYES-7.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/07-HAYES-7.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/07-HAYES-7.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/07-HAYES-7.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/07-HAYES-7.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As I stood on the site of Rutherford B. Hayes&#8217; boyhood home, I thought about the future President and all of the things he learned while living there.  There was no doubt he learned to walk, talk, read, and write at this site.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/08-HAYES-8.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3488" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/08-HAYES-8.jpg?w=5411&amp;ssl=1 5411w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/08-HAYES-8.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/08-HAYES-8.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/08-HAYES-8.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/08-HAYES-8.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/08-HAYES-8.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As I posed for one final photo at the Hayes boyhood home site, I had wondered where on the property that the house was located in the 1840s.  To me, it would&#8217;ve been better to stand where the house once stood rather than on the historical marker.  </figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">On our way back to the Holiday Inn Express in Marysville, it began to rain fairly hard; which wasn&#8217;t a total surprise as the sky had grown very dark to the west during our 20-minute photoshoot.  What was a complete shock to my photographer, however, was his wife was ready to go when we returned at 7:20am.  Vicki was showered, dressed, packed and fed and was ready to hit the road towards our next destination &#8211; the Super 8 motel in Lebanon, Virginia.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Even though the three of us had completed our regular family trip in July, this Tennessee trip was spawned by the fact that my photographer had surprised his wife on Christmas morning with two tickets to the August 19th NASCAR night race at Bristol Motor Speedway.  When Tom researched an affordable place to stay near the race track, the closest place he could find was the Super 8 in Lebanon, Virginia &#8211; and that motel was almost 45 miles from the track.  The route from Ohio to Virginia seemed to take forever, but we made the 350-mile journey in about six hours and we were unpacked in our room by 2:30pm.  Before the three of us headed into Bristol to see the historic racetrack for the first time, my photographer wanted to buy several Sharpies at the nearby Walmart &#8211; just in case we ran into any of the NASCAR drivers.  I had to laugh to myself as he carried me around the store in search of the pens because even though I knew his mind was always focused on Presidential sites, I didn&#8217;t think he would see any in Lebanon, Virginia.  Then out of nowhere, I heard him mutter to himself as he saw a woman in the store who looked a lot like Laura Bush.  Tom couldn&#8217;t make up his mind whether or not to say something to her; just in case it actually was the former First Lady.  Normally my ballsy camera guy wouldn&#8217;t hesitate to make a fool out of himself, but on that occasion his bravado fell short.  I bet he realized that if George W. and Laura Bush had been in that Walmart, the Secret Service would&#8217;ve been hovering around the place like flies on a rib roast.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">My photographer and I knew that Vicki was anxious to see Bristol Motor Speedway as she talked NASCAR for most of the 40-mile drive into Tennessee.  I had to laugh to myself when I heard my photographer&#8217;s wife gasp with excitement when she first saw the racetrack through the Avenger&#8217;s windshield.  But with nowhere to park, and a lot of people wandering along the sidewalk, we headed north to The Pinnacle where the &#8220;Parade of Haulers&#8221; was slated to begin at roughly 8:30pm.  With some time to kill before the parade, my photographer&#8217;s wife suggested they indulge in a &#8216;Bloomin&#8217; Onion&#8217; at the Outback Steakhouse that was located on one end of The Pinnacle complex.  On our way into the restaurant, Tom and Vicki saw a sign near the doorway that stated the wristbands to meet Kevin Harvick at 7:00pm were gone, which didn&#8217;t matter much to them because not only were they Kyle Busch fans, but they also had nothing for the NASCAR driver to sign.  Inside the Australian-themed steakhouse, as my photographer and his wife washed-down their fried onion with a couple of free beers, the two of them began a conversation with an older guy and younger girl who sat beside them; mainly because the Tennessee couple were dressed in NASCAR attire.  The next thing I knew, the girl handed Vicki her wristband and said: &#8220;Here, take this so you can get Kevin Harvick&#8217;s autograph.  We only need one autograph; my dad and I had met Harvick a few times before.&#8221;  It was at that moment that the light bulb above my photographer&#8217;s head went off: &#8220;Let&#8217;s drive back to the track and I&#8217;m sure one of those hundred vendors along the street will have a Keven Harvick die-cast car that we can buy and get signed.  The track is only twelve miles away and we can get there and get back before Harvick starts signing at seven o&#8217;clock.&#8221;  The plan worked to perfection &#8211; we found a Kevin Harvick &#8216;Outback Steakhouse&#8217; sponsored number &#8216;4&#8217; car, brought it back to the restaurant, and the next thing I knew we were standing in front of the driver who replaced Dale Earnhardt after &#8220;The Intimidator&#8221; was killed in 2001.  Not only did they get the car autographed, they also had Harvick sign a post card from the restaurant as well as Tom&#8217;s Washington Nationals baseball hat.     </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1031" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/2017-TRIP-642.jpg?resize=800%2C1031&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3493" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/2017-TRIP-642.jpg?w=1754&amp;ssl=1 1754w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/2017-TRIP-642.jpg?resize=233%2C300&amp;ssl=1 233w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/2017-TRIP-642.jpg?resize=768%2C990&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/2017-TRIP-642.jpg?resize=794%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 794w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/2017-TRIP-642.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">NASCAR driver Kevin Harvick concentrated as he signed my photographer&#8217;s die-cast race car.  Tom had asked Harvick to use his silver Sharpie that he had just purchased in Lebanon, but Kevin thought his gold pen would look better on that car.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="542" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/10-HARVICK-2.jpg?resize=800%2C542&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3494" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/10-HARVICK-2.jpg?w=4237&amp;ssl=1 4237w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/10-HARVICK-2.jpg?resize=300%2C203&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/10-HARVICK-2.jpg?resize=768%2C520&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/10-HARVICK-2.jpg?resize=1024%2C694&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/10-HARVICK-2.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/10-HARVICK-2.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">While Vicki was likely wishing that Kyle Busch was sitting there instead of Kevin Harvick, she still thought it was cool to meet her first NASCAR driver.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1162" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/11-KYLE-TRUCK-1.jpg?resize=800%2C1162&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3496" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/11-KYLE-TRUCK-1.jpg?w=3974&amp;ssl=1 3974w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/11-KYLE-TRUCK-1.jpg?resize=207%2C300&amp;ssl=1 207w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/11-KYLE-TRUCK-1.jpg?resize=768%2C1116&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/11-KYLE-TRUCK-1.jpg?resize=705%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 705w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/11-KYLE-TRUCK-1.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/11-KYLE-TRUCK-1.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">For my photographer&#8217;s wife, standing near Kyle Busch&#8217;s race car hauler was almost better than visiting Chip and Joanna&#8217;s Magnolia Market.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="533" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/13-KYLE-TRUCK-3.jpg?resize=800%2C533&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3497" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/13-KYLE-TRUCK-3.jpg?w=6000&amp;ssl=1 6000w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/13-KYLE-TRUCK-3.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/13-KYLE-TRUCK-3.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/13-KYLE-TRUCK-3.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/13-KYLE-TRUCK-3.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/13-KYLE-TRUCK-3.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The M&amp;Ms race car hauling semi was ready for the &#8220;Parade of Haulers&#8221; that was set to begin at The Pinnacle near Bristol, Tennessee.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/14-TRUCKS-IN-LINE.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3498" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/14-TRUCKS-IN-LINE.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/14-TRUCKS-IN-LINE.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/14-TRUCKS-IN-LINE.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/14-TRUCKS-IN-LINE.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/14-TRUCKS-IN-LINE.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/14-TRUCKS-IN-LINE.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A view between the race car haulers as they awaited the start of the parade.  The hauler to the left was used to carry the race cars of Martin Truex, Jr.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="530" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/15-TRUCK-PARADE.jpg?resize=800%2C530&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3499" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/15-TRUCK-PARADE.jpg?w=2397&amp;ssl=1 2397w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/15-TRUCK-PARADE.jpg?resize=300%2C199&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/15-TRUCK-PARADE.jpg?resize=768%2C509&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/15-TRUCK-PARADE.jpg?resize=1024%2C679&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/15-TRUCK-PARADE.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Spectators watch as Martin Truex, Jr&#8217;s hauler rolls past in the &#8220;Parade of Haulers&#8221;.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="536" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/16-TRUCK-PARADE-KYLE.jpg?resize=800%2C536&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3500" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/16-TRUCK-PARADE-KYLE.jpg?w=3328&amp;ssl=1 3328w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/16-TRUCK-PARADE-KYLE.jpg?resize=300%2C201&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/16-TRUCK-PARADE-KYLE.jpg?resize=768%2C515&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/16-TRUCK-PARADE-KYLE.jpg?resize=1024%2C686&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/16-TRUCK-PARADE-KYLE.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/16-TRUCK-PARADE-KYLE.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The M&amp;Ms truck was the one that drew the most reaction from the crowd.  Some people cheered while others booed.  It was almost as though nobody likes a winner! </figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">It seemed to take forever for the &#8220;Parade of Haulers&#8221; to start; especially once my photographer and his wife had finished walking past each of the well-decorated trucks.  Even though the annual parade was an advertised event that local NASCAR fans love, it seemed to lack the grandiose visual that we had heard about.  Don&#8217;t get me wrong, Tom and Vicki thought the parade was worth their time watching; it just didn&#8217;t live up to either of their expectations.  As a matter of fact, once the parade began and the haulers started to roll, the trucks went past us at a good clip, which surprised the three of us.  We had waited around for the parade to start for over an hour, and the entire spectacle lasted less than 15 minutes.  It had been a very long day and my photographer and his wife were tired.  Once the two of them walked to the nearby movie theater for a tub of buttered popcorn &#8220;for the road&#8221;, we hopped into the Avenger and headed back towards our motel in Virginia that was over 40 miles away.  We arrived at the Super 8 at around 11:00pm and it didn&#8217;t take long before I heard the roar of race car engines in the room.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-large-font-size"><strong>**********</strong></p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Tom and Vicki&#8217;s plan for Friday August 18, 2017 was to visit downtown Bristol before they drove eight miles to the track.  Time was not a factor and we got a later start than usual; we hit the road at 8:45am and arrived in Bristol about 45 minutes later.  My camera guy and his wife didn&#8217;t know what to expect in town; but once there, they were surprised by the lack of NASCAR items and fanfare.  What had made Bristol special for my photographer was the fact that the center line on State Street also served as the state border line between Virginia and Tennessee; and Tom did his best to capture that oddity in his photography.  At one point, he placed me on the center line in the middle of the street as he wanted to recreate the Geico commercial where their gecko spokes-lizard danced around the small plaque embedded into the State Street center line as he hawked their insurance.  As I stood near the same plaque, I thought to myself: &#8220;Am I in Virginia or am I in Tennessee?  I know &#8211; I&#8217;m in Virginessee!  Or am I in Tenneginia?&#8221; </p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20.5-TJ-ON-LINE.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3502" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20.5-TJ-ON-LINE.jpg?w=3220&amp;ssl=1 3220w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20.5-TJ-ON-LINE.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20.5-TJ-ON-LINE.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20.5-TJ-ON-LINE.jpg?resize=731%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 731w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20.5-TJ-ON-LINE.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20.5-TJ-ON-LINE.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The more I thought about it, Thomas Jefferson was from Virginia; which meant that I was standing in Virginessee on Bristol&#8217;s State Street.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="596" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/GECKO-TO-USE.jpg?resize=800%2C596&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3503" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/GECKO-TO-USE.jpg?w=861&amp;ssl=1 861w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/GECKO-TO-USE.jpg?resize=300%2C223&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/GECKO-TO-USE.jpg?resize=768%2C572&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/GECKO-TO-USE.jpg?resize=120%2C90&amp;ssl=1 120w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">&#8220;I&#8217;m in Bristol, Virginia and now I&#8217;m in Bristol, Tennessee.  On this side of the road is Virginia and on this side is Tennessee.  No matter which state in the country you live in, you can save hundreds in car insurance by switching to Geico.&#8221;</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="898" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-TOM-FOCUSED.jpg?resize=800%2C898&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3505" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-TOM-FOCUSED.jpg?w=3642&amp;ssl=1 3642w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-TOM-FOCUSED.jpg?resize=267%2C300&amp;ssl=1 267w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-TOM-FOCUSED.jpg?resize=768%2C862&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-TOM-FOCUSED.jpg?resize=912%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 912w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-TOM-FOCUSED.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-TOM-FOCUSED.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tom wanted to pose under the iconic Bristol sign, but it took his wife at least 50 tries with the camera to get him in focus.  My photographer can be such an impatient perfectionist at times!</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20-BRISTOL-LINE-TOWN.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3507" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20-BRISTOL-LINE-TOWN.jpg?w=3993&amp;ssl=1 3993w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20-BRISTOL-LINE-TOWN.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20-BRISTOL-LINE-TOWN.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20-BRISTOL-LINE-TOWN.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20-BRISTOL-LINE-TOWN.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/20-BRISTOL-LINE-TOWN.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The view looking west along Bristol&#8217;s State Street; Virginia is on the right and Tennessee is to the left.  The Paramount theater, on the left, could be seen in the Geico commercial.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="472" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/GECKO-TO-USE2.jpg?resize=800%2C472&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3508" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/GECKO-TO-USE2.jpg?w=1287&amp;ssl=1 1287w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/GECKO-TO-USE2.jpg?resize=300%2C177&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/GECKO-TO-USE2.jpg?resize=768%2C453&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/GECKO-TO-USE2.jpg?resize=1024%2C604&amp;ssl=1 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">As the Geico gecko stood on the border during his commercial, the Paramount Theater could be seen in the background.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1120" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/21-BRISTOL-GUITAR.jpg?resize=800%2C1120&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3509" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/21-BRISTOL-GUITAR.jpg?w=3760&amp;ssl=1 3760w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/21-BRISTOL-GUITAR.jpg?resize=214%2C300&amp;ssl=1 214w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/21-BRISTOL-GUITAR.jpg?resize=768%2C1075&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/21-BRISTOL-GUITAR.jpg?resize=731%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 731w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/21-BRISTOL-GUITAR.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/21-BRISTOL-GUITAR.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A lover of country music, Vicki preferred the Tennessee side of Bristol.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1093" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/22-BRISTOL-TOWN.jpg?resize=800%2C1093&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3510" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/22-BRISTOL-TOWN.jpg?w=3602&amp;ssl=1 3602w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/22-BRISTOL-TOWN.jpg?resize=220%2C300&amp;ssl=1 220w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/22-BRISTOL-TOWN.jpg?resize=768%2C1049&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/22-BRISTOL-TOWN.jpg?resize=750%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 750w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/22-BRISTOL-TOWN.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/22-BRISTOL-TOWN.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A lover of Presidential history, Tom preferred the Virginia side of Bristol; and so did I!</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/23-BURGER-BAR-WE-ATE.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3511" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/23-BURGER-BAR-WE-ATE.jpg?w=3495&amp;ssl=1 3495w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/23-BURGER-BAR-WE-ATE.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/23-BURGER-BAR-WE-ATE.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/23-BURGER-BAR-WE-ATE.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/23-BURGER-BAR-WE-ATE.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/23-BURGER-BAR-WE-ATE.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lunchtime in Bristol, Virginia began at 12:30pm where my photographer and his wife dined at the Burger Bar and enjoyed their gourmet cuisine.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">The rest of the daylight hours on that Friday afternoon was dedicated to Bristol Motor Speedway.  We found a parking spot at Gentry&#8217;s Camping and Parking and made the one-mile downhill hike to the racetrack in good time.  In past trips, my photographer and his wife had visited several NASCAR tracks, but Bristol Motor Speedway looked like none other.  We soon realized why that racetrack was nicknamed &#8220;The Last Great Colosseum&#8221; &#8211; from the outside it resembled a stadium rather than the traditional bleacher-dominated open-air track.  After we walked around the exterior, Tom searched for and found Taylor Lindsay in one of the ticket booths.  Taylor was my camera guy&#8217;s Bristol contact-person whom he had purchased his race tickets from.  As the two of them talked, Taylor unexpectedly gave Tom and Vicki two passes to enter the track where they could watch the drivers practice as well as stay for the Xfinity Series race.  </p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">The interior of Bristol Motor Speedway was a sight to behold; and at times, the sound of the engines was deafening.  As we walked along the front row near the start/finish line, a car roared past, and it shook me to my core; even though I was inside my padded case.  I had hoped that the noise didn&#8217;t make my leg crack open more than it was.  There was no doubt that the noise had surprised Vicki as well, especially when I heard her say to my photographer: &#8220;My God, I could feel that roar reverberate inside my chest.  I can&#8217;t believe how loud that was.  I&#8217;m glad we brought hearing protection for tomorrow&#8217;s race; especially since our seats are in the front row.&#8221;  Tom didn&#8217;t want to stay for the Xfinity Series race as he felt it would be similar to watching the Junior Varsity play; he wanted to save his excitement for the Monster Cup race that was scheduled for the following night.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/25-BRISTOL-RACEWAY.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3513" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/25-BRISTOL-RACEWAY.jpg?w=4898&amp;ssl=1 4898w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/25-BRISTOL-RACEWAY.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/25-BRISTOL-RACEWAY.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/25-BRISTOL-RACEWAY.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/25-BRISTOL-RACEWAY.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/25-BRISTOL-RACEWAY.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tennessee was the sight of the August 19, 2017 Bass Pro Shops NRA Night Race.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="571" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/24-BRISTOL-TRACK-1.jpg?resize=800%2C571&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3514" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/24-BRISTOL-TRACK-1.jpg?w=5600&amp;ssl=1 5600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/24-BRISTOL-TRACK-1.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/24-BRISTOL-TRACK-1.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/24-BRISTOL-TRACK-1.jpg?resize=1024%2C731&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/24-BRISTOL-TRACK-1.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/24-BRISTOL-TRACK-1.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Watching a NASCAR race at Bristol Motor Speedway was a dream-come-true for my photographer&#8217;s wife.  I had to hand it to my cameraman &#8211; it was one of the best Christmas gifts he has ever given to Vicki.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="573" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DALE-JR-XFINITY-CAR.jpg?resize=800%2C573&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3515" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DALE-JR-XFINITY-CAR.jpg?w=2231&amp;ssl=1 2231w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DALE-JR-XFINITY-CAR.jpg?resize=300%2C215&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DALE-JR-XFINITY-CAR.jpg?resize=768%2C550&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DALE-JR-XFINITY-CAR.jpg?resize=1024%2C734&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DALE-JR-XFINITY-CAR.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Driving his #88 Goody&#8217;s Chevy Camaro, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. practiced in his Xfinity Series car.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="476" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/27-BRISTOL-PRACTICE.jpg?resize=800%2C476&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3516" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/27-BRISTOL-PRACTICE.jpg?w=2387&amp;ssl=1 2387w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/27-BRISTOL-PRACTICE.jpg?resize=300%2C178&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/27-BRISTOL-PRACTICE.jpg?resize=768%2C457&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/27-BRISTOL-PRACTICE.jpg?resize=1024%2C609&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/27-BRISTOL-PRACTICE.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">After practicing for the Night Race, Kyle Busch&#8217;s race car was pushed into the garage area of the track.  Vicki was thrilled when she saw Kyle&#8217;s car for the first time.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="572" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/28-BRISTOL-KYLE-TALK.jpg?resize=800%2C572&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3517" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/28-BRISTOL-KYLE-TALK.jpg?w=3693&amp;ssl=1 3693w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/28-BRISTOL-KYLE-TALK.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/28-BRISTOL-KYLE-TALK.jpg?resize=768%2C549&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/28-BRISTOL-KYLE-TALK.jpg?resize=1024%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/28-BRISTOL-KYLE-TALK.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/28-BRISTOL-KYLE-TALK.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Just before we left the track, we noticed that Kyle Busch was pictured on the Jumbotron during a track-side interview that followed his practice session.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">The three of us sat in the corridor beneath the stands and had an early dinner; during our meal my photographer and his wife engaged in a semi-heated debate with two women who loved Dale Junior and hated Kyle Busch.  Before the meal was finished, the women received an ear-full of Tom and Vicki&#8217;s opinions about the &#8220;Candyman&#8221;.  The last thing my cameraman said to them as they were about to walk away was: &#8220;Tomorrow night, after the race, you are going to be awfully upset when Kyle Busch takes the checkered flag and hoists the trophy.&#8221;</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">It was nearly 8:15pm when we walked back to the car; which wasn&#8217;t an easy hike because it was uphill all of the way.  Although his wife was exhausted from her first big day at Bristol Motor Speedway, my photographer had the bright idea to return to downtown Bristol so that he could shoot a few images of the border sign lit up at night; even though he knew going back into town took us out of the way by about ten miles.  Once we were there, however, I had to admit to myself that the huge sign looked cool against the dark night sky.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="1200" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-AT-NIGHT.jpg?resize=800%2C1200&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3520" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-AT-NIGHT.jpg?w=4000&amp;ssl=1 4000w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-AT-NIGHT.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-AT-NIGHT.jpg?resize=768%2C1152&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-AT-NIGHT.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-AT-NIGHT.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-AT-NIGHT.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The border sign of Bristol looked awesome against the night sky.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="430" src="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-BELOW.jpg?resize=800%2C430&#038;ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3521" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-BELOW.jpg?w=5952&amp;ssl=1 5952w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-BELOW.jpg?resize=300%2C161&amp;ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-BELOW.jpg?resize=768%2C413&amp;ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-BELOW.jpg?resize=1024%2C551&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-BELOW.jpg?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w, https://i0.wp.com/eyesofjefferson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/BRISTOL-SIGN-BELOW.jpg?w=2400&amp;ssl=1 2400w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">With his left foot in Virginia and his right one in Tennessee, my photographer snapped a final image of the border sign in Bristol, Virginessee.</figcaption></figure></div>


<p class="has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size">Once again, we made the 40-mile drive from Bristol to Lebanon, Virginia in total darkness; but on that night we arrived &#8220;home&#8221; at 9:45pm, which was a lot earlier than we returned the previous evening.  As I stood alongside of our room&#8217;s television set throughout the night, two thoughts permeated my resin-filled mind.  First, I wondered what it was going to be like sitting in the front row on Turn One at Bristol Motor Speedway during the night race.  I figured Tom didn&#8217;t have any extra small ear plugs with him.  And second, I thought about my photographer&#8217;s birthday.  That&#8217;s right; my COBS-filled camera guy was turning 61 years old on Race Day.  Even though we would have our second-consecutive day without seeing a Presidential site, I knew Tom would have a happy birthday because he was spending it with me.  Oh, and spending it with his wife and over 100,000 other folks as well.  It should be an exciting day for both of them.  After all, it&#8217;s Bristol, Baby!</p>
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