NASCAR driver Michael Waltrip takes a moment with Jim McKay at the McKay/NAPA kickoff and a customer appreciation show, Tuesday evening, Feb. 24 at the Knights of Columbus Crystal Ballroom.

By Bill Napper
Excitement was in the air as nearly 1,000 people waited to meet NASCAR driver Michael Waltrip at a McKay/NAPA kickoff and a customer appreciation show, Tuesday evening, Feb. 24 at the Knights of Columbus Crystal Ballroom here.
Waltrip immediately signed hundreds of autographs then took to the stage where he fielded questions from his fans - young and old alike.
A catered meal fed about 800 people, many of whom were waiting for the doors to open at 5:30 p.m.
In addition to Waltrip’s appearance, NAPA auto parts had representatives on hand with displays. Local mechanics and shop owners were busy asking questions and getting technicians’ advice on today’s advanced vehicles. Automobiles are more complex than ever. Parts makers and mechanics must work together to repair the newer cars, trucks and farm equipment.

Hello Photo by Bill Napper NASCAR driver Michael Waltrip talks to fans about the experience of being a NASCAR driver and then answers questions.

Souvenir - Photo by Bill Napper Valerie Buffington gets a hat signed by Michael Waltrip Tuesday evening. Aljets team - Photo by Bill Napper The Aljets family were on hand to meet Waltrip as well as check out the NAPA products that were on display.