ASSIGNMENT 7-1 DATE: 3/16/08

NASCAR
The popular culture topic I chose this week is NASCAR. Auto racing has been around for over 50 years. NASCAR has really caught on in the last 10 years or so. NASCAR always had a lot of following but now it is becoming more mainstream. You really cannot go out in public without seeing several people with NASCAR apparel on. Advertising has really heightened the public awareness of NASCAR also. A lot of the driver's star in their own commercials for one or more of their sponsors. Talk about a great way to get people's attention. It seems like now you have two seasons: football and racing. NASCAR came from small beginnings and small payouts for drivers and has evolved into a huge sport with huge payouts. You can probably ask anybody about NASCAR and you will either find a fan or at least somebody who has heard of it. When you follow any sport you get a sense of belonging. NASCAR gives Americans another way to belong and fit in regardless of your skin color. NASCAR is also becoming a global entity. There is now racers from all over the world competing. NASCAR is a great sport and great entertainment for everybody.