We are again pleased to have such a wonderful variety of food donations for this event. These establishments donate their food, time and effort and we couldn't do this without their fabulous support. We're hoping to add a few more surprises in the coming weeks.

The auctions have been popular, and as always, the committee is working hard to come up with more unique and interesting items to be auctioned off.

We've been delighted at the outcomes of these events. We begin planning earlier and earlier each year because we're looking forward to another great night. We don't have a particular target goal yet. Over 1,500 invitations have been sent out already. To those of you who have contributed in the past, we thank you and hope you will continue by making a donation this year.

My hope is that people remember to donate to Variety, and to realize that at any given time, something can happen in your own family and suddenly you might need them.

People don't have to donate money, ... Money would be fine, but it also could be food or clothes or anything else that would help the people there. We just want to get the word out and do as much as we can.

We're very pleased that DirecTV recognizes the importance of sponsoring a Nextel Cup event. They chose Martinsville to make their entry into Nextel Cup sponsorship. It gives us a national sponsor. Everybody in the country, worldwide for that matter, knows DirecTV.