Rep. Castor introduces a resolution to honor NASCAR's Bill France
HONORING WILLIAM ``BILL'' CLIFTON FRANCE, FORMER PRESIDENT, CEO AND CHAIRMAN OF NASCAR -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 18, 2007)
SPEECH OF
HON. KATHY CASTOR
OF FLORIDA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
MONDAY, JUNE 18, 2007
Ms. CASTOR. Madam Speaker, I am pleased today to introduce a resolution honoring the esteemed former President, CEO, and Chairman of NASCAR, William ``Bill'' Clifton France, Jr. Sadly, Bill France passed away June 4 after an extended illness. Bill was well known in Florida, leading NASCAR for 31 years before retiring in 2003. He was, like his father, ``Big Bill,'' a giant in the racing world. He was also a super citizen whose interests and influence went well beyond the racing world. Bill lived life to the fullest and will be remembered with both admiration and fondness.
Today, the Daytona International Speedway is a landmark in the international motorsports community. However, when the France family settled in Daytona Beach, Florida, in 1934, the track was nothing but packed sand. Bill's father, William H.G. France, was known for his innovative perspectives and entrepreneurial skills in building the legacy that is the Daytona International Speedway. Bill Jr. took the same business savvy his father exhibited, and made NASCAR the legend it is today.
As President, CEO, and Chairman of NASCAR, Bill France transformed the International Speedway Corporation (ISC) into the third ranked professional sports entity on television. His leadership led the ISC to promote more than 100 annual racing events, own and/or operate thirteen of the Nation's major motorsports entertainment facilities, and own and operate MRN Radio, the Nation's largest independent sports radio network. In addition to his business achievements, the philanthropic initiative of Bill France and the France family founded the NASCAR Foundation Family of Charities, a group of more than 30 organizations that supports children's programs, animal welfare and conservation.
I know his wife, Betty Jane, and his children Brian and Lesa and their children, will miss him terribly. I know, also, that they are proud of the contributions Bill made to make motorsports not only a successful venture in Florida, but around the world. I am proud to pay tribute to Bill France, his numerous accomplishments, and his dedication to the Florida community and the motorsports industry.
