The Buzz: Sept. 14, 2001

September 14, 2001
4:54 PM EDT (2054 GMT)

The Buzz has learned that due to the influx of military and medical personnel into the Dover, Del. area, some hotels have been calling NASCAR teams asking if they would be willing to cancel their contracted reservations for next weekend's events at Dover Downs International Raceway.

The Delaware 400 is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 23 for the Winston Cup Series, and the Busch race is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 22.

Because of the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington, the nearby Dover Air Force Base has been elevated to "alert status." The base is expecting an influx of military personnel to handle the deceased and wounded from the terrorist attacks, along with those aiding in the clean-up and recovery operations.

If the NASCAR teams choose not to give up their rooms, the hotels are still honoring the reservations. The only thing that could override the reservation is a mandate from the U.S. government. The Buzz contacted a few hotels to see what they had to say.

"We have contracts with the teams and as of right now, we are honoring their reservations," said Vick Schimp, director of sales at the Sheraton in Dover. "Until something else comes down the pike, we are moving forward, readying for this weekend's racing crowd."

The nearby Ramada Inn is also doing the same.

"If a team will choose to cancel, we will then give the room to the Armed Forces," said Kusum Batel, from the sales department. "But right now, we are honoring our contract with the teams. We don't have many fans that stay here -- mostly teams and media people."