As of late, there have been comparisons between Theresa Earnhardt and Howard Hughes. I wonder why her absence at the track is such a big deal, owners don't always attend races. I don't think the fans even care if she's there of not. On the other hand, if Jr. missed a race there'd be a riot. As most owners realize, being on hand at hte race can boost confidence in the team as well as among sponsors, but isn't a requirement. I do question her lack of on hands involvement in DEI as a company. Out of fairness to Theresa, she did lose her husband at the track. Maybe it's just too hard for her, maybe DEI reminds her too much. If this is the case, then she needs to step aside and allow someone else to be the leader, but who? The obvious would be Jr., but, with his own commitments, I wonder if he would be any more hands on than Theresa.

Everyone seems to have an opinion when it comes to this situation, but I believe Larry Mac said it best (NASCAR Preseason Thunder on Speed 1/11/2007) when he commented on Theresa's right to question Jr.'s dedication and focus. After pointing out Theresa's absence, both on and off the track, he noted, "....if you live in a glass house, don't throw stones." What frightens me is that these little cracks in the glass house that is DEI will spread until, like an old windshield it is impossible to fix.