The Anti-Christ has Come
1st John 2:18 “Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour.” Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus!
Last week, we saw Jesus being tempted by the antichrist and rebuking the devil. Jesus used the Word of God, a power the devil can not stand against. The devil had a final weapon going for him. It was death. God had a plan to defeat him, even in death.
The devil thought he had finally won at the crucifixion of Jesus. At the last moment, it happened this way: Mark 15:33-39 At the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?”–which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” When some of those standing near heard this, they said, “Listen, he’s calling Elijah.” One man ran, filled a sponge with wine vinegar, put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus to drink. “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to take him down,” he said. With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last. The curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, heard his cry and saw how he died, he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”
The devil thought he had finally won. At last, he would be in control of the earth. His final weapon of death had stopped God. That Thursday afternoon was, in his own mind, the devil’s greatest moment. But three days and three nights later, on Sunday morning, something happened to dash his dreams of prideful power.
Mark 16:1-19 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away.
As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’ ” Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.
He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God.”
The devil had lost his final chance battle with God. He was now totally defeated and so was his weapon of death. 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Jesus rose from the dead, overcoming death for all of us. Now, when we receive Him as Lord and Savior, we never die. Oh, we leave this body, but unlike before our Lord’s resurrection from death, our spirit no longer lies in the ground. Now, as believers, the Bible tells us what happens to us when we cease living in this body in 2nd Corinthians 5:8 “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” Now, when we leave this body, we are immediately in the presence of the Lord. There is no longer any reason to fear death. It is not dying. It is moving to a new home with God.
So, since the devil has been defeated by God, how come we still have problems with him? We will find out next week. Amen.
GOOD NEWS NOTES
JOAN SMELTZER ARRIVES AT MOTORDROME- Joan Smeltzer has served with excellence as the Racing with Jesus Ministries Chaplain at Jennerstown Speedway. Now, in 2002, she has also become the RWJM Chaplain at Motordrome Speedway in Smithton, PA. With Rev. Bill Waugh’s excellent help as Western PA-Ohio Coordinator, this region continues its excellent growth in coverage. Find Bill each week at Latrobe Speedway in Latrobe, PA.
ABOUT CHAPLAINS, REV. JOE BUBBICO, OUR WEST COAST COORDINATOR, STANDS BY HIS ORANGE SHOW SPEEDWAY SUPER LATE MODEL WHICH IS IN FRONT OF THE KENNY SAPPERS 85. NOTE KENNY’S RWJM DECAL.
STAFFORD CARQUEST TECH-NET SPRING SIZZLER- Seems like God rewarded everyone’s patience after last week’s rainout, by giving us one of the prettiest Sizzler days in recent memory. On the last corner of the last lap, Jay Stuart got under Woody Pitkat to take down a thrilling win to end an awesome race for the Stafford Late Models. We mention this first because these beautiful cars put on a show that at the end left you saying, “Man, that’s racing!” Marc Atkinson, Chuck Zentarski, and Carl Holmgren, JR completed the top five. This division should feel very proud of itself. It was in pure racing terms, the best race of the day. The WRS by Dodge SK Modifieds had their problems early, but once they got going, Bo Gunning and Ed Spiers put on a classic duel putting space between themselves and a great running Frank Wainwright. It was pretty with Bo by half a car over Spiers. Gary Pelletier and Ronnie Silk completed the top five.
BO GUNNING STRAPS-IN FOR THE 40 LAP WRS BY DODGE SK MODIFIED FEATURE. HE WOULD END UP IN VICTORY LANE. Michael Pares Photo
FEATHERLITE MODIFIED SERIES- Perhaps practice in a relaxed atmosphere on Saturday made the difference, but it was a lay back day Sunday. guess it proves that all events should be two day affairs without an extra sanction fee being charged by NASCAR for the extra day for Touring Series. Red MacDonald, owner of Lee USA said that he would like to make that Busch North opener a two day affair, but it would cost him an extra $8500 in sanctioning fees. If that is correct, Daytona does not have the needed sensitivity to weekly race tracks and to Series who could grow at a more rapid rate. The good news came from NASCAR’s Christ Boals who said that there would be more televised events in 2003 than the seven slated on SpeedChannel this season.
(L) DAVE BERGHMAN (32) HOLDS A LEAD OVER THE DUELING PAIR OF NASCAR MODIFIEDS OF (99) JAMIE TOMAINO AND ROB SUMMERS (14) (R) MIKE EWANITSKO (17) IS SERVICED BY THE UNIVERSAL CREW. Michael Pares Photos
TED CHRISTOPHER TAKES FMS 200- He led on three different occasions and over the final laps to take his first of 2002. TC bested Jeff Fuller and Tony Hirschman enroute to the win. Dave Bergman also led the race, but claimed an excellent fourth over Tommy Cravenho in the Brady No. 00 and an injured Jerry Marquis in sixth. Chuck Hossfield in the Garbarino Mystic Missile was impressive in seventh and will have a win this season. Mike Stefanik was eighth followed in an impressive run by Carl Pasteryak who might have finished even better with his new Troyer had not he twice had to restart from the rear due to incidents. Frank Boardwick of Keyport, NJ had one of his best runs with a tenth and looked good all day. Jamie Tomaino looked like the form of his championship season the way he was heading to the front. The car was set-up perfectly. However, he and Bud Pole winner Ken Woolley made contact running side by side with Tomaino catching the wall and losing 15 laps in the pits. It looked like a sure top five ride. Jim Broderick was also moving up well when a car in front checked-up and caught Jim’s front tire, sending the toe-out way out of wack and then being penalized further by NASCAR for “moving up to the pace car to pit too quickly??????” As one person said, “I did not know there was a speed limit for that.”
ON THE LEFT, TED CHRISTOPHER IN THE MOD SERIES VICTORY LANE WITH THE MYSTIQUE TEAM. FROM THE RIGHT, JOHN BLEWETT HAS THE CHASE RACING 77 RUNNING STRONG. Michael Pares Photos
MARQUIS TO HOSPITAL- Jerry Marquis also ran the SK Modified feature and was involved in an accident leaving him shaken and very sore. But a real racer, races. He needed a lot of help getting into the Boehler Chevy for the 200 lapper and I asked if he was OK. He said, “No.” but he still came from a provisional spot to finish sixth. He missed Chapel this morning because he was with the family at their home church where it was Induction Sunday, when non-members who desire are officially made church members. See, drivers can get hooked into a local church, even if, like myself, they are only there on rare occasions. Then you have a place to go during the winter. After the 200, we took him out to his wife and kids who took him to be checked-out at the hospital.
JERRY MARQUIS, IN DEEP PAIN, STILL DROVE ALL 200 LAPS OF THE FMS EVENT AT STAFFORD AND FINISHED SIXTH AFTER STARTING 30TH. AFTER BEING PERSUADED TO BE CHECKED-OUT AT THE HOSPITAL, HE WAS FOUND TO HAVE A BROKEN SCAPULA- SHOULDER BLADE. HE WILL REST A FEW DAYS AND RETURN TO COMPETITION THIS SATURDAY WITH BOEHLER RACING AT WATERFORD SPEEDBOWL.
STAFFORD NOTES: Howie Hodge has been named the official photographer for the website nascar.com for the Busch North and Featherlite Modified Series. NASCAR has vastly improved their posting time. For the Busch North Series, visit www.nascartouring.com/buschnorthseries/ and for the Featherlite Mods go to www.nascartouring.com/featherlitemodifiedseries/ … We hope he got some good ones of the Ministry Big Diamond Bolles Dodge Pace Car. Man, is this Intrepid awesome; looks and power and comfort! for me, the low point of the day was IRL driver Sara Fisher. She showed-up to be Grand Marshall in a green pull-over and jeans. Exactly where did she think she was going when invited to a NASCAR Series event? Darlin’, we are not a bunch of backwoods farmers up here. Perhaps to increase your respect level, next time we should get you a ride in a NASCAR open-wheeler and see if your respect increases… Mike Ewanitsko got his blood sugar level under control and was back behind the wheel of the Universal Welding 17. However, Jeff Fuller will return to the team in a second car at, we think, Nazareth. Mike had a drive shaft let go and finished 28th. At Waterford, look for the entire Arbitell Team with driver Jim Broderick to have RWJM ministry patches on their uniforms. God Bless you al.
ALAN BESTWICK IS COMING HOME- The host of “Inside NASCAR” will continue his duties there in Charlotte, but due to family concerns has just purchased a home in East Greenwich, RI to be near the families. Could this mean more for the Northeast Regional touring Series? Hey Alan, now we know where you live. Just kidding and welcome home.
ACT THUNDER ROAD MERCHANT BANK FREEDOM LYNX 150- RWJM Webmaster Glen Davis’ www.actseries.com gave live updates throughout the race showing the final top ten results as Jean Paul Cyr, Eric Williams, Rich Lowrey, Ken Dufour, Todd Stone, Patrick Laperle, Phil Scott, Brent Dragon, Mike Bruno and Jamie Fisher. Next event at Airborne Park Speedway May 11.
BURTON, BENSON AND COMPTON ENTER BGN AT NHIS- NASCAR Winston Cup Series star Jeff Burton has entered the Busch 200 at New Hampshire International Speedway on May 11. Burton joins fellow Winston Cup Series drivers Johnny Benson and Stacy Compton at the only New England appearance of the NASCAR Busch Series. Jeff is no stranger to success at “The Magic Mile”. Burton’s four victories in NASCAR Winston Cup Series events at NHIS are the most by any driver. In twenty starts at “The Magic Mile”, he has eight top-five and eleven top-ten finishes. In his thirteen NASCAR Winston Cup Series starts, Jeff has seven top-five and seven top-ten finishes. The Busch 200 is part of the NASCAR Doubleheader with the Busch North Series 125. Practice and qualifying for both races gets underway on Friday, May 10 with the green flag for the Busch 200 set for 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 11 to be immediately followed by the Busch North Series 125. Advance sale tickets are available online at www.nhis.com or by calling Speedway Guest Services at (603) 783-4931. We are anxious to visit with all these friends. You may remember Stacy Compton for helping the annual Ebay RWJM Fundraise when he donated his driver’s suit. Rev. Dan Petfield will be handling the Chapel Service in the BNS garage area Saturday morning as I will be at Waterford for the Len Boehler Memorial Victory Chapel which is currently slated for 6:30 or 1/2 hour after time trials at the ‘Bowl. Beson’s appearance is contingent upon his recovery from the broken rib received at Richmond.
HERSCHEL MCGRIIFF CALLS IT A DAY- At 74 years of age, an emotional Herschell McGriff pulled into the pits during the Winston West event at California Speedway. In an interview, he told Dr. Dick why. ” I was running in the back and I always said I would not do that. The car did not feel comfortable. So, I am announcing my official retirement,” as he wiped his eyes. Most of us have come to love Herschell over the years and he will be missed.
Ass’t West Coast Coordinator Gary Dionne gave us some additional information. ” I had the opportunity to speak with him on Thursday. He told me he was not comfortable in that car, they just bought it and didn’t have time to sort it out. He also told me that he got married at the mine in Arizona where we met. He is very happy in his marriage. He is truly a gentleman.” If you would like to show Herschell your appreciation of him, Gary said, “I spoke with Kay Sedgwick and got his address, it is P.O. Box 648 Green Valley Arizona, 85622.” Please send the card. It now appears that R.C. ZIMMERMAN will win the contest of the most senior racer in the country. At 83, he competes at Orange Show Speedway in California in the Mini Stocks. He began in 1949 in sprints back in Langhorne, PA. That was also A.J. Foyt’s first race day. thanks to Rev. Joe for the information on R.C. There is hope for all of us.
NEW CONNECTICUT/RHODE ISLAND/MA RACING WEBSITE- Yankee Racer is brand new and covers Stafford, Waterford, Thompson and Lime Rock in CT plus Barnyard Speedway in Rhode Island and they are adding Seekonk Speedway in MA. The webmaster is Nicolas who is the 16 year old grandson of retired Modified great Roland LaPierre. It is not just the stories of the main divisions, but all the divisions. Find the rosters, results and stories. It looks pretty good. Check it out at www.yankeeracer.com
GENDER BIBLE ABOMINATION- I wrote awhile ago that we would never use this new version of the Bible which attempts to be politically correct by changing God’s Word to social standards. I ask you to make your voice heard if you agree. I’m inviting you to take a brave step! Won’t you please encourage everyone you know to stand up and be counted during this crucial battle to preserve Bible inerrancy? Please read about the problems “Today’s New International Version” will cause. Then sign the petition to the International Bible Society and Zondervan. Finally, email everyone you know to warn them about this ominous threat. Thank you for helping protect the accuracy of God’s Word. To read and sign the petition, please use this link. http://www.christianpetitions.com/petition.html?name=niv_gender_version
Rev. Dan Petfield will be with the Busch Series at NHIS. I will be at Waterford Speedbowl for the Modified Series.
THE MINISTRY BIG DIAMOND BOLLES DODGE INTREPID PACE CAR ON TRACK AT STAFFORD. Howie Hodge Photo
Your support is appreciated and needed. Consider becoming an RWJM partner and do your best to help offset the financial needs of this ministry with your tax-deductible gifts. Be a witness for our Lord with the ministry decals and apparel. See them all at the Apparel Store at www.rwjm.com You can also help by praying for Racing with Jesus Ministries.
Be a witness for our Lord with the ministry decals and apparel. See them all at the Apparel Store at www.rwjm.com If God is calling you, volunteer to help by becoming a weekly track or series Chaplain. They are always calling, asking for help, all across the country.
Call us with your prayer and counseling needs and list all your prayer needs, no matter what part of our racing family you are in, with the Racing Family Prayer Request Page. www.cathcfence.com/news/prayer.html Until next time, remember that God loves you, we love you and….
JESUS IS LORD OVER AUTO RACING!
Mail reaches Rev. Pat and the staff at Racing with Jesus Ministries, 20 Good Win Road #2, Canterbury, CT 06331. Call and fax (860) 546-9366. E-Mail to pat@rwjm.com and check our weekly printed pages in “Area Auto Racing News”, the East Coast’s largest weekly racing paper” See our on-line Apparel Store for subscription information. Be sure and check out our MINISTRY HOME PAGE at www.rwjm.com for past articles. We invite you to input your thoughts as you sign our Guest Book and Discussion Board. See you Tuesday night at 8 PM in the RWJM Chat Room at the home page. Remember, RaceTime, every Friday at 3:30 on NESN (DSS 623) and beginning Friday May 10 on NESN, every week at 3 PM is SK WRS Modifieds from Stafford plus”NASCAR TV” every Monday night at 8 PM on SPEEDCHANNEL (DSS 607)
Numbers 6:24-26 “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”
May God always Bless you, everyday in everyway. Rev. Pat
CHECKERED CHEERS
SHARE YOUR SPECIAL OCCASIONS WITH YOUR RACING FAMILY. SEND THEM TO RACING WITH JESUS MINISTRIES AT 20 GOOD WIN ROAD 2, CANTERBURY, CT 06331 OR E-MAIL PAT@RWJM.COM OR FAX 860-546-9366.
*** ANNIVERSARIES ***
May 9
ELI & CLAUDETTE GOLD- The popular race announcer and wife share their 24th anniversary.
RUSS & LISA WOOD- The NH based ISMA SuperModified driver and wife share their 13th anniversary.
May 12
HAROLD & BARBARA DAUNCEY- This Flemington NASCAR Modified driver and wife share their 17th anniversary. Get better quick, Harold.
*** HAPPY BIRTHDAYS ***
We ask you to join us in prayer for these birthday people that they prosper in every way and may be in health, even as we pray that their souls be healthy and prosper. (3 John 2)
May 7
JERRY LILLQUIST- From Canterbury, CT, this former Late Model driver is now residing on the beach just south of Myrtle Beach.
May 9
ED BRUNNHOELZL, JR.- NJ asphalt Modified driver.
TIM FEDEWA- Holt, MI BGN/CTS driver.
GARY LLOYD- Efland, NC LMSC driver.
MIKE PORTER- Princeton, WV veteran LMSC driver.
MELISSA STUART- The daughter of Preston, CT proprietor of JDM Chassis/ LM driver Jay and wife Angelina is 5.
May 10
REV. DAN PETFIELD- From Thornwood, NY, the Racing with Jesus Ministries Assistant Pastor.
JOHN WALL, JR.- Brother of NASCAR BNS driver Bryan.
RON THIEL, JR.- Long Island NASCAR BNS driver turned Winston Cup team fabricator.
LINDA HIETALA- Wife of Enfield, CT Reliable Welding Modified driver Brad.
TRAVIS PERRY- Son of Seekonk Speedway Sportsman driver Bill and Stacy is 7.
May 11
BUGS STEVENS- Rehoboth, MA retired NASCAR National Modified champion and proud dad of NASCAR FMS driver Dave Berghman.
JIM BEEBE- Star Speedway NASCAR flagman.
BEVERLY WEIDMAN- The owner of the NASCAR dirt Modified team driven by husband Gene at Big Diamond.
MICHAEL WIBBELSMAN- The youngest child of RWJM Vice President Dick and wife Judy in Gainesville, FL and graduates Baylor University in Waco, TX with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Congratulations!
May 12
JIM SPENCER, JR.- “No Bull” Winston Cup driver Jim and wife Pat’s oldest is 15.
May 13
RON RIEDINGER- Former Flemington dirt Sportsman and LM champion.
CHERYL VENEZIAN- The grown-up daughter of Jamie Tomaino/ Potts NASCAR FMS Racing sponsor Joe and wife Linda of Perth Amboy Springs.
May 14
GARY NAPOLITANO- D.I.R.T. Modified driver.
FRED VORDERMEIR- “The Big Apple Kid,” West Hempstead, NY FMS driver.
BUDDY BLACK- NC NASCAR Modified driver.
TONY RAINES- LaPorte, IN NASCAR BGN driver.
STEPHAN GREGOIRE- Neufchateau, France born, now Indianapolis, IN IRL driver.
DENNIS WOOLDRIDGE- Riverside, CA LM driver.
MOE CONRAD- Danbury, CT famous Pit Steward in the former Southern New York Racing Association which ran the old Danbury (CT) Racearena.
May 15
ED ST. ANGELO- Barrington, RI Modified/ProStock driver.
NANCY CLARK- Wife of Long Island NASCAR FMS driver Dick.
WES BENASH- Marlton, NJ son of Bridgeport Speedway Handicapper Bob.
PETE McCLUSKEY- Pete McCluskey Builders sponsor of Wall Stadium’s George Andretta’s ProStock and #1 fan.
*** IN THE SHOP ***
RODNEY FRANKLIN- This dirt Late Model driver underwent back surgery on April 29. He is now home resting and recuperating. He is slated to return to racing July 12 at Hagerstown with the Renegade Series. Your prayers for and cards of cheer reach him at P.O. Box 216, White Post, VA 22663.
*** NEW BEGINNINGS ***
BERNICE HOSMER- The mother of the Paul Surprenant driven NASCAR Modified Series team, Luther Hosmer, went to her new eternal home at the age of 82 on May 3. Your cards of comfort reach Luther at 13 Shagbark, Southwick, MA 01077.
For more of Racing With Jesus Ministries please visit http://www.rwjm.com.
Sources: Rev. Pat Evans/YankeeRacer.com
Posted: May 7, 2002
05/07/2002
The Anti-Christ has Come
by Reverend Pat Evans
1st John 2:18 “Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour.” Greetings, in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus!
Last week, we saw Jesus being tempted by the antichrist and rebuking the devil. Jesus used the Word of God, a power the devil can not stand against. The devil had a final weapon going for him. It was death. God had a plan to defeat him, even in death.
The devil thought he had finally won at the crucifixion of Jesus. At the last moment, it happened this way: Mark 15:33-39 At the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?”–which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” When some of those standing near heard this, they said, “Listen, he’s calling Elijah.” One man ran, filled a sponge with wine vinegar, put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus to drink. “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to take him down,” he said. With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last. The curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, heard his cry and saw how he died, he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”
The devil thought he had finally won. At last, he would be in control of the earth. His final weapon of death had stopped God. That Thursday afternoon was, in his own mind, the devil’s greatest moment. But three days and three nights later, on Sunday morning, something happened to dash his dreams of prideful power.
Mark 16:1-19 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away.
As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’ ” Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen.
He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God.”
The devil had lost his final chance battle with God. He was now totally defeated and so was his weapon of death. 1 Corinthians 15:55-57 “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Jesus rose from the dead, overcoming death for all of us. Now, when we receive Him as Lord and Savior, we never die. Oh, we leave this body, but unlike before our Lord’s resurrection from death, our spirit no longer lies in the ground. Now, as believers, the Bible tells us what happens to us when we cease living in this body in 2nd Corinthians 5:8 “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” Now, when we leave this body, we are immediately in the presence of the Lord. There is no longer any reason to fear death. It is not dying. It is moving to a new home with God.
So, since the devil has been defeated by God, how come we still have problems with him? We will find out next week. Amen.
GOOD NEWS NOTES
JOAN SMELTZER ARRIVES AT MOTORDROME- Joan Smeltzer has served with excellence as the Racing with Jesus Ministries Chaplain at Jennerstown Speedway. Now, in 2002, she has also become the RWJM Chaplain at Motordrome Speedway in Smithton, PA. With Rev. Bill Waugh’s excellent help as Western PA-Ohio Coordinator, this region continues its excellent growth in coverage. Find Bill each week at Latrobe Speedway in Latrobe, PA.
ABOUT CHAPLAINS, REV. JOE BUBBICO, OUR WEST COAST COORDINATOR, STANDS BY HIS ORANGE SHOW SPEEDWAY SUPER LATE MODEL WHICH IS IN FRONT OF THE KENNY SAPPERS 85. NOTE KENNY’S RWJM DECAL.
STAFFORD CARQUEST TECH-NET SPRING SIZZLER- Seems like God rewarded everyone’s patience after last week’s rainout, by giving us one of the prettiest Sizzler days in recent memory. On the last corner of the last lap, Jay Stuart got under Woody Pitkat to take down a thrilling win to end an awesome race for the Stafford Late Models. We mention this first because these beautiful cars put on a show that at the end left you saying, “Man, that’s racing!” Marc Atkinson, Chuck Zentarski, and Carl Holmgren, JR completed the top five. This division should feel very proud of itself. It was in pure racing terms, the best race of the day. The WRS by Dodge SK Modifieds had their problems early, but once they got going, Bo Gunning and Ed Spiers put on a classic duel putting space between themselves and a great running Frank Wainwright. It was pretty with Bo by half a car over Spiers. Gary Pelletier and Ronnie Silk completed the top five.
BO GUNNING STRAPS-IN FOR THE 40 LAP WRS BY DODGE SK MODIFIED FEATURE. HE WOULD END UP IN VICTORY LANE. Michael Pares Photo
FEATHERLITE MODIFIED SERIES- Perhaps practice in a relaxed atmosphere on Saturday made the difference, but it was a lay back day Sunday. guess it proves that all events should be two day affairs without an extra sanction fee being charged by NASCAR for the extra day for Touring Series. Red MacDonald, owner of Lee USA said that he would like to make that Busch North opener a two day affair, but it would cost him an extra $8500 in sanctioning fees. If that is correct, Daytona does not have the needed sensitivity to weekly race tracks and to Series who could grow at a more rapid rate. The good news came from NASCAR’s Christ Boals who said that there would be more televised events in 2003 than the seven slated on SpeedChannel this season.
(L) DAVE BERGHMAN (32) HOLDS A LEAD OVER THE DUELING PAIR OF NASCAR MODIFIEDS OF (99) JAMIE TOMAINO AND ROB SUMMERS (14) (R) MIKE EWANITSKO (17) IS SERVICED BY THE UNIVERSAL CREW. Michael Pares Photos
TED CHRISTOPHER TAKES FMS 200- He led on three different occasions and over the final laps to take his first of 2002. TC bested Jeff Fuller and Tony Hirschman enroute to the win. Dave Bergman also led the race, but claimed an excellent fourth over Tommy Cravenho in the Brady No. 00 and an injured Jerry Marquis in sixth. Chuck Hossfield in the Garbarino Mystic Missile was impressive in seventh and will have a win this season. Mike Stefanik was eighth followed in an impressive run by Carl Pasteryak who might have finished even better with his new Troyer had not he twice had to restart from the rear due to incidents. Frank Boardwick of Keyport, NJ had one of his best runs with a tenth and looked good all day. Jamie Tomaino looked like the form of his championship season the way he was heading to the front. The car was set-up perfectly. However, he and Bud Pole winner Ken Woolley made contact running side by side with Tomaino catching the wall and losing 15 laps in the pits. It looked like a sure top five ride. Jim Broderick was also moving up well when a car in front checked-up and caught Jim’s front tire, sending the toe-out way out of wack and then being penalized further by NASCAR for “moving up to the pace car to pit too quickly??????” As one person said, “I did not know there was a speed limit for that.”
ON THE LEFT, TED CHRISTOPHER IN THE MOD SERIES VICTORY LANE WITH THE MYSTIQUE TEAM. FROM THE RIGHT, JOHN BLEWETT HAS THE CHASE RACING 77 RUNNING STRONG. Michael Pares Photos
MARQUIS TO HOSPITAL- Jerry Marquis also ran the SK Modified feature and was involved in an accident leaving him shaken and very sore. But a real racer, races. He needed a lot of help getting into the Boehler Chevy for the 200 lapper and I asked if he was OK. He said, “No.” but he still came from a provisional spot to finish sixth. He missed Chapel this morning because he was with the family at their home church where it was Induction Sunday, when non-members who desire are officially made church members. See, drivers can get hooked into a local church, even if, like myself, they are only there on rare occasions. Then you have a place to go during the winter. After the 200, we took him out to his wife and kids who took him to be checked-out at the hospital.
JERRY MARQUIS, IN DEEP PAIN, STILL DROVE ALL 200 LAPS OF THE FMS EVENT AT STAFFORD AND FINISHED SIXTH AFTER STARTING 30TH. AFTER BEING PERSUADED TO BE CHECKED-OUT AT THE HOSPITAL, HE WAS FOUND TO HAVE A BROKEN SCAPULA- SHOULDER BLADE. HE WILL REST A FEW DAYS AND RETURN TO COMPETITION THIS SATURDAY WITH BOEHLER RACING AT WATERFORD SPEEDBOWL.
STAFFORD NOTES: Howie Hodge has been named the official photographer for the website nascar.com for the Busch North and Featherlite Modified Series. NASCAR has vastly improved their posting time. For the Busch North Series, visit www.nascartouring.com/buschnorthseries/ and for the Featherlite Mods go to www.nascartouring.com/featherlitemodifiedseries/ … We hope he got some good ones of the Ministry Big Diamond Bolles Dodge Pace Car. Man, is this Intrepid awesome; looks and power and comfort! for me, the low point of the day was IRL driver Sara Fisher. She showed-up to be Grand Marshall in a green pull-over and jeans. Exactly where did she think she was going when invited to a NASCAR Series event? Darlin’, we are not a bunch of backwoods farmers up here. Perhaps to increase your respect level, next time we should get you a ride in a NASCAR open-wheeler and see if your respect increases… Mike Ewanitsko got his blood sugar level under control and was back behind the wheel of the Universal Welding 17. However, Jeff Fuller will return to the team in a second car at, we think, Nazareth. Mike had a drive shaft let go and finished 28th. At Waterford, look for the entire Arbitell Team with driver Jim Broderick to have RWJM ministry patches on their uniforms. God Bless you al.
ALAN BESTWICK IS COMING HOME- The host of “Inside NASCAR” will continue his duties there in Charlotte, but due to family concerns has just purchased a home in East Greenwich, RI to be near the families. Could this mean more for the Northeast Regional touring Series? Hey Alan, now we know where you live. Just kidding and welcome home.
ACT THUNDER ROAD MERCHANT BANK FREEDOM LYNX 150- RWJM Webmaster Glen Davis’ www.actseries.com gave live updates throughout the race showing the final top ten results as Jean Paul Cyr, Eric Williams, Rich Lowrey, Ken Dufour, Todd Stone, Patrick Laperle, Phil Scott, Brent Dragon, Mike Bruno and Jamie Fisher. Next event at Airborne Park Speedway May 11.
BURTON, BENSON AND COMPTON ENTER BGN AT NHIS- NASCAR Winston Cup Series star Jeff Burton has entered the Busch 200 at New Hampshire International Speedway on May 11. Burton joins fellow Winston Cup Series drivers Johnny Benson and Stacy Compton at the only New England appearance of the NASCAR Busch Series. Jeff is no stranger to success at “The Magic Mile”. Burton’s four victories in NASCAR Winston Cup Series events at NHIS are the most by any driver. In twenty starts at “The Magic Mile”, he has eight top-five and eleven top-ten finishes. In his thirteen NASCAR Winston Cup Series starts, Jeff has seven top-five and seven top-ten finishes. The Busch 200 is part of the NASCAR Doubleheader with the Busch North Series 125. Practice and qualifying for both races gets underway on Friday, May 10 with the green flag for the Busch 200 set for 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 11 to be immediately followed by the Busch North Series 125. Advance sale tickets are available online at www.nhis.com or by calling Speedway Guest Services at (603) 783-4931. We are anxious to visit with all these friends. You may remember Stacy Compton for helping the annual Ebay RWJM Fundraise when he donated his driver’s suit. Rev. Dan Petfield will be handling the Chapel Service in the BNS garage area Saturday morning as I will be at Waterford for the Len Boehler Memorial Victory Chapel which is currently slated for 6:30 or 1/2 hour after time trials at the ‘Bowl. Beson’s appearance is contingent upon his recovery from the broken rib received at Richmond.
HERSCHEL MCGRIIFF CALLS IT A DAY- At 74 years of age, an emotional Herschell McGriff pulled into the pits during the Winston West event at California Speedway. In an interview, he told Dr. Dick why. ” I was running in the back and I always said I would not do that. The car did not feel comfortable. So, I am announcing my official retirement,” as he wiped his eyes. Most of us have come to love Herschell over the years and he will be missed.
Ass’t West Coast Coordinator Gary Dionne gave us some additional information. ” I had the opportunity to speak with him on Thursday. He told me he was not comfortable in that car, they just bought it and didn’t have time to sort it out. He also told me that he got married at the mine in Arizona where we met. He is very happy in his marriage. He is truly a gentleman.” If you would like to show Herschell your appreciation of him, Gary said, “I spoke with Kay Sedgwick and got his address, it is P.O. Box 648 Green Valley Arizona, 85622.” Please send the card. It now appears that R.C. ZIMMERMAN will win the contest of the most senior racer in the country. At 83, he competes at Orange Show Speedway in California in the Mini Stocks. He began in 1949 in sprints back in Langhorne, PA. That was also A.J. Foyt’s first race day. thanks to Rev. Joe for the information on R.C. There is hope for all of us.
NEW CONNECTICUT/RHODE ISLAND/MA RACING WEBSITE- Yankee Racer is brand new and covers Stafford, Waterford, Thompson and Lime Rock in CT plus Barnyard Speedway in Rhode Island and they are adding Seekonk Speedway in MA. The webmaster is Nicolas who is the 16 year old grandson of retired Modified great Roland LaPierre. It is not just the stories of the main divisions, but all the divisions. Find the rosters, results and stories. It looks pretty good. Check it out at www.yankeeracer.com
GENDER BIBLE ABOMINATION- I wrote awhile ago that we would never use this new version of the Bible which attempts to be politically correct by changing God’s Word to social standards. I ask you to make your voice heard if you agree. I’m inviting you to take a brave step! Won’t you please encourage everyone you know to stand up and be counted during this crucial battle to preserve Bible inerrancy? Please read about the problems “Today’s New International Version” will cause. Then sign the petition to the International Bible Society and Zondervan. Finally, email everyone you know to warn them about this ominous threat. Thank you for helping protect the accuracy of God’s Word. To read and sign the petition, please use this link. http://www.christianpetitions.com/petition.html?name=niv_gender_version
Rev. Dan Petfield will be with the Busch Series at NHIS. I will be at Waterford Speedbowl for the Modified Series.
THE MINISTRY BIG DIAMOND BOLLES DODGE INTREPID PACE CAR ON TRACK AT STAFFORD. Howie Hodge Photo
Your support is appreciated and needed. Consider becoming an RWJM partner and do your best to help offset the financial needs of this ministry with your tax-deductible gifts. Be a witness for our Lord with the ministry decals and apparel. See them all at the Apparel Store at www.rwjm.com You can also help by praying for Racing with Jesus Ministries.
Be a witness for our Lord with the ministry decals and apparel. See them all at the Apparel Store at www.rwjm.com If God is calling you, volunteer to help by becoming a weekly track or series Chaplain. They are always calling, asking for help, all across the country.
Call us with your prayer and counseling needs and list all your prayer needs, no matter what part of our racing family you are in, with the Racing Family Prayer Request Page. www.cathcfence.com/news/prayer.html Until next time, remember that God loves you, we love you and….
JESUS IS LORD OVER AUTO RACING!
Mail reaches Rev. Pat and the staff at Racing with Jesus Ministries, 20 Good Win Road #2, Canterbury, CT 06331. Call and fax (860) 546-9366. E-Mail to pat@rwjm.com and check our weekly printed pages in “Area Auto Racing News”, the East Coast’s largest weekly racing paper” See our on-line Apparel Store for subscription information. Be sure and check out our MINISTRY HOME PAGE at www.rwjm.com for past articles. We invite you to input your thoughts as you sign our Guest Book and Discussion Board. See you Tuesday night at 8 PM in the RWJM Chat Room at the home page. Remember, RaceTime, every Friday at 3:30 on NESN (DSS 623) and beginning Friday May 10 on NESN, every week at 3 PM is SK WRS Modifieds from Stafford plus”NASCAR TV” every Monday night at 8 PM on SPEEDCHANNEL (DSS 607)
Numbers 6:24-26 “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”
May God always Bless you, everyday in everyway. Rev. Pat
CHECKERED CHEERS
SHARE YOUR SPECIAL OCCASIONS WITH YOUR RACING FAMILY. SEND THEM TO RACING WITH JESUS MINISTRIES AT 20 GOOD WIN ROAD 2, CANTERBURY, CT 06331 OR E-MAIL PAT@RWJM.COM OR FAX 860-546-9366.
*** ANNIVERSARIES ***
May 9
ELI & CLAUDETTE GOLD- The popular race announcer and wife share their 24th anniversary.
RUSS & LISA WOOD- The NH based ISMA SuperModified driver and wife share their 13th anniversary.
May 12
HAROLD & BARBARA DAUNCEY- This Flemington NASCAR Modified driver and wife share their 17th anniversary. Get better quick, Harold.
*** HAPPY BIRTHDAYS ***
We ask you to join us in prayer for these birthday people that they prosper in every way and may be in health, even as we pray that their souls be healthy and prosper. (3 John 2)
May 7
JERRY LILLQUIST- From Canterbury, CT, this former Late Model driver is now residing on the beach just south of Myrtle Beach.
May 9
ED BRUNNHOELZL, JR.- NJ asphalt Modified driver.
TIM FEDEWA- Holt, MI BGN/CTS driver.
GARY LLOYD- Efland, NC LMSC driver.
MIKE PORTER- Princeton, WV veteran LMSC driver.
MELISSA STUART- The daughter of Preston, CT proprietor of JDM Chassis/ LM driver Jay and wife Angelina is 5.
May 10
REV. DAN PETFIELD- From Thornwood, NY, the Racing with Jesus Ministries Assistant Pastor.
JOHN WALL, JR.- Brother of NASCAR BNS driver Bryan.
RON THIEL, JR.- Long Island NASCAR BNS driver turned Winston Cup team fabricator.
LINDA HIETALA- Wife of Enfield, CT Reliable Welding Modified driver Brad.
TRAVIS PERRY- Son of Seekonk Speedway Sportsman driver Bill and Stacy is 7.
May 11
BUGS STEVENS- Rehoboth, MA retired NASCAR National Modified champion and proud dad of NASCAR FMS driver Dave Berghman.
JIM BEEBE- Star Speedway NASCAR flagman.
BEVERLY WEIDMAN- The owner of the NASCAR dirt Modified team driven by husband Gene at Big Diamond.
MICHAEL WIBBELSMAN- The youngest child of RWJM Vice President Dick and wife Judy in Gainesville, FL and graduates Baylor University in Waco, TX with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Congratulations!
May 12
JIM SPENCER, JR.- “No Bull” Winston Cup driver Jim and wife Pat’s oldest is 15.
May 13
RON RIEDINGER- Former Flemington dirt Sportsman and LM champion.
CHERYL VENEZIAN- The grown-up daughter of Jamie Tomaino/ Potts NASCAR FMS Racing sponsor Joe and wife Linda of Perth Amboy Springs.
May 14
GARY NAPOLITANO- D.I.R.T. Modified driver.
FRED VORDERMEIR- “The Big Apple Kid,” West Hempstead, NY FMS driver.
BUDDY BLACK- NC NASCAR Modified driver.
TONY RAINES- LaPorte, IN NASCAR BGN driver.
STEPHAN GREGOIRE- Neufchateau, France born, now Indianapolis, IN IRL driver.
DENNIS WOOLDRIDGE- Riverside, CA LM driver.
MOE CONRAD- Danbury, CT famous Pit Steward in the former Southern New York Racing Association which ran the old Danbury (CT) Racearena.
May 15
ED ST. ANGELO- Barrington, RI Modified/ProStock driver.
NANCY CLARK- Wife of Long Island NASCAR FMS driver Dick.
WES BENASH- Marlton, NJ son of Bridgeport Speedway Handicapper Bob.
PETE McCLUSKEY- Pete McCluskey Builders sponsor of Wall Stadium’s George Andretta’s ProStock and #1 fan.
*** IN THE SHOP ***
RODNEY FRANKLIN- This dirt Late Model driver underwent back surgery on April 29. He is now home resting and recuperating. He is slated to return to racing July 12 at Hagerstown with the Renegade Series. Your prayers for and cards of cheer reach him at P.O. Box 216, White Post, VA 22663.
*** NEW BEGINNINGS ***
BERNICE HOSMER- The mother of the Paul Surprenant driven NASCAR Modified Series team, Luther Hosmer, went to her new eternal home at the age of 82 on May 3. Your cards of comfort reach Luther at 13 Shagbark, Southwick, MA 01077.
For more of Racing With Jesus Ministries please visit http://www.rwjm.com.
Sources: Rev. Pat Evans/RWJM