Racin' & Internet Stuff:

                                      By Tom Avenengo

                                         Volume # 70

                                           09/01/2011

 

Special notice # 1:

Due to the effects of Hurricane Irene, chances are this column might well be a tad late in getting onto the Internet on the New England Tractor’s website, which is located in Connecticut.  Also, there’s a good chance that some photos of the Orange County Fair Speedway – and what it looked like with Irene making her presence in the area, with all the rain, might not make the column in the “Second” part of the column.  Kinda, sucks, I know, but it’s really hard to battle with “Mother Nature”, ya know?

 

Special notice # 2:

I have been blessed with my name coming up for the possibility of serving on a jury next week.  I won’t know until Monday evening if my number will be called, or not, and if not, I still have to check in nightly to see if I might be picked for a possible serving on any day.  So, next weeks column, if it does come out, might very well be quite smaller than usual.

 

OK, back to the original column!

 First:

I suppose I should consider us as being quite fortunate as far as Irene goes.  I’m two blocks from the Delaware River here in Port Jervis, NY, and we had no problems with flooding in MY neighborhood.  Other parts of Port Jervis are somewhat different, though, with flooding – mostly at the east end of town.  Early on Monday afternoon, I took a ride on a road that goes along he Delaware.  The river was high, but really had a ways to go to flood in the couple of miles of road that I traveled.  However, the color of the river is best described as the color of store bought chocolate milk – nice and brown.  I’m hoping that all others, even those that have been affected, are now able to get their lives back on track.

 

Second:

Irene wasn’t too kind to most of the Speedways and Race Tracks in the area.  Facebook had quite a lot of photos up, along with various message boards and forums – especially for OCFS.  I’m hoping the photos can be put up, here, and for those of you reading this on DTD’s website, you’ll have to view them on the New England Tractors website – IF they’ve been put up.  It was up in the air as of early on Wednesday, per Jeff Johnson of NET.

http://newenglandtractor.com/racereport/

OCFS After the Flood, Taken on Wednesday

 

Third:

Well, with the weather causing havoc with racing over the weekend, there are some point races that are pretty well affected.

At OCFS, as an example:

Modified Points
1. Tommy Meier 646  2. Jerry Higbie 627  3. Jackie Brown 577  4. Steve Dodd 537  5. Craig Mitchell 532

 

Sportsman Points
1. Brian Krummel 803  2. Gary Edwards Jr. 803  3. Shane Jablonka 797  4. Matt Hitchcock 714  5. Jimmy Spellmon 706

 

Pro Stock Points (Not much of a race in this class, now)
1. Mike Dutka 856  2. Tom Vigh 777  3. Emerson Cargain Jr. 724  4. Ron Nuzzaro Jr. 723  5. Troy Arnold 715

 

Street Stock Points
1. Charles Donald 796  2. Emerson Cargain Sr. 794  3. Matt Burke 724  4. Stan Vishinski Sr. 636  5. Tom Shortway 624 .

 

At Lebanon Valley:

Modified points:

1. Kenny Tremont, JR – 682  2. Brett Hearn 680  3. Donnie Corellis 650  4. J R Heffner 633  5. Eddie Marshall 628

 

At Accord:

Modified points:

1.Brett Hearn 704  2.  Jerry Higbie 622  3.  Mike Ricci 601  4.  Danny           Creeden 596  5.  Danny Tyler 586

 

Sportsman Points

1. Kevin Ward 756  2.  Shane Jablonka 595  3.  Dave Coene 588  4.  Vinnie DeCicco 578  5.  Jeff Huleapple 577

 

Spec Sportsman points:

1.  Kyle Rohner 709  2.  White Slavin 663  3.  Tommy Johnson 662  4.  Mike DuBoise 602  5.  Matt Hitchcock 574

 

Pro Stock points

1.Pat Zimmer 686  2.  John Roese 684  3.  Tom Vasta 660  4.  Al Christiana 602  5.  Jim Sykes 590

 

 

 

Fourth:

 

Noted AARN columnist Jerry Reigle, 43, lost his battle with cancer this past Tuesday, August 30, 2011, at 5:30 AM.  I had the opportunity to have met him while I was a member of the Eastern Motorsports Press Association, when they held their yearly conventions.  A great guy - that will surely be missed by many, many people, race fans, drivers, teams, other members of the media along with his loyal column reading fans, of which I was one.

 

 

Fifth:

 

This, from the World Racing Group about the passing of Jerry Reigle – via e-mail:

 

World Racing Group Mourns Passing of Motorsports Writer Jerry Reigle

 

CONCORD, N.C. - Aug. 30, 2011 - The World Racing Group, World of Outlaws and DIRTcar Racing are saddened to learn of Jerry Reigle's passing today.

 

An outstanding motorsports journalist with a love for Sprint Car racing, Jerry, 43, had the respect of everybody at World Racing Group for his professional reporting from his time at the Harrisburg Patriot-News to his position as Assistant Editor at Area Auto Racing News.

 

More than his columns and stories, Jerry was a great friend to many of us at World Racing Group. His opinions were valued, and his efforts to improve motorsports coverage, in particular the coverage of dirt track racing, were highly regarded through his work with the Eastern Motorsports Press Association.

 

We were first heartbroken and then inspired by his battle against cancer. Despite dire predictions, Jerry was upbeat and positive throughout his fight, never wavering from his stance that he would win. His appearances at our events were always appreciated as much for the stories he would write as for the stories we would share.

 

"Motorsports journalism lost one of its biggest supporters and contributors this morning in Jerry Reigle," said Chris Dolack, WRG VP of Media/PR. "I was honored to have known him and call him a friend. I respected the way he worked and his unbiased reporting. He did things the right way and I can't offer any higher praise than that. Even knowing him and his spirit, I was amazed how positive he remained while fighting cancer, and I'm glad he can now put down his pen and rest. He will be greatly missed."

 

Details of a Celebration of Life for Jerry are being finalized. In lieu of flowers, contributions are requested to the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area, 7790 Grayson Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111 or the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing, PO Box 688, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.

 

 

 

Sixth:

 

Back around August 24th I received a bill from the hospital that I was in, for a week, back in July.  It showed I owed them a little over $1,100.00.  My only insurance is Medicare, and, at times, it takes quite a while to get statements from them.  So, prior to setting up some kind of a payment plan with the hospital, I requested an itemized bill.  I got that bill on Monday, August 29th.  Friends, all I can say is:  If at all possible, do not ask for an itemized bill from a hospital stay!  OMG!!  I am currently on a medication called Simvastatin – 40 MG.  Looking at the itemized bill, I was given another type of “statin” – Atorvastatin 40 MG at a cost of $25.87 per pill.  My prescription for Simvastatin – 90 tablets - $11.69.  Other types of meds that I take are similarly what I’d say are “overpriced”.    And Aspirin - $3.08 per – which is the cheapest item charged in the 2+ pages of itemized stuff.  Most expensive – an ICD COGNS BSC-L $128,000.00.  Total bill was over $324,000.00.

 

 

Seventh:

 

Are you interested in TV ratings?  How about NASCAR Cup racing TV ratings?  You can see how they’ve been if you go here:

 

http://www.jayski.com/pages/tvratings2011.htm

 

 

 

Eighth:

 

I guess if I had a “This sucks” section in my columns, this would be in it for sure.  Something I’ve been looking forward to since last year:

 

Due to the severe flooding in the area .. caused by hurricane Irene .. this years Hinchliffe Stadium Racing Expo, that was scheduled for Sunday, September 4 of Labor Day weekend, has been canceled and can not be rescheduled for this year.

 

 

Ninth:

I really can’t get into watching Indycar races on road courses, whether it be natural road courses or the made up ones.  However, I did watch the start of the race this past weekend from Sonoma, California.  There were quite a few on-car camera shots, and while watching it, I thought about how today’s drivers would have done if, cars were like back in the day, and the driver actually had to take his hand off of the steering wheel to shift.  With technology today, it sure as hell has taken a lot of the driver’s abilities out of the equation.

 

 

Tenth:

Maybe this should be put in the “Is this true” section, but I thought I’d put it here.  I’ve seen this posted on Facebook a few times now, and as far as I’m concerned, it is rather disturbing:

“NYC Policemen and Firefighters are not invited to the 10th anniversary of 9/11 at Ground Zero..... The mayor claims there isn't room for them. They weren't invited on that day in 2001 either. THEY JUST SHOWED UP AND DID THEIR JOB ! Please re-post if you think they belong there more than the politicians!”

 

 

Eleventh:

Another one for "Is this true?" – an e-mail I received early on Wednesday, 8/31/2011, afternoon.

Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner is pushing a settlement with the big banks and Wall Street firms that caused the mortgage crisis—letting them get away with a slap on the wrist.

Wall Street bankers have not faced any serious punishment for the widespread fraud that crashed our whole economy—pushing bad loans, lying to investors, forging foreclosure documents—and banks are making profits again while homeowners continue to suffer.2

Unbelievably, Geithner wants state attorneys general to agree to a sweetheart deal where these banks would pay only $20 billion—a fraction of what they could owe if fully prosecuted—and would get immunity from investigation and prosecution of the criminal greed, negligence, and fraud that caused this crisis. This would eliminate any leverage regulators have to pressure banks to help out the homeowners they've hurt.3

This settlement is only possible because it's flying under the radar. So we're joining with Rebuild the Dream to send a strong message. If we can shame Geithner and the Obama administration with a massive public petition, we can stop Wall Street from getting a get-out-of-jail-free card.

 

Tell Treasury Secretary Geithner, "No more sweetheart deals for Wall Street. Let states investigate and prosecute the crimes that crashed our economy." by pushing bad loans and peddling risky mortgage-backed securities as safe investments, these banks cost the world economy $7.7 trillion. Their widespread fraud and corruption also cost millions of hardworking Americans their jobs, their homes, and their shot at the American Dream. And instead of making them pay the price for their actions, we handed Wall Street nearly $2 trillion in loans to get back on their feet, while every day Americans are still struggling to make ends meet.4 

Thankfully, some state attorneys general are standing up to Geithner and Wall Street. They refuse to settle with the banks until a full and real investigation exposes the role these banks and their executives played in the crash of our housing market and economy.

Eric Schneiderman and Beau Biden, the attorneys general of New York and Delaware, are holding strong despite enormous pressure from the administration to accept the deal. Schneiderman's insistence that these crimes be investigated and prosecuted has now gotten him kicked off the settlement committee.5

Owning a home is part of the American Dream, and justice for homeowners is part of the American Dream movement. We have to stand behind Schneiderman, Biden, and other state attorneys general, and not let Geithner and a yes-man settlement committee brush banks' criminal behavior under the rug.

 

Tell Treasury Secretary Geithner, "No more sweetheart deals for Wall Street. Let states investigate and prosecute the crimes that crashed our economy."

Thanks for all you do.

 

–Daniel, Elena, Tate, Mark, and the rest of the team

 

Sources:

 

1. "New York Attorney General Kicked Off Government Group Leading Foreclosure Probe," The Huffington Post, August 23, 2011

http://www.moveon.org/r?r=263396&id=30449-6412363-Fiioo2x&t=

 

http://www.moveon.org/r?r=263403&id=30449-6412363-Fiioo2x&t=8
"Wall Street Aristocracy Got $1.2 Trillion in Secret Loans," Bloomberg News, August 22, 2011
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=263394&id=30449-6412363-Fiioo2x&t=9

5. "New York Attorney General Kicked Off Government Group Leading Foreclosure Probe," The Huffington Post, August 23, 2011
http://www.moveon.org/r?r=263396&id=30449-6412363-Fiioo2x&t=10

Note:  Some of the items listed as sources were from 2010 and early in 2011.

 

Twelfth:

No, not racing related, but VERY interesting!

To Cut Medicaid Costs, GOP Governors Target Illegal Immigrants

“Republican governors have a new target in their quest to cut Medicaid costs: illegal immigrants.

Republican Governors Association Policy Chairman and Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour, at a news conference to talk about the RGA’s Medicaid reform ideas for the states Tuesday in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

In a report released Tuesday, the Republican Governors Association outlined 31 solutions that it says would bring down the cost. Medicaid is a top budget item for states, and governors from both parties have complained it’s busting their purse as more people lose jobs and qualify for the federal-state insurance program for the poor.

The RGA has floated most of the ideas before, but one jumped out as new. Solution No. 5 would “require the federal government to take full responsibility for the uncompensated care costs of treating illegal aliens.” Keep in mind that federal law already prohibits illegal immigrants from enrolling in Medicaid.

But RGA Policy Chairman and Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour said illegal immigrants sneak onto the program in his and other states and add to its tab.

“Let’s don’t kid ourselves,” Gov. Barbour told reporters during a briefing at RGA headquarters in Washington. “There are people who are getting on the system and violating the law.”

Even if they’re not on Medicaid, illegal immigrants cannot be refused treatment at emergency rooms, and hospitals end up absorbing that cost when patients don’t pay those bills, said Bill Hazel, Virginia’s secretary of health and human resources. Neither he nor Mr. Barbour would say how much that actually costs their states, and Democratic governors haven’t cited it as a significant cost.

The bigger point, Mr. Barbour said, is that the Obama administration has sued states to block them from enforcing their own laws to keep illegal immigrants out of the country. So if the federal government is going to insist on being solely responsible for securing the border, it should foot the bill when its immigration enforcement fails and leaves states with stacks of unpaid medical bills.”

http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2011/08/30/to-cut-medicaid-costs-gop-governors-target-illegal-immigrants/

Wow!  You should read some of the comments on this one!  Just scroll down a little after going to the link, above.

Note:  Hmmm, go back to “Sixth” in this column – where I make mention of my hospital costs.  Maybe this is part of why it cost so damned much?

 

Thirteenth:

The Absolute Stupidest Rule In Racing!

That’s the title to a thread on the Track Forum in their Indycar section.  So far, as of 10:00 PM on Wednesday, 8/31/2011, it’s up to 6 pages in length with comments.  Yes, even I had something to say – on page 6, which some of todays’ Indycar fans will surely object to.

Interested?  Check it out, here:  http://www.trackforum.com/forums/showthread.php?154791-The-Absolute-Stupidest-Rule-In-Racing!

 

Fourteenth:

Ok, I imagine you might have received e-mail tellin you how much oil we have, under ground, in this country?  Well, I got one just prior to sending my column in this week.  Enjoy this up-setting news, folks!  Really makes on wonder!

From an e-mail I recieved just before sending this column in:

Subject: OIL IN THE UNITED STATES

In part:

"About 6 months ago, the writer was watching a news program on oil and one of the Forbes Bros. was the guest. The host said to Forbes, "I am going to ask you a direct question and I would like a direct answer; how much oil does the U.S. have in the ground?" Forbes did not miss a beat, he said, "more than all the Middle East put together."

The U.. S. Geological Service issued a report in April 2008 that only scientists and oil men knew was coming, but man was it big. It was a revised report (hadn't been updated since 1995) on how much oil was in this area of the western 2/3 of North Dakota, western South Dakota, and extreme eastern Montana ..... check THIS out:

The Bakken is the largest domestic oil discovery since Alaska 's Prudhoe Bay , and has the potential to eliminate all American dependence on foreign oil. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimates it at 503 billion barrels. Even if just 10% of the oil is recoverable... at $107 a barrel, we're looking at a resource base worth more than $5...3 trillion.

"This sizable find is now the highest-producing onshore oil field found in the past 56 years," reports The Pittsburgh Post Gazette."

However, a recent technological breakthrough has opened up the Bakken's massive reserves...... and we now have access of up to 500 billion barrels. And because this is light, sweet oil, those billions of barrels will cost Americans just $16 PER BARREL!

They reported this stunning news: We have more oil inside our borders, than all the other proven reserves on earth.. Here are the official estimates:

- 8-times as much oil as Saudi Arabia

- 18-times as much oil as Iraq

- 21-times as much oil as Kuwait

- 22-times as much oil as Iran

- 500-times as much oil as Yemen

- and it's all right here in the Western United States .

HOW can this BE? HOW can we NOT BE extracting this? Because the environmentalists and others have blocked all efforts to help America become independent of foreign oil! Again, we are letting a small group of people dictate our lives and our economy.....WHY?

This is all true. Check it out at the link below!

GOOGLE it, or follow this link. 

http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/article.asp?ID=1911

 

 

Coming up:

Accord:

September 2nd:

 

Orange County Fair Speedway Night – Racing in all divisions – Eastern States 200 qualifier.

 

September 9th:

 

Taylor Rental Night – Last night for points.  Racing in all divisions plus Lightning Sprints.  Short Track Super National qualifier.

 

September 16th:

 

Rain date for last night of points – if needed.

 

Again, from their website:

 

Racing fans should begin to make plans for the exciting King of the Catskills two-day weekend of great racing on September 23rd and 24th. With eight diverse divisions of racing on the schedule, every true racing fan will want to make sure they are in attendance to take in every second of the great competition that will unfold. The ROC Modified Tour heads up the Friday evening of action September 23rd with a large $7,000.00 payday awaiting the winner of the 100-lap headliner with the Sportsman and Lightning Sprints also on the schedule. September 24th finds the Spec Sportsman, the CRSA Sprint Cars, Pro Stock and Pure Stocks in action.

 

 

OCFS:

September 3rd: 

WLR Construction - CHAMPION'S NIGHT - End of Points - Kids Club - Officials Race - M/SP/PRO/SS

September 10th:

Superior Remodeling – Eastern States qualifier for Modifieds.  CRSA 305 Sprint Cars.  Northeast Vintage Modifieds.  Old Erie Powder Puff Race.  Modifieds, Sportsman, Pro Stocks and Street stocks.

September 17th:

Middletown Auto Wreckers – Spectrum Auto Body – Route 94 Auto Sales – Eve of Destruction – Demo Derby and Fireworks.

Note:  If you recall, last Saturday’s show was a “King of the Catskills” Modified qualifier.  I’ve sent an e-mail (Sunday evening) to OCFS asking if it will now be this coming Saturday.  I also am questioning about the two Sportsman races that are supposed to be held during ESW – one for DIRTcar rules and another for the OCFS “Open” Sportsman and if that is still their plan.

 

Lebanon Valley:

 

Note:  The race for last Thursday was rained out and will be held this Thursday, September 1st.  I take it the times remain the same?

CARQUEST Auto Parts & General Tire Present
$17,500 TO WIN “MR. DIRT Track U.S.A.” 100-Lap Modified DIRTcar Series Race Plus Budget Sportsman, Gates Open @ 5pm | Racing @ 6pm

September 3rd:

J.H. Financial & Pepsi Present Championship Night $3,000 To Win Modified Feature, Weekly Divisions, 358 Modifieds - Final Night Of Points For DIRT Modifieds, 358 Modifieds & DIRT Prostocks (LV PROSTOCK POINTS CONTINUE)

September 10th:

Jim Langenback Memorial Race – 54 lap Pro Stock Main Event – Ssportsman, Budget Sportsman, Pro Stock, ECHO Series, 4 Cylinders and the 8th Annual Boomer’s Performance 20-lap Pure Stock classic.

September 17th:

2011 Season points final – Sportsman, Budget Sportsman (LV & Accord 602 chase), Pro Stocks, 4 Cylinders and Vintage Modifieds.

Bethel:

September 3rd:

Sportsman, Pro Stock, Legends, Bandoleros,

Street Stock, 4 Cylinder

 

September 10th:

Sportsman, Pro Stock, Bandoleros, BMS Modified,

Street Stock, 4 Cylinder

Special Show – TBA

 

September 17th:

Sportsman, Pro Stock, Legends, Bandoleros,

Street Stock, 4 Cylinder

 

September 24th:

Sportsman, Pro Stock, Legends, Bandoleros,

BMS Modified, Street Stock, 4 Cylinder

Empire Sport Trucks

 

Hinchliffe Stadium:

 

This years Hinchliffe Stadium Expo is on this Sunday, September 4th. The show coincides with The Great Falls Festival. Admission is free and entering a car or exhibit in the show is free. Come out and show your support for Paterson's rich racing history.

 

For last years “Expo”:  http://www.carlsign.com/hinchliffe.html

Note # 1:  Excellent directions in the above link.

Note # 2:  While watching the news on TV on Tuesday evening, they showed quite a lot about the river and falls in Paterson, and how the city was affected by flooding.  I know one can see the falls from the stadium, since it isn’t all that far.  Hopefully, since the stadium is quite high, ground wise, the Paterson problems will not interfere with the racing expo.

 

Note:  As you’ve seen, above, this show has been cancelled and will not be re-scheduled.

 

Found on Jayski’s website:

All-Star Showdown gets canceled:

The NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown, an annual event at Toyota Speedway at Irwindale that started in 2003 and attracted the top developmental drivers in the country, has been canceled. NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers Joey Logano and David Gilliland have won the All-Star Showdown before moving up the stock car ladder. X-Games star Travis Pastrana made his NASCAR debut at the All-Star Showdown this past January. Bob DeFazio, the vice president and chief operating officer of Toyota Speedway at Irwindale, said he was not surprised that NASCAR cancelled the All-Star Showdown. "It didn't come out of nowhere," DeFazio said. "Negotiations have been ongoing with NASCAR and Toyota. I'm sure the economy had something to do with this." The Showdown was one of the more popular events at Irwindale, attracting sell-out crowds. It was televised nationally on Speed. The Showdown started as a one-day, two-race event and was eventually expanded to three races over two days. DeFazio added that the contract between Toyota and NASCAR expired at the end of the Showdown in 2011. The two sides were negotiating a deal before the Showdown race in 2011. Ultimately, NASCAR could not work out a deal with Toyota and no other sponsor stepped forward to take its place, DeFazio said.(ESPN)(8-25-2011)

 

Robby Gordon planning to start and park without more sponsorship:

#7-Robby Gordon plans to start and park in all but three of the remaining Cup races unless he can get additional sponsorship, he said at Bristol Motor Speedway. Gordon said he planned to run the entire race at Chicago, Texas and Phoenix because he has enough sponsorship for those races. If he gets more sponsorship, he'll run more races. Gordon also continues to build the energy drink company he created to help fund his racing programs. So, wouldn't it be better if Gordon skipped some races and be better prepared for the ones he ran instead of starting and parking most of the time? "If you don't come to the race track, you don't learn,'' Gordon said. "If you don't come to the race track, I can't help it that we can't find a sponsor to pay for right now. I can't help that. I've tried. Trevor Bayne doesn't have any sponsors on his car and he won the Daytona 500. That's the reality of it. We've tried hard, and this is what I love to do, so I'm going to continue to fight the fight.(Virginian-Pilot)(8-28-20100)

 

Robby Gordon will not give up #7 for Danica:

Robby Gordon says he won't give Danica Patrick the #7 when she enters the Sprint Cup series part-time next season. "C'mon!'' Gordon said on Friday at Bristol Motor Speedway. "Why would I?'' Patrick said on Thursday, when officially announcing plans to leave the IndyCar Series to drive a fulltime Nationwide Series schedule for JR Motorsports and part-time Cup schedule for Stewart Haas Racing in 2012, that she'd like to keep the #7 that she's had throughout her motorsports career. Gordon, who has had the number for six years in Cup, isn't willing to bargain. "'I've built my business around the # 7,'' Gordon said. "It's all fun and games, but I think she should be proud to drive the #77.'' The 77 could be available. It hasn't been used for a full Cup schedule since Sam Hornish Jr. lost his ride at Penske Racing after the 2010 season.(ESPN)(8-27-2011)

 

NASCAR tightening up technical rules:

A new NASCAR rule, or rather a stricter interpretation of the rules, was just issued to Sprint Cup teams. And reaction is mixed among crew chiefs, who worry the new rule - in part designed as a cost-limiting rule -- might further inhibit technological innovation on the stock car racing trail. The new rule requires teams to submit not only all car parts for pre-race week inspection at the sport's Concord, N.C., R&D center but also to submit all 'tweaks' in designs. The rule is in part a response to:
• the oil-pan issues the Joe Gibbs teams had in June at Michigan, where all three teams showed up Friday with a new oil pan design which NASCAR officials didn't like.
• the Clint Bowyer/2010 playoff controversy over the chassis design of his Loudon, N.H. race car.
• and three, the possibility that a team could slip into the chase with a good run at Richmond (the last race of the regular season) by using a car with unapproved modifications not discovered until well after the race.
The new rule further tightens the technological 'box' that Cup teams must work within these days. And teams have long complained about how tight that box already is. NASCAR Cup director John Darby says "It's just a better way to do business - before a car owner has to invest a lot of money in a part, we can approve it, because they make the big investment.(MikeMulhern.net)(8-27-2011)

 

Stewart looking for driver to split ride with Danica:

Tony Stewart is searching for a driver and sponsor that will split the 2012 Sprint Cup schedule with Danica Patrick, who announced on Thursday she will drive eight to 10 races next year for Stewart-Haas Racing. The purpose would be to keep Patrick's car ranked in the top 35 in points, guaranteeing her and sponsor GoDaddy.com a spot in the starting lineup each week. "We'd love to,'' Stewart said Friday at Bristol Motor Speedway. "If we can put together a package to run somebody in the rest of the races we'd love to do that. It's in everybody's best interest to do that. It would be good for us as a team to be able to go ahead and run that car full-time if that opportunity presents itself.'' Among the drivers who have surfaced is Mark Martin, who is driving the GoDaddy.com Cup car for Hendrick Motorsports this season. Sources said the key for Martin would be finding a sponsor. GoDaddy.com CEO and founder Bob Parsons was noncommittal when asked if he would sponsor the remainder of the season for the third SHR car. Stewart said he has not set Patrick's Cup schedule yet, although Patrick said the odds of her debut coming in the 2012 Daytona 500 were good.(ESPN)(8-26-2011)

 

NASCAR plans more scoring loops at Bristol:

Bristol Motor Speedway is unique among NASCAR Sprint Cup tracks in that it has two separate pit roads - one along each straightaway. That alignment does not fit well with NASCAR's modern method of pitting, which includes strict pit-road speeds and an attempt to make pit stops and the entrance to and exit from the pits as equal as possible. That was not the case in Saturday night's Irwin Tools Night Race at the track. Race winner Brad Keselowski and others appeared to benefit from the location of their pits, giving them more room to move faster in certain sections of pit road. Other pit spots were not as advantageous. NASCAR Sprint Cup Series director John Darby admitted after the race that the situation was not ideal and said NASCAR will address it. "We understand what happened, and we're already looking at it," he said. "We'll probably put in two more scoring loops on each side of pit road." Darby's intent is to add loops on the Bristol surface, thus providing a closer read on speeds. Based primarily on their pit locations, some drivers were positioned to "speed" along portions of pit road, then quickly hit their brakes before being detected. Additional loops should take care of that discrepancy.(SPEED)(8-28-2011)

 

Bowyer talking to other teams:

Although he hopes to return to Richard Childress Racing in 2012, #33-Clint Bowyer is weighing offers from other teams. The latest is from Richard Petty Motorsports. According to RPM co-owner Andrew Murstein during a Saturday radio interview on SiriusXM Radio, Bowyer has an offer to drive a third car next year. "When we had that media day opportunity at the beginning of the year, I perhaps went a little further than I should and I said I wanted to add a third team pretty quickly, and Danica (Patrick) and Clint Bowyer came to mind," Murstein told SiriusXM at Bristol Motor Speedway. So we've been thinking about the third team for the last six months or so, and we're close to doing something. I don't know if it will be Clint." Bowyer admitted after the driver's meeting that he has talked to numerous teams about his next deal. "Obviously, that's what you've got to go and do right now, you've got to go out and get every offer possible, you know?" Bowyer said. "Go home and when it's time to make a decision, weigh them all out and make the best decision for your life, your performance and other things. Sources told ESPN.com that the big hang up has been Bowyer not wanting to take a pay cut, which many drivers have taken over the last year. Childress said he still expects things to work out with Bowyer. Bowyer, speculated to have a deal with 5-hour Energy to sponsor a portion of his races at RCR, said he "hopes" to return to RCR.(ESPN)(8-28-2011

 

Sprint Summer Showdown field is set:

With up to five spots available for the Sprint Summer Showdown, Brad Keselowski's win at Bristol on Saturday night locks in four drivers that could win a total of $3,000,000 if any of the four can take the checkered flag at Atlanta Motor Speedway during the Sept. 4 AdvoCare 500. Keselowski, the hottest driver on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series circuit over the last month, won his second race during the Sprint Summer Showdown qualifying races and his third of the season at the Tennessee half-mile. Since breaking his left ankle in a testing crash at Road Atlanta, the Michigan native has four top-three finishes, including those two wins. Winning his second race during the Sprint Summer Showdown qualifying-races ensures four drivers will be eligible for the money bonus at AMS. Paul Menard, Brad Keselowski, Marcos Ambrose and Kyle Busch are the drivers that are eligible for the $1,000,000 payday if any of these four can take the checkered flag at the AdvoCare 500 at AMS over Labor Day weekend.


Name, Race, Designated Charity
#27-Paul Menard, Indianapolis, Habitat for Humanity
#2-Brad Keselowski, Pocono, Brad Keselowski's Checkered Flag Foundation
#9-Marcos Ambrose, Watkins Glen International, Victory Junction
#18-Kyle Busch, Michigan, Kyle Busch Foundation
#2-Brad Keselowski, Bristol, Brad Keselowski's Checkered Flag Foundation
Atlanta Motor Speedway
(Sprint Summer Showdown PR), for more info see Jayski's Contest page.(8-28-2011)

 

Yeley / Kvapil swap rides at Atlanta:

Front Row Motorsports' #38 Ford will have a different look at Atlanta Motor Speedway this weekend, hitting the track with a new sponsor and a different driver. Front Row driver J.J. Yeley will take the wheel of the #38 Vampt Ford for Sunday's AdvoCare 500, introducing the NASCAR audience to Vampt malt beverages. Vampt Beverage Corp.'s initial product offering includes two agave-infused, ready-to-drink malt beverages - Vampt Smooth Talker and Vampt Midnight Warrior - available in select markets, including Atlanta this fall. The one-race deal has Yeley swapping rides with teammate Travis Kvapil, who will drive the #55 Front Row Motorsports Ford for the weekend.(FrontRowMotorsports / Breaking Limits)(8-31-2011)

Note:  Some years back, I had the opportunity to go to the Nazareth Speedway, with my grandson, Brett, for a USAC Midget tire test.  One of the drivers there that day was J.J.  We had a nice time talking with him, and I even got a nice photo of him and Brett together.  Heck, he even asked me, one he and I were Facebook friends, to send it to him, which I did.  I’ve always liked J.J. – mainly because he came from the Midget/SprintCar/Champ Car series.  But there is one thing that I really don’t care for and that is that J.J. has become one of those “Start & Park” drivers.  Yes, I know it’s a “necessary evil”, but how I wish it didn’t have to happen!

My brother has the same problem with Mike Garvey, who is now running in the NASCAR Truck Series.  He, too, is a “Start & Park” driver.  Some years back, down in Florida, the team that Garvey drove for, back then, had its shop next to my brothers, so, naturally, my brother became a fan of Mike Garvey.

 

 

Former Oakland Valley Speedway (Dirt Oval) runners:

Hmm, thanks to “Mother Nature” and Irene, there isn’t much to report on this week.  Hope I don’t miss anyone!

Davey Franek was 17th in the URC feature at Williams Grove.

Molly Chambers is shown as finishing 14th in the 600 Micro Sprint feature at GVAT.

At Five Mile Point, Anthony Perrego was 14th in the Sportsman feature while John Virgilio was 8th, Josh Pieniazek 11th, Brittany Tresch 17th and Chuck Alessi 22nd in the CRSA 305 Sprint Car feature.

Joe Kata was 15th in the wingless 600 Micro Sprint feature at Borgers.

Mike Mammana was 2nd in the 50 lap Sportsman feature at Big Diamond.

Tyler Boniface was 22nd and Bobby Hackel, IV was 25th in the Sportsman feature at Glen Ridge.

At Accord, Clinton Mills was 12th and Danny Creeden 17th in the Modified feature, while Brian Krummel, in a borrowed ride was 8th, Anthony Perrego 17th and Mike Traver 19th in the Sportsman feature.  Kyle Rohner was 2nd, Tyler Dippel 3rd and Kyle Van Duser 4th in the Spec Sportsman feature.

At I-88 Speedway, this past Tuesday, August 30th, Anthony Perrego was 3rd and Brad Szulewski 15th in the 30 lap Sportsman feature.

At the West End Fair Nationals, presented by Borgers Speedway, at the West End Fairgrounds, Jacob Hendershot was 19th in the wingless 600 Micro Sprint feature, while Tiffany Wambold was 15th in the 270 feature and Kyle Rohner 2nd in the AllStar Slingshot feature.

 

Going back, in time – in racing history:

Note:  Most of the following information was found here: 

http://www.wheelsofspeed.com/history.html

 

Covering the days from September 2nd to the 8th:

 

SEPTEMBER 2

1946

George Robson... Died ... AAA driver 1938 to 1946. Had 3 Indy 500 starts with a win in 1946. Robson died with George Barringer in an accident at the Lakewood Speedway in Atlanta, Georgia.

George Barringer ... Died ... AAA driver from the 1930's and 40's. He ran the Indy 500 six times with a best finish of 6th in 1939. He and George Robson were killed in same multi-car pile-up at the Lakewood Speedway in Atlanta, Georgia.

1968

Bert Brooks... Died ... Eastern midget and sprint car driver from the 1940's, 50's and 60's. He was the United Racing Club (URC) Sprint car champion in 1954, 1956, 1957 and 1958. He died in an ARDC midget race at the Hershey Stadium in Hershey, PA.

 

SEPTEMBER 3

1938

Chet Gardner... Died ... Chet started racing in 1922 in Colorado. In 1933 he won the Midwest AAA Sprint Car Championship. He was named "Southern Dirt Racing King" twice. Between 1928 and 1938, Chet made 25 starts in the AAA series, where his best result was 3rd. From 1930 to 1938 he competed in the Indianapolis 500 with a best finish of 4th in 1933. He was killed in an accident during a time trial at the Flemington Speedway in Flemington, New Jersey when he swerved to avoid a child that had run onto the racetrack.

1972

Jerry Grant became the first USAC driver to break 200 miles per hour. He accomplished the feat in qualifying at the Ontario Motor Speedway , completing a 2.5 mile lap in 44.7 seconds. Roger McCluskey won the race.

SEPTEMBER 4

1920

Jackie Holmes ... Born ... AAA racer from 1947 to 1953

1923

Howard (Howdy) Wilcox... Died ... AAA driver from 1910 to 1923. Wilcox won the 1919 Indianapolis 500 after starting in the 2nd position. He died in a wreck in 1923 at the Altoona Speedway board track in Tyrone, Pennsylvania.

1924

Bobby Grim... Born ... He won 12 feature races in USAC midgets and was one of the last to win in the ancient Offy. Bobby drove in the USAC Championship Car series, racing in the 1958-1969 seasons with 66 starts, including the Indianapolis 500 races each year from 1959-1968 except 1965. He finished in the top ten 30 times, with his one victory coming in 1960 at Syracuse. He won the 1959 Indy Rookie of the Year, despite finishing in 26th position and was the last person to qualify a front engined car for the race in 1966. . He was also the IMCA sprint car champion from 1955-1958 driving the famed "Black Deuce" Offy of Hector Honore.

1977

Fred Winnai... Died ... AAA driver 1927 to 1946.

1997

Jan Opperman... Died ... Race car driver known as "The King of the Outlaws". Two time starter of the Indianapolis 500, finishing 21st in 1974 and 16th in 1976. Legendary sprint car driver. Winner of the prestigious Tony Hulman Classic, Terre Haute Action Track 1976; National Supermodified Champion 1971, Knoxville, Ia.; Two time National Supermodified Champion 1971 & 72, Phoenix, Az; World Dirt Track Champion 1973. Critically injured in the 1976 USAC Hoosier 100 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis. Resumed racing after a full recovery only to suffer a career ending injury at Jennerstown, Pa on June 20, 1981. He had several debilitating strokes and spent the final years of his life in a wheelchair being cared for by his 80-something parents. A man of strong spiritual belief, Jan Opperman was very popular with his fellow drivers, the media and fans. Jan Opperman was a larger-than-life dirt track racing legend who stormed on the scene in the late 1960's, dominated sprint car circuits throughout the 1970's and helped define the Outlaw movement.

Chuck Arnold... Died ... He ran with the ARDC and drove sporadically in the USAC Championship Car series, racing between 1959 and 1968, with 11 starts, including the 1959 Indianapolis 500. He finished in the top ten 3 times, with his best finish in 5th position, in 1959 at Trenton.

 

SEPTEMBER 5

1942

My sister, Catherine Lucienne Avenengo (now Triebeneck) was born.

1970

Jochen Rindt... Died ... Rindt was a German-Austrian racing driver. He is the only driver to posthumously win the Formula One World Drivers' Championship (in 1970), after being killed in practice for the Italian Grand Prix. Away from Formula One Rindt was highly successful in other single-seat formulae, as well as sports car racing. In 1965 he won the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, driving a Ferrari 250LM in partnership with American Masten Gregory.

 

SEPTEMBER 6

1930

Bill Cummings won the AAA sanctioned Syracuse 100 on the 1 Mile Dirt Oval New York State Fairgrounds, Syracuse, New York. Deacon Litz was second followed by Shorty Cantlon, Stubby Stubblefield and Frank Farmer.

1952

Jack McGrath won the AAA sanctioned Syracuse 100 on the 1 Mile Dirt Oval New York State Fairgrounds, Syracuse, New York. Mike Nazaruk was second followed by Bobby Ball, Paul Russo and Jimmy Reece.

1958

Johnny Thomson won the USAC sanctioned Syracuse 100 on the 1 Mile Dirt Oval New York State Fairgrounds, Syracuse, New York. George Amick was second followed by Tony Bettenhausen, Rodger Ward and Jud Larson.

 

SEPTEMBER 7

1939

Donnie Allison ... Born ... A former driver on the NASCAR Grand National/Winston Cup circuit, who won ten times during his racing career, which spanned the 1960s, 1970s and early 1980s. He was part of the "Alabama Gang," and is the brother of 1983 champion Bobby Allison and uncle of Davey Allison. Donnie was never a full-time NASCAR driver. Allison also competed in the Indianapolis 500 twice, finishing 4th and winning Rookie of the Year in 1970 and finishing 6th in 1971.

 

SEPTEMBER 8

1911

Lee Wallard ... Born ... AAA driver from the 1940's and 50's. Lee ran the Indy 500 four times 1948 - 1951. Wallard retired from racing after being burned in a racing crash, four days after winning the 1951 Indianapolis 500, while racing a Sprint Car at Reading, Pa.

1927

Chuck Rodee... Born ... USAC driver from the 1950's and 1960's. He won 35 career features in USAC midget competition. He drove in the USAC Championship Car series, racing in the 1957, 1958, 1960, and 1962-1965 seasons. He finished in the top ten 4 times, with his best finish in 5th position in 1965 at Atlanta. He had 16 career starts, including the Indianapolis 500 races in 1962 and 1965. He finished in 32nd in 1962 after crashing to avoid Jack Turner , and 28th in 1965. His career came to a halt on May 14th when he spun on his second warm-up lap during a qualifying attempt for the 1966 Indianapolis 500 Mile Race. The car backed into the wall exiting the 1st turn, and one of midget racing's great personalities was gone.

1938

Larry Dickson ... Born ... A former driver in the USAC and CART Championship Car series. He raced in the 1965-1981 seasons, with 105 combined career starts, including the Indianapolis 500 in 1966-1969, 1971, 1978-1979, and 1981. He finished in the top ten 44 times, with his best finish in 2nd position in 1968 at Springfield. He was also a 3 time USAC Sprint Car Series Champion in 1968, 1970 and 1975. Larry won 43 USAC Sprint car races and was the all-time leader in the division until Tom Bigelow broke his record. In the years 1968-71 Larry and Gary Bettnhausen raced each other in what was billed as "The Larry and Gary show" or "Thunder (Bettenhausen) and Lightning (Dickson) exchanging the USAC Sprint Car title between each other during those years. Those were probably the most exciting USAC sprint car races of all time. Larry also ventured to Daytona to drive Richie Giachetti's Ford Torino in the Daytona 500, running in the top ten before the engine expired. Larry finished his career in the ToMax USAC Silver Crown car owned by his brother, Tommy and Max Brittain. He was inducted in the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame in the first class in 1990.

1984

Johnnie Parsons ... Died ... Midget racer who went on to drive in 10 consecutive Indy 500's, finishing second in 1949 and winning in 1950. Johnnie began racing in open wheel cars in races run by the United Midget Association on the West Coast after World War II. In 1942 he won the abbreviated UMA Championship on the strength of 18 feature wins. In 1948 he won the third feature of the “Night Before the 500” midget program at the famous 16th Street Speedway. The following year, after starting 12th in his first Indianapolis 500, he finished 2nd behind Bill Holland and went on to win the National Driving Championship. In 1950 he was back at Indy, this time winning the rain-shortened race. He became a crowd favorite and competed in eight more 500's before retiring in 1958. Parsons has the dubious distinction of being the only Indianapolis 500 winner to have his name misspelled on the Borg-Warner Trophy. Silversmiths carved "Johnny" instead of "Johnnie." The error was corrected posthumously when the trophy was restored in 1991. Ironically, his son was named Johnny and though he ran at Indy 12 times, he never won the race. He was inducted in the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2004. He was inducted in the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame in 1984. Parsons died before receiving notification that he was selected to the hall of fame.

 

Note # 1:  Some additional information on the spelling on the trophy was found over on the Track Forum, after I had posted about the error:

 

“In 1991, when they were undergoing the first restoration, theyconsidered fixing the spelling. Then they decided to leave it be, as it was part of the trophy's lore.

There was some mis-information here and there about whether or not they fixed the spelling. When I was at the museum last, I got some good pictures of the faces, and indeed it is still spelled "Johnny."

Note # 2:  I contacted those that run the Wheels of Speed’s Calendar, and they have made a correction on the post about Johnnie and the trophy, to show/add what is mostly quoted, above.

 

 

News from the AARN:

From their August 23rd edition:

 

In Lenny Sammons column, he has quite a lot about Gene Cole, 75, who has decided it’s time to get away from racing for a while and has the Utica/Rome Speedway up for sale.  Mr. Cole is quoted as saying he has a couple of people that are interested in the track.

 

Marsh Creek Raceway, a 1/6 mile paved tri-oval for Go-Karts will run two events – 9/16 and 10/21 in 2011.  They’re looking forward to a full season of acing in 2012.

 

Ernie Saxton comes out and says what most of us are already thinking – just because they cut both Pocono Cup races back to 400 milers does not mean we’ll see a reduction in the price of the tickets.

 

He also would like to know just what “packed” means when one describes the stands at races, fan wise.  He makes mention of the 15,000 that have been said to be at the races at Reading, Pa. and how he figures that the stands couldn’t much more than 5,000 to begin with.  That would leave 10,000 in the infield?

 

It is Mr. Saxton’s thoughts that the low fan turnout at Loudon for the Indycar race will more than likely mean no Indycar race there in 2012.

 

So you’re a race driver.  Should you know what kind of purse you’re racing for?  Mr. Saxton thinks you should.  And I’m questioning about insurance – how many drivers actually know what kind of insurance the tracks have that you race on?  One little “Chopper” ride can run into quite a hefty sum of bucks, that’s for sure!

 

There is a change in the North/South Shootout.  It will be held at the Caraway Speedway in Asheboro, NC. – a ½ mile semi banked track.  Tour Type Modifieds, SK Mods, USA Mods and CRA LM’s are running.

 

JJ Grasso, who lost his ride a short time ago, now has picked up  some help from John Pinter – at least for an engine for him to use in the families Sprint Car.

 

There is a good-sized Q&A with Jeremie Corcoran and Joe Skotnicki on Cayuga County.  Per Mr. Skotnicki, there are several that are interested in promoting racing at the track in 2012.

 

There’s a big ad for the Jim Nace Memorial National Open at Selinsgrove, for 410’s on 9/17 – two 22 lap features each paying 6,000 for 1st 2,000 for 2nd, 1,500 for 3rd, 1,400 for 4th and 1,200 for fifth.

The 358’s & 360’s run on 9/3 in a 35 lapper.  8,000 for the winner, 5,000 for 2nd, 4,000 for 3rd, 3,100 for 4th and 2,550 for 5th.  Along with them will be Late Models which have a 1,500 to win payment.  Rain date is 9/4.

 

Brett Deyo makes mention of the change of date for the “King of the Can” race at Penn Can, with it now being on 10/14 instead of 10/16.  A SDS race at Brockville and 5 25’s at Grandview has made the change necessary.

 

At Wall Stadium a week ago, the TQ’s only had 12 cars.  Kinda makes one wonder – how much longer can they last with such low car counts?

 

At Eldora, on 9/9 & 9/10 there is the World 100 for Late Models.  The lucky winner will get at least $44,000.00.  Rain date is 9/11.

 

In the column by Dave Moody, he says that Rockingham will be installing the SAFER barriers.  He say she really has no news to tell us, as far as racing at the track goes.  The last NASCAR race at the track was back on 2/22/04.

 

Bill Utter, in his weekly column makes mention of last Saturday’s Modified race at OCFS, that was rained out, as being a qualifier for the Accord Speedways “King of the Catskills” race.  I’m trying to find out, from OCFS, if that will now be this coming Saturday.

 

I have to agree with John Snyder on this one – when a “name” driver is competing at a “local” track, the fans should really leave him, or her, alone and not bug them for autographs.  There are times and places for autograph sessions, and in the pits, when they are trying to compete, isn’t one of them.

 

Scott Pacich was asking”  What ever happened to – Oilzum and their stickers, Gold colored race cars, “pony” tires on the left front, “Invaders” like Cagle, Buzzie, Balough and Jackie Evans – those that used to come up from Florida and race here in the northeast against “our” guys.  Also Trevor Bays?

 

Sadly, from what I can see, the issue of August 16th was the last AARN issue that carried a column from the late Jerry Reigle.  If you recall, I had this in my column from last week:

“Jerry Reigle says that JJ Grasso, the URC point leader, has lost his ride when car owner Pat Palladino put his car in the trailer after JJ & he had a discussion when JJ arrived at the track – Big Diamond, prior to warm-ups and practice.

As for Jerry and his health situation, he had this to say:  “A recent CT Scan produced a less than desirable outcome”.  This past week, he had cut back his “finals” to 25.

Maybe you know Jerry, maybe you don’t.  I’ve met him at the EMPA Conventions when I was a member and know that Jerry just loves racing.  So, if you don’t mind me asking – how about keeping Jerry Reigle in your prayers, ok?”

 

I always enjoyed reading what Jerry had to say.  He was very popular with those that were/are members of the Eastern Motorsports Press Association and was always a joy to be around when the EMPA Conventions were held.  I, along with countless others will miss Jerry Reigle tremendously.  Now, he’ll be able to “bench race” with those that he’s known and has heard about, up at the big speedway, up above.

 

 

 

More racin’ stuff:

 

From:  frontstretch.com:

 

Five Points to Ponder: J.J. vs J.G., Plus The More Laps You Lead, The More You... Fail?

Danny Peters · Tuesday August 30, 2011

 

Topics: 

ONE: Double J: Still the Man to Beat

 

TWO: Triple B: Big, Bad Brad:

 

THREE: Jeff Gordon Is For Real:

 

FOUR: Leading the Most Laps? Eh:

 

FIVE: Bristol is a Pale Imitation.

 

Interested:  Then go here:  http://www.frontstretch.com/dpeters/35249/

 

 

 

Racing and television:

Racing on TV - http://www.racefantv.com/USTV.htm

 

 

 

Some non-racing stuff:

 

Places Never to Use Your Debit Card

In part:

“No doubt about it, debit card usage is a big part of the new normal on Main Street these days as consumers try to manage credit card debt.

But that doesn't mean you should use debit cards all the time. In fact, there are some places and times that using a debit card is actually a lousy proposition.

Restaurants and bars. There are way too many prying eyes around a dining establishment to trust using your debit card. Apart from the risk of having your card stolen, restaurants are one of those rare places where someone actually walks away with your card and you don't see them for a few minutes. Much better to use cash when dining out.

Regular payments. Businesses love to get their sticky little fingers on your debit card number so they can extract dues straight from your bank account on a regular basis. Whether it's a gym or your insurance company, you're better off using a credit card. That's because if there's a dispute, the business won't take the cash right out of your checking account if they don't have your debit card number.”

More can be found here:  http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/113389/places-never-use-your-debit-card-mainst?mod=bb-debtmanagement

 

 

 

Your thoughts:

New deportation guidelines draw criticism

"It's stunning," said Phil Kent of Americans for Immigration Control, when he heard of the changes.

 

 “CALHOUN, Ga. -- Some illegal immigrants who were held for deportation are being released under new guidelines from the Department of Homeland Security.

One of them is 18-year-old Luis Hernandez of Calhoun.

Channel 2 Action News was there as loved ones greeted him with hugs and tears at his home. He was released from the Stewart Detention Center Tuesday night after a review of his case.

"I feel like going outside and just telling the world: 'I'm back,'" said Hernandez.

He was arrested in June while he was a passenger in someone else's car and was charged with drug possession, but the charge was later dropped.

 

Under the new guidelines, officials will prioritize cases in order to remove criminal aliens with serious offenses, while giving those who are deemed to not be a threat to public safety a reprieve.

 

Hernandez said his family brought him to the U.S. from Mexico when he was 2 years old and that he doesn't know anyone there.

"I've been here all my life," he said. "What am I going to do over there? ... My life is here."

His case represents the complexity of the debate over illegal immigration.

The new deportation guidelines have drawn criticism from those who call it mass amnesty.

 

He said the 300,000 cases under review and a provision that could allow those released to attain work permits will hurt legal Americans.

"That's potentially 300,000 people that you'd be giving work permits to compete with Americans looking for jobs," said Kent.

Hernandez said he now plans to finish up his senior year of high school and go on to college.

His release does not grant him legal status. An attorney working Hernandez's case says the DREAM Act would help students like Hernandez attain that.

But the proposal failed in Congress last year and has staunch opponents who say the federal government should instead focus on stemming the tide of illegal immigrants and removing those who are in the country.

As for why he should be allowed to stay, Hernandez says: "They should just give us a chance to get everything right, and at least a chance to go to college."

 

http://www.wsbtv.com/news/28966104/detail.html#.TlZBwQQZfuY.facebook

 

What do you think??

 

 

 

Is this true?:

 

Via an e-mail:

 

“WHO IS TRYING TO FOOL WHO?????????

 

Wedding ring is in for repairs - Read ASAP!

 

Feel free to pass this on!

 

Another piece falls into place.

 

In a press conference last week Obama was not wearing his wedding ring nor was he wearing his watch

 

When noticed, his staff said his ring was out for repairs. No reason was given for the missing watch.

 

So it's just a coincidence that Muslims are forbidden from wearing jewelry during the month of Ramadan

 

Can't possibly be that, because although he hasn't gone to a Christian church service since

 

entering the White House, we know he's a committed Christian "cause he said so during

 

the campaign!" ...........And I've got a bridge to nowhere to sell you also.

 

This is the same president that spent the Christmas holidays in Hawaii to avoid religious

 

obligations as PRESIDENT at the White House. His children do not receive Christmas presents.

 

Let's just face the facts and quit trying to tell the truth, we have a muslim for president

 

in the White House, and he has no knowledge of American history.

 

Hey guys, we're not paying attention, Muslims will soon rule the world.

 

Put God first in your life. above all others.. Regardless of who they are!

 

PASS THIS ON TO BELIEVERS OF WHAT IS HAPPENING

 

IN OUR COUNTRY AND TO THOSE WHO ARE STILL IN DENIAL!!

 

 

 

Video time:

 

This gentleman comes out and says what a lot of us are thinking, today – how we’re being restricted as to what we must/can purchase, and I think this is just the “Tip of the Iceberg” so to say, as far as more restrictions that will be forthcoming, for us, down the road.  Kinda scary, isn’t it?

 

http://videos2view.net/smackdown.htm

 

 

 

Closing with these:

 

When blondes have more fun, do they know it?

 

It's not whether you win or lose, but how you place the blame.

 

You are not drunk if you can lie on the floor without holding on.

 

A Fool and his money can throw one heck of a party

 

Money isn't everything, but it sure keeps the kids in touch.

 

If at first you don't succeed skydiving is not for you

 

Red meat is not bad for you.   Fuzzy green meat is bad for you.

 

Ninety-nine percent of all lawyers give the rest a bad name.

 

The reason Politicians try so hard to get re-elected is that they would 'hate' to have to make a living under the laws they've passed.

 

Congressmen should wear uniforms, you know, like NASCAR drivers, so we could identify their corporate sponsors.

 

 

 

May “Guardian Angels” sit on the shoulders of all of our race drivers and race fans, and guide them safely around the tracks!

 

Drive safe! 

 

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