The #20 Coalition to Salute America's Heroes Chevy Camaro, piloted by our talented driver Mark Mathias, was excited to begin the 2008 racing season at Thunderhill Raceway, Kyle, Texas, on April 12, 2008. The day started as a beautiful 70 degree day with clear skies, and became much cooler and windy, dropping to 50 degrees at race time.

The #20 began the 8-lap qualifying heat race starting in the #2 outside pole position on this vaunted 3/8 mile, D-shaped flat oval asphalt track. However, tire issues quickly placed Mark in the #6 position, battling an extremely tight race car the entire heat race. On Lap 6, while battling back for 5th place with the #51 car, we got into a racing altercation, causing damage to the right front of the race car. The #20 ultimately placed 6th in the 10-car field for the heat race.

In preparation for the feature race, we repaired the damage to the right front corner of the race car, made some wedge and air pressure adjustments, and prepared to battle the 20-car field in the main event.

The # 20 started the event in 4th position, and maintained his position for the first 25 laps of this 40-lap event, as the front 4 cars separated themselves from the rest of the field, with the 99 and 28 cars leading the way at a blistering pace. On lap 33, however, mechanical problems affected the 99, bringing him off the pace of the 3 following cars. On lap 34, Mark piloted the #20 into the 3rd position, despite the car becoming looser as the race grew to a close. Expertly guiding the car through lapped traffic, we finished the A-Line Super Stock 40-lap feature race in the 3rd position.

Westover Motorsports was proud to host Mike and Marie Greenstone, along with their daughter Gisella, to the evening’s event, as part of our ongoing partnership with the Coalition to Salute America's Heroes. The Coalition supports our veterans who have been wounded in the Iraqi (OIF) and Afghanistan (OEF) conflicts. The whole family was entertained and thoroughly enjoyed the racing experience, giving them a break from the everyday grind of recovery. Many thanks to the staff of Thunder Hill Raceway for assisting us in this endeavor!

LaChance Golf Tournament

I just got home from the John La Chance Memorial "heroes" Golf Tournament. This was a amazingly organized golf tournament in King George VA. The LaChance family did a remarkable job. The spirit and energy of those who attend was amazing. I was lucky enough to get on the son and son-in-law's team. Although we didn't win, we had a lot of good laughs (mostly about my golf game.) I had a great time.

It was a great tournament to honor John and his years of service to our great nation and his life as a father, husband and a friend. CSAH is proud to be selected as the friends of the LaChance family.

I would like to once again thank all who attend and most importantly I would like to thank Pat LaChance and her team for her hard work in making the day a huge success.

- B.J. Jackson, National Spokesman and Events Coordinator

Reid Home Update #4

The remodeled bathroom for wounded sailor Pete Reid is coming along nicely. Only a few more weeks and the project will finally be completed. Here are the most recent pictures from the bathroom that is being renovated to accommodate Pete and his wheelchair.

Vets in California, Welcome Home!

From Military.com:
The Department of Veterans Affairs, in cooperation with the State of California Employment Development Department and NASA is planning the first annual, "VA Welcome Home Event 2008". This is event is to welcome home local service members and veterans who have served in Iraq and/or Afghanistan and let them know about all the services and benefits available to them as they transition back to civilian life.

This special homecoming will take place on Saturday, May 10, 2008 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at Chase Park, which is located on historic Moffett Field, CA.

For more information, call (888) 482-HERO (4376) or visit the VA website.

NBC Nightly News

Naomi Kraima is one strong warrior and amazing mom. We had the privilege of meeting her and her three beautiful children at the Road to Recovery Conference in Orlando this past December.

This week marks the five year anniversary of the war in Iraq and NBC Nightly News is sharing the stories of those who have fought. In conjunction with a partnership with Camp C.O.P.E., we have been working with NBC to put together this story that aired on last night's newscast. We are so proud of the story but even more so of Naomi and her strong children.

Please take a few minutes to read the article and watch the piece for yourself.

Read the report, "Mommy's Different Now" , from Maria Menounos, NBC News contributing correspondent and watch the online report.

Learn more about Camp C.O.P.E.


Peace & Love,
Dan Vargas, Director of the Family Support Network

Wii and TVs

I love days like today because they remind me how much I love my job! The Coalition to Salute America's Heroes joined forces with other groups and were able to donate Wii's and flat screen TV's to the Micheal E. DeBakey Houston VA. These will be used to help wounded troops in rehab. Here are some pictures from today's event:





































Peace & Love,
Dan Vargas, Director Family Support Network

Reid's Home - Update #3

Done Right Contracting sent in more pictures of their progress to the Reid's home. Looks like they are well on their way to finishing up in early April, as they promised. Here are some shots of the extension, safe room and drywall. The Reid's are very happy that these adaptations are finally being taken care of, thanks to the donations of our wonderful supporters.






























Peace & Love,
Dan Vargas, Director Family Support Network