NASCAR founder Bill France Sr. headlined the five inductees into the first Hall of Fame class, a group that drew mixed reactions to the inclusion of France’s son instead of driver David Pearson. France, who formed the National Association of Stock Car Racing in 1947, was the first inductee announced yesterday in a ceremony that followed a lengthy voting session at the Charlotte Convention Center.

Two Richmond-area Chrysler dealers are among 789 dealerships that will close next month as the bankrupt automaker seeks to streamline its sales and service force. The remaking of the auto industry is expected to continue today when General Motors Corp. announces that about 1,100 GM dealers’ franchise agreements will not be renewed. Airport Chrysler Jeep on Laburnum Avenue in eastern Henrico County and Pearson Dodge on Midlothian Turnpike in Chesterfield County were told in overnight letters received yesterday that they had lost their Chrysler franchises and will have to shut down by June 10. In all, 26 Virginia dealers were given the news.

A deal between longtime Richmond-area automobile dealers Haynes Motor Co. and Pearson Automotive Inc. has cleared its final hurdle and could be completed as soon as this week. Haynes is selling its Chrysler Jeep franchise to Pearson. When finalized, Haynes will close its dealership at 9520 W. Broad St. The Chrysler Jeep franchise will be transferred to Pearson’s property at 8250 W. Broad St. It is not known how much inventory or how many employees will make the move.