Jeff Pederson, Author at Pedal Down Promotions

Pokorski, Scheffler, Muehlbauer, Steenbergen star as Plymouth Dirt Track Racing season finally gets under way

Paul Pokorski (4) fends off challenges from Travis Arenz (25T) and Tyler Brabant (99) in the closing laps of the season-opening 25-lap Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car A main at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, June 6. -RC Custom Design photo

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) June 6, 2020 – The COVID-19 (coronavirus) public health emergency may have turned the world upside down over the past three months and delayed the start of the 16^th Plymouth Dirt Track Racing season by six weeks, but when the engines finally fired up for the first time to launch the 60^th overall season of racing at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds one-third mile facility in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, June 6, all was right with the world for every dirt track racing enthusiast in attendance.

With grandstand attendance limited to comply with Sheboygan County Health Department regulations and additional COVID-19 restrictions in place to encourage safety and social distancing throughout the event, the return of live sporting events to Sheboygan County appeared to be greeted with appreciation and respectful compliance.

In season-opening A-main action, 28^th-year driver Paul Pokorski of West Bend broke a three-year main event winless drought while holding off the furious advances of Tyler Brabant of Waupun and Sheboygan’s Travis Arenz to claim the Kristine Hartmann Pleasant View Realty 25-lap 360 Sprint Car main event triumph. Waukesha’s Taylor Scheffler worked the high groove to perfection to notch the Gasroots Project 25-lap Late Model A main victory. Jeff Muelhbauer of Elkhart Lake was victorious in the 25-lap Klips N Tips Grand National A-main and Jeff Steenbergen of Johnson Creek won the caution-free 25-lap Cellcom B Mod A-main.

Pokorski led the field to the green flag of the 360 Sprint Car A main from the pole flanked by Brabant. On the opening circuit, disaster struck, as Brabant and 2017 PDTR 360 Sprint Car champion Brandon McMullen of Oshkosh made contact in turn two, which triggered a five-car red flag incident involving Plymouth’s Adam Miller, who flipped his machine, two-time PDTR 360 Sprint Car champion Kurt Davis of South Milwaukee, Will Gerrits of Waupun and West Bend’s Kevin Karnitz.

Paul Pokorski (4) of West Bend claimed his first main event victory since 2017 in the season-opening 25-lap Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car A main at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, June 6. -RC Custom Design photo

Miller was forced to retire from the race, while Davis, McMullen, Karnitz and Gerrits restarted the race from the rear of the field.

Following a complete restart, Pokorski bolted out the lead with Brabant settling into second followed by sixth starter Arenz in third. By lap 6, Pokorski built a half-straightaway cushion over Brabant by sticking to the extreme inside line of the dry slick racing surface.

On lap 8, Brabant began to close and six laps later Brabant dove low in turn one, only to have Pokorski shut the door. However, Brabant battled back to wrestle the lead away from Pokorski with a nifty low move in turn three on lap 17.

Two laps later, Brabant made contact with the slowing car of Josh Teunissen of Waldo, which caused his car to twitch exiting turn four and gave Pokorski an opening to regain the lead in turn one on lap 20.

On lap 22, Arenz worked the outside groove to pull past Brabant and draw even with Pokorski. However, the 2014 Midwest Sprint Car Association Masters Series champion and three-time Winged Super Modified champion held strong to maintain the lead as both Brabant and Arenz continued to dig for the victory.

Pokorski, who is planning to share the driver’s seat of the No. 4 Pokorski Motorsports car with his 21-year-old son Alex this season, stayed precise along the low groove in the closing laps to fend off both challengers en route to his fourth career PDTR 360 Sprint Car A-main triumph, 11^th overall 360 Sprint Car main event win and 46^th career A-main victory in Sprint Car and Winged Super Modified competition.

Brabant worked back underneath Arenz to take second on the final lap, Arenz wound up third, 2018 PDTR 360 Sprint Car champ Justin Miller of Plymouth, who started fourth, finished fourth and Davis, who originally started 20^th, rallied from the rear of the field following the first lap accident to round out the top five.

“I really figured they had me there,” Pokorski said. “I’m not a guy that likes to run the bottom, but if your leading on a track like this you kind of have to stay there and make everyone else work the outside to beat you. When Tyler got by me, I was thinking what I needed to do and I had a thought about going up high to try to get back by him at the end. I’m happy I got back by him. Then I saw Travis Arenz on the outside with a couple laps to go, but luckily we were able to hold on. The plan is to have Alex get in the car next week and I will be on the sidelines biting my fingernails watching him. This was definitely a good start to the season and a nice way to end my long run in the seat of this car before I hand the keys over to the rookie.”

Two-time defending PDTR Late Model champion Justin Schmidt of Cleveland got the jump on the drop of the green flag from the pole before a four-car incident in turn one, involving Eric Michaels of Cleveland, Charlie Schmidt of Cedar Grove, New London’s Justin Ritchie and Turk Letizia of Milwaukee, brought out the first of three yellow flags on lap 2.

Taylor Scheffler of Waukesha was victorious in the 25-lap Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Late Model A main at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, June 6. -RC Custom Design photo

On the restart, Scheffler, who started eighth, bolted up to the high groove to sweep around 2016 PDTR Late Model champion Tim Buhler of Greenbush, who started second, to assume the runner-up spot on lap two.

One lap later, Eric Michaels, Ritchie and Jim Schmidt of Cleveland collided in turn four to bring out the second yellow flag. On the restart, 2014 PDTR Late Model champion Mitch McGrath of Waukesha dove low to challenge Scheffler for second after starting seventh.

On lap 8, Scheffler moved in to within striking distance of Schmidt as the leaders encountered heavy lapped traffic. As Schmidt began to negotiate four slower cars that were racing side by side, Scheffler slipped through along the high line to steal the top spot in turn on lap 11.

Four laps later, Schmidt charged back to pull even with Scheffler along the inside lane before the third and final caution appeared on lap 16 for the spinning car of Chad Ludwigson of Sheboygan Falls in turn four.

Schmidt hung with Scheffler on the restart and made another attempt to seize the lead along the low groove on lap 17 before Scheffler pulled away again. Schmidt refused to give up and made another run in the final two laps. However, Scheffler held on to record his fourth career PDTR Late Model A-main victory.

Schmidt had to settle for second, McGrath was third, Buhler placed fourth and Omro’s Kevin Baldry finished fifth after starting 13^th.

Muehlbauer started the Grand National A main from the pole and led the first two laps over second starter Donny Kulow of Plymouth before the first of four yellow flags was displayed on lap 3 for an incident involving Derek Kaat of Plymouth and Steven Weber of Plymouth.

Jeff Muehlbauer of Elkhart Lake visited victory lane in the season-opening 25-lap Plymouth Dirt Track Racing Grand Natinoal A main at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, June 6. -RC Custom Design photo

On the restart, Aaron Stolp of Green Bay charged in from his fifth starting spot to pressure Kulow for second. While Muehlbauer extended his lead at the front of field, the second caution appeared on lap 9 for a spin involving Bruce Troesch of West Bend.

Stolp and two-time PDTR Grand National champion Don Sorce Jr. of West Allis, who started fourth, moved in to challenge Kulow for second with a three-wide duel on lap 9 before Kulow settled into second and Sorce Jr. into third.

By lap 15, Muehlbauer had forged a half-straightaway cushion over Kulow before the third caution flag flew on lap 17 for debris. Muehlbauer stayed strong at the head of the pace, but the battles raged behind him as defending PDTR Grand National champion Tyler Kulow of Plymouth, who started 10^th, took over third on lap 20 just before the fourth and final caution of the race on lap 20 for Jacob Muehlbauer of Elkhart Lake and Kaat in turn two.

Tyler Kulow moved in to pressure Donny Kulow for second on lap 21, but Donny Kulow fended him for the runner-up spot off in the closing laps. Meanwhile, Muehlbauer pulled away to score his third career PDTR Grand National A-main victory.

Donny Kulow placed second, Tyler Kulow finished third, Sorce Jr. wound up fourth and Stolp took fifth.

“It was a fun race,” Muehlbauer said. “The track was black and slippery, which made it a challenge. I kept it on the inside throughout the race to try to hold everyone off and it worked.”

Polesitter Mark Hoeppner of Hartford dueled with outside front row starter Justin Bauer of Sheboygan Falls during the opening two laps of the Grand National main event before Bauer surged ahead on lap 3.

On lap 5, Steenbergen, who started fifth, moved in to pressure Hoeppner for second. One lap later, Steenbergen seized the runner-up spot and set his sights on Bauer. On lap 9, Steenbergen powered underneath Bauer with a low move in turn three to take over the top spot.

Jeff Steenbergen of Watertown came out on top in the season-opening 25-lap Plymouth Dirt Track Racing B Mod A main at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, June 6. -RC Custom Design photo

From there, Steenbergen pulled away from the rest of field, while weaving his way skillfully through slower traffic. On lap 20, defending PDTR B Mod track champion Tim Warner of Fond du Lac, who started 10^th, used a high move to power around Bauer into second.

Over the final five circuits, Steenbergen cruised to his fourth career PDTR B Mod A-main victory in limited starts at the track in recent years. Warner was second, former PDTR Late Model competitor Kyle Odekirk of Plymouth charged up from his eighth starting spot to place third, Bauer was fourth and Hoeppner completed the top five.

“It feels really good to get this win,” Steenbergen said. “The car was a handful in the heat race and we made wholesale changes for the A main, which paid off.”

Preston Ruh of Elkhart Lake won the first 360 Sprint Car B main and Chris Clayton of Waldo captured the second 360 Sprint Car B main.

Nick Schultz of Beaver Dam was victorious in the B Mod B main.

The season-opening event, which was sponsored by Pit Stop Pizza, drew a total of 100 cars, including 37 360 Sprint Cars, 19 Late Models, 18 Grand Nationals and 26 B Mods.

The next race at The Plymouth Dirt Track will take place on Saturday, June 13 with gates opening at 4:30 p.m., hot laps at 5:30 p.m. and racing at 6 p.m.

KRISTINE HARTMANN PLEASANT VIEW REALTY 360 SPRINT CAR

Date of Race: June 6, 2020

HEAT 1

1, Justin Miller 2, Brandon Berth 3, Paul Pokorski 4, Sean Rayhall 5, Nick Daywalt 6, Tony Wondra 7, Tim Haddy 8, Tom Kreutz.

HEAT 2

1, Nich Melis 2, Tyler Brabant 3, Preston Ruh 4, Justin Erickson 5, Anthony Knierim 6, Jack Vanderboom 7, Johnny Fahl 8, Blake Wondra.

HEAT 3

1, Scott Conger 2, Will Gerrits 3, Shane Wenninger 4, Mike Decker 5, Scott Armstrong 6, Josh Teunissen 7, Kurt Davis.

HEAT 4

1, Brandon McMullen 2, Travis Arenz 3, Chris Clayton 4, Doug Wondra 5, Tyler Tischendorf 6, Spyder Akright 7, Austin Hartmann

HEAT 5

1, Adam Miller 2, Bill Taylor 3, Lance Fassbender 4, Kevin Karnitz 5, Tyler Davis 6, Mike MacFarlane 7, Ben Schmidt

B MAIN 1

1, Preston Ruh 2, Sean Rayhall 3, Josh Teunissen 4, Jack Vanderboom 5, Tyler Tischendorf 6, Spyder Akright 7, Tom Kreutz 8, Tyler Davis 9, Scott Armstrong 10, Mike MacFarlane 11, Ben Schmidt (DNS).

B MAIN 2

1, Chris Clayton 2, Kurt Davis 3, Tim Haddy 4, Doug Wondra 5, Tony Wondra 6, Blake Wondra 7, Johnny Fahl 8, Nick Daywalt 9, Austin Hartmann 10, Anthony Knierim (DNS).

A MAIN

1, Paul Pokorski 2, Tyler Brabant 3, Travis Arenz 4, Justin Miller 5, Kurt Davis 6, Brandon McMullen 7, Nich Melis 8, Scott Conger 9, Justin Erickson 10, Brandon Berth 11, Lance Fassbender 12, Shane Wenninger 13, Chris Clayton 14, Will Gerrits 15, Tim Haddy 16, Kevin Karnitz 17, Mike Decker 18, Preston Ruh 19, Sean Rayhall 20, Josh Teunissen 21, Bill Taylor 22, Adam Miller.

GASROOTS PROJECT LATE MODEL

HEAT 1

1, Mitch McGrath 2, Taylor Scheffler 3, Jim Schmidt 4, Eric Michaels 5, Greg Cantrell 6, Turk Letizia 7, Sawyer Specht.

HEAT 2

1, Dale Markham 2, Charlie Schmidt 3, Victor Benedetto 4, Glen Blanke 5, Glen Toppel 6, Chad Ludwigson

HEAT 3

1, Justin Ritchie 2, Justin Schmidt 3, Tim Buhler 4, Kevin Baldry 5, Donny Singer 6, Adreau Roscelli.

A MAIN

1, Taylor Scheffler 2, Justin Schmidt 3, Mitch McGrath 4, Tim Buhler 5, Kevin Baldry, Victor Benedetto 7, Greg Cantrell 8, Turk Letizia 9, Charlie Schmidt 10, Jim Schmidt 11, Dale Markham 12, Adreau Roscelli 13, Sawyer Specht 14, Glen Toppel 15, Donny Singer 16, Chad Ludwigson 17, Glen Blanke 18, Eric Michaels 19, Justin Ritchie.

KLIPS N TIPS GRAND NATIONAL

HEAT 1

1, Jonathan Otte 2, Aaron Stolp 3, Jeff Muehlbauer 4, Donny Kulow 5, Tyler Kulow 6, Derek Kaat 7, Dick Hed 8, Brad Weiss 9, Chad Espen.

HEAT 2

1, Steven Weber 2, Matt Yancey 3, Nick Schumacher 4, Don Sorce 5, Luke Scholten 6, Paul Perrone 7, Jacob Muehlbauer 8, Bruce Troesch 9, Who Racing.

A MAIN

1, Jeff Muehlbauer 2, Donny Kulow 3, Tyler Kulow 4, Don Sorce 5, Aaron Stolp 6, Matt Yancey 7, Jonathan Otte 8, Luke Scholten 9, Derek Kaat 10, Brad Weiss 11, Bruce Troesch 12, Nick Schumacher 13, Dick Hed 14, Jacob Muehlbauer 15, Chad Espen 16, Steven Weber 17, Paul Perronne, 18, Who Racing (DNS).

CELLCOM B MOD

HEAT 1

1, Tim Warner 2, Gary Glander 3, Steve Lorier 4, Rory Welch 5, Tim Thrun 6, Michael Gilson 7, Don Marquart 8, Donny Singer 9, Barry Maas (DNS).

HEAT 2

1, Travis Schmidt 2, Jesse Jakubowski 3, Justin Bauer 4, Mark Hoeppner 5, Christopher Gilson 6, Jim Fischer 7, David McCutcheon 8, Patrick Hanson 9, Dakota Cabunac.

HEAT 3

1, Kyle Odekirk 2, Jeff Steenbergen 3, Will Garceau 4, James Rautmann 5, Nick Schultz 6, Phil Campanella 7, Andy Welter 8, Brandon Knepprath.

B MAIN

1, Nick Schultz 2, Andy Welter 3, Brandon Knepprath 4, Barry Maas 5, Patrick Hanson 6, David McCutcheon 7, Dakota Cabunac 8, Phil Campanella 9, James Rautmann 10, Don Marquart.

A MAIN

1, Jeff Steenbergen 2, Tim Warner 3, Kyle Odekirk 4, Justin Bauer 5, Mark Hoeppner 6, Jesse Jakubowski 7, Nick Schultz 8, Steve Lorier 9, Barry Maas 10, Rory Welch 11, Gary Glander 12, Andy Welter 13, Brandon Knepprath 14, Donny Singer 15, Will Garceau 16, Jim Fischer 17, Michael Gilson 18, Christopher Gilson 19, Travis Schmidt 20, Tim Thrun (DNS).

June 7, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

Walter aims to open 2020 season versus World of Outlaws

Josh Walter is set to begin the 2020 racing season this Friday, June 5 and Saturday, June 6 against the NOS Energy Drink World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis.

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) June 3, 2020 – The extended off season will finally come to an end this weekend for Josh Walter as he will get a chance to fire up his Torque Racing 410 Sprint Car for the first time in 2020 against the NOS Energy Drink World of Outlaws Series this Friday, June 5 and Saturday, June 6 at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis.

Walter is coming off one of the most successful seasons of his 14-year racing career while splitting time between the 360 and 410 Sprint Car ranks in 2019. The 15^th-year Plymouth, Wis. driver racked up a pair of A-main victories, four top-five and seven top-10 A-main finishes to go along with three heat race victories and one B-main triumph in 14 MSA 360 Sprint Car events a year ago.

In late July, Walter and the Torque Racing team switched to the IRA 410 Sprint Car ranks, making six 410 starts during the second half of the 2019 campaign while notching one top-10 A-main showing and one heat race victory.

Walter and the Torque Racing had planned a highly ambitious 2020 schedule with several trips out of the confines of the state of Wisconsin to the Sprint Car hotbeds of Pennsylvania, Ohio and Iowa planned. However, the COVID-19 (coronavirus) public health emergency has turned Walter’s best-laid plans upside down.

After sitting idle during a seven-week delay to the start of the 2020 campaign, Walter is eager to strap in to take on many of the world’s most talented Sprint Car drivers this weekend.

The doubleheader event will mark Walter’s fourth and fifth overall appearances with the World of Outlaws after having competed with the nation’s top Winged Sprint Car series at Beaver Dam Raceway in 2015 and 2017 and taking part in the Knoxville Nationals at Knoxville Raceway in Iowa in 2017.

“Beaver Dam Raceway is a track where we have some confidence,” Walter said. “We’ve had some good runs there in the past, including a 16^th place finish in the A main with the World of Outlaws in 2015.”

The event is open to spectators with limited seating available. General admission grandstand tickets for Saturday’s race are sold out with some tickets still available for Friday night’s event.

Those unable to attend in person, can watch or listen to both nights of action at www.dirtvision.com.

Looking ahead to the remainder of the 2020 season, Walter indicated that the team will determine its schedule on a week-to-week basis.

“Beyond this weekend with the Outlaws, the rest of the season is still kind of up in the air,” Walter said. “I’m thinking we will likely run the IRA race at Beaver Dam Raceway on Saturday, June 20 and the IRA event at 141 Speedway on Sunday, July 5^th, but we will confirm our schedule as we move along.”

Torque Racing sponsors for the 2020 season include JDV Lawncare, Brittany’s School of Dance, Sheboygan by Owner, Plymouth Tap, Doug’s Quality Beef, Cow Pies, Full Throttle Ink, Lakehouse Bar & Grill, Home Transitions, Oostburg Concrete, RC Custom Design and Pedal Down Promotions.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping its clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

2020 Josh Walter-Torque Racing Upcoming Schedule

Friday, June 5 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (World of Outlaws)

Saturday, June 6 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (World of Outlaws)

Saturday, June 20 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA) (tentative)

Sunday, July 5 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA) (tentative)

2019 Josh Walter-Torque Racing By The Numbers

Total Events – 21

MSA events – 14

IRA events – 7

A-Main Victories – 2

B-Main Victories – 1

Top Five A-Main Finishes – 4

Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 8

Heat Race Victories – 4

June 3, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

Mechanical woes sour Pokorski Motorsports’ Gravity Park Speedway debut

Paul Pokorski made his first appearance at Gravity Park Speedway in Chilton, Wis. on Saturday, May 23 for the Quarantine 30 presented by Professional Plating. – JW’s Racing Photos

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 26, 2020 – After waiting six long weeks to open the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) public health emergency, the Pokorski Motorsports team made its maiden trek to Gravity Park Speedway in Chilton Wis. for the Quarantine 30 presented by Professional Plating Inc. on Saturday, May 23.

Paul Pokorski began his 28^th season of open-wheel competition by timing in 12^th out of 19 competitors in 360 Sprint Car qualifying on the tight quarter-mile Gravity Park Speedway bullring.

However, that proved to be the only competitive laps Pokorski would turn for the remainder of the evening as a cylinder issue was diagnosed immediately after qualifying, which forced the team to withdraw from further competition.

The Quarantine 30 A main was later cancelled after a steady rain shower moved over the track after the completion of the heat races in all three divisions.

“I noticed the engine problem in hot lapping, but we didn’t know what it was at that time,” Pokorski said. “After qualifying, we found the problem, which proved to be a broken push rod.”

Pokorski, who plans to share the No. 4 Pokorski Motorsports machine with his 21-year-old son, Alex, this season, will again be in the seat when Plymouth Dirt Track Racing opens its 2020 season at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, June 6.

“Having the push rod break was just one of those things that happens in racing,” Pokorski said. “We will get the problem fixed and move forward. We will definitely be ready for the Plymouth opener on June 6^th.”

Looking ahead, the Midwest Sprint Car Association event at Angell park Speedway, originally scheduled for Sunday, June 7, has been cancelled. In addition, an MS at the Outagamie Speedway Powered by EWSC Racing on Friday, June 19 has also been cancelled.

Sponsors for the 2020 Pokorski Motorsports team are Hopf Farms, Petersen Septic Systems, Quest Engineering Inc., Goeden’s Auto Body, Goodwin Racing Engines, Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Kettle Moraine Landscaping, Novak’s Service Center, Pedal Down Promotions, Tisler Salvage Inc., Allied Bearing Corporation and The Cawley Company.

For more information on Pokorski Motorsports, check out Pokorski Motorsports on Facebook or visit www.pedaldownpromo.com.

Pokorski Motorsports Sponsor Showcase – Petersen Septic Systems

Since opening its doors in Valders, Wis. in 2012, Petersen Septic Systems LLC has provided premier septic tank service and the most reliable septic system installation and repair in Manitowoc and Two Rivers and the surrounding Lakeshore area.

“We offer our services to industrial, institutional, residential, new construction, commercial and municipal accounts,” Petersen Septic Systems Owner David Petersen said. “Customer service is our utmost priority. We do every job as it was in our own homes. Our experience is second to none in the area. Prior to opening the business, I worked for Tuschl Septic Systems from 2004 until owner Chuck Tuschl retired.”

The list of regular services Petersen Septic Systems offers includes septic pump repairs, test drilling/test boring, sewage treatment systems, septic tank removal, septic tank installation, water line repair, oil testing and perc testing.

“We provide all of these services in Manitowoc County and the surrounding areas,” Petersen said. “We are OSHA certified and are licensed MPRS/CST966051.”

Petersen Septic Systems is located at 7334 Nagel Road in Valders, Wis. For more information, call 920-323-2640, email petersenseptic@gmail.com or visit www.petersensepticsystems.com.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

2020 Pokorski Motorsports Upcoming Schedule.

Saturday, June 6 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis.

2020 Pokorski Motorsports By The Numbers

Total Events – 1

MSA events – 0

IRA events – 0

A Main Victories – 0

B Main Victories – 0

Top Five A Main Finishes – 0

Top 10 A Main Finishes – 0

Heat Race Victories – 0

May 26, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

Rain shortens Quarantine 30 at Gravity Park Speedway

Brandon McMullen of Oshkosh (98), Josh Teunissen of Belgium (96) and Plymouth’s Adam Miller (24M) duel three wide during the second 360 Sprint Car heat race at the Quarantine 30 presented by Professional Plating Inc. at Gravity Park Speedway in Chilton on Saturday, May 23. – RC Custom Design photo

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 24, 2020 – After enduring a six-week delay to the start of the 2020 racing season due to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) public health emergency, competitors and fans alike were eager for dirt-track racing action and Adam Miller and Miller Family Motorsports obliged by serving up the Quarantine 30 presented by Professional Plating Inc. at Gravity Park Speedway in Chilton, Wis. on Saturday, May 23.

Although steady rain washed out all three A-main events shortly after the completion of all heat race action, a large contingent of race-starved fans were treated to some side-by-side preliminary race competition and witnessed a new track record established in 360 Sprint Car qualifying before the event was halted due to saturated track conditions.

With heat race action completed, the event was deemed officially with prize money distributed evenly through the A-main fields in the 360 Sprint Car, A Modified and B Modified divisions.

Justin Miller of Plymouth earned his first heat race victory behind the wheel of the Mayer Automotive 15M 360 Sprint during the Quarantine 30 presented by Professional Plating Inc. at Gravity Park Speedway in Chilton on Saturday, May 23. – RC Custom Design photo

In 360 Sprint Car heat race action, Justin Miller of Plymouth nipped fast qualifier Shane Wenninger of Kewaskum by a half car length to claim his first victory behind the wheel of Mayer Automotive 15M car in the first heat race. Three-time Midwest Sprint Car Association champion Brandon McMullen of Oshkosh won heat race two and Kevin Karnitz of West Bend claimed the win in the third 360 Sprint Car heat race.

Shane Wenninger earned fast qualifier honors in 360 Sprint Car qualifying with a new track record lap of 11.922 seconds.

A Modified heat race victories went to Cody Schroeder of Manitowoc (heat one) and Brad Lubach of Kiel (heat two).

B Modified heat race wins were recorded by Randy Lemieux of Sturgeon Bay (heat one), rookie Trevor Frank of Sheboygan (heat two) and Shaun Bangart of Chilton (heat three).

The event featured a total of 60 entries, including 19 360 Sprint Cars, 17 A Modifieds and 24 B Modifieds.

Trevor Frank of Sheboygan collected his first career B Modified heat race victory during the Quarantine 30 at Gravity Park Speedway in Chilton on Saturday, May 23. -JW’s Racing Photos

“I would like to thank everyone that came out – drivers, fans and crews,” first-time race promoter Adam Miller said. “It was a blast. It was not the ending we wanted, but mother nature never is forgiving. I know the Sprint Car guys collectively would like to get back to Gravity Park at some point in the future. Several people said they would be happy if we were able to get another show there.

“Thanks to Professional Plating Inc. for stepping up and supporting the show,” he said. “Also, thanks to the A Mod and B Mod drivers that came out to support the event. We had some areas to improve, but overall we thought it went well. Also thank you to BMG Designs, The Possi Family in honor of Judy Davis, Justin Miller, Bette Miller, Karen and Dave Miller, RC Custom Design, Cupcake Wonders, Oostburg Concrete, Colin Miller, Frank Motorsports for their generous support. Thanks also goes to Gravity Park Speedway and track owner Bob Schneider for working with us and helping make this happen. The track was fast, wide and the Sprint Car A Main was going to be something.”

360 SPRINT CARS

Date of Race: May 23, 2020

QUALIFYING

1, Shane Wenninger 11.922 (new track record) 2, Brandon McMullen, 3, Kurt Davis 4, Ben Schmidt 5, Adam Miller 6, Kevin Karnitz 7, Justin Miller 8, Josh Teunissen 9, Mike Decker 10, Tyler Tischendorf 11, Justin Erickson 12, Paul Pokorski 13, Tyler Davis 14, Blake Wondra 15, Austin Hartmann 16, Bill Taylor 17, Robbie Pribnow 18, Chris Larson 19, Mike MacFarlane.

HEAT 1

1, Justin Miller 2, Shane Wenninger 3, Ben Schmidt 4, Bill Taylor 5, Tyler Davis 6, Tyler Tischendorf.

HEAT 2

1, Brandon McMullen 2, Josh Teunissen 3, Adam Miller 4, Justin Erickson 5, Robbie Pribnow 6, Blake Wondra.

HEAT 3

1, Kevin Karnitz 2, Mike Decker 3, Chris Larson 4, Austin Hartmann 5, Mike MacFarlane 6, Kurt Davis.

A MAIN

Rained out

A MODIFIEDS

HEAT 1

1, Cody Schroeder 2, Hunter Parsons.

HEAT 2

1, Brad Lubach 2, Steve Schneider.

A MAIN

Rained out

B MODIFIEDS

HEAT 1

1, Randy Lemieux 2, Geoff Jeche.

HEAT 2

1, Trevor Frank 2, Tim Warner.

HEAT 3

1, Shaun Bangart 2, Tim Schmuhl.

A MAIN

Rained out

May 24, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

Pokorski Motorsports to fire up 2020 season at Gravity Park Speedway

Paul Pokorski will be in the driver’s seat for his 28th season of competition when Pokorski Motorsports opens the 2020 season at Gravity Park Speedway in Chilton for the Quarantine 30 on Saturday, May 23. – RC Custom Design photo

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 21, 2020 – After enduring a six-week delay due to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) public health emergency, Paul Pokorski and the Pokorski Motorsports team will kick off the 2020 season with the Quarantine 30 at Gravity Park Speedway in Chilton, Wis. on Saturday, May 23.

Pokorski, who recorded four top-five finishes and 12 top-10 A-main showings to go along with two heat race wins and one B-main triumph in 26 events during the 2019 season, will be behind the wheel of the familiar No. 4 blue 360 Sprint Car to start his 28^th season as a driver at a track where he will be making his debut.

Promoted by fellow 360 Sprint Car racer Adam Miller and Miller Family Motorsports, the Quarantine 30 is shaping up to feature a strong field of competitors vying for a $1,000 top prize as the 360 Sprint Cars take to the tight Gravity Park bullring for the first time.

“I am grateful that Gravity Park is willing to host us during this uncertain time and that Adam Miller took the time to work with the track,” Pokorski said. “The event itself will be interesting. Nobody really knows how the track will race with open-wheel cars.”

On Saturday, May 9, Pokorski, who wound up fifth in the final Midwest Sprint Car Association point standings and ninth in the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car point standings, took advantage of an opportunity to get some laps in at Beaver Dam Raceway along with his 21-year-old son Alex, who will share the driving duties in the Pokorski Motorsports machine this year.

“Practice went well,” Pokorski said. “We had one or two very minor issues. I ran about 10 laps and Alex probably ran around 60 laps. He did well and it was a good step to help develop his skills slowly.”

After the Quarantine 30 on May 23, the team will likely take the following weekend off before opening the Plymouth Dirt Track Racing season at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth on Saturday, June 6.

“I’m hoping our schedule will pick up starting on June 6^th at Plymouth and we can keep many of the remaining dates on the MSA schedule,” Pokorski said.

While Pokorski had originally stated that the 2020 would be his final season as an owner-driver, the pandemic-shortened 2020 campaign has prompted Pokorski to commit to fielding a car beyond this year.

“Given the COVID-19 emergency, Pokorski Motorsports will continue in 2021 with a limited schedule,” Pokorski said.

Pokorski, who has a total of 45 career Winged Super Modified and 360 Sprint Car A-main victories to his credit, is eager to get back to the racetrack after an extended off season.

“I think everyone on our team is excited to get started as I assume everyone that follows racing is as well,” Pokorski said.

For more information on Pokorski Motorsports, check out Pokorski Motorsports on Facebook or visit www.pedaldownpromo.com.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

2020 Pokorski Motorsports Upcoming Schedule.

Saturday, May 23 – Gravity Park Speedway, Chilton, Wis.

Saturday, June 6 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis.

2020 Pokorski Motorsports By The Numbers

Total Events – 0

MSA events – 0

IRA events – 0

A Main Victories – 0

B Main Victories – 0

Top Five A Main Finishes – 0

Top 10 A Main Finishes – 0

Heat Race Victories – 0

May 21, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

Sprint Car racer Miller turns promoter for Quarantine 30 at Gravity Park Speedway

360 Sprint Car racer Adam Miller (24M) of Plymouth will serve as a race promoter this Saturday, May 23 as Miller Family Motorsports is set to present the Quarantine 30 at Gravity Park Speedway in Chilton, featuring 360 Sprints, A Modifieds and B Modifieds. Miller is pictured racing against Waupun’s Tim Haddy (21H) in 360 Sprint Car competition at The Plymouth Dirt Track at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth in 2019. – RC Custom Design photo

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) May 18, 2020 – After a month-long delay to the 2020 racing season due to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) public health emergency and statewide safer at home order, the roar of racing engines will return with the Quarantine 30 presented by Miller Family Motorsports Saturday, May 23 at Gravity Park Speedway in Chilton.

The idea to launch the inaugural event, which will feature a full program of 360 Sprint Cars, A Modifieds and B Modifieds, was fueled by the passion of veteran Sprint Car racer Adam Miller of Plymouth, who is embracing his first opportunity as a race promoter.

“I’ve been thinking about promoting a race for several years, but this is the first one that has materialized,” Miller said. “The timing just made sense to try and get something put together. I could have never imagined it would come together so quickly, but people are wanting to race now that things are open so it just worked out.

“I had considered a couple different tracks, but any track that resides within a county fairgrounds seemed like it wasn’t going to be feasible with many counties still pushing the recommended guidelines as far as the CDC is concerned,” he said. “I had talked with Gravity Park Speedway owner Bob Schneider before when practicing there about getting Sprint Cars up there for a show. We’ve just never been able to make it work due to scheduling with MSA or Plymouth Dirt Track. Now that nothing else is running, it made sense to try and give it a shot.”

The Quarantine 30 will mark the first time the 360 Sprint Car division has competed at the Gravity Park Speedway bullring, which opened in 2018. The event will feature a 30-lap 360 Sprint Car A main paying $1,000 to win and $200 to start. The A Modifieds will contest a 25-lap A Main paying $750 to win and $120 to start. The B Modifieds will complete a 25-lap B Main featuring a $500 first-place payday and $100 to start.

“This will be the first actual Sprint Car race at Gravity Park,” Miller said. “I have practiced there before in a Sprint Car and several other Sprint Car drivers have as well. It reminds me a little bit of the old fairgrounds racetrack in Chilton, but it’s bigger. They’ve also made some improvements to the shape of the track and the racing surface over the past year.

“The 360 Sprint Cars will follow MSA engine and car rules,” Miller said. “The A Mods and B Mods are following the Gravity Park rules.”

Spectators will be permitting to attend with no attendance restrictions anticipated. Admission is $20 for adults, ages 11-17 will be admitted for $10 and ages 10 and under will be free with a paying adult. Pit passes are $30.

“There are no formal COVID-19 restrictions in place that we are aware of at this time,” Miller said. “However, we will adhere to any restrictions on crowd size if they are communicated to us, and we are encouraging the standard safety protocols, including social distancing, face masks, keeping to your own pit area or with your family if you’re in the grandstand.”

Miller is hopeful that the event will run smoothly, which could lead to a return appearance or two for the 360 Sprint Cars at Gravity Park Speedway.

“I’m hoping for a good night of racing,” Miller said. “I want all the drivers fans and crews to be able to enjoy what we love to do. I would like to have an efficient, safe night at the track. If it works, I’d like to get the Sprint Cars back there a few more times.

“We will be running a progressive show and drawing numbers to determine heat race lineups,” he said. “We will transfer a certain number of cars from each heat with the top two from each heat race going to a redraw. We will start 20 cars in the A Mains in all divisions.”

Miller is eager to get the 2020 racing season going and has been pleased with the support he has received so far.

“The response so far has been positive,” Miller said. “There are some skeptics, but I think that’s to be expected. We ask that everyone be respectful of each other’s space and try and enjoy a night at the racetrack. We are actively looking for sponsors. We would like to help advertise those businesses trying to get back on their feet as we know times are tough.

“I would like to thank Bob Schneider and the Gravity Park Speedway staff, Dan Teunissen, Paul Pokorski and Andrew Shuffelbotham for helping to put this event together,” he said.

Gates open at 1 p.m. with the pill draw for heat race starting positions from 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., drivers meeting at 4:45 p.m., warm-ups at 5 p.m. and racing at 6 p.m.

For more information on sponsoring the Quarantine 30, contact Adam Miller at 920-889-2484 or milleradam24@gmail.com.

May 18, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

Mulch Express of Wisconsin preps for 2020 landscaping season

(NEWTON, WI) May 1, 2020 – Since opening its doors in 2000, Mulch Express of Wisconsin has strived to set the standard as a top-quality provider of mulch, bark, chip and soil blowing services over the past 20 years.

Mulch Express of Wisconsin specializes in wood chip mulch spreading on playgrounds as depicted at Magee Elementary School in Two Rivers, Wis. – Mulch Express of Wisconsin photo

Formed out of the desire to control the cost and efficiency of installing mulch, bark, soil and playground chips, the Newton-based landscaping company has found its niche as the to-go mulching provider for municipalities, school districts, commercial businesses and residences throughout Northeastern Wisconsin.

“When we set out to start Mulch Express of Wisconsin, our goal was to reduce the cost of the mulching process and make it more efficient to install,” said Jenson Wetenkamp of Mulch Express of Wisconsin. “We offer pneumatic installation of mulch, bark and soil products to our commercial, residential and institutional customers in our service area.”

As the 2020 landscaping season fires up in the coming weeks, Wetenkamp is looking forward to bringing its state-of-the-art mulch and bark installation services to its vast array of customers.

“Our season starts when the snow melts and the weather provides us with the opportunity to get out and provide our services,” Wetenkamp said. “Generally, this occurs in late April or early May. Our season typically runs until the snow flies again.”

Mulch Express of Wisconsin is gearing up for the 2020 landscaping season. – Mulch Express of Wisconsin photo

Wetenkamp says the expansive spreading capabilities of its top-of-the-line blower truck gives Mulch Express of Wisconsin a leg up in tackling even the most challenging mulch, bark, chip and soil landscaping projects.

“We provide a more efficient and cheaper service to the customer,” Wetenkamp said. “We do this my using less men and wheelbarrows and relying more on the high-tech landscaping machines we have available to us.

“Whether it is mulch, bark, playground chips, soil mixes, seeding or light stones and aggregates, our blower truck can install 30-plus cubic yards an hour compared to a person with a wheelbarrow, who is only capable of doing one cubic yard an hour,” he said.

As the outdoor landscaping season kicks into high gear in the coming weeks, Mulch Express of Wisconsin is well prepared to take on projects of all shapes and sizes throughout Northeastern Wisconsin.

“The best way to contact Mulch Express of Wisconsin is to give us a call at 920-726-4840,” Wetenkamp said. “After that, we can determine the needs for any particular job, big or small and provide a quote.”

To contact or obtain additional information on Mulch Express of Wisconsin, send an email to mulchexpressofwi@gmail.com or visit Mulch Express of Wisconsin on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

May 1, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

Love INC of Sheboygan County Fifth Anniversary Spring/Summer 2020 newsletter

Click the link below to read the fifth anniversary Love INC of Sheboygan County Spring/Summer 2020 newsletter.

LOVE Inc Fifth Anniversary Newsletter Spring Summer 2020 Edition_1-4

April 14, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

Pokorski gears up for swan song season as owner/driver

Paul Pokorski will split time in the seat of his familiar blue No. 4 360 Sprint Car with his son Alex during the 2020 Midwest Sprint Car Association season. – RC Custom Design photo

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) March 10, 2020 – For the first time in his career, veteran open-wheel competitor Paul Pokorski is set to share driving duties behind the wheel of the familiar blue No. 4 Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car during the upcoming 2020 season.

During his 28^th season of competition, Pokorski will split seat time with his 21-year-old son Alex as he prepares to bring the curtain down on his long and successful tenure as an owner-driver at the conclusion of the 2020 season.

“Alex and I will split the season between us,” Pokorski said. “Together, we will race about 90 to 95 percent of the MSA schedule. We will miss a few weeks for family commitments. Since Alex is in college, and because I still want to race, I will start the season off. It will give me a chance to make sure things are in order before he gets in the car. Alex will drive most of June, July and August. I’ll drive any races that conflict with his summer work schedule. I plan to run the last four or five races of the season.”

During the 2019 campaign, the West Bend competitor put together a pair of solid top-10 finishes in the Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car point standings.

In all, Pokorski recorded four top-five finishes and 12 top-10 A-main showings to go along with two heat race wins and one B-main triumph in 26 events during the 2019 season. Pokorski wound up fifth in the final MSA point standings and ninth in the PDTR 360 Sprint Car point standings.

Entering what looks to be a year of transition, Pokorski has mixed emotions about his new role with the Pokorski Motorsports team.

“I hope everyone has fun and takes time to soak it all in this season,” Pokorski said. “Unfortunately, I am not a very good fan/crew member. I have trouble watching my kids compete in anything for a couple reasons. As a father, I really want Alex to do well and be happy with the results. As a car owner, I don’t want to fix wrecks. Not wanting to rush to fix things is probably why I have been a little more conservative myself in the driver’s seat over the last few years.”

Pokorski, who has a total of 45 career Winged Super Modified and 360 Sprint Car A-main victories to his credit, says off-season preparations have put the team in a position to be successful when it hits the track in 2020.

“We did the usual off-season updates,” Pokorski said. “The chassis and shocks went to R&H Racing to get the imperfections made as good as new. The rear ends went to Kurt Gunderson at Competition Driveline. The steering gear went out to be gone through and so on. We don’t have anything really new. I have been pretty happy with what we have and the people we work with.”

While he admits the drive to wheel a race car still burns bright, Pokorski says it is time to step back a bit from the full-time owner-driver role he has lived for the past 27 years.

“I’m not ready to quit driving,” Pokorski said. “It’s just a matter of life circumstances and wanting to give my son an opportunity while we can. If opportunities to drive for someone arise, I’ll certainly consider them. If I can’t drive, I’ll try to stay involved in some way. I believe in fate I guess, so I am keeping myself open to whatever opportunities arise and feel right.”

Pokorski will be behind the wheel when the MSA opens is 2020 campaign at the Beaver Dam Raceway on Saturday, April 18.

“I’m looking forward to starting off the season at the MSA opener at Beaver Dam Raceway on April 18^th,” Pokorski said. “I’ll be in the car that night. We have had some very good results there and some disappointing ones. In 2014. we won the season opener there over Scotty Nietzel and that started our run to the MSA Master Series championship that year. If we win the opener this year, I may have to come up with a plan B and change the plans for the rest of the season!”

Although the exact driver rotation has yet to be determined, there are a few tracks and events where fans are certain to see the elder Pokorski in the driver’s seat during the 2020 season.

“I will be in the seat at the Dodge County Fairgrounds MSA events,” Pokorski said. “I have learned to like the track and won’t put my son out there as a rookie. I’ll will also drive at Outagamie Speedway in Seymour on June 19 for the Hagar Nelson Memorial. I want to be part of honoring our late friend Dave ‘Hagar’ Nelson, while also saying ‘thank you’ to the staff at Outagamie Speedway Powered by EWSC who are doing a great job with that facility and keeping EWSC viable and contributing to area racing. In addition, I’ll be in the car for the first Angel Park event and the last few nights of the season at Plymouth.”

Pokorski, who is a three-time Eastern Wisconsin Stock Car Winged Super Modified champion, says most of the team’s sponsors will be back on board for the 2020 campaign.

“We have great sponsors,” Pokorski said. “Most have been with us for multiple years. Goeden’s Auto Body is taking care of the light blue paint. Quest Engineering, Lakeshore Family Funeral Services, Cawley Company, Novak’s Auto Service and Acme Armature are all back. Tisler Auto Salvage of Kellnersville, Al Knepprath and Kettle Moraine Landscaping will be with us and Hopf Farms is on board for another year. Dave Petersen and Petersen Septic Services is also back. Of course, Jeff Pederson and Pedal Down Promotions will be with us documenting the whole ride.”

Sponsors for the 2020 Pokorski Motorsports team are Hopf Farms, Petersen Septic Systems, Quest Engineering Inc., Acme Armature Works Inc., Goeden’s Auto Body, Goodwin Racing Engines, Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Kettle Moraine Landscaping, Novak’s Service Center, Pedal Down Promotions, Tisler Salvage Inc., Allied Bearing Corporation and The Cawley Company.

For more information on Pokorski Motorsports, check out Pokorski Motorsports on Facebook or visit www.pedaldownpromo.com.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

2019 Pokorski Motorsports By The Numbers

Total Events – 26

MSA events – 25

IRA events – 1

A Main Victories – 0

B Main Victories – 1

Top Five A Main Finishes – 4

Top 10 A Main Finishes – 12

Heat Race Victories – 2

March 10, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

Rogler releases debut fantasy novel ‘Heart of Light’

Robert L. Rogler’s first fantasy novel “Heart of Light-Book One Madea’s Fate is now available at Amazon.com, Barnes&Noble.com and directly from Rogler at rogler50@yahoo.com

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) March 2, 2020 – With the eternal battle between good and evil forging the foundation of a lushly depicted fantasy adventure narrative, Bob Rogler’s newly released first novel “Heart of Light Book One-Madea’s Fate” sets the tone for what’s to come in the highly anticipated “Madea’s Fate” trilogy.

Published by Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wis, Rogler’s debut novel draws on his close connection to family themes and the intriguingly thrilling nature of the fantasy adventure genre.

“I wanted to write an adventure fantasy with one of the main characters being my daughter, Gabrielle, who rides a giant chicken,” Rogler said. “Good versus evil is the main concept. A group of heroes must overcome countless obstacles to save the life of a child. Family is promoted as the core value throughout the novel.”

While “Heart of Light” is Rogler’s first full-fledged novel, he is certainly no stranger to the art of fantasy storytelling.

“I’ve been writing in the fantasy genre for a little over five years now,” Rogler said. “I’m a contributing author in the fantasy anthology ‘Fireflies and Fairy Dust.’ I have two fairytales in the anthology ‘Tamilee and Trulia’ and ‘The Bellflower.’

“‘Heart of Light’ is book one in the Madea’s Fate trilogy,” he said. “Book two in the trilogy will be released in spring of 2021 titled ‘Witch’s Valley.’”

Robert. L. Rogler recently released his first fantasy novel “Heart of Light-Book One Madea’s Fate.”

With his daughter, Gabrielle, serving as the main inspiration for the story’s main character, Rogler wrote “Heart of Light Book One-Madea’s Fate” with a young adult audience in mind.

“The book was written for young adults,” Rogler said. “Yet, it will appeal to anyone who enjoys fantasy. I believe the audience will enjoy the diversity of heroes and villains throughout the book. There is action and adventure from start to finish.”

“The story narrative is written in third person,” he said. “I tried to set a mood to create tension and interest, which moves the story forward. I want the reader to imagine the scenes. To see the color, smell the fragrance of flowers. To feel the sunshine on their face or the rain falling down. There are scenes that are emotionally charged where the reader can feel the elation or sadness the characters experience.”

Along with the next two books in the “Madea’s Fate’ trilogy on the docket in the coming years, Rogler will also release an adult fantasy novel “Rendered Soul” later in 2020.

“I have spent a lot of time writing these books over the past few years and I am eager to release it all for people to enjoy,” Rogler said. “I firmly believe there is an audience for all of these books and I can’t wait to introduce these stories and characters to those that love reading fantasy adventure novels.”

Rogler, who is the head custodian at Manitowoc Lincoln High School in Manitowoc, Wis, is a resident of School Hill, Wis. where he lives with his wife, Jennifer, son, Logan and daughter, Gabrielle.

“Heart of Light Book One-Madea’s Fate” is now available for purchase for $20 at Amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com or by contacting Bob Rogler directly at rogler50@yahoo.com.

Additional retail outlets where “Heart of Light Book One-Madea’s Fate” can be purchased, along with book signings and appearances will be announced soon on the Heart of Light Facebook page, as well as the Pedal Down Promotions website, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram social media pages in the near future.

Readers are encouraged to write a review of “Heart of Light-Book One Madea’s Fate” on Amazon.com and Goodreads.

For more information, contact Pedal Down Promotions via email at pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, by phone at 920-323-7970 or by visiting www.pedaldownpromo.com.

March 1, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

Walter unveils diverse 2020 schedule, preps for brat fry

Josh Walter has announced his 2020 410 Sprint Car racing schedule, which will see his Torque Racing compete in 11 events near his Plymouth, Wisconsin home, along with trips to some of Sprint Car racing’s most prestigious tracks, including Eldora Speedway in Ohio, Williams Grove Speedway and Port Royal Speedway in Pennsylvania and Knoxville Raceway in Iowa. – RC Custom Design photo

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) February 6, 2020 – Coming off one of the most successful seasons of his 14-year racing career while splitting time between the 360 and 410 Sprint Car ranks in 2019, Josh Walter is set to up the ante in a big way during the upcoming 2020 campaign.

For his 15^th season of competition, Walter has unveiled a highly ambitious 2020 schedule, which will see his Torque Racing team venture to storied 410 Sprint Car racing venues in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Iowa, while mixing in 11 events at familiar tracks near his Plymouth, Wis. home.

Walter will kick off his 2020 season with a Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association event at Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam, Wis. on Saturday, April 18 before traveling to Knoxville Raceway in Knoxville, Iowa for weekly competition on Saturday, April 25, which could potentially serve as a tune up for the team’s tentatively planned return to Winged 410 Sprint Car racing’s biggest event – the Knoxville Nationals Aug. 12-15.

In addition to two possible trips to the Knoxville Raceway, Walter will make his first-ever appearance at Eldora Speedway in Rossburg, Ohio with the NOS Energy Drink World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9.

The Torque Racing team is also planning to make its debut with the famed Pennsylvania Posse, during weekly events at Williams Grove Speedway in Mechanicsburg, Pa. on Friday, June 5 and Port Royal Speedway in Port Royal, Pa. on Saturday, June 6.

“Our schedule for the 2020 season is based off my bucket list,” Walter said. “I don’t know how much longer my racing career will continue, so we’re going to as many high-profile tracks and events as possible that I’ve dreamt about competing at.”

Staying true to its Wisconsin roots, Walter and Torque Racing will appear in a total of nine Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association-sanctioned events, including a co-sanctioned event with the Ollie’s Bargain Outlet All Star Circuit of Champions at the Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, May 30. Walter will also compete with the IRA at his hometown Plymouth track on Saturday, Aug. 1, Saturday, Sept. 5 and Saturday, Sept. 26.

The team’s remaining IRA schedule includes three events at 141 Speedway in Francis Creek, Wis. on Sunday, May 24, Sunday, July 5 and Sunday, Sept. 6, along with a tentatively planned event at Outagamie Speedway in Seymour, Wis. on Friday, May 1.

Other high-profile events on the Torque Racing team’s 2020 schedule include NOS Energy Drink World of Outlaws Sprint Cars Series events at Beaver Dam Raceway on Saturday, June 20 and at Wilmot Raceway in Wilmot, Wis. on Saturday, July 11.

“We are hoping to have a lot of fun this year going to some big races out of the area, while also competing at some of the local and area tracks that we enjoy,” Walter said. “The Knoxville Nationals is something we would like to do, but it is highly tentative at this point. The IRA race at Outagamie Speedway is also very tentative.

“The rest of our schedule is also subject to change based on how things go during the season,” he said. “The best way to keep up with schedule changes is to follow the Torque Racing Facebook page and the Josh Walter Twitter page.”

After originally intending to run the complete Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car schedule in 2019, Walter ended up splitting his time between the MSA 360 division and the Bumper to Bumper IRA 410 Sprint Car Series last year.

Walter notched a pair of A-main victories, four top-five and seven top-10 A-main finishes to go along with three heat race victories and one B-main triumph in 14 MSA 360 Sprint Car events.

In late July, Walter and the Torque Racing team turned their attention to the IRA 410 Sprint Car ranks, making six 410 starts during the second half of the 2019 campaign with one top-10 A-main showing and one heat race victory to the team’s credit.

“In our preparation for the 2020 season, we’ve made some car updates and upgraded the car with some new components,” Walter said. “We are aiming to be competitive in the events we have on our schedule.”

Before the team hits the track in 2020, it will stage its annual preseason brat fry fundraiser on Saturday, Feb. 29 starting at 10 a.m. at Plymouth Tap, located at 101 East Mill St. in Plymouth.

“Our 2020 car will be on display and we will have all-day raffles and walk-around raffles too,” Walter said. “We will be serving brats, burgers and beverages all day as well. Torque Racing and Plymouth Tap will also be hosting our second annual Bar Olympics on that day. It was a great time last year and it should be a lot of fun again this year.”

The Bar Olympics competition, which runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., will feature two-person teams in a round-robin format, including four pool games, four 501 dart games, four corn hole games, four foosball games and one team bye per round. The Bar Olympics competition will be limited to 17 teams with 100-percent payout. The first-place team receives $300, second place gets $150 and third place will earn $60.

Teams can sign up in advance for the Bar Olympics at Plymouth Tap now through 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 29. The entry fee is $30 per two-person team.

Walter is currently seeking additional sponsors to help support the team during the upcoming 2020 campaign.

‘We are always looking to expand our racing family and if anyone is interested in being part of the Torque Racing team, they can contact me directly by email at sprint.racer12w@gmail.com,” Walter said. “We can set up an appointment to meet. I prefer to make our partnerships as personal as possible.

“We are still working on clinching some returning sponsors, as well as talking with some new ones for the 2020 season,” he said.

Torque Racing sponsors for the 2019 season included JDV Lawncare, Brittany’s School of Dance, Sheboygan by Owner, Plymouth Tap, Doug’s Quality Beef, Tiffany’s Wildtree, Cow Pies, Full Throttle Ink, Lakehouse Bar & Grill, Home Transitions, Oostburg Concrete, Kombucha Brothers, Platinum Restoration Services, Ruh Custom Woodworking, RC Custom Design and Pedal Down Promotions.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

2020 Josh Walter-Torque Racing Schedule

Saturday, April 18 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (IRA)

Saturday, April 25 – Knoxville Raceway, Knoxville, Iowa (weekly)

Friday, May 1 – Outagamie Speedway, Seymour, Wis. (IRA-TENTATIVE)

Friday, May 8 – Eldora Speedway, Rossburg, Ohio (World of Outlaws)

Saturday, May 9 – Eldora Speedway, Rossburg, Ohio (World of Outlaws)

Sunday, May 24 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA)

Saturday, May 30 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (All Stars/IRA)

Friday, June 5 – Williams Grove Speedway, Mechanicsburg, Pa. (weekly)

Saturday, June 6 – Port Royal Speedway, Port Royal, Pa. (weekly)

Saturday, June 20 – Beaver Dam Raceway, Beaver Dam, Wis. (World of Outlaws)

Sunday, July 5 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA)

Saturday, July 11 – Wilmot Raceway, Wilmot, Wis. (World of Outlaws)

Saturday, Aug. 1 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)

Wednesday, Aug. 12 or Thursday, Aug. 13 – Knoxville Raceway, Knoxville, IA (Knoxville Nationals-TENTATIVE)

Friday, Aug. 14 – Knoxville Raceway, Knoxville, IA (Knoxville Nationals-TENTATIVE)

Saturday, Aug. 15 – Knoxville Raceway, Knoxville, IA (Knoxville Nationals-TENTATIVE)

Saturday, Sept. 5 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)

Sunday, Sept. 6 – 141 Speedway, Francis Creek, Wis. (IRA)

Saturday, Sept. 26 – Plymouth Dirt Track, Plymouth, Wis. (IRA)

2019 Josh Walter-Torque Racing By The Numbers

Total Events – 21

MSA events – 14

IRA events – 7

A-Main Victories – 2

B-Main Victories – 1

Top Five A-Main Finishes – 4

Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 8

Heat Race Victories – 4

February 6, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

‘Racing in the 906’ 2020 book signing dates released

Verdegan’s latest book tour includes four Michigan and one Wisconsin signing

(Dunbar, WI) January 19 – Motorsports author Joe Verdegan has announced a five-date 2020 book tour to promote his newest book “Racing In The 906,” published by Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wis.

The book covers the stock car racing history in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula from the 1950s up to 2019.

The five-date tour includes four venues in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and one date kicking off the tour at the Luxemburg Racing Show at the Kewaunee County Fairgrounds Saturday, Feb. 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

From there, the tour heads north to Escanaba, Michigan for the U.P. Sport and Rec Show at the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba March 20-22.

The next three signings will be at racetracks that are featured extensively in the “906” book. A signing at the Norway Speedway car show and practice is slated at the Dickinson County Fairgrounds Saturday, May 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. CST. A practice session for race teams will follow the car show and will be free to the race fans.

The final two signings will be held in conjunction with a pair of racetrack’s season openers. Upper Peninsula International Raceway (UPIR) will host a signing Sunday, May 31 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. EST prior to the 2020 season opener at the quarter-mile, clay oval located at the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba.

The final leg of the book signing tour will head north the Marquette region at Sands Speedway’s 2020 season opener race Sunday, June 7 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. CST in Sands.

For fans who are unable to attend either of the signings, copies of “Racing In The 906” can be purchased at the following locations.

In Michigan – Carquest in Norway, Stateline Apparel in Menominee, Iverson’s Home Center in Gladstone and Riverside Chevrolet in Escanaba. In Wisconsin – Pembine Pawn & Gun in Pembine, Bosse’s News Depot in Green Bay, Muenster’s Shell in Green Bay, Book Stop in Green Bay and Bay Speed Center in De Pere.

Online books can be purchased at Amazon.com or BarnesandNoble.com.

To learn more about these signings, contact Joe Verdegan by email at jverdegan2@gmail.com.

2020 “Racing in the 906” Book Tour

Sat Feb. 8 – Luxemburg Racing Show Luxemburg, Wis., 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. CST

March 20-22 – U.P. Sport & Rec Show Escanaba, Mich., 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST

Sat. May 16 – Norway Speedway Car Show Norway, Mich., 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. CST

Sun. May 31 – Upper Peninsula International Raceway, Escanaba, Mich., 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. EST

Sun. June 7 – Sands Speedway Marquette, Mich., 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. EST

January 19, 2020 / by Jeff Pederson

Walter reflects on eventful 2019 campaign

One of the highlights of the 2019 season for Josh Walter and the Torque Racing team was a victory in the Remembering Randy Tracy Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car A-main at The Plymouth Dirt Track at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, July 13. – RC Custom Design photo

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) December 4, 2019 – Highlighted by a pair of main event victories, the 2019 racing season was packed with a host of twists and turns for Josh Walter and members of the Torque Racing Winged Sprint Car team.

Through the ups and downs, the 14^th-year Sprint Car racer and his dedicated Plymouth, Wis.-based pit crew enjoyed several strong runs in both the 360 and 410 ranks, while running a reduced schedule of events over the second half of the season.

Walter notched a pair of A-main victories, four top-five and seven top-10 A-main finishes to go along with three heat race victories and one B-main triumph in 14 MSA 360 Sprint Car events.

Walter finished 22^nd in the PDTR 360 Sprint Car point standings, 24^th in the final MSA 360 Sprint Car point standings and 28^th in the IRA 410 Sprint Car Series point standings as the team competed in a total of 21 events during the 2019 season.

“The season was really a roller coaster,” Walter said. “It started out great, then took a turn for the worst with several weeks of DNFs. We were then given the opportunity to rent a 410 engine. With several people interested in our 360 engine, we decided to sell it and buy the 410 permanently since we were having more fun in the 410 division.

“The highlights of the season were the two feature wins and a handful of top-10 finishes in the 410, along with getting a 410 heat race win at Angell Park Speedway,” he said.

Walter opened the 2019 campaign by competing with the IRA 410 Sprint Car Series at the Beaver Dam Raceway on April 20 with a MSA 360 power plant under the hood. Despite being down on horsepower against the IRA regulars, Walter ran in the top-10 during much of the 30-lap Jim Wipperfurth Memorial A main before posting a respectable 11^th-place showing.

With 39 Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Cars signed in for the PDTR opener at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth on May 4, Walter was involved in a pair of heat race incidents and was forced to run the B main. After winning the B main, Walter started 16^th in the A-main field before pulling off with a rear-end part failure just past the half-way point of the A main to post a 14^th-place showing.

The following week proved to be much better for Walter has he pulled of a clean sweep by winning his heat race and the 25-lap PDTR 360 Sprint Car A main at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Saturday, May 11. Walter started on the pole in both races and survived a heated duel with Travis Arenz en route to victory in the A-main event.

On Saturday, May 25, Walter earned a heat race victory and a sixth-place showing in the 25-lap PDTR 360 Sprint Car A main before posting a fourth-place finish in PDTR 360 Sprint A-main competition on Saturday, June 1.

On Sunday, June 2 the Torque Racing team ventured to Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, where Walter saw his three-race top-10 A-main finish streak come to an end with a 15^th-place A-main showing after contact with an infield tire forced him to restart at the rear of the field at the halfway point of the race.

Walter returned to The Plymouth Dirt Track on Saturday, June 8 where he was involved in a hard flip during heat race action. The Torque Racing team made quick repairs and got Walter back out for the B main, but he was unable to earn a transfer spot and failed to make the A main for the first time during the 2019 season.

Walter bounced back on Saturday, June 15 at The Plymouth Dirt Track to record a solid 10^th-place A-main finish in PDTR 360 Sprint Car A-main action. On Friday, June 21, Walter placed 11^th in an MSA event at SK Speedway in Unity before posting a sixth-place finish at The Plymouth Dirt Track on June 22.

The Russ Scheffler Memorial Night racing program at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Friday, June 28 drew a season-high 40 PDTR 360 Sprint Cars and resulted in Walter missing out on an A-main transfer spot for the second time in 2019, following a fifth-place finish in the B main.

After the June 28, Walter announced that he would no longer pursue 100-percent participation in the MSA schedule and would run select 360 races for the remainder of the 2019 season.

The low point of Walter’s 2019 campaign followed on Wednesday, July 3 at the Dodge County Fairgrounds in Beaver Dam as Walter was involved in a hard accident in turn two of the sprawling half-mile track during the MSA A main, which seriously damaged his primary car and relegated him to a 19^th-place finish.

After skipping an MSA event at TNT Speedway in Three Lakes on July 6 while putting together the team’s back-up car, Walter returned to MSA action at Outagamie Speedway Powered by EWSC Racing in Seymour on Friday, July 12, where he posted a fifth-place A-main finish.

The following night proved to be the highlight of Walter’s 2019 as he fended off a late charge from Travis Arenz to claim his sixth career MSA A-main victory in the Remembering Randy Tracy Mid-Season Championship 30-lap headliner at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Saturday, July 13.

After a weekend off, Walter finished 17^th in his final MSA/PDTR 360 Sprint Car appearance of the 2019 season on Thursday, July 25 at The Plymouth Dirt Track during the All Star Circuit of Champions special appearance at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds.

Weary from the grind of the MSA and PDTR 360 Sprint Car schedule, coupled with the strain of extra work put in to assemble a backup car following two significant accidents with the team’s primary machine during the first half of the season, Walter and his crew elected to change things up and bolt in a 410 motor for the remaining six races of the 2019 season.

The team’s first 410 event of the 2019 campaign came at Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie on Sunday, July 28 where Walter placed a solid 10^th in an IRA 410 Sprint Car Series A main.

“When we made the change to the 410 in late July, it resulted in less pressure on myself and my crew,” Walter said. “We just had more fun in the 410.”

After two weeks away from the racetrack, Walter and the Torque Racing team returned to action during Cornfest at the Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie on Sunday, Aug. 18. Following his first IRA heat race victory of the season, Walter came home 12^th in the A main.

Josh Walter split his time between the 360 and 410 Winged Sprint Car ranks during the 2019 season, tallying a total of two A-main victories and eight top-10 main event finishes in 21 races. Walter is pictured in his Torque Racing 410 Sprint Car at Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie. – Casey Bollig photo

Walter tallied an 11^th-place finish with the IRA at Beaver Dam Raceway on Saturday, Aug. 24 and followed that up with a 14^th-place showing with the IRA during the Sheboygan County Fair at The Plymouth Dirt Track on Saturday, Sept. 1. On Saturday, Sept. 14, Walter placed 13^th in IRA A-main action at Beaver Dam Raceway.

Walter closed out the 2019 campaign with an IRA event at The Plymouth Dirt Track at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Sept. 28. After starting 17^th, Walter ran as high as 14^th before he flipped his 12W machine along the treacherous cushion in turn four following a late-race restart on lap 29. Walter was scored 19^th in the event.

“We had some really good runs with the 410,” Walter said. “That’s the great thing with the new 410 engine. It’s a much more competitive engine than I had previously during the three years I ran a 410 Sprint Car from 2015 through 2017. This engine has a lot more power.”

Looking ahead to the 2020 season, Walter says the Torque Racing team will stay with the 410 motor and run a pick-and-choose type of schedule with some long-distance trips mixed in with a selection of local events.

“We plan on doing anywhere from 12 to 18 410 races next year,” Walter said. “We’re going to concentrate primarily on tracks that I’ve always wanted to race at like I-55 Speedway in Pevely, Missouri, Eldora in Ohio, Knoxville in Iowa, Port Royal and Williams Grove in Pennsylvania. In addition, we will do some local races at tracks such as Plymouth, 141 Speedway, Beaver Dam, and possibly some shows at Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie.

“We don’t plan to make any big changes to the car this winter, mostly just upgrading some components,” he said. “We are going to race our Triple X chassis again next year.”

As he prepares to enter into his 15^th season behind the wheel of a Winged Sprint Car, Walter is very appreciative of the support he has received along the way.

“I would like to thank everyone involved in our race program in 2019 and the past 14 years,” Walter said. “It’s been a wonderful experience and the support has been overwhelming.”

As the Torque Racing team plans a diverse schedule of 410 events for the 2020 season, Walter is currently seeking additional sponsors to help support the team during the upcoming campaign.

Torque Racing sponsors for the 2019 season include JDV Lawncare, Brittany’s School of Dance, Sheboygan by Owner, Plymouth Tap, Doug’s Quality Beef, Tiffany’s Wildtree, Cow Pies, Full Throttle Ink, Lakehouse Bar & Grill, Home Transitions, Oostburg Concrete, Kombucha Brothers, Platinum Restoration Services, Ruh Custom Woodworking, RC Custom Design and Pedal Down Promotions.

Torque Racing Sponsor Showcase – Platinum Restoration Services

Josh Walter and the Torque Racing team is pleased to have Platinum Restoration Services, located at 5225 West Electric Ave. in West Allis, Wis., on board as a sponsor for the 2019 season.

Platinum Restoration Services began 10 years ago as a one-man operation founded by owner Jeremy Roth. Over time, the business grew and it built a reputation for high-quality service and careful attention to detail.

“Our services are in such high demand that we have three trucks/crews going now,” Roth said. “From its humble beginnings, the company has grown to expand the services to all of Southeastern Wisconsin with another office in West Allis/Milwaukee. This growth was a natural part of the company’s evolution and the reflects the focus we’ve always placed on people and relationships.”

Platinum Restoration Services offers a wide array of services including carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, synthetic and oriental rug cleaning, air duct cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, water damage restoration, mold remediation, fire and smoke damage restoration and power washing.

Roth says the foundation of the business is centered around a dedication to top-notch customer service and high-quality restoration work.

“At Platinum Restoration Services, each member of our staff is an expert in his or her field-whether handling customer service or restoring a disaster in your home,” Roth said. “All of our people are fully-trained professionals, who have worked hard to make our company what it is today. We believe in forgoing ongoing relationships through quality workmanship and outstanding customer service.

As a race fan, Roth is thrilled to be involved with Josh Walter the Torque Racing team.

“I grew up in Plymouth and been going to the dirt track races in Plymouth for almost 20 years now,” Roth said. “I’ve always had a huge passion for racing. I started out going to drag races, radar runs, snowmobile races, jet ski racing and mountain bike racing. I took some time off to grow my business, but now I’m getting more involved with racing again. I wanted to sponsor Torque Racing because Josh has been a longtime friend and wanted to support his passion for racing.”

To contact Platinum Restoration Services, call 262-228-6166. For more information, visit www.platinumrestorationservice.com.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

2019 Josh Walter-Torque Racing By The Numbers

Total Events – 21

MSA events – 14

IRA events – 7

A-Main Victories – 2

B-Main Victories – 1

Top Five A-Main Finishes – 4

Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 8

Heat Race Victories – 4

December 4, 2019 / by Jeff Pederson

Love INC of Sheboygan County Fall/Winter 2019 newsletter

Click the link below to read the Love INC of Sheboygan County Fall/Winter 2019 newsletter designed by Pedal Down Promotions.

LOVE Inc Newsletter Fall Winter 2019_1-4

November 22, 2019 / by Jeff Pederson

MSA honors top performers at 2019 banquet

Kurt Davis of South Milwaukee was recognized for earning his fifth-career Midwest Sprint Car Association series championship at the 2019 Midwest Sprint Car Association Awards Banquet at The Columbian in West Bend on Saturday, Nov. 9. Also pictured are award presenters Taylor Miller and Rebecca Haddy. -RC Custom Design photo

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) November 10, 2019 – It was a night of reflection, celebration, recognition and a bit of good-natured frivolity as the Midwest Sprint Car Association capped off one of the most successful seasons in its 20-year history at its 2019 awards banquet Saturday, Nov. 9, at The Columbian in West Bend.

The event drew 166 attendees, who gathered to honor 2019 MSA champion Kurt Davis of South Milwaukee, along with 18 other point fund-eligible drivers, who competed in at least 85 percent of the 25-race 2019 schedule.

MSA President Tim Haddy opened the evening’s festivities by providing an overview of the record-setting 2019 MSA campaign.

“It was a really special season for the MSA,” Haddy said. “Goals were achieved, first-time winners visited victory lane, exciting racing was a common occurrence and we saw rookies and veterans battling for positions in every race throughout the season. Every night at the track provided excitement. As we look ahead, we are hoping the 2020 season will be just as exciting.”

MSA Vice President Paul Pokorski served as the master of ceremonies during the program. Pokorski announced that Justin Miller, Paul Pokorski and Sheila Leamer had been re-elected to positions on the MSA Board of Directors and that American Racer Tires had been selected as the MSA’s official tire over the next three years.

Brandon Berth of Cascade collected the Rookie of the Year Award from Taylor Miller and Rebecca Haddy, during the 2019 Midwest Sprint Car Association Awards Banquet at The Columbian in West Bend on Saturday, Nov. 9. -RC Custom Design photo

Pokorski also pointed to the remarkable car counts the MSA enjoyed throughout the 2019 season.

“We had 43 member drivers compete with us in 2019,” Pokorski said. “Twelve of those 43 drivers competed in 100 percent of the races and 19 of the 43 took park in 85 percent of the 25 events. The MSA had an average car count of 33 for the 2019 season with a high of 40, which we hit twice during the year. Our rookie contingent was outstanding as well with 10 rookies running regularly with MSA throughout the season.”

The 12 drivers competing in all 25 MSA races in 2019 were recognized, including Kurt Davis (first), Travis Arenz (second), Justin Miller (third), Will Gerrits (fourth), Paul Pokorski (fifth), Adam Miller (sixth), Tim Haddy (seventh), Tony Wondra (eighth), Tyler Brabant (11th), Brandon Berth (13th), Jack Vanderboom (16th) and Blake Wondra (26th).

Also honored were the MSA drivers earning 85 percent participation during the 2019 campaign, including Lance Fassbender (ninth, 23 races), Shane Wenninger (10th, 22 races), Danny Schlafer (12th, 23 races), Bill Taylor (18th, 23 races), Tyler Davis (19th, 23 races), Josh Teunissen (21st, 22 races) and Justin Erickson (23rd, 21 races).

Other MSA member drivers in attendance, but not achieving 85 percent participation were Tyler Nelson, Ben Schmidt, Tyler Tischendorf, Doug Wondra and Dick Kaiser.

Pokorski also acknowledged those behind the scenes and all other supporters, who have contributed to the success of the MSA.

Justin Miller of Plymouth collected the Hard Charger Award from Taylor Miller and Rebecca Haddy, during the 2019 Midwest Sprint Car Association Awards Banquet at The Columbian in West Bend on Saturday, Nov. 9. -RC Custom Design photo

“We need to thank all of our sponsors, fans and the tracks that have supporters the MSA so well,” Pokorski said. “We built up a nice base of seven tracks in 2019 and we are looking to put together a similar schedule in 2020. Tracks are interested in having us back, which is a great thing for us as a racing organization.

“Our supporters have helped to lift our 2019 point fund in excess of $27,000,” he said. “That is far more than I can ever remember. In 2016, our point fund-eligible drivers received 17 cents per point and this year they received 40 cents per point, which is a remarkable jump.”

Pokorski then acknowledged 2019 MSA series and event sponsors Bank First National, Badger Contracting, First Choice Dental of Sun Prairie, R&H Enterprises, Randy Sippel of Sippel Racing and Spyder Akright of Akright Auto, as well as the Neitzel family for donating the new MSA official and worker shirts.

Pokorski also gave special recognition to the Neitzel Family for donating the new MSA official and worker shirts.

MSA Competition Driver Scott Bader introduced the 2019 series staff, including officials Fred DeBlaey, John Metzger, Sheila Leamer, flagmen Dave Deicher and Steve Crass, announcers George Baumann and Loren Kelly, photographer, videographer and graphic designer Rob Eisentraut of RC Custom Design and race report writer Jeff Pederson of Pedal Down Promotions.

“It is importance not to forget the people that work behind the scene to make the MSA go,” Bader said. “Every one of them needs to be thanked for helping to make the MSA what it is today.”

Will Gerrits of Waupun picked up the Most Improved Driver Award from Taylor Miller and Rebecca Haddy, during the 2019 Midwest Sprint Car Association Awards Banquet at The Columbian in West Bend on Saturday, Nov. 9. -RC Custom Design photo

Bader closed his comments by stating that the MSA is looking into introducing a safety team that will travel to MSA races.

The first of eight special awards went to Brandon Berth of Cascade, who claimed the 2019 MSA Rookie of the Year Award on the strength of a 13th-place finish in the final point standings with three top-five and six top-10 A-main finishes, as well as two heat race victories in 25 events.

“I always had a dream to race a Sprint Car, which came to fruition this year,” Berth said. “Heading into the season, I had a plan to run for the MSA Rookie of the Year Award and we accomplished that goal thanks to my sponsors, crew and supporters, as well as the McMullen team, Scotty Neitzel and Kurt Davis, who helped a lot with assistance and advice along the way. With all of the good guys we had running for the rookie of the year award, it was really tough. It was a great ride and I can’t wait to see you all again in 2020.”

The Most Improved Driver Award went to Will Gerrits of Waupun, who finished fourth in the MSA point standings, with one A-main victory, six top-five and 19 top-10 A-main finishes to go along with two heat race victories in 25 MSA events.

Travis Arenz of Sheboygan earned the Best Appearing Car and Crew Award from Taylor Miller and Rebecca Haddy at the 2019 Midwest Sprint Car Association Awards Banquet at The Columbian in West Bend on Saturday, Nov. 9. -RC Custom Design photo

Travis Arenz of Sheboygan claimed the Best Appearing Car and Crew Award. The Hard Luck Award went to Tyler Brabant of Waupun and the Hard Charger Award went to Justin Miller of Plymouth, who passed a total of 112 cars during the 2019 MSA season.

Lloyd Dykstra of the NAPA Auto Parts of Waupun racing team of Will Gerrits and Tyler Brabant earned the Harry Neitzel MSA Mechanic of the Year Award.

The Jim Wipperfurth MSA Person of the Year Award went to series photographer, videographer and graphic designer Rob Eisentraut of RC Custom Design.

“I started doing this in 1999 as a hobby,” Eisentraut said. “I started working at Plymouth in 2004 and MSA followed in 2005. It has been very humbling working with all of you. It is really a family affair. I feel honored that you all have allowed us to become part of your family. I’m already looking forward to 2020.”

The final award recipient to take to the podium was 2019 MSA champion Kurt Davis, who initial indicated that he would only be competing on a part-time basis in 2019, while transitioning into semi-retirement from driving.

Tyler Brabant of Waupun earned the Hard Luck Award from Taylor Miller and Rebecca Haddy, during the 2019 Midwest Sprint Car Association Awards Banquet at The Columbian in West Bend on Saturday, Nov. 9. -RC Custom Design photo

However, Davis ended up entering all 25 MSA events in 2019, while posting three A-main victories, 15 top-five and 24 top-10 A-main showings and five heat race wins en route to his fifth MSA title by a 40-point margin over runner-up Travis Arenz, who led the MSA series with six A-main victories in 2019.

“The year turned out to be great,” Davis said. “In 25 races, we had 24 top-10 finishes, which is outstanding. I know I am kind of showboat, but I couldn’t do this without my crew. They are my backbone and support system. It takes people like them to make championship seasons happen.

“I’m not retiring yet,” he said. “I just can’t do it. I don’t think I’ll do the whole thing next year though. My kids, Sydney and Tyler, are really involved in this with me, which is really fun. Tyler won his first heat race in a Sprint Car, which was so exciting for me to watch. With all of the tough competition in the MSA, this was definitely the hardest and most stressful season of all of my championship years. It was really tough. Travis [Arenz] is a good shoe. He may have won more battles, but I won the war. He will do it one day either in a 360 or whatever else he might decide to do.”

MSA 2019 Banquet trophy and award sponsors included Fred DeBlaey, Traylor Automotive, JH Investments, Goeden Auto Body, Pedal Down Promotions, WES Innovations, Butch and Janet Hafemann, Roth Auto, Racer’s Hall, N&S Towing, Kristine Hartmann-Pleasant View Realty, Miller Family Motorsports (In memory of Kevin Miller), Doug’s Auto, Hopf Farms, RC Custom Design, Oak Creek Auto and Cupcake Wonders.

Rob Eisentraut of RC Custom Design picked up the Jim Wipperfurth Person of the Year Award from Sheila Leamer, during the 2019 Midwest Sprint Car Association Awards Banquet at The Columbian in West Bend on Saturday, Nov. 9. -RC Custom Design photo

MSA 2019 contingency product sponsors were R& H Racing Equipment, Buege High Peformance, HRP, American Racer Tires, Boubin Tire, Waldo Oil, Behling, Super Shox, Vortx Finishing Products, PDTR, Richards of Dunbar, Torsion Bar Rating, Twisted 4 Graphics, Afco Shocks, J&J Powder Coating, Super Clean, Lucky Tiger Men Grooming, M&W Radius Rods, KSE, Karavan Trailers, Maxim Chassis, Winter Products, FK Rod Ends, Bell Wilwood, XXX Chassis, Schroeder/PAC, Competition Specialists, J&J Auto Racing, Saldana, AFCO, Pyrotech, DMI, Schoenfield, Hillborn, Lane Automotive, Velocity Wings, MRI-Racing Optics, Allstar Peformance, Corey Oil, Ultrashield, MPD and Race Bumpers.

Tracks on the 2019 MSA schedule included Plymouth Dirt Track in Plymouth, Angell Park Speedway in Sun Prairie, Dodge County Fairgrounds in Beaver Dam, TNT Speedway in Twin Lakes, Outagamie Speedway Powered by EWSC Racing in Seymour, SK Speedway in Unity and Beaver Dam Raceway in Beaver Dam.

The 2019 MSA Board of Directors was comprised of Tim Haddy (president), Paul Pokorski (vice president), Justin Miller, Sheila Leamer (secretary-treasurer), Kurt Davis and Al Schlafer.

Lloyd Dykstra received the Harry Neitzel Mechanic of the Year Award from Taylor Miller, Beth Meyer and Rebecca Haddy, during the 2019 Midwest Sprint Car Association Awards Banquet at The Columbian in West Bend on Saturday, Nov. 9. -RC Custom Design photo

During the offseason, the MSA is set to hold a pair of fundraising events. On Saturday, Feb. 1, 2020, the MSA Cornhole fundraiser will take place at Racer’s Hall in Plymouth. The annual MSA Bowling Tournament and fundraiser is set for Sunday, March 29 at Dan’s Village Bowl in Brownsville.

For more information on the Midwest Sprint Car Association, visit www.msasprints.com.

Pedal Down Promotions is a full-service public relations and media services company devoted to helping clients effectively communicate with targeted audiences through a diverse array of promotional strategies and methods, including press releases, newsletters, profile and feature articles, website and social media content development, printed media, editing and layout, graphic design and book publishing services.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

November 10, 2019 / by Jeff Pederson

Little Chute’s Lueders releases Christian poetry book, schedules appearances

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) November 7, 2019 – Out of a period of troubling circumstances has blossomed a faith-affirming new book of Christian poetry from Little Chute resident Karen Lueders.

Lueders, was born and raised in Kaukauna and lived in Sheboygan for 20 years before moving to Little Chute in 2018 to be closer to family, released her first-ever book in late August titled “To God Be The Glory!”

After enduring a low point in her life in 2010, Lueders found solace in writing poetry starting in 2016 through a deep connection with her Christian faith. Upon accumulating a large volume of inspirational poems, Lueders sought out a way share her work in a book collection with the hope that her words might help others overcome their own daily challenges.

Published by Pedal Down Promotions of Manitowoc, Wis., “To God Be The Glory” features over 100 Christian-themed poems, as well as a section of shorter daily devotional-style poems to close out the 125-page book.

“My intent with publishing the book, was just to have all of my poems in a book instead of written on ‘scratch paper’ somewhere to share with my family,” Lueders said. “God had other plans. Since the book was released in August, I have heard from people who tell me how it has helped them. Whether it is how reading a few poems each night makes them feel more peaceful, or how they use the daily prayers each morning. It is interesting to me, how everyone uses the book differently. It is not a book that is meant to be read in one sitting.

“There are over 100 poems in the book,” she said. “Also, there is a section in the back of the book, called ‘Daily Prayers, Life’s Lessons & Daily Thoughts.’ These are short poems. All my poetry is rhymed and has meter.”

Lueders is eager to meet readers in person to share her personal story, which she hopes will help to shed some light on the sometimes dreary modern world.

Karen Lueders of Little Chute released her first Christian poetry book “To God Be The Glory!” in August.

“It is really easy to trust God when life is good but what about when life turns bad?,” Lueders said. “What about when we lose the life we’ve had? Who are we then? Who are we when all is taken away and nothing makes sense? How do we trust God then? My new book ‘To God Be The Glory!’ is a result of a powerful God, who can take a dark, horrible, hopeless mess and turn it into a message of hope. That is the message that l will share at my upcoming book presentations. I have been given a ‘new life’ and I am meant to share God’s sure hope and promises to a hopeless world.”

“2010 was a ‘nightmare’ for me, but little did I know how God would use my ‘dark story’ to share His love and hope through a Christian poetry book,” she said. “Starting in 2016, each morning I awoke thanking God for His promises of hope and love. Poetry began to flow and I journaled them. This book is a two-year collection of ‘morning poems’ the Holy Spirit enabled me to write.”

Lueders’ book tour is set to kick off with a book-signing event at St. Patrick’s Gifts & Books, located inside the Northland Mall at 972 West Northland Ave. in Appleton on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 1-3 p.m.

On Wednesday, Nov. 20, Lueders will lead a book presentation at the Little Chute Public Library, located at 625 Grand Ave. in Little Chute beginning at 6 p.m.

Lueders has also scheduled a book signing at Sonlight Books, located at 709 North Eighth St. in Sheboygan, on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For those unable to attend an upcoming book signing or presentation, copies of “To God Be The Glory!” are available at The Carpenter, located at 120 East Main St. in Little Chute, St. Patrick’s Gifts & Books inside the Northland Mall at 972 West Northland Ave. in Appleton and Sonlight Books, located at 709 North Eighth St. in Sheboygan.

Copies of “To God Be The Glory!” can also be purchased at Amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com. Karen Lueders can be reached at karenlueders@yahoo.com.

For more information, contact Pedal Down Promotions via email at pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, by phone at 920-323-7970 or by visiting www.pedaldownpromo.com.

Karen Lueders

“To God Be The Glory!”

Book Event Schedule

Saturday, Nov. 16 – Book Signing

St. Patrick’s Gifts & Books (inside the Northland Mall)

972 West Northland Ave.

Appleton, Wis.

1-3 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 20 – Book Presentation

Little Chute Public Library

625 Grand Ave.

Little Chute, Wis.

6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 14 – Book Signing

Sonlight Books

709 North Eighth St.

Sheboygan, Wis.

11 a.m-2 p.m.

November 7, 2019 / by Jeff Pederson

Paul Pokorski reflects on ‘so-so’ 2019, looks ahead to final year as owner-driver

Paul Pokorski finished fifth in the Midwest Sprint Car Association point standings during the 2019 season. – RC Custom Design photo

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) October 29, 2019 – As one of the most determined and dedicated drivers and team owners in the pit area, Midwest Sprint Car Association 360 Sprint Car racer Paul Pokorski has sacrificed quite a bit to put an open-wheel race car on the track on a week-in-and-week-out basis over the past 27 years.

During the 2019 campaign, the West Bend competitor put together a pair of solid top-10 finishes in the Midwest Sprint Car Association and Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car point standings.

“It was a so-so season,” Pokorski said. “We had some good runs early in the year, and some not so good runs. We really struggled during the second half of the year. I certainly wish it would have gone better, but we still had some fun.”

The 2019 campaign got off to a strong start for Pokorski as he led the opening 15 laps of the season-opening Plymouth Dirt Track Racing 360 Sprint Car A main on May 4 before coming home with a season-best third-place finish.

Pokorski followed that up with a sixth-place A-main showing at Plymouth on May 11, before a B-main incident forced him to miss out on qualifying for an MSA A main for the first time since June 17, 2017 on May 25.

On Sunday, May 26, Pokorski made his lone Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series start of the season, which yielded a 16^th-place finish at 141 Speedway in Francis Creek.

On June 1, Pokorski placed ninth at Plymouth before notching a 10^th-place showing at Angell Park in Sun Prairie during the first MSA doubleheader weekend of the 2019 season. The 2014 MSA Masters Series champion tallied an 11^th-place showing at Plymouth on June 8 before racking up a strong fourth-place finish at Plymouth on June 15.

On June 21 at SK Speedway in Unity Pokorski rallied from an late-race incident, which resulted in a flat tire, to salvage a 13^th-place finish. One night later at Plymouth on June 22, Pokorski posted another 13^th-place showing in A-main action.

With a season-high 40 MSA cars checked in on June 28 at Plymouth, Pokorski posted his third consecutive 13^th-place finish in A-main action. Pokorski came home 10^th in MSA competition at the Dodge County Fairgrounds in Beaver Dam on July 3 and was challenging for fifth at TNT Speedway in Three Lakes before contact with another car forced him to retire from the race with a broken axle and resulted in a 14^th-place finish.

On Friday, July 12, Pokorski recorded another 10^th-place finish in the MSA’s first of two appearances at Outagamie Speedway Powered by EWSC Racing in Seymour. During the National Anthem parade lap at Outagamie Speedway, Pokorski carried the black flag on the track in honor of beloved MSA and Pokorski Motorsports supporter Dave “Hagar” Nelson, who passed away on July 5.

The following night was Remembering Randy Tracy Night at The Plymouth Dirt Track on July 13 and Pokorski was running near the top 10 in the A main when he got caught up in an incident in turn two, which forced out of the race with a 21^st-place finish.

Pokorski added yet another 10^th-place showing at Angell Park Speedway on July 21 before coming home 13^th in A-main action at Plymouth on July 25.

On a night honoring Pokorski Motorsports friend and supporter Dave “Hagar” Nelson, Pokorski enjoyed one of his best nights of the 2019 season registering a heat race victory before storming to a fifth-place showing in the A main event at Outagamie Speedway Powered by EWSC Racing in Seymour on Aug. 2.

Pokorski put together another strong MSA doubleheader weekend with an eighth place finish at Plymouth on Aug. 10 before charging from 15^th to fourth at Angell Park Speedway on Aug. 11.

The tide turned back to the negative side the following week as Pokorski went down a lap in the early going of the A main at Plymouth before posting an 18^th-place finish on Aug. 17.

The team bounced back to notch a seventh-place finish at Plymouth on Aug. 23, while the MSA’s return to Beaver Dam Raceway for the first time since 2014 netted an 11^th-place showing for Pokorski on Aug. 24.

In front of a jam-packed grandstand of fans at Plymouth during the Sheboygan County Fair, Pokorski posted a 12^th-place showing on Aug. 31 before placing 15^th at Plymouth on Sept. 14.

The 2019 season came to close on an inauspicious note on Sept. 28 at Plymouth as Pokorski was caught up in a multi-car incident on the frontstretch of the A-main, which resulted in a heat race flip. After the Pokorski Motorsports crew and other supporters in the pit area scrambled to get the car together, Pokorski was able to get the car back on the track for the B main. However, he was unable to transfer to the A main with a seventh-place showing in the B to bring the 2019 campaign to a conclusion.

In picking out a highlight of his 2019 season, it is no surprise that Pokorski points to a race at one of his favorite tracks on a night honoring one of his team’s most loyal supporters.

“We had a good night at Seymour during our second date there for the season, which was in honor of our late friend Dave ‘Hagar’ Nelson,” Pokorski said. “We won our heat and ran a solid top-five in the A main. I was pretty happy with the result and being able to pay tribute to our friend. That night stands out to me as the highlight of the season.”

On the flip side, Pokorski said the team was challenged by various hurdles, roadblocks and mishaps throughout the 2019 season.

“We had several poor pill draws, which hurt us,” Pokorski said. “We struggled at times to find speed even when the car felt good. We also had too many minor crashes, which set us back.”

With the majority of the MSA events drawing 30 to 40 cars, Pokorski admitted that both the quantity and quality of the field provided a stiff challenge each and every night during the 2019 campaign.

“With the large car counts we had every night, I did feel some extra pressure to perform,” Pokorski said. “Just making the A main was tough pretty much every night. In talking with the other drivers, I got the feeling most everyone felt more pressure this year. That’s good because competition is what it’s all about.”

Pokorski has indicated that the 2020 season will see him race on a part-time basis, while his son, Alex, will also get a chance to steer the familiar No. 4 machine in a handful of events.

“We intend to run most of the MSA schedule,” Pokorski said. “We have a family wedding and a few other family obligations that may take priority after all these years. I plan to start and finish the year driving. Alex will drive most of the middle part of the season unless he has a work or school conflict.”

In addition, Pokorski is planning to end his tenure fielding and driving his own car at the conclusion of the 2020 season.

“I originally planned to stop racing when our oldest (Alex) started college because of the financial strain,” Pokorski said. “However, we made it work. Now our daughter has also started college and it’s time to start saving more for retirement and other things. That’s something we haven’t done enough of over the years.

“We have had great help from sponsors over the years, but a lot of the cost still fell on us,” he said. “I’m not complaining, as I know that’s the case for a lot of guys. However, the financial aspect of it is a factor in the decision. I’d race another 28 years if it wasn’t!”

Looking beyond 2020, Pokorski isn’t sure what his racing future might hold. However, he does know that he would like to stay involved in the sport in some way.

“I don’t know yet what I might do to stay connected to racing when the 2020 season is over,” Pokorski said. “I know I want to do something. Continuing to drive is an option if the right opportunity comes along. Driving for someone else would definitely be my first choice.

“Another option is helping someone who wants more help and who I enjoy working with,” he said. “I would also consider helping the MSA as an official as well, depending on what they need.”

Pokorski is thankful to all those who have helped him pursue his racing dreams every year since 1993.

“I always have to thank my family and friends who have helped for so many years and continue to do so,” Pokorski said. “Our sponsors, many of whom have been involved in some way for many years, are greatly appreciated as well. I can’t tell them all enough how much I truly appreciate them.”

Sponsors for the 2019 Pokorski Motorsports team are Hopf Farms, Petersen Septic Systems, Gasroots Project, Quest Engineering Inc., Acme Armature Works Inc., Goeden’s Auto Body, Goodwin Racing Engines, Lakeshore Family Funeral Homes, Kettle Moraine Landscaping, Novak’s Service Center, Pedal Down Promotions, Tisler Salvage Inc., Hagar’s Half-Pounder Cookies, Allied Bearing Corporation and The Cawley Company.

For more information on Pokorski Motorsports, check out Pokorski Motorsports on Facebook or visit www.pedaldownpromo.com.

Pokorski Motorsports Sponsor Showcase – Petersen Septic Systems

“We provide all of these services in Manitowoc County and the surrounding areas,” Petersen said. “We are OSHA certified and are licensed MPRS/CST966051.”

Petersen Septic Systems is located at 7334 Nagel Road in Valders, Wis. For more information, call 920-323-2640, email petersenseptic@gmail.com or visit www.petersensepticsystems.com.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

2019 Pokorski Motorsports By The Numbers

Total Events – 26

MSA events – 25

IRA events – 1

A Main Victories – 0

B Main Victories – 1

Top Five A Main Finishes – 4

Top 10 A Main Finishes – 12

Heat Race Victories – 2

October 29, 2019 / by Jeff Pederson

Verdegan’s fifth book ‘Racing in the 906’ set for Dec. 7 release in Quinnesec, Mich.

Six-date holiday book tour announced throughout Michigan, Wisconsin for new book covering U.P. stock car racing history

(Dunbar, Wis.) – Motorsports author Joe Verdegan has announced his latest book “Racing In the 906” will be launched to the public for the first time Saturday, Dec. 7 at a book signing at the Big 10 Sports Bar in Quinnesec, Mich.

The book, Verdegan’s fifth in five years covering local and regional motorsports, features the extensive racing history in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula which dates back to the 1950s.

“Initially, we had a targeted release date of sometime in early 2020,” Verdegan explained. “However, after discussing the book’s progress with my publisher Jeff Pederson of Pedal Down Promotions, we both felt we were well enough along that we would be able to host a launch before Christmas.”

More than 200 drivers, promoters and car owners from Michigan, Wisconsin, Florida and Canada have been interviewed for this book.

“There is so much history up that way from Marquette to Escanaba, Menominee, Norway and up towards the Sault St. Marie area in Canada,” Verdegan said. “The general ‘buzz,’ if you will, amongst the Upper Michigan racing community is strong and everyone is eager to see the final product.”

A six-date holiday book signing tour in December is set, with five Michigan dates and one in Wisconsin. The Dec. 7 launch in Quinnesec takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Other dates include stops at Crossroads Restaurant and Lounge in Marquette Tuesday, Dec. 10 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Wednesday, Dec. 11 at Pacino’s Pub in Escanaba from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The popular stop after Norway Speedway races, The Thirsty Whale Bar & Grill, will host a signing in Norway Wednesday, Dec. 18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a swing into Stateline Apparel in Menominee scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 19 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The holiday tour wraps up in Verdegan’s hometown of Green Bay, Wis. at Bosse’s News Stand from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All signings are Central Standard Time with the exception of the Escanaba signing at Pacino’s Pub and at Crossroads in Marquette, which are both Eastern Standard Time.

A 2020 book signing tour will be announced at a later date along with book pre-order information for fans who are unable to attend either of the signings.

For more information on “Racing In The 906,” contact Joe Verdegan at jverdegan2@gmail.com or follow him on his Facebook page.

To learn more about Pedal Down Promotions, check the website pedaldownpromo.com or email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com.

2019 “Racing in the 906″ Holiday Book Tour

Saturday, Dec. 7 – Big 10 Sports Bar & Grill Quinnesec, Mich. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. CST

Tuesday, Dec, 10 – Crossroads Restaurant & Lounge Marquette, Mich. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. EST

Wednesday, Dec. 11 – Pacino’s Pub Escanaba, Mich. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. EST

Wednesday, Dec. 18 – Thirsty Whale Sports Bar & Grill Norway, Mich. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. CST

Thursday, Dec. 19 – Stateline Apparel Menominee, Mich. 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. CST

Saturday, Dec. 21 – Bosses News Stand Green Bay, Wis. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. CST

*Some drivers and promoters featured in the book may be available at some of the signings*

October 14, 2019 / by Jeff Pederson

UW-Green Bay, Sheboygan Campus to host Girls STEM Day Conference

Girls in sixth through ninth grade will have the opportunity to take part in four different hands-on STEM-inspired sessions, including A Look Inside the Biovine Hide, during the third annual Sheboygan Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and University of Wisconsin-Sheboygan Foundation Girls STEM Day Conference at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Sheboygan Campus in Sheboygan, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 2.

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

SHEBOYGAN, WIS. (October 3, 2019) – In an increasingly high-tech world, the search for the next generation of innovative minds in the vital STEM fields of science, technology, engineering and math is vast, continuous and ever-changing.

In an effort to introduce and engage sixth through ninth-grade girls to the wonders of STEM, Sheboygan Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) has joined with the University of Wisconsin-Sheboygan Foundation to hold the third annual Girls STEM Day Conference Saturday, Nov. 2, at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Sheboygan Campus, located at 1 University Drive in Sheboygan, Wis.

The conference, which runs from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., features 12 different STEM-inspiring sessions, along with a presentation from keynote speaker Lauren Sammel of Johnsonville LLC., from 8:30-9 a.m.

“Our goal with the Girls STEM Day Conference is to encourage young girls to discover, explore and learn from STEM field experts in a wide range of specialty areas related to careers in science, technology, engineering and math,” AAUW, Sheboygan Branch Member and Girls STEM Day Conference Chair Dolcye Johnson said. “Since 2006, AAUW has taken on an initiative to empower girls to pursue careers in STEM fields. This initiative has taken several forms on a national level. Here in Sheboygan County, we are doing it through this conference.

Girls in sixth through ninth grade will have the opportunity to take part in four different hands-on STEM-inspired sessions, including engineering teamwork, during the third annual Sheboygan Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and University of Wisconsin-Sheboygan Foundation Girls STEM Day Conference at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Sheboygan Campus in Sheboygan, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 2.

“We started the Girls STEM Day Conference three years ago and 84 girls attended last year,” she said. “Our goal is 100 girls this year. This year we will offer a keynote speech and the girls can choose four out of 12 hands-on STEM-based sessions.”

The conference features an impressive list of STEM field experts, including Sammel, who is the director of Sustainable Swine Resources, a division of Johnsonville LLC focused on porcine material and co-products businesses. With over 15 years of experience in the meat industry, Sammel has led and advanced innovative technical solutions for growth, quality and cost management opportunities.

Lauren Sammel, the director of Sustainable Swine Resources, a division of Johnsonville LLC, will be the featured keynote speaker at the third annual Sheboygan Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and University of Wisconsin-Sheboygan Foundation Girls STEM Day Conference at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Sheboygan Campus in Sheboygan, Wis. on Saturday, Nov. 2.

Conference participants will have the opportunity to choose four of 12 available 45-minute STEM sessions, which cover a diverse range of topics including robotic surgery (Robodoc), paleontology (Digging for Clues), computer software design (Hello World), simple electronic circuits (Squishy Circuits), applied chemistry (Chem Demons), DNA science (What is DNA?), forensic science (Forensic Science), solar energy (Here Comes the Sun), veterinary science (A Look Inside the Biovine Hide), robotics (Robotics Challenge), drone photography (Drone Photography and product development and sensory science (Sensory of Slices).

“We have a wonderful group of expert presenters, who are working in these STEM fields with many years of experience,” Johnson said. “We have middle school and high school teachers, professors, police officers, veterinarians, engineers, product managers and developers and business owners that will be leading the STEM sessions.

“The presenters are genuinely happy to teach these sessions and the girls are so eager to learn,” she said. “It is fun to witness all the excitement that these sessions generate. The best thing is that they are all hands-on too. The girls actually get to experience what it is like to do these types of careers. Seven of our presenters from last year asked to come back this year. In addition, several brand-new sessions are scheduled to debut this year.”

Two parent sessions will also be featured. Former Sheboygan Police Department Detective Tamera Remington will present a parent session on Human Trafficking from 9:15-10:30 a.m. and the other parent session titled College Prep 101, which will be led by UW-Green Bay staff, runs from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

“Detective Remington has been giving presentations on human trafficking to large audiences and we are very happy to have her join us,” UW-Sheboygan Foundation Executive Director and Development Director Allyson Meredith Olivier said. “The college prep session will cover college courses, tuition costs and many other topics related to enrolling in college.”

The registration fee is $10 per student, which includes lunch. Scholarships are available for those unable to cover the fee. The deadline to register is Friday, Oct. 25.

Sponsors for this year’s event include American Orthodontics, Garton Family Foundation, Grover Family Foundation, Betty Humke, Feingold Family Charitable Foundation, Johnsonville LLC, Masters Gallery Foods Inc, Robin Callan, Rockline Industries.

In-kind donors are Aurora Health Care, Cousin’s Subs, Festival Foods, JoAnn Gadicke, Judy Hangartner, Old Wisconsin Sausage Inc., Pick n’Save, Tietz’s Piggly Wiggly, Z Spot Espresso & Coffee and Zimmermann Printing.

Founded in 1881, the American Association of University of Women (AAUW) empowers women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research.

Now in its 41^st year, the University of Wisconsin-Sheboygan Foundation supports the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Sheboygan Campus by providing resources to ensure its success and excellence. The foundation works to enhance the university’s image within the community, broaden its base of financial support and communicate to the public its responsiveness to local needs.

To register or for more information on the Girls STEM Day Conference, https://www.uwgb.edu/foundation/sheboygan-campus/ or call UW-Sheboygan Foundation Executive Director and Development Director Allyson Meredith Olivier at 920-459-6612 or Sheboygan Branch AAUW member and Girls STEM Day Conference Chair Dolcye Johnson at 920-458-5819.

October 3, 2019 / by Jeff Pederson

Walter, Torque Racing cap 2019 season, focus on diverse 2020 campaign in 410 ranks

Josh Walter closed out the 2019 racing season with the Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series at The Plymouth Dirt Track at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 28. – RC Custom Design photo

By Jeff Pederson-Pedal Down Promotions

(PEDAL DOWN PROMOTIONS) October 2, 2019 – Josh Walter and the Torque Racing team wrapped up a rollercoaster 2019 season with an eventful evening of Bumper to Bumper Interstate Racing Association 410 Sprint Car Series action, during the Wisconsin Sprint Car Championships at The Plymouth Dirt Track at the Sheboygan County Fairgrounds in Plymouth, Wis. on Saturday, Sept. 28.

Walter was among 31 IRA 410 Sprint Car Series drivers to check in for the final race of the 2019 season at the team’s hometown track. The 14^th-year Sprint Car driver was scheduled to start second in the third 10-lap IRA heat race. However, two false starts moved Walter and polesitter Ben Schmidt back a row on the initial start.

After beginning the race from the fourth starting spot, Walter dropped back to fifth when Kris Spitz snuck past in turn two. Walter maintained the fifth spot throughout the remainder of the 10-lap event to earn a transfer spot to the 30-lap IRA A-main event.

Walter rolled off from the 17^th starting spot in the IRA A-main and turned in a strong effort in the first half of the event to move into 14^th place by passing Wayne Modjeski. After the second of fifth caution flags on lap 14, Walter found the going to be a little more challenging as he slid back to 17^th in the running order.

After the lead two cars of Lynton Jeffrey and Austin McCarl collided while racing for the lead along the backstretch on lap 28, Walter restarted the race 15^th. However, disaster struck on the next circuit as Walter flipped his 12W machine along the treacherous cushion in turn four on lap 29.

He emerged from the car uninjured, but he was done for the night and scored 19^th in the final running order in a race won by Jeremy Schultz.

Walter notched a pair of A-main victories, four top-five and seven top-10 A-main finishes to go along with three heat race victories and one B-main triumph in 14 MSA 360 Sprint Car events.

In late July, Walter and the Torque Racing team turned their attention to the IRA 410 Sprint Car ranks and he ended up making seven 410 starts with one top-10 A-main showing and one heat race victory to his credit.

Walter ended up 22^nd in the PDTR 360 Sprint Car point standings, 24^th in the final MSA 360 Sprint Car point standings and 28^th in the IRA 410 Sprint Car Series point standings during the 2019 season.

Looking ahead to the 2020 season, Walter says the team will be sticking with the 410 engine package and most likely run a pick-and-choose type of schedule in and out of the state of Wisconsin.

“With a job, a family and young kids who are active in various things, it is hard for us to commit to running a set schedule of races with a series, so we are planning to run the races and tracks that we enjoy, make sense to us and fit into our personal schedule next year,” Walter said. “We will be running several races around the area and we are also hoping to do some travelling out of the state as well to some tracks that we’ve always wanted to race at. It should be a fun season.”

Torque Racing Sponsor Showcase – Platinum Restoration Services

Josh Walter and the Torque Racing team is pleased to have Platinum Restoration Services, located at 5225 West Electric Ave. in West Allis, Wis., on board as a sponsor for the 2019 season.

Roth says the foundation of the business is centered around a dedication to top-notch customer service and high-quality restoration work.

As a race fan, Roth is thrilled to be involved with Josh Walter the Torque Racing team.

To contact Platinum Restoration Services, call 262-228-6166. For more information, visit www.platinumrestorationservice.com.

For more information on Pedal Down Promotions, email pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com, visit www.pedaldownpromo.com or call 920-323-7970.

2019 Josh Walter-Torque Racing By The Numbers

Total Events – 21

MSA events – 14

IRA events – 7

A-Main Victories – 2

B-Main Victories – 1

Top Five A-Main Finishes – 4

Top 10 A-Main Finishes – 8

Heat Race Victories – 4

October 3, 2019 / by Jeff Pederson

Author: Jeff Pederson