Written by Monte Dutton Thu, 2019-01-10 10:33

I don’t think anyone has actually gnashed his (or her) teeth over the absence of a NASCAR media tour this year. Not many know what it means to gnash one’s teeth. They just say “great gnashing of teeth” as a general term of shock or pain.
To gnash one’s teeth is to grind them together and, in the Bible, it is often accompanied by weeping and/or wailing. Apart from the Bible, its use is generally exaggerated.
The loss of a media tour is just another removal of a brick in the NASCAR wall. I miss it, but I miss racing in general. All in all, it’s just another brick (gone) in the proverbial wall.
Written by Monte Dutton Fri, 2019-01-04 10:34

I was returning from an assignment this morning and I heard a discussion on satellite radio about travel expenses. Supposedly, the lodging rates for Daytona Speedweeks have become drastically more reasonable.
This is a consequence of capitalism, just as 10 years ago, the price gouging was a consequence of capitalism gone mad.
This, of course, is great news, if true. This week I’ve been talking with Clemson fans about how difficult it was for them to afford traveling to Arlington, Texas, one week and Santa Clara, Calif., the next to watch their Tigers try to win the national championship of college football.
Written by Monte Dutton Fri, 2018-12-28 09:34

As bad as the business is overall, journalism is somewhat promising for the young. In part, this is because most of the vets such as I have been retired, bought out and otherwise given offers we couldn’t refuse. Another reason for youthful promise is the fact that management can hire you for less money.
Lots of people begin writing or taking photos because they love racing and want a job that takes them to races.
From time to time, back when I was traveling the NASCAR circuit, someone would ask me, “Hey, how can I get a job doing what you do?
Written by Monte Dutton Sat, 2018-12-22 19:52

’Twas Christmas in NASCAR and all through the realm
All the geniuses gathered to look at the film
Of crashes and comebacks and breathtaking rallies
But also bad crowds and poor ratings tallies
At least Dale Junior was still on the tube.