DAN FITZGERALD RACING, Las Vegas, NV.
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
12-03-06
WANNA RIDE?
For those interested in buying and taking a 3-lap high speed ride at Petty with me, I will be working three days in the month of December.    Sunday December 10, Sunday December 17, and Saturday December 30.   Finish off 2006 in high speed fashion!!   It'll be fun. 
 
GOOD NEWS, SUPPORT CONTINUES!
In recent weeks I have received great news about sponsors for 2007.   BMS, Gill Racing Wheels, Dick & Joyce Eisele, Kim Reason, and O'Hanley's 9-in rear ends have all agreed to be on board for 2007.    Thanks for your support of Dan Fitzgerald Racing!!   Updates on other sponsors will be forthcoming.  
 
GIMP TV
At the Duel in the Desert I was interviewed by GIMP tv which is an internet based show that produces the show "Filthy Few" about IMCA modified / dirt track racing.   The host of the show interviewed me at the Duel and we followed with a few sound clips of me saying, "Hi I'm Dan Fitzgerald driver of the #87N modified from Las Vegas, NV. and you are watching GIMP tv."    You can check out some video of events at the Duel in the Desert as well as episodes of the "Filthy Few" on their web site at http://www.gimp.tv .    Enjoy!
 
2nd ISN'T SO BAD....
Being the National runner-up was at first a disappointment, however that has since passed.   As the 2006 contingency awards start rolling in, we can't help but be grateful.   A new Bert transmission, new MSD ignition system, new set of scales, new Holley carburetor, not to mention many certificates at places like Bilstein, JAZ, Smileys, etc, etc.   It's awesome.   Preparing for 2007 will be easier because of it.   
 
2007 RACE SCHEDULE
Plans for the 2007 race season have yet to begin.   Schedules are slow in coming out and many rumors surround the local tracks here.   So with not knowing the sanctions the cars might be running under or whether the modifieds will even be at certain tracks, I have yet to make any plans.   I have thrown around ideas of attending the Dakota Modified Tour in North Dakota & Canada this summer with a possible stop at Marshalltown and/or Boone Speedway for a local Friday/Saturday night show.   I have also been requested at Perris Auto Speedway for an event or two and might make the haul over the CA again for that.   Once plans are made, the dates will be placed on the web site.   Check back!
 
11-15-06
BANQUET BOUND ONCE AGAIN!
I asked and I received.   I can't tell you how many people weighed in their thoughts about whether or not I should attend the National awards banquet in Des Moines, IA next weekend.   In the end one thing got the best of me.   I wanted to show that I was proud of what we had accomplished this season, regardless of what the National Championship outcome was.   We did incredible and I wanted to show my fans, sponsors, friends, and family that I was happy with what we did this year.   So walking up there to accept the accolades of the season is the least I can do for everyone.    We'll see you there!!   It should be fun. 
 
I THOUGHT THAT FITZGERALD GUY......
As I sat in the stands at Canyon Raceway on Friday night watching the qualifying feature I was able to hear the people next to me talking about "that Fitzgerald guy."   It was pretty entertaining to say the least.   Some was good, some wasn't too flattering, and overall about 25% of it was true.   But it's interesting to hear what people honestly think about you.   Although at times I had a hard time not laughing.   Kind of like being a fly on the wall.  
 
SEND ME THE 87's
I'm on the look out for 87's.   Whether it's in the price of gas, on the license plate in front of you or painted on your face.   Send in photos of places you find 87's.   Here's one you may have seen around town here in Vegas.....Carly's VW Bug has customized plates, 87N FAN.   

 
11-02-06
I OWE, I OWE, SO OFF TO WORK I GO!

During the brief off time of racing I've been quite busy.  Squeezing in all the hours I can at Petty trying to get a few payments ahead on the new truck that will be coming from Bosch Motors in Winnemucca, NV. really soon.  My old truck finally bit the dust so I've had to go back to the world of making a truck payment.  

On Wednesday night I was able to give friend and neighbor Kayla her first ride in a Petty car.   We took the 29 Reese's sponsored, Kevin Harvick ride for a spin around the 1.5 mile speedway.  

My next days at Petty are November 15 & 19.   Come out and take a ride on the 19th!!

BEST WISHES!!
Engine builder and family friend Jerry Buesig Sr has aquired Thunder Valley Speedway in Mosca, Colorado.   He will be owner / promotor of the facility in 2007.   We all wish Jerry the best of luck with his new endeavor.   Maybe we can catch a race or two there during the season.   Good luck Jerry, you'll do just great!!
 
WHILE WAITING FOR THE NEW TRUCK.....

While waiting for my new truck from the Bosch Motors dealership in Winnemucca, NV. the Bosch Motors team was nice enough to lend us their tow rig to continue racing around the area.   As if they weren't already more than generous enough to loan it to us for our trip to Boone!! 

Here is a photo of the rig in the pits at Pahrump Valley Speedway for our most recent race which turned into a test session!  

Thank you Bosch Motors & Lee Bosch!

 
AND THERE'S MORE......

After learning that I drove my truck back and forth to work as a daily driver, Atlas Towing & Recovery owner Brian had this car towed to Summit Raceway for the final event of the season.   It's MINE!!  He handed over the title and keys and said "Happy Birthday".  

No one has ever just given me a car before......well I guess now they have.   It's easy on gas, in great shape, and has got me everywhere I have needed to go.  

Thanks Brian!

 
BUSY BUSY BUSIER!
My schedule these last few days has been a hectic one for sure.   Last week I worked on Monday at school, school and bowling on our bowling league on Tuesday night, school Wednesday and Thursday.   On my Friday (Halloween is Nevada Day and a Holiday here) I spent the morning working at home, from 2:00 to 4:00 at LVMS watching the NHRA qualifying, and from 4:00 to 11:00pm I was at Petty as one of 10 drivers giving rides to 500 AC Delco employees.   Saturday I was back to Petty at 7:00am and worked until around 6:00.   Grabbed a bite to eat and headed out to the World of Outlaws for an evening of racing.    Returned home around 1am and was back up and on my way to the drags at 9:00am on Sunday morning.   Back to work on Monday.   Left work Tuesday at 2:45 and was in the car at Petty by 3:05.   Worked until 10:30 on Tuesday night and was back to work at 6:45am on Wednesday.   Again left work at 2:45 and was back in a Petty car by 3:05.   Spent the evening at Petty and arrived home at 11:30 last night.   Back to work again today and sneaked in a 30 minute nap this evening before heading out to run a few errands.   WHEW!!   Friday we are going to check out some more drags from 7:00 to 9:00 before heading home.   Saturday we head up to Elko for the banquet.   Can't wait to race again so I can slow down! :) 
 
WHAT A DRAG!
Nappin! Grand entrance Long way down What a crowd! The other Strip
Brittany Force Hillary Will TJ Jr Tommy Johnson! Burnin' out!
 
NEW SKIN ON THE WAY!
Our preparations for the 2007 race season have already gotten underway as the new bodies have been ordered and will be delivered at the Duel in the Desert event at LVMS mid-month.   A new color will adorn both modifieds for the '07 season.   Once the new look is finalized and ready to go it will be placed on the site for everyone to see.   Until then we'll let you wonder what color I went with for 2007.    Got a guess?  What color will the new body be??  Hmmm......email dfr87n@yahoo.com if you think you know!
 
BRING NO CLOTHES!
For this weekend's banquet in Elko I've made one rule in regards to clothing.   No one can bring their outfit with them.  Instead we're going to have a group outing to buy something while in Elko to wear to the banquet.   The girls aren't too sure about it, but I'm sure Wal-mart will have something pretty for them!!  HAHAHA!!    The only thing we are allowed to bring is a belt, socks, and shoes.   All other items must be purchased the day of the banquet.   It should be fun and we'll contribute a bit to the local economy in the meantime.    
 
SHREK??  YOU LOOK EERILY FAMILIAR!!
Earlier this summer while Kim was visiting we headed out to the Circus Circus hotel and went wandering through all the attractions there.   We stopped by and had our faces super-imposed into a Shrek photo.   The result was so hilarious I had to buy it.   We laughed for hours and my mom practically busts a gut every time the photo catches her eye!   Click on the photo and see if Shrek looks a little familiar!!  
 
IPOD UPDATE!
The Ipod holds 7500 songs and I'm up to 379 songs already.   WOO HOO!     http://www.apple.com/itunes and then store!   Christmas is right around the corner.....hint, hint......haha!! 
 
10-02-06
THANKS "GRAMMY"

Following the feature win and trophy presentation at Summit Raceway on Saturday night the flagman come onto the track and presented me with a gift bag.   Another gift?  WOW!

This one was from "Grammy" and it's a really cool way to hold pens and pencils and went straight to school with me.  The one on the left has the American Flag displayed proudly while the penguins salute it as if listening to the Star Spangled Banner.

The one on the right has an 87 painted on it and displays similar penguins in various poses.

Also tucked into the gift bag was a nice congrats card signed by Reylene, Ashley, and the family of #13, Tim Mazour.     Thanks!!

 
PUTTING THE "GOLD" IN GOLD RUSH!

My 2nd Gold Rush trophy contains a similar "splatter" of gold on it as the first one four years ago.   This came with a little baggie attached to the back of the trophy displaying the value of the splash.   Mine says $118.30. 

Very cool of the local mine to donate the splatters to add some "gold" to the Gold Rush.

For more photos of the trophy, check out the Gold Rush Gallery. 

 
MORE BOONE!

While at Supernationals I was finally able to meet up with Casey and Dakota (pictured).   We've been corresponding via email for the last couple of years and I was able to share a photo with Dakota while he wasn't doing so well and was in the hospital.  

He sent the photo and has been a "Dan Fan" ever since. 

Shortly after meeting Dakota for the first time in Boone a brand new IMCA tire showed up in my trailer from guess who?   Dakota.  
 

How great is that??!   Thanks Dakota for the tire and for being such an avid fan.   Great meeting you in Boone as well as your father.   You have racing in your blood.  :)

 
APPRECIATION!

On Saturday morning I received notice that there was a package waiting for me in the hotel lobby.  Upon aquiring the package I was taken back.  It was a package that weighed a LOT and was loaded with things.   The balloons said, "thanks so much" and "you're appreciated".   

The card and contents of the basket were from Angie, Sarah, and J'nelle.   These are the ladies who work in the pit tower at Battle Mountain doing line ups, scoring, payouts and putting up with all the female dogging and moaning from drivers.   I have helped them when needed this year with line-ups, etc, but have not done nearly the amount of work they have done for us racers this season.  All of them volunteer their time and the races wouldn't go on without those volunteers.   So I'd say you three ladies are appreciated more!   But thanks for the basket, it's GREAT!!   This bachelor can live off it for months.   :)  

 
OUCH!

Racing is a dangerous sport, but at times racing on the dirt can be a little bit hazardous.   I've been hit in the face shield with rocks, clumps of mud, and have even had a piece of mud hit the ignition switch and shut off the car.  

Two weeks ago in Elko I had my first real injury while racing.   Going down the front stretch on the tacky 1/4 mile at full speed a huge chunk of something came through the front of the car and slammed into my shoulder.   The resulting impact got my attention and numbed my right arm for a few laps.   Lucky for me I drive with one hand most of the time but unlucky for me left hand turns tend to put a lot of pressure on the right side of your body.  

I sucked up the pain and finished the race.   However the resulting mark lasted from September 1 and still can be seen today.   The photo is of my shoulder from 5 days later, just before it turned purple and yellow.  

 
Supernationals "What's up?"
THANK YOU!
Thank you to my dad, Blake, Rob Creamer and Dan Williams for their hard work and determination during the Supernationals.   They all worked their tails off on the car and made several lengthy repairs during the week to keep me going.   Not to mention dad, Rob, and Dan drove all the way back there and all the way home.   I really appreciate your efforts guys.   Thank you!
 
WEARING ME OUT!
Sunday afternoon I found out that the races in Battle Mountain are not Saturday / Sunday as I originally thought.   Instead they are Friday / Saturday.   As if I haven't asked for enough "leeway" when it comes to work, I had to ask for another "early out".    I got it, but not with a smile.   OUCH!   Might have to stay closer to home, or move home closer to the racing.  
 
UNDER PRESSURE
I was under a lot of self-induced pressure during Supernationals.   It was all self-induced, but I felt that I was under the microscope heading into the event.   National point leader and #1 in All-Star voting, not to mention the entire northern part of Nevada was instrumental in financing my trip.   I felt if I didn't win, I was worthless. 

However while strapping into the car for the All-Star race I was listening to the other drivers and their crews nearby as my crew basically left me to myself to strap in.   They were excited, happy, and enjoying the moment.   A driver nearby said, "I just hope I don't finish last."   I thought to myself, "last in this thing is so much better than watching from the sidelines."   From then on I relaxed, took in the moment for what it was and had a great time driving the car.   

 
BE AGGRESSIVE!  B-E AGGRESSIVE!
Culture shock, culture shock!  

Mid-west racing is far from the dry, dusty, tip-toe tracks around these parts.   Around here we don't lean on one another, can't drive it in until you see your savior, and certainly don't run 4 and 5 wide.   Back there you HAVE TO! 

While it took me a few races to catch on, I started to hold my own as the week went on.   Starting with my race of champions and continuing on through the last chance heat on Saturday.  

Given a couple of weeks back there, I might not be winning, but I'd be competitive.   Who knows, got plans next summer?

 
INTIMIDATING!
Sometimes just driving onto a track gives you that "big" feeling, but driving onto the Boone Speedway during Supernationals is VERY BIG!  The photo at the left is just of the fans entering turn 3.   The catwalk goes from turn 1 to turn 3, and there are grandstands, very full grandstands, aligning the front stretch.   Seeing those droves of people lining the stands prior to the All-Star event really made me realize just how much we've accomplished.   It was a great feeling.....although great had a touch of queasiness.   haha!
 
THE FAMOUS SLIDER RIDES BY!
The world famous Slider from Texas stopped by to say hello and I couldn't have been happier.   Never have had the chance to sit down and chat before, but have sent an email here and there.   Slider's mom was with him and it was great to meet her as well.

Slider was incredibly excited to talk about his new Southern Sportmod that he driven to great  finishes already this season.   He is currently trying to let other, more experienced, racers into his ride to help him get things sorted out.  

For more on his racing efforts, check out http://www.sliderracing.com

 
DAN CAN or DAN-A-JOHN?
"Boone Fan" stopped by to meet me and came bearing gifts.   After reading my hotel run-ins with the restrooms she came to my rescue with what I'm now referring to as the "Dan Can".   It's a hospital urinal that she decorated up with my name, car number, etc. 

I thought it was a great idea and suggested we market it as a urinal for the catwalk.   Put it on your belt and you will never have to come off the catwalk to go.  

Maybe next year it won't be walking tacos that are the talk of the pits at Supernationals! 

 
BEADY EYED, BEADED PAUL!
Paul Vetter spoke in his IMCA newsletter column that his "beads" were taken away from him prior to this year's Supernationals.   So one the way to the track on Friday afternoon we spotted a Mardi Gras beads stand just across the road from the race track.   A quick stop by netted us some beads to spring on Paul.   In the photo he's also sporting some crazy glasses that my dad brought for him.   Kind of fun!   We kept trying to get Vickie up on the catwalk to "earn" the beads, but she wouldn't oblige.   Darn it!   

Paul is sporting the beads with cars (pretty heavy) on them.  He also got some with cans of beer and two with checkered flags on them.   Good times!

 
08-28-06
TO RACE OR NOT TO RACE!
Still working out the details on our post northern Nevada season.   While the MVR and LVMS races are set in stone, the rest are up for grabs.   I'd like to do the Harvest Festival in Pahrump but I'd also like to try the event in Price, Utah.   Something new.   However the 70 mile drive does seem nice.   Look for updates to the schedule page soon. 
 
A FIRST, OF SORTS!
While I've won track titles before, I've never won one in northern Nevada.   That changed on Friday as I clinched the Winnemucca Regional Raceway title with a win in the final event of the 2006 race season.   I had an amazing run at that track this season.   The dry and slick surface there suited me really well as I prefer the slow and tactical tracks.   WRR will always be a special track to our team as it's there that we won our 100th career sanctioned feature event in June.  Thanks to the racers, fans, and officials for a great season at WRR!  
 
BACK TO THE GRIND!
School starts here on Wednesday, although I've been back to work since last Wednesday (8/23).   It will add a little bit of crunch to the week as getting home on Sunday afternoon coupled with work, washing the car, prepping it, etc will make it hectic.   But hey, it was fun while it lasted.   Back to teaching the lovelies Algebra in room 824.  Wish me luck, or them.  haha
 
08-03-06
NOT THE ONLY ONE!
While I was invited to compete in the All-Star Invitational at the Super Nationals, I'm not the only All-Star.   My fans, friends, and family are as well.   Their dedication to voting every single day shows just how great and powerful their voice can be as they pushed me right to the top of the list of 55 drivers.   Their persistence is the only reason I was able to push other National notables out of the top spot.   It's neat that a team like ours has been able to nab the top spot in the National vote.   Thanks so much to every single one of you that voted for us.  We all appreciate it.   
 
TOO LONG!
It's been way too long since I've visited victory lane at Summit Raceway.   We're working on almost two months of drought at the 1/4 mile oval and it's not sitting well with me.   Granted two of the three most recent losses were because I wasn't on the track surface or was laps down, but still.   Something's gotta give.   With the track not maintaining it's normal dry-slick surface these days, I've been struggling with the set up.   This weekend I'll either be really fast or really not as I try a new set up for Summit Raceway.   If it stays heavy and fast I no choice but to try something else.   Of course I would love to see it slick over from top to bottom.   No complaints here if it did that.   hehehe
 
DUCKS IN A ROW!
I have permission from school to use my personal days which will allow me to head to the IMCA Supernationals in Boone, IA.   I approached the school explaining the situation of the event, the All-Star race, etc and I have permission to go.   Although last year was a year to be forgotten as we struggled with bad luck only finishing 1 of our multiple races during the week, we all look forward to a better showing this season. 
 
TALLADEGA NIGHTS
As usual, it pays to know people in high.......and some low places!  haha   Carly has scored tickets to the pre-screening of Talladega Nights, the new NASCAR movie featuring Will Ferrell.   The previews and trailers for the movie have been hilarious so I can only hope they left some funny stuff for the rest of the movie.   Should be a great time.  
 
07/23/06
THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
I can't express enough thanks to everyone who has ponied up support for our trip to the IMCA Supernationals.   Many fans have given us bills with the 87 in the serial number, others have offered up cash without 87's as they "don't have time to look for stuff like that."   It's great to have the outpouring of support.   Not only have people been voting like crazy, but they have been there to help get us there as well.   Thanks:   Atlas Towing & Recovery, Uncle Vic & Aunt Mary, Bill & Dianna's 7-11, the Sweet/Creamer families, Breanna, Michael, Carly, Kim, Mom & Dad, and the countless others who have randomly added in their support.    We all appreciate it greatly.   Thanks!!
 
ONCE AGAIN......
I have NOT abandoned my fans at Mohave Valley Raceway and I have NOT quit racing at MVR because of the claim.   This rumor keeps coming around and it's getting old.   If I stopped racing MVR after being claimed I would have quit racing there my 2nd race there.    In 1997 I was claimed my 2nd night out and still went on to claim the season championship.   I'm not letting a claim dictate what I do, never have, never will.    Look for us to attend the MVR Nationals in October.  
 
BADDA BING, BADDA BANG, BADDA BENT!!
The crash that marred the completion of the race at Battle Mountain last Saturday took its toll on the race car.  Original glances over the car missed quite a bit.   The rear end housing was bent badly, the right side spring mount was crushed and the pan hard bar mount was bent as well.   Out came the rear suspension and to the rescue came Chuck Wahl.   He got us fixed up and back on the road by Friday morning for the race in Winnemucca.   Thanks Chuck!
 
07/04/06
WELCOME ABOARD ATLAS TOWING & RECOVERY!

While working on the car in the pits on Saturday Atlas Towing & Recovery approached me about whether we could use some sponsorship for our car.   Heck yes we could!  

Atlas Towing & Recovery will add some much needed support in the Battle Mountain area for our team.   We already mounted up a new tire thanks to them and their offers of assistance will help us greatly while racing in northern Nevada this season.

Thanks for the support and welcome aboard.   We appreciate it!

 
A BUNCH OF BMS!!
Congrats to fellow BMS'er Steve Evenson for his feature win at Winnemucca Regional Raceway on Friday, June 30th.   Steve used the outside groove to race by me and then made the inside stick to pass for the lead.   It was his first feature win in his new BMS.   Way to go!   BMS cars were 1-2-3 in Winnemucca on Friday, 1st on Saturday, and 2-3 on Sunday.   Keep up the great work!
 
GOOD LUCK RANDY!
Good luck to Randy Artz and his team as they travel this week to compete in the IMCA Dakota Series in North Dakota and Canada.   Hopefully Randy can keep it up front and make some noise in the final series standings.   The cool thing is that the points he earns will be counted in his Western Region total.    Race hard, be safe and have fun!    Go get 'em! 
 
IT'S ALL ABOUT THE YOUNGSTERS!
After racing in northern Nevada on and off for a couple of seasons, this is my first and probably only full season up there.   Over the years I've met so many great people at the races up there, but this season the youngsters seem to have made the greatest impression on me.   They are such great kids, genuinely nice, and really excited about their racing.   Whether it's the son of Chad Farstveet, the niece of Rodney Sweet, or the many other kids who stop by on a regular basis, it's always great to see them and talk to them.   In fact, I'm going to try and get together a gallery of them.   The first photos that go up are of Anthony whose dad works on Randy Artz's crew while he works on getting his own Pro-Stock up and running.   Anthony is always there to support me and takes my losses harder than I do.   He was nice enough to share some photos with me via email (via his dad) and I thought it would be cool to put them on the site.    YOUNG FANS GALLERY
 
....MORE YOUNGSTERS!
Many thanks to young race fans Bre and Michael for their contribution to Dan's Diesel Dinero.   Mom and Dad Jody and Kim presented me with $26, a 20, a 5 and a 1 all with 87's in the serial number that Bre and Michael had found and sent my way.   I really didn't want to take their money, but they insisted it was what they wanted to do.   They also vote for me in the All-Star race every day.    Michael starts high school this year while Bre is either starting middle school or pretty darn close.   Thanks you too, I appreciate it. 
 
REST IN PEACE, GARY JACOB!
The western racing community lost another great member on Monday as writer Gary Jacob passed away.   Gary covered countless events every year and his dedication to acknowledging local racer's accomplishments goes unmatched.   He had regular sections on racingwest.com and on latemodelracer.com dedicated stictly to his coverage of western events.   I personally thank Gary for covering my own events and getting my own name and results out there time and time again.   Even if he wasn't at the track, he was trying to get any information to put together some sort of story.    Gary will be greatly missed as will his coverage of racing in the western U.S.    Rest in peace Gary.   Read about Gary on Racingwest.com
 
06/27/06
DAN'S DIESEL DINERO!
With the IMCA Supernationals looming at the end of the summer, we've started planning for it now.   The price of gas seems to be settling in around $3.00 per gallon.   At 12 miles per gallon with the truck and trailer and the round trip of 2,922 miles we will need some gas money.  

So we've started saving Dan's Diesel Dinero.   Here's how the savings plan works.   Each time we get a bill with an 87 in succession within the serial number, it gets put into the savings account.   So far we have $71.    Hopefully we will be able to put some money together to help with the crunch of the trip.

If you'd like to help out by sending in a bill or two, let us know at dfr87n@yahoo.com .    Thanks!!

 
COOL QUILT

Recently my mom brought home something she had been working on for quite some time.   It's a quilt that covers most of my racing experiences in a unique way.   She took some old t-shirts and had them made into a quilt for my house.   Of the shirts in the quilt, one is the first race shirt I had when I was sand dragging, others are from the now defunct Canyon Winter Series, and some old Dan Fitzgerald shirts are mixed in.    Click for a larger view.         Thanks Mom!!  
 
06/23/06
COOLER MONTHS BEING SCHEDULED
Our race schedule for the "cooler" months is coming together.   While it will become more set as the season winds down, I have put a few dates on there that I'm interested in running.   Most of the racing depends on the shape of the team, the car, and myself once the hot summer months have passed.   There are a lot of great shows in October and November, but I'm also back to work so I'll have to pick and choose wisely.  
 
BOONE PLANS TENTATIVE
While voting for the IMCA All-Star race continues for the next month, our plans for Boone are in the works.   In the coming days look for updates on our plans to trek across the country to compete against IMCA's finest. 
 
SOME PHOTOS FROM OUR TRIPS TO ELKO & BATTLE MOUNTAIN
PHOTO GALLERY 1

PHOTO GALLERY 2

Photos courtesy Carly Perry!   Thanks Carly. 

 
CURTAINS ALMOST SAVE THE DAY
Prior to racing last Saturday at Battle Mountain Raceway panic set in as the regular flagman was gone and the track's flags could not be found.   Well most of them could be accounted for, except for the white and the checkered.   They were looking for suggestions when we remembered that we had checkered curtains covering the window in the trailer.   Down they came and we handed them to officials just as the needed flags were found in some other area of the track.   WHEW!
 
NEW SKIN FINISHED

No more need for tetanus shots before working on the car as the new body has been fitted, lettered, and is looking sharp.   The new BMS design sail panels make the car look more "outlaw" than normal.  

It's always nice to have nice new skin on the car and I'm smart enough to know you get as many photos as you can before it hits the track.   It's something about new skin that has a certain magnetism to it. 

The scheme is the same, although I must have done something different this time as the orange is a little bit more than it was previously.  

NEW SKIN PHOTOS

 
06/15/06
VINYL DONE, BODY NOT
The vinyl for the new body on the blue car is ready to go.   While we won't have the new body on this week, it should be on soon.   The old one is getting bad enough that we may need a tetanus shot before working on the car.   The scheme will be exactly the same, just not as wrinkled.  
 
GET WELL SOON, JEFF ANDERSON
Modified racer Jeff Anderson of Atlantic, Iowa was injured at work after a 14 foot fall.   His injuries while not life threatening, are serious.   I've already sent along a greeting to him at the hospital and you can as well.   Go to http://www.ihsdesmoines.org/ then click on send a greeting at the top right.   His name is Jeff Anderson and he is in the Iowa Methodist Medical Center.    Fill out the form and they'll deliver your greeting the next day.  
06/08/06
TEAM MOMENTS SECTION
A "team moments" section has been added to the web site this week.   This section will be updated periodically with stories from the past and present that are at times odd, funny, or crazy.   This week's story talks about one of my first stock car experiences that makes me want to crawl under a rock and hide.   Check it out!               Team Moments
 
NEW WEBSITE TO CHECK OUT!
Fellow All-Star nominee Pat Graham of Iowa has revamped his web site and you should check it out.   Point your browser to http://www.patgrahamracing.com to view the new site.   Several new features are being added, including a kids section where they can download a page to color and return to Pat himself.   Fun site, check it out.  Also if you'd like to share a link of your own, feel free to email dfr87n@yahoo.com to share it. 
 
2 MONTHS LEFT, KEEP THE VOTES COMING!
Just a friendly reminder that voting for the IMCA All-Star Invitational continues through July, ending August 1, 2006.   Only 10 of the over 50 drivers on the list will make it into the starting field.   You can vote once per day at http://www.imca.com .     Thanks for the votes.   Again, even if you don't vote for us, vote for SOMEONE it's a great experience. 
 
SHE'S A MOVIN' ON UP!
Former crewlady and current IMCA modified rookie Kelly Buesig came >< close to her first feature win, ALREADY!   Last Friday night she was runner-up to Leland Hibdon at Pahrump Valley Speedway.   Kelly hung in there and made it to the claim area in a rough race.   Proof that it's not where you start or how you get there, it's how you finish that pays!   Awesome job Kelly! 
 
THANK YOU, NO THANK YOU!
Thank you to those who sent their congrats in email and those who stopped by in person this weekend to acknowledge the team's accomplishment.   It's times like this where you find out who is truly happy for you.   We're fortunate enough to have people who are happy for us.   Thanks!!   However, we also have to say 'thank you' to quite a few people.   Check out our 100 Thank yous page.......CLICK HERE
 
100 or 100? 
Have had a few emails asking about whether or not I celebrated 100 wins last year or this year or am I just making stuff up.    Last year I celebrated my 100th career win.   That counted NASCAR pavement wins, wins in the Street Stock, as well as non-sanctioned IMCA modified wins.   Ironically, this year I celebrated my 100th IMCA sanctioned win at the same location, Winnemucca Regional Raceway.    Must be the "Win" in Winnemucca, huh?   Hope this clears things up. 
 
05/30/06
SNAKE BIT?
With IMCA only taking our first 50 finishes this season, my schedule had 50 races on it with Winnemucca, Battle Mountain, and Elko events.   So I decided to skip the event on Sunday in Fallon.   That's far from my 'usual' race wherever I can philosophy, but that was the plan.   Not to mention the car was tore up something fierce on Saturday.   We traveled over to see the new surface and maybe it was the race gods getting even.   About 3:00pm on Sunday I began vomiting, and vomiting, and vomiting.   Ever the race fan, I bundled up and went to the track.  Got through 3 heats and decided I couldn't do it.   Went to the hotel.   When Shane, Carly, Blake, and Connie returned to the hotel I was in sad shape.   To the ER I went.   2 hours and an IV later I was back at the hotel to rest.   Up at 9:00 am and couldn't stand up without getting dizzy.   Rode home reclined in the seat, only vomiting once or twice.   Once home I slept until midnight when I was feeling better.   Got some web sites that I maintain updated and went to bed until 5.   Then it was up and at 'em to work today.   Took some strategic over the counter medicine with me just in case.   WHEW!   I'm back up and going.   Hopefully that's over.   Maybe it was RSR's way of saying, NEXT TIME BRING THE CAR!   Who knows?  :)~
 
THE GREAT WHITE, MIA?
The great white has been notoriously MIA over the last few weeks.   Why?  No motor.   Not to mention, the 'old blue' isn't doing so bad in its absence.   I mean, 10 wins since returning to action?   Who can blame us for continuing to pull the old one out of moth balls every week.   I'm thinking old blue will stick around, at least until we reach IMCA career win #100.   Until then, look for old blue.   Hopefully the great white learns some speedy win secrets sharing the same garage.   We'll see.
 
BY THE NUMBERS
Knowing that I'm a numbers guy, this won't surprise some of you.   But I was anxiously awaiting the races on May 6 & May 13th this year.   I had never won on the 6th or the 13th before and that was all I needed to complete the list.    Already having wins on all other dates of the month I checked out the schedule early to find that May was the ONLY time I would race on either the 6th or the 13th.   Low and behold we were fortunate enough to win the features and complete the calendar!   I know, I'm obsessive.   But hey, someone has to be. 
 
CLEARING THE AIR.....again, still, continued......etc.
Several Mohave Valley Raceway fans have emailed recently asking whether I would or would not return to MVR, EVER?!   The answer is of course.   I will be back at MVR, but not for quite a few months.   I have commitments to race elsewhere right now and I will be there for a while.   However, I will be back.   Also, NO I am not avoiding MVR because of the claim.   I've been claimed 3 times at MVR, so if it didn't stop me before, it won't stop me now.  
 
TOP 10 SO FAR?!
A recent IMCA press release stated that the current top 10 in All-star votes hailed from 6 states.   One of the states represented, Nevada!   Is that me?  Or is it Corey Steensen?   Bill Smith?   Either way it's awesome to have a Nevada driver in the top 10.   Right on!!   Keep those votes up.   Again, even if you aren't voting for me.   It's a great opportunity for anyone so put those votes in. 
 
YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE!
Been catching a little flack for traveling so far every weekend to race, especially with the price of fuel.   My thoughts are simple, you only live once.   It's what I want to do, I'm not hurting anyone, and although I'm spending almost every penny I make, I'm enjoying myself.   I don't want to be 70 years old, sitting in a rocking chair and wondering what would have happened if I sat back and didn't do what I have always enjoyed doing.   Instead I'll be sharing stories of what I did.
 
05/08/06
PERUVIAN CONNECTION?
Following the feature at Battle Mountain Raceway on Saturday I was introduced to a group of gentlemen from Peru.   The group was in town visiting the local mines to see some new equipment and get some training before heading back home.   While in town they were brought out to the local dirt track to take in some racing.   The pretty much are used to seeing rally racing, no oval stuff.   They came down, took turns sitting in the car, and even took a group photo.   Didn't have my camera in my driver's suit, so I missed out on the photo opp.   But it was neat to meet them and interesting to hear what they thought about the racing.  
 
YEAH, I MISS IT....BUT...
Of course I miss racing at Mohave Valley Raceway and Pahrump Valley Speedway, but I am also enjoying something I have never done before.   Racing full-time elsewhere.    It's neat having some new sponsors who are super excited to be on board up north.   They are really into the racing and enjoy having the car up there.   The miles are long but school will be out in one month and two days (who's counting) and the travel will be followed by some rest days.   The important thing is I'm having fun and not taking things too seriously.   That was, at times, a problem when racing around here, taking things too seriously.   
 
ANOTHER CREW MEMBER BECOMES A COMPETITOR!
A couple of years ago it was Scotty Bailey, this time it's Kelly Buesig.   After helping out for the past two seasons, Kelly has made a couple of starts in her own IMCA Modified.    We practiced together a few weeks ago following the Great White's debut at Mohave Valley Raceway and had a ton of fun.   A few weeks later we were able to race together in the same race as I attended the event at Pahrump Valley Speedway.   Of course I beat her......lol (this time!).   This last weekend she was racing like an experienced veteran as she was carrying the left front and made a charge from 12th to 7th, a lead lap finish.   Way to go Kelly!  

 
NEW SKIN
Old blue has been doing a great job of filling in while we figure out what we are going to do with the "Great White" beast.   However it shows the 17 shows that it already has on it.   Tire marks, tweaks, bends, rips, and patch jobs.  So it won't be long until we are changing the skin.   The skin will be new but the graphics will remain the same.   Hopefully it will be better on the crew as they almost need a tetanus shot to scrape mud off the car. 
 
REMEMBER TO VOTE!
Votes for the IMCA All-Star Invitational race are taken daily via the IMCA web site ( http://www.imca.com ).  You can vote once per day, per computer.   Please keep us in mind when voting as well as you other favorite IMCA modified drivers on the list.   Several other Western Region drivers are on the list.   Would be cool to see the race invaded by Westerners!   We'll see.  
 
04/10/06
FAN CARDS NOW AVAILABLE
The 2006 Dan Fitzgerald Racing fan cards are now finished and ready to go.   The card features both cars courtesy photos from Blake Greenwood (white car) and J & E Photography (blue car).   The reverse side features stats and other team information.   Stop by the trailer at the races to pick one up.   Whether for your fan wall or your dart board, pick yours up! 

Click the photo at the left for a larger view.   The cards are 5X7 this year.

 
NOT CHEAP SEATS HERE!
On Friday night I went out to watch the NHRA national event at LVMS as I always enjoy watching but never get to go as I am always racing myself.   This year I knew I would be racing on Saturday and working on Sunday so I went to catch one session of the pros while I could.   This time however I wasn't in the "cheap seats" instead we were able to watch from the Suites high atop the grand stands.  (Thanks C-note!)   Here are a couple of videos of the top fuelers qualifying.   Cool view from the suite (sweet) seats!   VIDEO 1     VIDEO 2
 
THE BEST ONE YET!

My times at Petty have been fun to say the least and it's nice to get paid to drive a race car around a Super Speedway but this Sunday was the best so far.  I was able to drive the newly redone Kevin Harvick 29 Reese's car for part of the day.   I've been Jimmie Johnson, Tony Stewart, Kyle Busch, Dale Jr, and Jeff Gordon, but this was the first time to be in the colors of my favorite Cup racer Kevin Harvick.   Hey it's the small things in life that are sometimes the best! 
 
03/29/06
I'M OLD!?!?
Some call it the innocence of kids, others call it truth hurts, I call it funny.   Talking about racing with a young fan another driver came up and they discribed how aggressive he was.   It surprised them too as they said, "he's too old to drive like that, isn't he like 30?"   At 32, the comment hit like a rock!   But I couldn't help but chuckle.   Age is a number and at times my number is low.....on Sundays its HIGH!   :) 
 
WHITE LIGHTNING.......COMING SOON!
All things considered, the debut of the new car was good news for us.   The car was so tight (handling) and responsive.   It's nice to have a car that I will have to calm down for a change instead of kicking it to get it to do something.   Once I can figure out how to keep that LF down into the grazing off the surface range, I had better hang on.   The car is going to be fast, once it is tamed.    I'm incredibly excited to get it worked out and think it will be a fun car to drive.   At least if I get bored at the track I know the set up to make it wheelie to entertain myself.  :)
 
FAIR-WEATHER FANS?!
Just 9 races into the season and it seems as if some of my "fans" have written me off.   Puzzled, I had no idea that some people's expectations of me were even higher than those I hold for myself.   Three wins and 5 top 5's are finishes some teams would give their right leg for, yet some fans are disappointed with my recent results.   Can't win them all, and I'll admit we are struggling with the new car's handling.   But it has raced ONCE.   Not to mention the competition level has risen in recent months, it's tough going out there these days.  Give us a little longer before you write us off.   This team will WORK for it instead of WISHING for it.   Thanks to the rest of the fans that are weathering the storm with us!  
 
BACK OVER THE HUMP!
This weekend finds us heading back over the hump to Pahrump Valley Speedway.   We raced there as late as May of last year but had to find another place to race when car counts dwindled.   Three races into the season and car count is hovering around 16 cars for the newly refurbished speedway.   The progressive banking has made multiple grooves and I'm anxious to give it a shot.   It will be nice to see some of my Pahrump fans and friends again.   Wish us luck.   Old blue will get the call for this race. 
 
03/21/06
FROM CHUMP TO CHAMP.......WELL LOOKS ARE DECEIVING!
Less than 12 hours after the crashing halt to our win streak at Mohave Valley, I was back to work and in championship form......well sort of.   I was driving the #20 Home Depot car at the Richard Petty Driving Experience Sunday afternoon.    So maybe I wasn't the champ, but to those watching it looked like I was.    
 
LAS VEGAS 209.7?
Spent most of the morning on Sunday drying the track at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.   Hit the track in the RPDE Van at 7:19am and drove on cruise control for just over three hours.   During that time I logged 209.7 miles on the Petty van.   By far my longest distance race ever!   haha!    But it was worth it as I also got paid for the three hours, can't say that about driving myself to the races.  
 
HARD WORK, GREATLY APPRECIATED!
Big thank yous to Blake, my mom, and my dad for working all day Sunday on the car and getting it checked out and fixed up from the wreck on Saturday night.   They washed, shined, and beat out all that needed to be on the car to get it back in working order.    Just a few little fine tuning things remain before old blue is ready to hit the track again.   It was a nice surprise to come home from work to find all the hard work that had been done while I was gone.    Thanks again!! 
 
BMS's ABOUND!
When my then sponsor Victory Racing Wheels had a new Belleville Motor Sports (BMS) chassis delivered at the 2002 Duel in the Desert, I knew of 3 people racing them.   David Murray (of course), Darin Center (my then teammate), and Bill McIntosh (MVR competitor).    Today, the number of BMS cars in this area has been multiplied by at least 10.   I compete against more BMS cars week in and week out now than any other chassis.   Very cool to see them out here, as it must mean business is good back there.   
 
03/16/06
STILL ALIVE!!
One of my first modifieds is still alive and in the photo on the left.   It grew in number (88) but still sports familiar yellow and blue.   Kind of weird to race against former cars of mine, but there are a few out there.   My old pavement car races in Elko, my first BMS car will now be racing up north, and it is rumored that my old URE dirt car will be hitting the tracks up north this race season as well.   Cool or not......I'd say cool.  
 
PUZZLING EXPERIENCE
Into puzzles?   Try completing the puzzling photo by clicking the link. 

http://two.flash-gear.com/npuz/puz.php?c=v&id=826116&k=27494558

 
SOONER OR LATER
Sooner or later the "new" white BMS car will have to make its debut.   While I'm concerned about it carrying the LF so high and being a bit of a wild ride, the new car will have to make it out there eventually.   Look for it to make its race debut within the next couple of weeks.   Hopefully I don't get bucked off this wild ride.   LOOK OUT and WATCH OUT for me in the white car soon.
 
2 DONATIONS AND COUNTING!
The recent decision to use "Read My Shirt" to encourage donations to Victory Junction Gang Camp has paid off with 2 donations to date.   Two of the shirts have found new homes to people willing to make a small donation to the Petty family's children's camp.    Thanks to Jackie Healy and David Monroe for their recent contributions and for taking a couple of shirts off my hands.    Way to help make a difference.   For more information check out READ MY SHIRT .
 
03/07/06
RACE FAN-ART

After the LUCKY, surprise feature win at Mohave Valley on 2/25 I was presented with this cool work of art.   Thanks Tonya, everyone love it.   Clearing out a space in the race room at the house for it!  

What great fans I have!! 

 
WELCOME ABOARD
We welcome F & L Racing Fuel aboard for the 2006 race season.   Just another added support to help keep the team up and running strong for another season.

Thanks for jumping aboard!!

 
READ MY SHIRT FOR VICTORY!
After a couple of inquiries regarding "Read My Shirt" I'm putting it to good use.   With the outpouring of shirts and the increasing lack of room in my dresser, I've decided that I will simply let the shirts go after each race to someone willing to make a donation to the Victory Junction Gang Camp.   Send an email requesting a shirt featured in "Read My Shirt".   I'll let you know if it's available.   Then go to http://www.victoryjunction.org/vj/index/donate to make a donation.   You determine what is a reasonable amount, anything helps.  Forward the email confirmation to me and I will deliver the shirt to the track or mail it to you.    You will let me know where to send it.    Please make the donations in your own name, not in Dan Fitzgerald Racing's name.   This isn't about me.   Most shirts are XL.   Sizes will be posted on the web site under each shirt.    If you'd like the shirt signed, just let me know.   Thanks for helping out!!  
 
87 for 87
The 2/25 feature win for us was IMCA sanctioned win #87 for us in our racing career.   A great accomplishment for everyone who has worked on the car, helped at the track, and sponsored us over the years.  I have a lot of people to thank for their support and services over the years.    Better yet, we add #88 to it just 7 days later.   Hopefully I never awake from this dream!   
 
2/21/06
DECISIONS, DECISIONS!
With the interest in Pahrump Valley Speedway on the rise lately, it seems the cars will again be divided in 2006.   If things continue at the rate they are currently going, I anticipate racing at both tracks on an every other week basis.   It will take me out of any points races and will add a little bit of variety to race weekends going from the larger MVR to the smaller and tighter PVS.   It will also give me a chance to see some old friends and fans in the process.   
 
WHEELIE KING GROUNDED
Following last weekend's debut of the new "white" car, I've decided to park it for this weekend's racing.   After washing it up and checking things over, it needs a once-over before it hits the track again.   Not to mention a little bit of taming.   In no way was anything not done correctly in putting together the car, I just want to go over the car one more time to make sure everything is on the up and up before hitting the track and going head to head with other racers.   It will make things safer for me as well as my competitors.  
 
DON'T WISH.......
This season I have a new phrase on the front of my car and I'm hoping to use it as my motivation for the upcoming race season.   Obviously others have stepped up big time and I have lost a little.   So it's time to "Don't wish for it, WORK for it."   In order to visit victory lane again, we're going to have to claw our way back to the front and only hard work will get us there.      After two very successful seasons we might be hard pressed to equal those numbers in 2006, but it won't be due to lack of effort.   
 
1/29/06
NAMESAKE FAN
Recently learned that I have a fan of the same name clear across the country.   Dan Fitzgerald of Yonkers, NY is an admitted "Dan Fan".    It's interesting also because while at Boone, the people pitted next to us had the name "Fitzgerald" in their family.   I shared with them that I am always getting emails about hunting and fishing as there is also a Dan Fitzgerald that writes and produces hunting & fishing books and videos.   Well low and behold, that Dan Fitzgerald was their uncle!   Small world huh?!
 
NOT THE WAY TO "B"
The last 4 races at Mohave Valley Raceway have had "B" mains.   I've been in all of those B mains.   I was in the B on Friday at the Nationals, the B on Saturday at the Nationals, and both B's of the Winter Series.   It has enabled me to spend more time on the track, but with racing over 50 races a year I'm hoping I still don't need all those laps!    Might need to step it up and make the feature right out of the heat next time.   Would save on the fuel bill.  
 
IT'S IN THE NUMBERS!
Maybe it's because I'm weird, maybe it's because I'm a math guy, or maybe it's because I'm a weird math guy but numbers seem to jump out at me sometimes.   Like the first modified that I bought from Jason Pike.   His number is 23, and mine is (of course) 87.   When we set the car on the scales the first time the car weighed in at 2387 pounds.   How's that for a number?    Well the new "white" BMS also has some 87 in it's number.   It is chassis number 431.   4+3+1 is 8, whereas 4+3X1 = 7.   So I guess being an 87 was in "its numbers."   We'll see how it works out. 
 
NEW CAR SET FOR TEST
Although I have a tendency to hit the wall, blow engines, and have all out bad luck practicing or doing test-n-tunes, we have scheduled February 18, 2006 as the test date for the "new" BMS.   The white one as most people refer to it.   Keep your fingers crossed for me that I don't wreck it like I normally do on practice days.   No you know why I rarely ever hot lap at races.  
 
THANKS TO THE LITTLE FANS!
At round 1 of the Winter Series I wasn't having the time of my life.   Wound up getting wrecked while running 2nd in the heat race, running out of the transfer in the B main and fighting a horribly rough track.   At times I was contemplating why I was even out there racing, like I should just give up.   Like he was planted by someone a young fan came running up to the fence under yellow feverishly waving a piece of notebook paper where they had drawn my number "87N" on it giving me thumbs up.   I didn't catch it the first time by but did the second time by and gave a wave and a thumbs up back.   I raced the rest of that B main just for that fan!   Thanks for the support!
 
1/14/06
EXCITED ABOUT 2006
After a long time off and missing the early season races in Phoenix this season, I'm really excited to get back into the car.   I've done so much since finishing the season that it seems like ages ago since I was in the car.   While I will miss the test-n-tune at Mohave Valley this weekend to work, I hope I'm able to dust off the cobwebs pretty quickly at MVR next weekend.   If not, we'll have another shot the next weekend.   There should be a ton of tough tough cars there so it will be a nice way to get race tough real fast.   Nothing like getting slapped around to get your attention.    Our goals for the season are unclear as many schedules haven't been released and I'm just not sure what I want to do.   I've done almost everything I've ever wanted to in a mod and have considered how much longer I plan to be in the class.   Better figure out a plan soon.   But as you may have come to see the last few seasons I don't like 'growing roots' at any one track.   So look for us to be hitting the highways again in search of good times and fun racing.  
 
BUSY BUSY BUSY!
Things have been very busy around the 87 team garage lately.   Putting on graphics, getting the other car ready for the start of the Winter Series as well as readying the new car for the motor which we expect here soon.    In the meantime I've been getting in as many hours as I can at the Petty Experience trying to build up the racing fund for 2006.   I worked about 20 hours last weekend and plan close to 20 again this weekend as I work there Saturday and Monday (we're off school on holiday).   Makes for some long nights but sometimes you have to suck it up.   
 
1/03/06
NEED A RIDE?
This last weekend I took my first test laps around the 1.5 mile oval at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.   No I wasn't testing for the upcoming season, I was training for my new job.   I am now a part-time ride driver for the Richard Petty Driving Experience at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.   For the first time in my life, I'll actually get paid to drive a race car!!  WOO HOO!   Nothing like the mod where it costs me to race.   I had a pretty eventful training session filled with riding in cars, driving cars, etc.   When the weekend was over I had driven as Kyle Busch in the #5, as Jimmie Johnson in the #48, and had given rides to all three of my supervisors.   My first ride to for a supervisor ended with a blown motor coming out of turn 2.   OUCH!   I can now add blowing CUP engines to my resume.   Or maybe I'll leave that out!   haha!
 
"READ MY SHIRT" THEME OF THE SEASON!

This season will be themed the "read my shirt" season.   I will wear shirts with funny one-liners, quotes, etc on the front of them.   I wore a few at the end of the season but not many people noticed.   A few of my favorites are "I make stuff up," "I'm really excited to be here," and "I drive way too fast to worry about cholesterol."    I already have about 20 shirts with sayings on them and will be picking more up as the season continues.    Feel free to share your favorites or send one along for me to wear!   Email dfr87n@yahoo.com if you have links to sites with your favorite shirts, etc or would like to send one our way. 

I have found some shirts at http://www.nowandzen.com .   I'll try to toe the line between funny and out of line this season.   Let's hope I'm able to!

 
HOLIDAY LIGHTS AROUND VEGAS!
Photo Gallery
 
HOLIDAY FUN!
Top 10 Scores from the Penquin game:  323.8, 323.5, 323.5,  322.0,  321.9,  321.8,  320.9,  319.2,  317.2, 315.5.  Thanks to all who played along.   It's nice to know there are some crazy people out there like myself!  
 
PHOTO GALLERIES  
Check out photos from the IMCA National Banquet, Old Dan Fitzgerald Racing photos, playing tourist in Vegas during the Duel in the Desert, and from the Des Moines Zoo and Lake Tahoe trips.   Click below!  
 PHOTOS FROM BANQUET    NOSTALGIA SECTION     TOURISTY PHOTOS    ZOO & TAHOE