Tue, 18 Oct 2005, 11:21 AM ACDelco Names Mayor Oscar B. Goodman Grand Marshal

Courtesy of Jon Knapp Of the ACDelco Las Vegas NHRA Nationals

LAS VEGAS -- The city of Las Vegas is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2005, and to help commemorate the occasion, ACDelco has selected Oscar B. Goodman, the mayor of Las Vegas, as their Grand Marshal for the Fifth Annual ACDelco Las Vegas Nationals.

"As befits the most exciting city in the world, the ACDelco Las Vegas Nationals is one of the biggest races of the NHRA's POWERade Drag Racing season," said Duane Miller, Executive Director for General Motors Service and Parts Operations' Service and Parts Business Channels. "This year, we hope to combine our annual celebration of speed with Las Vegas' year-long 100th birthday party, and we couldn't think of a better person to help us do that than Mayor Goodman."

The 19th mayor of the city of Las Vegas, Oscar B. Goodman was re-elected for a second four-year term in April 2003. A notorious hard worker, the residents have embraced his no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is style. The self-proclaimed "happiest mayor in the world," was born and raised in Philadelphia, graduating from Haverford College and receiving his law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. As a renowned criminal defense attorney, he often put in 18-hour days defending clients in front of state and federal courts. His main job now is transforming downtown Las Vegas. Mayor Goodman was also selected as the Chairman of the Mayors' Business Council and serves on the Advisory Board of the U.S. Conference of Mayors.

Goodman and his wife of 43 years, Carolyn, moved to Las Vegas in 1964 with $87 in their pockets. The couple raised four children in Las Vegas, with three of the four now calling Las Vegas their home. All were educated in Las Vegas and went on to acquire college and graduate level degrees. He wants for them the same thing he wants for every resident -- the ability to make your dreams come true.

"When Carolyn and I came here, Las Vegas was truly a land of opportunity," said Mayor Oscar B. Goodman. "You could establish a career, make something for yourself and enjoy a great quality of life. I want to make sure that never changes."

Throughout his tenure as mayor, the colorful Goodman has been featured in numerous publications such as Of Rats and Men and even appeared on episodes of CSI and Las Vegas, following his portraying himself in the movie Casino. In addition, he has been the recipient of many unique awards, including having his face placed on a $5, $25 and $100 casino chip, as well as having 6 Bobble Head dolls issued in his likeness. He looks forward to being a part of Las Vegas' contribution to the world's fastest motorsport.

"As the Mayor and Chairperson for the Las Vegas Centennial Celebration, I have been fortunate to oversee many exciting events in our city over the last year," said Mayor Goodman. "For its part, The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway has been a tremendous addition to our landscape, hosting some great races and bringing new visitors to our city. Therefore, I am looking forward to being a part of this year's ACDelco Las Vegas Nationals and taking in the spectacle that is NHRA POWERade Drag Racing."

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