Tony Stewart said it best, "What is DEI without Jr.? A museum." Well, it seems, 2008 will be the grand opening. (Although the gift shop has been open for years.) Personally, I don't see how Theresa could have given in to Jr. without appearing to be a desperate idiot. Giving up controlling interest in a company that she, and Taylor, should hold majority in was a move that should have been avoided. To me, a three way split may have worked, but it's a mute point now. Don't put up the velvet ropes just yet, though. Lot's of things at DEI have been changing, and Jr.'s exit may speed a few of those up, but it doesn't change much more.

For Jr., this is when his life becomes even more of a circus. (As if it wasn't chaotic enough.) The rumors will fly, including those of offers that may or may not even be on the table. Yes, for Jr., these will be the best of times (he'll be everywhere) and the worst of times (everyone will be everywhere he is). Its well worth the headache (just pop a B.C. or Goody, check sponsors first) because the payoff will continue far into the future.

Last season I made a comment that pretty much summed up where Jr. was headed. I simply made the statement,"Frankly, I'm getting bored with him." It hit me as I said it, it was true. He was so/so for sooo long that it was getting sooooo old. This is the shake up Jr. needed to re-energize, not only himself, but his fans as well.

Dale Sr. didn't win championships with his company, maybe the same is Jr.'s destiny. When the true deal is done, history will be made. (Personally, I'd like to see a red Bud #3 goin' round the track.) There are many ways this could go, and believe me, his decision may not please everyone, but it will be for a reason. He has good people, namely Kelly, this decision will not be made in haste.

Jr. fans, this is your time, enjoy it! To Jr., you didn't give up, or give in. Make it fun again. Remember when it was fun? It shouldn't be a job, it should be a passion. Take back the passion and make it fun again. A toast to Jr., 32's a good year, full-bodied, yet amusing.

P.S. Think about this- When Jr. walks out those doors, how many will follow? Will Mickey return to save the day? (Okay, that one was just wrong; I think I'm already on probation because of the "robot", so I guess I'll have to watch the race with Mickey from the coach.)

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