[jdfpam]

Jim and Ed,
I agree with you guys totally on this one, you know that. I had to take a lot of abuse at Milan this past weekend over this subject. Some was good natured and some was not at all. People need to realize that we are allowed to have different opinions. I mean relax people!
But, I can tell you this, they already have thought up of ways to get around it if they take away the hand button. Tech just needs to let it all stay, or let nothing-be footbrake only. Taking away hand buttons only will not solve this problem. Guys are just too creative, plain and simple. I can also tell you this, it is a very heated debate at the races.
It all comes down to one thing, whatever the rule is for next year, if people want to keep racing stock, then they are going to have to deal with it. Two steps and buttons ARE a driver's aid, not to mention that they are a great place to start cheating, and that is not even the subject here-I am not going there. That is a fact, anyone who disagree's with that is well-you know-never mind.
I am going to also have to agree with Bernie Cunningham about what he said about them being allowed and to go use them. I am really considering it for next year, if they stay. It won't be my choice or preference, more so just to prove a point and to be more competitive.
So, if they say we have to keep the drivers aids, so be it. If they say footbrake only, we'll have to deal with it. I couldn't believe how upset some people are over this in person. I think that everyone who has driven a car with a button knows that it helps their reaction time(once you get on to it), and they don't want to give that up. I can see why, I really do. They just need to admit that it is an advantage, and it is that way because of the ease adjustability, that IS an advantage when we only get two hits on an unfamiliar track. Traveling and time off work is too costly to make this fair. Hasn't the majority of stock racers come from footbrake roots anyway? It is like riding a bike, once you learn you never forget, right? So, if it comes back to that, get you feet ready and come show the world how good you really are. Who knows, they might be very surprised at the results.

Jeff Day