Bowyer honored with street name
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Though it’s still officially named Graham Street, the place where one celebrity race car driver began his career now is also known as Clint Bowyer Blvd.
Bowyer was in Emporia on Wednesday for the ceremony unveiling the sign, and he spoke briefly of his love for his hometown.
“It’s very gratifying, very humbling to think back where this was where it all started, and to see your name on top of Graham Street,” Bowyer said. “It’s such an important street to me and my family, it means a lot to me.”
Bowyer was honored not for his racing prowess, however, but for the good causes and the people who have been helped by the 79 Fund, which Bowyer started two years ago specifically to help Emporians in need. Some recent causes that have benefited from the fund include the purchase of 20 Christmas trees for area families; money to help with Emporia Clean Sweep; and the purchase of backpacks and school supplies for schoolchildren.
“I love this town,” he said. “... There’s no better people than right here in Emporia. We’re taking baby steps and looking at getting more money raised to put into the programs, and I’m looking forward to making (the fund) a bigger and better thing for the children and making the community a better place.”
Bowyer’s racing career began on a practice track at Flint Hills Towing on Graham Street, he explained at the ceremony. Since then, he has risen to fame as a top NASCAR driver, going so far as to win the Nationwide Series last year.
“It’s been a whirlwind tour,” he said. “It’s been a lot of fun and it’s fun just to come back here.”
Bowyer and the 79 Fund’s board of directors are looking to the future and planning to make sure the fund can help as many people as possible.
“We’re looking forward to building on what I consider a good first two years,” he said. “...That’s the thing, you want to be able to give back and you want to make sure it goes to a good cause that people are getting a lot of good things out of and from.”
custom (anonymous) says...
This kid is amazing. He has become a star in the biggest form of car racing on the planet and yet he still comes home to do great things for the town where he grew up. It would be easy for him to move on , make alot of money and make his tax write off donations to any charity any where. But obviously he does care about Emporia. He chooses to give back to the town where it all started. my hat is off to this young man. Thanks Clint. We will try to be worthy.
December 24, 2009 at 9:14 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justthinkin (anonymous) says...
Again, Thanks Clint... your sincerity & generosity is greatly appreciated.... Merry Christmas & Good Luck in the New Year.
December 24, 2009 at 2 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
joke (anonymous) says...
GAY
December 24, 2009 at 5:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )