August 2014 - Eastern Museum of Motor Racing

EMMR TIMES
The
A quarterly publication of the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing
Located at 100 Baltimore Road, York Springs, PA
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
CROCKY WRIGHT
EMMR/WGOT
MEMORIAL
ual
2014
CONVENTION
at:
Latimore Valley Fairgrounds and
Eastern Museum of Motor Racing
AUGUST 15–17
HONORING:
Grand STAN LOBITZ
Marshalls PERRY TRIMMER
2014
nn
40th A
EMMR’s Convention
Williams Grove
Speedway
Celebrates the
Racing
75th year of: ARDC American
Drivers Club
& JUDY FREELS
Parking and Admission
FREE held at the historic and beautiful
Latimore Valley Fairgrounds
314 Latimore Valley Rd, York Springs, PA
Grand Marshall
STAN LOBITZ
Stan’s need for speed in his early years was satisfied by his involvement with the local drag racers of the day around his Hazleton, PA home.
Then one day he found that there were also some oval racing cars in the
form of midgets located in his area and his love for the small cars was
born. Stan would get to know the owners of those cars and helped to get
them ready for the weekend’s racing, but his business kept him from making a lot of the trips to the race tracks,
however his love for the sport and ARDC continued to be strong. In the late ’70s Stan showed up at some our
Williams Grove Old Timer events which started his collection of antique race cars. Stanly’s motto for collecting
was buy quantity. He bought everything that came down the pike for the first fifteen years. Then he realized that
quality meant a lot in the collector hobby. So in the next 20 years he has bought quantity and quality. Also over
the years Stan has hosted a movie party in November. It’s a special day for him to see his old racing friends and
reminiscence about the past. He also hosts our auction which has raised over $200,000 over the past 30 years to
benefit EMMR. Through the years Stan made many friends in ARDC including many of the drivers, owners, and
team members plus he has also sponsored some of the teams. Stan has hosted the annual ARDC Awards Banquet
at his catering hall for many years and is a great ambassador for midget auto racing and the American Racing
Drivers Club. ARDC showed their appreciation for Stan’s support for the organization several years ago by making him a Lifetime Member. ARDC needs more people like Stan Lobitz. Stan is a great practical joker, him and
Lynn have been at it for years. And his motto is the same as Lynn’s, “I don’t get mad I get even.” I hope that continues for many, many years. Stan has been a great asset to the growth of EMMR.
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
Crocky Wright in #25
ERNEST “CROCKY”
WRIGHT Memorial
Crocky Wright might well have been the most devoted follower of the sport of
Midget auto racing in its long history. Having participated in the sport as a driver and
noted author, he passed away at the age of 90 in 2009.
A native of Pennsylvania and later New Jersey, he eventually landed in Indianapolis
to continue his pursuit of the sport and eventually became friends with nearly everybody
in Midget racing. One of his claims to fame was as a “founder” of racing star Tony Stewart, who caught his eye early in his career and remained Crocky’s hero until his death.
His friendship with Stewart was legendary and he was recognized by Stewart as his original p.r. man! Tony also flew to Sun Prairie, Wisc. to attend Crocky’s induction into the
National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame in 2005.
Now interred at the Latimore Valley Fairgrounds site where he spent many days near
the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing, Crocky’s passion for the sport of Midget auto racing spanned eight decades, having witnessed Midget races in the 1930s through to the
2000s.
Crocky first caught the racing bug at motorcycle races and his trademark checkered
helmet was a tribute to his boyhood hero Emerson “Crocky” Rawding. Crocky competed
as a driver with ARDC and in the “big cars” in the Penn-Jersey Association and won the
1948 Western Pennsylvania Motorcycle title. He was a stuntman with the Putt Mossman
International Daredevils and was recognized as the “oldest stunt driver ever” after executing a flaming board wall crash in his 70s!
While in the Army he honed his skills as a writer and as a founder of the Johnny
Thomson Fan Club he eventually penned Johnny’s biography after Thomson’s 1960
death at Allentown, Pa. That led to numerous other writing endeavors and columns and
historians revel in Crocky’s four-volume chronicle of Midget Auto Racing History. His
love of the famed Nutley Velodrome board track in New Jersey also led to another spectacular book.
Crocky’s autobiography, Fate Guides My Destiny, serves as a testament to this true
authority on the sport. The sport will forever miss Crocky’s comedic wit, and his legacy
is one the sport will cherish.
More information on page 2. Don’t miss it!
The EMMR Times
1
AUGUST 15–17
2014
EMMR/WGOT CONVENTION
Don’t Miss It!
CONVENTION SCHEDULE
FRIDAY AUGUST 15, 2014:
9a–9p
continued from page 1
10:30a
PERRY TRIMMER Grand
Marshalls
& JUDY FREELS
12p–9p
1p
Perry and Judy have been very special volunteers. As
long-time members of the Museum, Perry Trimmer and
Judy Freels have taken care of the grounds here at the
Museum and the Latimore Valley Fairgrounds. Much of
their work was done days and weeks before events, and
then on the day of events they were often busy parking
cars or running the shuttle around the grounds. You have
probably seen Perry the past year scooting around the Museum talking to visitors. Judy also can be found in the
Shuttle and in the Museum Kitchen during events and
Roundtables. In appreciation for their years of volunteering, Perry & Judy will be presented with a plaque recognizing them for all the years of continued support. Thanks
Perry & Judy!
2p-4p
3p-8p
American Racing Drivers Club, Inc.
Midget auto racing was born with the running of the
first organized event at the Hughes Stadium in Sacramento, Calif. on June 4, 1933. The sport rapidly spread
across the country and just about one year later on June
10, 1934, the first midget race in the East was held at
Olympic Park in Irvington, New Jersey. In the beginning the
sport suffered through many growing pains and by 1939 the drivers
and car owners felt that they needed an organization to look after their interests and to
represent them. After several meetings of the drivers and car owners during the winter
months of 1939–40 in both New York and Philadelphia—a newly formed organization
adopted the name of American Racing Drivers Club (ARDC).
Bill Schindler was elected as the club’s first President and in a very short time practically every eastern midget driver had joined. The ARDC conducted its first sanctioned
event at the Cedarhurst Speedway on Long Island, NY under the promotion of Walter
Stebbins on Wednesday May 15, 1940.
During the first ever ARDC event the first heat was won by Ed
“Dutch” Schaefer. Other heats were won by Tony Bonadies, Bill
TH Schindler, and Honey Purick. The thirty-lap feature was won by Bill
Schindler followed by Purick, Len Duncan, George Rice, and Tony
Bonadies. Since that first event—except for the years during World
War II when all racing was stopped in the United States—ARDC has
continuously sanctioned midget racing up and down the East Coast.
Drivers who spent time as regulars with ARDC such as Bill Schindler, Henry Banks,
Len Duncan, Pancho Carter, and many more have also competed in the Indianapolis
500 including the 1969 winner Mario Andretti.
This year of 2014 the American Racing Drivers Club is celebrating its 75th birthday
and hopefully they can look forward to many more years of great midget racing in the
future. http://ARDCmidget.com/
75
YEAR
Williams Grove Speedway
SATURDAY AUGUST 16, 2014:
8a–10a
9a–9p
10a–3p
11a–3p
11:45a
12p–3p
12p
5p
6p–9p
3p-8p
8a–10a
9a
10a
75
YEAR
11a
11:15a
12p-4p
Saturday only: There will be “hands-on” demonstrations of working
sheetmetal. Visitors are urged to bring along a project to show or get
technical advice on. Techniques, tools, and equipment can be shared,
swapped, sold, etc. The projects are not limited to only automotive applications. Contact John Sokolovich (717) 968-0759. [email protected]
2
Coffee in the Infield of Racetrack.
Eastern Museum of Motor Racing (EMMR) open
to the public for extended hours. Race Cars display.
The modern ARDC midgets will have a special
display area behind the grandstand along the
creek. They will be pulling maintenance on their
cars.
Refreshments, infield of Latimore Valley Racetrack
Drivers Meeting at the flagstand.
Vintage Race Car Track Time Exhibition at
Latimore Valley Racetrack.
Inliners International at Large Pavilion, call Steve
at 215-547-0866
EMMR/WGOT Night at the Races at Lincoln
Speedway. Tracktime and Vintage Race Car display. Contact Nancy Miller at 717-766-0837.
Activities at EMMR if Lincoln Speedway rained out.
Cruise-in at the Museum if rained out Friday eve.
SUNDAY AUGUST 17, 2014:
is a half-mile automobile race track located
in Williams Grove, between Mechanicsburg
and Dillsburg. The Speedway opened in
1939, and hosted Championship Car races
from 1949 to 1959. Many
TH notable drivers have
raced here, including A.
J. Foyt and Mario Andretti. Still thrilling fans
after 75 years, there is racing every Friday, some Saturdays, plus many special events such as the
Williams Grove National Open for sprint cars sanctioned by
the World of Outlaws racing series.
METALSHAPERS MEET
Eastern Museum of Motor Racing (EMMR) open
to the public for extended hours. Race Cars on display.
Honoring ARDC’s 75 Years of Racing, and
Williams Grove Speedway with a Roundtable
from 10:30–12 featuring Ray Bull, six-time ARDC
Champion.
Refreshments in museum.
Interview with Jim Gerber from Davenport, Iowa,
son of John Gerber.
Cars leave for Williams Grove Speedway for
EMMR/WGOT’s static display only. ARDC will be
running the 75th Anniversary race. Cars must be
there by 4 pm. In case of rain the Museum will be
open till 9 pm.
Cruise-in at the museum, featuring Music, Food,
50/50 Drawing, Chinese Auction, Awards. All
makes welcome! Hot Rods, Classics, Muscle Cars,
Trucks, Motorcycles, etc. Free Registration, Dash
Plaques to first 100 cars. Please collect and bring
your soda tabs for Ronald McDonald House. Rain
Date: Sat., August 16th.
12p-3p
12:30p
1p-4p
1p-3p
The EMMR Times
Coffee in the Infield of Latimore Valley Racetrack.
Church Service in Infield.
WGOT/EMMR Annual Membership Meeting in Infield. Elections and “The State of WGOT/ EMMR.” All
welcome, please attend.
Introduction of 2014 Grand Marshalls: STAN
LOBITZ and PERRY TRIMMER & JUDY FREELS.
Tribute to Crocky Wright, ARDC’s 75 Years of
Racing, and Williams Grove Speedway.
Eastern Museum of Motor Racing (EMMR) open
to the public.
Refreshments, infield of Latimore Valley Racetrack
Drivers’ Meeting at flagstand.
Vintage Race Car Track Time Exhibition at
Latimore Valley Racetrack.
3rd Sunday Roundtable with Stan Lobitz at the
Museum.
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
30 years of Making Memories
Bruce Larson and Frank Burman (Fair Announcer)
Latimore Valley Fair
held June 27–29, 2014
Thanks to all who helped make the 30th edition of
the Latimore Valley Fair another success. Our members and “friends” of members did a great job getting
the fairgrounds ready. We hope everyone had a good
time and we look forward to seeing you next year.
After 30 years, this will be my last year as Fair
Coordinator. Amy Kelly—who you have met this year
at the fair—will be taking over as the Fair Coordinator for the 2015 Latimore Valley Fair. She was introducing herself as “Jr.’s wife” but she’ll be known as
“Amy” next year. (I used to be known as “Lynn’s
wife.”) Amy stepped in this year and did a great job.
I know I can’t name every single person that has
been there to help me throughout 30 years but I do
thank all of you and some have passed. But I need to
thank personally certain individuals who have been
there for me. Some all 30 years! Toni and Mike
Winslow; Sarah Dolbow; Carol and Joe Weaver;
Perry Trimmer and Judy Freels; Grace Bell; Barry
Murphy; Joe Heisler, III; Bob and Dottie Shultz;
Brandon and Rose Bell; Joe and Sue Becker; Merle
and Gloria Delp; Kay and Barry Melchi; my friends
with the Latimore Gas & Steam Assoc.; and most of
all my husband, Lynn. He put up with quite a “honey
do list” when fair time came around.
Thanks again….and see you at the fair next year.
—Barbara Paxton
Eric Finkenbinder and daughters, Claire and Maggie,
get ready for a trip on the famous “Rocket Ride.”
Shea Paxton volunteers at
one of the games during the
Latimore Valley Fair.
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
The EMMR Times
3
CORNER
CRAIG’s
There is no doubt in my
mind that the most fulfilling
part of my involvement in preCraig Agan
serving motorsports history
Development,
over the past 20+ years has
EMMR
been the people I’ve met.
While drivers capture the most attention
from race fans, many other interesting personalities have combined to make our sport
so competitive and exciting.
Two years ago a donation to the Eastern Museum
of Motor Racing from noted photographer and writer
George Levy started a labor of love for me and others
at the EMMR. The donation was a beautiful 20" by 30"
aerial photo of Williams Grove Speedway. My immediate thought was how could I turn this striking
photo into something even more, something we could
use to raise funds for the continued support of the
EMMR? The obvious answer was to make it more personal by getting it autographed, but by who? It has to
be the drivers, right? They are our heroes that we relate to the most and cheer for week after week. Which
drivers? Well, the Williams Grove National Open has
been their most important event every year since
1963 for this storied track, so National Open winners
seemed the best answer.
We went to the Williams Grove website and
brought up the National Open winners list. Wow!
What a Who’s Who of sprint car chauffers! Some of
the names would be easy to find and ask for their autograph, like our EMMR President Lynn Paxton,
while others would be a challenge. The photo has a
black border so we started having former winners
sign on the border with a silver pen as they were
available. Many of the still-active drivers we caught up
with at the track, while others we had to go to them.
Van May (1977 winner) is at area tracks often, but,
not knowing when I might run into him, I called and
went to his shop. It is always interesting to visit these
guys at their shop to see what projects they are currently working on. I did the same with Joey Allen
(1987) and Kramer Williamson (1978). I had known
Kramer for many years, mostly because of his association with Bob Trostle, but had never been to his shop.
I drove up and we had a great visit, one which I will
always cherish after his untimely passing.
Allen Klinger (1980) was a bit hard to find. When I
asked people in the racing community his whereabouts, no one seemed to know. Some thought he was
in Hegins, near Tower City, where John Zemaitus
lives. But we finally caught up with Allen at his home
near Lititz. Allen won the National Open as a very
4
Gordon Johncock, left, took time from his
lumber and sawmill business to add his
signature to the historic photo of Williams
Grove Speedway. Craig Agan, right, found
Mr. Johncock four hours north of Detroit.
young man driving for his grandfather. A tragic fire
destroyed their race shop and ultimately caused Allen
to retire early, explaining why most race people had
not been in touch with him. He was generous with us
and it was a pleasure to meet him.
With the help of Marlin Heller we recently got the
signatures of Larry Dickson and Mark Kinser while
they were in Knoxville. However, the most recent autograph is one we’re especially proud of. Gordon
Johncock, originally from Hastings, Michigan, came
to Pennsylvania on October 20, 1963, and left with
the trophy and winners purse from the first Williams
Grove National Open. Johncock went on to become
one of the best drivers of his generation, notching
wins at the 1973 and 1982 Indianapolis 500.
In June my wife, Pat, and I were going east
through Detroit crossing into Canada and on to
Toronto to visit her sister. I had searched online for
Johncock and had an address in northern Michigan.
When we got in the Flint area I called and reached
Gordon’s wife. I told her I was associated with the
Eastern Museum of Motor Racing and asked if we
could visit to get an autograph from Gordon. She told
me he wasn’t in but that she would pass the message
on. We didn’t hear back right away but headed north
anyway. His home and lumber/sawmill business are
about four hours north of Detroit. We reached him
later that evening and made arrangements to meet
the next morning. Johncock’s sawmill had a recent
fire and was shut down, and they were in the process
of rebuilding. He apologized for not having more time
for us saying that business had to come first. He went
on to say that when he was racing he had that attitude also, and that he took his racing business very
seriously. He was very gracious to Pat and I and we
thanked him for his autograph.
Johncock’s signature brought the number to 20
on the photo. We have a few more to get on this great
photo and then plan to offer it at one of our upcoming auctions. Watch for more info coming soon.
Thanks for your support!
The EMMR Times
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
t
Don’ t !
i
s
s
i
M
TOY
& RACING
SECOND
MEMORABILIA SHOW
ANNUAL
Sun. SEPTEMBER 21, 2014 B U Y
10 AM to 4 PM
SELL
TRADE
Held outdoors at the
Eastern Museum of
Motor Racing
100 Baltimore Rd, York Springs, PA
Price in advance:
10 x 10 spots: $30
10 x 20 spots: $55
All 10 x 20 spots include vehicle
Price day of Show:
$10 more per spot
All vendors supply own tables
10 x 10 easy-ups or larger accepted.
All space is first-come, first-served.
Info and Reservations:
Darwin Doll 717-757-2720
[email protected]
Museum phone:
717 528-8279
www.EMMR.org
REGISTRATION TOY & RACING MEMORABILIA SHOW
Held outdoors at the
Sun. SEPT. 21, 2014 Eastern
Museum of Motor Racing
FORM
VENDOR CREDENTIAL: For identification purposes credentials will be
provided for you and your helper with your spot assignment
prior to the show.
SPOT RESERVATIONS: Spots are guaranteed when your payment is
received.
INSURANCE: Exhibitors accept all responsibility for loss and/or injury
to themselves, their family and their property, while attending
the show. Show management is not liable for loss and/or injury.
MERCHANDISE DISPLAYS: All merchandise must be displayed on your
tables. Merchandise is not permitted in walkways or cross isles.
DEALER SET-UP: Set-up will be Sunday from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.
SHOW HOURS: The show opens to the public Sunday morning at 10
a.m. This show is advertised to 4 p.m.
SALES TAX: All vendors are required by state law to have a valid PA
tax number. If you do not have a tax number you will need to
obtain one. If you have questions concerning the tax number
please cell Darwin.
PETS: Must be leashed and remain in the confines of your spot during
show hours.
REFRESHMENTS: The museum will have refreshments on sale.
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
P 10 x 10 Spot is $30
P 10 x 20 Spot, includes vehicle, is $55
P Larger Spot: $5 discount for each spot.
Name _________________________________________________________
Helper’s name___________________________________________________
Address ________________________________________________________
City__________________________ State_____ Zip_____________________
Phone______________________ Cell phone _______________________
PA Tax Number (required) _________________________________________
Email address: __________________________________________________
Make Checks Payable to and then mail to:
EMMR TOY SHOW, PO Box 3675, York, PA 17402
Questions? DARWIN DOLL (717) 757-2720 Every day until 8 p.m.
EMAIL: [email protected]
We retain the right to refuse any dealer contracts. • Exhibitors and your helper
accept full liability and expressly release the show management (Darwin Doll
and the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing) from any loss, damage, or injury to
their property or themselves while attending this event.
Dealer Signature ________________________________________________
The EMMR Times
5
Shayna Texter is shown in
a photo taken a few years
ago. A 50cc motorcycle
that is hanging over the
display at EMMR is like the
small motorcycle that
Shayna started her career
on. Shayna, of Lancaster
County, Pa., is currently
competing in the national
flat track series sponsored
by Triumph.
Vintage Motorcycle
Exhibit News
On display at EMMR for 2014 are several motorcycles that have had a significant impact on short track
and flat track racing. Regional accomplishments and
race bikes that have had an impact are highlighted in
the display.
A rare Honda Racing Corporation unit specifically
designed for short track racing that was piloted by the
late Paul Crumling is a highlight of the display.
There is also another Japanese-made Kawasaki
400cc unit that was successfully modified from a
motocross bike to a short tracker and piloted by Baltimore motorcycle legend Bill Menges.
Owned and ridden by Maryland’s Nick Taylor, one
of the very last of the “real Indians” a twin cylinder
500cc bike that resembles in many respects the
British bikes of yesteryear.
Current half-mile and mile flat-track star Shanya
Texter from Lancaster, PA started her career on a little 50cc bike like the one hanging over the display.
Ms. Texter is currently campaigning the national flat
track series sponsored by Triumph.
Perhaps the most popular mass-produced shorttrack bike of all time, the Bultaco Astro, is on display
curtesy of owner and rider Mike Harrington from
Westminster, Maryland.
Don’t miss them: be sure to visit EMMR this season to see these historic motorcycles—remember
that many exhibits at the Museum change every year.
—Mark Williams, [email protected]
Potomac Vintage Riders
www.potomacvintageriders.com
SWAP MEET Z Cruise-in
Sunday October 5, 2014
7 am to 4 pm, This is a “Rain or Shine” event
Held outdoors at the
fabulous
Eastern Museum of
Motor Racing
100 Baltimore Rd, York Springs, PA
FREE
Admission
This event is open to all forms of
Automobiles, Parts, Accessories and
Automobilia—from Antique, Hot Rod,
Jalopy, and any form of Racing.
FREE
for Cruisers,
plus Grab Bags
for the first 100
Cruisers.
Click on: www.emmr.org for the Registration Form, information on this
and many other events at the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing and
Latimore Valley Fairgrounds. Just one minute off of Route 15.
Museum phone:
717 528-8279
www.EMMR.org
6
3rd
Annual
• The Museum will be open to visit and concessions
will be available.
• DJ Harry provide fun music.
• A 50/50 raffle drawing will be held at 2 pm.
• Swap Meet and Car Corral (cars for sale) are $20.00
if pre-registered by September 25, or $25.00 after
that or the day of event.
Overnight Camping is
available for vendors.
• All proceeds
benefit EMMR.
The EMMR Times
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
The Eastern Museum of Motor Racing (EMMR) is collecting aluminum
tabs from soda cans to help support
The Ronald McDonald Charities. We
would like you and your friends to help.
The “Help Pick Up the Tab” campaign for the Ronald McDonald House
Charities has generated needed funds to support
“home away from home” for families of seriously
ill or injured children receiving treatment. The
House provides a loving, caring, and affordable
place for families each year.
EMMR’s volunteers will kick off their “Help
Pick Up the Tab” drive this year on August 15th at
the 40th Annual Convention’s Car Cruise-in held
from 3 pm to 8 p.m on Friday August 15. Rain
date August 16th.
See more details
about the Cruise-in
on page 12 of this
newsletter.
EMMR has been
collecting tabs for
quite a while, and
will continue collecting them over the next year. In August of 2015
at next year’s Car Cruise-in there will be a run
with the Cruise-in cars to the Ronald McDonald
House in Hershey, Pa. to deliver the tabs that were
collected. Our goal is a truckload of tabs!
Any time during the next year you may bring
your containers of tabs you have collected and
place them at the designated spot in the outside
lobby in the museum. You could also bring them
to the car cruise next year.
With the support of you and the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing’s volunteers—the Ronald
McDonald House will continue to serve families in
need by providing them with the rest and support
they need to remain strong for their hospitalized
child. Thank you!
—Barb Paxton
Racing Around
the Museum
Will resume in next newsletter.
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
Eastern Museum of Motor Racing
100 Baltimore Rd, York Springs, PA
www.EMMR.org • 717-528-8279
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The EMMR Times newsletter committee:
Amanda Eshenour, Chair [email protected]
Bob Shultz
Sarah Smith
Rick Mandelson
Lynn Paxton
Norm Hutton
The EMMR Times newsletter is published 4 times a year:
Volume 1 in March • Volume 2 in June
Volume 3 in August • Volume 4 in October
Newsletter design and production volunteer:
Kay Diehl Melchi c&t: 717.669.2710 [email protected]
Receive your newsletter in Color!
The EMMR newsletter is available as a fullcolor PDF which can be emailed to you
instead of receiving the printed newsletter which is in all-black ink. Emailing
newsletters saves print and postage
costs. Please email Amanda [email protected]
if you wish to receive your newsletter by email.
Join !
Today
EMMR
Membership
P Annual is $20. P Lifetime is $200.
Name ______________________________________________
Spouse name ________________________________________
Address_____________________________________________
City__________________________ State_____ Zip _________
Phone___________________ Cell phone _________________
E-mail address _______________________________________
I prefer to receive the EMMR newsletter via:
P by email as a PDF which is in full-color and fastest delivery.
P by U.S. Postal Service, prints in all black ink, slower delivery.
P I have a vintage or antique race vehicle, contact me.
P I might be interested in volunteering, contact me.
P I might have something to donate, contact me.
Please make checks payable to “EMMR” and mail to:
EMMR, Attn: Membership
PO Box 688, Mechanicsburg PA 17055-0688
The EMMR Times
©
Help “Pick Up the Tab” for
the Ronald McDonald House
Museum phone:
717 528-8279
www.EMMR.org
7
Drag Racing Exhibit News
Held on the third day of the fair: Sunday June 29,
the highlight of the Latimore Valley Fair Cruise-in
was the drag cars of Bruce Larson and Brian Beattie
during the Cackling Thunder start-ups.
An auction was held to sell a spot in the seat of the
Larson funny car with Marlin Heller winning the bid.
Marlin presented the seat to Eric Finkenbinder, the
ABC TV Channel 27 meteorologist. Sitting in the seat
of Larson’s funny car while it started-up was an experience Eric will not forget.
The Great Expectations top fueler experienced a
fuel leak on the first round and was shut off only to
see retired Marine Joseph Novak offering $15 more
for the second Larson start-up. Although a bit tight,
Novak squeezed into the seat and enjoyed a maximum
display of 1500 horsepower at work before him.
Beattie’s dragster then fired and completed the
Cackle in ground-pounding style. The crowd exploded
with a rousing round of applause showing their appreciation for the performance.
We would like to extend our appreciation for the
fine turnout for the Cruise-in and Cackling Thunder
and we would be remiss if we didn’t thank our volunteers for making it all happen especially Jeff Golden
and Terry Bobb and to Junior Kelly for the nice bowling pin awards that he creates and the gals for their
registration support.
Thoughts now turn to the Toy & Racing Memorabilia Show on Sunday, September 21st and new and
interesting new displays for the drag racing exhibit at
EMMR for next year.
—Darwin Doll [email protected]
1st Place
Winner at
Latimore Valley
Fair Cruise-In was the 1948 Morris of Yvonne and Randy Davis.
Latimore Valley Fair
Cruise-in June 29, 2014
Eric Finkenbinder, in seat, smiles as
Larson briefs him before the earth-shaking
start-up of the funny car.
Latimore Valley Fair Cruise-in June 29, 2014
Trophy winners at the Fair Cruise-in
Above: Bruce Larson, on
left, shaking the hand of
ABCTV 27 meteorologist
Eric Finkenbinder who sat
in Larson’s car for the
Cackling Thunder courtesy
of Marlin Heller’s high bid
of $210. Right: Eric gives
the thumbs up to start.
8
The EMMR Times
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
Left: Allen Mark
Brittell presented
the 1st place
winner trophy for
the Latimore Valley
Fair Cruise-in to
Yvonne Davis. The
trophy was
sponsored by the
Allen Brittell
Allstate Agency of
York, Pa.
Left: Bob
and Dottie
Shultz were
presented
the
Chairman’s
Award by
Junior Kelly
during the
Latimore
Valley Fair
Cruise-in on
June 29.
CRUISE-IN
Retired Marine Joseph Novak Sr. upped
the ante and donated $225 to have the
second seat in the Larson Funny Car for
the Cackling Thunder at the Latimore
Valley Fair Cruise-in.
Above: Drag racing announcer George
Nye had a busy day with the Cruisein and the Cackling Thunder at the
Latimore Valley Fair. George turned
auctioneer for the right to sit in the
Bruce Larson funny car at a
thundering 1500 horsepower.
Brian Beattie readies the Jim and Alison
Lee Top Fuel “Great Expectations” dragster
for a turn at the Cackling Thunder during
the Latimore Valley Fair Cruise-in.
at the
Latimore Valley
Fair
Sun. June 29, 2014
1st Place Award –
Yvonne & Randy Davis: 1948 Morris
2nd Place Award –
Bill York: 1933 Chevy Coupe
3rd Place Award –
Barry Zeigler: 1959 Ford
Chairman’s Award –
Bob & Dottie Shultz: 1923 T Ford
People’s Choice –
Barry Guise: 1960 Chevrolet El Camino
Best of Show –
Thom Greis: 1941 Willys
WANTED
EMMR’s golf cart is dying.
We need a
Must be gas!
GOLF
CART
Just one of the beautiful cars at
the Latimore Valley Fair Cruise-in.
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
THANKS!
In the last issue of the newsletter we asked
for specific donations. Special thanks to those
who donated two chain saws, 1 big leaf
blower, 1 pressure washer, and two cases of
toilet paper from our wish list!
The EMMR Times
9
Gettysburg Region
AACA News
The Gettysburg Region held their
annual show June 14th at the Latimore Valley Fairgrounds. The show
takes place on the infield of the race track.
Friday was set up day and the job was completed before the rains came.
The rains were very heavy and the infield looked
like a lake, but the new road project kept the water
from running across the track preventing a wash out.
The workers picnic on Friday evening was still held
minus the Model T races.
Saturday brought us a very nice day and the attendance was down from previous years, but we had a
great day walking around the standing water and ar-
ranging the show and flea market vendors
to dryer grounds.
Thank you, Deb and Harry Sherwood for taking care of the flea market
vendors.
Each year the President of the Region picks an outstanding car for the
Presidents award. This year’s award went
to Bob Godfrey’s 1925 Ajax automobile. The
Ajax was built in Racine, Wisconsin for two years
before becoming the Nash Light Six.
Thanks to the kitchen crew for a job well done
with breakfast and lunch and all the makers of the
goodies for the desert table. A special thank you to the
York Springs Lions Club for their ice cream sundaes
and French fries.
Next years show will be held Sat. June 13th. Mark
your calendar and see you there.
—Bob Shultz
Community YARD SALE
FRIDAY JULY 25 and Saturday JULY 26
Held outdoors at the
fabulous
Eastern Museum of
Motor Racing
100 Baltimore Rd, York Springs, PA
Just a minute off of Route 15.
Only $
5
per space/per day
Questions? Contact Judy at
717-580-6083
Museum phone:
717 528-8279
www.EMMR.org
EMMR Museum
Gif t Shop
17 New Book Titles
Just Arrived!
All s
se
Purchpaort
sup R!
EMM
10
The Gift Shop at EMMR
has a huge selection of
books, plus EMMR
apparel such as hats,
t-shirts, jackets.
The EMMR Times
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
CLIP AND SAVE SCHEDULE
©
2014 EVENTS
Schedule updated as of Jan. 20, 2014.
Jilly 19
V-Dub Bash. At Latimore Valley Fairgrounds. - Admission $10
Larry Garland (717) 428-0110, http://VDubBash.com/show/
July 19
SUSQUEHANNA SPEEDWAY PARK, Pa. Silver Spring Speedway
Racers Reunion, EMMR Display/Track Time - Rick Mandelson 410 802-1333
July 20
3rd Sunday Roundtable: 1-3 pm, Topic: V-Dubs and Racing by
John Mickle
July 25
Community Yard Sale at EMMR. Judy (717) 580-6083.
July 25
Photo Opportunity at WILLIAMS GROVE SPEEDWAY, Mechanicsburg, Pa. EMMR Static Display - Nancy Miller (717) 766-0837
July 26
BUD GARVEY'S REUNION, Osceola Mills, PA. Bud Garvey (814)
268-5073 (Please support this Non-EMMR event)
Aug. 3-4 VINTAGE CELEBRATION - Loudon, NH. Al Novotnik (203) 8477478 (Please support this non-EMMR event)
Aug. 15-17 EMMR/WGOT CONVENTION - at EMMR / LVFG, Honoring Crocky
Wright, ARDC 75 Years of Racing and Williams Grove Speedway. Fri, Sat &
Sun: daytime events at EMMR. Fri. pm Cruise at Museum 3-8 pm. Sat &
Sun aftn Track Time at LVFG. Sat. pm Track Time at Lincoln Speedway.
Sat. pm rain date for Cruise at Museum. Sun. Roundtable: Stan Lobitz Roast
1-3 pm. Inliners International at large pavilion, Steve (215) 547-0866.
Aug. 22
BEDFORD FAIRGROUNDS SPEEDWAY, at Bedford Pa., EMMR
Display/Track Time - Nancy Miller (717) 766-0837
Sept. 5-28 Matchbox Month at EMMR. Darwin Doll (717) 757-2720
Sept. 6-7 PICNIC / WORK PARTY at EMMR / LVFG. Lynn Paxton (717) 4328188 (Rain Date 9/13 &14)
Sept. 6
SUSQUEHANNA SPEEDWAY PARK, Pa., EMMR Display/Track
Time - Rick Mandelson (410) 802-1333. Sept. 7 Track Time rain date.
Amanda Eshenour (717) 528-8279
Sept. 12 Photo Opportunity WILLIAMS GROVE SPEEDWAY, Mechanicsburg, Pa. EMMR Static Display - Nancy Miller (717) 766-0837
Sept. 21 2nd Annual TOY & RACING MEMORABILIA BUY-SELL TRADE
SHOW, Darwin Doll (717) 757-2720
Sept. 21 3rd Sunday Roundtable: 1-3 pm. Topic - Hill Climb by Bill Sangrey
& Ron Mann
Sept. 27 SHIPPENSBURG SPEEDWAY, PA. EMMR Display/Track Time Nancy Miller (717) 766-0837
Oct. 4
EMMR / NATIONAL SPRINT CAR HALL OF FAME AUCTION will
also benefit the YORK COUNTY RACING CLUB and the NATIONAL OPEN
BENEFIT FOR INJURED DRIVERS. WILLIAMS GROVE SPEEDWAY,
Mechanicsburg, Pa. Don Robinson (717) 456-7124 and Kolten Gouse (717)
275-6827
Oct. 5
EMMR’s 3rd Annual Swap Meet and Cruise-in at EMMR museum.
John Marks (717) 645-0440 [email protected] or Junior Kelly (717) 6300776 [email protected]
Oct. 9
Museum OPEN Thurs 6-9 pm for Hershey show visitors. Refreshments, Movies - Larry Stoner (717) 258-4695
Oct. 10
Photo Opportunity at WILLIAMS GROVE SPEEDWAY,
Mechanicsburg, PA. EMMR Static Display - Nancy Miller (717) 766-0837
Oct. 19
3rd Sunday Roundtable: 1-3 pm, Topic - Lost Race Tracks by
Stephen Bubb
Oct. 25
TRACTOR TROT at Latimore Valley. Reg 10:30 - Ride 11:00 Larry Altland (717) 432-5348
Oct. 26
Museum CLOSES on WEEKENDS for 2014, but open Fridays
weather permitting.
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014
Nov. 9
LOBITZ MOVIE PARTY / EMMR AUCTION, Hazleton, PA - Lynn
Paxton (717) 432-8188
Nov. 16
3rd Sunday Roundtable: 1-3 pm. Topic - 3rd AMF Snowmobile
Racing Reunion by Bob Sholly & Bruce Larson
Dec. 6-7 EMMR HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE at EMMR 10-4 pm, Movies /
Auction / Refreshments
Dec. 21
3rd Sunday Roundtable: 1-3 pm.Topic - to be determined
Schedule as of Jan. 20, 2014. Watch www.EMMR.org or call (717) 528-8279.
BOARD
MEETINGS
FROM
THE
All are welcome to attend, 4th Tuesday
of the month, 7:00 pm at EMMR.
PRESIDENT
I hope your summer is going
well. First I want to thank Gene
Carvell and all his helpers for raising the road 20 inches into the
fairgrounds and to Dale Ruppert
for trucking the stone. Bob Stewart from York, Pa. gave us a special deal on the stone we want to
Lynn Paxton
thank him also.
President,
Barry Murphy and his gang are
EMMR
still repairing our equipment (that
I broke). However, this is a never ending. Job well
done guys!
When you get this newsletter the 30th Annual Latimore Valley Fair will be history. I can’t tell you how
much hard work our members put in just getting
ready for it let alone helping out at the fair. Thanks to
all!
On Saturday, July 19 we will host the 2nd annual
V-Dub Bash and stay around for our Sunday roundtable on July 20th. Our special guest will be John
Mickle on V-Dubs racing.
Our 40th WGOT/EMMR Convention will be held
on August 15th thru 17th. We will be honoring
Crocky Wright, the 75th anniversary of Williams
Grove Speedway, and ARDC. Our Grand Marshall,
Stan Lobitz will be roasted on Sunday, the 17th, up
at the museum from 1 to 3 p.m. Our other honorees
for the weekend are Judy Freels and Perry Trimmer.
Jim Gerber, son of John Gerber will be with us all
weekend to tell about his father and talk about Gerber
race cars. The Gerber race car won the first race at
Williams Grove Speedway in May 1939 with Tommy
Hinnershitz driving.
Hope to see you soon.
www.EMMR.org •
The EMMR Times
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11
MUSEUM ADDRESS:
NON PROFIT ORG
US POSTAGE
100 Baltimore Road, York Springs, Penna.
PAID
0.5 miles east of Route 15, 12 miles south of Pa. Turnpike
LANCASTER, PA
PERMIT # 23
717-528-8279 • www.EMMR.org
Mailing address:
PO BOX 688
MECHANICSBURG PA 17055-0688
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
for Aug., Sept., Oct. of 2014
Convention, Aug. 15, 16, 17
See details on page 1 and 2.
Toy & Racing Buy/Sell/Trade
Show, Sept. 21
See details on page 5.
EMMR/Hall of Fame Auction, Oct. 4
See details on page 11
Swap Meet & Cruise-in, Oct. 5
See details on page 6.
Don’t Miss It!
EMMR/WGOT CONVENTION
Held during the
EMMR/WGOT
CONVENTION
AUGUST 15–17 info: pg 1 & 2
CRUISE NIGHT
Friday, August 15, 2014
3 to 8 PM
at the
MUSEUM
Rain Date:
Saturday,
Aug. 16
Location: Eastern Museum of Motor Racing
All Makes Welcome
Hot Rods
Classics
Muscle Cars
Trucks
Motorcycles
…and more!
FREE
REGISTRATION
Dash plaques and
goody bags to first
100 cars.
Free admission to
EMMR museum
Eastern Museum of Motor Racing
100 Baltimore Road, York Springs, PA 17372
Phone: 717-528-8279 E-mail: [email protected]
12
The EMMR Times
• Music • Food
• 50/50 Drawing
• Chinese Auction
• Awards
Please collect
and bring your
soda tabs for
Ronald
McDonald
House.
2014 Issue No. 3 • published in early August 2014