This week, we remember one of North Georgia's great drivers over at Georgia Racing History.com .

Known for his gold No. 75 Skeeter, Charlie Burkhalter was one of the toughest drivers to beat on North Georgia's race tracks. Burkhalter was always one of the drivers to beat at the Athens Speedway, Banks County Speedway, Toccoa Speedway and the Sugar Bowl. To be honest, he was a threat to win at any track he unloaded at. Burkhalter passed away in May of 2010. Georgia racing historian Mike Bell remembers Burkhalter and his career this week over at Georgia Racing History.com .

Unfortunately, we have some sad news to share this week. Dawsonville, GA mayor Joe Lane Cox passed away early Friday morning at the age of 72. Cox had long been a supporter of the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, and helped the Hall's volunteers to reach their goals of having the GRHOF operate on its own. Without his support and vision for the Hall, it would have the standing it does today. Funeral services are scheduled for 11 am Sunday at Bearden Funeral Home. We send our thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.

In other news, plans are underway for the third annual Athens Speedway Reunion, to be held April 14, 2012 at South Jackson Elementary School near Jefferson, GA from 10 am - 4 pm. For more info, contact Freddie Massey at 706-543-4249, Donald Brooks at 706-658-7006 or Charles Burkhalter, Jr. at 706-207-0516.

Happy Birthday wishes go out this week on March 12 in memory of Georgia Racing Hall of Fame member Red Byron (1915-1960).

Thanks everybody, and have a great weekend!

Brandon Reed
Georgia Racing History.com