Racin' & Different Stuff:

                                      By Tom Avenengo

                                         Volume # 146

                                                   07/05/2013

 

 

Racin’ & short’ stuff:

 

Sorry for the one day (or maybe more?) delay in getting this column out, but I thought I’d wait until after I attended the practice session for Indy cars at Pocono this past Thursday.

 

Pocono practice – 24 cars, and as expected, they all broke the track record.  I’d say if you took all the average speeds and averaged them out, it would be close to 216 MPH.  In the AM practice session, Marco Andretti was fastest with an average speed of 219.282.  Where we were sitting, to the left of the S/F line, it took all of 8 seconds from the time they passed us to the time they came out of the first turn.  Yes, there were quite a bit of “sling shot” passes, especially on the front stretch.  A three-wide start should be exciting.  Oh, there was quite a bit of cloud cover, but I still got sunburned on my legs where the shorts ended.  Individual seats proved to be somewhat of a pain in the azz, I should add.  I’d rather sit on the aluminum bench seats.  A pretty good sized guy that was off to my right, during the morning session, had his knees on both sides of the seat in front of him.  There is a space between the seats – almost a foot or a tad less.

We, my daughter Judy and I, left around 2:30 in the afternoon for home.  Looking at the times, I see they were a little quicker after we left.  Marco topped in with an average of 220.963.  He was followed by Tony Kanaan at 219.802, Helio Castroneves at 219.123, Ed Carpenter at 218.788 and Ryan Hunter-Reay at 218.293.  There was all of 1.1 seconds between the fastest and slowest cars.  The old track record for Indy Cars was 211.715.  The track record for NASCAR Cup cars is 179.598 MPH.

 

“"These cars are bloody quick around here," said four-time IZOD IndyCar Series champion Dario Franchitti, driver of the No. 10 Energizer car for Target Chip Ganassi Racing car. "The performance level is unbelievable."

 

I kinda think we’ll be in for one helluva race come Sunday!

 

 

While channel surfing on Sunday, I caught glimpses of the 6 Hour race at Watkins Glen.  Geez!  I would not be surprised if those that were in the stands at the Glen would maybe fill the half covered stands at OCFS.

Another thing I noticed – do they even have Safer Barriers at the Glen?  I saw a lot of steel fencing, that’s for sure.

 

To give you another example of how racing has changed over the years – check out the “additions” they’ve added to most of the road courses, especially when exiting turns.  They’ve taken away the “braking” that was required prior to those extensions. 

 

Back in the day, in a lot of cases, practice, qualifying and the race itself were all on the same day.  Now, especially with NASCAR, it’s a three day thing.  So this past weekend, at the Kentucky Speedway, they had rain on Saturday, which moved the Cup race to Sunday.  They had practice, prior to Sunday.  Why do they need a “Competition” yellow?  Hey if your car isn’t set up by race time, then YOU should have to pit under green to get it fixed.  My thoughts, of course!

 

 

Daytona – wow, only 43 cars entered for the Cup race, so all will qualify.  43 are entered for the Nationwide race.  Why not let all of the run?

 

 

Found on Facebook on Tuesday evening:

Just got an email from DIRTcar. It will be BYOB for Wednesday at Rolling Wheels. Actually that might save some of you guys some money!

 

Note:  Apparently they (DIRTcar) have failed to get a license to sell beer?

 

 

Found on Facebook on Wednesday afternoon:

 

The IndyCar Series announced today that the remaining "Triple Crown" events at Pocono Raceway and Auto Club Speedway will feature three-wide starts like The Indianapolis 500.

 

 

Found on Facebook on Thursday:

 

A local driver ran at Thunder Mountain, and said he won’t go back.  Reason:  No ambulance.  Gee, do they even have insurance, then?  Wouldn’t an ambulance be an insurance requirement?

 

 

 

Last weekend at the Riverhead Speedway, while under caution, Asphalt Modified top driving talent, Ted Christopher creamed the pace car!

 

 

Hey, can I borrow a few bucks?  Well, maybe more than just a few, it looks like, if one wants to attend the supposed F-1 race in New Jersey in 2014.

 

UBS Is Trying To Bring A Grand Prix Race To New York

 

 

In part:

 

"The UBS memorandum states that the funding is required to complete the engineering work and build the Club of America VIP hospitality area, where guests will get a close-up view.

 

UBS forecasts that corporate hospitality tickets will cost $4,255 each and, along with general admission, will generate 80pc of revenues. It adds that the average ticket price is expected to be around £358 ($563) compared to £288 at the British Grand Prix which took place yesterday.

 

 

http://www.businessinsider.com/ubs-grand-prix-race--new-york-2013-6

 

 

 

Audi to IndyCar?

 

Audi undecided on 2014 American sports car plans

 

One little part:  "Durheimer, who has since been replaced by Ulrich Hackenberg, was rather vocal during April's World Endurance Championship season opener at Silverstone, expressing his interest in seeing Audi build Daytona Prototypes, possibly supplying engines for the IndyCar Series and supporting the planned American DTM championship."

 

And this, too:  "“It's interesting to discuss what Audi might be doing, but we have not decided yet to go into any open-wheel program, therefore I really can't give you any comment on that, and the same is true on sports cars. We have been in negotiation with [the IndyCar Series] and received information; we looked in detail into that, and we have had many meetings with [Grand-Am] about the new series. Still, it's difficult to find the right thing to do for the United States in the short-term future.”

 

http://www.racer.com/audi-undecided-on-2014-american-sports-car-plans/article/301475/

 

 

 

 

 

Where to go when coming to Pocono

 

http://openpaddock.net/2013/07/02/where-to-go-when-coming-to-pocono/

 

 

 

Coolers at Pocono:

 

From their website:

 

Q: Are coolers/bags permitted?

A: Yes, coolers are limited to 12″x12″ and will be searched at all Admission Gates. No Glass containers!! Plastic bags, fanny packs and backpacks, scanner bags, camera bags, purses and diaper bags are also permitted and will be searched at all Admission Gates.

 

 

More on Pocono – if you leave your seat to make a trip to your car, you can do so, but you must get your hand stamped at the gate, prior to leaving the stands area and going to the parking lot.

 

 

Speaking of Pocono and Indy Cars here in the Northeast – an interesting thread on the Track Forum:

 

Thread: Will IndyCar Connect with NE Fans?

 

http://www.trackforum.com/forums/showthread.php?178221-Will-IndyCar-Connect-with-NE-Fans

 

 

A few of the comments:

 

"I can't understand how NASCAR drivers can hit all these spots, both local interest and fulfill all their sponsor commitments and IndyCar drivers can't. Danica and Ricky Stenhouse found the time to visit a local track. Danica's not at all busy with sponsors and media  I understand that.

 

The reason I am bringing this up is that we have the opportunity to see how the two series compare in promotion in exactly the same area. One series actually draws whole numbers in TV ratings (and is many times the highest rated sports show of a given weekend) and has adequate sponsorship to actually hire and pay drivers. The other draws test pattern ratings and the drivers are virtually unknown.

 

The healthier series has a large presence in the area when they come to Pocono. How IndyCar will do will be determined shortly."

 

"They used to have appearances all the time back when we had races at Nazareth. Sometimes it was drivers, other times they would just have cars out in front of a supermarket or something. I haven't heard of any such thing down this way for this coming week. Maybe there is something closer to the track, but that info hasn't trickled down to here. I know I sometimes see those type of things even down here when NASCAR is at Pocono.

 

I will say I was very happy to pick up the sports section in my local paper, The Morning Call, and there were two huge race articles front and center this morning. I'm glad they are taking an interest in the race!"

 

"To be honest I would like to see them make appearances on as many local TV and radio stations as possible in whatever market the track thinks is local rather than taking far more time to get the attention of the 3,000 people at a short track for one night. That said, some PR person would have to do some fancy talking to producers and sports guys to explain who half the field is and why they should book them for two minutes on TV or five on the radio."

 

Note:  From the above post:  "That said, some PR person would have to do some fancy talking to producers and sports guys to explain who half the field is and why they should book them for two minutes on TV or five on the radio."

And that, my friends is a huge part of the problem - today's Indcar drivers are virtually unknowns.  It wasn't like that "Back in the Day".

 

 

 

More on Pocono and what’s happening there – as of Wednesday, 7/3/13:

 

Thursday, July 4

 

IZOD IndyCar Series Test Session (FREE TO ATTEND)

Time: 8 am – 5 pm

Location: Pocono Raceway Grandstands

Info: Come spend part or your entire July 4th with us, FOR FREE, as the stars of the IZOD IndyCar Series test their machines in preparation of this weekend’s Pocono INDYCAR 400 Fueled by Sunoco race weekend! Gates open at 8 am and fans may enter through Gates 7 (off Long Pond Road) or Gate 5 (off Long Pond Road). Once on property, attendees will be guided on where to part. No ticket required as this is a FREE event. Testing will run from 9 am – 5 pm ET. Select Grandstand sections will be open as well as select concession areas. Coolers (12 x 12 or smaller) are allowed, but glass is NOT permitted. All bags, coolers and fans are subject to search.

 

 

 

Friday, July 5

 

Marco Andretti Autograph Session

Time: 4-6 pm

Location: Gerrity’s Shur Save – 320 Meadow Ave., Scranton, PA 18505

Info: Come see Nazareth, Pa.,-native Marco Andretti and get his autograph. Autographs will be based on a first-come, first-serve basis. No additional information is known at this time.

 

Fuzzy’s Vodka Dinner Featuring Ed Carpenter and Fuzzy Zoeller

Time: 6-10 pm

Location: Blakeslee Inn – 200 Pennsylvania Route 940, Blakeslee, PA 18610

Info: Spend an evening with golfing legend Fuzzy Zoeller and IZOD IndyCar Driver of the No. 20 Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka Chevrolet Ed Carpenter at the Blakeslee Inn. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Mattioli Foundation, found by the late Pocono Raceway original owner Dr. Joseph “Doc” Mattioli. A ticket is required for this event. For more details, click here.

 

Pocono Raceway Concert & Block Party (FOR RV/CAMPING PATRONS ONLY)

Time: 5 pm – Midnight

Location: Pocono Raceway Infield

Info: For RV/Camping Ticket Holders only, the Concert Stage & Block Party will feature live bands (Gone Crazy & Big Things Band), great food from places like Rita’s Italian Ices, the Barley Creek Brewing Company Wiffle Ball Field and the Coco Bongo’s Bar. Family/Grandstand RV patrons can access a shuttle bus, located at Gate 3, to attend the events inside the infield.

 

 

Saturday, July 6 (Kids 12 and Under Admitted FREE to Grandstands)

 

Tony Kanaan Appearance

Time: 8:45 – 9:00 am

Location: Pocono Raceway – Sunoco Display (located inside Fan Fair)

Info: Come see 2013 Indianapolis 500 winner and current Fuzzy’s Triple Crown contender, Tony Kanaan, at the Sunoco display. The Sunoco display is located inside Fan Fair, behind our Grandstands. Check with the folks at the Sunoco display for more information.

 

Zach Veach Q&A Appearance

Time: 1:45 pm

Location: Pocono Raceway – IZOD IndyCar Series Fan Village (located inside Fan Fair)

Info: Come see up-and-coming Firestone Indy Lights and Andretti Autosport driver Zach Veach. The Fan Village is located in Fan Fair, behind the Grandstands.

 

Carlos Munoz & Zach Veach Autograph Session

Time: 2-2:30 pm

Location: Pocono Raceway – IZOD IndyCar Series Fan Village (located inside Fan Fair)

Info: Come get your autograph with Firestone Indy Lights and Andretti Autosport drivers Zach Veach and Carlos Munoz. Please check with the folks at the IZOD IndyCar Series Fan Village for more details. The Fan Village is located in Fan Fair, behind the Grandstands.

 

E.J. Viso, James Hinchcliffe and Marco Andretti Q&A Appearance

Time: 3 pm ET

Location: Pocono Raceway – Chevy Display (located inside Fan Fair)

Info: Come see Andretti Autosport drivers E.J. Viso, James Hinchcliffe and Marco Andretti at the Chevrolet Display inside our Fan Fair. Fan Fair is located behind the Grandstands.

 

BarracudaRacing / Bryan Herta Autograph Tweet Up

Time: 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm

Location: Pocono Raceway – IZOD IndyCar Series Fan Village (located inside Fan Fair)

Info: For more information, please follow @BHA on Twitter.

 

Tony Kanaan Q&A Appearance

Time: 4:40 pm

Location: Pocono Raceway – Chevy Display (located inside Fan Fair)

Info: Come see 2013 Indianapolis 500 winner and current Fuzzy’s Triple Crown contender, Tony Kanaan, at the Chevy display. The Chevy display is located inside Fan Fair, behind our Grandstands. Check with the folks at the Sunoco display for more information.

 

Pocono Concert Stage, Block Party & Fireworks (ALL CAN ATTEND FOR $5 DONATION TO LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT)

Time: 5 pm – Midnight

Location: Pocono Raceway Infield

Info: For a $5 donation, per vehicle, to the Tunkhannock Volunteer Fire Department, all can attend to see great bands, have great food and the infamous Pocono Raceway Fireworks Spectacular. Non-RV/Camping patrons can enter the infield through the Gate 1 Tunnel starting at 7 pm ET and follow directions from security to designated lot. The bands Tommy Gunns and 40 lb. Head will be performing, along with slot-car racing and the Wiffle Ball field. All bars and food, including Rita’s Italian ices, will be open for the duration of the night. The fireworks will start at approximately 9:15 pm. Fans who made a donation must exit the Infield by 1 am ET on Sunday ( or the vehicle will be towed). Family/Grandstand RV campers can access the entire evening’s events via the Gate 3 shuttle.

 

 

 

Sunday, July 7 (Grandstand Tickets Start at $25, all Kids Grandstand Tickets are Half Price)

 

IZOD IndyCar Series Autograph Session

Time: 8:45 – 9:45 am

Location: Pocono Raceway – IZOD IndyCar Series Fan Village (located behind the Grandstands)

Info: Come see all the drivers racing in the Pocono INDYCAR 400 Fueled by Sunoco as they host an IndyCar Series-wide autograph session. The IZOD IndyCar Series Fan Village is located inside Fan Fair, behind our Grandstands. For more information, check with the folks at the Fan Village or follow them at @ICFanVillage on Twitter.

 

Ed Carpenter Q & A Session

Time: 9:45 am

Location: Pocono Raceway – Chevy Display (located inside Fan Fair)

Info: Come see Fuzzy’s Ultra Premium Vodka Chevrolet driver Ed Carpenter at the Chevy display. The Chevy Display is located in Fan Fair, behind the Grandstands.

 

Tony Kanaan Appearance

Time: 9:45 – 10 am

Location: Pocono Raceway – Sunoco Display (located inside Fan Fair)

Info: Come see 2013 Indianapolis 500 winner and current Fuzzy’s Triple Crown contender, Tony Kanaan, at the Sunoco display. The Sunoco display is located inside our Fan Fair, behind the Grandstands.

 

Simona De Silvestro Appearance (TENTATIVE)

Time: 9:45 – 10 am

Location: Pocono Raceway – AREVA STEM Activity Tent (located inside Fan Fair)

Info: Come see KV Racing Techonlogy driver Simona De Silvestro at the AREVE STEM Activity Tent, located inside Fan Fair. Fan Fair is located behind the Grandstands.

 

Pocono Raceway Tweet Up

Time: 10 am

Location: Pocono Raceway – Fan Fair

Info: Join us for a fun Tweet Up featuring ticket upgrades, Paddock Passes and autograph item giveaways. Plus, there will be some special guests in attendance. For more information, follow us @poconoraceway on Twitter! Location will be revealed on Saturday morning at 10 am ET on our Twitter account.

 

(Note: All times and appearances subject to change without notice. All times mentioned are Eastern Time.)

 

More appearances and special events to be added as race weekend progresses. Check back for daily updates!

 

 

 

 

 

Some OCFS news for Sportsman and Rookie Sportsman.

 

Orange County Fair Speedway

Attention Sportsman and Rookie Sportsman Competitors - Tire Rule - Posted: July 2nd, 2013

 

EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY, STARTING WITH JULY 6th, 2013!

 

TIRE ORIENTATION FOR SPORTSMAN & ROOKIE SPORTSMAN

 

LF - 1182

RF - 1382

LR - 1387 OR 1389

RR - 1392

 

THERE MUST BE HOOSIER MARKINGS ON SIDEWALLS OF THE TIRE IN THE APPROPRIATE LOCATION

 

ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO BOB DINI.

 

Note:  The above is to clarify that what has been on the RF has to stay on the RF, not go on the LR, etc etc.  No difference in compounds.

 

 

A little something asked about OCFS & their 50/50:

 

Do you need to claim the 50/50 the night of the drawing in order to win it? Do they post the winning number somewhere at the speedway?

 

The last two weeks I bought a ticket I have no idea if I won or not because I couldn't hear the number being called out.

 

 

 

Here are some car counts from various tracks in the area:

 

ARDC at County Line Speedway in N.C. – 19

NEMA at Stafford – 15

NEMA Lights at Stafford – 19

New Egypt Small Block Mods – 22 – Sportsman – 32

Fonda Mods – 24 – Sportsman - 25

Lebanon Valley Mods – 25 – Small Blocks – 15 – Sportsman 33

OCFS Mods – 21 – Sportsman 19 – Rookie Sportsman – 15

Grandview Mods – 35 – LM’s – 18 – Sportsman 34

Out of the area – USAC at Pikes Peak International – Midgets 11 – Silver Crown – 14

 

 

 

How times have changed:

 

In the write-up for the DIRTcar SDS Modified race in Cornwall, Ontario, not one driver from OCFS is listed.  Same goes for the Small Block race.

 

 

 

 

If you recall – well, I imagine you’ve heard – Kyle Petty making mention of Danica Patrick being able to drove a car fast, but not being a race driver – there are seven pages of comments over on the Track Forum:

 

http://www.trackforum.com/forums/showthread.php?178074-Kyle-Petty-says

 

 

 

Accord rain check info for last Friday:

 

The Official Accord speedway

Unfortunately Mother Nature won again- save your ticket stub to receive $2 off admission next Friday on July 5th when we'll try again to have our Fireworks Extravaganza.

 

 

While on the subject of Accord Speedway, this came out on Facebook this past Tuesday:

 

“There will be a pre-race chicken barbecue on Tuesday, August 6 for the first-ever 'Battle of the Bullring' event....”

 

And these, too:

 

“Brett Deyo

Great news! New York Truck Parts has signed on as the primary sponsor of the 'Battle of the Bullring' at Accord Speedway Tuesday, August 6. A full press release is coming but it should be a great partnership! Thank you Gary Mann!”

 

 

As per the Accord Speedway facebook, there will be no double features run this week to make up for the rainout due to the fireworks show. When we know more, we will let you know!

 

 

 

I happen to be on the email list from DIRTcar.  On Wednesday, I received two emails – one about Matt Sheppard winning a 358 Small Block SDS race, and another that his engine wasn’t legal.

 

From the second one:

 

“Post-Race Inspection Findings Result in Fine, Point Reduction for Matt Sheppard

 

WEEDSPORT, N. Y. - July 2, 2013 - Due to a post-race inspection violation within a DIRTcar 358 "Spec" cylinder head, Matt Sheppard, the winner of the DIRTcar 358-Modified Series race at Cornwall Motor Speedway Monday, July 1, will be fined $4,000 and 100 points.”

 

Note:  I have a problem with this.  Personally, I don’t care if it was Matt Sheppard, Tim McCreadie, Brett Hearn or any other driver – if you ain’t legal, you get DQ’d and place last.  The second place winner gets the win AND the $4,000.00.  Supposedly the “fines” imposed go to a “Point fund”.  Yeah, right!  Somewhere along the line, those that run auto racing today, from NASCAR (The 800 Pound Gorilla) down to lowly DIRTcar Modifieds, lost their balls as far as doing what should be right.  Just because NASCAR does it – others have to follow?  No wonder the fan base is shrinking, along with car counts.  Those in power apparently can’t see that, huh?

 

 

Oh, and as far as “Point funds” go – I find it almost comical how some tracks can awards monies up to five digits to their driving champions, yet others only in the low four digits.  Just where does all that “tire money” and other sponsorship monies go, anyway?   You ever notice how many tracks advertise their point money awards, while others don’t?  Uh huh!

 

 

 

 

National Motorsports Press Association announces five nominees for 2014 Hall of Fame class

 

Mario Andretti, Joe Gibbs, Ray Evernham, L.D. Ottinger and Steve Waid

 

http://motorsportstalk.nbcsports.com/2013/07/02/national-motorsports-press-association-announces-five-nominees-for-2014-hall-of-fame-class/?ocid=Yahoo&partner=ya5nbcs

 

 

 

NASCAR confiscates roof flaps from 31 teams

 

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/nascar-confiscates-roof-flaps-16-223512796--nascar.html

 

 

Report: Terry Labonte interested in buying Phoenix Racing — could brother Bobby be far behind?

 

http://motorsportstalk.nbcsports.com/2013/07/04/report-terry-labonte-interested-in-buying-phoenix-racing-could-brother-bobby-be-far-behind/?ocid=Yahoo&partner=ya5nbcs

 

 

Goodyear Blimp ride, Dale Jr. autographed firesuit auction to benefit Jason Leffler’s son

 

http://motorsportstalk.nbcsports.com/2013/07/04/goodyear-blimp-ride-dale-jr-autographed-firesuit-auction-to-benefit-jason-lefflers-son/?ocid=Yahoo&partner=ya5nbcs

 

 

Formula One Drivers Threaten Boycott of German Grand Prix

 

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-07-04/formula-one-drivers-threaten-boycott-of-german-grand-prix.html?cmpid=yhoo

 

 

 

 

Godfather Motorsports Expands, Youngster Tyler Dippel Debuts Wednesday At Anderson (SC) Motor Speedway

 

http://motorsports-soapbox.blogspot.com/2013/06/godfather-motorsports-expands-youngster.html

 

Note #1:  He’ll be down there for a few days to practice.  Reports are he’ll return back here prior to the weekend.

 

Note #2:  Found this link on DTD’s Forum:

 

http://motorsports-soapbox.blogspot.com/2013/07/trinity-oaks-senior-living-joins.html

 

 

 

If you’re a fan of Midget racing, this might interest you:

1948 Kurtis Kraft Midget – Video Car Profile

 

http://www.sportscardigest.com/1948-kurtis-kraft-midget-video-car-profile/

 

 

 

Pepsi Still Contains Too Much Carcinogen Found In Caramel Coloring, Group Says

 

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/03/pepsi-caramel-coloring-carcinogen-4-mel_n_3540683.html

 

 

Note:  What's next?  Hey, I've gone from regular sugar to using an artificial sweetener - Splenda.  Now there are reports that that stuff is no good for us, too.

 

 

 

 

It seems we have a new “Phrase” nowadays.  “Held Accountable” is what I’m referring to.  Seems like everyone is being “Help Accountable”, yet not a damn thing is happening to them so it seems.  So, does “Held Accountable” just mean that someone is/was in trouble, but NOTHING will be done to the guilty party?  Sure seems that way to me.

 

 

 

I get emails:

 

 

“I am personally disappointed with the thread over at DTD about the protested crate motor at OCFS.  The whole scenario that played out is just completely shrouded in mystery and full of incompetence and deceit.  That particular incident and the way it was handled by OCFS is a testament to just how poorly the facility operates and how much integrity they have in managing serious issues in regards to the sport.  There's no excuse and that was unacceptable.

 

All of that information that was provided about the protested engine did was create more questions and buried the answers and the truth underneath the rug.  I’m positive those in charge in Middletown will run the speedway and alls its history right into the ground someday.”

 

 

 

Note:  My daughter, Judy, works for Dave Morehouse at OCFS.  Normally she’s in the booth in the drive-in every Saturday.  I was not at OCFS this past Saturday, so when I saw her on Sunday, I asked her how it was last night.  I hate to say this but she said it was the worst she’s seen all year.  Drive-in had fewer cars and stands didn’t look all that good either.

 

 

In the past I’ve ruffled the feathers of those that run OCFS.  I’m not one of their favorite people.  I could show you messages I’ve received from some that work or have worked there, messages that contain words not suitable for this column, mind you, as to how they feel about me.

 

I started going to that place back in 1946 when they raced Midgets on the 1/5 mile asphalt track that was in the infield.  Lately, every year it seems that those that run the place have found new ways to make it go down hill.  Word has been they only race now to pay the taxes on the property.  The fair lost its main occupant – the 4H-ers.  A lot of us wonder – will it be here next year as a race track?  Now some are wondering – will it even last out this current year?

 

 

Let me throw this at ya:

 

Let’s say that due to circumstances, OCFS closes down as a race track.  What might be the chances of the Accord Speedway switching from Friday night to Saturday night?

 

 

Age, among other things have slowed yours truly down some.  Going up stairs and up inclines kind of do me in.  I’m not all that bad on flat, level areas as far as walking goes.  I’ll be at Pocono this Thursday and again on Sunday.  I’ll basically be going with my daughter, Judy, although my son Eric, and grandson Brett are also supposed to go.  My daughter said that they have elevators to get you up to the sky boxes and also for the handicapped.  I inquired as to what defines someone as being “handicapped”.  There response was that one had to be in a wheel chair.  On top of that, you would only be allowed in the Handicapped” section, not in regular seating.  I guess I’ll be taking some breaks on my way up to our seats on Sunday!

 

 

As many of you know, I live in Port Jervis, NY.  It’s where NY, NJ & PA all meet together.  Across the Delaware River is Matamoras, PA.  There are a couple of pretty good sized Fireworks stores in Matamoras, along with just about everyone else selling them – even WalMart.  But what is weird is this:  If you’re a New York resident, you can buy the Fireworks in PA, but you can’t bring them into NY.  Uh huh!  And if you’re a resident of PA, you can’t buy them unless you have a license to shoot them off, in PA.

Check this article out about it:

 

http://www.recordonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20130702/NEWS/307020311&cid=sitesearch

 

 

 

 

Found on the Internet:

 

 

Just some comments about the Immigration crap:

 

Protect the border first.... than e-verify

 

Their legislation would drive up unemployment and drive down wages. Basically they want to throw America under the bus.

 

Senators don't care about the laws-only getting re-elected..Throw them all out

 

So funny, no job creation to speak of, but lets pass a bill that will flood the country with cheap labor.

 

We DO NOT NEED and we DO NOT WANT...immigration law reform...WE WANT IMMIGRATION LAW ENFORCEMENT.

 

The American people need to get behind this. Both Democrats & Republicans.

This is an American Issue not a party issue. We are all taxpayers, paying for  this.

 

Really hard to believe that elections and laws are being shaped by people who aren't even supposed to be here, and the vast majority of those from south of the border, have no intention of ever becoming a US citizen. Bizarre.

 

To lazy to enforce the laws already on the books. Just pass a new one to avoid cleaning up the mess.

 

The only fix is. DEPORT THEM ALL NO MORE FOOD STAMPS. NO MORE MONEY. NO MORE MEDICAL. NO MORE FREE HAND OUTS. AND EVERYTHING IN EHGLISH! .. Not going to happen. The fools in office hand NO BALLS. To back up the laws. And you wonder why the USA is all #$%$$ee up. Ha! Now you know!

 

Think of this for a moment. If citizenship is approved before the border is secure, they will all move to the US.

 

For over thirty years the federal government, who insist they have the authority over immigration have failed the American people, the southern border states have suffered the most, the bills they have now will do nothing because this is not about the American people, the economy is in the toilet and they do not even talk about that, they spend time on a bill that will never be enforced.

 

LH...are you forgetting the fact that administration after administration refuses to enforce the immigration laws we have and have had for decades??????? Don't blame this mess on the border states! Arizona enacts a law to help stop this invasion ( SB1070 ) and Obama sues to prevent Az from using it......

 

Just because Pelosi has sold out to illegal’s does not mean the entire country has to.

 

If the Republicans block this give-away bill and kill it, I promise to vote Republican in the next presidential election. I will know who really has the citizens of THIS country's best interest. BTW, I am a life long democrat.

 

So Pelosi thinks it is okay to hand over this nation to the flood of Hispanics running from their own dismal nation only to turn this once great one into another dismal Latino nation. It already has begun in many border states with billboards, TV, radio and other publications being exclusively Spanish.

If they were proud to be Americans, they would learn English, wave an American flag instead of Mexican, or El Salvadorian one, every time they are in front of a camera.

 

People better start calculating the cost of a wide open policy of making any and everyone a citizen. The welfare roles will skyrocket. Does this issue need to be addressed - you bet. But not what Pelosi wants ... heck, the reason she wants it is because the vast majority of "everyone" that would be in that pool would be voters for her and her ilk.

 

If a Ship is SINKING the FIRST thing you do is FIX the leaks ...Then you decide what to do with the water

 

Got news for the idiot aka Pelosi, the majority of legal citizens want them deported.

 

Kill this amnesty bill. For the sake of sanity, for the sake of America...

 

 

 

 

BREAKING: Muslim Brotherhood Overthrown in Egypt

 

http://www.capitalisminstitute.org/muslim-brotherhood-overthrown/

 

And this:

 

Egypt army ousts Morsi, who decries 'coup'

 

http://news.yahoo.com/egypt-army-ousts-morsi-decries-coup-201718347.html

 

 

Note:  What with the way things have been going here in the US, one wonders – would we ever have a “coup”?

 

 

 

 

 

From Facebook:

 

On Facebook on 7/2:

 

D-Day is coming real fast for the Waterford Speedbowl... You'll see a foreclosure sale sign near the front entrance soon!!!! Terry Eames is gonna lose the track soon!!!!

 

And this, too, on Waterford:

 

Dick Cerevolo (Todd's dad) says he's interested in buying the track. But he's looking for an honest partner to go in with him... Rather then see the track closed!!

 

 

 

On Facebook on 6/27:

 

Mike Huckabee

I told you this week that the thousand-page immigration reform bill now has a thousand-plus page amendment, and it’s a pretty sure bet that nobody in the Senate has read either one of them. They like to pass bills first, then find out what’s in them later. But here’s a couple of Easter eggs you probably never expected to find hidden in all that verbiage. Nevada Senators Harry Reid and Dean Heller tucked away $100 million to promote Las Vegas tourism. Exactly how that helps to reform immigration policy I don’t know. But it’s a drop in the bucket compared to the jobs stimulus plan that’s also hidden away in there. A few years ago, Democratic Sen. Bernie Sanders wanted to spend $1.5 billion to help youth whose employment prospects were “hard hit by the Wall Street-caused recession.” It failed. But Sanders dusted it off and stuck it in the immigration reform bill. Except now, it will spend $1.5 billion to help youth whose job prospects will be damaged by immigration reform. Proving once again that it really doesn’t matter what the problem is, Washington’s solution is always the same: spend a few billion dollars of someone else’s money.

 

For more of the Huckabee Report visit MikeHuckabee.com.

 

 

 

Here are three interesting things I found on Facebook:

 

If you are Muslim you can opt out of the Obamacare health care reform laws with no penalties

 

http://www.examiner.com/article/if-you-are-muslim-you-can-opt-out-of-the-obamacare-health-care-reform-laws-with-no-penalties

 

 

 

Amnesty Bill: $5000 Penalty For Hiring Citizens Over Legalized Aliens

 

http://tomohalloran.com/2013/06/28/amnesty-bill-5000-penalty-for-hiring-citizens-over-legalized-aliens/

 

 

 

 

Army Blocks Soldiers Access To Articles About NSA Whistleblower

 

http://www.mrconservative.com/2013/06/20168-army-blocks-soldiers-access-to-articles-about-nsa-whistleblower/

 

 

 

Obama Props Up Muslim Brotherhood Amid Mass Protests

 

http://www.capitalisminstitute.org/muslim-brotherhood-protest/

 

In part:  "Don’t expect to read much about the riots going on in Egypt right now from the American media. Our “journalists” are too busy attacking celebrity Chefs like Paula Deen to focus on actual “life or death” news events.

 

In Egypt, we’re seeing some of the largest protests in human history, as untold numbers of Egyptian citizens are rising up against the Muslim Brotherhood. They’re reasoning differs according to the group, but many of the protesters include the Christian and secular population of Egypt.

 

So what has Obama done to help them? Actually, he doesn’t support them. In fact, he’s been preparing the Muslim Brotherhood with tear gas and anti-riot training so they can squash the riots. Yes, we’re siding with the Islamic fascists. Yes, this is criminally evil."

 

 

 

 

 

From Jayski:

http://www.jayski.com/

 

Hamlin says back is fine, plans to run full season:

When #11-Denny Hamlin clobbered the Turn 4 wall at Kentucky Speedway on Sunday, the first thought of most who watched had to be, "Oh, no, not the back." Fortunately, there was no basis for concern for the driver who had missed four races earlier this season because of a compression fracture of his first lumbar vertebra. The impact on Lap 147 of the Quaker State 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race was severe, and Hamlin was shaken up, but his back was fine. Team owner Joe Gibbs visited Hamlin in the infield care center after the wreck. Hamlin was released shortly thereafter. "I think our cars are so safe, and to show you, in 22 years, we've only had one person miss a race, and that was Denny, when he had the problem earlier this year," Gibbs told the NASCAR Wire Service. "So to be quite truthful, I didn't see it, so I was just going back, and I didn't realize he hit that hard. And so when I got back there (to the garage), he said, 'Man, I've got a headache, like you wouldn't believe.' And he banged his knee on the inside (of the car). Then we went to the care center, and right away, he said, "I started feeling better and better and better." On Monday, Hamlin plans to go ahead with a scheduled test at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. "They called the doctor over there, he's going to take a look at him before he gets in the car, but I think we are in good shape there," Gibbs said.(NASCAR Wire Service)

AND from a Toyota Racing transcript:

Q) Do you plan to continue with the rest of the season?

Hamlin: "Definitely have to proceed on. I have a test in Indy tomorrow that we're going to do to try to get better and get to performing better. Really today it was the best performance for us in a while. Hopefully at least something to build off of even though we don't have a good finish."

Q) Will you still contend to make the Chase?

Hamlin: "I felt pretty good about the way we were racing today. We were with the right track position, we could run with everybody except for maybe the 48 (Jimmie Johnson). We're just going to try to win races and that's what my job is for the rest of the year is to try to win and do the best I can for my sponsors and my team. Really the biggest thing I was pushing for was to get my team into the Chase. Had an opportunity owner's points-wise to get into the Chase and this is obviously another hit."

Q) How hard was the hit?

Hamlin: "It's very similar to Kansas of last year during the test day of the race weekend. Flat right side hit, especially, you are picking up a lot of speed off of (turn) four here. For me, it didn't go down slowly like the tire did the first time -- this one just blew out solid and quick. Obviously, when I lost steering I hit flat. I would rather hit head-on anywhere than flat up against the wall on these walls."(Toyoya Racing)(7-1-2013)

 

UPDATE:

#11-Denny Hamlin was cleared Monday by doctors who performed tests to see whether the Joe Gibbs Racing driver suffered a concussion in Sunday's crash at Kentucky Speedway. He saw doctors in Indianapolis on Monday morning before a scheduled two-day test at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. JGR officials said the driver was cleared for that and to race in Saturday's Sprint Cup race at Daytona International Speedway.(ESPN)(7-1-2013)

 

 

Edwards to Penske? Denied: ....

the rumor of Carl Edwards [who is signed with Roush thru at least 2013] driving a third Penske Racing car with Quicken Loans as the sponsor next season circled around the garage the last few weeks. "Absolutely not," [team owner Roger] Penske said emphatically. "That's a good one, but no. We would do a third car if we had proper sponsorship. But right now we have two good young drivers and we continue to get our cars better." Penske didn't rule out the possibility of adding a third car down the road but he remains loyal to Sam Hornish Jr.(FoxSports)(6-30-2013)

 

 

Newman wants to race for a team where he is wanted:

#39-Ryan Newman's needs are simple."I just want to race some place where I'm wanted," Newman said. "Where people are happy I'm there." Newman received a one-year reprieve on his contract with Stewart-Haas Racing, where he is currently 18th in the standings. For most of the season, Newman has been outrunning his bossman Tony Stewart. While Newman's resume isn't as extensive as Stewart's, it's respectable with 16 Sprint Cup victories and six finishes of 10th or better in the standings. The 35-year-old South Bend, Ind., native ranks third among active drivers in pole positions with 49. Not surprisingly, team owner Richard Childress said last week that Newman tops his list of potential candidates for the #29 Chevy which is being vacated by Kevin Harvick at season's end. "There are only so many guys that don't have contracts for next year," Newman said. "At this point, I would entertain any possible opportunity. I don't think anyone in my position wouldn't do anything otherwise. "Of all the opportunities that there are out there, he's got one of the best opportunities  as far as the 29 being vacated. But I don't know what the family tree is going to look like over there."(FoxSports)(6-30-2013)

 

 

Squier-Hall Award for NASCAR Media Excellence to be announced: NASCAR will announce the third recipient of the Squier-Hall Award for NASCAR Media Excellence on Saturday, July 6 at Daytona International Speedway. The recipient of the award, which is named after inaugural winners and NASCAR broadcasting legends Ken Squier and Barney Hall, will be honored during NASCAR Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony festivities on Jan. 29, 2014 and featured in an exhibit in the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, N.C.

One of the following nominees will receive the prestigious annual award:

Russ Catlin, one of the best-known early racing writers and historians, served as editor of Speed Age Magazine

Chris Economaki, known as the "Dean of Motorsports," spent more than 50 years as editor of National Speed Sport News

Shav Glick, covered motorsports for the Los Angeles Times for 37 years, bringing NASCAR coverage to the West Coast

Tom Higgins, the first NASCAR beat reporter to cover every race in a season, he covered motorsports for The Charlotte Observer for 34 years

Bob Jenkins, served as the lead NASCAR lap-by-lap anchor at ESPN from 1982-2000.

Bob Moore, spent more than 20 years as a NASCAR beat writer including stints with the Daytona Beach News-Journal and The Charlotte Observer

Benny Phillips, spent 48 years covering NASCAR for the High Point (N.C.) Enterprise, 27 years for Stock Car Racing and 12 years on TBS

T. Taylor Warren, best known for his three-wide photo of the 1959 Daytona 500 finish, he covered every Daytona 500 until his death in 2008.(NASCAR)(6-29-2013)

 

Note:  I'm betting on Economaki

 

 

Finch has prospective buyer for Phoenix Racing –

Harry Scott Jr.?: James Finch said Thursday that he expects to announce the sale of #51 Phoenix Racing on July 15. He said the prospective owner passed muster in terms of the most necessary qualification for owning a team that competes in Sprint Cup and Nationwide racing. "He's somebody who's got money," Finch said. Unable to find a long-term sponsor for his racing team the past three years, Finch has been saddled with the exorbitant costs required to drive on a weekly basis. Unwilling to shoulder that burden any longer, he said previously that he intended to race through the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 28 before ceasing operations. Now he believes he has found a buyer who will take over and keep the team running through the rest of the year and beyond. Finch wouldn't reveal who the potential buyer is, but he did say the prospective owner has not owned a racing team before. "I'm in negotiations with an individual to buy the team, and if he does that I'll let him finish out the year," Finch said, adding that details of the sale will be reserved until July 15. "He's a qualified buyer, so hopefully we can make everything work. I've got close to 800 starts. That's a lot of weekends, you know what I mean? I'll help (the new owner) get started and stuff like that. I'll go attend some races a little bit, but I'll be out of ownership. I might run a few Nationwide races out of his shop, go play or something. But full time is over for me. We're going to the shop (in Spartanburg, S.C.) this next week and telling the employees, 'Here's the new guy, and this is the plan.'" The Sprint Cup schedule rolls through Daytona next week for the Coke Zero 400, and Finch said he will have Regan Smith or AJ Allmendinger in the driver's seat for that race. "Regan's concentrating on trying to win the Nationwide championship," Finch said. "If he wants to drive at Daytona, he's been so good the last two (restrictor) plate races I'm going to give him the opportunity. If he wants to concentrate on the Nationwide championship then we will have AJ finish up the next three races."(Sun Herald)(6-28-2013)

 

UPDATE:

A source close to the situation told ESPN.com the potential buyer is Harry Scott Jr., the co-owner of Turner Scott Motorsports, which competes in the Nationwide and Truck Series. Finch, 63, said he should know if the deal will go through by July 15. If not, he said the organization will shut down after the July 28 race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway due to a lack of funding. "My last race is going to be the Brickyard [400] that I'm going to fund," Finch said Friday. "I've been trying to make this sale happen to keep my employees. I've got some of them jobs with different teams if I shut down. If the guy buys the team, they will be able to stay and go forward racing." Finch has 18 employees in his Spartanburg shop located just over an hour from the NASCAR hub in Charlotte (ESPN).

AND Team General Manager Steve Barkdoll confirmed the pending sale to Sporting News on Friday. Barkdoll was vague on whether the new buyer also is bringing a driver. He indicated that Allmendinger would drive the next three races at Daytona, New Hampshire and Indianapolis. "(The owner's preferred driver is) not necessarily for all the races," Barkdoll said Friday morning at Kentucky Speedway. "Nothing has really been talked about (on) that for sure. & We know that AJ is going to drive the three races in July. That gets us hopefully to the announcement. After that, we haven't looked past July yet on the driver part." Barkdoll said he is "very confident" of the sale being completed by the middle of next month. Barkdoll did say that Jacques Villeneuve, who drove for the team last week, is not the prospective buyer but would not go into details about who is buying the team.(Sporting News)(6-28-2013)

 

 

A Tribute Die-Cast to Benefit the Charlie Dean Leffler Trust Fund: When tragedy strikes, NASCAR unites and for a brief moment nothing else matters except for an unbreakable bond in the community. It doesn't matter what team you are on, what manufacturer you drive for or who finishes first at the track  what does matter is the moment that everyone gathers together to remember a great race car driver, wonderful friend and an amazing father.

On June 16 at Michigan International Speedway, the NASCAR community did just that, and in a special tribute to former NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Jason Leffler, Joe Gibbs Racing and Denny Hamlin ran a replica paint scheme of Leffler's 2005 #11 FedEx car.

Hamlin didn't win the race that Sunday afternoon, but the NASCAR community will forever remember the car Hamlin drove on Father's day, in honor of Leffler's life at the track. After all, Leffler debuted the FedEx sponsorship for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2005. After a last minute re-wrap of the #11 FedEx Toyota Camry took place late Saturday night, the car rolled out on track ready for Sunday's Quicken Loans 400 and the NASCAR community stood together as one.

Now Lionel Racing joins forces with Joe Gibbs Racing in honoring Leffler's life with the die-cast of the #11 FedEx LefTurn Tribute Toyota Camry that Hamlin drove in honor of Leffler.  100% of the profit from the purchase of each die-cast will be donated to the Charlie Dean Trust Fund to benefit Leffler's son Charlie.(Lionel Racing Pit Box)(6-28-2013)

 

 

 

Former OVRP Dirt Oval racers:

 

Thanks to good old “Mother Nature” not too much to report on this week.

 

Johnny Guarino was 8th in the 358 Modified feature at New Egypt.

 

Paul Quear (who is 82 years old!) was 9th in the Wingless 600 feature at Borgers.

 

Kenney Johnson was 5th in the NEMA Light feature at Stafford.

 

Alex Bell was 18th in the Modified feature at Devil’s Bowl.

 

Rich Coons was first and Bob Morris 4th in the Sportsman feature at Bethel.

 

Tyler Dippel was 17th in the RoC Modified feature at I-88.

 

Roger Coss was 8th in the Modified feature at Mahoning Valley.  Both BJ and Tiffany Wambold were DNQ’s for the Street Stock feature.

 

Kyle Armstrong was 10th, Kolby Schroder 12th and Bobby Hackel, IV 21st in the Modified feature at Lebanon Valley.

Tyler Dippel won the Sportsman feature and John Virgilio was 25th.

 

Tim Hindley was 2nd, Billy VanInwegen 5th, Clinton Mills 6th, Mike Ruggiero 7th and Matt Hitchcock 14th in the Modified feature at OCFS.

Brian Krummel won the Sportsman feature with LJ Lombardo 2nd, Anthony Perrego 4th, Joe Conklin 5th, Matt Janiak 9th, Joe Falanga 12th and Andrew Reeves 18th.

 

At 5 Mile, Danny Creeden won the Modified feature. 

Brad Szulewski was 8th in the Sportsman feature.

Chuck Alwessi was 9th, Emily VanInwegen 12th, Joe Kata 16th and Josh Pieniazek 19th in the CRSA 305 Sprint Car feature.

Note:  Per a message on Facebook, Joe Kata lost his engine and won’t be back in action for a while.

 

 

 

From the AARN:

http://www.aarn.com/

 

From their July 2nd issue:

 

Lenny Sammons:

 

He starts off his column talking about Matt Sheppard and his win at I-88 last week in the RoC race.  Matt went to I-88 at the last minute with his Small Block # 9.  Sammons tells us that Matt started on the pole in his heat and feature, and lead every lap.  All four heat winners started from the pole.  The consi winner started outside pole.

 

 

Lenny posted a couple of addresses for some that might appreciate cards and notes.

 

Fred Orchard, Jr. was stricken with Cancer last year.  He’s fighting a tough battle and could use some cards of encouragement.  He’s expected home from the hospital in New York, to begin hospice care.

His address:

Fred Orchard, Jr.

37 Cliffwood Road

Chester, NJ 07930

 

Also:

 

Gary Berkenstock, Sr., was hospitalized last Friday with heart problems.  He had successful surgery in a Philadelphia hospital. 

His address:

Gary Berkenstock, Sr.

1715 Pheasant Alley

Green Lane, PA. 18054

 

 

 

Ernie Saxton:

 

Mr. Saxton is having thoughts that maybe Kevin Harvick has made a mistake in leaving RCR and signing with SHR.  (I guess time will tell?)

 

Ernie has this, in part of his column:  “INDY CAR SERIES  continues to see a new sponsor”.  In a way, I think there’s a “typo” there with “see” – maybe should be “seek”?

It seems that IZOD, with two years to go on their contract, have stopped advertising during races carried by NBC Sports.

 

Ernie, like me, isn’t too happy with some of the renditions that come out on the singing of our National Anthem.  He says he was tipped off about a Jim Cornelison who sings the National Anthem for the Chicago Black Hawks.

 

Here he sings it on May 29th,2013:

 

http://search.yahoo.com/search;_ylt=AocM1hLrmjoGYEe2SO2oahCbvZx4?p=Jim+Cornelison+National+Anthem&toggle=1&cop=mss&ei=UTF-8&fr=yfp-t-900

 

 

 

Dave Dragovich:

 

Dave, more or less, hits the nail on the head as far as “Our sport is changing on the local level”.

He cites three things – The economy, the expense of racing and a lack of interest.

 

 

 

John Snyder:

 

This week John talks about rules – “Who knows the rules”, to be specific.  He touches on the Small Block engine rules, which he (along with me and countless others) says are “Too damn complicated”.  Track tire rules and how they, at times, keep drivers from running certain tracks.  Re-starting rules at tracks seem to differ, and you best be on your toes if you’re not a regular and there’s a re-start.  John said he’d like to hear the public address announcers tell the fans just how the re-start rules apply.  I agree on that, however, a lot of times one can’t hear the announcer.  You know, things are quiet when the cars are on the backstretch, away from the stands, but as they come out of the fourth turn, that is when the announcer starts to run his mouth.  Not smart!

 

 

 

Rally Champion Sebastien Loeb shattered the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb record, with a time of 8 minutes 13.818 seconds.  The old record, held by Rhys Millen, last year, was 9 minutes 46.181 seconds.  Loeb averaged 87 MPH.

Note:  Keep in mind – Pikes Peak is mostly all paved now, now with hardly anymore dirt as its racing surface.

 

 

 

This comes as a surprise – Levi Jones has announced his retirement from racing.  He won seven USAC Championships – six with the Tony Stewart team.  He is the only five time USAC Sprint Car champion

 

 

 

This Week 
In AARN:

Lernerville World Of Outlaws 
Late Model Sweep:  
Josh Richards Goes 
Three For Three


Preece Wins 
Third Straight NASCAR 
Whelen Mod Tour Race 
At Riverhead


Carey Terrance Wins 
First Super DIRTcar Series 
Big Block Main At Cornwall


Blewett Foregoes Mod Tour; 
Returns To Wall And Wins 
Garden State Classic


Kinney Sweeps ESS Sprint 
Canadian Two Race Series


Dave Danzer Is First Time 
Oswego Supermodified Winner


Hodnett, Krimes, Hafertepe 
Win First Three PA Speedweek 
Sprint Mains


Emotional Ronnie Johnson 
Fonda Win Is Dedicated 
To Ailing Father, 'Jumpin' Jack'


Sheppard Conquers I-88 
For Race Of Champions Score

 

 

 

This date in racing history:

 

Just a few of the events on July 4th & 5th in:

 

July 4th:

 

1927

Pete DePaolo drove a Miller to victory in the 200 mile AAA Championship race on the 1.25 mile board Rockingham Speedway in Salem, New Hampshire. Wade Morton drove an Auburn to victory in a 100 mile Stock Car race.

 

1946

Ted Horn , driving the Ted Horn #5, won the 20-lap AAA Eastern Sprint Car race on the 1 mile dirt Lakewood Speedway in Atlanta, GA.

 

1947

Walt Ader won the AAA Championship race on the 1 mile dirt Lakewood Speedway in Atlanta, Georgia. The race was called after 77 laps. It was the only Champ Car win for Ader.

Tommy Hinnershitz won the AAA Sprint Car race at the Salem Speedway, Salem, IN.

Spider Webb , driving the Malamud #29, won the 25 lap AAA Eastern Sprint Car race on the 1/2 mile dirt Dover Speedway in Dover, NJ.

Lucky Lux , driving the Liss McDowell #29, won the 15 lap AAA Eastern Sprint Car race on the 1/2 mile dirt Alcyon Speedway in Pitman, NJ.

 

1950

Bill Schindler won the AAA Eastern Sprint Car race at the Lakewood Speedway,Atlanta, GA.

 

1951

Walt Faulkner won the Darlington 250 AAA Championship race on the 1.25 Mile Paved Oval Darlington Raceway in Darlington, South Carolina. Tony Bettenhausen was second followed by Cecil Green, Bill Mackey and Jack McGrath.

Note:  I was there that day!

 

1952

Troy Ruttman won the 200 mile AAA Championship race on the 1 mile paved Southland Speedway in Raleigh, North Carolina.

 

1953

Rodger Ward won the Detroit 100 AAA Championship race on the 1 mile dirt oval Michigan State Fairgrounds in Detroit, MI

Johnny Thomson won the AAA Eastern Sprint Car race over Tommy Hinnershitz at the Altamont Fairgrounds, Altamont, NY.

Bob Sweikert won the AAA Sprint Car race over Jackie Holmes at the Salem Speedway, Salem, IN.

Charlie Miller won the afternoon URC Sprint Car race at the Tioga Motorsports Park, Owego, NY.

Steve Yanigan won the night time URC Sprint Car race at the Cortland Fairgrounds, Cortland, NY.

 

1955

Gig Stephens won the AAA Midget race at the Hatfield Speedway,Hatfield, PA.

 

1956

Pat OConnor won the Pee Dee 200 USAC Championship race on the 1.37 Mile Paved Oval Darlington Raceway in Darlington, South Carolina. Jack Turner was second followed by Johnny Boyd, George Amick and Pat Flaherty.

 

1957

George Amick won the USAC Champ Car race on the 1 mile dirt Lakewood Speedway in Atlanta, Georgia.

Chuck Arnold won the ARDC Midget race at the Allentown Fairgrounds, Allentown,PA.

Bobby Courtwright won the URC Sprint Car race over Lou Johnson, Eddie Gallione and Bobby Marshman at the Fonda Speedway, Fonda,NY.

 

1958

Jud Larson drove to victory in a tragic 100 mile USAC Championship race on the 1 mile dirt Lakewood Speedway in Atlanta, Georgia. Arizonan Art Bisch hit the guardrail and rolled over on lap 37, suffering injuries that would claim his life two days later.

 

1959

Sonny Strupp won the Modified Stock Car race at the Victory Speedway, Middletown, NY. Don Jersey was second followed by Carl Van Horn, Otto Harwi, George Horvath, Ken Wismer and Russ Delp.

Hank Rogers won the URC Sprint Car race at the Selinsgrove Speedway in Selinsgrove, PA.

 

1962

"Fireball" Roberts drove Banjo Matthews' Pontiac to victory in the NASCAR Grand National 'Firecracker 250' at Daytona International Speedway. It was Roberts 3rd win of the season, all on the 2.5 mile Daytona tri-oval.

 

1965

Don Branson won the 30 lap USAC Sprint Car race at the Salem Speedway, Salem, IN.

Dutch Schaefer won the ARDC Midget race at the Riverhead Raceway, Riverhead,NY.

 

1970

Gary Bettenhausen won the USAC Michigan Twin 200s Indy Car race on the 2 Mile Paved Oval Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan. Bobby Unser was second followed by Johnny Rutherford, Mike Mosley and Jim Malloy. A.J. Foyt won the 200 Mile USAC Stock Car race.

 

1973

Dana Carter won the Crown 100 ARDC Midget race over Jim Hettinger, Billy Hughes, Leigh Earnshaw and Jerry Stover at the John F. Kennedy Stadium , Philadelphia,PA.

 

1986

Tim Richmond won the NASCAR Winston Cup Pepsi FireCracker 400 over Sterling Marlin at the Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, FL.

 

 

JULY 5th:

 

1928

Elmer George... Born ... He drove in the AAA and USAC Championship Car series, racing in the 1956-1963 seasons with 64 starts, including the Indianapolis 500 races in 1957, 1962, and 1963. He finished in the top ten 36 times, with one victory, in 1957 at Syracuse. George was also the 1957 USAC Sprint Car Series champion. Elmer George was married to Mari Hulman George, daughter of Tony Hulman, owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Elmer and Mari's son is Tony George, founder of the Indy Racing League, and current CEO of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. On race day, May 31, 1976, Elmer George argued by telephone with a horse trainer at the family farm near Terre Haute. After the race, George drove to the farm and confronted the trainer. George was shot and died the next day

 

1937

Bernd Rosemeyer drove an Auto Union to victory in the 'Vanderbilt Cup' race in Old Westbury, New York.

 

1952

Johnny Kay won the AAA Midget race at the Freeport Speedway, Freeport,NY.

 

1954

Manuel Ayulo drove a Kuzma-Offy to victory in the 200 mile AAA Championship race at Darlington Raceway in Darlington, South Carolina. It was the first Champ Car win of Ayulo's career.

 

1957

Chuck Rodee won the USAC Midget race at the Springfield Speedway, Springfield,IL.

Bert Brooks won the URC Sprint Car race at the Nazareth Speedway, Nazareth, PA .

 

1959

Fred "Jiggs" Peters, driving the Nelson Offy, won the 100-lap National Championship Midget race before an estimated 7,500 fans at the Williams Grove Speedway, Williams Grove,PA. Len Duncan in the Harry Hespell #1 finished second followed by Bill Homeier, Jimmy Davies, Bobby Marshman, Tony Bonadies, Russ Klar, Gig Stephens, Al Herman, Hal Horan, Don Wood and Jim Schaeffer.

 

1964

Tony Bonadies... Died ... A very popular midget car driver, Tony Bonadies' career spanned over twenty-four years during which he competed in more than one thousand races. Although he never won the ARDC Midget Championship, he was ranked amongst the top six in seven out of his last eight seasons in the series' final classification table, and he was twice the title runner-up. He entered the Indy 500 three times, but failed to qualify in all attempts: in 1955 and the following year his times aboard a Kurtis 3000D - Offenhauser were simply not quick enough, and in 1957 he wrecked his Kurtis 500C - Offenhauser at the Turn 4 at the northwest end of the track during practice and had to withdraw from the race. Bonadies was taking place in an ARDC midget race at the Williams Grove Speedway on 05 July 1964 when, as he pitched his Frankenfield - Offenahuser into a slide at the entrance to Turn 1, the right rear axle of the car snapped. The vehicle barrel rolled several times and then got airborne. Tony was thrown to the ground and died instantly.

Jiggs Peters won the ARDC Midget race at the Williams Grove Speedway, Williams Grove, PA.

 

1971

Harry Benjamin won the URC Sprint Car race over Jan Opperman, Stan Ploski, Buck Buckley and Joe Tetz at the Flemington Fair Speedway, Flemington,NJ.

 

1997

John Andretti won the NASCAR Winston Cup Pepsi 400 over Terry Labonte at the Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, FL.

 

2004

Rodger Ward... Died ... USAC Midget and Indy car driver. 2 time Indy 500 winner, 1959 & 1962

 

 

 

 

 

 

Press releases:

 

A.J. Foyt Is Recovering from Hip Replacement Surgery in Houston

HOUSTON July 2, 2013—IndyCar Racing team owner A.J. Foyt, who has not been to a race since the Ft. Worth event on June 8th, underwent successful hip replacement surgery on his left hip yesterday in a Houston hospital and is expected to make a full recovery.

Foyt had been battling pain in his left leg for most of the year. In April, he underwent a laminectomy in the lumbar region of his spine to relieve sciatic nerve pain. He had missed two races (Alabama and Long Beach, Calif.) prior to that surgery as well as the one in Sao Paulo, Brazil immediately after it.

The chronic leg pain increased dramatically after he fell while working on his ranch before the Texas race. He had consulted with several doctors before agreeing to the most recent surgery.

“I was a little nervous about this surgery but they had me up and walking the same day. I’m sore but nothing like I was before the surgery. I guess I waited too long to have it done though because my hip was in really bad shape. They couldn’t believe I was walking at all,” said Foyt, who was in good spirits. “The doctors tell me it will be six to eight weeks before I can travel.”

Foyt will be in the hospital for several days. He plans to watch Takuma Sato and his ABC Supply Racing team compete at Pocono Raceway this Sunday when the event is televised live on ABC-TV starting at noon ET.

Foyt has overcome many health issues throughout his legendary career, many of which have been brought on by racing and ranching accidents. Despite his recent health travails, the 78-year-old Houstonian is stilling proving to be as tough as the mesquite on his Texas ranches.

 

 

 

 

RACING NEWS FROM. . .

 

THE BIG SHOW 5

A BRETT HEARN/DRIVEN MARKETING

PRODUCTION 

 

Top dirt track Modified drivers from across the Northeast are expected to take part in this Summer Spectacular race meet.

 

Spectator gates for The Big Show 5 Super DIRTcar Modified Series race meet will open at 4:00 PM. Fans are encouraged to come out early and enjoy the attractions. In addition to sampling all the refreshments available, several souvenir trailers offering a wide variety of racing-oriented items will be on site. There will be tables set up for fans to get autographs from top Super DIRTcar Modified Series and Albany-Saratoga Speedway drivers. The autograph session is scheduled for 5:00-6:00 PM.

 

The Big Show 5, for the Big-Block DIRTcar Modifieds, will include time trials, qualifying heat and consolation races, and the 100-lap feature race. The Big Show 5 will pay the winner at least $9,711 and with special awards money, considerably more.

 

For the first time, The DIRTcar Pro Stock Series, also a traveling series, is the evening’s support division.

 

All seating is general admission and priced at $24.00; children under 12 $5.00. Pit passes for DIRTcar/Albany-Saratoga/Lebanon Valley members are $30.00; non-members $35.00. VIP Parking, which includes golf cart transportation to the ticket booths, is $5.00.

 

The Big Show 5 information, a Brett Hearn-Driven Marketing Production, is available online at www.bretthearn.com

and also www.albany-saratogaspeedway.com.

 

 

 

 

NEWS FROM                                                                                                             

Orange County Fair Speedway                                                                                    

239 Wisner Avenue                                                                                                    

Middletown, NY10940 

 

CONTACT

Mike Gurda

845-342-2573

 

LITTLE LEAGUERS WELCOME AT ORANGE COUNTY FAIR SPEEDWAY

 

MIDDLETOWN, NY (July 1)……..All Little League ballplayers in uniform, both boys and girls, are invited to attend the stock car races at Orange County Fair Speedway free of charge on Saturday, July 6. Admission for adult coaches in uniform is $10.00.

 

Orange County’s full complement of Big-Block Modified, Small-Block Modifieds, Sportsman, and Street Stock race cars will be in action with qualifying and feature races. In addition, the North East Vintage Modifieds are also on the card.

 

Johnstons Toyota and Chet’s Garage are the evening’s sponsors.

 

Speedway admission prices for the July 6 race meet remain at $14 adults, $12 seniors, and free for children 12 and under. The full night of racing begins promptly at 6:30 pm.

 

Advance ticket sales for the 52nd Anniversary Eastern States Weekend and additional track information are available at the Orange County website, www.orangecountyfairspeedway.net, or from the Track Office. Call 845-342-2573 during business hours.

 

 

UPCOMING EVENTS

 

July 12 --- 173rd Orange County Fair opens

 

July 13 ---  Steve Dodd Plumbing/Dupée & Monroe Law Office Modifieds, Sportsman, Rookie                         Sportsman, and Street Stocks

 

July 14 --- Middletown Auto Wreckers Demolition Derby

 

July 20-22 --- MOTO A ND MONSTER TRUCK MADNESS!!!

 

 

 

Borgers News July 3, 2013

 

Borgers PR

Media Contact

Bob Snyder

bobsnyderphoto@enter.net

 

Borgers Firecracker Spectacular Saturday July 6.

 

The 4th of July weekend will be ushered in with an “Explosion Of Speed” at the Saylorsburg, Pa. 1/7 mile asphalt oval.

 

A $300 to win 25 lap MicroStock feature will be on the line with every entry receiving a $25 gift certificate from Shupp’s Kart Shop.  With 12 or more entries Borgers Speedway will match the $25.  This means that even last place could go home with at least $50 with 12 MicroStocks in a single class.  If we get 12 or more in two classes we will do the same.

 

Reliable Automatic Fire Sprinkler Company, JC Specialty, Brendan O’Connor Fire Protection, and Webleaps.com will join forces in presenting a $500 to win Flathead Heavy race with 10 or more Karts.  $30 entry fee.

 

Champ Kart King Of The Asphalt Race 4 will  be held with $200 going to the winner.

 

All Junior Classes will receive special 4th Of July Trophies created by West End Awards.

 

A full card of TQ/Asphalt 600 Sprints, Wingless Dirt 600 Sprints, AllStar and Junior Slingshots will round out the card.

 

 

 

 

Racing video:

 

Pocono Indy car video:

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=OcnwdfbND7A

 

 

 

 

Photo of the week:

 

Yes, he was one of the best from “Back in the day” – the 40’s and 50’s.  I often wonder what if – what if he went to Indy on May 1, 1955 instead of Langhorne, which resulted in his last ride.

Mike Nazaruk in the McNamara # 73.

 

 

 

 

 

Non racin’ stuff:

 

Here's What Happens If You Don't Sign Up For Obamacare

 

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/heres-happens-dont-sign-obamacare-220458373.html

 

 

Our future?

 

http://pro.stansberryresearch.com/1306EOAPOPUP/PPSIP642/

 

 

 

Probably more of this in our future, but it’s happening now, folks:

 

School bans ‘Tebowing’ style postgame prayer following ACLU complaint

 

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/highschool-prep-rally/school-bans-tebowing-style-postgame-prayer-following-aclu-094513987.html

 

 

 

 

Feds Plead With Judge to Allow DOJ to File a Late Answer on SS# Fraud Case... Ruling to be a Devastating Blow to Obama's Presidency...

 

http://redflagnews.squarespace.com/headlines/feds-plead-with-judge-to-allow-doj-to-file-a-late-answer-after-the-notice-of-failure-to-respond-was-docketed-ruling-to-be-a-devastating-blow-to-obamas-identity

 

 

Note:  You gotta love some of the comments under this article!

 

 

 

How to get IRS employees to talk:

 

http://foxnewsinsider.com/2013/06/27/can-irs-officials-continue-plead-fifth-repeatedly-judge-napolitano-weighs

 

 

Five Things You May Not Know About Obamacare

 

1. Young, healthy adults won’t buy coverage

 

2. Uptick in early retirement

 

3. Some people won’t find their current plans on exchanges

 

4. Better hospital food

 

5. Surprise tax bills

 

http://finance.yahoo.com/blogs/the-exchange/five-things-may-not-know-obamacare-174217840.html

 

 

Note:  A few comments, as of 6/28/13:

 

"A lot of Obama voters will be joining the real world in 2014 and watch them cry big tears."

 

"If the government employees won't use it then we should not be made to do so as well. Make Obama use his own plan for his family and see how he likes it."

 

"#6: Illegal aliens will get benefits, through the Community Organizations section of the law, which are run by former ACORN members, so they can show them how to cheat the system."

 

"The Administration would rather the press refer to the bill as Affordable Care Act or ASA instead of Obamacare. Obama would rather not take the blame for what's coming soon."

 

"How about ONE LAW FOR ALL! Everyone from Obama down should have the same insurance if we have to buy this $#$^$^!!!"

 

"Oh and they forgot to mention that you employer paid medical will now be taxable income, so EVERYONE GETS ROYALLY F(UCKED)."

 

"my company just changed to the most low end, cheap insurance plan possible....and two of our black, er, I mean. African American female coworkers were having a hissy fit all week because, they actually (no lie) thought that since they were "black", that O-Blame-o Care meant that they would not have to pay higher premiums, have less coverage, lower deductibles and , the best one, meant that they would actually be getting free insurance.....Hollywood can't make this sh^t up........"

 

 

Sen Rand on reading bills before passing them:

 

http://www.youtube.com/embed/svGDZOW-brA?rel=0

 

 

 

Obama’s DOJ Defunding Youth Programs That Mention God

 

The First Amendment prohibits a mandatory national religion. It does not go the full Nietzsche and declare that “God is dead.” You’d never know that, though, from the Department of Justice decision to cut funding for two youth organizations simply because the sheriff running the programs refused to sign a pledge promising to ban prayer or any mention of God at the organizations’ meetings.

 

Bossier Parish, Louisiana, has a Young Marines chapter and a youth diversion program. The Young Marines is not part of the United States Marines. It’s a community-based program youth program, many of whose adult volunteers are former, retired, active duty, or reserve Marines. The youth diversion program has a voluntary student-led prayer, while the Young Marines take an oath that – gasp! – mentions God:

From this day forward, I sincerely promise, I will set an example for all other youth to follow and I shall never do anything that would bring disgrace or dishonor upon God, my Country and its flag, my parents, myself or the Young Marines. These I will honor and respect in a manner that will reflect credit upon them and myself. Semper Fidelis.

 

Because of these generic references to God, the Department of Justice (“DOJ”) defunded both organizations, despite the fact that they’ve successfully helped more than a thousand young people in the parish. The programs are therefore $30,000 poorer.

Julian Whittington, Bossier Parish’s sheriff, is furious about what happened. As far as he’s concerned, this was government “aggression and infringement of our religious freedoms.”  In an interview with Fox News, Whittington explained what the DOJ told the groups:

We were informed that these are unacceptable, inherently religious activities and the Department of Justice would not be able to fund the programs if it continued. They wanted a letter from me stating that I would no longer have voluntary prayer and I would also have to remove ‘God’ from the Young Marine’s oath.

 

Fox obtained correspondence from a DOJ attorney and discovered that what particularly upset the DOJ was the part of the Young Marine’s oath stating promising to “Keep myself clean in mind by attending the church of my faith.” As far as the attorney was concerned sponsoring this chapter of the Young Marines meant “funding on inherently religious activities, such as prayer, religious instruction and proselytization.” This violated the rule that “any religious activities must be kept separate in time or location from DOJ-funded activities.”

Rep. John Fleming, R. La., doesn’t see this just as an attack on one Louisiana parish that has successfully helped more than 1,000 young people with its program. Instead, he sees it as part of a broader Obama administration effort to attack religion (or, more accurately, the Christian faith) wherever it appears in American life:

 

 

http://www.mrconservative.com/2013/06/19970-obamas-doj-defunding-youth-programs-that-mention-god/

 

Note:  Check out the comments on this one!

 

 

 

European officials slam US over bugging report

 

http://news.yahoo.com/european-officials-slam-us-over-bugging-report-135703554.html

 

 

Wikileaks founder says Snowden info will keep getting published

 

http://news.yahoo.com/wikileaks-founder-says-snowden-keep-185222043.html

 

 

Snowden says Obama administration isn’t running a constitutional government

 

http://news.yahoo.com/snowden-says-obama-administration-flaunting-constitution-152821058.html

 

 

 

White House Delays Key Obamacare Provision for a Year

 

http://news.yahoo.com/white-house-delays-key-obamacare-provision-000002787.html

 

 

 

 

Music video:

 

For all you Elvis fans out there – Aloha from Hawaii – 1973

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oC9fdbcgLTE

 

 

 

 

 

This week I’m continuing a five part series of things about our bodies.  Enjoy!

 

SOME FACTS ABOUT YOU THAT YOU PROBABLY DIDN'T KNOW

 

The human body is a treasure trove of mysteries, one that still confounds doctors and scientists about the details of its working. It's not an overstatement to say that every part of your body is a miracle.

 

Here are 31 through 40 of the fifty facts about your body, some of which will leave you stunned...

 

31.  The fastest growing nail is on the middle finger.

 

32.  Facial hair grows faster than any other hair on the body.  This is true for men as well as women.

 

33.  There are as many hairs per square inch on your body as a chimpanzee.

 

34.  A human fetus acquires fingerprints at the age of three months.

 

35.  By the age of 60, most people will have lost about half their taste buds.

 

36.  About 32 million bacteria call every inch of your skin home.  But don't worry, a majority of these are harmless or even helpful bacteria.

 

37.  The colder the room you sleep in, the higher the chances are that you'll have a bad dream.

 

38.  Human lips have a reddish color because of the great concentration of tiny capillaries just below the skin.

 

39.  Three hundred million cells die in the human body every minute.

 

40.  Like fingerprints, every individual has a unique tongue print that can be used for identification.

 

 

 

 

Joke of the week:

 

IT'S A-COMIN'

 

Three strangers strike up a conversation in the passenger lounge in the Bozeman , Montana airport, while waiting for their respective flights..

 

One is an American Indian passing through from Lame Deer, another is a Cowboy on his way to Billings for a livestock show, and the third passenger is a fundamentalist Arab student, newly arrived at Montana State University from the Middle East ....

 

Their discussion drifts to their diverse cultures. Soon, the two Westerners learn that the Arab is a devout, radical Muslim and the conversation falls into an uneasy lull.

 

The cowboy leans back in his chair, crosses his boots on a magazine table, tips his big sweat-stained hat forward over his face, and lights a cigarette.

 

Finally, the American Indian clears his throat and softly he speaks, 'At one time here... my people were many... but sadly, now we are few.'

 

The Muslim student raises an eyebrow and leans forward,

'Once my people were few,' he sneers, 'and now we are many. Why do you suppose that is?'

 

The cowboy removes his cigarette from his mouth and from the darkness beneath his Stetson says in a smooth drawl . . .

 

'I reckon that's 'cause we ain't played Cowboys and Muslims yet, But I do believe , it's a-comin'

 

 

 

 

 

Until the next column!

 

I can be reached, via e-mail, at:  ygordad@yahoo.com