NHRA event will provide stimulus for the region - Redlands Daily Facts

Pomona - George Rizk located outside

JR Shell gas station on Wednesday passed a steady stream of cars at Fairplex, where O'Reilly NHRA Winternationals Pass will take place.

"The whole region will change. It is full of life," said Rizk. "My business is 30 percent. The only thing big city."

In the last 51 years, the Winter Nationals roar into town and with it the needed revenue and noise.

While crews were busy Wednesday tuning the dragster at Auto Club Raceway, the local merchants to stock tailgating needs.

Rizk service station - the northeast corner of White Avenue and Arrow Highway and across from the Drag Strip - opens two hours to stay longer to accommodate the race fans every night.

"I'm so happy that at this point, there is a lot of traffic," he said. "We are on beer, soda and snacks. I sold ice."

At the Fairplex Liquor store, a few blocks west received in block 1900 Fairplex Drive, Banner Racing fans.

The clerk said Corey Calles companies resumed Tuesday as crews race arrived.

"We have a lot more business, at least 50percent more," said Calles. "We love him, and the day goes faster."

Breakfast Burrito Mexican restaurant at the nearby El Merendero a popular dish at the races were fixed.

"During the race, it's a big mess here," said Erika Sosa Manager. "We

make $ 2000 more each day. We hired five people to help with the masses. "

The city of Pomona is also true that the benefits of NHRA season opens.

Although city officials are not reduced their total sales tax revenue and provide exact figures as the telling of the Winter Nationals, Mayor Elliott Rothman, he could summarize.

"We do a lot of money," said Rothman. "He filled the hotels, and it is positive (exposure) for the city."

More than 100,000 fans expected to converge on the Auto Club Raceway for a four-day race, scheduled to end today.

Sheraton Fairplex Hotel and Conference Center officials said they had no vacancies Saturday - more good news for the city.

"We had the hotel occupancy tax," said Rothman. "People who come to stay for days."

La Verne also enjoys neighbors.

"Restaurants like Chili's (Bar and Grill) and Red Robin are full," said Rizk. "People are happier. You can tell there's something happening in the city."

The economy is struggling does not have much influence on the Biennale. The Dragster will fall for NHRA Championship race back.

"We do not have a bad year," said Rothman. "This is a sports fan-intensive. They spend a lot, and they are loyal. "