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NASCAR BGN: Bob Evans Farms Cooking Again with LaJoie in 2000

5 October 1999

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Bob Evans Farms Inc., announced today it will return as the primary sponsor of NASCAR Busch Series, Grand National Division driver Randy LaJoie and Phoenix Racing for the 2000 season.

Bob Evans Farms first entered NASCAR as an associate sponsor on the two-time Busch Series champion's car in 1998. Following LaJoie's 1999 season-opening win at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway in February, the Columbus-based company signed on as the primary sponsor of the No. 1 Chevrolet Monte Carlo.

"Continuing our sponsorship of Randy LaJoie makes a lot of sense -- many of our loyal customers are loyal NASCAR fans," said Stewart Owens, president and chief operating officer of Bob Evans Farms Inc.

"We look forward to strengthening the ties we have with NASCAR in 2000 and bringing the sport closer to our customers."

A full-time Busch Series competitor since 1996, LaJoie has more than 185 career starts, including 12 victories, 49 top-five finishes, 80 top-10 finishes and six pole starting positions.

"This couldn't have come at a better time," LaJoie said. "Silly season can take your focus off of what's important, and knowing that Bob Evans is back with our team for next year will help us to keep focused on track performance.

"Whether it's with a crew or sponsor, continuity is essential in racing. It takes some time to get comfortable with each other and know how to work together. I think they've seen how the program can work for their business and that we're a good mix."

Bob Evans Farms Inc., currently owns and operates more than 420 full-service, family restaurants in 20 states, principally in the East North Central, mid-Atlantic and southern United States. The company also is a leading producer of pork sausage under the Bob Evans and Owens Country Sausage brand names.

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