I didn’t know that the Ryder Cup is being played in Ireland for the first time until I talked with some folks at the recent IFAJ Congress. They had me follow up with James O’Donnell, Irish Food Board Director of Marketing for North America. He lives in Chicago.
Burning Ethanol
The race is on. Thank you weather.
Running On 100% In 30 Days
It’s race day here at the Chicagoland Speedway and the weather is finally cooperating. Before the race started we had an ethanol press conference here in the media center.
Rahal Pleased With Ethanol
Bobby Rahal is very happy with his Team Ethanol car and driver Jeff Simmons this weekend (so far). That’s what he told me in an interview just a few minutes ago.
I was hoping to be able to interview one of the owners of Rahal-Letterman Racing and got my opportunity by the garages. Bobby says that he’s happy with the performance of the ethanol blend of fuel that’s being used this year in all Indy cars. He joked that he wishes he was the only one who could be using it.
Jeff Simmons Fans
They say they’re Jeff Simmons biggest fans. They’re Liz and John Fry.
They’ve got an RV out here in the infield at Chicagoland Speedway and are ready to root for the Team Ethanol car tomorrow.
I interviewed Liz and John after hearing about their belief in ethanol and enthusiasm for following Jeff Simmons.
Fast Car At The Track
Jeff had an awesome practice session today.
At one point he made it a 3 car wide practice lap as he was passing other cars. That got everyone excited.
Jeff ended up with the 7th fastest practice lap this morning at 214.152 MPH.
Confident Ethanol Driver
Here’s a very confident looking race car driver.
This is Jeff Simmons about to get in his car for some practice laps this morning.
Interview with Tony Kanaan
I don’t know if I’m going to get to interview all of the Indy car drivers this year but I’m getting close. Maybe by the end of this weekend.
One of several drivers at today’s ethanol pump promotion in Romeoville, IL was Tony Kanaan, Team 7-11. He had to be there since we were at a 7-11.
7-11 Indy Car Fillup
Today’s 7-11 Ethanol Pump Promotion had beautiful sunshine and a crowd of people. You can find more on Domestic Fuel but I’ve got some posts for you here too.
Farmers Markets In Iraq
I have received an audio report from Iraq that you might find interesting. The email I received says it’s from Paul McKellips who’s on assignment with the Department of State. The report: focuses on the Farmers Markets and roadside stands that Iraqis depend on for their fruits and vegetables. The potential for agriculture in this country is beyond belief. In the last three years, American agricultural experts have introduced drip-line irrigation, fertilizers and modern cultivation techniques. Now, the country desperately needs a comprehensive national farm policy that supports farmers and provides motivation for producers to invest in their businesses and bring their products to market profitably. Iraq currently imports more than 85% of their fruits and vegetables from Iran, Syria and Turkey. Produce prices are ridiculously low as these countries dump their B-grade products into the marketplace.