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Messages - flatheadford

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1
Great Christmas present for that person that loves or would like to learn more about 1950's history and the Stock Car Racing that was such an important part of it. Many of you already have the book and this gives you the chance to give it as a present to someone you know would enjoy it too. Just advise me the name and address of that person and I will send it directly to her or him if you prefer.

I know the great 50's, as I grew up right in the middle of it and have written this book that documents the great time in Stock Car Racing history in NWPA and WNY. The book has been sold all over the World with rave reviews. It has been rated one of the best books covering the subject written with the 48 tracks in the two States and all that was associated with the Stock Car Racing during the 50's. My gratification is the enjoyment the book has given to so many folks both my age and much younger and will be a legacy living on forever, Ford


The book, "Stock Car Racing in the '50s" is a representation of the great era of racing in the 1950’s containing pictures and memories of those involved with the cars, tracks, stories, fans, heroes and the ups and downs of probably the best time in the history of stock car racing not only in Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania but also in the whole Country and Canada. The economy was in full swing with the end of the WWII. GI’s and farmers alike had learned new technology and how to get the most out of old machines during the war. The junk yards were full of old cars that were no longer required for scrap steel contributions to the war effort. The public was buying new cars, replacing the ones that were worn out. A very competitive stock car could be purchased at the junk yard for $25 or so. By adding another $75, it was race ready. Naturally, the men with advanced mechanical skills built and drove the more successful cars during the 50’s to many wins in the top classes, but the weekend warrior builders and drivers also had their place in programs at the many tracks. It was a perfect combination: knowledgeable mechanics and fearless drivers eager to compete in races with stock or modified cars that the public could easily identify with. The grandstands filled and new tracks turned up all across the countryside to satisfy the public’s interest in watching these race cars compete. Great builders and drivers developed the sport to a whole new level, inspiring a love of racing in track owners, workers, and volunteers and even more dedication in the fans of the time.

Stock Car Racing book documenting Stock Car racing during the '50s in WNY and NWPA

The book, 230 pages, includes 48 tracks in Western New York and North West Pennsylvania that operated in the '50s. Covered tracks in WNY include those from the Chemung Speedrome east of Elmira, Wellsville Raceway, Angelica Raceway, Hunt Raceway, Olean Raceway and on to Stateline Speedway at Busti in the west with many in the greater Jamestown area and then north to Ransomville Speedway in Niagara county then south and east including Civic Stadium, Lancaster Speedway, Monroe County Fairgrounds, Naples Speedway and other tracks around the Finger Lakes ending at Ithaca/Dryden Raceway south of Ithaca in WNY. The boundaries in NWPA go from Towanda VFW Fairgrounds on Rt. 6 in the east, Troy Fairgrounds then on to Skyline Raceway at Sugar Grove in the west and then south to Dicky-Ben Raceway at Warren then east to Brockway the home of Airport Speedway. All the tracks that operated within these boundaries are included in the book for the two States at some time during the '50s. A few only operated for a few months and others are still in operation. Some have more extensive coverage than others naturally due to the information and photos that were available from those days. The book also includes many other items pertaining to the racing of that time that you will enjoy reading and looking at too.
________________________________________________________

If you love stock car racing from the Fifties, especially from western NY and NW-Pennsylvania, Ford Easton's book becomes a time machine that takes you back to that great era of stock car racing when things were simpler but way more dangerous. Perhaps the best part of the book is the hundreds of photos and well written information of how racing was back then...it's a can't miss purchase that I'm proud to have in my collection. Don't hesitate as even if the photos had not one cutline or any info on the drivers, it WOULD STILL BE WORTH the price! However, it's filled with info on all the tracks, the drivers and so much more, even some midget auto racing, memorabilia type photos of pit passes/tickets and track layouts. It's a well written tribute to Ford Easton, too, as his love of the sport seeps through from page one...you'll receive lots of well written text on everything and anything "racing" from that era. The price? I think it would be a best seller for twice the price.
_____________________________________________________________________________

Ford, when I received your book I did not put it down for nearly 4 hrs., I would read an article and just try to place myself in that time period,,,,that would have been awesome....I want to thank you for your hard work and dedication to the sport I learned more about last night and about my uncle Jackie than I have known in 49 yrs.thx....Your writing and history of some great names I heard of as a kid came to life last night...5 star book thx again..mark
____________________________________________________________________________

Dear Ford,

Just received your book, “Stock Car Racing in the 50s”. Enjoyed it greatly, read it cover to cover. For 10 years I’ve been gathering information (track champions, big race winners, track history, etc.) on Modified racing in the Northeast. But your book includes information on several speedways I never heard of, and brought to life many more about which I had only sketchy information. It’s so vital to record this history while some of the people who made it are still around.
_____________________________________________________
To order send check or money order made out to me to my address:
Ford Easton
5200 28th St. N. # 651
St. Petersburg, FL 33714

Books are $15 each and $4.00/one, $6.00/two and $8.00 for 3-10 for mailing. Books can be signed if you wish just send info. with order

2
Rounding up the draft horses to hitch up for the trip to NYS tomorrow from FL.  Looking forward to all the library and race track visits.  Hope to see many of you even if you have one of the books.  Price of the book, "Stock Car Racing in the '50s" picts. and memories from WNY and NWPA remains the same $15 so pick one up for a future present without mailing cost. 
Hope to see you next week or the week after, Ford


AUG 1 Orchard Park  4570 S Buffalo St 716-662-9851 1-2:30p

AUG 1 West Seneca  1300 Union Rd    716-674-2928      6:30 -7:30p   

AUG 2 Frewsburg    26 Ivory St            716-569-5515      2-3:00p 

AUG 2 Warren PA  205 Market St        814-723-4650      6:30-7:30p

AUG 3 Hornell  64 Genesee St              607-324-1210       6 -7:15p   

AUG 4  Naples  118 S. Main St              585-374-2757       3-5p     

AUG 4  Canandaigua  134 Main St        585-394-1381   7-8p   

AUG 5  Ransomville Speedway 2315 Braley Rd

716-791-3602  5:30p 

AUG 6  Bradford, PA  67 West Washington

814-362-6527   1-3p   

AUG 6  Stateline Speedway 4156-4174 Kortwright Rd 814-688-4550    5:30p

AUG 8 Medina  620 West Ave 585-798-3430  2-3p 

AUG 8  Lockport PL 23 East Ave 716-433-5935   6-7p   

AUG 9  Corning  300 Nassar Civic Center Plaza #101      607-936-3713   6:30-7:30p   

AUG10  Palmyra, 402 E. main St.   315-597-5276             1:30-3p   

AUG 10 Waterloo  31 Williams St  315-539-3313             5:30-7p 

AUG 11  Ovid  7169 N Main St    607-869-3031                2-3:30p 

AUG 11  Elmira, Steele Mem. Lib. 101 East Church St 607-733-9173  6-8p       

AUG 12  Bath, 101 W Morris St., Methodist church    607-776-4613  4-6p       


3
Good day to all, I have put together a program to visit 18 libraries and two race tracks in WNY and NWPA during my visit north in August with my book "Stock Car Racing in the '50s" with pictures and memories from WNY and NWPA.  I know many of you may already have one of the books, but it would be great if you are in the area of one of my stops and could stop in or by to say hello.  A number of drivers and owners from the 50's will be at many of the locations with me.

Below are the locations, dates and times I will be there.  I have included the phone #'s in case you need directions.  The Chemung County C of C at Elmira has done a nice pr promoting my visit and is below.  I look forward to seeing everyone if you can make it, Ford

http://www.chemungchamber.org/event/3257934-stock-car-racing-discussion-book

AUG 1 Orchard Park  4570 S Buffalo St 716-662-9851 1-2:30p

AUG 1 West Seneca  1300 Union Rd    716-674-2928      6:30 -7:30p   

AUG 2 Frewsburg    26 Ivory St            716-569-5515      2-3:00p 

AUG 2 Warren PA  205 Market St        814-723-4650      6:30-7:30p

AUG 3 Hornell  64 Genesee St              607-324-1210       6 -7:15p   

AUG 4  Naples  118 S. Main St              585-374-2757       3-5p     

AUG 4  Canandaigua  134 Main St        585-394-1381   7-8p   

AUG 5  Ransomville Speedway 2315 Braley Rd

716-791-3602  5:30p 

AUG 6  Bradford, PA  67 West Washington

814-362-6527   1-3p   

AUG 6  Stateline Speedway 4156-4174 Kortwright Rd 814-688-4550    5:30p

AUG 8 Medina  620 West Ave 585-798-3430  2-3p 

AUG 8  Lockport PL 23 East Ave 716-433-5935   6-7p   

AUG 9  Corning  300 Nassar Civic Center Plaza #101      607-936-3713   6:30-7:30p   

AUG10  Palmyra, 402 E. main St.   315-597-5276             1:30-3p   

AUG 10 Waterloo  31 Williams St  315-539-3313             5:30-7p 

AUG 11  Ovid  7169 N Main St    607-869-3031                2-3:30p 

AUG 11  Elmira, Steele Mem. Lib. 101 East Church St 607-733-9173  6-8p       

AUG 12  Bath, 101 W Morris St., Methodist church    607-776-4613  4-6p       

4
 

Program for the Cuba Lake Raceway South 12th annual racing reunion/luncheon:

It gives me great pleasure to announce that the most popular and best liked driver to ever come out of Tampa racing from back in the 50's, 60's and 70's will be sharing with us some of his great stories.  This fine gentleman and great driver better known as the "Ybor City Express" is Pancho Alvarez.  At 89 years young Pancho has seen it all both at all the local tracks in the TB area and from south Florida to New London Conn. including all in between on the eastern seaboard.  Pancho is good friends with Frankie Schneider out of NJ and one of the top modified drivers in the Country back in the 50's(Frankie is still with us and 94 years young).  Frankie would stay with Pancho when traveling to Florida for races in the area.

Locally Pancho ran the # 22 car along with Dick Hope in the # 23 car sponsored by Frank Dery.  Cars were identical except for the #'s and Dick's car ran a 312 ci Ford and Pancho a sb Chevy.  Word has it the show they put on at local track was unequaled anywhere.  Pancho won the FL West Coast Stock Car Championship in 1954.  He also is friends with the Allison's and ran many races with both Bobby and Donnie here in FL and in Alabama.

We are all in for a fun day of being together and visiting with each other and then sitting back and hearing great stories from Pancho and his racing career.  See you the 10th about 11 am, Ford
 
 
Cuba Lake Raceway "South" 12th annual Florida reunion/luncheon, February 10th 2016 at Brandon, FL
     Cuba Lake Raceway South, Florida reunion/luncheon for all stock car, midget and sprint drivers, mechanics, car owners, track personnel and fans that were involved in racing in WNY, Ontario and NWPA during the 40s, 50s and 60s and their companion(s).  A special invite is also open to any 40s, 50s and 60s racing drivers and fans from around the Country or Province that will be on vacation or are full time or part time residents here in Florida too.  Any guests that would enjoy our event are also welcome to attend with you.
When: February 10th 2016 (wed)
Where: Golden Corral restaurant, Brandon FL(just east of Tampa), exit 257 off I-75 at SR 60.  Go east on SR 60 about 1/2 mile and make right turn on S. Lakewood, well marked with overhead sign at light. Go south on Lakewood for three lights then watch for Golden Corral on left between Applebee's and Carrabba's.  Actual address is 815 Providence Rd. Plenty of parking room. 
Time: Registration starts at 11:00 am with lunch starting about noon or whenever everyone is registered and seated for the great buffet luncheon in our private room. Attention, this year we have a change in your paying for our luncheon.  You and those in your party will be paying for your luncheon as you come through the Golden Corral cash register line.  Tell person at register you are with the Cuba Lake Raceway group and you will be charged $9.62 tax included.  With us all being seniors a n/c drink is included.  Get your soda or cold tea.  Hot coffee and tea will be served in our private room so tip person serving us when we leave.  The banquet room(left side when you go through pay line) we will be using can only handle 55 people. Dress code is casual.
Program: confirmed, great speaker, see above.  Looking forward to seeing and talking with everyone on the 10th of February.

      Contact me if you have any questions, Ford Easton, 5200 28th St. N. # 651, St. Petersburg, FL 33714, 727-522-4042, or by e-mail at fjeaston@aol.com, Ford

5
 Cuba Lake Raceway "South" 12th annual Florida reunion/luncheon, February 10th 2016 at Brandon, FL
 
Cuba Lake Raceway South, Florida reunion/luncheon for all stock car, midget and sprint drivers, mechanics, car owners, track personnel and fans that were involved in racing in WNY, Ontario and NWPA during the 40s, 50s and 60s and their companion(s).  A special invite is also open to any 40s, 50s and 60s racing drivers and fans from around the Country or Province that will be on vacation or are full time or part time residents in Florida too.  Any guests that would enjoy our event are also welcome to attend with you.
When: February 10th 2016 (wed)
Where: Golden Corral restaurant, Brandon FL(just east of Tampa), exit 257 off I-75 at SR 60.  Go east on SR 60 about 1/2 mile and make right turn on S. Lakewood, well marked with overhead sign at light. Go south on Lakewood for three lights then watch for Golden Corral on left between Applebee's and Carrabba's.  Actual address is 815 Providence Rd. Plenty of parking room. 
Time: Registration starts at 11:00 am with lunch starting about noon or whenever everyone is registered and seated for the great buffet luncheon in our private room.  Attention, this year we have a change in your paying for our luncheon.  You and those in your party will be paying for your luncheon as you come through the Golden Corral cash register line.  Tell person at register you are with the Cuba Lake Raceway group.   With us all being seniors a n/c drink is included.  Get your soda or cold tea.  Hot coffee and tea will be served in our private room so tip person serving us when we leave.  The banquet room is on the left side when you go through pay line.  Dress code is casual.
Program: I am working on it now so will be a surprise when we all get together for a fun time and great meal.  Looking forward to seeing and talking with everyone on the 10th of February.
 
      Contact me if you have any questions, Ford Easton, 5200 28th St. N. # 651, St. Petersburg, FL 33714, 727-522-4042, or by e-mail at fjeaston@aol.com, Ford
 

 

6
"Special Christmas 2015 book offer.  All single book orders will be shipped priority mail* at media rate cost"  *expires Dec 23, 2015
   
Stock Car Racing in the '50s, Pictures and Memories from Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania.
48 tracks/230 pages with many memories, stories and great photos. The soft cover book and "E" version are available for ordering now. The price of the book is $15.00 plus s/h and $7.00 for the "E" version.
 
my book, "Stock Car Racing in the '50s" is a representation of the great era of racing in the 1950’s containing pictures and memories of those involved with the cars, tracks, stories, fans, heroes and the ups and downs of probably the best time in the history of stock car racing not only in Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania but also in the whole country and Canada. The economy was in full swing with the end of the WWII. GI’s and farmers alike had learned new technology and how to get the most out of old machines during the war. The junk yards were full of old cars that were no longer required for scrap steel contributions to the war effort. The public was buying new cars, replacing the ones that were worn out. A very competitive stock car could be purchased at the junk yard for $25 or so. By adding another $75, it was race ready. Naturally, the men with advanced mechanical skills built and drove the more successful cars during the 50’s to many wins in the top classes, but the weekend warrior builders and drivers also had their place in programs at the many tracks. It was a perfect combination: knowledgeable mechanics and fearless drivers eager to compete in races with stock or modified cars that the public could easily identify with. The grandstands filled and new tracks turned up all across the countryside to satisfy the public’s interest in watching these race cars compete. Great builders and drivers developed the sport to a whole new level, inspiring a love of racing in track owners, workers, and volunteers and even more dedication in the fans of the time.

The book, 230 pages, includes 48 tracks in Western New York and North West Pennsylvania that operated in the '50s.  Covered tracks in WNY include those from the Chemung Speedrome east of Elmira, Wellsville Raceway, Angelica Raceway, Hunt Raceway, Olean Raceway and on to Stateline Speedway at Busti in the west with many in the greater Jamestown area and then north to Ransomville Speedway in Niagara county then south and east including Civic Stadium, Lancaster Speedway, Monroe County Fairgrounds, Naples Speedway and other tracks around the Finger Lakes ending at Ithaca/Dryden Raceway south of Ithaca in WNY.  The boundaries in NWPA go from Towanda VFW Fairgrounds on Rt. 6 in the east, Troy Fairgrounds then on to Skyline Raceway at Sugar Grove in the west and then south to Dicky-Ben Raceway at Warren then east to Brockway the home of Airport Speedway.  All the tracks that operated within these boundaries are included in the book for the two States at some time during the '50s.  A few only operated for a few months and others are still in operation.  Some have more extensive coverage than others naturally due to the information and photos that were available from those days.

The book also includes many other items pertaining to the racing of that time that you will enjoy reading and looking at too.


Several emails from purchasers of book:
Ford
I finished your book last night, it was awesome, couldn’t have been better.  I’m not a proof reader, but usually notice spelling (even though, I’m not a good speller) didn’t see any, but a comma miss placed early on.  I’m proud of your accomplishment.
_______________________________________________________

Ford: I am at this point about 1/3 of the way through the book, and am amazed at the effort and dedication
that you had to have put into the project to make it happen!
Congratulations on a job extremely well done
________________________________________________________
I also wanted to let you know how much my friend  enjoyed your book. She read the first half of it at her desk as soon as I gave it to her. Then she told me she was up until past midnight that night finishing it. She showed it to her son, who was also very interested in reading it, but she told him he couldn't have it until she was finished with it.
_______________________________________________
 I am really enjoying your book. My friend from Buffalo who owns a race car building co. was really impressed with it too. _______________________________________________
Ford:  I have just finished reading your book. You did a marvelous job, and while all this was before my time racing, I raced against some mentioned, and found it very interesting to learn their first years in racing.
The sales of the book will never cover all your time, effort and monies spent to make it happen, but I know
it was a "labor of love",, and so many will appreciate someone taking the time and effort to record a section of time, and memories.
Thanks...........
______________________________________________
The book is extremely interesting, although we have had company for two weeks and I am just getting into it.  They left this morning back to Michigan.  So now I devote time for the book.
______________________________________________
The book, really great and I will treasure it. _______________________________
 
Hi Ford,  It was great to see you at the library.  The book was everything that I thought it would be. Thank you for taking the time to write it.  It is very much appreciated. We have had a lot of people look at it and say what a great book. We have taken it to the car shows with us. I know that you put a lot of your time and effort into the book. I know that you enjoy what you do but you have given us something very special.

Thank you
________________________________________________________
Ford,
A friend delivered my book on at Freedom Speedway.  I was too busy to even look that night, but my wife did take a quick look and her response was “this is amazing.”
I have now given it a couple of very quick looks and agree with her it is AMAZING!  Unfortunately, with my busy schedule this is going to be on the back burner for a few months. 
I love the hard copy and the Sager/Rafter #19 glossy cover has earned a spot on our library table.
________________________________________________________
Dear Ford,
I wanted to take a moment to thank you for mailing me your wonderful book detailing stock car racing in western New York and northwestern Pennsylvania in the '50s.  I could not put it down. Your great photos and narratives made me want to be at the track to see the drivers you grew up with.

As you note in the preface to your book, "What a great time it must have been!"

I'm about a generation younger than you and didn't see my first race until 1964, ten years behind you. I have all of my own heroes from the mid-60s races I attended, most of whom have now passed on. I sure do understand your feelings and you've done a marvelous job setting them down on paper with so many terrific photos to accompany the text.
The arrival of your book was a really great surprise at a time I was housebound after surgery and a great pick-me-up.
You should be very proud of your project and the enjoyment it is bringing to others. Thank you once more.





Best way for soft cover: check/money order to me at my Florida address.  I will also sign book(s) if desired with list supplied "who to".  Price of book is $15.00 ea. plus s/h as follows, $4.00* for one, $6.00 for two and $8.00 for 3-10 books per each order.  Books are shipped media mail.
* priority mail until Dec. 23 2015 @ media mail rate.

Ford Easton
5200 28th St. N. # 651
St. Petersburg, FL 33714
(h)727-522-4042
(c)727-644-6722
fjeaston@aol.com

"E" book from Kindle:  Price is $7.00.
   
Most of us, including myself, are very happy with having the soft cover 11" x 8 1/2" version of the book.  I have learned talking and learning from conversations that an undetermined number of people do not want to have any hard/soft cover copy books period.  Nothing wrong with this for sure as they prefer to purchase an electronic "E" version of this exciting book and others just as many of us want the soft copy.  As they say whatever floats your boat.
       The book is offered in "E" version by Kindle and I thought the only way you could enjoy the book was to look at it on a Kindle reader.  Well I thought I better research what the real story is and did I ever get educated real quick.  Once you purchase the "E" version(link directly to it below) for $7.00 you can enjoy the book with all the text and photos in it entirety on a number of devices.  You can view it on your computer, tablet, Iphone, reader and others with various platforms and operating systems like Android and IOS that is used with Apple devices and Windows operating systems that many of us are familiar with.  Point being once you or that person that wants to view the book on just about any electronic device purchases it on Kindle he or she has the right to do whatever you want to do with it.
        Here is the direct link to purchase the "E" version from Kindle for $7.00:  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M66IGE8   When you click on the link look on the right side for the button to order it now and a couple buttons below it to purchase it as a gift for someone(think younger person and Christmas)


7
Good evening Race NY fellow members,
      Thank you so much for everyone that has purchased my book Stock Car Racing in the '50s in WNY and NWPA.  Most of us, including myself, are very happy with having the soft cover 11" x 8 1/2" version of the book.  I have learned talking and learning from conversations that an undetermined number of people do not want to have any hard/soft cover copy books period.  Nothing wrong with this for sure as they prefer to purchase an electronic "E" version of this exciting book and others just as many of us want the soft copy.  As they say whatever floats your boat.
       The book is offered in "E" version by Kindle and I thought the only way you could enjoy the book was to look at it on a Kindle reader.  Well I thought I better research what the real story is and did I ever get educated real quick.  Once you purchase the "E" version(link directly to it below) for $7.00 you can enjoy the book with all the text and photos in it entirety on a number of devices.  You can view it on your computer, tablet, Iphone, reader and others with various platforms and operating systems like Android and IOS that is used with Apple devices and Windows operating systems that many of us are familiar with.  Point being once you or that person that wants to view the book on just about any electronic device purchases it on Kindle he or she has the right to do whatever you want to do with it.
        Here is the direct link to purchase the "E" version from Kindle for $7.00:  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M66IGE8   When you click on the link look on the right side for the button to order it now and a couple buttons below it to purchase it as a gift for someone(think younger person and Christmas/Birthday) Trust me the soft cover version will be around and available for the rest of us for many moons to come and thank you again for everyone that has purchased the soft cover and those that will or have purchased the "E" version, Ford Easton

8
Hi to all on this beautiful Wed. afternoon, many of you have sent in your reservations so disregard this e-mail unless friends you know would like to come now they have heard about it.
      For those of you that haven't sent in your reservation and payment do it soon as final day for me to receive it here in FL is July 15th.  We are packing up and heading north shortly after the 15th so must have everything in the bank before we leave.  Looking forward to seeing everyone on the 29th for a fun and entertaining day, Ford
 
Cuba Lake Raceway, 13th annual reunion/luncheon for 50s and 60s stock car racing interests, July 29th 2015

The 13th annual Cuba Lake Raceway(CLR) reunion/luncheon will be held on Wednesday July 29th 2015 at Moonwinks restaurant just north of Cuba, NY on Rt. 305 and 1/2 mile from the site of the old CLR track. Many drivers from the 50s era such as DeVere Bliss, Dick Ferraro, Otto Goodwin, Dolly Gosper, Cal Lane, Ted Renshaw, Sammy LaMancuso, Blinky Litzinger, Al Birath, Tom Danielson, Paul Higbee, Chuck McKeirnan, Doug Pringle, Leon Reed, Billy Schroth, Jim Leonard, Jim Scott, Ken See(the mystery man), Al Skiver, Ron Williams, Sonny Wittmeyer, Dick Close, Herb Layfield, Bill Tingue, Art Clark, Ed Ortiz, Squirt Johns,Tom Dill, Basil Shutt to name a few that are planning on attending.  Several 50's track owner/builders are planning on attending too:  Paul Amidon(Hornell Raceway), Howard Boyce(South Seneca Speedway), Don McNitt(Roll - O - Bowl Speedway). Past CLR luncheon/reunions have had drivers and other notables of that era of racing from 7 States and Canada attending.
 
Registration starts at 10:30 with lunch at 12:15pm. Sit-down luncheon has a choice of Scampi style Haddock or Roast Turkey with Stuffing & Gravy entree along with all the trimmings.  Price/person of $14 includes full meal, beverage(alcohol drinks not included but may be purchased if desired), tax and gratuity. 
 
RSVP and payment of $14.00/person required and to be at Florida address by July 15th along with name(s) of person(s) attending.  Advise with your RSVP and payment your choice of entree for each person attending.  I also need your phone # this year in case reunion is sold out.  Check or money order made payable to: Ford Easton, 5200 28th St. N. # 651, St. Petersburg, FL 33714.
 
Program:

Our guest speaker is Ken Parrotte from West Monroe, NY near Syracuse.  Ken has been a fan of all forms of motor sports since attending his first race at Brewerton Speedway in 1963.  He has done research for years and will be sharing with us a very interesting audio/visual program on the NASCAR Late Model Short Track Division 1951-1959. The most enjoyable part about auto racing for me is the research part which started at that first race in 1963. I have provided articles for local race programs, provided research for a few books (As a Matter of Fact I am Parnelli Jones, Bull Rings, URC Sprint Cars), and created over 50 unpublished research projects for my own satisfaction (a few examples of these can be found on First SuperSpeedway.com).  For the past four years I have been a presenter at the November Saratoga Automobile Museum’s “Lost Speedways” program on such topics at the All Star Stock Car Racing League 1967 – 1973, Jim Reed and the 1959 Darlington 500, NASCAR Late Model Short Track Division 1951 – 1959, Oswego Speedway Stock Cars 1951 – 1961.
 
Contact:  Ford Easton at fjeaston@aol.com or 727-522-4042 for any questions.  No day of event registration or payment allowed.  Dress code is casual.  Payments are non refundable because of restaurant requirements.

 
 

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Cuba Lake Raceway, 13th annual reunion/luncheon for 50s and 60s stock car racing interests, July 29th 2015

The 13th annual Cuba Lake Raceway(CLR) reunion/luncheon will be held on Wednesday July 29th 2015 at Moonwinks restaurant just north of Cuba, NY on Rt. 305 and 1/2 mile from the site of the old CLR track. Many drivers from the 50s era such as DeVere Bliss, Bucky Dew, Dick Ferraro, Otto Goodwin, Dolly Gosper, Cal Lane, Ted Renshaw, Sammy LaMancuso, Blinky Litzinger, Al Birath, Tom Danielson, Paul Higbee, Chuck McKeirnan, Doug Pringle, Leon Reed, Billy Schroth, Jim Leonard, Jim Scott, Ken See(the mystery man), Al Skiver, Ron Williams, Sonny Wittmeyer, Dick Close, Herb Layfield, Bill Tingue, Art Clark, Dick Hurd, Ed Ortiz, Squirt Johns, Tom Dill, Basil Shutt to name a few that are planning on attending.  Several 50's track owner/builders are planning on attending too:  Paul Amidon(Hornell Raceway), Howard Boyce(South Seneca Speedway), Don McNitt(Roll - O - Bowl Speedway). Past CLR luncheon/reunions have had drivers and other notables of that era of racing from 7 States and Canada attending.

Registration starts at 10:30 with lunch at 12:15pm. Sit-down luncheon has a choice of Scampi style Haddock or Roast Turkey with Stuffing & Gravy entree along with all the trimmings.  Price/person of $14 includes full meal, beverage(alcohol drinks not included but may be purchased if desired), tax and gratuity. 

With the release of my book "Stock Car Racing in the '50s in WNY and NWPA last July at the CLR reunion a large number of readers are planning on attending this year to meet and talk with the "stars" that are in the book and will be attending. With this being the case "reservations will be done on a first come first served basis".   

RSVP and payment of $14.00/person required and to be at Florida address by July 15th along with name(s) of person(s) attending and choice of entree for each.  Advise with your RSVP and payment your choice of entree for each person attending.  I also need your phone # this year in case reunion is sold out.  Remember get reservation to me ASAP so you and your friends are in the 230 limit window.  Check or money order made payable to: Ford Easton, 5200 28th St. N. # 651, St. Petersburg, FL 33714.

Program:

Our guest speaker is Ken Parrotte from West Monroe, NY near Syracuse.  Ken has been a fan of all forms of motor sports since attending his first race at Brewerton Speedway in 1963.  He has done research for years and will be sharing with us a very interesting audio/visual program on the NASCAR Late Model Short Track Division 1951-1959. The most enjoyable part about auto racing for me is the research part which started at that first race in 1963. I have provided articles for local race programs, provided research for a few books (As a Matter of Fact I am Parnelli Jones, Bull Rings, URC Sprint Cars), and created over 50 unpublished research projects for my own satisfaction (a few examples of these can be found on First SuperSpeedway.com).  For the past four years I have been a presenter at the November Saratoga Automobile Museum’s “Lost Speedways” program on such topics at the All Star Stock Car Racing League 1967 – 1973, Jim Reed and the 1959 Darlington 500, NASCAR Late Model Short Track Division 1951 – 1959, Oswego Speedway Stock Cars 1951 – 1961.

Contact:  Ford Easton at fjeaston@aol.com or 727-522-4042 for any questions.  No day of event registration or payment allowed.  Dress code is casual.  Payments are non refundable because of restaurant requirements.


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Just a reminder I will be in Smethport, PA 1-4 pm on June 3rd at the Historical Society building(old jail) in the middle of town.  Chuck McKeirnan, great driver from the 50's will be with me.  Chuck will share some great stories from those 50s.  I can still remember attending the races at the fairgrounds every thur. evening with the likes of Dean and Herb Layfield, Squit Johns and many others.

Olean main public library in downtown Olean, NY will be the stop on June 4th starting at 3 pm.  I will also be at the car show in the Olean Mall in the evening with the book.  If you don't have a copy of the book you owe to yourself to get one, 230 pages and 48 tracks covered.  Many great photos and stories with a good mix that makes it interesting and educational.  Even if you have a book stop by and say hello, Ford Easton

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With the response to my book being so great I am traveling from Florida to WNY and NWPA in early June to do book signings.  The book signings will be at Smethport PA in the Historical Society building(old jail) just behind the McKean County court house June 3rd from 1-4 pm.  The second book signing will be held at the main Olean Library, Olean, NY on June 4th at 3 pm.

The book is a representation of the great era of racing in the 1950’s containing pictorials and memories of those involved with the cars, tracks, stories, fans, heroes and the ups and downs of probably the best time in the history of stock car racing not only in Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania but also in the whole country and Canada. The economy was in full swing with the end of the WWII. GI’s and farmers alike had learned new technology and how to get the most out of old machines during the war. The junk yards were full of old cars that were no longer required for scrap steel contributions to the war effort. The public was buying new cars, replacing the ones that were worn out. A very competitive stock car could be purchased at the junk yard for $25 or so. By adding another $75, it was race ready. Naturally, the men with advanced mechanical skills built and drove the more successful cars during the 50’s to many wins in the top classes, but the weekend warrior builders and drivers also had their place in programs at the many tracks. It was a perfect combination: knowledgeable mechanics and fearless drivers eager to compete in races with stock or modified cars that the public could easily identify with. The grandstands filled and new tracks turned up all across the countryside to satisfy the public’s interest in watching these race cars compete. Great builders and drivers developed the sport to a whole new level, inspiring a love of racing in track owners, workers, and volunteers and even more dedication in the fans of the time.

The book is 230 pages and includes 48 tracks that operated in WNY and NWPA during the '50s.  It is an excellent mix of pictures and text
including great stories never before seen or heard.  The 1600 copies now in the hands of readers all over the world are a testament to its popularity.

 Ford -

I picked up a copy of your book this past weekend at the Syracuse Race Car Show. We spoke on the phone a couple of times while you were still putting it together and you said that you thought I would like it. Not true... I LOVE IT!

For nostalgia geeks who live in the Finger Lakes/Western regions of NY and NWPA, this book is an absolute MUST for their library. There is a perfect mix of text and pictures to keep it both entertaining and educational at the same time.

GREAT JOB!

____________________________________________________________________________

How can I get a copy of your book?
Dick Berggren
___________________________________________________

Hi Dick, you are the most notable figure I have ever received an email/book request from.  I have watched and listened to you for years and couldn't believe it when I opened my computer this morning and boom there your name was.  I know you will really enjoy the book. ________________________________________________
Thanks for your kind comments.
____________________________________________________
Ford:
    The book has arrived and I’m loving it! What a great book. Clearly a labor of love as are all great books.
    Please provide ordering information. I’d like to recommend it to Speedway Illustrated’s readers.
-Dick Berggren
____________________________________________________
Hi Dick, thanks for the note back that you are really enjoying the book.  My gratification is that so many folks are enjoying it plus it takes them back to a point in time that gives many a revisit to that time in racing history. Thanks so much for you offering to recommend it to  your Speedway Illustrated 40,000 readers.

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Stock Car Racing book documenting Stock Car racing during the '50s in WNY and NWPA

The book I have been working with on the wonderful years of stock car racing during the '50s as it pertained to the WNY and NWPA area of our country is available.  Excellent mix of pictures and text/stories that makes it very interesting.  See comments from recent purchasers below.

The book, 230 pages, includes 48 tracks in Western New York and North West Pennsylvania that operated in the '50s.  Covered tracks in WNY include those from the Chemung Speedrome east of Elmira, Wellsville Raceway, Angelica Raceway, Hunt Raceway, Cuba Lake Raceway, Olean Raceway and on to Stateline Speedway at Busti in the west with many in the greater Jamestown area and then north to Ransomville Speedway in Niagara county then south and east including Civic Stadium, Lancaster Speedway, Monroe County Fairgrounds, Naples Speedway and other tracks around the Finger Lakes ending at Ithaca/Dryden Raceway south of Ithaca in WNY.  The broundries in NWPA go from Towanda VFW Fairgrounds on Rt. 6 in the east, Troy Fairgrounds then on to Skyline Raceway at Sugar Grove in the west and then south to Dicky-Ben Raceway at Warren then east to Brockway the home of Airport Speedway.  All the tracks that operated within these boundaries are included in the book for the two States at some time during the '50s.  A few only operated for a few months and others are still in operation.  Some have more extensive coverage than others naturally due to the information and photos that were available from those days.
 
The book also includes many other items pertaining to the racing of that time that you will enjoy reading and looking at too.

Recent purchaser e-mails received on book:

Ford -

I picked up a copy of your book this past weekend at the Syracuse Race Car Show. We spoke on the phone a couple of times while you were still putting it together and you said that you thought I would like it. Not true... I LOVE IT!

For nostalgia geeks who live in the Finger Lakes and Western regions of NY, this book is an absolute MUST for their library. There is a perfect mix of text and pictures to keep it both entertaining and educational at the same time.

GREAT JOB!

____________________________________________________________________________

How can I get a copy of your book?
Dick Berggren
___________________________________________________
 
Hi Dick, you are the most notable figure I have ever received an email/book request from.  I have watched and listened to you for years and couldn't believe it when I opened my computer this morning and boom there your name was.  I know you will really enjoy the book. ________________________________________________
Thanks for your kind comments.
____________________________________________________
Ford:
    The book has arrived and I’m loving it! What a great book. Clearly a labor of love as are all great books.
    Please provide ordering information. I’d like to recommend it to Speedway Illustrated’s readers.
-Dick Berggren
____________________________________________________
Hi Dick, thanks for the note back that you are really enjoying the book.  My gratification is that so many folks are enjoying it plus it takes them back to a point in time that gives many a revisit to that time in racing history. Thanks so much for you offering to recommend it to  your Speedway Illustrated 40,000 readers.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ordering info.:
Cost $15/book
S/H $4/1book,$6/2books,$8/3-10books.  S/H all books to same location
Book(s) signed by me with list supplied "to whom"
Check or MO to Ford Easton, 5200 28th St. N. # 651, St. Petersburg, FL 33714


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Racing Discussion / Re: BRP CanAm Drivers Share $20,000+ Point Fund
« on: November 10, 2014, 04:30:23 PM »
Hi Gary, good series and good points payback.  You are to be congratulated for heading up this truly interesting and competitive series.  See you in Fl in Feb., Ford Easton

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The book, 230 pages, includes 48 tracks in WNY and NWPA that operated in the '50s.  Covered tracks in WNY include those from the Chemung Speedrome east of Elmira, Wellsville Raceway, Angelica Raceway, Hunt Raceway, Olean Raceway and on to Stateline Speedway at Busti in the west with many in the greater Jamestown area and then north to Ransomville Speedway in Niagara county then south and east including Civic Stadium, Lancaster Speedway, Monroe County Fairgrounds, Naples Speedway and other tracks around the Finger Lakes ending at Ithaca/Dryden Raceway south of Ithaca in WNY.  The broundries in NWPA go from Towanda VFW Fairgrounds on Rt. 6 in the east, Troy Fairgrounds then on to Skyline Raceway at Sugar Grove in the west and then south to Dicky-Ben Raceway at Warren then east to Brockway the home of Airport Speedway.  All the tracks that operated within these boundaries are included in the book for the two States at some time during the '50s.  A few only operated for a few months and others are still in operation.  Some have more extensive coverage than others naturally due to the information and photos that were available from those days.
 
The book also includes many other items pertaining to the racing of that time that you will enjoy reading and looking at too.

Recent testmonial:
 Hi Ford:
I have the book.  Friend picked up for me at the Cuba Lake Raceway reunion in July.  I hope to make it there next year.
Great book.  Most of the time I have about three to four books that I read at the same time, well not at the same time, but during the same priod of time. 
I put all the other books aside, I could not put your book down.  I read it once, speed read, and just finished it the second time absorbing everything.
Great job.
Thank you.

Book ordering information: Stock Car Racing in the '50s, Pictures and Memories from Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania.  48 tracks and 230 pages with many memories, stories and great photos. The price of the book is $15.00 plus s/h.
 
check/money order to me at Florida address. I will also sign book(s) if desired with list supplied "who to".  Price of book is $15.00 ea. plus s/h as follows, $4.00 for one, $6.00 for two and $8.00 for 3-10 books per each order.  Books are shipped media mail.
 
Ford Easton
5200 28th St. N. # 651
St. Petersburg, FL 33714
(h)727-522-4042
(c)727-644-6722
fjeaston@aol.com



 

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'50s Stock Car Racing book, pictures and memories documenting racing during the '50s in Western New York and North Western Pennsylvania is now released and available for purchase! See ordering info. at end of page.

The book I have been working with on the wonderful years of stock car racing during the '50s as it pertained to the WNY and NWPA area of our country was released July 30th, at the Cuba Lake Raceway reunion/luncheon at Cuba, NY.

The book, 230 pages, includes 48 tracks in WNY and NWPA that operated in the '50s.  Covered tracks in WNY include those from the Chemung Speedrome east of Elmira, Wellsville Raceway, Angelica Raceway, Hunt Raceway, Olean Raceway and on to Stateline Speedway at Busti in the west with many in the greater Jamestown area and then north to Ransomville Speedway in Niagara county then south and east including Civic Stadium, Lancaster Speedway, Monroe County Fairgrounds, Naples Speedway and other tracks around the Finger Lakes ending at Ithaca/Dryden Raceway south of Ithaca in WNY.  The broundries in NWPA go from Towanda VFW Fairgrounds on Rt. 6 in the east, Troy Fairgrounds then on to Skyline Raceway at Sugar Grove in the west and then south to Dicky-Ben Raceway at Warren then east to Brockway the home of Airport Speedway.  All the tracks that operated within these boundaries are included in the book for the two States at some time during the '50s.  A few only operated for a few months and others are still in operation.  Some have more extensive coverage than others naturally due to the information and photos that were available from those days.

The book also includes many other items including drivers, car owners, track owners etc. plus many very interesting stories never heard before and pertaining to the racing of that time that you will enjoy reading and looking at too.   Ordering information is at end of the overview.


Why did I choose to write the book, and why now?

As a legacy to those involved in stock car racing in the '50s .  This includes drivers, car owners, track owners, track personnel and especially the great fans of that era including myself.  After doing the reunion/banquet for the drivers as my guest and all the fans that attended the Cuba Lake Raceway event in 2003(200 strong) many came to me saying continue to have the reunion each year and to do a book from all the knowledge that I must have gained researching for the 2003 reunion.  I have been working on the book 8 years now with the major emphasis in the last 3 years plus I am 74 years young and not getting any younger.  I have been told stories of would be authors accumulating reams of information for a book and passed before the book ever happened.  That wasn't going to happen to me so a driving force to get the book done.  Even if I pass today the book has happened and that is such a good feeling giving all from that era of wonderful stock car racing and entertainment, including myself, a legacy that will last forever.  Young lady working with me on the book lives in MD and is a daughter of a '50s stock car driver Dick Close from Towanda, PA and his daughter grew up in Towanda with the family. She makes a great team member to work with.

Several emails recd. from folks on the book after release date:

Ford
I finished your book last night, it was awesome, couldn’t have been better.  I’m not a proof reader, but usually notice spelling (even though, I’m not a good speller) didn’t see any, but a comma miss placed early on.  I’m proud of your accomplishment.
_______________________________________________________
Ford: I am at this point about 1/3 of the way through the book, and am amazed at the effort and dedication
that you had to have put into the project to make it happen!
Congratulations on a job extremely well done
________________________________________________________
I also wanted to let you know how much my friend  enjoyed your book. She read the first half of it at her desk as soon as I gave it to her. Then she told me she was up until past midnight that night finishing it. She showed it to her son, who was also very interested in reading it, but she told him he couldn't have it until she was finished with it.
_______________________________________________
 I am really enjoying your book. My friend from Buffalo who owns a race car building co. was really impressed with it too. _______________________________________________
Ford:  I have just finished reading your book. You did a marvelous job, and while all this was before my time racing, I raced against some mentioned, and found it very interesting to learn their first years in racing.
The sales of the book will never cover all your time, effort and monies spent to make it happen, but I know
it was a "labor of love",, and so many will appreciate someone taking the time and effort to record a section of time, and memories.
Thanks...........
______________________________________________
The book is extremely interesting, although we have had company for two weeks and I am just getting into it.  They left this morning back to Michigan.  So now I devote time for the book.
______________________________________________
The book, really great and I will treasure it.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

received the book. Scanned thru and am impressed,
know I will enjoy.
thanks
_______________________________________________

Ford; I loved your book, brought back many great memories! My grandfather and I were regulars at Angelica Race Track for many years during my middle school years. Also got opportunities to go to Olean, Perry and Holland periodically, but never did make it to Cuba for a race while they were operating. Jackie Soper was my favorite driver and I had many of his photo's on my bedroom wall during that time. After college, I had a job at Alfred Tech and worked with Dick Wittie, who shared a number of really great photos and his memories of racing with me. Thanks for the look back.
________________________________________________________

Hi Ford,  It was great to see you at the library.  The book was everything that I thought it would be. Thank you for taking the time to write it.  It is very much appreciated. We have had a lot of people look at it and say what a great book. We have taken it to the car shows with us. I know that you put a lot of your time and effort into the book. I know that you enjoy what you do but you have given us something very special.

Thank you
________________________________________________________

Ford,
A friend delivered my book on Friday night at Freedom Speedway.  I was too busy to even look that night, but my wife did take a quick look and her response was “this is amazing.”
I have now given it a couple of very quick looks and agree with her it is AMAZING!  Unfortunately, with my busy schedule this is going to be on the back burner for a few months. 
I love the hard copy and the Sager/Rafter #19 glossy cover has earned a spot on our library table.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Book ordering information: Stock Car Racing in the '50s, Pictures and Memories from Western New York and Northwestern Pennsylvania.  48 tracks and 230 pages with many memories, stories and great photos. The price of the book is $15.00 plus s/h.

check/money order to me at Florida address. I will also sign book(s) if desired with list supplied "who to".  Price of book is $15.00 ea. plus s/h as follows, $4.00 for one, $6.00 for two and $8.00 for 3-10 books per each order and to same location.  Books are shipped media mail.

Ford Easton
5200 28th St. N. # 651
St. Petersburg, FL 33714
(h)727-522-4042
(c)727-644-6722
fjeaston@aol.com



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