MBN: The Monte Bubbles Network: Sports & Auto News

August 20

Mangold wins in Budapest and takes lead

American Mike Mangold (Team Cobra) won the Red Bull Air Race World Series event in Budapest on Monday 20^th August by beating Kirby Chambliss (USA/Team Red Bull) in a heart-stopping battle over the Danube River in front of half a million spectators to take over the championship lead from Britain’s Paul Bonhomme (Team Matador) with his third victory of the 10-race season.

Mangold, the 2005 Red Bull Air Race champion, dazzled the huge Hungary national holiday crowd watching from the banks of the majestic river with a clean run through the 15-gate course that started and finished with a spectacular fly-by underneath Budapest ’s landmark Chain Bridge. He posted a winning time of 1:12.85. Paul Bonhomme (GBR/Team Matador) took third.

“We’ve won two races in a row but there’s three races left, so we’ve got a good trend going. We did a whole new motor for this race. It’s almost running perfect. There is one minor issue that we’re going to work on before Porto . The machine is doing real well. It’s very easy for me. I just have to fly it correctly and it’s going to win for me,” Mangold said.

Mangold now leads the series, which has three more stops, with 36 points, ahead of the Bonhomme, the surprise package of the 2007 season, who now slips back to second after leading most of the season. He has 35 points. After a slow start this season, Mangold has won three of the last four races: Istanbul , London and Budapest .

The 13 Red Bull Air Race pilots hit speeds of up to 400 kph and forces of up to 10G in the elimination rounds flown on the compact course in front of the Hungarian parliament building. Budapest marked the start of the decisive phase of the Red Bull Air Race World Series. The final three stops of the series are in Porto, San Diego and Perth .

Hi everyone, AutoMatters #245 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net Column Archives. Title: "Will Your Next New Car be Made in China?" Direct Link: http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0245.htm

Preview: In the midst of a slew of major safety recalls for a variety of consumer products made in China, they are about to sell us automobiles. To do this, Chinese auto manufacturer Chery is working with Chrysler.
: In the midst of a slew of major safety recalls for a variety of consumer products made in China, they are about to sell us automobiles. To do this, Chinese auto manufacturer Chery is working with Chrysler.

To learn more, go to http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0245.htm.

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To see this column, go to the direct link at the top of this page. To see even more columns, click on the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button at www.AutoMatters.net, select a year and then click on the photo icons or titles.
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Web site Technical Notes:

As mentioned earlier, you can go directly to this column by clicking on the above link (or, depending upon how your email is set up, you may have to cut and paste it into the address line of your browser). You may also access this and other AutoMatters columns by navigating to them in this year's Column Archives via the Home Page at www.AutoMatters.net. A clickable, descriptive thumbnail photo is included with each title. They are grouped by year, and are complete except for 2002 and 2003.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Readers have asked me how to see other AutoMatters columns in the Column Archives if they followed a link directly to a particular column, thus bypassing the website's home page. It's easy. Just scroll back up to the top of the page and then click the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button. Another way would be to click on www.AutoMatters.net which is in the last paragraph of every column.
: Readers have asked me how to see other AutoMatters columns in the Column Archives if they followed a link directly to a particular column, thus bypassing the website's home page. It's easy. Just scroll back up to the top of the page and then click the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button. Another way would be to click on which is in the last paragraph of every column.

If there are a lot of photos in a column, it may take a bit longer than usual to display on your computer. If one or two photos will not fully display, try clearing your Internet temp file and then do a View --> Refresh.

As always, I hope you enjoy reading AutoMatters as much as I enjoy creating it.

Jan

Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer
automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services

In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net

AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition

San Diego, CA

(858) 792-9567

jwagner2@san.rr.com

International Fight League, Alfred Haber Distribution Announce First European TV Sale and Addition of the Philippines, Israel for ''IFL Battleground'' and ''IFL Fight Night''
TV4/Sweden is first European network on board;
EGO Israel, ABS-CBN Philippines also added

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The International Fight League (OTC.BB: IFLI), the world’s number one team-based professional mixed martial arts league, and Alfred Haber Distribution (AHDI) today announced the addition of another three territories to their fast-growing international television network. “IFL Battleground” and “IFL Fight Night” will be carried by EGO in Israel and TV4 in Sweden and licensed by ABS-CBN in the Philippines, starting in September. These additions come after AHDI and the IFL announced their first Asian television deal with STAR on August 6.

“Our television business has now grown steadily thanks to the combination of quality programming that tells the stories and shows our events to a mainstream audience, and the diligent work of AHDI,” said Gareb Shamus, IFL co-founder and CEO. “This additional Middle Eastern exposure, as well as the growth into Europe and the Philippines, is another sure sign that the IFL business model is growing soundly and that there is more good news to come for our television partners, our business partners and the growing number of MMA fans around the world.”

ABS-CBN is the largest television channel in The Philippines, while EGO is one of the fastest growing private channels in Israel and TV4 is a top network in Sweden. The addition of these partners adds to an IFL TV platform that also includes all of the Middle East and parts of northern Africa on MBC, the leading free-to-air Pan-Arab news and entertainment channel in the region and CanWest Global in Canada, who is distributing the shows on their Global X-Treme Sports Channel. Those are in addition to STAR and almost 60 countries in Asia, and the IFL’s United States deals with “IFL Battleground,” hosted by Tiffany Fallon and Bas Rutten on MyNetwork TV (Mondays at 8 p.m. Eastern and Pacific/7 p.m. Central) and “Fight Night” (Fridays at 11 p.m. on FSN). IFL programming is also seen worldwide on Armed Forces Network.

About Alfred Haber Distribution, Inc.
ALFRED HABER, INC. and ALFRED HABER DISTRIBUTION, INC., established 40 years ago, together form the world's largest distributor of U.S. Network (CBS, ABC, NBC and FOX) reality, music and event specials, and are major independent distributors of reality and documentary series, mini-series and made-for-television motion pictures for the U.S. and the international television marketplace. More information is available at www.alfredhaber.com.
andestablished 40 years ago, together form the world's largest distributor of U.S. Network (CBS, ABC, NBC and FOX) reality, music and event specials, and are major independent distributors of reality and documentary series, mini-series and made-for-television motion pictures for the U.S. and the international television marketplace. More information is available at . About the IFL

International Fight League™ (IFL) is the world’s number one professional mixed martial arts sports league. IFL has its headquarters in New York and offices in Las Vegas. For more information about IFL, please see: www.ifl.tv.

Forward-Looking Statements: This release contains forward-looking statements pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to various risks and IFL’s management's expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future financial condition, and results of operations. There can be no assurance that future developments actually affecting IFL will be those anticipated.

Important factors that could cause actual results to differ (favorably or unfavorably) from the expectations stated in this release include the risks and uncertainties such as the conditions of the markets for live events, broadcast television, cable television, pay-per-view, Internet, entertainment, professional sports, and licensed merchandise; acceptance of the Company’s brands, media and merchandise within those markets; uncertainties relating to litigation; risks associated with producing live events; uncertainties associated with international markets; risks relating to maintaining and renewing key agreements, including television distribution agreements; effects of competition, including locations of competitors and operating and market competition.. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should any of the Company’s assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements.

IFL undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. This press release may include the opinions of IFL and does not necessarily include the views of any other person or entity.

The names of all International Fight League, Inc. televised and live programming, teams, images, and logos are trademarks, which are the exclusive property of International Fight League, Inc. All other trademarks and tradenames mentioned in this release are the property of their respective owners, and are not affiliated with IFL in any way.

Contacts

August 16

Hi everyone, AutoMatters #244 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net Column Archives. Title: "Tesla Roadster: All-Electric Sports Car." Direct Link: http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0244.htm

Preview: The new Tesla Roadster is high performance proof of a bright future for new automobiles.
: The new Tesla Roadster is high performance proof of a bright future for new automobiles.

Much more than its beautiful sports car styling, what makes the new Tesla Roadster most worthy of a great deal of attention from the automotive Press is its high tech, all-electric propulsion system. It promises to not just match the performance of its petroleum-powered competitors, but leave them silently and cleanly in its dust. Its electric motor provides lots of torque, available from a standstill all the way to its 13,500 rpm redline, and with no need for frequent gear changes. Due later this year, expect the Tesla Roadster to accelerate more quickly than a Lamborghini Murcielago,, with twice the equivalent fuel economy of the leading hybrids..

To learn more, go to http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0244.htm. Then, after checking out the Tesla Roadster, navigate over to read a special announcement on the www.AutoMatters.net AutoMatters home page.

To see this column, go to the direct link at the top of this page. To see even more columns, click on the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button at www.AutoMatters.net, select a year and then click on the photo icons or titles.
- - - - - - -
Web site Technical Notes:

As always, I hope you enjoy reading AutoMatters as much as I enjoy creating it.

Jan

Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer
automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services

In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net

AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition

San Diego, CA

(858) 792-9567

jwagner2@san.rr.com

August 6

Hi everyone, This week marks the beginning of what will hopefully become a long and successful run for AutoMatters in another newspaper and online. Please paste the following direct Web link into your browser (or click on it, if you have that option): www.TheCommunityPaper.com. You will be taken to the Web site of a newspaper entitled "The Paper." On its front page this week, a special AutoMatters column is the featured cover story. Its title is: "Private Collections: Jay Leno's, Astor Classics Event Center and More." Here is a preview:

If you know where to look, incredible, private auto collections can be found all over Southern California. They are hidden in plain sight, right under our noses, often behind slab-sided warehouses in industrial parks. This special AutoMatters reveals three of these private collections to you, including Jay Leno's.

As always, I hope that you enjoy reading AutoMatters as much as I enjoy creating it.

Jan

Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer
automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services

In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net

AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition

San Diego, CA

jwagner2@san.rr.com

AutoMatters@gmail.com

AutoMatters #243 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net Column Archives. Title: "Ford's New, 2008 F-Series Trucks." Direct Link: http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0243.htm
#243 is now in the . "." Preview: Ford presented the new, 2008 F-Series trucks to the Press in Southern California. There are some special versions that you will want to read about if you're even thinking about a full-size pickup. I drove two of them and will give you driving impressions. Also, there are some very innovative, useful new features.
: Ford presented the new, 2008 F-Series trucks to the Press in Southern California. There are some special versions that you will want to read about if you're even thinking about a full-size pickup. I drove two of them and will give you driving impressions. Also, there are some very innovative, useful new features.

Now for the teaser photos. This week I'm going to have a little bit of fun with you. Here are a few mildly cryptic clues to what you will see and read about when you go to the direct link above: link!

To see what's inside this door -- go to the direct link!

As always, I hope you enjoy reading AutoMatters as much as I enjoy creating it.

Jan

Mr. Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer
automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services

In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net

AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition

San Diego, CA

jwagner2@san.rr.com

AutoMatters@gmail.com

August 8

Ferrari F430 Challenge Concludes its 2007 Season at the California Speedway

430 Challenge and Shell Historic Racing Entice Ferrari Enthusiasts

-- Ferrari North America, Inc., will be returning to Fontana's California Speedway after two years on the weekend of August 10-12. Open to the public, the race weekend will include Ferrari 430 Challenge and Shell Historic vintage racing events. Now in its 14th racing season in the North America, the Ferrari Challenge Series (utilizing race-prepared 430 Challenge vehicles) offers Ferrari owners who are not professional racers the opportunity to compete against other Ferrari owners in a highly competitive racing series at world-class venues throughout the U.S. and Canada, and is regarded as the longest-running series of its type in North America.

"For more than 60 years Ferrari has been synonymous with the very same passion that our owners, drivers and fans experience as they watch all levels of Ferrari competition worldwide. We are proud to continue showcasing this tradition," said Maurizio Parlato, president and CEO of Ferrari North America, Inc. The Ferrari Challenge 2007 season extends through a total of 7 races, including two within Canada (the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, coinciding with Montreal's annual Formula One race, June 8-10th; and Mont Tremblant, Quebec, June 15-17, at the home track of Ferrari's North American driving school), as well as the season's World Finals, held October 25-28 in Italy.

The Ferrari Challenge is one of the numerous "exclusive" experiences that Ferrari offers its customers -- and whether owners are actually racing in the series, dining in the luxurious VIP hospitality tents, participating in weekend driving clinics or socializing with those that share their enthusiasm for Ferrari, the weekend festivals provide a unique atmosphere and incomparable experience. General public can enjoy the races, peruse the paddock areas, and enjoy the overall Ferrari-festival type of atmosphere.

The Challenge Series is one of the many assets Ferrari provides exclusively for its owners, and together with experiences such as the annual Ferrari Rally (www.ferrarirally.com), and Ferrari's North American Driving School in Mont Tremblant, Quebec (www.experienceferrari.com), the company continues to provide environments where owners can enjoy their cars in the manner for which they were intended - with top performance and through unique opportunities and venues.

Tickets for the Fontana Ferrari Challenge Race weekend are available online at http://www.californiaspeedway.com/buy_tickets/list_of_events/

The race will be broadcast on Speed TV on October 13th and 14th. The Ferrari Challenge Series is organized by Ferrari North America, Inc., and sanctioned by the Grand American Road Racing Association. Sponsors for 2007 include Motorola, Shell, Pirelli, Sabelt and Officine Panerai. Complete Challenge information can be found on www.ferrarichallenge.com. Ferrari North America, Inc. is headquartered in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., and is the exclusive authorized North, Central and South American importer of Ferrari vehicles including the 599 GTB Fiorano V-12 sports coupe, F430 Berlinetta, F430 Spider convertible sports car, and 612 Scaglietti (luxury performance 2+2). For more information please visit www.ferrariusa.com.

Source: Ferrari North America, Inc.

Web site: http://www.ferrarichallenge.com/
http://www.ferrariusa.com/
http://www.californiaspeedway.com/buy_tickets/list_of_events

Pelosi Statement on Barry Bonds' Record-Breaking 756th Home Run

WASHINGTON, Aug. 8 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement late last night on Barry Bonds hitting his 756th career home run, breaking the all-time record of Hank Aaron:

"Tonight, Barry Bonds etched his name into baseball's history books and took his rightful place among the sport's immortals.

"It was a great night for baseball and a great night for San Francisco- the crowd went wild.

"It was particularly exciting to see Willie Mays embrace him on the field and see Hank Aaron congratulate him on the Jumbotron.

"As a season ticket holder, I am particularly glad it happened on the Giants' Italian night."

Source: Office of the Speaker of the House

Office of the Speaker of the House

August 1

AutoMatters #242 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net Column Archives. Title: "Cavallo Motorsports: Specializing in Exotic Automobiles." Direct Link: http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0242.htm
#242 is now in the . "." Preview: Cavallo Motorsports is a great destination for those who enjoy exotic automobiles. Located near the ocean and the freeway in San Diego's North County, their many offerings include:
: Cavallo Motorsports is a great destination for those who enjoy . Located near the ocean and the freeway in San Diego's North County, their many offerings include:

- Full service and repair

- Restoration

- Enclosed transport

- Race support, including racecar prep, transport, technicians at the track and professional driving instruction

- Valuation

- Vehicle history verification

- Rallies

- Consignment sales

- A place for car club meetings, bench racing and watching Formula 1 races live on a big screen

Cavallo has four state-of-the-art Rotary lifts - ideal for low profile automobiles

Cavallo Motorsports
To see this column, go to the direct link at the top of this page. To see even more columns, click on the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button at www.AutoMatters.net, select a year and then click on the photo icons or titles.
- - - - - - -
Technical Notes:

As always, I hope you enjoy reading AutoMatters as much as I enjoy creating it.

Jan

Mr. Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer
automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services

In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net

AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition

San Diego, CA

jwagner2@san.rr.com

AutoMatters@gmail.com

July 31

Texaco Celebrates Cars and People Who Love Them with Car of the Decades Virtual Auto Show Contest
Lucky Grand Prize “Editor’s Choice” Winner to Receive VIP Treatment at Daytona and a Chance to Meet No. 42 Texaco/Havoline Driver Juan Pablo Montoya

Chevron Global Marketing today launched Texaco’s Car of the Decades contest celebrating cars and the people who love them with a virtual auto show that lets visitors decide the best cars from every decade in the 20th century through today. During the Texaco Car of the Decades submission process, which concludes September 3, auto enthusiasts can register online at www.texacocarofthedecades.com to enter their favorite car for a chance to win a grand prize package featuring VIP treatment at the launch of the 2008 season at Daytona, including a tour of the No. 42 Texaco/Havoline garage, the pit and a chance to meet driver Juan Pablo Montoya. Other potential prizes include customized and framed drawings of the winning cars by automotive artist Dwayne Vance as well as Texaco Gift Cards.

“Many people share a passion for automobiles and the rich tradition and heritage they have in American culture,” said Danny Roden, vice president of North America Marketing for Chevron. “The Car of the Decades contest celebrates the automobiles Texaco has serviced for eleven decades and the people who love them, providing an online forum for enthusiasts plus a chance at an opportunity to attend the launch of the 2008 Texaco racing season in Daytona in 2008.”

From September 4 through October 4, visitors will have the opportunity to view, vote and comment on all eleven decades of cars participating in the competition to help decide the winners. Once all votes are tallied and a winner representing each decade spanning from the 1900s through the 2000s is announced, an expert panel of judges, including editors of Automobile® and Hot Rod® magazines, will deliberate to determine the winner of the Grand Prize “Editor’s Choice” award to be announced on October 19.

The “Editor’s Choice” award, the sweepstakes’ highly coveted grand prize package, includes two VIP passes to the Daytona, Florida race, roundtrip airfare, lodging, transportation, $500 spending money, a full-sized customized framed color painting of the winning car by artist Dwayne Vance and a $500 Texaco Gift Card.

Texaco continues to sponsor the No. 42 Texaco/Havoline race team and is proud that this year marks its 20th anniversary as a primary sponsor in Cup racing. For more than 100 years, Texaco has grown into one of the most iconic, trusted and familiar brands in the world.

Chevron Corporation is one of the world’s leading energy companies. With more than 56,000 employees, Chevron subsidiaries conduct business in approximately 180 countries around the world, producing and transporting crude oil and natural gas, and refining and marketing and distributing fuels and other energy products. Chevron Global Marketing is a division of Chevron Global Downstream LLC, a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Chevron Corporation. Chevron is based in San Ramon, California. More information on Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.

July 23

AutoMatters #241 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net 2007 Column Archives. Its direct link is:
#241 is now in the 2007 . Its direct link is:

http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0241.htm

Just imagine: plug in your car at night and the next day drive to work using little more than electricity to power your plug-in hybrid vehicle.

Recently San Diego Gas & Electric hosted a presentation on plug-in hybrid technology. As we listened, two technicians converted a Toyota Prius into a plug-in hybrid. You'll witness the conversion in this AutoMatters, and discover that current battery technology now enables fuel economy of over 100 mpg on short commutes.

Here are a few of my photos to tempt you to follow the link. Afterwards, I invite you to click on the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button at the top of the page, select a year and then browse through the photo icons and titles to see more AutoMatters columns.

Dear Readers:
Increased circulation of AutoMatters will lead to coverage of more and even better events. So, if you like what you see and know anyone in the Web or print publishing industries, please put in a good word for AutoMatters and direct your friends and associates to see for themselves at the www.AutoMatters.net Web site. I can be reached via email at jwagner2@san.rr.com. Thanks.
Jan
- - - - - - -

For new visitors to AutoMatters online, here is some more information that you might find useful:

You may access this column by navigating to it in this year's Column Archives via the Home Page at www.AutoMatters.net. If you prefer, you can go directly to this column by clicking on the above link (or, depending upon how your email is set up, you may have to cut and paste it into the address line of your browser). If there are a lot of photos in this column, it may take a bit longer than usual to display on your computer. If one or two photos don't fully display, try clearing your Internet temp file and then do a View --> Refresh.

While at the AutoMatters Web site, take a few moments to look at some of the other columns and photography that is there. The 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 Columns Archives are now complete. I hope to have time to finish the 2002 and 2003 Column Archives eventually. A clickable, descriptive thumbnail photo is included with the title of each column in the Column Archives lists.

IMPORTANT NOTE: People have asked me how they can see previous AutoMatters columns in the Column Archives if they follow the above link directly to the current column, thus bypassing the website's home page. It's easy. Just scroll back up to the top of the page and then click the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button. Another way would be to click on www.AutoMatters.net which is in the last paragraph of every column.
: People have asked me how they can see previous AutoMatters columns in the Column Archives if they follow the above link directly to the current column, thus bypassing the website's home page. It's easy. Just scroll back up to the top of the page and then click the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button. Another way would be to click on which is in the last paragraph of every column.

As always, I hope you enjoy reading AutoMatters as much as I enjoy creating it.

Jan

Mr. Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer
automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services

In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net

AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition

San Diego, CA

jwagner2@san.rr.com

AutoMatters@gmail.com

AutoMatters #240 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net 2007 Column Archives. Its direct link is:
#240 is now in the 2007 . Its direct link is:

http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0240.htm

Entitled "REV IT UP™ presented by CHEVROLET," this AutoMatters.net column is about a nationwide tour currently underway which features "a full day of competition and fun geared towards the true automotive enthusiast." This includes day and night-time autocrossing with the Chevy Cobalt SS and Corvette, drag racing with the Chevy Impala SS and TrailBlazer SS, kart racing, a Chevy performance auto show, food, Corvette Z06 thrill rides and more.

Chevy Corvette autocrossing by night
Dear Readers:
Increased circulation of AutoMatters will lead to coverage of more and even better events. So, if you like what you see and know anyone in the Web or print publishing industries, please put in a good word for AutoMatters and direct your friends and associates to see for themselves at the www.AutoMatters.net Web site. I can be reached via email at jwagner2@san.rr.com. Thanks.
Jan
- - - - - - -

For new visitors to AutoMatters online, here is some more information that you might find useful:

As always, I hope you enjoy reading AutoMatters as much as I enjoy creating it.

Jan

Mr. Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer
automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services

In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net

AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition

San Diego, CA

jwagner2@san.rr.com

AutoMatters@gmail.com

July 20

Earlier this season, Budweiser and race-car driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. drew attention to a little-known charity with big aspirations. The NASCAR nation responded en masse, allowing Budweiser to donate $100,000 to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation, which provides full-ride college scholarships to surviving children of special operations personnel killed in combat or training missions, and immediate financial assistance to special operations personnel severely wounded in the global war on terror. "Special operations personnel are hand-picked for the most treacherous of missions, and we felt Budweiser needed to show these brave men and women that Americans support and appreciate their courage," said Randall Blackford, director for Anheuser-Bush's Budweiser brand. "Anheuser-Busch has supported our nation's military and their families for more than 150 years, and we're honored to make this contribution to the efforts of the Special Operations Warrior Foundation." Budweiser and Earnhardt raced two military-themed paint schemes in 2007. Budweiser's brown and beige "Desert Camo" car raced Memorial Day weekend during the Coca-Cola 600 in honor of fallen soldiers. The red, white and blue "Stars and Stripes" car ran in the Pepsi 400 and served as a salute to all those who currently serve. The proceeds from the sale of collectible die-cast cars were earmarked for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. "Through the generosity of Budweiser and the support of NASCAR fans, children of fallen special operations personnel will be reminded that there are caring Americans who recognize the sacrifices that their parents have made and that they want them to succeed in life with a college education," said John T. Carney Jr., Special Operations Warrior Foundation's president and chief executive officer. "This donation also serves as a salute to all of the men and women serving in harm's way all around the globe." The Special Operation Warrior Foundation is a member of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad. For more than 27 years, the foundation has provided college scholarship grants for tuition, books, fees, room and board to surviving children of special operations personnel killed in combat or training missions. The foundation has nearly 700 children in its program, and provided $1.5 million in college scholarship grants, educational, financial aid and family counseling for 109 students who attended 73 colleges and universities in 2006. With an estimated 120-125 students eligible for college each year, the Foundation's estimated financial need is nearly $76 million.

July 14

I am relieved to let you know that after fixing some computer problems which knocked out my ability to connect to the Internet, AutoMatters #239 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net 2007 Column Archives. Its direct link is:

http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0239.htm

Entitled "Everyone Loves a Parade: Happy 4th of July!," this festive, holiday-themed column begins with a parade and ends with a big fireworks display.

It was a happy 4th of July celebration -- with a car connection, of course

Now for a shameless, personal plug: If you like what you've seen and you know anyone in the Web or print publishing industries, please put in a good word for me and direct your friends and associates to the www.AutoMatters.net Web site. I could really use your help to increase the circulation of AutoMatters and also to get some freelance work. The best way to contact me is to send an email to jwagner2@san.rr.com. Thanks.

Jan

For new visitors to AutoMatters online, here is some more information that you might find useful:

As always, I hope you enjoy reading AutoMatters as much as I enjoy creating it.

Jan

Mr. Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services

In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net

AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition

San Diego, CA

jwagner2@san.rr.com

AutoMatters@gmail.com

July 11

Tony Stewart and Old Spice to Bring Ads to the Pits

Stewart to Debut Driver's Suit with Unique Armpit 'Product Placement' Celebrating Launch of Old Spice 2007 NASCAR Collector Series High Endurance Deodorants and Body Washes

via COMTEX News Network/ -- Tony Stewart is teaming with Old Spice, the No. 1 grooming choice of guys, to introduce the 2007 NASCAR Collector Series High Endurance deodorants and body washes -- through a unique "product placement" on his driver's suit in a truly fitting spot -- his armpits. Stewart will debut this one-of-a-kind suit during the NASCAR Busch Series race at Chicagoland Speedway on July 14.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070710/LATU088 )

In a first-of-its-kind twist on the traditionally brand-heavy world of NASCAR, the armpits of Stewart's new suit will introduce the Old Spice NASCAR Collector Series. Stewart's armpit's message will proclaim "Old Spice Collector Series" (from his right armpit) and "In Stores Now!" (from his left armpit), and can be seen by fans and consumers live at the racetrack and on TV in a tongue-in-cheek commercial that debuts on ESPN on July 14, coinciding with the Chicagoland race. The Old Spice commercial features Stewart showcasing his branded armpits in a variety of humorous scenarios ranging from media interviews to power weight lifting.

Available for a limited time starting in July, the Old Spice 2007 NASCAR Collector Series High Endurance deodorants and body washes will come in exclusive packaging featuring three different, collectible NASCAR-themed designs, including one with Tony's likeness. Stewart has been sponsored by Old Spice for the past seven seasons in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series and also drives the No. 33 Old Spice Chevrolet in the NASCAR Busch Series.

"NASCAR drivers like Tony evoke the true essence of endurance, and so it was a natural fit for Old Spice to develop this special limited-edition High Endurance product line," said Old Spice associate marketing director Carl Stealey.

"And, while NASCAR has been a true innovator when it comes to marketing brands and products, we thought Tony's new armpit-branded suit would bring a fun twist to the scene and we hope fans enjoy it as much as we have."

Fans looking to capture the spirit of NASCAR can find the 2007 NASCAR Collector Series High Endurance deodorants and body washes on store shelves along with their other favorite High Endurance products. High Endurance is perfect for the guy looking for no-nonsense, masculine products that he can trust.

In addition to the limited edition product, one lucky fan will have the opportunity to take home Tony's one-of-a-kind driver's suit when it is auctioned off to benefit the Tony Stewart Foundation at the end of the racing season. Fans will also have the opportunity to bid on actual props from the Old Spice NASCAR Collector Series commercial shoot featuring Stewart. For additional information on the NASCAR Collector Series High Endurance line and the upcoming auction, log on to http://www.oldspice.com.

About P&G [NYSE: PG]

Three billion times a day, P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. The company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Pampers(R), Tide(R), Ariel(R), Always(R), Whisper(R), Pantene(R), Mach3(R), Bounty(R), Dawn(R), Pringles(R), Folgers(R), Charmin(R), Downy(R), Lenor(R), Iams(R), Crest(R), Oral-B(R), Actonel(R), Duracell(R), Olay(R), Head & Shoulders(R), Wella(R), Gillette(R), and Braun(R). The P&G community consists of over 135,000 employees working in over 80 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G and its brands.

About Kevin Harvick Inc.

Kevin Harvick Inc. (KHI) is 70,000 sq. ft. facility located in Kernersville, NC. KHI is home to the No. 33 AES HR Solutions Truck Series team, and the No. 33 Old Spice/Bounty/Roadloans.com and No. 77 Dollar General stores Busch Series teams. In just six short years, KHI has amassed an impressive on-track record. Fielding a car in 114 Busch Series events and a truck in 97 Truck Series events, KHI has earned seven victories including the 2005 and 2006 Daytona 300 Busch Series races. Please visit http://www.kevinharvickinc.com for more information.

SOURCE Old Spice

July 9

Cars.com Selects Top 10 Movie Cars

-- Old and new automotive favorites from the big screen appear on Cars.com's annual ranking of the Top 10 Movie Cars. While the DeLorean DMC-12 from "Back to the Future" holds steady at the coveted No. 1 slot, three cars debut on this year's list and six others jockey for position.

"When we came up with our list of Top 10 Movie Cars last summer, we had no idea our readers would be so passionate about their favorite car films," said Patrick Olsen, managing editor of Cars.com. "With 'Transformers' arriving on the big screen, we revisited our list -- listening to last year's reader feedback -- and determined once again which cars deserved to make the top 10. Some cars were able to hold on to their spots, while others were shuffled to make room for more-worthy contenders. With 'Speed Racer' hitting the big screen next year, expect another round of evaluation."

No. 10: 2003 Mini Cooper S, "The Italian Job"

2006 rank: 10

Drivetrain: 163-horsepower, supercharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with six-speed manual transmission; front-wheel drive

Notable Features: 200 pounds lighter than stock Cooper S; painted red, white or blue

The Mini Cooper holds the No. 10 spot on the list for the second year in a row likely due to its slender physique, which allows the vehicle to escape captors on congested streets, parks and subway tunnels. Computer-rigged signals aid the getaway, stopping cross traffic at red lights. Larger cars could not have achieved the maneuverability demonstrated by the Mini as it weaves through traffic, drives down stairs and speeds along sidewalks.

No. 9: 1959 Cadillac Ambulance, "Ghostbusters"

2006 rank: 7

Drivetrain: 325-hp, 6.4-liter V-8 with two-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive

Notable Features: Tailfins, flashing lights, sirens, attached ladder

The Ghostbusters wouldn't go far without a sizable vehicle to transport the team and their ghost-capturing gear around New York City. Though it plays a relatively small part in its film, the Ectomobile is the finest medical movie car to date. From its distinctive siren wail to its red tailfins, strobe lights and roof gear, this car is truly unique.

No. 8: 1974 Dodge Monaco, "The Blues Brothers"

2006 rank: 3

Drivetrain: 275-hp, 7.1-liter V-8 with three-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive

Notable Features: Cop motor, cop tires, cop suspension, cop shocks

You usually don't come out ahead when swapping a Caddy for a Dodge -- unless the Dodge has a 440-cubic-inch V-8. The Bluesmobile would be our pick if we had to outrun the better half of Illinois police, not to mention a neo-Nazi outfit and a country-and-western band. The car may fall apart in the end, but it performed well on this "mission from God."

No. 7: 1932 Ford coupe, "American Graffiti"

2006 rank: New for 2007

Drivetrain: 60-hp, 3.6-liter V-8 with three-speed manual transmission

Notable Features: Bright yellow paint job bound to be noticed by bored teens in Modesto, Calif.

Nicknamed the Deuce, this five-window '32 Ford coupe is the quintessential American hot rod. As built, it came with the engine mentioned above, but in the movie it's clear the coupe has been souped up. It was the car's impressive performance in the drag race at the end that lodged this hot rod into the hearts of American teens for a decade.

No. 6: 1976 AMC Pacer, "Wayne's World"

2006 rank: New for 2007

Drivetrain: 100-hp inline-six with three-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive

Notable Features: Flame decal, licorice dispenser, "Bohemian Rhapsody" on continuous playback

Wayne and Garth's baby blue Mirth Mobile may not have inspired fans to purchase one of their own, but its special features made the car stand out from any other AMC Pacer on the road.

No. 5: 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390, "Bullitt"

2006 rank: 6

Drivetrain: 325-hp, 6.4-liter V-8 with four-speed manual transmission; rear-wheel drive

Notable Features: Fastback roof, higher engine note than the Charger

The seven-minute chase scene between Bullitt's green Mustang GT 390 and a hit man's 1968 Dodge Charger is among the best of its kind. Close-up shots of Steve McQueen (Bullitt) as he maneuvers his vehicle through the streets of San Francisco add realism to the scene and intensify the chase.

No. 4: 1964 Aston Martin DB5, "Goldfinger"

2006 rank: 4

Drivetrain: 282-hp, 4.0-liter six-cylinder with four-speed manual transmission; rear-wheel drive

Notable Features: Bulletproof glass, machine guns, incessantly beeping radar screen

Bond cars are known to be top-notch -- the list includes Aston Martins, Bentleys and Lotuses -- but voters agreed that the Aston Martin DB5 driven by Sean Connery in "Goldfinger" belonged at the top of the list. Not only is it appealing to the eye, it outruns and out-gadgets all of its competitors.

No. 3: 1961 Ferrari 250 GT, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off"

2006 rank: 2

Drivetrain: 280-hp, 3.0-liter V-12 with four-speed manual transmission; rear-wheel drive

Notable Features: Cherry-red exterior, wire grille, Cameron-sized tonneau compartment

This red Ferrari convertible is probably responsible for thousands of teens cutting class to joyride in their father's car. The kit car stands out with its sleek exterior and low mileage. Though borrowing this car was a source of controversy between Ferris and Cameron, they both enjoyed driving in style through the streets of Chicago.

No. 2: 1977 Pontiac Trans Am, "Smokey and the Bandit"

2006 rank: New for 2007

Drivetrain: 200-hp, 6.6-liter V-8 with three-speed automatic

Notable Features: T-top, CB radio, runaway bride in the passenger seat

The mission seemed simple enough: Get a truckload of bootleg beer from Texarkana, Texas, to Atlanta while Bo "Bandit" Darville runs interference in his Trans Am. The combination of comical car chases and Burt Reynolds' mustache sold more than a few black and gold versions of Bandit's car.

No. 1: 1981 DeLorean DMC-12, "Back to the Future"

2006 rank: 1

Drivetrain: 1.21-gigawatt nuclear/electric hybrid with five-speed manual transmission; rear-wheel drive

Notable Features: Gull-wing doors, 16-port twin exhaust boxes, flux capacitor

Doc Brown's DeLorean holds the first-place spot on this list for the second year in a row. The car achieves time travel at 88 mph thanks to a plutonium-powered nuclear reactor and onboard flux capacitor. By the end of the first movie, it runs solely on trash -- and it can fly. That's still futuristic two decades after the movie debuted.

Honorable Mentions

-- 1958 Plymouth Fury, "Christine"

-- 1973 Ford Falcon, "The Road Warrior"

-- 1975 Lotus Esprit, "The Spy Who Loved Me"

Off the List from 2006

-- 1973 Ford Falcon, "The Road Warrior"

-- 1958 Plymouth Fury, "Christine"

-- Batmobile Tumbler, "Batman Begins"

About Cars.com

Partnered with more than 200 leading metro newspapers, television stations and their websites, Cars.com (http://www.cars.com/) is the most comprehensive destination for those looking to buy or sell a new or used car. The site lists more than 2 million vehicles from 13,000 dealer customers, classified advertisers and private parties to offer consumers the best selection of new and used cars online, as well as the content, tools and advice to support their shopping experience. Recently selected by Forbes.com as a Best of the Web site for car shopping, Cars.com combines powerful inventory search tools and new-car configuration with pricing information, photo galleries, buying guides, side-by-side comparison tools, original editorial content and reviews to help millions of car shoppers connect with sellers each month.

Launched in June 1998, Cars.com is a division of Classified Ventures, LLC, which is owned by leading media companies, including Belo (NYSE:BLC) , Gannett Co., Inc. (NYSE:GCI) , The McClatchy Company (NYSE:MNI) , Tribune Company (NYSE:TRB) and The Washington Post Company (NYSE:WPO) .

Source: Cars.com

Web site: http://www.cars.com/

July 2

ROAD & TRAVEL Magazine Announces 11th Annual 'Sexiest Cars' for 2007

ROAD & TRAVEL Magazine (RTM) announced today the chosen few for this year's highly-anticipated 11th Annual Sexy Car Buyer's Guide. The top 10 sexiest, hottest, wildest wheels to make the 2007 "most sexy" list follow in alphabetical order:

-- Chevrolet Corvette

-- Dodge Charger

-- Ford Mustang

-- Jaguar XK and XKR

-- Mazda MX-5 Miata

-- Mercedes-Benz SLK

-- Nissan 350Z

-- Porsche Cayman Coupe

-- Saturn Sky

-- VW Eos Hard-Top Roadster

Earlier this year, the 2007 Jaguar XK/XKR won the 2007 International Car of the Year Award in the sports car category "Most Sex Appeal."

Similarly, the 2007 Ford Mustang won Road & Travel Magazine's 3rd annual HEART STRING Award for most emotionally-compelling car commercial of the year.

Making first appearances in the Sexy Car Buyer's Guide is the all-new Saturn Sky roadster, Porsche Cayman Coupe and VW Eos hard-top roadster, proving that "sexy" can come in all shapes, sizes and prices.

RTM's 11th Annual Sexy Car Buyer's Guide is showcased in July's "Romance Issue" (http://www.roadandtravel.com/), along with a full review on what makes each specific automobile sizzle and satisfy. Test driven by RTM editors, these revved-up roadsters are sure to leave drivers (and readers) reeling and writhing for more.

Eligibility and criteria for the Sexy Car Buyer's Guide is simple; pure sex appeal.

"Sports Cars are all about the emotions they inspire from the warm sensations of supple leather on our skin to the youthful, sexy spirit they invoke when driving with the top down and wind in our hair," says RTM's Editor-in-Chief Courtney Caldwell. "Sports cars are all about image; how they make us look, how they make us feel."

About ROAD & TRAVEL Magazine

ROAD & TRAVEL Magazine, established in 1989, is a comprehensive online, in-market lifestyle magazine specializing in a wide variety of automotive and travel topics. Primarily geared towards women, RTM was the first publication to specifically address women's automotive needs and concerns, providing a resource from which they could make informed decisions regarding purchases and personal safety. Travel was added in 2000. Currently a bi-weekly publication, RTM will relaunch in September 2007 with a new design and many new features that will provide a more interactive experience for our readers.

For more information please visit http://www.roadandtravel.com/.

Jessica.howell@roadandtravel.com

Web site: http://roadandtravel.com/

June 28

LA Stars Celebrity All-Star Charity Weekend Website Launches Beverly Wilshire Serves As The Charity Weekend's Official Hotel

Elevee and FENDI Show Support

-- Hollywood celebrities and the NBA's best will compete on the court at USC's new Galen Center for the LA Stars Celebrity All-Star Charity Weekend event on Sunday, August 5, 2007. The event is hosted by NBA All-Stars Baron Davis and Paul Pierce. Some of the world's best basketball players participated in this event last year, as well as many celebrities who dreamt of basketball stardom. Last year's Hollywood Celebrity game featured such stars as Reggie Bush, Usher, Benji Madden and Snoop Dogg, among others. The NBA-sanctioned game featured more than 10 All-Stars, including Jerry Stackhouse, Lamar Odom, Baron Davis, Paul Pierce, Stephon Marbury and Antoine Walker, among others. Tickets for this exciting event are now on sale to the public at all Ticketmaster locations and the USC Ticket Office. For more information about purchasing tickets, please visit http://www.ticketmaster.com/ or http://www.usc.edu/bus-affairs/ticketoffice/.

Elevee is the official clothing and ground transportation sponsor of Baron Davis and Paul Pierce's LA Stars Charity Weekend. Elevee is a clothing company committed to providing their clients with custom designed and fitted wardrobes, which convey confidence, self-assurance and individuality through clothing, and it continues to elevate the image of over 2,000 professional athletes.

Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel, located in the heart of Beverly Hills -- steps away from renowned Rodeo Drive -- will serve as the official hotel for the charity weekend. This historic hotel is the perfect partner for LA Stars, as it buzzes with vitality, unique charm and glamorous ambience.

On the opening night of the LA Stars weekend, FENDI, purveyor of Italian luxury handbags, leather goods, shoes, ready-to-wear and fur, will host an exclusive, private event at the penthouse of the Beverly Wilshire. This iconic brand has become one of the most sought after designer collections in the business.

The website for the Annual LA Stars Celebrity All-Star Charity Weekend has launched. For more information regarding this event and other charity events throughout the year, please visit http://www.lastars.net/.

The weekend is presented and hosted by LA Stars, a charitable event group focused on giving back to youth in need through community-based programs and health-related resources. LA Stars will benefit three main entities, including Team Play -- the Baron Davis Foundation, The Paul Pierce Truth Foundation and the Magic Johnson Foundation. Please visit: http://www.barondavis.com/, http://www.paulpierce.net/ and http://www.magicjohnson.org/ for more information.

About LA Stars

The Goal of LA Stars is to create lasting and sustainable community impact in the Greater Los Angeles area through a Legacy Program. The LA Stars Legacy Program will be the focal point of a charitable event weekend that Paul Pierce and Baron Davis host each summer in LA that brings NBA Players, Celebrities and Business Leaders together.

Each summer, and throughout the year, they will make an impact through athlete-led community change, combined with the active involvement of corporations and individuals. The legacy component of the LA Stars program is designed to demonstrate the positive and powerful impact the LA Stars Weekend will have on a community in the Greater Los Angeles area.

Source: LA Stars

Web site: http://www.lastars.net/
http://www.barondavis.com/
http://www.paulpierce.net/
http://www.magicjohnson.org/

'Flame of Hope' for 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games to Be Lit in Athens, Greece

Torch-lighting ceremonies at sacred site near Acropolis;

Marks official beginning of Global Law Enforcement Torch Run(R) sponsored by

DHL

What: Lighting of the Flame of Hope for the Special Olympics World Summer Games at a site near the Acropolis. The ceremony marks the official start of the Global Law Enforcement Torch Run(R) for Special Olympics in which the flame is transported from Athens to Shanghai, the site of the 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games, which take place from 2-11 October. More than 400 athletes from across the United States and Canada will compete in these World Games.

When: Friday, 29 June 2007 at 11 a.m. Media covering the event are requested to arrive no later than 10:30 a.m. Athens time. Satellite b-roll footage of this event will be made available to North American broadcast media -- see coordinates below.

Where: Sacred site of Pnyx which faces the Acropolis in Athens.

Scheduled Attendees: Anna Benaki-Psarouda, President of the Greek Parliament; Special Olympics International President Timothy P. Shriver; senior representatives of the 2007 Games Organizing Committee and Shanghai government, diplomats, Greek cabinet members, representatives of sports bodies, law enforcement officers, corporate sponsors including senior leaders from Coca-Cola and DHL, Special Olympics athletes and supporters.

Background:

The Flame of Hope will be lit at a site near the Acropolis using only the rays of the sun. A team comprised of Special Olympics athletes and law enforcement officers will carry the flame to the Chinese Embassy. From there, the flame will be transported by sponsor DHL from Athens to China, traveling more than 35,000 kilometers (22,000 miles) across five continents over 94 days. More than 5,000 people are expected to participate in this global celebration which symbolizes the diversity of the Special Olympics movement and the courage of its athletes.

The Global Torch Run is a pivotal event in the lead-up to the Special Olympics World Summer Games and the route will include major cities around the world including Cairo, London, Washington DC, Sydney and Beijing, before arriving in Shanghai where the flame will be used to ignite the cauldron at the Opening Ceremony of the 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games.

TO RECEIVE BY SATELLITE C-BAND

FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2007 2:00 PM - 2:15 PM EDT (11:00 AM - 11:15 AM PDT)

G-26 T- 17, D/L Freq: 4040 V 93 degrees WL

SATURDAY, JUNE 30, 2007 4:00 AM - 4:15 AM EDT (1:00 AM - 1:15 AM PDT)

G-26 T- 17, D/L Freq: 4040 V 93 degrees WL

Source: Special Olympics

Web site: http://www.specialolympics.org/

Roush Fenway Racing Teams Up with Lumber Liquidators and Gillette to Unveil Boston Red Sox Car
No. 99 Lumber Liquidators/Red Sox Ford Fusion to race at LENOX(R) Industrial Tools 300

-- Roush Fenway Racing announced today that Boston Red Sox sponsors, Lumber Liquidators and Gillette, have signed on as sponsors of the No. 99 Ford Fusion driven by NASCAR NEXTEL Cup driver Carl Edwards during this weekend's race at New Hampshire International Speedway (NHIS). The companies will celebrate their relationship with the Boston Red Sox and NASCAR fans by featuring the Red Sox logo on the No. 99 Lumber Liquidators/Red Sox Ford Fusion during the race in Loudon, N.H. on July 1.

"I'm really proud to have Lumber Liquidators and Gillette on board as the primary sponsors of the No. 99 Ford at Loudon," said Edwards. "Both organizations have deep ties in the New England area and it is truly an honor to represent a team like the Boston Red Sox that has so much respect and history. There is an obvious cross-over between the NASCAR fan base and Red Sox fans and I'm excited that Lumber Liquidators and Gillette have chosen me to represent them at New Hampshire International Speedway."

As Red Sox sponsors Lumber Liquidators and Gillette have secured the rights to utilize Boston Red Sox marks for marketing and promotional activation. These rights allow the companies to feature the Red Sox logo on the No. 99 Ford Fusion and Edwards as a means of further leveraging their association with the Red Sox through regional sponsorship of Roush Fenway Racing at Loudon. In addition to being highlighted on the Roush Fenway Racing entry, the sponsors will look to reach a broader audience of NASCAR fans by tapping into Roush Fenway Racing's public relations and marketing services.

"We are excited to have Lumber Liquidators and Gillette sponsoring the No. 99 Ford Fusion and using the opportunity to promote their affiliation with the Boston Red Sox," said Jack Roush, owner of Roush Fenway Racing. "It is our intention to be New England's NASCAR team. We hope Red Sox fans watching the races in Loudon will support us with the same intensity as they do when watching the Red Sox."

With this agreement, Lumber Liquidators, the largest independent retailer of hardwood flooring in the country, is expanding it's involvement in NASCAR after entering the Craftsman Truck Series as a team sponsor in 2006. "This is a dream partnership. Lumber Liquidators has a long history with the Red Sox and Fenway Sports Group was a big part of why Lumber Liquidators entered NASCAR racing last year," said Tom Sullivan, Chairman and founder of Lumber Liquidators. "As a native Bostonian myself, I can't wait to see the No. 99 Lumber Liquidators/Red Sox Ford Fusion running up front on Sunday for all the great Red Sox fans in New England and around the nation."

"It's exciting to join with two of our partners, the Boston Red Sox and Roush Fenway Racing, to further leverage our NASCAR sponsorship when 'Gillette Young Gun,' Carl Edwards, debuts the car at Loudon," said Michelle Potorski, Associate Marketing Director, Gillette. "We look forward to working with the partners to bring these types of creative ideas to New England sports fans."

Edwards currently sits seventh in the overall NEXTEL Cup point standings with one win (Michigan), three top five and five top 10 finishes in 2007. In the Busch Series Edwards has dominated and continues to lead the point standings after 17 races while racking up four wins (Bristol, Nashville [2], Dover), 11 top five and 14 top 10 finishes. In five starts at NHIS in the No. 99 Ford, Edwards has completed all but one lap and has an average starting position of 20th and an average finishing position of 14th. Roush Fenway Racing has a combined nine wins at NHIS across all three of NASCAR's premier series and Edwards is looking to add to that total in the No. 99 Lumber Liquidators/Red Sox Ford this weekend.

To celebrate Roush Fenway Racing competing for the first time at NHIS under their new name, this weekend the Boston Red Sox will host Roush Fenway Racing Day at Fenway Park presented by Gillette on Friday, June 29 as the Red Sox take on the Texas Rangers. Festivities will include Roush Fenway Racing themed displays and exhibits throughout the ballpark as well as a special pre- game ceremony that will formally introduce Red Sox Nation to the drivers of Roush Fenway Racing. On Monday, July 2 fans are invited to visit the No. 99 Lumber Liquidators/Red Sox Ford Fusion at the Lumber Liquidators Braintree location located at 240 Wood Road. The show car will be on display between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. In addition, Mike Lowell of the Boston Red Sox will make a special appearance between 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 pm. You can also see the No. 99 Lumber Liquidators/Red Sox Ford Fusion paint scheme by logging on to http://www.lumberliquidators.com/ .

For more information about Roush Fenway Racing, visit http://www.roushfenway.com/ .

ABOUT LUMBER LIQUIDATORS

Lumber Liquidators, headquartered in Toano, Virginia, is the largest direct retailer of hardwood flooring in the country with more than 100 locations nationwide. Lumber Liquidators has an unsurpassed product selection that includes pre-finished, hand scraped and unfinished solid hardwoods starting at 99 cents per square foot, along with the full line of Bellawood Prefinished Hardwood Flooring. For the best deals anywhere on hardwood flooring visit http://www.lumberliquidators.com/ or call 1-800-FLOORING.

ABOUT PROCTER & GAMBLE

Three billion times a day, P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. The company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Gillette(R), Braun(R), Mach3(R), Pampers(R), Tide(R), Ariel(R), Always(R), Whisper(R), Pantene(R), Bounty(R), Dawn(R), Pringles(R), Folgers(R), Charmin(R), Downy(R), Lenor(R), Iams(R), Crest(R), Oral-B(R), Actonel(R), Duracell(R), Olay(R), Head & Shoulders(R), and Wella(R). The P&G community consists of over 135,000 employees working in over 80 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com/ for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G and its brands.

ABOUT ROUSH FENWAY RACING

Roush Fenway Racing is NASCAR's largest team operating 14 motorsports teams, five in NASCAR NEXTEL Cup with drivers Matt Kenseth, Jamie McMurray, Greg Biffle, Carl Edwards and David Ragan; five in the Busch Series with Kenseth, Biffle, Edwards, McMurray, Ragan, Todd Kluever, Michel Jourdain Jr. and Danny O'Quinn Jr.; and three in the Craftsman Truck Series with Edwards, Peter Shepherd, Travis Kvapil, Erik Darnell and T.J. Bell; and one in the ARCA/REMAX Series with Colin Braun and Darnell. For more information on any of the Roush Fenway Racing teams, log onto http://www.roushfenway.com/ . For sponsorship inquiries please contact Robin Johnson at 704-720-4645.

Source: Roush Fenway Racing

Web site: http://www.roushfenway.com/
http://www.pg.com/
http://www.lumberliquidators.com/

XM to Become Exclusive Satellite Radio Carrier of NHL

NEW YORK, TORONTO and WASHINGTON, June 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The National Hockey League and XM announced today that on July 1, XM becomes the exclusive satellite radio home of the NHL. )

XM broadcasts more than 1,100 NHL games per season to hockey fans across the U.S. and Canada. XM also offers the first and only 24-hour nationwide hockey radio channel, Home Ice -- featuring news, commentary, interviews and play-by-play analysis from hockey experts such as Phil Esposito, Bill Clement, Denis Potvin and Gary Green.

XM's first day as the exclusive satellite radio home of the NHL falls on the same day as Free Agency Day, the annual start of the free-agency period for NHL players. Home Ice will provide round-the-clock coverage of the latest signings and negotiations.

"We are proud and excited about our exclusive partnership with the NHL," said Eric Logan, Executive Vice President, Programming for XM Satellite Radio. "Being able to provide our fans with full access to games, analysis, and overall coverage truly establishes XM as the premier satellite radio destination for hockey fans."

The 2007-08 NHL season will mark XM's third season of NHL coverage and its first season as the exclusive satellite radio provider of the League. XM and the NHL have a long-term broadcast partnership, through 2015. As the exclusive satellite radio partner of the NHL, XM is officially rebranding the Home Ice channel to NHL Home Ice.

"This is a great opportunity for the NHL to reach hockey fans by using this exciting outlet," said John Collins, Senior Executive Vice President, Business and Media, NHL. "Through this partnership, we can take advantage of XM's extensive network coverage to give fans across North America the ability to follow their favorite team and players."

Through its unparalleled coverage, XM provides hockey fans exclusive access to the action, from the first drop of the puck to the hoisting of the Stanley Cup. XM's year-round carriage of hockey programming includes special events such as the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the NHL All-Star Game and the NHL Awards.

"We are excited with this new partnership, and as the only satellite radio provider to air NHL games, XM will continue to be the premier destination for hockey fans across Canada," said John Bitove, Chairman and CEO of XM Canada. "Not only do we cover the games, but we also deliver up-to-the-second highlights and analysis. No matter where you live, you can catch your favourite team face-off against your rival -- I know I'll never miss a Battle of Alberta or a Leafs-Habs game again!"

About the NHL

The National Hockey League, founded in 1917, is the second-oldest of the four major professional team sports leagues in North America. Today, the NHL consists of 30 Member Clubs, each reflecting the League's international makeup, with players from more than 20 countries represented on team rosters. According to a Simmons Market Research study, NHL fans are younger, more educated, more affluent, and access content through digital means more than any other sport. The NHL entertains more than 100 million fans each season in- arena and through its partners in national television (VERSUS, NBC, TSN, CBC, RDS, RIS, NASN, NHL Network and HDNet) and radio (Westwood One and XM Radio). Through the NHL Foundation, the League's charitable arm, the NHL raises money and awareness for Hockey Fights Cancer, Hockey's All-Star Kids and NHL Diversity, and supports the charitable efforts of all NHL players. For more information on the NHL, log on to NHL.com.

About XM

XM (NASDAQ:XMSR) is America's number one satellite radio company with more than 8 million subscribers. Broadcasting live daily from studios in Washington, DC, New York City, Chicago, the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Toronto and Montreal, XM's 2007 lineup includes more than 170 digital channels of choice from coast to coast: commercial-free music, premier sports, news, talk radio, comedy, children's and entertainment programming; and the most advanced traffic and weather information.

XM, the leader in satellite-delivered entertainment and data services for the automobile market through partnerships with General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Porsche, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota is available in 140 different vehicle models for 2007. XM's industry-leading products are available at consumer electronics retailers nationwide. For more information about XM hardware, programming and partnerships, please visit http://www.xmradio.com/.

About Canadian Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.

Canadian Satellite Radio Holdings Inc. (TSX: XSR) operates as XM Canada(TM) through its subsidiary, Canadian Satellite Radio Inc. XM is Canada's premium digital audio entertainment and information company with the best satellite coverage in the country and offering a unique lineup of premier Canadian and international content.

With 120 channels, XM Canada offers listeners the most channels of unique and exclusive programming including the most NHL(R) games, PGA TOUR(TM) and Major League Baseball(TM) coverage, the deepest play list, and news, talk, sports, entertainment and children's programming. XM will become the exclusive provider of NHL games on satellite radio starting with the 2007-08 season. Acura, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, General Motors, GMC, Harley Davidson, Honda, Hummer, Hyundai, Infiniti, Lexus, Nissan, Pontiac, Toyota, Saab, Saturn, Suzuki and Subaru will offer XM radios in more than 115 different models of vehicles for model year 2007.

XM has an exclusive Canadian license from U.S.-based XM Satellite Radio Inc., the leading satellite radio provider in the U.S. with more than 8 million subscribers. XM is offered on TELUS Mobile Radio(TM) and on Rogers Communications wireless, cable and Internet platforms. XM Canada is the exclusive music channel provider on Air Canada's flights and pre-installed radios are available in select Avis Budget Group rental vehicles. A live stream of selected XM Canada channels is available via a three-day complimentary trial of XM Radio Online at http://listen.xmradio.ca/. To subscribe to XM Canada online or for more information about XM Canada's programming lineup and radio choice, visit www.xmradio.ca.

To find out more about Canadian Satellite Radio Inc. (TSX: XSR), visit our website at www.cdnsatrad.com.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements in this press release include demand for XM Satellite Radio's service, the Company's dependence on technology and third party vendors, its potential need for additional financing, as well as other risks described in XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.'s Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on 3-7-07. Copies of the filing are available upon request from XM Radio's Investor Relations Department. Programming is subject to change.

Source: XM

Web site: http://www.xmradio.com/

Hi everyone, AutoMatters #238 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net 2007 Column Archives. Its direct link is:

http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0238.htm

Entitled "Championship Off Road Racing" (CORR): Chula Vista, CA - June 2007," this column is about a great motorsports weekend of off road racing at a brand new, specially built facility in San Diego County. The action (and flying bodywork) never let up.

This double-length AutoMatters column includes 132 images. Please allow a little extra time for your cable modem to download them onto your computer or you'll see a bunch of blank little boxes where the photos should be (MAC USERS: sorry but you may not be able to see some of the photos, due to some sort of MAC incompatibility thing). I tried viewing in on two different PCs (Windows XP with Explorer, using a Time Warner Cable high speed internet connection) and every picture displayed properly within less than two minutes.

Here are a few of the photos from this AutoMatters column, to give you an idea of what you will see when you follow the link above:

The brand new Chula Vista International Raceway at the Quarry

Since this is a double-length AutoMatters column, expect the next one in about two weeks.

Jan

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For new visitors to AutoMatters online, here is some more information that you might find useful:

(IMPORTANT NOTE: People have asked me how they can see previous AutoMatters columns in the Column Archives if they follow the above link directly to the current column, thus bypassing the website's home page. It's easy. Just scroll back up to the top of the page and then click the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button. Another way would be to click on www.AutoMatters.net which is in the last paragraph of every column. Jan)

As always, I hope you enjoy reading AutoMatters as much as I enjoy creating it.

Jan

Mr. Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer
automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services

In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net

AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition

San Diego, CA

jwagner2@san.rr.com

AutoMatters@gmail.com

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