THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, May 19, 1996 TAG: 9605170223
SECTION: CHESAPEAKE CLIPPER PAGE: 11 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Close Up
SOURCE: Janelle LaBouve
LENGTH: Medium: 56 lines
On Saturday nights, when the noisy engines of the stock cars rev up at Langley Field in Hampton, Howard ``Mack'' McKee is usually there.
``It just gets into your blood,'' he said. ``When you smell the rubber and smell the fuel, it's exciting.''
McKee manages the 12-member Staton Racing team, more or less as a volunteer.
NASCAR car No. 17 is owned by Tom B. Staton and driven by John A. Staton, both Chesapeake residents.
As manager, McKee's responsibilities include finding sponsors to buy advertising on the auto. During a race, the car is sort of a running billboard, he said.
This year, his team has run five races and is fourth in point standings.
``When that car goes out and qualifies and then wins, that makes it all worthwhile. It's even worth it when we don't win,'' he said.
Full name: Howard R. ``Mack'' McKee
Hometown: Chesapeake
Spouse: April
Children: Dereck
Hobbies: Stock car racing
Last book read: ``Dragon'' by Clive Cussler
Occupation: ``Retired. For 25 years I was an operations engineer for the city of Norfolk. Via computer, we checked mechanical equipment throughout City Hall, the courts and the school board building.''
Describe yourself as a color: ``I'd say green because I'm on the go all the time.''
If you could be any animal, what would it be? ``A cat. They sleep all day. They do nothing else - just eat and sleep.''
What irritates you the most? ``People who call and then hang up. It happens all the time.''
Favorite type of music: Country and western and oldies
Can't resist: Ice cream
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? ``I don't know what I would change.''
Favorite TV program: ``Columbo''
Favorite Chesapeake restaurant: Olde Country Buffet
What would you choose for a last meal? ``A nice steak and a baked potato.'' ILLUSTRATION: Staff photo by MORT FRYMAN
by CNB