Wednesday, November 21, 2001
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Wednesday, November 21, 2001 |
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Richard Petty Driving Experience to offer ride-alongs as fundraiser Richard Petty Driving Experience is teaming up with the racing community to raise money and awareness for those families affected by the events of Sept. 11. RPDE will hold "Ride-Along for Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund Day" Nov. 28. Anyone who comes out to one of RPDE's permanent locations between 8 a.m. and noon and makes a minimum donation of $50 to the Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund, will receive a free Ride-Along in a Winston Cup-style stock car. The Ride-Along, which starts at $89, lets passengers ride shotgun for three, high-speed laps around a racetrack with a professional driver. Atlanta Motor Speedway is one of the locations. "The events of Sept. 11 have affected all of us," said seven-time Winston Cup Champion Richard Petty. "We at RPDE have an opportunity to not only reach out to those in need but to help others give to this worthy cause. This day is a way for race fans, along with the entire racing community, to come together and raise money and awareness while having a little fun. It's always a real treat for race fans to ride in one of our cars and knowing that they'll be doing it for Families of Freedom will make it a very special day." The Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund was created to provide educational assistance to financially needy dependents of those who were killed or permanently disabled as a result of the Sept. 11 attack or rescue efforts. Former President Bill Clinton and former Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole serve as co-chairs of the campaign fund efforts. Additionally, all firefighters, police officers and emergency medical technicians are invited to participate in the day for free. "This is our way of showing support for the local unsung heroes," said Petty. "We want to thank all firefighters, police officers and EMTs for everything they do for their communities by inviting them to Ride-Along on us." For more information on participating in the Ride-Along for Families of Freedom Scholarship Fund Day, please call 1-800-BE-PETTY or visit www.1800BEPETTY.com. |
