Racin' & Different Stuff:

                                      By Tom Avenengo

                                         Volume # 139

                                                   05/16/2013

 

 

First:

 

I often think of my mother – especially on Mothers Day.  She left us back on June 7, 1991.  How well I remember that day.  Right after she passed on, I called my wife to inform her, and to tell her that now we only had her mother to worry about.  Early that evening we received the call that she, too, had passed on – yes the same day.

 

From a card my wife was given this past Mothers Day, by our son, Eric:

 

What is a mother?

She’s someone who give and cares and works and worries and dreams and plans and rushes and hurries and does the impossible all year long…

and is officially recognized on one day a year.

 

She’s someone who keeps going and giving and running around and putting out fires and caring and helping and saving the day – even though she doesn’t get the praise she deserves.

 

She’s someone we’d never make it without – too often the last to be thanked, but always first in our hearts.

 

Thank you, and have a very happy Mothers Day!

 

 

Second:

OK, here’s the scoop on what will be happening with me over these next few weeks:

I have a date for the surgery on my left carotid artery – Thursday, May 23rd.  I needed clearance from my personal doctor and also from my cardiologist, on this.  No problem I figured.  Wrong!  My pre-Op check up would be, I thought, on the 22nd of May.  My doctor has to see the results of the pre-Op before he can clear me.  Basically, same goes for my cardiologist – has to see results before clearance.  So now a new date for the pre-Op – which will be this Thursday – May 16th at 1:00 PM.  I’ll see my cardiologist on the 17th at 10:45 AM, then my regular doctor on the 21st, at 1:00 PM.  As for the surgery – I have to be at the hospital at 11:00 AM.  Oh – and I can’t have anything to eat or drink after midnight, too.  The surgeon did tell me I should be out of the hospital on Friday, the 24th.  I best be, since on Sunday it’s the Indy 500 and the World 600.  Oh yes, when I saw the surgeon last week, I made mention that I’m still paying on the first bit of surgery he did on me – the surgery for the pacemaker/defibrillator.  For some unknown reason, that was a lot more expensive than the second one – the two piece stent in my aorta.  Go figure.

 

 

 

Third:

Well, didn’t “Mother Nature” kinda mess up this past weekend as far as racing went?  The one track I thought would never get their show in, did – Accord.  I figured that Lebanon Valley stood a better chance of getting rained out than OCFS, but both ended up silent.

 

 

Fourth:

No idea as to how this gets done.  7 blocks across and 9 down – every time, with the removal of some blocks, than putting them back in.

Moving little squares

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?feature=player_embedded&v=3PszMaZ5Ipk

 

 

 

Fifth:

 

So, is what follows really true, or not?

 

Things That Make You Go Hmmm! 1. Back in 1961 people of color were called 'Negroes.' So how can the Obama 'birth certificate' state he is 'African-American' when the term wasn't even used at that time?> >> >2. The birth certificate that the White House released lists Obama's birth as August 4, 1961. It also lists Barack Hussein Obama as his father. No big deal, right? At the time of Obama's birth, it also shows that his father is aged 25 years old, and that Obama's father was born in " Kenya , East Africa ". This wouldn't seem like anything of concern, except for the fact that Kenya did not even exist until 1963, two whole years after Obama's birth, and 27 years after his father's birth. How could Obama's father have been born in a country that did not yet exist? Up and until Kenya was formed in 1963, it was known as the "British East Africa Protectorate".> >> >3. On the birth certificate released by the White House, the listed place of birth is "Kapi'olani Maternity & Gynecological Hospital". This cannot be, because the hospital(s) in question in 1961 were called "KauiKeolani Children's Hospital" and "Kapi'olani Maternity Home", respectively. The name did not change to Kapi'olani Maternity & Gynecological Hospital until 1978, when these two hospitals merged. How can this particular name of the hospital be on a birth certificate dated 1961 if this name had not yet been applied to it until 1978?> >> >Why hasn't this been discussed in the major media?????> >> >Please send this to everyone you know with the hope that we can force the media as well OUR NATION to address this CORRUPTION.> >>

 

 

 

Sixth:

 

Quiz:

He is the only driver to win the Triple Crown of Motorsport — the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Indianapolis 500 and Formula One World Championship.

 

Any idea?  If so, email me your answer!

 

 

 

Seventh:

 

Greatest driver of all time?

 

Link:  http://www.trackforum.com/forums/showthread.php?175873-Greatest-driver-of-all-time

 

 

 

Eighth:

 

I found this on the Coastal 181 website.  An interesting read about a driver (Ray Miller) who decided to give midgets a try - at 71 years of age.

 

http://www.coastal181.com/nlm-working-April-2005/tearoffs-0.htm

 

 

 

 

Ninth:

 

NASCAR Penalties Directed Toward All the Wrong People

 

Link:  http://sports.yahoo.com/news/nascar-penalties-directed-toward-wrong-people-153500605.html

 

Note:  I agree with what is said.

 

 

 

Tenth:

Are you aware of this?

http://www.northeastracingvideos.com/

 

 

Eleventh:

Something to think about:

You have a Social Security card.  I was always told to keep mine with me.  Now, I believe that has changed – that it should be kept at home in a safe place?  You know - the “Identity theft” stuff?  So, you get older, and soon you’re eligible for Medicare.  And you get a Medicare card.  In a very high percentage of the time, your Medicare card number will be your Social Security number.  Now, we’re told to make sure we always have our Medicare card with us – you know, in case there’s an emergency?  Need I say more?  Think about it.

 

 

Twelfth:

Last week at Darlington, there was an 11 MPH difference between the fastest and slowest qualifiers for the Nationwide race.  For Cup, it was 9 MPH difference.

 

 

Thirteenth:

Maybe you’ve also received this email on occasion?

This list may not only be useful for you, but for your friends and family too.

 

Dunkin Donuts gives free coffee to people over 55.  If you're paying for a cup every day, you might want to start getting it for FREE.

 

YOU must ASK for your discount !

 

RESTAURANTS:

Applebee's: 15% off with Golden Apple Card (60+)

Arby's: 10% off  ( 55 +)

Ben & Jerry's: 10% off (60+)

Bennigan's: discount varies by location  (60+)

Bob's Big Boy: discount varies by location (60+)

BostonMarket: 10% off  (65+)

Burger King: 10% off (60+)

Chick-Fil-A: 10% off or free small drink or coffee ( 55+)

Chili's: 10% off ( 55+)

CiCi's Pizza: 10% off (60+)

Denny's: 10% off, 20% off for AARP members ( 55 +)

Dunkin' Donuts: 10% off or free coffee ( 55+)

Einstein's Bagels: 10% off baker's do zen of bagels (60+)

Fuddrucker's: 10% off any senior platter ( 55+)

Gatti's Pizza: 10% off (60+)

Golden Corral: 10% off (60+)

Hardee's: $0.33  beverages everyday (65+)

IHOP: 10% off ( 55+)

Jack in the Box: up to 20% off ( 55+)

KFC:  free small drink with any meal ( 55+)

Krispy Kreme: 10% off ( 50+)

Long John Silver's: various discounts at locations ( 55+)

McDonald's:    discounts on coffee everyday ( 55+)

Mrs. Fields: 10% off at participating locations (60+)

Shoney's: 10% off Sonic: 10% off or free beverage (60+)

Steak 'n Shake: 10% off every Monday & Tuesday ( 50+)

Subway:  10% off (60+)

Sweet Tomatoes: 10% off (62+)< /span>

Taco Bell : 5% off; free beverages for seniors (65+)

TCBY: 10% off ( 55+)

Tea Room Cafe: 10% off ( 50+)

Village Inn: 10% off (60+)

Waffle House: 10% off every Monday (60+)

Wendy's: 10%    off ( 55 +)

WhiteCastle: 10% off (62+) This is for me ... if I ever see one again.

 

RETAIL & APPAREL:

Banana Republic: 30% off ( 50 +)

Bealls:  20% off first Tuesday of each month ( 50 +)

Belk's:  15% off first Tuesday of every month ( 55 +)

Big Lots: 30% off

Bon-Ton Department Stores: 15% off on senior discount days  ( 55 +)

C.J. Banks: 10% off every Wednesday (50+)

Clarks: 10% off (62+)

Dress Barn:  20% off ( 55+)

Goodwill:  10% off one day a week (date varies by location)

Hallmark: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)

Kmart: 40% off  (Wednesdays only) ( 50+)

Kohl's:  15% off (60+)

Modell's Sporting Goods: 30% off

Rite Aid: 10% off on Tuesdays & 10% off prescriptions

Ross Stores: 10% off every Tuesday ( 55+)

The Salvation Army Thrift Stores: up to 50% off ( 55+)

Stein Mart: 20% off red dot/clearance items first Monday of every month ( 55 +)

 

< div>

GROCERY:

Albertson's:  10% off first Wednesday of each month ( 55 +)

American Discount Stores: 10% off every Monday ( 50 +)

Compare Foods Supermarket: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)

DeCicco Family Markets: 5% off every Wednesday (60+)

Food Lion: 60% off every Monday (60+)

Fry's Supermarket: free Fry's VIP Club Membership & 10% off every Monday    ( 55 +)

Great Valu Food Store: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)

Gristedes Supermarket: 10% off every Tuesday (60+)

Harris Teeter: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)

Hy-Vee: 5% off one day a week (date varies by location)

Kroger: 10% off (date varies by location)

Morton Williams Supermarket: 5% off every Tuesday    (60+)

The Plant Shed: 10% off every Tuesday ( 50 +)

Publix: 15% off every Wednesday ( 55 +)

RogersMarketplace: 5% off every Thursday (60+)

Uncle Guiseppe's Marketplace: 15% off (62+)

 

TRAVEL:

Airlines:

AlaskaAirlines: 50% off (65+)

American Airlines: various discounts for 50% off non-peak periods (Tuesdays - Thursdays) (62+)and up (call before booking for discount)

Continental Airlines: no initiation fee for Continental Presidents Club & special fares for select destinations

Southwest  Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)

United Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)

U.S. Airways: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)

 

 Rail:

Amtrak: 15% off (62+)

  Bus:

Greyhound: 15% off (62+)

Trailways Transportation System: various discounts for ages 50+

 

Car Rental:

AlamoCar Rental: up to 25% off for AARP members

Avis: up to 25% off for AARP members

Budget Rental Cars: 40% off; up to 50% off for AARP members ( 50+)

Dollar Rent-A-Car: 10% off ( 50+) Enterprise Rent-A-Car: 5% off for AARP members Hertz: up to 25% off for AARP members

National Rent-A-Car: up to 30% off for AARP members

 

Overnight Accommodations:

Holiday Inn: 20-40% off depending on location (62+)

Best Western: 40% off (55+)

CambriaSuites: 20%-30% off (60+)

Waldorf Astoria - NYC  $5,000 off nightly rate for Presidential Suite (55 +)

Clarion Motels: 20%-30% off (60+)

Comfort Inn:    20%-30% off (60+)

Comfort Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)

Econo Lodge: 40% off (60+)

Hampton Inns & Suites: 40% off when booked 72 hours in advance

Hyatt Hotels: 25%-50% off (62+)

InterContinental Hotels Group: various discounts at all hotels (65+)

Mainstay Suites: 10% off with Mature Traveler's Discount (50+); 20%-30% off (60+)

Marriott Hotels: 25% off   (62+)

Motel 6: Stay Free Sunday nights (60+)

Myrtle BeachResort: 30% off  ( 55 +)

Quality Inn: 40%-50% off (60+)

Rodeway Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)

Sleep Inn: 40% off (60+)

 

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT:

AMC Theaters: up to 30% off ( 55 +)

Bally Total Fitness: $100 off memberships (62+)

Busch Gardens Tampa, FL: $13 off one-day tickets ( 50 +)

Carmike Cinemas: 35% off (65+)

Cinemark/Century Theaters: up to 35% off

  Massage Envy - NYC 20% off all "Happy Endings"(62 +)

U.S.National Parks: $10 lifetime pass; 50% off additional services including camping (62+)

Regal Cinemas: 50% off Ripley's Believe it or Not: @ off one-day ticket ( 55 +)

SeaWorld, Orlando , FL : $3 off one-day tickets ( 50 +)

 

CELL PHONE DISCOUNTS:

AT&T: Special Senior Nation 200 Plan $19.99/month (65+)

Jitterbug: $10/month cell phone service ( 50 +)

Verizon Wireless: Verizon Nationwide 65 Plus Plan $29.99/month (65+).

 

MISCELLANEOUS:

Great Clips: $8 off hair cuts (60+)

Supercuts: $8 off haircuts (60+)

 

 

 

Fourteenth:

 

 

 

I found this on Facebook on Tuesday evening.  If you’re from the Northeast area, and have been around for some time, then you’ll know of the name Chick Stockwell.  It seems he’s having some health issues:

 

Chick Stockwell update: He is still in the hospital and is improving; The doctors removed a tube from one of his lungs yesterday and were looking to remove the tube from his other lung today. He is very weak and will most likely be moved to a rehabilitation facility when the doctors think it's time for that.

 

 

 

Fifteenth:

 

Bacon Dogs Are Here! Thanks, Oscar Mayer

 

Link:  http://shine.yahoo.com/shine-food/bacon-dogs-are-here--thanks--oscar-mayer-162544849.html

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Going back in time:

 

On May 16th in:

 

1909

Luigi Villoresi ... Born ... Driver from Italy who ran the 1946 Indy 500 in a Maserati and finished 7th.

 

1942

Max Dudley... Born ... USAC Indy car driver from the 1960's and 70's.

 

1948

Ralph Hepburn... Died ... A pioneer of American motorcycle racing champion from 1914 to 1924 and a AAA and Indianapolis 500 racecar driver from 1924 to 1948. Ralph Hepburn died during qualifying practice for the 1948 Indianapolis 500. 

 

1955

Manny Ayulo... Died ... AAA driver from the 1940's and 50's. His efforts, along with those of friend and teammate Jack McGrath, helped establish track roadsters as viable Indy race cars. He ran the Indianapolis 500 five times and was killed in a crash while practicing for the 1955 Indianapolis 500.

 

1967

Stevie Reeves... Born ... USAC / NASCAR driver... 1992 and 1993 USAC NationalMidget Champion.

 

1971

Pancho Carter won the ARDC Midget race over Johnny Hubbard, Dutch Schaefer, Jim Maguire and Len Duncan at the Grandview Speedway, Bechtelsville,PA

 

1975

Pancho Carter won the USAC Midget race over Billy Engelhart, George Snider, Chuck Gurney and Mark Alderson at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis,IN 

 

1995

Red Amick... Died ... USAC driver

 

 

 

 

 

Some racin’ stuff:

 

Something I never knew – when Duke Nalon had his crash and fire in the Indy 500, in 1949, on his 23rd lap - with his Novi, his car was left on the track after the accident, until the race was over.  That’s 177 laps, folks. 

 

“BTW, I've seen film of crews trying to lift Duke Nalon's Novi over the wall after his fiery 1949 crash while cars were racing by. The Novi was about the heaviest car in the race at the time so there were two wreckers with their booms over the wall trying to lift the car at both the front and rear. Even then they couldn't get the job done and they dropped the car more than once. They finally just left the car on the track and it sat there up next to the wall for the rest of the race. And the yellow caution light was on for a total of one minute and 45 seconds for the Nalon crash before the green came back on. Racing was a pretty tough business in those days.”

 

http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=236178&page=1036

 

Check out post # 20718 for photos.  There’s a great shot, taken from outside the track, of Duke coming over the wall, with a wall of flames behind him.

 

And, in my video section, below, a video of the accident.

 

 

 

Top 10 Most Redneck Cities Rating Upsets NASCAR Fans

 

Link:  http://gma.yahoo.com/top-10-most-redneck-cities-rating-upsets-nascar-142445866--abc-news-topstories.html

 

 

 

 

 

Coming up:

WoO at OCFS

At OCFS, on Outlaw night, May 19th, the pit gate will open at 3:00 pm, with spectator gates opening an hour later at 4:00 pm.  Racing is scheduled to start at 6:00.

The top 6 rows in the half covered are reserved and are $35.00 each.

 

Per the OCFS website:  hot laps are around 5:15

 

 

 

OCFS ticket prices for the WoO show:

 

WoO Ticket Prices for Sunday May 19th

Posted: May 14th, 2013

 

$35.00 Adult Reserved Seating

$5.00 Child (6 &Under) Reserved Seating

 

$32.00 General Admission

Children 6 & Under are Free

 

Pits:

Non-Member: $45.00

Member: $35.00

 

 

 

 

Free INDYCAR Test - Pocono

Thursday, July 4

 

We're opening the gates, for FREE, to the IZOD IndyCar Series open test at Pocono Raceway on Thursday, July 4th!

Come see breathtaking speeds as every IndyCar Series driver entered will be testing from approximately 10 am - 4 pm ET!

Parking information, updates on drivers testing and more will be updated as the event draws closer!

Tickets to the July 7 Pocono INDCYAR 400, marking the first time "The Tricky Triangle" has hosted an open-wheel event in 24 years, start at $25. All Kid's Tickets (ages 12 and under) across our entire Grandstand are half-off! To purchase tickets visit www.poconoraceway.com or call the number below.

 

1-800-RACEWAY (722-3929)

Ticket Office Hours: Monday-Friday 9 am - 5 pm ET

 

 

 

Found on Jayski’s website:

http://www.jayski.com/

 

NASCAR undeterred by appeal setbacks:NASCAR president Mike Helton insists the governing body did not have its power undermined by recent reductions in penalties through the appeal process. "I don't feel like this in anyway undermines what we do," Helton said Friday at Darlington Raceway. "And in most cases the process doesn't come back with anything that really changes our mind much [about the severity of the penalties]. We do our job and the due process exists for others to have an opportunity for others to listen to it and decisions are made to it." While disappointed in [the reductions of penalties to Penske & Gibbs], Helton stands by the original penalties and says NASCAR would respond in a similar way if faced with the same violations. He added that the rules may be written even more specific in the future so teams and those involved in the appeals process understand more clearly why the penalties were given. "First of all, the integrity of the appeal process needs to be maintained as independent of the regulating arm of NASCAR,'' Helton said. "But we do learn from the appeal process as to how we may be able to write or be more clear so that you can show a third party why we reacted the way we reacted."(ESPN)(5-11-2013)

 

 

Kurt Busch passes Indy rookie test UPDATE: Kurt Busch wants to race an IndyCar at Indianapolis. Just not now. The 2004 Sprint Cup champion kept Ryan Hunter-Reay's primary car out of trouble Thursday, topping 218 mph on one of the world's most prestigious tracks. He became the first driver to pass this year's rookie test at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, likely creating a rumor-filled month of May. "I really couldn't do it this year because of the stamina," Busch said. "My hands were tense and firm and that was only after 10 laps. Michael (Andretti) wants to do it, but they've already got five cars committed this year, so I think the proper thing would be to get some experience with this car at another track. There's going to be a lot of swirling that goes on after day like today, after reaching 218 on your first day around this place," Busch said after posting a fast lap of 218.210 mph. "But that doesn't mean anything because I need more time." Andretti acknowledged that's a possibility later this year, if Busch can work out the details with his Cup schedule.(Associated Press)(5-10-2013)

UPDATE: Busch developed a relationship with Andretti Autosport owner Andretti through their mutual agent John Caponigro last season when Busch interviewed with potential teams for 2013. At the time, Andretti was entertaining a possible entry into NASCAR and a possible partnership with Dodge. Since then, Busch signed with Furniture Row Racing to run in the Sprint Cup Series, where he is currently 20th in the points standings. Busch has the blessing of FRR team owner Barney Visser to pursue this latest dream. "It's a bucket-list type item," he said. "It's also because I have the heart and desire to do anything in motorsports. So to wrap my arms around, moreso of what can happen next, we've just got to let things sit on the burner here and see where it goes." Although this year's Indianapolis 500 is not a practical option for Busch, he's mentioned the possibility of racing in IndyCar events at Pocono Raceway, Milwaukee Mile and Auto Club Speedway. Busch isn't sure what opportunities exist in IndyCar, but just the chance to say he's been on the yard of bricks in an open-wheel car is "a nice achievement." "Any opportunity in motorsports is what I'm looking for. I grew up in a stock car world. I've spent the last dozen years in the Sprint Cup garage. You never know what's around the next turn. I've been full-throttle on a quarter-mile and full-throttle at Indianapolis. There's a lot of cool things out there."(Fox Sports) (5-11-2013)

 

 

Elliott not officially retired, but not looking to race: Bill Elliott hasn't officially retired but he isn't itching to get back into a racecar these days. The 57-year-old driver, who has 828 career Cup starts but hasn't run full time since 2003, is more focused on the career of 17-year-old son Chase. Bill Elliott, the 1988 Cup champion who has 44 career victories, has competed in just seven races since the start of 2011 and 32 since the end of 2008. His last race was the Cup race in July at Daytona, where he qualified sixth in a Turner Motorsports car but got caught up in a crash to finish 37th. "I've thought about a lot of stuff," Elliott said Thursday at Charlotte Motor Speedway. "Right now, I'm just kind of waiting to see where things go. It's kind of a two-fold deal. I still enjoy competing and that would be a neat deal. But unless you got in a caliber of car like I did a year ago, I really have a hard time justifying it after I got in such a good car. Why would I want to run and just kind of hang out? I'm going to look at a few things and decide here pretty soon what I'm going to do," he said.(Sporting News) (5-11-2013)

 

 

Menard plans to stay with Childress: #27-Paul Menard says he is "close" to re-signing with Richard Childress Racing. Menard said he's "looking forward" to making an announcement soon that he will remain in the #27 Menard's Chevy. Menard, 32, is currently ninth in the NASCAR Sprint Cup standings. He's remained in the top 10 for seven of 10 weeks this season and earned three consecutive top-10 finishes at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Bristol Motor Speedway and Auto Club Speedway earlier this year. Since Menard and crew chief Slugger Labbe joined RCR as a package deal in 2011, the driver has experienced the best three seasons of his Cup career, a stretch that includes a victory at the Brickyard 400. In 2012, Menard finished a career-high 16th in the points standings with an average finish of 15.5. Labbe signed an extension two weeks ago. His contract runs through 2016.(Fox Sports)(5-10-2013)

 

 

Sherwin-Williams becomes official sponsor of NASCAR: NASCAR and Sherwin-Williams announced a multi-year partnership designating the nation's largest specialty retailer of paint and painting supplies as the "Official Paint of NASCAR." Sherwin-Williams, a FORTUNE 500 company, will leverage its new designation for architectural paint and the power of NASCAR's intellectual property to activate at its more than 3,500 stores nationwide and ignite the passion of its customers  many of whom are fiercely brand-loyal fans of the sport

In addition to signing on as an Official NASCAR Partner, Sherwin-Williams also becomes a Contingency Sponsor in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NASCAR Touring & Weekly Series and GRAND-AM Road Racing. The NASCAR and GRAND-AM contingency programs foster strong relationships between competitors and the high-quality, performance-driven brands that are part of the program, by providing prize money for each race and at the end of each racing season. Competitors become eligible for the money by displaying partner decals on their race vehicles. As part of the contingency program, Sherwin-Williams will be title sponsor of the Fastest Lap Award in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.(NASCAR)(5-13-2013)

 

 

Who's likely to make the Chase? Want to know who's a lock to make the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup this year? [Here's] six names: #48-Jimmie Johnson, #99-Carl Edwards, #20-Matt Kenseth, #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., #15-Clint Bowyer and #18-Kyle Busch. Typically, by the time the Cup series leaves Darlington, it's relatively easy to predict most of the Chase field. Last year, 10 of the drivers in the top 12 in the standings after the Mother's Day eve visit to the Lady in Black went on to qualify for the Chase.

 

The six drivers listed above are locks for two basic reasons. Number one is the point spread between Bowyer in fifth and #5-Kasey Kahne and #2-Brad Keselowski, who are tied for sixth. Bowyer has scored 349 points through 11 races, 23 more than the two drivers immediately behind him. Second, five of the top six drivers (the first five listed above) have shown the sort of consistency necessary to make the Chase with relative ease. If Busch should fall out of the top 10 in points, he'll make the Chase as a wild card.

Beyond those six, however, assumptions are impossible and predictions nothing short of precarious. For one thing, five of the 12 drivers who made the Chase last year -- #24-Jeff Gordon, #16-Greg Biffle, #56-Martin Truex Jr., #14-Tony Stewart and #11-Denny Hamlin -- are currently outside the top 10. Common sense tells you that most, if not all of the drivers in that elite group will make a move in the 15 races before the Chase field is set.

To add to the intrigue, no driver in positions 11-20 in the standings has a victory so far this year. Should that remain the case, #27-Paul Menard and Gordon (currently 11th and 12th) would win the two Wild Card Chase spots by default.

Far more likely, however, is the prospect of such drivers as Hamlin (currently tied for 26th) or Stewart (21st) winning a race or two, cracking the top 20 and grabbing a wild card spot.(NASCAR Wire Service)(5-13-2013)

 

 

2013 Sprint Cup Driver Championship Points Standings:

[after Darlington, race 11 of 36]

1) #48-Jimmie Johnson [2 wins], 423

2) #99-Carl Edwards [1 win], 379, -43

3) #20-Matt Kenseth [3 wins], 364, -59

4) #88-Dale Earnhardt Jr., 359, -64

5) #15-Clint Bowyer, 349, -74

6) #5-Kasey Kahne [1 win], 326, -97

7) #2-Brad Keselowski, 326, -97

8) #18-Kyle Busch [2 wins], 325, -98

9) #43-Aric Almirola, 317, -106

10) #29-Kevin Harvick [1 win], 315, -108

11) #27-Paul Menard, 315, -108

12) #24-Jeff Gordon, 311, -112

2012 Chase drivers out of top 12

#16-Greg Biffle, 13th

#56-Martin Truex Jr., 14th

#14-Tony Stewart, 21st

#11-Denny Hamlin, 27th [missed 4 races with injury]

 

 

 

No pit road speed for Qualifying in All-Star race:

Speeding on pit road is now legal -- at least in qualifying for Saturday's Sprint All-Star race. In an attempt to spice up qualifying, pit road speeds that are strictly enforced in races as a safety measure will be lifted for Friday night's three-lap trip around Charlotte Motor Speedway that includes a mandatory four-time stop. Other cars will not be on pit road during All-Star qualifying, and crew members will not be allowed to come over the wall until the car is stopped, which is not the case in a race.(ESPN)(5-15-2013)

 

 

NBC to pick up TNT's NASCAR races? ESPN to cut back?:

NASCAR has signed one contract for 2015-2022, for the first 13 Cup races, with Fox Sports, which includes the new Fox Sports 1 that replaces Speed in August. Fox considered it a priority to get NASCAR as one of its anchor sports for its all-sports Fox Sports 1 network, so it already signed a deal for 2015-2022 (at a 36% rate increase). While the sport might have lost some of its buzz, Fox Sports recognized the loyalty of NASCAR fans to watch its programming. It will eventually put some Cup races on that cable network to boost its profile. The big question now turns to who will televise the remaining 23 races of the season. Right now, TNT has six and ESPN/ABC has 17. NBC is expected to make a run at NASCAR. It could replace TNT for those six races but there's also speculation it could take 12 or 13 races and ESPN/ABC gets the final 10 or 11 events. With Turner relinquishing NASCAR.com to NASCAR, it makes little sense for it to have the six races. It's not enough time to really get in a good flow. The TNT telecasts aren't bad at all, but it's just too short of a bridge from Fox to ESPN for any continuity or for the announcers to get into a groove. If NBC lands races, that would put more Cup events on network television, which is important considering the addition of cable races to the Fox portion of the schedule.(Sporting News)(5-15-2013)

 

 

Crew Members Suspended For Violation Of NASCAR Substance Abuse Policy:

Jackson L. (Lee) Dodson II, a crew member in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and Frank W. Earnhardt, a crew member in the NASCAR Nationwide Series, have been indefinitely suspended from NASCAR for violating the sanctioning body's substance abuse policy. On May 9, Dodson was found to have violated Sections 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and 19 (violation of the NASCAR substance abuse policy) of the 2013 NASCAR Rule Book. On May 10, Earnhardt was found to have violated Sections 12-1 and 19.(NASCAR)

AND Michael Waltrip Racing has fired crew member Lee Dodson after Dodson was indefinitely suspended by NASCAR for violating the sanctioning body's substance-abuse policy. Now in its fifth year of random drug testing, NASCAR suspends indefinitely anyone who fails a drug test. Before being reinstated, those suspended must meet with a substance-abuse professional and complete a recovery program based on the professional's recommendation. Dodson had joined MWR this year and had been working on the car of #15-Clint Bowyer. "Michael Waltrip Racing fully supports NASCAR's substance abuse policies and those who complete the Road to Recovery program," MWR said in a statement. "MWR's zero tolerance policy has resulted in the immediate termination of the employee."(Sporting News)(5-14-2013)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Former OVRP Dirt Oval runners:

 

Not much to report on this week thanks to “you know who”!

 

Davie Franek was 12th in the Jack Gunn Memorial race at Selinsgrove.

 

Kyle Rohner was 2nd at Penn Can in the 602 Sportsman feature.

 

Billy VanInwegen was a DNQ for the Modified feature at Utica/Rome, wile AJ Filbeck was 14th in the Sportsman feature.

 

Danny Creeden was 11th in the Modified feature at Accord.  Anthony Perrego was 4th and Tyler Dippel 16th in the Sportsman feature.  Tyler Boniface was 2nd, Andrew Reeves 5th and Kyle VanDuser 7th in the Spec Sportsman feature.  Jason Roe was 4th and Lex Burritt 8th in the Lightning Sprint feature.

I believe that is it for this week, thanks to “Mother Nature” last weekend.  If I missed anyone – sorry!

 

 

News from the AARN:

http://www.aarn.com/

 

Note:  Don’t forget – if you’re a subscriber to the AARN, you can have the free digital version.  That is available on Tuesday mornings.

 

From their May 14th edition – picked up from the Digital Service:

 

Lenny Sammons:

 

It seems that what went on between Big Diamond, Jake Smulley, Big D's owner, and Keith Hoffman, regarding why Hoffman was no longer at Big D is someowhat different, per Mr. Smulley, than what Keith had to say last week in the AARN.

 

 

Ernie Saxton:

 

Ernie, like most of us, was happy to see the penalties (most of them, anyway) taken back from the Gibbs team, by NASCAR.  He makes mention that Kyle Petty says that, yes, NASCAR did what they had to do, peer the rule book, but those rules were written up when teams made their own engines.  Tody, you have outside manufactureres involved, and in most cases, the teams can not do anything to the engines.  Bobby and Al Unser, Johnny Ruthereford, Jack Hewitt, Tom Bigelow, Pancho Cartr, Earl Baltes, A.J. Watson, and Don White will all be in attendance on May 18th for their induction into the USAC Hall of Fame.  Tony Bettenhausen,

Henry Banks and Bob Wilke, all deceased, will also be inducted.

 

Brett Deyo:

 

Brett tells us that the engine in the David Hunt Big Block Modified that won the feature at Bridgeport, back on May 4th, was "Home Built".  Also, Hunt says he'll be running on some selected Friday nights at the Accord Speedway.

 

 

Randy Kane:

 

Randy had a little something about OCFS regulars Tim Hindley and Rick Hill, Mike Mahaney and Meme DeSantis.  Meme is in his 40th year of racing, starting out when he was 16.

 

 

Gary London:

 

He has quite a bit about Darlington - how they had 82 cars entered in the first stock car race there.  ( saw a 250 mile Indy Car race there on July 4, 1951).  Gary also makes mention that the Kingsbridge Armory is the only place left now in the city that had races.  It is scheduled to be a huge skating rink in a few years - around 2018.

 

 

Steve Williams:

 

I glanced over his write-up about the Jack Gunn Memorial race that was held last week at Selinsgrove.  13 Sprint Cars finishe d the 40 lap race - or were around at the end.  there were 12 that are listed as DNF's. 

 

 

Herb Anastor:

 

Herb had an article about the Ford Dual Overhead Cam V8 engine.  It was based on the 260 cubic inch V8 that powered Fords Fairlane, Falcon and Mercury Comet.

 

 

John Snyder:

 

Sorry to say, but I tend to disagree with John on track sizes.  Big tracks, like OCFS, with today's rules, do not lend themselves too good side-by-side racing.  I've seen the leaders at OCFS - like a few years ago at an ESW 200, almost catch up to the tailenders, to lap them.  When the starter showed the move over flag, those tailenders pulled away.  I'll go along with John on the high banks at the Valley.  Heck, they need them there what with those ling straights and tight turns. 

 

 

Ken Kuhlman:

 

Ken had a nice article on the late Bobby Marshman.  Bobby had his share of wins - mostly in Midgets.  He was quite fast in Indy Cars, but if it wasn't for bad luck, then he didn't have much luck at all.

 

In AARN

This Week:

 

Friesen, From The Rear,

Takes Utlca Rome Mod Win,

Five Grand

 

Indy Vet Hamilton Basks, T

eammate Sitterly Stews

At Oswego

 

Jack Gunn Memorial

At Selinsgrove

To URC's J.J. Grasso

 

Preece Red Hot

At Stafford Motor Speedway

 

First Career Susky 410 Sprint

In For Danny Dietrich

 

Saxton: NASCAR Appeals Process

Validates System

 

Rick Singleton Shines

In Hesston (PA) Speedway

Opener

 

Pavement Master Rudolph

Wins For First Time

On Merrittville Dirt

 

Veteran Jeff Heotzler

Finds Accord Mod Victory Lane

 

 

 

 

 

Press releases:

 

NEWS FROM                                                                                                              

Orange County Fair Speedway                                                                                   

239 Wisner Avenue                                                                                                    

Middletown, NY10940 

 

CONTACT

Mike Gurda

845-342-2573

                                                                                              

 

 

FOR RELEASE BEGINNING MONDAY, MAY13

 

 

“KATIE, BAR THE DOOR.  THE OUTLAWS ARE COMING!”

 

MIDDLETOWN, NY (May 13)...... Are you ready for the WEEKEND OF SPEED at Orange County Fair Speedway in Middletown , New York ?  This coming Saturday and Sunday, May 18 and 19, the historic five-eighths-mile Hard Clay speedway presents two thrilling nights of racing---two headline attractions--- the mighty Big-Block DIRTcar Modifieds and the World of Outlaws STP Sprint Car Series.

 

First up on Saturday, May 18, race meet sponsor Holiday Inn of Middletown presents a full program of heat and feature races for the DIRTcar Modifieds, the Rookie Sportsman, and Street Stocks. The Pit Gate for the Saturday program opens at 3:30 pm, the Drive-In at 4:30 pm, and the Grandstand gates at 5:00 pm.  Racing gets underway at 6:30 pm.

 

Then on Sunday, May 19, current point leader, Owasso , Oklahoma native Daryn Pitman and the rest of the traveling Outlaws, bring the Greatest Show on Dirt to Orange County .  Pitman, who drives the Kasey Kahne No. 9 sprint car, surly will be challenged by Steve Kinser, last year’s Orange County STP World of Outlaws Series race winner, as the y battle for supremacy on the big Middletown oval.

 

Presented by Dana Distributors, the night’s racing action also includes the Orange County Sportsman division. On Sunday, the Pit Gate will open at 3:00 pm, with the Drive In and Grandstand gates opening at 4:00 pm. Racing begins at 6:00 pm.

 

Fans should call the Speedway Office, 845-342-2573, for tickets. A special WEEKEND OF SPEED grandstand ticket package is available. But must be purchased by the end of the business day on Friday, May17.

 

Information for all Orange County Fair Speedway action is available at the speedway website, www.orangecountyfairspeedway.net, or from at the Speedway Office. Call 845-342-2573 during business hours. 

 

 

 

 

News from the Clash at the Can – ‘Making History, One Dollar at a Time’

Media Contact: Brett Deyo – Deyo99H@aol.com or 845.728.2781

For Immediate Release/May 11, 2013

Penn Can Speedway Offers Modified “Racer’s Dream” Payout At Tuesday, June 11 Pioneer Pole Buildings Inc.-VP Racing Fuels 'Clash at the Can' Event; Purse And Special Awards Now Top $30,000 For Fourth Annual Race; Manmiller Electric Sponsors Modified Heat Races

SUSQUEHANNA, PA – Northeast Modified racers asked for it. And they got it!

The 2013 Pioneer Pole Buildings Inc.-VP Racing Fuels 'Clash at the Can' offers a “racer's dream” pay structure on Tuesday, June 11 (rain date: June 12) at Penn Can Speedway. The 60-lap big-block/small-block Modified spectacular ensures overflowing pay envelopes throughout the field with a 'non-top-heavy' purse.

The base payout for the Race of Champions Dirt Modified Tour-sanctioned event was set at $28,000. That record-setting total has grown as the countdown continues to the fourth running of the 'Clash at the Can' co-promotion involving track managers Al Wilcox and Reed Miller and Brett Deyo of BD Motorsports Media LLC.

Associate sponsorship for the event comes from Sharkey’s Fuels and Husqvarna, joining title sponsors Pioneer Pole Buildings Inc. and VP Racing Fuels in addition to a long list of bonus and special award partners.

The tire-wear-friendly one-third-mile Penn Can oval serves as a great equalizer between traveling teams and weekend warriors. A Friday, Saturday or Sunday night 'working man' racer could – and many will – leave the Susquehanna County facility with a large payout.

The winner of the event earns a $5,000 minimum top prize plus lap money. But there is no significant drop-off through the field. Second place pays $4,000, with $2,500 for third, $1,800 for fourth and $1,500 for fifth.  The remainder of the top-10 pay structure is as follows: $1,400 (sixth), $1,300 (seventh), $1,200 (eighth), $1,100 (ninth) and $1,000 (10th).

The 'Clash' pays $500 to take the green flag!  Additionally, the first six drivers failing to make the field via the consolations will transfer into the first Trackside Products 'Dash into the Clash' 6 1/2-lap Last Chance Qualifier.  The 'Dash into the Clash' victor can either take $650 cash or the last starting spot in the main, paying $500 green money. All other 'Dash into the Clash' participants earn $50.

Bonus money and special awards have pressed the night's total take for Modifieds to more than $30,000. Most recently, Manmiller Electric of Shoemakersville, Pa., has signed on to reward each of the Modified heat-race winners with $50 cash. Manmiller Electric is owned by racer Doug Manmiller, who will compete in the 'Clash' driving Josh Biever's No. 46.

A complete list of incentives and special awards can be found on the web at www.bdmotorsportsmedia.com.  Lap sponsorships and marketing opportunities remain available by contacting Brett Deyo at 845.728.2781 or via e-mail: Deyo99H@aol.com.

Crate 602 Sportsman in a 25-lap event paying $1,000 to the winner join the Modifieds in a doubleheader. The popular open-wheel division is a first-time addition to the 'Clash' event.

On Tuesday, June 11, Penn Can gates will open at 5 p.m. with hot laps at 6:45 p.m. and racing at 7:30 p.m.

Adult grandstand admission is $22 for Adults, $20 for Seniors (ages 62 and up), $10 for Students (Ages 13-17) and Kids 12 and under are FREE.  Pit admission is $30 with any track or series license and $35 without a track or series license.

Despite the purse boost and addition of Crate 602 Sportsman, prices did not increase from 2012!

Modified racers are reminded there is a Race of Champions pre-entry fee of $15 in advance or $20 on race night. Entry forms are available online at www.rocdirt.com or www.bdmotorsportsmedia.com.

Complete race information is on the web at www.bdmotorsportsmedia.com.

   

 

 

 

I get e-mails:

 

"FOR SALE BY  OWNER"

 

Our Country is run by such Crooked people it can't help  itself.

 

I recently learned that the United States  has entered into a contract with

one firm to sell 56 buildings that  currently house U.S. Post Offices. The

government has decided that it no  longer needs these buildings (many of

which are located on prime land in  towns and cities across the  country).

 

The sale of these properties will bring in  billions of dollars and, with

that, millions of dollars in commissions for  the one Company that is in

charge of handling the sale and negotiation of  the new  leases.

 

What makes this such a matter of concern  to me is that the Company that

the Government has contracted with to  conduct the sales (and the

corresponding leases for the new locations of  the displaced post offices)

is owned by

Richard  Blum.

 

What? Didn't that name mean anything to  you? Maybe I should re-phrase and

say that the person that owns the  company that is solely in charge of this

multi -million- dollar  transaction is Richard Blum, investment banker and

husband of Senator  Dianne Feinstein  .

 

What are you feeling after reading this?  Surprised?  Mad?  Sick?   Lost?

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is impossible to intelligently argue with this short letter:

 

LETTER to the EDITOR-- MINNEAPOLIS STAR TRIBUNE

 

Let's look at what we have learned from this last congressional election:

Twenty-one of 22 incumbent senators were re-elected,

and 353 of 373 incumbent members of the House were re-elected.

 

The American people have re-elected 94 percent of the incumbents who were running for re-election to an institution that has an approval rating of about 9 percent.

 

This indicates, as an electorate, we are a nation of idiots.

We're now stuck with the demonstrated useless, dysfunctional government that we deserve.

 

You just can't fix stupid....

 

 

 

For months now I have been hearing horror stories about the current administration and what it's doing to the country. I've heard all sorts of conspiracy theories about FEMA camps, youth police forces etc. I know you've heard some of them as well, and I've even forwarded a lot of them. I finally have proof that some of them at least is true. Jas and I go down to Pahrump, NV from time to time to attend shooting courses at Front Sight. We just signed up for a two-day defensive handgun skill building course in September. As a two-day course usually requires around 600 rounds of ammunition per person, I thought I'd begin stocking up now as 1,200 rounds costs a few bucks so I figured I'd buy a little at a time. Last night I went to the Cabela's website to order 300 or 400 rounds of .40 cal. FMJ ammunition which is what the course prefers. THEY DIDN'T HAVE ANY AVAILABLE.

 

You read that right. They didn't have any available so I bought the last 5 boxes of .40 cal. ammunition they did have and that was hollow-point which the course will allow, but it costs more.

 

I called the customer service people and was told that I should call back after the 23rd as that's when the get their shipments in.

 

So, today, I went to the cheeperthandirt.com website to check --- every one of the manufacturers listed for .40 cal. ammunition was shown as OUT OF STOCK.

 

So, my friends, I guess the rumors of the DHS buying up millions and millions of rounds of .40 cal. ammunition are not rumors. The story is true - I know for sure. The big question is why? What is the obama regime up to? Whatever it is, it's no good.

 

Add that to their attempts to regulate firearms, lying about Benghazi, the IRS investigating right-wing organizations, the attacks on Christianity, and on and on.

 

My friends, do yourselves a favor and study Hitler's Germany. A good place to start would be Deitrick Bonhoeffer's biography. He was there and lived through it all until he was executed a month before the end of the war.

 

Are you getting nervous yet? Perhaps you should be.

 

 

 

 

Found on Facebook:

 

Young Tyler Dippel is continuing his raising monies for St Jude Children’s Hospital.   He had this on Facebook:

 

Attention to all Facebook Friends,

It is with great pride and pleasure that I announce my new endeavor for the 2013 race season with the "new TEO Pro Car", the Hearn Team and Glenn Sullivan, President of KAMO Motorsports.

Many of you already know that 1/2 of my winnings are donated to the kids at the St Jude Children's Hospital. As the 2012 race season comes to a close, I am happy to report that I am at 85% of my $10,000 goal. Thank you to all those who gave to this cause.

To help make a difference in a kids life on this "special day of thanks", I am giving away FREE racing apparel to anyone who contributes $5.00 or more to St. Jude.

Donations can be mailed /payable to:

Tyler Dippel f/b/o St. Jude

19 Jill Marie Circle

Wallkill, NY 12589

**Please include your address**

Thank you all for your support!!!!

 

 

 

People who work for a living, are being overwhelmed by people who vote for a living.

 

 

In 1955, ignorant hateful racist democrats told Rosa Parks, that by standing up for her rights, she was breaking the law would be arrested, should be murdered, and that she would accomplish nothing.

 

In 2013, ignorant hateful racist democrats are telling responsible gun owners that by standing up for our rights we are breaking the law need to be arrested, should be murdered, and that we will accomplish nothing.

 

Doesn’t make much sense, does it?

 

 

 

Homeless go without eating.  Elderly go without needed medicines.  Mentally ill go without treatment. Veterans go without benefits that were promised.  Yet we donate billions to other countries, and excessive immigration before helping our own first.  1% will re-post and 99% won’t.  Have the guts to re-post this.  I KNOW I’m in the 1%.

 

 

Orange County Fair Speedway

ARE YOU READY FOR THE WEEKEND OF SPEED AT ORANGE COUNTY FAIR SPEEDWAY WHEN CURRENT POINT LEADER OWASSA, OKLAHOMA NATIVE DARYN PITTMAN IN THE KASEY KAHNE RACING #9 LEADS THE GREATEST SHOW ON DIRT. “THE WORLD OF OUTLAW” STP SPRINT CAR SERIES INTO THE ORANGE COUNTY FAIR SPEEDWAY TO TACKLE THE HARD CLAY. THE WEEKEND KICKS OFF WITH THE MIGHTY DIRTCAR MODIFIEDS, ROOKIE SPORTSMAN AND STREET STOCKS IN ACTION ON SATURDAY NIGHT MAY 18 SPONSORED BY HOLIDAY INN OF MIDDLETOWN , PIT GATES OPEN AT 3:30PM, DRIVE IN OPENS AT 4:30PM GRANDSTAND GATES OPEN AT 5PM, RACING STARTS AT 6:30PM, THEN ON SUNDAY MAY 19 DANA DISTRIBUTORS PRESENTS THE WORLD OF OUTLAW STP SPRINT CAR SERIES ALONG WITH THE ORANGE COUNTY FAIR SPEEDWAY SPORTSMAN DIVISION, RACING ACTION ON SUNDAY KICKS OFF AT 6PM. PIT GATES OPEN AT 3pm, DRIVE IN and GRANDSTAND GATES OPEN AT 4PM. RAINDATE FOR SUNDAY SHOW IS MONDAY, CALL THE SPEEDWAY OFFICE FOR TICKETS, WEEKEND GRANDSTAND PACKAGE DEAL IS AVAILABLE,(MUST PURCHASE BY END OF BUSINESS DAY FRIDAY) A GREAT WEEKEND OF SPEED FOR ALL RACE FANS AT THE FAMOUS ORANGE COUNTY FAIR SPEEDWAY. SEE YOU THERE!!!

 

Note:  Did you see the opening times for the drive in now?  It’s 4:30, for the 18th?  I sure hope that will be the norm for future Saturday night racing.

 

 

 

Big trouble brews for Obama, Democrats

 

Link:  http://www.examiner.com/article/big-trouble-brews-for-obama-democrats

 

In part:  "Big trouble is brewing for Barack Obama and the Democrats on numerous fronts. What is developing is the perfect political storm, a gathering of dark clouds on every corner, and in every direction."

 

"Next, U.S. Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., told reporters this week that yet another shoe is about to drop in the Benghazi scandal -- information that will take many people by surprise."

 

"Apparently the White House has sought to get out in front of the coming bad news by summoning members of the mainstream media to the White House for a special private briefing on Benghazi. Not only is this not a good sign but it foretells of a concerted effort by the Obama administration and its mouthpieces in the mainstream media to get their story consistent and on the same page before they trot out the propaganda."

 

"And yet on another front, the Obama administration seized information devised by a private developer who had perfected a means by which citizens can print out guns in 3-D, away from the snooping eyes of government. When the administration figured out that citizens could potentially use the software to make their own firearms, including those that are banned in some liberal states, the powers that be in the federal government shut down the developer's website and claimed full ownership of the technology, which amounts to abject theft."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Found on the Internet:

 

Can you imagine if you coupled the IRS story with the Benghazi cover-up, how much the press would have been all over Obama if he was a Republican ? The fact that they have and will continue to report as little as possible on both stories shows we are teetering on the cusp of a totalitarian government, where the press is nothing but a public relations mouthpiece for the big central government. Just like the old Soviet Union's Tass and Pravda.

Note:  And now we can add the telephone eaves dropping, too.

 

 

Because he has been coddled by the media for 5 years now, Obama thinks he can get away with anything. Maybe the press will wake up and realize they are being played for fools.

 

 

 

 

So, is what follows true?

 

HISTORY LESSON .

 

If there is anyone out there who doesn't know, this is an excellent

 

visual.

 

Now don't be mad at old people, just remember who did this...

 

Franklin Delano. Roosevelt

 

32nd. President, Democrat

 

Terms of Office March 4, 1933, to April 12, 1945

 

Our Social Security A Democrat, introduced the Social Security

 

(FICA) Program. He Promised:

 

1.) That participation in the Program would be Completely voluntary,

 

2.) That the participants would only have to pay 1% of the first

 

$1,400 of their annual Incomes into the Program,

 

3) That the money the participants elected to put Into the Program would

 

be deductible from Their income for tax purposes each year,

 

4.) That the money the participants put into the Independent 'Trust

 

Fund' rather than into the General operating fund, and therefore, would Only

 

be used to fund the Social Security Retirement Program, and no other

 

Government program, and

 

5.) That the annuity payments to the retirees would never be taxed as

 

income.

 

Since many of us have paid into FICA for years and are now receiving a

 

Social Security check every month -- and then finding that we are getting

 

taxed on 85% of the money we paid to the Federal government to 'Put Away' --

 

you may be interested in the following:

 

Dwight David Eisenhower

 

34th. President, Republican,

 

Term Of Office: January 20, 1953 to January 20, 1961

 

Insert by Vincent Peter Render,

 

If I recall correctly, 1958 is the first year that Congress, not President

 

Eisenhower, voted to remove funds from Social Security and put it into the

 

General Fund for Congress to spend.

 

If I recall correctly, it was a democratically controlled Congress.

 

From what I understand, Congress logic at that time was that there was so

 

much money in Social Security Fund that it would never run out / be used up

 

for the purpose it was intended / set aside for.

 

Lyndon Baines Johnson 36th.President, Democrat

 

Term Of Office: November 22, 1963 to January 20, 1969

 

Question: Which Political Party took Social Security from the Independent

 

'Trust Fund' and put it into the General Fund so that Congress could spend

 

it?

 

Answer: It was Lyndon B. Johnson

 

and the democratically Controlled House and

 

Senate.

 

Question: Which Political Party eliminated the income tax Deduction for

 

Social Security

 

(FICA) withholding?

 

Answer: The Democratic Party.

 

William Jefferson Clinton

 

(Bill Clinton)

 

42nd. President

 

Democrat Term of Office: January 20, 1993 to January 20, 2001

 

Albert Arnold Gore, Jr.

 

45th. Vice President

 

Democrat Term of Office: January 20, 1993 to January 20, 2001

 

Question: Which Political Party started taxing Social Security

 

annuities?

 

Answer: The Democratic Party, with Albert Arnold Gore, Jr. (Al Gore)

 

casting the 'tie-breaking' deciding vote as President of the Senate, while

 

he was Vice President of the US ...

 

THE STRAW THAT BROKE THE CAMEL'S BACK!!-----------

 

James Earl Carter, Jr

 

39th President, Democrat

 

Term of Office: January 20, 1977 to January 20, 1981

 

Question: Which Political Party decided to start giving Annuity payments

 

to immigrants?

 

ANSWER: JIMMY CARTER, AND THE DEMOCRATIC

 

PARTY.

 

IMMIGRANTS MOVED INTO THIS COUNTRY, AND AT AGE 65, BEGAN TO RECEIVE SOCIAL

 

SECURITY PAYMENTS: THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY GAVE THESE PAYMENTS TO THEM, EVEN

 

THOUGH THEY NEVER PAID A DIME INTO IT!

 

Then, after violating the original contract (FICA), the Democrats turn

 

around and tell you that the Republicans want to take your Social Security

 

away!

 

And the worst part about it, is uninformed citizens believe it!

 

If enough people read this, maybe a seed of Awareness will be planted and maybe changes WILL evolve!

 

Maybe not, some Democrats are awfully sure of what isn't so. But it's worth a try.

 

Actions speak louder than bumper stickers.

 

 

 

 

Television news:

 

31 Of Your Favorite TV Shows Just Got Canceled

 

NBC was by far the harshest, canceling all of the below shows:

"Up All Night": Actually a funny show, it was doomed when star Christina Applegate departed in February. Not even remaining cast members Maya Rudolph and Will Arnett could save the sinking ship.

"1600 Penn": Jenna Elfman, Bill Pullman and Josh Gadd were barely given a chance. Their half-hour comedy was canceled just five months after it premiered.

"Smash": Produced by Steven Spielberg and starring Katharine McPhee, "Smash" showed the drama behind the scenes on Broadway but didn't have enough to keep the show afloat. Its most recent episode had just two million viewers .

"Whitney": Not even producer Chelsea Handler could save comedian "Whitney" Cummings from herself. After premiering in 2011, 2013 will be the show's final season.

"The New Normal": "Glee" creator Ryan Murphy apparently doesn't turn everything he touches into gold.

"Rock Center with Brian Williams": The primetime news magazine show hosted and executive produced by "NBC Nightly News" anchor Brian Williams struggled in the ratings race since its premiere. Not even correspondents such as Ted Koppel, Meredith Vieira, Natalie Moralie and Chelsea Clinton could save it, after multiple scheduling changes.

Also canceled were new shows: "Deception," " Animal Practice," " Do No Harm," and "Guys with Kids."

Not to mention, Thursday night staple "30 Rock" just had its final season and "The Office" is about to close its doors for good.

But, these shows are still safe: "Parks and Recreation," "Chicago Fire," "Law & Order: SVU," "Community," "Grimm," "Parenthood," "The Voice," "Celebrity Apprentice" and "Revolution."

The fate of "Hannibal" is still undecided.

 

ABC renewed new favorite "Nashville" and "Grey's Anatomy" for a tenth season, but canceled:

"Happy Endings": A tragedy! The half-hour comedy was actually a brilliant show, just not enough people realized it. If you don't believe us, check out The Huffington Post's "32 reasons 'Happy Endings' is ah-mah-zing."

"Don't Trust the B--- in Apartment 23": Despite the cast's Twitter pleas, the show was canceled back in January. But it isn't horrible news for show star James Van Der Beek, who just signed on to star in a new CBS comedy.

ABC also canceled: "666 Park Avenue," "Body of Proof," "Malibu Country," "Red Widow," "The Family Tools," "Zero Hour," "Last Resort" and "How to Live With Your Parents (For the Rest of Your Life)."

Plus, "Private Practice" just wrapped up its final season.

But the network did renew ratings favorites: "Scandal," "Grey's Anatomy," "Revenge," "Once Upon a Time," "Castle," "Modern Family," "Suburgatory," "The Middle," "The Neighbors," "Last Man Standing" and fan favorite "Nashville."

 

CBS renewed more than it canceled. Here are the goners:

"Rules of Engagement": After seven seasons on the air, the David Spade comedy about relationships is getting a divorce from CBS.

"CSI: NY": "CSI: NY" is done after nine seasons of getting increasingly lower ratings — making it one of the only flops from the super-successful franchise.

Also canceled: "Vegas," "Golden Boy," "Made in Jersey," "Partners," and "The Job."

But all of these shows are returning: "CSI," "NCIS," "NCIS: LA," "The Big Bang Theory," "Two and a Half Men," "Elementary," "How I Met Your Mother (renewed for a final season)," "Criminal Minds," "The Amazing Race," "Blue Bloods," "Hawaii Five-0," "The Good Wife," "The Mentalist," "Mike & Molly," "Person of Interest," "2 Broke Girls" and "Survivor."

 

Fox canceled three shows, and renewed 11:

Say sayonara to: "Ben & Kate," "The Mob Doctor" and Kiefer Sutherland drama "Touch," which opens the actor up for a new (limited) run of "24" reboot.

Breathing a sigh of relief: "Bones," "Glee (renewed for two seasons)," "The Following," "New Girl," "The Mindy Project," "Raising Hope," "The X Factor," "American Idol," "Kitchen Nightmares," "MasterChef" and "Hotel Hell."

 

The CW is losing two longstanding shows:

You're fired: "Emily Owens, M.D.," "Cult," "Gossip Girl" (final season), and "90210" (final season).

You're hired: "Arrow," "Beauty and the Beast," "The Vampire Diaries," "Supernatural," "The Carrie Diaries," "Nikita (a shortened final season)," "Hart of Dixie,," and "America's Next Top Model."

 

 

 

Columbia seeks to change ‘whites only’ scholarship

 

Link:  http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/columbia-seeks-change-whites-only-scholarship-141323865.html

 

A few of the many comments that are with the article:

 

"I dont really have a problem with this...but if "white only" is going to be eliminated then all scholarships that have any restrictions based on race/gender/ethnicity/origin/sexual orientation/etc/etc/etc also need to be eliminated."

 

"We tolerate black only or Indian only scholarships, why not white scholarships? Can you say hypocrite??"

 

"There is no shortage of minority only scholarshipsand no shoartage of minority organizations that do not give financial awards to other races. The Gates Foundation states in their letter to educators that they want minority students. Why doesn't someone go after the Gates Foundation?"

 

"Get rid of the Blacks only scholarships too. Then we can call it even."

 

 

 

 

 

Some non-racing stuff:

 

Petraeus email objected to Benghazi talking points

 

Link:  http://news.yahoo.com/petraeus-email-objected-benghazi-talking-points-220924269.html

 

In part:

 

Critics have highlighted an email by then-State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland that expressed concern that any mention of prior warnings or the involvement of al-Qaida would give congressional Republicans ammunition to attack the administration in the weeks before the presidential election. Fighting terror was one of President Barack Obama's re-election strong points.

 

 

Some comments with the article:

 

"Let's follow the chain of events, shall we? Petraeus objects to changing of the memo. All of a sudden his extramarital affair becomes public and he resigns in November. Coincidence? Politics as usual. These guys have dirt on everybody! I also believe this was a reason for Hillary's untimely departure. Has to be!"

 

"Obama would do whatever he could to win this election. funny how all of the voting scandals have disappeared from the news--like the lady in Cicncinnati who voted 6 times for Obama. Or the districts that had ZERO votes for Romney--and what are the odds of that--why doesnt the news media go into those districts and ask if there is anyone there who can vouch that they voted for Romeny but their vote wssnt counted. duh... This administration is the most corrupt administration I have seen in my lifetime. amazing..."

 

"This clown got himself elected on lies and the tyranny of corrupt Liberal partisan attacks, supported by a further corrupt and unprofessional media, and the easily manipulated emotionally challenged low information voters destroying this country with their stupidity. VOTE IN 2014 and stop the leftist liberal Democrat party's destruction of our country."

 

 

 

 

Moms Working for Walmart Cry Foul This Mother’s Day

 

Link:  http://wallstcheatsheet.com/stocks/moms-working-for-walmart-cry-foul-this-mothers-day.html/

 

Contents:

 

Though Walmart (NYSE:WMT) just reclaimed the title of top U.S. company on the Fortune 500 list, the company continues to get bad press from regulators, watchdog groups and its own employees. In fact, many of its full-time working moms will spend this Mother’s Day on duty at the retail mammoth’s many stores, receiving unsubstantial wages and hoping their next government assistance check arrives on time.

 

A Huffington Post report on one mother’s struggles working for Walmart highlights the chasm between its employees and the top executives at a company bringing in $444 billion annually. The story of Charlene Fletcher, a California resident who works the phones at a Pasadena Walmart, is especially telling. Fletcher and her husband work full-time but cannot afford to care for their two children. Instead, they must rely on government assistance for food and medical benefits

While Fletcher earns above the California minimum wage of $8 per hour, her $9.40/hr lands her squarely in the category of working poor (she earns less than $1,500 monthly after taxes). Stacked up against CEO Michael Duke’s annual take of $35 million a year, the moms working at Walmart this Mother’s Day have a reason to be disgruntled. However, it’s only one example of the proliferation of low-wage jobs in post-recession times…

 

Job data released over the past month reveals college-educated workers fared much better during and after the recession. At the same time, the middle-wage jobs (in which workers earn $14 to $21 per hour) largely disappeared, only to be replaced post-recession by jobs paying between $7.25 and $14 per hour. Many of the same jobs lost returned as lower paying jobs, while others disappeared entirely. Jobs for skilled workers have shown sluggish growth, while retail and food service jobs have increased.

 

Naturally, budget stores like Walmart and fast-food chains continued to sell during the recession, when cash-strapped families had little choice but to buy necessities at the lowest prices. The trend continues, as it always will for stores offering customers the best prices on goods. It is Walmart’s deals with suppliers and its ability to keep expenses low (by paying low wages and offering minimal benefits) that have made the company #1 on the Fortune 500 list.

 

 

Exclusive: Benghazi Talking Points Underwent 12 Revisions, Scrubbed of Terror Reference

 

Link:  http://gma.yahoo.com/blogs/abc-blogs/exclusive-benghazi-talking-points-underwent-12-revisions-scrubbed-111305929.html?vp=1

 

 

 

 

IRS apologizes for targeting conservative groups

 

Link:  http://finance.yahoo.com/news/irs-apologizes-targeting-conservative-groups-144349480.html

 

Also:

 

THE IRS VENDETTA AGAINST CONSERVATIVE GROUPS: THE NEW ENEMIES LIST

 

Link:  http://www.tpnn.com/the-irs-vendetta-against-conservative-groups-the-new-enemies-list/

 

 

In part:  "Think about the sheer number of scandals we have seen in four years. Think of all the abuses of power we have witnessed. We have seen the Attorney General dismiss charges at the sentencing phase of Black Panther radicals who stood outside voting stations, intimidating voters with billy clubs. We have seen guns pumped to Mexican drug cartels while the Obama Administration blamed American gun dealers. We have seen our government leave Americans to die in Benghazi, cover it up and then act as if we are being unreasonable by asking what happened. We have seen billions upon billions of dollars go to government-friendly firms that simply took the money and ran while government officials meagerly proclaim, “Oh, well.” We have seen illegal alien criminals released and the White House shuttered as punishment for cutting spending. We have seen this administration exclude, threaten and punish members of the media who do not offer a favorable narrative.

 

And now, we are seeing our government admit to the use of the IRS to target conservative political groups and they hope to wash it away with a simple, “I’m sorry; it wasn’t political”?

 

 

 

IRS apologizes for targeting tea party groups. A firing offense?

 

Link:  http://news.yahoo.com/irs-apologizes-targeting-tea-party-groups-firing-offense-152800272.html

 

Just some of the comments with the article:

 

"Jay Carney said the IRS is a separate entity- Jay, the IRS is part of the Treasury which reports to the Commander in Chief (Obama). What else do you don't know?"

 

"Bigger question: Who ordered this? Do not tell me that low level workers did this on their own....big lie! Issa has the ability to subpoena...do it! Those participating should be charged ......all the way to the top!"

 

"Who is surprised? Obama is on public record stating he would, "reward friends and punish enemies."

 

"Obama hired thousands of more IRS agents at taxpayer expense to enforce compliance with Obamacare. It is reasonable to suggest he would order a similar initiative as a means of intimidation toward any perceived antagonist in any regard. His history as a community organizer is replete with a modus operandi of extortion and intimidation. In Chicago in that capacity he instructed members of ACORN in such tactics to force financial institutions into compliance with the CRA. Going so far as having bullies stage demonstrations outside the residences of CEOs. This man who calls for civility is anything but civil beyond the media blitz to make him appear angelic."

 

 

AP Exclusive: IRS knew tea party targeted in 2011

 

Link:  http://news.yahoo.com/ap-exclusive-irs-knew-tea-party-targeted-2011-190852283.html

 

 

 

 

‘Very Frightening’: Prominent Catholic Prof. Claims IRS Audited Her After Speaking Out Against Obama and Demanded to Know Who Was Paying Her

 

Link:  http://news.yahoo.com/very-frightening-prominent-catholic-prof-claims-irs-audited-182400466.html

 

 

 

 

 

HELL FREEZES OVER – MSNBC Says Benghazi Cover Up Looks ‘Clintonian’ – Risk of ‘Impeachment’ (VIDEO)

 

Link:  http://www.isthatbaloney.com/hell-freezes-over-msnbc-says-benghazi-cover-up-looks-clintonian-risk-of-impeachment-video/

 

 

One comment under the article:  "Will Hitlery throw Obozo under the bus to save her presidential aspirations? If she doesn't she's done, if she does he's done. Win win situation."

 

 

CBS News Enraged at Sharyl Attkisson for Challenging Regime on Benghazi

 

Link:  http://www.rightwingnews.com/media/cbs-news-enraged-sharyl-attkisson-for-challenging-regime-on-benghazi/

 

 

 

 

GOV'T OBTAINS WIDE AP PHONE RECORDS IN PROBE

 

Link:  http://bigstory.ap.org/article/govt-obtains-wide-ap-phone-records-probe

 

 

 

Rep. Steve King: Obama fails to congratulate Tebow for being Christian, erodes Western civilization

 

Link:  http://www.sbnation.com/2013/5/14/4330112/steve-king-tim-tebow-jason-collins-video

 

 

 

 

Video time – not music this week, but something that happened 33 years ago.

 

May 18, 1980:

 

I find it hard to believe that it will be 33 years in a couple of days when Mt. St. Helens blew its top.  My God, where does the time go?

 

http://www.olywa.net/radu/valerie/StHelens.html

 

Videos:

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xP2dreOI8gI

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSZU9BoWMtI

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbgAOfv-W20

 

Note:  Some say that it is near impossible to see videos of the actual eruption today.

 

 

 

 

Video time – racin stuff:

 

The Duke Nalon Indy 500 crash from the 1949 500:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QM6Q50ayliU

 

 

Kyle Larson, Main Event, WoO, Knoxville Raceway, May 11, 2013

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=LINiAAC8qm0

 

Note:  He’s in the blue & white car that the camera follows.

 

 

 

 

Photos:

Note:  The photos are not available on Dirt Track Digest, only on New England Tractor - http://newenglandtractor.com/racereport/

 

 

 

 

Closing with this:

 

        A truck driver was driving along on the freeway and noticed a

sign that read:

 

        Low Bridge Ahead. Before he knows it, the bridge is right in

front of him and

 

        his truck gets wedged under it. Cars are backed up for miles.

Finally a police

 

        car comes up. The cop gets out of his car and walks to the

truck driver,

 

        puts his hands on his hips and says, 'Got stuck, huh?' The

truck driver says,

 

        'No, I was delivering this bridge and I ran out of gas.'

 

 

 

 

Until next week, folks!

 

As usual, you can reach me at:  ygordad@yahoo.com