Replacing racing heritage with science?

Kannapolis, N.C., has long been famous for being Dale Earnhardt's hometown, but a report in the nearby Salisbury Post says Kannapolis is taking down its "Dale Trail" banners honoring the seven-time Cup champion because billionaire developer David Murdock requested an image change so he can parade a special guest around town this weekend. (Read the Salisbury Post story here). Apparently Murdock, who owns the North Carolina Research Center, a science research park being developed in Kannapolis, wants the town to be known more for its science breakthroughs than NASCAR. David Poole of the Charlotte Observer says an e-mail he received from a city official saying the banners came down because they were torn and dirty and Kannapolis isn't trying to dismiss Earnhardt's legacy. Read his blog here.

-- Michele Vincze