Notes: Gum wouldn't have helped Newman in pits

AVONDALE, Ariz. -- Can NASCAR drivers walk and chew gum at the same time?

Yes. In fact, it helps one driver concentrate inside the car.

Lap-by-Lap

Tony Stewart made a gutsy move to take the lead, but Jeff Gordon wouldn't be denied in becoming the first driver to win from the pole at Phoenix.

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David Stremme, conveniently sponsored by Wrigley's, said on occasion he gets fidgety or anxious in the car.

One of two things can calm him down.

"My spotter, Mike Calinoff, or chewing gum in the car helps me relax," Stremme said.

Clint Bowyer said he chews gum. However, it's not to help him concentrate.

"It gets really hot in the car and chewing gum keeps me from getting cotton mouth," Bowyer said. "Plus, you don't want to have bad breath when you get out of the car."

Perhaps drivers should keep a stick of gum somewhere handy in their firesuit because, according to a recent study by Wm. Wrigley Jr. Co., a considerable amount of college students rely on chewing gum to relieve stress and tension, as well as increase focus and concentration.

To help students with their stress relief, Wrigley is hosting a "Lounge in Your Town" tour that will take a "Gum Lounge" to eight college campuses around the country.

The "Gum Lounge" will visit the college students during peak finals season to provide free massages, live DJs, fresh college gear, free samples of Extra and Eclipse Fusion gum, Foosball and study tips.

The tour will wave its green flag this week and head to schools in California, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Texas throughout the rest of this month and May.

A fine time to leave me, loose wheel

Ryan Newman pitted at the same time as eventual winner Jeff Gordon, just as an accident on Lap 285 brought out the caution. Unfortunately, when Newman left the pits and stopped, the left-front tire came off. (Continued)