CONGRATS FROM “GRAW”

Kilgore native and NHRA driver Steve Torrence (above) celebrates with the crowd after one of many victories this season. Torrence, just 22, is one reason many believe the NHRA’s future may be brighter than ever. Torrence’s grandmother, Judy Slusser, who he has always called “Graw,” sure thinks so — she offered this photo to the Kilgore News Herald as a way to congratulate her grandson for an outstanding season in 2005, a world championship season for him. Torrence and others were in Houston Saturday for the NHRA banquet — it’s possible Torrence may win rookie of the year. “I am so proud of him and I want to wish him a very happy, prosperous new year for 2006,” Slusser said. We agree, Graw — and by the way, Steve, Graw says she loves you.

Submitted photo