In a surprise move, long-time Macedon Town Clerk, Judy Gravino, handed in her letter of resignation, effective August 29th at Thursday’s (8/14) Town Board meeting.

Town Supervisor, Bill Hammond, said he was caught off guard by the move, but did know Gravino had been discussing retirement.

In her official letter dated August 11th, to the Secretary of State, Gravino wrote:

“Please consider this letter my formal letter of retirement effective August 30, 2014 from the position of the Macedon Town Clerk. My last day worked will be August 29, 2014. My term of office was to expire December 31, 2015.

While I am excited about my impending retirement, it is bitter sweet to leave the position that has been my life for so many years. It has truly been an honor and pleasure to serve the residents within my community. I have also been very fortunate to work with many wonderful people throughout my tenure with the Town of Macedon.”

Judy has served as the Macedon Town Clerk for 26 years, and served as District Director for the NY State Town Clerk’s Association for all of that time. She has also served on various committees include: Mixer Committee, Clerk of the Year Committee, Scholarship committee and is a member of the Wayne County Clerk’s Association, having served as past treasurer. She holds the title of Registered Municipal Clerk, having completed requirements prescribed by the Association for that certification.

As Macedon Town Clerk, she also serves as Records Management Officer, Registrar of Vital Statistics, Notary Public, Water Billing Clerk and works closely with the Wayne County Water & Sewer Authority.

Judy was instrumental in salvaging and restoring documents and Vital Records following a devastating fire in 2001 at the old Town Hall building. For a time, she worked from her car, home and makeshift office, recreating her vault and each file, page by page, and helped to save a priceless book collection stored in the library.

According to Hammond, the Town Board cannot officially act to select and appoint a Town Clerk replacement until after August 30th.

“Because of the timing, anyone selected would have to run for the position in the November election and, if elected, take office officially on January 1st, 2015.

In another move by the Board, they agreed to allow current police clerk, Tyler Robinson, to attend the regional Police Academy slated to begin in February of 2015.

Robinson, upon completion, would then become a Macedon Police Officer.

Tyler has been serving as the Macedon Police Clerk for a number of years.

According to Macedon Chief, John Colella, the process and posting to fill the police clerk position will begin in the near future.

Canandaigua, N.Y. (Aug. 15, 2014) – Finger Lakes Community College will hold a 5-on-5 alumni basketball tournament on Sunday, Sept. 28, in the Putt Moore Court on the main campus.

The first-ever tournament is open to all alumni – not just former members of the FLCC Lakers men’s and women’s basketball teams. Registration costs $20 per player and includes a shirt and reception following the tournament. The deadline to sign up is Friday, Sept. 12.

The event’s aim is to support the athletics department and build connections among area alumni. Check-in is at 10 a.m., with the tournament beginning at about 11 a.m. in the gymnasium at 3325 Marvin Sands Drive, Canandaigua. Participants and guests should park in the lot closest to the gym, behind the college.

Concession and merchandise stands will be run by athletic department staff and FLCC athletes. Yearbooks containing alumni photos will be for sale.

For more information and to register for the tournament, visit www.flccathletics.com/history/alumnibasketball. Additionally, event organizers are seeking sponsors. To support the tournament, contact Bethany Schlegel, assistant athletic director, at (585) 785-1518.

by Gary M. Spaid

WILLIAMSON, NY…The annual Dave London Memorial was the highlight of last Friday, August 15. A record 27 SuperStocks were on hand to run the 50-lapper. Jim Steffenhagen Jr. won his heat race and went into the redraw for the feature lineup. As fate would have it, he drew the outside pole and then went on to lead almost every lap to take the $1,000 feature win.

In Sunoco Modified action Eddie Hawkins won his first ever Spencer Speedway feature holding off first Andy Lewis and then Mike Leaty for the victory. “If you could have seen me right after the race in the pits I almost blew the top off the car,” he related. “I just can’t tell you how happy I am.”

In other support action, Timmy Catalano also won his first Spencer Speedway Four-Cylinder Scorpion feature. Tim Faro came home with the Super Six feature victory and Bryce Norton won the INEX legends feature.

Twenty-six SuperStocks answered the call to the line for the 50-lap Dave London Memorial. Chris Vogler was the early leader; Steffenhagen flew by on the inside on the front stretch just two laps into the race to take the lead.

The first yellow flew on lap seven when Willie Strusz slowed on the speedway. On the restart Steffenhagen remained in the lead followed by Vogler, Bill Freisbye Jr., Jay Mudra and Terry Cheetham.

The second yellow flew four laps later when Steve Malin and Phil Alhart came together in the third turn. The third yellow came on lap 14, for a tangle between Charles Coonrod and Jay Canonico. All the while Steffenhagen was stretching out his advantage over the field.

Five more yellow flags flew slowing the race. All were for cars slowing with flat tires or minor spinouts. Gary Noe was penalized for jumping a number of these restarts by NYS SuperStock officials.

As the race came into its closing laps Steffenhagen took advantage of a long ten-lap green run and stretched out a fifteen car lead over Freisbye, who was trying to hold off a late race charging Joe Mancuso, who seemed to save his tires for a late race run.

As the checkers flew Steffenhagen took the victory followed by Freisbye Jr., Mancuso, Mudra, and Cheetham. The race lasted over an hour to complete due to the number of yellows.

The Sunoco Modified feature took the green flag with Eddie Hawkins taking the lead, with the Lewis clad in tow; Andy Lewis, Darryl Lewis Jr. and Tim Lewis Jr.

The first yellow came on lap 10 when Kevin Timmerman, who had worked his way up to fourth, slowed on the track. He was able to return at the back of the field. The restart saw Tim Lewis spin out in exiting the fourth turn onto the front straight away.

Mike Leaty was able to move by Andy Lewis for second and began to run down Hawkins. Andy never gave up and re-passed Leaty on lap 18, just before the yellow flew for a tangle between the Boreman boys, Jake and jerry in turn four.

A confusing restart took place following that yellow. Race director Larry Steurrys reformed the field to try that restart again. Each time Hawkins remained in the lead. The race would remain green until the end of the 35-lapper. On lap 31, Leaty again took second from Andy Lewis and charged after Hawkins. Hawkins held on for the victory followed by Leaty, Rusty Smith, Andy Lewis and Darryl Lewis Jr. to round out the top five.

In Super Six action Ryan Hillegeer took the early lead in their 20-lap feature, a race that would run green-to-checkers without a yellow flag. Hillegeer was dogged by Brandon Allen, as the two raced side-by-side. On lap eight, Allen was able to pass Hillegeer for the lead. One lap later eventual winner Tim Faro took second from Hillegeer. Faro then went on to take the lead from teammate Allen on lap 15.

On lap 17, Josh Schoonmaker bumped into the 19 of Hillegeer and took third. This action would later lead to a position penalty for Schoonmaker for un-necessary roughness.

Faro took the win followed by Allen Schoonmaker, Van Grant, Brian Hallett and Andy Cocilova. Schoonmaker was penalized three and placed in sixth place.

“My car was just awesome. It worked well in the outside groove,” stated Faro.

The Four Cylinder Scorpions 15-lap main event saw Tom Alloco grab the lead from Beth Dennie at the drop of the green. Alloco looked to have things well in hand until the yellow flew on lap eight. Jennifer Dennie and Frank Parsons Jr. came together exiting the fourth turn. The restart saw Tim Catalano out drag Alloco down the back stretch for the lead. Catalano was then able to draw out a seven car lead over Alloco at the finish. Multi-time feature winner Shaun Frarey came home in third followed by Donnie Knapp Jr. and Travis Montgomery to round out the top five.

“I have to thank everyone involved in my racing,” stated Timmy. “This win came a lot harder than my earlier win this year at Holland Raceway.”

The INEX Legends saw just six cars ready to run their 15-lap main event. Brad Salatino led the first nine circuits and then lost the lead to Bryce Norton, who went on to take the win. Salatino came home in second followed by Kevin Bertolone, Brianna Gilligan and Josh Marchese. Marchese drove the Bryce backup car after his number 31 came up with mechanic woes in the heat race.

Only three weeks remain in the 2014 NASCAR season at Spencer. This coming Friday, August 15^th the NYPA Midgets will be on hand for the first time.  The Sunoco Modifieds will be running a regular 35-lap feature. Also on tap are the Super Sixes, the Four Cylinder Scorpions and the INEX Legends. For the remainder of the year, race time starts at 7:00 p.m. sharp.

Spencer Speedway is located just fifteen minutes east of Rochester, NY, along Route 104 in the Town of Williamson. Spencer Speedway is the local “NASCAR Place to Race” for Central New York in 2014. Points earned each week at Spencer are counted into the national NASCAR Whelen All-American Points.

For more information go to: www.spencerspeedway.org.

DAVE LONDON MEORIAL NIGHT SUMMARY

NYS SUPERSTOCKS

HEAT 1:  J. Steffenhagen Jr., T. Cheetham, Z. Willis, N. Peckham, T. Fecteau.

HEAT 2:  B. Freisbye Jr., A. Higgins, S. Malin, W. Bernhard, J. Dinzler.

HEAT 3:  M. Wright, C. Vogler, D. Fetterly, R. Fink, J. Mancuso.

HEAT 4:  J. Mudra, W. Strusz, T. Markham, M. Lees, J. Miller.

FEATURE (50-laps): JIM STEFFENHAGEN JR., Bill Freisbye Jr., Joe Mancuso, Jay Mudra, Terry Cheetham, Dave Fetterly, Mitchell Wright, Nathan Peckham, Joe Miller, Zach Willis, Steve Malin, Matt Lees, Dale Lazzaro, Joe Horvatis, Chris Vogler, Tom Fecteau, Wayne Bernhard, Aaron Higgins, Gary Noe, Tommy Markham, Jay Canonico, Charles Coonrod, Robert Fink, Phil Alhart Jr., Jason Dinzler, Willie Strusz, DNS-Bianna Ramsey.

INEX LEGENDS

HEAT 1:  B. Salatino, B. Norton, B. Gilligan, K. Bertolone, J. Marchese

FEATURE (15-laps):   BRYCE NORTON, Brad Salatino, Kevin Bertolone, Brianna Gilligan, Josh Marchese, John Lynch.

SCROPION 4-CYLINDERS

HEAT 1:  S. Frarey, B. Dennie, T. Catalano, D. Knapp Jr., A. Knoepfler.

HEAT 2:   T. Montgomery, T. Alloco, A. Montgomery, J. Clark, A. Schoonmaker.

FEATURE (15-laps):   TIM CATALANO, Tom Alloco, Shaun Frarey, Donnie Knapp Jr., Travis Montgomery, Beth Dennie, Austin Montgomery, Joe Clark, Ashley Schoonmaker, Alison Knoepfler, Paul Flye, Carrie Bolton-Brown, Frank Parsons Jr., Jennifer Dennie.

SUPER SIXES

HEAT 1:   R. Hillegeer, T. Faro, A. VanHall, B. Schenk, B. Mitchell.

HEAT 2:   J. Schoonmaker, A. Cocilova, B. Allen, V. Grant, B. Hallett.

FEATURE (20-laps):   TIM FARO, Brandon Allen, Van Grant, Brian Hallett, Andy Cocilova, Josh Schoonmaker, Ryan Hillegeer, Barrett Schenk, Adam VanHall, Keith Butler Jr., Bill Inch, Mike Gage,  Bill Mitchell.

SUNOCO MODIFIEDS

HEAT 1:   M. Leaty, D. Lewis Jr., B. Lippa Jr., R. Smith, T. Lewis Jr.

HEAT 2:   E. Hawkins, K. Timmerman, B. Semmler, A. Lewis, M. Lees.

FEATURE (35-laps):  EDDIE HAWKINS, Mike Leaty, Rusty Smith, Andy Lewis, Darryl Lewis Jr., Kevin Timmerman, Matt Lees, Jake Boerman, Billy Semmler, Chris Ridsdale, Tim Lewis Jr., Jerry Boerman, Bobby Lippa Jr., DNS-Ricky Knapp Jr.

*********************************

Spencer Drag Racing Updates

by Lee DeRidder

Racing results for Saturday Aug. 9, 2014.

It was the “king of the track” qualifies for Super and Pro this week due to our rain out two weeks ago. Winner of super class was Tommy Calabrese. Mike Adam came in second with Joe Williams and Ken Nogay coming in third and fourth.

Pro class winner was TJ Mendola with Nina McDonald in second. Dave Stock finished in third and Scott Schrader in fourth.

Street class saw Joe DeLooze in first and Rich Garland in second and Austin Leckinger in third. This week we are doing “king of the track” for Street class.

Inbee Park defeated Brittany Lincicome on the first sudden-death playoff hole to claim her 11^th LPGA title and fifth major championship at the Wegmans LPGA Championship. Park shot a final round 2-under 70 to force the playoff and pared the 18^th hole in sudden death and successfully defend her title in Rochester.

Nominees for the Democratic slate in Newark/Arcadia in November will be Jack Dubler for Village Trustee, Mike Miller for Town and Village Justice, Jonathan Taylor for Village Mayor and Jim Bridgeman for Village Trustee. Republican Taylor won the nomination over Democrat Jim Bridgeman, by a vote of 29 to 11. Taylor will now face Republican John Zornow in November for Mayor. (pictured left to right are: Birdgeman, Dubler, Miller, and Taylor).

The Democratic Caucus was held on Thursday at the Newark American Legion.

Wayne County Sheriff’s Investigators reported the arrest early Friday (8/22) at about 3 a.m. of Rochester man as the result of an ongoing investigation into several larcenies of ATV’s (All Terrain Vehicle) and burglaries recently reported in the Town of Ontario area.

Wayne County Sheriff’s Investigators observed a flat bed pick up truck loaded with an ATV, and other items, operating in the area of the previously reported larcenies and burglaries, and stopped the vehicle on Ridge Road in the Town of Ontario.

Subsequent investigations with the Ogden Police Department revealed that the pick up truck had been stolen from a residence on Stony Point Road in the Town of Ogden and the truck owner was unaware his truck had been stolen.

Investigators also discovered that the ATV and other property on the back of the stolen truck had just been stolen from a residential garage on Lakeside Road in Ontario, and those homeowners were also unaware their property had been stolen during the night.

Christian A. Robinson, age 40, of 175 Warner Street in Rochester, was charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 3rd degree as a result of being in possession of the pick up truck that was stolen out of Ogden.

Robinson was also charged with Burglary 2nd degree, Grand Larceny 4th degree, 2 counts of Endangering the Welfare of a child and Criminal Mischief 4th degree as a result of the investigations.

Robinson was arraigned on the above charges before Justice Art Williams at the Town of Arcadia Court and was remanded to Wayne County Jail and is currently being held without bail

Robinson also had two juveniles with him at the time of the burglary in the Town of Ontario. The juvenile cases will be referred to Wayne County Family Court.

Wayne County Sheriff’s Investigators are continuing their investigations. Assisting in these investigations was the Ogden Police Department and the NY State Police.

It started 36 years ago when a couple of Wayne County fire chiefs weren’t getting along. The Williamson Fire Company decided to challenge a few local fire departments to a game of softball for beers and bragging rights. A game that was aimed at improving relations between local volunteer fire departments has turned into 36 years of memories and lifelong friendships.

Each year, between 12 to 16 teams made up of volunteer fire departments in Wayne County get together to resume a tradition created by founders Shawn Contant, Frank Clark, Jerry Sherman, Paul Heitmann and Larry Hubright of the Williamson Fire Department.

What began as a simple softball game has turned into a summer softball league that concludes with a two-day tournament on the third weekend of August.

“The great thing about this event is that you get to know everyone” said Clark, an active member of the Williamson Fire Company No. 1 for 46 years, and founder of the event. Frank says that forming relationships with the guys who may be standing next to you when fighting a major fire is important.

Even though the Williamson Fire Company has only won the tournament once in its 36-year history, the event means much more to its organizers.

“This is the department’s major   fundraiser and the money made during the weekend goes toward the upkeep of the fields and facilities which are also used by the Williamson Recreation Program, and others throughout the year.” said Tournament Director Craig Bouwens.

Bouwens says that the family-friendly event brings close to a thousand spectators over the weekend. Families set up camp and stay for the weekend.

“It’s a great weekend. Over the years we’ve had a little bit of everything….mud tournaments and even a marriage proposal.” stated founder Shawn Contant who recounted 36 years of memories.

There’s been a few minor injuries over the years, but mostly just a few hurt egos from those who take the event too seriously. “The guys who come in here and take the game too seriously, get put in their place quickly.” said Clark.

To ensure fairness, professional umpires are hired for the event. The umpires choose the MVP and the Sportsmanship Award named after former Wayne County Fireman’s Association Treasurer John VerHow.

Members of the Wallington Volunteer Fire Department hoisted this year’s trophy by beating Macedon Center’s Volunteer Fire Department in the final game.

“It’s a fun tournament and the winner earns bragging rights and a trophy, but the real focus of the summer softball league and yearly tournament is camaraderie” said Clark.

The results of the Williamson Fire Company’s 36th Annual Softball Tournament are:

1st Place:     Wallington

2nd Place     Macedon Center

3rd Place      Sodus Point

4th Place      Newark

Most Valuable Player:  Kent Kelsey

(Wallington)

Sportsmanship Award:   Wallington

Ed (Tanker) Toye Award:

Mark Gelina (East Williamson)

The Arcadia and Newark Democrats held their nominating caucus for candidates for the November elections, on Thursday night at the Newark American Legion.

A crowd of about 75 people attended, including party officers, spectators, and voters from the Town and Village.

The Democrats announced an open caucus, where only Democrats could nominate and vote for a candidate, but the candidates themselves could be from any party or no party.

The Arcadia Town Caucus started the evening with openings for a Town Council seat (1 year vacancy), 1 Highway Superintendent seat (1 year vacancy) and one Town Justice seat (4 year term). No nominations were made for the Town Council or Highway Superintendent. Joe DeSanto nominated Michael Miller for the Town Justice Seat (one he currently holds). Miller’s nomination was seconded by Jim Miranda. No other nominations were made and Judge Miller will be the Democrats choice for Town Justice in November.

Following the closing of that caucus and a short break. The Village of Newark caucus began.

Openings were available for Mayor (4 years term), 2 Trustees Seats (4 year terms) and Village Justice (4 year term).

The mayor race was first on the ballot. Nomination was made for Jim Bridgeman (nominated by Jim Sanangelo, seconded by John “Jack” Dubler). Sanangelo noted that it had been a long time since a Democrat was Mayor in Newark – not since Susie Earl. He was  pleased to nominate his friend, Jim Bridgeman.

The second nomination for Mayor came from Joe DeSanto, who nominated current Trustee and Republican Jonathan Taylor. Joe spoke about how important it is to vote for the right person, and not just a member of a political  party. He noted that Jonathan was a very dedicated person and worked a long time with the Farm Bureau, and with many Democrats in his years there. Jonathan and his family live  in Newark and like it here. Daniel Henson seconded the nomination for Taylor.

Balloting, which involved 40 registered Democrats, began and, in the end, the vote came to 29 for Taylor and 11 for Bridgeman. Taylor, a Republican was defeated at the Republican Caucus  the previous week by John Zornow, with just 5 votes separating them.

When the nominations were called for Village Trustee, no one spoke up.

Just before closing the nominations, Joe DeSanto stood up and admonished the crowd for their unwillingness to step up with nominations.

“I see several really good candidates here. I would hate to see no names on the ballot,” said DeSanto. He then nominated Jack Dubler for a Trustee Seat, with Jim Sanangelo seconded. Dubler reluctantly accepted, saying that due to recent health issues he was not feeling up to the door-to-door campaigning, but would serve willingly if elected.

Next DeSanto nominated Jim Bridgeman for the other Trustee seat. This nomination was seconded by Jack Dubler. Nominations were then closed. Both names will be on the ballot for the Newark Village Trustee positions.

For the Village Justice seat, Michael Miller was again nominated for the 4 year term. Joe Miller nominated him and Jim Miranda seconded.

No other nominations came before the caucus, which was then adjourned.

PHOTO CAPTION:

On Thursday night, at the Newark American Legion, Nominees for the Democratic slate in the Village of Newark and Town of Arcadia in November were selected. Nominees are:  (left to right):  Jim Bridgeman for Newark Village Trustee, Jack Dubler for Newark Village Trustee, Mike Miller for Town and Village Justice, and Jonathan Taylor for Newark Village Mayor. Taylor also ran in the Republican Caucus last week, but was defeated by fellow Trustee John Zornow. They will square off in November for the four year term.

State Police responded to a report of a motorcycle crash on Route 104 in the Town of Williamson, in front of the Bad to the Bone restaurant at about 12:35 p.m. on Friday (8/22).

According to police, Doreen Kordzikowski age 60, of Daansen Road in Palmyra was eastbound on Route 104. A box truck had slowed down to make a turn into the restaurant. In turn, a pick up truck behind the box truck also stopped. The motorcycle failed to stop, clipping the driver’s side rear of the pick-up truck, then travelling into the westbound lane.

Kordzikowski’s motorcycle was hit head-on by a vehicle driven by William McKee, age 67, of Sodus Point. Kordzikowski was killed instantly.

This was the second fatal motorcycle accident involving a female operator in her 60s in the last two weeks. On Monday (8/11), at approximately 11:45 a.m., the State Police in Williamson responded to a serious accident at the intersection of   Routes 104 and 21 in the Town of Williamson.

Sandra Cummings, age 62, from Newark, was killed after the motorcycle she was operating was struck when a vehicle failed to yield the right of way.

by Gary M. Spaid

WILLIAMSON, NY…In only his seventh start of the 2014 season, Tommy Catalano joins the rest of his family as a NASCAR Sunoco Modified feature winner at Spencer Speedway. He took the 35-lap NASCAR feature win last week.

“It’s always better to start  at the back or mid-pack and take a win then to be up front and win,” commented an elated driver. “As the race went on we kept getting better and better. When I got back to the pits it was all high fives and congratulations.”

In Spencer Speedway support action, Donnie Knapp Jr. waited until the final lap and took the lead to win the Four Cylinder Scorpions 15-lap feature.  Andy Cocilova led every lapin the Super Six 20-lap main and won the Richard Grant Memorial. Richard Grant has been a long time fan at Spencer and father of Van Grant. He passed away this past week.

In INEX legend action, Bryce Norton picked up his sixth straight feature win. Also on hand were the NY/PA Midgets. Kyle Hutchinson, from nearby Lockport, took the 20-lap feature victory.

The 35-lap NASCAR Sunoco Modified feature took the green with pole sitter Billy Semmler taking the lead. The yellow flew on the second lap when Jan Leaty spun exiting the second turn and got into the wet grass, sliding half the length of the backstretch.

The restart saw Mike Leaty grab the lead from Semmler and rocket off to a ten car advantage. Kevin Timmerman took second from Semmler one lap later. The yellow flew on lap 14 for a tangle between Jan Leaty and Tim Lewis Jr. in the third turn.

For the next couple of circuits it was one-lap-at-a-time, as yellow flag fever hit the field. Still Mike Leaty remained in front. Now, however, Tommy Catalano was in second and on the charge. He dogged Leaty once the race went green on lap 18. Finally Catalano was able to take a shot at the lead. He seemed to move Leaty high in the third turn with just two laps remaining and went on to take the victory.

On the cool down lap, Leaty punted Catalano exiting the second turn, sending him sliding through the grass. “We considered this action as ‘retaliatory in nature’ and we have strict rules about it,” stated race director Larry Steurrys. “The officials met after the race and imposed a two car penalty on Mike for taking matters into his own hands. If he had waited the penalty could have gone against Tommy for aggressive action in moving Mike high with two laps to go.”

This gave Catalano the victory and moved Rusty Smith from third to second followed by Timmerman, Leaty and Any Lewis to make up the official top five finishers.

The NY/PA Midgets were on hand some 17 cars strong. At feature time only 15 cars reported to the line. Charlie DiRosa, from West Seneca, took the early lead. The yellow flew as two cars spun on separate ends of the track; Gordon Steffen in turn two and Hayden Newcomb in turn four.

It was now Shawn Nye’s turn at the point as he passed DiRosa on lap two. Nye, from Lancaster, would lead the next seven laps before surrendering the lead to Kyle Hutchinson on lap eight. Hutchinson, from Lockport, would then go on for the win, his third of the NY/PA Midget season.

“This track is really pretty fast,” related Hutchinson. The midgets were turning their fastest laps of the season on the big flat half mile oval. “It took some time to get by Shawn (Nye), but once by we had a clear track ahead.”

Jonathan Reid, Shawn Nye, Nelson Rung and Jim Zacharias rounded out the top five finishers. Heat wins went to Hutchinson and Reid.

Andy Cocilova came from his fifth starting position to take the lead in the Richard Grant Memorial for Super Sixes. The first yellow flew on lap five when Ryan Hillegeer slowed on the track. The restart saw the yellow out again for Keith Butler Jr. spinning into the grass on the front stretch.

Cocilova now had Barrett Schenk on this tail. Following two more yellows, these two pulled away from the rest of the field. In the closing laps Tim Faro caught them and ran third, but could not pass either one.

Cocilova took his first win of the year followed by Schenk, Faro, Brandon Allen and Van Grant in fifth.

“I could have done without those cautions, “stated Cocilova. “Barrett raced me clean. It was really cool racing with him.”

Everyone was wondering where Shaun Frarey came from. He started eighth in the Four Cylinder Scorpion feature but was leading the race after just two laps. He then seemed to build a substantial lead. The yellow flag would slow the race on lap seven. This bunched the field together and set Donnie Knapp Jr. on Frarey’s tail. Knapp seem to have a better car, taking the lead for one lap, lap nine, before falling back to second behind Frarey.

With just one lap to go, Knapp ducked low on the backstretch and inched by Frarey to grab the lead and the victory. Frarey finished a close second followed by Tom Alloco, Beth Dennie and Joe Clark.

The INEX Legends were the final feature of the evening. Bryce Norton took the lead immediately and was never headed. Brad Salatino, Brianna Gilligan, Tommy Catalano and Kevin Bertolone rounded out the top five finishers.

SPENCER SPINS: It was announced the annual awards banquet would take place again this year in Palmyra on November 15^th…Colleen Toal hosted a kids’ singing contest during intermission. Racelynn Lippa age 7, Mia DeMinck age 3, Elliott Lees age 4 and Taylor Smith age 9 all took part in this event.

Only two weeks remain in the 2014 NASCAR season at Spencer. This coming Friday, August 29^th the Mid-State Vintage Cars will be on hand for a 20-lap feature.  The Sunoco Modifieds will be running a regular 35-lap feature. Also on tap are the Super Sixes, the Four Cylinder Scorpions and the NYS Super Stocks with a 25-lap main event. For the remainder of the year, race time starts at 7:00 p.m. sharp.

Spencer Speedway is located just fifteen minutes east of Rochester, NY, along Route 104 in the Town of Williamson. Spencer Speedway is the local “NASCAR Place to Race” for Central New York in 2014. Points earned each week at Spencer are counted into the national NASCAR Whelen All-American Points.

For more information go to: www.spencerspeedway.org.

WHELEN SAFTEY LIGHTS NIGHT SUMMARY

NYPA MIDGETS

HEAT 1:   J. Reid, S. Nye, C. DiRosa, A. McGurder, C. Mollnow.

HEAT 2:   K. Hutchinson, N. Groff, S. Nye, J. Zacharias, H. Newcomb.

FEATURE (20-laps):  KYLE HUTCHINSON, Jonathan Reid, Shawn Nye, Nelson Rung, Jim Zacharias, Arik McGruder, Charlie DiRosa, Cody Mollnow, Scott Gleed, Andrew Spurback, Greg Richardson, Gordon Steffen, Erik Musto, Andy Nye.

INEX LEGENDS

HEAT 1:  B. Norton, B. Salatino, B. Gilligan, T. Catalano, K. Bertolone.

FEATURE (15-laps):   BRYCE NORTON, Brad Salatino, Brianna Gilligan, Tommy Catalano, Kevin Bertolone, Josh Marchese, Nick Reff.

SCROPION 4-CYLINDERS

HEAT 1:  D. Knapp Jr., S. Frarey, C. Bolton-Brown, B. Dennie, A. Knoepfler.

HEAT 2:   T. Alloco, J. Clark, A. Schoonmaker, J. Dennie, C. Schoonmaker.

FEATURE (15-laps):   DONNIE KNAPP JR., Shaun Frarey, Tom Alloco, Beth Dennie, Joe Clark, Ashley Schoonmaker, Alison Knoepfler, Carrie Bolton-Brown, Jennifer Dennie, Frank Parsons Jr., Carrie Schoonmaker, Paul Flye.

SUPER SIXES-RICHARD GRANT MEMORIAL

HEAT 1:  J. Schoonmaker, A. Cocilova, B. Hallett, V. Grant, K. Butler Jr.

HEAT 2:  B. Allen, A. VanHall, B. Schenk, B. Inch, T. Faro.

FEATURE (20-laps):   ANDY COCILOVA, Barrett Schenk, Tim Faro, Brandon Allen, Van Grant, Brian Hallett, Adam VanHall, Bill Mitchell, Bill Inch, Keith Butler Jr., Ryan Hillegeer, Mike Gage, DNS-Josh Schoonmaker

SUNOCO MODIFIEDS

HEAT 1:   A. Lewis, K. Timmerman, M. Leaty, R. Smith, K. Heroth.

HEAT 2:   D. Lewis Jr., B. Semmler, J. Leaty, E. Hawkins, J. Boerman.

HEAT 3:   T. Catalano, B. Lippa Jr., Jk. Boerman, A. Catalano, R. Knapp Jr.

FEATURE (35-laps):  TOMMY CATALANO, Rusty Smith, Kevin Timmerman, Mike Leaty, Andy Lewis, Eddie Hawkins, Amy Catalano, Matt Lees, Daryl Lewis Jr., Bobby Lippa Jr., Billy Semmler, Kreig Herorth, Tim Lewis Jr., Jerry Boerman, Jake Boerman, Jan Leaty, DNS-Chris Ridsdale.

by Gary M. Spaid

WILLIAMSON, NY…With just one lap remaining in the NASCAR Sunoco Modified feature the field entered the fourth turn, a car got loose and only two cars came across to take the checkered flag. The rest were in a pile-up in the fourth turn. Kevin Timmerman and Rusty Smith were the lucky two to make it to the finish line. For Timmerman it was his second feature win of the year at Spencer.

The NYS Super Stocks were on hand with Jim Steffenhagen Jr. taking the 25-lap feature win. Donnie Knapp Jr. won his second 4-Cylinder Scorpion feature in a row. In the Super Sixes, Josh Schoonmaker took the 20-lap win. The 15-lap INEX legends main went to Bryce Norton, his seventh win in a row. Finally Rob Whipple won the crash shortened 12-lap Mid-State Vintage feature.

The 35-lap Sunoco Modified main was being run at a record pace> Billy Semmler had been the early leader until lap six when Mike Leaty passed him and began to pull away from the field. Kevin Timmerman took second from Semmler and took off after Leaty. He seemed to be closing the gap. Then on lap 31, the yellow flag flew when Matt lees spun off the second turn through the infield grass.

On the restart Timmerman passed Leaty and Rusty Smith took third from Andy Lewis. But it wasn’t over just yet. With one lap to go the yellow flew for a spin by Tommy Catalano.

The field formed for a one lap dash to the checkers. Leaty seemed to be able to nose ahead of Timmerman going down the back stretch. In three Timmerman regained his lead by a nose and suddenly the outside line was caught up in a tangle.  Smith stayed low and followed Timmerman to the finish line. The track was blocked in turn four and no one else made it to the finish line as the red flag was displayed. The remainder of finishing order was determined by the cars line up order following the final yellow flag of the race.

“The racing was pretty good tonight,” commented Timmerman. “We race hard but it always seems that Mike’s (Leaty) car and mine have magnets in them. We got sideways up there and we made it through.”

The 25-lap NYS Super Stock main saw Willie Strusz grab the lead as 18 cars answered the call to the green. Yellow fever struck early and often in the first half of the event. Five times the yellow flag had to be displayed.

Each time Strusz remained the leader. Then with the crossed flags showing halfway, Jim Steffenhagen Jr. ducked low and out dragged Strusz to take the lead. Steffenhagen stretched his advantage to nearly a full straight away over Strusz.  But then with just three laps remaining the yellow flag flew again, bunching the field together for a charge at the checkers.

Steffenhagen held on for the win with Strusz able to hold on for second. Chris Vogler, who had been one of the early cautions in the race, made his way into third on the final lap, passing Tommy Markham. Dave Fetterly rounded out the top five finishers.

“I am going to use my series ‘bye’ for the next race and get the car ready for Oswego,” stated Steffenhagen in victory lane.

The Super Sixes saw their feature race run green-to-checkers. Pole sitter Josh Schoonmaker took the lead and began to pull away from the field. By halfway he held a 15 car lead over Brian Hallett in second. The real battle seemed to be for the runner up spot.

With the checkers flying Schoonmaker took his third Super Six feature win of the year.  Tim Faro passed Hallett on lap 18 to take second. Brandon Allen and Barrett Schenk rounded out the top five finishers.

The 4-Cylinder Scorpion 15-lap feature also ran green-to-checkers, with Donnie Knapp grabbing the lead from Carrie Bolton-Brown on lap four. He too pulled away from the rest of the field. That is until Timmy Catalano took second. Catalano seemed to be able to close in on Knapp, but time just ran out for him. Knapp took the win followed by Catalano and points leader Shaun Frarey. Travis Montgomery and Tom Alloco rounded out the top five.

The 15-lap INEX legends main saw just four cars answer the call. Brad Salatino led the first six laps. The yellow flew for a spinout by Vern LaFave. On the restart Bryce Norton took the lead. In Salatino’s efforts to regain the front spot he looped around in the second turn on lap to bring out the yellow one last time.

Norton took the win followed by Brianne Gilligan. Salatino rebounded for a third followed by LaFave.

The Mid-State Vintage cars saw Rob Whipple win his heat race and the feature. Originally scheduled for 15 laps, the race was shortened when race leader Chic Voit hit an errant nerf bar off a car, getting him sideways and slamming his great looking Number 4 yellow coupe into the fourth turn foam barrier. Officials decided to checker the race at that point.

Voit’s car looked undamaged thanks to the foam. Whipple took the win followed by the Geoff Bodine look-a-like Valiant bodied modified driven by Bob Ripley.

SPENCER NOTES: The final “Meet-and-Greet” session was held on the track for nearly a half hour during the intermission. Fans flocked on the asphalt to talk to their favorites….Points battles will come to an end this coming week. The closest point race is in the Super Six division where Brandon Allen holds just a four point margin over teammate Tim Faro.

The final week of NASCAR racing in the 2014 NASCAR season at Spencer is upon us. This coming Friday, September 5th the Sunoco Modifieds will be running a 75-lap feature finale. A season finale for the NYS SuperStocks is also planned, with the cars running a 30-lap main event. Also on tap are the Super Sixes, the Four Cylinder Scorpions and the INEX Legend Cars. Race time starts at 7:00 p.m. sharp.

Spencer Speedway is located just fifteen minutes east of Rochester, NY, along Route 104 in the Town of Williamson. Spencer Speedway is the local “NASCAR Place to Race” for Central New York in 2014. Points earned each week at Spencer are counted into the national NASCAR Whelen All-American Points.

For more information go to: www.spencerspeedway.org.

WHELEN SAFTEY LIGHTS NIGHT SUMMARY

INEX LEGENDS

HEAT:  B. Salatino, B. Norton, V. LaFave, K. Bertolone, B. Gilligan.

FEATURE (15-laps):  BRYCE NORTON, Brianne Gilligan, Brad Salatino, Vern LaFave, DNS-Kevin Bertolone.

MID-STATE VINTAGE

HEAT:  R. Whipple,  T. Janes,  B. Ripley, J. Alford, C. Voit.

FEATURE (12-laps):  ROB WHIPPLE, Bob Ripley, Tom Janes, John Alford, Chic Voit, Tom Guiler, DNS-Paul Monroe

NYS SUPERSTOCKS

HEAT 1:  Z. Willis, C. Coonrod, N. Peck ham, J. Miller,  B. Ramsey.

HEAT 2:   J. Steffenhagen Jr., W. Strusz, T. Cheetham, S. Malin, C. Vogler.

HEAT 3:   J. Dinzler, D. Fetterly, M. Wright, T. Markham, T.J. Cocrane

FEATURE (25-laps):   JIM STEFFENHASGEN JR., Willie Strusz, Chris Vogler, Tommy Markham, Dave Fetterly, Nathan Peckham, T.J. Cocrane, Mitchell Wright, Zach Willis, Charles Coonrod, Steve Malin, Dale Lazzaro, Joe Miller, Shaun Frarey, Brianna Ramsey, Terry Cheetham, Todd Rhoads, Brandon Larner, DNS-Tom Fecteau, Jason Dinzler.

SCROPION 4-CYLINDERS

HEAT 1:   C. Bolton-Brown, T. Catalano, A. Montgomery, T. Alloco, A. Knoepfler.

HEAT 2:   D. Knapp Jr., S. Frarey, T. Montgomery, J. Clark, J. Dennie.

FEATURE (15-laps):   DONNIE KNAPP JR., Timmy Catalano, Shaun Frarey, Travis Montgomery, Tom Alloco, Austin Montgomery, Joe Clark, Carrie Bolton-Brown, Beth Dennie, Alison Knoepfler, Jennifer Dennie, Ashley Schoonmaker, Frank Parsons Jr., Paul Flye, Carrie Schoonmaker.

SUPER SIXES-RICHARD GRANT MEMORIAL

HEAT 1:   A. VanHall, B. Allen, B. Hallett, B. Inch, T. Faro.

HEAT 2:   J. Schoonmaker, B. Schenk, A. Cocilova, V. Grant, M. Gage.

FEATURE (20-laps):   JOSH SCHOONMAKER, Tim Faro, Brian Hallett, Brandon Allen, Barrett Schenk, Van Grant, Andy Cocilova, Adam VanHall, Mike Gage, Bill Inch, Ryan Hillegeer.

SUNOCO MODIFIEDS

HEAT 1:  M. Lees, R. Smith, K. Timmerman, M. Leaty, A. Catalano.

HEAT 2:  A. Lewis, E. Hawkins, B. Semmler, B. Lippa Jr., T. Catalano.

FEATURE (35-laps):   KEVIN TIMMERMAN, Rusty Smith, Mike Leaty, Andy Lewis, Bobby Lippa Jr., Eddie Hawkins, Amy Catalano, Tim Lewis Jr., Billy Semmler, Tommy Catalano, Matt Lees.

Spencer NHRA Results Aug.23, 2014

by Lee DeRidder

This week we saw a lot of good racing. The beginning of the night didn’t start out well when we had a car go off the end of the track, but once that was all taken care of we got right into racing.

George Smith took first place in the Super class with Joe Williams taken second and Neal Onderdonk in third and Mike Adams in forth.

The Pro class saw Sam Capizzi Jr. in first with Dave Beaton in second Ken Hawkins came in third and Scott Beasaw Sr. came in forth.

Street class was Matt Galiotti in first with Bob Kelsch in second and Rich Garland in third.

We had time for a gamblers race with Scott Schrader took first and Bob Kelsch came in second. We are looking forward to another great racing night this Saturday night.

It must have been a lovely wedding, one unforgettable moment when Matthew Dye, age 32,  married the love of his life, Caroline, back in 2010. The bride currently resides in Manhattan, but alas, Matthew is nowhere to be found in the Big Apple.

Move forward to 2013. There is Matt, all gussied up, standing next to the woman he is about to profess his un-‘dying’ love to – Nacira, in Sodus. The marriage goes off without a hitch.

Oops, there is one little snafu. Matt never got a divorce from the first Mrs. Dye, but he signed the marriage license and never gave a thought to wife number one. In New York, that crime is called Bigamy. Seems the State frowns upon having two current wives, but also signing documents contrary to that fact.

Matt, no newcomer to police, was already in the Wayne County Jail since May 12th on No Bail on charges of a parole violation. He was arraigned on the new charges and remanded back to the Wayne County Jail, again on No Bail. He will appear on the Bigamy charge in Sodus Town Court on September 2nd and the False Filing charge in Lyons Village Court on October 1st.

Jim Weinschreider was trained as a mechanical engineer, but reality set in when he and his wife, Joanne, started a family. Joanne already had a demanding career as a nurse, training at the nursing simulator at St. John Fisher College.

The decision was made, Jim would be the stay-at-home father, watching the growing brood of three children, ages 8, 5 and 3. Paying day care for three young ones would not be practical for this Marion couple.

Jim became a bit restless between all the child chasing, potty breaks and regular housework required of the one on the home front. He could not recall if it was something he read in his spare time, but the idea was born. Why not utilize the family’s 27 acre property for the production of cheese.

Thinking outside the box, in 2011, Blue Moon Bend Creamery LLC was born. Jim realized that there was a market for hand-crafted artisanal cheeses. With limited land, and thinking cows traipsing around the homestead were too big for the idea of sustainable farming methods, Jim and Joanne opted for goats.

Goats were much smaller, so the size was compatible with his children. In addition, with the cyclical nature of breeding, milking and land use, goats were the perfect match. Seventeen does, three bucks for breeding and a number of up and coming kids (baby goats), provided all the stock the Blue Moon spread would need.

Following national and state strict standards, Jim constructed the perfect operation, avoiding costly pre-manufactured equipment. Schedules for milking and processing the herd during the late Spring and Summer season were developed.

With kids born in Spring, allowed to feed off their mothers for several weeks, extra milking could begin within two to three weeks. By two months the kids were weaned and the milk was totally dedicated to the cheese process.

Jim proudly boasts that all their goats are GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) free. Animals are rotationally-grazed and free from hormones, or other supplements.

By Fall, the season is over and the Winter months are used for watching, caring for the next herd development and caring for the aging cheeses in the  “cave”, the  temperature controlled 50º room where the maturing process takes place.

During the winter months, cow milk is imported from a Marion family farm to offset and add to the cheese selection Blue Moon offers.

Popular cheeses Jim and Joanne produce include chevre, a creamy lactic curd; feta, a cheese with a more salty, brine flavor; tomme, an Alpine cheese a bit more subtle than Swiss made from cow’s milk; brie, a white rind, fresher tasting cheese and fresh mozzarella.

The Blue Moon cheeses are sold at local farmer’s markets and the new Hart’s Grocers in Rochester. Last week, at the NY State Fair, the Weinschreider’s work paid off with two silver medals. You can follow the family business at farm@bluemoonbend.com

State Police out of Williamson were alerted to a robbery at the Hess Express on Route 104 in the Town of Ontario at 9 p.m. on Wednesday (9/3).

A man entered the convenience store and demanded money. “If you value your life, give me the money,” the man stated to the clerk. He left and got into a waiting car. No weapon was displayed.

The alert clerk got a detailed description of both the fleeing vehicle and the man. The car headed eastbound on Route 104. Police believe the man and passenger then switched seats with the robber taking over driving. Police also said the vehicle must have made a u-turn at Lakeside Road and Route 104 and began heading westbound. Alert police stationed and waiting, spotted the vehicle and made the traffic stop, taking both men into custody.

The driver, the man who entered the store alone and robbed it, Jordan Vilinsky, age 32, of Ridge Road in Ontario was also found to be intoxicated. He was charged with Robbery in the 2nd Degree and DWI/BAC with a blood alcohol level of .13%. He was additionally charged with Aggravated Unlicensed operation of a Motor Vehicle in the 2nd Degree. Records show Vilinsky has no prior arrest record.

The initial driver/passenger, Ronald Desbrough, age 30, of Williamson was charged with Robbery in the 2nd Degree. His police record shows minor misdemeanor arrests.

Both Vilinsky and Desbrough were arraigned and jailed on $5000 cash/$10,000 bond

No one doubts being a single mother, relying on your job to support yourself and two children is difficult, at best.

Whitney used to work for Walmart, then landed a better job earning $15 per hour, just under $31,200 per year. After bills are paid, there is little to nothing left for day care. She relies on her parents, who also feel the stress of the commitment of watching their grandchild while Whitney works.

Unfortunately, Whitney and her two children, ages three and four, fall well  above the federal poverty level of $19,790 per year

Even the lowest priced day care can cost a family over $150 per week for a single child. If you subtract the almost $300 per week for two children from Whitney’s estimated yearly salary of $31,200, that leaves her with $ 15,600 for rent, insurance, transportation, clothing and assorted living costs for a family of three.

Whitney is not alone in Wayne County. Her father questions why, with all  the taxes he pays, the County cannot help a single mother with the cost of day care? The family has been seeking help for the past two years, only to be told they are on a waiting list.

According to Wayne County Director of the Department of Social Services (DSS), Josh McCrossen, the County only receives so much for child day care. “First, you must be working to get any day care assistance. Second, we are presently canvassing our waiting list to expand the number of slots we have.”

The first to receive any benefits are those falling under the federal poverty level at 100%. Once that category is exhausted, the County can fill the remaining slots to a single mother in the 100% to 125% federal poverty level. Currently, Wayne County DSS has money for about 20 slots for day care costs.  Unfortunately, Whitney would still fall above that category and McCrossen said the chances of any child day care funds being available to her almost nil.

So, what is the answer?

McCrossen said the single mother must file for support from the child’s biological father. He stated that even if the man is in jail, or destitute, the filing will follow him. “Even if we (DSS) can get $15 to $25 per month from the father, it is better than nothing.”

The next option is to enroll young children in  a program like Head Start, that runs for most of the year, with payments ranging from nothing and upward on a sliding scale based upon family income. Throughout Wayne County, hundreds of families, some above the poverty level, are fighting to keep their heads above water with the added cost of day care. Families, with both spouses able to work, often find that it is financially better to have one stay at home full-time for the children, after day care, taxes and transportation are figured into the mix.

Others, like  Whitney, rely on parents and other family members to watch children while they work.

• Rochester Police Officer Daryl Pierson, age 32, was killed Wednesday night while pursuing a suspect in the area of Hudson Avenue and Warsaw Street in the city’s Northeast side. Investigators said there was a shoot out during the chase between the officer and suspect. The officer was taken to Rochester General Hospital where he was pronounced dead.The suspect, Thomas Johnson, 38, was in surgery, but is expected to fully recover. He was arraigned in his guarded hospital room on Thursday evening. 13WHAM has learned Johnson was released from prison three weeks ago. He served time for second-degree attempted robbery and has an extensive police record.A bystander sustained non-life threatening injuries, after he was shot by Johnson during the in the upper leg while walking his dog at the scene. According to police, Pierson never fired a shot during the foot chase with Johnson. Johnson was chased by another police officer and shot.Pierson was assigned to the Tactical Unit. He received numerous awards and commendations, beginning his career with the Rochester Police Department in 2006. Eleven “Chief’s Letters of Recognition”, most of which were for removing illegal firearms from the streets of Rochester. The Rochester Police Department’s “Officer of the Month Award” for September, 2010; The Rochester Police Department’s “Good Conduct Award” in 2013. Officer Pierson was also a member of the United States Army National Guard.

  During his career Officer Pierson received the following awards and commendations: Daryl leaves behind a wife and two children. His youngest is just 3-months-old and his 4-year-old started kindergarten Wednesday morning. Rochester Police Chief Michael Ciminelli gave an emotional statement during a press conference on Thursday. “Words cannot express the sadness and grief we all feel at the loss of our brother, Officer Daryl Pierson,” said Chief Ciminelli. “Daryl made the ultimate sacrifice by courageously giving his life protecting the City of Rochester. During this difficult time I know that the Rochester community will join together with us to honor our fallen comrade, and support his family.”

  Officer Pierson’s brother and sister on the force are taking the news of his death hard. 13WHAM spoke with former Greece Police Chief Todd Baxter who knew Pierson personally. Baxter says Pierson was the kind of person you wanted by your side on and off duty. At the Rochester Police Department Headquarters, there was a memorial for 14 offers that have fallen in the line of duty. Pierson is now the 15th officer to die in the line of duty in the City of Rochester. The last officer who died from a gunshot was back in 1955.

  Daryl’s sister, Patty Rizzo, is a resident of Wolcott and is a corrections officer for the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. His father also resides in Wolcott

  Portions of this story courtesy of Times news partner 13WHAM

   

Mike Leaty from Williamson won the 75 lap mod race in the Season ender for Spencer Speedway

(Photo credit – Ryan Dippel Photos)

 Rusty Smith from Oxford, PA won the mod track title for 2014. ( Ryan Dippel Photos)

by Gary M. Spaid

WILLIAMSON, NY…It all started back in 2012. Rusty Smith from Oxford, NY was named the Spencer Speedway Sunoco Modified Champion. He repeated this feat in 2013 and again this year, for third straight year in a row. But in post race interviews last week he revealed he would be racing dirt modifieds on Friday nights next year.

“I really like to race at Spencer, but the two hour drive each week is becoming difficult,” Smith related. “Next year I’ll race closer to home.”

As for the racing in last week’s season finale, Mike Leaty won the 75-lap Sunoco Modified main event but fell short in claiming the track title. Terry Cheetham took a 30-lap feature win in the NYS Super-Stocks. Brian Hallett won the 20-lap Super Six main, while Shaun Frarey took top honors in the Four Cylinder Scorpion division. Bryce Norton claimed his seventh INEX legends feature in a row.

At the drop of the green in the 75-lap Sunoco Modified feature Matt Lees grabbed the lead from his outside starting position. He was able to hold second place, Mike Leaty, at bay until lap seven, when Leaty took command at the front of the field.

Also moving up was Rusty Smith, who passed Lees for second on lap nine. The race would remain green until lap 24, when Tim Lewis Jr. looped around on the backstretch, bringing out the first yellow of the race.

The restart saw Andy Lewis put a move on Smith to grab second. As the field completed lap 30 the yellow flew a second time. This time Kevin Timmerman made contact with the wall and Tommy Catalano spun out.

On the restart the top three remained the same; Leaty, Lewis and Smith. Timmerman’s race became worse as he looped around in the fourth turn on lap 45, to bring out the yellow again.

Lewis Jr. spun around on lap 52, but continued without causing a yellow. Four laps later Timmerman took his mount to the pits and parked it, out of the race. At the same time Daryl Lewis Jr. was able to get by Smith for third.

The race would remain green until the end. Leaty took the win, followed by Andy Lewis, Daryl Lewis Jr., Tommy Catalano and Smith. For Smith his fifth place finish was enough to earn him his third straight Spencer NASCAR Sunoco Modified championship.

“I’ve run a lot of race this year and the last three to four weeks it has been good to have something to show for it, stated Leaty. “I’m looking forward to more big money races for the remainder of the year.”

The Super Stocks took to the speedway for their 30-lapper. Terry Cheetham was able to work his way from third to first on the opening lap. He would remain there for the remainder of the race.

Chris Vogler was able to take second from Steve Malin on lap seven. Still the race remained green, as the leaders began lapping traffic by lap 23.

The checkers flew, without any yellow flags slowing the race. Cheetham took the win, his ninth career full fender victory at Spencer. He was followed by Vogler, Tommy Markham, Steve Malin and Nate Peckham.

“I was strong enough to hang on and get my second NYS Super Stock win of the year,” related Cheetham.

The Super Six 20-lap feature saw Van Grant take the early lead followed by Brian Hallett and Josh Schoonmaker. Schoonmaker would fall off the pace and exit the race on lap 13, moving Barrett Schenk into second. For Hallett it was his fifth win of the year. Schenk, Grant, Tim Faro and Brandon Allen rounded out the top five.  Allen claimed the track title for the Super Sixes with his fifth place finish.

The Four Cylinder Scorpions saw a number of different leaders during the 15-lap affair. Allison Knoepfler was the early leader, but lost the spot on lap seven to Tom Alloco after hitting the backstretch wall. The yellow flew on lap 11 when Timmy Catalano and Paul Flye came together on the front stretch.

The restart saw Travis Montgomery lead a lap, before Shaun Frarey slipped by. Montgomery would challenge Frarey for the lead, but each time Frarey was able to regain the top spot. With the checkers out Frarey took the win and his first Scorpion champion at Spencer. Travis Montgomery, Donnie Knapp Jr., Alison Knoepfler and Austin Montgomery rounded out the top five.

“I has been consistency that contributed to the track championship this year,” stated Frarey. “I’ll be moving up to Super Stocks next season.”

In the INEX Legend feature Brad Salatino was going for the lead until he spun out between turns one and two. Bryce Norton remained the leader for the rest of the race. His victory notched 2014 INEX track title.

Spencer Speedway is located just fifteen minutes east of Rochester, NY, along Route 104 in the Town of Williamson. Spencer Speedway is the local “NASCAR Place to Race” for Central New York in 2014. Points earned each week at Spencer are counted into the national NASCAR Whelen All-American Points.

For more information go to: www.spencerspeedway.org.

NASCAR SEASON FINALE NIGHT SUMMARY

INEX LEGENDS

HEAT:  B. Salatino, B. Norton, K. Bertolone, G. Ham, N. Reff.

FEATURE (15-laps):   BRYCE NORTON, Brad Salatino, Kevin Bertolone, Gary Ham, Nick Reff, Devin Thornton, John Bacon.

NYS SUPERSTOCKS

HEAT 1:  S. Malin, N. Peckham, J. Dinzler, D. Fetterly, W. Strusz.

HEAT 2:  T. Cheetham, C. Vogler, M. Wright, B. Dinzler, D. Lazzaro.

HEAT 3:  T. Markham, C. Coonrod, Z. Willis, B. Larner, S. Frarey.

FEATURE (30-laps): TERRY CHEETHAM, Chris Vogler, Tommy Markham, Steve Malin, Nate Peckham, Willie Strusz, Brianna Dinzler, Tom Fecteau, Dave Fetterly, Shaun Frarey, Brandon Larner, Dale Lazzaro, Zach Willis, Jason Dinzler, Mitchell Wright, DNS-Charles Coonrod

SCROPION 4-CYLINDERS

HEAT 1:  T. Montgomery, Ti. Catalano, A. Knoepfler, T. Alloco, J. Clark.

HEAT 2:   S. Frarey, D. Knapp Jr., B. Dennie, A. Montgomery, R. Brown.

FEATURE (15-laps):  SHAUN FRAEY, Travis Montgomery, Donnie Knapp Jr., Alison Knoepfler, Austin Montgomery, Beth Dennie, Tom Alloco, Joe Clark, Timmy Catalano, Ryan Brown, Carrie Schoonmaker, Ashley Schoonmaker, Carrie Bolton-Brown, Jennifer Dennie, Paul Flye.

SUPER SIXES

HEAT 1:  B. Allen, J. Schoonmaker, V. Grant, R. Hillegeer, T. Faro.

HEAT 2:  B. Hallett, A. Cocilova, B. Schenk, A. VanHall.

FEATURE (20-laps):  BRIAN HALLETT, Barrett Schenk, Van Grant, Tim Faro, Brandon Allen, Adam VanHall, Ryan Hillegeer, Andy Cocilova, Josh Schoonmaker.

SUNOCO MODIFIEDS

HEAT 1:  M. Lees, A. Lewis, D. Lewis Jr., K. Timmerman, A. Catalano.

HEAT 2:  M. Leaty, T. Catalano, R. Smith, B. Semmler, E. Hawkins.

FEATURE (75-laps):   MIKE LEATY, Andy Lewis, Daryl Lewis Jr., Tommy Catalano, Rusty Smith, Eddie Hawkins, Bobby Lippa Jr., Amy Catalano, Billy Semmler, Tim Lewis Jr., Kevin Timmerman, Matt Lees.

August 30, 2014 NHRA drag racing results

By Lee DeRidder

We thought that we were going to rain out on Saturday August 30, but the rain held off and we did some racing.

Super Pro winner was Westley Cayea, driving for his wife Jamie. In second place was Joshua Stessen. Third place was Eric Beckens and in fourth place was Neal Onderdonk.

Pro class winner was Little Sam DeMareo. In second place was Paul Zardarlik. In third place was Matt Himes. Taking forth place was Joe Williams.

Street class winner was Jim Zag, Bob Lynchesky took second and Todd Minerd came in third. We only have 2 weeks left of racing.

It began just after the Fourth of July.  Carol Adamowitz heard and saw something fly low over her house on Sunrise Drive in the Gananda development. The flying device then hovered over a neighbor’s residence before disappearing.

A second flying device, outfitted with red and green lights reportedly flew by, looked in ,and flew by another Gananda resident’s window.

Reports began coming in of late night flights, first happening between 8:30 p.m. and 9:00, the latest occurring around 11 p.m. The hovering craft, with its buzzing output seemed to hover over residences throughout the area.

Stephanie Majchrzak, of nearby Valley Drive in Gananda was out walking with her neighbor and saw two small lighted crafts hovering above. In another instance, while in her backyard, one flew over her head. She retreated inside, furious that her privacy was being violated. In another instance one was spotted over her driveway.

“These are things for fields, not for flying around in a neighborhood early in the morning and late at night,” she stated.

Last Saturday, a complaint was filed after a Gananda woman, was washing dishes when one appeared hovering outside her window. She grabbed her cell phone to begin recording the intrusion, but the craft quickly darted off.

A craft was spotted by people at a backyard cookout at one residence, hovering overhead.

One neighbor, frustrated and mad at the intrusions confronted one of the ownersd of the remote-controlled device, who apologized and has restricted his flights. Yet another needed a visit by Macedon Police, and was given a stiff warning.

Welcome to the new world of remote-controlled drones. Prices and technology have advanced to the point where the somewhat stable, camera -equipped devices, have become the latest fad.

No doubt the use of drones has played a major role in military surveillance and even weapon delivery in taking out enemy combatants.

With prices hovering around the double digits, to more sophisticated units costing thousands, the flying, mosquito-like drones have taken to the air in droves.

People, upset with privacy issues have swatted down some of the intruders in anger. Others, like the neighbors in Gananda, confront drone owners directly, or call police.

Unfortunately, laws have not kept up with the drone phenomena and lawmakers, both local and federal,  are scrambling to define low-flying airspace rules. The Obama administration’s FAA Modernization Act of 2012, cleared the way for commercial drones in the U.S. The FAA has been working to craft safety rules for private drone operators, but critics are crying the agency is taking too long to develope sound rules.

Two New York Assemblymen have introduced bills that would sharply limit the use of drones. Brooklyn Assemblyman Nick Perry in 2013, introduced his legislation that allows law enforcement to use drones to conduct criminal investigations, but requires agencies obtain a warrant before beginning any surveillance.

Perry’s bill also allows for the use of drones “by a person for lawful purposes, including recreational or hobby purposes,” a provision that mirrors current federal law. Commercial use of drones is currently prohibited until 2015, but the prohibition is widely ignored and not enforced.

Auburn R-Assemblyman Gary Finch has also floated a Bill trying to reign in drones for personal use, but few fellow assemblymen/women have jumped onboard in support.

“Unfortunately, our democratic style of government is reactive. We always wait until something bad happens, or something blows up before we act. Especially where there is a high density of people -  they expect and have always had issues with privacy. We expect not to be intruded upon.”

State Senator Mike Nozollio stated: “New York laws must keep pace with ever changing technology, including the sudden implementation of drone use throughout the state by individuals and businesses.  Privacy protection is a fundamental right and New York residents should continue to have an expectation of privacy, particularly in their own homes. As the technology utilizing the use of drones continues to grow and expand, we must do all possible to continue to protect the privacy and public safety of all New Yorkers”

Even the Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), which represents the drone industry, has sharply criticized the agency for  dragging its feet on the issue.

Neighbors in Gananda, split between the towns of Macedon and  Walworth, have called police agencies and asked town supervisors to take action.

According to Walworth Town Supervisor, Patricia Marini, town attorneys said there was little the town could do to control airspace, but perhaps a question of privacy could be addressed.

Macedon Town Supervisor, Bill Hammond, said he is checking to see if the town, in anyway, could pass local laws to control the drones.

Meanwhile, 14 states have developed legislation meant to curb drone intrusions. Pressure is mounting on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to quickly release rules governing private drone use.

Companies like Google and Amazon have announced they are in early stage development of the use of drones in package delivery to private and commercial interests.

Police agencies are scooping up more developed drones for use in both search and surveillance, but that too has public concerns on just how far police can go in their use.

Macedon Police Chief John Colella, said he would love to have a drone for use in finding lost persons in fields and wooded areas and for live-remote marijuana searches. “It would be a lot cheaper than using a $8,000 an hour helicopter looking for a missing child.”

Even for the use by police, citizens are concerned on just how far drone use can go. The Gananda incidents have showed that a camera-equipped drone can easily hover by a homeowner’s window. Drones cannot only take pictures and video, but the addition of heat seeking technology for tracking fleeing criminals has become critical in the police arsenal, but has all this advancement stoked a “big brother in the sky” fear?

There are other positive uses of the developing technology. Macedon Supervisor Hammond, who is also a large farm owner, said he has heard of drones, with “amazing stability” being used on farms, travelling along with combines. They can also quickly traverse extensive farm fields, looking for  bug infestations, drainage and fertilization zones.

As a hobby, drones can be entertaining, and take overhead videos, or pictures of a homeowner’s property, or event. Imagine, though, the famous and rich and Hollywood weddings being breached, not only by bush jumpers armed with cameras and helicopters with long zoom camera lens, but a swarm of extremely close, intruding drones.

To make the topic even more intriguing, drone-like devices, some as small as a bird, still outfitted with cameras, but with much longer ranges, are already in development.