Few would know the man sitting behind the desk if he were introduced as Donald Whitaker, but say the name Punchy, and people often say, "Yeah, I know him; he's the wheel man."

"My dad was called Punch," the 52-year-old Whitaker explained. "My older brother, Howard, was called Little Punch. I got the name Punchy and in third or fourth grade, it just kind of stuck."

When Earnhardt's racing career with NASCAR took off, he continued to do business with the Whitakers and often allowed them to use him in advertising. The business became a popular place for NASCAR drivers to buy wheels and tires and it wasn't unusual for customers to see them in the business.

In addition to carrying a wide selection of tires and wheels, there are also mechanics on duty who can perform tune-ups, alignments, oil changes, brake and muffler replacements and other services. There is also a bargain corner for customers to browse for a good deal.

"The business has changed a lot over the years," Whitaker said. "It's a pretty interesting business; it's got a little glamour to it. Wheels are like jewelry for your car."

"We both worked for our fathers," Baker said. "He's always worked hard. As a matter of fact, he works too hard. He's very driven, very focused."

"He had a real keen eye for pretty women, too," Baker said. "His son, (14-year-old) Nick, he's got that same keen eye. He's a chip off the old block."

"He's good as gold," Cook said. "If he tells you something, you can believe every word of it. If he tells you that blackberries are going to be ripe in December, you better get your bucket."

"His dad had a good business, he just made it even better," Cook said. "For many, many years Punch had put the key in the door to open (the business) and he's put the key in the door to close it. And he does that six days a week."

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