Kids Day

Saratoga Automobile Museum welcomes the Saratoga Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the National Museum of Dance for Kids Day

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (Feb. 20, 2019) — The Saratoga Automobile Museum is hosting a special Kids Day on Friday, Feb. 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Saratoga Automobile Museum. All kids under 12 years old will receive free admission to the museum while adults will pay the regular museum price for admission.

During Kids Day, the Saratoga Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, will be providing lessons on the U.S. Constitution and the National Museum of Dance will be leading mini dance lessons from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

For teenagers 16 years and adults the museum will have their distracted driving simulators set up to use. These simulators demonstrate the dangerous consequences of driving while distracted.

“We are so excited for another Kids Day here at the museum. After the successful turnout of the previous Kids Day, we are thrilled to host more of them and expand upon the educational offerings,” said Carly Connors, Executive Director of The Saratoga Automobile Museum.

The Saratoga Automobile Museum announced that the next two Kids Days will take place on Apr. 19 and May 24, also between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the Museum. More information about those dates will be forthcoming.

Special Ford Model T snowmobile exhibition

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (Feb. 6, 2019) — The Saratoga Automobile Museum, Tri-City T’s Club, and the Capital District Chapter of the Model T Ford Club of America will be demonstrating two to three Model T snowmobile variants on Saturday, Feb. 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Saratoga Automobile Museum.

Club members will be on hand to give rides and answer questions about the Model T snowmobiles, free of charge. There will be a presentation on the differences between the snowmobile variant and a regular Model T within the Orientation Theater of the Saratoga Automobile Museum, with regular museum admission.

“The Model T snowmobile is an inherently unique variant of the world’s most famous automobile. The Museum is honored and excited to display this piece of automotive history for visitors of all ages to enjoy,” said Carly T. Connors, executive director.

Virgil D. White, a Ford dealer in Ossipee, N.H., built his first snowmobile attachment in 1913. In 1917, White received a patent for an attachment designed to convert a Model T into a ‘snowmobile,’ a name he coined and copyrighted. The snowmobile became an indispensable convenience for people requiring rapid, dependable transport in winter weather. Country doctors and rural mail carriers were the largest users of this type of vehicle. It was claimed that the Model T snowmobile had the ability to travel over two and a half feet of unbroken snow at an average speed of 18 m.p.h.

Visitors are also encouraged to participate in the Hoffman Car Wash/Jiffy Lube Model T Restoration project that will be taking place concurrently from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. inside the museum.

The Saratoga Automobile Museum offers a wide variety of programming with a focus on collector cars. Part of the museum’s mission is to captivate children, young adults, as well as “kids at heart” to the car hobby and provide them with both lifelong learning and community.

Model T Restoration Program

Saratoga Automobile Museum Partners with Local Business and Auto Clubs to Present Hands-On Experience

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (Nov. 9, 2018) –The Saratoga Automobile Museum, Tri-City T’s Club, and the Capital District Chapter of the Model T Ford Club of America,have announced the start of their new Model T Restoration Program sponsored by Hoffman Car Wash and Jiffy Lube. The program will center on the history of the Model T; including the mechanics, ignition, electric and giving actual hands on experience restoring a 1923 Model TT.

The program will run from November 2018 to April 2019 culminating with their Annual Spring Auto show in May featuring Model T rides and the debut of the restored, Hoffman Car Wash Jiffy Lube 1923 Ford Model TT, a heavier bodied version of the Model T.

“We’re excited to offer this unique hands-on experience for adults and children to restore a piece of automotive history right here in Saratoga Springs,” said Carly Connors, executive director.

Registration for all six sessions will cost $50 for museum members and $75 for non-members. Classes will run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and are open to adults and children 12 and up. Each session is limited to 30 participants in order to allow for a more hands on and personal experience, so early registration is strongly encouraged.

Program schedule is as follows:

Saturday, Nov. 17 — History of the Car

Saturday, Dec. 8 — Mechanics

Saturday, Jan. 12 — Ignition — Electric

Saturday, Feb. 9 — Snowmobiles in the park

Saturday, March 9 — Restoration Project

Saturday, April 13 — Drive a Model T (Licensed Drivers/Learners Permit)

May — Spring Auto Show — Model T Rides, display and debut of Model T Restoration Project

The Saratoga Automobile Museum offers a wide variety of programming with a focus on collector cars. Part of the museum’s mission is to captivate children, young adults, as well as “kids at heart” to the car hobby and provide them with both lifelong learning and community.

SARATOGA AUTO MUSEUM TO HOST DRIVE-IN CONSIGNMENT DAY FOR SARATOGA AUTO AUCTION ON JULY 14

Discuss and learn more about consigning a vehicle that could be auctioned at the second annual Saratoga Auto Auction in September at SPAC

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (July 8, 2018) – The Saratoga Automobile Museum (“SAM”) has announced that it will host a drive-in consignment day at the museum on Saturday, July 14 to promote the upcoming second annual Saratoga Auto Auction taking place this September.

From 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (following the museum’s monthly Cars and Coffee event), prospective consignors will have the opportunity to meet in-person with the Auction team to discuss consigning their vehicle for the auction. Should the prospective consignor and the Auction team decide the vehicle will be part of the auction, the Auction team will work with the consignor to estimate an auction value range for the vehicle, take professional photographs on-site, and execute a consignment contract with the Auction.

“Our drive-in consignment day is an opportunity for consignors to go through the consignment process in-person with our team,” said Jeff Whiteside, auction director of the Saratoga Auto Auction.

The Saratoga Auto Auction, now in its second year, will take place Sept. 21 and Sept. 22 on the stage of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. In the auction’s inaugural year, more than 200 vehicles were part of the event. This year, the auction will feature 300 vehicles, including a customized 1990 AM General M998 Humvee in which all the proceeds will benefit the Feed Our Vets charity.

To consign, register to bid, to buy tickets, and to learn more about the Saratoga Auto Auction, please visit saratogaautoauction.org.

Red Sox Legend David “Big Papi” Ortiz, Top Chef David Burke & Celebrity Chef Todd English to Headline Saratoga Wine and Food Festival

September 7 – 9

International Bugatti Tour to present once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience display of 80 luxury Bugatti automobiles, including the $42 million-plus Atlantic 57SC

Saratoga Springs, NY – As part of its redesigned Saratoga Wine and Food Festival, Saratoga Performing Arts Center announced that Boston Red Sox baseball legend David Ortiz, and renowned celebrity chefs David Burke and Todd English will headline this year’s international destination event September 7-9 in Saratoga Springs, New York. The sports star, known affectionately to his fans as “Big Papi,” will return by popular demand to participate in Friday’s Fired Up! event as well as a “meet and greet” and VIP nightclub appearance on Friday evening, spotlighting his Arias wines collection. The James Beard Award-winning chef, David Burke, and celebrity chef and Emmy-nominated TV star Todd English, will also make special appearances to showcase their favorite dishes and participate in key events throughout the weekend.

“Following the response that we received from Big Papi’s appearance at our festival last year, we were eager to bring him back to participate in our redesigned weekend events, including a new ‘VIP Party’ and an opportunity to mingle with the baseball legend,” said Elizabeth Sobol, president & CEO of Saratoga Performing Arts Center. “With the added presence of heralded celebrity chefs David Burke and Todd English, the festival will be a feast for the senses with curated gourmet food and wine tastings and entertainment from our charismatic hosts.”

The 2018 Saratoga Wine and Food Festival will be highlighted by the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the International Bugatti Tour in partnership with the Saratoga Automobile Museum. A convergence of 160 drivers and 80 luxury Bugatti automobiles, the rally comes to the United States only once every ten years and will make its first visit to New York State this September. Descending on the Saratoga Spa State Park’s reflecting pool for a “Bugatti Ballet” auto display, the tour will showcase one of only two Atlantic 57SC’s in existence, valued at over $42 million.

This year’s festival, expanded with the recently announced partnership with Colin Cowie Lifestyle and the Saratoga Automobile Museum, is an annual tradition drawing in food and wine enthusiasts from across the region. In addition to stunning automobile displays coming in from every corner of the globe, the 2018 festival will feature fine wine and gourmet food tastings, luxury car displays, VIP experiences and a lively Sunday “Brunch with Colin Cowie.”

David Burke, known for his role on the Food Network’s Iron Chef and Bravo’s Top Chef Masters and as a fixture on the national restaurant scene for decades, will be a featured celebrity chef at the festival.  In addition to his restaurants in Manhattan, Chicago and Las Vegas, Burke is also the new Culinary Director of The Adelphi Hotel and Salt & Char in Saratoga Springs. Burke will kick of the weekend by participating in the Fired Up! competition as the lead judge. He will also prepare dishes from his restaurants Tavern62, David Burke Kitchen, and Woodpecker by David Burke, at the Saturday Grand Tasting event, in addition to competing in the festival’s own Iron Chef-styled cooking competition to take place on stage Saturday afternoon. 

Considered one of the most decorated chefs in the world, Todd English is known for his international travel and cooking series, Food Trip with Todd English, which garnered him two James Beard Awards as well as an Emmy nomination; national public television series’ Cooking Under Fire, and The Food Network’s Opening Soon. English will co-host an energetic Sunday brunch alongside Colin Cowie, following his appearances at The Super Bowl, Sundance Film Festival, Fashion Week, The Tony Awards, NASCAR, and Dinner In White, among many others.

Held in the beautiful Saratoga Spa State Park, the weekend is anchored by four events: an Adirondack Road Tour and Luncheon, Friday’s Fired Up! Grill Competition, Saturday’s Grand Tasting and—for the first time— brunch with Colin Cowie and Todd English. Presented in partnership with the Saratoga Automobile Museum, proceeds from the festival benefit education programming at SPAC and the Museum.

Saratoga Wine and Food Festival

Saratoga Performing Arts Center Partners with Colin Cowie Lifestyle and Saratoga Automobile Museum for the Saratoga Wine and Food Festival, September 7 – 9

International Bugatti Tour Converging at the Festival for a Stunning Display of 80 Luxury Automobiles around the Reflecting Pools

Saratoga Wine and Food Festival serves as SPAC’s primary fundraiser for educational programming

Saratoga Springs, NY – Saratoga Performing Arts Center announced that it will partner with Colin Cowie Lifestyle and the Saratoga Automobile Museum for this year’s Saratoga Wine and Food Festival, slated for September 7 -- 9 in Saratoga Springs, New York. The weekend destination event is an annual tradition, drawing in food and wine enthusiasts from across the region. This year the festival will expand with the participation of Colin Cowie Lifestyle, a company known for its innovative production and design approach and reputation for throwing one-of-a-kind events. In addition, the convergence of 80 luxury Bugatti automobiles coming in from every corner of the globe will join the festival as part of the International Bugatti Tour. Additional highlights of the 2018 festival include fine wine and gourmet food tastings, luxury car displays, VIP experiences and an energetic Sunday “Brunch with Colin Cowie.”

The Bugatti brand has been made famous by its history and heritage, especially The Atlantic 57SC, Pebble Beach Best of Show, and it’s modern design, Bugatti Veyron and Chiron, driven by celebrities like Jay-Z, Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible 3, Jay Leno and Ralph Lauren. Guests at the festival will have the rare opportunity to witness Bugatti’s automotive design in person as the 2018 International Bugatti Tour, an exclusive one-week rally, will visit the United States for the first time in a decade -- descending on the Saratoga Spa State Park’s Reflecting Pools for a “Bugatti Ballet” auto display.

“Our Saratoga Wine & Food Festival is always a singular event attracting connoisseurs of great wine, food and cars. This year, partnering with the Colin Cowie Lifestyle team, known for throwing the most creative and elegant events in the world, we offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness 80 of the finest Bugatti cars coming to the festival from every corner of the globe,” said Elizabeth Sobol, President and CEO of Saratoga Performing Arts Center. “Thanks to our partners at the Saratoga Automobile Museum, guests will be treated to a feast for the eyes with a dazzling show of Bugatti collector cars set against our opulent reflecting pools in addition to our legendary displays of Ferrari, Maserati and Porsche automobiles, to name a few.”

“It’s no secret that I adore Saratoga Springs. I could not be more excited to work with our partners at SPAC to create a new, revamped Wine & Food Festival this September. We’ve made some fabulous additions and are looking forward to taking this event to the next level, of course using our signature five senses approach to ensure everything guests smell, touch, taste, see and hear reflects the DNA of Saratoga, SPAC and the American Bugatti Club. I always want to tell a story with a well thought out beginning, middle and end, and with the help of our collaborative partners have made sure there will be more than a few ‘WOW’ moments throughout the weekend festivities,” said Colin Cowie, Founder & CEO of Colin Cowie Lifestyle.

Presented annually at the end of its classical season, the Saratoga Wine and Food Festival is an epicurean showcase featuring two days of gourmet events showcasing fine international wines, innovative chef-prepared menus, cooking demonstrations and wine seminars, expansive tastings, and a luxury auto show. Held under elegant tents on SPAC’s lawn, the weekend is anchored by four events: an Adirondack Road Tour and Luncheon, Friday’s Fired Up! Grill Competition, Saturday’s Grand Tasting, the festival centerpiece and a new Brunch with Colin Cowie. Presented in partnership with the Saratoga Automobile Museum, proceeds from the festival benefit education programming at SPAC and the Museum.

"We're excited to partner with the Saratoga Performing Arts Center and Colin Cowie Lifestyle on revving up this year's Saratoga Wine and Food Festival with the International Bugatti Tour," said Carly Connors, executive director of the Saratoga Automobile Museum. "Each Bugatti, ranging from the mesmerizing 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic to newer models including the Chiron and Veyron, is a work of incredible art and craftsmanship. Through our partnership with the American Bugatti Club, guests of the Saratoga Wine and Food Festival will be able to experience the legendary exclusivity of the Bugatti brand at SPAC this September."

“Throughout this weekend, we will celebrate and savor the artistry of flavor in wines, spirits, cuisine and car design -- all in the stunning ambience of the Spa State Park. Our primary fundraiser for educational programming, including Classical Kids, the festival is the perfect way to toast the end of the summer season,” Sobol added. “Stay tuned for announcements about additional attractions including VIP experiences, live music, world-class wines, celebrity guests and chef demonstrations.”

FESTIVAL EVENTS

FRIDAY, SEPT. 7 Adirondack Road Tour & Gourmet Luncheon | 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

This spirited 1 ½ hour, professionally-led road rally for auto collectors winds through beautiful Adirondack roads to finish at the historic Lake George Club, where a delicious cocktail reception and three course wine-paired luncheon will be served.

Fired Up! | 7:00 p.m. -10:00 p.m.

Fired UP! will boast a sizzling new take on grilling. The kick-off to the weekend’s events at SPAC, chefs from the Capital Region’s finest restaurants will battle it out for the FIRED UP! title as guests enjoy great music, exotic performers, celebrity appearances, gourmet food, BBQ, craft beers, wines and spirits and an exclusive VIP nightclub.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 8 Grand Tasting | Saturday, Sept 8, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Against the lush backdrop of 2,000 acres of lofty pines and healing springs, the Grand Tasting is a feast of the senses with curated foods and wines, an exclusive Bugatti auto display, live music and an “Iron Chef” styled competition. Taste New York’s finest creations and enhance your sommelier skills in the VIP Lounge.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 9 Brunch with Colin Cowie | Sunday, Sept 9, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Colin Cowie will personally host a farm to table brunch including floral arranging demonstrations, custom scent consultations, design competitions, live music and a phenomenal menu with delectable bites and cocktails.

About The Saratoga Wine and Food Festival

The Saratoga Wine and Food Festival is Saratoga Performing Arts Center’s primary fundraiser for its educational programming, including Classical Kids, a collaborative program in which SPAC works with local schools to teach elementary and middle school-aged children about the classical performing arts. SPAC both designs and teaches dance and music curriculums that educate young students about the world-class performances presented at SPAC. Following classroom studies, SPAC hosts students at a summertime performance of the work that they studied. Graduates of Classical Kids receive two free tickets to a SPAC classical performance annually until they graduate from high school.

For more information about the festival, visit spac.org.

2017 Saratoga Auto Auction Results

Andretti Indy Car to be Featured at SAMs NY International Auto Show Exhibit

When the Saratoga Automobile Museum sets up its exhibit of antique & classic cars along with historic race cars at the 2018 New York International Auto Show, the centerpiece of the highly anticipated exhibit will be the 1994 Newman/Haas Lola T9300 Indy Car piloted by American racing legend Mario Andretti in his final year of competition.

Mario is loaning SAM the K-Mart/Texaco Lola from his personal collection. The car marked the culmination of Andretti’s 12 seasons with the Newman/Haas Team and was given to him by Paul Newman and Carl Haas as a retirement gift. During his tenure with one of the Indy Car series’ premier teams, the Pennsylvanian named Driver of the Century by both the Associated Press and Racer magazine scored some 18 wins, claimed 26 pole positions and won the championship in 1984, his fourth Indy Car Championship. He remains the all-time record holder for Indy race starts with 407 and his 52 Indy Car wins rank second on the all-time list.

Additionally, Andretti’s five-decade career is highlighted by 111 race wins including the Daytona 500 and Indianapolis 500, three wins at Americas oldest sports car endurance race The Twelve Hours of Sebring, a Pikes Peak Hill Climb win, and winning the Formula One World Championship.

The Saratoga Automobile Museum exhibit, it’s second at the world-renowned auto show, will also feature one of SAM’s state-of-the-art Distracted Driving simulators. The simulators, which are transported to programs at high schools in the Saratoga region by museum staff, provide “real world” experiences that highlight the dangers of texting, drinking, smoking, eating and personal grooming while at the wheel of an automobile. Students see not only the crashes that may result, but other serious consequences, including interaction with law enforcement agencies.

Visitors to the SAM exhibit at the New York International Auto Show will be able to acquire information on the second annual Saratoga Auto Auction, September 21 & 22, 2018 at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center adjacent to the museum. The auction, a fund-raiser for SAM’s many educational programs, is expected to offer some 300 vehicles in an event that received rave reviews following its inaugural running.

SARATOGA AUTO AUCTION RAISES MORE THAN $150,000 FOR DISTRACTED DRIVING SAFETY AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS

Inaugural auction supports Saratoga Automobile Museum’s regional community efforts

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (Oct. 31, 2017) – The first annual Saratoga Auto Auction, organized by the Saratoga Automobile Museum, raised more than $150,000 to support the museum’s distracted driving, education, and exhibit programs.

Led by auction director Jeff Whiteside, the auction took place on Sept. 22 and 23 at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC). The event was attended by thousands who either bid or witnessed more than 200 cars, trucks, boats, and motorcycles being auctioned.

“The proceeds raised at the auction will help make our roads safer,” said Jim Letts, executive director, Saratoga Automobile Museum. “Our distracted driving safety program reaches more than 10,000 high school students across the Capital Region each year. This program is more crucial than ever, as young drivers are tempted with the allure of the screen while their eyes should be focused on the road at all times.”

A total of $156,000 was collected by the museum for the auction, as a percentage of each vehicle auctioned and sold is earmarked for the museum. A select number of vehicles were donated as part of the auction, in which 100 percent of those proceeds were given to the museum.

“A first-year auto auction is a tremendous undertaking and its success could not have been realized without the incredible partners and sponsors that the museum was able to attract,” said Kevin Biebel, board chairman, Saratoga Automobile Museum. “Bravo and kudos to Jeff Whiteside for putting together this world-class auction together. This auction, next year and in succeeding years, will become the major autumn destination event for the Spa City.”

The auction featured appearances by television celebrities Steve Hale (History Channel’s American Restoration) and Paul Teutul Jr. (Discovery’s American Chopper). Additionally, the auction was complemented with a regional food truck show that featured food and cuisine made by local entrepreneurs across Upstate New York.

The 2018 auction is set for Sept. 21 and 22 at SPAC. Details will be announced, information about consigning vehicles, sponsorships, and more will be made available via saratogaautoauction.org.

The Saratoga Auto Auction was presented by through support from Mohawk Honda, Ianniello Anderson, P.C., DePaula Auto Group, Keeler Automotive Group, New Country Porsche of Clifton Park, Putnam Leasing, Saratoga National Bank, Sierra Nevada, Towne, Ryan & Partners, Racemark, Saratoga Spring Water, Intercity Lines, Inc., Bouchey Financial, JJ Best and media partners Townsquare Media.

“WHEELS AT WORK” EXHIBIT TO OPEN FRIDAY

“WHEELS AT WORK” EXHIBIT TO OPEN FRIDAY

Saratoga Springs, NY The Saratoga Automobile museum’s highly anticipated “Wheels at Work” exhibit will formally open Friday, November 10th at 6 pm. The two-hour program will include brief interviews with the owners of a number of the unique vehicles along with a reception including beer, wine and passed h’orderves.

The new exhibit, housed in SAM’s main Golub Gallery, looks at work vehicles of all types. Starting with a horse-drawn Grand Union tea wagon, the exhibit features such iconic vehicles as a Model ‘A” U.S. Mail truck, a Jeep with multiple attachments that once belonged to the producer of the Milton Berle TV show, a Checker cab from New York City and a completely outfitted 1957 International Civil Defense truck.

Two other trucks drawing rave reviews are a 1940 GMC tow truck restored by History Channel personality Steve Hale and the Grasso’s Italian Ices truck that has been a part of summer in Saratoga for decades. But the emotional epicenter of the exhibit is a Jeep Cherokee that was flattened in the September 11, 2001 attack on New York’s Twin Towers. On loan from the New York State Museum’s vast collection, the Jeep represents the day’s vast suffering. While the driver, Lt. David Lim, survived, his canine partner was killed in the tragic collapse.

Tickets for the exhibit opening are $10 for museum members and $20 for non-members and can be reserved by contacting Heidi Shull at the Saratoga Automobile Museum during business hours. The number is 518-587-1935.

FOUR ELECTED TO NEW YORK STATE STOCK CAR ASSOCIATION HALL OF FAME

For Immediate Release

Contact: John Keegan at keeganj66@yahoo.com or 607-965-8994

Clifton Park, NY Pioneering car owner Allie Swears, superstar driver Jimmy Horton, longtime driver and chassis builder Dave Kneisel and fabricator/mechanic Dick Hicks will be the 2018 inductees for the New York State Stock Car Association Hall of Fame.

Swears started out driving his own #36 at dirt tracks near his Glens Falls, NY home but came to prominence as an owner and builder of mounts for such notable drivers as Bob Bruno, Paul Marshall, Kenny Shoemaker, Dutch Reed, Roger Gauthier, Nelson Moore and Dick Nephew. A mechanic for Whiteman Chevrolet in Glens Falls by day, Swears built winning cars for Fonda, Victoria, West Haven, VT and a number of Canadian speedways by night.

Swears’ most notable achievement was winning the 1962 NASCAR National Sportsman championship with Nephew, who shared the honor with fellow New Yorker Bill Wimble after a year-long, four and five night a week battle. But he is also known as the builder of the South Glens Falls Dragway, which he opened in 1962. Along with local racers, the strip hosted such national luminaries as Don Garlits, Shirley Muldowney and Art Arfons, adding to the Swears legend of achievement.

The ageless Horton, still a threat to win today at age 60 after decades of competition, may live in New Jersey but his New York record is outstanding. Modified champion at the Orange County Fairgrounds in ’76, ’96 and again in 2017, Horton also won the ’85 Lebanon Valley 200, a pair of Syracuse qualifiers and the ’95 Race of Champions at the Valley.

He won both Fonda’s Mohawk Valley 200 and Orange County’s Eastern States 200 twice, along with the ’92 DIRT Asphalt Challenge at Oswego, but his crowning achievement was winning the big block finale of Super DIRT Week on the Syracuse mile in 1987 and again in 1994.

2017 marked Horton’s 43rd start at Super DIRT Week, making him the all-time leader in that category despite a number of seasons devoted to ARCA and NASCAR competition.

Kneisel is another out-of-stater who left his mark on Empire State racing. The Clarks Summit, PA resident started his career in 1950 at the 1/5 mile asphalt Bone’s Stadium near Pottstown but soon became known for his prowess on dirt, both as a driver and as a fabricator of cars for such superstars as Jack Johnson and Bob McCreadie, who won Syracuse in ’79 and ‘86, respectively, in chassis from Kneisel’s Speed and Sport shop.

In 1971, Kneisel claimed track titles at both the Weedsport and Twin Valley Speedways and in ’74 scored another double, this time at Canandaigua and Brewerton. He also shone at the Five Mile Point Speedway, where he won the Heath Memorial in ’71, ’73 and ’74 and was a six-time champion between 1953 and ’73.

Hicks’ involvement in racing goes back to his youth in central New York, where he helped his cousin, regional star Larry Nye. A move to the Capital District saw Hicks land across the street from Pete Corey’s shop and he was soon involved with Corey and Eddie Pieniezak and then, later on, Pete Jr. Over the years, he would also work with Lee Nutting, Craig Criscone and the Hauser Brothers team when Hall of Famer CD Coville was their driver.

A 12-year association with Dextor Dorr was Hicks’ biggest career move. It was there that he perfected his fabrication skills, building complete cars alongside Dorr, as well rebuilding transmissions and rear ends. With Dorr’s passing in 1989, Hicks purchased his shop equipment and established the business he still operates today.

“I don’t build cars anymore but I clip bent chassis, build front axles, bumpers and rub rails and rebuild driveline components, so I stay busy,” says Hicks, now retired from his longtime “real job” as an executive with Callanan Industries. “I have a soft spot for the little guys and I try to help them out both financially and with setups. And I’ve been a crew guy with Brett Hearn for years. When I started helping him, he had 642 wins and now he’s over 900, so it’s been a while!”

The 2018 NYSSCA induction ceremony will be held at the site of the association’s permanent display, the Saratoga Automobile Museum, at 11 am on Saturday, January 20, 2018. Following that ceremony, attention will turn that evening’s NYSSCA awards banquet at the Albany Polish Club, with cocktails set for 4 pm and introduction of the Hall of Fame inductees to follow at 5:15.

The Saratoga Automobile Museum is located on the Avenue of the Pines in the Saratoga Spa State Park, just off Exit 13 of the Adirondack Northway, while the Polish Club is on Washington Ave. Extension near Exit 24 of the New York Thruway. Banquet reservations can be made through Cheryl Catman at 518-479-0607.

OUTSTANDING PROGRAM GETS EVEN BETTER

Contact: Ron Hedger @ 518-885-7481 or rjhmedia@juno.com

Saratoga Springs, NY The lineup for the Saratoga Automobile Museum’s annual Lost Speedways program got even better this week with the addition of noted sports car owner Rob Dyson, who will journey from his Poughkeepsie, NY home to discuss the IMSA championship winning LMP675 Prototype he recently donated to the museum.

Always the biggest event of the year at SAM, Lost Speedways is once again set for its traditional “Saturday after Thanksgiving” date, November 25th, with an all-star lineup of speakers looking back at a wide variety of topics.

Dyson will be joined by Ken Parrotte, who will recall the 1967 racing season, a landmark year both locally and nationally, while former NASCAR head chassis inspector and post-race teardown supervisor Randy Hedger will tell tales of his encounters with various crewchiefs, creative cheaters and the parts he confiscated from them. He will also recall some unusual experiences while driving the Sprint Cup pace car.

The venerable New York State Fairgrounds mile in Syracuse, recently bulldozed in the name of “progress,” will be the focus of the final two presentations. SAM Racing in NY gallery curator Ron Hedger will take a look back at Labor Day racing on the mile in the 50’s and early 60’s, then interview famed car owner Randy Ross and longtime Syracuse competitor Dickie Larkin about their experiences at Super DIRT Week.

As always, the action will kick off with a display of shared memorabilia at 11 am, followed by the formal presentations at 12:15 pm. Normal museum admission charges will prevail, with museum members admitted free of charge.

More information about the Saratoga Automobile Museum, located two miles off Exit 13N of I-87, the Adirondack Northway, is available online at www.saratogaautomuseum.org.

LINEUP SET FOR LOST SPEEDWAYS 2017 AT SARATOGA AUTOMOBILE MUSEUM

Saturday November 25

This event is FREE with paid admission

Contact: Ron Hedger at 518-885-7481 or rjhmedia@juno.com

Saratoga Springs, NY The lineup of speakers and interviewees for the Saratoga Automobile Museum’s annual Lost Speedways program, a look back at speedways and racing heroes of the past, has been finalized for 2017.

Scheduled for its traditional “Saturday after Thanksgiving” date, the November 25th program will kick off with the annual memorabilia display at 11 am with the formal program set for 12:15 pm.

“We’ll open with Ken Perrotte looking back 50 years at the amazing 1967 racing season,” said event organizer Ron Hedger, curator of SAM’s Racing in New York gallery. “He’ll recall the exploits of NASCAR Sportsman champion Pete Hamilton, Parnelli Jones, Dennis Hulme, Curtis Turner, Smokey Yunick, Dutch Hoag, AJ Foyt and Mario Andretti, among others. Then we’ll move to a more modern topic, NASCAR Tech, with recently retired rules maker and Sprint Cup garage supervisor Randy Hedger, who will tell insider stories and take questions about NASCAR technical issues, past and present.

“Following intermission, I’ll take a look back at the Labor Day State Fair races at Syracuse in the 1950’s and 60’s. Then we’ll do our annual interview session with DIRTweek winning car owner Randy Ross and longtime Syracuse competitor Dickie Larkin. This has proven to be the longest and most popular segment in recent years.”

As always, the program is free for museum members, while others will pay the standard museum admission fee. Lunch will again be available, as it proved to be a very popular addition last year.

More information on the Saratoga Automobile Museum and its many programs can be found online at www.saratogaautomuseum.org.

AUCTION EXHIBIT TO PREVIEW EXCITING EVENT AT SPAC

For Immediate Release Contact:  Lindsey Collins @ 518-587-1935

Saratoga Springs, NY  When the Saratoga Automobile Museum’s unique exhibit “The Gavel: Cars of the Saratoga Auto Auction” opens to the public on Saturday, April 1, 2017, the public will get an insider look at the workings of the classic and collector automobile auctions that have become so popular with television viewers.

The Museum’s current exhibit, the extremely popular “Rolling Bones: The Exhibit of G.O.W.,” will close on March 26th.  Once the world renowned Rolling Bones rods have been returned to their proud owners, a variety of automobiles set to go on the auction block at the first annual Saratoga Automobile Auction, set for September 22-23, 2017 on the stage of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, will grace the Museum’s Golub Gallery.

Car auctions are lively events, energized by the chant of the auctioneer and the enthusiastic bidding process, and the new exhibit will explain both the buying and the selling process.

“Thanks to cable television and the Internet, Americans tune in, research and bid on vehicles and automobilia from the comfort of their homes,” offered SAM Educational Director Lindsey Collins.  “Whether you are hunting the polished Ferrari, the dilapidated barn find, or the everyday commuter car, car auctions offer something for everyone. The Gavel takes a look at American car auctions - the history, process, popularity and potential of automobile collecting.” 

The Gavel exhibit will open to the public at 10 am on Saturday, April 1, 2017 with an opening reception on Friday, April 28, 2017 and run until September, culminating in the Saratoga Auto Auction. Details about the Saratoga Auto Auction can be found at www.saratogaautoauction.org. 

Vehicles on display in the exhibit will range from a 1931 Ford Model A Woody to a very rare 1957 Chrysler 300C standard shift, a 1957 Ford Thunderbird and a 1957 Continental Mark II. Imports will be represented as well, with, among others, a 2003 Maserati Spyder convertible and a 2013 Lotus Exige Factory Cup on display.  These cars, along with hundreds of others, are all headed for the auction block in September.

Saratoga Automobile Museum Awarded Stewart’s Holiday Match and State Farm Grant

For Immediate Release

Contact: Director of Education and Archives, Lindsey Collins at 518-587-1935

Saratoga Springs, NY

The Saratoga Automobile Museum has been awarded a generous amount from the Stewart’s Holiday Match and State Farm to support the Museum’s Distracted Driving Initiative.

Since the program was initiated in August 2015, deputies from the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Department, area educators and countless museum visitors have used the state of the art simulators to learn how a few seconds of distraction can lead to tragedy and result in injury to yourself and others. In 2016, a trailer allowed us to take our Distracted Driving Initiative on the road to area high schools and businesses impacting over 9,000 individuals. The funds from these grants will be used to expand our impact to over 12,000 drivers in 2017.

More information on the Saratoga Automobile Museum’s Distracted Driving Initiative and other museum programs and activities can be found online at www.saratogaautomuseum.org.