Michalski Organizing NEMA Events at Local Hospitals
The Northeastern Midget Association (NEMA) will have a local presence at pediatric hospitals in southern New England. NEMA drivers will make their first visit to Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence, RI, with an expanded event at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center in Hartford. A date for Boston (MA) Children’s Hospital is in the works.
“I took it upon myself,” NEMA VIP Fan and Track Publicity co-chair Mariah Michalski said. “I wanted to get the local hospitals involved. … to involve the children who are sick as well as to get more of the community involved. My main goal for having these events is to give back to those who have been fighting for their life at a very young age. Also I want spread awareness about (the) Northeastern Midget Association. Getting community involvement will then drive a bigger fan base to our club.”
Michalski previously selected its VIP through a prerace event question on the NEMA Facebook page. The focus has changed this year to improve outreach.
Construction will prevent cars from being displayed, but Hasbro Children’s Hospital will host a visit by NEMA drivers on June 4 at 10:30AM.
“Hasbro Children’s Hospital is very excited to bring something new to their hospital. …7-10 drivers would be great to hang out with some awesome kids!”
Michalski said she needs 10-12 drivers and cars for a late June event at Connecticut Children’s. Michalski is recruiting drivers from ISMA, the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour, and the Valenti Modified Racing Series.
“Connecticut Children’s is getting media involved as well and are very excited to have the cars on display out front as well as have the children meet the drivers.”
Randy Cabral, Doug Coby, Renee Dupuis, Paul French, Mark Hann, Connor Holderbach, Rich Keator, Fran Lawlor, Phil Moran, and Ryan Preece visited on June 24.
Sources: Nicholas Teto/YankeeRacer.com