NASCAR'S HEAT UPON US!

Vendors Russell Adams, John Hagan and Donald Morris chat about the world of sports with Executive Assistant Patrick Edwards.

Patrick: Well, fellas, NASCAR is almost here. I’m not necessarily looking forward to the traffic snarls I expect, but I am excited for it.

Russ: What’s the big deal about NASCAR coming here? Chicago will be on center stage, which is great for the city. Especially considering the sports teams here are not doing so good. So, hey, bring on NASCAR. If nothing else, it’ll be great for magazine sales.

Donald: You’re absolutely right. It will be extra-great for magazine sales, and for all of us.

Russ: Working in the Loop doesn’t hurt anything either. Now, I know everyone’s not interested in this sport or the event, but, you know, you can’t please everybody. We’ve been treated well. We had the NBA Draft, the NFL Draft and, now, NASCAR. I don’t know about you guys, but I’m all in and definitely looking forward to this huge event.

John: It does sound very interesting. That said, I do have mixed views on the topic. First off, it’s scheduled to be on July 1 & 2, so that, in and of itself, could be a problem so close to the Fourth of July.

Donald: Yeah, that’ll definitely be a problem. No way around it either.

John: From an economic standpoint, it’s a shot in the arm for Chicago. And we really need it, too. Chicago—

downtown Chicago more so—hasn’t recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Patrick: I’m with you, John. I mean, it’s not necessarily my thing, but I know it is for others. And the economic benefit will be awesome. Can’t imagine the total earnings from just the refreshment sales. Also, I can’t wait to see an aerial shot of the scene.

John: The other thing about this is that despite the potential economic uptick, traffic is going to be a nightmare—especially with it being a holiday weekend.

Patrick: What do you think could’ve been done differently to make this better at least in regard to traffic?

John: Joliet. Or perhaps just a different venue in Chicago—and not anywhere near downtown Chicago.

Russ: Traffic will be a mess.

However, I will be out there somewhere! I love all sports, so I can’t wait to get close and personal. Now, I believe the only downfall to all of this is the litter and mess. I mean, I guess it can’t be any worse than the Taste of Chicago.

Donald: If I were to go, I might be going more for the surrounding entertainment than for the actual races. There’s a 2-day concert, driver autographs and Q&A sessions, interactive displays, and tons more.

Patrick: I just Googled, Don, and see that on July 1, The Chainsmokers and The Black Crowes will perform, and on July 2, Miranda Lambert and Charley Crockett. Also, the packages’ prices are real. General Admission starts at $269. Pit Road Terrace package has an open-air deck with great views of Pit Road and the Start/Finish line, and the price is $1,265. Reserved Seats’ package purchaser at

$465 will enjoy the races from the comfort of a flip-down seat with an amazing view. Last, Clubs & Suites’ package includes premium food & beverages, lounges and more.

Donald: All right, so now that I think about it, perhaps I won’t attend this event.

All: (Laughter)

Patrick: All right, fellas, any last words?

John: Our bad traffic will be multiplied by 5 for this. Headache.

Donald: This could be good for Chicago’s future.

Russ: While this could get messy, it can’t be much worse than The Taste, so, Chicago, quit crying and enjoy!

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