Matt Taylor of Springfield stands to receive the highest payout ($1,000) as winner of the Late Models championship. Though he's "ready to go racin' again," Taylor admitted the time of year and his family will dictate spending more than his No. 3L car.

"You've got to do that for the kids, get them taken care of for Christmas," he said.

Taylor has an eight-year-old daughter and two-year-old son.

Mason Citian Brian Lynn has children, too. He'll soon have $500 as well for winning the Modifieds title.

Other champs and their purses include Billy Nail of Decatur (Sportsman, $300); Travis Johnson of Ashland (Street Stock, $200) and Matt Turley of Dawson (Wild Things, $100).

Lincolnite Joe Miller, who was 10th in the Wild Things standings, will receive the smallest reward - $20.

Fans can win prizes, too. A 50/50 drawing and separate raffles for a pit season pass and a Lincoln Speedway hot rod minibike are among the giveaways planned.

"That's neat," Don Hammer said. "Somebody will have something to putt around the pits in."

The banquet is not in conjunction with Farmer City Raceway, with which Hammer is also involved. Its event is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 26, 2008 at Tri-Lakes.

In other Speedway news, Hammer estimated that 100-150 people attended this past Saturday's cookout at the Logan County Fairgrounds. The Speedway provided hot dogs and chili, while the Lincoln Jaycees hosted a haunted house.

"There were people who live close by that came just for the free food, and people who come to the races every week," Hammer said.

"We roasted real good. Had a great time."