[Dan Fahey]

Good responses:

Here is some feedback.
Certified Referees go through annual refresher courses to keep us current on issues.
In fact I study a little bit all year long, reading, taking tests, discussing the art of reffing, staying fresh.
All management teams do this too. So does NHRA.

One person rarely by themselves can make a change.
Had it been only Mr. Barton do you really think that anything would change?

I do not care how much of a *** kicking one person tries.
Not going to make a different unless the issue is backed up by others.
Mr. Barton would have gotten more mileage by recruiting the racing community on the matter.
Class Racer is a venue to do it.
But too much was about his rage rather than the issue.
His attitude put me off.

Good sportsmanship is what Mr. Beard did to help out a tough under staffed night.
I have popped over the fence to help spill downs as well.

Far as I am concerned poor track conditions, well that is part of racing.
No more than if your opponent had a mishap and could not show up to the line.
Just part of the fates we experience win or lose.

It is really not that hard to get a Rule or HP rating changed.
Been successful getting many things changed writing a letter, editorial or article, including drag racing.

Again Mr. Barton's behavior is not acceptable.
We understand his rage but an adult he has to moderate it.
He represents the sport and impressionable kids see this.

Before Reffing a game I have to do a bit of preparation.
Learn as much as possible about the teams, coaches, history of their records.
Then there is field game management

I line up and speak with the kids and coaches making sure they are prepared.
Some teams can be particularly challenging.
Safety is always first. Which is Mr. Barton's real issue.

Then I talk to the parents to cheer and enjoy the game
and
remind them to "Behave Like Parents".

They laugh a little about it but they get the message.

Dan